Officers join in First Responder Appreciation at Custom Creations

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city of Hays will locate its new police station and municipal courts downtown at 1100 Fort, the site of Astra Bank. The building has 23,000 square feet of space with room for expansion.

 An agreement was formalized Thursday by the Hays City Commission with Astra Bank/AIS, which plans to build a new facility on city-owned land at 27th and Main.

The agreement specifies that the city will pay Astra/AIS $1.8 million for its building and transfer a two-acre parcel of land from its five-acre property at 27th and Main to the bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to a banking facility, Astra will also construct a headquarters building and potential retail space on the property.

 After reviewing several options, including constructing a new facility, city staff determined the Astra Bank location as the most viable long-term solution for a new police station. It will also cost about $5 million less than the initial plans for a new building.

The estimated cost of new construction was about $13 million, and remodeling the existing Astra Bank facility will cost approximately $8 million.

Astra Bank plans to vacate its downtown location by July 1, 2025.&nbsp;

The city has money budgeted in the capital improvement plan this year for a remodel design of the bank building, which has a full basement and open floor plan. 

Construction of the new police and municipal court facility is budgeted for 2025.&nbsp;

"We feel this is a really good opportunity for the city of Hays," said Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager. "It will keep the Hays Police Department and municipal court next to the Ellis County Courthouse and jail."

Moving the municipal operations out of the Law Enforcement Center will open up more space for the sheriff's department, jail and the district courts.

"I agree the utilization of that central property makes a lot more sense for it to be residential and retail, and then keeping the Law Enforcement Center all next to each other," said Mason Ruder, commissioner. "We work very closely with the sheriff's department and other courts. It makes sense to keep it localized there.

"Astra's investment in that property beyond its initial bank is going to be huge, too," Ruder said. "That property's been vacant a long time and now we can start seeing some vertical growth on it."

The city will also develop stormwater retention, using stormwater funds, for the entire 27th and Main acreage.

"The city commission has had its eye on possible apartment development for the remaining south side of the lot," Dougherty said.&nbsp;

• Approved a $67,000 design contract for engineering services with Driggs Design Group, PA, Hays, related to the reconstruction of 32nd/33rd Streets from Willow to Vine Streets.

• Designated the Hays Area Planning Commission as the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals.

• Approved the following mayor appointments:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689001138921.png" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="City to locate new police station, municipal court in downtown Hays" 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/?i=6fgih-15f8c57-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays will locate its new police station and municipal courts downtown at 1100 Fort, the site of Astra Bank. The building has 23,000 square feet of space with room for expansion. An agreement was formalized Thursday by the Hays City Commission with Astra Bank/AIS, which plans to build a new facility on city-owned land at 27th and Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713956075443.jpeg" alt="New location of Hays Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>New location of Hays Astra Bank to be built at 27th and Main. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The agreement specifies that the city will pay Astra/AIS $1.8 million for its building and transfer a two-acre parcel of land from its five-acre property at 27th and Main to the bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to a banking facility, Astra will also construct a headquarters building and potential retail space on the property. After reviewing several options, including constructing a new facility, city staff determined the Astra Bank location as the most viable long-term solution for a new police station. It will also cost about $5 million less than the initial plans for a new building.The estimated cost of new construction was about $13 million, and remodeling the existing Astra Bank facility will cost approximately $8 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713964499400.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Astra Bank plans to vacate its downtown location by July 1, 2025.&nbsp;The city has money budgeted in the capital improvement plan this year for a remodel design of the bank building, which has a full basement and open floor plan. Construction of the new police and municipal court facility is budgeted for 2025.&nbsp;"We feel this is a really good opportunity for the city of Hays," said Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager. "It will keep the Hays Police Department and municipal court next to the Ellis County Courthouse and jail."Moving the municipal operations out of the Law Enforcement Center will open up more space for the sheriff's department, jail and the district courts."I agree the utilization of that central property makes a lot more sense for it to be residential and retail, and then keeping the Law Enforcement Center all next to each other," said Mason Ruder, commissioner. "We work very closely with the sheriff's department and other courts. It makes sense to keep it localized there."Astra's investment in that property beyond its initial bank is going to be huge, too," Ruder said. "That property's been vacant a long time and now we can start seeing some vertical growth on it."The city will also develop stormwater retention, using stormwater funds, for the entire 27th and Main acreage."The city commission has had its eye on possible apartment development for the remaining south side of the lot," Dougherty said.&nbsp;In other business, the city commission:• Approved a $67,000 design contract for engineering services with Driggs Design Group, PA, Hays, related to the reconstruction of 32nd/33rd Streets from Willow to Vine Streets.• Updated the future land use map:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714144399677.png" alt="Hays future land use map. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Hays future land use map. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>• Designated the Hays Area Planning Commission as the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals.• Approved the following mayor appointments:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714143518174.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙City to locate new police station, municipal court in downtown Hays    

Ellis County Historical Society in Hays will host “Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion,” a presentation and discussion by Marla Day&nbsp; at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 9 at ECHS Hays campus, 100 W. Seventh in downtown Hays. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.

You can’t mention 20th-century women’s wear without thinking of Nelly Don. The Parsons native built a fashion empire on the vision that women deserved affordable, stylish clothing regardless of means or status. From humble beginnings, Don built a company that treated her workforce of women fairly, brought fashion to millions of American women, and became the largest dressmaker of the century. Ellen “Nell” Quinlan Donnelly’s story is one of innovation, triumph, and hard work—all rooted in her small-town Kansas upbringing.

Marla Day is the curator of Kansas State University’s Historic Costume and Textile Museum in Manhattan.

“Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion” is part of Humanities Kansas's Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

For more information about “Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion” in Hays contact the Ellis County Historical Society at 785-628-2624 or visit <a href="http://www.echshays.org">www.echshays.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714069737712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEllis County Historical Society in Hays will host “Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion,” a presentation and discussion by Marla Day&nbsp; at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 9 at ECHS Hays campus, 100 W. Seventh in downtown Hays. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.You can’t mention 20th-century women’s wear without thinking of Nelly Don. The Parsons native built a fashion empire on the vision that women deserved affordable, stylish clothing regardless of means or status. From humble beginnings, Don built a company that treated her workforce of women fairly, brought fashion to millions of American women, and became the largest dressmaker of the century. Ellen “Nell” Quinlan Donnelly’s story is one of innovation, triumph, and hard work—all rooted in her small-town Kansas upbringing.Marla Day is the curator of Kansas State University’s Historic Costume and Textile Museum in Manhattan.“Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion” is part of Humanities Kansas's Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.For more information about “Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion” in Hays contact the Ellis County Historical Society at 785-628-2624 or visit <a href="http://www.echshays.org">www.echshays.org</a>.

Ellis Co. Historical Society presentation explores legacy of Kansas fashion designer

Beginning Monday at 8 a.m., Canal Blvd. in Hays will be closed to through traffic at 29th St. on the northwest side of the canal for pavement repairs. 

Repairs should be completed by the end of the day on Friday, May 5. 

Traffic control devices will be placed to direct the traveling public. If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686234332975.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday at 8 a.m., Canal Blvd. in Hays will be closed to through traffic at 29th St. on the northwest side of the canal for pavement repairs. Repairs should be completed by the end of the day on Friday, May 5. Traffic control devices will be placed to direct the traveling public. If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Pavement repairs on Canal Blvd. in Hays will close traffic lane

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), established in 1973, protects threatened and endangered species and the critical habitats in which they live. This act requires federal agencies to ensure that any action they authorize or fund does not negatively affect any listed species or any critical habitat the organism needs to survive. For the EPA, this means they are required to assess potential risks to these species when they register or reregister a pesticide product. In 1988, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Endangered Species Protection Program (ESPP) to meet its obligations under this Act. A lawsuit filed in 2011 alleged that the EPA violated ESA when it registered or reevaluated certain pesticide active ingredients, which is now driving some changes that will affect Kansas producers.

The expected changes are being outlined in the EPA’s herbicide, insecticide, fungicide, and rodenticide strategies, which have not been finalized yet. The strategies aim to minimize the exposure of protected species to pesticides. Many of the new risk mitigation measures outlined in the strategies will apply to all pesticides, but some will be specific to a particular site, product, or application timing.

Because the strategies have not been finalized, there is still a lot of uncertainty, but we know pesticide labels will change. Changes will include additional runoff, erosion, and spray drift reduction measures for many products. In addition, some applications will be affected by Pesticide Use Limitation Areas (PULAs), which will have additional restrictions beyond those listed on the product label. Applicators will need to read Endangered Species Protection Bulletins to determine if a PULA will affect an application.

The Endangered Species Protection Bulletin will identify the species of concern and the pesticide active ingredient that may affect it. It will also provide a description of protection measures necessary to protect the species and a county-level map showing the affected geographic areas. If the pesticide label directs you to the website “Bulletins Live! Two” or the toll-free number, you are required to follow the pesticide use limitations found in the Bulletin for your location, the pesticide active ingredient, and the application month (Figure 1). You can obtain Bulletins at the website: https://www.epa.gov/endangered-species/bulletins-live-two-view-bulletins or through the toll-free number 844-477-3813. Bulletins should be obtained no more than six months ahead of your application. It is recommended that applicators keep a record of the Bulletins they obtain as part of their application records. Remember, these bulletins will be required for all pesticides, not only restricted-use products.

As an applicator or producer, now is the time to familiarize yourself with the “Bulletin’s Live! Two” website and how to search, use, and save bulletins. It is important to know the upcoming changes and existing resources that can help you navigate and understand how to comply.

Information provided by Frannie Miller, K-State Research &amp; Extension Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator and Sarah Lancaster, K-State Extension Weed Science Specialist.

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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Endangered Species Act (ESA), established in 1973, protects threatened and endangered species and the critical habitats in which they live. This act requires federal agencies to ensure that any action they authorize or fund does not negatively affect any listed species or any critical habitat the organism needs to survive. For the EPA, this means they are required to assess potential risks to these species when they register or reregister a pesticide product. In 1988, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Endangered Species Protection Program (ESPP) to meet its obligations under this Act. A lawsuit filed in 2011 alleged that the EPA violated ESA when it registered or reevaluated certain pesticide active ingredients, which is now driving some changes that will affect Kansas producers.The expected changes are being outlined in the EPA’s herbicide, insecticide, fungicide, and rodenticide strategies, which have not been finalized yet. The strategies aim to minimize the exposure of protected species to pesticides. Many of the new risk mitigation measures outlined in the strategies will apply to all pesticides, but some will be specific to a particular site, product, or application timing.Because the strategies have not been finalized, there is still a lot of uncertainty, but we know pesticide labels will change. Changes will include additional runoff, erosion, and spray drift reduction measures for many products. In addition, some applications will be affected by Pesticide Use Limitation Areas (PULAs), which will have additional restrictions beyond those listed on the product label. Applicators will need to read Endangered Species Protection Bulletins to determine if a PULA will affect an application.ESP BulletinsThe Endangered Species Protection Bulletin will identify the species of concern and the pesticide active ingredient that may affect it. It will also provide a description of protection measures necessary to protect the species and a county-level map showing the affected geographic areas. If the pesticide label directs you to the website “Bulletins Live! Two” or the toll-free number, you are required to follow the pesticide use limitations found in the Bulletin for your location, the pesticide active ingredient, and the application month (Figure 1). You can obtain Bulletins at the website: https://www.epa.gov/endangered-species/bulletins-live-two-view-bulletins or through the toll-free number 844-477-3813. Bulletins should be obtained no more than six months ahead of your application. It is recommended that applicators keep a record of the Bulletins they obtain as part of their application records. Remember, these bulletins will be required for all pesticides, not only restricted-use products.As an applicator or producer, now is the time to familiarize yourself with the “Bulletin’s Live! Two” website and how to search, use, and save bulletins. It is important to know the upcoming changes and existing resources that can help you navigate and understand how to comply.Information provided by Frannie Miller, K-State Research &amp; Extension Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator and Sarah Lancaster, K-State Extension Weed Science Specialist.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: The Endangered Species Act, what ag producers need to know

<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/2024/4/1714168720733.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

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WI1_KldMTjg?si=FNFCltxat4qiGW_d" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt

FHSU crime log April 20-26, 2024

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation began work on a resurfacing project on a portion of K-25 in Logan County on Thursday.

Project work will involve milling and overlaying on 22 miles between 160th&nbsp;Road and the U.S. 40 junction. Traffic through the areas where crews are actively working will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.

KDOT expects work to be completed in late June, conditions permitting.

APAC-Kansas Inc., Shears Division, of Hutchinson is the primary contractor for the $5 million project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701368603184.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation began work on a resurfacing project on a portion of K-25 in Logan County on Thursday.Project work will involve milling and overlaying on 22 miles between 160th&nbsp;Road and the U.S. 40 junction. Traffic through the areas where crews are actively working will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.KDOT expects work to be completed in late June, conditions permitting.APAC-Kansas Inc., Shears Division, of Hutchinson is the primary contractor for the $5 million project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

K-25 resurfacing project to start in Logan County

Join the Imagine Ellis County: Downtown Amphitheater Taskforce meeting to perform a "Strategic Doing" to discuss the proposed project from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Hays Public Library.

The Downtown&nbsp;Amphitheater&nbsp;has been proposed as a permanent structure in Municipal Park to host events such as Wild West Fest, Octoberfest, graduations and outdoor symphonies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tennis and pickleball courts also will be discussed. The meeting is open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714144179301.jpeg" alt="The Andover Amphitheater is an example of the kind of amphitheater that could be built in Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Andover Amphitheater is an example of the kind of amphitheater that could be built in Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostJoin the Imagine Ellis County: Downtown Amphitheater Taskforce meeting to perform a "Strategic Doing" to discuss the proposed project from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Hays Public Library.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714144248801.jpeg" alt="The historic Hays band shell. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The historic Hays band shell. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Downtown&nbsp;Amphitheater&nbsp;has been proposed as a permanent structure in Municipal Park to host events such as Wild West Fest, Octoberfest, graduations and outdoor symphonies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tennis and pickleball courts also will be discussed. The meeting is open to the public.

Public meeting set for Monday on proposed Hays amphitheater

The following students are candidates for the Thomas More Prep-Marian prom royalty. Prom will be at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714143210045.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The following students are candidates for the Thomas More Prep-Marian prom royalty. Prom will be at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4.Carli Jo Fischer and Kolten HagansAllison Gottschalk and AJ BrownAshley Hipp and Nolan GottschalkTeagan Legleiter and Mario ValenciaAlejandra Robles and Adrian Normandin

TMP prom royality candidates announced

HAYS —A woman who lived in Hays was found dying from a gunshot wound. Evidence at the scene did not add up. Prosecutors came up with a new way—they say—to find out what really happened.&nbsp; 

At 9 p.m. CDT Saturday on KWCH, Erin Moriarty Reports in “48 Hours: Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind."&nbsp;

In the early morning hours of Halloween 2019 in Hays, Colby Trickle called 911 and said he woke up to his ears ringing and saw his wife, Kristen Trickle, bleeding next to him in the bed. 

Responding officers found Kristen Trickle, 26, clinging to life. What happened was a mystery. 

Hays Police Sergeant Brandon Hauptman says Kristen Trickle was barely alive. 

“I kind of focused in, on her jaw moving. I can see the movement of her jaw,” Hauptman tells 48 HOURS. Kristen Trickle would not survive. 

The coroner ruled her death was a suicide. But prosecutor Aaron Cunningham questioned if she could have fired the large caliber revolver that killed her.

“It’s awkward to maneuver, not something that you’d easily turn on yourself,” says Cunningham.&nbsp; Instead, he thinks Colby Trickle killed his wife. 

Colby Trickle’s attorney, Cassy Zeigler, points out that Colby didn’t hesitate to call 911.

“I do not believe he did it ... He called and she was still showing signs of life,” Zeigler says.

Since authorities were divided on the evidence they saw at the crime scene, they tried something new and ordered a very different type of autopsy, an autopsy of Kristen Trickle’s mind.

“So basically, this is a psychological autopsy ... trying to figure out the state of mind of a person who died. That’s difficult to do, isn’t it?” Moriarty asks Cunningham.“Yeah,” Cunningham responds.“And had this ever been done in the state of Kansas before?” Moriarty asks.“Never in a criminal case, No,” says Cunningham.

<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/0379c4b5-8e93-4dcb-8d83-cfb4b8537b90">Click here to read </a>more on the case

Investigators also began digging into Colby Trickle’s story. They pored over the data in his cellphone and discovered Trickle had been exchanging flirtatious Snapchat messages with another woman. 

According to detective JB Burkholder, there was also evidence on Trickle’s cellphone that contradicted what he had first told investigators when asked about life insurance on his wife. 

Trickle told authorities when questioned, “I have some on me from military, but that’s it.”

Prosecutors say cellphone data revealed that not only was Colby Trickle aware his wife Kristen Trickle was covered by a life insurance policy called SGLI for spouses of military members, in the days before her death he also Googled the amount the policy would pay out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714087456755.png" alt="Kristen Trickle courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kristen Trickle courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS —A woman who lived in Hays was found dying from a gunshot wound. Evidence at the scene did not add up. Prosecutors came up with a new way—they say—to find out what really happened.&nbsp; At 9 p.m. CDT Saturday on KWCH, Erin Moriarty Reports in “48 Hours: Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind."&nbsp;In the early morning hours of Halloween 2019 in Hays, Colby Trickle called 911 and said he woke up to his ears ringing and saw his wife, Kristen Trickle, bleeding next to him in the bed. Responding officers found Kristen Trickle, 26, clinging to life. What happened was a mystery. Hays Police Sergeant Brandon Hauptman says Kristen Trickle was barely alive. “I kind of focused in, on her jaw moving. I can see the movement of her jaw,” Hauptman tells 48 HOURS. Kristen Trickle would not survive. The coroner ruled her death was a suicide. But prosecutor Aaron Cunningham questioned if she could have fired the large caliber revolver that killed her.“It’s awkward to maneuver, not something that you’d easily turn on yourself,” says Cunningham.&nbsp; Instead, he thinks Colby Trickle killed his wife. Colby Trickle’s attorney, Cassy Zeigler, points out that Colby didn’t hesitate to call 911.“I do not believe he did it ... He called and she was still showing signs of life,” Zeigler says.Since authorities were divided on the evidence they saw at the crime scene, they tried something new and ordered a very different type of autopsy, an autopsy of Kristen Trickle’s mind.“So basically, this is a psychological autopsy ... trying to figure out the state of mind of a person who died. That’s difficult to do, isn’t it?” Moriarty asks Cunningham.“Yeah,” Cunningham responds.“And had this ever been done in the state of Kansas before?” Moriarty asks.“Never in a criminal case, No,” says Cunningham.<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hays/posts/0379c4b5-8e93-4dcb-8d83-cfb4b8537b90">Click here to read </a>more on the caseInvestigators also began digging into Colby Trickle’s story. They pored over the data in his cellphone and discovered Trickle had been exchanging flirtatious Snapchat messages with another woman. According to detective JB Burkholder, there was also evidence on Trickle’s cellphone that contradicted what he had first told investigators when asked about life insurance on his wife. Trickle told authorities when questioned, “I have some on me from military, but that’s it.”Prosecutors say cellphone data revealed that not only was Colby Trickle aware his wife Kristen Trickle was covered by a life insurance policy called SGLI for spouses of military members, in the days before her death he also Googled the amount the policy would pay out.

48 Hours to feature Hays death: 'Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind'

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Jacob Vonlintel!

He heard the code word on 101.9 The Bull.

And thanks to everyone who entered Cash Grab in April! 

Keep an eye out for the grand prize winner on Monday!

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Jacob Vonlintel!He heard the code word on 101.9 The Bull.And thanks to everyone who entered Cash Grab in April! Keep an eye out for the grand prize winner on Monday!<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="ce9db24a-aa63-421f-8573-363da575c7a3" data-routing="hash" data-script="4di4u8"></div>
<script defer src="https://embed-1036363.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-script="4di4u8">/**/</script></div>

Friday's Cash Grab winner is....

CHEYENNE COUNTY — Thursday's storm brought heavy rain, hail, gusty winds and a tornado to portions of northwest Kansas.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Cheyenne County just after 5p.m. Thursday. The rope tornado was reported south of Bird City and was briefly on the ground.&nbsp;

There are no reports of damage or injury, according to the Cheyenne County Sheriff's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714129246676.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHEYENNE COUNTY — Thursday's storm brought heavy rain, hail, gusty winds and a tornado to portions of northwest Kansas.The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Cheyenne County just after 5p.m. Thursday. The rope tornado was reported south of Bird City and was briefly on the ground.&nbsp;There are no reports of damage or injury, according to the Cheyenne County Sheriff's office.

No damage after tornado reported in northwest Kansas

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

On Monday night in Ellis, a meeting to discuss a potential Ellis County library
brought together more than 30 public leaders and sometimes featured heated exchanges.

Several Ellis representatives
shared their concerns about changes they believe could lead to a loss of
services and local representation.

The Ellis County Commission has taken steps to designate an Ellis County Library. The hope is that money going out of the county to a regional library system could be kept in Ellis County and distributed to the county's public and school libraries.

The change would also result in the creation of a local library board, which potentially could result in more local control of the funds.

In March, the Ellis County Commission voted to put the
question of establishing and maintaining a county
library before the rural voters of Ellis County on the Aug. 6 primary
election ballot.

The county library would be an entity with a locally appointed board that could use Ellis County taxes to contract with Ellis County libraries for services.

Only voters in the rural portions of the county and Victoria would vote on the question. Residents of the city of Hays and Ellis already pay separate mill levies to support their city libraries.

The county commission's decision gives the Ellis City Council the option to present the question to voters who live inside the city limits and allow the Ellis Public Library to become part of the proposed Ellis
County Library.

Currently, the taxes collected in rural Ellis County and within the city of Victoria, about $300,000, are distributed to the Central Kansas Library System, a regional library system based in Great Bend.

The Central Kansas Library System covers 17 counties in northcentral Kansas. The Hays and Ellis Public Libraries and the Ellis, Hays and Victoria school districts are a part of the system.

Although Ellis County has one of the larger populations in the system, it has limited representation on the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System board.

At Monday’s meeting, 34 members of the Ellis County Commission, Ellis City Council, Ellis Public Library Board, Hays Public Library, and USD 388 Ellis School District met at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall in Ellis to discuss the proposal.

Gail Santy, Central Kansas Library System administrator, was also present at the meeting to answer questions.

Most of the questions during Monday’s almost one-hour and 30-minute meeting revolved around whether the Ellis Public Library would opt out of
the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System.

If the resolution is approved by voters, the process of
creating a taxing district and the Ellis County Library, with a five-member board
would begin. The taxes that are currently paid to the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System would still be
collected but would go to fund the Ellis County Library.

According to a memorandum of understanding presented to
several members of the meeting, if the city of Ellis presented the question to voters
and it was approved, the Ellis Public Library would be required to leave the Central Kansas Library System. 

However, according to Ellis Public Library Board Chairperson Tracey
Andrews, who presented the board’s list of what it considers important
points to consider in making the decision, it is only up to the library board
to decide whether they leave the Central Kansas Library System.

“The city commissioners cannot withdraw our board from CKLS,”
Andrews said. “Only our board can withdraw us, and I can't speak for all of us,
but I think we've kind of been in an agreement that we are not withdrawing from
CKLS. It’s not anything that we want to do.” 

If the Ellis voters were to get the chance to vote on the resolution and vote in favor of the change, Andrews said they believe some of the benefits would be the money staying local and a reduction in taxes for the city of
Ellis. However, they also said losing funding from the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System and the dissolving of
their seven-member local board would be a negative.

The loss of what the Ellis Library Board considered local
control was a big sticking point coming from the memorandum of understanding.

The memorandum of understanding would guarantee the city of Ellis one seat on the Ellis County Public Library Board.

“But it's one of the five, maybe two or five, not the majority,”
Andrews said. “The board that you're looking at today will dissolve. We will
not be here. We will not have a local voice, except that there are one or two
people on that board.”

The five-member board would be appointed by the Ellis County
Commission through a nominating process. 

The board would be responsible for setting the tax levy and setting up the library services and contracts.

No residents from the city of Hays would be eligible to serve on the
board because the Hays Public Library is funded by city of Hays taxpayers.

At Monday's meeting, it was pointed out that if Ellis voted
to join the county library, Ellis residents could secure all five seats and control the entire library board.

The Hays Public Library, which serves a majority of Ellis
County residents, has set itself up as a potential entity that would partner
with the county library to provide services. The library would get a portion of
the taxes collected in the rural area for providing those services. 

That is something the Ellis Public Library could also do, Ellis
County Commission Nathan Leiker confirmed at Monday’s meeting.

Ellis City Attorney Olavee Raub said while the Ellis
Public Library Board members expressed concern that if Ellis voters approved the
resolution, the library and all its assets would potentially have to be given to
the city of Ellis, including the physical location, that is not the case.

Raub said even if the voters approve the county library, it
does not consume the Ellis Public Library.

“The county library could be elsewhere. It could potentially
be contracted with the city of Ellis to be placed in our facility,” Raub said, “but
it doesn't necessarily have to be.” 

“We as an entity (and) you as a library board don't have to
agree to allow them to take over the Ellis Public Library,” Raub said. “Now,
what does that look like? That's the real question.”

Hays Public Library Director Brandon Hines questioned how
something like that would work. Because if Ellis elected to join the county
library, the city of Ellis would be a part of that taxing district. 

Raub said the city of Ellis would have to fund the library or
they would have to apply for funding from the county library.

Leiker also stressed that the county library could be in a number of places. 

“It would be a board that can be housed in pretty much any
office, that would house it,” Leiker said. “It would contract to the CKLS, or Hays
public or even Ellis Public Library Services.”

“So, it would be more or less be local control of the local
dollars,” Leiker said. “It does not have to provide materials other than the
contracts, so you can go into Ellis, Hays and wherever else and get your materials.”

So, if the Ellis Public Library and Ellis City Council elect to put the question before the voters, it does not mean that the city of Ellis and
the Ellis Public Library are joining the Ellis County Library and leaving the
CKLS.

Attendees at Monday’s meeting also raised concerned about
the timeline of this process.

The Ellis Public Library board members said they were informed the
Ellis County Commission was going to consider a vote on issue on March 4. 

The Ellis County Commission approved the resolution on March
19. 

No decision was made at Monday's meeting. The Ellis Public Library Board and the Ellis City Council have
until the first week of May to decide if they want to present their voters with
the same question to join
the Ellis County Library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704732367210.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostOn Monday night in Ellis, a meeting to discuss a potential Ellis County library
brought together more than 30 public leaders and sometimes featured heated exchanges.Several Ellis representatives
shared their concerns about changes they believe could lead to a loss of
services and local representation.The Ellis County Commission has taken steps to designate an Ellis County Library. The hope is that money going out of the county to a regional library system could be kept in Ellis County and distributed to the county's public and school libraries.The change would also result in the creation of a local library board, which potentially could result in more local control of the funds.In March, the Ellis County Commission voted to put the
question of establishing and maintaining a county
library before the rural voters of Ellis County on the Aug. 6 primary
election ballot.The county library would be an entity with a locally appointed board that could use Ellis County taxes to contract with Ellis County libraries for services.Only voters in the rural portions of the county and Victoria would vote on the question. Residents of the city of Hays and Ellis already pay separate mill levies to support their city libraries.The county commission's decision gives the Ellis City Council the option to present the question to voters who live inside the city limits and allow the Ellis Public Library to become part of the proposed Ellis
County Library.Currently, the taxes collected in rural Ellis County and within the city of Victoria, about $300,000, are distributed to the Central Kansas Library System, a regional library system based in Great Bend.The Central Kansas Library System covers 17 counties in northcentral Kansas. The Hays and Ellis Public Libraries and the Ellis, Hays and Victoria school districts are a part of the system.Although Ellis County has one of the larger populations in the system, it has limited representation on the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System board.At Monday’s meeting, 34 members of the Ellis County Commission, Ellis City Council, Ellis Public Library Board, Hays Public Library, and USD 388 Ellis School District met at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall in Ellis to discuss the proposal.Gail Santy, Central Kansas Library System administrator, was also present at the meeting to answer questions.Most of the questions during Monday’s almost one-hour and 30-minute meeting revolved around whether the Ellis Public Library would opt out of
the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System.If the resolution is approved by voters, the process of
creating a taxing district and the Ellis County Library, with a five-member board
would begin. The taxes that are currently paid to the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System would still be
collected but would go to fund the Ellis County Library.According to a memorandum of understanding presented to
several members of the meeting, if the city of Ellis presented the question to voters
and it was approved, the Ellis Public Library would be required to leave the Central Kansas Library System. However, according to Ellis Public Library Board Chairperson Tracey
Andrews, who presented the board’s list of what it considers important
points to consider in making the decision, it is only up to the library board
to decide whether they leave the Central Kansas Library System.“The city commissioners cannot withdraw our board from CKLS,”
Andrews said. “Only our board can withdraw us, and I can't speak for all of us,
but I think we've kind of been in an agreement that we are not withdrawing from
CKLS. It’s not anything that we want to do.” If the Ellis voters were to get the chance to vote on the resolution and vote in favor of the change, Andrews said they believe some of the benefits would be the money staying local and a reduction in taxes for the city of
Ellis. However, they also said losing funding from the&nbsp;Central Kansas Library System and the dissolving of
their seven-member local board would be a negative.The loss of what the Ellis Library Board considered local
control was a big sticking point coming from the memorandum of understanding.The memorandum of understanding would guarantee the city of Ellis one seat on the Ellis County Public Library Board.“But it's one of the five, maybe two or five, not the majority,”
Andrews said. “The board that you're looking at today will dissolve. We will
not be here. We will not have a local voice, except that there are one or two
people on that board.”The five-member board would be appointed by the Ellis County
Commission through a nominating process. The board would be responsible for setting the tax levy and setting up the library services and contracts.No residents from the city of Hays would be eligible to serve on the
board because the Hays Public Library is funded by city of Hays taxpayers.At Monday's meeting, it was pointed out that if Ellis voted
to join the county library, Ellis residents could secure all five seats and control the entire library board.The Hays Public Library, which serves a majority of Ellis
County residents, has set itself up as a potential entity that would partner
with the county library to provide services. The library would get a portion of
the taxes collected in the rural area for providing those services. That is something the Ellis Public Library could also do, Ellis
County Commission Nathan Leiker confirmed at Monday’s meeting.Ellis City Attorney Olavee Raub said while the Ellis
Public Library Board members expressed concern that if Ellis voters approved the
resolution, the library and all its assets would potentially have to be given to
the city of Ellis, including the physical location, that is not the case.Raub said even if the voters approve the county library, it
does not consume the Ellis Public Library.“The county library could be elsewhere. It could potentially
be contracted with the city of Ellis to be placed in our facility,” Raub said, “but
it doesn't necessarily have to be.” “We as an entity (and) you as a library board don't have to
agree to allow them to take over the Ellis Public Library,” Raub said. “Now,
what does that look like? That's the real question.”Hays Public Library Director Brandon Hines questioned how
something like that would work. Because if Ellis elected to join the county
library, the city of Ellis would be a part of that taxing district. Raub said the city of Ellis would have to fund the library or
they would have to apply for funding from the county library.Leiker also stressed that the county library could be in a number of places. “It would be a board that can be housed in pretty much any
office, that would house it,” Leiker said. “It would contract to the CKLS, or Hays
public or even Ellis Public Library Services.”“So, it would be more or less be local control of the local
dollars,” Leiker said. “It does not have to provide materials other than the
contracts, so you can go into Ellis, Hays and wherever else and get your materials.”So, if the Ellis Public Library and Ellis City Council elect to put the question before the voters, it does not mean that the city of Ellis and
the Ellis Public Library are joining the Ellis County Library and leaving the
CKLS.Attendees at Monday’s meeting also raised concerned about
the timeline of this process.The Ellis Public Library board members said they were informed the
Ellis County Commission was going to consider a vote on issue on March 4. The Ellis County Commission approved the resolution on March
19. No decision was made at Monday's meeting. The Ellis Public Library Board and the Ellis City Council have
until the first week of May to decide if they want to present their voters with
the same question to join
the Ellis County Library.

Ellis fears loss of library in move to keep more taxpayers' library funds in Ellis County

A special anniversary calls for a special celebration.

Patrons will be dressed in formal wear, and wine will flow from a sparkling fountain for&nbsp;Thomas More Prep-Marian's 50th annual ACE Auction— Auction for Christian Education—from 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday in the Al Billinger Fieldhouse. 

An open house to see the 100 items in the live auction will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, starting with a Chamber Chat hosted by the Chamber in Hays. A preview party will be from 7 to 9 p.m. that night.

"You can find something for every room in your house and more," said Mason Ruder, advancement director.

Other items range from a special dinner party with the bishop to game tickets for favorite area sports teams.&nbsp;

New this year is a live artist working on-site who will create an original painting to auction off.

Patrons will also have the opportunity to bid on a "name the court" sign that will hang above the court entrance at the Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

Cash drawings will be conducted throughout the evening. Another drawing will feature a 2024 Hyundai Elantra SE (valued at $23,000) donated by Kay and Dick Werth at Auto World in Hays.&nbsp;

More than 425 items are available in the online auction. Bidding opens at 3 p.m. Friday.

The popular Item #160, which raises funds for different school projects, will be used in the golden anniversary year to "establish a financial foundation for the continuity of our history, tradition, educational excellence, and taking care of past, present and future students, faculty and staff," said Ruder, who is a TMP alum.

"As a private school, we do not get any tax funding, so every donation that we do get, every dollar we get, goes right back into the school," he said.

"We've been blessed in how long we've been able to do the ACE Auction," he said.&nbsp;

Each donation from $50 and up will get their name listed on the "Golden Legacy" plaque to be placed on campus.

From the first auction in 1975 to 2023, ACE has raised almost $13 million for Thomas More Prep-Marian.

The complete ACE Auction catalog is available <a href="https://www.hayscatholicschools.org/page/ace-2024">online</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713880499026.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Cheers to the next 50 years: TMP-Marian ACE Auction celebrates golden anniversary" 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/?i=4runf-15f7755-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA special anniversary calls for a special celebration.Patrons will be dressed in formal wear, and wine will flow from a sparkling fountain for&nbsp;Thomas More Prep-Marian's 50th annual ACE Auction— Auction for Christian Education—from 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday in the Al Billinger Fieldhouse. The event is sold out.An open house to see the 100 items in the live auction will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, starting with a Chamber Chat hosted by the Chamber in Hays. A preview party will be from 7 to 9 p.m. that night."You can find something for every room in your house and more," said Mason Ruder, advancement director.Other items range from a special dinner party with the bishop to game tickets for favorite area sports teams.&nbsp;New this year is a live artist working on-site who will create an original painting to auction off.Patrons will also have the opportunity to bid on a "name the court" sign that will hang above the court entrance at the Al Billinger Fieldhouse.Cash drawings will be conducted throughout the evening. Another drawing will feature a 2024 Hyundai Elantra SE (valued at $23,000) donated by Kay and Dick Werth at Auto World in Hays.&nbsp;More than 425 items are available in the online auction. Bidding opens at 3 p.m. Friday.The popular Item #160, which raises funds for different school projects, will be used in the golden anniversary year to "establish a financial foundation for the continuity of our history, tradition, educational excellence, and taking care of past, present and future students, faculty and staff," said Ruder, who is a TMP alum."As a private school, we do not get any tax funding, so every donation that we do get, every dollar we get, goes right back into the school," he said."We've been blessed in how long we've been able to do the ACE Auction," he said.&nbsp;Each donation from $50 and up will get their name listed on the "Golden Legacy" plaque to be placed on campus.From the first auction in 1975 to 2023, ACE has raised almost $13 million for Thomas More Prep-Marian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713997226523.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The complete ACE Auction catalog is available <a href="https://www.hayscatholicschools.org/page/ace-2024">online</a>.&nbsp;

🎙Cheers to the next 50 years: TMP-Marian ACE Auction celebrates golden anniversary

MANHATTAN — The College of Health and Human Sciences welcomes the 2023-2024 student ambassadors.

These student ambassadors work on and off campus to promote the college to alumni, friends, prospective students and families and current K-State students.

The executive team includes Josh Sprowls, president, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Wichita; Cara Johnson, vice president of student engagement, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa; Ellie Yuska, vice president of community engagement, senior in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Berthoud, Colorado;&nbsp;Elly Murrell, vice president of communications, senior in integrative physiology,&nbsp;Garden City; and Cooper Jepson, vice president of ambassador relations, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Valley Falls.

The following students are the 2024-2025 student ambassadors: Brenna Felzien, sophomore in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Assaria; Carsyn Frieden, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Cheney; Julia Rieger, freshman in fashion studies,&nbsp;Clay Center; Ashleigh Russell, sophomore in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Courtland; Collin Stephens, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;De Soto; Livie Heseltine, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Derby; McKenna Garman, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;El Dorado; Gwenyth Fry, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Fort Scott; Harrison Lowe, freshman in kinesiology,&nbsp;Hays; Courtney Cline, junior in communication sciences and disorders, and Ashlynn Henry, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences, both from&nbsp;Hiawatha. Emma Link, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Sydni Rust, freshman in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Kensington; Adrian Zuniga, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Liberal;&nbsp;Linley Wilson, freshman in dietetics,&nbsp;Manhattan; Emma McKinsey, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Mayetta; Tiffany Adee, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Neodesha; Nick Suttle, junior in kinesiology, Olathe; Maddy Bryan, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Overland Park;&nbsp;Madison Umphenour, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Pleasanton; Abby Harrison, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Prairie Village; and Emerson Nichols, sophomore in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Russell. Kailyn Olson, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Salina; Kalin Rowley, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Sedgwick; Hallie Scott, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Shawnee; Lauren McCaffrey, sophomore in dietetics,&nbsp;Silver Lake; Kate Taddiken, freshman in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Topeka; Heidi Meyer, junior in communication sciences and disorders, and Erin Thorne, junior in communication sciences and disorders, both from&nbsp;Valley Center; and Elizabeth Deay, senior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Wellsville.

From out of state: Kallie Atwell, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Garner, Iowa; Deyton Odneal, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Smithville, Missouri; Whitney Fearing, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Springfield, Missouri; Taryn Arnold, junior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Fairbury, Nebraska; Fryda Molina Canto, senior in hospitality management,&nbsp;Madison, Nebraska; and Avery Pipkin, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Farwell, Texas.

SubmittedMANHATTAN — The College of Health and Human Sciences welcomes the 2023-2024 student ambassadors.These student ambassadors work on and off campus to promote the college to alumni, friends, prospective students and families and current K-State students.The executive team includes Josh Sprowls, president, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Wichita; Cara Johnson, vice president of student engagement, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa; Ellie Yuska, vice president of community engagement, senior in sports nutrition,&nbsp;Berthoud, Colorado;&nbsp;Elly Murrell, vice president of communications, senior in integrative physiology,&nbsp;Garden City; and Cooper Jepson, vice president of ambassador relations, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Valley Falls.The following students are the 2024-2025 student ambassadors: Brenna Felzien, sophomore in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Assaria; Carsyn Frieden, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Cheney; Julia Rieger, freshman in fashion studies,&nbsp;Clay Center; Ashleigh Russell, sophomore in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Courtland; Collin Stephens, junior in kinesiology,&nbsp;De Soto; Livie Heseltine, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Derby; McKenna Garman, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;El Dorado; Gwenyth Fry, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Fort Scott; Harrison Lowe, freshman in kinesiology,&nbsp;Hays; Courtney Cline, junior in communication sciences and disorders, and Ashlynn Henry, senior in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences, both from&nbsp;Hiawatha. Emma Link, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Sydni Rust, freshman in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Kensington; Adrian Zuniga, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Liberal;&nbsp;Linley Wilson, freshman in dietetics,&nbsp;Manhattan; Emma McKinsey, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Mayetta; Tiffany Adee, senior in kinesiology,&nbsp;Neodesha; Nick Suttle, junior in kinesiology, Olathe; Maddy Bryan, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Overland Park;&nbsp;Madison Umphenour, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Pleasanton; Abby Harrison, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Prairie Village; and Emerson Nichols, sophomore in nutritional sciences,&nbsp;Russell. Kailyn Olson, junior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Salina; Kalin Rowley, senior in human development and family science,&nbsp;Sedgwick; Hallie Scott, senior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Shawnee; Lauren McCaffrey, sophomore in dietetics,&nbsp;Silver Lake; Kate Taddiken, freshman in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Topeka; Heidi Meyer, junior in communication sciences and disorders, and Erin Thorne, junior in communication sciences and disorders, both from&nbsp;Valley Center; and Elizabeth Deay, senior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Wellsville.From out of state: Kallie Atwell, sophomore in athletic training and rehabilitation sciences,&nbsp;Garner, Iowa; Deyton Odneal, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Smithville, Missouri; Whitney Fearing, sophomore in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Springfield, Missouri; Taryn Arnold, junior in integrative human sciences,&nbsp;Fairbury, Nebraska; Fryda Molina Canto, senior in hospitality management,&nbsp;Madison, Nebraska; and Avery Pipkin, junior in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Farwell, Texas.

Area students selected as KSU student ambassadors

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

This summer, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History celebrates a milestone that speaks volumes about the human thirst for knowledge, experience, and community in a rapidly evolving world, with a record enrollment of 127 summer campers across all age groups from 35 different states, as well as India and China. This beacon of discovery amplifies its motto, "Excitement in Education through Exploration," as it opens new doors and trails for learning the earth and life sciences.

The array of summer programs lined up for 2024 are rich with educational diversity, with activities spanning across Kansas to the coast of North Carolina, to the San Francisco Bay! Sternberg's new collaboration with Eastern Tennessee State University and its Gray Fossil Site Museum exemplifies the power of collective wisdom and collaboration in enhancing learning experiences.

Perhaps the most remarkable chapters of this story unfold within the high school programs, where 80 young scientists are nurturing their calling. Among them, 54 will embark on a journey at the Sternberg Museum or Fort Hays State University, immersing themselves in the multifaceted world of paleontology.

The program's success and inclusion of a record number of instructors, ranging from returning camp alumni to doctoral students from the US and UK, echoes a larger narrative.

It is a tale of unwavering commitment, both to excellence in education and to the ongoing empowerment of its high school campers through post-camp support systems and opportunities that make the "Sternberg Science Camps+” a wholly unique offering in the breadth of youth summer science education programs.

The "+" symbolizes more than a mere branding strategy; it represents an enduring dedication to bolstering student outcomes long after the summer sun sets on their camping adventures. It represents the program’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with external entities with shared missions in engaging youth with the wonders of the earth and life sciences. Finally, it reflects the museum’s spirit of lifelong learning and its commitment to fostering a global community of inquisitive minds.

As the museum looks toward the horizon, one can see the reflections of its past success in the eager eyes of first-timers joining the programs and in the diligence of the educators preparing to guide these young explorers. Interest in the annual camps has soared, with programs like Field Paleontology: Kansas and the new Advanced Fossil Preparation camp filling up at unprecedented speed, demonstrating a burgeoning passion for the paleontological sciences. Field Paleontology: Kansas has proven so popular that a third session of the program has been created to accommodate the lengthy waitlist for sessions one and two!

This growth is a testament to the Sternberg Museum's relentless pursuit of what lies at the heart of education: the sheer joys of shared community and exploration. As campers traverse fossil field sites and free long-sequestered fossils from their rocky enclosures, they carry with them not

just the knowledge they've accumulated but also the priceless experience of scientific inquiry in action.

For educators and parents, the museum stands as a shining example of how to meld excitement with learning. It fosters an environment where children – and adults returning to the wonder of their childhood – can surrender to their curiosity, guided by the belief that to learn is to explore.

The story of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History and its record summer camp enrollment is one of the collective triumph of its students, the program staff, and the near-singular focus of the program’s founder/director David Levering’s pursuit of creating powerful, accessible opportunities for kids regardless of their economic status. It is a story written by every hand that digs into the earth searching for fossils, by every mind that marvels at the stories those fossils tell, and by every heart that beats faster with the thrill of discovery. As the Sternberg Museum continues to reach new heights, it holds a mirror to society's enduring fascination with the natural world. It strengthens an unspoken promise: to keep the flame of excitement in education burning bright for generations to come.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentThis summer, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History celebrates a milestone that speaks volumes about the human thirst for knowledge, experience, and community in a rapidly evolving world, with a record enrollment of 127 summer campers across all age groups from 35 different states, as well as India and China. This beacon of discovery amplifies its motto, "Excitement in Education through Exploration," as it opens new doors and trails for learning the earth and life sciences.The array of summer programs lined up for 2024 are rich with educational diversity, with activities spanning across Kansas to the coast of North Carolina, to the San Francisco Bay! Sternberg's new collaboration with Eastern Tennessee State University and its Gray Fossil Site Museum exemplifies the power of collective wisdom and collaboration in enhancing learning experiences.Perhaps the most remarkable chapters of this story unfold within the high school programs, where 80 young scientists are nurturing their calling. Among them, 54 will embark on a journey at the Sternberg Museum or Fort Hays State University, immersing themselves in the multifaceted world of paleontology.The program's success and inclusion of a record number of instructors, ranging from returning camp alumni to doctoral students from the US and UK, echoes a larger narrative.It is a tale of unwavering commitment, both to excellence in education and to the ongoing empowerment of its high school campers through post-camp support systems and opportunities that make the "Sternberg Science Camps+” a wholly unique offering in the breadth of youth summer science education programs.The "+" symbolizes more than a mere branding strategy; it represents an enduring dedication to bolstering student outcomes long after the summer sun sets on their camping adventures. It represents the program’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with external entities with shared missions in engaging youth with the wonders of the earth and life sciences. Finally, it reflects the museum’s spirit of lifelong learning and its commitment to fostering a global community of inquisitive minds.As the museum looks toward the horizon, one can see the reflections of its past success in the eager eyes of first-timers joining the programs and in the diligence of the educators preparing to guide these young explorers. Interest in the annual camps has soared, with programs like Field Paleontology: Kansas and the new Advanced Fossil Preparation camp filling up at unprecedented speed, demonstrating a burgeoning passion for the paleontological sciences. Field Paleontology: Kansas has proven so popular that a third session of the program has been created to accommodate the lengthy waitlist for sessions one and two!This growth is a testament to the Sternberg Museum's relentless pursuit of what lies at the heart of education: the sheer joys of shared community and exploration. As campers traverse fossil field sites and free long-sequestered fossils from their rocky enclosures, they carry with them notjust the knowledge they've accumulated but also the priceless experience of scientific inquiry in action.For educators and parents, the museum stands as a shining example of how to meld excitement with learning. It fosters an environment where children – and adults returning to the wonder of their childhood – can surrender to their curiosity, guided by the belief that to learn is to explore.The story of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History and its record summer camp enrollment is one of the collective triumph of its students, the program staff, and the near-singular focus of the program’s founder/director David Levering’s pursuit of creating powerful, accessible opportunities for kids regardless of their economic status. It is a story written by every hand that digs into the earth searching for fossils, by every mind that marvels at the stories those fossils tell, and by every heart that beats faster with the thrill of discovery. As the Sternberg Museum continues to reach new heights, it holds a mirror to society's enduring fascination with the natural world. It strengthens an unspoken promise: to keep the flame of excitement in education burning bright for generations to come.

HEART OF A TIGER: Sternberg Museum's record summer camp enrollment marks new era of science exploration

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714070001467.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>

DODGE CITY — Severe weather is expected today across a majority of the area, including Ellis County.&nbsp;

The severe threat is forecast to begin around two this afternoon&nbsp;and last until midnight. 

The main hazards remain very large hail and&nbsp;tornadoes, potentially including significant tornadoes.&nbsp;Damaging&nbsp;wind gusts are possible as well.

Hays's forecast calls for&nbsp;a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 71. Windy, with a southeast wind 17 to 25 mph.

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 11 p.m. Some storms could be severe, with large hail and damaging winds. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56. Windy, with a south southeast wind 22 to 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.



There is a ten percent chance that&nbsp;a cap or other environmental factor prevents storms from forming or&nbsp;becoming severe.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714077341399.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceDODGE CITY — Severe weather is expected today across a majority of the area, including Ellis County.&nbsp;The severe threat is forecast to begin around two this afternoon&nbsp;and last until midnight. The main hazards remain very large hail and&nbsp;tornadoes, potentially including significant tornadoes.&nbsp;Damaging&nbsp;wind gusts are possible as well.Hays's forecast calls for&nbsp;a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 71. Windy, with a southeast wind 17 to 25 mph.Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 11 p.m. Some storms could be severe, with large hail and damaging winds. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56. Windy, with a south southeast wind 22 to 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

There is a ten percent chance that&nbsp;a cap or other environmental factor prevents storms from forming or&nbsp;becoming severe.

Severe weather expected in western Kansas today, including Ellis County

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

A basketball game was played. There was a winner. However, in the end, it was all to raise money for ALS.&nbsp;

"It was all for a good cause. It was a fun atmosphere," said Thomas More Prep-Marian student council sponsor Emma Stroyan, who not only helped her students plan the event but also played in the game.&nbsp;

The planning began at TMP in August 2023 for a student service project. That quickly transformed into an idea to include Hays High School's student council for a combined effort.

The student council members from both schools made plans, had lunch together and was ready to go in March. The original date though was scrapped due to terrible weather conditions that threatened the safety of any one attending the event.

One month later the game was moved to Hays High.

A large student section showed up for both schools, helping create the night's rivalry. Each school's pep bands also played.

In addition to the game, half-court shots were taken to win prizes, raffle prizes were given away and a three-point contest was conducted at halftime. Two students from TMP won the shooting contest, leaving Hays High student council sponsor Alan Neal to receive a whipped cream pie to the face.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714058827681.jpeg" alt="Hays High TMP Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>Hays High TMP Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostA basketball game was played. There was a winner. However, in the end, it was all to raise money for ALS.&nbsp;"It was all for a good cause. It was a fun atmosphere," said Thomas More Prep-Marian student council sponsor Emma Stroyan, who not only helped her students plan the event but also played in the game.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1807779402&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/emma-stroyan" title="Emma Stroyan" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Emma Stroyan</a></div></div>The planning began at TMP in August 2023 for a student service project. That quickly transformed into an idea to include Hays High School's student council for a combined effort.The student council members from both schools made plans, had lunch together and was ready to go in March. The original date though was scrapped due to terrible weather conditions that threatened the safety of any one attending the event.One month later the game was moved to Hays High.A large student section showed up for both schools, helping create the night's rivalry. Each school's pep bands also played.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714058860416.jpeg" alt="Trophy" />
 <figcaption>Trophy</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the game, half-court shots were taken to win prizes, raffle prizes were given away and a three-point contest was conducted at halftime. Two students from TMP won the shooting contest, leaving Hays High student council sponsor Alan Neal to receive a whipped cream pie to the face."We didn't know what to expect. Awesome turnout. Kids were here, kids were rowdy. ... But an amazing fun night," Neal said. He also gives full credit to TMP and its STUCO for the idea and for initiating contact with Hays High.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1807779450&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/alan-neal" title="Alan Neal" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Alan Neal</a></div></div>A traveling trophy was awarded to TMP, who won the game 49-41. Likely, though, the most important stat of the night was the zero injuries suffered by the staff members. The hope is that the game will remain a yearly collaboration through the change of student council members from year to year. $1,400 was raised in the inaugural event.

Local