By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new program, Neighbor Link through First Call for Help in Hays, will deliver food boxes, hygiene items and diapers to people who are homebound, disabled or lack transportation.

"I have been wanting to make it available for delivery for a while now," Macey Pfeifer, First Call for Help executive director, said. 

"We have a lot of people who walk to us, a lot of people who are disabled or elderly, where other people come and get their stuff for them. I thought it would be a nice program to offer to those in Ellis County," Pfeifer said.

First Call for Help recently was able to purchase a van thanks to donations from the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation, an anonymous donor through the Heartland Community Foundation and Lewis Toyota.

The van is also used for food bank pickups, Meals on Wheels deliveries and other daily agency needs.

If you are not already a First Call for Help client, you need to sign up to receive deliveries.

You need to place your order with First Call for Help at 785-623-2800 by Friday, March 13, to receive delivery this month.

After this month, orders will be due by the first Friday of the month.

The deliveries will be made in Hays on the third Monday of the month and in Victoria and Ellis on the third Tuesday of the month. All deliveries will be made between 1:30 and 4 p.m.

There is no fee for the service.&nbsp;First Call for Help staff will make the deliveries.

"Public transportation in general is a hard topic for Hays," Pfeifer said. "Not everyone has $3 to get to a place and another $3 to get back. That cost really adds up.

"For people who are disabled and homebound, this will enable them to have the essentials everyone gets to have without the struggle, without having to beg someone to get it for you," she said.

First Call for Help has a van fundraising campaign going on now through April 30. Funds raised will be used for fuel, insurance and maintenance.

Anyone who donates between $50 and $249 toward the campaign will be entered once into a drawing for an Apple Watch and a three-in-one charging station. Anyone who donates $250 or more will receive three entries into the drawing.

You can donate to the <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/donate">campaign online</a> or send checks to First Call for Help,&nbsp;607 E. 13th St., Hays, KS 67601, with "van" in the memo line.

"We're excited to serve the community in a new way," Pfeifer said.

Neighbor Link to deliver essential goods to homebound residents in Hays

By DIANE
GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

They knew that any
game could be their favorite player’s last one at Fort Hays State University.

So Juju Ramirez’s
throng of supporters decided to support him in droves down the stretch of his
college career.

Two of Ramirez’s aunts
estimated that more than 50 family and friends showed up to watch FHSU play in
the MIAA Basketball Championships Friday night at Municipal Auditorium in
Kansas City, Mo.

Dispersed throughout
the crowd of the always-large Tiger crowds, the Ramirez crew did manage to nab
two rows of seats together. And there was no doubt who they were cheering for.

Both rows of fans with
Ramirez and the No. 25 across the back of their T-shirts often jumped up to
cheer for a positive Tiger play, especially when No. 25 was involved.

Juju grew up in
Lawrence, so several of his fan base had a short drive. But others came from as
far as Colorado.

The Rameriz family was
glad it had such a strong showing because it did turn out to be Juju’s last
game when the Tigers’ loss to Rogers State (Okla.) ended their season.

Juju is a senior in
his first year with the Tigers, and his family was pleasantly surprised with
the large Tiger crowd at the tournament.

In her first year as
athletic director at FHSU, Lisa Goddard McGuirk was equally impressed with the
support.

She had become
accustomed to large crowds back home in Gross Memorial Coliseum. But this was
different.

While several members
of the Black and Gold crowd are from the Kansas City area, numerous others
annually make the four-hour trip from Hays for the weekend.

“The unwavering
support from our amazing Tiger fans was evident at the tournament,” McGuirk
said. “No matter the distance, it has been incredible to witness how our
dedicated fans and supporters continue to show up and cheer on the Tigers
across all sports.”

As has become
tradition, Tiger fans filled Johnny Tavern’s in downtown KC – and just a few
blocks away from the auditorium – to eat and socialize and join the Tiger band
and cheerleaders for a pep rally before games.

McGuirk has
attended several alumni events all year, so she wasn’t surprised by the big
turnout at Johnny’s before the women’s game Thursday afternoon.

“The Alumni
Office consistently creates meaningful opportunities for our alumni to stay
connected and engaged,” she admitted. “During my first year, I have truly
appreciated the opportunity to connect with so many alumni and participate in a
variety of events. The pep rallies were especially impressive and a great
reflection of Tiger pride.”

Long lines of fans is
a common sight in the hallways of Municipal Auditorium as they await entrance
into their games at the MIAA tourney.

It offers a chance to
reconnect with friends that folks haven’t seen for awhile, maybe since last
year’s tournament. It’s also a way to make new connections as well.

Such was the case for
Mark and Judy Pilley, who made the trip from their home in Warsaw, Mo., to
watch their granddaughter play for the Tiger women on Thursday.

Freshman Mikayla
Pilley’s grandparents watched all the FHSU games on TV or were even able to
attend some of her close road games in person.

Mark and Judy Pilley
said that some Division I teams showed interest in Mikayla during her high
school career, but she was impressed with the Tigers’ winning culture “and she
wanted to play.” Mikayla has definitely gotten playing time; as one of the top players
off the bench, she has logged the most minutes of any Tiger substitute this
season.

Most fans come to
watch good basketball and reconnect with old friends. But some also come to
support the cheerleaders.

FHSU freshman Trinity
Wilson lives in Shawnee and made visits to all seven state universities in
Kansas while researching where to continue her education after high school. She
chose FHSU because of positive connections with the Tiger cheer squad and her
academic program (elementary art education).

Trinity’s mother,
Leslie, attended most home games when her daughter’s team cheered. And
Trinity’s immediate family was out in full force for the weekend as Dad Wes and
younger brothers Briggs and Calvin also attended Friday’s game.

“After visiting all
those campuses, she chose Fort Hays,” Leslie said. “She loves it there.”

The 2026 tournament
also was a first for Tiger grad Kyle Hull, who recently took over as
coordinator of fan experience at his alma mater and was working at his first
MIAA Tournament.

In fact, it was his
first time for Hull to attend the MIAA basketball tourney, period. And he was
pleased with the family atmosphere.

“Downtown Kansas City
is a phenomenal place to hold this tournament,” Hull said while sitting in a
booth at Johnny’s with his wife, Aubry, and their 1-year-old son, Harvey. “Just
seeing all the black and gold all around downtown is incredible.”

In an uncommon
occurrence, both the Tiger men’s and women’s teams exited the MIAA tourney
early. FHSU’s women’s overtime loss to Missouri Western in Thursday’s
quarterfinals snapped an eight-year streak where the Tigers advanced to the
semifinals of the annual conference tournament. It's the first time since 2010 that neither the men's or women's teams did not make it to the semifinals.

Nonetheless, some
folks could be heard already talking about next year’s tournament minutes after
the men’s game ended Friday night.

Hays resident Matt
Cook is looking forward to future MIAA tourneys, which he hopes to attend with
his family.

Cook, former chair of
the MIAA tournament committee, recently left his position as FHSU&nbsp; assistant athletic director to take over as
executive director of the Hays Recreation Commission. He returned to the
tourney this year as a volunteer – and his swan song with running promotions at
the tourney.

“I’m looking forward
to coming back as a fan in future years,” he said, “and enjoy it with my wife
Kathleen and daughter Thea.”

Linda Luka from
Andover missed last year’s MIAA Tournament after injuring her knee at the
Tigers’ last regular-season game.

So she was determined
to be back this year, because – well, that’s what grandmothers do. And her
granddaughter, Ellie Stearns, is a senior starter for the FHSU women.

While Friday’s game
was the last in an FHSU uniform for Ramirez and fellow senior Muhamed Kante,
Stearns and senior teammate Brooke Loewe still have at least one more game to
represent the Tigers.

Fort Hays State’s
women now await Sunday night’s selection show to learn their seed in the NCAA
Division II Central Regional.

It is likely that the
regional location will be Mankato, Minn., the home of Minnesota State
University, which held the No. 1 seed in the first two regional rankings.

Wherever the Tigers
play next, however, McGuirk hopes to be there in person.

“As an athletic
director, I believe it is important that we make every effort to support all of
our student-athletes and teams during postseason competition,” she said. “At
times, that can present logistical challenges, but I do my best to be present
because I am incredibly proud of all of our student-athletes.”

“Representing
Fort Hays State University in the postseason and on the national stage,”
McGuirk added, “is what our teams work toward every single day.”

Huge FHSU support a tradition at MIAA tourney

There's a new partnership between Fort Hays State University teacher interns and Roosevelt Elementary School in Hays.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks with Rachel Wentling, FHSU&nbsp;College of Education director of field experience, Amy Mayo, Roosevelt third-grade teacher, and Heidi Wamser, Roosevelt kindergarten teacher about the specialized classrooms in Roosevelt.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU-Roosevelt Elementary teacher intern partnership 

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I remember a turkey hunt along the river some years back and the discovery that it led us to. 

We had hunted along the river west of Inman, and parked near an adjacent alfalfa field. As we crawled into the pickup to leave, my wife pointed toward the treetops along the river and asked “Is there a bird in that nest?” I looked where she pointed, and saw a haphazard collection of twigs or something in the very top of a tall dead cottonwood. 

The ensuing conversation went something like this: “No, dear, that looks like a squirrel's nest to me.” “I don’t thinks so,” she replied, “and I’m sure that’s a bird in it.” “Here then,” I said, handing her the binoculars. “See for yourself.” “Just like I thought,” she answered. “That is a bird. It looks like one of those big tall birds we see wading along the river.” “A Blue Heron,” I corrected, “and I don’t think so; not way up there!”

 I snatched the binoculars from her, and peered at the “squirrel's nest” high in the tree. Sure enough! Sticking out like a sore thumb in the tallest tree around was a large willy-nilly collection of branches and sticks, and square in the middle of it stood the unmistakable silhouette of a Great Blue Heron, better known as a “crane” to most of us. 

Now, had “Mom Heron” not been standing in her nest, the squirrel's nest theory would certainly have “flown,” and we’d have never given the spectacle a second glance. 

When we left, we took the gravel road along the other side of the river, and stopped for another look. We found the nest to be hidden by green trees, but discovered yet a second nest in which we also found an adult heron a few days later.

I remember that Saturday was our day to have our grandson, and on our way back home after retrieving him, we took some back roads in an attempt to fulfill the nature portion of his visit. As we passed those nests, long ago forgotten by me, he pointed skyward at a large bird circling over the trees. There they were again;&nbsp; this time, five nests, four of them sporting adult Blue Herons sitting upright in the menagerie of sticks and branches they call home.

Great Blue Herons of some subspecies or coloration exist across the entire continental United States and Alaska. 

For Kansas herons, southern migration to Mexico or South America begins in October where they winter until March. They are very tall, gangly birds with immense wingspans of up to six feet, yet weigh less than ten pounds. 

Depending upon conditions, a few awkward “steps” may be required to launch them into flight, but once in the air, they move with slow, rhythmic, effortless strokes of those immense wings. Unlike most birds of their stature, they fly with their necks crooked and folded back against their bodies and their heads held upright. They have practically no tail at all, so they also fly with their long legs straight out behind them, acting as rudders to help steer them in flight.

I’m sure we’ve all seen “cranes” fishing in rivers and streams and along the banks of ponds. 

Although fish, frogs and small snakes make up the vast majority of their diet, they are not above eating insects and small rodents also. Their long pointed beaks are perfectly designed for stabbing prey, which is always killed and swallowed head first. The enzymes in their digestive system are so strong that most bone matter is completely dissolved.

Great Blue Herons demand isolation in their nesting sites, and are very sensitive to human disturbance. Nests are often found in colonies known as “heronries,” and can be anywhere from treetops like the ones we found, to rocky ledges and crevices on the ground. 

When satisfied with a nesting site, the birds usually return year after year to enlarge and reuse the same structures whenever possible. Three or four bluish-green eggs are laid and incubated for twenty-eight days by both parents. 

Research shows that heron chicks are extremely unpleasing to look at until fully feathered, and stay in the nest until they are nearly as large as the parents.

Great Blue Herons are far ffrom rare, and I remember as a kid learning to know them as “cranes” as we watched them hunt around the edges of the farm pond where my dad took me to fish for bass and bullheads.

 Writing this piece showed me how little I really knew about these birds, especially about where they built their nests. Yet another reason to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Have you a heron in your hedgerow?

LA MIRADA, Calif. — Jacobi Antonio was named to Biola University's Dean's List for academic excellence.

Antonio, an accounting major from Hays, was one of approximately 1,700 students who were named to the dean's list in fall 2025. Biola students are placed on the dean's list to honor those with a GPA of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more credits and whose cumulative GPA is at least 3.2.

Founded in 1908, <a href="https://www.biola.edu/">Biola University</a> is committed to the mission of biblically centered education, scholarship and service. With more than 5,000 students at its Southern California campus and around the world, Biola's eight schools offer more than 250 academic programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.&nbsp;

Hays resident named to Dean's List at Biola University

Ellis County Environmental Services

To help us manage waste properly and keep disposal costs down for everyone, we kindly ask that municipal waste and construction demolition waste be separated before arriving at the landfill. Mixed loads may need to be refused at the staffs discretion, we appreciate your cooperation in keeping materials sorted.

Municipal waste Such waste includes, but is not limited to:

Household waste Garbage Yard waste Paper Fabric Microwave ovens PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) Stuffed/ upholstered furniture CRT TV's and computer monitors Food waste Carpet and pad Foam Plastic Vinyl sliding Cardboard Empty plastic drums (one side must be open) Mirrors

Construction and demolition waste Such wastes include, but are not limited to

Other masonry materials Soil Wood Wall covering Drywall Electrical Wiring Showers Roofing materials Plaster Plumbing fixtures (non-plastic, non-PVC "Polyvinyl chloride") Electrical components (Non-hazardous) Toilet **Non-friable asbestos

Brayden Dreher Environmental Services Assistant Director Ellis County Environmental Office (785-628-9449)

Ellis County landfill announce waste separation policy

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

In last month’s column, I took policymakers to task for forgetting former Kansas Governor Sam Brownback’s tax-cutting experiment, which cratered state revenues. School funding cuts landed the state in court. Kansas also borrowed over $1 billion from the state highway fund (the “Bank of KDOT”), fell out of compliance with federal regulations regarding the minimum staffing at mental hospitals, and witnessed a prison riot in overcrowded conditions. Yet last year, the Kansas Legislature passed a new “glide path”-- this one to a flat rate income tax. Meanwhile, Missouri’s governor has proposed an income tax phaseout similar to Brownback’s.

My critics on X suggested that these budget cuts were actually the responsibility of former Kansas Governors Kathleen Sebelius and Mark Parkison. Meanwhile, Patrick Tuohey of the Better Cities Project published a reply in the Topeka Capital-Journal, arguing that the economic troubles during the Brownback years were actually caused by problems in the farm economy, that Kansas’ real problem was too much spending, and that Missouri’s plan has better safeguards.

In fact, the second term of the Sebelius-Parkinson Administration coincided with the bursting of the housing bubble in 2008-9, which triggered the Great Recession and slashed state tax collections. Governors and legislators responded with deep spending cuts to keep the state budget in balance. Sebelius and Parkinson also fought to keep the state in compliance on school funding. Sebelius even called a special session of the Kansas Legislature for this purpose. They also sought to leverage federal matching funds. Kansas revenues had largely recovered by fiscal year 2013, then dipped dramatically after Brownback’s tax cut. Sebelius and Parkinson made clear that their solutions were both painful and temporary, while Brownback’s “glide path” made these budget cuts permanent, with no end in sight, until they were repealed in 2017.

Former Kansas Budget Director Duane Goossen considered the farm economy. He compared Kansas to Oklahoma, Nebraska, Missouri, and Colorado, finding that Kansas had the slowest population growth during the Brownback years. Also, the other states did not experience fiscal crises then. The farm economy is important throughout this region, yet only Kansas experienced a fiscal crisis.

My critics suggest that Kansas failed to cut spending. Yet I already discussed the deep cuts in spending made to cope with this manmade budget catastrophe, which shorted social services and landed the state in court over school funding. These are the largest items in the state budget.

Tuohey ends his column by writing, “In short, Brownback never had a plan to balance the budget. Missouri does.” While vague, he may be referencing the revenue triggers included both in the 2025 Kansas income tax cut, and in the Missouri proposal. No income tax cuts occurred this year in Kansas, because the revenue thresholds were not reached.

The triggers provide some relief, but are they the right priorities? For example, once again, Kansas appears on track to short the funding for special education programs. Without the tax cuts, the revenue from economic growth could fund this in the future. Should it instead be diverted to a flat tax, which overwhelmingly benefits the wealthy?

I commend my critics for engaging with a civil tone. Yet one thing remains clear: fourteen years after the “Glide Path to Zero,” voters need to remind policymakers just how costly these policies really were.

Michael Smith is a professor of political science at Emporia State University.

Insight Kansas: Remembering the Brownback tax cut experiment-accurately

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

&nbsp;If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

Dive into a digital treasure trove of savings with the Eagle Radio Online Auction!

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

933 Oak Ave. Hoxie, KS 67740 (785) 675-3201 <a target="_blank" href="https://hoxieimplement.com/">https://hoxieimplement.com/</a>

Yamaha YFZ250 Youth ATV - The YFZ50 is engineered as the ideal starting point for aspiring ATV riders aged 6 and up, with a low-maintenance 49cc engine tuned to develop responsive, controllable performance. A combination of engine limiters and a power cut-off tether switch make it easy to allow young riders to adapt to the ATV as their skills grow. Servicing is simple, too, thanks to features like the tool-less quick-access air filter element. Single A-arm front suspension is tuned for light, easy steering and comfortable ride quality. The rear swingarm also features a compact single shock for good control and comfort. It also boasts convenient features like a fully automatic CVT transmission and electric start with a back-up kickstart. A robust steel frame design incorporates a large 1.5 gallon fuel tank, plush seat and roomy integrated floorboards. For sporty looks and handling, YFZ50 uses durable Duro tires on lightweight wheels, with styling unmistakably inspired by the race-ready YFZ450R, Yamaha Blue Color

Current Bid: $1,500 Retail Price: $2,599 ------

Just off I-70, Wilson, KS 785-658-3626 <a href="http://%20www.marinespecialtyllc.com/" target="_blank">www.marinespecialtyllc.com</a>

This is a Zup Board from Marine Specialty's pro shop. &nbsp;You can kneel, surf, lay and play on this board.&nbsp; As seen on Shark Tank, you can take your riding to the next level. You ride faster, jump higher, and perform tricks quicker. This ZUP board features elbow pads and kneepads with non-skid EVA foam padding so you can enjoy comfort and stability. The top-down fins offer enhanced tracking and are removable if you want to add your own larger fins. Current Bid: $100 Retail Price: $700

1480 Highway 183 Stockton, KS 67669 800-446-2845

Protect your investment with a quality crafted tarp! Choose from 18 and 22 ounce polyester and nylon coated material in a wide array of colors. All applications are top quality, fully guaranteed, and crafted to fit your needs. This certificate is for tarps only. Can not be used towards labor or tarp parts. Does not include boat tarps. Tarps Unlimited Stockton Ks. 785-425-7070. Certificate value is $500 and good for one year.

Current Bid: $100 Retail Price: $500

Bid on this gift certificate from Hays Bobcat Rental, 729 East 8th St., in Hays.&nbsp; This gift certificate is good for a weekend rental of a track skid steer, wheel skid steer, or an excavator.&nbsp; You pick up the machine on Friday and can bring it back on Monday morning, and it’s good for 8 hours over the weekend.&nbsp; You can use it longer than 8 hours if you wish for a charge of $25 per hour for every hour over 8 hours.&nbsp; It will be full of fuel when you pick it up, and the machine needs to be full of fuel when you bring it back.&nbsp; Book early as machines are in high demand!&nbsp; For additional information on these rental machines, please call Ian or Kelbi Harvey at 785-621-4841.&nbsp; This certificate has an expiration date of September 30th, 2026.&nbsp; This certificate has a retail value of $325.

Current Bid: $273 Retail Price: $325

Check out these Eagle Radio Auction items through today: youth ATV, Zup aquatic board

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

SMITH CENTER – The TMP-Marian Monarchs fought through one of
their worst shooting performances of the season. They used a lockdown defense
in the second half on their way to a 52-49 victory over Stanton County on
Saturday in the first sub-state championship game in Smith Center.

It’s Monarchs' first trip to the state tournament since 2023.

It took both teams time for their offenses to settle in. The
Trojans were the first team to score, only to see TMP’s Jacob Seib score
back-to-back field goals and give TMP the 4-2 lead with less than four and a
half minutes to play in the first quarter.

Stanton County retook the lead at 6-4, but then the teams traded
the lead back and forth three times before Stanton County built a 14-12 lead at
the end of the first quarter.

With the game tied again, this time at 14, the Trojans put
together an 11-3 run for a 25-17 lead with two minutes remaining in the first
half.

After trailing by as many as eight, twice in the final
second of the first half, TMP closed within five, trailing 28-23 at halftime.

The Monarchs shot just 1-of-15 from three-point range in the
first half.

Stanton County extended its lead to seven, 30-23, to open
the third quarter.

The Monarchs answered with a 12-4 run, taking a 35-34 lead
on a Ty Schmeidler three-pointer.

But the lead was short-lived, as Stanton County took the lead
back on the next possession. 

They then went on to build a 40-35 lead through three
quarters.

The Trojans converted a three-pointer in the opening
possession of the fourth quarter to lead by eight again, 43-35.

The Monarchs’ offense was finally able to break through with
five minutes and six seconds remaining when Will Eck connected on his first of
two fourth-quarter three-pointers.

That shot, and the TMP defense, spurred a 17-6 run to close
the game with a 52-49 victory.

Schmeidler scored eight of his team-high 18 points in the
fourth quarter while the Monarchs forced Stanton County into eight fourth-quarter
turnovers.

Jacob Seib also scored in double-figures with 14 points.

After starting 1-for-15 for three, TMP finished the game 5-for-25.

The win moves TMP to 20-5 on the season and makes them the
No. 4 seed in the 2A state tournament. They will open on Wednesday against the
five-seed St. Mary's. The time and location will be announced on Sunday. &nbsp;

🏀 Monarchs shake off rough start to punch ticket back to state tournament

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

HAYS - Hays High heads back to the state tournament in back-to-back season for the first time 1995-96 with a 55-37 victory over Andover Central.

Andover Central (14-11) jumped out to a 5-2 lead in a little under the first three minutes of the game. Hays bounced back with a big first quarter run. The full run totaled 16-4 for an 18-9 advantage with 1:05 left in the quarter. The Zoe Winter and Morgan Armbruster combined for five points to give the Indians a 7-5 advantage. With the score tied at seven Hays (23-1) launched into a 8-0 spurt.&nbsp;

Molly Buckles got the run going with a two-point bucket. Haley LaBarge and Jenna Schmeidler followed with a pair of traditional three point plays for a 15-7 edge with two minutes left in the quarter.

Central got a bucket which was followed by a Schmeidler second traditional three point play at 18-9. The Jaguars were game though hitting consecutive threes to close the first quarter at an 18-15 score.

They followed that with the first two field goals for the second quarter to complete a 10-0 run that boosted the Jaguars to a 19-18, ninety seconds into the second quarter. Winter put Hays back on top 20-19 a minute later. Tied at 20, Armbruster knocked in two free throws for a led the Indians would never give back.

Leading by two, Hays got the second of three, three pointers from Armbruster for a 29-24 advantage. Winter scored the final three points of the half for Hays and the Indians led 32-26 at half.

Hays never trailed in the second half. The Jaguars got within four points on two occasions. The second at 36-32 with 3:15 left in the third quarter was the closest Central would be rest of the night.

Schmeidler wrapped a pair of two point field goals around an Armbruster three for a 43-32 lead after the third quarter.

The Hays defense tightened as well after the 36-32 scored. The Indians didn't allow Central to score for the next 9:30 seconds. During that time Hays went on a 17-0 run for a 53-32 advantage with 2:30 left in the game.

Winter scored six of the Indians first eight points of the fourth quarter as Hays pulled away for a 55-37 victory.

Schmeidler led all scoring with 16. Winter grabbed her sixth double-double of the season with 15 points and a career high 14 rebounds. Armbruster scored 11 off the bench and Molly Buckles added 10.

Hays will play on Wednesday in the first round of the 5A State Tournament. The location and time is yet to be released by KSHSAA.

The Indians set a school record for wins in a season at 23.

Rupp 0, Schmeidler 16, Humphrey 0, LaBarge 3, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 11, Turner 0, Newell 0, Harrington 0, Buckles 10, Winter 15.

🏀 Hays girls headed back to the state tournament

FHSU University Communications&nbsp;

GREAT BEND — Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC) will host a variety of free daily hands-on activities each afternoon of Spring Break, March 16-20, providing a chance for people to get out and explore the diversity of the wetlands.

A different activity will take place from 1-4 p.m. each day. The event is informal, come-and-go, and no registration is required. Activities are geared toward school-aged children. After enjoying the hands-on activities, visitors can check out the center’s interactive exhibit hall, classroom with live animals, 16-minute video about Cheyenne Bottoms, and walk the nature trail. They can also grab a map and take a self-guided tour of the wetlands.

Monday, March 16 – All About That Bass

Get ready for a fintastic fishy adventure! Students will discover how awesome fish features, like cool mouths, speedy tails, and wiggly body shapes, help them survive and thrive. Then it’s time to get crafty and create their very own paper fish with fun adaptations of their choice.

Tuesday, March 17 – Terrariums To Go

Ever want to have your own pocket-sized world? Well, now you can. Learn what goes into creating a perfect habitat for living creatures, and put it into practice by making your very own terrarium to take home and enjoy your own little world.

Wednesday, March 18 – Bioluminescent Beetles: Fantastic Fireflies

Fireflies, lightning bugs, glowworms, blinkies, moon bugs, golden sparklers, marsh flickers; no matter what you call them, these bioluminescent beetles have a unique way of capturing our attention. Flash on over to learn more about these insects. We will learn about how and why they glow at night and craft a paper lantern inspired by fireflies for you to take home with you.

Thursday, March 19 – Cheyenne Bottoms Buffet&nbsp;

As many as 41 species of shorebirds migrate to Cheyenne Bottoms each year. With so many migrants, you might be wondering how all of these birds find enough food to eat.&nbsp;Migrate out to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center to learn about microhabitats as well as how these shorebirds eat.&nbsp;In addition, we will be making a flapping bird for you to take home.

Friday, March 20 – A Wild Introduction to Field Journaling

Did you know some of history’s most groundbreaking ideas, expeditions, and discoveries began in the pages of a field journal? Such as Charles Darwin's sketches from the Galapagos Islands and Lewis and Clark's charts from their expedition. So, let’s get started on your very own field journal. Together, you will learn tricks and tips to not only draw your observations but also write about and understand what they mean. Afterwards, we will put your skills to the test with a walk through our very own KWEC trail.

Can't join us in person or want a teaser of the activity? At 10 a.m. each day, tune in to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0d6l0qajQc2cNPx9eB-2BHhpm5IMZ-2B8g1sy0eqGIkhgPELV8VeFlGkoKFvhBqsB6fHoA-3D-3DR9bt_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO6ME-2BMd-2FBoxlb3lCwFaJfE6IOBtuQ2h5h0k-2Fn60B0dBy5L1xpsH6WiPySQkzcTJHJjYJFDosaEsYaS0nXHb4DaYA2iBOf6cDjAEHZmA-2B0dGDJJ4YcJcOwzWPq0-2BTDSAEUHoPHZQRTKD2Jy-2B5mKGB3rlMTq2LR4yWBqDzOQG5D4VawnBHt2IwTEg72ILrjt8Vst3gTaqUrHLlN2-2By-2BFLt-2B6-2B-2FCySRN4YFJKa6s1y0gdfKhLxC8eC15ye5B5Ajg0wjQ">https://www.facebook.com/wetlandscenter</a>&nbsp;for a chance to meet the staff member presenting that day and a story that fits the theme of the afternoon activity.

KWEC is located at Cheyenne Bottoms, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend, on K-156 Highway. For more information, call 877-243-9268 or visit <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqiohrCVEzT-2Bu22yVklcaqOvmZGt05-2BeOL3r-2Flc3NH2OV7rO5_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO6ME-2BMd-2FBoxlb3lCwFaJfE6IOBtuQ2h5h0k-2Fn60B0dBy5L1xpsH6WiPySQkzcTJHJjYJFDosaEsYaS0nXHb4DaXHdGcAyXWeLnPAZIoj6SavGEGAyE-2BfnujAqTEanhiR9FAnTKxWiWbxD3DBoMf8y9Y0F35UzD82IURDz4tKwwM-2BABb3LG5eq-2FAzWOidK1zsK2JMrzEISe1-2FrehOgcJZAlmyhjp0VOqBOuMlB7sxuDiTKz6S0ZXrDdd-2BIsnn1evWG">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

Spring break activities at FHSU Kansas Wetlands Education Center   

This month's presentation, "Eco Acoustics: Harmonizing Humans and Nature," is sponsored by Fort Hays State University's Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) and will begin at 7 p.m. Monday, March 9, at The Venue in Thirsty's Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.

Luke Helker, assistant professor and percussion assistant director of bands at Fort Hays State University, will present a lecture-recital of works for percussion and electronics that engage with sonification and acoustic ecology to demonstrate different relationships between humans and the natural world. 

With this recital, audiences will be exposed to sounds unheard of or unimaginable, with the hope that the natural world will be amplified like never before.

Please note, while drinks will be available for purchase, no food will be served&nbsp;during Science Café.

Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:

<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqhxD-2BcQjFgIRBovAML9-2BM4eClLu2fQOOHuiGSFsY2VCCpL-p_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOL5Vbz6lOSRnn5577dkU80-2FW631O5wh2jOhGQVdeNHxO5CMCD2hHg66IOCHLhJJm9rgd92rkN9XJh2LyW-2FxPUsO-2BEmWOxkBZPDITR1pCBdlYJ5PgMT4NUgSChpCKE3QmvZjHJo4D7XVP0e-2FBTxP-2BtYSNt58XSbv50Y8JhEn16-2BePmgwhbzLdtKEVK0t0XjRjZ-2FDS4vqe4lVZz16hRk0P7M0080JLHK6qN8-2F91nGvBZSp-2FFb7GifavD4mchX0raLeG">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqgHG-2B9GDc8KXBqj4fLXNv8t-2BV6Hb4Q5M0d-2FSyU8hjsQrSc6LVzLLvmFtB9JY8b1rMg-3D-3Dj3K8_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOL5Vbz6lOSRnn5577dkU80-2FW631O5wh2jOhGQVdeNHxO5CMCD2hHg66IOCHLhJJm9rgd92rkN9XJh2LyW-2FxPUsAFFYdrimTPIAPHEYyDIjfXSCN3yv8qOh33THHm62p8c4QNdEpGS8LxbOhOdJgItO110snzTBzrxcUBJSSEau7pG-2FJLrde0SRrVe1sqRJ8YLQkkCI7qwjDLspm2NaQp5FzKz559GqcFfARwzHhapUDZ9aaUr-2BL4aJV7wa7E-2F0wVS">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

Eco-acoustics in harmony of humans and nature is next FHSU Science Cafe

As a friendly reminder with warmer weather approaching, if a vehicle enters the Ellis County Landfill without being properly secured, or drops, sifts, leaks, material enroute to the disposal area, the customer will be charged an additional 50% of the total weight disposal fee. We also want to remind customers that municipal waste and construction demolition waste be separated before arriving at the landfill. Mixed loads may need to be refused at the staff’s discretion; we appreciate your cooperation in keeping materials sorted and our roads clean

Such waste includes, but is not limited to:

Household waste PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) Plastic Garbage Stuffed/upholstered furniture Vinyl siding Yard Waste CRT TV’s and computer monitors Cardboard Paper Food waste Fabric Carpet and pad Microwave ovens Foam Empty plastic drums (one side must be open) Mirrors

Such wastes include, but are not limited to:

Other masonry materials Roofing materials Soil Wood Plaster Wall covering Plumbing fixtures (non-plastic, non-PVC “Polyvinyl chloride”) Drywall Electrical Components (Non-Hazardous) Electrical Wiring Toilet Showers Non-friable asbestos

Ellis County landfill secured, mixed load reminder

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

Register before March 20 to be entered in a drawing to win a free pair of Brooks or Hokas shoes from Brown's Shoe Fit.

Sign up online at <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">firstcallelliscounty.com</a>.

First Call for Help Race to Restock set for April 4

&nbsp;United Way of Ellis County is helping residents maximize their hard-earned income through free tax filing support available through My Free Taxes®.

My Free Taxes lets U.S. tax filers who earned less than $89K last year file their federal and state taxes online for free.

Since 2009, My Free Taxes has helped people across America file more than 1.5M returns, save $318M in tax preparation fees, and receive over $2.1B in refunds.

“Tax season is an opportunity to help put hard-earned dollars back into the pockets of our community members,” said Janelle VanKooten, executive director of United Way of Ellis County. 

“My Free Taxes provides a secure, easy, and completely free way for qualifying individuals and families to file accurately, claim the credits they deserve, and access support from IRS-trained specialists along the way.”

Most filers complete their taxes in under one hour and can file from a phone, tablet, or computer. The platform guides users through the process to help ensure they receive their maximum refund.

Through April 15, 2026, northwest Kansas filers who want assistance can call 1-866-698-9435 daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. From April 21 through October 15, support will be available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

The Help Line, available in English and Spanish, is supported by 211 call specialists trained by the IRS. 211 is the 24/7 go-to resource that connects people to locally available help. It is supported by United Way and available in 99% of the U.S.

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