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

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

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

<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/2024/4/1714070001467.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>

Three-day weather outlook

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.

"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.

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.

<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.

Hays High/TMP staff game played to raise money for ALS

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Crystal Collins of Phillipsburg!

Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Crystal Collins of Phillipsburg!She heard the code word on 103.3 KJLS.Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="2df767e1-e5ca-4d2c-89a1-0fd9bd6c0000" data-routing="hash" data-script="8zxvcb"></div>
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Thursday's Cash Grab winner is....

WICHITA, KAN. – A northwest Kansas man made his initial appearance Wednesday before a federal judge following an indictment for defrauding clients of his accounting firm, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 43, of Colby is charged with seven counts of wire fraud, four counts of bank fraud, two counts of false statements, and six counts of money laundering.

Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), is part owner of the accounting firm, Williams Consulting. The owners of Diamond M. Farms in Thomas County contracted the firm to perform CPA duties for the company. Flanagin acted as signatory for Diamond M Farms bank accounts and prepared payroll.

Flanagin created a fictitious business called Middle Finger Ranch and added the company name to his personal bank account. Between December 2021 and August 2022, the defendant allegedly wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 from Diamond M. Farms to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations.

In 2021, Flanagin hired a construction company to build him a new house. The transaction records indicate he paid the contractor from the Middle Finger Ranch bank account within days of the funds being transferred from Diamond M. Farms.

The defendant made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gwynne E. Birzer of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714043354777.png" alt="Flanagin-photo from his booking Wednesday in Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Flanagin-photo from his booking Wednesday in Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A northwest Kansas man made his initial appearance Wednesday before a federal judge following an indictment for defrauding clients of his accounting firm, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 43, of Colby is charged with seven counts of wire fraud, four counts of bank fraud, two counts of false statements, and six counts of money laundering.Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), is part owner of the accounting firm, Williams Consulting. The owners of Diamond M. Farms in Thomas County contracted the firm to perform CPA duties for the company. Flanagin acted as signatory for Diamond M Farms bank accounts and prepared payroll.Flanagin created a fictitious business called Middle Finger Ranch and added the company name to his personal bank account. Between December 2021 and August 2022, the defendant allegedly wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 from Diamond M. Farms to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations.In 2021, Flanagin hired a construction company to build him a new house. The transaction records indicate he paid the contractor from the Middle Finger Ranch bank account within days of the funds being transferred from Diamond M. Farms.The defendant made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gwynne E. Birzer of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

NW Kan. CPA, creator of ‘Middle Finger Ranch,’ accused of bank fraud

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The 55th-annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th St., will anchor the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk again.

The Smoky Hill Art Exhibition is the state's oldest juried art exhibition. This year, 298 pieces were submitted by artists from across Kansas.

Sixty-two art pieces were selected for the exhibition. The gamut of the fine art world is represented — ceramics, paintings, glass and assemblages, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.

"People can come and celebrate, chill and engage with our downtown in ways maybe they don't have other opportunities to do," Meder said.

"We are loaded with art, but of course, we have other great things going on in our downtown as well—great businesses and places to eat and drink."

Prior to Saturday's main event, the Fort Hays State University Jazz Bands will perform a free concert at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Downtown Pavillion.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the Hays Public Library will host a watercolor demonstration by Margie Hammerschmidt of the Western Plains Painters at 1 p.m. in the Schmidt Gallery. At noon, the library will also host a community acoustic jam session in the first-floor commons.

The Hays Community Theatre will host free performances of Everett Robert's 10-minute play "Sputnik: The True Story of How Professional Wrestling Integrated Memphis, Tennesee" at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. at 121 E. Eighth St.

Good Hope 4-H will host a project showcase, face painting and a fundraiser in the Downtown Pavilion at 10th and Main.

"Some of these 4-H students do amazing things," Meder said.

Jeanne Riedel will be in the pavilion singing her mystery book "Soon You Will Be Mine."

Randy Mader will provide live music all day at the pavilion.

Local crafters also have been invited to display and sell their goods in the pavilion during the art walk. See a list in the schedule below.

The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau will have its Chalk Art Station in Union Pacific Park next to the pavilion.

Fort Hays State University will host two exhibitions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday on campus.

The Hornak Estate FHSU Art Collection will be exhibited at the Moss Thorns Gallery. "BWCAW Puga," sculpture by Wayne Potratz, will be on display in the Taylor Gallery in the Center for Applied Technology and Sculpture.

The arts council has two youth events coming up in the next week.

The arts council will honor its youth Creative Writing Award winners at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Memorial Union.

The annual Famous Figures finals competition for Ellis County fifth-graders will be on May 3.

You can find more information on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council webpage</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063746254684">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993103583.jpeg" alt="Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe 55th-annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th St., will anchor the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk again.The Smoky Hill Art Exhibition is the state's oldest juried art exhibition. This year, 298 pieces were submitted by artists from across Kansas.<div><iframe title="Annual Smoky Hill exhibit to anchor Spring Art Walk" 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=9kx7p-15f5d4f-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>Sixty-two art pieces were selected for the exhibition. The gamut of the fine art world is represented — ceramics, paintings, glass and assemblages, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.That show will run through early June.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993187165.jpeg" alt="Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"People can come and celebrate, chill and engage with our downtown in ways maybe they don't have other opportunities to do," Meder said."We are loaded with art, but of course, we have other great things going on in our downtown as well—great businesses and places to eat and drink."Prior to Saturday's main event, the Fort Hays State University Jazz Bands will perform a free concert at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Downtown Pavillion.&nbsp;On Saturday, the Hays Public Library will host a watercolor demonstration by Margie Hammerschmidt of the Western Plains Painters at 1 p.m. in the Schmidt Gallery. At noon, the library will also host a community acoustic jam session in the first-floor commons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993229349.jpeg" alt="Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Community Theatre will host free performances of Everett Robert's 10-minute play "Sputnik: The True Story of How Professional Wrestling Integrated Memphis, Tennesee" at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. at 121 E. Eighth St.Good Hope 4-H will host a project showcase, face painting and a fundraiser in the Downtown Pavilion at 10th and Main."Some of these 4-H students do amazing things," Meder said.Jeanne Riedel will be in the pavilion singing her mystery book "Soon You Will Be Mine."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713993263598.jpeg" alt="Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artwork to be featured in the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition on Saturday as part of the Hays Arts Council Art Walk. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Randy Mader will provide live music all day at the pavilion.Local crafters also have been invited to display and sell their goods in the pavilion during the art walk. See a list in the schedule below.The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau will have its Chalk Art Station in Union Pacific Park next to the pavilion.Fort Hays State University will host two exhibitions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday on campus.The Hornak Estate FHSU Art Collection will be exhibited at the Moss Thorns Gallery. "BWCAW Puga," sculpture by Wayne Potratz, will be on display in the Taylor Gallery in the Center for Applied Technology and Sculpture.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713989883107.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The arts council has two youth events coming up in the next week.The arts council will honor its youth Creative Writing Award winners at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Memorial Union.The annual Famous Figures finals competition for Ellis County fifth-graders will be on May 3.You can find more information on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">Hays Arts Council webpage</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063746254684">Facebook</a>.

🎙Annual Smoky Hill exhibit to anchor Spring Art Walk

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work soon on resurfacing projects along K-255 in Ellis County and U.S. 281 in Russell County.

The K-255 project will be completed first, starting on April 23. Project work includes a mill and overlay on the entirety of the roadway from the north city limits of Victoria to I-70. Upon completion of K-255, crews will resurface 12 miles of U.S. 281 in Russell County, starting near the I-70 interchange at Russell and ending at the Barton County line.

Traffic in both work zones will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less.

KDOT expects the work to be completed by the end of May, conditions permitting.

Venture Corp. of Great Bend is the primary contractor for both projects with a combined contract cost of approximately $3 million. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Engineer Mitchel Johnson at 785-261-6135 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mitchel.johnson@ks.gov">mitchel.johnson@ks.gov</a>.

Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work soon on resurfacing projects along K-255 in Ellis County and U.S. 281 in Russell County.The K-255 project will be completed first, starting on April 23. Project work includes a mill and overlay on the entirety of the roadway from the north city limits of Victoria to I-70. Upon completion of K-255, crews will resurface 12 miles of U.S. 281 in Russell County, starting near the I-70 interchange at Russell and ending at the Barton County line.Traffic in both work zones will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less.KDOT expects the work to be completed by the end of May, conditions permitting.Venture Corp. of Great Bend is the primary contractor for both projects with a combined contract cost of approximately $3 million. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Engineer Mitchel Johnson at 785-261-6135 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mitchel.johnson@ks.gov">mitchel.johnson@ks.gov</a>.

Resurfacing projects planned in Ellis, Russell counties

ELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $6470.90 among nine deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 1 spring grant cycle.

The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Foundation, Pauleen Edmonds stated, "Your generous unrestricted contributions are the backbone of our community's growth supporting all kinds of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our community.”

In no particular order, this year’s spring recipients are:

Ellis Recreation Commission- Keep Our Community Beautiful, Six 55 gallon trash bin receptacles and lids, $1,000

Ellis High School Alumni- Country School Display- glass display cabinets, frames and shadowboxes, $1,000

St. Mary’s Church- Church AED Machine, $1,000

Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home, Solar Shade Project, four shades, $1,000

Ellis VFW Aux 9139- Phase III Bracket Project- 78 brackets, $1,000

Ellis United Methodist Church- 5th Quarter On-going 2024 Door Prizes, $500

EHS Project Graduation 2024- Prizes, $500

Ellis Chamber Art Walk- Art Walk Kid’s Kraft Korner- $350

Ellis Booster Club- Railer Spirit Flags on Washington St.- $296

The 2024 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1 and closes on Aug. 31. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington St., Ellis.

SubmittedELLIS — The Community Foundation of Ellis proudly distributed $6470.90 among nine deserving local organizations in its 2024 Round 1 spring grant cycle.The CFOE extends sincere appreciation to the entire community for its steadfast support. Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Foundation, Pauleen Edmonds stated, "Your generous unrestricted contributions are the backbone of our community's growth supporting all kinds of beneficial organizations to thrive and enrich our community.”In no particular order, this year’s spring recipients are:Ellis Recreation Commission- Keep Our Community Beautiful, Six 55 gallon trash bin receptacles and lids, $1,000Ellis High School Alumni- Country School Display- glass display cabinets, frames and shadowboxes, $1,000St. Mary’s Church- Church AED Machine, $1,000Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home, Solar Shade Project, four shades, $1,000Ellis VFW Aux 9139- Phase III Bracket Project- 78 brackets, $1,000Ellis United Methodist Church- 5th Quarter On-going 2024 Door Prizes, $500EHS Project Graduation 2024- Prizes, $500Ellis Chamber Art Walk- Art Walk Kid’s Kraft Korner- $350Ellis Booster Club- Railer Spirit Flags on Washington St.- $296The 2024 Round 2 Fall Grant Cycle will open on June 1 and closes on Aug. 31. Applications will be available at the Ellis Alliance Office at 820 Washington St., Ellis.

Community Foundation of Ellis awards grants to support local organizations

In Victorian times, people of a certain social class with
time on their hands went “calling.”&nbsp; As
either a pass into another’s home or as a token of the visit, guests left a business-size
card in a lovely dish placed on a table in the entryway.&nbsp; These ornate calling cards engraved with the
caller’s name held special significance if one bent the left top corner one way
or another meaning if a different corner were bent or torn.&nbsp; 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While this
seems complicated in today’s more relaxed culture, I’ve found that nature introduces
calling cards of a different and less difficult-to-understand variety. While
walking hundreds of miles down country roads and paths, I’ve spied more than a
few calling cards deposited in the middle of the road to mark a local coyote’s
territory.&nbsp; These greetings, while clear
in their message, aren’t nearly as ornate or as collectible as those left by
our Victorian ancestors.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For those
unfamiliar with canid behavior, passing coyotes leave scat in strategic and
clearly visible patches of road or trail. They want other coyotes, foxes,
bobcats, house cats, dogs, and humans to acknowledge their domination of the
neighborhood. In fact, their very frequent messages pronounce their dominion
over the drive, pasture, and surrounding section roads. Anything or anyone else
trespasses.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While
Victorian cards present the visitor’s name in ornate script, surrounded by the
filigreed designs, coyotes leave simple communication. However, the attentive
can read volumes in these tubular epistles.

Over summer and into fall, I interpreted a list of such messages.
Wild canids tend feed opportunistically. Though they possess a lovely set of
incisors designed to shred raw flesh, they also eat fruits, berries, and
melons.&nbsp; Late spring and early summer mid-road
deposits reveal nature’s fibrous, fruity “ink.”&nbsp;
These calling cards vary little in theme.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713561612001.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINIn Victorian times, people of a certain social class with
time on their hands went “calling.”&nbsp; As
either a pass into another’s home or as a token of the visit, guests left a business-size
card in a lovely dish placed on a table in the entryway.&nbsp; These ornate calling cards engraved with the
caller’s name held special significance if one bent the left top corner one way
or another meaning if a different corner were bent or torn.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While this
seems complicated in today’s more relaxed culture, I’ve found that nature introduces
calling cards of a different and less difficult-to-understand variety. While
walking hundreds of miles down country roads and paths, I’ve spied more than a
few calling cards deposited in the middle of the road to mark a local coyote’s
territory.&nbsp; These greetings, while clear
in their message, aren’t nearly as ornate or as collectible as those left by
our Victorian ancestors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For those
unfamiliar with canid behavior, passing coyotes leave scat in strategic and
clearly visible patches of road or trail. They want other coyotes, foxes,
bobcats, house cats, dogs, and humans to acknowledge their domination of the
neighborhood. In fact, their very frequent messages pronounce their dominion
over the drive, pasture, and surrounding section roads. Anything or anyone else
trespasses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While
Victorian cards present the visitor’s name in ornate script, surrounded by the
filigreed designs, coyotes leave simple communication. However, the attentive
can read volumes in these tubular epistles.Over summer and into fall, I interpreted a list of such messages.
Wild canids tend feed opportunistically. Though they possess a lovely set of
incisors designed to shred raw flesh, they also eat fruits, berries, and
melons.&nbsp; Late spring and early summer mid-road
deposits reveal nature’s fibrous, fruity “ink.”&nbsp;
These calling cards vary little in theme.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some
include lines that state, “Hey, check out the mulberries.&nbsp; Who needs rabbits when berries fall from the
tree into your mouth?” Another might read, “Mulberries rule, but watch out for attack
birds.” By late summer, I might find a message along these lines, “If you
thought mulberries were good, you must try the currants. This season’s little
berries defy description—flavor and bulk make them first choice of all coyotes!”Once berries shrivel and fall to
the ground, Yote pronouncements take on new texture and dimension.&nbsp; Rodents come back into fashion.&nbsp; The messages read, “Whoa, that was one big
bunny!” or “Packrats make great snacks.” Fall diets include plentiful rodent
fur and little round seeds I haven’t identified, hence the following motto,
“Eat a balanced diet—a little meat combined with a little grain make a coyote
sleek, sassy, and fast.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While it
may seem odd to relate a coyote’s natural bodily function to calling cards left
behind by Victorian gentlefolk, similarities exist. Relying on sight and scent
features, they intentionally drop scat in the road to serve the same purpose as
old-fashioned human calling cards. Dogs read it with their noses and quickly cover
its scent by lifting a leg. You read the announcement that you’ve invaded
another creature’s marked territory with your eyes and think, who poops in the
middle of the road? &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Coyotes do
because it’s theirs, and they can.