Ellis County Fair board members have been busy the last few months reaching out to old and potential new sponsors. Even with their efforts, fundraising has fallen short of their goal this year by $25,000.

The Ellis County Fair is one of the longest standing events in Ellis County starting back in the late 1800s. 

County fairs were a way to unite all the cities, towns, and villages to celebrate those that lived within the county lines. They also displayed their best harvest and crafts. 

The Ellis County Fair started in the now city limits of Hays, at one time the south end on Main Street. Land was donated to the county by the Schenk family and now sits on its current location.

The present Ellis County Fair provides entertainment to go along with all the entries so it will draw people to come view all the exhibits. The Ellis County 4-H club members work hard on not only their livestock exhibits, but other entries such as needlework, foods, arts and crafts, woodworking, and photography. They are judged on their entries teaching youth important life skills that will help them evolve into well-rounded adults.

While the fair has grandstand entertainment that requires a ticket for attendance, there are a number of family-orientated events that are offered free to the public, but still cost money to bring them in. Some of those are the petting zoo, live music on the midway, contests such as cornhole, hot dog eating contest, pie eating contest, kids’ games, Lego contest, wagon rides from Clydesdales, and a balloon artist, to name a few. 

The few fair board members also work on updating the fairgrounds every year to make it a nice facility. They have donated countless hours and personal equipment and supplies to make the fairgrounds a great attraction.

What we ask of the community is to support the fair. If you are able to donate to help, make this long-standing tradition continue operating and growing, it would be a great benefit to our community. There is no donation too big or small. We have a large number of businesses and individuals that have sponsored the county fair for countless years already, and for that we are grateful for their generosity to support this tradition.

If you are able to support the Ellis County Fair, please contact a board member; member listing is found on their website: <a href="https://ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair">Another Day in Fairadise! </a>&nbsp;You can also email them at elliscountyfair@gmail.com.

The Ellis County fair runs from July 11-19, 2025. If you are not able to donate, consider entering and competing at the fair!

Jill Pfannenstiel Vice-President, Ellis County Fair Association

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Fair board members have been busy the last few months reaching out to old and potential new sponsors. Even with their efforts, fundraising has fallen short of their goal this year by $25,000.The Ellis County Fair is one of the longest standing events in Ellis County starting back in the late 1800s. County fairs were a way to unite all the cities, towns, and villages to celebrate those that lived within the county lines. They also displayed their best harvest and crafts. The Ellis County Fair started in the now city limits of Hays, at one time the south end on Main Street. Land was donated to the county by the Schenk family and now sits on its current location.The present Ellis County Fair provides entertainment to go along with all the entries so it will draw people to come view all the exhibits. The Ellis County 4-H club members work hard on not only their livestock exhibits, but other entries such as needlework, foods, arts and crafts, woodworking, and photography. They are judged on their entries teaching youth important life skills that will help them evolve into well-rounded adults.While the fair has grandstand entertainment that requires a ticket for attendance, there are a number of family-orientated events that are offered free to the public, but still cost money to bring them in. Some of those are the petting zoo, live music on the midway, contests such as cornhole, hot dog eating contest, pie eating contest, kids’ games, Lego contest, wagon rides from Clydesdales, and a balloon artist, to name a few. The few fair board members also work on updating the fairgrounds every year to make it a nice facility. They have donated countless hours and personal equipment and supplies to make the fairgrounds a great attraction.What we ask of the community is to support the fair. If you are able to donate to help, make this long-standing tradition continue operating and growing, it would be a great benefit to our community. There is no donation too big or small. We have a large number of businesses and individuals that have sponsored the county fair for countless years already, and for that we are grateful for their generosity to support this tradition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744623053908.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>If you are able to support the Ellis County Fair, please contact a board member; member listing is found on their website: <a href="https://ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair">Another Day in Fairadise! </a>&nbsp;You can also email them at elliscountyfair@gmail.com.The Ellis County fair runs from July 11-19, 2025. If you are not able to donate, consider entering and competing at the fair!Jill Pfannenstiel Vice-President, Ellis County Fair Association

LETTER: Ellis County Fair short $25,000 on fundraising efforts

MILWAUKEE (AP) — A Wisconsin teenager charged in the deaths of his parents faces wider allegations that he killed them to “obtain the financial means” to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-assassination-attempt-butler-pennsylvania/">assassinate President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and overthrow the government, according to a recently unsealed federal warrant.

Nikita Casap, 17, was charged last month by Waukesha County authorities with first-degree murder, theft and other crimes in the deaths of his mother, Tatiana Casap, and his stepfather, Donald Mayer. Authorities allege the teenager fatally shot them at their home outside Milwaukee in February and lived with the decomposing bodies for weeks before fleeing with $14,000 cash, passports and the family dog. He was arrested last <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/172896ef-bb44-4074-891b-cdfc7376c8df">month in Trego County.</a>

Casap, in custody at the Waukesha County jail on a $1 million bond, is due in court next month to enter a plea. County prosecutors have offered a glimpse of the federal allegations, which were outlined in an FBI warrant unsealed Friday.

Federal authorities accuse Casap of planning his parents’ murders, buying a drone and explosives, and sharing his plans with others, including a Russian speaker. His intentions are detailed in a three-page antisemitic manifesto praising Adolf Hitler. The warrant filed at the federal court in Milwaukee also contains excerpts of communications on TikTok and the Telegram messenger app.

“Casap appears to have written a manifest calling for the assassination of the President of the United States. He was in touch with other parties about his plan to kill the President and overthrow the government of the United States,” the search warrant says. “The killing of his parents appeared to be an effort to obtain the financial means and autonomy necessary to carrying out his plan.”

In court, prosecutors alleged Casap was in touch with a person who speaks Russian and shared a plan to flee to Ukraine. Authorities found him in Kansas with money, passports, a car and the family’s dog.

Federal prosecutors alleged Casap’s manifesto outlined his reasons for wanting to kill Trump and included ideas about how he would live in Ukraine.

Citing Casap’s writings, the federal warrant said the teenager wanted to spur governmental collapse by “by getting rid of the president and perhaps the vice president.”

Phone and online messages seeking comment were left Sunday for Casap’s public defender, Nicole Ostrowski. In court last month, she moved to dismiss some of the charges against her client, including theft, arguing that prosecutors had not laid out their case. She’s also noted her client’s age during court proceedings.

“He is young, he is still in high school,” she said on March 12.

County authorities also charged Casap with hiding a corpse, theft and misappropriating identification to obtain money.

Officers found the bodies of Tatiana Casap, 35; and Mayer, 51, on Feb. 28. Family members requested a well-being check after Mayer didn’t report for work and Nikita Casap skipped school for about two weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744674855261.png" alt="Casp Photo Waukesha County Sheriff's Department" />
 <figcaption>Casp Photo Waukesha County Sheriff's Department</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE (AP) — A Wisconsin teenager charged in the deaths of his parents faces wider allegations that he killed them to “obtain the financial means” to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-assassination-attempt-butler-pennsylvania/">assassinate President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and overthrow the government, according to a recently unsealed federal warrant.Nikita Casap, 17, was charged last month by Waukesha County authorities with first-degree murder, theft and other crimes in the deaths of his mother, Tatiana Casap, and his stepfather, Donald Mayer. Authorities allege the teenager fatally shot them at their home outside Milwaukee in February and lived with the decomposing bodies for weeks before fleeing with $14,000 cash, passports and the family dog. He was arrested last <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/172896ef-bb44-4074-891b-cdfc7376c8df">month in Trego County.</a>Casap, in custody at the Waukesha County jail on a $1 million bond, is due in court next month to enter a plea. County prosecutors have offered a glimpse of the federal allegations, which were outlined in an FBI warrant unsealed Friday.Federal authorities accuse Casap of planning his parents’ murders, buying a drone and explosives, and sharing his plans with others, including a Russian speaker. His intentions are detailed in a three-page antisemitic manifesto praising Adolf Hitler. The warrant filed at the federal court in Milwaukee also contains excerpts of communications on TikTok and the Telegram messenger app.“Casap appears to have written a manifest calling for the assassination of the President of the United States. He was in touch with other parties about his plan to kill the President and overthrow the government of the United States,” the search warrant says. “The killing of his parents appeared to be an effort to obtain the financial means and autonomy necessary to carrying out his plan.”In court, prosecutors alleged Casap was in touch with a person who speaks Russian and shared a plan to flee to Ukraine. Authorities found him in Kansas with money, passports, a car and the family’s dog.Federal prosecutors alleged Casap’s manifesto outlined his reasons for wanting to kill Trump and included ideas about how he would live in Ukraine.Citing Casap’s writings, the federal warrant said the teenager wanted to spur governmental collapse by “by getting rid of the president and perhaps the vice president.”Phone and online messages seeking comment were left Sunday for Casap’s public defender, Nicole Ostrowski. In court last month, she moved to dismiss some of the charges against her client, including theft, arguing that prosecutors had not laid out their case. She’s also noted her client’s age during court proceedings.“He is young, he is still in high school,” she said on March 12.County authorities also charged Casap with hiding a corpse, theft and misappropriating identification to obtain money.Officers found the bodies of Tatiana Casap, 35; and Mayer, 51, on Feb. 28. Family members requested a well-being check after Mayer didn’t report for work and Nikita Casap skipped school for about two weeks.

Teen arrested in NW Kansas accused of plotting to kill Trump

FHSU University Communications

Fort Hays State University’s 5th&nbsp;annual Giving Day is a wrap, and once again, the Tiger family showed up in a big way. 

Preliminary results show that nearly 1,000 gifts were made, totaling $180,000. This incredible show of support highlights the deep commitment of FHSU alumni and Tiger fans far and wide.

This year’s Giving Day focused on raising money for student scholarships. Every dollar contributed will open doors to new opportunities, provide resources needed to thrive, and support brighter futures.

“We’re grateful for the Tiger community and the generosity you all have shown again this year,” said Dane Dreiling, FHSU Foundation director of annual giving. “Your dedication to Fort Hays State University and our students is amazing, and the impact of your gifts will have an immediate and lasting effect.”

Did you miss your chance to donate on Giving Day? Give today by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqp6ODrzdrVqvVfIp3cDfSNCmeNLcbXLH1xKdSaTEPLC1UR6U-2FCjBj4fU8EjVjvpchQ-3D-3DE0In_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO-2FNsJBE6j0cCVUK3c4YUHES8-2FtYDm6G2fgVaUs6cOYpUaLW-2FrJdX42-2FZAGt0dSB0Ly6IyjZVNvrS2Wl7ID614arOjGmXmIyfTeP9ZDDNJ3AjfdPi1DmxPAm5ouZmYBDdWUrRLdjhoyn8t70NT8mPvBcm71SzU-2BcUSkhwzdUOFdDuM-2F0Ix2EOgcofrjVJ2neCDl57eIDCDRAdCUqddtF5TQh-2FofyYUTtVhH4CK0W2zd5lFeFwluTgAD-2FNo6e9NznnR">foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744623575403.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University Communications Fort Hays State University’s 5th&nbsp;annual Giving Day is a wrap, and once again, the Tiger family showed up in a big way. Preliminary results show that nearly 1,000 gifts were made, totaling $180,000. This incredible show of support highlights the deep commitment of FHSU alumni and Tiger fans far and wide.This year’s Giving Day focused on raising money for student scholarships. Every dollar contributed will open doors to new opportunities, provide resources needed to thrive, and support brighter futures.“We’re grateful for the Tiger community and the generosity you all have shown again this year,” said Dane Dreiling, FHSU Foundation director of annual giving. “Your dedication to Fort Hays State University and our students is amazing, and the impact of your gifts will have an immediate and lasting effect.”Did you miss your chance to donate on Giving Day? Give today by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqp6ODrzdrVqvVfIp3cDfSNCmeNLcbXLH1xKdSaTEPLC1UR6U-2FCjBj4fU8EjVjvpchQ-3D-3DE0In_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO-2FNsJBE6j0cCVUK3c4YUHES8-2FtYDm6G2fgVaUs6cOYpUaLW-2FrJdX42-2FZAGt0dSB0Ly6IyjZVNvrS2Wl7ID614arOjGmXmIyfTeP9ZDDNJ3AjfdPi1DmxPAm5ouZmYBDdWUrRLdjhoyn8t70NT8mPvBcm71SzU-2BcUSkhwzdUOFdDuM-2F0Ix2EOgcofrjVJ2neCDl57eIDCDRAdCUqddtF5TQh-2FofyYUTtVhH4CK0W2zd5lFeFwluTgAD-2FNo6e9NznnR">foundation.fhsu.edu/giving-day-gift</a>.

FHSU raises $180,000 on 5th-annual Giving Day

Dr. Wally Walstrom, a sports medicine physician at HaysMed Orthopedic Institute, plays a pivotal role in the athletic community of western Kansas. Serving as the team doctor for Fort Hays State University, Dr. Walstrom oversees the health and well-being of the university's student athletes, who outnumber those at any other college in Kansas. His responsibilities extend to leading a team of 13 HaysMed athletic trainers from local high schools and FHSU, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes across the region.

Recently, Dr. Walstrom accepted the prestigious role of chair of the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for the Kansas State High School Athletic Association (KSHSAA). This committee is instrumental in shaping policies and recommendations for high school athletics in Kansas. Under Dr. Walstrom's leadership, the committee has tackled critical issues such as concussion protocols and over-training in youth sports.

Concussion protocols have become a focal point across all levels of sports, from professional leagues to youth athletics. Dr. Walstrom's committee is dedicated to updating the Return to Play guidelines, ensuring that athletes recover safely and effectively. The committee comprises a diverse group of professionals, including athletic trainers, physicians, administrators, coaches, school nurses, and clinical psychologists, all working together to enhance athlete safety.

Over-training in youth sports has gained attention in recent years due to the increasing number of injuries among young athletes. Dr. Walstrom's committee is addressing this issue by implementing new guidelines, which will be available in digital format in the spring and paper copies in the fall for all Kansas high schools. This initiative aims to provide accessible and practical resources to prevent over-training and promote healthy athletic development.

Another significant focus for Dr. Walstrom and his committee is the improvement of Pre-Participation Physical Examinations (PPEs), commonly known as sports physicals. Traditionally, these physicals are required to be completed between May 1st and the start of the school year in August, creating a time crunch for both providers and families. Dr. Walstrom is advocating for an extended timeframe to make the process more convenient and family-friendly while maintaining the highest standards of athlete safety.

Dr. Walstrom's contributions to sports medicine extend beyond his clinical duties. His leadership and commitment to advancing health and safety protocols for athletes have made a lasting impact on the community. Through his work at HaysMed and his involvement with KSHSAA, Dr. Walstrom continues to champion the well-being of athletes, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support. For more information or to request an appointment, please visit HaysMed Sports Medicine and Performance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744294392061.jpeg" alt="Dr. Wally Walstrom. Photo by HaysMed&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Wally Walstrom. Photo by HaysMed&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedDr. Wally Walstrom, a sports medicine physician at HaysMed Orthopedic Institute, plays a pivotal role in the athletic community of western Kansas. Serving as the team doctor for Fort Hays State University, Dr. Walstrom oversees the health and well-being of the university's student athletes, who outnumber those at any other college in Kansas. His responsibilities extend to leading a team of 13 HaysMed athletic trainers from local high schools and FHSU, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes across the region.Recently, Dr. Walstrom accepted the prestigious role of chair of the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for the Kansas State High School Athletic Association (KSHSAA). This committee is instrumental in shaping policies and recommendations for high school athletics in Kansas. Under Dr. Walstrom's leadership, the committee has tackled critical issues such as concussion protocols and over-training in youth sports.Concussion protocols have become a focal point across all levels of sports, from professional leagues to youth athletics. Dr. Walstrom's committee is dedicated to updating the Return to Play guidelines, ensuring that athletes recover safely and effectively. The committee comprises a diverse group of professionals, including athletic trainers, physicians, administrators, coaches, school nurses, and clinical psychologists, all working together to enhance athlete safety.Over-training in youth sports has gained attention in recent years due to the increasing number of injuries among young athletes. Dr. Walstrom's committee is addressing this issue by implementing new guidelines, which will be available in digital format in the spring and paper copies in the fall for all Kansas high schools. This initiative aims to provide accessible and practical resources to prevent over-training and promote healthy athletic development.Another significant focus for Dr. Walstrom and his committee is the improvement of Pre-Participation Physical Examinations (PPEs), commonly known as sports physicals. Traditionally, these physicals are required to be completed between May 1st and the start of the school year in August, creating a time crunch for both providers and families. Dr. Walstrom is advocating for an extended timeframe to make the process more convenient and family-friendly while maintaining the highest standards of athlete safety.Dr. Walstrom's contributions to sports medicine extend beyond his clinical duties. His leadership and commitment to advancing health and safety protocols for athletes have made a lasting impact on the community. Through his work at HaysMed and his involvement with KSHSAA, Dr. Walstrom continues to champion the well-being of athletes, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support. For more information or to request an appointment, please visit HaysMed Sports Medicine and Performance.

Doctor championing sports medicine at HaysMed, beyond

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Volatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. Upcoming monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.

These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.

The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon Central time, via Zoom. There is no fee, but registration is required. If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day.

You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register, go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>.&nbsp;It only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.

If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences, there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc.

Go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a> in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell&nbsp; is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp; is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictVolatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. Upcoming monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon Central time, via Zoom. There is no fee, but registration is required. If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day.You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register, go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>.&nbsp;It only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences, there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc. Go to <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a> in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: 'Winning the Game' grain marketing webinars

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744638170496.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

TMP-Marian vs Ellis Monday, April 11th Hays, Kan. - Monarchs Sports Complex

Radio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: TMP-Marian<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2362395"> Sports Network CLICK H</a>ERE TO WATCH ($)

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are home on Monday for a MCL match up with the Ellis Railroaders.&nbsp;

The Monarchs are coming off a doubleheader sweep of Holcomb on Friday to get to 8-0 on the season.&nbsp;

Ellis is 5-2 after a sweep of Minneola/Ashland on Friday.&nbsp;

First pitch is set for 4 p.m.&nbsp;on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Ellis Monday, April 11th Hays, Kan. - Monarchs Sports ComplexRadio: KHAZ (99.5) <a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: TMP-Marian<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2362395"> Sports Network CLICK H</a>ERE TO WATCH ($)The TMP-Marian Monarchs are home on Monday for a MCL match up with the Ellis Railroaders.&nbsp;The Monarchs are coming off a doubleheader sweep of Holcomb on Friday to get to 8-0 on the season.&nbsp;Ellis is 5-2 after a sweep of Minneola/Ashland on Friday.&nbsp;First pitch is set for 4 p.m.&nbsp;on the Monarchs Sports Network.

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Ellis

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will hear an informational session about infrastructure costs for new housing during its meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts, a Kansas Department of Commerce program, have been used in nearby cities but could be used for the first time in rural Ellis County.

Dominic Eck of Gillmore &amp; Bell will provide an overview of the process if it were to proceed.

Darin Myers, county administrator,  will meet with commissioners to begin the 2026 budget process. Commissioners will be asked to provide direction on financial objectives, mill levy targets, staffing and project priorities.

Budget requests from departments and agencies are due in May.

Commissioners will also review the monthly reports submitted by various departments, such as calls for emergency services and on-scene time for incident responses.

Myers will discuss several reports, including those from Ellis County Communications, Environmental Services, EMS and the Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;

Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun will ask commissioners to approve the use of about $800 from the Opioid Settlement Fund to cover the travel costs of a retired narcotics detective.

The detective will teach a class for local law enforcement on fentanyl and opioid overdose death investigations.

The county commission will consider approving 15 scholarship recipients for the upcoming fall semester. These scholarships assist local high school seniors planning to attend Fort Hays Tech North Central, Fort Hays State University or Hays Academy of Hair Design.

$10,000 has been set aside in the 2025 Ellis County budget for this project.

The commission will be asked to authorize the purchase of asphalt emulsion oils from Ergon Asphalt &amp; Emulsions to support the 2025 Asphalt Maintenance Plan.

The total cost of the materials is&nbsp;$882,837.

The Ellis County Joint Planning Commission chairman and the Environmental Services director will ask the commission to take action on a permit to authorize equipment sales, storage and rental on county property.

Myers will also discuss the potential sale of a brush truck to another governmental agency.

The 2024 County Engineer's annual report will summarize the previous year's projects and timesheets. It will then be submitted to KDOT for inclusion in the Kansas local infrastructure planning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will hear an informational session about infrastructure costs for new housing during its meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts, a Kansas Department of Commerce program, have been used in nearby cities but could be used for the first time in rural Ellis County.Dominic Eck of Gillmore &amp; Bell will provide an overview of the process if it were to proceed.<h2>2026 budget direction</h2>Darin Myers, county administrator, will meet with commissioners to begin the 2026 budget process. Commissioners will be asked to provide direction on financial objectives, mill levy targets, staffing and project priorities.Budget requests from departments and agencies are due in May.<h2>Monthly departmental reports</h2>Commissioners will also review the monthly reports submitted by various departments, such as calls for emergency services and on-scene time for incident responses.Myers will discuss several reports, including those from Ellis County Communications, Environmental Services, EMS and the Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;<h2>Opioid funds for travel expenses</h2>Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun will ask commissioners to approve the use of about $800 from the Opioid Settlement Fund to cover the travel costs of a retired narcotics detective.The detective will teach a class for local law enforcement on fentanyl and opioid overdose death investigations.<h2>Ellis County Commission scholarships</h2>The county commission will consider approving 15 scholarship recipients for the upcoming fall semester. These scholarships assist local high school seniors planning to attend Fort Hays Tech North Central, Fort Hays State University or Hays Academy of Hair Design.$10,000 has been set aside in the 2025 Ellis County budget for this project.<h2>Asphalt maintenance materials</h2>The commission will be asked to authorize the purchase of asphalt emulsion oils from Ergon Asphalt &amp; Emulsions to support the 2025 Asphalt Maintenance Plan.The total cost of the materials is&nbsp;$882,837.<h2>Other business</h2>The Ellis County Joint Planning Commission chairman and the Environmental Services director will ask the commission to take action on a permit to authorize equipment sales, storage and rental on county property.Myers will also discuss the potential sale of a brush truck to another governmental agency.The 2024 County Engineer's annual report will summarize the previous year's projects and timesheets. It will then be submitted to KDOT for inclusion in the Kansas local infrastructure planning.

Ellis County Commission to hear report on housing incentives

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Crude prices are flirting with the break-even point. NYMEX crude for May delivery settled Friday at $61.50 per barrel. By lunchtime on Monday, prices were lower, but still above $60, which many analysts say is the price point below which they lose money. London Brent was trading a few cents over $64 by midday Monday.

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $51.75 per barrel, after rising $1.50 on Friday.&nbsp; Current prices at CHS are down nearly ten dollars from the first of the month.

Another rupture and spill shut down the Keystone Pipeline, this time near Fort Ransom in southeastern North Dakota. Regulators reported a pipeline employee heard a "mechanical bang" on the morning of April 8 and saw oil emerging near a pumping station. The pipeline was shut down within about two minutes, and the spill was contained to a farm field. The pipeline was recently spun off to a firm called South Bow. The company's Website indicates that US and Canadian regulators have issued orders for corrective action. The accident segment will remain shut down until US pipeline regulators okay a restart. Pressure will be restricted, prior inspection results will be analyzed, and materials testing ordered as investigators look into the root causes.

Keystone has now spilled heavy crude oil at least 22 times in ten years, and at least twice in every state in which it operates, six times in North Dakota, and at least four in Kansas including one in Washington County two years ago.

Crude production dipped slightly from a week ago to 13,458,000 barrels a day. The four-week average is down three-and-a-half percent from a year ago. Cumulative production so far this year dips below 13.5 million.

The government reports commercial crude oil inventories jumped 2.6 million barrels to just over 442 million, or about five percent below the five year seasonal average.

New drilling permits in Kansas total 209 for the year, down from 240 last year. Regulators okayed ten last week with six in Western Kansas. Finney County adds two, raising them to 19 for the year. That's third statewide and tops in Western Kansas. Finney County has, in just two years, jumped from fourth to second statewide in crude production.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 8 new completions this week, including one in Stafford County and three in Finney County.

The Kansas Rig Count is down one in Western Kansas at 14 rigs and unchanged east of Wichita at eight active rigs. Drilling continued Friday on a lease in Barton County.

A new government report shows crude exports last year averaged 4.1 million daily barrels, beating the record set the year before.&nbsp; EIA notes export growth slowed to just one percent, from 14% in 2023 and 21% growth in 2022.

The latest weekly export numbers are lower: 3.2 million barrels a day, down 16% from last week, but up more than half a million barrels year-over-year. Crude imports are down a quarter-million daily barrels from a week ago. Four-week average imports drop seven percent.

Baker Hughes reported 583 active drilling rigs last week, noting a drop of nine rigs drilling for oil in the United States. That's the biggest drop in the oil rig tally in two years. The gas count was up one rig. Texas was down three rigs, California and Pennsylvania were each down two, and New Mexico was down one.

Independent Oil and Gas Service lists the top operators based on total footage drilled during the first three months of the year. In Western Kansas, they are Merit Energy, Berexco, Murfin Drilling, American Warrior, and Ritchie Exploration. East of Wichita, that list includes R.J. Energy, Colt Energy, Darrah Oil, Birk Petroleum, and M.L.T. Energy.

The Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association holds its mid-year meeting next week at the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane.&nbsp; Meetings, speeches, mixers, and golf run Wednesday through Friday, April 23rd through 25th. The group's annual convention is scheduled for August. You can find more information at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaCrude prices are flirting with the break-even point. NYMEX crude for May delivery settled Friday at $61.50 per barrel. By lunchtime on Monday, prices were lower, but still above $60, which many analysts say is the price point below which they lose money. London Brent was trading a few cents over $64 by midday Monday.Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $51.75 per barrel, after rising $1.50 on Friday.&nbsp; Current prices at CHS are down nearly ten dollars from the first of the month.Another rupture and spill shut down the Keystone Pipeline, this time near Fort Ransom in southeastern North Dakota. Regulators reported a pipeline employee heard a "mechanical bang" on the morning of April 8 and saw oil emerging near a pumping station. The pipeline was shut down within about two minutes, and the spill was contained to a farm field. The pipeline was recently spun off to a firm called South Bow. The company's Website indicates that US and Canadian regulators have issued orders for corrective action. The accident segment will remain shut down until US pipeline regulators okay a restart. Pressure will be restricted, prior inspection results will be analyzed, and materials testing ordered as investigators look into the root causes.Keystone has now spilled heavy crude oil at least 22 times in ten years, and at least twice in every state in which it operates, six times in North Dakota, and at least four in Kansas including one in Washington County two years ago.Crude production dipped slightly from a week ago to 13,458,000 barrels a day. The four-week average is down three-and-a-half percent from a year ago. Cumulative production so far this year dips below 13.5 million.The government reports commercial crude oil inventories jumped 2.6 million barrels to just over 442 million, or about five percent below the five year seasonal average.New drilling permits in Kansas total 209 for the year, down from 240 last year. Regulators okayed ten last week with six in Western Kansas. Finney County adds two, raising them to 19 for the year. That's third statewide and tops in Western Kansas. Finney County has, in just two years, jumped from fourth to second statewide in crude production.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 8 new completions this week, including one in Stafford County and three in Finney County.The Kansas Rig Count is down one in Western Kansas at 14 rigs and unchanged east of Wichita at eight active rigs. Drilling continued Friday on a lease in Barton County.A new government report shows crude exports last year averaged 4.1 million daily barrels, beating the record set the year before.&nbsp; EIA notes export growth slowed to just one percent, from 14% in 2023 and 21% growth in 2022.The latest weekly export numbers are lower: 3.2 million barrels a day, down 16% from last week, but up more than half a million barrels year-over-year. Crude imports are down a quarter-million daily barrels from a week ago. Four-week average imports drop seven percent.Baker Hughes reported 583 active drilling rigs last week, noting a drop of nine rigs drilling for oil in the United States. That's the biggest drop in the oil rig tally in two years. The gas count was up one rig. Texas was down three rigs, California and Pennsylvania were each down two, and New Mexico was down one.Independent Oil and Gas Service lists the top operators based on total footage drilled during the first three months of the year. In Western Kansas, they are Merit Energy, Berexco, Murfin Drilling, American Warrior, and Ritchie Exploration. East of Wichita, that list includes R.J. Energy, Colt Energy, Darrah Oil, Birk Petroleum, and M.L.T. Energy.The Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association holds its mid-year meeting next week at the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane.&nbsp; Meetings, speeches, mixers, and golf run Wednesday through Friday, April 23rd through 25th. The group's annual convention is scheduled for August. You can find more information at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>

News from the Oil Patch: Keystone shutdown after 6th ND spill

SHERMAN—The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the victims of a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 in Sherman County approximately 9 miles east of Goodland that occurred before 3:30p.m. March 14.

According to the Patrol the victims included 20-year-old Dawson Hogan of Salina; 72-year-old Larry Smith of Sharon Springs; 57-year-old Manuel Alacron of Dodge City; 31-year-old Mario Juarez of Garden City; 24-year-old Baiel Sharshembiev of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; 48-year-old Carlos Arzate of Shattuck, Oklahoma; 61-year-old Stephane Purcell of Evansville Indiana and 60-year-old Giovanni Stephan of Troy Michigan.

A total of seventy-one&nbsp; vehicles were identified as being involved in the collision event, resulting in eight fatalities and forty-six injured who were transported to local hospitals. 

The patrol will complete multiple motor vehicle collision reports to document and separate the collisions that occurred within the event. Investigators believe the separate collisions occurred between the times of approximately 3:20pm - 3:35pm (CDT). Due to the extreme circumstances the exact sequence of events is is still under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744654081515.png" alt="-Photo from the crash scene KHP" />
 <figcaption>-Photo from the crash scene KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN—The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the victims of a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 in Sherman County approximately 9 miles east of Goodland that occurred before 3:30p.m. March 14.According to the Patrol the victims included 20-year-old Dawson Hogan of Salina; 72-year-old Larry Smith of Sharon Springs; 57-year-old Manuel Alacron of Dodge City; 31-year-old Mario Juarez of Garden City; 24-year-old Baiel Sharshembiev of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; 48-year-old Carlos Arzate of Shattuck, Oklahoma; 61-year-old Stephane Purcell of Evansville Indiana and 60-year-old Giovanni Stephan of Troy Michigan.A total of seventy-one&nbsp; vehicles were identified as being involved in the collision event, resulting in eight fatalities and forty-six injured who were transported to local hospitals. The patrol will complete multiple motor vehicle collision reports to document and separate the collisions that occurred within the event. Investigators believe the separate collisions occurred between the times of approximately 3:20pm - 3:35pm (CDT). Due to the extreme circumstances the exact sequence of events is is still under investigation.&nbsp;

Patrol IDs 8 who died in NW Kansas dust storm crash

Ellis County Jail bookings: April 6-12, 2025

Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: April 6-12, 2025

Photos by Tony Guerrero Hays Post

Dogs got a head start on Easter this year with a fun-filled egg hunt packed with treats just for them. The Hays Recreation Commission hosted the sixth annual Doggie Day Egg Hunt on Sunday for an afternoon of fun for local pet owners.

Photos by Tony Guerrero Hays PostDogs got a head start on Easter this year with a fun-filled egg hunt packed with treats just for them. The Hays Recreation Commission hosted the sixth annual Doggie Day Egg Hunt on Sunday for an afternoon of fun for local pet owners.<figure>
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Photo Gallery: 2025 Doggie Day Egg Hunt in Hays

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

From Arctic research to academic recognition, the 20th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days honors the lasting legacy of a beloved Fort Hays State University professor.

The daylong public celebration of academic and creative work by students, faculty, and staff is set for April 24. An online showcase will run April 21–25.

Kaley Schnack, FHSU Grants Coordinator, said the event is also an effort to build familiarity within the community and spotlight the university's work.

"We continue to host this event to allow staff to be able to meet all our community members... contuning to really hone in on all of our research that we're doing at the university," she said.

Hosted by FHSU, the in-person event will feature poster presentations, author showcases, art exhibits and musical performances at various locations across campus.

Free parking, refreshments, games and open exhibits make the event welcoming and enjoyable for the public.

"We have people from all over coming to campus for a variety of events that day. It's an awesome way for everybody to see the hard work that's going into the academics and showing off the amazing and talented faculty, staff and students," Schnack said.

The John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days showcase academic and creative projects across various fields at FHSU, honoring a late academic mentor.

"Dr. Heinrichs was a well-loved and respected geoscience professor at Fort Hays State," FHSU Alumni Director Kim Cebula said. "It's a great way to honor him and all that he did at the university and for our students."

Heinrichs taught at FHSU from 1957 until his passing in 2014 and was widely recognized for his strong dedication to academic excellence and student achievement.

He was an internationally recognized Arctic researcher whose passion for scholarly and creative work made him a strong supporter of faculty and student research at FHSU. Cebula said his enthusiasm helped spark the launch of SACAD 20 years ago.

The times and locations for the celebration are as follows:

• Academic posters: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. (presenters 1–3 p.m.), Memorial Union

• Community projects: 9–11:30 a.m., Memorial Union Ballroom

• Art displays: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (some artists 3–4 p.m.), Schmidt Foundation Center for Art &amp; Design

• Applied tech projects: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. (creators 9 a.m.–noon), Center for Applied Technology

• Meet the Authors: 1–3 p.m., Memorial Union Ballroom

• Music performances: various times in Memorial Union Sunset Atrium; Spring Jazz Concert at 7:30 p.m., Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center

"Show up on campus on the 24th, come to the union and you will definitely be able to see so much of the amazing work our students are doing," Cebula said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744294013626.png" alt="2024 FHSU John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days. Photo by FHSU&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>2024 FHSU John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days. Photo by FHSU&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: FHSU Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days set for April 24" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=n8htj-1878809-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFrom Arctic research to academic recognition, the 20th annual John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days honors the lasting legacy of a beloved Fort Hays State University professor.The daylong public celebration of academic and creative work by students, faculty, and staff is set for April 24. An online showcase will run April 21–25.Kaley Schnack, FHSU Grants Coordinator, said the event is also an effort to build familiarity within the community and spotlight the university's work."We continue to host this event to allow staff to be able to meet all our community members... contuning to really hone in on all of our research that we're doing at the university," she said.Hosted by FHSU, the in-person event will feature poster presentations, author showcases, art exhibits and musical performances at various locations across campus.Free parking, refreshments, games and open exhibits make the event welcoming and enjoyable for the public."We have people from all over coming to campus for a variety of events that day. It's an awesome way for everybody to see the hard work that's going into the academics and showing off the amazing and talented faculty, staff and students," Schnack said.The John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days showcase academic and creative projects across various fields at FHSU, honoring a late academic mentor."Dr. Heinrichs was a well-loved and respected geoscience professor at Fort Hays State," FHSU Alumni Director Kim Cebula said. "It's a great way to honor him and all that he did at the university and for our students."Heinrichs taught at FHSU from 1957 until his passing in 2014 and was widely recognized for his strong dedication to academic excellence and student achievement.He was an internationally recognized Arctic researcher whose passion for scholarly and creative work made him a strong supporter of faculty and student research at FHSU. Cebula said his enthusiasm helped spark the launch of SACAD 20 years ago.The times and locations for the celebration are as follows:• Academic posters: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. (presenters 1–3 p.m.), Memorial Union• Community projects: 9–11:30 a.m., Memorial Union Ballroom• Art displays: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (some artists 3–4 p.m.), Schmidt Foundation Center for Art &amp; Design• Applied tech projects: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. (creators 9 a.m.–noon), Center for Applied Technology• Meet the Authors: 1–3 p.m., Memorial Union Ballroom• Music performances: various times in Memorial Union Sunset Atrium; Spring Jazz Concert at 7:30 p.m., Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center"Show up on campus on the 24th, come to the union and you will definitely be able to see so much of the amazing work our students are doing," Cebula said.

🎙FHSU Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days set for April 24

Sixteen months from now Kansans will vote on a state constitutional amendment that will, if passed, institute popular elections for state supreme court justices. This possibility disturbs many Kansans, and it’s worth trying to understand why.

Today, Kansas has a mostly merit-based system for choosing supreme court justices; while the governor makes the appointment, they are required to choose from list of candidates prepared by a non-partisan committee of lawyers. It’s a fairly unique process, though some other states also take a similarly mixed approach to the filling of state judicial positions.

The idea of shifting to straightforward competitive elections for choosing justices is hardly unknown, however; 21 states have that system (which was also the selection process for judges that Thomas Jefferson preferred, for whatever that’s worth). So what is the fear?

Most say they’re concerned that judicial elections would result in huge amounts of money flowing into Kansas to influence voters one way or another, as was the case recently in Wisconsin, where over $100 million was spent in the last Supreme Court election. 

The focus here is on the profound inequality and potential corruption which comes along with such expensive political races. These elements of contemporary politics are especially inappropriate for the judicial system, or so the argument goes, since it needs to stand as a neutral, non-partisan arbiter of constitutional disputes.

The first part of that fear of indisputably true; while direct connections between large campaign donations and quid-pro-quo-type corruption are rare, the reality of money’s indirect influence on the choices which elected leaders make is all but impossible to deny. But that said, I don’t know if the second part of that concern matters as much as some believe.

Basically, I’m dubious that the judicial branches of our state governments (much like the federal judiciary) have ever been or could ever be the entirely “neutral, non-partisan arbiters” of the law that many want to believe them to be. 

It’s not as though Governor Kelly, when there was a vacancy of the Kansas Supreme Court, didn’t carefully investigate the suggested nominees, so as to avoid choosing someone ideologically committed to an agenda she opposed.

Which I think points to the real problem with adopting judicial elections in our current environment of essentially unregulated campaign money.

 Put frankly: who are the sorts of people who are going to want to serve in the highest levels of our state’s judicial system if doing so will require extensive commitments to raising money and campaigning? Obviously, it’s more likely to appeal to those who, like most politicians generally, desire to promote specific political and legal agendas. So the result of electing justices may not be a corrupting of the judiciary, but rather simply making more obvious the political biases that everyone involved already possesses.

Maintaining a constitutional place for unelected judges in a democratic republic is no easy feat. There needs to be a role for public input; leaving justices entirely unaccountable to those whom their decisions affect is, I think, a sure recipe for discontent. 

But on the other hand, inviting people entirely committed to their political agendas to put themselves forward as the judicial candidates we choose from could undermine the dispositions upon which the courts’ legitimacy depends. 

In Kansas, state judges are already subject to retention votes, though they are almost never removed for that reason. Perhaps taking more seriously that aspect of the judicial selection process—by, for example, imposing term limits—could make for a more balanced reform of the system, rather than replacing it entirely?

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sixteen months from now Kansans will vote on a state constitutional amendment that will, if passed, institute popular elections for state supreme court justices. This possibility disturbs many Kansans, and it’s worth trying to understand why.Today, Kansas has a mostly merit-based system for choosing supreme court justices; while the governor makes the appointment, they are required to choose from list of candidates prepared by a non-partisan committee of lawyers. It’s a fairly unique process, though some other states also take a similarly mixed approach to the filling of state judicial positions.The idea of shifting to straightforward competitive elections for choosing justices is hardly unknown, however; 21 states have that system (which was also the selection process for judges that Thomas Jefferson preferred, for whatever that’s worth). So what is the fear?Most say they’re concerned that judicial elections would result in huge amounts of money flowing into Kansas to influence voters one way or another, as was the case recently in Wisconsin, where over $100 million was spent in the last Supreme Court election. The focus here is on the profound inequality and potential corruption which comes along with such expensive political races. These elements of contemporary politics are especially inappropriate for the judicial system, or so the argument goes, since it needs to stand as a neutral, non-partisan arbiter of constitutional disputes.The first part of that fear of indisputably true; while direct connections between large campaign donations and quid-pro-quo-type corruption are rare, the reality of money’s indirect influence on the choices which elected leaders make is all but impossible to deny. But that said, I don’t know if the second part of that concern matters as much as some believe.Basically, I’m dubious that the judicial branches of our state governments (much like the federal judiciary) have ever been or could ever be the entirely “neutral, non-partisan arbiters” of the law that many want to believe them to be. It’s not as though Governor Kelly, when there was a vacancy of the Kansas Supreme Court, didn’t carefully investigate the suggested nominees, so as to avoid choosing someone ideologically committed to an agenda she opposed.Which I think points to the real problem with adopting judicial elections in our current environment of essentially unregulated campaign money. Put frankly: who are the sorts of people who are going to want to serve in the highest levels of our state’s judicial system if doing so will require extensive commitments to raising money and campaigning? Obviously, it’s more likely to appeal to those who, like most politicians generally, desire to promote specific political and legal agendas. So the result of electing justices may not be a corrupting of the judiciary, but rather simply making more obvious the political biases that everyone involved already possesses.Maintaining a constitutional place for unelected judges in a democratic republic is no easy feat. There needs to be a role for public input; leaving justices entirely unaccountable to those whom their decisions affect is, I think, a sure recipe for discontent. But on the other hand, inviting people entirely committed to their political agendas to put themselves forward as the judicial candidates we choose from could undermine the dispositions upon which the courts’ legitimacy depends. In Kansas, state judges are already subject to retention votes, though they are almost never removed for that reason. Perhaps taking more seriously that aspect of the judicial selection process—by, for example, imposing term limits—could make for a more balanced reform of the system, rather than replacing it entirely?Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: What’s the real problem with electing justices?

The Ellis County landfill will be open on Friday, April 18 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with no dumping 15 minutes prior to close. 

 The landfill will be closed all day on Saturday, April 19 in observance of the Good Friday holiday. 

 All other hours of operation will remain the same during this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579287163220.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County&nbsp;The Ellis County landfill will be open on Friday, April 18 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with no dumping 15 minutes prior to close. The landfill will be closed all day on Saturday, April 19 in observance of the Good Friday holiday. All other hours of operation will remain the same during this week.

Ellis County landfill closed April 19 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744400290532.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division is announcing that road construction will begin in the 2400 block of Catherine Road on Monday, April 14. 

This area will be closed to through traffic for the project's duration. The expected completion date will be Thursday, April 24, depending on weather conditions.

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division at 785-628-9455. 

We appreciate your cooperation during this project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743595551909.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge Division is announcing that road construction will begin in the 2400 block of Catherine Road on Monday, April 14. This area will be closed to through traffic for the project's duration. The expected completion date will be Thursday, April 24, depending on weather conditions.Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division at 785-628-9455. We appreciate your cooperation during this project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Section of Catherine Road closed temporarily for reconstruction

An outdoor library is something the FHSU Tiger Tots Pre-School staff had wanted for years. So, when Carol Solko-Olliff, member of Hays’ Noon Rotary Club and co-advisor for the FHSU Rotaract Club, offered to partner with Tiger Tots to bring an outdoor library to the Tiger Tots Pre-School play area, Director Sara Stroup said she “absolutely agreed.”

The Rotary Little Library project is a Rotary 5680 District-wide project to bring “little libraries” to communities within the Rotary District.

According to Solko-Olliff, FHSU’s on-campus childcare center was “the perfect site” for FHSU’s Rotaract Club’s Little Library. Rotaract, a new college-age service organization sponsored and advised by the Hays Sunrise Rotary Club and Noon Rotary Club, is committed to community service and giving back to the Hays and FHSU communities.

“Rotaract has also been actively securing hundreds of children’s books to keep it filled for the Tiger Tots children to have books available daily throughout the school year to take home with them and encourage and promote reading,” Solko-Olliff said.

At an outdoor library ribbon cutting in early April, Tiger Tots clapped and cheered when their new Little Library was unveiled.

“Thank you,” they shrieked in unison.

Around 20 people attended the ribbon-cutting, which was held on International Children’s Book Day. After its unveiling, Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, took a moment to express his appreciation for the library.

“It is always good to have partnerships between the community and Fort Hays,” he said. “This is an investment in future Tigers and up-and-coming citizens of Hays. Thank you very much for your support.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744212311208.jpeg" alt="Tiger Tots preschoolers clap as their new outdoor library is revealed. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tiger Tots preschoolers clap as their new outdoor library is revealed. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsAn outdoor library is something the FHSU Tiger Tots Pre-School staff had wanted for years. So, when Carol Solko-Olliff, member of Hays’ Noon Rotary Club and co-advisor for the FHSU Rotaract Club, offered to partner with Tiger Tots to bring an outdoor library to the Tiger Tots Pre-School play area, Director Sara Stroup said she “absolutely agreed.”The Rotary Little Library project is a Rotary 5680 District-wide project to bring “little libraries” to communities within the Rotary District.According to Solko-Olliff, FHSU’s on-campus childcare center was “the perfect site” for FHSU’s Rotaract Club’s Little Library. Rotaract, a new college-age service organization sponsored and advised by the Hays Sunrise Rotary Club and Noon Rotary Club, is committed to community service and giving back to the Hays and FHSU communities.“Rotaract has also been actively securing hundreds of children’s books to keep it filled for the Tiger Tots children to have books available daily throughout the school year to take home with them and encourage and promote reading,” Solko-Olliff said.At an outdoor library ribbon cutting in early April, Tiger Tots clapped and cheered when their new Little Library was unveiled.“Thank you,” they shrieked in unison.Around 20 people attended the ribbon-cutting, which was held on International Children’s Book Day. After its unveiling, Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, took a moment to express his appreciation for the library.“It is always good to have partnerships between the community and Fort Hays,” he said. “This is an investment in future Tigers and up-and-coming citizens of Hays. Thank you very much for your support.”

A storybook collaboration: FHSU Rotaract, Rotary unveil Little Library for Tiger Tots

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a trusted local production of Smoky Hills PBS, is pleased to announce that the next episode will feature Russell Regional Hospital&nbsp;with Dr. Tyrel Somers.&nbsp;&nbsp;This episode will air on&nbsp;Tuesday, April 15, at 7 p.m., and will focus on the topic of&nbsp;wound care.

As always, viewers are encouraged to participate by:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Calling in live questions during the show at 1-800-337-4788 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emailing questions ahead of time to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>.&nbsp;

**Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show.

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Doctors on Call&nbsp;Season 20 is made possible in part by these sponsors:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://prospectivelyhealthy.com/">Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744209851390.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a trusted local production of Smoky Hills PBS, is pleased to announce that the next episode will feature Russell Regional Hospital&nbsp;with Dr. Tyrel Somers.&nbsp;&nbsp;This episode will air on&nbsp;Tuesday, April 15, at 7 p.m., and will focus on the topic of&nbsp;wound care.As always, viewers are encouraged to participate by:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Calling in live questions during the show at 1-800-337-4788 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emailing questions ahead of time to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>.&nbsp;**Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show.How to Watch:The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Doctors on Call&nbsp;Season 20 is made possible in part by these sponsors:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://prospectivelyhealthy.com/">Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic</a>.

Russell doctor to talk wound care on 'Doctors on Call' on Tuesday

Last week it was Veto Session for the Legislature, as it was the last week of the 2025 regular session. During this week the House of Representatives and Senate voted to override bills vetoed by the Governor. Overall the House of Representatives overrode vetoes on 13 bills, detailed below is a sample of four bills from that list.

· First is House Bill (HB) 2240. This bill prohibits state agencies from seeking or implementing any public assistance program waiver, or other authorization, from the federal government that expands eligibility for public assistance programs or increases costs to the state. The bill also prohibits potential changes to services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities without express consent or approval from either the Legislature or the Legislative Coordinating Council.

· Second is HB 2217. This legislation expands the scope of the investigatory powers of the Inspector General within the Office of the Attorney General to all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The bill also grants the Inspector General the power to subpoena, administer oaths, and execute search warrants. The bill would also add and amend several definitions and make technical, clarifying, and conforming amendments to state law.

· Third is Senate Bill (SB) 125, the state’s budget bill for fiscal years (FY) 2025 and 2026. The Governor made 40 line-item vetoes, and the Legislature overrode 15 of these.

First is the $3 million State General Fund (SGF) for the Pregnancy Compassion Awareness Program in FY 2026. Second is $1 million SGF for Purple UAS certification innovation grant in FY 2026, aimed at growing the drone manufacturing industry in Kansas. Third and last is the bonding authority for construction of a new State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, critical to agriculture in our state.

· Fourth is SB 29. This piece of legislation would make several changes to current law. First is that it would require the Secretary of Health and Environment to have probable cause, supported by evidence, before taking action to prevent the spread or introduction of infectious diseases. Second, parties aggrieved by said actions would be permitted to pursue civil action against the Secretary of Health and Environment, or any local health officer. Third, local health officers and joint boards would be limited to issuing recommendations against public gatherings to control the spread of disease. Fourth and last would be eliminating the ability for either the Secretary of Health and Environment, or local health officers, from ordering&nbsp;law enforcement assistance regarding those orders.

I voted in favor of overriding the Governor’s veto for each of these bills.

Even though it was Veto Session both chambers of the Legislature were still conferencing on bills. When the conference committees on said bills are finished, and significant changes to the bill are made, a conference committee report (CCR) is created, which is the final version of the bill before enrollment to the Governor. The topics of these CCRs ranged from changing tax policy to streamlining childcare regulations. Ten conference committee reports were voted on this week and detailed below is a sample of four.

First is the CCR for House Bill 2045. This legislation creates the Office of Early Childhood, which will serve as the sole office charged with regulating early childcare in Kansas and consolidates current efforts by several state agencies.

Second is the CCR for House Bill 2125. This bill reauthorizes the statewide school property mill levy, changes certification dates for property tax filings at the county level, extends state reimbursements for mailing and printing costs incurred by county clerks on tax notifications, and eliminates filing fees for repeat appeals, over different years, with the State Board of Tax Appeals.

Third is the CCR for House Bill 2335. This legislation creates a cap on several housing tax credits and enables transference of the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit, even retroactively back to tax year 2022.

Fourth and last is the CCR for House Bill 2007. This is the aforementioned reconciliation bill for the 2025 legislative session, which means that the bill extends authority to the Office of Revisors, the legal team that drafts laws for the legislature, to reconcile potential contradictions created by laws passed during the session.

Two weeks ago, my office had mailed constituents that the State Treasurer’s office had identified as possessing right to unclaimed property. Such property ranges from bank accounts to dividends, which had been forgotten and unclaimed. However, a significant number of letters mailed were returned to my office by the postal service due to the recipient no longer residing at the address. Due to this I am noting it here on the newsletter. To verify if you have unclaimed property and to initiate the claim process, please visit the unclaimed property website at: <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/</a>.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741110863614.png" alt="State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>April 13, 2025 TopekaGOVERNOR VETO OVERRIDESLast week it was Veto Session for the Legislature, as it was the last week of the 2025 regular session. During this week the House of Representatives and Senate voted to override bills vetoed by the Governor. Overall the House of Representatives overrode vetoes on 13 bills, detailed below is a sample of four bills from that list.· First is House Bill (HB) 2240. This bill prohibits state agencies from seeking or implementing any public assistance program waiver, or other authorization, from the federal government that expands eligibility for public assistance programs or increases costs to the state. The bill also prohibits potential changes to services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities without express consent or approval from either the Legislature or the Legislative Coordinating Council.· Second is HB 2217. This legislation expands the scope of the investigatory powers of the Inspector General within the Office of the Attorney General to all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The bill also grants the Inspector General the power to subpoena, administer oaths, and execute search warrants. The bill would also add and amend several definitions and make technical, clarifying, and conforming amendments to state law.· Third is Senate Bill (SB) 125, the state’s budget bill for fiscal years (FY) 2025 and 2026. The Governor made 40 line-item vetoes, and the Legislature overrode 15 of these. I will highlight a few of them here. First is the $3 million State General Fund (SGF) for the Pregnancy Compassion Awareness Program in FY 2026. Second is $1 million SGF for Purple UAS certification innovation grant in FY 2026, aimed at growing the drone manufacturing industry in Kansas. Third and last is the bonding authority for construction of a new State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, critical to agriculture in our state.· Fourth is SB 29. This piece of legislation would make several changes to current law. First is that it would require the Secretary of Health and Environment to have probable cause, supported by evidence, before taking action to prevent the spread or introduction of infectious diseases. Second, parties aggrieved by said actions would be permitted to pursue civil action against the Secretary of Health and Environment, or any local health officer. Third, local health officers and joint boards would be limited to issuing recommendations against public gatherings to control the spread of disease. Fourth and last would be eliminating the ability for either the Secretary of Health and Environment, or local health officers, from ordering&nbsp;law enforcement assistance regarding those orders.I voted in favor of overriding the Governor’s veto for each of these bills.CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORTSEven though it was Veto Session both chambers of the Legislature were still conferencing on bills. When the conference committees on said bills are finished, and significant changes to the bill are made, a conference committee report (CCR) is created, which is the final version of the bill before enrollment to the Governor. The topics of these CCRs ranged from changing tax policy to streamlining childcare regulations. Ten conference committee reports were voted on this week and detailed below is a sample of four.First is the CCR for House Bill 2045. This legislation creates the Office of Early Childhood, which will serve as the sole office charged with regulating early childcare in Kansas and consolidates current efforts by several state agencies. Second is the CCR for House Bill 2125. This bill reauthorizes the statewide school property mill levy, changes certification dates for property tax filings at the county level, extends state reimbursements for mailing and printing costs incurred by county clerks on tax notifications, and eliminates filing fees for repeat appeals, over different years, with the State Board of Tax Appeals.Third is the CCR for House Bill 2335. This legislation creates a cap on several housing tax credits and enables transference of the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit, even retroactively back to tax year 2022. Fourth and last is the CCR for House Bill 2007. This is the aforementioned reconciliation bill for the 2025 legislative session, which means that the bill extends authority to the Office of Revisors, the legal team that drafts laws for the legislature, to reconcile potential contradictions created by laws passed during the session.UNCLAIMED PROPERTYTwo weeks ago, my office had mailed constituents that the State Treasurer’s office had identified as possessing right to unclaimed property. Such property ranges from bank accounts to dividends, which had been forgotten and unclaimed. However, a significant number of letters mailed were returned to my office by the postal service due to the recipient no longer residing at the address. Due to this I am noting it here on the newsletter. To verify if you have unclaimed property and to initiate the claim process, please visit the unclaimed property website at: <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/</a>.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Contact My Office Representative Troy L. Waymaster 300 SW 10th&nbsp;Street Topeka,&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;66612 troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, April 13, 2025

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsWell, it’s time again for both the largest and the smallest birds in Kansas to make their spring appearances. Turkey Vultures, being of course the largest, are here already. There are probably more yet to come as they make their way back from their winter digs in South America. Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, being the smallest, also winter in South America and are due back in Kansas around the middle of April; the earliest sighting last spring was on April 14 in Wichita. I have written about turkey vultures in Kansas numerous times over the years, and about their importance as God’s cleanup-crew; with digestive enzymes that can safely digest even the sourest and rankest roadkill, they provide a necessary service to our environment. They are also mesmerizing to watch as they soar and float on the Kansas winds. But today I want to concentrate more on the smallest birds among us, the hummingbirds.At the annual McPherson Spring Garden Show a couple years back, Mike Daniels, owner of Brook’s Landscape LLC spoke about “Gardening for Friends,” and his main topic was hummingbirds and gardening to attract them. With wings that beat over 50 times per second, hummingbirds can make the trip across the Gulf of Mexico back to the US in 18 – 22 hours, resting on boats and oil derricks if necessary. It’s always been said that hummingbirds are attracted to the color red, but Daniels said that because of the way they see colors, any color using red in its spectrum will attract them, so orange, yellow and purple should all work as well.We often design our entire back yards foliage to attract hummingbirds and hang nectar feeders to cater to their “sweet tooth,” and are sometimes rewarded with “close encounters” as the little blighters become comfortable with our presence. Hummingbirds were much more prevalent in Ohio where I grew up, and we often saw three or four at once at our feeders. One feeder hung in front of a back porch near our kitchen, and the little hummers learned to hover outside a nearby window to get our attention when the feeder was empty. Once after filling the feeder, I slipped quietly out onto the porch and one hungry little hummer actually drank from it as I stood there motionless, holding the feeder at arm’s length.Hummingbirds also have a voracious appetite for insects and have actually been observed robbing trapped bugs from spider webs. They make nests from thistle down and dandelion leaves and weave it all together with spider silk from spider webs. The female usually sits on two jellybean-sized eggs and they can have two broods a year.Daniels suggests trying to attract them with plants and using feeders as a backup. He says to keep the feeders clean and free from mold and dirt, and when mixing the nectar, boil the water and add sugar at the rate of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water to make a syrup that does not sour as quickly as thicker sugar water. Hang feeders in partial shade several feet apart to help keep the males from fighting and hang them where cats can’t get to them. We’ve all heard it said that keeping feeders out too late in the fall might encourage hummingbirds to stay later than they should and miss their fall migration. Daniels told us that is not a problem, as the little guys’ God-given instinct and the absence of insects will send them on their way south right on time. Hummingbirds love petunias and trumpet vine, and salvia, angelonia, morning glory, beard tongue, coral bells and bee balm are also very attractive to them; these plants will&nbsp;all attract butterflies as well. Stay away from insecticides and pesticides if possible and use herbicides sparingly.Yes, it’s time for the greatest and the smallest in the Kansas skies to appear once again from their winter homes far to the south. Look to the sky as the air warms on spring mornings and you’re bound to spot vultures effortlessly soaring above as they ride the rising columns of warm air known as thermals. Get your hummingbird feeders cleaned and ready and spruce up your lawn with a few new plants, and prepare to be entertained by the buzzing sound of little wings and the chattering of jousting hummingbirds as they chase each other across your back yard. What&nbsp;a great time to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

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