Sunflower Electric Power Corp. has promoted&nbsp;Darren Metcalf to manager of facilities and fleet.

Metcalf will be responsible for managing the function of building, grounds, and facilities maintenance for Sunflower’s nine administrative offices and multiple leased offices. He will also&nbsp;oversee Sunflower’s fleet management program,&nbsp;including acquisition, retirements, maintenance and tracking programs, and fleet repair and replacement.&nbsp;In addition, he will institute and enhance Sunflower’s Department of Transportation inspection programs to ensure compliance with DOT regulations and documentation requirements.

Metcalf will serve as the liaison between the facilities and fleet departments to other functional groups throughout Sunflower and collaborate with department managers to understand and meet their needs.

With Sunflower since 2018, he served as facilities supervisor and was instrumental in leading and executing significant remodels of Sunflower’s Great Bend office and service center locations, both of which were large and complex capital projects. Other notable efforts he directed include several capital facility improvement projects, development of streamlined facilities maintenance programs, and implementation of a facilities request and work order management system.

Metcalf has a diverse and extensive background with knowledge, skills, and experience in residential and commercial design and construction, project management, residential and commercial building repair, plumbing, HVAC, electrical installation and repair, automotive and diesel repair. Prior to joining Sunflower, he owned and operated a construction and remodeling business for more than 25 years. He also held roles in pastoral ministry in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Liberal.

A native of Colorado Springs, he resides in Garden City with his wife, Joanne, who is also employed at Sunflower. They have two sons: Tyler, and his wife, Kendall; and&nbsp;Austin, and his wife, Shaylene; and are active&nbsp;members of Cornerstone Church in Garden City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680280552458.jpeg" alt="Darren Metcalf" />
 <figcaption>Darren Metcalf</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseSunflower Electric Power Corp. has promoted&nbsp;Darren Metcalf to manager of facilities and fleet.Metcalf will be responsible for managing the function of building, grounds, and facilities maintenance for Sunflower’s nine administrative offices and multiple leased offices. He will also&nbsp;oversee Sunflower’s fleet management program,&nbsp;including acquisition, retirements, maintenance and tracking programs, and fleet repair and replacement.&nbsp;In addition, he will institute and enhance Sunflower’s Department of Transportation inspection programs to ensure compliance with DOT regulations and documentation requirements.Metcalf will serve as the liaison between the facilities and fleet departments to other functional groups throughout Sunflower and collaborate with department managers to understand and meet their needs.With Sunflower since 2018, he served as facilities supervisor and was instrumental in leading and executing significant remodels of Sunflower’s Great Bend office and service center locations, both of which were large and complex capital projects. Other notable efforts he directed include several capital facility improvement projects, development of streamlined facilities maintenance programs, and implementation of a facilities request and work order management system.Metcalf has a diverse and extensive background with knowledge, skills, and experience in residential and commercial design and construction, project management, residential and commercial building repair, plumbing, HVAC, electrical installation and repair, automotive and diesel repair. Prior to joining Sunflower, he owned and operated a construction and remodeling business for more than 25 years. He also held roles in pastoral ministry in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Liberal.A native of Colorado Springs, he resides in Garden City with his wife, Joanne, who is also employed at Sunflower. They have two sons: Tyler, and his wife, Kendall; and&nbsp;Austin, and his wife, Shaylene; and are active&nbsp;members of Cornerstone Church in Garden City.

Sunflower Electric names Metcalf facilities, fleet manager

<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/2023/3/1680291683353.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reported Cristina Janney gets updates from United Way of Ellis County executive director Erica Berges.

<div><iframe title="Updates from the United Way of Ellis County" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=v8nc6-13d0a47-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=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reported Cristina Janney gets updates from United Way of Ellis County executive director Erica Berges.

🎙 Post Podcast: Updates from the United Way of Ellis County

TREGO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Lindle K. Harold, 69, Colby, was southbound on U.S. 283 just south of N Road.

The semi struck two cows, slid off the roadway, struck a telephone pole and overturned.

EMS transported&nbsp;Harold to the the Trego County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Lindle K. Harold, 69, Colby, was southbound on U.S. 283 just south of N Road.The semi struck two cows, slid off the roadway, struck a telephone pole and overturned.EMS transported&nbsp;Harold to the the Trego County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kan. man injured after semi strikes 2 cows, telephone pole

​Nothing like visiting an old cemetery to connect past&nbsp;with&nbsp;present.&nbsp;On a&nbsp;windy,&nbsp;cold March 19, 2023, sunlight highlighted&nbsp;sere&nbsp;prairie grasses&nbsp;that&nbsp;blanketed&nbsp;Fort Wallace’s&nbsp;hallowed ground&nbsp;as&nbsp;three&nbsp;western&nbsp;history&nbsp;buffs&nbsp;wandered between gravestones.&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;wind&nbsp;sharpened freezing temps to&nbsp;remind them&nbsp;that&nbsp;life&nbsp;there&nbsp;is harsh&nbsp;as it certainly was for those posted at the edge of the world from 1865 to 1882.

​Following the Civil War, Manifest Destiny and the Homestead Act lured&nbsp;the&nbsp;curious and bold&nbsp;to go&nbsp;West. Sioux, Cheyenne, and other native people resented&nbsp;this&nbsp;encroachment on prime hunting grounds.&nbsp;Ingredients for cultural collision burbled and stewed—finally boiling&nbsp;over&nbsp;through&nbsp;the&nbsp;1860s-70s.&nbsp;

​Former Civil War General, William Tecumseh Sherman, later commander of the Military Division of Missouri authorized&nbsp;construction&nbsp;of&nbsp;garrisoned&nbsp;forts&nbsp;to protect those traveling the&nbsp;Smoky Hill Trail. Fort Wallace&nbsp;(1865 -1882)&nbsp;was the western-most outpost.&nbsp;During&nbsp;these conflicts,&nbsp;many&nbsp;soldiers, scouts, and others died.&nbsp;Survivors&nbsp;laid their remains&nbsp;to rest in the post cemetery.

​Following&nbsp;the fort’s&nbsp;decommissioning,&nbsp;authorities ordered&nbsp;military burials removed to Fort Leavenworth in 1886.&nbsp;To preserve history, site caretakers&nbsp;designed and posted&nbsp;markers&nbsp;to&nbsp;document names, ages, nationalities, and causes of death of soldiers and their loved ones who died while posted at&nbsp;Ft. Wallace.&nbsp;As a result, their stories live on.

Interrupting the horizontal plane, a&nbsp;tall&nbsp;cenotaph&nbsp;carved&nbsp;from&nbsp;native limestone, now under a protective covering,&nbsp;records&nbsp;names of 7th&nbsp;cavalrymen&nbsp;who died&nbsp;in&nbsp;battle.&nbsp;To the north lie&nbsp;weathered planks&nbsp;detailing&nbsp;names, ages, and origins&nbsp;of&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;and scouts&nbsp;from other regiments who died during&nbsp;similar&nbsp;conflicts&nbsp;or for other reasons.&nbsp;Many&nbsp;were immigrants, mostly from Ireland.&nbsp;While&nbsp;some&nbsp;passed away&nbsp;fighting,&nbsp;most buried during the 17 years the fort existed&nbsp;died&nbsp;of diseases,&nbsp;including pneumonia, cholera,&nbsp;diphtheria, and intermittent fever. Accidents, drownings, and&nbsp;quarrels filled&nbsp;additional&nbsp;graves.

​While&nbsp;wandering&nbsp;the lane between&nbsp;memorials, I tugged on a scarf and gloves to protect&nbsp;chilled&nbsp;ears and fingers.&nbsp;We&nbsp;didn’t know the temp with windchill, but&nbsp;the cold&nbsp;reminded us&nbsp;that life here&nbsp;is&nbsp;extreme. It&nbsp;made it hard&nbsp;to&nbsp;imagine&nbsp;how three&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;drowned.&nbsp;

Gazing at the Smoky Hill today, it&nbsp;appears a&nbsp;person could walk across.&nbsp;However, research&nbsp;indicates&nbsp;the military dammed it to create a pond south of the fort.&nbsp;Stifling&nbsp;August temperatures&nbsp;might account for a non-swimmer’s unintended demise&nbsp;as&nbsp;he&nbsp;tried to cool&nbsp;down. Perhaps someone crossed&nbsp;itafter&nbsp;a&nbsp;rare&nbsp;torrential rain&nbsp;and found&nbsp;himself&nbsp;swallowed&nbsp;by rising&nbsp;water.

Accidents involving trains and woodcutting ended several lives.&nbsp;Woodcutting risks&nbsp;explain themselves, but train accidents make a person wonder. An engine&nbsp;ran over at least one individual. How’d that happen?&nbsp;Did someone start the train&nbsp;rolling&nbsp;before the guy&nbsp;finished repairing&nbsp;track or&nbsp;did&nbsp;hedrunkenly&nbsp;wander steel rails&nbsp;and fail to&nbsp;pay attention?

Shivering&nbsp;inside my wool jacket, I&nbsp;considered&nbsp;wives&nbsp;who joined husbands at this distant post and buried tiny children&nbsp;here.&nbsp;Disease most commonly took young&nbsp;lives.&nbsp;Over time, this&nbsp;once-military cemetery morphed into a community burial&nbsp;ground.&nbsp;Those killed&nbsp;during&nbsp;the Cheyenne raid on the German family were re-interred here.&nbsp;Merchant Peter&nbsp;Robidoux and his family share a memorial at the&nbsp;cemetery’s&nbsp;north end. Local families continue to&nbsp;lay&nbsp;loved ones to rest here.&nbsp;

This&nbsp;stone garden&nbsp;offers&nbsp;history that touches&nbsp;every sense. If you come on an icy&nbsp;morn, you’ll&nbsp;crunch ice and&nbsp;shiver like&nbsp;earlier occupants&nbsp;did. If you show up on&nbsp;a&nbsp;sizzling August afternoon, you’ll understand why some non-swimming, young&nbsp;Irish&nbsp;immigrant laid his uniform on the banks of the Smoky Hill and waded in for his last dip.&nbsp;As you gaze across endless horizon, you&nbsp;grasp&nbsp;why&nbsp;people fought for this landscape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680204300025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN​Nothing like visiting an old cemetery to connect past&nbsp;with&nbsp;present.&nbsp;On a&nbsp;windy,&nbsp;cold March 19, 2023, sunlight highlighted&nbsp;sere&nbsp;prairie grasses&nbsp;that&nbsp;blanketed&nbsp;Fort Wallace’s&nbsp;hallowed ground&nbsp;as&nbsp;three&nbsp;western&nbsp;history&nbsp;buffs&nbsp;wandered between gravestones.&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;wind&nbsp;sharpened freezing temps to&nbsp;remind them&nbsp;that&nbsp;life&nbsp;there&nbsp;is harsh&nbsp;as it certainly was for those posted at the edge of the world from 1865 to 1882.​Following the Civil War, Manifest Destiny and the Homestead Act lured&nbsp;the&nbsp;curious and bold&nbsp;to go&nbsp;West. Sioux, Cheyenne, and other native people resented&nbsp;this&nbsp;encroachment on prime hunting grounds.&nbsp;Ingredients for cultural collision burbled and stewed—finally boiling&nbsp;over&nbsp;through&nbsp;the&nbsp;1860s-70s.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>​Former Civil War General, William Tecumseh Sherman, later commander of the Military Division of Missouri authorized&nbsp;construction&nbsp;of&nbsp;garrisoned&nbsp;forts&nbsp;to protect those traveling the&nbsp;Smoky Hill Trail. Fort Wallace&nbsp;(1865 -1882)&nbsp;was the western-most outpost.&nbsp;During&nbsp;these conflicts,&nbsp;many&nbsp;soldiers, scouts, and others died.&nbsp;Survivors&nbsp;laid their remains&nbsp;to rest in the post cemetery.​Following&nbsp;the fort’s&nbsp;decommissioning,&nbsp;authorities ordered&nbsp;military burials removed to Fort Leavenworth in 1886.&nbsp;To preserve history, site caretakers&nbsp;designed and posted&nbsp;markers&nbsp;to&nbsp;document names, ages, nationalities, and causes of death of soldiers and their loved ones who died while posted at&nbsp;Ft. Wallace.&nbsp;As a result, their stories live on.Interrupting the horizontal plane, a&nbsp;tall&nbsp;cenotaph&nbsp;carved&nbsp;from&nbsp;native limestone, now under a protective covering,&nbsp;records&nbsp;names of 7th&nbsp;cavalrymen&nbsp;who died&nbsp;in&nbsp;battle.&nbsp;To the north lie&nbsp;weathered planks&nbsp;detailing&nbsp;names, ages, and origins&nbsp;of&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;and scouts&nbsp;from other regiments who died during&nbsp;similar&nbsp;conflicts&nbsp;or for other reasons.&nbsp;Many&nbsp;were immigrants, mostly from Ireland.&nbsp;While&nbsp;some&nbsp;passed away&nbsp;fighting,&nbsp;most buried during the 17 years the fort existed&nbsp;died&nbsp;of diseases,&nbsp;including pneumonia, cholera,&nbsp;diphtheria, and intermittent fever. Accidents, drownings, and&nbsp;quarrels filled&nbsp;additional&nbsp;graves.​While&nbsp;wandering&nbsp;the lane between&nbsp;memorials, I tugged on a scarf and gloves to protect&nbsp;chilled&nbsp;ears and fingers.&nbsp;We&nbsp;didn’t know the temp with windchill, but&nbsp;the cold&nbsp;reminded us&nbsp;that life here&nbsp;is&nbsp;extreme. It&nbsp;made it hard&nbsp;to&nbsp;imagine&nbsp;how three&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;drowned.&nbsp;Gazing at the Smoky Hill today, it&nbsp;appears a&nbsp;person could walk across.&nbsp;However, research&nbsp;indicates&nbsp;the military dammed it to create a pond south of the fort.&nbsp;Stifling&nbsp;August temperatures&nbsp;might account for a non-swimmer’s unintended demise&nbsp;as&nbsp;he&nbsp;tried to cool&nbsp;down. Perhaps someone crossed&nbsp;itafter&nbsp;a&nbsp;rare&nbsp;torrential rain&nbsp;and found&nbsp;himself&nbsp;swallowed&nbsp;by rising&nbsp;water.Accidents involving trains and woodcutting ended several lives.&nbsp;Woodcutting risks&nbsp;explain themselves, but train accidents make a person wonder. An engine&nbsp;ran over at least one individual. How’d that happen?&nbsp;Did someone start the train&nbsp;rolling&nbsp;before the guy&nbsp;finished repairing&nbsp;track or&nbsp;did&nbsp;hedrunkenly&nbsp;wander steel rails&nbsp;and fail to&nbsp;pay attention?Shivering&nbsp;inside my wool jacket, I&nbsp;considered&nbsp;wives&nbsp;who joined husbands at this distant post and buried tiny children&nbsp;here.&nbsp;Disease most commonly took young&nbsp;lives.&nbsp;Over time, this&nbsp;once-military cemetery morphed into a community burial&nbsp;ground.&nbsp;Those killed&nbsp;during&nbsp;the Cheyenne raid on the German family were re-interred here.&nbsp;Merchant Peter&nbsp;Robidoux and his family share a memorial at the&nbsp;cemetery’s&nbsp;north end. Local families continue to&nbsp;lay&nbsp;loved ones to rest here.&nbsp;This&nbsp;stone garden&nbsp;offers&nbsp;history that touches&nbsp;every sense. If you come on an icy&nbsp;morn, you’ll&nbsp;crunch ice and&nbsp;shiver like&nbsp;earlier occupants&nbsp;did. If you show up on&nbsp;a&nbsp;sizzling August afternoon, you’ll understand why some non-swimming, young&nbsp;Irish&nbsp;immigrant laid his uniform on the banks of the Smoky Hill and waded in for his last dip.&nbsp;As you gaze across endless horizon, you&nbsp;grasp&nbsp;why&nbsp;people fought for this landscape.

MADORIN: Learning history in a cemetery

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates on major Grow Hays projects.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays shares housing, microfactory project updates" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=8b6mx-13d0a10-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=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates on major Grow Hays projects.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays shares housing, microfactory project updates

If passed into law, can Education Saving Accounts and tax credit vouchers withstand a constitutional challenge?&nbsp;&nbsp; That’s a question rolling around the state house.&nbsp;

The concern, at this point, is speculation since these two school choice bills have yet to go to Governor Kelly for her signature or veto.

The ESA bill currently creates&nbsp;a fund for families to use taxpayer dollars for private and homeschooling expenses. In its first year, the program would be available to public school students testing at the lowest grade level or receiving free or reduced-price lunch.&nbsp; Eventually families of four making $180,000 per year or more would be eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The tax credit bill enlarges the current tax credit scholarship fund.&nbsp; Fully implemented, it would give about $5,000 per qualifying student per year to attend any accredited or unaccredited private school or use for other educational expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donors to the scholarship fund could apply for a 70 percent tax credit.&nbsp; Currently the fund is limited to low income, low performing students but the 2023 bill would expand incrementally to include almost all student applicants regardless of parent’s income, including students who always have attended a private school or been homeschooled.&nbsp;

Currently 11 states allow various types of ESAs, and 20 states allow tax credit scholarships.&nbsp;

Do ESAs that directly fund private schools with public tax dollars and scholarships that indirectly reduce education funds through tax credits violate the Kansas Constitution?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tax Credit scholarships may more easily withstand legal challenges because they are funded by donations.&nbsp; The loss to the state comes from fewer tax dollars collected due to the refundable tax credits.&nbsp; ESAs are directly funded from tax dollars budgeted for education.&nbsp; Both bills siphon public funds from public schools.

Here are reasons for concern: &nbsp;First, the Kansas Constitution creates a single system of common schools.<a></a>

Article 6: (1) “The legislature shall provide for a state board of education which shall have general supervision of public schools, educational institutions and all the educational interests of the state.”

The proposed bills create two separate systems—one governed by the state board of education and a new system governed by the Kansas treasurer to administer the scholarships and ESAs.&nbsp;

Second, Article 6:&nbsp; 2&nbsp;(a) states, “The state board of education shall perform such other duties as may be provided by law.”

Currently there are no laws that direct the state board of education to oversee schools other than public schools.&nbsp; Moreover, proponents of the bills advocate a main value is that funds would go to schools governed by the state treasurer not the state board of education.

Third, the Kansas constitution is clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article 6: 6 (c) “No religious sect or sects shall control any part of the public educational funds.”

Recently the U. S. Supreme Court ruled&nbsp;in &nbsp;<a href="https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/carson-v-makin/" target="_blank">Carson v. Makin</a>&nbsp; to require states to fund private religious schools if the states fund any other private schools.

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in his majority opinion that the ruling does not require states to fund private schools—but once they do,&nbsp;religious schools can’t be excluded.&nbsp;

In January an Ohio lawsuit challenging the state’s voucher program moved forward to Franklin County Court.&nbsp; More than 100 school districts signed onto the lawsuit advocating a&nbsp;"secure"&nbsp;and single "system of common schools.”&nbsp;

Who among us would want another long, costly constitutional confrontation over Kansas schools?&nbsp; &nbsp;Nevertheless, this battle may be ongoing well into the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>If passed into law, can Education Saving Accounts and tax credit vouchers withstand a constitutional challenge?&nbsp;&nbsp; That’s a question rolling around the state house.&nbsp;The concern, at this point, is speculation since these two school choice bills have yet to go to Governor Kelly for her signature or veto.The ESA bill currently creates&nbsp;a fund for families to use taxpayer dollars for private and homeschooling expenses. In its first year, the program would be available to public school students testing at the lowest grade level or receiving free or reduced-price lunch.&nbsp; Eventually families of four making $180,000 per year or more would be eligible.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The tax credit bill enlarges the current tax credit scholarship fund.&nbsp; Fully implemented, it would give about $5,000 per qualifying student per year to attend any accredited or unaccredited private school or use for other educational expenses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Donors to the scholarship fund could apply for a 70 percent tax credit.&nbsp; Currently the fund is limited to low income, low performing students but the 2023 bill would expand incrementally to include almost all student applicants regardless of parent’s income, including students who always have attended a private school or been homeschooled.&nbsp;Currently 11 states allow various types of ESAs, and 20 states allow tax credit scholarships.&nbsp;Do ESAs that directly fund private schools with public tax dollars and scholarships that indirectly reduce education funds through tax credits violate the Kansas Constitution?&nbsp;&nbsp;Tax Credit scholarships may more easily withstand legal challenges because they are funded by donations.&nbsp; The loss to the state comes from fewer tax dollars collected due to the refundable tax credits.&nbsp; ESAs are directly funded from tax dollars budgeted for education.&nbsp; Both bills siphon public funds from public schools.Here are reasons for concern: &nbsp;First, the Kansas Constitution creates a single system of common schools.<a></a>Article 6: (1) “The legislature shall provide for a state board of education which shall have general supervision of public schools, educational institutions and all the educational interests of the state.”The proposed bills create two separate systems—one governed by the state board of education and a new system governed by the Kansas treasurer to administer the scholarships and ESAs.&nbsp;Second, Article 6:&nbsp; 2&nbsp;(a) states, “The state board of education shall perform such other duties as may be provided by law.”Currently there are no laws that direct the state board of education to oversee schools other than public schools.&nbsp; Moreover, proponents of the bills advocate a main value is that funds would go to schools governed by the state treasurer not the state board of education.Third, the Kansas constitution is clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article 6: 6 (c) “No religious sect or sects shall control any part of the public educational funds.”Recently the U. S. Supreme Court ruled&nbsp;in &nbsp;<a href="https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/carson-v-makin/" target="_blank">Carson v. Makin</a>&nbsp; to require states to fund private religious schools if the states fund any other private schools.Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in his majority opinion that the ruling does not require states to fund private schools—but once they do,&nbsp;religious schools can’t be excluded.&nbsp;In January an Ohio lawsuit challenging the state’s voucher program moved forward to Franklin County Court.&nbsp; More than 100 school districts signed onto the lawsuit advocating a&nbsp;"secure"&nbsp;and single "system of common schools.”&nbsp;Who among us would want another long, costly constitutional confrontation over Kansas schools?&nbsp; &nbsp;Nevertheless, this battle may be ongoing well into the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Is another constitutional school lawsuit in the offing?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680291648035.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>

The other day,&nbsp;we&nbsp;passed a golf course, and&nbsp;I&nbsp;was amazed at the number of golfers&nbsp;already out chasing&nbsp;that little white ball around on what amounts to be nothing more than a huge lawn. It’s always puzzled me how that game can be considered a good workout when the most exorcize most golfers get is dragging their overweight carcasses in and out of the golf cart. Anyway, it all reminded me of my first and only brush with the game of golf.&nbsp;

Awhile back, in&nbsp;a valiant attempt&nbsp;to&nbsp;add a little culture to my otherwise mundane&nbsp;and culture-less&nbsp;existence, and to&nbsp;further stretch the boundaries of my comfort zone, (also known as&nbsp;free tickets) I attended&nbsp;a&nbsp;fairly&nbsp;major&nbsp;Golf Tournament&nbsp;at Prairie Dunes Country Club just outside of Hutchinson.&nbsp;Now understand, I&nbsp;don’t know a fairway from a flambé, or a bogey from a booger. To me, a driver is the person at the wheel of a&nbsp;vehicle, and&nbsp;putter is something we men do in lieu of something constructive. Yet&nbsp;there&nbsp;I was, reduced to&nbsp;being part of&nbsp;a gaggle of onlookers sittin’ in the hot sun&nbsp;called “the&nbsp;gallery.”&nbsp;Even though I tried my best to fit in,&nbsp;I’m pretty sure I looked at that&nbsp;entire experience slightly different than most other people there. Allow me&nbsp;to explain.&nbsp;

Every golf course is littered with various sized&nbsp;pits of sand known as sand traps. When I looked at the sand traps all around us,&nbsp;all I could think&nbsp;was what swell little ponds they could be. Large mouth bass and those big hybrid bluegills would love nice sandy bottom pools like those.&nbsp;Wild turkeys take regular dust baths to help keep bugs out of their feathers, and in doing so they carve out bowl shaped spots in the dirt called&nbsp;“wallows.” I’ll bet those nice sandy “traps”&nbsp;could&nbsp;draw every turkey for miles around; sort of like a communal bath.&nbsp;I’d also bet every female turtle in the county comes there to lay her eggs in that nice deep sand. Wouldn’t it be a hoot to&nbsp;watch&nbsp;a golfer swingin’ away at turtle eggs thinkin’ they were his golf ball!

Much&nbsp;of the hilly terrain between holes was thick with sand hill plum bushes. I imagine the&nbsp;refined&nbsp;eye of any golf connoisseur saw&nbsp;this as garnish; part of the&nbsp;overall presentation. I saw it&nbsp;as a never-ending supply of plum jelly. And just think how many gallons of plums those guys could put in all the pockets in those golf bags they cart around.&nbsp;And what about sand hill plum wine? You talk about an additional revenue stream!&nbsp;Lots of those guys are drinking anyway, so why not open a small&nbsp;micro brewery there in the pro shop and they could be drinking home grown plum wine brewed&nbsp;right there at the golf course.

The miles of neatly groomed footpaths amidst the roughs looked to me like great&nbsp;spots for coyote traps.&nbsp;I know from talking with golf course employees that coyotes love to roam golf courses no matter where the course is. Heck,&nbsp;I’ll bet most courses would even loan me one of their neat little golf carts to&nbsp;buzz around and check traps, just to keep the occasional coyote from scaring the&nbsp;dickens out of patrons. The&nbsp;trees bordering the course screamed deer hunting to me, and I had a few good tree-stand locations picked out&nbsp;before we’d left. And I hadn’t even thought about&nbsp;the turkey hunting yet!&nbsp;​

Anyway, as out-of-place as I felt, I began&nbsp;to see that this game called golf has a lot of similarities to deer and turkey hunting. For example, we’d been advised to find choice seats and wait for the players to come to us.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;there we&nbsp;sat awaiting&nbsp;our “quarry,”&nbsp;on hunter green&nbsp;colored bleachers at&nbsp;the 17th&nbsp;hole, a spot where we could see action all around us.&nbsp;Not much&nbsp;different I’d say than puttin’up&nbsp;our camouflage hunting blind near a “hot” deer trail or a known turkey roost and marking time in anticipation of a good shot. Speaking of shots, when&nbsp;one of us makes a nice shot and harvests&nbsp;a deer or turkey for the freezer, there are high-fives and handshakes all around. Those&nbsp;guys too! When one of them made&nbsp;an exceptional “shot” he’d dance a jig, shake everyone’s hand and even tip&nbsp;his&nbsp;hat to the crowd. They even had&nbsp;guys who raised&nbsp;their hands to keep everyone quiet while they shoot. (Now there’s something my&nbsp;wife and I would both benefit from&nbsp;when we hunt together!) I must say&nbsp;though&nbsp;that their marksmanship left a lot to be desired. Those guys all shot 64 or 65 times each day, and I didn’t see one of them carrying any dead critters&nbsp;to show for it!&nbsp;

Yes, my&nbsp;playing golf at Prairie Dunes&nbsp;(now there’s a mental picture) would probably be worthy of a movie. We could call it something like “the Clampetts Join the Country Club.”&nbsp;I’d have to have a special custom-made golf bag&nbsp;with an extra pouch on each side; one to hold a deer rifle with a scope, and the other to hold a shotgun. I’m pretty sure I could get a fishing rod&nbsp;and traps&nbsp;in there somewhere amongst the clubs. I seriously doubt they would allow me into the clubhouse or proshop though dressed in full camo and smellin’ like coyote bait or deer pee.&nbsp;Although, now that I think about it, after playing 18 holes, some of the guys comin’ off the course might not smell much better.&nbsp;Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be&nbsp;contacted&nbsp;by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>The other day,&nbsp;we&nbsp;passed a golf course, and&nbsp;I&nbsp;was amazed at the number of golfers&nbsp;already out chasing&nbsp;that little white ball around on what amounts to be nothing more than a huge lawn. It’s always puzzled me how that game can be considered a good workout when the most exorcize most golfers get is dragging their overweight carcasses in and out of the golf cart. Anyway, it all reminded me of my first and only brush with the game of golf.&nbsp;Awhile back, in&nbsp;a valiant attempt&nbsp;to&nbsp;add a little culture to my otherwise mundane&nbsp;and culture-less&nbsp;existence, and to&nbsp;further stretch the boundaries of my comfort zone, (also known as&nbsp;free tickets) I attended&nbsp;a&nbsp;fairly&nbsp;major&nbsp;Golf Tournament&nbsp;at Prairie Dunes Country Club just outside of Hutchinson.&nbsp;Now understand, I&nbsp;don’t know a fairway from a flambé, or a bogey from a booger. To me, a driver is the person at the wheel of a&nbsp;vehicle, and&nbsp;putter is something we men do in lieu of something constructive. Yet&nbsp;there&nbsp;I was, reduced to&nbsp;being part of&nbsp;a gaggle of onlookers sittin’ in the hot sun&nbsp;called “the&nbsp;gallery.”&nbsp;Even though I tried my best to fit in,&nbsp;I’m pretty sure I looked at that&nbsp;entire experience slightly different than most other people there. Allow me&nbsp;to explain.&nbsp;Every golf course is littered with various sized&nbsp;pits of sand known as sand traps. When I looked at the sand traps all around us,&nbsp;all I could think&nbsp;was what swell little ponds they could be. Large mouth bass and those big hybrid bluegills would love nice sandy bottom pools like those.&nbsp;Wild turkeys take regular dust baths to help keep bugs out of their feathers, and in doing so they carve out bowl shaped spots in the dirt called&nbsp;“wallows.” I’ll bet those nice sandy “traps”&nbsp;could&nbsp;draw every turkey for miles around; sort of like a communal bath.&nbsp;I’d also bet every female turtle in the county comes there to lay her eggs in that nice deep sand. Wouldn’t it be a hoot to&nbsp;watch&nbsp;a golfer swingin’ away at turtle eggs thinkin’ they were his golf ball!Much&nbsp;of the hilly terrain between holes was thick with sand hill plum bushes. I imagine the&nbsp;refined&nbsp;eye of any golf connoisseur saw&nbsp;this as garnish; part of the&nbsp;overall presentation. I saw it&nbsp;as a never-ending supply of plum jelly. And just think how many gallons of plums those guys could put in all the pockets in those golf bags they cart around.&nbsp;And what about sand hill plum wine? You talk about an additional revenue stream!&nbsp;Lots of those guys are drinking anyway, so why not open a small&nbsp;micro brewery there in the pro shop and they could be drinking home grown plum wine brewed&nbsp;right there at the golf course.The miles of neatly groomed footpaths amidst the roughs looked to me like great&nbsp;spots for coyote traps.&nbsp;I know from talking with golf course employees that coyotes love to roam golf courses no matter where the course is. Heck,&nbsp;I’ll bet most courses would even loan me one of their neat little golf carts to&nbsp;buzz around and check traps, just to keep the occasional coyote from scaring the&nbsp;dickens out of patrons. The&nbsp;trees bordering the course screamed deer hunting to me, and I had a few good tree-stand locations picked out&nbsp;before we’d left. And I hadn’t even thought about&nbsp;the turkey hunting yet!&nbsp;​Anyway, as out-of-place as I felt, I began&nbsp;to see that this game called golf has a lot of similarities to deer and turkey hunting. For example, we’d been advised to find choice seats and wait for the players to come to us.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;there we&nbsp;sat awaiting&nbsp;our “quarry,”&nbsp;on hunter green&nbsp;colored bleachers at&nbsp;the 17th&nbsp;hole, a spot where we could see action all around us.&nbsp;Not much&nbsp;different I’d say than puttin’up&nbsp;our camouflage hunting blind near a “hot” deer trail or a known turkey roost and marking time in anticipation of a good shot. Speaking of shots, when&nbsp;one of us makes a nice shot and harvests&nbsp;a deer or turkey for the freezer, there are high-fives and handshakes all around. Those&nbsp;guys too! When one of them made&nbsp;an exceptional “shot” he’d dance a jig, shake everyone’s hand and even tip&nbsp;his&nbsp;hat to the crowd. They even had&nbsp;guys who raised&nbsp;their hands to keep everyone quiet while they shoot. (Now there’s something my&nbsp;wife and I would both benefit from&nbsp;when we hunt together!) I must say&nbsp;though&nbsp;that their marksmanship left a lot to be desired. Those guys all shot 64 or 65 times each day, and I didn’t see one of them carrying any dead critters&nbsp;to show for it!&nbsp;Yes, my&nbsp;playing golf at Prairie Dunes&nbsp;(now there’s a mental picture) would probably be worthy of a movie. We could call it something like “the Clampetts Join the Country Club.”&nbsp;I’d have to have a special custom-made golf bag&nbsp;with an extra pouch on each side; one to hold a deer rifle with a scope, and the other to hold a shotgun. I’m pretty sure I could get a fishing rod&nbsp;and traps&nbsp;in there somewhere amongst the clubs. I seriously doubt they would allow me into the clubhouse or proshop though dressed in full camo and smellin’ like coyote bait or deer pee.&nbsp;Although, now that I think about it, after playing 18 holes, some of the guys comin’ off the course might not smell much better.&nbsp;Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be&nbsp;contacted&nbsp;by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Golf through the eyes of a hunter

🎙 Post Podcast: In the home stretch of the year USD 489 begins prep for 2023-2024

Enter to win Cash Grab

Editor's Note: Cole Reif spent nine years broadcasting Hoisington football games with Dr. Blake Herres. Some opinions are added to the story.

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

There are many hard-working, generous individuals throughout our
community. These men and women donate their time, give financially and try to
make the area around them better. With all those outstanding citizens in mind,
there are very few that better embodied the definition of a community servant
and supporter more than Dr. Blake Herres. 
“He tried to always make some kid shine, whether they came off the bench or if
they were a starter,” said Gene Manweiler, long-time friend of Herres. “He
would always try to say something good about what he or she brought to the
game. He was always good about uplifting kids on the radio.” 
A life-long Hoisington resident, Herres began broadcasting Hoisington High
School football and basketball games on the radio in 2001. For more than 20
years, he was the welcoming, familiar voice on the airwaves Friday nights.
Herres passed away March 23 at the age of 70 from esophageal cancer, but he left an impact on several
lives and a community that will last many more lifetimes. 
“There were a lot of things that stood out about Blake,” said Joel Mason,
Hoisington High School principal. “Number one was his genuine passion and
concern for the town of Hoisington. Any time he talked, you always got that
impression of that genuine interest for our community, our school and our kids.”

Rooted in the northern Barton County town, Herres graduated from Hoisington
High School in 1970. Receiving education from Kansas State University and the
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, he married Julie
Stone in 1975. They moved to Hoisington in 1979 as Blake started his dental
practice. 
“He was down to business inside the office,” said Janet Jonas, who worked with Herres
for nearly 30 years at his dental office. “He treated patients like they were
his best friends. He was very honest with them and conservative. He gave them
options. Every day we tackled every job we had.” 
That sense of support to the community went beyond serving on the USD 431 Board
of Education for 12 years. Herres spent many years as a volunteer coach, making
sure he gave his daughters the best chance to succeed in athletics. 
“We really didn’t start interacting with each other until our daughters began
playing sports together in middle school,” said Manweiler. “Blake and I got together
and decided we’d start coaching the girls in basketball their 7th
grade summer. We did a lot of road trips. After the girls graduated, Blake and I
continued our road trips together because we enjoyed it so much.”

That community support was felt largely as Herres operated his dental practice
in Hoisington for more than 40 years until retiring in 2022. 
“In a town our size, we have relatively few businesses compared to a bigger
community,” said Mason. “Those businesses are hit up by anybody and everybody.
He was definitely asked to be a big booster for many of our activities here at
the school district.” 
Friday nights during the fall, you would see Herres walk into the high school
football stadium, make his way up to the press box, pull out his binoculars and
get settled in for another evening of Cardinal football. Blake was on the 100.7
FM broadcast for more than 230 football games, and hundreds more with the
Hoisington basketball programs. 
“When I see him interacting with kids, of all ages, at sporting events, those
kids treated Blake with more respect than they did with most adults,” said
Manweiler. “Those kids respected his opinion. When he would give them advice,
it was almost an honor to get advice from Blake Herres. That was so cool, and I
saw that all my life.”

Listen below to audio clips over the years from Herres on the radio.

Herres would frequent as many Cardinal sporting events as possible from middle
school to high school softball, volleyball, baseball or football. 
“He always had a positive spin, even when things weren’t going well,” said
Mason. “It was always refreshing seeing him at all of the events.” 
“He cared about his patients a lot,” said Jonas. “He was a great dentist and a
great man. I appreciate everything he did for me.” 
After each broadcast, Blake would lean in with a smirk and give me (Cole Reif) a firm
handshake. I would tell him "nice job, you sounded good." He would
respond with “I’m just riding your coattails.” As a mere broadcaster, I rarely
disagree with a doctor, but Blake was wrong. Myself, and the community that knew Blake, were riding his coattails…and it was a hell of a ride.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207239494.jpeg" alt="Dr. Blake Herres spent more than 20 years broadcasting Hoisington High School games on the radio." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Blake Herres spent more than 20 years broadcasting Hoisington High School games on the radio.</figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's Note: Cole Reif spent nine years broadcasting Hoisington football games with Dr. Blake Herres. Some opinions are added to the story.By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThere are many hard-working, generous individuals throughout our
community. These men and women donate their time, give financially and try to
make the area around them better. With all those outstanding citizens in mind,
there are very few that better embodied the definition of a community servant
and supporter more than Dr. Blake Herres. 
“He tried to always make some kid shine, whether they came off the bench or if
they were a starter,” said Gene Manweiler, long-time friend of Herres. “He
would always try to say something good about what he or she brought to the
game. He was always good about uplifting kids on the radio.” 
A life-long Hoisington resident, Herres began broadcasting Hoisington High
School football and basketball games on the radio in 2001. For more than 20
years, he was the welcoming, familiar voice on the airwaves Friday nights.
Herres passed away March 23 at the age of 70 from esophageal cancer, but he left an impact on several
lives and a community that will last many more lifetimes. 
“There were a lot of things that stood out about Blake,” said Joel Mason,
Hoisington High School principal. “Number one was his genuine passion and
concern for the town of Hoisington. Any time he talked, you always got that
impression of that genuine interest for our community, our school and our kids.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207389903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rooted in the northern Barton County town, Herres graduated from Hoisington
High School in 1970. Receiving education from Kansas State University and the
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, he married Julie
Stone in 1975. They moved to Hoisington in 1979 as Blake started his dental
practice. 
“He was down to business inside the office,” said Janet Jonas, who worked with Herres
for nearly 30 years at his dental office. “He treated patients like they were
his best friends. He was very honest with them and conservative. He gave them
options. Every day we tackled every job we had.” 
That sense of support to the community went beyond serving on the USD 431 Board
of Education for 12 years. Herres spent many years as a volunteer coach, making
sure he gave his daughters the best chance to succeed in athletics. 
“We really didn’t start interacting with each other until our daughters began
playing sports together in middle school,” said Manweiler. “Blake and I got together
and decided we’d start coaching the girls in basketball their 7th
grade summer. We did a lot of road trips. After the girls graduated, Blake and I
continued our road trips together because we enjoyed it so much.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680207455068.jpeg" alt="photo: Dr. Dan Witt" />
 <figcaption>photo: Dr. Dan Witt</figcaption>
 </figure>That community support was felt largely as Herres operated his dental practice
in Hoisington for more than 40 years until retiring in 2022. 
“In a town our size, we have relatively few businesses compared to a bigger
community,” said Mason. “Those businesses are hit up by anybody and everybody.
He was definitely asked to be a big booster for many of our activities here at
the school district.” 
Friday nights during the fall, you would see Herres walk into the high school
football stadium, make his way up to the press box, pull out his binoculars and
get settled in for another evening of Cardinal football. Blake was on the 100.7
FM broadcast for more than 230 football games, and hundreds more with the
Hoisington basketball programs. 
“When I see him interacting with kids, of all ages, at sporting events, those
kids treated Blake with more respect than they did with most adults,” said
Manweiler. “Those kids respected his opinion. When he would give them advice,
it was almost an honor to get advice from Blake Herres. That was so cool, and I
saw that all my life.”Listen below to audio clips over the years from Herres on the radio.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/rkgqRL4j-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Audio from Dr. Blake Herres over the years" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Herres would frequent as many Cardinal sporting events as possible from middle
school to high school softball, volleyball, baseball or football. 
“He always had a positive spin, even when things weren’t going well,” said
Mason. “It was always refreshing seeing him at all of the events.” 
“He cared about his patients a lot,” said Jonas. “He was a great dentist and a
great man. I appreciate everything he did for me.” 
After each broadcast, Blake would lean in with a smirk and give me (Cole Reif) a firm
handshake. I would tell him "nice job, you sounded good." He would
respond with “I’m just riding your coattails.” As a mere broadcaster, I rarely
disagree with a doctor, but Blake was wrong. Myself, and the community that knew Blake, were riding his coattails…and it was a hell of a ride.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Community is everything: The supportive ‘voice’ of Hoisington

The Wonder Women League of Ellis County has awarded three $1,000 scholarships to two Hays High School and one Ellis High School student for the 2023-24 school year. Ellis County female students who were planning to attend Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech or Hays Academy of Hair Design full-time in 2023-24 could apply for the scholarships.

This year’s winners are Halle Lohmeyer, senior at Hays High School; Haley Cranwell, senior at Ellis High School; and Kaley Rajewski, senior at Hays High School.

During high school, Lohmeyer sought to inspire younger girls on her school’s wrestling team. She will be following in her mother’s footsteps and studying elementary education at Fort Hays State University. She said in her essay she hopes to inspire young people to be great. Lohmeyer has served on the HHS student council, is a National Honor Society member and volunteered for Jana’s Campaign among other service and school activities.

Cranwell is studying automotive technology while also finishing her senior year at Ellis High School. Upon graduation from EHS, she will have one year completed in the automotive program at NCK Tech. Upon completion of that program, she hopes to study economics and environmental science at Fort Hays State University. Cranwell said she hopes to use her knowledge to make vehicles more environmentally friendly.

Rajewski plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall and major in psychology. She hopes to eventually earn her Ph.D. in psychology. Rajewski has been involved in a variety of activities during high school, some of which include competitive dance, Hays Community Theatre, debate, forensics, student council and National Honor Society.

The Wonder Women League is a group of women in Ellis County under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County. Its mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community.

The Wonder Women League scholarship is one of several ongoing signature programs. Others include Matthew’s Gift and Project Suitcase. For more information or to donate to the Wonder Women League, you can visit <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league</a>.

News releaseThe Wonder Women League of Ellis County has awarded three $1,000 scholarships to two Hays High School and one Ellis High School student for the 2023-24 school year. Ellis County female students who were planning to attend Fort Hays State University, NCK Tech or Hays Academy of Hair Design full-time in 2023-24 could apply for the scholarships.This year’s winners are Halle Lohmeyer, senior at Hays High School; Haley Cranwell, senior at Ellis High School; and Kaley Rajewski, senior at Hays High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680270934456.jpeg" alt="Halle Lohmeyer" />
 <figcaption>Halle Lohmeyer</figcaption>
 </figure>During high school, Lohmeyer sought to inspire younger girls on her school’s wrestling team. She will be following in her mother’s footsteps and studying elementary education at Fort Hays State University. She said in her essay she hopes to inspire young people to be great. Lohmeyer has served on the HHS student council, is a National Honor Society member and volunteered for Jana’s Campaign among other service and school activities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680270968555.jpeg" alt="Haley Cranwell" />
 <figcaption>Haley Cranwell</figcaption>
 </figure>Cranwell is studying automotive technology while also finishing her senior year at Ellis High School. Upon graduation from EHS, she will have one year completed in the automotive program at NCK Tech. Upon completion of that program, she hopes to study economics and environmental science at Fort Hays State University. Cranwell said she hopes to use her knowledge to make vehicles more environmentally friendly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680271004704.jpeg" alt="Kaley Rajewski" />
 <figcaption>Kaley Rajewski</figcaption>
 </figure>Rajewski plans to attend Fort Hays State University in the fall and major in psychology. She hopes to eventually earn her Ph.D. in psychology. Rajewski has been involved in a variety of activities during high school, some of which include competitive dance, Hays Community Theatre, debate, forensics, student council and National Honor Society.The Wonder Women League is a group of women in Ellis County under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County. Its mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community.The Wonder Women League scholarship is one of several ongoing signature programs. Others include Matthew’s Gift and Project Suitcase. For more information or to donate to the Wonder Women League, you can visit <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league">https://www.liveunited.us/wonder-women-league</a>.

Wonder Women League awards three $1,000 scholarships

TOPEKA — The winners of last weekend’s Kansas KidWind State Finals are now gearing up for their next challenge – the National KidWind Challenge scheduled for May 14-17 in Boulder, Colo.&nbsp; To qualify for the national competition, teams first had to capture one of the top two spots in their age division during regional competitions, then win one of the top three spots in their age group at the State Finals.

The winning teams representing Kansas are:

1st&nbsp;place - Hutch STEM Blue – Allen STEM Magnet School – USD 308&nbsp; Coaches: Tara Urban and Jes Brockleman&nbsp; Team Members: Dalton Urban, Liam Clark, Zoey Schletzbaum, and Gatlin Leopp

2nd&nbsp;place – W2&nbsp;(“W squared”) – Oakley School District, USD 274&nbsp; Coach: Morgan Berkgren&nbsp; Team Members: Maddox Hubert, Gage Eberle, Jayde Kahle, Kylee Hodges, Emma Mandeville, and Zoe Meyers

3rd&nbsp;place – Los Girasoles Ventosos (The Windy Sunflowers) – Beloit Jr/Sr High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coach: Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Tripp Stillwell, Brylee LePon, and Rilee Lundine

1st&nbsp;place – The Goblins – Beloit High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coaches: Grant Deneke and Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Jayce Offutt, Jackson Cheney, Luke Cheney, Charlie Burke, and Jayc Darnall

2nd&nbsp;place – Cru Winds – Buhler High School, USD 313&nbsp; Coaches: Curtis Morgan and James Gazaway&nbsp; Team Members: Andrew Morgan and Isaak Neighbor

3rd&nbsp;place – Burlington Wind Company – Burlington High School, USD 244&nbsp; Coaches: Bryan Bruening and Jan Martin&nbsp; Team Members: Logan Curten, Michael Ianacone, and Isaac Rinker

To prepare for competition in the KidWind Challenge, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. At each level of competition (regional, state and national), turbines are put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.

Last year, three Kansas teams earned honors at the National KidWind Challenge. Hutch STEM Blue from STEM Magnet School at Allen Elementary was named Elementary Division National Champions, Wind Chill from Dighton Middle School won the Innovator Award and Gerald La Turbina from Beloit Jr/Sr High School won the Judges Award.

KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zHbVXt8SXOo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KCCTOPEKA — The winners of last weekend’s Kansas KidWind State Finals are now gearing up for their next challenge – the National KidWind Challenge scheduled for May 14-17 in Boulder, Colo.&nbsp; To qualify for the national competition, teams first had to capture one of the top two spots in their age division during regional competitions, then win one of the top three spots in their age group at the State Finals.The winning teams representing Kansas are:<h2>4th- 8th&nbsp;Grade Division</h2>1st&nbsp;place - Hutch STEM Blue – Allen STEM Magnet School – USD 308&nbsp; Coaches: Tara Urban and Jes Brockleman&nbsp; Team Members: Dalton Urban, Liam Clark, Zoey Schletzbaum, and Gatlin Leopp2nd&nbsp;place – W2&nbsp;(“W squared”) – Oakley School District, USD 274&nbsp; Coach: Morgan Berkgren&nbsp; Team Members: Maddox Hubert, Gage Eberle, Jayde Kahle, Kylee Hodges, Emma Mandeville, and Zoe Meyers3rd&nbsp;place – Los Girasoles Ventosos (The Windy Sunflowers) – Beloit Jr/Sr High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coach: Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Tripp Stillwell, Brylee LePon, and Rilee Lundine<h2>9th-12th Grade Division</h2>1st&nbsp;place – The Goblins – Beloit High School, USD 273&nbsp; Coaches: Grant Deneke and Christie Fouts&nbsp; Team Members: Jayce Offutt, Jackson Cheney, Luke Cheney, Charlie Burke, and Jayc Darnall2nd&nbsp;place – Cru Winds – Buhler High School, USD 313&nbsp; Coaches: Curtis Morgan and James Gazaway&nbsp; Team Members: Andrew Morgan and Isaak Neighbor3rd&nbsp;place – Burlington Wind Company – Burlington High School, USD 244&nbsp; Coaches: Bryan Bruening and Jan Martin&nbsp; Team Members: Logan Curten, Michael Ianacone, and Isaac RinkerTo prepare for competition in the KidWind Challenge, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. At each level of competition (regional, state and national), turbines are put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.5-5 m/s (meters per second). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.Last year, three Kansas teams earned honors at the National KidWind Challenge. Hutch STEM Blue from STEM Magnet School at Allen Elementary was named Elementary Division National Champions, Wind Chill from Dighton Middle School won the Innovator Award and Gerald La Turbina from Beloit Jr/Sr High School won the Judges Award.KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

🎥 NW Kansas team advances to KidWind nationals

GOODLAND — Northwest Kansas Technical College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at 11:30 am MT on Tuesday at 1205 E. 13th, Goodland. When complete, the new 5,000-square-foot expansion of the facility will provide students with comprehensive training in agricultural and over-the-road dynamometers. The public is invited to attend.

Ben Schears, college president, said the expansion project will “help address critical regional workforce and economic development needs in northwest Kansas”.&nbsp;

Since 2010, the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at Northwest Tech has placed 97 percent of its graduates directly out of school. A large part of this tremendous success is due to the program’s partnerships with regional businesses that help shape the coursework for the modern industry. This project will provide improved education and training of students to meet job demands of local and regional employers.&nbsp;

Diesel Instructor Jason Cook, added, “This project will give students access to state-of-the-art equipment and the opportunity to work towards certification to work on commercial diesel trucks, setting up our students for career success.”

The source of the project’s funding is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Agency.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680037568330.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest TechGOODLAND — Northwest Kansas Technical College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at 11:30 am MT on Tuesday at 1205 E. 13th, Goodland. When complete, the new 5,000-square-foot expansion of the facility will provide students with comprehensive training in agricultural and over-the-road dynamometers. The public is invited to attend.Ben Schears, college president, said the expansion project will “help address critical regional workforce and economic development needs in northwest Kansas”.&nbsp;Since 2010, the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology at Northwest Tech has placed 97 percent of its graduates directly out of school. A large part of this tremendous success is due to the program’s partnerships with regional businesses that help shape the coursework for the modern industry. This project will provide improved education and training of students to meet job demands of local and regional employers.&nbsp;Diesel Instructor Jason Cook, added, “This project will give students access to state-of-the-art equipment and the opportunity to work towards certification to work on commercial diesel trucks, setting up our students for career success.”The source of the project’s funding is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Agency.&nbsp;

Groundbreaking for Northwest Tech's diesel tech expansion set

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680291615651.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>

By Laah Tucker Special to the Hays Post

NATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues to serve with a myriad of projects throughout the year with an emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief and other projects, nationally and locally.

Following the devastating flood and Four County wildfires in 2021, the club members provided financial assistance and gave hundreds of hours in labor throughout the months that followed into 2022.

The Natoma Lions Club was joined by the American Legion Post 109 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in their annual pancake supper to honor the family in remembrance of former Lions Club member and veteran David George.

Additional volunteers came alongside in the joint effort from as far as Nebraska and Arkansas. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others.

The Saturday event raised funding for future projects including the community calendar. Midwest Energy announced a grant donation to the three organizations for their various projects, including the Lions Club community calendar.

Natoma residents may choose to have their families’ birthdays and anniversaries listed; Natoma USD 399 listings of school activities for the entire year; Natoma community’s celebrations and meetings also are listed. The calendar is a vital asset in connecting the hearts and minds of Natoma residents.

For information, contact Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680212243808.jpeg" alt="Lions Club members were joined by the American Legion Post 109 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in cooking and serving pancakes on March 25. Volunteers (L-R) were Sonya Robison, Shawna Dunlap, Sharon MacConnell, Corinne Masters, Terry Tucker, Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, Cindy Elliott, Beverly Hachmeister; Paula Bitter with Katelyn, Maddox, Matt, and Natasha Mondero; William Workman, Mary Wise, Al Boedeker, Marge Kertz, David Kertz, and Gail Griffin.&nbsp; Submitted photo" />
 <figcaption>Lions Club members were joined by the American Legion Post 109 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in cooking and serving pancakes on March 25. Volunteers (L-R) were Sonya Robison, Shawna Dunlap, Sharon MacConnell, Corinne Masters, Terry Tucker, Laah Tucker, Linda Crawford, Cindy Elliott, Beverly Hachmeister; Paula Bitter with Katelyn, Maddox, Matt, and Natasha Mondero; William Workman, Mary Wise, Al Boedeker, Marge Kertz, David Kertz, and Gail Griffin.&nbsp; Submitted photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Laah Tucker Special to the Hays PostNATOMA — Natoma Lions Club continues to serve with a myriad of projects throughout the year with an emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief and other projects, nationally and locally.Following the devastating flood and Four County wildfires in 2021, the club members provided financial assistance and gave hundreds of hours in labor throughout the months that followed into 2022.The Natoma Lions Club was joined by the American Legion Post 109 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 in their annual pancake supper to honor the family in remembrance of former Lions Club member and veteran David George.Additional volunteers came alongside in the joint effort from as far as Nebraska and Arkansas. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others.The Saturday event raised funding for future projects including the community calendar. Midwest Energy announced a grant donation to the three organizations for their various projects, including the Lions Club community calendar.Natoma residents may choose to have their families’ birthdays and anniversaries listed; Natoma USD 399 listings of school activities for the entire year; Natoma community’s celebrations and meetings also are listed. The calendar is a vital asset in connecting the hearts and minds of Natoma residents.For information, contact Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478.

Natoma Lions joint pancake supper with American Legion, Auxiliary 

Wheat farmers are, by nature, optimistic, but that optimism is starting to wane in southwest Kansas, where much of the wheat that was drilled last fall has yet to emerge.

Only 19% of the Kansas wheat crop is currently rated in good to excellent condition, with another 52% rated poor to very poor, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. According to the March 27 report, 77% of subsoil moisture supplies are rated short to very short.

“We’re eating through subsoil moisture,” said Tyler Ediger who farms near Meade, Kansas. “We need a slow inch to inch and a half of moisture.”

Average annual precipitation for the area is 23 inches, but over the past year, they’ve received roughly half that.

Still, Ediger says they’re better off than most in the area, having received a half inch a couple weeks ago. Their fields have a stand, so they’re not blowing yet, but winds have been strong and sustained for much of the area.

North of Lakin in Kearny County, Gary Millershaski’s fields aren’t faring as well. An area that typically gets 18.8” of annual precipitation, they’ve only received 8.6” over the past 365 days. While last year’s crop was also raised in drought conditions, it had the benefit of some subsoil moisture, which has all but been depleted by now. Even the residue left from last year’s crop has been reduced by wind and drought.

“We’re totally out of residue,” Millershaski said. “There’s nothing out there.”

He said insurance adjusters will be in the area over the next couple weeks. Many of the fields that haven’t even emerged will be adjusted out, giving farmers like Millershaski few options for ways to protect the blowing soil.

“I’m not going to chase another crop in dry soil,” he said. “Right now, it’s all about getting by and spending the least amount possible.”

In Sheridan County, Brett Oelke’s fields are surviving on half their average precipitation over the past two years as well.

“We’re pretty fortunate right now,” he said, because the moisture on this wheat crop has come with a timely three-quarters of an inch of rain in October when it was drilled and another inch and a half of moisture from snow since January.

Oelke’s moisture probe proved that even though his area has gotten some timely moisture, the crop is far from trouble. Reaching only two feet down, he said last year’s subsoil moisture was four feet.

“We’re 22 to 24 inches behind over the past few years,” he said.

In the sandy soils of Barber County, farmers are also dealing with less than half their average moisture.

“We need a rain really bad — and soon,” Chris Boyd said.

The wheat plants are small and don’t have many tillers. Fields in the Isabel area have received only one inch of rain total since the crop was planted.

In addition to fields that have been blown out completely from strong winds, they are also dealing with winter grain mites and army cut worms, which will limit yield potential. These pests can be controlled by applying an insecticide or pesticide, an added expense for a crop without a lot of potential.

“We were blessed with a nice harvest last year, but that crop used all of the subsoil moisture,” Boyd said. “With virtually no moisture on this current crop and nothing in the forecast, producers are faced with difficult decisions on how many more inputs — such as insecticide for grain mites — to invest on a potential crop failure.”

Rain is critical right now as temperatures begin to warm up and the wheat crop comes out of dormancy.

“We’ll take whatever moisture we can get,” said Millershaski.

With hit and miss showers mostly avoiding so﻿uthwest Kansas this past week and few scattered showers forecast in the next 10 days, farmers remain hopeful for additional timely rains.

“We’ll stay optimistic,” Ediger said.

Written by Marsha Boswell, Kansas Wheat

The wheat looks tough. Some looks decent, but a lot of it is spotty. Linin said they've received&nbsp;31” of snow, but it came a little at a time, so it didn’t do much to improve the subsoil moisture. It’s still really dry in the area. He said they're wondering if their wheat is going to make it or not, noting that they may go with another crop this spring.

The wheat planted into fallow ground has a decent stand, but wheat planted into failed corn where there is a lot of residue has a marginal stand. About half of the wheat in the area is still emerging because of the dry conditions last fall. Because of the heavier clay soils in the area, soil samples show that there are not a lot of nutrient requirements because of failed crops last fall, and only about half of usual nitrogen rates need to be applied. Over the past two weeks, Tanner reports he has been banding fertilizer on. Because of the cold temperatures in the area, the wheat is just starting to green up, so producers are still waiting to see what it will look like coming out of dormancy.

There are a few summer fallow acres that look decent and some wheat behind corn that looks ok. Wheat behind soybeans looks really rough. They are thinking about having an adjuster come out to look at some of their wheat.

The area is pretty dry, but Schemm said they were blessed with some snow that equated to 50 to 60 hundredths of moisture. They do see some potential in the crop, but it has been cold. The wheat took some hits of cold with no snow cover, so there may be some freeze damage.

Crop adjusters are coming out next week. Millershaski estimates that two thirds of his wheat will be abandoned, but he can’t plant a spring crop because there is no subsoil moisture. There’s very little residue left and the fields are blowing.

Suppes reported that one quarter of the wheat is not up yet and will be turned in to adjusters. He did topdress, but overall, this is a worse crop than last year.

Keesling reported they&nbsp;have an adjuster coming out to look at one third of their wheat. The conditions are not good. He said they've only received 1/2" of moisture since January 1 and 1/10" in March. Things are tough. With the extremely sandy soils, there’s going to be a lot of abandonment. Wheat is blowing out.

Wheat stands are a bit patchy, but it’s starting to green up nicely. A lot of fertilizer top dressing is going on in the area, and producers have pulled cattle off. They are dry compared to normal, but are fortunate to have received some moisture. They will need more rain as the wheat starts growing again this spring.

Wheat is greening up and looks good. They received some moisture three weeks ago. As you get to Pratt and west, the conditions really starts tapering off.

A lot of topdressing has been going on over the last two weeks. Wheat is responding and turning green. Many of the bare spots are filling in. Sawyer said, “If we get a little moisture, we will have a decent crop.” They’ve been fortunate because they’ve gotten some moisture since January.

Ponds in the area are dry, but the soil moisture is adequate. Wheat has greened up and looks good.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680272577248.jpeg" alt="Wind-swept wheat in Barber County, Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Wind-swept wheat in Barber County, Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Wheat farmers are, by nature, optimistic, but that optimism is starting to wane in southwest Kansas, where much of the wheat that was drilled last fall has yet to emerge.Only 19% of the Kansas wheat crop is currently rated in good to excellent condition, with another 52% rated poor to very poor, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. According to the March 27 report, 77% of subsoil moisture supplies are rated short to very short.“We’re eating through subsoil moisture,” said Tyler Ediger who farms near Meade, Kansas. “We need a slow inch to inch and a half of moisture.”Average annual precipitation for the area is 23 inches, but over the past year, they’ve received roughly half that.Still, Ediger says they’re better off than most in the area, having received a half inch a couple weeks ago. Their fields have a stand, so they’re not blowing yet, but winds have been strong and sustained for much of the area.North of Lakin in Kearny County, Gary Millershaski’s fields aren’t faring as well. An area that typically gets 18.8” of annual precipitation, they’ve only received 8.6” over the past 365 days. While last year’s crop was also raised in drought conditions, it had the benefit of some subsoil moisture, which has all but been depleted by now. Even the residue left from last year’s crop has been reduced by wind and drought.“We’re totally out of residue,” Millershaski said. “There’s nothing out there.”He said insurance adjusters will be in the area over the next couple weeks. Many of the fields that haven’t even emerged will be adjusted out, giving farmers like Millershaski few options for ways to protect the blowing soil.“I’m not going to chase another crop in dry soil,” he said. “Right now, it’s all about getting by and spending the least amount possible.”In Sheridan County, Brett Oelke’s fields are surviving on half their average precipitation over the past two years as well.“We’re pretty fortunate right now,” he said, because the moisture on this wheat crop has come with a timely three-quarters of an inch of rain in October when it was drilled and another inch and a half of moisture from snow since January.Oelke’s moisture probe proved that even though his area has gotten some timely moisture, the crop is far from trouble. Reaching only two feet down, he said last year’s subsoil moisture was four feet.“We’re 22 to 24 inches behind over the past few years,” he said.In the sandy soils of Barber County, farmers are also dealing with less than half their average moisture.“We need a rain really bad — and soon,” Chris Boyd said.The wheat plants are small and don’t have many tillers. Fields in the Isabel area have received only one inch of rain total since the crop was planted.In addition to fields that have been blown out completely from strong winds, they are also dealing with winter grain mites and army cut worms, which will limit yield potential. These pests can be controlled by applying an insecticide or pesticide, an added expense for a crop without a lot of potential.“We were blessed with a nice harvest last year, but that crop used all of the subsoil moisture,” Boyd said. “With virtually no moisture on this current crop and nothing in the forecast, producers are faced with difficult decisions on how many more inputs — such as insecticide for grain mites — to invest on a potential crop failure.”Rain is critical right now as temperatures begin to warm up and the wheat crop comes out of dormancy.“We’ll take whatever moisture we can get,” said Millershaski.With hit and miss showers mostly avoiding so﻿uthwest Kansas this past week and few scattered showers forecast in the next 10 days, farmers remain hopeful for additional timely rains.“We’ll stay optimistic,” Ediger said.Written by Marsha Boswell, Kansas Wheat<h2>More Kansas Crop Conditions</h2><h2>Brian Linin, Goodland:</h2>The wheat looks tough. Some looks decent, but a lot of it is spotty. Linin said they've received&nbsp;31” of snow, but it came a little at a time, so it didn’t do much to improve the subsoil moisture. It’s still really dry in the area. He said they're wondering if their wheat is going to make it or not, noting that they may go with another crop this spring.<h2>Chris Tanner, Norton:</h2>The wheat planted into fallow ground has a decent stand, but wheat planted into failed corn where there is a lot of residue has a marginal stand. About half of the wheat in the area is still emerging because of the dry conditions last fall. Because of the heavier clay soils in the area, soil samples show that there are not a lot of nutrient requirements because of failed crops last fall, and only about half of usual nitrogen rates need to be applied. Over the past two weeks, Tanner reports he has been banding fertilizer on. Because of the cold temperatures in the area, the wheat is just starting to green up, so producers are still waiting to see what it will look like coming out of dormancy.<h2>Mike McClellan, Plainville:</h2>There are a few summer fallow acres that look decent and some wheat behind corn that looks ok. Wheat behind soybeans looks really rough. They are thinking about having an adjuster come out to look at some of their wheat.<h2>David Schemm, Sharon Springs:</h2>The area is pretty dry, but Schemm said they were blessed with some snow that equated to 50 to 60 hundredths of moisture. They do see some potential in the crop, but it has been cold. The wheat took some hits of cold with no snow cover, so there may be some freeze damage.<h2>Gary Millershaski, Lakin:</h2>Crop adjusters are coming out next week. Millershaski estimates that two thirds of his wheat will be abandoned, but he can’t plant a spring crop because there is no subsoil moisture. There’s very little residue left and the fields are blowing.<h2>Ron Suppes, Dighton:</h2>Suppes reported that one quarter of the wheat is not up yet and will be turned in to adjusters. He did topdress, but overall, this is a worse crop than last year.<h2>Doug Keesling, Lyons:</h2>Keesling reported they&nbsp;have an adjuster coming out to look at one third of their wheat. The conditions are not good. He said they've only received 1/2" of moisture since January 1 and 1/10" in March. Things are tough. With the extremely sandy soils, there’s going to be a lot of abandonment. Wheat is blowing out.<h2>Tim Turek, South Haven:</h2>Wheat stands are a bit patchy, but it’s starting to green up nicely. A lot of fertilizer top dressing is going on in the area, and producers have pulled cattle off. They are dry compared to normal, but are fortunate to have received some moisture. They will need more rain as the wheat starts growing again this spring.<h2>Martin Kerschen, Garden Plain:</h2>Wheat is greening up and looks good. They received some moisture three weeks ago. As you get to Pratt and west, the conditions really starts tapering off.<h2>Derek Sawyer, McPherson:</h2>A lot of topdressing has been going on over the last two weeks. Wheat is responding and turning green. Many of the bare spots are filling in. Sawyer said, “If we get a little moisture, we will have a decent crop.” They’ve been fortunate because they’ve gotten some moisture since January.<h2>Nathan Larson, Riley:</h2>Ponds in the area are dry, but the soil moisture is adequate. Wheat has greened up and looks good.

Wheat Scoop: Waning optimism on potential of Kansas wheat crop

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4fEi-BuxTE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho.

🎤 Forward Ever: USA Today Woman of the Year 2023 honoree Jade Piros de Carvalho

A red flag warning is in effect for Ellis County and most of parched western Kansas through 9 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.

The north wind will pick up through the day, sustained and 25 to 30 mph with gusts near 50 mph possible. Blowing dust could reduce visibility, as well, the NWS warned.

The winds will calm during the day Saturday, but will shift back to south wind by Saturday evening, with gusts around 45 mph possible.&nbsp;

The high Saturday will be in the mid-60s, the NWS said, increasing to the mow- to mid-70s Sunday.

The high on Thursday reached 78 degrees — warm, but not close to the all-time record of 95 degrees in 1946.

There is no precipitation predicted for the Hays area in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680276914457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning is in effect for Ellis County and most of parched western Kansas through 9 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.The north wind will pick up through the day, sustained and 25 to 30 mph with gusts near 50 mph possible. Blowing dust could reduce visibility, as well, the NWS warned.The winds will calm during the day Saturday, but will shift back to south wind by Saturday evening, with gusts around 45 mph possible.&nbsp;The high Saturday will be in the mid-60s, the NWS said, increasing to the mow- to mid-70s Sunday.The high on Thursday reached 78 degrees — warm, but not close to the all-time record of 95 degrees in 1946.There is no precipitation predicted for the Hays area in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mostly sunny and windy today with afternoon highs in the 60s. <a href="https://t.co/HZeYEurFYm">pic.twitter.com/HZeYEurFYm</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1641688311898210305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NW Kansas red flag warning remains in effect through Friday

On this episode of the Post Podcast Amy B. chats with Letters from Home performers, prior to their Friday night performance in downtown Hays.

<div><iframe title="Letters from Home comes to Hays Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=tu3pa-13cfaa5-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=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Amy B. chats with Letters from Home performers, prior to their Friday night performance in downtown Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Letters from Home comes to Hays Friday

Lovegrass
Music Festival brings ‘experience’ to Defiance Brewing Co. Saturday for free event featuring new beer

At 3
p.m. Saturday, The Lovegrass Music Festival Association and Defiance Brewing,
2050 Old Highway 40, are teaming up to bring a “Lovegrass Experience” to Hays.

The day will
feature food, games, a benefit raffle and area bands to raise awareness and
funds for the annual fall bluegrass music festival at the Wilson Lake State
Park.

“We are
a 501(c)3, and so we're a nonprofit, and we like to keep our festival free,” said
organizer Aimee Riegel.

She said that over the last few years maintaining the festival has been challenging, but it
has continued and grown with events like Saturday’s benefit helping spread awareness
and funds.

“Besides
our festival — which is our main culminating event each year — we have in the
last two years broadened our scope to provide music not just at the lake but
also in other areas, such as Hays. We've done some activities over Wilson at
the Midland Hotel. We are also partnering with Great Bend Alive at the end of
April for an event down there as well.”

While The Lovegrass Music festival
may center on music, Saturday’s event will also feature a popular area
activity.

“Branson
Kyle from the Hays Cornhole League is going to be organizing a cornhole tournament,”
Riegel said. “They're very passionate about this project, and you can sign up
ahead of time.”

The tournament
will kick off the day’s festivities at the brewery’s taproom, with signup beginning
at 3 p.m.

“There
are two different leagues, pro and then social league,” Riegel said. “That's
the first event, and then we've got music kicking off at four o'clock with
three bands.”

Bartlett
will open the musical offerings at 4 p.m., followed by 80 Proof Alice and
Haymakers. Each band will perform for about an hour.

“Both of
those bands are going to be playing for absolutely no charge as a donation to
the festival,” Riegel said. “So, if you come on out, bring some money to tip
the bands. That way, they can make it worth their time.”

She said
she is especially excited to bring Haymakers to Hays.

“They're
doing a fundraiser down in Garden City for the Tumbleweed Festival, (which is) run by
Valerie Smith,” Riegel said. “They're doing that on Friday. And then, funny
enough, they're coming here to do our fundraiser the next day.

“They play
more blues, bluegrass, folk-type music and Americana. They're really
wonderful.” 

Haymakers
are set to take the stage at 7 p.m.

Following
their set, Riegel said they would host a jam session open to everyone.

“If you
have an instrument and you want to come play, we're going to keep the taproom
open as long as there are folks out there that want to play and partake,” she
said. “Come out, bring your guitar, bring your banjo, bring your spoons,
whatever it might be, and join us for some jamming.”

Defiance Brewing Brand Master
Brett Straight said hosting an event like the Lovegrass Experience is a part of
their mission.

“Any
time we get an opportunity to support local music, and live music, we're all
about it,” he said.

And with the upcoming event, they
hope to support the organization.

“What we
were focused on was just being able to provide an experience where people can
come out,” Straight said. “There's no obligation that you have to spend any money.
You can just come out and enjoy the festival, but what we hope is going to
happen is that people are going to purchase the custom-made pint glasses that
we had made.”

Custom
stickers were also designed for the event and will be available. 

“There's
been some wonderful people that donated some great prizes,” Straight said. 

“We really
had an outpouring of sponsorships,” Riegel said. “I think it's really
interesting, considering our festival is in Wilson at Wilson Lake in Russell
County, we usually target those areas for sponsorships for our main festival.
But for the smaller events, I believe, getting the word out and collaborating
with Defiance, and having that known name and recognition has been really
helpful for us to be able to procure certain sponsorships.”

“People
have been really wonderful. And helping this event, I was really blown away,
actually. So, we want to thank all of those that have made this possible, and
especially Defiance. They are going to be helping out too, they've just been
wonderful to work with.”

Part of
the support included the brewing of a beer to match the event.

“We
wanted to try something that is oriented around Bluegrass,” Straight said. “So,
we came up with a Blueberry Pie Gose. It's called Tap That Grass, and we will
be showcasing that on Saturday.”

<div><iframe title="Defiance Brewing, Lovegrass Music Festival team up for weekend event" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=v4cwd-13caeae-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=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680007122524.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lovegrass
Music Festival brings ‘experience’ to Defiance Brewing Co. Saturday for free event featuring new beer</h2>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAt 3
p.m. Saturday, The Lovegrass Music Festival Association and Defiance Brewing,
2050 Old Highway 40, are teaming up to bring a “Lovegrass Experience” to Hays.The day will
feature food, games, a benefit raffle and area bands to raise awareness and
funds for the annual fall bluegrass music festival at the Wilson Lake State
Park.“We are
a 501(c)3, and so we're a nonprofit, and we like to keep our festival free,” said
organizer Aimee Riegel.She said that over the last few years maintaining the festival has been challenging, but it
has continued and grown with events like Saturday’s benefit helping spread awareness
and funds.“Besides
our festival — which is our main culminating event each year — we have in the
last two years broadened our scope to provide music not just at the lake but
also in other areas, such as Hays. We've done some activities over Wilson at
the Midland Hotel. We are also partnering with Great Bend Alive at the end of
April for an event down there as well.”While The Lovegrass Music festival
may center on music, Saturday’s event will also feature a popular area
activity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680007017649.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Branson
Kyle from the Hays Cornhole League is going to be organizing a cornhole tournament,”
Riegel said. “They're very passionate about this project, and you can sign up
ahead of time.”The tournament
will kick off the day’s festivities at the brewery’s taproom, with signup beginning
at 3 p.m.“There
are two different leagues, pro and then social league,” Riegel said. “That's
the first event, and then we've got music kicking off at four o'clock with
three bands.”Bartlett
will open the musical offerings at 4 p.m., followed by 80 Proof Alice and
Haymakers. Each band will perform for about an hour.“Both of
those bands are going to be playing for absolutely no charge as a donation to
the festival,” Riegel said. “So, if you come on out, bring some money to tip
the bands. That way, they can make it worth their time.”She said
she is especially excited to bring Haymakers to Hays.“They're
doing a fundraiser down in Garden City for the Tumbleweed Festival, (which is) run by
Valerie Smith,” Riegel said. “They're doing that on Friday. And then, funny
enough, they're coming here to do our fundraiser the next day.“They play
more blues, bluegrass, folk-type music and Americana. They're really
wonderful.” Haymakers
are set to take the stage at 7 p.m.Following
their set, Riegel said they would host a jam session open to everyone.“If you
have an instrument and you want to come play, we're going to keep the taproom
open as long as there are folks out there that want to play and partake,” she
said. “Come out, bring your guitar, bring your banjo, bring your spoons,
whatever it might be, and join us for some jamming.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200134811.jpeg" alt="Dustin Arbuckle and Matt Woods perform at the Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson during a Lovegrass Experience event. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Arbuckle and Matt Woods perform at the Midland Railroad Hotel in Wilson during a Lovegrass Experience event. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Defiance Brewing Brand Master
Brett Straight said hosting an event like the Lovegrass Experience is a part of
their mission.“Any
time we get an opportunity to support local music, and live music, we're all
about it,” he said.And with the upcoming event, they
hope to support the organization.“What we
were focused on was just being able to provide an experience where people can
come out,” Straight said. “There's no obligation that you have to spend any money.
You can just come out and enjoy the festival, but what we hope is going to
happen is that people are going to purchase the custom-made pint glasses that
we had made.”Custom
stickers were also designed for the event and will be available. A fundraiser
raffle is also planned.“There's
been some wonderful people that donated some great prizes,” Straight said. “We really
had an outpouring of sponsorships,” Riegel said. “I think it's really
interesting, considering our festival is in Wilson at Wilson Lake in Russell
County, we usually target those areas for sponsorships for our main festival.
But for the smaller events, I believe, getting the word out and collaborating
with Defiance, and having that known name and recognition has been really
helpful for us to be able to procure certain sponsorships.”“People
have been really wonderful. And helping this event, I was really blown away,
actually. So, we want to thank all of those that have made this possible, and
especially Defiance. They are going to be helping out too, they've just been
wonderful to work with.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200435901.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Part of
the support included the brewing of a beer to match the event.“We
wanted to try something that is oriented around Bluegrass,” Straight said. “So,
we came up with a Blueberry Pie Gose. It's called Tap That Grass, and we will
be showcasing that on Saturday.”For more information about the
Lovegrass Music Festival, visit <a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">lovegrassmusicfestival.com.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680200265495.jpeg" alt="Lovegrass Music Festival 2022. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Lovegrass Music Festival 2022. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>