ELLIS —&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07" target="_blank">A
steady stream of voters entered the VFW Thursday to decide the fate of a $4.55
million bond issue for repairs and renovations in the district's two main buildings,
Washington Elementary and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49" target="_blank">And as predicted by a
2020 Docking Institute survey, voters overwhelmingly supported the measure with
preliminary results showing a final vote of 440-98.</a>

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4858/unofficial-results" target="_blank">Out
of 538 votes cast, 81.78 percent voted yes, and 18.22 percent voted no,
according to the Ellis County Clerk website.</a>

Board of Education president
Randy Honas said he was thankful for the support from the community.

He said he had never heard
much opposition but was still pleasantly surprised by the result, calling it a
“good showing and a great turnout.”

“They told us in the Docking
institute Study they would support a bond of this type and this amount,” Honas
said. “That’s what we ran, and they did what they said they would do,
overwhelmingly.”

“I’m just really happy for
the community and really proud of the community to come out and just do what
they said they were going to do,” he continued. “I couldn’t be prouder.”

Superintendent
Janice Wilson said the measure would positively impact the lives of the
students and staff.

“I think this gets Ellis on
the right track to making sure that our facilities are up to date and have the
opportunity to be where everybody else is,” Wilson said. “It’s been a long time
coming, and we are stoked and super excited because it’s important that Ellis
cares about their kids, and this proves it.”

She said the district would
now move into the design phase and find and hire contractors to do the work.

“Hopefully, we are on track
for next summer or even before to get this started,” Wilson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662693130095.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS —&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8cb680b9-fc70-4c82-aef8-3bcdba44fd07" target="_blank">A
steady stream of voters entered the VFW Thursday to decide the fate of a $4.55
million bond issue for repairs and renovations in the district's two main buildings,
Washington Elementary and Ellis Jr./Sr. High School.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49" target="_blank">And as predicted by a
2020 Docking Institute survey, voters overwhelmingly supported the measure with
preliminary results showing a final vote of 440-98.</a><a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4858/unofficial-results" target="_blank">Out
of 538 votes cast, 81.78 percent voted yes, and 18.22 percent voted no,
according to the Ellis County Clerk website.</a>Voter turnout was 29.07
percent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695372331.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Board of Education president
Randy Honas said he was thankful for the support from the community.He said he had never heard
much opposition but was still pleasantly surprised by the result, calling it a
“good showing and a great turnout.”“They told us in the Docking
institute Study they would support a bond of this type and this amount,” Honas
said. “That’s what we ran, and they did what they said they would do,
overwhelmingly.”“I’m just really happy for
the community and really proud of the community to come out and just do what
they said they were going to do,” he continued. “I couldn’t be prouder.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695418358.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Superintendent
Janice Wilson said the measure would positively impact the lives of the
students and staff.“I think this gets Ellis on
the right track to making sure that our facilities are up to date and have the
opportunity to be where everybody else is,” Wilson said. “It’s been a long time
coming, and we are stoked and super excited because it’s important that Ellis
cares about their kids, and this proves it.”She said the district would
now move into the design phase and find and hire contractors to do the work.“Hopefully, we are on track
for next summer or even before to get this started,” Wilson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662695293553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis USD 388 bond issue proposal passes by wide margin

ELLIS — On Thursday, voters will head to the polls to decide
on a $4.55 million bond issue that would be used for improvements at the Ellis
Jr./Senior High School and Washington Elementary.

The vote will mark the third bond attempt since successfully
passing a $1.9 million bond in 1974.

A $10 million proposal was voted down in 2013. A $9 million
proposal was voted down a year later. 

Organizers say now is the time to pass a bond issue and are
using lessons from previous attempts in hopes of wider community support.

The bond would be used to make significant renovations and system
replacements in the schools and is needed after decades of relying on the
district’s capital outlay budget for facility updates for decades, according to&nbsp;Care 4 Kids committee treasurer and former member of the USD 388 Board of Education, Mike Keller.

He said that much of that budget was used to pay
debt acquired years ago to replace the HVAC system in Ellis High.

“It hamstrung us on our capital outlay. It basically took
half of the money available,” Keller said. “So it was really hard to keep up
with maintenance with making that big payment.”

While he said the facilities had been maintained as well as possible, the
lack of funding and years of use have taken a toll.

“We've done a fantastic job of maintaining that facility,”
Keller said of the High School. “When you walk in there, and you see our gym,
or our lobby or our classrooms, they do look nice. Our staff is to be commended
for keeping that facility in top-notch condition.

“But that doesn't mean there aren't needs,” he continued.

Among the projects planned if the bond is successful are a
complete renovation of the High School science labs, as well as exterior door replacement,
a partial roof replacement and the addition of a secure entry.

Washington Elementary would also see a complete HVAC
replacement, electrical system upgrades, interior improvements and a partial
roof replacement.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49">The planned repairs were decided upon during a process that
included a Fort Hays State University Docking Institute survey that outlined
the amount the community would support in a bond issue.</a>

Keller said they worked to keep the proposal within that
amount.

“Basically, I like to tell people when they say what's going
on with this bond, I say, you spoke we listened,” he said. “We're not trying
for anything that we think is going to put this in jeopardy, because these are
pieces that we need.”

If the proposed $4.55 million bond is approved residents within the district would pay additional property taxes for the 15-year term, but impact to property owners may be more significant if the measure fails, Keller said.

“If it does fail, one of the impacts will be it will cost us
it will cost us kids in our district, it'll cost us, staff," he said. "I think I read a USA
Today article and it said school district quality is one of the most important
factors home buyers consider when looking for a place to live, particularly for
a new or expecting parent."

And a good school district can greatly increase a
child's chance of success, Keller said.

For residential property owners for every $100,000 in assessed value, the bond would increase taxes by $11.26 monthly. For commercial property, the increase would be $24.48.

While the increased cost will affect taxpayers, he said the potential damage to the community could be greater.

“If it fails, the property owners who didn't want to pay any
more taxes I guess win in the short run, point blank,” Keller said. “But at what
cost? We can’t keep patching the system together with a wing and a
prayer.”

He said as a former member of the board of education and worked
to find what was needed and this bond issue reflects those needs.

Variable pricing for construction materials also creates a sense of urgency for the bond attempt.

"That was one of the reasons we decided to have a special election," Keller said." We wanted to move the timeline up with some of the uncertainty in our economy right now. If we can get this moved up and get it passed in September, it's about a six-month window for them to do the design process, and put it out to bids."

And he said no one knows what's going to happen with interest rates, but the last bond passed in the middle of a recession, during the oil crisis of that era.

"So I don't think that's a great excuse to vote against this right now," Keller said. "I think now's the time to invest in our kids in our future version of our town."

For more information about the USD 388 Bond Issue visit the USD 388 website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd388.com/page/usd-388-bond">usd388.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582917685536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — On Thursday, voters will head to the polls to decide
on a $4.55 million bond issue that would be used for improvements at the Ellis
Jr./Senior High School and Washington Elementary.The vote will mark the third bond attempt since successfully
passing a $1.9 million bond in 1974.A $10 million proposal was voted down in 2013. A $9 million
proposal was voted down a year later. <div><iframe title="Voters head to polls this week for Ellis USD 388 Bond election" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kfqa3-12b3ef3-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Organizers say now is the time to pass a bond issue and are
using lessons from previous attempts in hopes of wider community support.The bond would be used to make significant renovations and system
replacements in the schools and is needed after decades of relying on the
district’s capital outlay budget for facility updates for decades, according to&nbsp;Care 4 Kids committee treasurer and former member of the USD 388 Board of Education, Mike Keller.He said that much of that budget was used to pay
debt acquired years ago to replace the HVAC system in Ellis High.“It hamstrung us on our capital outlay. It basically took
half of the money available,” Keller said. “So it was really hard to keep up
with maintenance with making that big payment.”While he said the facilities had been maintained as well as possible, the
lack of funding and years of use have taken a toll.“We've done a fantastic job of maintaining that facility,”
Keller said of the High School. “When you walk in there, and you see our gym,
or our lobby or our classrooms, they do look nice. Our staff is to be commended
for keeping that facility in top-notch condition.“But that doesn't mean there aren't needs,” he continued.Among the projects planned if the bond is successful are a
complete renovation of the High School science labs, as well as exterior door replacement,
a partial roof replacement and the addition of a secure entry.Washington Elementary would also see a complete HVAC
replacement, electrical system upgrades, interior improvements and a partial
roof replacement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662144049121.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e1e18c07d7daa72b30eae49">The planned repairs were decided upon during a process that
included a Fort Hays State University Docking Institute survey that outlined
the amount the community would support in a bond issue.</a>Keller said they worked to keep the proposal within that
amount.“Basically, I like to tell people when they say what's going
on with this bond, I say, you spoke we listened,” he said. “We're not trying
for anything that we think is going to put this in jeopardy, because these are
pieces that we need.”<h2>&nbsp;Impact to taxpayers</h2>If the proposed $4.55 million bond is approved residents within the district would pay additional property taxes for the 15-year term, but impact to property owners may be more significant if the measure fails, Keller said.“If it does fail, one of the impacts will be it will cost us
it will cost us kids in our district, it'll cost us, staff," he said. "I think I read a USA
Today article and it said school district quality is one of the most important
factors home buyers consider when looking for a place to live, particularly for
a new or expecting parent."And a good school district can greatly increase a
child's chance of success, Keller said.For residential property owners for every $100,000 in assessed value, the bond would increase taxes by $11.26 monthly. For commercial property, the increase would be $24.48.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662144182092.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While the increased cost will affect taxpayers, he said the potential damage to the community could be greater.“If it fails, the property owners who didn't want to pay any
more taxes I guess win in the short run, point blank,” Keller said. “But at what
cost? We can’t keep patching the system together with a wing and a
prayer.”He said as a former member of the board of education and worked
to find what was needed and this bond issue reflects those needs.Variable pricing for construction materials also creates a sense of urgency for the bond attempt."That was one of the reasons we decided to have a special election," Keller said." We wanted to move the timeline up with some of the uncertainty in our economy right now. If we can get this moved up and get it passed in September, it's about a six-month window for them to do the design process, and put it out to bids."And he said no one knows what's going to happen with interest rates, but the last bond passed in the middle of a recession, during the oil crisis of that era."So I don't think that's a great excuse to vote against this right now," Keller said. "I think now's the time to invest in our kids in our future version of our town."For more information about the USD 388 Bond Issue visit the USD 388 website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd388.com/page/usd-388-bond">usd388.com.</a>

🎙 Voters to decide Ellis USD 388 bond issue Thursday

ELLIS&nbsp; — The Ellis city council has scheduled a special hearing for consideration of the 2023 budget.

The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. August 22 at the Ellis City Council chambers in City Hall, 815 Jefferson.

The council will also host a revenue neutral rate hearing and consider a resolution to exceed the rate during the meeting time.

ELLIS&nbsp; — The Ellis city council has scheduled a special hearing for consideration of the 2023 budget.The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. August 22 at the Ellis City Council chambers in City Hall, 815 Jefferson.The council will also host a revenue neutral rate hearing and consider a resolution to exceed the rate during the meeting time.

City of Ellis 2023 budget and revenue neutral rate hearing scheduled

ELLIS — A new fiscal year has begun for area school districts and the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education used the opportunity to look ahead to a year filled with potential while reflecting on last year.

Opening the meeting, the board selected leadership for the year.

Randy Honas was unanimously voted to serve as president of the board, a role he served in during the last year.

Brian Shannon was unanimously voted to serve as vice-president.&nbsp;

Along with the board leadership, the board unanimously approved Connie Waldschmidt to serve as board clerk, Theresa Thomas as deputy clerk and Linda Pfeifer as board treasurer.

The board next heard a bond update from new Superintendent Janice Wilson.

"There has been moving and shaking like you wouldn't believe," Wilson said.&nbsp;

She said a town hall meeting schedule had been set, and an information booth was planned for the Ellis Jr. Free Fair.

"We have speakers that will be at several other places," Wilson said. 

As the meeting and discussions continue she said a question and answer document was being compiled, noting a website for the bond issue is in the works.

"So if you have questions, you can take questions to the website," Wilson said. "And then we will have a facilitator that will work on answering them."

Additional work to inform the public about the bond issue is also underway, including a Facebook page, signs, shirts and flyers.

As these efforts&nbsp; continue, she said she had heard positive feedback from the community.

"Everybody has done a great job," Wilson said.

"It will start to get really active in&nbsp;probably about two weeks," Honas said. "We'll start seeing stuff come out, as far as sort of literature and some of that stuff. ... The first part of August is ... the first public meeting. So that's kind of a start."

He added the bond committee has been very active and has done a lot so far.

"We titled it Care for Kids," said board member Cindy&nbsp; Hertel. "Jared (Schiel) came up with the logo, so that's been developed, and we'll be utilizing that on our messaging."

As the work to spread information about the bond issues continues by the committee, Honas noted the next few weeks will be critical.

As the board during the meeting considered the future, they also looked back at the results of a survey from last year.

"This year, the participation of the climate survey was 56 responses," Wilson said.

Last year, around 70 surveys were collected. 

"So we've dropped a little bit in the participation," Wilson said.

Looking back at the previous survey, she said the results were similar to last year in many regards.

She said district communications were ranked highly, as well as staff availability and student extracurricular activities.

But as school resumes in August, she said the survey highlighted the need to&nbsp;look at relationships and student social and emotional needs. 

"Those are some of the areas that were not as strong," Wilson said.

Honas shared his concern from the survey showing that 30 percent of respondents disagreed that the district welcomes parent input, and 29 percent disagreed the district takes parents' concerns seriously.

"I don't know where that's coming from," Honas said. "But I mean ... it's been at 80 percent. It was over 20 percent. So, I don't know if that's a communication thing or just the perception."

Schiel noted that with the low survey return rate and some respondents who marked everything about the district negatively, the result might not truly reflect the opinions of most parents.

"We have 56 responses. If you have 12 to 16 people that are going to answer it negatively, it's going to skew results," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657651362117.jpeg" alt="Ellis Board of Education votes to approve Randy Honas as board president for the 2022-2023 academic year. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ellis Board of Education votes to approve Randy Honas as board president for the 2022-2023 academic year. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — A new fiscal year has begun for area school districts and the Ellis USD 388 Board of Education used the opportunity to look ahead to a year filled with potential while reflecting on last year.Opening the meeting, the board selected leadership for the year.Randy Honas was unanimously voted to serve as president of the board, a role he served in during the last year.Brian Shannon was unanimously voted to serve as vice-president.&nbsp;Along with the board leadership, the board unanimously approved Connie Waldschmidt to serve as board clerk, Theresa Thomas as deputy clerk and Linda Pfeifer as board treasurer.The board next heard a bond update from new Superintendent Janice Wilson."There has been moving and shaking like you wouldn't believe," Wilson said.&nbsp;She said a town hall meeting schedule had been set, and an information booth was planned for the Ellis Jr. Free Fair."We have speakers that will be at several other places," Wilson said. As the meeting and discussions continue she said a question and answer document was being compiled, noting a website for the bond issue is in the works."So if you have questions, you can take questions to the website," Wilson said. "And then we will have a facilitator that will work on answering them."Additional work to inform the public about the bond issue is also underway, including a Facebook page, signs, shirts and flyers.As these efforts&nbsp; continue, she said she had heard positive feedback from the community."Everybody has done a great job," Wilson said."It will start to get really active in&nbsp;probably about two weeks," Honas said. "We'll start seeing stuff come out, as far as sort of literature and some of that stuff. ... The first part of August is ... the first public meeting. So that's kind of a start."He added the bond committee has been very active and has done a lot so far."We titled it Care for Kids," said board member Cindy&nbsp; Hertel. "Jared (Schiel) came up with the logo, so that's been developed, and we'll be utilizing that on our messaging."As the work to spread information about the bond issues continues by the committee, Honas noted the next few weeks will be critical.As the board during the meeting considered the future, they also looked back at the results of a survey from last year."This year, the participation of the climate survey was 56 responses," Wilson said.Last year, around 70 surveys were collected. "So we've dropped a little bit in the participation," Wilson said.Looking back at the previous survey, she said the results were similar to last year in many regards.She said district communications were ranked highly, as well as staff availability and student extracurricular activities.But as school resumes in August, she said the survey highlighted the need to&nbsp;look at relationships and student social and emotional needs. "Those are some of the areas that were not as strong," Wilson said.Honas shared his concern from the survey showing that 30 percent of respondents disagreed that the district welcomes parent input, and 29 percent disagreed the district takes parents' concerns seriously."I don't know where that's coming from," Honas said. "But I mean ... it's been at 80 percent. It was over 20 percent. So, I don't know if that's a communication thing or just the perception."Schiel noted that with the low survey return rate and some respondents who marked everything about the district negatively, the result might not truly reflect the opinions of most parents."We have 56 responses. If you have 12 to 16 people that are going to answer it negatively, it's going to skew results," he said.

Ellis school board looks to bond issue, while taking a look back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further details are expected from the department later today.

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPDATE: Ellis woman found dead near railroad tracks

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optional rides to Schoenchen and Antonino churches are self-supported

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Die Kapellen adds bus tour, taking registrations

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The current policy only applies to high school students.

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

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

Ellis school board reinstates attendance incentive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Racially charged incident leads to arrest in Ellis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USD 388: The search begins for next Ellis superintendent

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

The feedback provided by the packed diner clarified the
growing picture of what residents see as priorities and problems for the county
and its communities for the <a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/">Imagine Ellis County Committee.</a>

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

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