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Win a chance to shop early at 8th Street Customer Appreciation Sale

The Chamber in Hays, Kansas has announced Leigh Purdy has been named the next vice president of membership.

"My name is Leigh Purdy, and I am excited to share that I will be joining The Chamber in Hays, Kansas staff on May 1st as the new vice president of membership," she said. "I will be working alongside Rhonda (Meyerhoff) during her last month as she nears retirement. I am very excited to connect more with the community and serve the Chamber's members."

Purdy’s previous job experiences and community involvement include serving as the general manager at the Hilton Garden Inn &amp; Convention Center, participating in Hays Young Professionals, serving on the HYP Advisory Council and serving as the HYP chair-elect since the beginning of 2023. Recently, Purdy has participated in several programs such as Leadership Hays, Dale Carnegie and the Kansas Leadership Center’s three-step leadership pathway.

“This community has given me so many opportunities to better myself through such programs as Leadership Hays, Dale Carnegie, and more, and I look forward to returning the favor by lending my talents to the Chamber," she said. "My mother was a small business owner, and thanks to her passion, she instilled in me the importance of small businesses supporting each other and the power of networking. Even here in Hays, my family has a history of investing on our community as my great-grandfather, C.L. Itzen, founded State Glass Company years ago. I think it will be a great fit working with the Chamber to honor my family’s tradition."

"Leigh is incredibly passionate about the Hays/Ellis County community. Her continued dedication to her personal and professional ongoing learning will allow her to quickly adapt and flourish in this new role," President/CEO Sarah Wasinger. "We believe Leigh's knowledge of our chamber as an organization will empower her to provide a smooth transition for our members and further help The Chamber in Hays, Kansas achieve its mission of accelerating business connections and advocating community advancement. We eagerly anticipate Purdy joining our team and look forward to introducing her to our members and community."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681836868518.png" alt="Purdy" />
 <figcaption>Purdy</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Chamber in Hays, Kansas has announced Leigh Purdy has been named the next vice president of membership."My name is Leigh Purdy, and I am excited to share that I will be joining The Chamber in Hays, Kansas staff on May 1st as the new vice president of membership," she said. "I will be working alongside Rhonda (Meyerhoff) during her last month as she nears retirement. I am very excited to connect more with the community and serve the Chamber's members."Purdy’s previous job experiences and community involvement include serving as the general manager at the Hilton Garden Inn &amp; Convention Center, participating in Hays Young Professionals, serving on the HYP Advisory Council and serving as the HYP chair-elect since the beginning of 2023. Recently, Purdy has participated in several programs such as Leadership Hays, Dale Carnegie and the Kansas Leadership Center’s three-step leadership pathway.“This community has given me so many opportunities to better myself through such programs as Leadership Hays, Dale Carnegie, and more, and I look forward to returning the favor by lending my talents to the Chamber," she said. "My mother was a small business owner, and thanks to her passion, she instilled in me the importance of small businesses supporting each other and the power of networking. Even here in Hays, my family has a history of investing on our community as my great-grandfather, C.L. Itzen, founded State Glass Company years ago. I think it will be a great fit working with the Chamber to honor my family’s tradition.""Leigh is incredibly passionate about the Hays/Ellis County community. Her continued dedication to her personal and professional ongoing learning will allow her to quickly adapt and flourish in this new role," President/CEO Sarah Wasinger. "We believe Leigh's knowledge of our chamber as an organization will empower her to provide a smooth transition for our members and further help The Chamber in Hays, Kansas achieve its mission of accelerating business connections and advocating community advancement. We eagerly anticipate Purdy joining our team and look forward to introducing her to our members and community."

Hays chamber announces new VP of membership

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Holy Family Elementary Fifth Grade teacher Chris Dinkel discusses the annual Ellis County Famous Figures program with the school's final competition selections, Hannah Flax, Madelynne Corsair, Myka Schoepf and Weston Unrein.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Holy Family Elementary selects Ellis Co. Famous Figures participants" allowtransparency="true" height="700" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=8nu9u-13e70bd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=700" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Holy Family Elementary Fifth Grade teacher Chris Dinkel discusses the annual Ellis County Famous Figures program with the school's final competition selections, Hannah Flax, Madelynne Corsair, Myka Schoepf and Weston Unrein.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Holy Family Elementary selects Ellis Co. Famous Figures participants

8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm. Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event.

8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday! 8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592837680808.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm. Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event.* Free Tshirts while supplies last* Dozens of giveaways* Lowest prices of the year -by far* Taking preorders now for large orders8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday! 8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

🎙 Donations pour in Tuesday during FHSU Giving Day

The Kansas Geological Society met last week (4/11) to recognize and name eight new oil fields and four infield wildcat discoveries in Kansas. There are 17 new fields identified across the state so far this year. Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations last week, 370 so far this year, compared to 438 a year ago. There are ten new drilling permits east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Kansas operators have spudded 341 wells so far this year, compared to 385 at this time last year. Total footage is down about 21% from a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says Kansas operators completed 27 wells in the week through April 13th, with 11 west of Wichita and 16 in the eastern half of the state. That's 546 completed wells statewide so far this year compared to 467 by this time a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count was down slightly despite slight gains east of Wichita. According to Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service, the tally in Western Kansas was 23 active rigs, down three from the week before. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 748 active drilling rigs in the US, down three rigs. At 588 rigs, the oil count was down two. The count of gas drilling rigs was down one at 157 rigs. The breakouts show five fewer directional rigs, three fewer horizontal rigs, and five additional vertical drilling rigs compared to last week. The total in Oklahoma was down three rigs, Texas was down two. New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Louisiana were each up one. The Energy Information Administration says crude inventories grew by 600,000 barrels from the previous week, at just over 470 million barrels. Stockpiles are about three percent above the five year seasonal average.&nbsp; EIA said gasoline and diesel inventories each dropped last week. Both are well below the five-week average for this time of year. The weekly government report showed US crude imports down by nearly a million barrels a day at 6.2 million barrels per day. That equals the average for the last four weeks, which is down by just under one percent from the same four weeks a year ago. Crude production in the US increased by 112,000 barrels per day last week to 12.34 million barrels per day. The government predicts better pump prices than last year, even as those prices start to rise. The Energy Information Administration forecasts average pump prices for the year just under $3.50 a gallon coast to coast. EIA is predicting lower average crude-oil prices than last year. The report also forecasts lower crack spreads, the term used to describe the markup at the refinery between crude oil and gasoline prices. At the extremes, EIA expects summer gasoline prices this year to range from $3.08 to $3.95 per gallon Environmental activists are hoping to accelerate the greening of America's number-four crude-producing state. Colorado activists are hoping to ban new oil and gas drilling in the state within seven years. The news releases and other announcements all use the word "fracking" but the measure being considered would ban all new drilling permits by the year 2030. The group submitted language to the Colorado Legislative Council to place a measure on the 2024 statewide ballot. It would need just over 124,000 signatures to force a statewide vote. A report filed in the Canadian Parliament asserts that country will need thousands of additional oil and gas workers. The government projects 14,000 job openings from now through 2031, an increase of 13%. The projection includes oil and gas extraction and does not include support industries. Exxon Mobil is talking to Pioneer Natural Resources about a possible acquisition. The Wall Street Journal report prompted an 8% spike in the stock price at Pioneer, the number three producer in the Permian Basin.

By JOHN P. TRETBARThe Kansas Geological Society met last week (4/11) to recognize and name eight new oil fields and four infield wildcat discoveries in Kansas. There are 17 new fields identified across the state so far this year. Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations last week, 370 so far this year, compared to 438 a year ago. There are ten new drilling permits east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Kansas operators have spudded 341 wells so far this year, compared to 385 at this time last year. Total footage is down about 21% from a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says Kansas operators completed 27 wells in the week through April 13th, with 11 west of Wichita and 16 in the eastern half of the state. That's 546 completed wells statewide so far this year compared to 467 by this time a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count was down slightly despite slight gains east of Wichita. According to Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service, the tally in Western Kansas was 23 active rigs, down three from the week before. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 748 active drilling rigs in the US, down three rigs. At 588 rigs, the oil count was down two. The count of gas drilling rigs was down one at 157 rigs. The breakouts show five fewer directional rigs, three fewer horizontal rigs, and five additional vertical drilling rigs compared to last week. The total in Oklahoma was down three rigs, Texas was down two. New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Louisiana were each up one. The Energy Information Administration says crude inventories grew by 600,000 barrels from the previous week, at just over 470 million barrels. Stockpiles are about three percent above the five year seasonal average.&nbsp; EIA said gasoline and diesel inventories each dropped last week. Both are well below the five-week average for this time of year. The weekly government report showed US crude imports down by nearly a million barrels a day at 6.2 million barrels per day. That equals the average for the last four weeks, which is down by just under one percent from the same four weeks a year ago. Crude production in the US increased by 112,000 barrels per day last week to 12.34 million barrels per day. The government predicts better pump prices than last year, even as those prices start to rise. The Energy Information Administration forecasts average pump prices for the year just under $3.50 a gallon coast to coast. EIA is predicting lower average crude-oil prices than last year. The report also forecasts lower crack spreads, the term used to describe the markup at the refinery between crude oil and gasoline prices. At the extremes, EIA expects summer gasoline prices this year to range from $3.08 to $3.95 per gallon Environmental activists are hoping to accelerate the greening of America's number-four crude-producing state. Colorado activists are hoping to ban new oil and gas drilling in the state within seven years. The news releases and other announcements all use the word "fracking" but the measure being considered would ban all new drilling permits by the year 2030. The group submitted language to the Colorado Legislative Council to place a measure on the 2024 statewide ballot. It would need just over 124,000 signatures to force a statewide vote. A report filed in the Canadian Parliament asserts that country will need thousands of additional oil and gas workers. The government projects 14,000 job openings from now through 2031, an increase of 13%. The projection includes oil and gas extraction and does not include support industries. Exxon Mobil is talking to Pioneer Natural Resources about a possible acquisition. The Wall Street Journal report prompted an 8% spike in the stock price at Pioneer, the number three producer in the Permian Basin.

News From the Oil Patch: Lower summer gas prices on the way?

Join us at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, April 28, 2023, at the Hays Public Library for a short presentation on Midwest Energy’s new three-part demand rates, an explanation of demand, and how to manage demand.&nbsp; Custom bill analysis will be available for Midwest Energy customers who attend to estimate what their bills could look like in the next few years as demand rates are fully implemented.

Refreshments will be served, and questions will be answered. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-222-3121. We hope to see you there!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Join us at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, April 28, 2023, at the Hays Public Library for a short presentation on Midwest Energy’s new three-part demand rates, an explanation of demand, and how to manage demand.&nbsp; Custom bill analysis will be available for Midwest Energy customers who attend to estimate what their bills could look like in the next few years as demand rates are fully implemented.Refreshments will be served, and questions will be answered. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-222-3121. We hope to see you there!

Hays Post staff earns 13 honors from Kansas Press Association 🦅

<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/2023/4/1681756896002.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

I am going to take a brief break today from our 4-H project highlights to focus on a crucial part of 4-H learning – our volunteers!

April 16 -22 is National Volunteer Week and it is one of many times that it is important to recognize and thank the many people who help Extension in providing learning opportunities for 4-H youth.&nbsp;

We have eight 4-H clubs across Barton County&nbsp;and eight in Ellis County&nbsp;<a></a>and each of them have 2-3 registered volunteers who serve as club leaders. They are actively involved in shaping a young person’s experience in 4-H by teaching parliamentary procedure, demonstrating teamwork and communication, and sharing information.&nbsp;

Additionally, we have several volunteers who work with specific project areas to teach skills from the shooting sports project to foods and nutrition. Sharing their skills and expertise shows youth&nbsp;the importance of giving back to their community and how to share something they are interested in for a lifetime.

Leaders for 4-H Livestock, Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and 4-H Council provide older youth with opportunities to expand their leadership and communication skills with guidance and experience.&nbsp;

Two other important groups&nbsp;of volunteers are definitely related to the county fair! Fair superintendents assist the judging process, display exhibits, answer questions, and provide a positive environment during the fair. Additionally, the Barton County Fair Association is a group of volunteers with a goal to provide a fun, family-oriented event to showcase 4-H and agriculture in our communities. They spend countless hours planning, repairing, and organizing so many details!

If you would like to know more about serving as a volunteer in any of these capacities, get in contact with me! Having a positive impact on the youth in our communities is challenging,&nbsp;enlightening, and FUN!&nbsp;

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email&nbsp;Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>I am going to take a brief break today from our 4-H project highlights to focus on a crucial part of 4-H learning – our volunteers!April 16 -22 is National Volunteer Week and it is one of many times that it is important to recognize and thank the many people who help Extension in providing learning opportunities for 4-H youth.&nbsp;We have eight 4-H clubs across Barton County&nbsp;and eight in Ellis County&nbsp;<a></a>and each of them have 2-3 registered volunteers who serve as club leaders. They are actively involved in shaping a young person’s experience in 4-H by teaching parliamentary procedure, demonstrating teamwork and communication, and sharing information.&nbsp;Additionally, we have several volunteers who work with specific project areas to teach skills from the shooting sports project to foods and nutrition. Sharing their skills and expertise shows youth&nbsp;the importance of giving back to their community and how to share something they are interested in for a lifetime.Leaders for 4-H Livestock, Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and 4-H Council provide older youth with opportunities to expand their leadership and communication skills with guidance and experience.&nbsp;Two other important groups&nbsp;of volunteers are definitely related to the county fair! Fair superintendents assist the judging process, display exhibits, answer questions, and provide a positive environment during the fair. Additionally, the Barton County Fair Association is a group of volunteers with a goal to provide a fun, family-oriented event to showcase 4-H and agriculture in our communities. They spend countless hours planning, repairing, and organizing so many details!If you would like to know more about serving as a volunteer in any of these capacities, get in contact with me! Having a positive impact on the youth in our communities is challenging,&nbsp;enlightening, and FUN!&nbsp;Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email&nbsp;Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: Thankful for our 4-H volunteers

GREELEY COUNTY — One person died in an accident just before 7 a.m. Monday in Greeley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Montana driven by Mary Alice Murray, 60, Scott City, was westbound on Kansas 96 just east of Kansas 27.

The van traveled off the roadway to the right, began to rotate in a clockwise manner and the driver was ejected. The van came to rest facing northeast in the ditch.

EMS transported Murray to the Greeley County Hospital in Tribune where she was pronounced deceased. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

GREELEY COUNTY — One person died in an accident just before 7 a.m. Monday in Greeley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Montana driven by Mary Alice Murray, 60, Scott City, was westbound on Kansas 96 just east of Kansas 27.The van traveled off the roadway to the right, began to rotate in a clockwise manner and the driver was ejected. The van came to rest facing northeast in the ditch.EMS transported Murray to the Greeley County Hospital in Tribune where she was pronounced deceased. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Scott City woman dead after being ejected in van crash

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications Mariah Legleiter and owner of Legleiter Insurance Devin Legleiter share information from the Kansas Leadership Center's ongoing Leadership Hays 2023.

<div><iframe title="Leadership Hays helps connect area business and community" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2p2wg-13e5ae3-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications Mariah Legleiter and owner of Legleiter Insurance Devin Legleiter share information from the Kansas Leadership Center's ongoing Leadership Hays 2023.

🎙 Post Podcast: Leadership Hays helps connect area business and community

8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm.    Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event. 

8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday!   8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592837680808.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8th Street Liquor in Hays will hold its annual Customer Appreciation Sale this Saturday, April 22nd, from 9am -11pm. Everything in the store will be on sale during this one day event. * Free Tshirts while supplies last* Dozens of giveaways* Lowest prices of the year -by far* Taking preorders now for large orders8th Street Liquor loves their customers and they're honoring you this Saturday! 8th Street Liquor, on East 8th next to the Golden Q in Hays.

A picture of Mom, toddler-aged, standing by a rock pile and showing off a special treasure in her tiny raised hand sits atop my dresser. Every time I pass it, her passion for discovering, collecting, and showcasing her finds in flower beds and baskets around the house warms my heart.

That apple didn’t fall far from the tree because I added my rocks to hers in bowls, baskets, flowerbeds, and boxes. Our grandkids loved to examine our combined rocks during their visits. As a result, I answer endless, creative questions and encourage hypotheses that challenge my explaining abilities.

Our youngest grands live southeast of Hays. Big Creek runs near their home so they often find washed-out limestone fossil imprints as they wander the creek. They also find clam and gastropod imprints in local stone blocks and fence posts. We compare those to actual clams and snails they find along Big Creek’s banks. The eldest, a kindergartner at the time, wanted to know how those fossils got there so I explained that oceans covered Kansas long ago and those images were creatures who lived in that water, died, and got covered with slime that turned to stone.

Oh man, one question exploded in millions! Was their house under water? Would they have to swim to their other grandparents’ house a mile and a half away? Would their cows have to swim? How about the horses and the chickens? Might that ocean come back? While we resolved immediate concerns and put worries to rest, questions flooded her busy brain. After I mentioned sharks swam in those waters, she wanted to find a shark tooth.

Recently, her 5th grade dinosaur-loving cousin from far northwest Kansas visited. We had an hour to kill so we visited a shale bed south of town to hunt for shark teeth. I explained we might not find one, and she accepted that. Besides, she really wanted to find a Tyrannosaurus Rex. We parked near a road cut where I’ve found teeth and began searching. I explained that oceans covered this region, providing a home for sharks and swimming dinos. Finding a T Rex was unlikely. Immediately, she switched gears to ask if we’d find a megalodon tooth.

Obviously, she’s learned about prehistoric sharks. I confessed I’d never found one anywhere but in a museum. Then she again asked if we’d find a dinosaur. I reminded her that most dinos in this region swam although a flying creature sometimes shows up. To which she responded, “You mean like plesiosaurs, mosasaurs, and Pteranodons?” Kudos to her teachers and Mom.

“Exactly, but right here, we find itty bitty shark teeth.” While she wandered, eyes to the ground spying chunks of light-colored limestone she swiftly identified as T rex teeth, I sought just one shark tooth she could pick up.

Despite our limited time, I spied a bleached white triangle with gnarly roots that once connected tooth to jaw. I called her over so she could find and collect it. She kept choosing large, triangular, limestone chunks as I repeated, “It’s really small.” Finally, she zeroed in and lifted her trophy high.

Later that day, we showed pictures of that find to the cousins at Easter dinner. Now they can’t wait to visit gramma’s to hunt shark teeth. I hope Mom knows her rock hunting gene is alive and well in the youngest generation.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486853814.jpeg" alt="written by: Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>A picture of Mom, toddler-aged, standing by a rock pile and showing off a special treasure in her tiny raised hand sits atop my dresser. Every time I pass it, her passion for discovering, collecting, and showcasing her finds in flower beds and baskets around the house warms my heart.That apple didn’t fall far from the tree because I added my rocks to hers in bowls, baskets, flowerbeds, and boxes. Our grandkids loved to examine our combined rocks during their visits. As a result, I answer endless, creative questions and encourage hypotheses that challenge my explaining abilities.Our youngest grands live southeast of Hays. Big Creek runs near their home so they often find washed-out limestone fossil imprints as they wander the creek. They also find clam and gastropod imprints in local stone blocks and fence posts. We compare those to actual clams and snails they find along Big Creek’s banks. The eldest, a kindergartner at the time, wanted to know how those fossils got there so I explained that oceans covered Kansas long ago and those images were creatures who lived in that water, died, and got covered with slime that turned to stone.Oh man, one question exploded in millions! Was their house under water? Would they have to swim to their other grandparents’ house a mile and a half away? Would their cows have to swim? How about the horses and the chickens? Might that ocean come back? While we resolved immediate concerns and put worries to rest, questions flooded her busy brain. After I mentioned sharks swam in those waters, she wanted to find a shark tooth.Recently, her 5th grade dinosaur-loving cousin from far northwest Kansas visited. We had an hour to kill so we visited a shale bed south of town to hunt for shark teeth. I explained we might not find one, and she accepted that. Besides, she really wanted to find a Tyrannosaurus Rex. We parked near a road cut where I’ve found teeth and began searching. I explained that oceans covered this region, providing a home for sharks and swimming dinos. Finding a T Rex was unlikely. Immediately, she switched gears to ask if we’d find a megalodon tooth.Obviously, she’s learned about prehistoric sharks. I confessed I’d never found one anywhere but in a museum. Then she again asked if we’d find a dinosaur. I reminded her that most dinos in this region swam although a flying creature sometimes shows up. To which she responded, “You mean like plesiosaurs, mosasaurs, and Pteranodons?” Kudos to her teachers and Mom.“Exactly, but right here, we find itty bitty shark teeth.” While she wandered, eyes to the ground spying chunks of light-colored limestone she swiftly identified as T rex teeth, I sought just one shark tooth she could pick up.Despite our limited time, I spied a bleached white triangle with gnarly roots that once connected tooth to jaw. I called her over so she could find and collect it. She kept choosing large, triangular, limestone chunks as I repeated, “It’s really small.” Finally, she zeroed in and lifted her trophy high.Later that day, we showed pictures of that find to the cousins at Easter dinner. Now they can’t wait to visit gramma’s to hunt shark teeth. I hope Mom knows her rock hunting gene is alive and well in the youngest generation.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: Interests we pass to the next generation

A warm and windy start to the work week has led the National Service in Dodge City to warn of a critical fire risk across western Kansas Monday and Tuesday.

The highs will be in the mid- to upper-80s Monday and Tuesday. Winds in the Hays area will be sustained at 10 to 20 mph, gusting to 40 mph by Tuesday evening.

The mercury will begin to dip by the early morning hours Thursday, when there is a 30 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. The high Thursday is expected to be in the mid-60s, with a high in the mid-50s by Friday.

There is a 20 percent chance of precipitation in the early morning hours Friday, as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681746220601.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA warm and windy start to the work week has led the National Service in Dodge City to warn of a critical fire risk across western Kansas Monday and Tuesday.The highs will be in the mid- to upper-80s Monday and Tuesday. Winds in the Hays area will be sustained at 10 to 20 mph, gusting to 40 mph by Tuesday evening.The mercury will begin to dip by the early morning hours Thursday, when there is a 30 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. The high Thursday is expected to be in the mid-60s, with a high in the mid-50s by Friday.There is a 20 percent chance of precipitation in the early morning hours Friday, as well.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Critical fire weather conditions will return to western Kansas for Tuesday afternoon. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/jX9sZR6AQt">pic.twitter.com/jX9sZR6AQt</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1647906875453898753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm and windy start to week leads to more wildfire warnings

LANE COUNTY—In recent years, there have been numerous reports of people discovering folded one dollar bills that contain illegal and potentially dangerous drugs, according to a statement from the Lane County Sheriff.

"While using folded money or paper to transport drugs has long been a common practice, the emergence of substances like Fentanyl has made it exceptionally hazardous."

On Sunday, a citizen contacted the on-duty Deputy to report that they had found a folded one dollar bill in their yard. 

Upon unfolding it, a white substance spilled out. The bill was confiscated and field tested positive for Methamphetamine. Further field tests for Opiates and Fentanyl were negative.

The Sheriff's department reminded, "it is important to remain vigilant about potential hazards in your surroundings."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681726532415.png" alt="Photo Lane County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lane County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>LANE COUNTY—In recent years, there have been numerous reports of people discovering folded one dollar bills that contain illegal and potentially dangerous drugs, according to a statement from the Lane County Sheriff."While using folded money or paper to transport drugs has long been a common practice, the emergence of substances like Fentanyl has made it exceptionally hazardous."On Sunday, a citizen contacted the on-duty Deputy to report that they had found a folded one dollar bill in their yard. Upon unfolding it, a white substance spilled out. The bill was confiscated and field tested positive for Methamphetamine. Further field tests for Opiates and Fentanyl were negative.The Sheriff's department reminded, "it is important to remain vigilant about potential hazards in your surroundings."

Kansas sheriff warns: Don’t pick up folded dollar bills

By DAWNE LEIKER Special to Hays Post

ST. FRANCIS — The idea started in a coffee shop, but unlike many ideas fueled&nbsp;by caffeine&nbsp;and friendly banter, this idea began to take shape.&nbsp;In short, the idea recognized that&nbsp;the arts&nbsp;are&nbsp;integral to&nbsp;a thriving community.&nbsp;Fifteen&nbsp;years have passed&nbsp;since&nbsp;the original idea began&nbsp;percolating.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;then,&nbsp;the&nbsp;coffee&nbsp;group has launched the&nbsp;Cheyenne Center for Creativity (CC4C),&nbsp;local arts programs,&nbsp;and a historic building renovation, all with the desire&nbsp;to nourish the creative roots of the St. Francis community.

The first step took place in&nbsp;2013&nbsp;when&nbsp;CC4C opened&nbsp;an art gallery in&nbsp;the Danielson&nbsp;building, a building of historical and architectural significance&nbsp;to&nbsp;downtown St. Francis. Over the years, the Danielson&nbsp;building, an L-shaped property that wraps around&nbsp;the corner of Washington&nbsp;and Quincy&nbsp;Streets,&nbsp;has been home to implements, hardware,&nbsp;groceries, toys,&nbsp;and housewares.&nbsp;Built in 1920 and&nbsp;considered by its&nbsp;original&nbsp;owner, Deroy Danielson,&nbsp;“the finest store in western Kansas,”&nbsp;CC4C saw great potential in&nbsp;the 5,500-square-foot&nbsp;property.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;25-by-35-foot space in the L-section of the Danielson building&nbsp;was the first section of the building&nbsp;rented and&nbsp;renovated by CC4C.&nbsp;Over the years, that section of the building has been home to many creative ventures,&nbsp;including&nbsp;art displays,&nbsp;drama camps, book signings, poetry readings, and music events.

“Putting a spotlight on the arts is a worthy endeavor that uplifts the entire community,”&nbsp;said Kary Zweygardt,&nbsp;gallery director. “The arts have the power to do that.”

The gallery served as an artistic hub for the community, but Zweygardt, also president of&nbsp;Cheyenne Community&nbsp;Development Corp.,&nbsp;said that&nbsp;during strategic planning meetings for the development&nbsp;group,&nbsp;residents&nbsp;of the community consistently&nbsp;identified a need for a community center.&nbsp;As discussions developed, ideas, such as&nbsp;an expanded art gallery, a&nbsp;wedding venue, and a commercial kitchen for cooking classes,&nbsp;began to flow.&nbsp;

When the Danielson&nbsp;building was put up for sale&nbsp;years&nbsp;later, members of CC4C made the decision to purchase&nbsp;it.

“The building was considered a revenue stream that supported the gallery and our creative endeavors,” Zweygardt said. “A community center became a viable option because it addressed a community need and could provide some money coming in. We hoped to come to the point where we had budgetable income.”

One of the first purchases needed for the building was a new roof.&nbsp;CC4C saw community buy-in when&nbsp;local donors&nbsp;contributed $88,000 toward that purchase. A&nbsp;$100,000&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen grant&nbsp;to&nbsp;finalize&nbsp;the&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;of the building and property,&nbsp;which required&nbsp;$250,000 of matching funds, helped to get the project up and running. Other contributions have been received from Midwest Energy, the Department of Commerce,&nbsp;the Patterson Family Foundation,&nbsp;the Cheyenne County&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Community Foundation, and donations.

“We wouldn’t be able to do this at all without the community support,” Zweygardt said. “Because you’re just not going to sell enough art to get cash flow. That is why we look at even a trickle. It all becomes a revenue stream. And if you get enough trickles, you can eventually build a pond.”

According to Zweygardt, the&nbsp;project, which was&nbsp;given the name&nbsp;202 on Washington,&nbsp;has been segmented into three phases: an expanded art gallery to support local artists of all sorts,&nbsp;from&nbsp;visual to literary to music, a community center, which itself is divided into three parts, a courtyard, Quincy&nbsp;Room&nbsp;for smaller events,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a&nbsp;large event center, and a catering kitchen, which could someday serve as an incubator for local businesses.

The&nbsp;Hardt&nbsp;Gallery, an expanded art gallery,&nbsp;opened&nbsp;in&nbsp;June 2022, marking the completion of phase one of the 202 on Washington project.&nbsp;The Quincy Room event center&nbsp;was completed&nbsp;in&nbsp;March&nbsp;of 2023. Work&nbsp;continues&nbsp;in earnest on the&nbsp;larger&nbsp;event center, which&nbsp;will be adjacent to the Quincy Room with a separating wall. The wall will be moveable to increase the space that can be used for larger gatherings.&nbsp;

Natalie Knodel has served on the building team since 2016. She has a knack for design, so brainstorming&nbsp;ideas for the Danielson Building&nbsp;and seeing them come to fruition has been an ideal fit for her interests.&nbsp;

“To be able to create something worthwhile and a benefit to the community&nbsp;has been the best experience for me,”&nbsp;Knodel&nbsp;said, adding that she has been “energized” by working with CC4C on the project.&nbsp;“I’m just amazed how many people are creative in so many different ways. It has really been a catalyst to bring that out.”

CC4C President Janet Carman pointed out that each&nbsp;team member&nbsp;has a different perspective&nbsp;and&nbsp;that the blend of personalities creates a unique synergy.

“Everybody knows what their job is and what they are bringing to the table,”&nbsp;Carman said.&nbsp;“It’s just incredible. I’ve never been involved in anything like this before.”

CC4C, a “roll-up your sleeves” type of board, has found a unity of purpose as they have moved through the planning, design, and execution of their project.&nbsp;But it&nbsp;is&nbsp;local contractor Ron Wilson that&nbsp;Knodel and Carman credit for&nbsp;the&nbsp;beauty and functionality of the 202 project.&nbsp;

“He is so exceptional at what he does. Whatever you can dream up, he goes for it. He is creative but smart about how things have to be done and done properly,” Knodel said.

Combining the old with the new has been an overarching goal of the Hardt Gallery. Carman said the comments of&nbsp;gallery visitors&nbsp;have helped assure her that&nbsp;the goal&nbsp;of maintaining the integrity of the building is being met.&nbsp;

Since its opening in June, more than 600 people have toured the Hardt Gallery, some calling it an&nbsp;“oasis on the plains.”&nbsp;Zweygardt pointed out that&nbsp;many visitors have mentioned feeling&nbsp;a palpable “art vibe”&nbsp;not just in the gallery but in the&nbsp;entire&nbsp;St. Francis&nbsp;community.&nbsp;He said he has been “blown away”&nbsp;by residents&nbsp;and returning natives who have&nbsp;contributed significantly&nbsp;to creativity, not just in the gallery but&nbsp;throughout the town of 1,200&nbsp;people.

“I think it’s important to realize that&nbsp;western Kansas stretches past the border of Salina or Hays,” Zweygardt said. “There is a value and a worth that people dismiss because of the smallness of a community. They dismiss it early,&nbsp;so they never stop.&nbsp;We are giving them a reason to stop and make St. Francis a destination, not just a&nbsp;pass-through.”

“You have to have some trust. You have to risk. People will come.”

Currently, the gallery is displaying&nbsp;“Quiet Reflections:&nbsp;The&nbsp;Art of&nbsp;Kary Zweygardt”&nbsp;until the end&nbsp;of April.&nbsp;Its next display will be&nbsp;Rebel Mahieu, Colby Community College art&nbsp;director.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Hardt Gallery is open Thursdays and Fridays 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.,&nbsp;and by appointment.&nbsp;More information is available at https://202onwashington.com/

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677528504039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486572354.jpeg" alt="Hardt Gallery at Christmas. Photo by Kary Zweygardt " />
 <figcaption>Hardt Gallery at Christmas. Photo by Kary Zweygardt </figcaption>
 </figure>By DAWNE LEIKER Special to Hays PostST. FRANCIS — The idea started in a coffee shop, but unlike many ideas fueled&nbsp;by caffeine&nbsp;and friendly banter, this idea began to take shape.&nbsp;In short, the idea recognized that&nbsp;the arts&nbsp;are&nbsp;integral to&nbsp;a thriving community.&nbsp;Fifteen&nbsp;years have passed&nbsp;since&nbsp;the original idea began&nbsp;percolating.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;then,&nbsp;the&nbsp;coffee&nbsp;group has launched the&nbsp;Cheyenne Center for Creativity (CC4C),&nbsp;local arts programs,&nbsp;and a historic building renovation, all with the desire&nbsp;to nourish the creative roots of the St. Francis community.The first step took place in&nbsp;2013&nbsp;when&nbsp;CC4C opened&nbsp;an art gallery in&nbsp;the Danielson&nbsp;building, a building of historical and architectural significance&nbsp;to&nbsp;downtown St. Francis. Over the years, the Danielson&nbsp;building, an L-shaped property that wraps around&nbsp;the corner of Washington&nbsp;and Quincy&nbsp;Streets,&nbsp;has been home to implements, hardware,&nbsp;groceries, toys,&nbsp;and housewares.&nbsp;Built in 1920 and&nbsp;considered by its&nbsp;original&nbsp;owner, Deroy Danielson,&nbsp;“the finest store in western Kansas,”&nbsp;CC4C saw great potential in&nbsp;the 5,500-square-foot&nbsp;property.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486622955.jpeg" alt="Beth Maifeld, Natalie Knodel, and Ron Wilson discuss progress in the Quincy Room area. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Beth Maifeld, Natalie Knodel, and Ron Wilson discuss progress in the Quincy Room area. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A&nbsp;25-by-35-foot space in the L-section of the Danielson building&nbsp;was the first section of the building&nbsp;rented and&nbsp;renovated by CC4C.&nbsp;Over the years, that section of the building has been home to many creative ventures,&nbsp;including&nbsp;art displays,&nbsp;drama camps, book signings, poetry readings, and music events.“Putting a spotlight on the arts is a worthy endeavor that uplifts the entire community,”&nbsp;said Kary Zweygardt,&nbsp;gallery director. “The arts have the power to do that.”The gallery served as an artistic hub for the community, but Zweygardt, also president of&nbsp;Cheyenne Community&nbsp;Development Corp.,&nbsp;said that&nbsp;during strategic planning meetings for the development&nbsp;group,&nbsp;residents&nbsp;of the community consistently&nbsp;identified a need for a community center.&nbsp;As discussions developed, ideas, such as&nbsp;an expanded art gallery, a&nbsp;wedding venue, and a commercial kitchen for cooking classes,&nbsp;began to flow.&nbsp;When the Danielson&nbsp;building was put up for sale&nbsp;years&nbsp;later, members of CC4C made the decision to purchase&nbsp;it.“The building was considered a revenue stream that supported the gallery and our creative endeavors,” Zweygardt said. “A community center became a viable option because it addressed a community need and could provide some money coming in. We hoped to come to the point where we had budgetable income.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486670595.jpeg" alt="Danielson building in 1922, from Cheyenne County Museum archives" />
 <figcaption>Danielson building in 1922, from Cheyenne County Museum archives</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the first purchases needed for the building was a new roof.&nbsp;CC4C saw community buy-in when&nbsp;local donors&nbsp;contributed $88,000 toward that purchase. A&nbsp;$100,000&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen grant&nbsp;to&nbsp;finalize&nbsp;the&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;of the building and property,&nbsp;which required&nbsp;$250,000 of matching funds, helped to get the project up and running. Other contributions have been received from Midwest Energy, the Department of Commerce,&nbsp;the Patterson Family Foundation,&nbsp;the Cheyenne County&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Community Foundation, and donations.“We wouldn’t be able to do this at all without the community support,” Zweygardt said. “Because you’re just not going to sell enough art to get cash flow. That is why we look at even a trickle. It all becomes a revenue stream. And if you get enough trickles, you can eventually build a pond.”According to Zweygardt, the&nbsp;project, which was&nbsp;given the name&nbsp;202 on Washington,&nbsp;has been segmented into three phases: an expanded art gallery to support local artists of all sorts,&nbsp;from&nbsp;visual to literary to music, a community center, which itself is divided into three parts, a courtyard, Quincy&nbsp;Room&nbsp;for smaller events,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a&nbsp;large event center, and a catering kitchen, which could someday serve as an incubator for local businesses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486715572.jpeg" alt="Gallery Director Kary Zweygardt and artist Rodney Wood prepare for Wood's exhibit, Pathos and the Muse, October 2022. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Gallery Director Kary Zweygardt and artist Rodney Wood prepare for Wood's exhibit, Pathos and the Muse, October 2022. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Hardt&nbsp;Gallery, an expanded art gallery,&nbsp;opened&nbsp;in&nbsp;June 2022, marking the completion of phase one of the 202 on Washington project.&nbsp;The Quincy Room event center&nbsp;was completed&nbsp;in&nbsp;March&nbsp;of 2023. Work&nbsp;continues&nbsp;in earnest on the&nbsp;larger&nbsp;event center, which&nbsp;will be adjacent to the Quincy Room with a separating wall. The wall will be moveable to increase the space that can be used for larger gatherings.&nbsp;Natalie Knodel has served on the building team since 2016. She has a knack for design, so brainstorming&nbsp;ideas for the Danielson Building&nbsp;and seeing them come to fruition has been an ideal fit for her interests.&nbsp;“To be able to create something worthwhile and a benefit to the community&nbsp;has been the best experience for me,”&nbsp;Knodel&nbsp;said, adding that she has been “energized” by working with CC4C on the project.&nbsp;“I’m just amazed how many people are creative in so many different ways. It has really been a catalyst to bring that out.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486794453.jpeg" alt="Ad from the early 1920s, from Cheyenne County Museum archives" />
 <figcaption>Ad from the early 1920s, from Cheyenne County Museum archives</figcaption>
 </figure>CC4C President Janet Carman pointed out that each&nbsp;team member&nbsp;has a different perspective&nbsp;and&nbsp;that the blend of personalities creates a unique synergy.“Everybody knows what their job is and what they are bringing to the table,”&nbsp;Carman said.&nbsp;“It’s just incredible. I’ve never been involved in anything like this before.”CC4C, a “roll-up your sleeves” type of board, has found a unity of purpose as they have moved through the planning, design, and execution of their project.&nbsp;But it&nbsp;is&nbsp;local contractor Ron Wilson that&nbsp;Knodel and Carman credit for&nbsp;the&nbsp;beauty and functionality of the 202 project.&nbsp;“He is so exceptional at what he does. Whatever you can dream up, he goes for it. He is creative but smart about how things have to be done and done properly,” Knodel said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681486750863.jpeg" alt="Grand opening of Hardt Gallery, June 17, 2022. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Grand opening of Hardt Gallery, June 17, 2022. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Combining the old with the new has been an overarching goal of the Hardt Gallery. Carman said the comments of&nbsp;gallery visitors&nbsp;have helped assure her that&nbsp;the goal&nbsp;of maintaining the integrity of the building is being met.&nbsp;Since its opening in June, more than 600 people have toured the Hardt Gallery, some calling it an&nbsp;“oasis on the plains.”&nbsp;Zweygardt pointed out that&nbsp;many visitors have mentioned feeling&nbsp;a palpable “art vibe”&nbsp;not just in the gallery but in the&nbsp;entire&nbsp;St. Francis&nbsp;community.&nbsp;He said he has been “blown away”&nbsp;by residents&nbsp;and returning natives who have&nbsp;contributed significantly&nbsp;to creativity, not just in the gallery but&nbsp;throughout the town of 1,200&nbsp;people.“I think it’s important to realize that&nbsp;western Kansas stretches past the border of Salina or Hays,” Zweygardt said. “There is a value and a worth that people dismiss because of the smallness of a community. They dismiss it early,&nbsp;so they never stop.&nbsp;We are giving them a reason to stop and make St. Francis a destination, not just a&nbsp;pass-through.”“You have to have some trust. You have to risk. People will come.”Currently, the gallery is displaying&nbsp;“Quiet Reflections:&nbsp;The&nbsp;Art of&nbsp;Kary Zweygardt”&nbsp;until the end&nbsp;of April.&nbsp;Its next display will be&nbsp;Rebel Mahieu, Colby Community College art&nbsp;director.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Hardt Gallery is open Thursdays and Fridays 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.,&nbsp;and by appointment.&nbsp;More information is available at https://202onwashington.com/

NWester: History the backdrop for ambitious project in Saint Francis

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

They may not be the most riveting conversations, but they're certainly some of the most important the Hays city commission has each year.

Commissioners unanimously voted Thursday to continue with the next rotation in five-year plans for sanitary sewer cleaning and video inspection, along with manhole rehabilitation.

The plans were created by Jeff Crispin, water resources director, to spend some maintenance money annually from the water and reclamation and reuse budget in order to avoid much more costly potential replacement costs for the sanitary sewer lines and manholes.&nbsp;

The city has 110 miles of sewer lines and 2,172 manholes.

Each year, slightly more than 22 miles of the sewer lines are inspected and cleaned for proper operation and maintenance of the collection system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Problems that can be caused by the lack of&nbsp;sewer cleaning includes sewer backups, manhole overflows, public exposure to raw&nbsp;sewage, and regulatory fines.

Crispin says the line flow may be slowed by intrusions such as private utility lines, tree roots, and deterioration.

Commissioners approved the low bid of&nbsp;$110,621&nbsp;from CC Steel, LLC, of Maple Plain, MN, with&nbsp;a budget authority not to exceed&nbsp;$140,000 in case some areas need more than just light cleaning.

The work will be done in November and December and sewer customers will be notified 24 hours in advance.&nbsp;

Mayer Specialty Services of Goddard was awarded the low bid of a budget not to exceed $125,000 for rehabilitation of 100 manholes.&nbsp;

According to Crispin, manholes need rehabilitation due to acidic environments, low pH, erosion, aging, and&nbsp;storm water infiltration.

A third agenda item regarding water use was an award of a $52,200 bid to Earles Engineering, McPherson, for engineering services to design a bigger Highway 40 sanitary sewer pump station.&nbsp;

The lift station, constructed in 1984, sits in the flood plain and will see increased flow when the new high school is built. It also serves Commerce Parkway and the new housing areas being built east of 22nd Street.

The new high school will also mean increased traffic on east 13th Street.

The city of Hays has received a cost share grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation to reconstruct 13th Street from Anthony Drive east to Commerce Parkway.

The $1.2 million dollar state grant will be applied to the cost of the project which will include widening the asphalt street and adding an 8 ft. multi-use pathway along the north side of the street.

Total project cost is estimated at $2.34 million, with the city budgeting $750,000 for it and Ellis County earmarking $500,00. The east end of the street has been annexed from the county into the city and Hays will become responsible for its maintenance once the project is done.

Final design is to be completed by the end of the year with construction anticipated by the end of 2024.

In other business, commissioners heard an update of the activities of the Ellis County Historical Society by Amanda Rupp, executive director.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681694057180.png" alt="Courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThey may not be the most riveting conversations, but they're certainly some of the most important the Hays city commission has each year.Commissioners unanimously voted Thursday to continue with the next rotation in five-year plans for sanitary sewer cleaning and video inspection, along with manhole rehabilitation.The plans were created by Jeff Crispin, water resources director, to spend some maintenance money annually from the water and reclamation and reuse budget in order to avoid much more costly potential replacement costs for the sanitary sewer lines and manholes.&nbsp;The city has 110 miles of sewer lines and 2,172 manholes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618867344673.jpeg" alt="Sanitary sewer cleaning truck. Courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Sanitary sewer cleaning truck. Courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681693799108.jpeg" alt="Courtesy city of hays" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy city of hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681693674088.jpeg" alt="Courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Each year, slightly more than 22 miles of the sewer lines are inspected and cleaned for proper operation and maintenance of the collection system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Problems that can be caused by the lack of&nbsp;sewer cleaning includes sewer backups, manhole overflows, public exposure to raw&nbsp;sewage, and regulatory fines.Crispin says the line flow may be slowed by intrusions such as private utility lines, tree roots, and deterioration.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/rtq1tiyu-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Sewer Cleaning Crispin" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Commissioners approved the low bid of&nbsp;$110,621&nbsp;from CC Steel, LLC, of Maple Plain, MN, with&nbsp;a budget authority not to exceed&nbsp;$140,000 in case some areas need more than just light cleaning.The work will be done in November and December and sewer customers will be notified 24 hours in advance.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681697669933.png" alt="Sixty manholes to be rehabbed in Hays during 2023. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Sixty manholes to be rehabbed in Hays during 2023. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681697804290.png" alt="Budget authority allowed for an additional 40 manholes to be rehabbed this year for a total of 100. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Budget authority allowed for an additional 40 manholes to be rehabbed this year for a total of 100. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Mayer Specialty Services of Goddard was awarded the low bid of a budget not to exceed $125,000 for rehabilitation of 100 manholes.&nbsp;According to Crispin, manholes need rehabilitation due to acidic environments, low pH, erosion, aging, and&nbsp;storm water infiltration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681698494457.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681698592458.png" alt="Highway 40 sewer lift station. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Highway 40 sewer lift station. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>A third agenda item regarding water use was an award of a $52,200 bid to Earles Engineering, McPherson, for engineering services to design a bigger Highway 40 sanitary sewer pump station.&nbsp;The lift station, constructed in 1984, sits in the flood plain and will see increased flow when the new high school is built. It also serves Commerce Parkway and the new housing areas being built east of 22nd Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681699285180.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The new high school will also mean increased traffic on east 13th Street.The city of Hays has received a cost share grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation to reconstruct 13th Street from Anthony Drive east to Commerce Parkway.The $1.2 million dollar state grant will be applied to the cost of the project which will include widening the asphalt street and adding an 8 ft. multi-use pathway along the north side of the street.Total project cost is estimated at $2.34 million, with the city budgeting $750,000 for it and Ellis County earmarking $500,00. The east end of the street has been annexed from the county into the city and Hays will become responsible for its maintenance once the project is done.Final design is to be completed by the end of the year with construction anticipated by the end of 2024.In other business, commissioners heard an update of the activities of the Ellis County Historical Society by Amanda Rupp, executive director.

🎥 Sewer infrastructure maintenance dominates city commission meeting  

ELLIS&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Ellis USD 388 Board of Education on Wednesday was offered a taste
of what is to come as they discussed the impact of declining enrollment in the
district.

While enrollment in the district has been slowly declining
for years, a graduating class of 49 students — nearly double a typical class
size — two years ago has dealt a significant blow to overall student numbers.

And fewer students means less money for next year’s budget and the potential for staffing and program cuts.

To begin board discussions addressing the
issue, during the meeting, the board was presented with the question: “With budget cuts occurring, does the Vocational
Agriculture program need to stay full-time, go to a part-time or eliminate?”

“Obviously, nobody wants
to cut anything,” Superintendent Janice Wilson said. “And so, this is just a
discussion, and we're throwing ideas out on the table for what are some things
we can look at.”

Earlier in the meeting, she
shared enrollment figures from the last decade.

During the 2012-13 school
year, the district had 410 enrolled. During the 2020–21 year, enrollment was recorded
at 375. 

Next year that number has
been projected at 324.

With state funding tied
directly to enrollment in two-year increments, next year’s enrollment will create a
significant drop in aid. 

Currently, Wilson said the
base aid per pupil is set at $4,486.

To open the discussion, she
told the board that Future Farmers of America currently has 21 members and
shared an overview of the welding and agriculture courses offered in the
district.

“The numbers in the classes have been decreasing,” Wilson
said.

She said only five students were enrolled in the welding course,
10 in ag science and half of the eighth-grade class.

And next year, even fewer students are expected in those
programs.

While the Vocational Agricultural program was under the
microscope during the meeting, Wilson frequently reminded the board and the
assembled audience that came in support of the program that it is only the
first part of the conversation as the district administration and board are
forced to address declining funding that comes with lower enrollment.

“This is just to
throw ideas out there,” she said. “We need to talk about it, we need to discuss
it and figure out what is going to be the best thing for our families.

“We know that we are rural America, we know that ag is
extremely important. But when our class sizes get down to certain numbers, we
have to be concerned about some of that.”

Board member Marty Hollern asked if the students are aware lower
program involvement may lead to a program being cut.

“I don't think so I don't think they're aware of that,” said
Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt.

Many in the audience spoke in favor of the programs, along
with board member and Ellis High Vocational Agriculture program alum Dean
Gottschalk.

“Not every kid is able to go to college, so they go choose a
Vo-Tech school,” Gottschalk said. “I chose a Vo-Tech school because of my
instructor. And I feel I've done very well.”

“Two of my sons that went through this class. One that just
graduated last year, has already graduated from welding class school in Wichita
as a certified welder thanks to this program. I don't want to see any of this
cut out of this program, me personally, because we are ag and oil field
supported.”

He said losing the program would be “bad” for studentUSD s.

Hollern said it’s important to recruit incoming students to
the program.

Audience members spoke to the same effort, including an
emotional plea from the current Ellis High School FFA president, suggesting
there could be many more potential students in the program if an effort was made.

“I don't disagree with that at all, that I think every
program that we're looking at, with low involvement, could be said the same, unfortunately,” said board member Latisha Haag.

Some noted if the program was eliminated, the district would
lose students to neighboring Hays and WaKeeney districts. 

“You have to look at the emotional side of things, but you
also need to look at the numbers side of things,” Hollern said. “I've got text
messages, I've got emails of people saying, ‘We live close enough on the county
line that we could probably go to a different district if our children want to
pursue the Vo-Ag side of things' and stuff like that. So, there's a cost of us
not having them available.”

He suggested having a fuller picture of the impact on
enrollment if a program is cut should be a part of the discussion, and all
options should be considered.

“We can't leave any stone unturned,” Hollern said. “How can
we be creative? How can we try and save some of these programs and stuff as
well? So, if we can come up with what, potentially with that part-time, savings
would look like for us as a district, would I kind of like see what those
numbers are.”

But as other rural districts face similar decisions, Wilson
said there have been discussions of sharing staff across districts to cut costs
and save programs.

And as the board mulled cuts to the program, other low-participation
programs were noted.

“Is the declining enrollment correlation to the overall
declining enrollment, is that why there's not interest?” Haag said. “I'm
looking at one teacher who, outside of the junior high rotation, has 17
students. Is that because of declining enrollment across the high school, or are
there other reasons that are factoring into that declining enrollment in those
courses?”

While many on the board shared the desire to have a more
complete picture of the district classes, programs and student participation,
the need to include district staff and the community was noted as crucial.

“I would like to get input from the community and just have
a brainstorm session because we're going to have to be creative,” said board
member Cindy Hertel. 

Ideally, any cut that would affect a teacher should be made
prior to May 1.

“The sooner, the better, just because if we have people who
need to look for a position, this is their livelihood, and we can't wait for
too long out of respect for them,” Wilson said. “I believe that the final day
is around May 17. But I would hope that we could do that a lot sooner.”

Board member Brian Shannon suggested a committee be formed
to collect input and generate ideas for the board.

“I think we need to get more input, more involvement,” he
said.

Haag echoed the desire to move as quickly as possible and to
involve more people in the fact-finding and recommendation process. She said that
by having that involvement, staff may better understand the district’s position.

“I think that some staff feel that the board has been very
much against them this year with decisions,” she said. “And that's not the
case. We're doing our best to make decisions that are best for the students in
the district. And with the budget that we're facing. There are some tough
decisions coming, but I still want to hear some of their suggestions.

“We have got to get on the same page because we are tearing
our district apart. And we need to be a better district than that. We've got to
start having conversations, tough conversations, that result in productive
solutions, rather than talking behind everyone's back and going to the people
that you think are going to solve your problem the way you want it solved.
We've got to remedy that situation.”

“I get the impression from some staff that there is
definitely some animosity there,” said Board President Randy Honas. “I don't
really want to speculate on where that may come from or where it started from,
but that's only going to get worse when we have to make these types of
decisions.

“Everybody’s going to have to go into it with an open mind,
understanding that it's pretty factual. You are not going to get what you want or all of what you want. You might get something. You are going to have to
compromise. There's going to be some give and take.”

“They are subject to change, they can get worse, they could
get slightly better. But if they get worse, these conversations are going to be
a lot tougher, and it's not anybody's fault. … As a board, I think we need to
listen to other ideas, other possibilities, and other suggestions, knowing that
many of those are going to be great ideas but may or may not.

Haag said she hopes as more voices are added to the discussions,
generating ideas come to the forefront.

“I'm tired of the griping, I'm tired of the complaining, I
want people to come with solutions, rather than just throwing out there how unhappy
they are,” she said. “Because that's what I'm getting more of. And when I ask, ‘What's
the solution?’ I'm not getting answers to that."

“We need to make sure that our programs, our staff, our
school board, our administration, and the kids themselves have to buy into this
as well,” Hollern said. “This is your school, and let's see what we can do to
make this thing better.

“Those are tough decisions that we have to make. And that's
why they voted us to be board members. Now we have to do what our
responsibility is. Unfortunately, this is not the fun time.”

As the conversation continued, board member Stephanie Johnson
questioned the overall goal of this first of many conversations that will
happen in coming weeks and months.

“This is a sample of what’s to come,” Wilson said. “It’s not
easy.”

The Board unanimously voted to enter into the Hays West
Central Special Education Cooperative Agreement with USD 489 Hays, USD 432
Victoria, USD 395 La Crosse and USD 407 Russell. The agreement will go into
effect on July 1, 2024. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503652298.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Ellis USD 388 Board of Education on Wednesday was offered a taste
of what is to come as they discussed the impact of declining enrollment in the
district.While enrollment in the district has been slowly declining
for years, a graduating class of 49 students — nearly double a typical class
size — two years ago has dealt a significant blow to overall student numbers.And fewer students means less money for next year’s budget and the potential for staffing and program cuts.To begin board discussions addressing the
issue, during the meeting, the board was presented with the question: “With budget cuts occurring, does the Vocational
Agriculture program need to stay full-time, go to a part-time or eliminate?”<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y9q0b3AdtYE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Obviously, nobody wants
to cut anything,” Superintendent Janice Wilson said. “And so, this is just a
discussion, and we're throwing ideas out on the table for what are some things
we can look at.”Earlier in the meeting, she
shared enrollment figures from the last decade.During the 2012-13 school
year, the district had 410 enrolled. During the 2020–21 year, enrollment was recorded
at 375. Next year that number has
been projected at 324.With state funding tied
directly to enrollment in two-year increments, next year’s enrollment will create a
significant drop in aid. Currently, Wilson said the
base aid per pupil is set at $4,486.To open the discussion, she
told the board that Future Farmers of America currently has 21 members and
shared an overview of the welding and agriculture courses offered in the
district.“The numbers in the classes have been decreasing,” Wilson
said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503711957.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>She said only five students were enrolled in the welding course,
10 in ag science and half of the eighth-grade class.And next year, even fewer students are expected in those
programs.While the Vocational Agricultural program was under the
microscope during the meeting, Wilson frequently reminded the board and the
assembled audience that came in support of the program that it is only the
first part of the conversation as the district administration and board are
forced to address declining funding that comes with lower enrollment.“This is just to
throw ideas out there,” she said. “We need to talk about it, we need to discuss
it and figure out what is going to be the best thing for our families.“We know that we are rural America, we know that ag is
extremely important. But when our class sizes get down to certain numbers, we
have to be concerned about some of that.”Board member Marty Hollern asked if the students are aware lower
program involvement may lead to a program being cut.“I don't think so I don't think they're aware of that,” said
Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt.Many in the audience spoke in favor of the programs, along
with board member and Ellis High Vocational Agriculture program alum Dean
Gottschalk.“Not every kid is able to go to college, so they go choose a
Vo-Tech school,” Gottschalk said. “I chose a Vo-Tech school because of my
instructor. And I feel I've done very well.”“Two of my sons that went through this class. One that just
graduated last year, has already graduated from welding class school in Wichita
as a certified welder thanks to this program. I don't want to see any of this
cut out of this program, me personally, because we are ag and oil field
supported.”He said losing the program would be “bad” for studentUSD s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503758312.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education Member Dean Gottschalk&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education Member Dean Gottschalk&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hollern said it’s important to recruit incoming students to
the program.Audience members spoke to the same effort, including an
emotional plea from the current Ellis High School FFA president, suggesting
there could be many more potential students in the program if an effort was made.“I don't disagree with that at all, that I think every
program that we're looking at, with low involvement, could be said the same, unfortunately,” said board member Latisha Haag.Some noted if the program was eliminated, the district would
lose students to neighboring Hays and WaKeeney districts. “You have to look at the emotional side of things, but you
also need to look at the numbers side of things,” Hollern said. “I've got text
messages, I've got emails of people saying, ‘We live close enough on the county
line that we could probably go to a different district if our children want to
pursue the Vo-Ag side of things' and stuff like that. So, there's a cost of us
not having them available.”He suggested having a fuller picture of the impact on
enrollment if a program is cut should be a part of the discussion, and all
options should be considered.“We can't leave any stone unturned,” Hollern said. “How can
we be creative? How can we try and save some of these programs and stuff as
well? So, if we can come up with what, potentially with that part-time, savings
would look like for us as a district, would I kind of like see what those
numbers are.”But as other rural districts face similar decisions, Wilson
said there have been discussions of sharing staff across districts to cut costs
and save programs.And as the board mulled cuts to the program, other low-participation
programs were noted.“Is the declining enrollment correlation to the overall
declining enrollment, is that why there's not interest?” Haag said. “I'm
looking at one teacher who, outside of the junior high rotation, has 17
students. Is that because of declining enrollment across the high school, or are
there other reasons that are factoring into that declining enrollment in those
courses?”While many on the board shared the desire to have a more
complete picture of the district classes, programs and student participation,
the need to include district staff and the community was noted as crucial.“I would like to get input from the community and just have
a brainstorm session because we're going to have to be creative,” said board
member Cindy Hertel. But time is short.Ideally, any cut that would affect a teacher should be made
prior to May 1.“The sooner, the better, just because if we have people who
need to look for a position, this is their livelihood, and we can't wait for
too long out of respect for them,” Wilson said. “I believe that the final day
is around May 17. But I would hope that we could do that a lot sooner.”Board member Brian Shannon suggested a committee be formed
to collect input and generate ideas for the board.“I think we need to get more input, more involvement,” he
said.Haag echoed the desire to move as quickly as possible and to
involve more people in the fact-finding and recommendation process. She said that
by having that involvement, staff may better understand the district’s position.“I think that some staff feel that the board has been very
much against them this year with decisions,” she said. “And that's not the
case. We're doing our best to make decisions that are best for the students in
the district. And with the budget that we're facing. There are some tough
decisions coming, but I still want to hear some of their suggestions.“We have got to get on the same page because we are tearing
our district apart. And we need to be a better district than that. We've got to
start having conversations, tough conversations, that result in productive
solutions, rather than talking behind everyone's back and going to the people
that you think are going to solve your problem the way you want it solved.
We've got to remedy that situation.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503814253.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education President Randy Honas" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education President Randy Honas</figcaption>
 </figure>“I get the impression from some staff that there is
definitely some animosity there,” said Board President Randy Honas. “I don't
really want to speculate on where that may come from or where it started from,
but that's only going to get worse when we have to make these types of
decisions.“Everybody’s going to have to go into it with an open mind,
understanding that it's pretty factual. You are not going to get what you want or all of what you want. You might get something. You are going to have to
compromise. There's going to be some give and take.”But he said the numbers do not lie.“They are subject to change, they can get worse, they could
get slightly better. But if they get worse, these conversations are going to be
a lot tougher, and it's not anybody's fault. … As a board, I think we need to
listen to other ideas, other possibilities, and other suggestions, knowing that
many of those are going to be great ideas but may or may not.Haag said she hopes as more voices are added to the discussions,
generating ideas come to the forefront.“I'm tired of the griping, I'm tired of the complaining, I
want people to come with solutions, rather than just throwing out there how unhappy
they are,” she said. “Because that's what I'm getting more of. And when I ask, ‘What's
the solution?’ I'm not getting answers to that."“We need to make sure that our programs, our staff, our
school board, our administration, and the kids themselves have to buy into this
as well,” Hollern said. “This is your school, and let's see what we can do to
make this thing better.“Those are tough decisions that we have to make. And that's
why they voted us to be board members. Now we have to do what our
responsibility is. Unfortunately, this is not the fun time.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503977326.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education members Stephanie Johnson and Marty Hollern" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education members Stephanie Johnson and Marty Hollern</figcaption>
 </figure>As the conversation continued, board member Stephanie Johnson
questioned the overall goal of this first of many conversations that will
happen in coming weeks and months.“This is a sample of what’s to come,” Wilson said. “It’s not
easy.”<h2>In other USD
388 board news</h2>The Board unanimously voted to enter into the Hays West
Central Special Education Cooperative Agreement with USD 489 Hays, USD 432
Victoria, USD 395 La Crosse and USD 407 Russell. The agreement will go into
effect on July 1, 2024. The coop was established by Hays to make special education
services available to students in the participating districts.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6159f5db-0739-4af2-bb57-68e8cc563051">The Hays
Board of Education approved the addition of Russell to the group last year under
a three-year rollout plan.</a>The search has begun for a new Ellis High School principal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503869710.jpeg" alt="USD 388&nbsp; Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>USD 388&nbsp; Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>Current principal Donna Schmidt’s resignation was unanimously
approved by the board during the meeting. She is set to serve the remainder of
this year’s contract.Applications are currently being accepted.Glassman Construction was selected as the contractor for the HVAC
system replacement. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27984c56-7fed-4153-931e-320c33ca5a32">The
system upgrade was approved as part of a bond issue passed by voters last year.</a>The board also approved the purchase of 85 new Lenovo
laptops for student use. The purchase was paid through a grant.

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