Victoria Knights offer basketball camp for kids K-8th grades

June 2 blood drive at Big Creek Crossing sponsored by TMP-Marian

Babysitter 101 class offered May 31 by Hays Rec 

St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., will hold a "service of healing" at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, following the mass shooting on Tuesday in Uvalde, Texas. "This service is offered to anyone who desires to pray — for those whose lives have been taken, those who are injured,&nbsp; those whose lives have been altered forever, those living in fear and despair, for our nation, for this broken world ... and for all of us, whose hearts are broken," Pastor Shay Craig said. Craig added she is also available to visit privately with anyone needing comfort. She is available at 785-376-2000 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rev.shay.craig@gmail.com">rev.shay.craig@gmail.com</a>. The service is open to the public.

SubmittedSt. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., will hold a "service of healing" at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, following the mass shooting on Tuesday in Uvalde, Texas. "This service is offered to anyone who desires to pray — for those whose lives have been taken, those who are injured,&nbsp; those whose lives have been altered forever, those living in fear and despair, for our nation, for this broken world ... and for all of us, whose hearts are broken," Pastor Shay Craig said. Craig added she is also available to visit privately with anyone needing comfort. She is available at 785-376-2000 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rev.shay.craig@gmail.com">rev.shay.craig@gmail.com</a>. The service is open to the public.

Hays prayer service scheduled after mass shooting in Texas

PHILLIPSBURG — Tickets for Kansas Biggest Rodeo will go on sale online on June 1 at 8 am. The rodeo takes place August 4-6 in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;

They will be available online <a href="https://www.rodeoticket.com/rodeos/kansas-biggest-rodeo/2022/tickets">HERE</a>.

Tickets will go on sale in person at Heritage Insurance (685 Third Street, Phillipsburg) on July 1.&nbsp;

This year’s rodeo features a new rodeo clown and a new specialty act.

Rodeo clown Matt Merritt will provide the comedy and work the barrel during the bull riding. Merritt, of Olin, N.C., works PBR events as well as pro rodeos.

Bobby Kerr will entertain as specialty act. Often referred to as the Mustang Man, Kerr has trained mustangs to work at liberty and jump over his car. His trained dogs also get in on the act with the mustangs. Kerr participated in two seasons of the Mustang Makeover (2011-12) and finished in the top five with every horse he trained.&nbsp;

The committee strives to get good entertainment for the rodeo, said Ricky Solida, committeeman. “We try to hire the best contractors and the best clowns and bullfighters that are in the industry.”&nbsp;

Bullfighters Dusty Tuckness and Weston Rutkowski return, as does Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. as stock contractor. Randy Corley will announce the action.&nbsp;

Child’s tickets are discounted for the Thursday, August 4 rodeo. All kids ages 10 and under are free with the purchase of an adult ticket.&nbsp;

General admission tickets for August 4 are $17 for adults and $13 for children (ages 11-12). General admission tickets for August 5-6 are $18 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-12.

Reserved admission tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 3-12.&nbsp;

Slack, the extra competition that doesn’t fit into the performances, will be held at 7 pm on August 1-2. It is free.

The rib barbecue for associate members will take place on August 2 beginning at 6 pm at the rodeo grounds. Associate memberships are $125 and will be available for purchase in mid-June at First National Bank, Cliff’s Welding, Matteson Motor, and any rodeo committee member.&nbsp;

For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653313722652.jpeg" alt="Tickets go on sale online June 1 for Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg, which runs August 4-6. Bullfighters Dusty Tuckness (on the left) and Weston Rutkowski are two of the rodeo personnel who will be back to work the rodeo. Photo by Terri Abrahamson. " />
 <figcaption>Tickets go on sale online June 1 for Kansas Biggest Rodeo in Phillipsburg, which runs August 4-6. Bullfighters Dusty Tuckness (on the left) and Weston Rutkowski are two of the rodeo personnel who will be back to work the rodeo. Photo by Terri Abrahamson. </figcaption>
 </figure>News releasePHILLIPSBURG — Tickets for Kansas Biggest Rodeo will go on sale online on June 1 at 8 am. The rodeo takes place August 4-6 in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;They will be available online <a href="https://www.rodeoticket.com/rodeos/kansas-biggest-rodeo/2022/tickets">HERE</a>.Tickets will go on sale in person at Heritage Insurance (685 Third Street, Phillipsburg) on July 1.&nbsp;This year’s rodeo features a new rodeo clown and a new specialty act.Rodeo clown Matt Merritt will provide the comedy and work the barrel during the bull riding. Merritt, of Olin, N.C., works PBR events as well as pro rodeos.Bobby Kerr will entertain as specialty act. Often referred to as the Mustang Man, Kerr has trained mustangs to work at liberty and jump over his car. His trained dogs also get in on the act with the mustangs. Kerr participated in two seasons of the Mustang Makeover (2011-12) and finished in the top five with every horse he trained.&nbsp;The committee strives to get good entertainment for the rodeo, said Ricky Solida, committeeman. “We try to hire the best contractors and the best clowns and bullfighters that are in the industry.”&nbsp;Bullfighters Dusty Tuckness and Weston Rutkowski return, as does Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. as stock contractor. Randy Corley will announce the action.&nbsp;Child’s tickets are discounted for the Thursday, August 4 rodeo. All kids ages 10 and under are free with the purchase of an adult ticket.&nbsp;General admission tickets for August 4 are $17 for adults and $13 for children (ages 11-12). General admission tickets for August 5-6 are $18 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-12.Reserved admission tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 3-12.&nbsp;Slack, the extra competition that doesn’t fit into the performances, will be held at 7 pm on August 1-2. It is free.The rib barbecue for associate members will take place on August 2 beginning at 6 pm at the rodeo grounds. Associate memberships are $125 and will be available for purchase in mid-June at First National Bank, Cliff’s Welding, Matteson Motor, and any rodeo committee member.&nbsp;For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

Tickets on sale next month for Phillipsburg rodeo

Avenue of Pinwheels rescheduled to Thursday

PFEIFER — Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer will host a memorial celebration on Saturday, May 28, beginning at 3 p.m. when Bishop Jerry Vincke will conduct a memorial service at the cemetery. &nbsp;

The Victoria VFW Honor Guard will present arms. &nbsp;Mass will be celebrated at 4:00.&nbsp;Music will be provided by Trilogy. Picnic lunch at 6:00; Tim Jacobs, musician, followed by the Adam Capps Band at 7:00; veteran’s tribute at intermission. Bring a lawn chair.

There will be a 50/50 raffle and an auction. All funds raised go towards maintenance of Holy Cross Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584006647697.jpeg" alt="Vincke" />
 <figcaption>Vincke</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedPFEIFER — Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer will host a memorial celebration on Saturday, May 28, beginning at 3 p.m. when Bishop Jerry Vincke will conduct a memorial service at the cemetery. &nbsp;The Victoria VFW Honor Guard will present arms. &nbsp;Mass will be celebrated at 4:00.&nbsp;Music will be provided by Trilogy. Picnic lunch at 6:00; Tim Jacobs, musician, followed by the Adam Capps Band at 7:00; veteran’s tribute at intermission. Bring a lawn chair.There will be a 50/50 raffle and an auction. All funds raised go towards maintenance of Holy Cross Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bishop will lead Pfeifer memorial celebration

Renowned artist Kim Casebeer is offering an oil/pastel landscape painting workshop in Hays on June 2-4, 2022. The workshop will be at the Sternberg Museum. At the end of the second day of the workshop, there will be a public open house on Friday, June 3, from 4-6pm. This will be an opportunity for the public to come see fine art in the making by viewing the works in progress. Visitors can visit with the workshop participants and enjoy refreshments. There will also be more information about the Western Plains Painters,&nbsp;sponsors of the workshop.

See details about the workshop:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio</a> See more about the artist:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about</a> WPP is off-setting a portion of the workshop fee through the use of our club funds.

To register for the workshop, artists may contact the club president Cindy Balthazor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cindybalthazor@gmail.com">cindybalthazor@gmail.com</a>. Or call or text her at 785-737-3510.

The Western Plains Painters, formerly known as the Palco Art Club, has a mission to support, inspire and enhance the skills of artistic painters. They encourage continued growth of painters by providing painting venues, mentorship, quality art instruction, inspirational workshops and other creative events and activities. The club has been in existence for well over 40 years, helping oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolor painters grow in their skills. Over those years, they have painted together, helped critique, mentor and inspire each other, hosted workshops, and individually grown as fine artists.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652907445427.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Renowned artist Kim Casebeer is offering an oil/pastel landscape painting workshop in Hays on June 2-4, 2022. The workshop will be at the Sternberg Museum. At the end of the second day of the workshop, there will be a public open house on Friday, June 3, from 4-6pm. This will be an opportunity for the public to come see fine art in the making by viewing the works in progress. Visitors can visit with the workshop participants and enjoy refreshments. There will also be more information about the Western Plains Painters,&nbsp;sponsors of the workshop.See details about the workshop:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio</a> See more about the artist:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about</a> WPP is off-setting a portion of the workshop fee through the use of our club funds.To register for the workshop, artists may contact the club president Cindy Balthazor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cindybalthazor@gmail.com">cindybalthazor@gmail.com</a>. Or call or text her at 785-737-3510.The Western Plains Painters, formerly known as the Palco Art Club, has a mission to support, inspire and enhance the skills of artistic painters. They encourage continued growth of painters by providing painting venues, mentorship, quality art instruction, inspirational workshops and other creative events and activities. The club has been in existence for well over 40 years, helping oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolor painters grow in their skills. Over those years, they have painted together, helped critique, mentor and inspire each other, hosted workshops, and individually grown as fine artists. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652907478971.png" alt="Oil painting by Kim Casebeer" />
 <figcaption>Oil painting by Kim Casebeer</figcaption>
 </figure>

Oil/pastel painting workshop scheduled in Hays

Center for Life Experience June events; Ave. of Pinwheels reset for Thursday

Retirement reception set for Ann Leiker Thursday

Program offers free attraction admission to kids, accompanying adults

Grow Hays, Inc., KANSASWORKS and Big Creek Crossing will host a job fair Monday, June 13, from 3pm to 6pm in Big Creek Crossing.&nbsp;

Interested employers need to submit the sign-up form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>&nbsp;no later than June 3. Employers in Ellis, Rooks, Russell, Rush and Trego counties are invited to attend. There is a charge of $25 for booth rental.

If you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at Grow Hays, Inc. 785.628.3102 or the local KANSASWORKS office at 785.625.5654.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579031298910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow Hays, Inc., KANSASWORKS and Big Creek Crossing will host a job fair Monday, June 13, from 3pm to 6pm in Big Creek Crossing.&nbsp;Interested employers need to submit the sign-up form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>&nbsp;no later than June 3. Employers in Ellis, Rooks, Russell, Rush and Trego counties are invited to attend. There is a charge of $25 for booth rental.If you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at Grow Hays, Inc. 785.628.3102 or the local KANSASWORKS office at 785.625.5654.

Local job fair scheduled for June 13 in Hays

BUNKER HILL — This summer Smoky Hills PBS is working with public libraries throughout central and western Kansas to conduct summer reading programs through the Share a Story project.  This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibilities.

Share a Story is a 45-60 minute program geared toward children ages 2-7.  Each program consists of the following format:

1.      Read a book by Wild Kratts – “Wild Sea Creatures:  Sharks, Whales, and Dolphins”

2.      View a show related to the book – “Wild Kratts Stuck on Sharks”  (approx. 20 minutes)

Each participant receives his or her own book and related materials. 

Share a Story helps children become better readers by inspiring adults to read to children every day.  Research shows that activities like these do make a difference.  Children who are read to every day, from birth on, do better in school, become good listeners and writers, and have better language, critical and imaginative skills.

Simple, fun daily activities like reading aloud, storytelling, rhyming, singing, exercise, drawing, and acting, teach young children language and literacy skills – and that’s what Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story is all about!

The Share a Story program begins in libraries across central and western Kansas starting June 1. A complete schedule of Share a Story events can be found <a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/share-a-story/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL — This summer Smoky Hills PBS is working with public libraries throughout central and western Kansas to conduct summer reading programs through the Share a Story project. This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibilities.Share a Story is a 45-60 minute program geared toward children ages 2-7. Each program consists of the following format:1. Read a book by Wild Kratts – “Wild Sea Creatures: Sharks, Whales, and Dolphins”2. View a show related to the book – “Wild Kratts Stuck on Sharks” (approx. 20 minutes)3. Do a craft - Shark HeadbandsEach participant receives his or her own book and related materials. Share a Story helps children become better readers by inspiring adults to read to children every day. Research shows that activities like these do make a difference. Children who are read to every day, from birth on, do better in school, become good listeners and writers, and have better language, critical and imaginative skills.Simple, fun daily activities like reading aloud, storytelling, rhyming, singing, exercise, drawing, and acting, teach young children language and literacy skills – and that’s what Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story is all about!The Share a Story program begins in libraries across central and western Kansas starting June 1. A complete schedule of Share a Story events can be found <a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/share-a-story/">HERE</a>.

Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story hits local libraries this summer

The United Way of Ellis County has announced its 2022 Campaign Logo Contest.  

Design a lasting work of art by entering the United Way of Ellis County’s 2022 Campaign Logo/Theme Contest.  The agency is excited to offer people of all ages the opportunity to submit designs that are inspired by the mission, focus, and vision of the United Way.

The winner’s design will become the official 2022 Campaign Logo/Theme and will be used for all campaign marketing material, social media and advertising.

Submissions are due by June 17 by website or email. For official rules and guidelines, visit <a href="http://www.liveunited.us/campaign-logo-contest">www.liveunited.us/campaign-logo-contest</a>.

Five finalists will be chosen and then will be voted on by the public via social media from June 27 to July 6.

The winning design will receive a prize pack that includes $100 in Chamber Checks, one United Way Live United T-shirt and recognition on United Way of Ellis County’s social media pages, website and campaign printed materials.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652993004020.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The United Way of Ellis County has announced its 2022 Campaign Logo Contest. Design a lasting work of art by entering the United Way of Ellis County’s 2022 Campaign Logo/Theme Contest. The agency is excited to offer people of all ages the opportunity to submit designs that are inspired by the mission, focus, and vision of the United Way.The winner’s design will become the official 2022 Campaign Logo/Theme and will be used for all campaign marketing material, social media and advertising.Submissions are due by June 17 by website or email. For official rules and guidelines, visit <a href="http://www.liveunited.us/campaign-logo-contest">www.liveunited.us/campaign-logo-contest</a>.Five finalists will be chosen and then will be voted on by the public via social media from June 27 to July 6.The winning design will receive a prize pack that includes $100 in Chamber Checks, one United Way Live United T-shirt and recognition on United Way of Ellis County’s social media pages, website and campaign printed materials.

United Way announces campaign logo contest

If you have a child or children that will be entering the Fall 2022 school year as a 3rd through 6th grader, registration is now open to have your child join the Hays Oilers football teams. If your child or children are in the USD 489 or Holy Family/TMP school system, they should have received a registration form at school.

Registration deadline is July 8th, 2022. Early bird registration is open now and can be mailed and postmarked on or before June 17th, 2022 for registration discounts.

The Hays Oilers is a Hays area youth tackle football program having multiple teams in 3 age divisions, 3rd/4th, 5th, and 6th grade. The Hays Oilers compete in the Pride of Kansas Football League, PKFL. League deadlines for teams and rosters are posted on the PKFL website as well as all other information related to the league. Games set to begin in early September and run through October. 6 regular season games followed by the Tournament of Champions playoffs. Most playoff games are held at FHSU.

This is a tremendous opportunity for your child to learn and to develop skills to play and participate in the ultimate team sport of tackle football. The values and work ethic learned here will carry beyond the playing field.

On behalf of the Hays Football Association Board of Directors, we want to thank all the past and present players, parents, volunteer coaches, and the Hays community for the ongoing support for the Hays Oilers football program.

If you did not receive the registration form from your child or if you have a child interested in joining the Hays Oilers teams, email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysfootballassociation@gmail.com">haysfootballassociation@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;to request a registration form or to inquire for more information regarding Hays Oilers football. Look for additional dates and information on our Facebook page, Hays Football Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653061150083.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Football AssociationIf you have a child or children that will be entering the Fall 2022 school year as a 3rd through 6th grader, registration is now open to have your child join the Hays Oilers football teams. If your child or children are in the USD 489 or Holy Family/TMP school system, they should have received a registration form at school.Registration deadline is July 8th, 2022. Early bird registration is open now and can be mailed and postmarked on or before June 17th, 2022 for registration discounts.The Hays Oilers is a Hays area youth tackle football program having multiple teams in 3 age divisions, 3rd/4th, 5th, and 6th grade. The Hays Oilers compete in the Pride of Kansas Football League, PKFL. League deadlines for teams and rosters are posted on the PKFL website as well as all other information related to the league. Games set to begin in early September and run through October. 6 regular season games followed by the Tournament of Champions playoffs. Most playoff games are held at FHSU.This is a tremendous opportunity for your child to learn and to develop skills to play and participate in the ultimate team sport of tackle football. The values and work ethic learned here will carry beyond the playing field.On behalf of the Hays Football Association Board of Directors, we want to thank all the past and present players, parents, volunteer coaches, and the Hays community for the ongoing support for the Hays Oilers football program.If you did not receive the registration form from your child or if you have a child interested in joining the Hays Oilers teams, email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysfootballassociation@gmail.com">haysfootballassociation@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;to request a registration form or to inquire for more information regarding Hays Oilers football. Look for additional dates and information on our Facebook page, Hays Football Association.

Hays Oilers Youth Football registration announced

In response to a request made by the City of Hays, the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has issued a 
control order restricting the watering of lawns and other vegetation 
from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through 
Sept. 30.&nbsp;

Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist, has the details.

This
 measure is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to 
improve conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control 
Area located in Hays.&nbsp;

The
 IGUCA in Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to 
help implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;

Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: 

* The washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways. * The known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems. *&nbsp;The escape of water from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the street guttering from landscape irrigation.

The above practices are <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/565/Water-RulesRestrictions">prohibited</a>, in addition to outdoor 
water use by city well customers between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through Sept.
 30.

By 
restricting daytime outdoor water use, including the watering of 
landscapes and gardens, unnecessary water loss due to wind and 
evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving the resource for more 
efficient use.

All 
citizens are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652907622464.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysIn response to a request made by the City of Hays, the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources has issued a 
control order restricting the watering of lawns and other vegetation 
from private wells between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through 
Sept. 30.&nbsp;Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist, has the details.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VurGjiJ7IU0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This
 measure is part of a greater interest to reduce water waste and to 
improve conservation practices in the Intensive Groundwater Use Control 
Area located in Hays.&nbsp;The
 IGUCA in Hays was established in 1985 at the request of the City to 
help implement water conservation measures. It provides a mechanism to 
address preventable water waste by privately-owned wells.&nbsp;Currently,
 the City of Hays prohibits the following year-round: * The washing down 
of sidewalks, parking lots and driveways. * The known loss of water 
through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems. *&nbsp;The escape of water from private property onto public property such as sidewalks or into the street guttering from landscape irrigation.The above practices are <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/565/Water-RulesRestrictions">prohibited</a>, in addition to outdoor 
water use by city well customers between noon and 7 p.m. from June 1 through Sept.
 30.By 
restricting daytime outdoor water use, including the watering of 
landscapes and gardens, unnecessary water loss due to wind and 
evaporation can be reduced, thus conserving the resource for more 
efficient use.All 
citizens are encouraged to practice the conservation of natural 
resources, including water, and look for ways to improve conservation 
measures in our homes and businesses, both indoors and out.

🎥 CITY: No outdoor watering between noon & 7 p.m. starts soon

Knights will honor first responders at barbecue

The Kansas Department of Transportation expects to begin work on a reconstruction project on approximately 11 miles of U.S. 281 in Russell County the week of May 23.

The project will widen the roadway to a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders, starting near Land Road and extending north to the west K-18 junction. The box bridge structure over Boswell Creek will also be replaced.

Work will be phased across three construction seasons with most activity occurring off road during 2022 and 2023. Daily lane closures may be necessary at times, and traffic will be directed by flaggers. KDOT plans to close the highway during the 2024 construction season with an anticipated reopening in mid-October 2024. The project is expected to be completed in early 2025.

The 11-mile portion is the final part of the delayed T-WORKS project to rehabilitate and reconstruct the U.S. 281 corridor between Russell and K-18. KDOT completed reconstruction of the first 4 miles from 15th&nbsp;Street in Russell to Land Road in late 2021.

Sporer Land Development of Oakley is the primary contractor for the $36 million project. F

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation expects to begin work on a reconstruction project on approximately 11 miles of U.S. 281 in Russell County the week of May 23.The project will widen the roadway to a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders, starting near Land Road and extending north to the west K-18 junction. The box bridge structure over Boswell Creek will also be replaced.Work will be phased across three construction seasons with most activity occurring off road during 2022 and 2023. Daily lane closures may be necessary at times, and traffic will be directed by flaggers. KDOT plans to close the highway during the 2024 construction season with an anticipated reopening in mid-October 2024. The project is expected to be completed in early 2025.The 11-mile portion is the final part of the delayed T-WORKS project to rehabilitate and reconstruct the U.S. 281 corridor between Russell and K-18. KDOT completed reconstruction of the first 4 miles from 15th&nbsp;Street in Russell to Land Road in late 2021.Sporer Land Development of Oakley is the primary contractor for the $36 million project. F

Second portion of U.S. 281 in Russell Co. to be reconstructed

Don’t let healthy eating stop just because school is out. Having kids at home over summer vacation can add more than $300 to your monthly food bill.

Save time and money by taking advantage of free summer meal programs right here in our community.

Join the Hays USD 489 this summer at Roosevelt Elementary from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch. This free summer meal program is on weekdays, May 31 to July 29, and is open to all children 18 and younger. No paperwork or proof of income is required.

Contact USD 489 Nutrition Services for more information.

SubmittedDon’t let healthy eating stop just because school is out. Having kids at home over summer vacation can add more than $300 to your monthly food bill.Save time and money by taking advantage of free summer meal programs right here in our community.Join the Hays USD 489 this summer at Roosevelt Elementary from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch. This free summer meal program is on weekdays, May 31 to July 29, and is open to all children 18 and younger. No paperwork or proof of income is required.Contact USD 489 Nutrition Services for more information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652734935500.jpeg" alt="2022 Summer Lunch Flyer" />
 <figcaption>2022 Summer Lunch Flyer</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652734963740.jpeg" alt="2022 Summer Lunch Flyer" />
 <figcaption>2022 Summer Lunch Flyer</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652735378872.jpeg" alt="2022 Summer Lunch Menu-June" />
 <figcaption>2022 Summer Lunch Menu-June</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652735409076.jpeg" alt="2022 Summer Lunch Menu-July" />
 <figcaption>2022 Summer Lunch Menu-July</figcaption>
 </figure>

Free children's summer lunch program to start May 31

UNIVERSITY, MS - Ashley Smith, of Hays, KS, is among the more than 3,300 students who earned their degrees from the University of Mississippi in May 2022.

Smith, who majored in art, received a master of fine arts from the graduate school.

May 2022 graduates were invited to walk across the stage at the&nbsp;University of Mississippi 169th Commencement exercises, which were held by individual colleges and schools May 4-8. The university-wide morning convocation was held on Saturday, May 7 in the Grove, with UM alumnus Bradford Cobb, a celebrated music industry executive, giving the keynote address.

The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the state's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. Its 16 academic divisions include a major medical school, nationally recognized schools of accountancy, law and pharmacy, and an Honors College acclaimed for a blend of academic rigor, experiential learning and opportunities for community action. Recognized among the nation's most beautiful, Ole Miss' main campus is in Oxford, which is routinely acknowledged as one of the country's best college towns.

<figure>
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 </figure>News releaseUNIVERSITY, MS - Ashley Smith, of Hays, KS, is among the more than 3,300 students who earned their degrees from the University of Mississippi in May 2022.Smith, who majored in art, received a master of fine arts from the graduate school.May 2022 graduates were invited to walk across the stage at the&nbsp;University of Mississippi 169th Commencement exercises, which were held by individual colleges and schools May 4-8. The university-wide morning convocation was held on Saturday, May 7 in the Grove, with UM alumnus Bradford Cobb, a celebrated music industry executive, giving the keynote address.The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the state's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. Its 16 academic divisions include a major medical school, nationally recognized schools of accountancy, law and pharmacy, and an Honors College acclaimed for a blend of academic rigor, experiential learning and opportunities for community action. Recognized among the nation's most beautiful, Ole Miss' main campus is in Oxford, which is routinely acknowledged as one of the country's best college towns.

Hays native Ashley Smith earns master's degree from University of Mississippi

MANCHESTER, NH - Christopher Rayburn of Hays has been named to<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h0/uJqV1_WyYa-q7Q2y9tVVFET49YQPeZ5WULI_g_xjovk" target="_blank">&nbsp;Southern New Hampshire University</a>'s Winter 2022 President's List.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above are named to the President's List.&nbsp;

<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h1/8NM0Qw34rIESA8sY8geu_T_arDIlZgmrDZj3U_Q8l2A" target="_blank">Southern New Hampshire University</a>&nbsp;(SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with an 89-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 165,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as the "Most Innovative" regional university by U.S. News &amp; World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h2/k8BhXqtVGPGg2zs2MyUMO6xng2yeDAILSN3v-gJF_p0" target="_blank">www.snhu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652890565058.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>News releaseMANCHESTER, NH - Christopher Rayburn of Hays has been named to<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h0/uJqV1_WyYa-q7Q2y9tVVFET49YQPeZ5WULI_g_xjovk" target="_blank">&nbsp;Southern New Hampshire University</a>'s Winter 2022 President's List.Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above are named to the President's List.&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h1/8NM0Qw34rIESA8sY8geu_T_arDIlZgmrDZj3U_Q8l2A" target="_blank">Southern New Hampshire University</a>&nbsp;(SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with an 89-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 165,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as the "Most Innovative" regional university by U.S. News &amp; World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/FVKQBa-VN97l-OkdOuXU3X-Z4xYYAgJ5dnVhHTdGwvU/3m4/vH0VX8YpSv67wUhpJdMFGw/h2/k8BhXqtVGPGg2zs2MyUMO6xng2yeDAILSN3v-gJF_p0" target="_blank">www.snhu.edu</a>.

Hays student named to Southern New Hampshire University President's List

The Larks Alumni will play the Old Fort Hays Post 9 team in a vintage baseball game at 7 p.m. on June 1 at Larks Park.

Admission is free, but fans are encouraged to bring canned food items to help stock the shelves at the Community Assistance Center.

The Larks Alumni will play the Old Fort Hays Post 9 team in a vintage baseball game at 7 p.m. on June 1 at Larks Park.Admission is free, but fans are encouraged to bring canned food items to help stock the shelves at the Community Assistance Center.

Larks alumni to play Old Fort Hays team June 1

Opening Gallery Reception for the “Gordon Sherman Retrospective” will be Friday, May 20,&nbsp;from 6-8pm at the Moss-Thorns Gallery &amp; Patricia A. Schmidt Gallery Lobby located on the FHSU campus. 

This exhibition will be up from May 23-June 10. Summer Gallery Hours will be M-F 10-2pm.

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 </figure>Opening Gallery Reception for the “Gordon Sherman Retrospective” will be Friday, May 20,&nbsp;from 6-8pm at the Moss-Thorns Gallery &amp; Patricia A. Schmidt Gallery Lobby located on the FHSU campus. This exhibition will be up from May 23-June 10. Summer Gallery Hours will be M-F 10-2pm.

'Gordon Sherman Retrospective' will open Friday at Moss-Thorns

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysCVB/">Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> announced on social media&nbsp; late Monday afternoon the ARC Park Splash Pad, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, is now open for the season.&nbsp;

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 </figure>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysCVB/">Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> announced on social media&nbsp; late Monday afternoon the ARC Park Splash Pad, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, is now open for the season.&nbsp;

CITY: ARC Park Splash Pad now open for the season

The mail carrier food drive for the Community Assistance Center was Saturday and collections were extremely low. Post card reminders were not sent out alerting residents to the drive, the center said.&nbsp;

The center needs the community's help to stock pantry shelves.&nbsp;

Food items or monetary assistance can be dropped off at 1108 Oak, or monetary donations can be mailed to the same address.&nbsp;

The mail carrier food drive for the Community Assistance Center was Saturday and collections were extremely low. Post card reminders were not sent out alerting residents to the drive, the center said.&nbsp;The center needs the community's help to stock pantry shelves.&nbsp;Food items or monetary assistance can be dropped off at 1108 Oak, or monetary donations can be mailed to the same address.&nbsp;

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