On March 31 and April 1, over 1,700 high school and middle school students from across the state of Kansas converged at the Stormont Vail Events Center and the Hotel Topeka at City Center to compete in the state’s largest business student competition—The Kansas Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference. 

FBLA members from 93 different chapters vied for a chance to compete at this summer’s Future Business Leaders of American National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA on June 29 through July 2, 2025. 

With 78 business and technology events, the top four winners in every event have the opportunity to move on to compete against some of the best business students in the nation and around the world. 

Whether it be competing in objective tests, interviews, public speaking events, presentations or problem-solving scenarios, the Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference brings excitement and energy to the participants and their advisers. Many students have been spending months preparing for their particular events. 

Over 120 career professionals from around the state judged and evaluated the competitors to not only decide who qualified to represent Kansas at nationals, but to also help better the students who were competing in events. Also, of the 78 events that students participated in, at least 70 of them were sponsored by small town businesses, corporations, and individuals. These sponsorships will help to provide some of the first-place event winners with finances to cover a portion of their registration costs to compete at the 2025 National Leadership Conference. 

From the excitement of the opening session kickoff where members presented their campaign speeches and skits, to the climax of the announcing of the event winners, FBLA members had two days of jam-packed activities. Also included in the festivities were campaign booths (and campaigning), college booths, candidate caucusing, and an energized dance for all attendees. 

TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference. Each member represented Thomas More Prep-Marian High School with pride and dignity that exemplified TMP-M’s commitment to academic and spiritual development. 

Below are the names of FBLA members who placed at the 2025 FBLA State Leadership Conference.

• Gracyn and Claire Schippers qualified for nationals in Website Design •&nbsp;Ainsleigh and Ella Bain qualified for nationals in Social Media Strategies

With this year’s national FBLA theme being “Dare to Dream, Dare to Lead”, there was no better representation of this theme than through the efforts of all the FBLA advisers across the State of Kansas. 

The Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference is solely run by the volunteer efforts of every Kansas FBLA adviser and a small group of Kansas FBLA Conference Committee members.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744216033170.jpeg" alt="TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference in Topeka. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference in Topeka. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas More Prep-MarianOn March 31 and April 1, over 1,700 high school and middle school students from across the state of Kansas converged at the Stormont Vail Events Center and the Hotel Topeka at City Center to compete in the state’s largest business student competition—The Kansas Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference. FBLA members from 93 different chapters vied for a chance to compete at this summer’s Future Business Leaders of American National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA on June 29 through July 2, 2025. With 78 business and technology events, the top four winners in every event have the opportunity to move on to compete against some of the best business students in the nation and around the world. Whether it be competing in objective tests, interviews, public speaking events, presentations or problem-solving scenarios, the Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference brings excitement and energy to the participants and their advisers. Many students have been spending months preparing for their particular events. Over 120 career professionals from around the state judged and evaluated the competitors to not only decide who qualified to represent Kansas at nationals, but to also help better the students who were competing in events. Also, of the 78 events that students participated in, at least 70 of them were sponsored by small town businesses, corporations, and individuals. These sponsorships will help to provide some of the first-place event winners with finances to cover a portion of their registration costs to compete at the 2025 National Leadership Conference. From the excitement of the opening session kickoff where members presented their campaign speeches and skits, to the climax of the announcing of the event winners, FBLA members had two days of jam-packed activities. Also included in the festivities were campaign booths (and campaigning), college booths, candidate caucusing, and an energized dance for all attendees. TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference. Each member represented Thomas More Prep-Marian High School with pride and dignity that exemplified TMP-M’s commitment to academic and spiritual development. Below are the names of FBLA members who placed at the 2025 FBLA State Leadership Conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744215783342.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Ella Bain, Ainsleigh Bain, Gracyn Schippers, and Claire Schippers. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Ella Bain, Ainsleigh Bain, Gracyn Schippers, and Claire Schippers. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>• Gracyn and Claire Schippers qualified for nationals in Website Design •&nbsp;Ainsleigh and Ella Bain qualified for nationals in Social Media Strategies With this year’s national FBLA theme being “Dare to Dream, Dare to Lead”, there was no better representation of this theme than through the efforts of all the FBLA advisers across the State of Kansas. The Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference is solely run by the volunteer efforts of every Kansas FBLA adviser and a small group of Kansas FBLA Conference Committee members.&nbsp;

TMP-Marian students quality for nationals at 2025 Kansas FLBA state leadership conference

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Crabgrass preventers are another name for preemergence herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from developing into mature plants. 

Many people have a somewhat foggy idea of how they work and assume they kill the weed seed.&nbsp; Such is not the case. They do not kill the seed or even keep the seed from germinating but rather kill the young plant after it germinates.&nbsp; Therefore, they do not prevent germination but prevent emergence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Crabgrass preventers are just that – preventers. With few exceptions they have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, so they must be applied before germination. Additionally, preventers do not last forever once applied to the soil.&nbsp; 

Microorganisms and natural processes begin to gradually break them down soon after they are applied. If some products are applied too early, they may have lost much of their strength by the time they are needed. Most crabgrass preventers are fairly ineffective after about 60 days, but there is considerable variation among products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For most of Kansas, crabgrass typically begins to germinate around May 1 or a little later. April 15 is normally a good target date for applying preventer because it gives active ingredients time to evenly disperse in the soil before crabgrass germination starts.&nbsp; 

Even better, base timing on the bloom of ornamental plants. The Eastern Redbud tree is a good choice for this purpose. When the trees in your area approach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer. A follow-up application will be needed about 8 weeks later unless you are using Dimension or Barricade.&nbsp;

Dimension and Barricade are the only two products that give season-long control of crabgrass from a single application. In fact, they can be applied earlier than April 15 and still have sufficient residual strength to last the season. Barricade can even be applied in late fall for crabgrass control the next season.

Dimension can be applied as early as March 1. Because of the added flexibility in timing, these products are favorites of lawn care companies who have many customers to service in the spring. 

Though Dimension is usually not applied as early as Barricade, it is the herbicide of choice if it must be applied later than recommended. It is the exception to the rule that preemergence herbicides do not kill existing weeds. Dimension can kill crabgrass as long as it is young (two- to three-leaf stage). 

Dimension is also the best choice if treating a lawn that was planted late last fall. Normally a preemergence herbicide is not recommended unless the lawn has been mowed two to four times. But Dimension is kind to young tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass seedlings and some formulations can be applied as early as two weeks after the first sign of germination. 

However, read the label of the specific product you wish to use to ensure that this use is allowed. Lawns established in the fall can be safely treated with Dimension the following spring even if they have not been mowed.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictCrabgrass preventers are another name for preemergence herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from developing into mature plants. Many people have a somewhat foggy idea of how they work and assume they kill the weed seed.&nbsp; Such is not the case. They do not kill the seed or even keep the seed from germinating but rather kill the young plant after it germinates.&nbsp; Therefore, they do not prevent germination but prevent emergence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Crabgrass preventers are just that – preventers. With few exceptions they have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, so they must be applied before germination. Additionally, preventers do not last forever once applied to the soil.&nbsp; Microorganisms and natural processes begin to gradually break them down soon after they are applied. If some products are applied too early, they may have lost much of their strength by the time they are needed. Most crabgrass preventers are fairly ineffective after about 60 days, but there is considerable variation among products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For most of Kansas, crabgrass typically begins to germinate around May 1 or a little later. April 15 is normally a good target date for applying preventer because it gives active ingredients time to evenly disperse in the soil before crabgrass germination starts.&nbsp; Even better, base timing on the bloom of ornamental plants. The Eastern Redbud tree is a good choice for this purpose. When the trees in your area approach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer. A follow-up application will be needed about 8 weeks later unless you are using Dimension or Barricade.&nbsp;Dimension and Barricade are the only two products that give season-long control of crabgrass from a single application. In fact, they can be applied earlier than April 15 and still have sufficient residual strength to last the season. Barricade can even be applied in late fall for crabgrass control the next season.Dimension can be applied as early as March 1. Because of the added flexibility in timing, these products are favorites of lawn care companies who have many customers to service in the spring. Though Dimension is usually not applied as early as Barricade, it is the herbicide of choice if it must be applied later than recommended. It is the exception to the rule that preemergence herbicides do not kill existing weeds. Dimension can kill crabgrass as long as it is young (two- to three-leaf stage). Dimension is also the best choice if treating a lawn that was planted late last fall. Normally a preemergence herbicide is not recommended unless the lawn has been mowed two to four times. But Dimension is kind to young tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass seedlings and some formulations can be applied as early as two weeks after the first sign of germination. However, read the label of the specific product you wish to use to ensure that this use is allowed. Lawns established in the fall can be safely treated with Dimension the following spring even if they have not been mowed.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Crabgrass preventers

<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/2025/4/1744292698733.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

Hays High vs Dodge City Thursday, April 10th – 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Bickle Schmidt Sports Complex

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2343480">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

Hays High (5-0, 1-0) resumes their three game series with Western Athletic Conference opponent Dodge City (0-5, 0-3) today. The double header will be played at Bickle Schmidt Sports Complex. The Indians defeated the Red Demons in Dodge City on Tuesday by the score of 15-0 in three innings.

First pitch&nbsp; is set for 4:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Dodge City Thursday, April 10th – 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Bickle Schmidt Sports ComplexRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2343480">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>Hays High (5-0, 1-0) resumes their three game series with Western Athletic Conference opponent Dodge City (0-5, 0-3) today. The double header will be played at Bickle Schmidt Sports Complex. The Indians defeated the Red Demons in Dodge City on Tuesday by the score of 15-0 in three innings.First pitch&nbsp; is set for 4:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network.

🥎🎥 Hays High hosts Dodge City

DODGE CITY — Ellis County is on the southeastern edge of a Red Flag Warning for Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 10.

According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, the elevated fire danger threat is due to north winds of 15-25 mph, gusting up to 35 mph, combined with a low relative humidity of 15%.

Today's high temperature is forecasted to reach 72 degrees.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744291369709.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceDODGE CITY — Ellis County is on the southeastern edge of a Red Flag Warning for Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 10.According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, the elevated fire danger threat is due to north winds of 15-25 mph, gusting up to 35 mph, combined with a low relative humidity of 15%.Today's high temperature is forecasted to reach 72 degrees.&nbsp;

Red Flag Warning for Ellis County today

By STACY CAMPELL Cottonwood Extension District

For irrigated growers the following can serve as a good refresher or reminder. 

Giving your irrigation system a thorough check-up and tune-up this spring can lead to more effective water application and potentially, to fewer breakdowns or problems during the heart of the irrigation season. 

Even if irrigation has started in places like southwestern Kansas, it’s important to go through this checklist to potentially save energy and costs while irrigating to the best of the system’s abilities. The above-average seasonal temperatures might have made it where some have jumped into irrigation already, though the nights are still cold.

Here are some areas to check before irrigation starts or when the first irrigation occurs. These areas include the pump and pivot itself, but there may be additional areas to consider as this is not an exhaustive list. Some of this checklist might have been done in the fall.

· Clean pipes and structure of animal nests and check for any damage on the wires.

· Check all panel or pump wires for rodent damage.

· Change all lubricants, associated filters, and fluids if not done in the fall: engine, fuel, cooling system.

·  Refill the drip oil reservoir and allow oil to drain into the drip line based on pump column length.

· Grease drive shafts on the pump and motor.

· Check spark plugs on gas, propane, or natural gas motors.

· Ensure that the right-angle gear head is free moving and clean and lubricate non-reverse pins.

· Blow out any in line filters of debris and check for damage

· Flush system thoroughly with drains removed/open to prevent plugging nozzles and pressure regulators.

· Close any drains/ valves that were opened.

·  Most newer pivots have automatic frost drains that do not need maintenance, but it’s a water loss orifice that shouldn’t be overlooked.

·  Tighten all pressure valves back into operation if loosened or removed for winter months

· Run the motor at the normal operating speed for 45 minutes and walk along the system looking for faulty sprinklers. Look for plugging, broken sprinklers, partially opened valves (if present), unusual distribution/movement, and leaks. If no faulty sprinklers, then any hoses and sprinklers that might have fallen off in the winter.

·  Check the pressure at the pivot point and at the end of the system, particularly at the highest point of the field. Compare this to the design pressure indicated in the pivot chart and adjust accordingly.

· Nozzle wear depends on the quality of the water and the system operating pressure. As a rule of thumb, sprinkler replacement should be considered after approximately 10,000-12,000 hours of operation.

·  Be sure to replace malfunctioning nozzles with ones listed on the computer printout you received from the manufacturer (i.e. pivot chart).

·  Visually inspecting the sprinkler in operation before the irrigation season starts can help identify whether water application is uniform and adequate and whether repairs are needed.

· If in an area with water quality concerns, grab some water samples for water quality testing to anticipate necessary mitigation.

· Check the chemigation pump and safety equipment operation.

·  Check hoses and replace them if cracking is noticeable.

· Check for correct air pressure and extreme wear and tear in each pivot tire

Performing a preseason checkup of your irrigation equipment this spring should be part of your regular maintenance schedule. Component wear happens, resulting in less uniform water application, increased energy use, and untimely breakdowns during your irrigation season. Identify and replace worn components now to have your system ready when you need it.

Information provided by Tina Sullivan, Northeast Area Agronomist and Jonathan Aguilar, Water Resources Engineer.

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 is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictFor irrigated growers the following can serve as a good refresher or reminder. Giving your irrigation system a thorough check-up and tune-up this spring can lead to more effective water application and potentially, to fewer breakdowns or problems during the heart of the irrigation season. Even if irrigation has started in places like southwestern Kansas, it’s important to go through this checklist to potentially save energy and costs while irrigating to the best of the system’s abilities. The above-average seasonal temperatures might have made it where some have jumped into irrigation already, though the nights are still cold.Here are some areas to check before irrigation starts or when the first irrigation occurs. These areas include the pump and pivot itself, but there may be additional areas to consider as this is not an exhaustive list. Some of this checklist might have been done in the fall.· Clean pipes and structure of animal nests and check for any damage on the wires.· Check all panel or pump wires for rodent damage.· Change all lubricants, associated filters, and fluids if not done in the fall: engine, fuel, cooling system.· Refill the drip oil reservoir and allow oil to drain into the drip line based on pump column length.· Grease drive shafts on the pump and motor.· Check gearboxes for each pivot tower.· Check spark plugs on gas, propane, or natural gas motors.· Ensure that the right-angle gear head is free moving and clean and lubricate non-reverse pins.· Blow out any in line filters of debris and check for damage· Flush system thoroughly with drains removed/open to prevent plugging nozzles and pressure regulators.· Close any drains/ valves that were opened.· Most newer pivots have automatic frost drains that do not need maintenance, but it’s a water loss orifice that shouldn’t be overlooked.· Tighten all pressure valves back into operation if loosened or removed for winter months· Run the motor at the normal operating speed for 45 minutes and walk along the system looking for faulty sprinklers. Look for plugging, broken sprinklers, partially opened valves (if present), unusual distribution/movement, and leaks. If no faulty sprinklers, then any hoses and sprinklers that might have fallen off in the winter.· Check the pressure at the pivot point and at the end of the system, particularly at the highest point of the field. Compare this to the design pressure indicated in the pivot chart and adjust accordingly.· Nozzle wear depends on the quality of the water and the system operating pressure. As a rule of thumb, sprinkler replacement should be considered after approximately 10,000-12,000 hours of operation.· Be sure to replace malfunctioning nozzles with ones listed on the computer printout you received from the manufacturer (i.e. pivot chart).· Visually inspecting the sprinkler in operation before the irrigation season starts can help identify whether water application is uniform and adequate and whether repairs are needed.· If in an area with water quality concerns, grab some water samples for water quality testing to anticipate necessary mitigation.· Check the chemigation pump and safety equipment operation.· Check hoses and replace them if cracking is noticeable.· Check for correct air pressure and extreme wear and tear in each pivot tirePerforming a preseason checkup of your irrigation equipment this spring should be part of your regular maintenance schedule. Component wear happens, resulting in less uniform water application, increased energy use, and untimely breakdowns during your irrigation season. Identify and replace worn components now to have your system ready when you need it.Information provided by Tina Sullivan, Northeast Area Agronomist and Jonathan Aguilar, Water Resources Engineer.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: Pre-season irrigation checklist: Maximize efficiency and minimize issues

An update on project work by the Hays Youth Leadership Advisory Board will be heard by city commissioners during their meeting this afternoon.

Also to be presented is the city's 2024 audit by Adams Brown, Hays.

The complete April 10 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04102025-1538">here</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostAn update on project work by the Hays Youth Leadership Advisory Board will be heard by city commissioners during their meeting this afternoon.Also to be presented is the city's 2024 audit by Adams Brown, Hays.The complete April 10 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04102025-1538">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays Youth Leadership Advisory Board to present update to city commission today

FHSU crime log: April 4-10, 2025

By <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/08/kansas-board-of-educations-informal-school-policy-discussion-proves-informative/?emci=4e11d4a7-b414-f011-8b3d-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=d21bf603-2115-f011-8b3d-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — A policy retreat offered the Kansas Board of Education opportunity to explore how local school boards could be liberated from much of the state’s educational bureaucracy by reshaping standards to emphasize instruction in the basics of reading, writing and math.

Conservatives on the 10-member state Board of Education expressed support Monday in personal and philosophical terms for a shift toward fundamental subjects. During the informal gathering at a Topeka office building, right-leaning members said time had come to curtail state mandates bearing down on 284 school districts serving nearly 500,000 students.

Cathy Hopkins, Hays, who serves as chair of the state Board of Education and represents District 5 covering much of western Kansas, said the board was guilty of piling burdensome responsibilities on teachers and administrators. It could be necessary to jettison a large portion of state mandates to improve the ability of local districts to deliver for students in fundamental subject areas, she said.

Her personal agenda for the upcoming two years centered on helping students excel in reading and writing because prowess in those core areas would create an educational ripple effect on student learning.

“How do we get back to that? The core,” said Leavenworth state board member Danny Zeck, who serves as the board’s vice chair. “Get rid of all this Barbra Streisand stuff that we’re doing. What we’re doing now … is not working. We need to get down to the basic stuff for these kids — that they can read and write and do arithmetic and maybe there’s some computer skills and go from there.”

State board member Debby Potter of Garden Plain said accreditation standards for public schools set by the state board had to be condensed.

“There’s a whole range of people and they don’t all have to know math at the level of every other one to be successful,” Potter said.

She indicted the state board should be operating at a 20,000-foot level in terms of academic directives. Local school boards should be allowed to fill in details of academic standards to reflect the character or needs of individual districts.

“God made us to want to learn and gain something we don’t have. All we have to do is provide the tools,” said Hutchinson board member Dennis Hershberger.

He said young children were being harmed by parents who gave them a PlayStation gaming device instead of a box of Crayons. He said he yearned for the past when a jar of pencils on a shelf or a chalkboard at the front of the classroom were keys to the educational experience.

Randy Watson, commissioner of the Kansas State Department of Education, began the policy retreat by emphasizing the value of public service performed by the state Board of Education members. He asked the eight board members in attendance to consider policy amendments that could be accomplished in the next two years, but requested each be framed in terms of children and their families.

“This isn’t about trying to bait people,” Watson said. “All of you not only serve different parts of the state, you come at this job from a different perspective.”

He reminded board members of Article 6, Section 2 of the Kansas Constitution that declared the Kansas Legislature “shall provide for a state Board of Education, which shall have general supervision of public schools.” And, Article 6, Section 6 of the document: “The Legislature shall make suitable provision for finance of the educational interests of the state.”

Interpretation of those constitutional duties has prompted major legal battles every 20 years of so that ultimately were addressed by the Kansas Supreme Court, he said.

“You have a lot of authority, as does a local board,” Watson said. “What does a kindergartner need? What does a third-grader need? How do you build that? We can’t do everything.”

Politically moderate members of the state Board of Education said during the retreat in Topeka that Kansas ought to maintain a central role in the academic evolution of school districts statewide. They said the state board’s mission of delivering educational opportunity to all students had to remain a cornerstone of Kansas’ pre-kindergarten through high school public education system.

There was discussion of students’ demand for instruction in life skills, which have been designed by the state board to prepare graduates for a career or college.

Board member Betty Arnold of Wichita said compaction of instruction to reading, writing and math to the exclusion of other parts of a person’s education ignored reality because many students arrived in public school buildings ill-equipped to learn. Time devoted to mentally preparing students to succeed in school and life shouldn’t be viewed as an extravagance, she said.

“It’s more difficult to teach a kid who does not believe in him or herself,” Arnold said. “No students come to us the same way.”

Hershberger, the Hutchinson state board member, said he was “old-school” and recalled how he struggled emotionally as a child to overcome barriers to reading aloud in class. Students experience real education when they accomplished something they didn’t know they were capable of doing, he said.

“Every child unless there is some mental disability … has the capability of learning to read no matter what their background is,” Hershberger said.

In response, Arnold said it would be wrong for a state board member to transfer personal school experiences from decades ago to decisions about what was necessary to educate children in this era and the future.

“We have to be able to live outside of our own story,” Arnold said.

Melanie Haas, a state board member from Overland Park, said state board placed proper emphasis on a commitment to individual plans of study for students as well as issues related to values and morality. She said the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation program, which was crafted so district-level decisions were made about improving educational opportunity, was in place.

“We’re right in the middle of it. We’re doing it,” Haas said.

In terms of statewide reform, she said, it was imperative the state board concentrate on improving school culture by minimizing friction between teachers and administrators.

“When you have a great administrator who gives autonomy to those in school, you see that in student success,” Haas said. “When you have someone who is micromanaging and telling teachers what to do, and ruling, I think that’s where you see these cultures start to break down.”

She said surveys showed students welcomed instruction in life skills tied to personal, academic and vocational success, including social-emotional learning, practical skills for daily living and character development.

Zeck, the northeast Kansas member of the state board, said he was frustrated with emphasis on life skills in public schools.

“If we’re going to talk about life skills, I would like it to be black and white and not a whole bunch of gray,” Zeck said. “If we’re going to simplify things, then we need to simplify them and not have all this gray stuff.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744208911399.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Board of Education chair Cathy Hopkins, Hays, center, shares the opinion of some of her peers about the need to streamline state board mandates so local school boards and districts can best address the fundamentals of student instruction in math, reading and writing. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of state board’s livestream)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Board of Education chair Cathy Hopkins, Hays, center, shares the opinion of some of her peers about the need to streamline state board mandates so local school boards and districts can best address the fundamentals of student instruction in math, reading and writing. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of state board’s livestream)</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/08/kansas-board-of-educations-informal-school-policy-discussion-proves-informative/?emci=4e11d4a7-b414-f011-8b3d-0022482a9fb7&amp;emdi=d21bf603-2115-f011-8b3d-0022482a9fb7&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — A policy retreat offered the Kansas Board of Education opportunity to explore how local school boards could be liberated from much of the state’s educational bureaucracy by reshaping standards to emphasize instruction in the basics of reading, writing and math.Conservatives on the 10-member state Board of Education expressed support Monday in personal and philosophical terms for a shift toward fundamental subjects. During the informal gathering at a Topeka office building, right-leaning members said time had come to curtail state mandates bearing down on 284 school districts serving nearly 500,000 students.Cathy Hopkins, Hays, who serves as chair of the state Board of Education and represents District 5 covering much of western Kansas, said the board was guilty of piling burdensome responsibilities on teachers and administrators. It could be necessary to jettison a large portion of state mandates to improve the ability of local districts to deliver for students in fundamental subject areas, she said.Her personal agenda for the upcoming two years centered on helping students excel in reading and writing because prowess in those core areas would create an educational ripple effect on student learning.“How do we get back to that? The core,” said Leavenworth state board member Danny Zeck, who serves as the board’s vice chair. “Get rid of all this Barbra Streisand stuff that we’re doing. What we’re doing now … is not working. We need to get down to the basic stuff for these kids — that they can read and write and do arithmetic and maybe there’s some computer skills and go from there.”State board member Debby Potter of Garden Plain said accreditation standards for public schools set by the state board had to be condensed.“There’s a whole range of people and they don’t all have to know math at the level of every other one to be successful,” Potter said.She indicted the state board should be operating at a 20,000-foot level in terms of academic directives. Local school boards should be allowed to fill in details of academic standards to reflect the character or needs of individual districts.“God made us to want to learn and gain something we don’t have. All we have to do is provide the tools,” said Hutchinson board member Dennis Hershberger.He said young children were being harmed by parents who gave them a PlayStation gaming device instead of a box of Crayons. He said he yearned for the past when a jar of pencils on a shelf or a chalkboard at the front of the classroom were keys to the educational experience.<h2>Peering into future</h2>Randy Watson, commissioner of the Kansas State Department of Education, began the policy retreat by emphasizing the value of public service performed by the state Board of Education members. He asked the eight board members in attendance to consider policy amendments that could be accomplished in the next two years, but requested each be framed in terms of children and their families.“This isn’t about trying to bait people,” Watson said. “All of you not only serve different parts of the state, you come at this job from a different perspective.”He reminded board members of Article 6, Section 2 of the Kansas Constitution that declared the Kansas Legislature “shall provide for a state Board of Education, which shall have general supervision of public schools.” And, Article 6, Section 6 of the document: “The Legislature shall make suitable provision for finance of the educational interests of the state.”Interpretation of those constitutional duties has prompted major legal battles every 20 years of so that ultimately were addressed by the Kansas Supreme Court, he said.“You have a lot of authority, as does a local board,” Watson said. “What does a kindergartner need? What does a third-grader need? How do you build that? We can’t do everything.”Politically moderate members of the state Board of Education said during the retreat in Topeka that Kansas ought to maintain a central role in the academic evolution of school districts statewide. They said the state board’s mission of delivering educational opportunity to all students had to remain a cornerstone of Kansas’ pre-kindergarten through high school public education system.There was discussion of students’ demand for instruction in life skills, which have been designed by the state board to prepare graduates for a career or college.<h2>‘Our own story’</h2>Board member Betty Arnold of Wichita said compaction of instruction to reading, writing and math to the exclusion of other parts of a person’s education ignored reality because many students arrived in public school buildings ill-equipped to learn. Time devoted to mentally preparing students to succeed in school and life shouldn’t be viewed as an extravagance, she said.“It’s more difficult to teach a kid who does not believe in him or herself,” Arnold said. “No students come to us the same way.”Hershberger, the Hutchinson state board member, said he was “old-school” and recalled how he struggled emotionally as a child to overcome barriers to reading aloud in class. Students experience real education when they accomplished something they didn’t know they were capable of doing, he said.“Every child unless there is some mental disability … has the capability of learning to read no matter what their background is,” Hershberger said.In response, Arnold said it would be wrong for a state board member to transfer personal school experiences from decades ago to decisions about what was necessary to educate children in this era and the future.“We have to be able to live outside of our own story,” Arnold said.Melanie Haas, a state board member from Overland Park, said state board placed proper emphasis on a commitment to individual plans of study for students as well as issues related to values and morality. She said the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation program, which was crafted so district-level decisions were made about improving educational opportunity, was in place.“We’re right in the middle of it. We’re doing it,” Haas said.In terms of statewide reform, she said, it was imperative the state board concentrate on improving school culture by minimizing friction between teachers and administrators.“When you have a great administrator who gives autonomy to those in school, you see that in student success,” Haas said. “When you have someone who is micromanaging and telling teachers what to do, and ruling, I think that’s where you see these cultures start to break down.”She said surveys showed students welcomed instruction in life skills tied to personal, academic and vocational success, including social-emotional learning, practical skills for daily living and character development.Zeck, the northeast Kansas member of the state board, said he was frustrated with emphasis on life skills in public schools.“If we’re going to talk about life skills, I would like it to be black and white and not a whole bunch of gray,” Zeck said. “If we’re going to simplify things, then we need to simplify them and not have all this gray stuff.”

KS Board of Education’s conservative wing emphasizes desire to focus on core subjects

A classic case of good versus evil is coming to Fort Hays State University this week.

Jekyll &amp; Hyde, the 1990 musical based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella, will run Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 13 at 2:30 p.m. in FHSU’s Felten-Start Theatre. 

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Jeff Leiker, host of The Morning Blend on KAYS Radio, talks with&nbsp;Dr. Terry Crull, professor of music and director of Jekyll &amp; Hyde. &nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'Jekyll & Hyde' musical presented by FHSU" 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=8s6zx-1876f8f-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>A classic case of good versus evil is coming to Fort Hays State University this week.Jekyll &amp; Hyde, the 1990 musical based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella, will run Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 13 at 2:30 p.m. in FHSU’s Felten-Start Theatre. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Jeff Leiker, host of The Morning Blend on KAYS Radio, talks with&nbsp;Dr. Terry Crull, professor of music and director of Jekyll &amp; Hyde. &nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: 'Jekyll & Hyde' musical presented by FHSU this weekend

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Our HAPp program began in January 2025 and is going strong! 

Participants are learning the basics about hypertension, how to take their blood pressure at home and be in dialogue with their health care provider about the data. They are also learning about lifestyle choices that can affect their blood pressure such as diet, exercise, and stress management.

HAPp offers office hours twice a month that coach participants and answer questions around hypertension. They are also setting goals in relationship to the health goals they want to accomplish. In addition to the office hours, participants, as well as the public, are invited to the nutrition workshops.

We have had two of our nutrition workshops that also include a food demonstration. At our first workshop we discussed the role of fat in our diet and learned about how to read food labels. Our program assistant conducted a food demonstration, and participants were able to taste test a couple of delicious recipes.

The second workshop included a special guest speaker, Dr. Travis Haneke, a cardiologist from Hays Medical Center. Dr. Haneke gave an overview of hypertension from a cardiologist’s point of view and was able to answer detailed questions about what hypertension is and how it affects the body! He was a great addition to the night as we further explored how salt in our diet affects blood pressure. 

We finished the night with another food demonstration from Cottonwood District program assistant, Jacy, and she broke down the numbers for us on how using reduced sodium products in recipes affects the bottom line. We also tasted a couple of great recipes! Black bean soup and a lentil recipe were outstanding!

The participants are reporting great successes including lowered blood pressure readings and just an overall feeling of wellness after a couple months into the program. They enjoy the office hours to troubleshoot specifics for themselves as well as the group support offered at the nutrition programs. 

Most importantly, participants regularly monitor their blood pressure at home to enjoy better health in the long term.

It’s not too late to join us! We have two nutrition programs left scheduled for April 29 and May 27. In April we will discuss cooking with herbs and spices and in May we will explore ways to eat healthy when out and about. Both nights will include food demonstrations and tasting new recipes and foods.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictOur HAPp program began in January 2025 and is going strong! Participants are learning the basics about hypertension, how to take their blood pressure at home and be in dialogue with their health care provider about the data. They are also learning about lifestyle choices that can affect their blood pressure such as diet, exercise, and stress management.HAPp offers office hours twice a month that coach participants and answer questions around hypertension. They are also setting goals in relationship to the health goals they want to accomplish. In addition to the office hours, participants, as well as the public, are invited to the nutrition workshops.We have had two of our nutrition workshops that also include a food demonstration. At our first workshop we discussed the role of fat in our diet and learned about how to read food labels. Our program assistant conducted a food demonstration, and participants were able to taste test a couple of delicious recipes.The second workshop included a special guest speaker, Dr. Travis Haneke, a cardiologist from Hays Medical Center. Dr. Haneke gave an overview of hypertension from a cardiologist’s point of view and was able to answer detailed questions about what hypertension is and how it affects the body! He was a great addition to the night as we further explored how salt in our diet affects blood pressure. We finished the night with another food demonstration from Cottonwood District program assistant, Jacy, and she broke down the numbers for us on how using reduced sodium products in recipes affects the bottom line. We also tasted a couple of great recipes! Black bean soup and a lentil recipe were outstanding!The participants are reporting great successes including lowered blood pressure readings and just an overall feeling of wellness after a couple months into the program. They enjoy the office hours to troubleshoot specifics for themselves as well as the group support offered at the nutrition programs. Most importantly, participants regularly monitor their blood pressure at home to enjoy better health in the long term.It’s not too late to join us! We have two nutrition programs left scheduled for April 29 and May 27. In April we will discuss cooking with herbs and spices and in May we will explore ways to eat healthy when out and about. Both nights will include food demonstrations and tasting new recipes and foods.

KOERNER: Hypertension Awareness and Prevention program (HAPp) update

In August of 2023, Bob Davis the voice behind some of the most memorable moments for the University of Kansas Jayhawks, was inducted into the Hays High School Athletics Hall of Fame.

Davis, who also is know for his time behind the microphone calling games for the Fort Hays State University Tigers and the Kansas City Royals died last month.&nbsp; In his memory, we present this special edition of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Time as Gary Shorman visits with Bob Davis from August 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744141710977.png" alt="Photo courtesy University of Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy University of Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>In August of 2023, Bob Davis the voice behind some of the most memorable moments for the University of Kansas Jayhawks, was inducted into the Hays High School Athletics Hall of Fame.Davis, who also is know for his time behind the microphone calling games for the Fort Hays State University Tigers and the Kansas City Royals died last month.&nbsp; In his memory, we present this special edition of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Time as Gary Shorman visits with Bob Davis from August 2023.<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays High Athletic Hall of Fall inductee Bob Davis" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=59w2u-14848e7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever Special Edition with radio voice Bob Davis

The Arbor Day Foundation named Hays a 2024 Tree City USA in honor of&nbsp;its commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees to benefit its community. 

The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and&nbsp;celebrate trees. 

Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries since 1972.&nbsp;

The Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area for over 40 years. 

"We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Hays are leading the way," said&nbsp;Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Hays is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees."&nbsp;

In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce&nbsp;stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. &nbsp;

When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners.&nbsp;

“The desire to plant trees in the area dates back to the city’s early settlers,” said Sandy Jacobs, City of Hays mayor. “Many of those early efforts by Fort Hays soldiers, Martin Allen, and many others, can still be seen today. We are proud to continue that legacy, and the recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation remains a point of pride for the City of Hays.”&nbsp;

To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including maintaining a tree&nbsp;board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban&nbsp;forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. 

The Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National&nbsp;Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. 

To learn more about the program or how to apply, visit <a href="https://www.arborday.org/">arborday.org</a>.&nbsp;

About the Arbor Day Foundation&nbsp;

The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.&nbsp;

They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporter united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees.&nbsp;

For more than 50 years, they've answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners. And this is only the beginning.&nbsp;

The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the&nbsp;power of trees.

Learn more at <a href="https://www.arborday.org/">arborday.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743780590377.jpeg" alt="Trees in Frontier Park. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Trees in Frontier Park. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Arbor Day Foundation named Hays a 2024 Tree City USA in honor of&nbsp;its commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees to benefit its community. The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and&nbsp;celebrate trees. Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries since 1972.&nbsp;The Tree City USA program has recognized cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the livability and sustainability of their local area for over 40 years. "We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Hays are leading the way," said&nbsp;Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Hays is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees."&nbsp;In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce&nbsp;stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health. &nbsp;When the right trees are planted in the right places, they can also reduce traffic noise, increase property values, and lower energy costs for homeowners.&nbsp;“The desire to plant trees in the area dates back to the city’s early settlers,” said Sandy Jacobs, City of Hays mayor. “Many of those early efforts by Fort Hays soldiers, Martin Allen, and many others, can still be seen today. We are proud to continue that legacy, and the recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation remains a point of pride for the City of Hays.”&nbsp;To earn Tree City USA recognition, a city must uphold four core standards including maintaining a tree&nbsp;board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban&nbsp;forestry, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. The Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National&nbsp;Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. To learn more about the program or how to apply, visit <a href="https://www.arborday.org/">arborday.org</a>.&nbsp;About the Arbor Day Foundation&nbsp;The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.&nbsp;They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporter united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees.&nbsp;For more than 50 years, they've answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners. And this is only the beginning.&nbsp;The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the&nbsp;power of trees. Learn more at <a href="https://www.arborday.org/">arborday.org</a>.

Hays earns 2024 Tree City USA recognition from Arbor Day Foundation

COLBY — The Colby Community College Trojan basketball teams hosted the Trojan All-Stars game March 30 at the Colby Event Center. 

"It was a game to showcase the region's top athletes in the senior class, with one last time representing their school, families and teams," Coach Jerrod Stanford said. “It was a great day celebrating our local athletes, I hope they understand what an honor it is to be nominated and also the significance of sharing the game of basketball with the youth of the communities.”&nbsp;

The top senior athletes from this region in Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado are nominated by their high school coaches and selected to join their fellow all-stars.

 This year's selected class is as follows:&nbsp;

Averi Windholz (Victoria HS), Megan Trout (Scott City HS), Molly Martin (Hays HS), Karissa Keeten (Philipsburg HS), Jadyn Mangan (Greeley HS), Emily Bainter (Hoxie HS), Hallie Brooks (Norton HS), Kelvie Reeves (Russell HS), Aubrey Birney&nbsp;(Russell HS), Logan Nolan (Colby HS), Addison Poore (Osborne HS),  Grace William (Osborne HS), Briana Croisant (Otis-Bison HS), Bryan Gillespie (Quinter HS), Natalie North (Ellis HS), Kassi Kaser (Osborne HS), Maggie Labertew (Sylvan-Lucas HS), Juanita Puentes (Southwestern HTS HS), Brynn Billings (Phillipsburg HS), Kayla Jacobs (Phillipsburg HS) and Cris Valle (Weskan HS). 

Tomohito Kobari (Bel Air, KS/Sunrise Christian), Tyce Bollers (Strasburg, CO), Grant Stevens (Colby, KS), Jaryn Windholz (WaKeeney KS/Trego), Daniel Cramer (Healy, KS/Dighton), Clayton Hammeke (Burdett, KS/Pawnee Heights), Shea Salyers (Quinter, KS), Andrew Cooper (Courtland, KS/Pike Valley), Marko Pavlovic (Bel Air, KS/Sunrise Christian), Rhett Kats (Prairie View, KS/ Logan-Palco) and&nbsp; Coach Tim Simoneau. Alvaro Leyva-Loya (Syracuse, KS), Levi Renner (Oakley, KS), Trey Allen (Weskan, KS) Noah Dowell (Hoxie, KS), Mason Jackson (Oakley, KS), Brody Keller (Syracuse, KS), Josiah Irwin (Kit Carson, CO, Kit Carson), Kaden Hardy (Holcomb, KS), Zavionn Thurman (Colorado Springs, CO, Vista Ridge) and Coach Vance Keller.&nbsp;

In addition to the game they also open the gym to pour into the next generation of athletes, hosting a free Rising Stars Skills Clinic. 

The kids in attendance got to learn from the Trojan All-Stars and CCC basketball players. They take them through a series of skills drills, fun competition and team building. The event is a huge success ending with a friendly dunk contest by the men’s basketball team. 

“We had a great day celebrating the high school playing careers of several players across our region. The game was highly competitive and all the players were fun to have around. Our CCC players had a chance to give back to our community with the kids skills camp and all had a blast,” Coach Darin Spence shared. &nbsp;

Congratulations to all of the area All-Stars on the huge accomplishment of being chosen and hosted in Colby.&nbsp;

SubmittedCOLBY — The Colby Community College Trojan basketball teams hosted the Trojan All-Stars game March 30 at the Colby Event Center. "It was a game to showcase the region's top athletes in the senior class, with one last time representing their school, families and teams," Coach Jerrod Stanford said. “It was a great day celebrating our local athletes, I hope they understand what an honor it is to be nominated and also the significance of sharing the game of basketball with the youth of the communities.”&nbsp;The top senior athletes from this region in Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado are nominated by their high school coaches and selected to join their fellow all-stars. This year's selected class is as follows:&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743786047485.jpeg" alt="Girls All-Stars.&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Girls All-Stars.&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls All-Stars:&nbsp;Averi Windholz (Victoria HS), Megan Trout (Scott City HS), Molly Martin (Hays HS), Karissa Keeten (Philipsburg HS), Jadyn Mangan (Greeley HS), Emily Bainter (Hoxie HS), Hallie Brooks (Norton HS), Kelvie Reeves (Russell HS), Aubrey Birney&nbsp;(Russell HS), Logan Nolan (Colby HS), Addison Poore (Osborne HS), Grace William (Osborne HS), Briana Croisant (Otis-Bison HS), Bryan Gillespie (Quinter HS), Natalie North (Ellis HS), Kassi Kaser (Osborne HS), Maggie Labertew (Sylvan-Lucas HS), Juanita Puentes (Southwestern HTS HS), Brynn Billings (Phillipsburg HS), Kayla Jacobs (Phillipsburg HS) and Cris Valle (Weskan HS). <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743786340718.jpeg" alt="Boys All-Stars. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Boys All-Stars. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743786403743.jpeg" alt="Boys All-Stars. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Boys All-Stars. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Boys All-StarsTomohito Kobari (Bel Air, KS/Sunrise Christian), Tyce Bollers (Strasburg, CO), Grant Stevens (Colby, KS), Jaryn Windholz (WaKeeney KS/Trego), Daniel Cramer (Healy, KS/Dighton), Clayton Hammeke (Burdett, KS/Pawnee Heights), Shea Salyers (Quinter, KS), Andrew Cooper (Courtland, KS/Pike Valley), Marko Pavlovic (Bel Air, KS/Sunrise Christian), Rhett Kats (Prairie View, KS/ Logan-Palco) and&nbsp; Coach Tim Simoneau. Alvaro Leyva-Loya (Syracuse, KS), Levi Renner (Oakley, KS), Trey Allen (Weskan, KS) Noah Dowell (Hoxie, KS), Mason Jackson (Oakley, KS), Brody Keller (Syracuse, KS), Josiah Irwin (Kit Carson, CO, Kit Carson), Kaden Hardy (Holcomb, KS), Zavionn Thurman (Colorado Springs, CO, Vista Ridge) and Coach Vance Keller.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743786176525.jpeg" alt="Rising Stars Skills Clinic. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rising Stars Skills Clinic. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743786255880.jpeg" alt="Rising Stars Skills Clinic. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rising Stars Skills Clinic. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the game they also open the gym to pour into the next generation of athletes, hosting a free Rising Stars Skills Clinic. The kids in attendance got to learn from the Trojan All-Stars and CCC basketball players. They take them through a series of skills drills, fun competition and team building. The event is a huge success ending with a friendly dunk contest by the men’s basketball team. “We had a great day celebrating the high school playing careers of several players across our region. The game was highly competitive and all the players were fun to have around. Our CCC players had a chance to give back to our community with the kids skills camp and all had a blast,” Coach Darin Spence shared. &nbsp;Congratulations to all of the area All-Stars on the huge accomplishment of being chosen and hosted in Colby.&nbsp;

Area high school senior athletes compete in Trojan All-Stars basketball game

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744206284942.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>

SMITH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just just before 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in Smith County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by Steven L. White, 61,&nbsp;Forsyth, Missouri, was southbound on U.S. 281 fourteen miles north of U.S. 36. The vehicle traveled off the road, entered the west ditch, and came to rest upright in a field.

EMS transported White and a passenger, Tina J. White, 65, Forsyth, Missouri, to the Smith County hospital.&nbsp;

SMITH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just just before 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in Smith County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by Steven L. White, 61,&nbsp;Forsyth, Missouri, was southbound on U.S. 281 fourteen miles north of U.S. 36. The vehicle traveled off the road, entered the west ditch, and came to rest upright in a field.EMS transported White and a passenger, Tina J. White, 65, Forsyth, Missouri, to the Smith County hospital.&nbsp;

2 hospitalized after semi accident

Congratulations to Bob Mickelson, winner of the&nbsp;Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge from Hays Post!

Bob received $200 worth of Hays Chamber checks for having the top score.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744235601083.jpeg" alt="Bob Michelson claimed the top prize in the Fort Hays NC Tech March Mania Bracket Challenge" />
 <figcaption>Bob Michelson claimed the top prize in the Fort Hays NC Tech March Mania Bracket Challenge</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Bob Mickelson, winner of the&nbsp;Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge from Hays Post!Bob received $200 worth of Hays Chamber checks for having the top score.

The Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge winner is...

An Easter story time and special Easter egg hunt will take place starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, Hays.

The Rev. Jason Murray, pastor at Cornerstone Southern Baptist Church, will present a “resurrection story time,” including songs, on the Rainbow Stage in the park.

Following the story time, an Easter egg hunt will be held for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Individuals should bring their own baskets or bags.

Both events are free and open to all ages.

 The hunt is being sponsored by Celebration Community Church. 

The events will not be held in case of inclement weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744210501880.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Ministerial AllianceAn Easter story time and special Easter egg hunt will take place starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest Drive, Hays.The Rev. Jason Murray, pastor at Cornerstone Southern Baptist Church, will present a “resurrection story time,” including songs, on the Rainbow Stage in the park.Following the story time, an Easter egg hunt will be held for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Individuals should bring their own baskets or bags.Both events are free and open to all ages. The hunt is being sponsored by Celebration Community Church. The events will not be held in case of inclement weather.

ARC Park to feature story time, IDD Easter egg hunt

KANSAS CITY, KANSAS — The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center has received a $1 million grant from the Kansas Board of Regents to support their efforts to address the shortage of nursing students and nurses throughout the state.

The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center, based at the University of Kansas School of Nursing, is engaged in several projects designed to increase interest in nursing and boost applications to nursing schools throughout the state. The grant also will fund a comprehensive report analyzing the relationship between the nursing shortage in the state and its educational programs, providing insight into best practices and barriers for increasing nursing school applications, enrollments and licensing pass rates.

“The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center is so grateful for the support from the Board of Regents,” said Barbara MacArthur, MN, FAAN, director of the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center and a member of the faculty at KU School of Nursing. 

“By collecting data on nursing issues throughout the state, the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center has learned about the issues facing potential students as well as nurses at any stage in their career," she said. "The Kansas Nursing Pathways Project aims to increase applicants to pre-licensure nursing education programs, which is at the core of growing the nursing workforce.”

Enrollment in Kansas nursing education programs has steadily declined by 38% over the last 10 years. Additionally, a significant number of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses plan to retire in the next five years. Rural hospitals in the state are particularly vulnerable and could face closure.

“The mission of the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center aligns perfectly with the regents’ strategic plan for our state’s public higher education system,” said Blake Flanders, Ph.D., Kansas Board of Regents president and chief executive officer. “It will ensure that that our system is meeting a critical need in our state by developing a robust nursing talent pipeline and helping nurses deliver the best possible care.”

“A persistent shortage of nurses means that Kansas patients are at risk of not getting the care they need,” MacArthur said. “Potential nursing students struggle to see an educational pathway that fits their needs, and they often spend time and money filling out multiple applications. Nursing education programs have unfilled seats, and employers struggle to find nurses.”

KU School of Nursing will continue to support and house the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center throughout this initiative.

The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center was established at KU School of Nursing in August 2023 and is one of 46 in the nation focused on solving the nursing shortage issue. It is focused on using data and collaboration to address the nursing workforce shortage throughout the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

About the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-nursing/about/kansas-nursing-workforce-center.html">Kansas Nursing Workforce Center</a>, based at the University of Kansas School of Nursing, ensures Kansans have access to nurses when and where they need them. It will support nurses both individually and as part of the health care team. The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center will use science and evidence-based practices to examine nursing workforce information, provide solutions and generate new knowledge to support nurses. It also will represent the state of Kansas as a member of the National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers.

To learn more, visit the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-nursing/about/kansas-nursing-workforce-center.html">website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692375833810.jpeg" alt="Salina nursing students training. Photo courtesy University of Kansas Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>Salina nursing students training. Photo courtesy University of Kansas Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>UKMC NewsKANSAS CITY, KANSAS — The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center has received a $1 million grant from the Kansas Board of Regents to support their efforts to address the shortage of nursing students and nurses throughout the state.The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center, based at the University of Kansas School of Nursing, is engaged in several projects designed to increase interest in nursing and boost applications to nursing schools throughout the state. The grant also will fund a comprehensive report analyzing the relationship between the nursing shortage in the state and its educational programs, providing insight into best practices and barriers for increasing nursing school applications, enrollments and licensing pass rates.“The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center is so grateful for the support from the Board of Regents,” said Barbara MacArthur, MN, FAAN, director of the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center and a member of the faculty at KU School of Nursing. “By collecting data on nursing issues throughout the state, the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center has learned about the issues facing potential students as well as nurses at any stage in their career," she said. "The Kansas Nursing Pathways Project aims to increase applicants to pre-licensure nursing education programs, which is at the core of growing the nursing workforce.”Enrollment in Kansas nursing education programs has steadily declined by 38% over the last 10 years. Additionally, a significant number of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses plan to retire in the next five years. Rural hospitals in the state are particularly vulnerable and could face closure.“The mission of the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center aligns perfectly with the regents’ strategic plan for our state’s public higher education system,” said Blake Flanders, Ph.D., Kansas Board of Regents president and chief executive officer. “It will ensure that that our system is meeting a critical need in our state by developing a robust nursing talent pipeline and helping nurses deliver the best possible care.”“A persistent shortage of nurses means that Kansas patients are at risk of not getting the care they need,” MacArthur said. “Potential nursing students struggle to see an educational pathway that fits their needs, and they often spend time and money filling out multiple applications. Nursing education programs have unfilled seats, and employers struggle to find nurses.”KU School of Nursing will continue to support and house the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center throughout this initiative.The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center was established at KU School of Nursing in August 2023 and is one of 46 in the nation focused on solving the nursing shortage issue. It is focused on using data and collaboration to address the nursing workforce shortage throughout the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;About the Kansas Nursing Workforce CenterThe&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-nursing/about/kansas-nursing-workforce-center.html">Kansas Nursing Workforce Center</a>, based at the University of Kansas School of Nursing, ensures Kansans have access to nurses when and where they need them. It will support nurses both individually and as part of the health care team. The Kansas Nursing Workforce Center will use science and evidence-based practices to examine nursing workforce information, provide solutions and generate new knowledge to support nurses. It also will represent the state of Kansas as a member of the National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers. To learn more, visit the Kansas Nursing Workforce Center’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-nursing/about/kansas-nursing-workforce-center.html">website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Kansas Nursing Pathways Project launched to address state’s nurse shortage

The Stamp Out Hunger mail carrier food drive will be Saturday.

Bag healthy, nonperishable food items and place them near your mailbox.

Donations will stay in the local community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696537121449.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Stamp Out Hunger mail carrier food drive will be Saturday.Bag healthy, nonperishable food items and place them near your mailbox.Donations will stay in the local community.Learn more at <a href="http://nalc.org/food">nalc.org/food</a> or follow Stamp Out Hunger on Facebook or X.