By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Audoboun of Kansas recently celebrated five years of its annual Lek Treks event in Hays.

About 150 people from across the nation will be in Hays from April 9 to 12 for the event, which celebrates prairie-chickens.

Northwest Kansas is unique in that both lesser and greater prairie chickens nest here.

The birds are particularly popular with bird watchers because of their elaborate mating dances and booming calls.

However, Jackie Augustine, executive director of Audubon of Kansas, raised concerns last week when the federal government delisted the lesser prairie-chicken as an endangered species.

"We wish we could tell you that lesser prairie-chickens are no longer on the Endangered Species list because permanent habitat protections were put in place, or that their abundance has rebounded throughout their range," Augustine said in a statement.

"Instead, lesser prairie-chickens became officially delisted due to multiple court cases filed by industrial oil, big agriculture, and the Attorneys General from Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma. On Feb. 26, the delisting became official through publication in the Federal Register," Augustine said.

Augustine continued, "However, we still have a glimmer of hope to save this charismatic species. At the same time as the publication of the delisting, the US Fish and Wildlife Service also published a 'status review' for the lesser prairie-chicken.

"This is the first step in considering the species for relisting. They are specifically asking for new information since 2022. 

"Information on sightings of the birds outside their traditional historic range, population trends, including leks that have disappeared since 2022, and threats to prairie-chicken habitat, including plowing prairie or industrial energy development within their range, would be particularly useful."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/192f7103-1ca0-4e59-9e45-901190d51f50">Audubon of Kansas has also raised red flags about a solar project in the works in southwest Ellis County, which it says is proposed in prime prairie-chicken habitat.</a>

The developers of the project, ibV, said initial surveys of the property found no nesting prairie-chickens, but representatives told county officials they would do further surveys this spring.

On the national level, Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, who is from Plainville, applauded the delisting of the lesser prairie-chickens.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff80a947-04d7-4a3a-a224-67a56510bd30">Moran, in a statement, said the listing saddled farmers and ranchers with burdensome federal regulations.&nbsp;</a>

He said he would, "continue to support local efforts to promote voluntary solutions that will protect the bird’s habitat without placing unnecessary burdens on our agricultural community.”

The grasslands of northwest Kansas are an ideal habitat for prairie chickens, Augustine told a group gathered at the Sternberg Museum for a Chamber ribbon cutting for Lek Treks last month. A lek is another name for the bird's mating grounds.

Augustine said lesser prairie-chicken populations have been declining. There are about 25,000 left in the world, and three-quarters of them are in Kansas.

The prairie chicken festival used to be conducted in Oklahoma, but the lesser prairie-chickens have disappeared from that range.

The Kansas population is stable, Augustine said, but if the birds and their grassland habitat are not protected, the birds could be lost.

Grassland habitat is being lost at a larger rate than any other habitat in North America, Augustine said. The prairie is being developed and urbanized, taken over by trees, and developed for solar and wind farms.

Prairie-chickens avoid tall structures like trees because they can be homes to predators such as hawks or raccoons, Augustine said.

They prefer to mate in wide open grasslands.

Bird watchers enjoy keeping a life list of all the birds they have seen. The Lek Treks prairie chicken festival allows birders to go out in blinds or on van tours to see these rare birds, Augustine said.

"They are not displaying or obvious when other birds come through, like cranes. You really have to make a concerted effort to see these birds," she said.

She added, "[Festivalgoers] come out here just expecting to see the birds, and then they meet you—this community that is so welcoming. 

"They go to private land where we give our tours, and they see how the landowners and ranchers in this area are such great stewards of the grassland habitat ... and they leave Kansas really knowing that this is a special place because of these birds and the communities that support them."

Augustine said the Audubon of Kansas would like to expand the festival, but it needs more volunteers and more private landowners with leks to open land for viewing.

All of the prairie-chicken tours for this year's festival are full, but the festival has wait lists.

Kenn Kaufman, a Kansas native and renowned ornithologist and author, will speak Saturday, April 11, at the Sternberg Museum. His lecture is open to the public.

You can learn more about Lek Treks by <a href="https://www.audubonofkansas.org/events/kansas-lek-treks#About">clicking here.</a>

Learn more about Audubon of Kansas at <a href="https://www.audubonofkansas.org/">audubonofkansas.org</a> or follow them on Facebook.

Learn more about the local chapter, Sunflower Audubon, on its website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sunfloweraudubon.org/" target="_blank">sunfloweraudubon.org,</a>&nbsp;and join their discussion group on Facebook.

Hays to host prairie-chicken festival; lesser prairie-chickens no longer listed as endangered

Tayler Schmidt was selected to participate in the KMEA (Kansas Music Educators Association) 1-2A Honor Band, where she held the position of first chair bass clarinet. They performed at the KMEA In-Service Workshop at Century II in Wichita this past weekend. It was an honor for Tayler to represent Ellis High School at this prestigious event. Congratulations, Tayler! #RAILROADERPRIDE

Student represents Ellis High School at state honor band

It's almost spring and that means the Downtown Hays Market opens soon.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks with Lee Ann June, executive director of The Bricks, about how to become a vendor, and even apply for the market manager position.

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays Market looking for manager, vendors; opens in May 

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

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

For the purpose of this column, a weed is defined as a plant growing somewhere it is not wanted. For many gardeners, weeds are the downfall. Weeds create competition for nutrients and water. They can also restrict growth of desired plants by competing for space. The frustration with weeds leads some gardeners to turn to chemicals or give up on a garden plot altogether. Understanding weeds may be helpful in your gardening efforts. Just like our garden plants, weeds can be annuals, perennials or biennials.

Annual weeds, including henbit and spurge, germinate each year and complete their life cycle in one growing season. Perennial weeds such as, clover and bindweed, live at least two years and often reproduce by seed with the help of wind, water, animals and other means of dispersal.

We all know a child, or perhaps you were the child, who loves blowing dandelion heads and making wishes as the wind disperses the seeds. Perennial weeds can sometimes spread by cuttings of roots or other vegetative plant parts as well. This capability can make managing these weeds a challenge. 

Preventing weeds is the best management strategy. This includes using practices such as keeping the soil covered with a cover crop or mulch to prevent germination. Using drip irrigation to direct water to the desired plants rather than watering the entire garden area can also prevent weeds from germinating.

 Other prevention strategies include minimizing tillage. Deep tilling the garden damages the soil structure and brings weed seeds to the surface where conditions for germination are right. Occultation is the use of black tarps over the ground to kill weeds with the help of the sun. Depending on the persistence of the weeds this can take a couple weeks to months for successful eradication.

Weeds that have already established in a garden are often most effectively and safely removed by hand pulling. Though there are a couple of herbicides home gardeners can use there are consequences of using this method, including risk of damaging vegetable crops due to overspray.

Cultivating the top one to two inches of soil can remove annual and young perennial weeds. If done on a regular basis this can effectively control their growth. It is beneficial to knock out weeds before they are able to develop seeds to prevent reproduction.

A single dandelion seed head has been reported to produce 150 to 200 seeds. (Something to remember next time you see the neighborhood child gathering stems in their yard!) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) includes controlling weeds in the landscape. Using a variety of practices listed above will give the most effective management.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

BOOR: Weeds; ready or not, here they come

<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>

1224 E 27th St,Hays, KS 67601(785) 625-3297<a target="_blank" href="https://www.genuineappliance.com/">https://www.genuineappliance.com/</a>

KitchenAid 24" Built-In Dishwasher (KDTE204KPS)

Bid today on this KitchenAid dishwasher model KDTE204KPS from Genuine Appliance in Hays, Kansas! This is your chance to upgrade your kitchen with one of the quietest and most efficient dishwashers on the market. Rated at a near-silent 39 dBA, it handles the toughest messes while keeping your home peaceful. Why You Should Bid: ProWash™ Cycle: No more guessing—sensors adjust wash settings in real-time for a perfect clean. / Third Level Utensil Rack: Adds 35% more space for flatware and small items. / PrintShield™ Finish: Resists smudges and fingerprints to keep your kitchen looking pristine. / Heat Dry Option: Features a recessed heating element to ensure your dishes come out dry and ready to put away. / Durable Interior: Full stainless steel tub resists odors and stains. <a href="https://www.kitchenaid.com/owners-center-pdp.KDTE204KPS.html">https://www.kitchenaid.com/owners-center-pdp.KDTE204KPS.html</a>

Current Bid: $489 Retail Price: $999

118 S 7th St.Ness City, KS 67560(785) 798-2410<a target="_blank" href="https://www.btiequip.com/">https://www.btiequip.com/</a>

Halo "Versa 16" Pizza Oven, Pizza Kit, and Cover

With a rotating stone &amp; dual burner, the Halo 16-inch gas Award Winning pizza oven makes achieving the ultimate pizza easy.&nbsp; Fire up the Versa 16-inch pizza oven for a beautifully cooked, delicious pizza, ready in just a few minutes! The HALO 16 inch pizza oven makes it easy to get a deep flavor, crispy crust, and chewy goodness. Whether it’s in the backyard or at the campground, show off your skills in cooking the perfect pizza with our outdoor pizza oven!&nbsp; Features include a 360 degree rotating stone, patented dual burner system, reaches up to 950 degrees F, propane fueled, and hinged access lid.&nbsp; Look at the reviews for this product....they are fantastic.&nbsp; A large pizza can be cooked in as little as 15 minutes.&nbsp; This also includes a "Cook and Serve" pizza kit and cover.&nbsp;&nbsp;

1207 CedarHays, KS 67601785-625-4176<a target="_blank" href="https://www.westernsupply.com/Hays-KS-v2.HTML">https://www.westernsupply.com/Hays-KS-v2.HTML</a><a href="mailto:showroom@westernsupply.com">showroom@westernsupply.com</a>

This Toto Washlet Bidet from Western Supply Company in Hays features a night light, EWATER+ for wand, Instantaneous Water Heating, a heated seat, and a warm air dryer. It has rear and front cleaning, adjustable temperature for water, the dryer, and heated seat, and adjustable pressure of water and wand position adjustment. This model has a wall mount for the controller. If you have questions about this Toto Washlet Bidet, stop by or call the guys at Western Supply Company, 1207 Cedar Street in Hays KS. Model # SW3446#01

Current Bid: $351 Retail Price: $974

Check out these Eagle Radio Auction items through Sunday, including dishwasher

TMP-Marian vs Ellinwood March, 6th, 7:30 p.m Smith Center, 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/3793497">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs take on the top-seed Ellinwood Lady Eagles in the 7:30 p.m. sub-state championship game Friday in Smith Center.

The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 7:10 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian Monarchs host sub-state semifinals with Ellinwood

Hays High at Topeka-Seaman Friday, Mar. 6 - 6:00 Topeka, 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/3787219">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;

Hays High tries to punch a ticket to the 5A State Tournament when they face Topeka-Seaman on Friday evening.

The Indians (19-4) defeated Eisenhower on Tuesday while the Vikings (20-4) powered past Valley Center with a big second half.

Winner of this game plays in Tuesday's first round of the 5A State Tournament.

Tip-off for tonight is set for 6:00. The Hertz Pregame Show will begin at 5:40 on 96.9 KFIX.&nbsp;

🏀📺 Hays boys head to Topeka for sub-state championship

The Russell 407 $13.5 million bond failed during a special election on Tuesday.

According to unofficial election results, 1,000&nbsp; people (65%) voted against the bond issues, and 540 (35%) voted for it.&nbsp;Voter turnout was 40.36%

The bond funds would have been used to renovate Simpson and Bickerdyke elementary schools and Russell  Junior/Senior High School.

The bond called for $1.7 million to be used at Simpson Elementary for a new music room that will double as a storm shelter, structural repairs to flooring and improvements to make the school compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The bond would have paid for $7.7 million in improvements at Bickerdyke Elementary, including new commons that would double as a storm shelter, upgrading cooling, pumping, and electrical systems, accessibility improvements, and a remodel to provide a hallway to the new addition.

Bickerdyke does not have central air conditioning. The building is cooled with window units.

Neither of the elementary schools has storm shelters. The children have to shelter in the hallways.

At the high school, the bond funds would have been used for plumbing repairs, a controlled entrance remodel, air conditioning in the main gym and accessibility improvements.

The bond would have been repaid over 20 years, resulting in a 12-mill increase in the property tax levy. On a $100,000 home, that would have been about $138 per year or $11.50 per month. The median home price in Russell is $106,000.

Russell USD 407 Superintendent Jordan Perez said Friday at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, the board will review the results of the recent bond election.

"I anticipate there will be discussion about potential next steps moving forward. The board has recently developed a facilities priority list, and this document will need to be updated to reflect the needs that were outlined in the bond proposal," Perez said via email.

"One of the top priorities moving forward will be addressing the plumbing issues at Bickerdyke Elementary and Russell Junior-Senior High School. These needs remain and will require attention," he said.

"At this time, I do not know the Board of Education’s intent regarding any future bond proposals. Monday’s discussion should provide additional clarity regarding the direction and next steps for the district," Perez said.

Opponents of the bond said the community could not afford a property tax hike at this time. They urged the school district to make the repairs using existing funds and to seek grants or donations.

This is the fourth failed bond attempt for Russell USD 407 since 2019. It also had failed bond attempts in April and November 2019 and in November 2025.

The bond voted on Tuesday was the same package proposed in 2025.

Some voters were critical of bringing back the same bond issue to voters, saying the $10,000 cost of the special election was a waste of tax dollars.

UPDATE: Russell USD 407 school bond fails; board to review facility plans Monday

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

&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.

My Free Taxes also offers tax guides for small business owners, gig economy workers such as rideshare drivers and delivery workers, owners of home-based childcare centers, and filers impacted by federally declared disasters.

Find the guides and tax filing assistance at <a href="https://myfreetaxes.com/">MyFreeTaxes.com.</a>

Tax situations covered for free in My Free Taxes include:&nbsp;&nbsp;

My Free Taxes is part of United Way’s efforts to help local residents build financial security, including those who are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), affirming households that are working and contributing to their community while navigating financial barriers to meeting basic needs. 

For questions or more information, visit <a href="https://myfreetaxes.com/">MyFreeTaxes.com</a> or contact Janelle VanKooten, executive eirector of United Way of Ellis County at 785-628-8281 or director@liveunited.us.

United Way of Ellis County offers residents free tax filing support 

Strength training program set for Tuesday in Ellis

PAWNEE ROCK — Heartland Farm and Heartland Center for Spirituality will host the free program, "Tahtonka: Buffalo and the Plains Indians" on from 2 to 4 p.m. March 8&nbsp; at the Great Bend Motherhouse, 3600 Broadway. Dr. Leo Oliva, professor emeritus, Fort Hays State University, will explore the Plains Indians and historical buffalo culture, how technology changed it and how the hide hunters destroyed it.

In 1840, it was estimated there were 40 million buffalo on the Great Plains. Buffalo were the Plains Indians' supermarket, providing food, shelter, clothing, and tools. The robe trade with Euro-Americans provided manufactured items.

The railroads made possible widespread hunting for hides for the leather industry by 1870. Encouraged by the government and the military, who wanted the Indians placed on reservations, the hunters destroyed the buffalo and the Indians' way of life. 

The great slaughter of the buffalo on the Southern Plains in the 1870s and the Northern Plains in the 1880s forced the Indigenous nations to move to the reservations to survive. Warfare killed many who refused to go to the reservations, and many more died on the reservations from diseases, malnutrition, and hunger.

With a&nbsp;screening of the film,&nbsp;Tahtonka, and with context by and discussion and Q&amp;A with Dr. Oliva, attendees will examine how after the great slaughter of the buffalo, the traditional lives and culture of the Indians could not survive. The final conquest, part of the colonization inspired by the Doctrine of Discovery, came quickly when the buffalo were gone.

A freewill offering will be taken but is not required.

Heartland Farm & Heartland Center to host 'Tahtonka: Buffalo and the Plains Indians' on March 8

COLBY — Western Plains Arts Association will have in concert pianist Barron Ryan who will present "Classic Meets Cool" on Sunday, March 8, at 3:00 p.m. in the Cultural Arts Center, Colby.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This project is generously funded by Mid-America Arts Alliance, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the state art agencies of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas,&nbsp;the Dane Hansen Foundation and in part by the state of Kansas through the Kansas Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. 

Admission to this show is with a WPAA season ticket or an individual program ticket which may be purchased at the door.

Barron Ryan’s love for music has always been divided. The son of two musicians, he grew up in a house filled with the sounds of artists ranging from Mozart to Motown. So when it comes to his own work, he’s not content drawing on just one influence. He combines them all into a musical adventure that’s vintage yet fresh, historical yet hip, classic yet cool.

Ryan is following in his favorite composers’ footsteps by publishing his original works in the public domain. He offers his work as a gift to the world, and as a chance to collaborate with artists from around the globe.

What’s next? You’ll have to wait to find out, but rest assured that in all Barron Ryan’s music, classic Meets cool.

Pianist Barron Ryan to perform in Colby concert on March 8

The Hays Arts Council proudly presents Fields &amp; Forms, a compelling dual exhibition featuring the work of Amy Warfield and Brittany Gorelick, opening Friday, March 6.

This exhibition brings together two distinct artistic perspectives rooted in personal and regional&nbsp;experience.

&nbsp;Brittany Gorelick’s work reflects her lived experience as a queer and&nbsp;neurodivergent artist. 

Through collage, papermaking, and experimental printmaking, she uses&nbsp;recurring visual symbols—such as scribbled lines, structured grids, and waveform imagery—to&nbsp;explore themes of identity, structure, and emotional intensity. Bold color and layered marks&nbsp;create work that is both reflective and expressive.

In contrast, Amy Warfield turns her attention outward to the western Kansas landscape.&nbsp;

As a representational painter working primarily in watercolor, she captures the subtle atmosphere,&nbsp;texture, and character of the High Plains. Her work invites viewers to slow down and reconsider&nbsp;a landscape that is often overlooked, revealing its quiet complexity and sense of place.

The opening reception will be held on Friday, March 6, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Hays&nbsp;Arts Council Annex, 1010 Main Street, Hays.

&nbsp;The event is free and open to the&nbsp;public.

The exhibition will be open beginning Thursday, March 5, and will remain on view through April&nbsp;11.

&nbsp;Public viewing hours at the Annex Gallery are:

● Thursday and Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This exhibition also marks an exciting transition period for the Hays Arts Council.&nbsp;

As renovation begins on its primary facility, the organization will continue serving the community through&nbsp;temporary locations.

The Hays Arts Council Gift Shop and Main Office has reopened inside the&nbsp;Hadley Center, located at 205 E. 7th Street, Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitors may enter through the main Hadley entrance on 7th Street and will find HAC directly inside in a convenient retail storefront just beyond the front doors.

● Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Even during renovation, the Hays Arts Council remains committed to presenting exhibitions, arts&nbsp;education programming, Smoky Hill Art, seasonal art walks, and new community initiatives.&nbsp;The&nbsp;organization looks forward to welcoming the public into its temporary spaces while preparing for&nbsp;an exciting new chapter ahead.

For additional information, email arts@haysartscouncil.org or follow the Hays Arts Council on&nbsp;social media or visit during open hours.

New duel exhibition opens at Hays Arts Council Annex; reception Friday evening

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump warned in a Truth Social post that more Iranian officials will be targets, saying, “Today Iran will be hit very hard!,” while noting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-march-7-2026-d347fd6a03185f51d670bf4e7cbf5373">an apology by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian</a>&nbsp;earlier in the day to neighboring nations over Tehran’s attacks.

Gulf countries say they have intercepted more ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran.

Saudi Arabia said it stopped four drones attacking the country’s massive Shaybah oil field, the second attack within hours. Flights in and out of Dubai International Airport were interrupted after passengers were ushered down into train tunnels as several blasts were heard and the alert sounded.

Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-russia-intelligence-35afae34198408d670941f971d383378">hammered Beirut and Tehran</a>. Death toll continued to rise Saturday with at least 1,230 people killed in Iran, more than 200 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">Six U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;were reported killed.

&nbsp;President Trump’s administration approved a new $151 million arms sale to Israel after Trump said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-lebanon-03-06-2026#0000019c-c378-d99c-af9e-e7799c500000">would not negotiate with Iran</a>&nbsp;without its “unconditional surrender.”

Read President Trump's new warning to officials in Iran

JOHNSON COUNTY —Lightning caused significant damage to a Kansas home Friday.

Just before 12:30 pm, firefighters at a “lightning strike investigation” discovered fire in the basement at a home near 143rd St. and Pflumm Road, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department. 

Lightning appears to have struck the roof. Damage inside the home is significant. There were no injuries. Four people are temporarily displaced. Olathe Police Department, Overland Park Fire Department and Johnson County MED-ACT helped at the scene.

Lightning strike caused significant damage to Kansas home 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Russia has provided Iran with information that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft and other assets in the region, according to two officials familiar with U.S. intelligence on the matter.

The officials, who were not authorized to comment publicly on the sensitive matter and spoke on the condition of anonymity, cautioned that the U.S. intelligence has not uncovered that Russia is directing Iran on what to do with the information as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-lebanon-03-06-2026">U.S. and Israel continue their bombardment</a>&nbsp;and Iran fires retaliatory salvos at American assets and allies in the Persian Gulf.

Still, it's the first indication that Moscow has sought to get involved in the war that the U.S. and Israel launched on Iran a week ago. Russia is in the rare club of countries that maintains friendly relations with Tehran, which has faced years of isolation over its nuclear program and its support of proxy groups that have wreaked havoc in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.

The White House downplayed reports that Russia was sharing intelligence with Iran about U.S. targets in the region. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Friday told reporters that “it clearly is not making any difference with respect to the military operations in Iran because we are completely decimating them.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in a CBS' “60 Minutes” interview on Friday said the U.S. is “tracking everything” and factoring it into battle plans, when asked about the reports Russia was aiding Iran.

“The American people can rest assured their commander in chief is well aware of who’s talking to who,” he said. “And anything that shouldn’t be happening, whether it’s in public or back-channeled, is being confronted and confronted strongly.”

Leavitt declined to say if Trump had spoken to Russian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vladimir-putin">President Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;about the reported intelligence sharing or whether he believed Russia should face repercussions, saying she would let the president speak to that himself.

Asked whether Russia would go beyond political support and offer military assistance to Iran, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there has been no such request from Tehran.

“We are in dialogue with the Iranian side, with representatives of the Iranian leadership, and will certainly continue this dialogue,” he said Friday.

Pushed on whether Moscow has provided any military or intelligence assistance to Tehran since the Iran war’s start, he refrained from comment.

Russia has tightened its relationship with Iran as it looked for badly needed missiles and drones to utilize in its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">four-year war against Ukraine.</a>

The Biden administration declassified intelligence findings that showed Iran supplies Moscow with attack drones and has assisted the Kremlin with building a drone-manufacturing factory.

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements