The Ellis Police Department released more details Friday
afternoon into the disappearance of a 53-year-old Ellis woman.

According to Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith, the body of
53-year-old Twila Wilson was found just after 9:30 a.m. Friday approximately
1,000 feet to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing.

Wilson was initially reported missing just after 7 a.m. Friday
after she failed to show up for work.

Smith said that they believe that she was hit by the train
as the was walking along the tracks. An autopsy was performed and he said the
cause and manner of Wilson’s death is still under investigation.

Office of the Chief of Police On 07/01/2022 at 0709, The Ellis Police Department was
notified of a possible missing person. Twila Wilson, 53, of Ellis was reported
missing after not showing up for work. Twila’s vehicle was located in the 900
block of Cottonwood Street along with her cell phone. Law Enforcement then
began searching several possible locations in an attempt to check Twila’s
welfare.

At 0932, Twila was located deceased approximately 1000 feet
to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing. At this time, it is
believed that Twila was struck by a train as she was walking along the tracks.
The 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office was contacted and an autopsy was
performed. The cause and manner of death is still under investigation.

Our sincere condolences go out to the Wilson family as they
deal with this tragic situation and we pray they find peace in this difficult
time.

The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol,
23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office, and Hays Communications Center
assisted with this investigation.

No further information will be released at this time, as
this is an active investigation.

The Ellis County Sherrifs Department has called off the search for Twila Wilson.&nbsp;

Further details are expected from the department later today.

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in locating a woman that walked away from her vehicle Friday morning in Ellis.

Twila Wilson, 54, was last seen around 5:15 a.m. at Caseys, 213 Washington, leaving behind her phone and purse.

She was described as 5 foot 3, 175 pounds with dark blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was wearing a gray T-shirt, black shorts and black shoes.

If seen, the public is asked to contact Ellis County dispatch at (785) 625-1011.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656686095522.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Ellis Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Ellis Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE 3:25 p.m.: The Ellis Police Department released more details Friday
afternoon into the disappearance of a 53-year-old Ellis woman.According to Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith, the body of
53-year-old Twila Wilson was found just after 9:30 a.m. Friday approximately
1,000 feet to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing.Wilson was initially reported missing just after 7 a.m. Friday
after she failed to show up for work.Smith said that they believe that she was hit by the train
as the was walking along the tracks. An autopsy was performed and he said the
cause and manner of Wilson’s death is still under investigation. Office of the Chief of Police On 07/01/2022 at 0709, The Ellis Police Department was
notified of a possible missing person. Twila Wilson, 53, of Ellis was reported
missing after not showing up for work. Twila’s vehicle was located in the 900
block of Cottonwood Street along with her cell phone. Law Enforcement then
began searching several possible locations in an attempt to check Twila’s
welfare. At 0932, Twila was located deceased approximately 1000 feet
to the west of the Cottonwood Street railroad crossing. At this time, it is
believed that Twila was struck by a train as she was walking along the tracks.
The 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office was contacted and an autopsy was
performed. The cause and manner of death is still under investigation.Our sincere condolences go out to the Wilson family as they
deal with this tragic situation and we pray they find peace in this difficult
time.The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol,
23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office, and Hays Communications Center
assisted with this investigation.No further information will be released at this time, as
this is an active investigation.Avery A. Smith Chief of Police------------------UPDATE 9:45 a.m.:The Ellis County Sherrifs Department has called off the search for Twila Wilson.&nbsp;Further details are expected from the department later today.Original story:The Ellis County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in locating a woman that walked away from her vehicle Friday morning in Ellis.Twila Wilson, 54, was last seen around 5:15 a.m. at Caseys, 213 Washington, leaving behind her phone and purse.She was described as 5 foot 3, 175 pounds with dark blonde hair and blue eyes.She was wearing a gray T-shirt, black shorts and black shoes.If seen, the public is asked to contact Ellis County dispatch at (785) 625-1011.

UPDATE: Ellis woman found dead near railroad tracks

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Tour Die Kapellen (Tour of Chapels) bike ride has already exceeded its total registration from last year's event.

However, there is still time to sign up for the bike tour or the event's new bus tour option.

The event, which is in its third year, will be July 9 and begin at Hays Municipal Park.

The event this year will offer 15-, 30-, 50-, 62-, 75- and 100-mile rides. In addition, the event will offer a 54-mile multi-surface ride — 27 miles of which will be on gravel.

Maps of the routes can be found on the <a href="https://tourdiekapellen.com/">event website</a>. Registration for both the bike ride and bus tour can be done online at the same website.

The tour will include stops at <a href="https://www.volgagerman.net/catharine-church" target="_blank">St. Catherine Church</a> in Catharine, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com" target="_blank">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria, <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/holycrosschurch.htm" target="_blank">Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer</a> and <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/stfrancischurchmunjor.htm" target="_blank">St. Francis Church in Munjor. </a>

Riders that choose the 75- or 100-mile options can ride self-supported to visit the churches in Schoenchen and Antonino.

Volunteer-manned support-and-go (SAG) stops with water and snacks will be offered at the main church stops in Catherine, Victoria, Pfiefer and Munjor. Coolers with water and snacks will be left at the churches in Schoenchen and Antonio for riders who choose the self-supported 75- and 100-mile rides.

The 15-mile casual ride will be led by experienced cyclists Kathy Rome and Susan Bowles. They will instruct new cyclists about the rules of road cycling.

"What our hope is to generate a culture of bicycling that is more prominent in our community," Werth said,&nbsp; "from a health perspective and an economical perspective with the cost of gas and for our drivers so that they are accepting ...

"It's a healthy thing for your heart," she said. "It's a healthy thing for the environment."

The early registration deadlines for both the bike ride and bus tour are June 24. Those who register by that date will receive a free event T-shirt. 

The cost of the bike ride is $45 per person. The cost of the bus tour is $60 per person.

After June 24, cost of the bike ride will be $55 per person, and the cost of the bus tour will be $75 per person.

On-site registration will open for the bike ride at 6:30 a.m.

Preregistration is required for the bus tour. Slots are filling fast. A waiting list for the bus tour will be maintained if the bus fills.

In addition to the church stops, the bus tour will also drive by Grant's Villa and Historic Fort Hays. It will also pass by the old Walker Air Base and the remains of the <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/sacredheartemmeram.htm" target="_blank">Emmeram Church</a>.
 All registrants receive a SWAG bag and a T-shirt.

The bus will return to 
Municipal Park to join in the After-Ride Party, which will include a German meal, beverage and music by the Joe Dolezal Polka Band.

The tour guide for the bus tour will be local historian Mary Kay Schippers.

Event organizers discourage people from trying to visit the churches that day by car. The increased traffic on the roads could be a hazard to bicyclists, Kay Werth, event coordinator, said.

The Tour Die Kapellen was conceived with the idea proceeds from the event would go to Ellis County nonprofit groups. This year the event will donate proceeds to the St. Francis Church in Munjor, which will use the funds for facility projects.

The event gave money to <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/" target="_blank">the Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria in 2019 for its remodel, and $12,000 to St. Catherine Church in Catharine for interior repainting in 2021.

Members of the Hays Symphony will be playing portions of musical pieces in Catharine, Victoria, Pfeifer and Munjor. See the schedule below for the musicians and their locations.

"The members of the Hays Symphony will be playing snippets of music in between so people can get the ambiance of the music with those cathedral ceilings," Werth said.

Werth said the ideas behind the bike tour are to promote wellness, bring people to Ellis County, create an appreciation for the rural terrain and Volga German heritage, and promote the Hays Symphony.

6:30–7:15 a.m. — Registration (Pick up packets at Municipal Park, Hays)

7:15 a.m. — Announcements, national anthem, invocation

7:30–8 a.m. — Sheriff escorts riders (cycling 30 or more miles) out of Hays

8– 8:30 a.m. — Bus Tour Participants meet across from Municipal Park, at NCK 
Tech. Participants will check in with Jeannie Kline as they board the 
bus. They will get packets and have their wristbands put on for the 
tour.

8:15–9:15 a.m. — St. Catherine Church, Catharine – Music by Ben Cline, Gamba and Hilary Shepard, Baroque flute

8:30 a.m. — Bus departs from Municipal Park

8:30–9:45 a.m. — St. Fidelis Church, Basilica of the Plains, Victoria — Music by St. Fidelis Brass Quintet

9 a.m. — 15-mile cyclists meet at the shelter house in Municipal Park

9:30–9:45 a.m. —15-mile, casual ride departs Municipal Park

9:30–11:30 a.m. — Holy Cross Church, Pfeifer – Music provided by Hays Symphony Conductor Brian Buckstead, violinist

10–11:30 a.m. — St. Francis Church, Munjor — Music provided by Harpist, Jane Hyde

Optional rides to Schoenchen and Antonino churches are self-supported

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — St. Francis Church, Munjor — Music provided by Hays Symphony principal flutist and clarinetist,&nbsp;Hilary Shepard and Kristin Pisano

11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — German Meal prepared by St. Francis Church, Munjor, Defiance Brewery and root beer and cream soda provided by LB Brewing, Gella’s

Noon to 2 p.m. — music provided by the Joe Dolezal Polka Band in Municipal Park, Hays

For those cyclists continuing the self-supported 75- or 
100-mile options, arrange your schedule to enjoy the meal and 
music in the window provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655326007341.jpeg" alt="Tour Die Kapellen 2021. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Tour Die Kapellen 2021. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Tour Die Kapellen (Tour of Chapels) bike ride has already exceeded its total registration from last year's event.However, there is still time to sign up for the bike tour or the event's new bus tour option.The event, which is in its third year, will be July 9 and begin at Hays Municipal Park.The event this year will offer 15-, 30-, 50-, 62-, 75- and 100-mile rides. In addition, the event will offer a 54-mile multi-surface ride — 27 miles of which will be on gravel.Maps of the routes can be found on the <a href="https://tourdiekapellen.com/">event website</a>. Registration for both the bike ride and bus tour can be done online at the same website.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655326092559.jpeg" alt="Tour Die Kapellen 2022. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Tour Die Kapellen 2022. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>The tour will include stops at <a href="https://www.volgagerman.net/catharine-church" target="_blank">St. Catherine Church</a> in Catharine, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com" target="_blank">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria, <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/holycrosschurch.htm" target="_blank">Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer</a> and <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/stfrancischurchmunjor.htm" target="_blank">St. Francis Church in Munjor. </a>Riders that choose the 75- or 100-mile options can ride self-supported to visit the churches in Schoenchen and Antonino.Volunteer-manned support-and-go (SAG) stops with water and snacks will be offered at the main church stops in Catherine, Victoria, Pfiefer and Munjor. Coolers with water and snacks will be left at the churches in Schoenchen and Antonio for riders who choose the self-supported 75- and 100-mile rides.The 15-mile casual ride will be led by experienced cyclists Kathy Rome and Susan Bowles. They will instruct new cyclists about the rules of road cycling.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655326200783.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com" target="_blank">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com" target="_blank">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>"What our hope is to generate a culture of bicycling that is more prominent in our community," Werth said,&nbsp; "from a health perspective and an economical perspective with the cost of gas and for our drivers so that they are accepting ..."It's a healthy thing for your heart," she said. "It's a healthy thing for the environment." The early registration deadlines for both the bike ride and bus tour are June 24. Those who register by that date will receive a free event T-shirt. The cost of the bike ride is $45 per person. The cost of the bus tour is $60 per person.After June 24, cost of the bike ride will be $55 per person, and the cost of the bus tour will be $75 per person.On-site registration will open for the bike ride at 6:30 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655326279635.jpeg" alt="Tour of Chapels in 2019. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Tour of Chapels in 2019. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bus tour</h2>Preregistration is required for the bus tour. Slots are filling fast. A waiting list for the bus tour will be maintained if the bus fills.In addition to the church stops, the bus tour will also drive by Grant's Villa and Historic Fort Hays. It will also pass by the old Walker Air Base and the remains of the <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/sacredheartemmeram.htm" target="_blank">Emmeram Church</a>.
 All registrants receive a SWAG bag and a T-shirt.The bus will return to 
Municipal Park to join in the After-Ride Party, which will include a German meal, beverage and music by the Joe Dolezal Polka Band.The tour guide for the bus tour will be local historian Mary Kay Schippers.Event organizers discourage people from trying to visit the churches that day by car. The increased traffic on the roads could be a hazard to bicyclists, Kay Werth, event coordinator, said.<h2>Donation</h2>The Tour Die Kapellen was conceived with the idea proceeds from the event would go to Ellis County nonprofit groups. This year the event will donate proceeds to the St. Francis Church in Munjor, which will use the funds for facility projects.The event gave money to <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/" target="_blank">the Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria in 2019 for its remodel, and $12,000 to St. Catherine Church in Catharine for interior repainting in 2021.<h2>Music</h2>Members of the Hays Symphony will be playing portions of musical pieces in Catharine, Victoria, Pfeifer and Munjor. See the schedule below for the musicians and their locations."The members of the Hays Symphony will be playing snippets of music in between so people can get the ambiance of the music with those cathedral ceilings," Werth said. Werth said the ideas behind the bike tour are to promote wellness, bring people to Ellis County, create an appreciation for the rural terrain and Volga German heritage, and promote the Hays Symphony. <h2>Schedule</h2>Saturday, July 9 6:30–7:15 a.m. — Registration (Pick up packets at Municipal Park, Hays)7:15 a.m. — Announcements, national anthem, invocation7:30–8 a.m. — Sheriff escorts riders (cycling 30 or more miles) out of Hays8– 8:30 a.m. — Bus Tour Participants meet across from Municipal Park, at NCK 
Tech. Participants will check in with Jeannie Kline as they board the 
bus. They will get packets and have their wristbands put on for the 
tour.8:15–9:15 a.m. — St. Catherine Church, Catharine – Music by Ben Cline, Gamba and Hilary Shepard, Baroque flute8:30 a.m. — Bus departs from Municipal Park8:30–9:45 a.m. — St. Fidelis Church, Basilica of the Plains, Victoria — Music by St. Fidelis Brass Quintet9 a.m. — 15-mile cyclists meet at the shelter house in Municipal Park9:30–9:45 a.m. —15-mile, casual ride departs Municipal Park9:30–11:30 a.m. — Holy Cross Church, Pfeifer – Music provided by Hays Symphony Conductor Brian Buckstead, violinist10–11:30 a.m. — St. Francis Church, Munjor — Music provided by Harpist, Jane HydeOptional rides to Schoenchen and Antonino churches are self-supported11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — St. Francis Church, Munjor — Music provided by Hays Symphony principal flutist and clarinetist,&nbsp;Hilary Shepard and Kristin Pisano11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — German Meal prepared by St. Francis Church, Munjor, Defiance Brewery and root beer and cream soda provided by LB Brewing, Gella’sNoon to 2 p.m. — music provided by the Joe Dolezal Polka Band in Municipal Park, Hays For those cyclists continuing the self-supported 75- or 
100-mile options, arrange your schedule to enjoy the meal and 
music in the window provided.

Tour Die Kapellen adds bus tour, taking registrations

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

ELLIS—A pre-pandemic attendance incentive is set to return to Ellis High School after last week’s Ellis USD 388 Board of Education meeting.

The discussion came after Ellis Junior/Senior High principal Donna
Schmidt noted attendance was down this year.

“You’ll see our attendance was not good this year,” Schmidt
said.

She attributed the drop in attendance to an increased focus on having
students exhibiting any signs of illness stay home.

She then asked the board to consider re-inserting the
pre-pandemic attendance rewards program into the school handbook.

“I would really like to see a room reward system go back
into effect,” Schmidt said. “So we can have our attendance have a more positive
result or more positive percentage for our attendance.”

She added that students would still be asked to remain home
in case of illness, and those absences would not count against the student if
documentation from medical personnel documented the need to miss classes.

While acknowledging the need to increase attendance, the
board questioned the return of the incentives.

“Are we at all concerned that we’re bringing back the whole
idea…if you’re kind of sick, you can go to school, as opposed to staying home,”
said board member Jared Schiel. 

He said after two years of pushing a message of staying home
while exhibiting any potential illness, attendance might be prioritized over
health if reimplemented.

Board member Latisha
Haag said the district should encourage sick students to seek medical care.
Still, others said it is not difficult to obtain a note excusing the
absence, no matter the illness.

“We have some students now who know which doctor or clinic
to visit to get an excuse or even to call,” Schmidt said.

“Pretty soon, we’re going to have a whole menu of, let me
pick which one I want to tell the doctor I want to see,” said board member
Marty Hollern.

<a href="mailto:bshannon@usd388.com">Brian
Shannon</a> also noted as students aim to meet the attendance goal, they
may share minor illnesses that impact educational outcomes.

“I think what you’re gonna run into it’s just the kids that
have the common cold and maybe doesn’t necessarily warrant seeing a doctor. They can treat it over the counter or something like that, but then they’re
going to be coming to school and pass that to the kids on the left and the kids
sitting on the right and so on from there,” he said.

The previous policy had offered incentives for attendance by rewarding
students with a quarterly off-site lunch and the option to skip comprehensive
finals, something the board also questioned the relevancy of in the current
education system.

Superintendent Corey Burton noted feedback in previous
years, indicating the importance of completing a comprehensive final in higher
education is less important than in previous years, as fewer classes require
it.

But as an incentive, Haag said they could make a substantial difference.

“That’s a strong incentive,” she said, “because
comprehensive exams terrify them. If you had to those students who already
struggle in school, that’s a big incentive to be in class, so they don’t have
to take those.”

Later in the meeting, the board voted to adopt the junior/senior high school handbook, including the attendance incentive policy. Schiel made a
motion to approve the new handbook. Haag offered a second, and the board passed
the measure unanimously.

The current policy only applies to high school students.

Expanding the attendance incentives to junior high students will be discussed
with teachers and at next month's school board meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655501878745.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostELLIS—A pre-pandemic attendance incentive is set to return to Ellis High School after last week’s Ellis USD 388 Board of Education meeting.The discussion came after Ellis Junior/Senior High principal Donna
Schmidt noted attendance was down this year.“You’ll see our attendance was not good this year,” Schmidt
said.She attributed the drop in attendance to an increased focus on having
students exhibiting any signs of illness stay home.She then asked the board to consider re-inserting the
pre-pandemic attendance rewards program into the school handbook.“I would really like to see a room reward system go back
into effect,” Schmidt said. “So we can have our attendance have a more positive
result or more positive percentage for our attendance.”She added that students would still be asked to remain home
in case of illness, and those absences would not count against the student if
documentation from medical personnel documented the need to miss classes.While acknowledging the need to increase attendance, the
board questioned the return of the incentives.“Are we at all concerned that we’re bringing back the whole
idea…if you’re kind of sick, you can go to school, as opposed to staying home,”
said board member Jared Schiel. He said after two years of pushing a message of staying home
while exhibiting any potential illness, attendance might be prioritized over
health if reimplemented.Board member Latisha
Haag said the district should encourage sick students to seek medical care.
Still, others said it is not difficult to obtain a note excusing the
absence, no matter the illness.“We have some students now who know which doctor or clinic
to visit to get an excuse or even to call,” Schmidt said.“Pretty soon, we’re going to have a whole menu of, let me
pick which one I want to tell the doctor I want to see,” said board member
Marty Hollern.<a href="mailto:bshannon@usd388.com">Brian
Shannon</a> also noted as students aim to meet the attendance goal, they
may share minor illnesses that impact educational outcomes.“I think what you’re gonna run into it’s just the kids that
have the common cold and maybe doesn’t necessarily warrant seeing a doctor. They can treat it over the counter or something like that, but then they’re
going to be coming to school and pass that to the kids on the left and the kids
sitting on the right and so on from there,” he said.The previous policy had offered incentives for attendance by rewarding
students with a quarterly off-site lunch and the option to skip comprehensive
finals, something the board also questioned the relevancy of in the current
education system.Superintendent Corey Burton noted feedback in previous
years, indicating the importance of completing a comprehensive final in higher
education is less important than in previous years, as fewer classes require
it.But as an incentive, Haag said they could make a substantial difference.“That’s a strong incentive,” she said, “because
comprehensive exams terrify them. If you had to those students who already
struggle in school, that’s a big incentive to be in class, so they don’t have
to take those.”Later in the meeting, the board voted to adopt the junior/senior high school handbook, including the attendance incentive policy. Schiel made a
motion to approve the new handbook. Haag offered a second, and the board passed
the measure unanimously.The current policy only applies to high school students. Expanding the attendance incentives to junior high students will be discussed
with teachers and at next month's school board meeting.

Ellis school board reinstates attendance incentive

ELLIS—On 06/11/2022, The Ellis Police Department was dispatched to the Ellis Municipal Pool in the 300 block of Taylor Street, for a reported Criminal Threat. 

Hays Communications received a call from a pool employee who reported that a male, later identified as Robert Allen Brack, 59, of Ellis was at the pool making racially charged statements toward other pool patrons. 

When Brack was asked to leave, he stated that he was going to retrieve a firearm and harm pool patrons. 

Officers located Brack, on foot, in the area of the 400 block of Taylor. Upon seeing Law Enforcement, Brack attempted to flee. 

Brack was stopped and detained, and further investigation of the threat was initiated. 

Upon speaking with patrons of the pool, probable cause was developed and Brack was arrested on suspicion of Criminal Threat, Disorderly Conduct, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. 

I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Hays Communications, and the public, who reported this threat, which allowed for a quick resolution to this incident.

Office of the Chief of PoliceELLIS—On 06/11/2022, The Ellis Police Department was dispatched to the Ellis Municipal Pool in the 300 block of Taylor Street, for a reported Criminal Threat. Hays Communications received a call from a pool employee who reported that a male, later identified as Robert Allen Brack, 59, of Ellis was at the pool making racially charged statements toward other pool patrons. When Brack was asked to leave, he stated that he was going to retrieve a firearm and harm pool patrons. Officers located Brack, on foot, in the area of the 400 block of Taylor. Upon seeing Law Enforcement, Brack attempted to flee. Brack was stopped and detained, and further investigation of the threat was initiated. Upon speaking with patrons of the pool, probable cause was developed and Brack was arrested on suspicion of Criminal Threat, Disorderly Conduct, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Hays Communications, and the public, who reported this threat, which allowed for a quick resolution to this incident.

Racially charged incident leads to arrest in Ellis

ELLIS — The hunt is on for the next leader of Ellis USD 388 schools.

During Monday’s Board of Education meeting, board members heard from Gary Sechrist, Kansas
Association of School Boards leadership field specialist, who
outlined the process for the board as it searches for the district’s next
superintendent.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2bf608c0-eae8-44f8-bd32-38085321efac">The
district is looking to replace outgoing superintendent Corey Burton who
announced his departure on March 30 after he announced he had accepted a superintendent
position at Ulysses USD 214.</a>

"I look forward to a busy and successful
end of our school year as we support the transition to a new district
leader," Burton said in the announcement.

He called his 16 years serving the district a “great
honor.”

And while Burton leads the district through the
end of the academic year, the board and staff will be busy working to secure his
replacement.

The process began with four focus groups made
up of faculty, staff and community members outlining what qualities the new superintendent
should possess, along with an online survey.

Sechrist first shared with the board the qualities
the groups wanted to see in the new superintendent.

&nbsp;“They
want somebody that's personable, can easily build relationships and
approachable,” Sechrist said. Honesty, trustworthiness and a student-first
leadership style were listed as traits wanted as well.

Organization, accountability and consistency were
also cited as desired qualities.

When asked to list a critical need or challenge the new superintendent should
address, retaining staff and aging facilities in need of repair were reported as
the biggest concerns.

The survey also questioned the participants to describe the single trait
they would hope the board would use between one great candidate and another
great candidate.

Along with positive personal qualities, Sechrist noted the groups
reported wanting someone with ambition, attitude, professionalism and the right
disposition for the job.

With the information in hand, the board then heard Sechrist describe details
of the process.

He noted, that first and foremost, the position would need to be a new
hire, as no administrators in the district currently have the level of
certification needed for the position.

&nbsp;The ability to find a candidate that has long-term ambitions was mentioned as a desire by board member Jared Schiel as the district has a number of exciting ongoing
programs that would be attractive to a up-and-comer.

“I'm just trying to figure out a way that we can attract that young future
superstar,” Schiel said. “If we can get somebody coming in here to give us four
years, they're gonna have a chance to pass a bond right away. That's huge.
That's huge for any superintendent.”

“You have a wonderful school district. You have some really exciting things
that are coming down the pike,” Sechrist said.

But in finding that candidate, even someone new to the position, he
warned the board frugality might not be beneficial when considering salary
and benefit packages — as a shortfall of available superintendent candidates
plagues the state.

“I do want to tell you, it's a superintendent’s market, whether you like
it or not,” Sechrist said. “Every candidate knows what the current
superintendent’s making, and they know your budget can handle it. So, you may
not like that, but it might be the difference between sealing the deal and not.
So, you need to be aware of that. I'm not saying you have to like it. I'm just
telling you what the truth is right now.”

Applications are due to the district by April 24. Sechrist plans to meet
with the board again on April 27.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649875735015.jpeg" alt="Ellis USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton shares will Board of Education details of the process to secure a new superintendent during Monday's board meeting." />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton shares will Board of Education details of the process to secure a new superintendent during Monday's board meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — The hunt is on for the next leader of Ellis USD 388 schools.During Monday’s Board of Education meeting, board members heard from Gary Sechrist, Kansas
Association of School Boards leadership field specialist, who
outlined the process for the board as it searches for the district’s next
superintendent.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2bf608c0-eae8-44f8-bd32-38085321efac">The
district is looking to replace outgoing superintendent Corey Burton who
announced his departure on March 30 after he announced he had accepted a superintendent
position at Ulysses USD 214.</a>"I look forward to a busy and successful
end of our school year as we support the transition to a new district
leader," Burton said in the announcement.He called his 16 years serving the district a “great
honor.”And while Burton leads the district through the
end of the academic year, the board and staff will be busy working to secure his
replacement.The process began with four focus groups made
up of faculty, staff and community members outlining what qualities the new superintendent
should possess, along with an online survey.Sechrist first shared with the board the qualities
the groups wanted to see in the new superintendent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649875722477.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;“They
want somebody that's personable, can easily build relationships and
approachable,” Sechrist said. Honesty, trustworthiness and a student-first
leadership style were listed as traits wanted as well.Organization, accountability and consistency were
also cited as desired qualities.When asked to list a critical need or challenge the new superintendent should
address, retaining staff and aging facilities in need of repair were reported as
the biggest concerns.The survey also questioned the participants to describe the single trait
they would hope the board would use between one great candidate and another
great candidate.Along with positive personal qualities, Sechrist noted the groups
reported wanting someone with ambition, attitude, professionalism and the right
disposition for the job.Experience was also desired.With the information in hand, the board then heard Sechrist describe details
of the process.He noted, that first and foremost, the position would need to be a new
hire, as no administrators in the district currently have the level of
certification needed for the position.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649875705479.jpeg" alt="Board members Jared Schiel and Cindy Hertel" />
 <figcaption>Board members Jared Schiel and Cindy Hertel</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The ability to find a candidate that has long-term ambitions was mentioned as a desire by board member Jared Schiel as the district has a number of exciting ongoing
programs that would be attractive to a up-and-comer.“I'm just trying to figure out a way that we can attract that young future
superstar,” Schiel said. “If we can get somebody coming in here to give us four
years, they're gonna have a chance to pass a bond right away. That's huge.
That's huge for any superintendent.”“You have a wonderful school district. You have some really exciting things
that are coming down the pike,” Sechrist said.But in finding that candidate, even someone new to the position, he
warned the board frugality might not be beneficial when considering salary
and benefit packages — as a shortfall of available superintendent candidates
plagues the state.“I do want to tell you, it's a superintendent’s market, whether you like
it or not,” Sechrist said. “Every candidate knows what the current
superintendent’s making, and they know your budget can handle it. So, you may
not like that, but it might be the difference between sealing the deal and not.
So, you need to be aware of that. I'm not saying you have to like it. I'm just
telling you what the truth is right now.”Applications are due to the district by April 24. Sechrist plans to meet
with the board again on April 27.

USD 388: The search begins for next Ellis superintendent

ELLIS—The final of three town hall style meeting soliciting
feedback and ideas about the future of Ellis County took place at Gigi,’s Café,
816 Washington St., late Thursday afternoon.

The feedback provided by the packed diner clarified the
growing picture of what residents see as priorities and problems for the county
and its communities for the Imagine Ellis County Committee.

“The concept behind the committee is to look at the county
as a whole, and try and envision where we'd like to be in five, 10, 20, 25
years, and go into the communities and ask the people what they feel like we're
doing right, what they feel like we're doing wrong, and the type of things
they'd like to see,” said Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.

During the meeting in Ellis, the town’s historic stops, were
identified as a valuable asset to the community, along with the new pool, expanded
campgrounds, good schools and small-town living. 

In the larger view, Fort Hays State University, Hays Med, infrastructure
and recreation options were cited as benefits to life in Ellis County.

But along with the positives, opportunities for the county
mirrored the previous two meetings, with a lack of housing and childcare noted
as particularly critical concerns.

“Certainly, as you look across all the communities, there
are very common themes as well as the business community,” Williams said. “Housing
is a constant, no matter which community you're in. Childcare is a constant, no
matter which community or what your workforce is, it is a constant. So that's
across the board.”

“We heard that from the business community and all three
communities loud and clear,” he continued.

A combined focus from all three major cities in the county –
Hays, Victoria and Ellis – was discussed as a way to improve Ellis County as
well, as participants in Victoria and Ellis both noted sometimes Hays dominates
conversations about the future of the area.

“I do think that each community, for the most, part
understands their role in the county,” Williams said. “Somebody that's looking
for small town living and that type of thing is going to be more attracted to
Victoria or Ellis. The people that live there, live there for a reason.”

“Hays on the other hand is the commerce center for the county
and where most of the jobs are. Most people commute to Hays to work. Not all,
but a lot of them do.” 

He said he understands that some of the feelings that Hays
gets more attention than the other communities are tied to it being the center
of commerce for the county, but working together is in the best interest of
everyone.

“More and more people recognize that we're a community,
we're an entire county, and really, when you get right down to it, we're an
entire region,” Williams said. “We're tied together a lot more than we think
sometimes. And we have to recognize that in many cases, what's good for Hays is
good for WaKeeney, or Stockton or whatnot. And what's good for those
communities is good for Hays.”

Now that all three meeting in the series is complete, the
committee plans to compile what was learned into a report soon, but while the takeaways
are being compiled, the goodwill and actionable ideas linger in the participants.

“We get together, we talk about things, and then we all go
back to our daily lives, and nothing happens,” Williams said. “And that's what
we can't let happen. We have to identify which of these ideas which of these
issues are important. And then we have to engage in the people that were at the
meetings… We're going to ask him to take it to the next step and get engaged in
resolving some of these things or making some of these things happen.”

The work of the committee will also continue as they develop
plans to address the work of the groups.

“There's an obligation on our part to make sure that we
circulate the information that we gathered,” Williams said. And we're working
on that.”

Overall, Williams said the meetings reflected the positive
nature of Ellis County residents and a strong desire to solve problems facing
the county and it’s communities moving into the future.

“By and large it was it was very positive,” Williams said. We
heard “some good ideas, and that's what these sessions are. They're really idea
sessions to take off the limits. You know, the last question I think that Betty
(Johnson) asked was, ‘With no obstacles, what would you like to see this
community look like in 25 years?’ And, you know some crazy stuff comes up, but
out of those kinds of ideas and that kind of thinking, you can get a lot
of positive things done.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444859393.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS—The final of three town hall style meeting soliciting
feedback and ideas about the future of Ellis County took place at Gigi,’s Café,
816 Washington St., late Thursday afternoon.The feedback provided by the packed diner clarified the
growing picture of what residents see as priorities and problems for the county
and its communities for the Imagine Ellis County Committee.“The concept behind the committee is to look at the county
as a whole, and try and envision where we'd like to be in five, 10, 20, 25
years, and go into the communities and ask the people what they feel like we're
doing right, what they feel like we're doing wrong, and the type of things
they'd like to see,” said Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams.<div><iframe title="Imagine Ellis County wraps town hall events" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ykv6y-11f3f75-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>During the meeting in Ellis, the town’s historic stops, were
identified as a valuable asset to the community, along with the new pool, expanded
campgrounds, good schools and small-town living. In the larger view, Fort Hays State University, Hays Med, infrastructure
and recreation options were cited as benefits to life in Ellis County.But along with the positives, opportunities for the county
mirrored the previous two meetings, with a lack of housing and childcare noted
as particularly critical concerns.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444889813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Certainly, as you look across all the communities, there
are very common themes as well as the business community,” Williams said. “Housing
is a constant, no matter which community you're in. Childcare is a constant, no
matter which community or what your workforce is, it is a constant. So that's
across the board.”“We heard that from the business community and all three
communities loud and clear,” he continued.A combined focus from all three major cities in the county –
Hays, Victoria and Ellis – was discussed as a way to improve Ellis County as
well, as participants in Victoria and Ellis both noted sometimes Hays dominates
conversations about the future of the area.“I do think that each community, for the most, part
understands their role in the county,” Williams said. “Somebody that's looking
for small town living and that type of thing is going to be more attracted to
Victoria or Ellis. The people that live there, live there for a reason.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444879125.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Hays on the other hand is the commerce center for the county
and where most of the jobs are. Most people commute to Hays to work. Not all,
but a lot of them do.” He said he understands that some of the feelings that Hays
gets more attention than the other communities are tied to it being the center
of commerce for the county, but working together is in the best interest of
everyone.“More and more people recognize that we're a community,
we're an entire county, and really, when you get right down to it, we're an
entire region,” Williams said. “We're tied together a lot more than we think
sometimes. And we have to recognize that in many cases, what's good for Hays is
good for WaKeeney, or Stockton or whatnot. And what's good for those
communities is good for Hays.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444868825.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>WHAT COMES NEXT</h2>Now that all three meeting in the series is complete, the
committee plans to compile what was learned into a report soon, but while the takeaways
are being compiled, the goodwill and actionable ideas linger in the participants.“We get together, we talk about things, and then we all go
back to our daily lives, and nothing happens,” Williams said. “And that's what
we can't let happen. We have to identify which of these ideas which of these
issues are important. And then we have to engage in the people that were at the
meetings… We're going to ask him to take it to the next step and get engaged in
resolving some of these things or making some of these things happen.”The work of the committee will also continue as they develop
plans to address the work of the groups.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444900793.jpeg" alt="Facilitator Betty Johnson speaks to Ellis County residents assembled to discuss the future of Ellis County, during an Imagine Ellis County townhall event at Gigi's Cafe in Ellis." />
 <figcaption>Facilitator Betty Johnson speaks to Ellis County residents assembled to discuss the future of Ellis County, during an Imagine Ellis County townhall event at Gigi's Cafe in Ellis.</figcaption>
 </figure>“There's an obligation on our part to make sure that we
circulate the information that we gathered,” Williams said. And we're working
on that.”Overall, Williams said the meetings reflected the positive
nature of Ellis County residents and a strong desire to solve problems facing
the county and it’s communities moving into the future.“By and large it was it was very positive,” Williams said. We
heard “some good ideas, and that's what these sessions are. They're really idea
sessions to take off the limits. You know, the last question I think that Betty
(Johnson) asked was, ‘With no obstacles, what would you like to see this
community look like in 25 years?’ And, you know some crazy stuff comes up, but
out of those kinds of ideas and that kind of thinking, you can get a lot
of positive things done.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444848311.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙Ellis discusses future of county during Imagine Ellis Co. event

Ellis Chamber Easter Egg Hunt is April 16 at Good Samaritan Society

The following is a news release from Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, posted to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=317562980479931&amp;set=a.197642722471958">social media</a> this afternoon by the Ellis Police Department.&nbsp;

ELLIS - In the early morning hours of 04/05/2022, officers from the Ellis Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Golden Belt Bank, located at 901 Washington in the city of Ellis, for an attempted theft of an ATM. 

Upon arrival, officers located the bank's ATM in the middle of 9th Street, still attached to a pickup truck. This pickup was later discovered to be stolen out of WaKeeney, Kansas. 

Officers were able to develop a suspect vehicle description as well as a description of several suspects that were involved. Three suspects were later located in rural Russell County in the suspect vehicle that was identified as leaving the scene. 

All three suspects were arrested and transported to the Ellis County Jail without incident. All three suspects are facing requested charges for felony criminal damage to property, felony theft, and possession of stolen property.

No further information will be released at this time and the incident is still under investigation. 

I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Trego County Sheriff’s Office and the WaKeeney Police Department for their assistance with this case.

Avery Smith Ellis Chief of Police&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649194852855.jpeg" alt="An abandoned pickup with an attached&nbsp; automated teller machine stolen from&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank was found on 9th Street early Tuesday morning by the Ellis Police Department. Three suspects were later arrested in Russell. (Photos courtesy Alisa Grauerholz)" />
 <figcaption>An abandoned pickup with an attached&nbsp; automated teller machine stolen from&nbsp;Golden Belt Bank was found on 9th Street early Tuesday morning by the Ellis Police Department. Three suspects were later arrested in Russell. (Photos courtesy Alisa Grauerholz)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649194878542.jpeg" alt="The pickup was found to be stolen out of WaKeeney. (Photos courtesy Alisa Grauerholz)" />
 <figcaption>The pickup was found to be stolen out of WaKeeney. (Photos courtesy Alisa Grauerholz)</figcaption>
 </figure>The following is a news release from Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, posted to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=317562980479931&amp;set=a.197642722471958">social media</a> this afternoon by the Ellis Police Department.&nbsp;Ellis Police Department ELLIS - In the early morning hours of 04/05/2022, officers from the Ellis Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Golden Belt Bank, located at 901 Washington in the city of Ellis, for an attempted theft of an ATM. Upon arrival, officers located the bank's ATM in the middle of 9th Street, still attached to a pickup truck. This pickup was later discovered to be stolen out of WaKeeney, Kansas. Officers were able to develop a suspect vehicle description as well as a description of several suspects that were involved. Three suspects were later located in rural Russell County in the suspect vehicle that was identified as leaving the scene. All three suspects were arrested and transported to the Ellis County Jail without incident. All three suspects are facing requested charges for felony criminal damage to property, felony theft, and possession of stolen property.No further information will be released at this time and the incident is still under investigation. I would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Trego County Sheriff’s Office and the WaKeeney Police Department for their assistance with this case.Avery Smith Ellis Chief of Police&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stolen bank ATM found on street; Ellis PD arrests three suspects

ELLIS — Ellis USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton has announced this year will be his last with the district.

The announcement was shared to the district's Twitter account early Wednesday.

"It has been a great honor to serve the students and staff of Ellis for the past 16 years as both junior/senior high school principal and currently as Superintendent," Burton said. "It is with great difficulty that I let you know that I will be leaving my position here at USD 388 and moving to a new position of Superintendent of Schools at Ulysses USD 214."

"While I am excited about the opportunity of this new role, I will miss working with and serving the students, staff and community of Ellis," he continued.

He said further the district has been an "excellent place for me to grow as an educator and raise my family."

"I look forward to a busy and successful end of our school year as we support the transition to a new district leader," Burton said.

<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=usd388&amp;src=typed_query">The full statement can be found on the USD 388 Twitter page.</a>

Hays PostELLIS — Ellis USD 388 Superintendent Corey Burton has announced this year will be his last with the district.The announcement was shared to the district's Twitter account early Wednesday."It has been a great honor to serve the students and staff of Ellis for the past 16 years as both junior/senior high school principal and currently as Superintendent," Burton said. "It is with great difficulty that I let you know that I will be leaving my position here at USD 388 and moving to a new position of Superintendent of Schools at Ulysses USD 214.""While I am excited about the opportunity of this new role, I will miss working with and serving the students, staff and community of Ellis," he continued.He said further the district has been an "excellent place for me to grow as an educator and raise my family.""I look forward to a busy and successful end of our school year as we support the transition to a new district leader," Burton said.<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=usd388&amp;src=typed_query">The full statement can be found on the USD 388 Twitter page.</a>

Ellis USD 388 superintendent announces departure

The Ellis Memorial VFW Post 9139 will have its 75th-anniversary German sausage meal from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Saturday, March 19 at the Ellis VFW Hall.

The meal will include German sausage on a bun, sauerkraut, beans, onion, mustard, ketchup, chips, cookie and water.

Meals will be served to go or for dine in.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

SubmittedThe Ellis Memorial VFW Post 9139 will have its 75th-anniversary German sausage meal from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Saturday, March 19 at the Ellis VFW Hall.The meal will include German sausage on a bun, sauerkraut, beans, onion, mustard, ketchup, chips, cookie and water.Meals will be served to go or for dine in.Cost is a free-will donation.All are welcome. Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Ellis VFW sausage feed set for Saturday

&nbsp;At 8:40 p.m. Saturday, officers from the Ellis Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of West 14th Street for a domestic disturbance involving a firearm.

Prior to law enforcement’s arrival on scene, the suspect who was identified as 27-year-old Mikayla McCarthy of Ellis, fled the area on foot. Officers on scene developed information that after an argument, McCarthy pointed a .45 caliber handgun at the victim who then summoned law enforcement assistance. 

Officers searched the immediate area but were unable to locate McCarthy. Through investigation and follow-up with a family member, Officers were able to locate McCarthy and negotiate a peaceful resolution to the situation. McCarthy was taken into custody in the 500 block of Dorrance Street and was transported to the Ellis County Jail without further incident.

McCarthy is being held on a requested charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. McCarthy is considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

The Ellis Police Chief said he would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the dispatchers of the Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case. 

Ellis Police Department &nbsp;At 8:40 p.m. Saturday, officers from the Ellis Police Department and Ellis County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of West 14th Street for a domestic disturbance involving a firearm.Prior to law enforcement’s arrival on scene, the suspect who was identified as 27-year-old Mikayla McCarthy of Ellis, fled the area on foot. Officers on scene developed information that after an argument, McCarthy pointed a .45 caliber handgun at the victim who then summoned law enforcement assistance. Officers searched the immediate area but were unable to locate McCarthy. Through investigation and follow-up with a family member, Officers were able to locate McCarthy and negotiate a peaceful resolution to the situation. McCarthy was taken into custody in the 500 block of Dorrance Street and was transported to the Ellis County Jail without further incident.McCarthy is being held on a requested charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. McCarthy is considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.The Ellis Police Chief said he would like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the dispatchers of the Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case.

Suspect arrested in Ellis after domestic disturbance involving gun

ELLIS — Ellis High School Basketball and Cheer Senior Night will be Tuesday. Seniors and their parents will be recognized between the varsity (girls and boys) basketball games with Russell.

Back Row – Tyson Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Beck Brogden, son of Steven Brogden and Sarah Brogden; Jagr Reese, son of Lance and Marta Reese; Tanner Kohlrus, son of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Kaden Solorio, son of Wesley and Lindsay James; Matthew Ernst, son of Nickole Byers and the late Lucas Ernst.

Front Row – Michelle Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Haley Schmidt, daughter of Matthew and Lisa Schmidt and Clint and Katy Amrein; Madelynn Guffey, daughter of the late Matt Guffey and Stacey and Danielle Schaus; Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer; Faith Fondoble, daughter of Matt and Sharona Fondoble.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645463208248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — Ellis High School Basketball and Cheer Senior Night will be Tuesday. Seniors and their parents will be recognized between the varsity (girls and boys) basketball games with Russell.PICTURED (L to R):Back Row – Tyson Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Beck Brogden, son of Steven Brogden and Sarah Brogden; Jagr Reese, son of Lance and Marta Reese; Tanner Kohlrus, son of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Kaden Solorio, son of Wesley and Lindsay James; Matthew Ernst, son of Nickole Byers and the late Lucas Ernst.Front Row – Michelle Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Haley Schmidt, daughter of Matthew and Lisa Schmidt and Clint and Katy Amrein; Madelynn Guffey, daughter of the late Matt Guffey and Stacey and Danielle Schaus; Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer; Faith Fondoble, daughter of Matt and Sharona Fondoble.

Ellis will recognize senior basketball players, cheerleaders

ELLIS —&nbsp;This week, the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education voted to suspend the district's COVID-19 mitigation plan, now treating COVID cases like other communicable diseases that routinely impact schools.

The plan has been in place since September 2021.

The COVID plan now in place is "basically identical" to the district's flu plan, according to Superintendent Corey Burton.

"This is exactly what we were doing pre-COVID, as far as influenza was concerned," he said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/065b99ab-b335-4f0a-99a1-7e20e286a184">The move follows a similar measure made by the USD 489 Hays school district in late January.</a>

While the plan is now suspended, it will remain in place through the end of the year.

"The thought behind the suspension of it is, if we would ever see a big outbreak again, we can move to reinstate it," Burton said. "So it's not totally gone. I thought it'd be there for us as a backup."

Board member Latisha Haag brought the measure to vote, Cindy Hertel would offer a second, and the measure passed unanimously.

Despite the suspension of the plan, Burton told the board he would continue to update the board regularly on COVID cases in the district.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS —&nbsp;This week, the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education voted to suspend the district's COVID-19 mitigation plan, now treating COVID cases like other communicable diseases that routinely impact schools.The plan has been in place since September 2021.The COVID plan now in place is "basically identical" to the district's flu plan, according to Superintendent Corey Burton."This is exactly what we were doing pre-COVID, as far as influenza was concerned," he said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/065b99ab-b335-4f0a-99a1-7e20e286a184">The move follows a similar measure made by the USD 489 Hays school district in late January.</a>While the plan is now suspended, it will remain in place through the end of the year."The thought behind the suspension of it is, if we would ever see a big outbreak again, we can move to reinstate it," Burton said. "So it's not totally gone. I thought it'd be there for us as a backup."Board member Latisha Haag brought the measure to vote, Cindy Hertel would offer a second, and the measure passed unanimously.Despite the suspension of the plan, Burton told the board he would continue to update the board regularly on COVID cases in the district.

Ellis USD 388 suspends COVID mitigation plan

CORRECTION: Board member Jared Schiel's name and position on the cost of the gym and it's affect on the potential bond issue were updated to more closely reflect his comments during the meeting on Feb. 21. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

ELLIS — During its regular meeting Monday, the Ellis USD
388 Board of Education had planned to vote on sending a potential bond issue to
district voters, but with recent activity in the Kansas Legislature that could
secure a significant amount of funding from the state for the bond, the board decided to postpone its vote until next week.

“There was a state law that changed back in 2015,” said bond
counsel for the district, Dustin Avey, managing director, public finance
investment banking with Piper Sandler. “Because of that change in the law, the Ellis
school district gets zero percent state aid, meaning the state of Kansas does
not pay for any portion of your work.”

But with potential changes to that law currently under
consideration in Topeka, he told the board moving now could cost the district the
opportunity for the state to fund around 20 percent of the potential bond
issue.

“Based upon conversations beginning last Thursday and
Friday, and then into today, there is a potential that a current state aid law
would be fixed by the Legislature this legislative session,” Sandler said. “If
that law becomes fixed, you would receive approximately 20 percent state aid, meaning that the state of Kansas would pay for approximately 20 percent of your
annual principal and interest payment.”

With the board considering a bond issue of around $5 million, that
would mean turning down the potential of around $1 million in state aid if the
law is changed.

While the potential is there, Avey told the board there are
no funding guarantees.

“We expect that bill to be before the Senate and committee
this Friday for a hearing. If it gets passed out of the Senate Ed Committee on
either Friday or Monday, we would expect it to go to the Senate floor for a
vote sometime next week,” Avey said. “So that’s hurdle No. 1.”

If the legislation passed through the Senate, the
legislation would then move through the same process in the House.

“And if through the House, then it would be able to go to the
governor for the signature,” Avey said.

To reap the benefits of
the change, however, would require moving the proposed bond timeline, which would
have seen the measure go to voters in May, to later in the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644958531266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CORRECTION: Board member Jared Schiel's name and position on the cost of the gym and it's affect on the potential bond issue were updated to more closely reflect his comments during the meeting on Feb. 21. Hays Post apologizes for the error.By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — During its regular meeting Monday, the Ellis USD
388 Board of Education had planned to vote on sending a potential bond issue to
district voters, but with recent activity in the Kansas Legislature that could
secure a significant amount of funding from the state for the bond, the board decided to postpone its vote until next week.“There was a state law that changed back in 2015,” said bond
counsel for the district, Dustin Avey, managing director, public finance
investment banking with Piper Sandler. “Because of that change in the law, the Ellis
school district gets zero percent state aid, meaning the state of Kansas does
not pay for any portion of your work.”But with potential changes to that law currently under
consideration in Topeka, he told the board moving now could cost the district the
opportunity for the state to fund around 20 percent of the potential bond
issue.“Based upon conversations beginning last Thursday and
Friday, and then into today, there is a potential that a current state aid law
would be fixed by the Legislature this legislative session,” Sandler said. “If
that law becomes fixed, you would receive approximately 20 percent state aid, meaning that the state of Kansas would pay for approximately 20 percent of your
annual principal and interest payment.”With the board considering a bond issue of around $5 million, that
would mean turning down the potential of around $1 million in state aid if the
law is changed.While the potential is there, Avey told the board there are
no funding guarantees.“We expect that bill to be before the Senate and committee
this Friday for a hearing. If it gets passed out of the Senate Ed Committee on
either Friday or Monday, we would expect it to go to the Senate floor for a
vote sometime next week,” Avey said. “So that’s hurdle No. 1.”If the legislation passed through the Senate, the
legislation would then move through the same process in the House.“And if through the House, then it would be able to go to the
governor for the signature,” Avey said.To reap the benefits of
the change, however, would require moving the proposed bond timeline, which would
have seen the measure go to voters in May, to later in the year.“If we were to proceed tonight, with passing that resolution
and moving forward with the May 10 election — if this fix would become law, it
would not impact this district because it only impacts those districts who have
the bond election approved by voters after July 1,” Avey said.The change in the law also would not affect the upcoming bond
issue in nearby Hays, as the district is already excluded from the potential
state aid due to the district’s high property tax valuation.“They don't receive any state aid because their assessed
valuation per pupil is higher,” Avey said. “And they're considered a wealthy
school district per that metric. But there are other districts like yourselves
are considered more property-poor on a comparable basis.”While the Legislature moves to consider the change in law, Avey
said, the district would have some idea of the potential for the change to
occur this year if it were to move out of senate committee this week.The board then considered postponing the vote to move forward
until next week.If the bill were to pass out of committee, the board would consider further options. If it fails, they can choose to move
forward with the bond election on May 10, as proposed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644958563398.jpeg" alt="Superintendent Corey Burton" />
 <figcaption>Superintendent Corey Burton</figcaption>
 </figure>Waiting “is the most responsible thing for our community,”
said Superintendent Corey Burton.Board member Latisha
Haag also noted that bond issue components should also be reconsidered with the potential increase in available funds.“I think we need to reconvene and have a discussion about
the financials because 20 percent is going to make a huge difference,” she
said. “I'm concerned about the backlash that we're going to catch for not
having the gym on there, and then asking the community to pony up money to
build a gym — outside the bond — later.“For me, I think it's smart to wait until Tuesday to at
least know if it comes out of committee. It doesn't come out of committee, we
have our answer.”Board member Jared Schiel responded, adding the cost of the gym to the
bond issue may cause the bond to fail when presented to the voters, based on earlier information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644958606495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We’ve already determined you can't put a gym on this bond
and pass it,” he said, but an additional 20 percent could change the bond scope in a way to allow the gym to be put into the bond issue and stay under their desired total cost.If “waiting till after July 1 we get 20 percent back from
the state, then maybe we relook at our financials, and let's see if we put the
gym back on. So yeah, I wouldn't feel comfortable voting on financials tonight.
I think we have to look to wait and see what's going on.”Schiel said the decision slows a bond issue that has already faced setbacks due to the pandemic.“It's one more hurdle," Burton said. “But it has the potential
to be positive. This has the potential to be positive for our community."The board voted 7-0 to table the measure until a meeting is
set next week.