By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After a heated debate Monday night, the Hays school board voted to hire the superintendent's wife as a teacher for the upcoming school year.

Superintendent Ron Wilson's wife, Andrea, has been working for the district as an at-risk classroom aide at Lincoln Elementary School.

O'Loughlin Elementary School Principal Rene Burns requested to hire her as a fourth- and fifth-grade loop teacher.&nbsp;

The school board does not interview candidates for positions other than the superintendent but has final approval over personnel transactions. These transactions are usually part of a consent agenda and their approval is considered routine.

However, board member Curt Vajnar asked the personnel transactions be taken out of the consent agenda and discussed separately.

The following video begins at the point where the board begins to discuss personnel transactions.

Usually, when a specific person's employment or performance is being discussed, school boards recess into executive sessions to protect that person's privacy.

On Monday, however, Vajanr began the discussion of the personnel transactions by addressing her by name.

"In 35 years since I have been here, we have not done that," Vajnar said. "As a professional teacher, it is just going to be awkward for that administrator and staff.

"It's like the coach's kid or the teacher's kid. The superintendent supervises the administrator and the administrator is supervising the staff member. I have a hard time feeling that's a good practice, and it doesn't feel good to me."

The Superintendent shall make reasonable efforts to determine whether a candidate for employment is related to a board member or an administrator of the district. If a candidate is related to a board member or administrator, the Superintendent will make this fact known to the board.

No employee shall directly supervise or be responsible for any portion of the evaluation of his or her father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law.

District policy does not specifically prohibit administrators' spouses from working in the district. It does prohibit sitting board members' relatives from being hired.

Except in an emergency, the board will not employ anyone who is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law of any board member.

Wilson said Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel will supervise Wilson's wife and her principal in an attempt to eliminate a conflict of interest.

Wilson said none of the most recent superintendents' wives lived in Hays.

Board member Tammy Wellbrock said the district is not getting the quantity or type of applications it had at one time because of a teacher shortage.

Vajnar said he did not think the district was breaking policy by hiring Andrea Wilson, but he said he thought it would be setting a bad precedent.

"I think is being questioned by the community," he said.

Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said the policy states the superintendent is required to inform the district if any candidate is a relative, which Ron Wilson did.

She also said the superintendent is not involved in specific teacher evaluations.&nbsp;

Board member Lori Hertel said she thought the board was following the policy in the hiring.

Dinkel said the hiring request had nothing to do with lack of candidates, but Andrea Wilson was chosen because she was the best person to do the job.

"That's why you hire us is to present to you the personnel transactions with the best person to fill the vacancy," she said.

Andrea Wilson has more than 25 years of experience teaching fourth and fifth-grade students, according to her husband. Since the couple moved to Hays, she has worked in the Hays district as a substitute teacher and long-term substitute teacher of a fourth-grade classroom. For the last two years, she’s worked in the district as a kindergarten classroom aide at Lincoln Elementary.&nbsp;

The board then discussed whether it was appropriate to continue the discussion in an executive session.

Lillpopp asked the hiring principal to be included in the executive session to add input. Both Rene Burns, the principal where she would work as a teacher, and Principal Kerri Lacy, her current supervisor at Lincoln, volunteered to speak on Andrea Wilson's behalf in the executive session.

Ken Brooks moved the board into executive session to further discuss the issue.

Board members Allen Park, Wellbrock and Hertel said they thought the discussion was about policy and should be discussed in public.

Board president Craig Pallister said the district has had numerous administrators who had wives who taught in the district.

"I don't know why the exception is here," he said.

Park said the difference was their supervisors were not supervised by the spouse. He gave the example of Pallister's wife who Park supervised at Washington Elementary School while Palliser was the middle school principal.

In open session, Park asked if anyone on the board had a problem with Andrea Wilson being hired as a teacher.

Pallister said, "We are not going to discuss that right now."

"You are way out of order," Pallister said to Park.

The board members with the exception of Wellbrock voted to move into the executive session for 15 minutes.

Yelling could be heard from the board room during the executive session.

The board came back into public session and with no further discussion voted 5-2 to approve the personnel transactions with Andrea Wilson's hiring. Park and Vajnar voted against the personnel transactions.

Andrea Wilson's contract will begin Aug. 14.

Hays Post offered Ron and Andrea Wilson opportunities to comment after the board meeting and they declined to comment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681231204797.png" alt="Hays school board members at Monday's meeting. From left: Craig Pallister, Lori Hertel, Curt Vajnar and Tammy Wellbrock. Not pictured Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, Ken Brooks and Allen Park. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays school board members at Monday's meeting. From left: Craig Pallister, Lori Hertel, Curt Vajnar and Tammy Wellbrock. Not pictured Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, Ken Brooks and Allen Park. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter a heated debate Monday night, the Hays school board voted to hire the superintendent's wife as a teacher for the upcoming school year.Superintendent Ron Wilson's wife, Andrea, has been working for the district as an at-risk classroom aide at Lincoln Elementary School.O'Loughlin Elementary School Principal Rene Burns requested to hire her as a fourth- and fifth-grade loop teacher.&nbsp;The school board does not interview candidates for positions other than the superintendent but has final approval over personnel transactions. These transactions are usually part of a consent agenda and their approval is considered routine.However, board member Curt Vajnar asked the personnel transactions be taken out of the consent agenda and discussed separately.The following video begins at the point where the board begins to discuss personnel transactions.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QFVw7cd_NMU?start=4143" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Usually, when a specific person's employment or performance is being discussed, school boards recess into executive sessions to protect that person's privacy.On Monday, however, Vajanr began the discussion of the personnel transactions by addressing her by name."In 35 years since I have been here, we have not done that," Vajnar said. "As a professional teacher, it is just going to be awkward for that administrator and staff."It's like the coach's kid or the teacher's kid. The superintendent supervises the administrator and the administrator is supervising the staff member. I have a hard time feeling that's a good practice, and it doesn't feel good to me."The district's nepotism policy reads:The Superintendent shall make reasonable efforts to determine whether a candidate for employment is related to a board member or an administrator of the district. If a candidate is related to a board member or administrator, the Superintendent will make this fact known to the board.No employee shall directly supervise or be responsible for any portion of the evaluation of his or her father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law.District policy does not specifically prohibit administrators' spouses from working in the district. It does prohibit sitting board members' relatives from being hired.Except in an emergency, the board will not employ anyone who is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law of any board member.Wilson said Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel will supervise Wilson's wife and her principal in an attempt to eliminate a conflict of interest.Wilson said none of the most recent superintendents' wives lived in Hays.Board member Tammy Wellbrock said the district is not getting the quantity or type of applications it had at one time because of a teacher shortage.Vajnar said he did not think the district was breaking policy by hiring Andrea Wilson, but he said he thought it would be setting a bad precedent."I think is being questioned by the community," he said.Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said the policy states the superintendent is required to inform the district if any candidate is a relative, which Ron Wilson did.She also said the superintendent is not involved in specific teacher evaluations.&nbsp;Board member Lori Hertel said she thought the board was following the policy in the hiring.Dinkel said the hiring request had nothing to do with lack of candidates, but Andrea Wilson was chosen because she was the best person to do the job."That's why you hire us is to present to you the personnel transactions with the best person to fill the vacancy," she said.Andrea Wilson has more than 25 years of experience teaching fourth and fifth-grade students, according to her husband. Since the couple moved to Hays, she has worked in the Hays district as a substitute teacher and long-term substitute teacher of a fourth-grade classroom. For the last two years, she’s worked in the district as a kindergarten classroom aide at Lincoln Elementary.&nbsp;The board then discussed whether it was appropriate to continue the discussion in an executive session.Lillpopp asked the hiring principal to be included in the executive session to add input. Both Rene Burns, the principal where she would work as a teacher, and Principal Kerri Lacy, her current supervisor at Lincoln, volunteered to speak on Andrea Wilson's behalf in the executive session.Ken Brooks moved the board into executive session to further discuss the issue.Board members Allen Park, Wellbrock and Hertel said they thought the discussion was about policy and should be discussed in public.Board president Craig Pallister said the district has had numerous administrators who had wives who taught in the district."I don't know why the exception is here," he said.Park said the difference was their supervisors were not supervised by the spouse. He gave the example of Pallister's wife who Park supervised at Washington Elementary School while Palliser was the middle school principal.In open session, Park asked if anyone on the board had a problem with Andrea Wilson being hired as a teacher.Pallister said, "We are not going to discuss that right now.""You are way out of order," Pallister said to Park.The board members with the exception of Wellbrock voted to move into the executive session for 15 minutes.Yelling could be heard from the board room during the executive session.The board came back into public session and with no further discussion voted 5-2 to approve the personnel transactions with Andrea Wilson's hiring. Park and Vajnar voted against the personnel transactions.Andrea Wilson's contract will begin Aug. 14.Hays Post offered Ron and Andrea Wilson opportunities to comment after the board meeting and they declined to comment.

Hays BOE hires superintendent's wife as teacher after nepotism debate

A red flag warning remains in effect for Hays and Ellis County until 8 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.

With a high temperature nearing 90 degrees and winds gusting up to 45 into the evening, the risk of wildfires is high, the NWS warned.

The NWS also warned of the threat of a <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ama/microbursts">"dry microburst,"</a> noting conditions were ideal for the rare storm. Winds of up to 60 mph could descend straight down from a cloud base, then spreads. With the potential to kick up significant dust, hazardous travel is possible should the meteorological event occur.

Friday will bring a chance of showers or thunderstorms after 1 p.m. There is a 20 percent chance of precipitation in the afternoon, increasing to 590 percent by Friday night and into Saturday morning.

North winds will begin to blow Friday night, gusting up to 40 mph. The daytime high on Saturday is only expected to be in the low- to mid-50s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681409468810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning remains in effect for Hays and Ellis County until 8 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.With a high temperature nearing 90 degrees and winds gusting up to 45 into the evening, the risk of wildfires is high, the NWS warned.The NWS also warned of the threat of a <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ama/microbursts">"dry microburst,"</a> noting conditions were ideal for the rare storm. Winds of up to 60 mph could descend straight down from a cloud base, then spreads. With the potential to kick up significant dust, hazardous travel is possible should the meteorological event occur.Friday will bring a chance of showers or thunderstorms after 1 p.m. There is a 20 percent chance of precipitation in the afternoon, increasing to 590 percent by Friday night and into Saturday morning.North winds will begin to blow Friday night, gusting up to 40 mph. The daytime high on Saturday is only expected to be in the low- to mid-50s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The environment today and tonight favors a dry microburst threat. Here is a bit of information on what that exactly means for you. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wxtwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wxtwitter</a> <a href="https://t.co/kM1b2NIqa2">pic.twitter.com/kM1b2NIqa2</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1646482912211259394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Red flag warnings ... and a 'dry microburst' threat?

On this episode of the Post Podcast USD 489 Director of Early Childhood Services Donna Hudson-Hamilton shares information about ongoing district pre-school enrollment.

<div><iframe title="USD 489 preschool enrollment open now" 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=ffw5u-13e0e2e-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 USD 489 Director of Early Childhood Services Donna Hudson-Hamilton shares information about ongoing district pre-school enrollment.

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 preschool enrollment open now

On April 13, at approximately 8:19 a.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a structure fire located at 700 East 6th Street in Hays.

Hays Fire Department responded and found a fire had started on the outside and extended into the home. 

The fire damaged the wooden porch of the mobile home and extended underneath the floor. 

Firefighters used an attack line to extinguish the fire. All utilities had been shut off by emergency personnel. 

The damage to the home was minimal, but the occupants were unable to return to the home.

The home was occupied at the time. No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. 

The cause of the fire is ruled accidental and was started by an improperly discarded cigarette.

The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department and Midwest Energy.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that during these dry times we must be extra cautious when discarding cigarettes, using outdoor fire features or any other activity that could lead to a fire. 

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in knowing more of how to protect your home from outdoor fires.

Hays Fire DepartmentOn April 13, at approximately 8:19 a.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a structure fire located at 700 East 6th Street in Hays.Hays Fire Department responded and found a fire had started on the outside and extended into the home. The fire damaged the wooden porch of the mobile home and extended underneath the floor. Firefighters used an attack line to extinguish the fire. All utilities had been shut off by emergency personnel. The damage to the home was minimal, but the occupants were unable to return to the home.The home was occupied at the time. No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. The cause of the fire is ruled accidental and was started by an improperly discarded cigarette.The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department and Midwest Energy.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone that during these dry times we must be extra cautious when discarding cigarettes, using outdoor fire features or any other activity that could lead to a fire. Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in knowing more of how to protect your home from outdoor fires.

Hays home damaged by fire Thursday morning

The Westside Chapter is a local nonprofit organization that was formed in 2022. Mike and Denise
Brull along with Robert and Martha Boardman had an idea years ago to create a local chapter for
promoting Breweriana.

The Westside Chapter will host its second annual Old West Breweriana Roundup on Saturday, April 15.
The buy-sell-trade show will include all types of man cave items such as beer neons, mirrors, steins,
tap knobs, trays, antique cans and much more. Vendors are coming from all over the nation to
purchase tables for the event. The show will be held at the Ellis County Fairgrounds from 9:30AM-
3:30PM. There is a $2 admission fee for adults. There will be burgers, brats, chips and drinks
available by Pfonz Smokehaus &amp; Catering. Also available for purchase will be beer, popcorn, shirts
and other miscellaneous items. If you have items you would like to sell, vendor tables are still
available.


The Westside Chapter has been hosting meet-and-greet opportunities around town this past year and
the membership has grown to over 100 members. The annual membership fee is $10. This fee also
provides four quarterly newsletters. 
More information is available by joining the Facebook group Westside Chapter of the BCCA, ABA and
NABA. Come out and support this new organization on April 15. For more
information, contact Mike Brull at (785) 656-0640 or westsidebcca@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680032057490.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Westside Chapter is a local nonprofit organization that was formed in 2022. Mike and Denise
Brull along with Robert and Martha Boardman had an idea years ago to create a local chapter for
promoting Breweriana. 
The Westside Chapter will host its second annual Old West Breweriana Roundup on Saturday, April 15.
The buy-sell-trade show will include all types of man cave items such as beer neons, mirrors, steins,
tap knobs, trays, antique cans and much more. Vendors are coming from all over the nation to
purchase tables for the event. The show will be held at the Ellis County Fairgrounds from 9:30AM-
3:30PM. There is a $2 admission fee for adults. There will be burgers, brats, chips and drinks
available by Pfonz Smokehaus &amp; Catering. Also available for purchase will be beer, popcorn, shirts
and other miscellaneous items. If you have items you would like to sell, vendor tables are still
available.
The Westside Chapter has been hosting meet-and-greet opportunities around town this past year and
the membership has grown to over 100 members. The annual membership fee is $10. This fee also
provides four quarterly newsletters. 
More information is available by joining the Facebook group Westside Chapter of the BCCA, ABA and
NABA. Come out and support this new organization on April 15. For more
information, contact Mike Brull at (785) 656-0640 or westsidebcca@gmail.com.

Old West Breweriana scheduled by The Westside Chapter

Ellis County Rural Water District 1-C&nbsp; members need to conserve water for the next 30 days as the water tower is down for maintenance of the interior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679327216830.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEllis County Rural Water District 1-C&nbsp; members need to conserve water for the next 30 days as the water tower is down for maintenance of the interior.

Ellis Co. Rural Water District 1-C members asked to conserve water

A marriage and family therapist is opening a new practice in the Hadley Center in Hays.

Kaylan Garcia, 25, is the owner of Whole Hearts Counseling. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Fort Hays State University before attending Oklahoma State University and earning her master's degree in marriage and family therapy.

While she was attending FHSU, she worked at the High Plains Mental Health's Schwaller Center doing crisis intervention.

She worked in two group practices in Denver for about a year and a half.

"Denver was hard to feel that sense of community in such a big place," she said. "Coming back to Hays, I have friends and family who live around here.&nbsp;

"I also knew there was a need for more couples therapists here. ... It felt like a really good place to grow my practice and serve this community. It felt like a good place to come back to."

Garcia specializes in couples counseling but provides some individual therapy.

"I do a lot of work with couples who say, 'We just want to reconnect. We feel we've lost ourselves in our relationship,'" she said.

She also helps couples improve communication skills and learn conflict management.

While Garcia was attending Fort Hays State University, she was in a couple's group through a church with her husband. She said it was then she decided she wanted to specialize in couples counseling.

Garcia uses a variety of techniques with couples, including emotionally focused therapy, the developmental model and the Gottman method.

These processes help couples deepen connections, learn practical communication skills, learn to self-soothe and to not take on others' emotions.&nbsp;

She likes to give homework to help couples continue to work through issues when they are at home.

Therapy frequency depends on the couple, but Garcia recommends starting with sessions, which are 50 minutes, every other week. The duration of counseling also can vary widely but can often last from eight to 20 sessions.

Duration is very dependent on what couples what to get out of their sessions, she said.

Couples counseling is not always covered by insurance. Garcia is accepting private pay only now but is working toward accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield. She has a sliding-fee scale and said she doesn't want cost to be a barrier for couples to receive counseling.

Garcia and her husband have been married for four years. They have no children. Garcia, who has only been back in Hays for two weeks, said she is looking forward to reconnecting with the community.

Whole Hearts Counseling's office is in Suite B of the Hadley Center in Hays. This is on the center's first floor on the west side.

Her hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. She said she has some flexibility in scheduling outside of those hours.

She is accepting new clients. All sessions and client information is confidential.

She offers a free 15-minute consultation that allows clients to determine if she is the right fit for their needs.

To book an appointment, you can search for Garcia by name on <a href="http://psychologytoday.com">psychologytoday.com</a>&nbsp;under its "Find a Therapist" tab. You also can book directly on her website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wholeheartsks.com/">wholeheartsks.com</a>.&nbsp;

You also can follow Garcia on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090619218562">Facebook</a>, reach her by phone at 720-515-4213 or by email at&nbsp;kaylan@wholeheartsks.com.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA marriage and family therapist is opening a new practice in the Hadley Center in Hays.Kaylan Garcia, 25, is the owner of Whole Hearts Counseling. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Fort Hays State University before attending Oklahoma State University and earning her master's degree in marriage and family therapy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680280253002.png" alt="Kaylan Garcia" />
 <figcaption>Kaylan Garcia</figcaption>
 </figure>While she was attending FHSU, she worked at the High Plains Mental Health's Schwaller Center doing crisis intervention.She worked in two group practices in Denver for about a year and a half."Denver was hard to feel that sense of community in such a big place," she said. "Coming back to Hays, I have friends and family who live around here.&nbsp;"I also knew there was a need for more couples therapists here. ... It felt like a really good place to grow my practice and serve this community. It felt like a good place to come back to."Garcia specializes in couples counseling but provides some individual therapy."I do a lot of work with couples who say, 'We just want to reconnect. We feel we've lost ourselves in our relationship,'" she said.She also helps couples improve communication skills and learn conflict management.While Garcia was attending Fort Hays State University, she was in a couple's group through a church with her husband. She said it was then she decided she wanted to specialize in couples counseling.Garcia uses a variety of techniques with couples, including emotionally focused therapy, the developmental model and the Gottman method.These processes help couples deepen connections, learn practical communication skills, learn to self-soothe and to not take on others' emotions.&nbsp;She likes to give homework to help couples continue to work through issues when they are at home.Therapy frequency depends on the couple, but Garcia recommends starting with sessions, which are 50 minutes, every other week. The duration of counseling also can vary widely but can often last from eight to 20 sessions.Duration is very dependent on what couples what to get out of their sessions, she said.Couples counseling is not always covered by insurance. Garcia is accepting private pay only now but is working toward accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield. She has a sliding-fee scale and said she doesn't want cost to be a barrier for couples to receive counseling.Garcia and her husband have been married for four years. They have no children. Garcia, who has only been back in Hays for two weeks, said she is looking forward to reconnecting with the community.Whole Hearts Counseling's office is in Suite B of the Hadley Center in Hays. This is on the center's first floor on the west side.Her hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. She said she has some flexibility in scheduling outside of those hours.She is accepting new clients. All sessions and client information is confidential.She offers a free 15-minute consultation that allows clients to determine if she is the right fit for their needs.To book an appointment, you can search for Garcia by name on <a href="http://psychologytoday.com">psychologytoday.com</a>&nbsp;under its "Find a Therapist" tab. You also can book directly on her website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wholeheartsks.com/">wholeheartsks.com</a>.&nbsp;You also can follow Garcia on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090619218562">Facebook</a>, reach her by phone at 720-515-4213 or by email at&nbsp;kaylan@wholeheartsks.com.

Couples therapist opens new practice in Hays

Volunteers will be taking donations for a garage sale fundraiser for the Hays Dog Park.

No clothes or shoes. All other household items that are clean and in working condition will be accepted.

 Please drop off items from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 20 at the north door of the North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.

If you need to donate items before this time or have questions, call Laurie at 785-635-5616.

The sale will be 1 p.m. to dark on Friday, April 21 and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 22. The North Oak Leadership Team will have a bake sale and meal during the dog park sale. The meal will be Friday evening and lunch Saturday.

Proceeds from this will be going to their upcoming summer mission trip.

Also at the sale, volunteers will sell pet memorial dog bones that will hang at the dog park.&nbsp;The flyer to purchase these is on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysDogPark">Hays Dog Park Facebook page</a> or see below.&nbsp; Forms are due by April 22.

SubmittedVolunteers will be taking donations for a garage sale fundraiser for the Hays Dog Park.No clothes or shoes. All other household items that are clean and in working condition will be accepted. Please drop off items from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 20 at the north door of the North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.If you need to donate items before this time or have questions, call Laurie at 785-635-5616.The sale will be 1 p.m. to dark on Friday, April 21 and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 22. The North Oak Leadership Team will have a bake sale and meal during the dog park sale. The meal will be Friday evening and lunch Saturday.Proceeds from this will be going to their upcoming summer mission trip.Also at the sale, volunteers will sell pet memorial dog bones that will hang at the dog park.&nbsp;The flyer to purchase these is on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysDogPark">Hays Dog Park Facebook page</a> or see below.&nbsp; Forms are due by April 22. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681242419834.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Donations requested for Hays Dog Park garage sale fundraiser

BUNKER HILL —&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature, a local live production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Reps. Clark Sanders (Dist. 69, Salina) and Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, at 7 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;

The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio.&nbsp;

The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">To find a list of legislatures that might be on the show each week, go to our website, SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679321952538.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL —&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature, a local live production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Reps. Clark Sanders (Dist. 69, Salina) and Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, at 7 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is hosted by Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post and Eagle Radio.&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">To find a list of legislatures that might be on the show each week, go to our website, SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

NW Kansas Republican featured on Friday's 'The Kansas Legislature' 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681325796863.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

As the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to get outside and spend some time with your children or grandchildren. Time spent outside is good not only for&nbsp;your&nbsp;children’s ability to be physically active&nbsp;it is also&nbsp;valuable for their minds, as well.&nbsp;There are many benefits when adults spend time with children, and being outside makes the time even better. &nbsp;Shared experiences strengthen the bond between parents and children and improve the children’s emotional health which in turns encourages nurturing parent behaviors. &nbsp;There is something about the change in season and the fresh air that is good for everyone’s mental and physical health. &nbsp;Besides the environment, there is typically movement involved with being outdoors that is also good for physical and mental health.&nbsp;

So many things are happening outside this time of the year. &nbsp;Trees are growing, plants are no longer dormant, there are insects everywhere and other parts of the natural environment are starting to emerge. Getting outside is a really good opportunity to spend time with your family just having a good time.&nbsp;There can be so many good lessons in getting outside to explore nature and learn about science. &nbsp;Kids are instinctively attracted to nature study.

Outside play is usually less structured which allows for children to explore things&nbsp;they&nbsp;like to do as well as be creative. &nbsp;Unplanned activity gives your children an opportunity to&nbsp;lead the play.&nbsp;They are continually being told what to do and how to do it, so going outside opens up the possibilities for them to engage in self-directed play. Let them choose what they’re going to do. That’s really empowering for them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a child’s lead during play helps them respond better when&nbsp;you&nbsp;need to&nbsp;them to&nbsp;follow your directions.

Play&nbsp;is truly&nbsp;the work of early childhood.&nbsp;&nbsp;For children, they’re completely learning about their world through play. They are learning cause and effect – they are beginning to understand what happens if I do ‘this’, which&nbsp;builds their&nbsp;self-esteem.&nbsp;Children&nbsp;learn they can&nbsp;make&nbsp;things happen by exploring their world.&nbsp;It can be simple things, such as throwing rocks or drawing in the mud.&nbsp;Being outdoors is an easy way for children to learn&nbsp;they can make things happen.&nbsp;Parents can provide&nbsp;materials for play such as water, sand, chalk, outdoor paint, balls and bubbles.

Outdoor play&nbsp;provides an array of benefits for children’s development. Large motor skills are strengthened as well as coordination and balance. &nbsp;Having&nbsp;a&nbsp;regular outside time during the day teaches children about routines and can&nbsp;they&nbsp;<a></a>learn to&nbsp;anticipate the enjoyment of outside time. &nbsp;Finally, when exploring the outdoors children can have an opportunity to strengthen their social skills and make new friends. &nbsp;Being&nbsp;outside usually makes everyone feel better after the long cold winter. &nbsp;The sun and wind feel good but at the end of the day everyone is tired which leads to a good night’s rest. &nbsp;Time spent outside benefits everyone physically and mentally&nbsp;and is good stress relief!

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>As the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to get outside and spend some time with your children or grandchildren. Time spent outside is good not only for&nbsp;your&nbsp;children’s ability to be physically active&nbsp;it is also&nbsp;valuable for their minds, as well.&nbsp;There are many benefits when adults spend time with children, and being outside makes the time even better. &nbsp;Shared experiences strengthen the bond between parents and children and improve the children’s emotional health which in turns encourages nurturing parent behaviors. &nbsp;There is something about the change in season and the fresh air that is good for everyone’s mental and physical health. &nbsp;Besides the environment, there is typically movement involved with being outdoors that is also good for physical and mental health.&nbsp;So many things are happening outside this time of the year. &nbsp;Trees are growing, plants are no longer dormant, there are insects everywhere and other parts of the natural environment are starting to emerge. Getting outside is a really good opportunity to spend time with your family just having a good time.&nbsp;There can be so many good lessons in getting outside to explore nature and learn about science. &nbsp;Kids are instinctively attracted to nature study.Outside play is usually less structured which allows for children to explore things&nbsp;they&nbsp;like to do as well as be creative. &nbsp;Unplanned activity gives your children an opportunity to&nbsp;lead the play.&nbsp;They are continually being told what to do and how to do it, so going outside opens up the possibilities for them to engage in self-directed play. Let them choose what they’re going to do. That’s really empowering for them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a child’s lead during play helps them respond better when&nbsp;you&nbsp;need to&nbsp;them to&nbsp;follow your directions.Play&nbsp;is truly&nbsp;the work of early childhood.&nbsp;&nbsp;For children, they’re completely learning about their world through play. They are learning cause and effect – they are beginning to understand what happens if I do ‘this’, which&nbsp;builds their&nbsp;self-esteem.&nbsp;Children&nbsp;learn they can&nbsp;make&nbsp;things happen by exploring their world.&nbsp;It can be simple things, such as throwing rocks or drawing in the mud.&nbsp;Being outdoors is an easy way for children to learn&nbsp;they can make things happen.&nbsp;Parents can provide&nbsp;materials for play such as water, sand, chalk, outdoor paint, balls and bubbles.Outdoor play&nbsp;provides an array of benefits for children’s development. Large motor skills are strengthened as well as coordination and balance. &nbsp;Having&nbsp;a&nbsp;regular outside time during the day teaches children about routines and can&nbsp;they&nbsp;<a></a>learn to&nbsp;anticipate the enjoyment of outside time. &nbsp;Finally, when exploring the outdoors children can have an opportunity to strengthen their social skills and make new friends. &nbsp;Being&nbsp;outside usually makes everyone feel better after the long cold winter. &nbsp;The sun and wind feel good but at the end of the day everyone is tired which leads to a good night’s rest. &nbsp;Time spent outside benefits everyone physically and mentally&nbsp;and is good stress relief!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Get outside and play

HUGOTON - Governor Laura Kelly attended the groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday to celebrate upcoming improvements to the <a href="https://jag-transport.com/cimarron-valley-railroad/">Cimarron Valley Railroad</a> in southwest Kansas from Dodge City to Hugoton.

The railway was awarded nearly $15 million from both private and public sources, including the federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) fund and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), to complete the Southwest Kansas Infrastructure Upgrade Project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor Kelly directly advocated for the project’s grant application to the Federal Railroad Administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“These upgrades are not just an investment in our infrastructure, but an investment in our agriculture industry – and our economy as a whole,”&nbsp;said Governor Kelly.&nbsp;“By rehabilitating over 85 miles of an essential rail line in southwest Kansas, this project will make it easier and more efficient for local businesses to transport biodiesel and other agricultural products.”&nbsp;

“The Cimarron Valley Railroad has been committed to transporting Kansas-grown goods across the country and the world in a safe, environmentally friendly, and cost-efficient way for over two decades. These funds will help us continue to do that,”&nbsp;said Nathan Champion, president of the Cimarron Valley Railroad.&nbsp;“We are thankful for the partnerships – both public and private – that have helped make these upgrades happen to ensure uninterrupted transportation of essential goods throughout local, national, and international markets.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

State legislators also attended the event.&nbsp;

“Upgrading the Cimarron Valley Railroad is essential to keeping our communities connected and their economies thriving,”&nbsp;said Representative David Younger, Ulysses. “Investing in our rural areas will improve rail operations, our economic competitiveness, and safety in the region and statewide. This is a great day for southwest Kansas and our state as a whole.” &nbsp;

The upgrades are particularly beneficial to agriculture communities. The funds will transform the railroad line into an efficient agricultural thoroughfare that will connect Kansas to more markets.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681379459019.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov. KellyHUGOTON - Governor Laura Kelly attended the groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday to celebrate upcoming improvements to the <a href="https://jag-transport.com/cimarron-valley-railroad/">Cimarron Valley Railroad</a> in southwest Kansas from Dodge City to Hugoton. The railway was awarded nearly $15 million from both private and public sources, including the federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) fund and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), to complete the Southwest Kansas Infrastructure Upgrade Project.&nbsp;&nbsp;Governor Kelly directly advocated for the project’s grant application to the Federal Railroad Administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;“These upgrades are not just an investment in our infrastructure, but an investment in our agriculture industry – and our economy as a whole,”&nbsp;said Governor Kelly.&nbsp;“By rehabilitating over 85 miles of an essential rail line in southwest Kansas, this project will make it easier and more efficient for local businesses to transport biodiesel and other agricultural products.”&nbsp;“The Cimarron Valley Railroad has been committed to transporting Kansas-grown goods across the country and the world in a safe, environmentally friendly, and cost-efficient way for over two decades. These funds will help us continue to do that,”&nbsp;said Nathan Champion, president of the Cimarron Valley Railroad.&nbsp;“We are thankful for the partnerships – both public and private – that have helped make these upgrades happen to ensure uninterrupted transportation of essential goods throughout local, national, and international markets.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681379835897.png" alt="Cimarron Valley Railroad" />
 <figcaption>Cimarron Valley Railroad</figcaption>
 </figure>State legislators also attended the event.&nbsp;“Upgrading the Cimarron Valley Railroad is essential to keeping our communities connected and their economies thriving,”&nbsp;said Representative David Younger, Ulysses. “Investing in our rural areas will improve rail operations, our economic competitiveness, and safety in the region and statewide. This is a great day for southwest Kansas and our state as a whole.” &nbsp;The upgrades are particularly beneficial to agriculture communities. The funds will transform the railroad line into an efficient agricultural thoroughfare that will connect Kansas to more markets.&nbsp;

Groundbreaking held for $15M Cimarron Valley Railroad upgrades in SW Kansas

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Police Department Lt. Brandon Wright shares information about distracted driving during Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

<div><iframe title="April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month; HDP shares safety tips" 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=gts85-13dfdb5-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 Police Department Lt. Brandon Wright shares information about distracted driving during Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

🎙 Post Podcast: April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month; HDP shares safety tips

According to reports, a Fort Hays State University alum is on the radar for at least one NFL team as the April 27 to 29 draft in Kansas City approaches.

Manny Ramsey, a three-time All-MIAA selection from Canadian, Texas, has reportedly drawn "a lot" of interest from the Indianapolis Colts.

Click <a href="https://horseshoeheroes.com/posts/colts-showing-interest-under-the-radar-receiver-prospect-manny-ramsey">HERE</a> to read more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681323970481.png" alt="Hays Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>According to reports, a Fort Hays State University alum is on the radar for at least one NFL team as the April 27 to 29 draft in Kansas City approaches.Manny Ramsey, a three-time All-MIAA selection from Canadian, Texas, has reportedly drawn "a lot" of interest from the Indianapolis Colts.Click <a href="https://horseshoeheroes.com/posts/colts-showing-interest-under-the-radar-receiver-prospect-manny-ramsey">HERE</a> to read more.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨UPDATE: Fort Hays State University standout wide receiver Manny Ramsey has drawn ‘a lot’ of interest from the Indianapolis <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Colts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Colts</a>, source says. Ramsey was a 3X All-Conference WR. Ended on a 1st team honor and was also 2nd in all-time in Receptions, Yards, and Touchdowns at… <a href="https://t.co/ckBZduL5ag">pic.twitter.com/ckBZduL5ag</a>&mdash; MLFootball (@_MLFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/_MLFootball/status/1645141674862039040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Fort Hays State receiver getting attention as NFL draft nears

Construction is scheduled to start on the new Hays High School in August and the $95 million project is on budget.

Hays school board members saw the design for the new school at their meeting Monday night.

"We hope to finish within the next two weeks and then run to the finish line," Kirby Pennington, DLR project architect, said of the plans.

Bids are scheduled to be let in June and awarded in July.

Construction is scheduled to be completed in May 2025 when this year's freshmen will be seniors.

The new school will have a capacity of 1,200 students. Enrollment at the high school is 960, and HHS principal Shawn Henderson estimated it will be 1,000 in the fall.

The new school will have an 800-seat, handicap-accessible performing arts center, a new gym, and a large commons/cafeteria.

Classes will be separated into learning commons with large hallways with extra seating where students can work collaboratively.

The commons has large glass windows that look out onto the football field.

Hays High School students will continue to use the wood shop in what will be the new middle school. Creating adequate storage in the new high school for that program was cost-prohibitive. Hays Middle School will have its own woods shop in the former metals shop.&nbsp;

The design for renovating the former high school into a new middle school has not been completed. However, administrators have expressed a desire to include in those plans a complete separation of the high school students from the middle school students in the Career and Technology Education wing.

The greenhouse also will remain in its current location. These are the only two areas the new high school will continue to use in its old building.

The new school will have both group and private bathrooms. The private bathrooms will have a common hand washing station and exterior doors that are open to public areas. However, they will have single rooms like closets with doors that lock.

The school will have three blocks of private bathrooms with a total of 34 stalls.

Pennington said educators have said bullying is occurring in the group bathrooms.

Board president Craig Pallister, who is a former Hays Middle School principal, said he had students who won't go to the bathroom all day because they didn't want to use a communal bathroom.

"I hate for bathrooms to be political," he said. "There is a need for privacy for faculty and kids. That's why we are here—to make them comfortable so they can learn."

Board member Curt Vajnar said he was concerned about the private bathrooms.

He asked how the bathrooms were going to be monitored. He said he was concerned a boy might push a girl into one of the bathrooms and lock the door.

Pennington said the exteriors of the bathroom doors would be monitored by cameras.

Vajnar said many community members had expressed concerns to him about the private bathrooms.

Henderson said, "At the end of the day, we're about privacy and dignity and keeping people safe every day."

Superintendent Ron Wilson said community bathrooms were the least safe place in the school.

Pennington said the private bathrooms also saved space and were more economical.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681180353309.jpeg" alt="Conceptual drawing of the new high school commons. Courtesy of DLR" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of the new high school commons. Courtesy of DLR</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostConstruction is scheduled to start on the new Hays High School in August and the $95 million project is on budget.Hays school board members saw the design for the new school at their meeting Monday night."We hope to finish within the next two weeks and then run to the finish line," Kirby Pennington, DLR project architect, said of the plans.Bids are scheduled to be let in June and awarded in July.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681180440395.jpeg" alt="Conceptual drawing of a classroom and hallway in the new high school also referred to as a learning commons. Courtesy of DLR" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of a classroom and hallway in the new high school also referred to as a learning commons. Courtesy of DLR</figcaption>
 </figure>Construction is scheduled to be completed in May 2025 when this year's freshmen will be seniors.The new school will have a capacity of 1,200 students. Enrollment at the high school is 960, and HHS principal Shawn Henderson estimated it will be 1,000 in the fall.The new school will have an 800-seat, handicap-accessible performing arts center, a new gym, and a large commons/cafeteria.Classes will be separated into learning commons with large hallways with extra seating where students can work collaboratively.The commons has large glass windows that look out onto the football field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681180542872.jpeg" alt="Floor plan for the new high school. The classrooms are blue, the performing arts wing is purple and the athletic wing is brown. Courtesy of DLR." />
 <figcaption>Floor plan for the new high school. The classrooms are blue, the performing arts wing is purple and the athletic wing is brown. Courtesy of DLR.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High School students will continue to use the wood shop in what will be the new middle school. Creating adequate storage in the new high school for that program was cost-prohibitive. Hays Middle School will have its own woods shop in the former metals shop.&nbsp;The design for renovating the former high school into a new middle school has not been completed. However, administrators have expressed a desire to include in those plans a complete separation of the high school students from the middle school students in the Career and Technology Education wing.The greenhouse also will remain in its current location. These are the only two areas the new high school will continue to use in its old building.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681180839445.jpeg" alt="Conceptual drawing of the new high school gym. Courtesy of DLR" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of the new high school gym. Courtesy of DLR</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bathrooms</h2>The new school will have both group and private bathrooms. The private bathrooms will have a common hand washing station and exterior doors that are open to public areas. However, they will have single rooms like closets with doors that lock.The school will have three blocks of private bathrooms with a total of 34 stalls.Pennington said educators have said bullying is occurring in the group bathrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681181201426.jpeg" alt="Conceptual drawing of the performing arts theater for the new high school. Courtesy of DLR" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of the performing arts theater for the new high school. Courtesy of DLR</figcaption>
 </figure>Board president Craig Pallister, who is a former Hays Middle School principal, said he had students who won't go to the bathroom all day because they didn't want to use a communal bathroom."I hate for bathrooms to be political," he said. "There is a need for privacy for faculty and kids. That's why we are here—to make them comfortable so they can learn."Board member Curt Vajnar said he was concerned about the private bathrooms.He asked how the bathrooms were going to be monitored. He said he was concerned a boy might push a girl into one of the bathrooms and lock the door.Pennington said the exteriors of the bathroom doors would be monitored by cameras.Vajnar said many community members had expressed concerns to him about the private bathrooms.Henderson said, "At the end of the day, we're about privacy and dignity and keeping people safe every day."Superintendent Ron Wilson said community bathrooms were the least safe place in the school.Pennington said the private bathrooms also saved space and were more economical.

Hays High construction to begin in August; project on budget

A fire weather watch will be in effect in Hays from 1 to 8 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned, with red flag warnings in place for much of the rest of western Kansas.

The high Wednesday and Thursday is expected to be in the mid- to upper-80s, with south winds sustained at 20 to 30 mph and gusting up to 45 mph by Thursday night.

Friday brings a chance of relief, with a 20 percent chance of showers between 1 and 4 p.m., increasing to 60 percent Friday night and into Saturday morning.

By Saturday, the daytime high is only expected to be in the low-60s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681314625217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fire weather watch will be in effect in Hays from 1 to 8 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned, with red flag warnings in place for much of the rest of western Kansas.The high Wednesday and Thursday is expected to be in the mid- to upper-80s, with south winds sustained at 20 to 30 mph and gusting up to 45 mph by Thursday night.Friday brings a chance of relief, with a 20 percent chance of showers between 1 and 4 p.m., increasing to 60 percent Friday night and into Saturday morning.By Saturday, the daytime high is only expected to be in the low-60s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wind gusts up to 50 mph combined with ongoing dry conditions will result in critical or near critical fire weather conditions on Thursday (4/13). In addition, these gusty winds may also result in some localized reduced visibility due to blowing dust. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/c2jwO2ybrh">pic.twitter.com/c2jwO2ybrh</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1646078267680751616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Heat, wind spike risk of wildfires across dry western Kansas

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

LA CROSSE — For eight months,
 folks in the La Crosse area have been hungry to have a
local grocery store. On Wednesday, the stretch of having no grocery 
store will
end as B’s Hometown Market will open at 518 Main Street. The Rush County
 Grocery was seized by the state for nonpayment of taxes last
August.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c66d8969-2bba-4f5f-9440-2e22f90c58f5">RELATED STORY: State forces closure of Rush County's only grocery store</a>

With new owners, the past few months have been spent remodeling the
building with new flooring, coolers, paint, electrical work, computer system
and a new meat market. Pat and Kelly Baalmann purchased the store, and Pat said
the grand reopening of the store Wednesday will begin at 10 a.m. with a ribbon
cutting. "I don't even know how to explain it," said Pat 
Baalmann. "We have a lot of emotions, excitement and nerves. But we're 
there. It's a big storeroom."

Pat Baalman worked at the grocery store in La Crosse when he was in high school
for three years. With a slight understanding already of how the grocery store
operated, Pat set out to learn about ordering and the computer work. Through
conversations with suppliers like Affiliated Foods, Pepsi and Frito-Lay and
attending food shows, the Baalmans have received help to make a small-town
grocery store successful.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/611daadb-3a30-46ad-afd9-8b1ccd35adb4">RELATED STORY: Local couple to reopen grocery store in La Crosse</a> "We are going to do a lot of homemade stuff with our meat market," said 
Baalmann. "We'll have brats, burgers and breakfast sausage. Homemade 
stuff we want to do here in-store to have that fresh feel. We'll have a 
meat and cheese display, and we'll cut it as we need it."

B’s Hometown Market will consist of a
staff with six fulltime employees, seven or eight part-time workers and 
Pat’s
wife and two children will also help out. Hours of operation will be 8 
a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday - Saturday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday.

When the grocery store closed last August, it was the first time Rush County was without a grocery store in 140 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681219253793.jpeg" alt="After being closed since August 2022, the grocery store in La Crosse will reopen Wednesday as B's Hometown Market." />
 <figcaption>After being closed since August 2022, the grocery store in La Crosse will reopen Wednesday as B's Hometown Market.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLA CROSSE — For eight months,
 folks in the La Crosse area have been hungry to have a
local grocery store. On Wednesday, the stretch of having no grocery 
store will
end as B’s Hometown Market will open at 518 Main Street. The Rush County
 Grocery was seized by the state for nonpayment of taxes last
August.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c66d8969-2bba-4f5f-9440-2e22f90c58f5">RELATED STORY: State forces closure of Rush County's only grocery store</a>With new owners, the past few months have been spent remodeling the
building with new flooring, coolers, paint, electrical work, computer system
and a new meat market. Pat and Kelly Baalmann purchased the store, and Pat said
the grand reopening of the store Wednesday will begin at 10 a.m. with a ribbon
cutting. "I don't even know how to explain it," said Pat 
Baalmann. "We have a lot of emotions, excitement and nerves. But we're 
there. It's a big storeroom."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681219285941.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pat Baalman worked at the grocery store in La Crosse when he was in high school
for three years. With a slight understanding already of how the grocery store
operated, Pat set out to learn about ordering and the computer work. Through
conversations with suppliers like Affiliated Foods, Pepsi and Frito-Lay and
attending food shows, the Baalmans have received help to make a small-town
grocery store successful.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/611daadb-3a30-46ad-afd9-8b1ccd35adb4">RELATED STORY: Local couple to reopen grocery store in La Crosse</a> "We are going to do a lot of homemade stuff with our meat market," said 
Baalmann. "We'll have brats, burgers and breakfast sausage. Homemade 
stuff we want to do here in-store to have that fresh feel. We'll have a 
meat and cheese display, and we'll cut it as we need it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681219308307.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>B’s Hometown Market will consist of a
staff with six fulltime employees, seven or eight part-time workers and 
Pat’s
wife and two children will also help out. Hours of operation will be 8 
a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday - Saturday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday.When the grocery store closed last August, it was the first time Rush County was without a grocery store in 140 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681219330938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

After 8 months without, grocery store reopening in La Crosse 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just four new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from April 1 and 7.

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 remained the low-incidence category. Ness, Rooks and Jewell counties were in the only counties in Kansas 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 8,475 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681334271104.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 just four new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from April 1 and 7.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 remained the low-incidence category. Ness, Rooks and Jewell counties were in the only counties in Kansas 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 8,475 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681334424546.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Just 4 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spring has sprung on our central Kansas farm. The daffodils and apricot trees are in full bloom and being visited by the honeybees. The small flock of sheep we’ve been caring for all winter have now more than doubled as all of the ewes have lambed. Now the pasture is full of little white lambs frolicking and bouncing all around as their mothers keep watch. Our machine shop has also transitioned from housing a winter basketball court to housing a planter being prepped and bags of corn seed stacked high as we await our season of spring planting. Like any spring, the Kansas weather has fluctuated from cold to warm and from cold to hot. I’ve experienced many recent days where I’ve had my son change out of the athletic shorts he planned to wear to school and instead have made him get some pants on. There’s also been days where I’ve told the kids to leave their coats at home only to regret that decision when the temperatures drop a bit too much by the time they get off the afternoon bus.&nbsp; It’s definitely the time of the year where major fluctuations in weather still occur. It’s also the time of the year where some serious countdowns have begun.&nbsp; While state assessments are about to begin for my children, school will actually wrap up and the kids will be on summer break in less than 30 days. We’ve made it past the holiday celebrations, the winter concerts, the days of indoor recesses, and the mornings of waiting for the school bus in the dark. Daylight is noticeably getting longer, talk of the end-of-year field day has begun and summer camp forms are being sent home. I can assure you, the kids have already started their final countdown. With that final countdown to summer break, there is also an elevated level of anticipation as we get closer and closer to the return of my son’s cattle from their winter pastures. They will be worked in the coming days and then brought home to pasture over the summer months in the pastures nearest our house. I can’t wait to see the cows grazing nearby while I look out my front windows. While we prepare the fencing and the water sources, we know the clock continues to tick for the herd’s arrival home for the summer. The countdown carries over as we also prepare to get the machines in the fields to begin spring planting. While we’ve been making final adjustments to the planter, we’ve also been anxiously awaiting a good spring rain before planting the seeds into the ground. While it seems we aren’t in as big of a hurry as previous years to start planting, mostly due to the dry conditions, the countdown has clearly begun and we wait and watch to determine when we will give ourselves the greenlight to begin. Yes, spring has definitely sprung! And with it, all of the final countdowns have also begun. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spring has sprung on our central Kansas farm. The daffodils and apricot trees are in full bloom and being visited by the honeybees. The small flock of sheep we’ve been caring for all winter have now more than doubled as all of the ewes have lambed. Now the pasture is full of little white lambs frolicking and bouncing all around as their mothers keep watch. Our machine shop has also transitioned from housing a winter basketball court to housing a planter being prepped and bags of corn seed stacked high as we await our season of spring planting. Like any spring, the Kansas weather has fluctuated from cold to warm and from cold to hot. I’ve experienced many recent days where I’ve had my son change out of the athletic shorts he planned to wear to school and instead have made him get some pants on. There’s also been days where I’ve told the kids to leave their coats at home only to regret that decision when the temperatures drop a bit too much by the time they get off the afternoon bus.&nbsp; It’s definitely the time of the year where major fluctuations in weather still occur. It’s also the time of the year where some serious countdowns have begun.&nbsp; While state assessments are about to begin for my children, school will actually wrap up and the kids will be on summer break in less than 30 days. We’ve made it past the holiday celebrations, the winter concerts, the days of indoor recesses, and the mornings of waiting for the school bus in the dark. Daylight is noticeably getting longer, talk of the end-of-year field day has begun and summer camp forms are being sent home. I can assure you, the kids have already started their final countdown. With that final countdown to summer break, there is also an elevated level of anticipation as we get closer and closer to the return of my son’s cattle from their winter pastures. They will be worked in the coming days and then brought home to pasture over the summer months in the pastures nearest our house. I can’t wait to see the cows grazing nearby while I look out my front windows. While we prepare the fencing and the water sources, we know the clock continues to tick for the herd’s arrival home for the summer. The countdown carries over as we also prepare to get the machines in the fields to begin spring planting. While we’ve been making final adjustments to the planter, we’ve also been anxiously awaiting a good spring rain before planting the seeds into the ground. While it seems we aren’t in as big of a hurry as previous years to start planting, mostly due to the dry conditions, the countdown has clearly begun and we wait and watch to determine when we will give ourselves the greenlight to begin. Yes, spring has definitely sprung! And with it, all of the final countdowns have also begun. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: The final countdown

SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating extreme vandalism at homes in Scott City and have made arrests.&nbsp;

On April 7, police responded to an address in the 900 block of Church Street in Scott City to observe damage to a second house in two days that had been vandalized, according to a media release.

The extensive damage to the interior of the home on Church Street is estimated to be between $75,000-$100,000.

Police determined that the three juveniles involved in the estimated $15,000 in damage from a house in the 300 Block of West 8th Street in Scott City were the same juveniles responsible for this incident on Church Street. 

A third suspect that was previously cited and released to parents was arrested and transported to the Southwest Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Garden City. 

SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating extreme vandalism at homes in Scott City and have made arrests.&nbsp;On April 7, police responded to an address in the 900 block of Church Street in Scott City to observe damage to a second house in two days that had been vandalized, according to a media release.The extensive damage to the interior of the home on Church Street is estimated to be between $75,000-$100,000.Police determined that the three juveniles involved in the estimated $15,000 in damage from a house in the 300 Block of West 8th Street in Scott City were the same juveniles responsible for this incident on Church Street. A third suspect that was previously cited and released to parents was arrested and transported to the Southwest Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Garden City. Three juveniles have been arrested for these two incidents. Police are also still seeking information on a gun that was found during this investigation.Anyone with information on the vandalism is asked to call the Scott County Law Enforcement Center LEC at (620) 872-2133.These cases have been referred to the Scott County Attorney for prosecution.&nbsp;