Check out more on Thirsty's, including their full menu. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/92011370-84fa-4d9a-a241-59c943c40fc1">CLICK HERE!</a>

It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat. The family needs a fun activity for the weekend or you need a new stylist or someone to look at your brakes.

The Hays Post is launching an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.

The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.

See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.

Hays businesses that wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I6pP5Pv8wHg?si=X9MfrASKvoKAu24p" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Check out more on Thirsty's, including their full menu. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/92011370-84fa-4d9a-a241-59c943c40fc1">CLICK HERE!</a>It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat. The family needs a fun activity for the weekend or you need a new stylist or someone to look at your brakes.The Hays Post is launching an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.The directory is free for our readers.Hays businesses that wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748636430594.png" alt="Where do I find Hays Place on Hays Post? See the graphic above." />
 <figcaption>Where do I find Hays Place on Hays Post? See the graphic above.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Send us your ?s for the Grow Hays KAYS morning show/Post Podcast

Ellis County Clerk/Election Office

The deadline to file for candidacy in the upcoming General Election is fast
approaching.

If you are interested in running for a position that will appear
on the Nov. 4, ballot, you must file by noon Monday, June 2. Positions on the Ballot include:

Ellis City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ellis City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ellis City Treasurer &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis City Council members

Hays City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hays City Commission (two
4-year term and one 2-year term)

Schoenchen City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schoenchen City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Schoenchen City
Council members

Victoria City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Victoria City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Victoria City
Council members

USD 388: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positions &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
Unexpired term (2-year term)

USD 432 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positions

USD 489 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positions

Big Creek Improvement District&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director positions

Prairie Acres Improvement District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director positions

Suburban Estates Improvement District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director Positions

Munjor Improvement district &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3 Director
positions

Cottonwood Extension District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2 Board
positions

Each position requires a $20 filing fee, and candidates
must complete the required paperwork to file. 

If you have any questions, contact the Ellis County Clerk’s Office at
785-628-9410.

Ellis County Clerk/Election OfficeThe deadline to file for candidacy in the upcoming General Election is fast
approaching.If you are interested in running for a position that will appear
on the Nov. 4, ballot, you must file by noon Monday, June 2. Positions on the Ballot include:Ellis City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ellis City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ellis City Treasurer &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis City Council membersHays City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hays City Commission (two
4-year term and one 2-year term)Schoenchen City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schoenchen City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Schoenchen City
Council membersVictoria City: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
position&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Victoria City Mayor &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
positions&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Victoria City
Council membersUSD 388: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positions &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1
Unexpired term (2-year term)USD 432 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positionsUSD 489 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
District at-large positionsBig Creek Improvement District&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director positionsPrairie Acres Improvement District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director positionsSuburban Estates Improvement District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3
Director PositionsMunjor Improvement district &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3 Director
positionsCottonwood Extension District &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2 Board
positions Each position requires a $20 filing fee, and candidates
must complete the required paperwork to file. If you have any questions, contact the Ellis County Clerk’s Office at
785-628-9410.

Election filing deadline approaching

ELLIS HIGH SCHOOL&nbsp;2024-2025&nbsp;Semester 2 Honor Roll

Morgan Armbrister, Aron Bencze, Tyler Bongartz, Isabella Eck, Toby Honas, Kamden Keller,&nbsp;Addison Kohl, MaKenzie Kohlrus, Caleb Noble-Heit, Alyssa Rome, Taegan Shannon, Brooke&nbsp;Starns, Maleah Vine

Grace Brull, Kaycee Cranwell, Chance Jimenez, Natalee North, JT Rhoden, Aiden Whyte, Gavyn&nbsp;Wildeman

Elie Brull, Gus Peine (KAMS), Owen Richards, Carson Schartz, Sienna Schmidt, Kinzie Sunley

Gracie Ball, Avery Boydston, Payten Burd, Ethan Carroll, Brody Fischer, Jaren Frickey, Kinley&nbsp;Jones, Ashlyn Kroeger, Kia Mader, Leah Reed, Mason Rohleder

Madison Birdsong, Baylor Born, Wyatt Dixson, Jocelyn Eck, Maggie Fitzgerald, Taylor Kohl,&nbsp;Evelyn Merriman, Colton Metzler

Aiden Aschenbrenner, Braidyn Cox, Cody Cullison, Jersee Fabrizius, NaKaylee Hapes

Rylan Aschenbrenner, Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Emma Downing, Hannah James, Talon Pyle,&nbsp;Mackinley Rhoden

Asher Haag, Lyla Richards, Journey Swagerty

ELLIS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL&nbsp;2024-2025&nbsp;Semester 2 Honor Roll

Skylynn Begler, Cayson Boydston, Taryn Boydston, Henry Brull, Addalyn Haas, Beckett Longbine,&nbsp;Chevelle Morton

Nora Andrews, Maggie Downing, Sophia Gaschler, Kooper Hankins, Hunter Honas, Colt McCoy,&nbsp;Jack Reed, Carter Starns, Grant Wieland

Charly Amrein, Brody Armbrister, Lux Bell, Lane Dixson, Lona Guffey, Jadyn Hann, Brayden&nbsp;Hept, Hailey McMillan, Addilyn Priest, Josey Schoenthaler, Lane Shannon, Elijah Wagner

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747927857295.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High SchoolELLIS HIGH SCHOOL&nbsp;2024-2025&nbsp;Semester 2 Honor RollSENIORAll A Honor RollMorgan Armbrister, Aron Bencze, Tyler Bongartz, Isabella Eck, Toby Honas, Kamden Keller,&nbsp;Addison Kohl, MaKenzie Kohlrus, Caleb Noble-Heit, Alyssa Rome, Taegan Shannon, Brooke&nbsp;Starns, Maleah VineA-B Honor RollGrace Brull, Kaycee Cranwell, Chance Jimenez, Natalee North, JT Rhoden, Aiden Whyte, Gavyn&nbsp;WildemanJUNIORAll A Honor RollElie Brull, Gus Peine (KAMS), Owen Richards, Carson Schartz, Sienna Schmidt, Kinzie SunleyA-B Honor RollGracie Ball, Avery Boydston, Payten Burd, Ethan Carroll, Brody Fischer, Jaren Frickey, Kinley&nbsp;Jones, Ashlyn Kroeger, Kia Mader, Leah Reed, Mason Rohleder<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747927984316.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SOPHOMOREAll A Honor RollMadison Birdsong, Baylor Born, Wyatt Dixson, Jocelyn Eck, Maggie Fitzgerald, Taylor Kohl,&nbsp;Evelyn Merriman, Colton MetzlerA-B Honor RollAiden Aschenbrenner, Braidyn Cox, Cody Cullison, Jersee Fabrizius, NaKaylee HapesFRESHMANAll A Honor RollRylan Aschenbrenner, Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Emma Downing, Hannah James, Talon Pyle,&nbsp;Mackinley RhodenA-B Honor RollAsher Haag, Lyla Richards, Journey Swagerty<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747927918570.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL&nbsp;2024-2025&nbsp;Semester 2 Honor Roll8th GradeAll A Honor RollSkylynn Begler, Cayson Boydston, Taryn Boydston, Henry Brull, Addalyn Haas, Beckett Longbine,&nbsp;Chevelle MortonA-B Honor RollNora Andrews, Maggie Downing, Sophia Gaschler, Kooper Hankins, Hunter Honas, Colt McCoy,&nbsp;Jack Reed, Carter Starns, Grant Wieland7th GradeAll A Honor RollDerek Flax, Caleb Schield, Myles VineA-B Honor RollCharly Amrein, Brody Armbrister, Lux Bell, Lane Dixson, Lona Guffey, Jadyn Hann, Brayden&nbsp;Hept, Hailey McMillan, Addilyn Priest, Josey Schoenthaler, Lane Shannon, Elijah Wagner

Ellis High School Semester 2 Honor Roll 

Coronado Area Council, SA, the Northwest and Northcentral Kansas leading organization to develop youth to make moral and ethical choices over their lifetime, announced that Samuel Pyle has been named their newest District Field Executive.

In his role, Pyle will oversee the operations of the Wheatland District, including the counties of Ellis, Russell, Gove, Trego, Rocks, Osborne, Phillips, Smith, and Jewell. 

He will focus on developing growth and sustainability strategies for Northwest Kansas Scouting units. 

He will be based in Hays at the Wheatland District office located in the Hadley Center at 205 E. 7th St. 

Pyle will be focusing in the short term on building community relationships and budget-focused efforts. 

Pyle is an Eagle Scout from Ellis who has an extensive background in Outdoor Programs. He brings a wide assortment of experiences to his new role. 

The Wheatland and Eastern Tomahawk Districts he will serve support 26 units with over 250 Scouts from elementary through high school-aged youth. 

In addition to the traditional Scouting events, he will also support our new Special Needs outreach program and collaboration with WeKan. This program currently serves 10-15 special needs young adults each semester in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747922018539.jpeg" alt="Samuel Pyle. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Samuel Pyle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Coronado Area CouncilCoronado Area Council, SA, the Northwest and Northcentral Kansas leading organization to develop youth to make moral and ethical choices over their lifetime, announced that Samuel Pyle has been named their newest District Field Executive.In his role, Pyle will oversee the operations of the Wheatland District, including the counties of Ellis, Russell, Gove, Trego, Rocks, Osborne, Phillips, Smith, and Jewell. He will focus on developing growth and sustainability strategies for Northwest Kansas Scouting units. He will be based in Hays at the Wheatland District office located in the Hadley Center at 205 E. 7th St. Pyle will be focusing in the short term on building community relationships and budget-focused efforts. Pyle is an Eagle Scout from Ellis who has an extensive background in Outdoor Programs. He brings a wide assortment of experiences to his new role. The Wheatland and Eastern Tomahawk Districts he will serve support 26 units with over 250 Scouts from elementary through high school-aged youth. In addition to the traditional Scouting events, he will also support our new Special Needs outreach program and collaboration with WeKan. This program currently serves 10-15 special needs young adults each semester in Hays.

Ellis man named new district field executive for Coronado Area Council Boy Scouts

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis County parents overwhelmingly said they trust their child care providers, but they wished they were paying less for care, according to a recent survey.

The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County received results from the online survey at its meeting on Tuesday.

The survey was taken by 121 people, including parents, child care providers and business people, with parents and child care providers making up the two largest groups of survey respondents.

Of the 60 parents or future parents who responded to the survey, a quarter said they were looking for child care.&nbsp;

Two-thirds of parents said their children are currently enrolled in a licensed child care. One-third said they were not.

Dana Stanton, Childcare Program Specialist with the&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, said the survey results do not mean those 20 parents have their children in unlicensed child care. She said it could mean a parent is staying home with the children or the children are being cared for by another family member.

More than half of the parents said their children are in an in-home child care. About 19% of children were enrolled in child care centers and 16% were cared for by family members.

Sixty-eight percent of parents responding said they were satisfied with their child care arrangements. When asked what aspects contributed to their satisfaction, 95% said they trusted their children's caregiver.

Stanton said parental preference mirrored child placement. Most parents said they preferred having their children cared for by in-home child care providers.

Seventy-five percent of respondents said they were pleased with the quality of their children's care and education.

Seventy-five percent of parents surveyed said they were dissatisfied with the cost of care. The survey indicated the county's child care costs varied widely, with parents paying $80 to more than $200 per week per child for care.

The respondents said they would prefer to pay $141 to $160 per week per child for care. Stanton said that the price range is low for the cost of care in Ellis County.

Most parents said they needed full-time care Mondays through Fridays, with a few also needing care for school-age children during school breaks and snow days.

Most respondents said they had found child care through word of mouth, not the state child care system, <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>.

Stanton said the child care task force should consider placing more emphasis on using the Child Care Aware online database.

Of the child care providers surveyed, 27% said they did not update their capacity openings with Child Care Aware.

The state resource tracks child care openings across the state and can be searched by community. It only lists licensed providers.&nbsp;

Only four businesses responded to the survey. All four said they have experienced workforce gaps due to a lack of child care for their employees.

Half of all respondents said they had missed work due to child care needs. Twelve people said they had delayed entering or reentering the workforce because of child care needs. Stanton said 12 people is low compared to other communities she has worked with in Kansas, where workers had to plan their careers around child care.

None of the employers said they wanted to offer in-house child care.

The task force has identified a continued need for more infant care in Ellis County. None of the businesses surveyed said they allowed employees to bring infants to work.

One employer said they allowed workers to bring their children to work after school if needed. One employer said they allowed employees to work from home if a worker was experiencing child care issues.

Of the child care providers surveyed, 92% said they accept infants. However, the state limits the number of infants that in-home child care providers can care for.

Only 34% of providers said they were certified to take funds from the Department of Children and Family Services for income-qualified families.

All of the providers surveyed said they offer full-time care Mondays through Fridays. However, many providers offered additional services such as care for school-age children during school breaks or care before or after school.

Sixty-three percent of survey respondents said they thought Ellis County does not have an adequate supply of child care.

"We had more yeses than I thought," Stanton said. "I'm thinking that is a lot of our current providers. We have talked about it in this group. While there may be a need for openings in infant care, we have a lot of in-home providers who have openings."

The number of needed child care spots in Ellis County, as reported by the state, has dramatically decreased since the child care task force was created four years ago. An additional 77 slots are set to open in August with the completion of the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.

However, Stanton said of the survey, "It tells us that we're making progress, but there are still some issues."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737585359699.jpg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis County parents overwhelmingly said they trust their child care providers, but they wished they were paying less for care, according to a recent survey.The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County received results from the online survey at its meeting on Tuesday.The survey was taken by 121 people, including parents, child care providers and business people, with parents and child care providers making up the two largest groups of survey respondents.Of the 60 parents or future parents who responded to the survey, a quarter said they were looking for child care.&nbsp;Two-thirds of parents said their children are currently enrolled in a licensed child care. One-third said they were not.Dana Stanton, Childcare Program Specialist with the&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, said the survey results do not mean those 20 parents have their children in unlicensed child care. She said it could mean a parent is staying home with the children or the children are being cared for by another family member.More than half of the parents said their children are in an in-home child care. About 19% of children were enrolled in child care centers and 16% were cared for by family members.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747323512097.png" alt="Parent satisfaction survey question results" />
 <figcaption>Parent satisfaction survey question results</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What parents want</h2>Sixty-eight percent of parents responding said they were satisfied with their child care arrangements. When asked what aspects contributed to their satisfaction, 95% said they trusted their children's caregiver.Stanton said parental preference mirrored child placement. Most parents said they preferred having their children cared for by in-home child care providers.Seventy-five percent of respondents said they were pleased with the quality of their children's care and education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747323701556.png" alt="Parent dissatisfaction" />
 <figcaption>Parent dissatisfaction</figcaption>
 </figure>Seventy-five percent of parents surveyed said they were dissatisfied with the cost of care. The survey indicated the county's child care costs varied widely, with parents paying $80 to more than $200 per week per child for care.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255193501.png" alt="Cost paid per child per week for child care." />
 <figcaption>Cost paid per child per week for child care.</figcaption>
 </figure>The respondents said they would prefer to pay $141 to $160 per week per child for care. Stanton said that the price range is low for the cost of care in Ellis County.Most parents said they needed full-time care Mondays through Fridays, with a few also needing care for school-age children during school breaks and snow days.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255500306.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Most respondents said they had found child care through word of mouth, not the state child care system, <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>.Stanton said the child care task force should consider placing more emphasis on using the Child Care Aware online database.Of the child care providers surveyed, 27% said they did not update their capacity openings with Child Care Aware.The state resource tracks child care openings across the state and can be searched by community. It only lists licensed providers.&nbsp;<h2>Employers</h2>Only four businesses responded to the survey. All four said they have experienced workforce gaps due to a lack of child care for their employees.Half of all respondents said they had missed work due to child care needs. Twelve people said they had delayed entering or reentering the workforce because of child care needs. Stanton said 12 people is low compared to other communities she has worked with in Kansas, where workers had to plan their careers around child care.None of the employers said they wanted to offer in-house child care.The task force has identified a continued need for more infant care in Ellis County. None of the businesses surveyed said they allowed employees to bring infants to work.One employer said they allowed workers to bring their children to work after school if needed. One employer said they allowed employees to work from home if a worker was experiencing child care issues.<h2>Providers</h2>Of the child care providers surveyed, 92% said they accept infants. However, the state limits the number of infants that in-home child care providers can care for.Only 34% of providers said they were certified to take funds from the Department of Children and Family Services for income-qualified families.All of the providers surveyed said they offer full-time care Mondays through Fridays. However, many providers offered additional services such as care for school-age children during school breaks or care before or after school.Sixty-three percent of survey respondents said they thought Ellis County does not have an adequate supply of child care."We had more yeses than I thought," Stanton said. "I'm thinking that is a lot of our current providers. We have talked about it in this group. While there may be a need for openings in infant care, we have a lot of in-home providers who have openings."The number of needed child care spots in Ellis County, as reported by the state, has dramatically decreased since the child care task force was created four years ago. An additional 77 slots are set to open in August with the completion of the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.However, Stanton said of the survey, "It tells us that we're making progress, but there are still some issues."

Ellis County child care survey shows progress, but issues remain

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Kyle Carlin, director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Special Education" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bhz33-18ad015-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Kyle Carlin, director of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Kyle Carlin on special education

ELLIS —  Ellis High School Baseball Senior Night has been moved to Friday, May 16, 2025. The Ellis Railroaders will face off against the Plainville Cardinals in a regional matchup starting at 5:00 p.m. Seniors and their parents will be honored before the game begins.

Baseball seniors are: JJ Lopeman, son of John and Larissa Lopeman; Hunter Guffey, son of Stacy and Danielle Schaus and the late Matt Guffey; Chason Fabrizius, son of Chad and Jessica Fabrizius; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747228490593.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Ellis High School baseball seniors are (L to R): JJ Lopeman, son of John and Larissa Lopeman; Hunter Guffey, son of Stacy and Danielle Schaus and the late Matt Guffey; Chason Fabrizius, son of Chad and Jessica Fabrizius; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez. Photo courtesy Ellis High School&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Ellis High School baseball seniors are (L to R): JJ Lopeman, son of John and Larissa Lopeman; Hunter Guffey, son of Stacy and Danielle Schaus and the late Matt Guffey; Chason Fabrizius, son of Chad and Jessica Fabrizius; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez. Photo courtesy Ellis High School&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High SchoolELLIS — Ellis High School Baseball Senior Night has been moved to Friday, May 16, 2025. The Ellis Railroaders will face off against the Plainville Cardinals in a regional matchup starting at 5:00 p.m. Seniors and their parents will be honored before the game begins.Baseball seniors are: JJ Lopeman, son of John and Larissa Lopeman; Hunter Guffey, son of Stacy and Danielle Schaus and the late Matt Guffey; Chason Fabrizius, son of Chad and Jessica Fabrizius; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez.Congratulations to our seniors!

Ellis High School Baseball Senior Night moved to Friday

Hays businesses who wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.

It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat. The family needs a fun activity for the weekend or you need a new stylist or someone to look at your brakes.The Hays Post is launching an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741192664746.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The directory is free for our readers.Hays businesses who wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741192995197.png" alt="An example of a listing with video on the Hays Place directory." />
 <figcaption>An example of a listing with video on the Hays Place directory.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis High School Softball Senior Night is Friday

ELLIS — <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/ellis">Ellis High School commencement</a> is Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Ellis Jr./Sr. High School gymnasium.

• Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister • Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck • Kamden Keller, son of Todd and Amy Keller • Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl • MaKenzie Kohlrus, daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus • Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome • Taegan Shannon, daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon • Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns • Maleah Vine, daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine.

Our graduation speaker will be John Befort, the retiring principal of Washington Grade School in Ellis. He is an Ellis High School graduate from the Class of 1983 who served the Ellis school district for 24 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724424078546.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High SchoolELLIS — <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/ellis">Ellis High School commencement</a> is Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Ellis Jr./Sr. High School gymnasium.Class of 2025 Valedictorians are:• Morgan Armbrister, daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister • Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck • Kamden Keller, son of Todd and Amy Keller • Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl • MaKenzie Kohlrus, daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus • Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome • Taegan Shannon, daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon • Brooke Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns • Maleah Vine, daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine.Our graduation speaker will be John Befort, the retiring principal of Washington Grade School in Ellis. He is an Ellis High School graduate from the Class of 1983 who served the Ellis school district for 24 years.

Ellis High School commencement set for Saturday 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission discussed with city of Ellis officials the replacement of the 10th Street bridge in Ellis, which has fallen into disrepair.

The commissioners went on a road tour, led by the Ellis County Public Works Department, on Wednesday to personally assess the county's roads and bridges that require attention.

The day began near the city of Ellis's 10th Street bridge, which was the center of discussion for replacement designs, and how costs and responsibilities would be divided.

"The bridge is wider than what normal bridges are,"&nbsp;Ellis County administrator Darin Myers said. "Most likely that's due to the way it was designed back in the day for the city of Ellis."

Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay informed attendees the bridge, including its road surface, is aging and deteriorating structurally.&nbsp;

"There's asphalt over it. The bridge looks fine, but it's not fine. [The image] shows the delamination of the layers underneath the asphalt. That's hollow areas," he said.

Mackay outlined three options: replacing just the deck, replacing the entire superstructure or fully rebuilding the bridge, including the piers.

City of Ellis council members emphasized the importance of collaborating to ensure the bridge is rebuilt correctly, cost-effectively and in a manner that benefits the community.

While the county owns the bridge, its location within city limits has prompted discussions about sharing costs if the design exceeds standard specifications.

Myers said the county would cover the cost of a standard-width bridge, but any additional features, such as sidewalks or bike lanes, would fall under the City of Ellis’ financial responsibility.

Mackay mentioned the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program grant as a potential funding source for the county and city. A complete bridge replacement is estimated to cost about $2.5 million.

Myers said the best choice is to fully replace the bridge, while the second option—repairing only the structure above the piers—may be less expensive upfront, but is not a viable long-term solution.

"If we leave the piers but put a whole new steel structure... that may get you 40 to 50 years and then you now have a 100-year bridge sitting on top of a pier that's only worth 40 years," he said. "Yes, it's cheaper, but it could be something that costs us more in the years ahead."

County officials agreed to continue collaborating with the city of Ellis, but emphasized the city needs to decide on sidewalk and width preferences to direct engineers and avoid unnecessary expenses.

The Ellis County Commission also visited Catherine Road, where reconstruction is underway to address deteriorating asphalt. Crews are rebuilding the road base in preparation for a new asphalt overlay.

Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway is a collaborative project between the Ellis County Commission and the city of Hays. The road base has been rebuilt, and ditches have been installed for improved drainage. An asphalt overlay is scheduled for later this summer.

The county commission toured multiple areas of Old Highway 40, including east of Walker Avenue and the interchange at Old Highway 40 and Eighth Street.

Mackay said plans are in place to repair cracked panels at the interchange later this year and to redesign the crossovers at the location.

Toulon Avenue has developed pavement ruts that create noticeable wobbling, especially for larger and heavier vehicles. The scheduled overlay was moved up from 2026 to 2025.

Mackay said the county also plans to seek grants to widen the road and add shoulders.

Other locations the Ellis County road tour visited included:

• 210th Avenue • Vineyard Avenue • Little Creek Addition • Leiker Addition • Stonewood Estates North Addition • Ellis County Landfill • Stonewood Estates • Canterbury Road • Reservation Road and developments • 280th Avenue

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121141967.jpeg" alt="The Ellis County road tour makes a stop in the city of Ellis to speak with locals and city officials. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis County road tour makes a stop in the city of Ellis to speak with locals and city officials. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission discussed with city of Ellis officials the replacement of the 10th Street bridge in Ellis, which has fallen into disrepair.The commissioners went on a road tour, led by the Ellis County Public Works Department, on Wednesday to personally assess the county's roads and bridges that require attention.The day began near the city of Ellis's 10th Street bridge, which was the center of discussion for replacement designs, and how costs and responsibilities would be divided."The bridge is wider than what normal bridges are,"&nbsp;Ellis County administrator Darin Myers said. "Most likely that's due to the way it was designed back in the day for the city of Ellis."Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay informed attendees the bridge, including its road surface, is aging and deteriorating structurally.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121171628.jpeg" alt="The city of Ellis' 10th Street bridge. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The city of Ellis' 10th Street bridge. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121897096.png" alt="A top view photo of the 10th Street bridge in the city of Ellis showing delamination on its surface. The hatch lines show areas where the road surface has deteriorated." />
 <figcaption>A top view photo of the 10th Street bridge in the city of Ellis showing delamination on its surface. The hatch lines show areas where the road surface has deteriorated.</figcaption>
 </figure>"There's asphalt over it. The bridge looks fine, but it's not fine. [The image] shows the delamination of the layers underneath the asphalt. That's hollow areas," he said.Mackay outlined three options: replacing just the deck, replacing the entire superstructure or fully rebuilding the bridge, including the piers.City of Ellis council members emphasized the importance of collaborating to ensure the bridge is rebuilt correctly, cost-effectively and in a manner that benefits the community.While the county owns the bridge, its location within city limits has prompted discussions about sharing costs if the design exceeds standard specifications.Myers said the county would cover the cost of a standard-width bridge, but any additional features, such as sidewalks or bike lanes, would fall under the City of Ellis’ financial responsibility.Mackay mentioned the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program grant as a potential funding source for the county and city. A complete bridge replacement is estimated to cost about $2.5 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121209930.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers speaking to city of Ellis officials and residents during the road tour. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers speaking to city of Ellis officials and residents during the road tour. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Myers said the best choice is to fully replace the bridge, while the second option—repairing only the structure above the piers—may be less expensive upfront, but is not a viable long-term solution."If we leave the piers but put a whole new steel structure... that may get you 40 to 50 years and then you now have a 100-year bridge sitting on top of a pier that's only worth 40 years," he said. "Yes, it's cheaper, but it could be something that costs us more in the years ahead."County officials agreed to continue collaborating with the city of Ellis, but emphasized the city needs to decide on sidewalk and width preferences to direct engineers and avoid unnecessary expenses.<h2>Catherine Road</h2>The Ellis County Commission also visited Catherine Road, where reconstruction is underway to address deteriorating asphalt. Crews are rebuilding the road base in preparation for a new asphalt overlay.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121265133.jpeg" alt="Catherine Road construction in Ellis County. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Catherine Road construction in Ellis County. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway</h2>Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway is a collaborative project between the Ellis County Commission and the city of Hays. The road base has been rebuilt, and ditches have been installed for improved drainage. An asphalt overlay is scheduled for later this summer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746121303675.jpeg" alt="The intersection of Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway in Ellis County. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The intersection of Vineyard Road and Commerce Parkway in Ellis County. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Old Highway 40</h2>The county commission toured multiple areas of Old Highway 40, including east of Walker Avenue and the interchange at Old Highway 40 and Eighth Street.Mackay said plans are in place to repair cracked panels at the interchange later this year and to redesign the crossovers at the location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746127753992.jpeg" alt="The interchange of Old Highway 40 and Eighth Street in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The interchange of Old Highway 40 and Eighth Street in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Toulon Avenue</h2>Toulon Avenue has developed pavement ruts that create noticeable wobbling, especially for larger and heavier vehicles. The scheduled overlay was moved up from 2026 to 2025.Mackay said the county also plans to seek grants to widen the road and add shoulders.Other locations the Ellis County road tour visited included:• 210th Avenue • Vineyard Avenue • Little Creek Addition • Leiker Addition • Stonewood Estates North Addition • Ellis County Landfill • Stonewood Estates • Canterbury Road • Reservation Road and developments • 280th Avenue

Ellis County Commission discuss bridge replacement in city of Ellis

ELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $4,800 among six deserving local organizations in its 2025 Round 1 spring grant cycle.

The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. The Foundation expresses its gratitude by stating your generous unrestricted contributions are the backbone of our community's growth supporting all kinds of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our community.

In no particular order, this year’s spring recipients are:

• Ellis Recreation Commission-Batting Cage tunnel/net- $1000

• Ellis Polar Express-new circuit breaker for illuminating half-mile of lights-$1,000

• Senior Advisory Committee- Arthritis Walk With Ease program supply materials-$300

• Ellis Public Library- Children’s furnishings to restore the children’s reading room at the EPL-$1000

• Friends of the Library- Partial payment for a refrigerated RO water cooler with a bottle-filling station, complete with ADA capabilities-$1000

The 2025 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1, 2025 and closes August 31, 2025. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington Street, Ellis, or on-line&nbsp;at <a href="https://ellisfoundation.net/grants">ellisfoundation.net/grants</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745330732014.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Community Foundation of EllisELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $4,800 among six deserving local organizations in its 2025 Round 1 spring grant cycle.The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. The Foundation expresses its gratitude by stating your generous unrestricted contributions are the backbone of our community's growth supporting all kinds of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our community.In no particular order, this year’s spring recipients are:• Ellis Recreation Commission-Batting Cage tunnel/net- $1000 • Ellis Polar Express-new circuit breaker for illuminating half-mile of lights-$1,000• Senior Advisory Committee- Arthritis Walk With Ease program supply materials-$300• Ellis Public Library- Children’s furnishings to restore the children’s reading room at the EPL-$1000• Friends of the Library- Partial payment for a refrigerated RO water cooler with a bottle-filling station, complete with ADA capabilities-$1000The 2025 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1, 2025 and closes August 31, 2025. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington Street, Ellis, or on-line&nbsp;at <a href="https://ellisfoundation.net/grants">ellisfoundation.net/grants</a>.

Community Foundation of Ellis awards grants to support local organizations

ELLIS — On April 16, 2026,&nbsp; Ellis Police Department officers, both former and current, were given recognition at the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KSACP?__cft__[0]=AZVLiBj7DEkowR3hECOe-6AN7oCD4avjvCkca2SjK9tpwGhw5xeXTCb-CrBJe4OTJm1UHCpGsc4RjzFVAcag5ZmkGCWV-xw4krhHh6XDtnT-fNbLtPhbl4RyaZmOs3-kfzqZ0y0_EiGcCaR-c_GLxLjUytWXRRtfvl199WAVyYtSvg&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police</a> "Valor Awards Banquet" for their efforts in saving a life after an attempted suicide.

During the late evening hours of June 20, 2024, former Ellis Police Department Sergeant Benjamin Kolas received a request for a welfare check on an individual who had made suicidal comments to their family. The individual was out on bond with an ankle monitor while awaiting final sentencing and remanding to the Kansas Department of Corrections. 

Due to the situation, Sergeant Kolas summoned additional Ellis Police Department personnel, former Officer Colin Pritchett (now a deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office), and Chief Avery Smith to the scene to assist. 

Officers discussed a plan of action and attempted to make contact with the individual at their residence in the 300 block of E. 16th in Ellis. 

While checking the individual's property, officers heard someone in the garage located on the property in apparent agonizing distress. Officers formed up on the side door to the garage and forced entry, kicking open a locked door and forcing their way past two 300-pound tool carts that were used to barricade the door to prevent entry.

Upon entering the garage, officers located the individual with severe lacerations to their wrists from an eight-inch survival knife. It is estimated that the individual lost approximately three pints of blood in the attempt on their own life.

 Under extreme pressure and working against the clock, Officer Pritchett applied a tourniquet to one of the individual's arms, stopping the flow of blood to the wound located on that arm. Another tourniquet was not readily available, so Sergeant Kolas had Chief Smith retrieve a blood pressure cuff from a medical kit that had been recovered earlier in the incident. Sergeant Kolas applied the blood pressure cuff and inflated it, ultimately stopping the flow of blood to the wound on the other arm. Officers then worked diligently to treat and bandage the open wounds. 

The Ellis Police Department provided emergency life-saving treatment to the individual for approximately 10 minutes before care was passed on to our partners at Ellis County EMS. The individual was later flown to a Wichita area hospital for emergency surgery, where they survived their injuries.

I am thankful for the efforts of my officers on that day.&nbsp;

Avery A. Smith Chief of Police Ellis Police Department&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745342046530.jpeg" alt="Former officer Colin Pritchett with Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Former officer Colin Pritchett with Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745342125209.jpeg" alt="Ellis Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Ellis Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentELLIS — On April 16, 2026,&nbsp; Ellis Police Department officers, both former and current, were given recognition at the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KSACP?__cft__[0]=AZVLiBj7DEkowR3hECOe-6AN7oCD4avjvCkca2SjK9tpwGhw5xeXTCb-CrBJe4OTJm1UHCpGsc4RjzFVAcag5ZmkGCWV-xw4krhHh6XDtnT-fNbLtPhbl4RyaZmOs3-kfzqZ0y0_EiGcCaR-c_GLxLjUytWXRRtfvl199WAVyYtSvg&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police</a> "Valor Awards Banquet" for their efforts in saving a life after an attempted suicide.During the late evening hours of June 20, 2024, former Ellis Police Department Sergeant Benjamin Kolas received a request for a welfare check on an individual who had made suicidal comments to their family. The individual was out on bond with an ankle monitor while awaiting final sentencing and remanding to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Due to the situation, Sergeant Kolas summoned additional Ellis Police Department personnel, former Officer Colin Pritchett (now a deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office), and Chief Avery Smith to the scene to assist. Officers discussed a plan of action and attempted to make contact with the individual at their residence in the 300 block of E. 16th in Ellis. While checking the individual's property, officers heard someone in the garage located on the property in apparent agonizing distress. Officers formed up on the side door to the garage and forced entry, kicking open a locked door and forcing their way past two 300-pound tool carts that were used to barricade the door to prevent entry.Upon entering the garage, officers located the individual with severe lacerations to their wrists from an eight-inch survival knife. It is estimated that the individual lost approximately three pints of blood in the attempt on their own life. Under extreme pressure and working against the clock, Officer Pritchett applied a tourniquet to one of the individual's arms, stopping the flow of blood to the wound located on that arm. Another tourniquet was not readily available, so Sergeant Kolas had Chief Smith retrieve a blood pressure cuff from a medical kit that had been recovered earlier in the incident. Sergeant Kolas applied the blood pressure cuff and inflated it, ultimately stopping the flow of blood to the wound on the other arm. Officers then worked diligently to treat and bandage the open wounds. The Ellis Police Department provided emergency life-saving treatment to the individual for approximately 10 minutes before care was passed on to our partners at Ellis County EMS. The individual was later flown to a Wichita area hospital for emergency surgery, where they survived their injuries.I am thankful for the efforts of my officers on that day.&nbsp; Avery A. Smith Chief of Police Ellis Police Department&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former, current Ellis Police officers recognized for life-saving action

The county commission approved scholarships for 15 recipients for the upcoming fall semester. 

These scholarships assist local high school seniors planning to attend Fort Hays Tech North Central, Fort Hays State University or Hays Academy of Hair Design.

The initiative aims to retain young residents in Ellis County and support county employees’ families as a recruitment and retention tool.

The 2025 Ellis County budget set aside $10,000 to support the following students:

$1,000 scholarship for Kamden Keller in Fort Hays Tech general business

$500 scholarship for Alyssa Rome in FHSU health and human performance

$500 scholarship for Chance Jimenez in Fort Hays Tech business technology 

$1,000 scholarship for Kiera Dealy in FHSU accounting

$1,000 scholarship for Morgan Munsch in FHSU nursing

$500 Scholarship for Dalton Meyers in FHSU Education

$500 scholarship for Chancellor Cullins in Fort Hays Tech automotive technology

$500 scholarship for Kyla Schmidt in FHSU nursing

$500 scholarship for Camdyn Copper in Fort Hays Tech automotive technology

$1,000 scholarship for Tessa Wentling in FHSU nursing

$500 scholarship for Ella Bain in FHSU psychology

$500 scholarship for Riley Frank in FHSU informatics 

$1,000 scholarship for Jillian Schmidt in Hays Hair Academy cosmetology

$500 scholarship for Brody Nowak in FHSU finance

$500 scholarship for Leeya Martinez in Hays Hair Academy cosmetology

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744738902644.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe county commission approved scholarships for 15 recipients for the upcoming fall semester. These scholarships assist local high school seniors planning to attend Fort Hays Tech North Central, Fort Hays State University or Hays Academy of Hair Design.The initiative aims to retain young residents in Ellis County and support county employees’ families as a recruitment and retention tool.The 2025 Ellis County budget set aside $10,000 to support the following students:<h2>Ellis High School</h2>$1,000 scholarship for Kamden Keller in Fort Hays Tech general business$500 scholarship for Alyssa Rome in FHSU health and human performance$500 scholarship for Chance Jimenez in Fort Hays Tech business technology <h2>Hays High School</h2>$1,000 scholarship for Kiera Dealy in FHSU accounting$1,000 scholarship for Morgan Munsch in FHSU nursing$500 Scholarship for Dalton Meyers in FHSU Education$500 scholarship for Chancellor Cullins in Fort Hays Tech automotive technology$500 scholarship for Kyla Schmidt in FHSU nursing$500 scholarship for Camdyn Copper in Fort Hays Tech automotive technology<h2>Thomas More Prep-Marian</h2>$1,000 scholarship for Tessa Wentling in FHSU nursing$500 scholarship for Ella Bain in FHSU psychology$500 scholarship for Riley Frank in FHSU informatics <h2>Victoria High School</h2>$1,000 scholarship for Jillian Schmidt in Hays Hair Academy cosmetology$500 scholarship for Brody Nowak in FHSU finance$500 scholarship for Leeya Martinez in Hays Hair Academy cosmetology

Ellis County Commission approves scholarships

As of 2:13 p.m. today, the&nbsp;Western Cooperative Electric still had about 4,600 cutomers without power.&nbsp;

Follow the utility on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WesternCoopElectric" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;to get the most up-to-date notifications on large system outages.

Also note these helpful tips from the utility companies website below.

First, check the fuses or circuit breaker. Then check your neighborhood to determine if the electricity is off in your area. If the area electricity is off, call Western Cooperative Electric and report it. &nbsp;

Finally, make sure you're prepared with our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/storm-center">outage/storm safety center.</a>

If you or any member of your family use essential life-sustaining medical equipment prescribed by a physician, please let us know. Please make Western Cooperative Electric personnel aware of this so we can contact you to let you know about scheduled power interruptions for maintenance purposes.

Please be sure to acquire a back-up power supply (batteries, generator) for any medical equipment that requires a constant power supply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742412050256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742412101026.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As of 2:13 p.m. today, the&nbsp;Western Cooperative Electric still had about 4,600 cutomers without power.&nbsp;See the maps and outage totals above.Follow the utility on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WesternCoopElectric" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;to get the most up-to-date notifications on large system outages.Also note these helpful tips from the utility companies website below.<h2>What To Do If The Electricity Goes Off</h2>First, check the fuses or circuit breaker. Then check your neighborhood to determine if the electricity is off in your area. If the area electricity is off, call Western Cooperative Electric and report it. &nbsp;When reporting an outage, please report:<ul>
 <li>Your name and phone number</li><li>Location of the service and account number and meter number, if available</li><li>Any additional information pertaining to the outage to help Western Cooperative Electric personnel locate the problem so power may be restored quickly</li>
 </ul>Finally, make sure you're prepared with our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/storm-center">outage/storm safety center.</a><h2>Life-Sustaining Medical Equipment</h2>If you or any member of your family use essential life-sustaining medical equipment prescribed by a physician, please let us know. Please make Western Cooperative Electric personnel aware of this so we can contact you to let you know about scheduled power interruptions for maintenance purposes.Please be sure to acquire a back-up power supply (batteries, generator) for any medical equipment that requires a constant power supply.

Western Cooperative electrical outage update

Legislative coffee April 1 in Ellis

ELLIS — St. Mary’s Parish in Ellis is excited to celebrate the 30th&nbsp;Anniversary of their annual parish auction on March 29, 2025.

 This event is the biggest fundraiser of the year.

Many Ellis and Hays businesses, along with surrounding communities, St. Mary’s School parents, families and friends have worked many years to keep this event going to provide funding for our Catholic School.

Tickets to the evening event are open now.&nbsp; You may visit our auction website to purchase them online, along with raffle tickets and/or donate to the event or by calling the parish Office at 785-726-4522 by March 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741266749223.jpeg" alt="St. Mary's School, Ellis" />
 <figcaption>St. Mary's School, Ellis</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — St. Mary’s Parish in Ellis is excited to celebrate the 30th&nbsp;Anniversary of their annual parish auction on March 29, 2025. This event is the biggest fundraiser of the year.Many Ellis and Hays businesses, along with surrounding communities, St. Mary’s School parents, families and friends have worked many years to keep this event going to provide funding for our Catholic School.Tickets to the evening event are open now.&nbsp; You may visit our auction website to purchase them online, along with raffle tickets and/or donate to the event or by calling the parish Office at 785-726-4522 by March 16.

Get your tickets for St. Mary’s 30th annual parish auction in Ellis

ELLIS — Ellis High School Basketball and Cheer Senior Night is Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the last home basketball games.

Senior recognition will take place at 5:45 p.m. before the varsity games.&nbsp; Varsity action begins at 6:00 p.m. with the Ellis Railroaders taking on the Hoxie Indians.&nbsp;

Basketball Seniors--Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Caleb Noble-Heit, son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Aiden Whyte, son of Justin and Susie Whyte.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739568070435.jpeg" alt="2024-25 EHS basketball and cheer seniors. Photo courtesy Ellis High School" />
 <figcaption>2024-25 EHS basketball and cheer seniors. Photo courtesy Ellis High School</figcaption>
 </figure>EHS ELLIS — Ellis High School Basketball and Cheer Senior Night is Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the last home basketball games.Senior recognition will take place at 5:45 p.m. before the varsity games.&nbsp; Varsity action begins at 6:00 p.m. with the Ellis Railroaders taking on the Hoxie Indians.&nbsp;PICTURED:Basketball Seniors--Addison Kohl, daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Isabella Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; Natalee North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Caleb Noble-Heit, son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Toby Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Gavyn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Chance Jimenez, son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Aiden Whyte, son of Justin and Susie Whyte.&nbsp;Cheer Seniors&nbsp;– Maleah Vine, daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Alyssa Rome, daughter of James and Sandy Rome; MaKenzie Kohlrus, daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Taegan Shannon, daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon.Congratulations to our seniors and good luck to the Railroader Basketball teams on Tuesday!&nbsp; Our cheerleaders will also have a special performance at half-time of the boys’ varsity game.