Five candidates are running for four seats on the Ellis 388 school board. Those candidates include Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern, Stephanie Johnson and Brian Shannon.

Four candidates are running for three positions on the Ellis City Council. Those candidates include Devin Henderson, Brady Richards, John Walz and Terry Zerfas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697233293243.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Five candidates are running for four seats on the Ellis 388 school board. Those candidates include Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern, Stephanie Johnson and Brian Shannon.Four candidates are running for three positions on the Ellis City Council. Those candidates include Devin Henderson, Brady Richards, John Walz and Terry Zerfas.Cover photo by Pixabay.

Ellis Chamber to host Ellis school board, city council candidate forum Wednesday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Historian and author Leo Oliva about the history of railroads in Kansas and his upcoming presentations.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas railroad historian Leo Oliva" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gsjwt-14cf260-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Historian and author Leo Oliva about the history of railroads in Kansas and his upcoming presentations.

Forward Ever: Kansas railroad historian Leo Oliva

ELLIS — Congratulations to Homecoming King and Queen, Mason Younger and Jadyn Starns, who were crowned at our football game on Friday, October 6. 

  Ellis High School had a fabulous week celebrating homecoming! 

 The class of 2025, the junior class, were the overall spirit winners.  In addition, the junior class won best float featuring a Halloween theme.  The juniors continued their winning streak by being the only class to defeat the faculty and staff in volleyball. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697032570570.jpeg" alt="Back Row (L to R): Candidate Logan Russell,&nbsp;son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; KING Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Candidate Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson.&nbsp;Front Row (L to R): Candidate Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed; Crown Bearer Grayson LaBarge, son of Brevin and Tara LaBarge; QUEEN Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Flower Girl Georgia Meagher, daughter of Matthew and Jessica Meagher; Candidate Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig &amp; Becky Seibel." />
 <figcaption>Back Row (L to R): Candidate Logan Russell,&nbsp;son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; KING Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Candidate Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson.&nbsp;Front Row (L to R): Candidate Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed; Crown Bearer Grayson LaBarge, son of Brevin and Tara LaBarge; QUEEN Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Flower Girl Georgia Meagher, daughter of Matthew and Jessica Meagher; Candidate Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig &amp; Becky Seibel.</figcaption>
 </figure>SUBMITTEDELLIS — Congratulations to Homecoming King and Queen, Mason Younger and Jadyn Starns, who were crowned at our football game on Friday, October 6. Ellis High School had a fabulous week celebrating homecoming! The class of 2025, the junior class, were the overall spirit winners. In addition, the junior class won best float featuring a Halloween theme. The juniors continued their winning streak by being the only class to defeat the faculty and staff in volleyball. It was a great week to be a Railer!

Ellis High School crowns homecoming royalty

ELLIS — Ellis High School Volleyball Senior Night is Tuesday, October 3, at the home triangular against Plainville and Trego.&nbsp; Volleyball action begins at 4:30 p.m.&nbsp; Senior recognition will take place prior to the last match at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Congratulations to our seniors and good luck to the Railroader Volleyball team!&nbsp; Railer Pride!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695920892665.jpeg" alt="Emily James, daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens; Kylee Pfeifer, daughter of Brandon and Chandra Pfeifer; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Braelyn Born, daughter of Brock and Coleen Born; and Kaydawn Haag, daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag." />
 <figcaption>Emily James, daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens; Kylee Pfeifer, daughter of Brandon and Chandra Pfeifer; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Braelyn Born, daughter of Brock and Coleen Born; and Kaydawn Haag, daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag.</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — Ellis High School Volleyball Senior Night is Tuesday, October 3, at the home triangular against Plainville and Trego.&nbsp; Volleyball action begins at 4:30 p.m.&nbsp; Senior recognition will take place prior to the last match at approximately 6:30 p.m.Congratulations to our seniors and good luck to the Railroader Volleyball team!&nbsp; Railer Pride!

Ellis High School Volleyball senior night is Tuesday

ELLIS — The theme for the 2023 Ellis Homecoming week is The Holidays.

The homecoming football game will be played on Friday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. against the Oakley Plainsmen. &nbsp;The parade will be on Friday afternoon starting at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Booster Club will host a BBQ from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Crowning will be at 6:30 p.m. and the homecoming dance will follow the football game.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695226323243.jpeg" alt="2023 Ellis High School homecoming royalty are (Back Row L to R): Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson; Logan Russell, son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>2023 Ellis High School homecoming royalty are (Back Row L to R): Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson; Logan Russell, son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — The theme for the 2023 Ellis Homecoming week is The Holidays.The homecoming football game will be played on Friday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. against the Oakley Plainsmen. &nbsp;The parade will be on Friday afternoon starting at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Booster Club will host a BBQ from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Crowning will be at 6:30 p.m. and the homecoming dance will follow the football game.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695226815085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

2023 Ellis High School Homecoming Royalty announced

ELLIS — St. Mary’s of Ellis is hosting their 29th&nbsp;Annual Parish Auction on Saturday, October 14. 

The evening will begin at 4:00 p.m. with Mass, followed by doors opening at 5:00 p.m. with our Silent Auction. This event is open to anyone 21 years of age and older.&nbsp; 

All proceeds raised are used to finance mainly our school and then our church’s needs. 

We invite you to come join us for an evening filled with a dinner, open bar, silent and live auction, games and raffles!&nbsp; 

Tickets are on sale now for $60.00 per person (will increase after Oct. 1).&nbsp; Raffle tickets to cash raffles are available now, too.&nbsp; 

Call the St. Mary’s Parish Office at 785-726-4522 to reserve your seat and/or purchase raffle tickets or visit our auction website at&nbsp;<a href="https://charityauction.bid/stmarysauction2023" target="_blank">https://charityauction.bid/stmarysauction2023</a>&nbsp;to view the items to be auctioned off, purchase admission tickets and raffle tickets!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695224451911.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — St. Mary’s of Ellis is hosting their 29th&nbsp;Annual Parish Auction on Saturday, October 14. The evening will begin at 4:00 p.m. with Mass, followed by doors opening at 5:00 p.m. with our Silent Auction. This event is open to anyone 21 years of age and older.&nbsp; All proceeds raised are used to finance mainly our school and then our church’s needs. We invite you to come join us for an evening filled with a dinner, open bar, silent and live auction, games and raffles!&nbsp; Tickets are on sale now for $60.00 per person (will increase after Oct. 1).&nbsp; Raffle tickets to cash raffles are available now, too.&nbsp; Call the St. Mary’s Parish Office at 785-726-4522 to reserve your seat and/or purchase raffle tickets or visit our auction website at&nbsp;<a href="https://charityauction.bid/stmarysauction2023" target="_blank">https://charityauction.bid/stmarysauction2023</a>&nbsp;to view the items to be auctioned off, purchase admission tickets and raffle tickets!

Annual Ellis St. Mary's parish auction and Mardi Gras is Oct. 14; tickets on sale now

Primary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer.

While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. 

Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.

September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs

“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel

Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):

• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science.

• In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.

• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.

• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.

• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”

• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)

Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.

Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. 

Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINPrimary source research adds dimension to history. Hard copy sources limit researchers’ hypotheses and speculations. Sometimes, however, sources create more questions than they answer. While working on this project in 1992, time restraints (I had approximately seven weeks to complete the project, including research, writing, and editing). Access to documents limited what I could include in my paper. Among favorite finds was Ellis Public Schools Second Annual Catalogue for 1913 – 1914. It offers insights into the community’s expectations for graduates and a couple of photos. Frankly, Ellis students who completed the work required for graduation left school prepared to enter the workforce. I’ve copied passages from the document to share with readers.Calendar, 1913 – 1914September 1-Enrollment and Classification September 2-Entrance Examination September 3-Regular Coursework Begins October 23 and 24-Half term Examination November 27 and 28-Thanksgiving Vacation December 18 and 19-First Term Examination December 19 to January 25-Christmas Vacation January 5-Second Term begins March 12 and 13-Half term examinations May 11-Baccalaureate Sermon May 18, 19, and 20-Final Examinations May 20-Commencement May 21-Alumni Day May 22-Last Day Programs Quote in program:“The essential business of the school is not so much to teach and communicate a variety and multiplicity of things as it is to give prominence to the ever-living unity that is in all things.” Froebel<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225334822.jpeg" alt="1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>1913-1914 Ellis High School staff&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Fifteen Units are Required for Graduation&nbsp;(shared as written in the manual):• Students who are preparing for admission to college should choose their elective studies so as to include at least two units in some foreign language and three units in one subject besides English to be taken from the following: Foreign language, mathematics, history, natural science. • In branches which do not require preparation by the student outside of the recitation a unit of credit is given for a course of daily exercises extending through the year with double, or eighty-minute periods, and a half unit of credit is given for a course extending through the year with forty-minute periods.• The Normal Training Course meets the requirements of the State Board of Education.• If agriculture and domestic science are taken in the third year, this course will also satisfy the requirements of the State Board with reference to appropriations for these subjects.• If two units in a foreign language are included in the electives, the course will be satisfactory for admission to most colleges.”• Satisfactory rhetoricals are required of all students.” (Students were required to demonstrate mastery over a variety of writing skills and styles.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225394463.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School senior class of 1913. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Mahree Hamilton, Marie Chamberlain, Grace Houston, and Anna Shields fulfilled graduation goals as the senior class of 1913.Later, in part 10 of this history, I’ll share high school course work schedules for college bound and non-college bound seniors. Students who satisfactorily completed that course work had skills to achieve any number of goals. Combining the district’s expected rigor with family expectations that sub-adult children contribute to family economies helps present day readers understand why graduating classes were small. Not every young person could devote the necessary time to meeting course requirements.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

MADORIN: History of Ellis Schools – Part 9

ELLIS — On Tuesday at 7:07 p.m., officers from the Ellis Police Department were dispatched to Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington, in Ellis for a report of a robbery.

 The victim reported that two males in an SUV with Florida plates had taken money out of his hand and fled the area.&nbsp;

Officers arrived on scene shortly after the call was dispatched and searched the immediate area of the incident for the suspect vehicle.

 Officers gathered a description of the suspects and the vehicle they were in and had it broadcast to other law enforcement agencies in our area.

 The suspects were located at the 165 eastbound mile marker on Interstate 70 at about 7:19 p.m. by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

 Using a photograph of the suspects, the victim was able to confirm the suspects who were stopped were the ones involved in the incident.&nbsp;

The suspects were then identified as Ungurel Andrei Mutu, 32, of Romania and Dragos Iosif Grozavu, 31, also of Romania. 

A juvenile also was in the vehicle. Grozavu and Mutu were then placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Ellis County Jail, where they are being held on requested charges of robbery.

"I’d like to thank my officers for their quick response, as well as the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, and Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said.

"I’d also like to remind our citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity when it occurs," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221449405.png" alt="Mutu-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Mutu-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentELLIS — On Tuesday at 7:07 p.m., officers from the Ellis Police Department were dispatched to Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington, in Ellis for a report of a robbery. The victim reported that two males in an SUV with Florida plates had taken money out of his hand and fled the area.&nbsp;Officers arrived on scene shortly after the call was dispatched and searched the immediate area of the incident for the suspect vehicle. Officers gathered a description of the suspects and the vehicle they were in and had it broadcast to other law enforcement agencies in our area. The suspects were located at the 165 eastbound mile marker on Interstate 70 at about 7:19 p.m. by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Using a photograph of the suspects, the victim was able to confirm the suspects who were stopped were the ones involved in the incident.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221509033.png" alt="Grozavu-photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Grozavu-photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspects were then identified as Ungurel Andrei Mutu, 32, of Romania and Dragos Iosif Grozavu, 31, also of Romania. A juvenile also was in the vehicle. Grozavu and Mutu were then placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Ellis County Jail, where they are being held on requested charges of robbery."I’d like to thank my officers for their quick response, as well as the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, and Hays Communications Center for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said."I’d also like to remind our citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity when it occurs," he said.

2 arrested following robbery in Ellis

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that 24 communities in rural counties throughout the state will, including Ellis and Gorham, receive a share of nearly $7.9 million in federal grants to assist with community development projects.

The Community Development Block Grant program, facilitated and administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Division, is a federal grant program that funds various local projects. The $7,897,922 will be matched with local funding, allowing more than $16.9 million to be available.

In Ellis County, the city of Ellis will receive&nbsp;$334,216 in grant funds for a park project, to be matched locally with&nbsp;$143,235. Total project cost is $477,451.

In Graham County, the city of Morland&nbsp;will also have a park improvement project at a total cost of&nbsp;$188,792. The city received a&nbsp;$141,594 state grant and will match it with&nbsp;$47,198 in local funds.&nbsp;

“The Community Development Block Grant program provides the funding needed for communities to make critical improvements they otherwise might not be able to afford,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “We will continue leveraging all available resources that make positive economic impacts to communities across Kansas.”

“These revitalization projects will help improve the overall business and residential appeal of these communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in these specific assets will help spur further economic development in areas of need throughout the state.”

CDBG awards were made in five program areas:

The CDBG program provides federal funds to local governments to develop viable communities by addressing their housing, public facilities, and economic needs. To be awarded funds, projects must meet at least one of three program objectives:

The CDBG funds are one of the Department of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s smaller, predominantly rural communities. 

To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jZGJnLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MjYuODAyMTU5MjEifQ.IZK-qEgYcuD-vT3yiL5tKeqB8WL5cvTTQAUczCsBJoo/s/1303161001/br/223232102929-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690403191751.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that 24 communities in rural counties throughout the state will, including Ellis and Gorham, receive a share of nearly $7.9 million in federal grants to assist with community development projects.The Community Development Block Grant program, facilitated and administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Division, is a federal grant program that funds various local projects. The $7,897,922 will be matched with local funding, allowing more than $16.9 million to be available.In Ellis County, the city of Ellis will receive&nbsp;$334,216 in grant funds for a park project, to be matched locally with&nbsp;$143,235. Total project cost is $477,451.In Graham County, the city of Morland&nbsp;will also have a park improvement project at a total cost of&nbsp;$188,792. The city received a&nbsp;$141,594 state grant and will match it with&nbsp;$47,198 in local funds.&nbsp;“The Community Development Block Grant program provides the funding needed for communities to make critical improvements they otherwise might not be able to afford,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “We will continue leveraging all available resources that make positive economic impacts to communities across Kansas.”“These revitalization projects will help improve the overall business and residential appeal of these communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in these specific assets will help spur further economic development in areas of need throughout the state.”CDBG awards were made in five program areas:<ol>
 <li>Community Centers, Parks &amp; Libraries&nbsp;funds projects to increase community engagement, health, connectedness, and vibrancy in communities. Morland, for example, was one of the 13 award recipients. The city has proposed a project to construct a looped trail/walking path around Morland City Park and the addition of new curbs, gutters, and ADA-accessible parking.</li><li>Sidewalks &amp; Trails&nbsp;funds projects that connect community members to services, community centers, schools, and recreational areas. Wathena will use this funding to construct a wide sidewalk, retaining wall, utility modifications, pavement marking, and surface restorations in their community.</li><li>Childcare Facilities&nbsp;funds projects to address the childcare shortage in Kansas. These grants help fund the construction of facilities and cannot be used for operations. Hillsboro will use these funds to renovate a building that will provide childcare to 99 children in their community.</li><li>Youth Job Training&nbsp;funds projects to address the needs of at-risk youth in workforce training and development. Sumner County will use this funding to assist low- to moderate-income high school students in attending classes at a local community college. Classes will focus on trade and technical skills to address workforce needs identified in their community.</li><li>ADA Improvements&nbsp;fund projects that increase access to essential goods and services in downtown or Main Street districts and other non-residential buildings in the community. Cottonwood Falls will use its funding to remove barriers for nine businesses, including installing ramps and door openers and increasing door widths to improve ADA access for community members.</li>
 </ol>The CDBG program provides federal funds to local governments to develop viable communities by addressing their housing, public facilities, and economic needs. To be awarded funds, projects must meet at least one of three program objectives:<ol>
 <li>The grant will benefit low- and moderate-income persons.</li><li>The grant will prevent or eliminate slums and blight.</li><li>The grant will resolve an urgent need that communities are not able to do on their own.</li>
 </ol>The CDBG funds are one of the Department of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s smaller, predominantly rural communities. To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jZGJnLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MjYuODAyMTU5MjEifQ.IZK-qEgYcuD-vT3yiL5tKeqB8WL5cvTTQAUczCsBJoo/s/1303161001/br/223232102929-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Ellis, Morland receive state grants for park projects

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Three-hundred cyclists rode across Ellis County Saturday to visit several Volga German Chapels and experience the culture.&nbsp;

This is the fourth-annual Tour of Chapels, including stops at St. Catherine Church in Catharine, The Basilica on the Plains in Victoria, Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer and St. Francis Church in Munjor.&nbsp;

Cyclists chose from a 15-mile casual ride to a 100-mile ride across the county that began at Hays Municipal Park. The ride concluded in the Municipal Park with meals and refreshments as The Joe Dolezal Polka Band performed.&nbsp;

Deanna Lusk came from Derby and biked 50 miles to visit Holy Cross Church. Lusk said it was a positive experience despite the challenging hills and wind conditions early in the morning.&nbsp;

This was her first Tour of the Chapels and advises future goers to be prepared for the demanding journey.

“If you're just starting cycling take it 5-10 miles at a time, work your way up to bigger rides and make sure you got enough nutrition and water,” Lusk said.&nbsp;

Brian Buckstead, Hays Symphony conductor, performed at St. Catherine Church, Basilica of the Plains with their Brass Quintet led by Kathy Amrein. Jane Hyde played at Holy Cross Church while Hillary Shepard, Kristin Pisano and Ben Cline took center stage at St Francis Church.&nbsp;

Kay Werth, a coordinator of the event, wanted to raise money for the churches while also promoting wellness and cyclists in the community.

“I have always loved No. 1 our faith and No. 2 biking,” she said. “As you get older, you become more health conscious and you want a heart-healthy lifestyle.”

Each year, a different church is chosen to receive the majority of the profit. For this year, the Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer was selected as the receiver.

Two buses visited the same destinations as the cyclists to experience music and learn historical information at each church. The bus route included George Grant’s Villa, Old Walker Air Base and the remains of Sacred Heart Church.&nbsp;

Jerry Braun is a descendant of Volga Germans who migrated from Russia to Ellis County in 1876. He worked as the bus tour guide, providing historical knowledge and showcasing the legacy of Ellis County.&nbsp;

Dette Younger toured the chapels via bus and said the Holy Cross Church was her favorite to visit because of her father's connection to the church.&nbsp;

Younger said she learned a lot on the bus ride, from the chapels still in operation to the burned remains of the Emmeram Church.&nbsp;

The feedback received so far has prompted the organizers to start contemplating next year's annual event.&nbsp;

“I think it was very detailed oriented, and we tried to cover almost every facet, but it’s certainly not without areas that could use improvement,” Werth said.&nbsp;

The post-ride German meal may accommodate those with dietary restrictions next year by including vegan and gluten-free options for those who attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689016389736.jpeg" alt="Start and finish line for Tour Die Kapellen. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Start and finish line for Tour Die Kapellen. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post Three-hundred cyclists rode across Ellis County Saturday to visit several Volga German Chapels and experience the culture.&nbsp;This is the fourth-annual Tour of Chapels, including stops at St. Catherine Church in Catharine, The Basilica on the Plains in Victoria, Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer and St. Francis Church in Munjor.&nbsp;Cyclists chose from a 15-mile casual ride to a 100-mile ride across the county that began at Hays Municipal Park. The ride concluded in the Municipal Park with meals and refreshments as The Joe Dolezal Polka Band performed.&nbsp;Deanna Lusk came from Derby and biked 50 miles to visit Holy Cross Church. Lusk said it was a positive experience despite the challenging hills and wind conditions early in the morning.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689020785865.jpeg" alt="The Holy Cross Shrine in Pfeifer. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Holy Cross Shrine in Pfeifer. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017899596.jpeg" alt="Tourists inside The Holy Cross Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tourists inside The Holy Cross Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017957994.jpeg" alt="Tourists inside The Holy Cross Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tourists inside The Holy Cross Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>This was her first Tour of the Chapels and advises future goers to be prepared for the demanding journey.“If you're just starting cycling take it 5-10 miles at a time, work your way up to bigger rides and make sure you got enough nutrition and water,” Lusk said.&nbsp;Brian Buckstead, Hays Symphony conductor, performed at St. Catherine Church, Basilica of the Plains with their Brass Quintet led by Kathy Amrein. Jane Hyde played at Holy Cross Church while Hillary Shepard, Kristin Pisano and Ben Cline took center stage at St Francis Church.&nbsp;Kay Werth, a coordinator of the event, wanted to raise money for the churches while also promoting wellness and cyclists in the community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017605932.jpeg" alt="The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017369526.jpeg" alt="Bikes left outside St. Fidelis. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Bikes left outside St. Fidelis. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017536290.jpeg" alt="Cyclists outside St. Fidelis. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cyclists outside St. Fidelis. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“I have always loved No. 1 our faith and No. 2 biking,” she said. “As you get older, you become more health conscious and you want a heart-healthy lifestyle.”Each year, a different church is chosen to receive the majority of the profit. For this year, the Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer was selected as the receiver.Two buses visited the same destinations as the cyclists to experience music and learn historical information at each church. The bus route included George Grant’s Villa, Old Walker Air Base and the remains of Sacred Heart Church.&nbsp;Jerry Braun is a descendant of Volga Germans who migrated from Russia to Ellis County in 1876. He worked as the bus tour guide, providing historical knowledge and showcasing the legacy of Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018178195.jpeg" alt="Tourists entering the bus for the tour. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tourists entering the bus for the tour. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018357243.jpeg" alt="St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Munjor. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Munjor. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018428772.jpeg" alt="Tourists inside St. Francis Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tourists inside St. Francis Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018472079.jpeg" alt="Ben Cline playing the cello at St. Francis Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ben Cline playing the cello at St. Francis Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Dette Younger toured the chapels via bus and said the Holy Cross Church was her favorite to visit because of her father's connection to the church.&nbsp;Younger said she learned a lot on the bus ride, from the chapels still in operation to the burned remains of the Emmeram Church.&nbsp;The feedback received so far has prompted the organizers to start contemplating next year's annual event.&nbsp;“I think it was very detailed oriented, and we tried to cover almost every facet, but it’s certainly not without areas that could use improvement,” Werth said.&nbsp;The post-ride German meal may accommodate those with dietary restrictions next year by including vegan and gluten-free options for those who attend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689016982585.jpeg" alt="St. Catherine Church at Catharine. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>St. Catherine Church at Catharine. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689017203292.jpeg" alt="Tourists inside Catherine Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tourists inside Catherine Church. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018685980.jpeg" alt="Attendees lining up for German food. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Attendees lining up for German food. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689018751088.jpeg" alt="Attendees dance as The Joe Dolezal Polka Band plays. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Attendees dance as The Joe Dolezal Polka Band plays. Tony Guerrero/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>

Tour De Kapellen bike ride spotlights history of Ellis County

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Sunday morning a vehicle crashed into Gross Memorial Coliseum at Fort Hays State University, causing damage to the interior and exterior of the building.

On the same day, Hays Police responded to a train versus vehicle crash involving a car with the same description.

At 10:15 a.m. Sunday, FHSU police were called to Gross Memorial Coliseum. They arrived to find broken glass and the doors at the east side entrance pushed down the hallway, said FHSU Police Chief Terry Pierce.

Warning: Coarse language - Courtesy video

“Upon arrival, university police began an investigation and determined that a vehicle had been driven up the ramped sidewalk on the east side of the building and through the glass doors,” Pierce said.&nbsp;

No injuries were reported at Gross Memorial Coliseum, he said.&nbsp;

“Evidence left at the scene indicates that a vehicle was driven most of the way eastbound through the hallway before backing out and leaving the same way it entered the building,” Pierce said.&nbsp;

Pierce said the Gross Memorial case is under investigation.

The Hays Police Department was dispatched to Eighth and Vine streets regarding a vehicle with one occupant inside being struck by a train sometime before 8:12 a.m.

A 2011 Volkswagon Golf drove onto the tracks and intentionally centered itself before the train collided with it, Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said.&nbsp;

That vehicle description matches the incident described at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

“University Police were able to identify the make and model of the vehicle involved based upon parts of the vehicle left at the scene,” Pierce said.&nbsp;

The driver of the vehicle was injured and was transported to Hays Medical Center before being taken to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Scheibler said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The vehicle was heavily damaged, but the railway tracks and train returned to use after the investigation was completed.&nbsp;

The train incident remains under investigation. No charges have been filed at this time.

“Right now, our goal is to provide him medical treatment and get him the mental health services he needs. That’s our primary goal,” Scheibler said. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687385891837.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostSunday morning a vehicle crashed into Gross Memorial Coliseum at Fort Hays State University, causing damage to the interior and exterior of the building.On the same day, Hays Police responded to a train versus vehicle crash involving a car with the same description.At 10:15 a.m. Sunday, FHSU police were called to Gross Memorial Coliseum. They arrived to find broken glass and the doors at the east side entrance pushed down the hallway, said FHSU Police Chief Terry Pierce.<div><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/cLj9ifbN-Eh32vLZ0.html" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Img-6789" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Warning: Coarse language - Courtesy video“Upon arrival, university police began an investigation and determined that a vehicle had been driven up the ramped sidewalk on the east side of the building and through the glass doors,” Pierce said.&nbsp;No injuries were reported at Gross Memorial Coliseum, he said.&nbsp;“Evidence left at the scene indicates that a vehicle was driven most of the way eastbound through the hallway before backing out and leaving the same way it entered the building,” Pierce said.&nbsp;Pierce said the Gross Memorial case is under investigation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687385961134.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department was dispatched to Eighth and Vine streets regarding a vehicle with one occupant inside being struck by a train sometime before 8:12 a.m.A 2011 Volkswagon Golf drove onto the tracks and intentionally centered itself before the train collided with it, Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said.&nbsp;That vehicle description matches the incident described at Gross Memorial Coliseum.“University Police were able to identify the make and model of the vehicle involved based upon parts of the vehicle left at the scene,” Pierce said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687385989340.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver of the vehicle was injured and was transported to Hays Medical Center before being taken to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Scheibler said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vehicle was heavily damaged, but the railway tracks and train returned to use after the investigation was completed.&nbsp;The train incident remains under investigation. No charges have been filed at this time.“Right now, our goal is to provide him medical treatment and get him the mental health services he needs. That’s our primary goal,” Scheibler said. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687386009007.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Vehicle drives into Gross Memorial; train crash may be related

By Tony Guerrero Hays Post

The Hays Area Bicyclists are celebrating the legacy of the Ellis County region with a commute to a variety of churches.&nbsp;

The Tour Die Kapellen may include a visit to <a href="https://www.volgagerman.net/catharine-church">St. Catherine Church</a> in Catherine, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria, <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/holycrosschurch.htm">Holy Cross Church</a> in Pfeifer, and <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/stfrancischurchmunjor.htm">St. Francis Church</a> in Munjor.

The annual event is in its fourth year and will begin at Hays Municipal Park on July 8.

The several routes to choose from include a 15-mile casual ride setting off at 9 a.m. The 30, 50, and 62-mile trails that will be escorted by the Hays Police Department start at 7:30 a.m. and the 75- to 100-mile routes depart between 6:45 to 7 a.m.

Early registration is $45 a person to participate in the bike ride and $75 a person for the bus tour that’ll depart 30 minutes after the cyclists do at the Hays Municipal Park at 8 a.m.&nbsp;

After June 23, a bike ride will cost $55 per person and the bus tour will be $85 per person as on-site registration begins at 6:30 a.m.

The bus tour will travel the same route that cyclists take, with each church providing a musical performance and snacks.&nbsp;

Those who register will receive a SWAG bag and a T-shirt.

Brian Buckstead, Hays Symphony conductor, will perform at St. Catherine Church, Basilica of the Plains with their Brass Quintet led by Kathy Amrein. Jane Hyde will play at Holy Cross Church while Hillary Shepard, Kristin Pisano, and Ben Cline take center stage at St Francis Church.

The Tour Die Kapellen event <a href="https://tourdiekapellen.com/2023-2/#routeoptions">website</a> provides a list of safety rules and maps of their routes.

Kay Werth, a coordinator of the event, urged people to not follow along in their vehicles for safety reasons but reassured participants that they will be fully supported and guided.

&nbsp;“We have over 70 volunteers that help with this ride. We have drivers that follow the bikers in case they need pick up or need assistance or are just too hot. They have a first aid kit. They have a bike pump,” Werth said.&nbsp;

Musicians will be playing at each site including the post-ride party where The Joe Dolezal Polka Band will perform.&nbsp;

Deb Hoffman from the Holy Cross Church said they’ll be receiving the majority of the profit from the event but encourages others to donate to the other churches through their websites.&nbsp;

“We’re probably one of the smaller ones, especially being a mission church it’s a lot more difficult for people who don’t have steady and weekly tithing,” Hoffman said “We have to actively seek funds, and this is one of our fundraisers.”

The after-party will be at noon. Meals and refreshments will be provided as well as adult beverages from Defiance Brewing Company once the bike ride concludes at Hays Municipal Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655326279635.jpeg" alt="Tour of Chapels.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Tour of Chapels.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By Tony Guerrero Hays PostThe Hays Area Bicyclists are celebrating the legacy of the Ellis County region with a commute to a variety of churches.&nbsp;The Tour Die Kapellen may include a visit to <a href="https://www.volgagerman.net/catharine-church">St. Catherine Church</a> in Catherine, <a href="https://www.stfidelischurch.com/">The Basilica on the Plains</a> in Victoria, <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/holycrosschurch.htm">Holy Cross Church</a> in Pfeifer, and <a href="http://www.kansastravel.org/stfrancischurchmunjor.htm">St. Francis Church</a> in Munjor.The annual event is in its fourth year and will begin at Hays Municipal Park on July 8. The several routes to choose from include a 15-mile casual ride setting off at 9 a.m. The 30, 50, and 62-mile trails that will be escorted by the Hays Police Department start at 7:30 a.m. and the 75- to 100-mile routes depart between 6:45 to 7 a.m.Early registration is $45 a person to participate in the bike ride and $75 a person for the bus tour that’ll depart 30 minutes after the cyclists do at the Hays Municipal Park at 8 a.m.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686853668273.jpeg" alt="Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>After June 23, a bike ride will cost $55 per person and the bus tour will be $85 per person as on-site registration begins at 6:30 a.m. The bus tour will travel the same route that cyclists take, with each church providing a musical performance and snacks.&nbsp;Those who register will receive a SWAG bag and a T-shirt. Brian Buckstead, Hays Symphony conductor, will perform at St. Catherine Church, Basilica of the Plains with their Brass Quintet led by Kathy Amrein. Jane Hyde will play at Holy Cross Church while Hillary Shepard, Kristin Pisano, and Ben Cline take center stage at St Francis Church.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686853732035.jpeg" alt="Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The Tour Die Kapellen event <a href="https://tourdiekapellen.com/2023-2/#routeoptions">website</a> provides a list of safety rules and maps of their routes. Kay Werth, a coordinator of the event, urged people to not follow along in their vehicles for safety reasons but reassured participants that they will be fully supported and guided.&nbsp;“We have over 70 volunteers that help with this ride. We have drivers that follow the bikers in case they need pick up or need assistance or are just too hot. They have a first aid kit. They have a bike pump,” Werth said.&nbsp;Musicians will be playing at each site including the post-ride party where The Joe Dolezal Polka Band will perform.&nbsp;Deb Hoffman from the Holy Cross Church said they’ll be receiving the majority of the profit from the event but encourages others to donate to the other churches through their websites.&nbsp;“We’re probably one of the smaller ones, especially being a mission church it’s a lot more difficult for people who don’t have steady and weekly tithing,” Hoffman said “We have to actively seek funds, and this is one of our fundraisers.”The after-party will be at noon. Meals and refreshments will be provided as well as adult beverages from Defiance Brewing Company once the bike ride concludes at Hays Municipal Park.

Early registration on for Ellis County Tour of Chapels bike ride

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After more than a year with no bus service in Ellis County, <a href="https://www.greyhound.com/">Greyhound bus service</a> has resumed with a stop at the A&amp;W in Ellis.

Local officials said the stop is an important link in the public transportation system for the area.

Laura Allen,&nbsp;client services specialist at First Call for Help, said bringing back bus service to Ellis County will help transient individuals and low-income travelers.

Hays does not have an emergency homeless shelter. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a6d30938-96b9-4e1c-97b6-f5fbe142e580">About a year ago, First Call for Help opened its transitional housing program.</a> However, not everyone qualifies for placement in that program. Applicants have to have ties to Ellis County.&nbsp;

Large families can't be easily accommodated, and the program's insurance will not allow it to accept single men.

At one point, First Call for Help provided hotel vouchers to people experiencing housing emergencies. However, none of the local hotels will accept those vouchers anymore.

The nearest emergency homeless shelters are in Salina or Denver. First Call for Help had been providing bus passes for individuals in need of emergency shelter until bus service ended in Hays.

Now that service is operating in Ellis, Allen said First Call for Help intends to start offering those vouchers again to people who need to reach emergency shelters in other communities.&nbsp;

However, she said individuals in Hays will still need to find transportation to Ellis.

Allen said First Call for Help's new director Macey Pfeifer is working with local officials to determine solutions to get people from Hays to Ellis to access the bus service.

Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said although Hays could not find a partner for the bus service, Greyhound continues to be an important part of the local transportation network.

Outside of flying, there aren't many transportation options for people who don't have reliable vehicles, and flying can be cost-prohibitive for some residents, he said.

Ellis Mayor David McDaniel said the bus service would bring revenue into the city as bus passengers buy food or other items in the community.

He said he saw the service as a positive addition to Ellis.

The bus service resumed a week ago. Travelers can travel east toward Kansas City or west toward Denver. S<a href="https://www.greyhound.com/">ee the Greyhound website for more information on rates and destinations.</a>

SJ Singh, owner of the A&amp;W and Ellis Days Inn, said tickets are being sold at the hotel, with the bus stopping at the A&amp;W.

Singh's company already had an agreement with Greyhound to have a stop at one of its properties in Abilene, so the addition of the Ellis stop was not difficult.

A media representative from Greyhound sent a statement on the company re-entering Ellis County.

"Greyhound is proud to be back in Ellis to facilitate connections between the city and our network in Kansas, Colorado, Missouri and more," the representative said via email. "We also recently combined our booking platform with <a href="https://www.flixbus.com/">FlixBus</a>, so riders can now book trips for the entire FlixBus and Greyhound network on both brands’ websites to nearly 2,300 destinations throughout North America.

"A&amp;W is one of many local businesses and bus partners we utilize to operate from convenient curbsides throughout the United States, which helps to reduce travel times and facilitate easy connections between cities and towns that may not have dedicated intermodal centers for bus and train travel," Greyhound said.

Without the Ellis stop, the next stop from Abilene was in Goodland, Singh said.&nbsp;

"We had a lot of stranded customers over here," he said. "We had to take them to Goodland to get a bus. We helped a lot of people whose cars broke down or something else."

He said he anticipated the addition of the stop would benefit Hays residents as well.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686165311837.png" alt="A Greyhound bus stop was recently added at the A&amp;W in Ellis. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A Greyhound bus stop was recently added at the A&amp;W in Ellis. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter more than a year with no bus service in Ellis County, <a href="https://www.greyhound.com/">Greyhound bus service</a> has resumed with a stop at the A&amp;W in Ellis.Local officials said the stop is an important link in the public transportation system for the area.Laura Allen,&nbsp;client services specialist at First Call for Help, said bringing back bus service to Ellis County will help transient individuals and low-income travelers.Hays does not have an emergency homeless shelter. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a6d30938-96b9-4e1c-97b6-f5fbe142e580">About a year ago, First Call for Help opened its transitional housing program.</a> However, not everyone qualifies for placement in that program. Applicants have to have ties to Ellis County.&nbsp;Large families can't be easily accommodated, and the program's insurance will not allow it to accept single men.At one point, First Call for Help provided hotel vouchers to people experiencing housing emergencies. However, none of the local hotels will accept those vouchers anymore.The nearest emergency homeless shelters are in Salina or Denver. First Call for Help had been providing bus passes for individuals in need of emergency shelter until bus service ended in Hays.Now that service is operating in Ellis, Allen said First Call for Help intends to start offering those vouchers again to people who need to reach emergency shelters in other communities.&nbsp;However, she said individuals in Hays will still need to find transportation to Ellis.Allen said First Call for Help's new director Macey Pfeifer is working with local officials to determine solutions to get people from Hays to Ellis to access the bus service.Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said although Hays could not find a partner for the bus service, Greyhound continues to be an important part of the local transportation network.Outside of flying, there aren't many transportation options for people who don't have reliable vehicles, and flying can be cost-prohibitive for some residents, he said.Ellis Mayor David McDaniel said the bus service would bring revenue into the city as bus passengers buy food or other items in the community.He said he saw the service as a positive addition to Ellis.The bus service resumed a week ago. Travelers can travel east toward Kansas City or west toward Denver. S<a href="https://www.greyhound.com/">ee the Greyhound website for more information on rates and destinations.</a>SJ Singh, owner of the A&amp;W and Ellis Days Inn, said tickets are being sold at the hotel, with the bus stopping at the A&amp;W.Singh's company already had an agreement with Greyhound to have a stop at one of its properties in Abilene, so the addition of the Ellis stop was not difficult.A media representative from Greyhound sent a statement on the company re-entering Ellis County."Greyhound is proud to be back in Ellis to facilitate connections between the city and our network in Kansas, Colorado, Missouri and more," the representative said via email. "We also recently combined our booking platform with <a href="https://www.flixbus.com/">FlixBus</a>, so riders can now book trips for the entire FlixBus and Greyhound network on both brands’ websites to nearly 2,300 destinations throughout North America."A&amp;W is one of many local businesses and bus partners we utilize to operate from convenient curbsides throughout the United States, which helps to reduce travel times and facilitate easy connections between cities and towns that may not have dedicated intermodal centers for bus and train travel," Greyhound said.Without the Ellis stop, the next stop from Abilene was in Goodland, Singh said.&nbsp;"We had a lot of stranded customers over here," he said. "We had to take them to Goodland to get a bus. We helped a lot of people whose cars broke down or something else."He said he anticipated the addition of the stop would benefit Hays residents as well.&nbsp;

Greyhound bus service returns to county at A&W in Ellis

By TONY GUERRERO and JAMES BELL Hays Post

Despite recent rains in Ellis County, the county and large areas of the state remain in exceptional drought.

Hays is expected to receive 3.46 inches of rain by the end of June, according to the K-State Agriculture Research Center, but has received .43 inches so far this month.

The city is supposed to have a cumulative participation average of 11.27 inches by the end of June. However, Hays has only received 6.64 inches since Jan. 1

Local communities are already facing tough decisions in the wake of the ongoing drought.

At the intersection of water conservation and economic impacts, the city of Ellis has faced concerns over water use during the ongoing drought at the Ellis Golf Club, 1301 Spruce.&nbsp;

At the city council meeting on May 15, city council members heard from Police Chief Avery Smith about a series of water violations at the club. After giving a courtesy warning they were using water in violation of city and Kansas Department of Health and Environment ordinances, they were noted to continue using water during restricted times.&nbsp;

“We need to address it, especially if we’re going to be as far behind as we are in moisture,” Smith said.&nbsp;

It was also noted sprinkler systems were running while rain was recently falling on the course.&nbsp;

City Attorney Olavee Raub said warnings are not to be given and the person responsible could immediately face criminal charges. Smith said ongoing violations could even result in a sentence that includes serving time in jail.&nbsp;

As the course generally uses effluent, rather than treated water from the city, the city is bound to KDHE regulations.&nbsp;

Smith suggested updating city ordinances.&nbsp;

“As far as the violation of the KDHE permit, we may be put in a position where if they are not going to comply with the provisions, we have no other recourse than to terminate their usage of effluent water,” Raub. “Otherwise, we are in violation of the KDHE permit, which falls back on us.”&nbsp;

After the club was made aware of the council’s observations, representatives spoke at the next city council meeting on June 5 as the council considered options that would allow water use to keep the course’s greens alive through the summer.&nbsp;

“In the drought times, the heat on the green, the grass is so small it will kill it,” said Rick Gaschler, member of the Ellis Golf Club board.&nbsp;

Raub told the council as the greens are a necessary part of the business, an exception could be carved out for the club.&nbsp;

The council will consider an updated ordinance at its next meeting on June 19.&nbsp;

Jeff Crispin, Hays director of water resources, explains the impact of the drought on Hays and what the following months will look like.

“From a drought perspective it put us into D4 exceptional drought and with any drought, that causes us to watch our water situation a lot closer,” Crispin said. 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e2fcc739-0eba-4196-84c8-8e33b56b1443">Water restrictions began on June 1, which restricts the public from using water outdoors between noon and 7 p.m.&nbsp;</a>

Despite the rain received in the last week, Crispin said it’ll take a lot more rainfall before Ellis County can move out of the exceptional drought but assured residents the county won’t see any more restrictions this summer.&nbsp;

“I think we’ll continue with our normal water restriction time period that we do every year. I don’t see us adding a different or separate water restriction,” Crispin said.&nbsp;

Crispin pointed out the availability of <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/566/WaterSmart-Landscaping">WaterSmart.hays.com</a>, which offers a rebate program to help lower water consumption as well as a variety of water sensors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686234171526.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor as released June 8, 2023. Courtesy image." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor as released June 8, 2023. Courtesy image.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO and JAMES BELL Hays PostDespite recent rains in Ellis County, the county and large areas of the state remain in exceptional drought.Hays is expected to receive 3.46 inches of rain by the end of June, according to the K-State Agriculture Research Center, but has received .43 inches so far this month.The city is supposed to have a cumulative participation average of 11.27 inches by the end of June. However, Hays has only received 6.64 inches since Jan. 1Local communities are already facing tough decisions in the wake of the ongoing drought.At the intersection of water conservation and economic impacts, the city of Ellis has faced concerns over water use during the ongoing drought at the Ellis Golf Club, 1301 Spruce.&nbsp;At the city council meeting on May 15, city council members heard from Police Chief Avery Smith about a series of water violations at the club. After giving a courtesy warning they were using water in violation of city and Kansas Department of Health and Environment ordinances, they were noted to continue using water during restricted times.&nbsp;“We need to address it, especially if we’re going to be as far behind as we are in moisture,” Smith said.&nbsp;It was also noted sprinkler systems were running while rain was recently falling on the course.&nbsp;City Attorney Olavee Raub said warnings are not to be given and the person responsible could immediately face criminal charges. Smith said ongoing violations could even result in a sentence that includes serving time in jail.&nbsp;As the course generally uses effluent, rather than treated water from the city, the city is bound to KDHE regulations.&nbsp;Smith suggested updating city ordinances.&nbsp;“As far as the violation of the KDHE permit, we may be put in a position where if they are not going to comply with the provisions, we have no other recourse than to terminate their usage of effluent water,” Raub. “Otherwise, we are in violation of the KDHE permit, which falls back on us.”&nbsp;After the club was made aware of the council’s observations, representatives spoke at the next city council meeting on June 5 as the council considered options that would allow water use to keep the course’s greens alive through the summer.&nbsp;“In the drought times, the heat on the green, the grass is so small it will kill it,” said Rick Gaschler, member of the Ellis Golf Club board.&nbsp;Raub told the council as the greens are a necessary part of the business, an exception could be carved out for the club.&nbsp;The council will consider an updated ordinance at its next meeting on June 19.&nbsp;Jeff Crispin, Hays director of water resources, explains the impact of the drought on Hays and what the following months will look like.“From a drought perspective it put us into D4 exceptional drought and with any drought, that causes us to watch our water situation a lot closer,” Crispin said. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e2fcc739-0eba-4196-84c8-8e33b56b1443">Water restrictions began on June 1, which restricts the public from using water outdoors between noon and 7 p.m.&nbsp;</a>Despite the rain received in the last week, Crispin said it’ll take a lot more rainfall before Ellis County can move out of the exceptional drought but assured residents the county won’t see any more restrictions this summer.&nbsp;“I think we’ll continue with our normal water restriction time period that we do every year. I don’t see us adding a different or separate water restriction,” Crispin said.&nbsp;Crispin pointed out the availability of <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/566/WaterSmart-Landscaping">WaterSmart.hays.com</a>, which offers a rebate program to help lower water consumption as well as a variety of water sensors.

Exceptional drought leads to problems with Ellis Golf Club

Far above the streets of Ellis, a giant mural depicting Ellis High School athletes is taking shape.

Dennis Schiel of Hays is working on his largest and what may be his last mural.

The Ellis mural, which is 35 by 65 feet, is on the side of a grain elevator that faces Washington Street in downtown Ellis.

Schiel, who has lived in Hays for 16 years, has painted murals across the area. He coordinated the downtown Hays Brush the Bricks mural project and personally painted four of the murals for that project.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c249f967-7e8d-4a80-897e-25bccb78992e">• The three amigos mural on the S&amp;W building</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/274e05fe-f437-4c8a-95f7-2d33bdfb4c44">• The Arc mural on the Arc Thrift Store building</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d8987c98-30c5-4304-8b88-cabf4ef0efb4">• The Hays postcard mural on the side of the Golden Q building</a> •&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1fc07702-44b6-4f24-a80c-bb9aa092c12f">The farmer and team mural on the side of the&nbsp;Midland Marketing building.</a>

He also painted the mural on the north side of the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2016/09/23/community-connection-dennis-schiel/">Fox Theatre in Hays</a> and the mural on the north side of the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2017/08/18/%f0%9f%8e%a5-150-years-of-service-mural-nearing-completion/">Hays VFW</a>.

A mural&nbsp;Schiel painted depicting famous people and places in the state hangs in the Kansas capitol.

Schiel said he hopes he has left an artistic legacy in the community.

Schiel's grandchildren attended Ellis High School, which sparked the idea for his latest mural. EHS wrote grants, and the Ellis Foundation raised funds to support the mural.

Although&nbsp;Schiel said he has tried to keep most of the athletes generic, one of the softball players is loosely based on his granddaughter. The mural also depicts a train crashing out of the grain elevator. EHS' mascot is the Railroaders.

Schiel has been working on the mural for about a month. He is in the process of moving to Colorado to be closer to family and may not be able to finish the mural until mid-summer.

Schiel, 65, said he would likely continue to paint smaller works, but the mural in Ellis may be his last mural. He said it is becoming harder to stand on ladders and scaffolding for long periods of time to paint large outdoor paintings.&nbsp;

"It's bittersweet," he said. "It's good that it's a fun one because it's a lot of whatever I want to paint.

Schiel said he thought the community is enjoying seeing the mural take shape.&nbsp;

Schiel said he is looking forward to spending time with his grandchildren in Colorado. A former Colorado resident and Rockies fan, he hopes to attend some baseball games when he moves back.&nbsp;He did some artwork for the Rockies earlier in his career.

"Kansas, I've liked Kansas. I hate to lose Kansas, to leave here. Some things have to be," he said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43961af5-98c5-41fe-980d-1b731a33083c">Ellis Railroad Museum improvements almost complete; murals finished</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/96983f5b-a3e7-4109-9922-07963f8c5889">Cut, Shave and a beer: Blue Moon Lounge set to open Monday in Hays</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/069474fd-90fb-49e4-a971-0d7ea5d2f88c">Dolce Vita event venue opens in Ellis, seats up to 800</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684947969740.jpeg" alt="Hays artist Dennis Schiel paints the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis Schiel, who has painted murals across the region, said this may be his last mural. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays artist Dennis Schiel paints the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis Schiel, who has painted murals across the region, said this may be his last mural. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFar above the streets of Ellis, a giant mural depicting Ellis High School athletes is taking shape.Dennis Schiel of Hays is working on his largest and what may be his last mural.The Ellis mural, which is 35 by 65 feet, is on the side of a grain elevator that faces Washington Street in downtown Ellis.Schiel, who has lived in Hays for 16 years, has painted murals across the area. He coordinated the downtown Hays Brush the Bricks mural project and personally painted four of the murals for that project.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c249f967-7e8d-4a80-897e-25bccb78992e">• The three amigos mural on the S&amp;W building</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/274e05fe-f437-4c8a-95f7-2d33bdfb4c44">• The Arc mural on the Arc Thrift Store building</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d8987c98-30c5-4304-8b88-cabf4ef0efb4">• The Hays postcard mural on the side of the Golden Q building</a> •&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1fc07702-44b6-4f24-a80c-bb9aa092c12f">The farmer and team mural on the side of the&nbsp;Midland Marketing building.</a>He also painted the mural on the north side of the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2016/09/23/community-connection-dennis-schiel/">Fox Theatre in Hays</a> and the mural on the north side of the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2017/08/18/%f0%9f%8e%a5-150-years-of-service-mural-nearing-completion/">Hays VFW</a>.A mural&nbsp;Schiel painted depicting famous people and places in the state hangs in the Kansas capitol.Schiel said he hopes he has left an artistic legacy in the community.Schiel's grandchildren attended Ellis High School, which sparked the idea for his latest mural. EHS wrote grants, and the Ellis Foundation raised funds to support the mural.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684948132093.jpeg" alt="A closer view of the Ellis High School athletic mural, which is on the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A closer view of the Ellis High School athletic mural, which is on the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Although&nbsp;Schiel said he has tried to keep most of the athletes generic, one of the softball players is loosely based on his granddaughter. The mural also depicts a train crashing out of the grain elevator. EHS' mascot is the Railroaders.Schiel has been working on the mural for about a month. He is in the process of moving to Colorado to be closer to family and may not be able to finish the mural until mid-summer.Schiel, 65, said he would likely continue to paint smaller works, but the mural in Ellis may be his last mural. He said it is becoming harder to stand on ladders and scaffolding for long periods of time to paint large outdoor paintings.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684948271189.jpeg" alt="Artist Dennis Schiel paints a mural depicting Ellis High School athletes on the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artist Dennis Schiel paints a mural depicting Ellis High School athletes on the side of a grain elevator in downtown Ellis. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's bittersweet," he said. "It's good that it's a fun one because it's a lot of whatever I want to paint."It's the end of a career," he added.Schiel said he thought the community is enjoying seeing the mural take shape.&nbsp;Schiel said he is looking forward to spending time with his grandchildren in Colorado. A former Colorado resident and Rockies fan, he hopes to attend some baseball games when he moves back.&nbsp;He did some artwork for the Rockies earlier in his career.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669059521628.jpeg" alt="Schiel's mural on the side of the Midland Marketing building in Hays. This mural was part of the Brush the Bricks project. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Schiel's mural on the side of the Midland Marketing building in Hays. This mural was part of the Brush the Bricks project. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Kansas, I've liked Kansas. I hate to lose Kansas, to leave here. Some things have to be," he said.He added, "Thank you, Hays and Kansas."<h2>Other Schiel projects</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684948670823.jpeg" alt="Ellis Railroad Museum exterior murals by Dennis Schiel. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Ellis Railroad Museum exterior murals by Dennis Schiel. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/43961af5-98c5-41fe-980d-1b731a33083c">Ellis Railroad Museum improvements almost complete; murals finished</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/96983f5b-a3e7-4109-9922-07963f8c5889">Cut, Shave and a beer: Blue Moon Lounge set to open Monday in Hays</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684948760505.jpeg" alt="The west room in the newly opened Dolce Vita event center in Ellis is graced with a mural of the Ellis depot. A portion of the mural was existing, but Schiel rehabilitated the mural and expanded it. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The west room in the newly opened Dolce Vita event center in Ellis is graced with a mural of the Ellis depot. A portion of the mural was existing, but Schiel rehabilitated the mural and expanded it. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/069474fd-90fb-49e4-a971-0d7ea5d2f88c">Dolce Vita event venue opens in Ellis, seats up to 800</a>

Ellis High School mural may be last for prolific Hays artist

ELLIS&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Ellis USD 388 Board of Education on Wednesday was offered a taste
of what is to come as they discussed the impact of declining enrollment in the
district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503652298.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Ellis USD 388 Board of Education on Wednesday was offered a taste
of what is to come as they discussed the impact of declining enrollment in the
district.While enrollment in the district has been slowly declining
for years, a graduating class of 49 students — nearly double a typical class
size — two years ago has dealt a significant blow to overall student numbers.And fewer students means less money for next year’s budget and the potential for staffing and program cuts.To begin board discussions addressing the
issue, during the meeting, the board was presented with the question: “With budget cuts occurring, does the Vocational
Agriculture program need to stay full-time, go to a part-time or eliminate?”<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y9q0b3AdtYE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Obviously, nobody wants
to cut anything,” Superintendent Janice Wilson said. “And so, this is just a
discussion, and we're throwing ideas out on the table for what are some things
we can look at.”Earlier in the meeting, she
shared enrollment figures from the last decade.During the 2012-13 school
year, the district had 410 enrolled. During the 2020–21 year, enrollment was recorded
at 375. Next year that number has
been projected at 324.With state funding tied
directly to enrollment in two-year increments, next year’s enrollment will create a
significant drop in aid. Currently, Wilson said the
base aid per pupil is set at $4,486.To open the discussion, she
told the board that Future Farmers of America currently has 21 members and
shared an overview of the welding and agriculture courses offered in the
district.“The numbers in the classes have been decreasing,” Wilson
said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503711957.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>She said only five students were enrolled in the welding course,
10 in ag science and half of the eighth-grade class.And next year, even fewer students are expected in those
programs.While the Vocational Agricultural program was under the
microscope during the meeting, Wilson frequently reminded the board and the
assembled audience that came in support of the program that it is only the
first part of the conversation as the district administration and board are
forced to address declining funding that comes with lower enrollment.“This is just to
throw ideas out there,” she said. “We need to talk about it, we need to discuss
it and figure out what is going to be the best thing for our families.“We know that we are rural America, we know that ag is
extremely important. But when our class sizes get down to certain numbers, we
have to be concerned about some of that.”Board member Marty Hollern asked if the students are aware lower
program involvement may lead to a program being cut.“I don't think so I don't think they're aware of that,” said
Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt.Many in the audience spoke in favor of the programs, along
with board member and Ellis High Vocational Agriculture program alum Dean
Gottschalk.“Not every kid is able to go to college, so they go choose a
Vo-Tech school,” Gottschalk said. “I chose a Vo-Tech school because of my
instructor. And I feel I've done very well.”“Two of my sons that went through this class. One that just
graduated last year, has already graduated from welding class school in Wichita
as a certified welder thanks to this program. I don't want to see any of this
cut out of this program, me personally, because we are ag and oil field
supported.”He said losing the program would be “bad” for studentUSD s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503758312.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education Member Dean Gottschalk&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education Member Dean Gottschalk&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hollern said it’s important to recruit incoming students to
the program.Audience members spoke to the same effort, including an
emotional plea from the current Ellis High School FFA president, suggesting
there could be many more potential students in the program if an effort was made.“I don't disagree with that at all, that I think every
program that we're looking at, with low involvement, could be said the same, unfortunately,” said board member Latisha Haag.Some noted if the program was eliminated, the district would
lose students to neighboring Hays and WaKeeney districts. “You have to look at the emotional side of things, but you
also need to look at the numbers side of things,” Hollern said. “I've got text
messages, I've got emails of people saying, ‘We live close enough on the county
line that we could probably go to a different district if our children want to
pursue the Vo-Ag side of things' and stuff like that. So, there's a cost of us
not having them available.”He suggested having a fuller picture of the impact on
enrollment if a program is cut should be a part of the discussion, and all
options should be considered.“We can't leave any stone unturned,” Hollern said. “How can
we be creative? How can we try and save some of these programs and stuff as
well? So, if we can come up with what, potentially with that part-time, savings
would look like for us as a district, would I kind of like see what those
numbers are.”But as other rural districts face similar decisions, Wilson
said there have been discussions of sharing staff across districts to cut costs
and save programs.And as the board mulled cuts to the program, other low-participation
programs were noted.“Is the declining enrollment correlation to the overall
declining enrollment, is that why there's not interest?” Haag said. “I'm
looking at one teacher who, outside of the junior high rotation, has 17
students. Is that because of declining enrollment across the high school, or are
there other reasons that are factoring into that declining enrollment in those
courses?”While many on the board shared the desire to have a more
complete picture of the district classes, programs and student participation,
the need to include district staff and the community was noted as crucial.“I would like to get input from the community and just have
a brainstorm session because we're going to have to be creative,” said board
member Cindy Hertel. But time is short.Ideally, any cut that would affect a teacher should be made
prior to May 1.“The sooner, the better, just because if we have people who
need to look for a position, this is their livelihood, and we can't wait for
too long out of respect for them,” Wilson said. “I believe that the final day
is around May 17. But I would hope that we could do that a lot sooner.”Board member Brian Shannon suggested a committee be formed
to collect input and generate ideas for the board.“I think we need to get more input, more involvement,” he
said.Haag echoed the desire to move as quickly as possible and to
involve more people in the fact-finding and recommendation process. She said that
by having that involvement, staff may better understand the district’s position.“I think that some staff feel that the board has been very
much against them this year with decisions,” she said. “And that's not the
case. We're doing our best to make decisions that are best for the students in
the district. And with the budget that we're facing. There are some tough
decisions coming, but I still want to hear some of their suggestions.“We have got to get on the same page because we are tearing
our district apart. And we need to be a better district than that. We've got to
start having conversations, tough conversations, that result in productive
solutions, rather than talking behind everyone's back and going to the people
that you think are going to solve your problem the way you want it solved.
We've got to remedy that situation.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503814253.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education President Randy Honas" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education President Randy Honas</figcaption>
 </figure>“I get the impression from some staff that there is
definitely some animosity there,” said Board President Randy Honas. “I don't
really want to speculate on where that may come from or where it started from,
but that's only going to get worse when we have to make these types of
decisions.“Everybody’s going to have to go into it with an open mind,
understanding that it's pretty factual. You are not going to get what you want or all of what you want. You might get something. You are going to have to
compromise. There's going to be some give and take.”But he said the numbers do not lie.“They are subject to change, they can get worse, they could
get slightly better. But if they get worse, these conversations are going to be
a lot tougher, and it's not anybody's fault. … As a board, I think we need to
listen to other ideas, other possibilities, and other suggestions, knowing that
many of those are going to be great ideas but may or may not.Haag said she hopes as more voices are added to the discussions,
generating ideas come to the forefront.“I'm tired of the griping, I'm tired of the complaining, I
want people to come with solutions, rather than just throwing out there how unhappy
they are,” she said. “Because that's what I'm getting more of. And when I ask, ‘What's
the solution?’ I'm not getting answers to that."“We need to make sure that our programs, our staff, our
school board, our administration, and the kids themselves have to buy into this
as well,” Hollern said. “This is your school, and let's see what we can do to
make this thing better.“Those are tough decisions that we have to make. And that's
why they voted us to be board members. Now we have to do what our
responsibility is. Unfortunately, this is not the fun time.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503977326.jpeg" alt="USD 388 Board of Education members Stephanie Johnson and Marty Hollern" />
 <figcaption>USD 388 Board of Education members Stephanie Johnson and Marty Hollern</figcaption>
 </figure>As the conversation continued, board member Stephanie Johnson
questioned the overall goal of this first of many conversations that will
happen in coming weeks and months.“This is a sample of what’s to come,” Wilson said. “It’s not
easy.”<h2>In other USD
388 board news</h2>The Board unanimously voted to enter into the Hays West
Central Special Education Cooperative Agreement with USD 489 Hays, USD 432
Victoria, USD 395 La Crosse and USD 407 Russell. The agreement will go into
effect on July 1, 2024. The coop was established by Hays to make special education
services available to students in the participating districts.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6159f5db-0739-4af2-bb57-68e8cc563051">The Hays
Board of Education approved the addition of Russell to the group last year under
a three-year rollout plan.</a>The search has begun for a new Ellis High School principal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681503869710.jpeg" alt="USD 388&nbsp; Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>USD 388&nbsp; Ellis High School Principal Donna Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>Current principal Donna Schmidt’s resignation was unanimously
approved by the board during the meeting. She is set to serve the remainder of
this year’s contract.Applications are currently being accepted.Glassman Construction was selected as the contractor for the HVAC
system replacement. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27984c56-7fed-4153-931e-320c33ca5a32">The
system upgrade was approved as part of a bond issue passed by voters last year.</a>The board also approved the purchase of 85 new Lenovo
laptops for student use. The purchase was paid through a grant.