By&nbsp;&nbsp;ALANNA DURKIN RICHER&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/lolita-c-baldor">LOLITA C. BALDOR</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Kash Patel has been removed as the acting chief of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bureau-of-alcohol-tobacco-firearms-and-explosives">Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives</a>&nbsp;and has been replaced with the Army secretary, three people familiar with the matter said Wednesday.

It was not immediately clear why Patel was replaced by Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to lead the Justice Department agency that’s responsible for enforcing the nation’s gun laws. One person familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel move, said Patel was removed at the end of February, just days after he was sworn in.

But that was never publicly announced. Patel on Wednesday afternoon remained on the agency’s website and was identified as the acting director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/news/press-releases/doj-atf-repeal-ffl-inspection-policy-and-begin-review-two-final-rules" target="_blank">in an April 7 press release</a>. In March,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1904357301651161468" target="_blank">he posted on social media</a>&nbsp;a note he sent to the ATF workforce that read “special message from the acting director.” And senior ATF leaders were only informed Wednesday of the change, according to another person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the move.

Driscoll will remain secretary of the Army, according to a defense official. This puts a defense leader — with an already large job — in charge of a domestic law enforcement agency. U.S. defense officials have historically tried to maintain a strict divide between military forces and law enforcement. U.S. troops are not allowed to participate in law enforcement activities on American soil. They do, however, provide support and intelligence gathering to Custom and Border Protection to help secure the southern border

As Army secretary, Driscoll, 38, heads the U.S. military’s largest service, which has about 452,000 soldiers including thousands who are deployed all over the world. He also oversees dozens of major weapons, aircraft and equipment programs worth billions of dollars and is responsible for an Army budget of more than $187 billion.

Harrison Fields, a White House spokesperson, said Patel was “briefly designated ATF Director while awaiting Senate confirmations — a standard, short-term move.”

“Director Patel is now excelling in his role at the FBI and delivering outstanding results,” Fields said.

Driscoll, of North Carolina, had served as an adviser to Vice President JD Vance, whom he met when both were attending Yale Law School. He served in the Army for less than four years and left at the rank of first lieutenant.

He ran unsuccessfully in the Republican primary for a North Carolina congressional seat in 2020, getting about 8% of the vote in a crowded field of candidates.

Patel was named acting ATF director in an unusual arrangement in February just days after he was sworn in to lead the FBI, putting him in charge of two separate and sprawling Justice Department agencies.

Justice Department officials have been considering a plan to combine the ATF and the Drug Enforcement Administration into a single agency. The two agencies often work together, along with the FBI, but are both led by separate directors and are tasked with distinctly different missions.

The plan is designed to “achieve efficiencies in resources, case deconfliction, and regulatory efforts,” according to a recent memo from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.

The ATF investigates things like violent crime, gun trafficking, arson and bombings. It also provides technical expertise in tracing guns used in crimes and analyzing intelligence in shooting investigations. The DEA, meanwhile, is in charge of enforcing the nation’s laws around drugs. Its agents are focused on combating criminal drug networks and stemming the illicit flow of fentanyl and other street drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734452495966.png" alt="Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall met with Patel ahead of his confirmation hearing- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall met with Patel ahead of his confirmation hearing- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;ALANNA DURKIN RICHER&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/lolita-c-baldor">LOLITA C. BALDOR</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Kash Patel has been removed as the acting chief of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bureau-of-alcohol-tobacco-firearms-and-explosives">Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives</a>&nbsp;and has been replaced with the Army secretary, three people familiar with the matter said Wednesday.It was not immediately clear why Patel was replaced by Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to lead the Justice Department agency that’s responsible for enforcing the nation’s gun laws. One person familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel move, said Patel was removed at the end of February, just days after he was sworn in.But that was never publicly announced. Patel on Wednesday afternoon remained on the agency’s website and was identified as the acting director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/news/press-releases/doj-atf-repeal-ffl-inspection-policy-and-begin-review-two-final-rules" target="_blank">in an April 7 press release</a>. In March,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1904357301651161468" target="_blank">he posted on social media</a>&nbsp;a note he sent to the ATF workforce that read “special message from the acting director.” And senior ATF leaders were only informed Wednesday of the change, according to another person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the move.Driscoll will remain secretary of the Army, according to a defense official. This puts a defense leader — with an already large job — in charge of a domestic law enforcement agency. U.S. defense officials have historically tried to maintain a strict divide between military forces and law enforcement. U.S. troops are not allowed to participate in law enforcement activities on American soil. They do, however, provide support and intelligence gathering to Custom and Border Protection to help secure the southern borderAs Army secretary, Driscoll, 38, heads the U.S. military’s largest service, which has about 452,000 soldiers including thousands who are deployed all over the world. He also oversees dozens of major weapons, aircraft and equipment programs worth billions of dollars and is responsible for an Army budget of more than $187 billion.Harrison Fields, a White House spokesperson, said Patel was “briefly designated ATF Director while awaiting Senate confirmations — a standard, short-term move.”“Director Patel is now excelling in his role at the FBI and delivering outstanding results,” Fields said.Driscoll, of North Carolina, had served as an adviser to Vice President JD Vance, whom he met when both were attending Yale Law School. He served in the Army for less than four years and left at the rank of first lieutenant.He ran unsuccessfully in the Republican primary for a North Carolina congressional seat in 2020, getting about 8% of the vote in a crowded field of candidates.Patel was named acting ATF director in an unusual arrangement in February just days after he was sworn in to lead the FBI, putting him in charge of two separate and sprawling Justice Department agencies.Justice Department officials have been considering a plan to combine the ATF and the Drug Enforcement Administration into a single agency. The two agencies often work together, along with the FBI, but are both led by separate directors and are tasked with distinctly different missions.The plan is designed to “achieve efficiencies in resources, case deconfliction, and regulatory efforts,” according to a recent memo from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.The ATF investigates things like violent crime, gun trafficking, arson and bombings. It also provides technical expertise in tracing guns used in crimes and analyzing intelligence in shooting investigations. The DEA, meanwhile, is in charge of enforcing the nation’s laws around drugs. Its agents are focused on combating criminal drug networks and stemming the illicit flow of fentanyl and other street drugs.

Why was FBI director replaced as acting head of the ATF?

Congratulations to Bob Mickelson, winner of the&nbsp;Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge from Hays Post!

Bob received $200 worth of Hays Chamber checks for having the top score.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744235601083.jpeg" alt="Bob Michelson claimed the top prize in the Fort Hays NC Tech March Mania Bracket Challenge" />
 <figcaption>Bob Michelson claimed the top prize in the Fort Hays NC Tech March Mania Bracket Challenge</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Bob Mickelson, winner of the&nbsp;Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge from Hays Post!Bob received $200 worth of Hays Chamber checks for having the top score.

The Fort Hays Tech North Central March Mania Bracket Challenge winner is...

WASHINGTON (AP) — Facing a global market meltdown, President Donald Trump on Wednesday abruptly backed down on his tariffs on most nations for 90 days, but raised the tax rate on Chinese imports to 125%.

It was seemingly an attempt to narrow what had been an unprecedented trade war between the U.S. and most of the world to a showdown between the U.S. and China. The S&amp;P 500 stock index jumped nearly 7% after the announcement, but the precise details of Trump's plans to ease tariffs on non-China trade partners were not immediately clear.

Trump posted on Truth Social that because “more than 75 Countries” had reached out to the U.S. government for trade talks and have not retaliated in meaningful way “I have authorized a 90 day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately.”

The 10% tariff was the baseline rate for most nations that went into effect on Saturday. It's meaningfully lower than the 20% tariff that Trump had set for goods from the European Union, 24% on imports from Japan and 25% on products from South Korea. Still, 10% would represent an increase in the tariffs previously charged by the U.S. government.

The announcement came after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-tariffs-trump-721a3a5971f1b254981d32f4acb9eb17">global economy</a>&nbsp;appeared to be in open rebellion against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump's</a>&nbsp;tariffs as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-reciprocal-tariffs-higher-rates-china-9645cf4608a8c153e90bdd10263ccb01">took effect</a>&nbsp;Wednesday, a signal that the U.S. president was not immune from market pressures.

Business executives were warning of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/recession-tariffs-economy-inflation-5a24ff198dcd6813b53f44c662354b6a">potential recession</a>&nbsp;caused by his policies, some of the top U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-europe-trump-2c4f1519373803ac1f7c1744b69812d0">trading partners</a>&nbsp;are retaliating with their own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-response-us-tariffs-104-d40d497f6e07ee4163d88443cb75ab3f">import taxes</a>&nbsp;and the stock market is quivering after days of decline.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the walk back was part of some grand negotiating strategy by Trump.

“President Trump created maximum negotiating leverage for himself,” she said, adding that the news media "clearly failed to see what President Trump is doing here. You tried to say that the rest of the world would be moved closer to China, when in fact, we’ve seen the opposite effect the entire world is calling the United States of America, not China, because they need our markets.”

But market pressures had been building for weeks ahead of Trump's move.

Particularly worrisome was that U.S. government debt had lost some of its luster with investors, who usually treat Treasury notes as a safe haven when there's economic turbulence. Government bond prices had been falling, pushing up the interest rate on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note to 4.45%. That rate eased after Trump's reversal.

Gennadiy Goldberg, head of U.S. rates strategy at TD Securities, said before the announcement that markets wanted to see a truce in the trade disputes.

“Markets more broadly, not just the Treasury market, are looking for signs that a trade de-escalation is coming," he said. "Absent any de-escalation, it’s going to be difficult for markets to stabilize.”

John Canavan, lead analyst at the consultancy Oxford Economics, noted that while Trump said he changed course due to possible negotiations, he had previously indicated that the tariffs would stay in place.

“There have been very mixed messages on whether there would be negotiations," Canavan said. "Given what's been going on with the markets, he realized the safest thing to do is negotiate and put things on pause.”

Presidents often receive undue credit or blame for the state of the U.S. economy as their time in the White House is subject to financial and geopolitical forces beyond their direct control.

But by unilaterally imposing tariffs, Trump is exerting extraordinary influence over the flow of commerce, creating political risks and pulling the market in different directions based on his remarks and social media posts. There still appear to be 25% tariffs on autos, steel and aluminum, with more imports set to be tariffed in the weeks ahead.

On CNBC, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the administration was being less strategic than it was during Trump's first term. His company had in January projected it would have its best financial year in history, only to scrap its expectations for 2025 due to the economic uncertainty.

“Trying to do it all at the same time has created chaos in terms of being able to make plans,” he said, noting that demand for air travel has weakened.

Before Trump's reversal, economic forecasters say his second term has had a series of negative and cascading impacts that could put the country into a downturn.

“Simultaneous shocks to consumer sentiment, corporate confidence, trade, financial markets as well as to prices, new orders and the labor market will tip the economy into recession in the current quarter,” said Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has previously said it could take months to strike deals with countries on tariff rates, and the administration has not been clear on whether the baseline 10% tariffs imposed on most countries will stay in place. But in an appearance on “Mornings with Maria,” Bessent said the economy would “be back to firing on all cylinders” at a point in the “not too distant future.”

He said there has been an "overwhelming" response by “the countries who want to come and sit at the table rather than escalate.” Bessent mentioned Japan, South Korea, and India. "I will note that they are all around China. We have Vietnam coming today,” he said.

What's not yet known is what Trump does with the rest of his tariff agenda. In a Tuesday night speech, he said taxes on imported drugs would happen soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744220879736.png" alt="President Trump speaking Tuesday night at the National Republican Committee Dinner-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Trump speaking Tuesday night at the National Republican Committee Dinner-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Facing a global market meltdown, President Donald Trump on Wednesday abruptly backed down on his tariffs on most nations for 90 days, but raised the tax rate on Chinese imports to 125%.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecScottBessent</a>: &quot;Do not retaliate and you will be rewarded. So every country in the world wants to come and negotiate. We are willing to hear you. We are going to go down to a 10% baseline tariff for them and China will be raised to 125% due to their insistence on escalation.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dA2HnbmE0M">pic.twitter.com/dA2HnbmE0M</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1910028221120213237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW TRUTH SOCIAL FROM PRESIDENT TRUMP: 🇨🇳125% TARIFF ON CHINA 🌎90-DAY PAUSE &amp; LOWERED 10% RECIPROCAL TARIFF FOR OTHER COUNTRIES 🚨EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY <a href="https://t.co/Gt5Bd6276m">pic.twitter.com/Gt5Bd6276m</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1910025543434789291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>It was seemingly an attempt to narrow what had been an unprecedented trade war between the U.S. and most of the world to a showdown between the U.S. and China. The S&amp;P 500 stock index jumped nearly 7% after the announcement, but the precise details of Trump's plans to ease tariffs on non-China trade partners were not immediately clear.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 NEW from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: <a href="https://t.co/HWEV2vb225">pic.twitter.com/HWEV2vb225</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1910019818910015687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump posted on Truth Social that because “more than 75 Countries” had reached out to the U.S. government for trade talks and have not retaliated in meaningful way “I have authorized a 90 day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately.”The 10% tariff was the baseline rate for most nations that went into effect on Saturday. It's meaningfully lower than the 20% tariff that Trump had set for goods from the European Union, 24% on imports from Japan and 25% on products from South Korea. Still, 10% would represent an increase in the tariffs previously charged by the U.S. government.The announcement came after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-tariffs-trump-721a3a5971f1b254981d32f4acb9eb17">global economy</a>&nbsp;appeared to be in open rebellion against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump's</a>&nbsp;tariffs as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-reciprocal-tariffs-higher-rates-china-9645cf4608a8c153e90bdd10263ccb01">took effect</a>&nbsp;Wednesday, a signal that the U.S. president was not immune from market pressures.Business executives were warning of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/recession-tariffs-economy-inflation-5a24ff198dcd6813b53f44c662354b6a">potential recession</a>&nbsp;caused by his policies, some of the top U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-europe-trump-2c4f1519373803ac1f7c1744b69812d0">trading partners</a>&nbsp;are retaliating with their own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-response-us-tariffs-104-d40d497f6e07ee4163d88443cb75ab3f">import taxes</a>&nbsp;and the stock market is quivering after days of decline.White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the walk back was part of some grand negotiating strategy by Trump.“President Trump created maximum negotiating leverage for himself,” she said, adding that the news media "clearly failed to see what President Trump is doing here. You tried to say that the rest of the world would be moved closer to China, when in fact, we’ve seen the opposite effect the entire world is calling the United States of America, not China, because they need our markets.”But market pressures had been building for weeks ahead of Trump's move.Particularly worrisome was that U.S. government debt had lost some of its luster with investors, who usually treat Treasury notes as a safe haven when there's economic turbulence. Government bond prices had been falling, pushing up the interest rate on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note to 4.45%. That rate eased after Trump's reversal.Gennadiy Goldberg, head of U.S. rates strategy at TD Securities, said before the announcement that markets wanted to see a truce in the trade disputes.“Markets more broadly, not just the Treasury market, are looking for signs that a trade de-escalation is coming," he said. "Absent any de-escalation, it’s going to be difficult for markets to stabilize.”John Canavan, lead analyst at the consultancy Oxford Economics, noted that while Trump said he changed course due to possible negotiations, he had previously indicated that the tariffs would stay in place.“There have been very mixed messages on whether there would be negotiations," Canavan said. "Given what's been going on with the markets, he realized the safest thing to do is negotiate and put things on pause.”Presidents often receive undue credit or blame for the state of the U.S. economy as their time in the White House is subject to financial and geopolitical forces beyond their direct control.But by unilaterally imposing tariffs, Trump is exerting extraordinary influence over the flow of commerce, creating political risks and pulling the market in different directions based on his remarks and social media posts. There still appear to be 25% tariffs on autos, steel and aluminum, with more imports set to be tariffed in the weeks ahead.On CNBC, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the administration was being less strategic than it was during Trump's first term. His company had in January projected it would have its best financial year in history, only to scrap its expectations for 2025 due to the economic uncertainty.“Trying to do it all at the same time has created chaos in terms of being able to make plans,” he said, noting that demand for air travel has weakened.Before Trump's reversal, economic forecasters say his second term has had a series of negative and cascading impacts that could put the country into a downturn.“Simultaneous shocks to consumer sentiment, corporate confidence, trade, financial markets as well as to prices, new orders and the labor market will tip the economy into recession in the current quarter,” said Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has previously said it could take months to strike deals with countries on tariff rates, and the administration has not been clear on whether the baseline 10% tariffs imposed on most countries will stay in place. But in an appearance on “Mornings with Maria,” Bessent said the economy would “be back to firing on all cylinders” at a point in the “not too distant future.”He said there has been an "overwhelming" response by “the countries who want to come and sit at the table rather than escalate.” Bessent mentioned Japan, South Korea, and India. "I will note that they are all around China. We have Vietnam coming today,” he said.What's not yet known is what Trump does with the rest of his tariff agenda. In a Tuesday night speech, he said taxes on imported drugs would happen soon.

President Trump explains why he will pause tariffs on most nations for 90 days

Governor signs bill tweaking K-12 public school graduation rate calculations

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly signed bipartisan legislation Tuesday establishing a task force dedicated to developing a long-term investment strategy for Kansas water resources modeled after the state’s rolling 10-year transportation program.

The Democratic governor praised members of the Republican-led Legislature for approving&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2172_00_03252025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2172</a>&nbsp;to create a dedicated funding source for addressing&nbsp; the state’s water challenges. The task force with 13 voting members must work to get a better handle on evaluation of water appropriations and state water laws.&nbsp; The task force will submit to Kelly and the Legislature a preliminary report in 2026 and a final report in 2027.

“Developing a comprehensive, long-term and sustainable water program is long overdue and a significant step forward in ensuring Kansas’ water supply is preserved for generations to come,” Kelly said. “I commend the Legislature for advancing my proposal and acting on this critical issue.”

The bill passed the House on a vote of 116-8 and it received unanimous support in the Senate. In January, Kelly recommended the Legislature authorize the task force. The Kansas Water Authority and Kelly administration conducted 14 public meetings last year to gather input on water policy.

The task force, with members from each of the state’s five conservation regions, must work to evaluate major risks to Kansas’ water quality and quantity, including issues of current and future economic growth. It must evaluate water infrastructure needs in every corner of the state.

“This is a critical step forward in addressing Kansas’ water challenges by establishing a dedicated task force and work group to guide our state’s water policy and funding decisions,” said Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover.&nbsp;“This bill reflects a bipartisan legislative commitment to ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations, and I’m proud to see it move forward with the governor’s support.”

Kelly also signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_sb45_01_032525.pdf" target="_blank">Senate Bill 45</a>, which created an alternative school district graduation rate calculation that excluded students who transferred to homeschools and nonaccredited private schools or who enrolled as a credit-deficient student.

The governor signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_sb54_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">Senate Bill 54</a>&nbsp;to require disclosure in court proceedings of third-party litigation funding agreements as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2118_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2118</a>&nbsp;requiring private entities that solicit a fee for filing or retrieving government documents to tell consumers the solicitations weren’t made on behalf of a government agency.

Kelly put a signature to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2030_01_03242025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2030</a>&nbsp;to exclude dealers and manufacturers of nonmotorized trailers from the vehicle dealers licensing law. It wouldn’t apply to dealers of semitrailers and travel trailers.

Her signing of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2122_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2122</a>&nbsp;meant the annual license fee of electric and hybrid vehicles would increase. The fee for electric hybrid vehicles would go from $50 to $70, while the plug-in electric hybrid vehicle fee would rise from $50 to $100. The all-electric vehicle would be hit with a fee of $165, up from $100.

She placed into law contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2016_01_03242025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2016</a>&nbsp;to give active military members, their spouses and dependents stationed in Kansas but maintaining residency in another state to serve as poll workers for Kansas elections. In addition, the bill permitted county election officers to rely on obituaries posted online to remove a voter’s name from registration books.

The governor agreed to sign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2168_01_03242025landsurveyreports.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2168</a>&nbsp;to extend the time required for filing of public land surveys from 30 days to 90 days to comply with industry standards. Meanwhile, Kelly signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2242_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2242</a>&nbsp;to authorize a Kansas governor to accept requests for concurrent jurisdiction from the federal government.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729533905311.png" alt="&nbsp;Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signs a bill complying with her request for the Legislature to create a special task force to put together a comprehensive&nbsp;water planning and investment task force modeled after the state's 10-year planning horizon for highway projects. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signs a bill complying with her request for the Legislature to create a special task force to put together a comprehensive&nbsp;water planning and investment task force modeled after the state's 10-year planning horizon for highway projects. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Governor signs bill tweaking K-12 public school graduation rate calculations</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly signed bipartisan legislation Tuesday establishing a task force dedicated to developing a long-term investment strategy for Kansas water resources modeled after the state’s rolling 10-year transportation program.The Democratic governor praised members of the Republican-led Legislature for approving&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2172_00_03252025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2172</a>&nbsp;to create a dedicated funding source for addressing&nbsp; the state’s water challenges. The task force with 13 voting members must work to get a better handle on evaluation of water appropriations and state water laws.&nbsp; The task force will submit to Kelly and the Legislature a preliminary report in 2026 and a final report in 2027.“Developing a comprehensive, long-term and sustainable water program is long overdue and a significant step forward in ensuring Kansas’ water supply is preserved for generations to come,” Kelly said. “I commend the Legislature for advancing my proposal and acting on this critical issue.”The bill passed the House on a vote of 116-8 and it received unanimous support in the Senate. In January, Kelly recommended the Legislature authorize the task force. The Kansas Water Authority and Kelly administration conducted 14 public meetings last year to gather input on water policy.The task force, with members from each of the state’s five conservation regions, must work to evaluate major risks to Kansas’ water quality and quantity, including issues of current and future economic growth. It must evaluate water infrastructure needs in every corner of the state.“This is a critical step forward in addressing Kansas’ water challenges by establishing a dedicated task force and work group to guide our state’s water policy and funding decisions,” said Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover.&nbsp;“This bill reflects a bipartisan legislative commitment to ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations, and I’m proud to see it move forward with the governor’s support.”Kelly also signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_sb45_01_032525.pdf" target="_blank">Senate Bill 45</a>, which created an alternative school district graduation rate calculation that excluded students who transferred to homeschools and nonaccredited private schools or who enrolled as a credit-deficient student.The governor signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_sb54_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">Senate Bill 54</a>&nbsp;to require disclosure in court proceedings of third-party litigation funding agreements as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2118_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2118</a>&nbsp;requiring private entities that solicit a fee for filing or retrieving government documents to tell consumers the solicitations weren’t made on behalf of a government agency.Kelly put a signature to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2030_01_03242025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2030</a>&nbsp;to exclude dealers and manufacturers of nonmotorized trailers from the vehicle dealers licensing law. It wouldn’t apply to dealers of semitrailers and travel trailers.Her signing of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2122_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2122</a>&nbsp;meant the annual license fee of electric and hybrid vehicles would increase. The fee for electric hybrid vehicles would go from $50 to $70, while the plug-in electric hybrid vehicle fee would rise from $50 to $100. The all-electric vehicle would be hit with a fee of $165, up from $100.She placed into law contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2016_01_03242025.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2016</a>&nbsp;to give active military members, their spouses and dependents stationed in Kansas but maintaining residency in another state to serve as poll workers for Kansas elections. In addition, the bill permitted county election officers to rely on obituaries posted online to remove a voter’s name from registration books.The governor agreed to sign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/ccrb_hb2168_01_03242025landsurveyreports.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2168</a>&nbsp;to extend the time required for filing of public land surveys from 30 days to 90 days to comply with industry standards. Meanwhile, Kelly signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2242_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2242</a>&nbsp;to authorize a Kansas governor to accept requests for concurrent jurisdiction from the federal government.

Kelly signs bill creating long-term water resource planning, investment task force

SEDGWICK, Kan. — Two unauthorized individuals gained access to a Sedgwick school building in the 400 West 4th Street in Sedgwick on Tuesday afternoon prompting a swift response from staff and law enforcement, according to USD 439 Superintendent Dr. Rae Niles.

In a message sent to parents and guardians, Niles said the incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. when two men entered a school building through a side door. A high school senior working as a student aide initially turned the pair away at the grade school entrance, instructing them to go to the high school’s main entrance. The men then spent nearly an hour wandering school grounds before being let in by a student through a side door.

Once inside, the men ended up in the school courtyard, where Mavis, the district’s therapy dog, alerted staff to their presence. Librarian Leah Gaede spotted the intruders and contacted elementary principal Julie Scott, who escorted them to the high school office before they were removed from the building.

“There could have been a far worse outcome, but it was a frightening situation nonetheless,” Niles wrote.

Authorities later identified the two men, who were located at their home in Park City. Niles said they are not connected to the Sedgwick community and have never attended school there. The district worked with local police to issue trespass orders against both individuals. Photos of the men have been distributed to staff and posted in school offices.

Emergency staff meetings were held Wednesday morning to reinforce security protocols and remind employees of the importance of reporting unauthorized individuals. Students were also briefed on safety practices, including the district’s “See Something, Say Something” policy.

Niles emphasized that the district will be reviewing and strengthening safety procedures in the coming weeks and thanked families for their continued support.

“We know we can always do better,” she said. “Keeping your child safe is our top priority.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744214256071.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK, Kan. — Two unauthorized individuals gained access to a Sedgwick school building in the 400 West 4th Street in Sedgwick on Tuesday afternoon prompting a swift response from staff and law enforcement, according to USD 439 Superintendent Dr. Rae Niles.In a message sent to parents and guardians, Niles said the incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. when two men entered a school building through a side door. A high school senior working as a student aide initially turned the pair away at the grade school entrance, instructing them to go to the high school’s main entrance. The men then spent nearly an hour wandering school grounds before being let in by a student through a side door.Once inside, the men ended up in the school courtyard, where Mavis, the district’s therapy dog, alerted staff to their presence. Librarian Leah Gaede spotted the intruders and contacted elementary principal Julie Scott, who escorted them to the high school office before they were removed from the building.“There could have been a far worse outcome, but it was a frightening situation nonetheless,” Niles wrote.Authorities later identified the two men, who were located at their home in Park City. Niles said they are not connected to the Sedgwick community and have never attended school there. The district worked with local police to issue trespass orders against both individuals. Photos of the men have been distributed to staff and posted in school offices.Emergency staff meetings were held Wednesday morning to reinforce security protocols and remind employees of the importance of reporting unauthorized individuals. Students were also briefed on safety practices, including the district’s “See Something, Say Something” policy.Niles emphasized that the district will be reviewing and strengthening safety procedures in the coming weeks and thanked families for their continued support.“We know we can always do better,” she said. “Keeping your child safe is our top priority.”

Unauthorized entry at Kan. school prompts security response, policy review

TOPEKA – The <a href="https://www.kansaspoisoncenter.com/">Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System</a> and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind Kansans that when the unexpected happens, Poison Help is here for you 24/7 with fast, free treatment advice by calling Poison Help (1-800-222-1222).

Whether it’s a question or an emergency, Poison Help can provide life-saving information when people need it most. Calling a Poison Center is faster and more accurate than an internet search. 

On average, 90 percent of poisonings happen in homes in America each year, and nearly 70 percent of people who call Poison Help get the help they need right where they are—saving the cost of a trip to a healthcare professional or hospital.

Not everyone realizes that Poison Centers are for everyone. While poison centers get a lot of calls about children, calls about teens, adults and older adults tend to be more serious. 

More than 60 percent of calls to the Kansas Poison Center in 2024 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide and many other types of nonpharmaceutical substances.

“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home,”&nbsp;said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Center.&nbsp;“This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or if you simply have questions.”

Here are the ways Poison Centers save time, worry, lives and money:

When seconds count, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.

Nurses, pharmacists and doctors answer calls. We can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to us for help every day.

Whether it is a question or an emergency, Poison Centers are there with life-saving information when you need it the most.

All calls are free. Nearly 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.

“Curious kids can get into everything. That’s why you can ask Poison Centers anything,”&nbsp;said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.&nbsp;“When your child is curious, Poison Help is here for you 24/7. No judgment – just fast, free, confidential and expert advice.”

If you think someone has been poisoned, call 1-800-222-1222 right away. Fast and free expert help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansaspoisoncenter.com%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019590ab44f8-d8c9f770-7f5c-4d6b-85fc-22b6f5e4bdae-000000/QNt1VSBDCWzEFwp2lFtR-1vanJicIcvMPbD3wiMYCcA=396">Kansas Poison Center</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.safekidskansas.org%2Fpoison_prevention.htm%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019590ab44f8-d8c9f770-7f5c-4d6b-85fc-22b6f5e4bdae-000000/rjjfz4lXeyyVSbvjpjRqBngcperjrWTjxl8_jiCN7og=396">Safe Kids Kansas Poison Prevention.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742401498939.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA – The <a href="https://www.kansaspoisoncenter.com/">Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System</a> and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind Kansans that when the unexpected happens, Poison Help is here for you 24/7 with fast, free treatment advice by calling Poison Help (1-800-222-1222).Whether it’s a question or an emergency, Poison Help can provide life-saving information when people need it most. Calling a Poison Center is faster and more accurate than an internet search. On average, 90 percent of poisonings happen in homes in America each year, and nearly 70 percent of people who call Poison Help get the help they need right where they are—saving the cost of a trip to a healthcare professional or hospital.Not everyone realizes that Poison Centers are for everyone. While poison centers get a lot of calls about children, calls about teens, adults and older adults tend to be more serious. More than 60 percent of calls to the Kansas Poison Center in 2024 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide and many other types of nonpharmaceutical substances.“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home,”&nbsp;said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Center.&nbsp;“This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or if you simply have questions.”Here are the ways Poison Centers save time, worry, lives and money:TimeWhen seconds count, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.WorryNurses, pharmacists and doctors answer calls. We can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to us for help every day.LivesWhether it is a question or an emergency, Poison Centers are there with life-saving information when you need it the most.MoneyAll calls are free. Nearly 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.“Curious kids can get into everything. That’s why you can ask Poison Centers anything,”&nbsp;said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.&nbsp;“When your child is curious, Poison Help is here for you 24/7. No judgment – just fast, free, confidential and expert advice.”If you think someone has been poisoned, call 1-800-222-1222 right away. Fast and free expert help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansaspoisoncenter.com%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019590ab44f8-d8c9f770-7f5c-4d6b-85fc-22b6f5e4bdae-000000/QNt1VSBDCWzEFwp2lFtR-1vanJicIcvMPbD3wiMYCcA=396">Kansas Poison Center</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.safekidskansas.org%2Fpoison_prevention.htm%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019590ab44f8-d8c9f770-7f5c-4d6b-85fc-22b6f5e4bdae-000000/rjjfz4lXeyyVSbvjpjRqBngcperjrWTjxl8_jiCN7og=396">Safe Kids Kansas Poison Prevention.</a>

When the unexpected happens, poison centers are here for you

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs extended their unbeaten
streak to six games Tuesday, knocking off the Colby Eagles in a pair of games
in Hays.

GAME 1: TMP 3, Colby 2 In the first game of the doubleheader, TMP starter Ty Schmeidler
allowed just two runs in four-plus innings as the Monarchs held off the Eagles
in a 3-2 victory.

After a scoreless top half of the first inning for
Schmeidler, the TMP offense scratched a run across in the bottom of the inning.

Jacob Seib led off the inning with a double, and Ian Nehls
drove him home on an RBI single. Putting TMP 1-0.

Colby tied the game with a solo homer in the top of the
third inning.

With the game tied at one in the bottom of the third, Seib
led off the inning with a triple. Nehls walked, and then Schmeidler was hit by
a pitch to lead the bases. 

Caden Dinkel delivered an RBI single to center, putting TMP
up 2-1. Later in the inning, Grant Nehls drove in a run with a sacrifice fly,
putting TMP up 3-1.

The Eagles add a run in the fourth on an error, but after
that, Schmeidler and fellow pitcher Grant Nehls shut the Eagles down and secured
the 3-2 TMP victory.

Schmeidler picked up the win. He allowed just two runs, one earned
with three walks and six strikeouts.

Nehls earned the save with two and a third innings of perfect
relief.

Jacob Seib was 2-for-3 with a double and a triple. 

GAME 2: TMP 15, Colby 1 Six Monarchs recorded a multi-hit game in the day's second
game, and five had at least TMP RBIs in a 15-1 run-rule victory.

Adler Browns two-run single in the top of the first inning helped
the Monarchs jump out to an early lead.

The Eagle cut into the TMP lead in the second, making it 2-1
TMP.

TMP’s offense came to life in the bottom of the third
inning, scoring four times and extending their lead to 6-1.

Ty Schmeidler got the scoring started in the bottom of the
third, driving in Ian Nehls on an RBI single for a 3-1 lead.

Grant Nehls singled home a second run in the inning for a
4-1 lead. They then added a run on a wild pitch, and Trevor Fabrizius drove in
a run on a sacrifice fly.

Leading 6-1, the Monarchs' offense exploded for nine runs in
the fourth inning on their way to a 15-1 victory.

After three straight singles to open the inning, including back-to-back
run-scoring singles by Ian Nehls and Schmeidler, Caden Dinkel hit a two-run
home run to left, putting the Monarchs up 10-1.

TMP’s Easton Werth drove in two runs with a groundball, making
it 12-1. 

Seib and Ian Nehls delivered again with back-to-back RBI singles,
making it 14-1 TMP. 

Scheidler reached on an error that resulted in another TMP
run scoring for a 15-1 lead. 

TMP’s Carson Liles made his season debut in the top of the
fifth as he makes his way back from injury.

He gave up one hit with two strikeouts in four shutout
innings.

Caden Dinkel was three-for-four with a two-run home run and a run scored. He has six straight multi-hit games to open the season.&nbsp;

Ian Nehls, Ty Schmeidler, Adler Brown, and Easton Werth all drove in two runs each.

Hays Post SportsHAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs extended their unbeaten
streak to six games Tuesday, knocking off the Colby Eagles in a pair of games
in Hays.GAME 1: TMP 3, Colby 2 In the first game of the doubleheader, TMP starter Ty Schmeidler
allowed just two runs in four-plus innings as the Monarchs held off the Eagles
in a 3-2 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2074257008&color=%23111111&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/aaron-breit-postgame-interview" title="Aaron Breit Postgame Interview vs Colby (Apr 8th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Aaron Breit Postgame Interview vs Colby (Apr 8th 25)</a></div></div>After a scoreless top half of the first inning for
Schmeidler, the TMP offense scratched a run across in the bottom of the inning.Jacob Seib led off the inning with a double, and Ian Nehls
drove him home on an RBI single. Putting TMP 1-0.Colby tied the game with a solo homer in the top of the
third inning.With the game tied at one in the bottom of the third, Seib
led off the inning with a triple. Nehls walked, and then Schmeidler was hit by
a pitch to lead the bases. Caden Dinkel delivered an RBI single to center, putting TMP
up 2-1. Later in the inning, Grant Nehls drove in a run with a sacrifice fly,
putting TMP up 3-1.The Eagles add a run in the fourth on an error, but after
that, Schmeidler and fellow pitcher Grant Nehls shut the Eagles down and secured
the 3-2 TMP victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2074255196&color=%232b009a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-bsb-highlights-vs-colby-apr-8th-game-1" title="TMP BSB Highlights vs Colby (Apr 8th) Game 1" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP BSB Highlights vs Colby (Apr 8th) Game 1</a></div></div>Schmeidler picked up the win. He allowed just two runs, one earned
with three walks and six strikeouts.Nehls earned the save with two and a third innings of perfect
relief.Jacob Seib was 2-for-3 with a double and a triple. GAME 2: TMP 15, Colby 1 Six Monarchs recorded a multi-hit game in the day's second
game, and five had at least TMP RBIs in a 15-1 run-rule victory. Adler Browns two-run single in the top of the first inning helped
the Monarchs jump out to an early lead.The Eagle cut into the TMP lead in the second, making it 2-1
TMP.TMP’s offense came to life in the bottom of the third
inning, scoring four times and extending their lead to 6-1.Ty Schmeidler got the scoring started in the bottom of the
third, driving in Ian Nehls on an RBI single for a 3-1 lead.Grant Nehls singled home a second run in the inning for a
4-1 lead. They then added a run on a wild pitch, and Trevor Fabrizius drove in
a run on a sacrifice fly.Leading 6-1, the Monarchs' offense exploded for nine runs in
the fourth inning on their way to a 15-1 victory.After three straight singles to open the inning, including back-to-back
run-scoring singles by Ian Nehls and Schmeidler, Caden Dinkel hit a two-run
home run to left, putting the Monarchs up 10-1.TMP’s Easton Werth drove in two runs with a groundball, making
it 12-1. Seib and Ian Nehls delivered again with back-to-back RBI singles,
making it 14-1 TMP. Scheidler reached on an error that resulted in another TMP
run scoring for a 15-1 lead. TMP’s Carson Liles made his season debut in the top of the
fifth as he makes his way back from injury.He gave up one hit with two strikeouts in four shutout
innings.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2074256376&color=%232b009a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-bsb-highlights-vs-colby-apr-8th-game-2" title="TMP BSB Highlights vs Colby (Apr 8th) Game 2" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP BSB Highlights vs Colby (Apr 8th) Game 2</a></div></div>Caden Dinkel was three-for-four with a two-run home run and a run scored. He has six straight multi-hit games to open the season.&nbsp;Ian Nehls, Ty Schmeidler, Adler Brown, and Easton Werth all drove in two runs each.TMP travels to Holcomb on Friday.

⚾ Monarchs move to 6-0 with win over Colby

HAYS
– The TMP-Marian softball team moved to 6-0 to start the season with a
doubleheader sweep of Colby. Hannah Rose has four hits and Brooke Koeningsman
drove in four runs in an 14-4 win in game one. Paige Koeningsman has four RBIs as
the Monarchs took the second contest 8-4.

Game 1: TMP-Marian 14, Colby 4 (5 inn.)
 The Monarchs scored seven in the first inning and never looked back. The Monarchs
opened the frame with back-to-back doubles from Brynn Rebel and Hannah Rose to
take the 1-0 lead. The next six runs all came with two outs. Brynn Schoepf, Addison Watson both had RBI singles. Teagan Gottschalk had a two-run single and Raegan Allen
a two-run homer.

TMP
would add two runs in the second on an RBI double from Brooke Koeningsman and Bria
Windholz single. Koeningsman added a three-run homer in the third. The Monarchs
closed out the scoring with two more runs in the fourth on a Molly Helget fielder’s
choice and an error.

Rebel
allowed three earned runs on eight hits with four walks and five strikeouts and
picked up the win.

Game 2: TMP-Marian 8, Colby 4
 The Monarchs scored two in the first only to see the Eagles answer with three
in the top of the second. The game was tied 4-4 when TMP struck for four in the
bottom of the sixth.

Brynn
Rebel doubled with one out and scored what turned out to be the winning run on a
bunt single off the bat of Hannah Rose. Brooke Koeningsman followed with an RBI
double to push the lead to 6-4. With two outs Paige Keoningsman added a two-run
homer.

Rebel
pitched 2 1/3 hitless innings of relief in picked up the win. Starter Bria Windholz
allowed four runs on seven hits with four strikeouts and four walks over 4 2/3
innings.

Hays Post SportsHAYS
– The TMP-Marian softball team moved to 6-0 to start the season with a
doubleheader sweep of Colby. Hannah Rose has four hits and Brooke Koeningsman
drove in four runs in an 14-4 win in game one. Paige Koeningsman has four RBIs as
the Monarchs took the second contest 8-4.Game 1: TMP-Marian 14, Colby 4 (5 inn.)
 The Monarchs scored seven in the first inning and never looked back. The Monarchs
opened the frame with back-to-back doubles from Brynn Rebel and Hannah Rose to
take the 1-0 lead. The next six runs all came with two outs. Brynn Schoepf, Addison Watson both had RBI singles. Teagan Gottschalk had a two-run single and Raegan Allen
a two-run homer.TMP
would add two runs in the second on an RBI double from Brooke Koeningsman and Bria
Windholz single. Koeningsman added a three-run homer in the third. The Monarchs
closed out the scoring with two more runs in the fourth on a Molly Helget fielder’s
choice and an error.Rebel
allowed three earned runs on eight hits with four walks and five strikeouts and
picked up the win.Game 2: TMP-Marian 8, Colby 4
 The Monarchs scored two in the first only to see the Eagles answer with three
in the top of the second. The game was tied 4-4 when TMP struck for four in the
bottom of the sixth.Brynn
Rebel doubled with one out and scored what turned out to be the winning run on a
bunt single off the bat of Hannah Rose. Brooke Koeningsman followed with an RBI
double to push the lead to 6-4. With two outs Paige Keoningsman added a two-run
homer.Rebel
pitched 2 1/3 hitless innings of relief in picked up the win. Starter Bria Windholz
allowed four runs on seven hits with four strikeouts and four walks over 4 2/3
innings.

🥎 TMP-Marian sweeps Colby, starts 6-0

DODGE
CITY – The Hays High softball team opened up Western Athletic Conference play
with a convincing 15-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday at Legends Field. The Indians
(5-0, 1-0 WAC) struck early with five in the top of the first then added two in
the second and three in the third in the game which was called after three
innings by run-rule.

Riley
Dreher had three of the Indians 13 hits and drove in three runs. Brynlee Rupp,
Brooklynn Dinkel and Avery Solida all added two hits. Brynlee Brous and Solida
both drove in two runs.

Dreher
(4-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win in
the circle.

The
Indians opened the game with back-to-back walks. Dreher pushed across the first
run with a single to right. Brous followed with an RBI single. Dreher scored
the third run on a steal. Shae Augustine added an RBI single and later scored
on a steal of home.

Dreher
pushed the lead to 6-0 with an RBI triple in the second. Brous drove in a run
on a sacrifice fly to left.

Hays
opened the third inning with three straight singles. Jaylee Summers had the
third which drove in a run. Lauren Klein and Dreher followed with RBI singles. Klein
later scored on a passed ball. Dreher scored on a RBI single from Rupp. RBI singles
from Dinkel and Solida rounded out the scoring.

Hays Post SportsDODGE
CITY – The Hays High softball team opened up Western Athletic Conference play
with a convincing 15-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday at Legends Field. The Indians
(5-0, 1-0 WAC) struck early with five in the top of the first then added two in
the second and three in the third in the game which was called after three
innings by run-rule.Riley
Dreher had three of the Indians 13 hits and drove in three runs. Brynlee Rupp,
Brooklynn Dinkel and Avery Solida all added two hits. Brynlee Brous and Solida
both drove in two runs.Dreher
(4-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win in
the circle.The
Indians opened the game with back-to-back walks. Dreher pushed across the first
run with a single to right. Brous followed with an RBI single. Dreher scored
the third run on a steal. Shae Augustine added an RBI single and later scored
on a steal of home.Dreher
pushed the lead to 6-0 with an RBI triple in the second. Brous drove in a run
on a sacrifice fly to left.Hays
opened the third inning with three straight singles. Jaylee Summers had the
third which drove in a run. Lauren Klein and Dreher followed with RBI singles. Klein
later scored on a passed ball. Dreher scored on a RBI single from Rupp. RBI singles
from Dinkel and Solida rounded out the scoring.UP
NEXT

🥎 Hays High cruises past Dodge City in WAC opener

MONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's golf team finished 19th at the Spring Regional Preview, held Monday (April 7) and Tuesday (April 8) at Shangri-La Golf Club &amp; Resort in Monkey Island, Okla. The course played as a par-72 and spanned 5,813 yards.

The Tigers opened the event with a 343 in round one, then improved by a stroke on day two, posting a 342 for a two-round total of 685.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;led Fort Hays State with rounds of 79 and 81, tying for 64th at 16-over par.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;followed, tying for 84th with rounds of 85 and 80 for a 165 (+21).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/abbie-norris/8373">Abbie Norris</a>&nbsp;finished in 103rd after scores of 92 and 88 (+36), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;placed 104th with a total of 181 in rounds of 88 and 93 (+37).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>, competing as an individual, shot 91 and 98 to finish 105th at 189 (+45).The Tigers managed four birdies and 70 pars as a team across the two rounds. York finished with three while Norris had one.

Henderson State claimed the team title with a stellar total of 574 (-2), while Felisa Sajulga from Henderson State earned medalist honors at 8-under par, carding rounds of 70 and 66.

The team will take a week off as they prepare themselves for the MIAA Championships at the Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb. Tournament is set for Sunday (April 13) to Tuesday (April 15).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744193485784.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Dee Welsch" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Dee Welsch</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsMONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's golf team finished 19th at the Spring Regional Preview, held Monday (April 7) and Tuesday (April 8) at Shangri-La Golf Club &amp; Resort in Monkey Island, Okla. The course played as a par-72 and spanned 5,813 yards.The Tigers opened the event with a 343 in round one, then improved by a stroke on day two, posting a 342 for a two-round total of 685.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;led Fort Hays State with rounds of 79 and 81, tying for 64th at 16-over par.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;followed, tying for 84th with rounds of 85 and 80 for a 165 (+21).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/abbie-norris/8373">Abbie Norris</a>&nbsp;finished in 103rd after scores of 92 and 88 (+36), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;placed 104th with a total of 181 in rounds of 88 and 93 (+37).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>, competing as an individual, shot 91 and 98 to finish 105th at 189 (+45).The Tigers managed four birdies and 70 pars as a team across the two rounds. York finished with three while Norris had one.Henderson State claimed the team title with a stellar total of 574 (-2), while Felisa Sajulga from Henderson State earned medalist honors at 8-under par, carding rounds of 70 and 66.The team will take a week off as they prepare themselves for the MIAA Championships at the Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb. Tournament is set for Sunday (April 13) to Tuesday (April 15).&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ FHSU women's finish 19th at Spring Regional Preview

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>

WASHINGTON — The IRS and Department of Homeland Security reached an agreement Monday to share tax information of immigrants who have final orders of removal to help immigration agents find and deport the immigrants, according to documents filed in court.

No information between the two agencies has been shared yet, according&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.30.1_1.pdf" target="_blank">to the filings</a>&nbsp;in federal court in the District of Columbia, but the partnership would impact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/removal-system-united-states-overview" target="_blank">more than 1 million immigrants</a>&nbsp;with final removal orders, as the Trump administration carries out mass deportations of immigrants without permanent legal status.

According to a memorandum of understanding signed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and submitted to the court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials can ask the IRS to provide information about immigrants with orders of removal or immigrants involved in criminal investigations.

Some of that tax information includes sensitive details such as current addresses and information about child tax dependents.

It would be the first time the IRS shared sensitive tax information to carry out immigration enforcement.

In 2023, immigrants in the country without legal authority paid more than $89 billion in taxes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/topics/tax-contributions" target="_blank">according to the left-leaning think tank the American Immigration Council.</a>

In order to file taxes without a social security number, someone who is not a U.S. citizen would use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or an&nbsp;ITIN. As of 2022, there were more than 5.8 million active&nbsp;ITINs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-11/2024400012fr.pdf" target="_blank">according to a report by the Treasury Department Inspect General</a>.

The government filed the document in a case brought by immigration rights groups the Centro de Trabajadores Unidos and Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. The groups are trying to block the IRS from sharing tax records with DHS for immigration enforcement, arguing that such sharing violates IRS disclosure laws.

The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.31.0.pdf" target="_blank">moved Monday</a>&nbsp;to dismiss the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing that “providing information to assist criminal investigations—is lawful.”

A hearing on a preliminary injunction to block such information sharing between IRS and DHS is set for April 16 before federal Judge&nbsp;Dabney L. Friedrich, whom President Donald Trump appointed in 2017.

Friedrich ruled against the groups last month, when they asked for a temporary restraining order following a story by The Washington Post that the agencies were considering sharing information in order to find immigrants to deport.

“A single news report about future cooperation between the IRS and DHS does not establish that the plaintiffs’ members are facing imminent injury,” according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.16.0.pdf" target="_blank">March 19 order.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744140809307.png" alt="&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ahead of&nbsp; raid in Arizona Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ahead of&nbsp; raid in Arizona Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>WASHINGTON — The IRS and Department of Homeland Security reached an agreement Monday to share tax information of immigrants who have final orders of removal to help immigration agents find and deport the immigrants, according to documents filed in court.No information between the two agencies has been shared yet, according&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.30.1_1.pdf" target="_blank">to the filings</a>&nbsp;in federal court in the District of Columbia, but the partnership would impact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/removal-system-united-states-overview" target="_blank">more than 1 million immigrants</a>&nbsp;with final removal orders, as the Trump administration carries out mass deportations of immigrants without permanent legal status.According to a memorandum of understanding signed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and submitted to the court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials can ask the IRS to provide information about immigrants with orders of removal or immigrants involved in criminal investigations.Some of that tax information includes sensitive details such as current addresses and information about child tax dependents.It would be the first time the IRS shared sensitive tax information to carry out immigration enforcement.In 2023, immigrants in the country without legal authority paid more than $89 billion in taxes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/topics/tax-contributions" target="_blank">according to the left-leaning think tank the American Immigration Council.</a>In order to file taxes without a social security number, someone who is not a U.S. citizen would use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or an&nbsp;ITIN. As of 2022, there were more than 5.8 million active&nbsp;ITINs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-11/2024400012fr.pdf" target="_blank">according to a report by the Treasury Department Inspect General</a>.<h2>Groups challenging information sharing</h2>The government filed the document in a case brought by immigration rights groups the Centro de Trabajadores Unidos and Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. The groups are trying to block the IRS from sharing tax records with DHS for immigration enforcement, arguing that such sharing violates IRS disclosure laws.The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.31.0.pdf" target="_blank">moved Monday</a>&nbsp;to dismiss the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing that “providing information to assist criminal investigations—is lawful.”A hearing on a preliminary injunction to block such information sharing between IRS and DHS is set for April 16 before federal Judge&nbsp;Dabney L. Friedrich, whom President Donald Trump appointed in 2017.Friedrich ruled against the groups last month, when they asked for a temporary restraining order following a story by The Washington Post that the agencies were considering sharing information in order to find immigrants to deport.“A single news report about future cooperation between the IRS and DHS does not establish that the plaintiffs’ members are facing imminent injury,” according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.16.0.pdf" target="_blank">March 19 order.&nbsp;</a>Last updated 1:17 p.m., Apr. 8, 2025

IRS to share immigrants’ tax info with DHS

LONDON (AP) — Instagram users under 16 won’t be able to livestream or unblur nudity in direct messages they’ve received without parental approval, owner Meta Platforms said Tuesday as it widened its safety measures for teenagers.

The social media company also said it was extending safeguards for users under 18 to Facebook and Messenger.

Meta launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/instagram-meta-teen-accounts-kids-425a05cc37f81b6ff2b7439d3884c54a">teen account program</a>&nbsp;for Instagram in September to give parents more options to supervise their children’s online activity amid a growing backlash against how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/surgeon-general-social-media-mental-health-df321c791493863001754401676f165c">social media affects</a>&nbsp;the lives of young people.

The latest changes will roll out first to users in the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, before going out to global users in the following months.

Under the changes, teens under 16 are blocked from using Instagram Live unless parents give permission. They also need permission to “turn off our feature that blurs images containing suspected nudity” in direct messages, Meta said in a blog post.

In another major update, Meta said it’s extending the teen account safeguards to its Facebook and Messenger platforms,

These will include protections already in place for teen Instagram users, including setting teen accounts to private by default, blocking private messages from strangers, strict limits on sensitive content like fight videos, reminders to get off the app after 60 minutes and notifications that are halted during bedtime hours.

“Teen Accounts on Facebook and Messenger will offer similar, automatic protections to limit inappropriate content and unwanted contact, as well as ways to ensure teens’ time is well spent,” Meta said.

The company said at least 54 million teen accounts have been set up since the program launched in September.

LONDON (AP) — Instagram users under 16 won’t be able to livestream or unblur nudity in direct messages they’ve received without parental approval, owner Meta Platforms said Tuesday as it widened its safety measures for teenagers.The social media company also said it was extending safeguards for users under 18 to Facebook and Messenger.Meta launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/instagram-meta-teen-accounts-kids-425a05cc37f81b6ff2b7439d3884c54a">teen account program</a>&nbsp;for Instagram in September to give parents more options to supervise their children’s online activity amid a growing backlash against how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/surgeon-general-social-media-mental-health-df321c791493863001754401676f165c">social media affects</a>&nbsp;the lives of young people.The latest changes will roll out first to users in the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, before going out to global users in the following months.Under the changes, teens under 16 are blocked from using Instagram Live unless parents give permission. They also need permission to “turn off our feature that blurs images containing suspected nudity” in direct messages, Meta said in a blog post.In another major update, Meta said it’s extending the teen account safeguards to its Facebook and Messenger platforms,These will include protections already in place for teen Instagram users, including setting teen accounts to private by default, blocking private messages from strangers, strict limits on sensitive content like fight videos, reminders to get off the app after 60 minutes and notifications that are halted during bedtime hours.“Teen Accounts on Facebook and Messenger will offer similar, automatic protections to limit inappropriate content and unwanted contact, as well as ways to ensure teens’ time is well spent,” Meta said.The company said at least 54 million teen accounts have been set up since the program launched in September.

New rules will limit kids under 16 on Instagram 

SCOTT CITY - The Hays High boys tennis team finished in third place at Tuesday's Scott City Invitational.

Ken Shaffer went 3-0 and won No. 2 singles. Kale Schwein went 2-1 and placed second at No. 1 singles.

The No. 1 doubles team of Preston Parr and Mason Schleicher went 2-2 and finished in fifth place as the did the No. 2 doubles team of Christian Miller and Madox Zimmerman.

The Indians host their own invitational on Monday, April 14.

Hays Post SportsSCOTT CITY - The Hays High boys tennis team finished in third place at Tuesday's Scott City Invitational.Ken Shaffer went 3-0 and won No. 2 singles. Kale Schwein went 2-1 and placed second at No. 1 singles.The No. 1 doubles team of Preston Parr and Mason Schleicher went 2-2 and finished in fifth place as the did the No. 2 doubles team of Christian Miller and Madox Zimmerman.The Indians host their own invitational on Monday, April 14.

🎾 HHS boys third at Scott City, Shaffer wins No. 2 singles

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with&nbsp;Andrea Wichers about the use of adaptive technology in the local special education cooperative.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Adaptive Technology for Students with Disabilities" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=nysgu-186ea18-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with&nbsp;Andrea Wichers about the use of adaptive technology in the local special education cooperative.

🎙Post Podcast: Adaptive speech, language technology in local school districts

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Get ready for a splash of color, as paintball may be the next big thrill in Ellis County.

Imagine Ellis County hosted its first Think-Tank Throwdown Thursday in downtown Hays to explore opportunities to improve the county.

Ellis County residents pitched their ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to bring their visions to life. Leigh Purdy earned first place and secured a contract with Imagine Ellis County to carry out her project in memory of a former classmate.

"Hays is famous for disc golf. Let's make it famous for paintball, too," Purdy said.

Purdy proposed the Cody Joseph Younger Memorial Paintball Park. Similar to a skate park, it would be a free, bring-your-own-gear facility to provide local youth and families with safe and exciting outdoor recreation.

Preliminary location ideas for the 0.5 to 1-acre facility included Elizabeth Polly Park and Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park in Hays. However, Purdy said she is open to placing it in other Ellis County communities.

The youth and activity center would promote teamwork, strategy and physical activity through paintball games like capture the flag, team deathmatch, king of the hill and battle royale.

Purdy said the facility could also offer options for airsoft, laser tag and Nerf guns.

"This would encourage teamwork and strategy," she said.

Purdy detailed the costs and materials in her presentation, saying the project would stay within a $2,500 to $5,000 budget. She hopes to secure donated materials as well.

Materials include plastic culverts, rain barrels, wooden spools, sandbags, tires and concrete barriers.

Purdy said the Hays Park Department could provide maintenance assistance, with volunteers and local service clubs also participating.

Purdy said there is a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment, which has the potential to engage local businesses and boost tourism.

With the nearest paintball park 90 miles away in Assaria, Purdy said there's a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment. She highlighted the potential to generate local business engagement and boost tourism.

"I love the opportunity to honor my late friend and bring something really cool to Ellis County. Thank you for allowing us this opportunity," she said.

Anthony Hurla proposed a nonprofit recreational facility focusing on a paintball course. The long-term vision is to expand into a full-scale activity center featuring go-karts, laser tag, roller hockey and rock climbing.

Hurla's plan is to start with a low-impact paintball park, which he described as the most cost-effective option for kids and adults,  offering an affordable, accessible and alcohol-free environment.

According to James Robben, Grow Hays' director of business development and special projects, Hurla and Purdy will work together due to their similar ideas.

Hurla’s proposal also suggested using profits to support road repairs, building improvements and other needs in Ellis County. He placed second in the competition.

Other ideas presented at the Think-Tank Throwdown included a vending ice machine at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, an organic greenhouse and affordable tiny homes to help address the housing shortage.

The remaining participants will be connected with community members who can help develop their projects. Grow Hays intern Elizabeth Noble led the Think-Tank Throwdown, which was judged by a panel of three.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744054667048.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostGet ready for a splash of color, as paintball may be the next big thrill in Ellis County.Imagine Ellis County hosted its first Think-Tank Throwdown Thursday in downtown Hays to explore opportunities to improve the county.Ellis County residents pitched their ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to bring their visions to life. Leigh Purdy earned first place and secured a contract with Imagine Ellis County to carry out her project in memory of a former classmate."Hays is famous for disc golf. Let's make it famous for paintball, too," Purdy said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744055097182.jpeg" alt="Leigh Purdy awarded a certificate for her Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Leigh Purdy awarded a certificate for her Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Purdy proposed the Cody Joseph Younger Memorial Paintball Park. Similar to a skate park, it would be a free, bring-your-own-gear facility to provide local youth and families with safe and exciting outdoor recreation.Preliminary location ideas for the 0.5 to 1-acre facility included Elizabeth Polly Park and Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park in Hays. However, Purdy said she is open to placing it in other Ellis County communities.The youth and activity center would promote teamwork, strategy and physical activity through paintball games like capture the flag, team deathmatch, king of the hill and battle royale.Purdy said the facility could also offer options for airsoft, laser tag and Nerf guns."This would encourage teamwork and strategy," she said.Purdy detailed the costs and materials in her presentation, saying the project would stay within a $2,500 to $5,000 budget. She hopes to secure donated materials as well.Materials include plastic culverts, rain barrels, wooden spools, sandbags, tires and concrete barriers.Purdy said the Hays Park Department could provide maintenance assistance, with volunteers and local service clubs also participating.Purdy said there is a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment, which has the potential to engage local businesses and boost tourism.With the nearest paintball park 90 miles away in Assaria, Purdy said there's a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment. She highlighted the potential to generate local business engagement and boost tourism."I love the opportunity to honor my late friend and bring something really cool to Ellis County. Thank you for allowing us this opportunity," she said.<h2>Nonprofit activity center</h2>Anthony Hurla proposed a nonprofit recreational facility focusing on a paintball course. The long-term vision is to expand into a full-scale activity center featuring go-karts, laser tag, roller hockey and rock climbing.Hurla's plan is to start with a low-impact paintball park, which he described as the most cost-effective option for kids and adults, offering an affordable, accessible and alcohol-free environment.According to James Robben, Grow Hays' director of business development and special projects, Hurla and Purdy will work together due to their similar ideas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744055140568.jpeg" alt="Anthony Hurla awarded a certificate for his Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Hurla awarded a certificate for his Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hurla’s proposal also suggested using profits to support road repairs, building improvements and other needs in Ellis County. He placed second in the competition.Other ideas presented at the Think-Tank Throwdown included a vending ice machine at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, an organic greenhouse and affordable tiny homes to help address the housing shortage.The remaining participants will be connected with community members who can help develop their projects. Grow Hays intern Elizabeth Noble led the Think-Tank Throwdown, which was judged by a panel of three.

Imagine Ellis County awards contract for paintball facility

John 'Johnny' Braun age 94, passed away April 5, 2025, at his home in Victoria,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born August 1,1930, on the family farm west of Victoria,
the middle of nine children to Raymond P. and Agnes (Staab) Braun.&nbsp; On
November 20, 1954, he married Josephine (Josie) Riedel in Walker, KS.&nbsp;
They had seven children.

John was a carpenter, a builder, and a farmer.&nbsp; He worked for Levin Kuhn
House Moving, and Victoria Lumber Company for many years.&nbsp; He was a 1949
graduate of Victoria High School, and a veteran of the U.S. Army.&nbsp; He was
drafted into military service from 1951 to 1953 serving in the Korean
War.&nbsp; He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1953 serving as Grand Knight in
1992, became a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus in 1984 serving as
Faithful Navigator in 1990,&nbsp; was a lifetime VFW member, and serving on the
color guard for military funeral services.&nbsp; He was Post Commander from
2003-2005 and again from 2007-2009. John was a member of the Basilica of St
Fidelis and lead many a rosary in church and at wake services.&nbsp; He also
served on the USD 432 School Board and St. Fidelis Parish Council.

John is survived by his wife, Josie, of the home; his children, James Braun and
wife, Sandy, Brighton, CO; Janet Giersch and husband, Larry, Hays, KS; Joseph
Braun and Thom Jackson, Wamego, KS; Joan Rourke and husband Kevin, Russell, KS;
John R. Braun and wife, Connie, Victoria, KS; Judy Brummer and husband,
Stephen, Hays, KS;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744058881646.jpeg" alt="John 'Johnny' Braun" />
 <figcaption>John 'Johnny' Braun</figcaption>
 </figure>John 'Johnny' Braun age 94, passed away April 5, 2025, at his home in Victoria,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born August 1,1930, on the family farm west of Victoria,
the middle of nine children to Raymond P. and Agnes (Staab) Braun.&nbsp; On
November 20, 1954, he married Josephine (Josie) Riedel in Walker, KS.&nbsp;
They had seven children.John was a carpenter, a builder, and a farmer.&nbsp; He worked for Levin Kuhn
House Moving, and Victoria Lumber Company for many years.&nbsp; He was a 1949
graduate of Victoria High School, and a veteran of the U.S. Army.&nbsp; He was
drafted into military service from 1951 to 1953 serving in the Korean
War.&nbsp; He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1953 serving as Grand Knight in
1992, became a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus in 1984 serving as
Faithful Navigator in 1990,&nbsp; was a lifetime VFW member, and serving on the
color guard for military funeral services.&nbsp; He was Post Commander from
2003-2005 and again from 2007-2009. John was a member of the Basilica of St
Fidelis and lead many a rosary in church and at wake services.&nbsp; He also
served on the USD 432 School Board and St. Fidelis Parish Council.John is survived by his wife, Josie, of the home; his children, James Braun and
wife, Sandy, Brighton, CO; Janet Giersch and husband, Larry, Hays, KS; Joseph
Braun and Thom Jackson, Wamego, KS; Joan Rourke and husband Kevin, Russell, KS;
John R. Braun and wife, Connie, Victoria, KS; Judy Brummer and husband,
Stephen, Hays, KS;&nbsp;Jerry
Braun, Hays, KS; his twelve grandchildren; Jessica Butte and husband, Zachary;
Sarah Seibel and husband, Brett; Alicia Bruce and husband, Mike; Emily Nuttle
and husband, Dalton; Alan Rourke and wife Ryan; Kelli Rourke and Andrei Gurau;
Eric Rourke and wife, McKaleigh; Kyle Rourke; Caroline Shivers and husband,
Kevin; Amanda Disberger and husband, Jay; Ethan Brummer and fiancé, Chloe
Plumer; Ella Brummer;&nbsp;his sixteen great grandchildren; his sisters-in-law, Stella Braun, Hays, KS; Zita Riedel, Mission, KS and Marilyn Riedel, Overland Park, KS.He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Agnes Braun; his
brothers, Charles Braun and wives, Lucille and Lillian; Albert Braun; Elmer
Braun; his sisters, Clara Baier and husband, Loren; Irene Leiker and husband,
Clarence; Fidelia Honas and husband, Eddie; Lillian Braun; and Theresa Kuhn and
husband, Oliver.A&nbsp; Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 12,
2025. at the Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas
with celebrant, Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap.Burial will follow in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with military
honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post 1751.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. Friday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
Victoria, then from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M.
Saturday, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas, A Rosary with the 3rd &amp; 4th Degree Knights of
Columbus/V.F.W./Daughters of Isabella, will be at 6:45 P.M. Friday, followed
by a vigil service at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis.The family suggests memorials made payable to: the Windholz-Kuhn V.F.W. Post #
1751 in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas
67671.&nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>