FHSU crime log April 27 - May 3, 2024

🎥 2024 National Day of Prayer

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market is up for sale after seven years of offering Hays a unique business experience.

Married owners Shaun and Heather Musil were determined to create a welcoming environment for community occasions.

"We tried to create something where you could have a date, bring your whole family or just have a good experience and feel like you've stepped out of Hays for just a moment," Heather said.

Events hosted at the wine bar include anniversary parties, weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, graduation parties and prom dinners.

The building, 1100 Main St., was purchased in 2017 and already had the name "Paisley Pear" from prior business. Shaun and Heather liked the name and decided to retain it, making only modifications to its logo.

Despite doubts Shaun received about the success of his wine bar, the business adapted and thrived with the support and encouragement it received.

"We've evolved with the times," he said. "The community support and travelers is really what has made the Paisley Pear what it is today."

The business introduced live music. Additionally, the bistro also makes up half of the business.

Shaun and Heather have three kids, two of whom are in college pursuing aspirations that extend beyond Hays. The pair support their children's ambitions but also want to maintain close connections with others.

"We would like to be able to focus more on our family as time goes forward," Heather said. "We also have our parents that we're helping, and we want to be able to spend time with them."

Selling the bar was driven by a desire to prioritize time with friends and family. The bar will continue to operate until it is sold, allowing customers to continue enjoying its services.

The Paisley Pear offers a diverse menu, including brunch, soups, salads, and sandwiches.&nbsp;

Shaun and Heather are optimistic about the future and said whoever takes on the mantle of the Paisley Pear next can innovate the business as they see fit.

"We hope they continue, and hopefully, we can continue our relationships with our customers and those that have been loyal supporters of us," she said.

The Musils said they will support anyone interested in purchasing the business to facilitate a smoother transition and ensure success.

Tours of the wine bar for potential buyers have been conducted in recent weeks, evoking strong sentiments from Shaun.

"It definitely brings out every emotion possible," Shaun said. "I have no regrets at all."

Shaun and Heather extend their gratitude to building owners Marvin and Jenifer Rack, along with neighboring businesses like Hays Nutrition, and Gella's Diner and LB Brewing.

Shaun said the best part of his workday is engaging with customers every Saturday morning.

"I have so much fun with them. I look forward to seeing them as much as they look forward to coming here," he said.

The Paisley Pear is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays.

Shaun and Heather shared their decision to sell the Paisley Pear in a Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=956885956436846&amp;set=a.522657899859656">post</a>.

"We're not going anywhere anytime soon," Shaun said. "We're going to continue doing what we do, and whatever happens is in God's hands."

You can visit the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market website <a href="https://paisleypear.net/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0Yyy7sLH091DPxWw_n5nDmkRMfU8xNnGzsVPgp8ZMFwIvebLjlAuwa61o_aem_AfmQLKtB-j65K_4yC10SCjc6BPDT5J4mhempbdXCuwrlYHWPOFToxi5TX68ZRrK7lkXlSHHzPjrGrFhZlOI0bEAT">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714683875337.jpeg" alt="The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market is up for sale after seven years of offering Hays a unique business experience.Married owners Shaun and Heather Musil were determined to create a welcoming environment for community occasions."We tried to create something where you could have a date, bring your whole family or just have a good experience and feel like you've stepped out of Hays for just a moment," Heather said.Events hosted at the wine bar include anniversary parties, weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, graduation parties and prom dinners.The building, 1100 Main St., was purchased in 2017 and already had the name "Paisley Pear" from prior business. Shaun and Heather liked the name and decided to retain it, making only modifications to its logo.Despite doubts Shaun received about the success of his wine bar, the business adapted and thrived with the support and encouragement it received."We've evolved with the times," he said. "The community support and travelers is really what has made the Paisley Pear what it is today."The business introduced live music. Additionally, the bistro also makes up half of the business.Shaun and Heather have three kids, two of whom are in college pursuing aspirations that extend beyond Hays. The pair support their children's ambitions but also want to maintain close connections with others."We would like to be able to focus more on our family as time goes forward," Heather said. "We also have our parents that we're helping, and we want to be able to spend time with them."Selling the bar was driven by a desire to prioritize time with friends and family. The bar will continue to operate until it is sold, allowing customers to continue enjoying its services.The Paisley Pear offers a diverse menu, including brunch, soups, salads, and sandwiches.&nbsp;Shaun and Heather are optimistic about the future and said whoever takes on the mantle of the Paisley Pear next can innovate the business as they see fit."We hope they continue, and hopefully, we can continue our relationships with our customers and those that have been loyal supporters of us," she said.The Musils said they will support anyone interested in purchasing the business to facilitate a smoother transition and ensure success.Tours of the wine bar for potential buyers have been conducted in recent weeks, evoking strong sentiments from Shaun."It definitely brings out every emotion possible," Shaun said. "I have no regrets at all."Shaun and Heather extend their gratitude to building owners Marvin and Jenifer Rack, along with neighboring businesses like Hays Nutrition, and Gella's Diner and LB Brewing.Shaun said the best part of his workday is engaging with customers every Saturday morning."I have so much fun with them. I look forward to seeing them as much as they look forward to coming here," he said.The Paisley Pear is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays.Shaun and Heather shared their decision to sell the Paisley Pear in a Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=956885956436846&amp;set=a.522657899859656">post</a>."We're not going anywhere anytime soon," Shaun said. "We're going to continue doing what we do, and whatever happens is in God's hands."You can visit the Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market website <a href="https://paisleypear.net/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0Yyy7sLH091DPxWw_n5nDmkRMfU8xNnGzsVPgp8ZMFwIvebLjlAuwa61o_aem_AfmQLKtB-j65K_4yC10SCjc6BPDT5J4mhempbdXCuwrlYHWPOFToxi5TX68ZRrK7lkXlSHHzPjrGrFhZlOI0bEAT">here</a>.

Hays' original wine bar The Paisley Pear up for sale

The HaysMed Orthopedic Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of Joshua Wichman, APRN, to their team of experienced providers.

As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Wichman will work alongside the clinic's orthopedic surgeons to provide comprehensive care to patients. His focus will be on patient evaluation, treatment planning, and follow-up care.

"We are thrilled to have Joshua join our team," said Bryan Brady, HaysMed Vice President of Physician Practice Administration and Ancillary Services. "His dedication to patient care makes him a perfect fit for our clinic, and we are confident that he will provide the highest level of care to our patients."

The Hays Orthopedic Clinic at HaysMed is committed to delivering comprehensive orthopedic care and is equipped with the latest in medical technology. The addition of Wichman is part of the hospital’s ongoing effort to expand and improve services to meet the growing health needs of our community.

HaysMed and the Hays Orthopedic Clinic warmly welcome Joshua Wichman and look forward to the expertise he brings to the organization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714599963542.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe HaysMed Orthopedic Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of Joshua Wichman, APRN, to their team of experienced providers.As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Wichman will work alongside the clinic's orthopedic surgeons to provide comprehensive care to patients. His focus will be on patient evaluation, treatment planning, and follow-up care."We are thrilled to have Joshua join our team," said Bryan Brady, HaysMed Vice President of Physician Practice Administration and Ancillary Services. "His dedication to patient care makes him a perfect fit for our clinic, and we are confident that he will provide the highest level of care to our patients."The Hays Orthopedic Clinic at HaysMed is committed to delivering comprehensive orthopedic care and is equipped with the latest in medical technology. The addition of Wichman is part of the hospital’s ongoing effort to expand and improve services to meet the growing health needs of our community.HaysMed and the Hays Orthopedic Clinic warmly welcome Joshua Wichman and look forward to the expertise he brings to the organization.

HaysMed Orthopedic Clinic welcomes new APRN, Joshua Wichman

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Thursday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 motorhome driven by Melvin Harlan Boll, 83, Littleton, Colorado, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Quinter.

The motorhome lost brakes and power steering. The driver took the Quinter exit crossed Kansas 212 Highway and struck a tree.

EMS transported Boll to&nbsp;Gove County Medical Center.&nbsp; An 81-year-old passenger was not injured. Boll and the passenger were not wearing&nbsp; seat belts, according to the KHP.

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Thursday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 motorhome driven by Melvin Harlan Boll, 83, Littleton, Colorado, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Quinter.The motorhome lost brakes and power steering. The driver took the Quinter exit crossed Kansas 212 Highway and struck a tree.EMS transported Boll to&nbsp;Gove County Medical Center.&nbsp; An 81-year-old passenger was not injured. Boll and the passenger were not wearing&nbsp; seat belts, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after motorhome crash in NW Kansas

The Heartland Community Foundation is proud to announce a significant
milestone: each individual County Legacy Fund at the community foundation has
surpassed $1 million in assets! This remarkable achievement reflects the
incredible growth and support of our communities. We are deeply grateful to all
our donors and partners whose contributions, especially during our annual Match
Month campaigns, have made this milestone possible.

This
extraordinary milestone was made possible by the tremendous support we received
during our 8th annual Match Month campaign, held in February. During
this month, we raised a total of $249,389 from individual and business donors
in Ellis County ($89,363), Rooks County ($80,913), and Trego County ($79,113).
In addition, we received a generous $300,000 matching grant from the Dane G.
Hansen Foundation to benefit the foundation and the County Legacy Funds, which
arrived last week. We have also been approved for a $70,000 matching grant from
the Patterson Family Foundation. This brings our full 2024 Match Month total to
$619,389!

Our
County Legacy Funds are the backbone of our grant-making efforts, allowing us
to support impactful projects and programs that enrich the lives of residents
across Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties. These endowed funds serve as a vital
resource for nonprofits, schools, and community organizations, enabling them to
address critical needs, launch innovative initiatives, and create lasting
positive change. We set a goal in 2016 to reach the $1-million mark in each
fund by 2026 – an achievement we celebrate today two years ahead of our goal. 

Today,
the balances of our County Legacy Funds are: Trego County Legacy Fund =
$1,068,566; Ellis County Legacy Fund = $1,059,293; and Rooks County Legacy Fund
= $1,028,427. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our donors, partners, and
foundations for their continued support and investment in the future of our
communities.

"We
are thrilled by the overwhelming support we've received, both in reaching the
$1 million milestone and in our successful Match Month campaign," said Sarah
Meitner, executive director of Heartland Community Foundation. "These
achievements highlight the dedication and generosity of our community members,
whose investments continue to make a lasting impact on the region."

Over
365 individual donors supported HCF during Match Month, demonstrating the
widespread community support for our mission. Among them, the regional banking
industry played a significant role, with 15 regional banks collectively
donating nearly $20,000 and encouraging their peers in the industry to also
give. Additionally, each of the County Clerks, as well as the cities of Hays,
Plainville, Stockton, Palco, and WaKeeney, made generous contributions. 

Every
dollar raised stays in the community in which it was given. The funds are
endowed with our other investments and we use a portion of the investment
income to make grants available twice a year during a fall and spring cycle. In
2023, HCF granted $393,564 to 79 organizations for 147 community projects. 

Our
spring cycle is now accepting applications. The deadline to apply is May 15;
learn more and apply at <a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants</a>.

“To
offer our thanks to donors, we are mailing “Made it to a Million” signs for
them to hang in a business window, on their fridge at home, or some place else,”
Meitner continued. “The signs serve as a reminder that each individual donor had
a hand in reaching this achievement, benefiting charities now and forever.”

For
further information or inquiries, please contact <a href="mailto:heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714600141837.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Heartland Community Foundation is proud to announce a significant
milestone: each individual County Legacy Fund at the community foundation has
surpassed $1 million in assets! This remarkable achievement reflects the
incredible growth and support of our communities. We are deeply grateful to all
our donors and partners whose contributions, especially during our annual Match
Month campaigns, have made this milestone possible.This
extraordinary milestone was made possible by the tremendous support we received
during our 8th annual Match Month campaign, held in February. During
this month, we raised a total of $249,389 from individual and business donors
in Ellis County ($89,363), Rooks County ($80,913), and Trego County ($79,113).
In addition, we received a generous $300,000 matching grant from the Dane G.
Hansen Foundation to benefit the foundation and the County Legacy Funds, which
arrived last week. We have also been approved for a $70,000 matching grant from
the Patterson Family Foundation. This brings our full 2024 Match Month total to
$619,389!Our
County Legacy Funds are the backbone of our grant-making efforts, allowing us
to support impactful projects and programs that enrich the lives of residents
across Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties. These endowed funds serve as a vital
resource for nonprofits, schools, and community organizations, enabling them to
address critical needs, launch innovative initiatives, and create lasting
positive change. We set a goal in 2016 to reach the $1-million mark in each
fund by 2026 – an achievement we celebrate today two years ahead of our goal. Today,
the balances of our County Legacy Funds are: Trego County Legacy Fund =
$1,068,566; Ellis County Legacy Fund = $1,059,293; and Rooks County Legacy Fund
= $1,028,427. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our donors, partners, and
foundations for their continued support and investment in the future of our
communities."We
are thrilled by the overwhelming support we've received, both in reaching the
$1 million milestone and in our successful Match Month campaign," said Sarah
Meitner, executive director of Heartland Community Foundation. "These
achievements highlight the dedication and generosity of our community members,
whose investments continue to make a lasting impact on the region."Over
365 individual donors supported HCF during Match Month, demonstrating the
widespread community support for our mission. Among them, the regional banking
industry played a significant role, with 15 regional banks collectively
donating nearly $20,000 and encouraging their peers in the industry to also
give. Additionally, each of the County Clerks, as well as the cities of Hays,
Plainville, Stockton, Palco, and WaKeeney, made generous contributions. Every
dollar raised stays in the community in which it was given. The funds are
endowed with our other investments and we use a portion of the investment
income to make grants available twice a year during a fall and spring cycle. In
2023, HCF granted $393,564 to 79 organizations for 147 community projects. Our
spring cycle is now accepting applications. The deadline to apply is May 15;
learn more and apply at <a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants</a>.“To
offer our thanks to donors, we are mailing “Made it to a Million” signs for
them to hang in a business window, on their fridge at home, or some place else,”
Meitner continued. “The signs serve as a reminder that each individual donor had
a hand in reaching this achievement, benefiting charities now and forever.”For
further information or inquiries, please contact <a href="mailto:heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

Heartland Community Foundation reaches $1 million milestone in each county

ATWOOD - Vap Construction, renowned for its commitment to excellence and durability, has been named the recipient of the “Barn of the Year” award for 2023 from the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) in their Agricultural Storage/Workshops category. Every year, the NFBA presents awards in twelve categories for builders who meet their strict criteria and build to the highest standards in the industry. 

This is the third time Vap Construction has been presented with this prestigious recognition.

“We are thrilled to receive the ‘Barn of the Year’ award, which recognizes our team’s dedication to quality,” said Linda Vap, vice president of Vap Construction. “Our buildings meet and exceed the highest industry standards and that’s what NFBA accreditation is all about, “

The winning building for 2023 is called Rooney Ranch Parking Haven, located in Jelm, CO. 

As Kurt Petricka, a hand at Rooney Ranch, continued to help the cattle ranch grow, the need for room to expand became a necessity. The team at Vap Construction customized the building with seven overhead doors, concrete, insulation, and other design features to make it both visually appealing and functional for parking and storing employee vehicles during the brutally cold winters. 

Rooney Ranch is located just south of the Wyoming border in Larimer County, Colorado, which created a need for more structural engineering than most builds completed by Vap Construction. After evaluating the high wind speed and snow load requirements, the determination was made that a post-frame structure was the obvious choice.

For more information about the NFBA yearly awards, visit: https://www.nfba.org/aws/NFBA/pt/sp/building-year

SubmittedATWOOD - Vap Construction, renowned for its commitment to excellence and durability, has been named the recipient of the “Barn of the Year” award for 2023 from the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) in their Agricultural Storage/Workshops category. Every year, the NFBA presents awards in twelve categories for builders who meet their strict criteria and build to the highest standards in the industry. This is the third time Vap Construction has been presented with this prestigious recognition.“We are thrilled to receive the ‘Barn of the Year’ award, which recognizes our team’s dedication to quality,” said Linda Vap, vice president of Vap Construction. “Our buildings meet and exceed the highest industry standards and that’s what NFBA accreditation is all about, “The winning building for 2023 is called Rooney Ranch Parking Haven, located in Jelm, CO. As Kurt Petricka, a hand at Rooney Ranch, continued to help the cattle ranch grow, the need for room to expand became a necessity. The team at Vap Construction customized the building with seven overhead doors, concrete, insulation, and other design features to make it both visually appealing and functional for parking and storing employee vehicles during the brutally cold winters. Rooney Ranch is located just south of the Wyoming border in Larimer County, Colorado, which created a need for more structural engineering than most builds completed by Vap Construction. After evaluating the high wind speed and snow load requirements, the determination was made that a post-frame structure was the obvious choice.For more information about the NFBA yearly awards, visit: https://www.nfba.org/aws/NFBA/pt/sp/building-year

NFBA presents Vap Const. of Atwood with Barn of the Year Award

<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/2024/5/1714688723615.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

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

Summer is just around the corner and schools are rolling into their last couple of weeks!

The Cottonwood Extension District was able to take advantage of a state-wide grant program through Kansas 4-H and the Kansas Department of Education. We have four young people joining our team this summer who will be providing focused educational opportunities through several partners.

In addition to a financial literacy curriculum that will be a part of the Ellinwood Library program, youth in several of our communities will have the opportunity to participate in ag-related STEM activities, leadership lessons, and much more.

Joining our team in Barton County will be 4-H alums, Jayla Wyant and Camille Dolechek. Joining the team in Ellis County are Rhyann Brown and Leah Mages. We are excited to see their interaction with youth across our district!

Some activities and programs will be coordinated through partners such as GPS Kids Club and several area libraries; others will be open to all youth in the community. Keep an eye on our Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page for events and activities which will be open to all youth!

During both county fairs, the Summer Engagement interns will have some activities set up for youth to experience which is just one more reason to check out the events and activities of the fair!

While summer sports keep many families busy, be sure to check on the free or low-cost opportunities available through your Rec Center or library! Did someone in your family get a bike? Or maybe it’s time to air up the tires in an old one and enjoy a family bike ride. Find a new walking path and explore that as a family for exercise, fresh air, and memories!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179500533.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictSummer is just around the corner and schools are rolling into their last couple of weeks!The Cottonwood Extension District was able to take advantage of a state-wide grant program through Kansas 4-H and the Kansas Department of Education. We have four young people joining our team this summer who will be providing focused educational opportunities through several partners.In addition to a financial literacy curriculum that will be a part of the Ellinwood Library program, youth in several of our communities will have the opportunity to participate in ag-related STEM activities, leadership lessons, and much more.Joining our team in Barton County will be 4-H alums, Jayla Wyant and Camille Dolechek. Joining the team in Ellis County are Rhyann Brown and Leah Mages. We are excited to see their interaction with youth across our district!Some activities and programs will be coordinated through partners such as GPS Kids Club and several area libraries; others will be open to all youth in the community. Keep an eye on our Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page for events and activities which will be open to all youth!During both county fairs, the Summer Engagement interns will have some activities set up for youth to experience which is just one more reason to check out the events and activities of the fair!While summer sports keep many families busy, be sure to check on the free or low-cost opportunities available through your Rec Center or library! Did someone in your family get a bike? Or maybe it’s time to air up the tires in an old one and enjoy a family bike ride. Find a new walking path and explore that as a family for exercise, fresh air, and memories!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Summer engagement

FHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy Division

Training available for the right responsible and reliable individual(s)

These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.

Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.

Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

Fort Hays State UniversityFHSU is hiring multiple Skilled Trades Technician positions in the Energy DivisionTraining available for the right responsible and reliable individual(s)These positions perform operation, maintenance and repair of industrial equipment as in boilers, generators, pumps and valves. Work involves all aspects of boiler operation and steam distribution to include general maintenance and repair of related Energy Division/Power Plant equipment. Follow written and oral procedures, reading and recording gauges and water testing.Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalency. One year of experience in a skilled craft area. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the university.Many perks and excellent benefits!Required Application Documents: Applicants must submit resume and names and contact information for three professional references. Applicant documents should be submitted in one PDF.Find more details and application instructions at: https://fhsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CAREERS

Woman from Hays hospitalized after car, trash truck crash

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The National Weather Service reported up to 2-inch hail in Utica in Ness County in a storm that hit northwest Kansas overnight.

WaKeeney, Ogallah and Collyer in Trego County reported golf-ball to tennis-ball-size hail. Softball-size hail was reported in Gove County.

The Osborne County Sheriff reported a power outage, but power was reported back on as of 4 this morning.

Hays received .45 inches of rain overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays has received 4.55 inches of precipitation for the year. By the end of May, Hays is expected to receive 7.81 inches year to date.

Skies are forecast to clear today with a high of 71.

However, more rain is in the forecast for the weekend. The chance for showers Friday night is 60 to 90 percent.

There is a 20 to 30 percent chance for rain in Hays Saturday and Saturday night. The high is forecast to be 66 degrees.

There's a 40 percent chance of rain Sunday with a 20 percent chance of rain Sunday night.&nbsp;

Monday's forecast calls for a high of 81, windy and a 20 percent chance of rain during the day and overnight.

Hays ended April below its average rainfall for the month. The average rainfall in April is 2.11 inches, but Hays only received .77 inches.

According to the Kansas Drought Monitor, Ellis County was listed as abnormally dry to experiencing moderate drought. The map, which was released today, counts precipitation through Tuesday.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe National Weather Service reported up to 2-inch hail in Utica in Ness County in a storm that hit northwest Kansas overnight.WaKeeney, Ogallah and Collyer in Trego County reported golf-ball to tennis-ball-size hail. Softball-size hail was reported in Gove County.The Osborne County Sheriff reported a power outage, but power was reported back on as of 4 this morning.Hays received .45 inches of rain overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays has received 4.55 inches of precipitation for the year. By the end of May, Hays is expected to receive 7.81 inches year to date.Skies are forecast to clear today with a high of 71.However, more rain is in the forecast for the weekend. The chance for showers Friday night is 60 to 90 percent.There is a 20 to 30 percent chance for rain in Hays Saturday and Saturday night. The high is forecast to be 66 degrees.There's a 40 percent chance of rain Sunday with a 20 percent chance of rain Sunday night.&nbsp;Monday's forecast calls for a high of 81, windy and a 20 percent chance of rain during the day and overnight.Hays ended April below its average rainfall for the month. The average rainfall in April is 2.11 inches, but Hays only received .77 inches.According to the Kansas Drought Monitor, Ellis County was listed as abnormally dry to experiencing moderate drought. The map, which was released today, counts precipitation through Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663301036.png" alt="Kansas Drought Map as of Tuesday." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Map as of Tuesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Severe storms drop hail, rain in Northwest Kansas overnight; more rain in forecast

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A couple of proposed annexations will be discussed at today's Hays City Commission work session.

One is a simple housekeeping item, said Jarrod Kuckleman, city management analyst.

"A 25-foot strip of property for USD 489's new high school location at 2500 E. 13th was inadvertently left out," he said.

Another annexation request located north of Interstate 70 at 4885 General Hays Road will be heard for the Norene Unrein Trust.&nbsp;

The trust owner wants the property to be annexed into the city for development.

 Staff recommends annexing the property due to it being adjacent to the lot the applicant is already developing, contiguous to the city limits, and the availability of city services and&nbsp;infrastructure.

The lot is south of the former Hays&nbsp;Livestock Commission sale barn which has been demolished.

Kuckleman says the owner plans to relocate its business, Vernies's Trux-N-Equip from its present site on 41st Street.

Commissioners will also hear a recommended revision to the downtown common consumption area ordinance.

The ordinance disallows the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages purchased outside the district in the common consumption area.

"With the weather warming up, staff has been getting questions about&nbsp;the long-time practice of individuals providing their own alcoholic beverages in the Union Pacific Park&nbsp;and pavilion," Kuckleman said. It is allowed&nbsp;in other city public parks by existing ordinance.

"After talking to the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control, it's been determined that a&nbsp;slight wording change to the&nbsp;common consumption area ordinance&nbsp;would allow this long-standing tradition to continue along with any other area within the&nbsp;CCA if approved by the city commission," he said.

Also on the <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05022024-1479">May 2 agenda </a>is a general nuisance abatement at 409 E. 13th.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA couple of proposed annexations will be discussed at today's Hays City Commission work session.One is a simple housekeeping item, said Jarrod Kuckleman, city management analyst."A 25-foot strip of property for USD 489's new high school location at 2500 E. 13th was inadvertently left out," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714657105871.png" alt="City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Another annexation request located north of Interstate 70 at 4885 General Hays Road will be heard for the Norene Unrein Trust.&nbsp;The trust owner wants the property to be annexed into the city for development. Staff recommends annexing the property due to it being adjacent to the lot the applicant is already developing, contiguous to the city limits, and the availability of city services and&nbsp;infrastructure.The lot is south of the former Hays&nbsp;Livestock Commission sale barn which has been demolished.Kuckleman says the owner plans to relocate its business, Vernies's Trux-N-Equip from its present site on 41st Street.Commissioners will also hear a recommended revision to the downtown common consumption area ordinance.The ordinance disallows the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages purchased outside the district in the common consumption area."With the weather warming up, staff has been getting questions about&nbsp;the long-time practice of individuals providing their own alcoholic beverages in the Union Pacific Park&nbsp;and pavilion," Kuckleman said. It is allowed&nbsp;in other city public parks by existing ordinance."After talking to the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control, it's been determined that a&nbsp;slight wording change to the&nbsp;common consumption area ordinance&nbsp;would allow this long-standing tradition to continue along with any other area within the&nbsp;CCA if approved by the city commission," he said.Also on the <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05022024-1479">May 2 agenda </a>is a general nuisance abatement at 409 E. 13th.The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City commission to consider annexation north of I-70, change to Common Consumption Area ordinance

The skill sets parents want their children to learn are almost the same as employers ask for in their new employees.

Joining the two sets together is the Kansas State Department of Education, and its <a href="https://www.ksde.org/Board/Kansas-State-Board-of-Education/Board-Goals-and-Outcomes">mission</a> to prepare Kansas students for lifelong success through rigorous, quality academic instruction, career training and character development according to each student's gifts and talents.

"Our vision is that Kansas leads the world in the success of each student," said Randy Watson,&nbsp;commissioner of education.&nbsp;

Watson discussed preparing the next-generation workforce at the April 26 membership lunch presented by the Chamber in Hays.

He asked the audience to name the skills and characteristics they want the children in their lives to have as they begin their careers and how those skills relate to&nbsp;Kansas' economic prosperity.

The attendees, all representatives of various Hays employers, listed desired skills, including resilience, innovation, problem-solving, time management, oral communication skills, learning a foreign language, responsibility, team player, common sense and to learn from failure.&nbsp;

"Are the skills you want in your employees pretty close to what you want in the young people in your lives?" Watson asked.

They're also some of the top skills missing in young adults, according to a 2023 survey of businesses by the Kansas Chamber of Commerce.

"These businesses' greatest concern with the workforce is soft skills—60 percent," he said.&nbsp;

"I would argue that almost all these skills you just described fall into that category of soft skills."&nbsp;

Watson said he's not sure he likes the term "soft skills" because "it seems as you're describing those skills, those must be skills we need to have, but they're certainly not measured on an academic test, generally."

The other top concerns about employees in the Kansas Chamber survey were technical skills, a degree and passing a drug test.

The top five skills seen as lacking in high school graduates newly in the job force, according to a consolidated survey of corporate America, included professionalism and work ethic, teamwork, verbal communication, ethics and critical thinking.

Similar results were revealed whether students have a certification or a two-year or four-year degree.

A successful Kansas high school graduate as defined by the Kansas State Department of Education "has some skills to go do anything post-secondary. Could be military, technical school, a four-year school, in the attainment of an industry-recognized certificate without the need to have remedial education," Watson said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"We're trying to prepare kids with these skill sets: academic preparation, cognitive preparation, technical skills, employability skills and civic engagement."

The Kansas job market was examined by the Georgetown Policy Institute and found the state needs 73% of its workers to have a post-secondary certificate or degree. 

About 37% of those workers should have a bachelor's degree or higher, and about 36% need to have a certificate or associate's degree.

Kansas has a gap in those numbers with a 51% post-secondary success rate.

The gap has been narrowing, but "we need to get to that 73 percent," Watson said.

Kansans are demanding higher standards in academic skills, as well as employability and citizenship skills, and the need to move away from a “one-size-fits-all” system that relies exclusively on state assessments, Watson said.

This new vision for education, "Kansans Can," calls for a more student-focused system that provides support and resources for individual success.

 The Kansas State Department of Education outcomes for measuring the success of students are

• Social/emotional growth measured locally • Kindergarten readiness • Individual Plan of Study focused on career interest • High school graduation rates • Postsecondary completion/attendance

SEE RELATED STORY: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6b0fa94-d7d1-4189-9ea0-5c96f0326dcc">USD 489 earns 6 state accreditation honors for 2022-23 school year</a>

Watson said he believes there are two major challenges in education today: undesirable student behaviors and a shortage of educators.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714509230347.jpeg" alt="Randy Watson, Kansas Education Commissioner, in Hays on Friday at a Chamber in Hays luncheon. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Randy Watson, Kansas Education Commissioner, in Hays on Friday at a Chamber in Hays luncheon. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe skill sets parents want their children to learn are almost the same as employers ask for in their new employees.Joining the two sets together is the Kansas State Department of Education, and its <a href="https://www.ksde.org/Board/Kansas-State-Board-of-Education/Board-Goals-and-Outcomes">mission</a> to prepare Kansas students for lifelong success through rigorous, quality academic instruction, career training and character development according to each student's gifts and talents."Our vision is that Kansas leads the world in the success of each student," said Randy Watson,&nbsp;commissioner of education.&nbsp;Watson discussed preparing the next-generation workforce at the April 26 membership lunch presented by the Chamber in Hays.He asked the audience to name the skills and characteristics they want the children in their lives to have as they begin their careers and how those skills relate to&nbsp;Kansas' economic prosperity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714511189828.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Department of Education image." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Department of Education image.</figcaption>
 </figure>The attendees, all representatives of various Hays employers, listed desired skills, including resilience, innovation, problem-solving, time management, oral communication skills, learning a foreign language, responsibility, team player, common sense and to learn from failure.&nbsp;"Are the skills you want in your employees pretty close to what you want in the young people in your lives?" Watson asked.Turns out, they are.They're also some of the top skills missing in young adults, according to a 2023 survey of businesses by the Kansas Chamber of Commerce."These businesses' greatest concern with the workforce is soft skills—60 percent," he said.&nbsp;"I would argue that almost all these skills you just described fall into that category of soft skills."&nbsp;Watson said he's not sure he likes the term "soft skills" because "it seems as you're describing those skills, those must be skills we need to have, but they're certainly not measured on an academic test, generally."The other top concerns about employees in the Kansas Chamber survey were technical skills, a degree and passing a drug test.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714513198604.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Department of Education image." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Department of Education image.</figcaption>
 </figure>The top five skills seen as lacking in high school graduates newly in the job force, according to a consolidated survey of corporate America, included professionalism and work ethic, teamwork, verbal communication, ethics and critical thinking.Similar results were revealed whether students have a certification or a two-year or four-year degree.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714513970326.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Department of Education image." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Department of Education image.</figcaption>
 </figure>A successful Kansas high school graduate as defined by the Kansas State Department of Education "has some skills to go do anything post-secondary. Could be military, technical school, a four-year school, in the attainment of an industry-recognized certificate without the need to have remedial education," Watson said.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We're trying to prepare kids with these skill sets: academic preparation, cognitive preparation, technical skills, employability skills and civic engagement."The Kansas job market was examined by the Georgetown Policy Institute and found the state needs 73% of its workers to have a post-secondary certificate or degree. About 37% of those workers should have a bachelor's degree or higher, and about 36% need to have a certificate or associate's degree.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714514787106.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Department of Education image." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Department of Education image.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas has a gap in those numbers with a 51% post-secondary success rate.The gap has been narrowing, but "we need to get to that 73 percent," Watson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714516385050.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 board members Allen Park and Ruth Ruder with Randy Watson (center), Kansas commissioner of education. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 board members Allen Park and Ruth Ruder with Randy Watson (center), Kansas commissioner of education. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714516519381.jpeg" alt="Mason Ruder, TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School advancement director, and Chad Meitner, Thomas More Prep-Marian principal, with Cathy Hopkins of Hays, Kansas State Board of Education Dist. 5 representative. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Mason Ruder, TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School advancement director, and Chad Meitner, Thomas More Prep-Marian principal, with Cathy Hopkins of Hays, Kansas State Board of Education Dist. 5 representative. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansans are demanding higher standards in academic skills, as well as employability and citizenship skills, and the need to move away from a “one-size-fits-all” system that relies exclusively on state assessments, Watson said.This new vision for education, "Kansans Can," calls for a more student-focused system that provides support and resources for individual success. The Kansas State Department of Education outcomes for measuring the success of students are• Social/emotional growth measured locally • Kindergarten readiness • Individual Plan of Study focused on career interest • High school graduation rates • Postsecondary completion/attendanceSEE RELATED STORY: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6b0fa94-d7d1-4189-9ea0-5c96f0326dcc">USD 489 earns 6 state accreditation honors for 2022-23 school year</a>Watson said he believes there are two major challenges in education today: undesirable student behaviors and a shortage of educators.

Education Commissioner: 'Better soft skills needed to prepare Kansas students for workforce'

Most of the "old-time" sights and sounds were new to the third-graders who participated in Wednesday's Pioneer Days at the Ellis County Historical Society grounds, Seventh and Main in Hays.

"They're finding out what it was like in the 'olden days' on the prairie with no electricity," said Amanda Rupp, Ellis County Historical Society executive director.

"What did you do for fun at recess when there were no basketball courts? How did dinner get prepared?

"Maybe this will inspire the kids to think out of the box and how to make something work when something else won't," Rupp said.

The modern-day children learned that instead of playing video games, pioneer children played marbles and ran three-legged races and egg-spoon races for their entertainment.

Some of the youngsters come from a rural background and immediately recognized the stalk of ripe wheat passed around at the homemade bread and butter demonstration by Donna Maskus, volunteer and society board member.

Many of the 170 students from&nbsp;Holy Family, Wilson, and Lincoln elementary schools, along with Washington Grade School in Ellis, had seen horses before but not up close and personal.

They learned that horses were the primary source of transportation for their forebearers on the prairie.&nbsp;

Members of the Fort Hays State University Rodeo Club also brought their lariats to show off their calf-roping skills, which each child got to try.

Nine stations were set up for the children to learn about life in the past from about 20 volunteers.&nbsp;

The information shared was geared toward the third-grade curriculum.

"It's within their realm of understanding," Rupp said. "They're so inquisitive and filled with questions."

The third-graders found it hard to imagine their entire family living in a one-room house, which they discovered in the Volga Haus exhibit.

They found out at the laundry station there were no extensive wardrobes. Clothes were made by hand and washed with lye soap only occasionally.&nbsp;

Sing-alongs were popular entertainment, and the students sang historic songs, including the Kansas state song "Home on the Range."

There were no supermarkets to shop at. Frontier families raised and butchered their own beef and pork during the winter to take advantage of cold temperatures. There was no refrigeration, either.

The groups learned that corn was for more than just eating. During a tour of the Harness Shop, they also learned about the need for barbed wire fences.

Looking ahead to the next ten years of Pioneer Days, Rupp expects it to evolve to include things like using rotary dial phones, "something their grandparents may have done, not the first pioneers.

"They might hear their grandparents talking about it a little bit, how they made things work. It's good to remember how things were when they didn't have everything," Rupp said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714594801990.jpeg" alt="Laundry day outside the Volga Haus during Ellis County Historical Society Pioneer Days. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Laundry day outside the Volga Haus during Ellis County Historical Society Pioneer Days. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMost of the "old-time" sights and sounds were new to the third-graders who participated in Wednesday's Pioneer Days at the Ellis County Historical Society grounds, Seventh and Main in Hays."They're finding out what it was like in the 'olden days' on the prairie with no electricity," said Amanda Rupp, Ellis County Historical Society executive director."What did you do for fun at recess when there were no basketball courts? How did dinner get prepared?"Maybe this will inspire the kids to think out of the box and how to make something work when something else won't," Rupp said.The modern-day children learned that instead of playing video games, pioneer children played marbles and ran three-legged races and egg-spoon races for their entertainment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714595231429.jpeg" alt="Volunteer and historical society board member Donna Maskus shows area third-graders a stalk of ripe wheat at the bread and butter demonstration booth. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Volunteer and historical society board member Donna Maskus shows area third-graders a stalk of ripe wheat at the bread and butter demonstration booth. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Some of the youngsters come from a rural background and immediately recognized the stalk of ripe wheat passed around at the homemade bread and butter demonstration by Donna Maskus, volunteer and society board member.Many of the 170 students from&nbsp;Holy Family, Wilson, and Lincoln elementary schools, along with Washington Grade School in Ellis, had seen horses before but not up close and personal.They learned that horses were the primary source of transportation for their forebearers on the prairie.&nbsp;Members of the Fort Hays State University Rodeo Club also brought their lariats to show off their calf-roping skills, which each child got to try.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8PkAD59_sJ0" title="ECHS Pioneer Days" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Nine stations were set up for the children to learn about life in the past from about 20 volunteers.&nbsp;The information shared was geared toward the third-grade curriculum."It's within their realm of understanding," Rupp said. "They're so inquisitive and filled with questions."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714595070583.jpeg" alt="One room Vola Hays at Ellis County Historical Society. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One room Vola Hays at Ellis County Historical Society. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The third-graders found it hard to imagine their entire family living in a one-room house, which they discovered in the Volga Haus exhibit.They found out at the laundry station there were no extensive wardrobes. Clothes were made by hand and washed with lye soap only occasionally.&nbsp;Sing-alongs were popular entertainment, and the students sang historic songs, including the Kansas state song "Home on the Range."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714595146042.jpeg" alt="Pioneer families raised and butchered their own meat. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pioneer families raised and butchered their own meat. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>There were no supermarkets to shop at. Frontier families raised and butchered their own beef and pork during the winter to take advantage of cold temperatures. There was no refrigeration, either.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714597323670.jpeg" alt="Corn was, and is, for more than just eating. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Corn was, and is, for more than just eating. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714597491926.jpeg" alt="Volunteer Brad Penka with the Barbed Wire Museum in La Crosse, shows how the "devil's rope" was twisted using a stone wheel. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Volunteer Brad Penka with the Barbed Wire Museum in La Crosse, shows how the "devil's rope" was twisted using a stone wheel. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The groups learned that corn was for more than just eating. During a tour of the Harness Shop, they also learned about the need for barbed wire fences.Looking ahead to the next ten years of Pioneer Days, Rupp expects it to evolve to include things like using rotary dial phones, "something their grandparents may have done, not the first pioneers."They might hear their grandparents talking about it a little bit, how they made things work. It's good to remember how things were when they didn't have everything," Rupp said.

🎥 Pioneer Days returns to Ellis County Historical Society after 7 years

Hays gifted teacher honored

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Madorin: History of Ellis Schools 1940 – Part 14

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