By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

The year was 1957; the date was somewhere between March 1 and May 1 depending on whose account you read. 

As quoted in the July 1957 issue of Kansas Fish and Game magazine, “The first light of dawn revealed a dismal scene. Light rain was falling and the dark skies overhead gave indication that the day would be unpleasant. Even so, an estimated 80 to 100 fishermen huddled in raincoats and waited in cars for the gun which would signal that fishing time had arrived. A few had been at the lake overnight sleeping in tents or cars.

"The sound of the shot echoed from the hills and baits hit the water. Spinning tackle, bait casting outfits and fly rods were all in evidence. Fish which had never seen a plug, spinner or baited hook were the object of all this activity. Would they be hungry on such a damp and chilly morning?”

 This was the scene on opening morning of the first day ever of fishing at McPherson State Fishing Lake. And yes, according to the article, the fish were hungry and fishing was “fabulous” that day.

Even though a lake was planned for Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, the story goes that a large sportsman’s club active in McPherson at the time was largely influential in getting McPherson State Fishing Lake built so club members would have a closer lake to fish than driving to Kanopolis.

So, in 1954, a 750-foot-long dam with a spillway was built across a tributary of the Gypsum Creek System, known locally as Battle Creek, which runs through the north end of the refuge. The creek already contained a couple deep holes that held fish plus several springs, so by 1955 the new dam had already retained enough water to allow stocking of the lake with largemouth bass and channel catfish.

Today, McPherson State Fishing Lake covers about 46 acres when full and is over twenty feet deep at its deepest. The west side of the lake offers a nice boat ramp and parking lot big enough for several vehicles and boat trailers. 

The banks surrounding the upper end of the lake are nicely shaded with trees left from a timber claim in the 1800s where parcels of land were deeded to private owners in return for their promise to plant trees on the property. 

Several primitive campsites with picnic tables are available for campers and fishermen, as well as a cabin to rent. Three long rock fishing piers stick out into the lake along the shore&nbsp;of the campground. 

McPherson State Fishing Lake is known for producing nice largemouth bass and channel catfish, but crappie and saugeye also swim its waters.

 In the mid-1990s, two fish feeders were added to feed and to act as attractors for channel catfish. Numerous brush piles have been added over the years and are marked by GPS so their locations can be accessed through the link on the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website.

In May of 1956, volunteers from local oil patches built an observation tower from used oil well pipe and erected it on a high point above the lake. The upper deck was 24 feet above the ground, allowing visitors to see much more of the Refuge. Many days, parts of the elk and bison herds could be seen lounging on far away hillsides. 

If you haven't visited Maxwell for a while, you’ll notice that tower is gone, as it had rusted and deteriorated to the point where it was no longer considered safe. A new observation deck, much like the ones at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge near Stafford, is planned in its place.

I think John Maxwell would be as proud of the lake as he would be of the wildlife preserve bearing his name. 

Although the fishing at McPherson State Fishing Lake will probably never be as good as on that opening morning in 1957, it is much closer than Kanopolis and its clear spring fed waters and shady campground make the lake worthy of a day’s fishing as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsThe year was 1957; the date was somewhere between March 1 and May 1 depending on whose account you read. As quoted in the July 1957 issue of Kansas Fish and Game magazine, “The first light of dawn revealed a dismal scene. Light rain was falling and the dark skies overhead gave indication that the day would be unpleasant. Even so, an estimated 80 to 100 fishermen huddled in raincoats and waited in cars for the gun which would signal that fishing time had arrived. A few had been at the lake overnight sleeping in tents or cars."The sound of the shot echoed from the hills and baits hit the water. Spinning tackle, bait casting outfits and fly rods were all in evidence. Fish which had never seen a plug, spinner or baited hook were the object of all this activity. Would they be hungry on such a damp and chilly morning?” This was the scene on opening morning of the first day ever of fishing at McPherson State Fishing Lake. And yes, according to the article, the fish were hungry and fishing was “fabulous” that day.Even though a lake was planned for Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, the story goes that a large sportsman’s club active in McPherson at the time was largely influential in getting McPherson State Fishing Lake built so club members would have a closer lake to fish than driving to Kanopolis.So, in 1954, a 750-foot-long dam with a spillway was built across a tributary of the Gypsum Creek System, known locally as Battle Creek, which runs through the north end of the refuge. The creek already contained a couple deep holes that held fish plus several springs, so by 1955 the new dam had already retained enough water to allow stocking of the lake with largemouth bass and channel catfish.Today, McPherson State Fishing Lake covers about 46 acres when full and is over twenty feet deep at its deepest. The west side of the lake offers a nice boat ramp and parking lot big enough for several vehicles and boat trailers. The banks surrounding the upper end of the lake are nicely shaded with trees left from a timber claim in the 1800s where parcels of land were deeded to private owners in return for their promise to plant trees on the property. Several primitive campsites with picnic tables are available for campers and fishermen, as well as a cabin to rent. Three long rock fishing piers stick out into the lake along the shore&nbsp;of the campground. McPherson State Fishing Lake is known for producing nice largemouth bass and channel catfish, but crappie and saugeye also swim its waters. In the mid-1990s, two fish feeders were added to feed and to act as attractors for channel catfish. Numerous brush piles have been added over the years and are marked by GPS so their locations can be accessed through the link on the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website.In May of 1956, volunteers from local oil patches built an observation tower from used oil well pipe and erected it on a high point above the lake. The upper deck was 24 feet above the ground, allowing visitors to see much more of the Refuge. Many days, parts of the elk and bison herds could be seen lounging on far away hillsides. If you haven't visited Maxwell for a while, you’ll notice that tower is gone, as it had rusted and deteriorated to the point where it was no longer considered safe. A new observation deck, much like the ones at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge near Stafford, is planned in its place.I think John Maxwell would be as proud of the lake as he would be of the wildlife preserve bearing his name. Although the fishing at McPherson State Fishing Lake will probably never be as good as on that opening morning in 1957, it is much closer than Kanopolis and its clear spring fed waters and shady campground make the lake worthy of a day’s fishing as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Outdoor Kansas: McPherson State Fishing Lake worthy of a trip

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A FHSU presentation highlighted the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion, also known as DEI, initiatives in different institutions.

Presented by FHSU's American Democracy Project, Black Student Union Vice President Genisis Wilson discussed the role of DEI in education, the workforce and minorities' everyday lives.

"Centuries of slavery, segregation and systemic racism have left lasting scars on the black communities. DEI policies address their long-standing disparities by leveling these playing fields in education, employment and health care," she said.

She shared statistics showing that companies with diverse leadership achieve stronger financial performance. They are also 70% more likely to enter new markets and generate 19% higher innovation revenue.

Wilson cited a 2018 McKinsey Global Institute statistic, saying that achieving full gender equality in the workforce could have contributed $28 trillion to global global domestic product by 2025 at its full potential.

"If we just had a labor market that was equal, our GDP would go up every place we look at and everywhere we look, whether it's revenue innovation or GDP. Having more diverse people there overall puts us higher in every sector," Wilson said.

An attendee asked Wilson about the recent push to eliminate DEI initiatives and policies. She explained that it is a political strategy by the Trump administration to rally support around a common cause, drawing parallels to the sense of unity after the World Wars and 9/11.

"The reason that DEI is such a hot topic is it is something to band together with," she said. "Groups of people need shared enemies, sometimes to come together."

In addition to serving as vice president of the Black Student Union, she is an active member of the Young Democrats, Pre-Med Club, Women in STEM and a vocal activist.

Wilson said while executive orders restricting DEI have not yet impacted the Black Student Union’s events or mission, there are growing concerns about potential future effects.

"We're glad that it's not affecting us yet, but when it does affect us, we have to know that there's a community behind us," she said.

Wilson said DEI must go beyond representation, incorporating structural accommodations to ensure marginalized groups have decision-making power and access to opportunities.

However, she acknowledges some groups, particularly disabled individuals and immigrants, often do not benefit from DEI as much as they should.

"DEI is a stepping stone. I don't think it's an end all be all," Wilson said.

Wilson said the historical misrepresentation of Black leaders underscores the need for DEI in education. She elaborated on this by providing additional background on Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver and Dr. Charles Drew.

Wilson highlighted racial disparities in health care, discussing how systemic racism affects Black Americans' health outcomes and access to medical services.

She said medical biases continue to impact health care quality, contributing to higher infant mortality rates, shorter life expectancy and mistreatment in medical settings.

"As recently as 2016, a [NIH] study found that continued widespread beliefs among white medical students that they believe in biological differences between black and white people," Wilson said. "Including believing black people have thicker skin than white people and that their blood coagulates more quickly."

Wilson said some medical students still believe the false notion that Black people have a higher pain tolerance, which fuels mistrust in the health care system and results in delayed or inadequate treatment.

Wilson provided statistics. Black infants have a mortality rate of 39.9 per 100,000 live births, compared to 14.1 for white infants, and that Black Americans have a life expectancy almost five years shorter than their white counterparts.

As some institutions remove DEI in response to political backlash, Wilson urges others to hold leaders accountable and advocate for DEI policies in workplaces and schools, even if they are not explicitly labeled as such.

"The Black Student Union had a lot of conversations, 'OK, how can we word this away from [DEI]... how can we talk about this without saying DEI?'" she said.

An attendee asked Wilson how to engage with someone misinformed or strongly opposed to DEI. She advised starting the conversation with a simple question.

“Why do you think that way?” Wilson said. “It starts to break down their ideas, and if it's not based on any sort of logic, it’s easily [disputable].”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741895189072.jpeg" alt="Black Student Union vice president Genisis Wilson giving a presentation on DEI at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Black Student Union vice president Genisis Wilson giving a presentation on DEI at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA FHSU presentation highlighted the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion, also known as DEI, initiatives in different institutions.Presented by FHSU's American Democracy Project, Black Student Union Vice President Genisis Wilson discussed the role of DEI in education, the workforce and minorities' everyday lives."Centuries of slavery, segregation and systemic racism have left lasting scars on the black communities. DEI policies address their long-standing disparities by leveling these playing fields in education, employment and health care," she said.She shared statistics showing that companies with diverse leadership achieve stronger financial performance. They are also 70% more likely to enter new markets and generate 19% higher innovation revenue.Wilson cited a 2018 McKinsey Global Institute statistic, saying that achieving full gender equality in the workforce could have contributed $28 trillion to global global domestic product by 2025 at its full potential."If we just had a labor market that was equal, our GDP would go up every place we look at and everywhere we look, whether it's revenue innovation or GDP. Having more diverse people there overall puts us higher in every sector," Wilson said.An attendee asked Wilson about the recent push to eliminate DEI initiatives and policies. She explained that it is a political strategy by the Trump administration to rally support around a common cause, drawing parallels to the sense of unity after the World Wars and 9/11."The reason that DEI is such a hot topic is it is something to band together with," she said. "Groups of people need shared enemies, sometimes to come together."In addition to serving as vice president of the Black Student Union, she is an active member of the Young Democrats, Pre-Med Club, Women in STEM and a vocal activist.Wilson said while executive orders restricting DEI have not yet impacted the Black Student Union’s events or mission, there are growing concerns about potential future effects."We're glad that it's not affecting us yet, but when it does affect us, we have to know that there's a community behind us," she said.Wilson said DEI must go beyond representation, incorporating structural accommodations to ensure marginalized groups have decision-making power and access to opportunities.However, she acknowledges some groups, particularly disabled individuals and immigrants, often do not benefit from DEI as much as they should."DEI is a stepping stone. I don't think it's an end all be all," Wilson said.Wilson said the historical misrepresentation of Black leaders underscores the need for DEI in education. She elaborated on this by providing additional background on Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver and Dr. Charles Drew.Wilson highlighted racial disparities in health care, discussing how systemic racism affects Black Americans' health outcomes and access to medical services.She said medical biases continue to impact health care quality, contributing to higher infant mortality rates, shorter life expectancy and mistreatment in medical settings."As recently as 2016, a [NIH] study found that continued widespread beliefs among white medical students that they believe in biological differences between black and white people," Wilson said. "Including believing black people have thicker skin than white people and that their blood coagulates more quickly."Wilson said some medical students still believe the false notion that Black people have a higher pain tolerance, which fuels mistrust in the health care system and results in delayed or inadequate treatment.Wilson provided statistics. Black infants have a mortality rate of 39.9 per 100,000 live births, compared to 14.1 for white infants, and that Black Americans have a life expectancy almost five years shorter than their white counterparts.As some institutions remove DEI in response to political backlash, Wilson urges others to hold leaders accountable and advocate for DEI policies in workplaces and schools, even if they are not explicitly labeled as such."The Black Student Union had a lot of conversations, 'OK, how can we word this away from [DEI]... how can we talk about this without saying DEI?'" she said.An attendee asked Wilson how to engage with someone misinformed or strongly opposed to DEI. She advised starting the conversation with a simple question.“Why do you think that way?” Wilson said. “It starts to break down their ideas, and if it's not based on any sort of logic, it’s easily [disputable].”

FHSU hosts presentation on importance of DEI

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Music is proud to announce an outreach tour&nbsp;featuring the KU Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Matt Smith. 

The band will embark on a two-day&nbsp;tour across central and western Kansas, performing five concerts for students and the public.

The tour will take place on March 31 and April 1, with performances at high schools in Clay Center,&nbsp;Junction City, Hays, Garden City, and Dodge City. 

These concerts will provide students and community&nbsp;members with an opportunity to foster a connection with the university and experience one of the&nbsp;nation’s premier collegiate wind ensembles.

"We are thrilled to share the joy of live music with students and audiences across Kansas," said Matt&nbsp;Smith, co-conductor of the KU Wind Ensemble. "Music has the power to inspire, educate, and connect&nbsp;us, and we look forward to engaging with these communities and nurturing a love for the arts."

• 9:45 a.m. – Clay Center Community High School • 1:15 p.m. – Junction City High School • 7:30 p.m. – Hays High School

• 10:00 a.m. – Garden City High School • 2:00 p.m. – Dodge City High School

The "School of Music Across Kansas" initiative is part of the University of Kansas School of Music’s&nbsp;ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-quality musical experiences and fostering connections&nbsp;between KU musicians and students across the state.

For more information, please contact the KU Band Office at kuband@ku.edu. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741187266742.png" alt="KU School of Music&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KU School of Music&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KU School of MusicLAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Music is proud to announce an outreach tour&nbsp;featuring the KU Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Matt Smith. The band will embark on a two-day&nbsp;tour across central and western Kansas, performing five concerts for students and the public.The tour will take place on March 31 and April 1, with performances at high schools in Clay Center,&nbsp;Junction City, Hays, Garden City, and Dodge City. These concerts will provide students and community&nbsp;members with an opportunity to foster a connection with the university and experience one of the&nbsp;nation’s premier collegiate wind ensembles."We are thrilled to share the joy of live music with students and audiences across Kansas," said Matt&nbsp;Smith, co-conductor of the KU Wind Ensemble. "Music has the power to inspire, educate, and connect&nbsp;us, and we look forward to engaging with these communities and nurturing a love for the arts."The tour schedule is as follows:Monday, March 31• 9:45 a.m. – Clay Center Community High School • 1:15 p.m. – Junction City High School • 7:30 p.m. – Hays High SchoolTuesday, April 1• 10:00 a.m. – Garden City High School • 2:00 p.m. – Dodge City High SchoolThe "School of Music Across Kansas" initiative is part of the University of Kansas School of Music’s&nbsp;ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-quality musical experiences and fostering connections&nbsp;between KU musicians and students across the state.For more information, please contact the KU Band Office at kuband@ku.edu.

KU Wind Ensemble to perform in Hays as part of Kansas tour

RUSSELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Saturday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by Todd D. Sinclair, 43, WaKeeney, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of U.S. Highway 40. The SUV entered the north ditch, struck a concrete culvert.&nbsp;

EMS transported Sinclair and a passenger Benjamin D&nbsp;Sinclair, 19, Jetmore, to Russell Regional Hospital. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Saturday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by Todd D. Sinclair, 43, WaKeeney, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of U.S. Highway 40. The SUV entered the north ditch, struck a concrete culvert.&nbsp;EMS transported Sinclair and a passenger Benjamin D&nbsp;Sinclair, 19, Jetmore, to Russell Regional Hospital. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

2 Kansas men hospitalized after I-70 SUV crash

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

NOTE:&nbsp; This column discusses suicide and sexual abuse.&nbsp; If you or anyone you know have thoughts of self-harm, please seek professional help.&nbsp; The suicide and mental health crisis hotline is available 24 hours per day by calling 988.

Roger Golubski <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-12-02/roger-golubski-civil-rights-trial-kansas-city-kckpd-police">died of an apparent suicide</a> on December 2, 2024, the day his trial was scheduled to begin. His crimes did not die with him.

Golubski was a Kansas City, Kansas police officer from 1975 to 2010.&nbsp; According to the <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/02/roger-golubski-ex-kckpd-detective-accused-of-abuse-dead-of-apparent-suicide-before-trial/">charges filed against him in federal court</a>, Golubski conducted a reign of terror against African-American and Hispanic residents of KCK during that time.

Charges included raping several women, including one 16-year-old, other sexual abuses against women and girls as young as 13, kidnapping, running a sex trafficking ring of underage girls, and knowingly sending innocent people to prison. His usual method of operation was to trap women by threatening to send them or their family members to prison or take away custody of their children if they did not submit to him. His favorite targets included sex workers and mothers who had children facing criminal charges.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It all started to fall apart for Golubski when Lamonte McIntyre was exonerated in 2017. McIntyre had spent 23 years in prison. Only 16 when arrested, he had spent most of his life behind bars for a crime he did not commit.&nbsp; 

Golubski had set McIntyre up to take the fall.&nbsp; 

Together with his mother, McIntyre later won a $12.5 million settlement against the Unified Government, a figure so large they had to issue bonds to pay it.

During the lead-up to the trial, Golubski’s lawyer accused the victims of only coming forward after the settlement, in hopes of getting money. It was later shown that Golubski faced citizen complaints dating from his first year on the job, but they were all ignored, minimized, lost, or sealed.

Unlike his victims, Golubski was given privileges while awaiting his trial, including house arrest instead of jail. Ostensibly, this was because he had failing kidneys and required dialysis, but Golubski was also spotted going out for fast food during this period.

 He was able to subvert release requirements that he surrender all weapons, successfully concealing a handgun in his home. Ultimately, Golubski used it to take his own life rather than face the victims who had been waiting for decades to confront him.

Golubski was only able to conduct this 35-year reign of terror because he was enabled by the KCK police department, along with the Wyandotte County and KCK city governments. Other officers–even those in neighboring cities–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/overlooked">knew of his abuses</a> and said nothing.&nbsp; Fellow KCK officers dismissed it as “just Roger being Roger.” Kansas City, Missouri police said, “it’s different over there (in KCK).”

More than two years after his arrest, and after decades of allegedly terrorizing the Black men and women of Kansas.

The investigation needs to be renewed, and this time, the entire KCK Police Department, Wyandotte County prosecutor’s office, city, and county governments need to be investigated.&nbsp; 

Unfortunately, this is highly unlikely at the federal level.&nbsp; 

Proponents of such an investigation include More2 (“More-squared”), a Kansas City interfaith organization that has been outspoken for years about Golubski.&nbsp; I serve on the More2 Board. We had hoped to wrap up the federal trial before the Trump Administration took office, fearing that otherwise they would drop the charges.

Now Golubski is gone, and some of his victims died under very mysterious circumstances. Yet many of those who enabled Golubski’s crimes are still alive, as are many other victims.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="Michael Smith" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasNOTE:&nbsp; This column discusses suicide and sexual abuse.&nbsp; If you or anyone you know have thoughts of self-harm, please seek professional help.&nbsp; The suicide and mental health crisis hotline is available 24 hours per day by calling 988.Roger Golubski <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-12-02/roger-golubski-civil-rights-trial-kansas-city-kckpd-police">died of an apparent suicide</a> on December 2, 2024, the day his trial was scheduled to begin. His crimes did not die with him.Golubski was a Kansas City, Kansas police officer from 1975 to 2010.&nbsp; According to the <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/02/roger-golubski-ex-kckpd-detective-accused-of-abuse-dead-of-apparent-suicide-before-trial/">charges filed against him in federal court</a>, Golubski conducted a reign of terror against African-American and Hispanic residents of KCK during that time. Charges included raping several women, including one 16-year-old, other sexual abuses against women and girls as young as 13, kidnapping, running a sex trafficking ring of underage girls, and knowingly sending innocent people to prison. His usual method of operation was to trap women by threatening to send them or their family members to prison or take away custody of their children if they did not submit to him. His favorite targets included sex workers and mothers who had children facing criminal charges.&nbsp;&nbsp;It all started to fall apart for Golubski when Lamonte McIntyre was exonerated in 2017. McIntyre had spent 23 years in prison. Only 16 when arrested, he had spent most of his life behind bars for a crime he did not commit.&nbsp; Golubski had set McIntyre up to take the fall.&nbsp; Together with his mother, McIntyre later won a $12.5 million settlement against the Unified Government, a figure so large they had to issue bonds to pay it.During the lead-up to the trial, Golubski’s lawyer accused the victims of only coming forward after the settlement, in hopes of getting money. It was later shown that Golubski faced citizen complaints dating from his first year on the job, but they were all ignored, minimized, lost, or sealed.Unlike his victims, Golubski was given privileges while awaiting his trial, including house arrest instead of jail. Ostensibly, this was because he had failing kidneys and required dialysis, but Golubski was also spotted going out for fast food during this period. He was able to subvert release requirements that he surrender all weapons, successfully concealing a handgun in his home. Ultimately, Golubski used it to take his own life rather than face the victims who had been waiting for decades to confront him.Golubski was only able to conduct this 35-year reign of terror because he was enabled by the KCK police department, along with the Wyandotte County and KCK city governments. Other officers–even those in neighboring cities–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/overlooked">knew of his abuses</a> and said nothing.&nbsp; Fellow KCK officers dismissed it as “just Roger being Roger.” Kansas City, Missouri police said, “it’s different over there (in KCK).”<h2>Overlooked</h2>More than two years after his arrest, and after decades of allegedly terrorizing the Black men and women of Kansas.The investigation needs to be renewed, and this time, the entire KCK Police Department, Wyandotte County prosecutor’s office, city, and county governments need to be investigated.&nbsp; Unfortunately, this is highly unlikely at the federal level.&nbsp; Proponents of such an investigation include More2 (“More-squared”), a Kansas City interfaith organization that has been outspoken for years about Golubski.&nbsp; I serve on the More2 Board. We had hoped to wrap up the federal trial before the Trump Administration took office, fearing that otherwise they would drop the charges.Now Golubski is gone, and some of his victims died under very mysterious circumstances. Yet many of those who enabled Golubski’s crimes are still alive, as are many other victims.They are still waiting for justice.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Golubski’s death leaves unfinished business in KCK

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741959438378.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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741959108086.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>

HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF March 24 – 28, 2025

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!

MONDAY --March 24

• Advisory Council Mtg 5:15 p.m. in Lounge.

• Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. • Fathers' Mass was this morning – it’s great to see all of the fathers, step-fathers and special father figures joining us for this special mass! We thank all of our fathers for protecting us, encouraging us to do our best, leading our families and loving us! • Hourly staff timesheets are due to Ms. Karla in the office this morning.

• Spirit Day. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 4th grade at 2:00 p.m. • 5th Gr. will have Joyful Noise this afternoon at 2:45 p.m. • Foundations Team Mtg. 3:40 p.m. in Lounge.

• Sr. Rose Marie will visit 5th grade at 2:30 p.m. • Technology Team Mtg. at 3:40 p.m. in Lounge. • Students &amp; staff, just a reminder that tomorrow you can have Free Dress Day and wear what you’d like to school if you bring a free-will donation to your teacher! We’re still in winter dress-code and you’ll need to follow the school uniform policy! • Happy Birthday to Willow Haselhorst, PK3.

&nbsp;• Today is March Free-Dress for Marcos! Please be sure to give your free-will donations to your teachers. Teachers, you can send your class donations to the office today! All donations will be given to the parents of 5th grader Marcos Villasenor, who is undergoing open heart surgery in April! Thank you all for your donations!! • Stations of the Cross at 2:35 p.m. at IHM. • Greetings to Jeancarlo Delgado, 4A, who will celebrate a birthday this weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737555085782.png" alt="Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>HFEHOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF March 24 – 28, 2025THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!MONDAY --March 24• Advisory Council Mtg 5:15 p.m. in Lounge.TUESDAY --March 25• Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. • Fathers' Mass was this morning – it’s great to see all of the fathers, step-fathers and special father figures joining us for this special mass! We thank all of our fathers for protecting us, encouraging us to do our best, leading our families and loving us! • Hourly staff timesheets are due to Ms. Karla in the office this morning.WEDNESDAY --March 26&nbsp;• Spirit Day. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 4th grade at 2:00 p.m. • 5th Gr. will have Joyful Noise this afternoon at 2:45 p.m. • Foundations Team Mtg. 3:40 p.m. in Lounge.THURSDAY --March 27• Sr. Rose Marie will visit 5th grade at 2:30 p.m. • Technology Team Mtg. at 3:40 p.m. in Lounge. • Students &amp; staff, just a reminder that tomorrow you can have Free Dress Day and wear what you’d like to school if you bring a free-will donation to your teacher! We’re still in winter dress-code and you’ll need to follow the school uniform policy! • Happy Birthday to Willow Haselhorst, PK3.FRIDAY --March 28&nbsp;• Today is March Free-Dress for Marcos! Please be sure to give your free-will donations to your teachers. Teachers, you can send your class donations to the office today! All donations will be given to the parents of 5th grader Marcos Villasenor, who is undergoing open heart surgery in April! Thank you all for your donations!! • Stations of the Cross at 2:35 p.m. at IHM. • Greetings to Jeancarlo Delgado, 4A, who will celebrate a birthday this weekend.

Holy Family Elementary School notes, March 24-28, 2025

🏀 Fast start helps Mustangs knock off Tigers in NCAA Regional semifinal

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I-70 in Sherman County is back open, both directions. Be safe everyone!&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/1901063378103115903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

KHP: I-70 in northwest Kansas is back open

TOPEKA, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball saw their season end on Saturday in the NCAA Regional Quarterfinal round at Lee Arena. The Tigers fell to the No. 17/20 ranked Dragons of MSU Moorhead by a score of 69-62. FHSU finished its season at 22-10 overall, while MSU Moorhead extended its win streak to 12 games and moved to 24-8 overall for the season.

The Tigers did a tremendous job at slowing several of the offensive weapons MSU Moorhead had at its disposal, but unfortunately they did not have an answer for 7-foot, 1-inch center Jacob Jennison, who finished with a huge performance of 22 points and 21 rebounds to lead the Dragons. A 3-point play by Jennison with about 11 and a half minutes to play started to shift the momentum towards the Dragons after the Tigers led by seven.

The Dragons used a 7-0 run to get their first lead of the second half with eight minutes to play and they would never trail again. They used a 6-0 burst to take the lead for good and led by six with 3:27 to play. The Tigers got the lead down to four three times inside the final three minutes, but that was as close as they could get.

The Tigers set the tone defensively early in the game to control the pace of play. It was a back-and-forth battle in the first half with neither team leading by more than two for the first 15 minutes. The Tigers would enjoy the biggest lead of the first half, five points, reached twice late in the half. FHSU led 34-31 at the break and eventually had the largest lead of the game, eight points, twice early in the second half.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;led the Tigers in points (16), rebounds (7), and assists (5). Kyle Grill&nbsp;added 12 points and six rebounds. R.J. Crawford&nbsp;reached double figures in scoring as well with 10 points. Traejon Davis&nbsp;had seven points and Shaun Riley added&nbsp;six in their final collegiate game.

Hammeke closed his storied Tiger career with 2,086 points, 585 rebounds, and 576 assists. He is the all-time leading scorer for FHSU Men's Basketball. Crawford finished with 1,145 points in his college career and Riley reached the 1,000-point mark for his collegiate career as well in this contest, finishing with 1,003.Aside from Jennison's big performance, Logan Kinsey had 16 points and Carson Johnson finished with 11 for the Dragons. Johnson came into the game averaging better than 20 per game and didn't crawl into double figures until late on free throws with Hammeke bottling him up most of the contest.

This was the ninth appearance in the NCAA Tournament under head coach Mark Johnson. The Tigers won at least 22 games in a season for the eighth time under his guidance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742080225612.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Kaleb Hammeke (5) goes in for a layup in the second half of an NCAA II Tournament game against MSU Moorhead on Saturday, March 15, 2025 in Topeka, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Kaleb Hammeke (5) goes in for a layup in the second half of an NCAA II Tournament game against MSU Moorhead on Saturday, March 15, 2025 in Topeka, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsTOPEKA, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball saw their season end on Saturday in the NCAA Regional Quarterfinal round at Lee Arena. The Tigers fell to the No. 17/20 ranked Dragons of MSU Moorhead by a score of 69-62. FHSU finished its season at 22-10 overall, while MSU Moorhead extended its win streak to 12 games and moved to 24-8 overall for the season.<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/2055284208&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-814667509/3-14-25-fhsu-mbkb-press-conf-v" title="Fort Hays State MBB Postgame Press Conference vs. #17 MSU Moorhead (March 15, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Postgame Press Conference vs. #17 MSU Moorhead (March 15, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers did a tremendous job at slowing several of the offensive weapons MSU Moorhead had at its disposal, but unfortunately they did not have an answer for 7-foot, 1-inch center Jacob Jennison, who finished with a huge performance of 22 points and 21 rebounds to lead the Dragons. A 3-point play by Jennison with about 11 and a half minutes to play started to shift the momentum towards the Dragons after the Tigers led by seven.The Dragons used a 7-0 run to get their first lead of the second half with eight minutes to play and they would never trail again. They used a 6-0 burst to take the lead for good and led by six with 3:27 to play. The Tigers got the lead down to four three times inside the final three minutes, but that was as close as they could get.The Tigers set the tone defensively early in the game to control the pace of play. It was a back-and-forth battle in the first half with neither team leading by more than two for the first 15 minutes. The Tigers would enjoy the biggest lead of the first half, five points, reached twice late in the half. FHSU led 34-31 at the break and eventually had the largest lead of the game, eight points, twice early in the second half.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;led the Tigers in points (16), rebounds (7), and assists (5). Kyle Grill&nbsp;added 12 points and six rebounds. R.J. Crawford&nbsp;reached double figures in scoring as well with 10 points. Traejon Davis&nbsp;had seven points and Shaun Riley added&nbsp;six in their final collegiate game.<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/2055284416&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-814667509/3-15-25-fhsu-mbkb-highlights-v" title="Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. #17 MSU Moorhead (March 15, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. #17 MSU Moorhead (March 15, 2025)</a></div></div>Hammeke closed his storied Tiger career with 2,086 points, 585 rebounds, and 576 assists. He is the all-time leading scorer for FHSU Men's Basketball. Crawford finished with 1,145 points in his college career and Riley reached the 1,000-point mark for his collegiate career as well in this contest, finishing with 1,003.Aside from Jennison's big performance, Logan Kinsey had 16 points and Carson Johnson finished with 11 for the Dragons. Johnson came into the game averaging better than 20 per game and didn't crawl into double figures until late on free throws with Hammeke bottling him up most of the contest.This was the ninth appearance in the NCAA Tournament under head coach Mark Johnson. The Tigers won at least 22 games in a season for the eighth time under his guidance.

🏀 Tigers fall to Dragons in NCAA opening round

The special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the fatal, multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 in Sherman County on Friday is, 785-827-4437.

Everyone else outside of that event, please continue to dial  *47 for help from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the fatal, multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 in Sherman County on Friday is, 785-827-4437.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the event on I-70 in Sherman County yesterday is, 785-827-4437. Everyone else outside of that event, please continue to dial *47 for our help, thank you! <a href="https://t.co/iSYmoZ9rNl">pic.twitter.com/iSYmoZ9rNl</a>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/1900986726115402207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Everyone else outside of that event, please continue to dial *47 for help from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

🎥KHP: Special number for those involved in multi-vehicle NW Kan. crash

SHERMAN COUNTY —Interstate 70 was still closed Saturday in both directions between Goodland and Colby, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.&nbsp;

First responders are continuing to clear the roadway from a multi-vehicle crash on Friday due to the strong winds and blowing dirt. As many as 8 people died in the crash, according to Trooper Tod Heilman with the Kansas Highway Patrol. The state established a special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the crash. It is 785-827-4437.

On social media,&nbsp; Brian James, with Goodland Fire and EMS wrote, "I must say yesterday was the toughest and most emotional draining experience in my 22 years of being in the fire service."

Trying to manage multiple agencies, over thirty patients, triaging patients, working over 55 vehicles, fighting the wind with dirt so bad you can’t see over 50 to 100 feet, and trying to keep my crews and myself safe was just something to process." 

"I don’t think people realize the dedication these men and women give to make this community safe and secure. We had to think outside the box to get patients transported to hospitals in Goodland and Colby by using our fire department support vehicle with AEMT’s in the back to using patrol vehicles from Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol."

 I’m sorry for the lives lost in this incident, but I’m grateful for the ones we could save. Goodland and Brewster Fire have to go back out today to the crash site to cut deceased people out of their vehicles. Please be praying for my crews and all Sherman County first responders. 

"A huge thank you to the following agencies who worked this massive car pile up on I-70 at MM 28 to MM 29: Goodland Fire, Brewster Fire, Northwest Kansas Ambulance Service, Colby Fire Department, Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol, Thomas County EMS, Wallace County EMS, Cheyenne County EMS, and Sherman County Dispatch for getting me the resources I needed."

Authorities have not released names of the victims or additional details.

In response to Friday's multi-vehicle accident near Brewster, the Thomas County Commission declared a State of Local Emergency, according to a statement from Thomas County. This declaration will be formalized at the Commission meeting on Monday. County officials were actively coordinating resources to address the situation and ensure the safety of residents. A shelter was also set up through the American Red Cross at the Steve Lampe Athletic Center on the Colby Community College campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742075593579.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN COUNTY —Interstate 70 was still closed Saturday in both directions between Goodland and Colby, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.&nbsp;First responders are continuing to clear the roadway from a multi-vehicle crash on Friday due to the strong winds and blowing dirt. As many as 8 people died in the crash, according to Trooper Tod Heilman with the Kansas Highway Patrol. The state established a special number for family members or loved ones that are involved in the crash. It is 785-827-4437.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742057657995.png" alt="Photos courtesy Brian James" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Brian James</figcaption>
 </figure>On social media,&nbsp; Brian James, with Goodland Fire and EMS wrote, "I must say yesterday was the toughest and most emotional draining experience in my 22 years of being in the fire service."Trying to manage multiple agencies, over thirty patients, triaging patients, working over 55 vehicles, fighting the wind with dirt so bad you can’t see over 50 to 100 feet, and trying to keep my crews and myself safe was just something to process." "I don’t think people realize the dedication these men and women give to make this community safe and secure. We had to think outside the box to get patients transported to hospitals in Goodland and Colby by using our fire department support vehicle with AEMT’s in the back to using patrol vehicles from Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol." I’m sorry for the lives lost in this incident, but I’m grateful for the ones we could save. Goodland and Brewster Fire have to go back out today to the crash site to cut deceased people out of their vehicles. Please be praying for my crews and all Sherman County first responders. "A huge thank you to the following agencies who worked this massive car pile up on I-70 at MM 28 to MM 29: Goodland Fire, Brewster Fire, Northwest Kansas Ambulance Service, Colby Fire Department, Goodland Police Department, Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol, Thomas County EMS, Wallace County EMS, Cheyenne County EMS, and Sherman County Dispatch for getting me the resources I needed."Authorities have not released names of the victims or additional details.In response to Friday's multi-vehicle accident near Brewster, the Thomas County Commission declared a State of Local Emergency, according to a statement from Thomas County. This declaration will be formalized at the Commission meeting on Monday. County officials were actively coordinating resources to address the situation and ensure the safety of residents. A shelter was also set up through the American Red Cross at the Steve Lampe Athletic Center on the Colby Community College campus.

KHP: 8 dead from NW Kan. multi-vehicle crash in dust storm

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) and the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) have approved funding to implement the SNF Clinic quality improvement program in 43 nursing homes across the state, including in Osborne.

 This initiative aims to enhance staff training, improve resident care, and elevate overall facility performance through an advanced electronic learning management system (eLMS).

SNF Clinic is a web-based platform that provides nursing home staff with easy access to essential education and care resources. The program ensures residents receive high-quality, person-centered care by equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and tools.

“The implementation of SNF Clinic in Kansas nursing homes represents a significant investment in the well-being of our elderly population,”&nbsp;KDADS Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Program Manager Rebecca Hedrick said. “By prioritizing education and quality improvement, we ensure that staff members are fully prepared to provide exceptional care to residents.”

Long-Term Care Consultants, LLC (LTCC), the developer and owner of SNF Clinic, has collaborated with CMS and 20 states to provide this system to thousands of nursing homes through the CMP Grant Program. This federal initiative reinvests penalties assessed against nursing homes into programs that directly benefit residents, reinforcing a commitment to improving long-term care standards.

“We’re excited to work with KDADS in providing SNF Clinic to more than 3,000 licensed nursing home beds in the state,”&nbsp;LTCC’s General Legal Counsel Benjamin Meeker said. “Together, we can make a difference in the quality of care provided to thousands of Kansas’s&nbsp;citizens.”

The 43 homes taking part in this initiative are:

The Kansas SNF Clinic project is scheduled for three years, with regular progress and performance reports published on the KDADS&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.kdads.ks.gov/1/01010195819c8db9-982741c7-5e3a-41bb-9410-4dd0d23256a8-000000/kKlxhUDeXyb_jBA3Ta0TC6z3mnBM4dnkZNviDG-AvoM=395">website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569334233722.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDADSTOPEKA — The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) and the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) have approved funding to implement the SNF Clinic quality improvement program in 43 nursing homes across the state, including in Osborne. This initiative aims to enhance staff training, improve resident care, and elevate overall facility performance through an advanced electronic learning management system (eLMS).SNF Clinic is a web-based platform that provides nursing home staff with easy access to essential education and care resources. The program ensures residents receive high-quality, person-centered care by equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and tools.“The implementation of SNF Clinic in Kansas nursing homes represents a significant investment in the well-being of our elderly population,”&nbsp;KDADS Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Program Manager Rebecca Hedrick said. “By prioritizing education and quality improvement, we ensure that staff members are fully prepared to provide exceptional care to residents.”Long-Term Care Consultants, LLC (LTCC), the developer and owner of SNF Clinic, has collaborated with CMS and 20 states to provide this system to thousands of nursing homes through the CMP Grant Program. This federal initiative reinvests penalties assessed against nursing homes into programs that directly benefit residents, reinforcing a commitment to improving long-term care standards.“We’re excited to work with KDADS in providing SNF Clinic to more than 3,000 licensed nursing home beds in the state,”&nbsp;LTCC’s General Legal Counsel Benjamin Meeker said. “Together, we can make a difference in the quality of care provided to thousands of Kansas’s&nbsp;citizens.”The 43 homes taking part in this initiative are:<ul>
 <li>Advena Living of Bonner Springs, Bonner Springs</li><li>Advena Living of Cherryvale, Cherryvale</li><li>Advena Living of Clay Center, Clay Center</li><li>Advena Living of Clearwater, Clearwater</li><li>Advena Living of Fountainview, Rose Hill</li><li>Advena Living on Tenth, Topeka</li><li>Advena Living on Woodlawn, Wichita</li><li>Baldwin Healthcare &amp; Rehab Center, Baldwin City</li><li>Belleville Healthcare &amp; Rehab Center, Belleville</li><li>Brighton Place West Healthcare &amp; Rehab Center, Topeka</li><li>Cambridge Place Senior Village, Marysville</li><li>Countryside Mental Health, Topeka</li><li>Dooley Center, Atchison</li><li>Flint Hills Care &amp; Rehab Center, Emporia</li><li>Halstead Health &amp; Rehab, Halstead</li><li>Heritage Gardens Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Oskaloosa</li><li>Hilltop Lodge Health and Rehabilitation, Beloit</li><li>Holiday Resort Health &amp; Rehab, Salina</li><li>Kenwood View Health and Rehabilitation Center, Salina</li><li>Lexington Park Nursing and Post Acute Center, Topeka</li><li>Louisburg Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Louisburg</li><li>Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital, Gardner</li><li>Meriam Gardens Healthcare &amp; Rehab, Merriam</li><li>Minneapolis Healthcare &amp; Rehab, Minneapolis</li><li>Parkview Healthcare &amp; Rehab, Osborne</li><li>Parkview Heights Nursing &amp; Rehab Center, Garnett</li><li>Pinnacle Park Nursing and Rehab Center, Salina</li><li>Pioneer Ridge Retirement Community, Lawrence</li><li>Plaza West Healthcare &amp; Rehab Center, Topeka</li><li>Pleasant View Home, Inman</li><li>Ranch House Senior Living Community, Garden City</li><li>Richmond Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Richmond</li><li>Rolling Hills Health &amp; Rehab of Topeka, Topeka</li><li>Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Rossville</li><li>Sandpiper Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Wichita</li><li>Shawnee Gardens Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Shawnee</li><li>Spring View Manor Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Conway Springs</li><li>Stoneybrook Retirement Community, Manhattan</li><li>The Gardens at Aldersgate, Topeka</li><li>Twin Oaks Retirement Community, Lansing</li><li>Valley Health Care Center, Valley Falls</li><li>Wathena Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Wathena</li><li>Western Prairie Senior Living, Ulysses</li>
 </ul>The Kansas SNF Clinic project is scheduled for three years, with regular progress and performance reports published on the KDADS&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.kdads.ks.gov/1/01010195819c8db9-982741c7-5e3a-41bb-9410-4dd0d23256a8-000000/kKlxhUDeXyb_jBA3Ta0TC6z3mnBM4dnkZNviDG-AvoM=395">website</a>.

Osborne nursing home part of new quality improvement online program

The Special Olympics Kansas Basketball and Cheerleading Competition is almost here and volunteers are still needed to make the event unforgettable for all of the athletes, coaches, families, and fans who will be attending the event.

 On March 21-22, Special Olympics athletes from all over central and western Kansas will converge on Hays. 

Athletes will have the opportunity to participate in cheerleading, individual skills, and team basketball play throughout the two days. Volunteers are still needed for several areas of the event. 

Some volunteer roles include scoreboard, scorebook, individual skills, and referee. 

Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up online: <a href="https://www.givepulse.com/event/532680-%202025-State-Basketball-and-Cheerleading-Hays">https://www.givepulse.com/event/532680- 2025-State-Basketball-and-Cheerleading-Hays </a>

If you have questions about volunteering, contact Brent Kaiser, Special Olympics Kansas Director of Competitions and Training at 785-301-8214 or kaiserb@soks.org. 

To sign-up to referee, contact Haley Nixon at haley@haysrec.org. 

Follow SOKS on social media at facebook.com/specialolympicskansas, on Twitter and Instagram @sokansas and Special Olympics Kansas on Flickr.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617229597449.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Special Olympics KansasThe Special Olympics Kansas Basketball and Cheerleading Competition is almost here and volunteers are still needed to make the event unforgettable for all of the athletes, coaches, families, and fans who will be attending the event. On March 21-22, Special Olympics athletes from all over central and western Kansas will converge on Hays. Athletes will have the opportunity to participate in cheerleading, individual skills, and team basketball play throughout the two days. Volunteers are still needed for several areas of the event. Some volunteer roles include scoreboard, scorebook, individual skills, and referee. Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up online: <a href="https://www.givepulse.com/event/532680-%202025-State-Basketball-and-Cheerleading-Hays">https://www.givepulse.com/event/532680- 2025-State-Basketball-and-Cheerleading-Hays </a>If you have questions about volunteering, contact Brent Kaiser, Special Olympics Kansas Director of Competitions and Training at 785-301-8214 or kaiserb@soks.org. To sign-up to referee, contact Haley Nixon at haley@haysrec.org. Follow SOKS on social media at facebook.com/specialolympicskansas, on Twitter and Instagram @sokansas and Special Olympics Kansas on Flickr.&nbsp;

Volunteers still needed for Special Olympics Kansas basketball, cheerleading 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaspublicradio.org/people/daniel-caudill">DANIEL CAUDILL</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-11/could-kansas-eliminate-taxes-on-tips-it-might-depend-on-congress">Kansas News Service</a>

A bill in Kansas would eliminate state income taxes on tips for workers like food servers. But the idea’s fate in the state likely hinges on whether Congress acts.

WICHITA — It’s a busy Friday afternoon at The Monarch bar and restaurant in downtown Wichita, and food server Kelly Bonnell is right at home.

As she grabs a customer’s sandwich and fries from the kitchen, she greets people that come and go — all the while smiling and full of energy.

“I'm not sitting in a cubicle working on a computer. I'm impacting other people, and I'm having fun,” Bonnell said. “I genuinely enjoy it.”

Bonnell’s been serving for 10 years, first in Missouri and later in Wichita. She works at two restaurants in town and said she makes enough in tips to get her through school at Wichita State University.

But her first year in Kansas, Bonnell was hit by a tax surprise. Since the minimum wage for tipped workers in Kansas is lower than in Missouri, the taxes automatically taken out of her hourly wages at a previous job didn’t cover what she owed.

“And it was hard,” she said. “I did not have the expectation of needing this massive amount of money to pay that back.”

Bonnell is now setting aside part of her tips to cover taxes, but a bill in Kansas would potentially eliminate the need for that altogether. The bill would exempt up to $25,000 in a worker’s annual tips from state income tax.

The same idea has been floated by President Donald Trump’s administration at the federal level, but its fate in Congress is uncertain. That could ultimately decide whether the state does away with income taxes on tips, too.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said it’s a commonsense measure that won’t affect the state’s bottom line.

“If the federal government takes tax off tips, how crazy would it be for (them) to have to then maintain their tips and then pay Kansas tax on those?" Masterson said.

Republican Sen. Caryn Tyson chairs the Senate’s tax committee. She introduced the bill to cut taxes on tips.

“I support Kansans — hard-working Kansans keeping more of their own money,” she said. “The more they can keep in their pockets, the better off the state is.”

If federal lawmakers do move, Kansas lawmakers seem open to following their lead. But there are some people in Topeka who believe cutting taxes on tips is not enough.

Nathan Kessler is a tax policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. He said the tax cut would only benefit a small portion of workers.

“If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that,” he said. “The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.”

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the average person waiting tables makes about $34,000&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/2024%20Edition%20Statewide.xlsx" target="_blank">per year</a>. That means they often have limited tax liability in the first place.

It's also sort of an open secret that many workers don’t report their tips when it comes to taxable income, or only report some of the money. But others, like Kelly at the Monarch, are compelled to report tips as proof of income for getting an apartment or a loan.

Kansas Democrats did introduce a bill that would raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour. It would also raise the base rate for tipped workers from about $2 an hour to $7.50.

At this time, it doesn’t appear Republican leaders are going to let it advance. They argue many local restaurants could not afford a higher minimum wage.

But Democratic House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard said Republican leaders are playing political games by not considering an increase.

“The only people who are losing by them refusing to make this increase are Kansans,” he said.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall initially predicted Congress could pass a tax exemption on tips by June.

That could potentially delay action at the state level, as Kansas lawmakers are set to wrap up their session in April.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741965217520.png" alt="Kelly Bonnell, a server at The Monarch in downtown Wichita, grabs two plates of food to bring out to customers. She said the job helps her pay her way through college. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kelly Bonnell, a server at The Monarch in downtown Wichita, grabs two plates of food to bring out to customers. She said the job helps her pay her way through college. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaspublicradio.org/people/daniel-caudill">DANIEL CAUDILL</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-11/could-kansas-eliminate-taxes-on-tips-it-might-depend-on-congress">Kansas News Service</a><h2>A bill in Kansas would eliminate state income taxes on tips for workers like food servers. But the idea’s fate in the state likely hinges on whether Congress acts.</h2>WICHITA — It’s a busy Friday afternoon at The Monarch bar and restaurant in downtown Wichita, and food server Kelly Bonnell is right at home.As she grabs a customer’s sandwich and fries from the kitchen, she greets people that come and go — all the while smiling and full of energy.“I'm not sitting in a cubicle working on a computer. I'm impacting other people, and I'm having fun,” Bonnell said. “I genuinely enjoy it.”Bonnell’s been serving for 10 years, first in Missouri and later in Wichita. She works at two restaurants in town and said she makes enough in tips to get her through school at Wichita State University.But her first year in Kansas, Bonnell was hit by a tax surprise. Since the minimum wage for tipped workers in Kansas is lower than in Missouri, the taxes automatically taken out of her hourly wages at a previous job didn’t cover what she owed.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/31f8a48/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2976x1984+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F82%2Fb8%2F9ccafd1946d4a68bb7c2592604f7%2Fthe-monarch.JPG" alt="Patrons dine at The Monarch in downtown Wichita. It's one of the many restaurants in which Bonnell has worked as a server. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Patrons dine at The Monarch in downtown Wichita. It's one of the many restaurants in which Bonnell has worked as a server. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>“And it was hard,” she said. “I did not have the expectation of needing this massive amount of money to pay that back.”Bonnell is now setting aside part of her tips to cover taxes, but a bill in Kansas would potentially eliminate the need for that altogether. The bill would exempt up to $25,000 in a worker’s annual tips from state income tax.The same idea has been floated by President Donald Trump’s administration at the federal level, but its fate in Congress is uncertain. That could ultimately decide whether the state does away with income taxes on tips, too.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said it’s a commonsense measure that won’t affect the state’s bottom line.“If the federal government takes tax off tips, how crazy would it be for (them) to have to then maintain their tips and then pay Kansas tax on those?" Masterson said.Republican Sen. Caryn Tyson chairs the Senate’s tax committee. She introduced the bill to cut taxes on tips.“I support Kansans — hard-working Kansans keeping more of their own money,” she said. “The more they can keep in their pockets, the better off the state is.”If federal lawmakers do move, Kansas lawmakers seem open to following their lead. But there are some people in Topeka who believe cutting taxes on tips is not enough.Nathan Kessler is a tax policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. He said the tax cut would only benefit a small portion of workers.“If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that,” he said. “The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.”According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the average person waiting tables makes about $34,000&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/2024%20Edition%20Statewide.xlsx" target="_blank">per year</a>. That means they often have limited tax liability in the first place.It's also sort of an open secret that many workers don’t report their tips when it comes to taxable income, or only report some of the money. But others, like Kelly at the Monarch, are compelled to report tips as proof of income for getting an apartment or a loan.Kansas Democrats did introduce a bill that would raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour. It would also raise the base rate for tipped workers from about $2 an hour to $7.50.At this time, it doesn’t appear Republican leaders are going to let it advance. They argue many local restaurants could not afford a higher minimum wage.But Democratic House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard said Republican leaders are playing political games by not considering an increase.“The only people who are losing by them refusing to make this increase are Kansans,” he said.U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall initially predicted Congress could pass a tax exemption on tips by June.That could potentially delay action at the state level, as Kansas lawmakers are set to wrap up their session in April.

Could Kansas eliminate taxes on tips? It might depend on Congress

On this edition of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about alcohol consumption and its effects on the body with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alcohol consumption and its effects on the body" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=79jva-1840ae2-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this edition of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about alcohol consumption and its effects on the body with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

🎙 POST PODCAST: Alcohol consumption and its effects on the body

The Kansas 5A Basketball State Tournament was abruptly canceled on Thursday, March 12, 2020, due to concerns about the emerging COVID-19 pandemic. 

Hays High School's boys' basketball team had advanced to the state tournament the night before and was set to compete in the quarterfinals on Friday at White Auditorium in Emporia.

The tournament began as scheduled, with the first-round games being played, but was ultimately halted before the semifinals, leaving teams, including Hays High, unable to complete their championship run.

Hays High entered the tournament on an impressive eight-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance late in the season.

They continued their strong play in the first round by defeating Topeka Highland Park, further solidifying their championship aspirations.

The cancellation disappointed players, coaches and fans, as many teams, including Hays, had strong hopes for a state title.

The Hays High roster featured a talented and determined group of athletes, including Jason Krannawitter, Wesley Oakley, Carson Kieffer, TJ Nunnery, Noah Weimer, Jace Linenberger, Jordan Dale, Dylan Ruder, Nate Brooks, Ashton Hernandez, Dayln Swartz, Brock Lummus, and Garrett Wellbrock. 

Each player contributed to the team’s success, helping them build momentum heading into the tournament. 

Their chemistry and dedication made them a formidable opponent, adding to the heartbreak of the tournament’s cancellation.

Basehor Linwood,&nbsp;Andover, Kapaun and Hays will forever be known as The Forever 4.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/thxHsG4hcg4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe Kansas 5A Basketball State Tournament was abruptly canceled on Thursday, March 12, 2020, due to concerns about the emerging COVID-19 pandemic. Hays High School's boys' basketball team had advanced to the state tournament the night before and was set to compete in the quarterfinals on Friday at White Auditorium in Emporia.The tournament began as scheduled, with the first-round games being played, but was ultimately halted before the semifinals, leaving teams, including Hays High, unable to complete their championship run.Hays High entered the tournament on an impressive eight-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance late in the season.They continued their strong play in the first round by defeating Topeka Highland Park, further solidifying their championship aspirations.The cancellation disappointed players, coaches and fans, as many teams, including Hays, had strong hopes for a state title.The Hays High roster featured a talented and determined group of athletes, including Jason Krannawitter, Wesley Oakley, Carson Kieffer, TJ Nunnery, Noah Weimer, Jace Linenberger, Jordan Dale, Dylan Ruder, Nate Brooks, Ashton Hernandez, Dayln Swartz, Brock Lummus, and Garrett Wellbrock. Each player contributed to the team’s success, helping them build momentum heading into the tournament. Their chemistry and dedication made them a formidable opponent, adding to the heartbreak of the tournament’s cancellation.Basehor Linwood,&nbsp;Andover, Kapaun and Hays will forever be known as The Forever 4.

🎥🏀 Remembering Hays High, Forever 4 after 5 years

DECATUR COUNTY —Law enforcement across the state continue to encounter driver traveling well beyone the posted speed limit.

On Friday, Decatur County Sheriff Dave Wachendorfer stopped a vehicle for 111 mph in a posted 65 mph zone south of Oberlin, acording to a social media report from the sheriff's office.

  The driver admitted to doing 80, which is still well above the speed limit. "There were a lot of trucks on the road Friday morning interspersed with drivers traveling to work," the sheriff's office wrote.&nbsp; "The potential for a catastrophic collision was pretty high.

"Slow down"&nbsp; "Speed can kill, and the time you save is not worth the potential disaster awaiting you down the road and extremely high fine. This driver is facing a fine of approximately $550. "Drive safely and Arrive Alive."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741981137290.png" alt="Photos Decatur Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Decatur Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>DECATUR COUNTY —Law enforcement across the state continue to encounter driver traveling well beyone the posted speed limit.On Friday, Decatur County Sheriff Dave Wachendorfer stopped a vehicle for 111 mph in a posted 65 mph zone south of Oberlin, acording to a social media report from the sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741981112508.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> The driver admitted to doing 80, which is still well above the speed limit. "There were a lot of trucks on the road Friday morning interspersed with drivers traveling to work," the sheriff's office wrote.&nbsp; "The potential for a catastrophic collision was pretty high."Slow down"&nbsp; "Speed can kill, and the time you save is not worth the potential disaster awaiting you down the road and extremely high fine. This driver is facing a fine of approximately $550. "Drive safely and Arrive Alive."