By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board decided not to sell&nbsp;7.23 acres north of Felten Elementary School (the former Hays Middle School) at its meeting on Monday night.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the district received four bids for the property, but they were all well below the $630,000 appraised value.

Board President Curt Vajnar suggested the board reject all bids, which it had reserved the right to do during the bidding process.

He said the district is in no hurry to sell the property. He suggested the board discuss the issue further during its upcoming work session on March 23.

Board Vice President Ruth Ruder said, "We're not saying no. We want to see what the future holds."

The property is currently zoned residential and could be transformed into about 20 residential lots. However, a developer could apply for a zoning change, Wilson said.

The board approved contract extensions for district administrators and directors for the 2027-28 school year.

The board unanimously approved the directors' contracts. However, the vote on administrators' contracts was split, with Allen Park and Derek Yarmer voting against.

Yarmer made a motion, and Park seconded it to vote on each administrator contract individually.

"I think if the truth or criticism gives you pause, then I think you need to reflect internally," Yarmer said. ... "I don't think the truth is anything to hide from."

Board member Craig Pallister&nbsp;said Wilson recommended renewing all the administrator contracts, and he supported those recommendations. Ruder said she agreed.

Pallister, a former principal, said, "I think that would be singling people out and saying we do not have faith in you."

Board member Jayme Goetz, a former district teacher, said she thought it was important for the board to be on the same page. She also said she thought the board should support Wilson's recommendations.

Wilson said he opposed the board voting on the contracts one by one.

He said the district is very lucky to have the administrators they have.

He added administrators' jobs are often conflict-based, and not everyone is going to agree with how things are handled.

"It's a tough job. It's a lonely job, and you're singling them out," Wilson said.

The board's approval of the administrators' contracts brought applause from the audience.

Contract revisions to go to work session

Before the vote on the contract extensions, the board members discussed changes to the administrators' contracts. Most of the originally proposed changes were minor, including some recommendations from an attorney at the Kansas Association of School Boards.

The contracts for administrators in several places refer back to the administrator's handbook and benefit guide.

Park and Yarmer said they wanted the specific number of vacation and holiday days, as well as salary, spelled out in each administrator's contract.

Park also expressed frustration that the administration handbook was not approved by the board in 2025. However, Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent for business, noted the administration handbook did not come before the board in 2025 because there were no changes since it was last approved in 2024.

The changes to the contract were ultimately tabled by a 5-2 vote, with board members Ruder and Ken Brooks voting against the motion.

If changes to the contract were approved, district counsel Bill Jeter said the administrators could accept the new contract or continue working under their current one.

Wilson said construction continues to progress at O'Loughlin Elementary School.

Demolition work inside Felten Elementary School is set to begin this week.

Kyle Carlin, director of the special education cooperative, has announced his resignation as of the end of June.

Hays USD 489 rejects all bids for land purchase

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

SALINA - The Hays High Lady Indians advance to the state semifinals for the first time since 1995 with a 49-46 win over Kapaun Mt. Carmel in the 5A state quarterfinals at the Tony's Pizza Events Center.

The biggest lead of the first half happened at halftime when Hays (24-1) took a four point advantage at 27-23. The prior 15:30 was all played with neither team leading by more than three points.&nbsp;

The teams traded the lead seven times in the first quarter. The Indians had the biggest first quarter lead at 10-7 on Jenna Schmeidler's first field goal. Kapaun answered back with a 7-2 run to close out the final 1:50 of the quarter and take a 14-12 lead to the second quarter.

Zoe Winter opened the second quarter with a traditional three point play to give Hays a 15-14 edge. Kapaun (19-7) went on a 6-2 spurt that gave the Crusaders their first of two three point leads. The first at 20-17 and then again at 23-20 ninety seconds later.

Kapaun's last points of the half came with 3:50 remaining before halftime. The Indians ended the half on a 7-0 run. Kinslee Newell got a layup one possession before taking a charge to give Hays the ball back with 1:35 left in the half. Schmeidler scored the final two points of the half for a 27-23 halftime advantage.

Hays never trailed in the second half. After not hitting a single three pointer in the first half, the Indians made three in the third quarter to help build a 12 point lead. Schmeidler made the first three pointer 45 seconds in the quarter and followed that up wit a pair of free throws at 32-25.

Morgan Armbruster, Winter and Ramiyah Turner each scored a field goal on an 8-1 run that gave the Indians the first of two 12 point leads at 40-28. Kapaun held the Indians scoreless for the final three minutes of the third quarter. The Crusaders managed just five points in that stretch to close the gap down to 40-33 at the end of three quarters.

Hays once again built their lead to 12 in the first ninety seconds of the four quarter. Newell scored a second field goal for a 45-33 lead with 6:30 remaining. The Indians though went cold for the rest of the game. Through the remainder of the game Hays made just one of five field goals and turned the ball over four times.&nbsp;

Kapaun was able to cut the lead down to one point at 47-46 with 1:05 remaining. Hays missed a shot near the end of the shot clock but the miss was grabbed by Newell. Two fouls later Schmeidler nailed a pair of free throws with 13.5 left on the clock for a 49-46 lead.

Kapaun got a clean look at a three but missed. The rebound went out-of-bounds and with 0.2 seconds left the Crusaders could do nothing with the remaining time.

The victory is just the fifth state tournament win for Hays in program history. It is the first since 1995.

Hays will face Shawnee Heights in the semifinals at 3:30 on Friday. The game will played at Koch Arena on the campus of Wichita State University. The Hertz Pregame Show starts at 3:10 on 96.9 KFIX. The game will be streamed on Hays Post.

The other half of the bracket will play at 1:30 when the top seeded Andover Trojans face off with St. James Academy.&nbsp;

Rupp 2, Schmeidler 18, Humphrey 0, LaBarge 2, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 3, Turner 3, Newell 4, Buckles 7, Winter 10.

🏀 Hays survives and advances with win over Kapaun

Hays High vs Kapaun Mt. Carmel Wednesday, Mar. 11 - 8:00 Salina, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network &nbsp; WATCH HERE - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3808788">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;

The Hays High girls make back-to-back state basketball appearances when they play Kapaun Mt. Carmel on Wednesday evening.

Hays (23-1) is playing in consecutive state tournaments for the first time since 1995 and 1996. It is the Indians 10th overall state tournament. Kapaun (19-6) was the four seed in 5A West. This marks the Crusaders 19th trip to state overall but first since 2015.

Winner of this game plays on Friday at 3:30 in Koch Arena at Wichita State University.

Tip-off for tonight is set for 8:00. The Hertz Pregame Show will begin at 7:40 on 96.9 KFIX.&nbsp;

🏀📺 Hays girls open state tournament versus Kapaun

The Hays High girls will play at 8 p.m. in Salina at Tony's Pizza Event Center. Watch the game via streaming on the Hays Post.

<a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/hayshigh/">WATCH HERE</a>

Watch the Hays High send off to state

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A 46-year-old Hays man was arrested on a warrant for alleged child sex offenses.

Lt. Brandon Hauptman of the Hays Police Department said the Hays Police Department served a Kansas Bureau of Investigation warrant on Matthew Charles Reynard at 7:36 p.m. on March 6 in the 200 block of East 14th Street.

Hauptman said responding officers allegedly observed drug paraphernalia in plain sight and later obtained a search warrant, which allegedly uncovered evidence that led to additional drug-related charges.

Reynard was charged with alleged sexual exploitation of a child and internet trading in child pornography, which is a level five felony.

He was also charged with alleged distribution of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana with two prior convictions, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.

Hays man arrested for allegedly trading child pornography on internet

A 29-year-old Hays man was arrested for allegedly burglarizing multiple vehicles.

Lt. Brandon Hauptman of the Hays Police said several witnesses reported seeing Jonathan Isaish Steinike allegedly breaking into three vehicles at 8:20 p.m. on March 4 in the 300 block of East 19th Street.

Hauptman said witnesses provided descriptions and security footage of the alleged incident, resulting in officers locating and arresting him about two blocks away shortly afterward.

Steinike was arrested on alleged charges of burglary, possession of marijuana with two prior convictions and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The investigation remains ongoing, and Hauptman said police have not yet confirmed whether any items were stolen.

Hays man arrested for alleged vehicle burglaries

#4 TMP-Marian vs #5 St. Marys March, 11th, 2:00 p.m Tony's Pizza Event Center, Salina, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3808776">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs open play at the 2A state tournament Wednesday afternoon against the St. Marys Bears.

The Monarchs are the No. 4 seed at 20-5, while the Bears are the No. 5 seed at 19-7.

The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 1:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian Monarchs takes on St. Marys in state opener

A red flag warning has been issued for Ellis County from 1 through 8 p.m. Thursday.

Other affected counties include&nbsp;Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Stafford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell-Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber.

Winds are forecast to be out of the southwest at 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. Humidity is forecast to be as low as 12%.

Any fire that develops will catch and spread  quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended, according to the National Weather Service.

The high in Hays on Thursday is forecast at 73 degrees.

Red Flag warning issued for Thursday for Ellis County

Thomas More Prep-Marian sends its basketball time off to state.

Watch the game via streaming on the Hays Post.

The first game will be in Salina at Tony's Pizza Event Center at 2 pm.&nbsp;

<a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/?S=thomasmoreprep">WATCH HERE</a>

Watch the TMP basketball send off to state

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post

Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com and include your phone number.&nbsp;

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

Trump's biggest new distraction from the Epstein files is his war on Iran and this one just might work. 

We are blowing through a billion dollars a day with no end in sight.

 Secretary Hegseth on March 5 said "if you think you've seen something just wait" and we've "only just began to fight."

 Trump on March 6 called for Iran's "unconditional surrender." 

Meanwhile, the Republican Congress (including our Kansans Marshall, Moran, Mann, Schmidt and Estes) continues to be missing in action. Given a chance to force the administration to define the goals and limit the use of ground troops, they declined to act. They now own this war and the consequences.

 Trump said on March 5, "I guess Americans should worry about Iran retaliating on U.S. soil. Like I said, some people will die." The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Kash Patel-led FBI are the agencies responsible for protecting us from this. 

We do not have a DHS director. Senators Marshall and Moran have a chance to atone for their disastrous confirmations of Kristi Noem and Kash Patel by assuring that we get a competent qualified DHS secretary this time.

LETTER: Trump's war on Iran

&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

The Thursday, May 12 Hays City Commission meeting has been canceled

Hays City Commission meeting this week is canceled

WICHITA — The American Red Cross urges donors to help the national blood&nbsp;supply recover from a severe blood shortage and empower their health by making an appointment&nbsp;to give blood or platelets in March.

 As a thank-you for helping save lives, successful donations will&nbsp;receive free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, in March (one result per&nbsp;calendar year).

New Red Cross data reveals 1 in 5 blood donors have elevated A1C levels — a sign that prediabetes&nbsp;and diabetes are prevalent among adults in generally good health.&nbsp;

The findings are based on the first year of free A1C screening offered by the Red Cross, which provided results to more than 920,000 blood&nbsp;donors nationwide over three testing periods in 2025.

&nbsp;Among donors with elevated A1C&nbsp;levels, 80% had readings indicating prediabetes — a condition that can often be reversed through lifestyle&nbsp;changes such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.

“Too many people still face gaps in access to preventive care, and the Red Cross is proud to help close&nbsp;them by giving our 2.5 million blood and platelet donors easy access to essential health information, like&nbsp;their blood sugar levels,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, Red Cross medical director. “By giving blood and&nbsp;downloading our Blood Donor App, individuals can be informed and empowered to better&nbsp;manage and advocate for their health.”

The A1C test does not require fasting and provides an average blood sugar level over the past&nbsp;three months.

&nbsp;Visit <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED&nbsp;CROSS to schedule your March donation appointment.

&nbsp;All who come to give blood, platelets or&nbsp;plasma March 1-31, 2026, will also receive a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email.&nbsp;See <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/march.html">RedCrossBlood.org/March</a> for details.

Donating blood in March is part of Red Cross Month, a national campaign that encourages people to&nbsp;deliver support when help can’t wait by also making a financial donation, volunteering or taking a&nbsp;lifesaving skills class.

Millions of U.S. adults are living with undiagnosed prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, which are often&nbsp;preventable and in many cases, reversible. These conditions often develop silently, though if untreated,&nbsp;they can lead to serious health complications such as stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.

Early detection isn’t just good for long-term health — it’s also a warning for people’s wallets.

An American Diabetes Association study found that, while people with prediabetes typically incur a few&nbsp;hundred dollars in additional medical costs each year, those with blood sugar levels that have progressed&nbsp;to the diabetic range could face several thousand dollars more in annual expenses — as much as 25&nbsp;times higher.

How to Find Out Your A1C from the Red Cross

After making a successful blood, platelet or plasma donation in March, donors can access their&nbsp;A1C result within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal&nbsp;at RedCrossBlood.org. Anyone with an elevated A1C level is encouraged to consult their health care&nbsp;provider.

In addition, donors can access and track their blood pressure, hemoglobin, pulse and body temperature,&nbsp;which are taken during each donation’s mini-physical to ensure they’re healthy enough to give.

How Blood Donation Can Help Bridge Health Care Gaps

As the nation’s largest blood supplier, the Red Cross is uniquely positioned to help bridge existing health&nbsp;care gaps by providing blood donors with critical health insights. Through the Red Cross Blood Donor&nbsp;App and online donor portal, donors can track their results and share them with their health care&nbsp;provider.

These efforts are part of the broader Red Cross mission, which has supported the health of communities&nbsp;for 145 years. 

Today in Kansas, this work includes installing free smoke alarms in neighborhoods at high&nbsp;risk for home fires, providing basic health and mental health services to disaster survivors, and supporting the well-being of military families, veterans and their caregivers.

Q: Why is the Red Cross testing blood, platelet and plasma donors’ A1C levels?

A: The Red Cross values the health and well-being of blood donors. By providing this vital health insight,&nbsp;the Red Cross is helping to bridge existing care gaps and empower donors to take an important&nbsp;step toward preventative care and lifesaving intervention.

Q: Should I fast to receive the A1C test on my blood donation?

A: No, the A1C test does not require individuals to fast. This is noteworthy because eating a nutritious&nbsp;meal prior to blood donation is important.

Q: Can I donate blood if I have prediabetes or diabetes?

A: People with prediabetes or diabetes are generally eligible to donate blood, platelets and plasma if they&nbsp;are feeling well on the day of their donation. In most situations, the type of medication donors take to&nbsp;manage their diabetes does not disqualify them from donating blood.

Q: Can I donate blood while taking GLP-1 medication?

A: In most situations, the type of medication you take to manage your diabetes or insulin&nbsp;resistance won't disqualify you from donating blood. Whether you take insulin injections like Apidra or&nbsp;Humalog, an injected diabetes medication like Ozempic or Mounjaro, or oral medications like metformin,&nbsp;you are still eligible to donate if you are feeling well on the day of your donation.

Red Cross offers free A1C testing; 1 in 5 donors prediabetic, diabetic 

Tree removal demonstration set for March 18

The City of Hays will temporarily convert the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine. The conversion will begin on March 9th and continue through May 11th. During this period, you may experience taste and odor changes associated with this type of temporary disinfectant conversion. 

Public water systems are required to properly disinfect their water and maintain an adequate disinfectant residual in the distribution system. Chloramine, free chlorine combined with ammonia, is widely used as a disinfectant because it persists for longer periods while also limiting the formation of disinfection by-product contaminants. Prolonged use of chloramine coupled with other factors that can impact water quality, such as high temperatures or reduced usage of water, may result in the growth and/or persistence of organic matter within the pipes of the distribution system, which may hinder the ability to maintain an adequate disinfectant residual.

The Hays Fire Department is conducting their annual testing of hydrants at the same time to rid distribution pipes of this organic matter and improve the quality of your water overall.

Please share this information with all people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly.If you have questions regarding this matter, please contact the Water Resources Department at 785-628-7380.

City of Hays chlorine conversion begins today

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

The Babysitting Clinic Curriculum is designed to help middle school and teenaged youth (10-18 yrs.) learn what it takes to be a responsible, caring, trustworthy, competent, capable, and safe babysitter for infants through school age children.

The participants will learn the basic information on how to be a competent, responsible, and caring babysitter. They will also develop “life skills” such as caring for and managing resources, decision-making, and communication. Each activity notes at least one life skill and uses the experiential learning or “hands-on learning to reinforce it.” 

Based on the discussions your teens have during the class, you may find they are learning other skills. That is great! The more skills they use and practice, the better.

Teens learn about the ages and stages of child growth and development, safety, food and nutrition, how to handle emergencies, appropriate activities to implement with children, and the business of babysitting.

We also partner with Ellis County EMS to provide CPR and First Aid training. The participants will be certified in CPR and First Aid upon completion of the class. Participants will also receive an information notebook, activity bag, and first aid kits.

Location: Cottonwood Extension District, 601 Main St. Hays, KS

The cost is $50 for babysitting supplies, meal, and CPR/First Aid Certification. You can register online at: <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6Lij5HiDjR4Q0dM">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6Lij5HiDjR4Q0dM</a>

Class size is limited to 15. The deadline to register is March 12, 2026. Please call the office if you have any questions.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Prepare for role of babysitter at Cottonwood Extension clinic

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

Ellis County Environmental Services

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

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;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. – Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On March 8, Teddy Lynn Moore, 58, of Topeka, was arrested on a warrant issued by the Jackson County District Court for multiple felony charges involving a minor, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The charges include two counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age and two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy with a child under 14 years of age.&nbsp;

The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office that began in July of 2025.  Moore was taken into custody by the United States Marshal’s Service and is being held in the Jackson County Jail with bond set at $1,000,000.00.&nbsp;

U.S. Marshals jail Kansas man for alleged child sex crimes

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 9p.m. March 8, a Sheriff’s Deputy developed probable cause to search a vehicle in the 12000 block of 150th&nbsp;Road, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; During the search of the vehicle, illegal drugs or narcotics were discovered. The vehicle occupants were identified as Tristin William Howard, 28 and Jade Heffner, 23, both of Topeka, Kansas.

Heffner and Howard were arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for requested charges of Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant&nbsp;(cocaine), Possession of hallucinogenic drug; Possession of THC and Possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas couple caught transporting cocaine

WICHITA, Kan. —&nbsp;The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office is issued an urgent warning to the public regarding a sophisticated text messaging scam (known as "smishing") currently targeting residents. Scammers are impersonating the Kansas Department of Vehicles (DOV) to steal sensitive personal and financial information.

The scam begins with an unsolicited text message claiming that the recipient’s driver’s license is at risk of suspension due to "unpaid traffic citations" or "unresolved violations." To create a sense of panic, the message often includes a strict deadline (e.g., "by the end of the day") and threatens additional 35% processing fees or legal action.

Once a user clicks the link, they are directed to a fraudulent site that uses official logos, fonts, and layouts to mirror the legitimate DOV website. The site prompts users to enter their:

The fraudulent website (shown first below)vs. the official website, (shown 2nd below)&nbsp; Note the slight differences in the URL.

What To Do If You Receive This Text

If you have already provided financial information to a suspicious site, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to freeze your accounts and monitor for unauthorized charges.

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