ELLIS — Emily Whyte of Ellis was named the 2A State Champion in prose in forensics earlier this month at Bishop Carroll in Wichita.&nbsp;

Kinzie Sunley received a No. 1 Rating at State Festival.

Ava Reed of Ellis also made the state semi-final round in prose.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716303732780.jpeg" alt="Emily Whyte" />
 <figcaption>Emily Whyte</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS — Emily Whyte of Ellis was named the 2A State Champion in prose in forensics earlier this month at Bishop Carroll in Wichita.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716303846995.jpeg" alt="Kinzie Sunley&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kinzie Sunley&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kinzie Sunley received a No. 1 Rating at State Festival.Ava Reed of Ellis also made the state semi-final round in prose.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716303788114.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School forensics team at state." />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School forensics team at state.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis has state 2A champ in forensics

The Community Foundation of Ellis is pleased to announce the recipients of the Sybil Luea Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. This scholarship, valued at $1,000 each, is awarded to outstanding individuals who exhibit exemplary dedication to their education in the field of agriculture.

We are proud to extend our warmest congratulations to Carson North and Sydney Redetzke, the deserving recipients of this year's Sybil Luea Scholarship.

Carson North, the son of Heath and Paula North, is a dedicated scholar who will be continuing his educational journey at Baron Community College, pursuing a degree in Agriculture Business Management. His commitment to academic excellence and passion for agriculture make him an exemplary candidate for this scholarship. Carson's determination and drive to succeed serve as an inspiration to us all.

Sydney Redetzke, the daughter of Terry and Sandy Redetzke, is a talented senior at Ellis High School, and she has been awarded the Sybil Luea Scholarship for her outstanding achievements and future aspirations. Sydney will be starting her educational path at Beloit NCK Tech, where she will pursue studies in the Welding and Fabrication Program.

The Community Foundation of Ellis is honored to support Carson and Sydney as they pursue their educational and career goals. We wish them every success in their future endeavors and look forward to witnessing their continued achievements.

For more information about the Sybil Luea Scholarship and other initiatives supported by the Community Foundation of Ellis, please visit www.ellisfoundation.net.

SubmittedThe Community Foundation of Ellis is pleased to announce the recipients of the Sybil Luea Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. This scholarship, valued at $1,000 each, is awarded to outstanding individuals who exhibit exemplary dedication to their education in the field of agriculture.We are proud to extend our warmest congratulations to Carson North and Sydney Redetzke, the deserving recipients of this year's Sybil Luea Scholarship.Carson North, the son of Heath and Paula North, is a dedicated scholar who will be continuing his educational journey at Baron Community College, pursuing a degree in Agriculture Business Management. His commitment to academic excellence and passion for agriculture make him an exemplary candidate for this scholarship. Carson's determination and drive to succeed serve as an inspiration to us all.Sydney Redetzke, the daughter of Terry and Sandy Redetzke, is a talented senior at Ellis High School, and she has been awarded the Sybil Luea Scholarship for her outstanding achievements and future aspirations. Sydney will be starting her educational path at Beloit NCK Tech, where she will pursue studies in the Welding and Fabrication Program.The Community Foundation of Ellis is honored to support Carson and Sydney as they pursue their educational and career goals. We wish them every success in their future endeavors and look forward to witnessing their continued achievements.For more information about the Sybil Luea Scholarship and other initiatives supported by the Community Foundation of Ellis, please visit www.ellisfoundation.net.

Community Foundation of Ellis awards 2024 Sybil Luea Scholarships

LINCOLN, Neb. — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conferred 3,566 degrees during commencement exercises May 3, 17 and 18.

The 3,484 graduates are from 64 countries; 46 U.S. states and Puerto Rico; and about 230 Nebraska communities.

The Bob Devaney Sports Center hosted a ceremony for College of Law graduates May 3; Pinnacle Bank Arena held a ceremony for students earning graduate and professional degrees May 17; and Memorial Stadium hosted a ceremony for undergraduates May 18.

Following is a list of area graduates, listed alphabetically by hometown, with their college(s) and degree(s).

Ellis: Amelia Grace Singleton, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts.

Hays: Hanna Estelle Dannar, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Arts.

For the full list of May graduates, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/u001.hovMBMUhPl3w2st96BekMFOMCT1CNoKMLKMlol4jArgGipK4wVW1ynwE3zyRdm8U/46i/sIarNYKyQKuLaFvcjlwSnw/h0/h001.UAyIk9n6Aj-WhpkGi-T_mLTidLeSXu3O65gT9v5Mmiw">https://go.unl.edu/grads-may24</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1567689402510.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLINCOLN, Neb. — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conferred 3,566 degrees during commencement exercises May 3, 17 and 18.The 3,484 graduates are from 64 countries; 46 U.S. states and Puerto Rico; and about 230 Nebraska communities.The Bob Devaney Sports Center hosted a ceremony for College of Law graduates May 3; Pinnacle Bank Arena held a ceremony for students earning graduate and professional degrees May 17; and Memorial Stadium hosted a ceremony for undergraduates May 18.Following is a list of area graduates, listed alphabetically by hometown, with their college(s) and degree(s).Ellis: Amelia Grace Singleton, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts.Hays: Hanna Estelle Dannar, Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Bachelor of Arts.For the full list of May graduates, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/u001.hovMBMUhPl3w2st96BekMFOMCT1CNoKMLKMlol4jArgGipK4wVW1ynwE3zyRdm8U/46i/sIarNYKyQKuLaFvcjlwSnw/h0/h001.UAyIk9n6Aj-WhpkGi-T_mLTidLeSXu3O65gT9v5Mmiw">https://go.unl.edu/grads-may24</a>.

UNL awards degrees to Ellis, Hays students in May ceremonies

As of October 1, 2024, Hays Post will begin charging $55 per obituary for posting obituaries. This cost will include an unlimited word count and posting of a photo of the deceased.&nbsp;

We understand that obituaries are an important way to honor the memory of loved ones and share their life stories with the community. We remain committed to providing this service. The fees collected will help us continue to offer high-quality obituaries while maintaining the overall sustainability of the Hays Post.&nbsp;

Funeral homes will be able to establish billing with a credit card with Eagle Media, the parent company of the Hays Post.&nbsp;

Please email the form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>, send it by mail to Eagle Media, 2300 Hall, Hays, KS 67601. You can also call Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.

A summary of your charges will be sent to you monthly for funeral homes.

Individuals will still be able to submit obituaries to the Hays Post. They will need to prepay by credit card.&nbsp;

Both the photo and copy of the obituary need to be submitted in digital form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;in the body of an email or as a MicrosoftWord file. Photos should be emailed in a separate attachment as .jpg files if possible.&nbsp;

PLEASE NOTE: We will no longer go directly to funeral home websites to obtain obituaries. They MUST be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;to be published.&nbsp;

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

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

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

As of October 1, 2024, Hays Post will begin charging $55 per obituary for posting obituaries. This cost will include an unlimited word count and posting of a photo of the deceased.&nbsp;We understand that obituaries are an important way to honor the memory of loved ones and share their life stories with the community. We remain committed to providing this service. The fees collected will help us continue to offer high-quality obituaries while maintaining the overall sustainability of the Hays Post.&nbsp;Funeral homes will be able to establish billing with a credit card with Eagle Media, the parent company of the Hays Post.&nbsp;Please email the form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>, send it by mail to Eagle Media, 2300 Hall, Hays, KS 67601. You can also call Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.A summary of your charges will be sent to you monthly for funeral homes.Individuals will still be able to submit obituaries to the Hays Post. They will need to prepay by credit card.&nbsp;Both the photo and copy of the obituary need to be submitted in digital form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;in the body of an email or as a MicrosoftWord file. Photos should be emailed in a separate attachment as .jpg files if possible.&nbsp;PLEASE NOTE: We will no longer go directly to funeral home websites to obtain obituaries. They MUST be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:haysobits@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">haysobits@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;to be published.&nbsp;Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Hays Post obituary policy

2024 FAMOUS FIGURES award-winning performances –

1st&nbsp;Place – Jaden Brull as Hedy Lamarr (Holy Family)

2nd&nbsp;Place – Byron Burns as Moe Howard (O’Loughlin)

3rd&nbsp;Place (tie) – Katie Hines as Betsy Ross (Washington)

3rd&nbsp;Place (tie) – Ava Ryan as Clara Barton (Roosevelt)

4th&nbsp;Place – Olivia Eck as Mamie Till (St. Mary’s)

5th&nbsp;Place – Elliott Howden as Napoleon Bonaparte (Wilson)

Click the link below to watch the 2024 Famous Figures finals.

<a href="https://youtube.com/live/Hac5BpFIq4c?feature=share" target="_blank">2024 Famous Figures hosted by Hays Arts Council</a>

2024 Hays Arts Council FAMOUS FIGURES finalists by school

The Hays Arts Council Famous Figures is a living history and performance project open to fifth-grade students in Ellis County public and private schools.

It involves a short performance as a favorite person (living or deceased) from the present through the distant past.

The project promotes the use of research skills, awareness and appreciation of the qualities of a positive role model, thinking and writing in a creative manner, and developing acting and public speaking skills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683314104970.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Arts Council2024 FAMOUS FIGURES award-winning performances –1st&nbsp;Place – Jaden Brull as Hedy Lamarr (Holy Family)2nd&nbsp;Place – Byron Burns as Moe Howard (O’Loughlin)3rd&nbsp;Place (tie) – Katie Hines as Betsy Ross (Washington)3rd&nbsp;Place (tie) – Ava Ryan as Clara Barton (Roosevelt)4th&nbsp;Place – Olivia Eck as Mamie Till (St. Mary’s)5th&nbsp;Place – Elliott Howden as Napoleon Bonaparte (Wilson)Click the link below to watch the 2024 Famous Figures finals.<a href="https://youtube.com/live/Hac5BpFIq4c?feature=share" target="_blank">2024 Famous Figures hosted by Hays Arts Council</a>2024 Hays Arts Council FAMOUS FIGURES finalists by school<h2>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY</h2>Jaden Brull as Hedy LamarrSperry Mall as Dorothy KamenshekKelsey Robben as Eliza HamiltonNora Stoecklein as Anne Frank<h2>WILSON ELEMENTARY</h2>Lily Atkinson as Betty WhitePresley Connally as Anne FrankCollins Harris as Jackie StilesElliott Howden as Napoleon BonaparteMason Huwa as Robert RipleyHarper Nichol as Paige Bueckers<h2>ROOSEVELT ELEMENTARY</h2>Kate Pope as John WayneMiley Vanek as Dolly PartonGentry Jenkins as Jennie FinchAva Ryan as Clara Barton<h2>LINCOLN ELEMENTARY</h2>Mila Womack as Ruth Bader GinsburgGeorgia Olson as Deborah SampsonCoyle Detherage as Nick OffermanBrian Sheeley as King Henry the 8th<h2>O’LOUGHLIN ELEMENTARY</h2>Byron Burns as Moe HowardAlaina Yarmer as Aly RaismanAliyah Kinderknecht as Anne FrankBlair Paul as Billie Jean KingKash Wendland as Babe RuthLiam Wise as Roberto Clemente<h2>VICTORIA ELEMENTARY</h2>Knox Potter as Michael JordanDax Leikam as Musashi MiyamotoSage Schwien as Davy Crockett<h2>ST. MARY’S GRADE SCHOOL</h2>Olivia Eck as Mamie TillBreckyn Honas as Elizabeth Blackwell<h2>WASHINGTON GRADE SCHOOL</h2>Katie Hines as Betsy RossPhoebe Davis as Queen Elizabeth IThe Hays Arts Council Famous Figures is a living history and performance project open to fifth-grade students in Ellis County public and private schools.It involves a short performance as a favorite person (living or deceased) from the present through the distant past.The project promotes the use of research skills, awareness and appreciation of the qualities of a positive role model, thinking and writing in a creative manner, and developing acting and public speaking skills.

Hays Arts Council's Famous Figures winners announced; watch recording

In 1940, the Great Depression still gripped Ellis, Franklin Roosevelt accepted an unprecedented third presidential term, Bugs Bunny made his movie debut, and the Selective Service Act of 1940, the first peacetime draft in America, went into effect. The world changed and Ellis schools rode those waves.

In January 1940, weak local finances caused the Ellis School Board to vote to lease the local parochial school’s building and equipment and operate it as part of the public school system. The nuns agreed to continue teaching without compensation from February through May. Once the board agreed to this action, they renamed St. Mary’s School to Lincoln Elementary, operating Lincoln School until House Bill 190 made this arrangement illegal in 1945.

While some may find this information contradictory in theory, it solved a community issue. The public school did not have to build a new facility. Nuns continued serving families who desired parochial education. While many forgot this bit of Ellis' history, it reveals how the community worked effectively to meet their children’s educational needs and community values.

World War II began before Ellis fully recovered from the Great Depression. The first half of the '40s saw little development of new programs or building projects in the district. By 1945, the budget had increased to $52,000, a considerable improvement over Depression-era funding even while the district funded an additional grade school.

Once the war ended, community expansion began in earnest. At the Dec. 13, 1946 meeting, board members voted to build a new gymnasium at the high school. Though they approved construction at that time, completion took until spring 1951. In the meantime, the district remodeled the home economics department and updated typewriters in the business department in September 1949.

The '50s introduced more change. Railroad and agricultural businesses thrived while oil and gas industries expanded. Adding further prosperity, the Bureau of Reclamation Project at Cedar Bluff necessitated the building of additional homes to house their employees. More people moved into Ellis, and good fortune reigned.

District 2 in Ellis reflected the successful economic times with a proposed budget of $115,910 in 1951. They celebrated completing the gymnasium and music room, and the first mention of a driver’s education car appeared in the Sept. 13, 1951, board minutes. In addition, rural Districts 26 and 52 were combined with Ellis District 2, requiring District 2 to dispose of those respective properties.

Marking another district first, the board hired a teacher to establish a grade school physical education program. In another innovative action, October minutes record that the district employed a special education teacher to work with 18 to 21 students with developmental delays and/or speech defects.

Teacher salaries also improved. The base salary for “Degree teachers” moved from $2,600 to $2,700 a year. Educators also received the annual increase and a cost-of-living bonus of $100 paid out over their nine-month contract.

Over these 12 years, Ellis mirrored events occurring across the U.S. The Depression was a memory. America had won WW II and returning soldiers experienced a booming economy. Riding these waves of optimism, Ellis residents added programs and improved infrastructure to support their children’s educations. For many, these were western Kansas' golden years.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b963889f-d6c4-4188-9855-e29e2883a26c">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools Part 13: 1935-1939</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/61399f29-0958-4290-85c4-6e96c610fc27">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools Part 12: 1927-1933</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0de30e1b-bb01-44e2-bbee-2534451ce51d">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 11</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6046ee3c-c6c2-4d3a-adf3-98084fcf506b">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 8</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a410c8ea-2038-4aa9-bbac-4ba20e3dce59">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;7</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c4d25696-4e64-4f03-b53f-52322f5800a6">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;6</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1be1bca-b1ce-4748-b41f-f04fdecdd0c9">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;5</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/31162282-e1ad-4458-94c1-4efa3642155e">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 3</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4116f584-aca2-45ea-92ea-f4cb948ad1af">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;2</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/539bba70-e799-4512-9cf1-809101486476">Madroirn: The beginning of Ellis schools</a>

In 1940, the Great Depression still gripped Ellis, Franklin Roosevelt accepted an unprecedented third presidential term, Bugs Bunny made his movie debut, and the Selective Service Act of 1940, the first peacetime draft in America, went into effect. The world changed and Ellis schools rode those waves.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714596744159.jpeg" alt="Ellis Brick High School photo. Courtesy of Ellis High School Alumni Association.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Ellis Brick High School photo. Courtesy of Ellis High School Alumni Association.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>In January 1940, weak local finances caused the Ellis School Board to vote to lease the local parochial school’s building and equipment and operate it as part of the public school system. The nuns agreed to continue teaching without compensation from February through May. Once the board agreed to this action, they renamed St. Mary’s School to Lincoln Elementary, operating Lincoln School until House Bill 190 made this arrangement illegal in 1945.While some may find this information contradictory in theory, it solved a community issue. The public school did not have to build a new facility. Nuns continued serving families who desired parochial education. While many forgot this bit of Ellis' history, it reveals how the community worked effectively to meet their children’s educational needs and community values.World War II began before Ellis fully recovered from the Great Depression. The first half of the '40s saw little development of new programs or building projects in the district. By 1945, the budget had increased to $52,000, a considerable improvement over Depression-era funding even while the district funded an additional grade school.Once the war ended, community expansion began in earnest. At the Dec. 13, 1946 meeting, board members voted to build a new gymnasium at the high school. Though they approved construction at that time, completion took until spring 1951. In the meantime, the district remodeled the home economics department and updated typewriters in the business department in September 1949.The '50s introduced more change. Railroad and agricultural businesses thrived while oil and gas industries expanded. Adding further prosperity, the Bureau of Reclamation Project at Cedar Bluff necessitated the building of additional homes to house their employees. More people moved into Ellis, and good fortune reigned.District 2 in Ellis reflected the successful economic times with a proposed budget of $115,910 in 1951. They celebrated completing the gymnasium and music room, and the first mention of a driver’s education car appeared in the Sept. 13, 1951, board minutes. In addition, rural Districts 26 and 52 were combined with Ellis District 2, requiring District 2 to dispose of those respective properties.Marking another district first, the board hired a teacher to establish a grade school physical education program. In another innovative action, October minutes record that the district employed a special education teacher to work with 18 to 21 students with developmental delays and/or speech defects.Teacher salaries also improved. The base salary for “Degree teachers” moved from $2,600 to $2,700 a year. Educators also received the annual increase and a cost-of-living bonus of $100 paid out over their nine-month contract.Over these 12 years, Ellis mirrored events occurring across the U.S. The Depression was a memory. America had won WW II and returning soldiers experienced a booming economy. Riding these waves of optimism, Ellis residents added programs and improved infrastructure to support their children’s educations. For many, these were western Kansas' golden years.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b963889f-d6c4-4188-9855-e29e2883a26c">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools Part 13: 1935-1939</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/61399f29-0958-4290-85c4-6e96c610fc27">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools Part 12: 1927-1933</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0de30e1b-bb01-44e2-bbee-2534451ce51d">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 11</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6046ee3c-c6c2-4d3a-adf3-98084fcf506b">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 8</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a410c8ea-2038-4aa9-bbac-4ba20e3dce59">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;7</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c4d25696-4e64-4f03-b53f-52322f5800a6">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;6</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1be1bca-b1ce-4748-b41f-f04fdecdd0c9">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;5</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/31162282-e1ad-4458-94c1-4efa3642155e">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 3</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4116f584-aca2-45ea-92ea-f4cb948ad1af">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;2</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/539bba70-e799-4512-9cf1-809101486476">Madroirn: The beginning of Ellis schools</a>

Madorin: History of Ellis Schools 1940 – Part 14

ELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $6470.90 among nine deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 1 spring grant cycle.

The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Foundation, Pauleen Edmonds stated, "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- Keep Our Community Beautiful, Six 55 gallon trash bin receptacles and lids, $1,000

Ellis High School Alumni- Country School Display- glass display cabinets, frames and shadowboxes, $1,000

St. Mary’s Church- Church AED Machine, $1,000

Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home, Solar Shade Project, four shades, $1,000

Ellis VFW Aux 9139- Phase III Bracket Project- 78 brackets, $1,000

Ellis United Methodist Church- 5th Quarter On-going 2024 Door Prizes, $500

EHS Project Graduation 2024- Prizes, $500

Ellis Chamber Art Walk- Art Walk Kid’s Kraft Korner- $350

Ellis Booster Club- Railer Spirit Flags on Washington St.- $296

The 2024 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1 and closes on Aug. 31. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington St., Ellis.

SubmittedELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $6470.90 among nine deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 1 spring grant cycle.The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Foundation, Pauleen Edmonds stated, "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- Keep Our Community Beautiful, Six 55 gallon trash bin receptacles and lids, $1,000Ellis High School Alumni- Country School Display- glass display cabinets, frames and shadowboxes, $1,000St. Mary’s Church- Church AED Machine, $1,000Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home, Solar Shade Project, four shades, $1,000Ellis VFW Aux 9139- Phase III Bracket Project- 78 brackets, $1,000Ellis United Methodist Church- 5th Quarter On-going 2024 Door Prizes, $500EHS Project Graduation 2024- Prizes, $500Ellis Chamber Art Walk- Art Walk Kid’s Kraft Korner- $350Ellis Booster Club- Railer Spirit Flags on Washington St.- $296The 2024 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1 and closes on Aug. 31. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington St., Ellis.

Community Foundation of Ellis awards grants to support local organizations

ELLIS — Doug and Jill Shaw have generously donated $25,000 to establish an endowed scholarship fund through the Community Foundation of Ellis. 

The fund, named the "Outstanding Senior in Math and Science Award Winner Scholarship," aims to provide ongoing support for students of Ellis High School (EHS) excelling in mathematics and science fields, pursuing higher education. This significant contribution reflects the Shaw family's deep appreciation for the educational opportunities and support received from the Ellis community and school system. 

"We are very appreciative of the education and support our kids received from the Ellis community and school system," said Doug and Jill Shaw. "We are happy to be able to help support EHS students as they continue their education." 

Endowed scholarships, like the one established by the Shaws, play a crucial role in providing long-term financial assistance to students, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their academic goals. 

"Endowed scholarships are one of many ways to provide long-term support for our community," the Shaws emphasized. "We would encourage others to take advantage of the opportunities the Community Foundation of Ellis provides for our community." 

The Shaw family's donation exemplifies their commitment to investing in the future of Ellis High School students excelling in mathematics and science, empowering them to achieve their academic aspirations. Through the "Outstanding Senior in Math and Science Award Winner Scholarship," their legacy of support will continue to benefit generations of students, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Ellis community. 

"We are immensely grateful to Doug and Jill Shaw for their generous contribution," said Foundation Board President Pauleen Edmonds. "Their dedication to supporting education and giving back to the community will have a lasting impact on the lives of Ellis High School students for years to come." 

The Community Foundation of Ellis extends its heartfelt thanks to Doug and Jill Shaw for their philanthropic leadership and commitment to making a difference in the lives of local students. 

For more information about supporting the Community Foundation of Ellis, please visit <a href="https://ellisfoundation.net/">www.ellisfoundation.net.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711649996352.jpeg" alt="Doug and Jill Shaw. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Doug and Jill Shaw. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — Doug and Jill Shaw have generously donated $25,000 to establish an endowed scholarship fund through the Community Foundation of Ellis. The fund, named the "Outstanding Senior in Math and Science Award Winner Scholarship," aims to provide ongoing support for students of Ellis High School (EHS) excelling in mathematics and science fields, pursuing higher education. This significant contribution reflects the Shaw family's deep appreciation for the educational opportunities and support received from the Ellis community and school system. "We are very appreciative of the education and support our kids received from the Ellis community and school system," said Doug and Jill Shaw. "We are happy to be able to help support EHS students as they continue their education." Endowed scholarships, like the one established by the Shaws, play a crucial role in providing long-term financial assistance to students, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their academic goals. "Endowed scholarships are one of many ways to provide long-term support for our community," the Shaws emphasized. "We would encourage others to take advantage of the opportunities the Community Foundation of Ellis provides for our community." The Shaw family's donation exemplifies their commitment to investing in the future of Ellis High School students excelling in mathematics and science, empowering them to achieve their academic aspirations. Through the "Outstanding Senior in Math and Science Award Winner Scholarship," their legacy of support will continue to benefit generations of students, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Ellis community. "We are immensely grateful to Doug and Jill Shaw for their generous contribution," said Foundation Board President Pauleen Edmonds. "Their dedication to supporting education and giving back to the community will have a lasting impact on the lives of Ellis High School students for years to come." The Community Foundation of Ellis extends its heartfelt thanks to Doug and Jill Shaw for their philanthropic leadership and commitment to making a difference in the lives of local students. For more information about supporting the Community Foundation of Ellis, please visit <a href="https://ellisfoundation.net/">www.ellisfoundation.net.</a>

Doug and Jill Shaw establish $25,000 endowment for Ellis High School students 

According to a 1935 online US timeline the US saw dramatic change. Franklin Delano Roosevelt served as US President. That same year Executive Order 7034 created the Works Progress Administration, and on August 14, FDR signed the Social Security Act into law. Despite long term drought effects in the Great Plains, the May 30 – June 2 Republican River Flood marked the deadliest flood ever in Nebraska. Kansan Amelia Earhart made history as the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to California, and Portis native son Tubby Millar’s cartoon character Porky Pig debuted in Looney Tunes “I Haven’t Got a Hat.” Area residents with a radio or access to national newspapers noted world changes while struggling to survive the persistent Depression and keep their kids in school.

While many students didn’t graduate high school during these hard years, Ellis High School recorded 169 enrollees in grades 9 – 12 and 468 grade school students in 1935. Teachers taught 175 days for a nine- month school year. Two male and seven female instructors educated grade school classes while six males and four females instructed high school courses. The grade school had ten out-of-district students enrolled while the high school boasted fifty-four non-resident enrollees. Clearly, the high school program offered much to young people seeking an education.

In 1935, teachers made approximately $125 a month for nine-months. Taxpayers anteed up a12.94 mill levy to fund schools during this economically challenging year. In 1936, the district received over $3,576 in WPA funding. Available data didn’t explain how the district spent this money. By 1938, the state of Kansas collected a sales tax fund and sent the district $1,764 in state aid. This was the first mention of state aid in accessible records. In addition, District 2 received a $3, 094.92 sales tax refund. Notably, school monies were no longer generated only by local taxes. Despite state contributions, the district levied taxes of approximately $26,000 to fulfill their financial responsibilities.

While a poor economy forced students to do without class rings, year books, and other expendable items, the Ellis district maintained a strong band program. According to Eileen Langley, a 1938 graduate, students traveled to various competitions throughout her high school years. She recalled that the American Legion sponsored uniforms, equipment, and trips when the district and parents couldn’t afford the full expense. Sacrifice and hard work paid off when the Ellis High School Band won a national title in Colorado Springs in 1939.

Keep in mind that during these years, area residents suffered disastrous bank and farm failures, drought, and dust storms that deposited soil locals find in attics and walls when they renovate old homes. Despite the struggle, the schools taught not only local kids but also out-of-district pupils. Under such duress, they supported a music program to the degree those kids and their instructor brought home a national band competition title. During this time frame, national government introduced the WPA and Social Security, while Kansas state government established taxation to redistribute to school districts. From those days forward, school finances and structure began to change into what we deal with today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINAccording to a 1935 online US timeline the US saw dramatic change. Franklin Delano Roosevelt served as US President. That same year Executive Order 7034 created the Works Progress Administration, and on August 14, FDR signed the Social Security Act into law. Despite long term drought effects in the Great Plains, the May 30 – June 2 Republican River Flood marked the deadliest flood ever in Nebraska. Kansan Amelia Earhart made history as the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to California, and Portis native son Tubby Millar’s cartoon character Porky Pig debuted in Looney Tunes “I Haven’t Got a Hat.” Area residents with a radio or access to national newspapers noted world changes while struggling to survive the persistent Depression and keep their kids in school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531669557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While many students didn’t graduate high school during these hard years, Ellis High School recorded 169 enrollees in grades 9 – 12 and 468 grade school students in 1935. Teachers taught 175 days for a nine- month school year. Two male and seven female instructors educated grade school classes while six males and four females instructed high school courses. The grade school had ten out-of-district students enrolled while the high school boasted fifty-four non-resident enrollees. Clearly, the high school program offered much to young people seeking an education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531786799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In 1935, teachers made approximately $125 a month for nine-months. Taxpayers anteed up a12.94 mill levy to fund schools during this economically challenging year. In 1936, the district received over $3,576 in WPA funding. Available data didn’t explain how the district spent this money. By 1938, the state of Kansas collected a sales tax fund and sent the district $1,764 in state aid. This was the first mention of state aid in accessible records. In addition, District 2 received a $3, 094.92 sales tax refund. Notably, school monies were no longer generated only by local taxes. Despite state contributions, the district levied taxes of approximately $26,000 to fulfill their financial responsibilities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531692614.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While a poor economy forced students to do without class rings, year books, and other expendable items, the Ellis district maintained a strong band program. According to Eileen Langley, a 1938 graduate, students traveled to various competitions throughout her high school years. She recalled that the American Legion sponsored uniforms, equipment, and trips when the district and parents couldn’t afford the full expense. Sacrifice and hard work paid off when the Ellis High School Band won a national title in Colorado Springs in 1939.Keep in mind that during these years, area residents suffered disastrous bank and farm failures, drought, and dust storms that deposited soil locals find in attics and walls when they renovate old homes. Despite the struggle, the schools taught not only local kids but also out-of-district pupils. Under such duress, they supported a music program to the degree those kids and their instructor brought home a national band competition title. During this time frame, national government introduced the WPA and Social Security, while Kansas state government established taxation to redistribute to school districts. From those days forward, school finances and structure began to change into what we deal with today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531819767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

MADORIN: History of Ellis Schools Part 13: 1935 - 1939

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

ELLIS — The Greyhound Bus stop in Ellis has closed, with the potential of other businesses shutting down.&nbsp;

SJ Singh, owner of the A&amp;W and Ellis Days Inn, managed the bus stop on Second Street and said the city of Ellis has stopped him from operating it.

The bus stop was the only bus service in Ellis County. A bus used to stop at the Golden Ox on Vine Street in Hays, but that business stopped the service.&nbsp;

Ellis County was without bus service for more than a year until Singh introduced Ellis to Greyhound, a relationship that went smoothly&nbsp;for its first six months of establishment.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/03bc28df-5300-4c69-b418-5172a5e2402a">SEE RELATED STORY: Greyhound bus service returns to county at A&amp;W in Ellis</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5cc65440-2911-47b5-8abc-3edad18dcb16">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis Greyhound bus stop faces zoning violation</a>

Singh said he is considering pulling A&amp;W and the Days Inn hotel from Ellis in the future but says he will continue operations for now.

"One thing is for sure, I'm not investing any more in Ellis," he said. "Nothing is coming to Ellis anytime soon."

Singh said the Ellis City Council is discouraging investment in commercial ventures.&nbsp;

Singh received a citation on Oct. 17 and was given a court date for Feb. 2. The Ellis bus stop opened in June.

"The city said it's not zoned for a bus stop, and we have to find another place," he said. "There's only two places in Ellis where I can manage the bus stop, and they're both not zoned for it."

According to Ellis City Clerk Amy Burton, Singh didn't have to appear in court after informing the city of the status of his bus stop.

"Before the trial date, the City Attorney received a letter stating the bus stop was no longer in operation. Therefore the case was dismissed," Burton said.

The Ellis bus stop provided transportation to passengers as far as Garden City, Wichita and Kansas City, Singh said.

The closest bus stops are in Abilene and Goodland, both roughly an hour and 50 minutes away from Ellis.

Burton said the city council rejected the proposal to rezone Second Street from residential to commercial. 

This would have allowed Singh to continue operating the bus stop and potentially launch another establishment.

"I had another plan to put a car wash in Ellis," Singh said. "I had a plan to put it next to A&amp;W, but I'm not doing it anymore."

Burton said the Ellis City Planning Commission has been working on a recodification of the Ellis zoning districts for more than a year, which could open the doors for the bus stop to resume operations.

"It's very possible that under the recodification, a bus stop will be allowed in the highway service district," she said.

Despite the possible reconsideration, Singh said he will no longer pursue rezoning Second Street and has no interest in restoring the bus stop.

"No one is interested in getting it back, and I'm not interested either, for right now. I did everything to convince the city," he said.

First Call for Help Client Service Specialist Laura Shoaff said they relied on the bus stop for transporting homeless individuals to a Salina shelter.

Shoaff said it became increasingly challenging to offer bus tickets after the bus service left Hays.

"Once it went to Ellis, that became more difficult to provide bus tickets because we also had to find rides to get them to Ellis," she said.

Shoaff said the Hays Police and Ellis County Sheriff's departments helped transport individuals to Ellis, but since the bus stop closure, they have had to find alternatives.

Church volunteers would offer transportation to Salina, a substitute that wouldn't be without safety concerns.

"A lot of times we're helping drug addicts, alcoholics, people that don't have money and steal things. We just don't know them," she said.

Shoaff said individuals seeking First Call for Helps assistance with transportation are generally from outside the state.

Burton said the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance and the Ellis Police Department have provided financial and transportation assistance to individuals within the city.

Singh said it's the city's responsibility to offer alternative transportation.

While disappointed in the city council, Singh said he is thankful for the encouragement he has received.

"There was growing support because people realized that others were moving out of this town," he said. "The city council should think about what's happening in the community."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703788178229.png" alt="The Greyhound bus stop at the A&amp;W in Ellis. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Greyhound bus stop at the A&amp;W in Ellis. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostELLIS — The Greyhound Bus stop in Ellis has closed, with the potential of other businesses shutting down.&nbsp;SJ Singh, owner of the A&amp;W and Ellis Days Inn, managed the bus stop on Second Street and said the city of Ellis has stopped him from operating it.The bus stop was the only bus service in Ellis County. A bus used to stop at the Golden Ox on Vine Street in Hays, but that business stopped the service.&nbsp;Ellis County was without bus service for more than a year until Singh introduced Ellis to Greyhound, a relationship that went smoothly&nbsp;for its first six months of establishment.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/03bc28df-5300-4c69-b418-5172a5e2402a">SEE RELATED STORY: Greyhound bus service returns to county at A&amp;W in Ellis</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5cc65440-2911-47b5-8abc-3edad18dcb16">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis Greyhound bus stop faces zoning violation</a>Singh said he is considering pulling A&amp;W and the Days Inn hotel from Ellis in the future but says he will continue operations for now."One thing is for sure, I'm not investing any more in Ellis," he said. "Nothing is coming to Ellis anytime soon."Singh said the Ellis City Council is discouraging investment in commercial ventures.&nbsp;Singh received a citation on Oct. 17 and was given a court date for Feb. 2. The Ellis bus stop opened in June."The city said it's not zoned for a bus stop, and we have to find another place," he said. "There's only two places in Ellis where I can manage the bus stop, and they're both not zoned for it."According to Ellis City Clerk Amy Burton, Singh didn't have to appear in court after informing the city of the status of his bus stop."Before the trial date, the City Attorney received a letter stating the bus stop was no longer in operation. Therefore the case was dismissed," Burton said.The Ellis bus stop provided transportation to passengers as far as Garden City, Wichita and Kansas City, Singh said.The closest bus stops are in Abilene and Goodland, both roughly an hour and 50 minutes away from Ellis.Burton said the city council rejected the proposal to rezone Second Street from residential to commercial. This would have allowed Singh to continue operating the bus stop and potentially launch another establishment."I had another plan to put a car wash in Ellis," Singh said. "I had a plan to put it next to A&amp;W, but I'm not doing it anymore."Burton said the Ellis City Planning Commission has been working on a recodification of the Ellis zoning districts for more than a year, which could open the doors for the bus stop to resume operations."It's very possible that under the recodification, a bus stop will be allowed in the highway service district," she said.Despite the possible reconsideration, Singh said he will no longer pursue rezoning Second Street and has no interest in restoring the bus stop."No one is interested in getting it back, and I'm not interested either, for right now. I did everything to convince the city," he said.First Call for Help Client Service Specialist Laura Shoaff said they relied on the bus stop for transporting homeless individuals to a Salina shelter.Shoaff said it became increasingly challenging to offer bus tickets after the bus service left Hays."Once it went to Ellis, that became more difficult to provide bus tickets because we also had to find rides to get them to Ellis," she said.Shoaff said the Hays Police and Ellis County Sheriff's departments helped transport individuals to Ellis, but since the bus stop closure, they have had to find alternatives.Church volunteers would offer transportation to Salina, a substitute that wouldn't be without safety concerns."A lot of times we're helping drug addicts, alcoholics, people that don't have money and steal things. We just don't know them," she said.Shoaff said individuals seeking First Call for Helps assistance with transportation are generally from outside the state.Burton said the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance and the Ellis Police Department have provided financial and transportation assistance to individuals within the city.Singh said it's the city's responsibility to offer alternative transportation.While disappointed in the city council, Singh said he is thankful for the encouragement he has received."There was growing support because people realized that others were moving out of this town," he said. "The city council should think about what's happening in the community."

Ellis Greyhound bus stop closes; no bus options left in Ellis County

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

<a href="https://invenergy.com/">Invenergy</a> is one of&nbsp;the largest wind energy producers in North America. Its holdings include the Buckeye Wind Energy Center, 1043 Buckeye Road, about 13 miles northwest of Hays.&nbsp;

The wind farm opened in December 2015. It was developed by and is owned and operated by Invenergy.&nbsp;

The 112 GE wind turbines, which are 300 feet tall with 160-foot blades, are spread across 25,000 acres and have a capacity of&nbsp;200 megawatts of electrical production per hour.&nbsp;

There are 13 full-time employees, and Ellis County's annual economic impact is estimated at $3 million. The project contributes to the local economy through annual payments to Ellis County, lease payments to landowners and salaries to local employees.

A long-term power purchase agreement sends half the project output to Lincoln, Nebraska and the other half to western Kansas.&nbsp;

The generated power goes through eight underground feeder lines into the nearby Midwest Energy Post Rock substation and then onto the electrical grid.

Nolan Schmeidler, who started working at the wind farm as a technician, is the operations and maintenance manager.&nbsp;

Schmeidler's duties include conducting informational presentations about Buckeye Wind Energy Center and wind power. On Tuesday, the guests were a class of David Wildeman's earth science students from Ellis High School.&nbsp;

"I want students to realize the difference between renewable and nonrenewable sources of energy," Wildeman told Hays Post, "and how the need for sustainable energy is so important with the growing demand for energy and trying  to keep up with the exponential growth of the human population globally."

Back in their classroom, the high school science students will create a group project in which they present the pros and cons of wind energy for this area.

"A wind turbine is essentially a sophisticated windmill with a generator at the top, similar to the much smaller windmills still used in rural areas for pumping water," Schmeidler, a former local farmhand and oilfield worker, told the group.&nbsp;

About two-thirds of the Buckeye technicians are former students of Cloud County Community College's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cloud.edu/academics/academic-departments/renewable-energy/courses/wind-energy-technology">wind energy technology </a>program in&nbsp;Concordia.&nbsp;

Schmeidler gave a brief history of the facility and then launched into more technical aspects of its generating power and how the turbines are maintained by local technicians and specialized contractors, as needed.&nbsp;

He also showed several tools used by the technicians during their tower maintenance and their safety equipment.&nbsp;

Most of the facility itself is under high security, uses proprietary information and is off-limits to the public.&nbsp;

With regular maintenance and repower component replacements, the lifespan of the wind turbines averages 20 to 25 years and beyond, Schmeidler said. "It's like overhauling a car. Gut it and rebuild it." 

Old turbines are decommissioned and removed from the landowner's property, which the wind energy company returns to its original state.

Recycling some components is becoming more prevalent as the wind power industry grows.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The fiberglass blades are recyclable," Schmeidler said. "It's used a lot in concrete, and they're now using them as power poles. Of course, there's recycling of all the steel. It's not like their towers are just cut down, and they go sit somewhere.

"We look forward to where we can go from there."

He also said the industry is becoming more gender-neutral, especially for technicians, as equipment becomes smaller and lighter. He estimated about 10% of wind turbine technicians are women, and the number is growing.&nbsp;

Questions from the group ranged from why some regions' governing bodies have opposed wind farm installations to where the industry is going in the future.

"Not every place is conducive for wind. We do many studies. (Research into the feasibility of the Ellis County location began in 2008.) We'll go many years before (construction) and do a wind study. If it even looks feasible, then the wheels start getting in motion. It's a process and doesn't happen overnight," Schmeidler said. 

"A lot of it goes back to different county zoning and whether county commissioners are supportive in the first place. Fortunately, for Ellis County, we got on board with it, and I think it's benefited the county greatly."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709745235424.png" alt="An Invenergy technician works on top of a wind turbine. Photo courtesy Invenergy" />
 <figcaption>An Invenergy technician works on top of a wind turbine. Photo courtesy Invenergy</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post<a href="https://invenergy.com/">Invenergy</a> is one of&nbsp;the largest wind energy producers in North America. Its holdings include the Buckeye Wind Energy Center, 1043 Buckeye Road, about 13 miles northwest of Hays.&nbsp;The wind farm opened in December 2015. It was developed by and is owned and operated by Invenergy.&nbsp;The 112 GE wind turbines, which are 300 feet tall with 160-foot blades, are spread across 25,000 acres and have a capacity of&nbsp;200 megawatts of electrical production per hour.&nbsp;There are 13 full-time employees, and Ellis County's annual economic impact is estimated at $3 million. The project contributes to the local economy through annual payments to Ellis County, lease payments to landowners and salaries to local employees.A long-term power purchase agreement sends half the project output to Lincoln, Nebraska and the other half to western Kansas.&nbsp;The generated power goes through eight underground feeder lines into the nearby Midwest Energy Post Rock substation and then onto the electrical grid.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709744223910.jpeg" alt="Nolan Schmeidler is operations and maintenance manager at Buckeye Wind Energy in Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nolan Schmeidler is operations and maintenance manager at Buckeye Wind Energy in Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Nolan Schmeidler, who started working at the wind farm as a technician, is the operations and maintenance manager.&nbsp;Schmeidler's duties include conducting informational presentations about Buckeye Wind Energy Center and wind power. On Tuesday, the guests were a class of David Wildeman's earth science students from Ellis High School.&nbsp;"I want students to realize the difference between renewable and nonrenewable sources of energy," Wildeman told Hays Post, "and how the need for sustainable energy is so important with the growing demand for energy and trying to keep up with the exponential growth of the human population globally."Back in their classroom, the high school science students will create a group project in which they present the pros and cons of wind energy for this area."A wind turbine is essentially a sophisticated windmill with a generator at the top, similar to the much smaller windmills still used in rural areas for pumping water," Schmeidler, a former local farmhand and oilfield worker, told the group.&nbsp;About two-thirds of the Buckeye technicians are former students of Cloud County Community College's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cloud.edu/academics/academic-departments/renewable-energy/courses/wind-energy-technology">wind energy technology </a>program in&nbsp;Concordia.&nbsp;Schmeidler gave a brief history of the facility and then launched into more technical aspects of its generating power and how the turbines are maintained by local technicians and specialized contractors, as needed.&nbsp;He also showed several tools used by the technicians during their tower maintenance and their safety equipment.&nbsp;Most of the facility itself is under high security, uses proprietary information and is off-limits to the public.&nbsp;With regular maintenance and repower component replacements, the lifespan of the wind turbines averages 20 to 25 years and beyond, Schmeidler said. "It's like overhauling a car. Gut it and rebuild it." Old turbines are decommissioned and removed from the landowner's property, which the wind energy company returns to its original state.Recycling some components is becoming more prevalent as the wind power industry grows.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The fiberglass blades are recyclable," Schmeidler said. "It's used a lot in concrete, and they're now using them as power poles. Of course, there's recycling of all the steel. It's not like their towers are just cut down, and they go sit somewhere."We look forward to where we can go from there."He also said the industry is becoming more gender-neutral, especially for technicians, as equipment becomes smaller and lighter. He estimated about 10% of wind turbine technicians are women, and the number is growing.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709756962467.jpeg" alt="Lesa Lang-Parson, Buckeye Wind Energy Center administrative professional, talks about the variety of jobs available within the wind power industry as David Wildeman, Ellis Junior/Senior High School teacher looks on. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lesa Lang-Parson, Buckeye Wind Energy Center administrative professional, talks about the variety of jobs available within the wind power industry as David Wildeman, Ellis Junior/Senior High School teacher looks on. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709756270722.jpeg" alt="Nolan Schmeidler holds a drone operated by Buckeye Wind Energy Center technicians to examine turbine blades for deterioration. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nolan Schmeidler holds a drone operated by Buckeye Wind Energy Center technicians to examine turbine blades for deterioration. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709758076736.jpeg" alt="Chole McClung, Ellis USD 388 junior, examines the computer motherboard Tuesday for a wind turbine blade at the Buckeye Wind Energy Center northwest of Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Chole McClung, Ellis USD 388 junior, examines the computer motherboard Tuesday for a wind turbine blade at the Buckeye Wind Energy Center northwest of Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Questions from the group ranged from why some regions' governing bodies have opposed wind farm installations to where the industry is going in the future."Not every place is conducive for wind. We do many studies. (Research into the feasibility of the Ellis County location began in 2008.) We'll go many years before (construction) and do a wind study. If it even looks feasible, then the wheels start getting in motion. It's a process and doesn't happen overnight," Schmeidler said. "A lot of it goes back to different county zoning and whether county commissioners are supportive in the first place. Fortunately, for Ellis County, we got on board with it, and I think it's benefited the county greatly."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709746731266.jpeg" alt="Earth science students from Ellis Junior/Senior High School tour the Buckeye Wind Energy Center shop on March 5. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Earth science students from Ellis Junior/Senior High School tour the Buckeye Wind Energy Center shop on March 5. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis students learn about wind power industry at Buckeye Wind Energy Center 

The Grow Ellis Downtown Committee is looking to apply for historic district designation for downtown Ellis.

Amy Burton,&nbsp;City Clerk and member of the Ellis Grow Downtown Committee,  said the Ellis City Council has discussed revitalization for as long as she can remember.&nbsp;

"We had a developer purchase some downtown buildings to renovate, and he asked the city to consider a historic district designation," Burton said.

The developer made mention of the success of the Historic Chestnut Street District in downtown Hays.

The process would begin with a preservation specialist conducting surveys on each building within the chosen area to assess its significance.

"Not all the buildings need to have historic value, the buildings in the area selected can have significance either historically or aesthetically," Burton said.

There are about 75 buildings within the area that the Grow Committee has chosen, with the cost of surveying each building estimated at about $200, totaling about $15,000.

The Grow Committee is applying for a grant through the Kansas State&nbsp;Historical Society&nbsp;that can assist in paying for a preservation specialist as well as 65 percent of the surveys conducted.

Burton said the review process can last up to five months. the committee is aiming to conduct surveys by this summer. The surveys will then be evaluated by the Kansas Historic Sites Board of Review before being sent to the National Register office in Washington, D.C.

Once the survey is completed, the Grow Committee will have a better idea of what buildings will be included in the historic district designation.

"As far as potential advantages, the designated historic district will provide eligibility to the property owners for state and federal rehabilitation tax credits as well as some grants," Burton said.

Buildings within the designated district will also be eligible for a 100 percent incremental tax rebate.

Drawbacks to having a historic district include the need for approval from the historic preservation office for property improvements to maintain features. This can be a lengthy process.

"If they require you to keep specific elements or do things a certain way like restricting types of materials, it could end up costing the property owner more than if they were just going do it on their own," she said.&nbsp;

A Hays investor spoke to the committee and shared his experience with the historic district designation. He said the&nbsp;tax credits received outweigh the disadvantages of prolonging projects.

Securing the historic district designation would highlight the significance of Ellis and its offerings, a recognition that Burton said would be favorable.

The Ellis Congregational Church, the Chrysler Home and the Memorial City Hall (now the Railroad Museum) are among the three buildings already recognized as eligible.

"Ellis has a lot of great history," Burton said. "This designation would offer a sense of pride that the state and federal historical review boards will find Ellis as unique and special as we do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582917710542.jpeg" alt="The Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood home is one of the buildings in downtown Ellis that would be included in a proposed downtown historic district. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood home is one of the buildings in downtown Ellis that would be included in a proposed downtown historic district. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Grow Ellis Downtown Committee is looking to apply for historic district designation for downtown Ellis.Amy Burton,&nbsp;City Clerk and member of the Ellis Grow Downtown Committee, said the Ellis City Council has discussed revitalization for as long as she can remember.&nbsp;"We had a developer purchase some downtown buildings to renovate, and he asked the city to consider a historic district designation," Burton said.The developer made mention of the success of the Historic Chestnut Street District in downtown Hays.The process would begin with a preservation specialist conducting surveys on each building within the chosen area to assess its significance."Not all the buildings need to have historic value, the buildings in the area selected can have significance either historically or aesthetically," Burton said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582917770295.jpeg" alt="The Grow Ellis Downtown Committee is performing a survey to determine if the Ellis Downtown can be designated as a historic district. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The Grow Ellis Downtown Committee is performing a survey to determine if the Ellis Downtown can be designated as a historic district. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>There are about 75 buildings within the area that the Grow Committee has chosen, with the cost of surveying each building estimated at about $200, totaling about $15,000.The Grow Committee is applying for a grant through the Kansas State&nbsp;Historical Society&nbsp;that can assist in paying for a preservation specialist as well as 65 percent of the surveys conducted.Burton said the review process can last up to five months. the committee is aiming to conduct surveys by this summer. The surveys will then be evaluated by the Kansas Historic Sites Board of Review before being sent to the National Register office in Washington, D.C.Once the survey is completed, the Grow Committee will have a better idea of what buildings will be included in the historic district designation."As far as potential advantages, the designated historic district will provide eligibility to the property owners for state and federal rehabilitation tax credits as well as some grants," Burton said.Buildings within the designated district will also be eligible for a 100 percent incremental tax rebate.Drawbacks to having a historic district include the need for approval from the historic preservation office for property improvements to maintain features. This can be a lengthy process."If they require you to keep specific elements or do things a certain way like restricting types of materials, it could end up costing the property owner more than if they were just going do it on their own," she said.&nbsp;A Hays investor spoke to the committee and shared his experience with the historic district designation. He said the&nbsp;tax credits received outweigh the disadvantages of prolonging projects.Securing the historic district designation would highlight the significance of Ellis and its offerings, a recognition that Burton said would be favorable.The Ellis Congregational Church, the Chrysler Home and the Memorial City Hall (now the Railroad Museum) are among the three buildings already recognized as eligible."Ellis has a lot of great history," Burton said. "This designation would offer a sense of pride that the state and federal historical review boards will find Ellis as unique and special as we do."

Downtown Ellis seeks historic district designation 

After a tense 22 rounds, the 68th-annual Ellis County Spelling Bee crowned its winner, who will go on to compete in the Kansas State Spelling competition.

The FHSU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association hosted its spelling contest on Monday night at the Beach-Schmidt Auditorium.

&nbsp;Forty-four students from third to eighth grade and from 12 different schools in Ellis County competed to determine who would advance to the Sunflower State Spelling Bee.

Sixth-grader Niyah Zollinger from Hays Middle School and eighth-grader Even Staab from Thomas More Prep-Marian went head-to-head for 15 rounds on Monday.

Staab was declared the winner after correctly spelling the word "sucrose,"&nbsp;a natural sweetener found in the majority of plants.&nbsp;

He moves onto the State Spelling Bee in March, a stage that the Coordinator for the Ellis County Spelling Bee Tara Marshall said continues to hold greater significance.

"Making sure that we have Ellis County represented at that state level is important for a chance to go on to the national level in Washington, D.C.," Marshall said.

This was Staab's final year to compete and represent Ellis County at the state level.

Marshall also serves as the faculty adviser for the FHSU chapter of NSSLHA, an event sponsor affiliated with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

The student-led organization's mission is to work with those with any kind of communication disorder, which includes language, literacy, reading and spelling.&nbsp;

Marshal said NSSLHA and the Ellis County Spelling Bee provide FHSU students with an excellent opportunity to support younger students facing communication-related challenges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707257744216.jpeg" alt="2024 Ellis County Spelling Bee winner Evan Staab with two NSSLHA students. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>2024 Ellis County Spelling Bee winner Evan Staab with two NSSLHA students. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostAfter a tense 22 rounds, the 68th-annual Ellis County Spelling Bee crowned its winner, who will go on to compete in the Kansas State Spelling competition.The FHSU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association hosted its spelling contest on Monday night at the Beach-Schmidt Auditorium.&nbsp;Forty-four students from third to eighth grade and from 12 different schools in Ellis County competed to determine who would advance to the Sunflower State Spelling Bee.Sixth-grader Niyah Zollinger from Hays Middle School and eighth-grader Even Staab from Thomas More Prep-Marian went head-to-head for 15 rounds on Monday.Staab was declared the winner after correctly spelling the word "sucrose,"&nbsp;a natural sweetener found in the majority of plants.&nbsp;He moves onto the State Spelling Bee in March, a stage that the Coordinator for the Ellis County Spelling Bee Tara Marshall said continues to hold greater significance."Making sure that we have Ellis County represented at that state level is important for a chance to go on to the national level in Washington, D.C.," Marshall said.This was Staab's final year to compete and represent Ellis County at the state level.Marshall also serves as the faculty adviser for the FHSU chapter of NSSLHA, an event sponsor affiliated with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.The student-led organization's mission is to work with those with any kind of communication disorder, which includes language, literacy, reading and spelling.&nbsp;Marshal said NSSLHA and the Ellis County Spelling Bee provide FHSU students with an excellent opportunity to support younger students facing communication-related challenges."It's a good way for our students to get involved with typical kids in this age range and see how they're doing with their language and literacy skills," she said.Brenda Meder, pronouncer for the Ellis County Spelling Bee, said technology has negatively impacted the way people communicate. She cited the use of online abbreviations as an example."We've gotten very lazy about spelling because of the technological age we live in," she said. "Spelling is a skill, art, talent and educational component that is worth celebrating."The state provides a selection of words that are used to create the county's spelling list. The words gradually increase in difficulty.&nbsp;Before the start of the competition, student participants engage in a practice round. Once the spelling bee begins, students then have the opportunity to request word definitions and hear them used in sentences.Meder said every student on stage had earned their place there and regardless of their ranking, should feel proud. She expects many of them, including the runner-up, to compete again next year."Fortunately for Niyah Zollinger, she has two more years to leave her mark on something. She's clearly very passionate and committed too," she said.About four contestants from each school were present to represent their schools, including:<ul>
 <li>St. Mary's Grade School </li><li>O'Loughlin Elementary </li><li>Lincoln Elementary </li><li>Ellis Junior Senior High </li><li>Roosevelt Elementary </li><li>Wilson Elementary </li><li>Washington Grade School </li><li>Victoria Elementary </li><li>Victoria Junior High </li><li>St. Aloysius Academy </li>
 </ul>You can follow the FHSU National Student Speech Language Hearing Association on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FHSU.NSSLHA">Facebook</a>.