SALINA — The cause of the death of a man whose 
body was found dumped along the side of the road in north Salina in late
 January has been ruled a fentanyl overdose and people sought
 in the case have been arrested, the Salina Police Department reported 
this afternoon.

At 1:05 a.m. Jan. 28, the dispatch center received
 a call from a citizen who reported a body in the 1900 block of North Fifth. In a news release issued Jan. 30, police identified the body as
 that of 20-year-old Brendon Thomas Wade Reed, formerly of Hays.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3f28f06a-328e-40f4-b260-9ac874dc9abd">Police ID body found early Saturday in north Salina</a>

Thursday afternoon, the Salina Police Department issued the following information related to the case.

An
 autopsy was conducted on January 29, 2023, and no signs of fatal trauma
 were located during the examination. The autopsy and toxicology 
findings have been received for Mr. Reed. Mr. Reed’s cause of death is 
listed as a fentanyl overdose. Salina Police Detectives continued to 
investigate.

On March 28, 2023, warrants were issued for 
Jack Allen Kelley and Garret Clayton Crutchfield, Salina residents, for 
criminal desecration of a body and interference with law enforcement.

On March 29, Jack Allen Kelley, a Salina resident, was booked 
into the Saline County jail for one count of criminal desecration of a 
body and one count of interference with law enforcement.

Crutchfield turned himself in early Thursday evening, police said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680181055668.jpeg" alt="Jack Allen Kelley. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jack Allen Kelley. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSALINA — The cause of the death of a man whose 
body was found dumped along the side of the road in north Salina in late
 January has been ruled a fentanyl overdose and people sought
 in the case have been arrested, the Salina Police Department reported 
this afternoon.At 1:05 a.m. Jan. 28, the dispatch center received
 a call from a citizen who reported a body in the 1900 block of North Fifth. In a news release issued Jan. 30, police identified the body as
 that of 20-year-old Brendon Thomas Wade Reed, formerly of Hays.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3f28f06a-328e-40f4-b260-9ac874dc9abd">Police ID body found early Saturday in north Salina</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680205560645.png" alt="Garret Clayton Crutchfield" />
 <figcaption>Garret Clayton Crutchfield</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday afternoon, the Salina Police Department issued the following information related to the case.An
 autopsy was conducted on January 29, 2023, and no signs of fatal trauma
 were located during the examination. The autopsy and toxicology 
findings have been received for Mr. Reed. Mr. Reed’s cause of death is 
listed as a fentanyl overdose. Salina Police Detectives continued to 
investigate.On March 28, 2023, warrants were issued for 
Jack Allen Kelley and Garret Clayton Crutchfield, Salina residents, for 
criminal desecration of a body and interference with law enforcement.On March 29, Jack Allen Kelley, a Salina resident, was booked 
into the Saline County jail for one count of criminal desecration of a 
body and one count of interference with law enforcement.Crutchfield turned himself in early Thursday evening, police said.

Former Hays man's death ruled fentanyl overdose; two arrested

A red flag warning is in effect for most western Kansas counties, as strong winds and dry conditions have increased the chances of wildfires.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is also warning of blowing dust, which could reduce visibility.

The high Thursday was expected to reach the mid- to upper-70s, accompanied by south winds gusting up to 50 mph. Friday will be cooler, with the mercury topping out around 60. The wind will remain sustained into Friday evening at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.

Winds will calm by Saturday and the temperature will begin to creep up through the weekend, with highs in the low- to mid-70s through Monday.

There is no chance of precipitation in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680201831875.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA red flag warning is in effect for most western Kansas counties, as strong winds and dry conditions have increased the chances of wildfires.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is also warning of blowing dust, which could reduce visibility.The high Thursday was expected to reach the mid- to upper-70s, accompanied by south winds gusting up to 50 mph. Friday will be cooler, with the mercury topping out around 60. The wind will remain sustained into Friday evening at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.Winds will calm by Saturday and the temperature will begin to creep up through the weekend, with highs in the low- to mid-70s through Monday.There is no chance of precipitation in the long-term forecast, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here is our updated wind forecast for this afternoon and Fri. afternoon. Very strong south to southwest winds through this afternoon and much of the evening. On Fri., winds will be out of the west to northwest at 25 to 40 mph sustained with gusts 50+ mph. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/REfFOmOT6C">pic.twitter.com/REfFOmOT6C</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1641481453577060355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Red flag warnings across parched western Kansas

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

Opportunities in professional careers oftentimes are all about timing.

That was the case for Troy Schulte back in 2016 when he learned of an opening for the activities director position at his alma mater in Hays, Kansas.

Schulte was quite content at his job as assistant principal and boys’ basketball coach at Archie (Mo.) High School, about 50 miles southeast of Kansas City.

But it was a good time to make a move for his family. Schulte, a Hays native, successfully pursued that position at Thomas More Prep-Marian, where he has also served as assistant principal the past seven years.

Timing came calling again this winter for Schulte.

Jeff Kramer, a retired superintendent from the Archie school district, called Schulte one evening and told him the principal’s position at Archie High had just opened up.

A couple of interviews, several family talks and a lot of prayers later, Schulte is heading back to Missouri this summer.

Once again, it came at what seemed a perfect time for Schulte’s family. His youngest daughter, Jaden, will graduate from TMP-M in May and join her older brother, Jackson, at Wichita State University next fall. His oldest daughter, Jordan Hixon, and her family — husband Nick and young son Wells — also live in Wichita.

Empty-nesters Troy Schulte and his wife, Sharon, are looking for a home in southern metro Kansas City, with plans to make several family visits to Wichita.

“We loved living in Archie, but to have the opportunity for Jackson and Jaden to go to a Catholic high school and grow in their faith was a great opportunity,” Schulte said. “I have grown in my faith as well. Now, we think this is another great opportunity.”

Schulte has enjoyed a good run at TMP-M. The Monarchs annually do well in all their extracurricular activities, from visual and creative arts and scholastic teams such as scholars bowl and chess — and everything in between.

His first love — athletics — have done exceptionally well. The Monarchs have qualified individuals or teams for state every year during his tenure at TMP-M, including three years in basketball when his son Jackson was playing.

Schulte also got back into coaching at TMP-M the past four years. In the past two years as the school’s junior high coach, the Monarchs compiled an incredible record of 80-0 across the entire program.

He admits the coaching bug bit him hard, and he wouldn’t mind pacing the sidelines at the high school level again if that opportunity ever came up.

But for now, the Archie Whirlwinds will have to wait.

Schulte wants to enjoy making his farewell tour through the Monarchs’ spring sports programs with plans to hopefully attend a few more state events as the TMP activities director.

“Even walking around school, I know it’s winding down,” he said. “There are a lot of mixed feelings for sure.”

He is excited about the next step of his professional journey — and his first job as principal of a school — but he will never forget his roots.&nbsp;

A 1989 graduate of TMP-M, Schulte received his bachelor’s degree from the hometown university, Fort Hays State. His wife’s parents, Bob and Carol Feauto, still live in Hays, as do several of Sharon’s siblings.

Schulte said he especially is fond of the memories during his second go-around in Hays, especially the relationships he has built with people in and out of school.

“Hays is home. It will always be home,” Schulte said. “I developed a lot of good relationships both in school and in the community the past seven years. When you work with people in a private school setting — who volunteer to help you out, just wanting to be of service — you develop a strong bond.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677528504039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680123482987.jpeg" alt="Troy Schulte" />
 <figcaption>Troy Schulte</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostOpportunities in professional careers oftentimes are all about timing.That was the case for Troy Schulte back in 2016 when he learned of an opening for the activities director position at his alma mater in Hays, Kansas.Schulte was quite content at his job as assistant principal and boys’ basketball coach at Archie (Mo.) High School, about 50 miles southeast of Kansas City.But it was a good time to make a move for his family. Schulte, a Hays native, successfully pursued that position at Thomas More Prep-Marian, where he has also served as assistant principal the past seven years.Timing came calling again this winter for Schulte.Jeff Kramer, a retired superintendent from the Archie school district, called Schulte one evening and told him the principal’s position at Archie High had just opened up.A couple of interviews, several family talks and a lot of prayers later, Schulte is heading back to Missouri this summer.Once again, it came at what seemed a perfect time for Schulte’s family. His youngest daughter, Jaden, will graduate from TMP-M in May and join her older brother, Jackson, at Wichita State University next fall. His oldest daughter, Jordan Hixon, and her family — husband Nick and young son Wells — also live in Wichita.Empty-nesters Troy Schulte and his wife, Sharon, are looking for a home in southern metro Kansas City, with plans to make several family visits to Wichita.“We loved living in Archie, but to have the opportunity for Jackson and Jaden to go to a Catholic high school and grow in their faith was a great opportunity,” Schulte said. “I have grown in my faith as well. Now, we think this is another great opportunity.”Schulte has enjoyed a good run at TMP-M. The Monarchs annually do well in all their extracurricular activities, from visual and creative arts and scholastic teams such as scholars bowl and chess — and everything in between.His first love — athletics — have done exceptionally well. The Monarchs have qualified individuals or teams for state every year during his tenure at TMP-M, including three years in basketball when his son Jackson was playing.Schulte also got back into coaching at TMP-M the past four years. In the past two years as the school’s junior high coach, the Monarchs compiled an incredible record of 80-0 across the entire program.He admits the coaching bug bit him hard, and he wouldn’t mind pacing the sidelines at the high school level again if that opportunity ever came up.But for now, the Archie Whirlwinds will have to wait.Schulte wants to enjoy making his farewell tour through the Monarchs’ spring sports programs with plans to hopefully attend a few more state events as the TMP activities director.“Even walking around school, I know it’s winding down,” he said. “There are a lot of mixed feelings for sure.”He is excited about the next step of his professional journey — and his first job as principal of a school — but he will never forget his roots.&nbsp;A 1989 graduate of TMP-M, Schulte received his bachelor’s degree from the hometown university, Fort Hays State. His wife’s parents, Bob and Carol Feauto, still live in Hays, as do several of Sharon’s siblings.Schulte said he especially is fond of the memories during his second go-around in Hays, especially the relationships he has built with people in and out of school.“Hays is home. It will always be home,” Schulte said. “I developed a lot of good relationships both in school and in the community the past seven years. When you work with people in a private school setting — who volunteer to help you out, just wanting to be of service — you develop a strong bond.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677528504039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NWester: TMP-M’s Schulte heads back to Missouri after 7 years at his alma mater

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Child Care Task for of Ellis County is accepting letters of intent for up to $2 million in state grant funds.

The task force, which met Tuesday, hopes to combine local applications for a Kansas Children's Child Care Capacity Accelerator grant.

Letters of intent will be due to the task force by noon April 10 and must be shovel-ready. See a press release below that further outlines the request for letters of intent.

James Robben, Grow Hays director of business development and special projects, said Grow Hays is interested in making an application for its <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fb985e9c-5d28-4229-b437-e0f1307115dd">Grove project</a>.

The Grove will be a housing project at the corner of 27th and Canterbury in Hays. It will include a multi-purpose community center that will house a child care center.

Robben said the center could serve up to 77 children from infant to preschool. The slots would be open to the public. The project does not have a completion date. The state accelerator funds would have to be used between July 2024 and December 2025.

Robben said the Grove child care project could use the entire $2 million but would reduce its request to account for other Ellis County projects.

Space is also being renovated in the Hadley Center. The Hadley Center project likely would apply for funds to pay for a sprinkler system that is being added to space that is being remodeled for a child care center.

The Hadley project would be requesting $47,000 with a $10,000 additional alternate, Sarah Wasinger, task force facilitator, said.

Early Childhood Connections, which is part of Hays USD 489, is also adding a sprinkler system to a part of its building to allow it to open new classrooms. Donna Hudson-Hamilton, program director, said she might also apply for some of the capacity accelerator funds.

Andrew Cutright, who is on the board of Hays Area Children's Center, said the center might also apply for funds but was not specific about the project.

The task force is on a tight deadline because the grant application is due to the state by May 15.

The grant requires a 25 percent match, which would be paid by the grant requesters.

The task force also has applied for $45,000 through Kansas ChildCare Aware. These funds would be used to expand the capacity of Hays Area Children's Center and Learning Cross Child Care.

The grant would fund a salaried preschool teacher at Hays Area Children's Center. This would allow the center to add six more spots to its preschool program.

The grant also would help fund Learning Cross Child Care, which plans to open an infant and toddler program with a capacity of 37 slots.

Infant care is in the highest demand. Many centers do not provide infant care because one adult can only care for a few infants at a time.

The task force is hosting a Child Care Provider Appreciation Dinner on May 11 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. The event is free for providers. The first 150 providers will receive a free swag bag. 

Child Care providers can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayschamber.com/events?fbclid=IwAR1om4ldfjx6Bnmvrmqc51gzizYLi8s1NLzK2OxO7qs5__XKeGYeKtRDb4o" target="_blank">hayschamber.com/events</a>or by calling 785-628-8201. Businesses who would like to support this event can also contact the Chamber.

The task force is seeking sponsors for the event or businesses that would like to contribute items to the swag bags or as raffle prizes.

The task force  also has developed surveys for child care providers and food service providers about the possible creation of a child care food program.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/01c02fed-bbed-4def-a0a9-7532b94d20bc">A task force subcommittee met in early March to discuss the program.</a>

Kansas Children’s Cabinet Child Care Capacity Accelerator Grant application

The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County will be applying for the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator Community Grant by the deadline of May 15.

As each community is encouraged to write a singular grant that is supported by its local task force, the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County is seeking applications from local child care providers in the form of letters of intention. Child care providers that are in-home based or center-based may qualify for these funds.

Project proposals should be geared toward adding child care capacity for in-home or center-based providers. Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all of the qualifications for this program.

Letters of intent should specify what physical projects will be included for their portion of the application and must provide an estimated budget. Any submitted project must be shovel-ready, which means that funds will need to be spent from July 2024 through December 2025. This is a reimbursement-based grant to add capacity for children from birth to 5 years old.

Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional child care capacity for in-home or center-based providers. Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all the qualifications for this program.

Letters of intent should include a project narrative that addresses the following: · Project Description: Detailed project description to include proposed numbers served. &nbsp;• Project Need: Describe the need for the proposed project. • Project Readiness: Describe the organization and its experience/expertise in child care. Describe involvement in community child care collaboration projects. · Project Impact: Describe how your project will impact Ellis County child care. Describe how you will evaluate your project for success. · Project Sustainability: Describe how you will address the sustainability, operations, staffing, oversight and quality improvement of your project. · Project Budget: A detailed project budget is required. Outline how your project will meet the 25 percent cash match requirement.

In addition to project narrative, organizations must supply the attachments outlined in pages 11-13 of the grant request for proposal.

Once all letters of intention have been received, they will be reviewed by the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County for consideration to be included in the overall grant submission. Confirmation will be shared with providers if their proposals are included in the grant submission.

 Projects approved by the task force will require an additional narrative to be submitted to the task force for each project and a detailed budget for how all funds will be spent. All providers will be required to provide their own reporting on grant fund utilization during the post-grant award process if Ellis County receives funds, including submitting receipts for services rendered and items purchased to fulfill the project.

The Request for Proposals document from the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund and other important documents about this grant process is accessible via <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county</a>.

Letters of intention are due to the Child Care Task Force by noon on Monday, April 10 to sarah@hayschamber.com. Questions may be addressed to that email address, via phone at 785-628-8201, or in person by appointment at 2700 Vine, Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677097470001.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Child Care Task for of Ellis County is accepting letters of intent for up to $2 million in state grant funds.The task force, which met Tuesday, hopes to combine local applications for a Kansas Children's Child Care Capacity Accelerator grant.Letters of intent will be due to the task force by noon April 10 and must be shovel-ready. See a press release below that further outlines the request for letters of intent.James Robben, Grow Hays director of business development and special projects, said Grow Hays is interested in making an application for its <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fb985e9c-5d28-4229-b437-e0f1307115dd">Grove project</a>.The Grove will be a housing project at the corner of 27th and Canterbury in Hays. It will include a multi-purpose community center that will house a child care center.Robben said the center could serve up to 77 children from infant to preschool. The slots would be open to the public. The project does not have a completion date. The state accelerator funds would have to be used between July 2024 and December 2025.Robben said the Grove child care project could use the entire $2 million but would reduce its request to account for other Ellis County projects.Space is also being renovated in the Hadley Center. The Hadley Center project likely would apply for funds to pay for a sprinkler system that is being added to space that is being remodeled for a child care center.The Hadley project would be requesting $47,000 with a $10,000 additional alternate, Sarah Wasinger, task force facilitator, said.Early Childhood Connections, which is part of Hays USD 489, is also adding a sprinkler system to a part of its building to allow it to open new classrooms. Donna Hudson-Hamilton, program director, said she might also apply for some of the capacity accelerator funds.Andrew Cutright, who is on the board of Hays Area Children's Center, said the center might also apply for funds but was not specific about the project.The task force is on a tight deadline because the grant application is due to the state by May 15.The grant requires a 25 percent match, which would be paid by the grant requesters.The task force also has applied for $45,000 through Kansas ChildCare Aware. These funds would be used to expand the capacity of Hays Area Children's Center and Learning Cross Child Care.The grant would fund a salaried preschool teacher at Hays Area Children's Center. This would allow the center to add six more spots to its preschool program.The grant also would help fund Learning Cross Child Care, which plans to open an infant and toddler program with a capacity of 37 slots.Infant care is in the highest demand. Many centers do not provide infant care because one adult can only care for a few infants at a time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680108908765.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Provider appreciation dinner</h2>The task force is hosting a Child Care Provider Appreciation Dinner on May 11 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. The event is free for providers. The first 150 providers will receive a free swag bag. Child Care providers can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayschamber.com/events?fbclid=IwAR1om4ldfjx6Bnmvrmqc51gzizYLi8s1NLzK2OxO7qs5__XKeGYeKtRDb4o" target="_blank">hayschamber.com/events</a>or by calling 785-628-8201. Businesses who would like to support this event can also contact the Chamber.The task force is seeking sponsors for the event or businesses that would like to contribute items to the swag bags or as raffle prizes.<h2>Food service</h2>The task force also has developed surveys for child care providers and food service providers about the possible creation of a child care food program.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/01c02fed-bbed-4def-a0a9-7532b94d20bc">A task force subcommittee met in early March to discuss the program.</a>-----<h2>Kansas Children’s Cabinet Child Care Capacity Accelerator Grant application</h2>Hays ChamberThe Child Care Task Force of Ellis County will be applying for the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator Community Grant by the deadline of May 15.As each community is encouraged to write a singular grant that is supported by its local task force, the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County is seeking applications from local child care providers in the form of letters of intention. Child care providers that are in-home based or center-based may qualify for these funds.Project proposals should be geared toward adding child care capacity for in-home or center-based providers. Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all of the qualifications for this program.Letters of intent should specify what physical projects will be included for their portion of the application and must provide an estimated budget. Any submitted project must be shovel-ready, which means that funds will need to be spent from July 2024 through December 2025. This is a reimbursement-based grant to add capacity for children from birth to 5 years old.Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional child care capacity for in-home or center-based providers. Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all the qualifications for this program.Letters of intent should include a project narrative that addresses the following: · Project Description: Detailed project description to include proposed numbers served. &nbsp;• Project Need: Describe the need for the proposed project. • Project Readiness: Describe the organization and its experience/expertise in child care. Describe involvement in community child care collaboration projects. · Project Impact: Describe how your project will impact Ellis County child care. Describe how you will evaluate your project for success. · Project Sustainability: Describe how you will address the sustainability, operations, staffing, oversight and quality improvement of your project. · Project Budget: A detailed project budget is required. Outline how your project will meet the 25 percent cash match requirement.In addition to project narrative, organizations must supply the attachments outlined in pages 11-13 of the grant request for proposal.Once all letters of intention have been received, they will be reviewed by the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County for consideration to be included in the overall grant submission. Confirmation will be shared with providers if their proposals are included in the grant submission. Projects approved by the task force will require an additional narrative to be submitted to the task force for each project and a detailed budget for how all funds will be spent. All providers will be required to provide their own reporting on grant fund utilization during the post-grant award process if Ellis County receives funds, including submitting receipts for services rendered and items purchased to fulfill the project.The Request for Proposals document from the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund and other important documents about this grant process is accessible via <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county</a>.Letters of intention are due to the Child Care Task Force by noon on Monday, April 10 to sarah@hayschamber.com. Questions may be addressed to that email address, via phone at 785-628-8201, or in person by appointment at 2700 Vine, Hays.

Ellis County child care group to apply for $2M in state funds

On this episode of the Post Podcast Amy B. speaks with Autumn Ragland, lead singer of Ragland, as she shares information about their upcoming performance in Hays.

<div><iframe title="Ragland to perform in downtown Hays Thursday" 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=hxzqx-13cdddc-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. speaks with Autumn Ragland, lead singer of Ragland, as she shares information about their upcoming performance in Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Ragland to perform in downtown Hays Thursday

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Hays High’s Carly Lang and Thomas More Prep Marian’s Dylan Werth and Jaci VonLintel
closed out their senior seasons earning all-state honors selections this week
from the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association.

Lang was an honorable mention selection in class 5A. 

Lang helped the Indians to their second straight winning
season, finishing 14-8 and losing in the 5A west sub-state championship game.

This past season, she averaged 10 points, a team-high six
rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game.

Lang was also a first-team all Western Athletic Conference
selection.

TMP’s Dylan Werth was a first-team selection in class 2A
following the Monarchs fourth-place finish at state.

Werth averaged 17 points and nine rebounds, scoring in
double-figures in 25-of-26 and recording 12 double-doubles.

Werth was a first-team all Mid-Continent League selection
this season and was a 3A honorable mention KBCA selection last season.

VonLintel was an honorable mention selection in class
2A for the Monarchs.

She led the Monarchs in all major categories. VonLintel
averaged 13.8 points per game, scoring in double-figures in 20-of-23 games. She
recorded 11 double-doubles and averaged nine rebounds. She averaged 5.5 steals and
recorded one triple-double, with 11 steals against Rawlins County.

VonLintel was named to the first-team All Mid-Continent
League.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostHays High’s Carly Lang and Thomas More Prep Marian’s Dylan Werth and Jaci VonLintel
closed out their senior seasons earning all-state honors selections this week
from the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association.Lang was an honorable mention selection in class 5A. Lang helped the Indians to their second straight winning
season, finishing 14-8 and losing in the 5A west sub-state championship game.This past season, she averaged 10 points, a team-high six
rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game.Lang was also a first-team all Western Athletic Conference
selection.TMP’s Dylan Werth was a first-team selection in class 2A
following the Monarchs fourth-place finish at state.Werth averaged 17 points and nine rebounds, scoring in
double-figures in 25-of-26 and recording 12 double-doubles.Werth was a first-team all Mid-Continent League selection
this season and was a 3A honorable mention KBCA selection last season.VonLintel was an honorable mention selection in class
2A for the Monarchs.She led the Monarchs in all major categories. VonLintel
averaged 13.8 points per game, scoring in double-figures in 20-of-23 games. She
recorded 11 double-doubles and averaged nine rebounds. She averaged 5.5 steals and
recorded one triple-double, with 11 steals against Rawlins County.VonLintel was named to the first-team All Mid-Continent
League.

🏀 HHS’ Lang, TMP’s VonLintel and Werth earn all-state honors

You may notice a few facelifts during your next trip to the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Local artist Melanie Ryan restored the statues throughout the zoo, as well as the mural on the lion building.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680036483857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You may notice a few facelifts during your next trip to the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Local artist Melanie Ryan restored the statues throughout the zoo, as well as the mural on the lion building.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680036577368.jpeg" alt="" />
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Statues receive a facelift at Great Bend zoo

Fort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute is hosting a variety of summer camps for youth in grades 2 through 8. Camps are filling quickly despite accepting 24 students per camp and restricting students to a maximum of two camps each.

All camps run four days per week, Monday through Thursday. Sessions are all three hours each – &nbsp;some in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon and others in the afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m.

• Main Street Math Camp for grades 2-3 - June 5-8 from 9 a.m. to noon – Student entrepreneurs will build a business according to their passions in life. Camp will culminate in a ribbon cutting ceremony to open their business for parents on the final day.

• Calling All Chefs for Math Camp for grades 4-6 - June 6-9 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Students will be working as a team to create daily menus with hands-on math projects to eat and enjoy with your fun-loving, hungry teammates so healthy lives can endure!

•&nbsp;Saving the Playground Science Camp for grades 2-5 – June 12-15 from 1 to 4 p.m. - Students will create sun protection for a playground with household objects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

•&nbsp;Animal Crossing Science Camp for grades 2-5 – June 19-22 from 9 a.m. to Noon - Students will create design, construct, and test a solution to the problem of animals cut off from their habitat by highways.

• Camp North Star for grades 5-7 - June 19-22 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Explore this camp for budding engineers. Activities will include working with CAD Design to explore rocket designs, Newton’s laws of motion, nanotechnology, robotics, and solid fuel rockets.

• Robo Challenge Camp for grades 6-8 - June 26-29 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Custom build robots that can operate in real world situations. For students with experience with robotics.

The registration fee for each camp is $70, and the registration deadline is Wednesday, May 3.Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of&nbsp;two&nbsp;camps per student.

For more information about the summer camps, contact Cari Rohleder by phone at 785.628.4743 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>. More information and registration brochures can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtEE8LmVosFl9uDgATeX2eqJI88qMylbYOUt-2BOtnuxICzkBYT_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemwT3T65rR5n6PBpQjEarnr8fnMFQgvGaUfMLxlAJUWLDontCJ8ateujdxngrqdO0INa5EUe4wYX5y4xjrsBiSVQfYGH3Q0thjd5azNojGGyRIJWS9AuUFjlOSiI2YykPnaaBhVJITKSnU4PEWzN-2BZ9EmjhjNnjfD2i4q8CqSfj06nnwGG-2BZDTKafFUS1GNwy-2FOu-2FdkaGsbJ-2BkqXqpB-2Ffr7b8KdnhRES9l-2F0-2Bcy9ChvWQBuJYCuZFZ3Wk-2FyFaT0OI1yMXSms-2F3YDSkcTdciR041w-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/smei/camps/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680010650814.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute is hosting a variety of summer camps for youth in grades 2 through 8. Camps are filling quickly despite accepting 24 students per camp and restricting students to a maximum of two camps each.All camps run four days per week, Monday through Thursday. Sessions are all three hours each – &nbsp;some in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon and others in the afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m.This year’s camps include:• Main Street Math Camp for grades 2-3 - June 5-8 from 9 a.m. to noon – Student entrepreneurs will build a business according to their passions in life. Camp will culminate in a ribbon cutting ceremony to open their business for parents on the final day.• Calling All Chefs for Math Camp for grades 4-6 - June 6-9 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Students will be working as a team to create daily menus with hands-on math projects to eat and enjoy with your fun-loving, hungry teammates so healthy lives can endure!•&nbsp;Saving the Playground Science Camp for grades 2-5 – June 12-15 from 1 to 4 p.m. - Students will create sun protection for a playground with household objects.&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;Animal Crossing Science Camp for grades 2-5 – June 19-22 from 9 a.m. to Noon - Students will create design, construct, and test a solution to the problem of animals cut off from their habitat by highways.• Camp North Star for grades 5-7 - June 19-22 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Explore this camp for budding engineers. Activities will include working with CAD Design to explore rocket designs, Newton’s laws of motion, nanotechnology, robotics, and solid fuel rockets.• Robo Challenge Camp for grades 6-8 - June 26-29 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Custom build robots that can operate in real world situations. For students with experience with robotics.The registration fee for each camp is $70, and the registration deadline is Wednesday, May 3.Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of&nbsp;two&nbsp;camps per student.For more information about the summer camps, contact Cari Rohleder by phone at 785.628.4743 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>. More information and registration brochures can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtEE8LmVosFl9uDgATeX2eqJI88qMylbYOUt-2BOtnuxICzkBYT_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemwT3T65rR5n6PBpQjEarnr8fnMFQgvGaUfMLxlAJUWLDontCJ8ateujdxngrqdO0INa5EUe4wYX5y4xjrsBiSVQfYGH3Q0thjd5azNojGGyRIJWS9AuUFjlOSiI2YykPnaaBhVJITKSnU4PEWzN-2BZ9EmjhjNnjfD2i4q8CqSfj06nnwGG-2BZDTKafFUS1GNwy-2FOu-2FdkaGsbJ-2BkqXqpB-2Ffr7b8KdnhRES9l-2F0-2Bcy9ChvWQBuJYCuZFZ3Wk-2FyFaT0OI1yMXSms-2F3YDSkcTdciR041w-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/smei/camps/</a>.

Registration open for Fort Hays State summer science camps

The Post Nine, vintage base ball team of Historic Fort Hays, will play the Hays City 9 team at p.m. Saturday, April 22. &nbsp;The game will take place at Historic Fort Hays.

Since forming the Post Nine club in 2017, suiting up the club with vintage style uniforms, bats and&nbsp;following&nbsp;1869 base ball rules the Post Nine&nbsp;team&nbsp;has hosted and played games with vintage teams from Wichita, Topeka, Denver, Emporia&nbsp;&nbsp;and Hays — Larks alumni and Hays City 9.

In 2022, a generous donor supplied vintage style shirts and caps for the new Hays City 9 town team players. So, Post Nine players can play against other&nbsp;“local boys”&nbsp;in the style of the 1860s.

Historic Fort Hays Post Nine Roster: Travis Gottschalk, Jordan Gottschalk, Ryan Gottschalk, Justin Gottschalk, Jarrett Sanders, Tanner Willhoft, Lance Geyer, Cam Stramel, Chance Werth and Jeff Green.

The game is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs. Popcorn and water will be supplied.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680022132387.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Post Nine, vintage base ball team of Historic Fort Hays, will play the Hays City 9 team at p.m. Saturday, April 22. &nbsp;The game will take place at Historic Fort Hays.Since forming the Post Nine club in 2017, suiting up the club with vintage style uniforms, bats and&nbsp;following&nbsp;1869 base ball rules the Post Nine&nbsp;team&nbsp;has hosted and played games with vintage teams from Wichita, Topeka, Denver, Emporia&nbsp;&nbsp;and Hays — Larks alumni and Hays City 9.In 2022, a generous donor supplied vintage style shirts and caps for the new Hays City 9 town team players. So, Post Nine players can play against other&nbsp;“local boys”&nbsp;in the style of the 1860s.Historic Fort Hays Post Nine Roster: Travis Gottschalk, Jordan Gottschalk, Ryan Gottschalk, Justin Gottschalk, Jarrett Sanders, Tanner Willhoft, Lance Geyer, Cam Stramel, Chance Werth and Jeff Green.The game is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs. Popcorn and water will be supplied.

Vintage base ball game scheduled at Historic Fort Hays

First Care Clinic has announced that&nbsp;Devin Reed, APRN&nbsp;has joined its medical staff.&nbsp;Reed&nbsp;graduated&nbsp;from&nbsp;Duquesne University&nbsp;with a&nbsp;Master of Science&nbsp;in Nursing.&nbsp;He&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Board-Certified&nbsp;Family Nurse Practitioner with&nbsp;the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.&nbsp;

“Devin has many years or nursing experience, with an emphasis in&nbsp;cardiovascular&nbsp;medicine. We wanted to give our patients the choice of having a male provider. His kind nature and thorough approach to&nbsp;medicine will make Devin&nbsp;an&nbsp;outstanding&nbsp;primary care provider,” said Dr. Christine Fisher, First Care&nbsp;Clinic’s Medical Director.&nbsp;

“Devin is a talented primary care provider, and we are excited to have him&nbsp;join&nbsp;our medical team. We are constantly working to meet&nbsp;the&nbsp;needs of our patients.&nbsp;With&nbsp;the addition of Devin&nbsp;to our staff, we&nbsp;will continue&nbsp;to work toward&nbsp;that goal,”&nbsp;said Eric Flax, CEO.&nbsp;

Reed&nbsp;is&nbsp;seeing&nbsp;patients at First Care&nbsp;Clinic’s 22nd&nbsp;street&nbsp;location.&nbsp;First Care&nbsp;Clinic&nbsp;accepts&nbsp;all major&nbsp;insurances&nbsp;and offers a sliding fee scale for those&nbsp;who&nbsp;qualify.&nbsp;To schedule an appointment, call First Care Clinic at&nbsp;785-621-4990. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680036768684.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>News releaseFirst Care Clinic has announced that&nbsp;Devin Reed, APRN&nbsp;has joined its medical staff.&nbsp;Reed&nbsp;graduated&nbsp;from&nbsp;Duquesne University&nbsp;with a&nbsp;Master of Science&nbsp;in Nursing.&nbsp;He&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Board-Certified&nbsp;Family Nurse Practitioner with&nbsp;the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.&nbsp;“Devin has many years or nursing experience, with an emphasis in&nbsp;cardiovascular&nbsp;medicine. We wanted to give our patients the choice of having a male provider. His kind nature and thorough approach to&nbsp;medicine will make Devin&nbsp;an&nbsp;outstanding&nbsp;primary care provider,” said Dr. Christine Fisher, First Care&nbsp;Clinic’s Medical Director.&nbsp;“Devin is a talented primary care provider, and we are excited to have him&nbsp;join&nbsp;our medical team. We are constantly working to meet&nbsp;the&nbsp;needs of our patients.&nbsp;With&nbsp;the addition of Devin&nbsp;to our staff, we&nbsp;will continue&nbsp;to work toward&nbsp;that goal,”&nbsp;said Eric Flax, CEO.&nbsp;Reed&nbsp;is&nbsp;seeing&nbsp;patients at First Care&nbsp;Clinic’s 22nd&nbsp;street&nbsp;location.&nbsp;First Care&nbsp;Clinic&nbsp;accepts&nbsp;all major&nbsp;insurances&nbsp;and offers a sliding fee scale for those&nbsp;who&nbsp;qualify.&nbsp;To schedule an appointment, call First Care Clinic at&nbsp;785-621-4990. &nbsp;

New nurse practitioner joins staff of First Care Clinic

<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/2023/3/1680114264942.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

If you like to run or walk and would like to meet others with similar interests, then the Hays Area Road Runners might be for&nbsp;you. &nbsp;HARR members&nbsp;meet&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesdays&nbsp;at various locations around Hays&nbsp;(often at the former Hays Daily News building, 507 S.&nbsp;Main), but also in Plainville and Ellis. Through May 23, the group gathers at 6:30 p.m., but the time moves to 7 p.m. during the warmer days&nbsp;of summer&nbsp;(see schedule at&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_8RwJofUsi6WYrQVQ_EKVtFs8u2yiglv/view">tinyurl.com/HARR2023</a>).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Members&nbsp;run a variety of courses&nbsp;4 to 5 miles&nbsp;long&nbsp;or walk about 45 minutes, but shorter distances or times are fine as everyone ends up at the starting location. &nbsp;Most of the grouptypically meets&nbsp;again shortly after each run&nbsp;for food, drink, and conversation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Runners and walkers of all abilities and ages are&nbsp;welcome. &nbsp;Currently, we range in age from 30s to 70s, run 8- to 11-minute per mile pace, and walk at about 16- to 18-minute per mile pace.

The&nbsp;April 4 run/walk&nbsp;begins&nbsp;in the parking lot in front of TMP-M.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you’re curious or have questions&nbsp;about HARR, contact Helen at <a href="mailto:helenh1962@gmail.com">helenh1962@gmail.com</a>.

SubmittedIf you like to run or walk and would like to meet others with similar interests, then the Hays Area Road Runners might be for&nbsp;you. &nbsp;HARR members&nbsp;meet&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesdays&nbsp;at various locations around Hays&nbsp;(often at the former Hays Daily News building, 507 S.&nbsp;Main), but also in Plainville and Ellis. Through May 23, the group gathers at 6:30 p.m., but the time moves to 7 p.m. during the warmer days&nbsp;of summer&nbsp;(see schedule at&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_8RwJofUsi6WYrQVQ_EKVtFs8u2yiglv/view">tinyurl.com/HARR2023</a>).&nbsp;&nbsp;Members&nbsp;run a variety of courses&nbsp;4 to 5 miles&nbsp;long&nbsp;or walk about 45 minutes, but shorter distances or times are fine as everyone ends up at the starting location. &nbsp;Most of the grouptypically meets&nbsp;again shortly after each run&nbsp;for food, drink, and conversation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Runners and walkers of all abilities and ages are&nbsp;welcome. &nbsp;Currently, we range in age from 30s to 70s, run 8- to 11-minute per mile pace, and walk at about 16- to 18-minute per mile pace.The&nbsp;April 4 run/walk&nbsp;begins&nbsp;in the parking lot in front of TMP-M.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you’re curious or have questions&nbsp;about HARR, contact Helen at <a href="mailto:helenh1962@gmail.com">helenh1962@gmail.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680123928135.jpg" alt="Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

Walkers, runners invited to Hays Area Road Runner events

The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County will be applying for the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator Community Grant by the deadline of May 15th.&nbsp; As each community is encouraged to write a singular grant that is supported by its local task force, the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County is seeking applications from local&nbsp;child care&nbsp;providers in the form of letters of intention.&nbsp;Child care&nbsp;providers that are in-home based or center based may qualify for these funds.&nbsp;

Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional&nbsp;child care&nbsp;capicity&nbsp;for in-home or center based providers.&nbsp; Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all of the qualifications for this program.&nbsp; Letters of intent should specify what physical projects will be included&nbsp;for&nbsp;their portion of the application and must provide an estimated budget.&nbsp; Any submitted project must be shovel-ready, which means that funds will need to be spent&nbsp;from July 2024 through December 2025.&nbsp; This is a reimbursement-based grant to add capacity for birth to five years.

Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional&nbsp;child care&nbsp;capicity&nbsp;for in-home or center based providers.&nbsp; Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all the qualifications for this program.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Letters of intent should include a project narrative that addresses the following:&nbsp;

•Project Description:&nbsp; Detailed project description to include proposed numbers served.&nbsp;•Project Need:&nbsp; Describe the need for proposed project.&nbsp;•Project Readiness:&nbsp; Describe the organization and their experience/expertise in childcare.&nbsp; Describe involvement in community childcare collaboration projects.&nbsp;•Project Impact:&nbsp; Describe how your project will impact Ellis County childcare.&nbsp; Describe how you will evaluate your project for success.&nbsp;•Project Sustainability: Describe how you will address the sustainability, operations, staffing,oversightand quality improvement of your project.&nbsp; &nbsp;•Project Budget:&nbsp; A detailed project budget is required.&nbsp; Outline how your project will meet the 25% cash match requirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to project narrative, organizations must supply the attachments outlined in pages 11-13 of the grant request for proposal.&nbsp;

Once all letters of intention have been received, they will be reviewed by the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County for&nbsp;consideration to be included in the overall&nbsp;grant submission.&nbsp; Confirmation will be shared with providers if their proposals&nbsp;are&nbsp;included in the grant submission.&nbsp; Projects approved by the task force will require additional narrative to be submitted to the task force for each project and a detailed budget for how all funds will be spent.&nbsp;All providers will be required to provide their own reporting on grant fund utilization during the post grant award process if Ellis County receives funds, including submitting receipts for services rendered and items purchased to fulfill the project.

The Request for Proposals document from the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund&nbsp;and other important documents about this grant process&nbsp;is accessible via&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county</a>.

Letters of intention are due to the Child Care Task Force by noon on Monday, April 10th to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>.&nbsp; Questions may be addressed to that email address, via phone at 785-628-8201, or in person by appointment at 2700 Vine Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680122977300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County will be applying for the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund Child Care Capacity Accelerator Community Grant by the deadline of May 15th.&nbsp; As each community is encouraged to write a singular grant that is supported by its local task force, the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County is seeking applications from local&nbsp;child care&nbsp;providers in the form of letters of intention.&nbsp;Child care&nbsp;providers that are in-home based or center based may qualify for these funds.&nbsp;Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional&nbsp;child care&nbsp;capicity&nbsp;for in-home or center based providers.&nbsp; Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all of the qualifications for this program.&nbsp; Letters of intent should specify what physical projects will be included&nbsp;for&nbsp;their portion of the application and must provide an estimated budget.&nbsp; Any submitted project must be shovel-ready, which means that funds will need to be spent&nbsp;from July 2024 through December 2025.&nbsp; This is a reimbursement-based grant to add capacity for birth to five years.Project proposals should be geared towards adding additional&nbsp;child care&nbsp;capicity&nbsp;for in-home or center based providers.&nbsp; Providers are requested to carefully read through the request for proposals document to ensure their project can meet all the qualifications for this program.&nbsp; &nbsp;Letters of intent should include a project narrative that addresses the following:&nbsp;•Project Description:&nbsp; Detailed project description to include proposed numbers served.&nbsp;•Project Need:&nbsp; Describe the need for proposed project.&nbsp;•Project Readiness:&nbsp; Describe the organization and their experience/expertise in childcare.&nbsp; Describe involvement in community childcare collaboration projects.&nbsp;•Project Impact:&nbsp; Describe how your project will impact Ellis County childcare.&nbsp; Describe how you will evaluate your project for success.&nbsp;•Project Sustainability: Describe how you will address the sustainability, operations, staffing,oversightand quality improvement of your project.&nbsp; &nbsp;•Project Budget:&nbsp; A detailed project budget is required.&nbsp; Outline how your project will meet the 25% cash match requirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to project narrative, organizations must supply the attachments outlined in pages 11-13 of the grant request for proposal.&nbsp;Once all letters of intention have been received, they will be reviewed by the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County for&nbsp;consideration to be included in the overall&nbsp;grant submission.&nbsp; Confirmation will be shared with providers if their proposals&nbsp;are&nbsp;included in the grant submission.&nbsp; Projects approved by the task force will require additional narrative to be submitted to the task force for each project and a detailed budget for how all funds will be spent.&nbsp;All providers will be required to provide their own reporting on grant fund utilization during the post grant award process if Ellis County receives funds, including submitting receipts for services rendered and items purchased to fulfill the project.The Request for Proposals document from the Kansas Children's Cabinet &amp; Trust Fund&nbsp;and other important documents about this grant process&nbsp;is accessible via&nbsp;<a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county</a>.Letters of intention are due to the Child Care Task Force by noon on Monday, April 10th to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>.&nbsp; Questions may be addressed to that email address, via phone at 785-628-8201, or in person by appointment at 2700 Vine Street.

Kansas Children’s Cabinet Child Care Capacity Accelerator Grant Application

GREAT BEND — The Barton Community College Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to approve a new tuition and fees rate of $50 per credit hour for select high school audiences. Starting with the Summer 2023 semester, high school students enrolling in face-to-face classes on the Barton County campus, in person at their partnered high school, or through a Partnered Online partnership will qualify for the new rate.

Previously, high school students paid the same tuition rate as post-secondary students. This new $50 tuition rate is a significant step toward providing more accessible courses for high school students across the state. In addition to this rate change, Barton recently added a scholarship for Barton Online classes for Kansas high school students to bring the cost down to $75 per credit hour.

Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said the new rate and online scholarship will allow more students to get ahead and take advantage of Barton’s early college opportunities including general education courses. High school students that qualify for the new rate may be able to take the courses as dual credit, but she said students should check with their high school counselor to see whether their school is an early college partner and if the class would count on their high school transcript or impact their class schedules.

“With the new tuition rate for high school students, taking classes on the Barton County campus or at our partnered schools, either in person or via Partnered Online, we hope to give more students access to coursework at a price they can afford,” she said.&nbsp;

Little said in addition to the new credit hour rate and scholarship for online classes, some classes utilize low-cost (under $50) or no-cost textbooks, helping students in these classes save even more money. &nbsp; A state-approved list of career technical education (CTE) courses is still being offered at no tuition charged for Kansas high school students through a state program called Excel in CTE.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students may also qualify to use the Barton Online $75 per credit hour scholarship to complete career technical classes not included on the fully funded list to make greater progress toward their college and career plans.

“Students can take individual classes or work toward earning an associate degree or certificate,” she said.&nbsp;“They can even mix and match with&nbsp;scholarship or reduced rate&nbsp;general education courses, career technical&nbsp;courses, and tuition-free Excel in CTE courses to reduce their overall cost.”

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonccc.edu/highschool" target="_blank">highschool.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680114734846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie HarrisGREAT BEND — The Barton Community College Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to approve a new tuition and fees rate of $50 per credit hour for select high school audiences. Starting with the Summer 2023 semester, high school students enrolling in face-to-face classes on the Barton County campus, in person at their partnered high school, or through a Partnered Online partnership will qualify for the new rate.Previously, high school students paid the same tuition rate as post-secondary students. This new $50 tuition rate is a significant step toward providing more accessible courses for high school students across the state. In addition to this rate change, Barton recently added a scholarship for Barton Online classes for Kansas high school students to bring the cost down to $75 per credit hour.Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said the new rate and online scholarship will allow more students to get ahead and take advantage of Barton’s early college opportunities including general education courses. High school students that qualify for the new rate may be able to take the courses as dual credit, but she said students should check with their high school counselor to see whether their school is an early college partner and if the class would count on their high school transcript or impact their class schedules.“With the new tuition rate for high school students, taking classes on the Barton County campus or at our partnered schools, either in person or via Partnered Online, we hope to give more students access to coursework at a price they can afford,” she said.&nbsp;Little said in addition to the new credit hour rate and scholarship for online classes, some classes utilize low-cost (under $50) or no-cost textbooks, helping students in these classes save even more money. &nbsp; A state-approved list of career technical education (CTE) courses is still being offered at no tuition charged for Kansas high school students through a state program called Excel in CTE.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students may also qualify to use the Barton Online $75 per credit hour scholarship to complete career technical classes not included on the fully funded list to make greater progress toward their college and career plans.“Students can take individual classes or work toward earning an associate degree or certificate,” she said.&nbsp;“They can even mix and match with&nbsp;scholarship or reduced rate&nbsp;general education courses, career technical&nbsp;courses, and tuition-free Excel in CTE courses to reduce their overall cost.”For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonccc.edu/highschool" target="_blank">highschool.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton college approves new tuition rate for KS high school students

On this episode of the Post Podcast, USD 489 Public Relations director Chrisy Crough, shares updates from the district as they continue facility updates that will utilize a bond issue passed by voters in 2022.

<div><iframe title="Facility update planning, work continues in USD 489" 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=vwbs5-13ccd5b-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>On this episode of the Post Podcast, USD 489 Public Relations director Chrisy Crough, shares updates from the district as they continue facility updates that will utilize a bond issue passed by voters in 2022.

🎙 Post Podcast: Facility update planning, work continues in USD 489

The Central Kansas Rampage volleyball team (including players from Great Bend, Hoisington, Ellinwood, St. John and Hays) competed in the Nike Mideast National Qualifier in St. Louis, Missouri March 24-26. Competing in a 64-team division, Rampage finished 2nd place and qualified for the Girls Junior Nationals in Chicago, Illinois June 28 - July 1.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680103534826.jpeg" alt="Pictured back row, left to right: Coach Sarah Simic, Sofia Simic, Chayla Prendergast, Kinley Wilkens, Gentri Bright, Alyvia Batchman, Coach Cami Long.&nbsp; Bottom row left to right: Alex Mayers, Parker Unruh and Kya Behr.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured back row, left to right: Coach Sarah Simic, Sofia Simic, Chayla Prendergast, Kinley Wilkens, Gentri Bright, Alyvia Batchman, Coach Cami Long.&nbsp; Bottom row left to right: Alex Mayers, Parker Unruh and Kya Behr.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Central Kansas Rampage volleyball team (including players from Great Bend, Hoisington, Ellinwood, St. John and Hays) competed in the Nike Mideast National Qualifier in St. Louis, Missouri March 24-26. Competing in a 64-team division, Rampage finished 2nd place and qualified for the Girls Junior Nationals in Chicago, Illinois June 28 - July 1.&nbsp;

Central KS Rampage volleyball team qualifies for Nationals

J. David Macey, an accomplished higher education leader and distinguished scholar of English Literature, will be the next dean of the Fort Hays State University College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.&nbsp;

The college Macey will lead recently began working through a comprehensive reorganization focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, positioning the college to grow, leveraging new academic program opportunities, and creating a collaborative and engaging organizational culture that articulates the value of a liberal arts education.

Provost Dr. Jill Arensdorf welcomed the selection of Macey.

“We are so pleased Dr. Macey accepted our offer to serve as dean,” Arensdorf said. “The search committee and I see him as a special kind of leader, both thoughtful and collaborative.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is the right professional to lead CAHSS through a period of transformation,” said Arensdorf.

Macey currently serves as the interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Central Oklahoma. Macey chaired the Department of English at UCO from 2007 until 2015 and was the interim chairperson for the department in 2020 and 2021. Macey served from 2016 until 2019 as an assistant vice president in the university’s Office of Academic Affairs. In this role, he was responsible for providing leadership for a range of inclusion, diversity, and globalization initiatives.&nbsp;

An experienced academic leader with a distinguished record of service in a variety of roles, Macey looks forward to the challenge of leading CAHSS during an exciting period of change and renewal.

“I am deeply committed to quality, accessibility, and innovation in public higher education,” Macey said. “I have long admired the outstanding work of students, faculty, and staff at Fort Hays State University, and I am both honored and excited to join the Tiger Nation!“

Macey’s principal areas of research and teaching are Old English language and literature, Restoration and eighteenth-century British literature, literary and critical theory, and the history of the English language. He has chaired UCO’s Committee on Diversity and served for over two decades as the faculty adviser to the Student Alliance for Equality (SAFE), UCO's 2SLGBTQIA+ student organization.

Macey received his B.A. from Yale University, an A.M. at Brown University, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. At UCO, he received the Modeling the Way Award, the Neely Excellence in Teaching Award, the Division of Student Affairs' Faculty Adviser of the Year Award, the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice's Oklahoma City Humanitarian Award, and the Cimarron Alliance's Torch Award.

Macey will begin his service as Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences later this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680027988254.jpeg" alt="Macey" />
 <figcaption>Macey</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsJ. David Macey, an accomplished higher education leader and distinguished scholar of English Literature, will be the next dean of the Fort Hays State University College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.&nbsp;The college Macey will lead recently began working through a comprehensive reorganization focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, positioning the college to grow, leveraging new academic program opportunities, and creating a collaborative and engaging organizational culture that articulates the value of a liberal arts education.Provost Dr. Jill Arensdorf welcomed the selection of Macey.“We are so pleased Dr. Macey accepted our offer to serve as dean,” Arensdorf said. “The search committee and I see him as a special kind of leader, both thoughtful and collaborative.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is the right professional to lead CAHSS through a period of transformation,” said Arensdorf.Macey currently serves as the interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Central Oklahoma. Macey chaired the Department of English at UCO from 2007 until 2015 and was the interim chairperson for the department in 2020 and 2021. Macey served from 2016 until 2019 as an assistant vice president in the university’s Office of Academic Affairs. In this role, he was responsible for providing leadership for a range of inclusion, diversity, and globalization initiatives.&nbsp;An experienced academic leader with a distinguished record of service in a variety of roles, Macey looks forward to the challenge of leading CAHSS during an exciting period of change and renewal.“I am deeply committed to quality, accessibility, and innovation in public higher education,” Macey said. “I have long admired the outstanding work of students, faculty, and staff at Fort Hays State University, and I am both honored and excited to join the Tiger Nation!“Macey’s principal areas of research and teaching are Old English language and literature, Restoration and eighteenth-century British literature, literary and critical theory, and the history of the English language. He has chaired UCO’s Committee on Diversity and served for over two decades as the faculty adviser to the Student Alliance for Equality (SAFE), UCO's 2SLGBTQIA+ student organization.Macey received his B.A. from Yale University, an A.M. at Brown University, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. At UCO, he received the Modeling the Way Award, the Neely Excellence in Teaching Award, the Division of Student Affairs' Faculty Adviser of the Year Award, the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice's Oklahoma City Humanitarian Award, and the Cimarron Alliance's Torch Award.Macey will begin his service as Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences later this summer.

Macey named dean of FHSU College of Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences

Green Ribbon Hays announces Green Ribbon Conversations for parents, caregivers, teachers, and others who work with middle school students. 

These conversations will be led by Patrick McGinnis to help participants connect better with the kids in their lives.

The first Green Ribbon Conversation will take at 6 tonight at the Hays Public Library.

Participants can find more information at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/greenribbonhays">https://www.facebook.com/greenribbonhays</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679924884560.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGreen Ribbon Hays announces Green Ribbon Conversations for parents, caregivers, teachers, and others who work with middle school students. These conversations will be led by Patrick McGinnis to help participants connect better with the kids in their lives.The first Green Ribbon Conversation will take at 6 tonight at the Hays Public Library.Participants can find more information at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/greenribbonhays">https://www.facebook.com/greenribbonhays</a>.Refreshments will be provided.

Parents can learn to talk to middle school kids tonight at Hays library

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported nine new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 18 and 24.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County remained in the moderate-incidence category (see map below), and several counties in northwest Kansas were moved to the low-incidence category. Only four counties in Kansas were in the high-incidence category.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,467 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680109151326.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported nine new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 18 and 24.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County remained in the moderate-incidence category (see map below), and several counties in northwest Kansas were moved to the low-incidence category. Only four counties in Kansas were in the high-incidence category.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,467 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680109226527.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 9 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

In the wake of another school shooting Monday, Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson updated the school board members Monday night on security measures.&nbsp;

The district has hired an outside service to bring in dogs to search the high school for contraband. The district plans to have the dogs in once this spring and once per quarter next year.

The dogs used by the service are not aggressive. They are only trained to search, so students can be in class during the searches.

Wilson said the district also is in discussion with the Hays Police Department about bringing school resources officers into district schools. However, this may be dependent on school security funding pending in the Kansas Legislature.

The high school also has installed vape detection devices. Wilson said these devices already have been used with some success.

"Parents have been very appreciative," Wilson said. "It's another layer to help kids make better choices."

The school district also approved a revised special education co-op agreement that will bring the Russell school district into the co-op as of July 1, 2024.

This is the last step in what has been a multi-year project to phase Russell into the co-op. Hays, Ellis, Victoria and La Crosse are the other members of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative.

Once Russell is fully admitted to the co-op, it will begin paying a portion of the co-op's operating expenses.

The Hays board also approved the purchase of new playground equipment for Wilson Elementary School with donation assistance from the Wilson Elementary Home and School Group and installation of new turf at the Early Childhood Complex at a cost of $36,000.

The turf at the Early Childhood Complex will be paid for with grant funds.

The board met briefly in an executive session to discuss teacher negotiations, which start Wednesday.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIn the wake of another school shooting Monday, Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson updated the school board members Monday night on security measures.&nbsp;The district has hired an outside service to bring in dogs to search the high school for contraband. The district plans to have the dogs in once this spring and once per quarter next year.The dogs used by the service are not aggressive. They are only trained to search, so students can be in class during the searches.Wilson said the district also is in discussion with the Hays Police Department about bringing school resources officers into district schools. However, this may be dependent on school security funding pending in the Kansas Legislature.The high school also has installed vape detection devices. Wilson said these devices already have been used with some success."Parents have been very appreciative," Wilson said. "It's another layer to help kids make better choices."The school district also approved a revised special education co-op agreement that will bring the Russell school district into the co-op as of July 1, 2024.This is the last step in what has been a multi-year project to phase Russell into the co-op. Hays, Ellis, Victoria and La Crosse are the other members of the West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative.Once Russell is fully admitted to the co-op, it will begin paying a portion of the co-op's operating expenses.The Hays board also approved the purchase of new playground equipment for Wilson Elementary School with donation assistance from the Wilson Elementary Home and School Group and installation of new turf at the Early Childhood Complex at a cost of $36,000.The turf at the Early Childhood Complex will be paid for with grant funds.The board met briefly in an executive session to discuss teacher negotiations, which start Wednesday.

Hays superintendent talks security in wake of latest school shooting

LOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation are returning this summer.

Each weeklong musical theater workshop is open to high school students (incoming high school freshman through outgoing college freshman).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists. There will be three workshops this June, including a residential option.

June 5-9 – Hays Residential Camp (Fort Hays State University)

New this year, Lovewell is offering a residential camp experience at Fort Hays State University. Students arrive on Sunday evening, June 5, and stay in the residence hall on campus. The performance will be Friday evening, June 9, at the Felten Theater in Malloy Hall, followed by checkout. Students who wish to participate in this workshop without staying in the dorms may register as day camp participants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679422922951.jpeg" alt="Photo by Lovewell" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Lovewell</figcaption>
 </figure> News releaseLOGAN — In-person high school theater workshops offered by the Lovewell Institute for the Creative Arts and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation are returning this summer.Each weeklong musical theater workshop is open to high school students (incoming high school freshman through outgoing college freshman).&nbsp; In just five days, participating students will conceive, write, choreograph, compose, design, rehearse and perform an original piece of musical theatre in collaboration with a staff of professional artists. There will be three workshops this June, including a residential option.June 5-9 – Hays Residential Camp (Fort Hays State University)New this year, Lovewell is offering a residential camp experience at Fort Hays State University. Students arrive on Sunday evening, June 5, and stay in the residence hall on campus. The performance will be Friday evening, June 9, at the Felten Theater in Malloy Hall, followed by checkout. Students who wish to participate in this workshop without staying in the dorms may register as day camp participants.Day camps:June 12 – 16 – Concordia (Brown Grand Theater)<ul>
 <li><a>9 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;</a>June 12, 13 &amp; 14</li><li>9 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 15</li><li>9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 16</li><li>9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 17 — Performance at 1:00</li>
 </ul>June 19 – 23 – Phillipsburg (Huck Boyd Center)<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 19, 20 &amp; 21</li><li>9 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 22</li><li>9 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. June 23— Performance at 7:00</li>
 </ul>Students from surrounding communities and counties are encouraged to participate in a workshop closest to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information or to register, visit lovewell.org, and click on Apply, and then Kansas.PARTICIPTION COSTS &amp; SCHOLARSIPSThe Hansen Foundation is underwriting the cost of the workshops for students who reside in the Foundation’s 26-county service area so that the student participation fee is significantly discounted to $50 for day camps.Residential Camp Costs:<ul>
 <li>$50 Application fee and tuition per student per one-week (non-residential option).</li><li>$90 Application fee + lunches (5) (non-residential option).</li><li>$250 Application fee + room (double occupancy) and all meals.</li><li>$325 Application fee + room (single occupancy) and all meals.</li>
 </ul>No student who is truly committed to participate will be denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Scholarships are available to students who reside in the Hansen Foundation service area.ABOUT THE LOVEWELL WORKSHOPSThe week-long day camp/workshop brings students from all different creative backgrounds together to create an original work of musical theatre from scratch. While the performance is an enormous part of the workshop, the focus is on the creative process. No previous music or theater experience is required. To make it come together, the process needs writers, actors, poets, dancers, singers, dreamers, visual artists, musicians, composers, designers, and creative students of ALL kinds.The students will work with a team of professional artists to help utilize all the students’ gifts and explore the arts while forging new friendships and making memories to last a lifetime.This is the sixth summer the Lovewell workshops have been offered in Kansas.&nbsp; Lovewell offers students an opportunity to explore music and theater in a unique way. The response from the students and faculty in previous summers has been overwhelmingly positive.ABOUT LOVEWELLLovewell Institute for the Creative Arts is a not-for-profit organization that brings students together with professional artists to conduct these unique and transformational workshops. The Lovewell team are artist who make their living as musical directors, play writes, choreographers, composers, lyricists, etc.Lovewell is based in Florida, but its roots are in Kansas. Today, Lovewell offers workshops all over the United States and internationally. Learn more about Lovewell at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lovewell.org/" target="_blank">www.lovewell.org</a>