By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The cities of Hays and Russell plan to ask the Kansas Water Office for two separate releases of water from Cedar Bluff Reservoir in Trego County to recharge their Smoky Hill River wellfields in Ellis County.&nbsp;

The last time such requests were made was in 2013. Hays' request dropped the lake level about 4.7 inches.&nbsp;

Hays asked for 1,200 acre feet which took five days to reach the Hays wellfield and saturate the aquifer. The Russell release followed and was also effective.&nbsp;

"The wellfield is now depleted and we're looking at going into a dry spring and summer. And we know this alluvial aquifer depletes very quickly," Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty said at Thursday's city commission work session.&nbsp;

Russell city council members discussed a similar water release request at their meeting Tuesday.

Russell owns water rights in Cedar Bluff. Hays does not, but has the ability to ask for a water release through an operations agreement with the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state owns the Cedar Bluff artificial recharge pool with up to 5,100 acre feet available for recharge of the Smoky Hill River aquifer, including the Hays wellfield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cedar Bluff is filled to about 60% of its capacity, according to Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

All of Ellis County has been in moderate drought for awhile, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor for Kansas. Drought conditions for the western two-thirds of the state will persist or develop through June 30, 2025, in the most recent U.S. seasonal outlook from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center.

"Not good news for the future," Dougherty said. "Things are getting worse."

Since 2022, water levels in the Smoky Hill River wellfield south of Hays near Schoenchen have been declining.

"There's a little bit of a current bump but that will go down and hit rock bottom as the trees start coming out of dormancy," Dougherty said.

"The moisture we got Wednesday (0.40 inch) is going to help but it's not going to solve anything."&nbsp;

Reese Barrick, commissioner, said Hays' conservation programs have helped delay the water release request.&nbsp;

The pockets of winter moisture from Cedar Bluff Reservoir in the Smoky Hill Aquifer drop as they reach Hays' Schoenchen Wellfield (at the U.S. Highway 183 bridge) and decline even further on the way to Russell's Pfeifer Wellfield (at the Pfeifer bridge.)&nbsp;

The Russell wellfield is significantly more depleted than the Hays wellfield.&nbsp;

Russell has been in water restrictions eight of the past 12 years.

Dougherty called the water release process "extremely inefficient." It has to saturate 30 miles of streambed before it actually reaches our aquifer.

"Not letting the streambed dry out is a way to be strategic about it, to be the most efficient with the water that comes out of Cedar Bluff to top off those wellfields and hopefully keep them topped off as we go into what could be a significant drought."

Mayor Sandy Jacobs said Hays and Russell wouldn't have to be dealing with Cedar Bluff if the cities' R9 Ranch long-term water supply project was completed.&nbsp;

"Maybe doing this will wake somebody up. ... We know it's not our legislators;&nbsp; it's the legal process," she said.

"I'm sorry we have to ask for this, but we're going to take care of our community and our citizens. This is the way to do it when we don't have the R9," she said.

Dougherty agreed, "The R9 is our drought backup when it's online.&nbsp;

"Knowing that depleting conditions exist and knowing how quickly they can deplete, if it turns 100 degrees and it's dry and there's nothing coming down, knowing we have the ability to top off those wellfields would be a kind of derelict of duty on our part if we didn't. ... 

"We don't take this lightly," Dougherty said.

He told commissioners that if Hays would have to implement heightened water conservation stages, rates will go up for customers.&nbsp;

Mason Ruder, vice-mayor, said, "It's very frustrating that we have to resort to these kind of measures just to make sure we have the water that we need to survive, when we have and own the R9 water."

Ruder suggested concerned citizens contact the Edwards County Commission and WaterPACK (Water Protection Association of Central Kansas) members if they have questions about the R9 delays.&nbsp;

"We've done everything correctly, and beyond what is required of us by law," Ruder said. "They're the ones holding the process up."

Barrick said, "We'll be happy to give you their phone numbers."&nbsp;

Commissioner&nbsp;Shaun Musil said, "It will be sustainable when we get the ranch. We can prove it with the models, and we're not raping Edwards County of water. There's enough water to survive and prosper." "This to me is not sustainable. ... It's the most asinine thing we can do to have water," Musil said.

The governing bodies of Hays and Russell will schedule a joint meeting about the R9 Ranch project in late April in Russell.

Hays, Russell to ask for water release from Cedar Bluff as drought conditions intensify

PRATT&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) will host three public meetings in March to gather feedback on the night vision coyote hunting season. These open forum meetings will provide an opportunity for the public to share their thoughts with KDWP staff, which KDWP will use to assess season dates.

• March 10 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. El Dorado State Park Shooting Facility2980 NE Shady Creek Access Rd, El Dorado, KS 67042 • March 24 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sportsman’s Acres3922 Highway K-244 Spur, Junction City, KS 66441 • March 25 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Brief Space219 W 10th St, Hays, KS 67601

“Coyotes are classified as a nongame species in Kansas,” says Dr. Jon Beckmann, assistant director of the wildlife division at KDWP, “but they are regulated and managed like a furbearer species. They range throughout Kansas in both rural and urban landscapes, and approximately 30,000 people hunt coyotes each year.”

The night vision coyote hunting season, introduced in 2021, runs annually from Jan. 1 through March 31. During this season, hunters may use artificial light, night vision, and thermal-imaging equipment to hunt coyotes with a $2.50 Night Vision Equipment Permit and the appropriate hunting license. In addition to the night vision season, Kansas maintains a year-round coyote hunting and furharvesting season with no limit on the number of coyotes that can be taken.

“We have not proposed any changes to the coyote night vision season,” explained KDWP Acting Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “We have heard from many members of the public with varying opinions and scheduled these meetings to ensure we are listening and considering the views of all Kansans.”

The night vision coyote season will also be discussed at upcoming&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Archived-Meeting-Information%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=coyote/1/010101954d2cf974-d334ca0b-1ab8-4de9-b106-794deb8d52a5-000000/VecV7guMnV3P_hjoLOeOBpdIAsTzmw9lMGlhn4n6SCI=394">Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission meetings</a>, including the next meeting on&nbsp;March 27 at the Topeka &amp; Shawnee County Library. Members of the public are welcome to attend and voice their opinions during the meeting’s two public comment sessions.

Those unable to attend a meeting can provide input by filling out the “Contact All Commissioners” form at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2Fcommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=coyote/1/010101954d2cf974-d334ca0b-1ab8-4de9-b106-794deb8d52a5-000000/Gm4c12ltNH3_u1BR-gm4OvVxo6gM5Eao7alfmt2zr2U=394">ksoutdoors.com/commission</a>.

For more information on coyote hunting in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FHunting%2FCoyote%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=coyote/1/010101954d2cf974-d334ca0b-1ab8-4de9-b106-794deb8d52a5-000000/rdW-EVjSWi_96GKL1XROQ9XkbEZy-pKS6QvnI9bk2gc=394">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Coyote</a>.

Night vision coyote hunting season meeting to be held in Hays

Bad Boy MZ Rambler Residential Zero turn mower with 42 inch cutting deck. Dual Hydro-Gear ZT 2200 Series Integrated Drive Systems. Heavy –Gauge, all steel, all welded frame. Industry leading 5/16” steel front forks. 3/16 or 7 gauge all steel formed and welded deck with reinforced edges. Deck lift pedal with deck dial adjustments. Seats lifts for easy maintenance and cleaning. Electric PTO. With comfort seat. Features Briggs and Stratton 19 horsepower engine.

Farm Implement Bad Boy mower retail $4,350 Current Bid: $1,887

The legendary Raptor X packs all the performance and reliability Hustler is known for into a simple and durable design.&nbsp; The mowers are engineered to be maintenance and services friendly for the everyday homeowner.&nbsp; From the frame to the deck to their trademark steering, the Raptor X delivers a professional grade cut quality for a perfectly manicured lawn.&nbsp; The Raptor X is backed by a 3 year/300 hour warranty, is ideal for up to 3 acres, has a 42 inch deck, 18HP Kawasaki engine, a premium seat, big rear tires, has a speed up to 7mph and holds 3 gallons of fuel.&nbsp; Additional accessories can be purchased at Better Built.&nbsp; You can also trade the certificate in and upgrade to a larger mower. Retail Price: $4,249 Current Bid: $2,042 ----

Speedrite Portable Solar Fence Charger w/battery

Frontier Ag solar fence charger retail $333 Current Bid: $91 ----

The T3 Post Driver is a small driver that delivers big time results! The T3 Driver will drive T-posts up to a 3" O.D. (outside diameter) pipe at a rate of up to six strikes per second. The top of the post is fully contained to prevent kick out and protected from damage by the strike plate. Use your tractor, skid-steer, mini-ex, loader, or backhoe to carry the weight of the driver. We offer several mounting options, including an offset skid-steer quick attach which allows the operator to drive parallel to the fence line, a bolt-on/weld-on bracket that mounts to almost any flat surface, and a tilt bracket for up to 20° adjustments left or right. Use down pressure from the host vehicle to drive more posts in the ground faster. The T3 Driver includes one bolt-on/weld-on bracket, hoses and flat face ISO couplers for simple plug and play operation. This is an ideal post driver for most farmers, ranchers, fencing contractors, and rental yards

Hoxie Implement post driver retail $2,305 Current bid: $592

This is a set of 4 Hankook Tires, ranging from 205/50R17 to 235/60R17.&nbsp; These tires fit most cars, vans and small SUVs.&nbsp; Mounting, balancing and other tire services are extra.&nbsp; Please redeem by July 30, 2025

Trinity Ag Coop tires retail $660 Current Bid: $131

Protect your investment with a quality crafted tarp! Choose from 18 and 22 ounce polyester and nylon coated material in a wide array of colors. All applications are top quality, fully guaranteed, and crafted to fit your needs. This certificate is for tarps only. Can not be used towards labor or tarp parts. Does not include boat tarps. Tarps Unlimited Stockton Ks. 785-425-7070. Certificate value is $500 and good for one year. Current Bid: $76

Mowers, ag supply on the Eagle Radio Auction LIVE NOW!

The High Plains Barbershop Chapter, along with the Colby Chapter, are looking forward to the 57th annual show "Harmonies of Love" to be presented Sat., April 5 at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University campus.

There will be two shows at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.&nbsp;

The headline quartet for this show is the Barbershop Society's 2008 International Quartet Champion "OC Times."

Four of our local quartets will also perform in the show. They are "Uncalled Four," "Prairie Timbre," "Big Creek Quartet" and "Genuine Gents."

The chapter is thankful for community support.&nbsp;

Tickets for the show are on sale now and may be purchased for $15 in advance at Walgreens, 27th and Vine, Hays, until the day of the show.

Tickets are also available online at:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/harmonies-of-love-tickets-1091275457269?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">Eventbrite</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/Haysbarbershoppers">Facebook</a>

Tickets on sale for 57th annual Hays Barbershop Show on April 5

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Although the industry has come a long way when it comes to farm safety and a decline to injuries by about 60%, the rate of fatalities of children dying in farm accidents has stayed fairly steady. 

Every three days, a child dies in an ag-related incident, and each day, 33 children are injured, says farm safety expert Barbara Lee with the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. “I think the most revealing thing is that for both injuries and deaths, more than half of them occur to kids who are not working – they are just bystanders in the farm environment.”

In an effort to mitigate agricultural injuries and fatalities to young workers in agriculture, several K-State Research and Extension Districts and counties will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will be held at Hoxie Implement, 933 Oak Ave., Hoxie, Kansas. 

Many thanks to Outdoor Bank for providing the lunch and refreshments and to Thunder Linner Memorial Fund for helping sponsor the training manuals.

In a collaboration with businesses, state and county agencies, K-State Research and Extension agents will teach this course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more. 

The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents, and in some instances even when working on the family farm.

Participants must complete some assignments before attending the training on the 26th. 

To obtain this information and to pay the $10 registration fee by Tuesday, April 22, you will need to visit one of the following K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices – Twin Creeks @ 785-421-3411, Golden Prairie @ 785-673-4805, Phillips-Rooks @ 785-425-6851, Cottonwood District @ 785-628-9430 and Thomas County Extension @ 785-460-4582.

Some Extension offices may provide transportation to the training.

Don’t delay and register by Friday, April 22 for the Tractor &amp; Farm Machinery Safety Course for youth 14 - 15 years of age to be held in Hoxie on Saturday, April 26.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Tractor, farm safety training for area youth is April 26 in Hoxie

Sunday is the last day for the Eagle On-Line Auction at Hays Post. <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

Featured items • Frontier Ag solar fence charger retail $333 • Shubert Heating and Air ARO System retail $500 • Rocking Thunder&nbsp; Music retail $600 • Marine Specialty Airhead Watermat retail $700 • C&amp;E Door Garage Door retail $1,800 • All Seasons Plumbing Heating and AC retail $400 • Arcade 11 Bar retail $2,550 • H &amp; H Roofing gutters retail $1,000 • JDR Painting retail $500 • Hoxie Implement post driver retail $2,305 • Fitzgerald Furniture LaCrosse Sofa retail $1400 • Centennial Flooring retail $500 • Trinity Ag Coop tires retail $660 • Oliff Boeve Furniture chairs retail $2,400 • Horizon Mattress retail $899 • TARP’s Unlimited retail $500 • JTS CDL Training retail $2,250 • Lifetime Dental Invisalign retail $6,000 • Farm Implement Bad Boy mower retail $4,350 • Advantage Glass Rhino Liner retail $650 • Better Built Trailers Rapter mower retail $4,249

Because of this, the auction has started early, and is going on right NOW!&nbsp; If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

Dive into a digital treasure trove of savings with the Eagle Radio Online Auction!

Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.

Bid now on an expansive collection ranging from home essentials to tantalizing restaurant gift cards, and valuable services from esteemed local companies and save.

Eagle Radio Auction ending soon

Fitzgerald Furniture&nbsp;This sofa would look good in your home, office or waiting room.

LaCrosse Sofa retail $1400 Current Bid: $200 ----

Oliff Boeve Furniture chairs Chromcraft is some of the best furniture made. These could be the last dining room chairs you need. The chairs have rollers and tilt for a very comfortable experience. Get a bargain on these dining room chairs. . Retail $2,400 Current Bid: $500

Experience the ultimate in comfort with the upgraded Euro Pillow Top Sealy mattress. Featuring SealyCool Gel Foam and fabric-encased coils, it offers flexible, breathable support. The innovative design targets your body's heaviest parts, ensuring optimal support while you sleep. The StableEdge Pro System enhances durability, prevents sagging, and provides extra sleeping space. The mattress boasts a soft, knit cover with moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties, keeping you cool and protected. Trust in the quality of this USA-made mattress backed by a 10-year warranty.

Horizon Mattress retail $899 Current Bid: $149

ARO&nbsp;reverse osmosis system for drinking water

Shubert Heating, Air &amp; Plumbing: Has a reverse Osmosis System, for drinking water up to 40 gallons per day. If you want to significantly improve the quality of your drinking water, purchase this system and Shubert Heating, Air &amp; Plumbing will install and have your drinking water tasting better than ever. &nbsp;

Shubert Heating and Air ARO System retail $500 Current bid:&nbsp;$130

This certificate is good for two services from All Seasons Plumbing, Heating and AC in Hays. For the summer you get your air conditioner thoroughly cleaned out from head to toe, and they’ll check the Freon level of your unit. If you need Freon added to your unit, there will be an additional charge. Then in the Fall, All Seasons will come back to your home and service and clean your furnace for the winter. They will also replace your filter at that time free of charge. If you have questions about this certificate, call Tommy Coker at 785-259-4039. This certificate is from All Seasons Plumbing, Heating and AC in Hays. Must be redeemed by no later than December 30th, 2025.

All Seasons Plumbing Heating and AC retail $400 Current Bid: $44

Furniture, drinking water system on Eagle Radio Auction LIVE NOW!

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

Arcade 11 in Hays is now open and there's so much excitement. This is good for a 4 hour arcade rental on a Sunday through Wednesday. Get exclusive access to Arcade 11 and their dozens of classic games. You and your party receive unlimited tokens over the 4 hours and up to a $1,000 food tab, which can include appetizers, meals and soda. Alcohol not included, but available for a charge. Your party size can be pretty big - Arcade 11 has seating for up to 82 people. This is ideal for a corporate party, family reunion, or any special gathering. Must be scheduled in advance with the Arcade 11 crew. Certificate expires 3/31/2026. Arcade 11, 210 W 10th Street in Downtown Hays. 

Retail Price: $2,550 Current Bid: $675&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

Rockin' Thunder Music provides DJ services for a variety of events, including: Weddings, Birthdays, Block Parties, House Parties, School Dances (proms, etc.), Rodeos, Car Shows, And More! Availability: It's recommended to contact David at Rockin' Thunder Music before purchasing the certificate to confirm your desired event date is available.

Retail Price : $600 Starting Bid: $60 Current Bid: $0.00&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a> ----

This is an 18 foot reversible Watermat, Marine blue and Hot Green with 108 sq feet surface for lounging and playing from Marine Specialty, Wilson.&nbsp;It features the WaterMat exclusive diamond top surface for comfort, traction and durability and a high-quality grommet tethering system with stainless&nbsp;steel hook.&nbsp;This will provide hours and fun and enjoyment. Retail Price: $700 Current Bid: $164&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

Other items are arriving fast and furious for the Eagle On-Line Auction at Hays Post.

The Eagle Radio of Hays auction is going on right NOW!&nbsp; If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

Deals on family fun on the Eagle Radio Auction, LIVE NOW!

The Wild West Festival Executive Committee has announced that public voting is now open for the organization’s new logo contest, marking a significant milestone in the festival’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.

The committee welcomes all members of the public to cast their vote for their favorite logo by visiting <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/logocontest/">wildwestfestival.com/logocontest</a>.

Only one vote per person will be allowed, and voting will remain open through March 31.

This year, as part of a broader effort to revitalize branding and increase public awareness, the all-volunteer Wild West Festival Committee invited designers and artists from across the community to submit their best ideas for a new festival logo.

The response was exceptional, with the committee receiving submissions that showcased a wide range of talents and creative approaches.

Selecting which logos would advance to the voting stage was a challenging process.

Committee members devoted considerable time to reviewing each submission, ensuring that every design was carefully considered.

The final entries represent the mission and spirit of the festival while honoring both traditional and modern design elements, which are now available for public consideration.

“The committee wanted to involve the community in this selection process because the Wild West Festival is ultimately a celebration for everyone,” said Julie Edgeman, president of the Wild West Festival executive committee. “By allowing the public to vote, we are giving festival supporters and residents alike a chance to directly influence the festival’s new&nbsp;look. We believe this approach resonates with the very spirit of what the Wild West Festival is all about—bringing people together and honoring the collective culture of our community.”

Edgeman said that the submissions highlight the creativity and enthusiasm that exists within the region.

Many of the entries featured unique color palettes and bold statements, while others drew on historical elements to convey a sense of heritage.

The Executive Committee expresses appreciation for all participants who dedicated their time and energy to crafting a design that captures the essence of the Wild West Festival.

For more information about the Wild West Festival, the logo contest, or other upcoming events, visit the official festival website <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com">WildWestFestival.com</a>.

The committee encourages everyone to make their voice heard by participating in this unique opportunity to help shape the visual identity of one of the region’s most anticipated cultural celebrations.

Wild West Festival opens public voting for new logo contest

8' x 7' Model 9621 Bronze Garage Door with Brown Overlay

1 - 8' x 7' Model 9621 Bronze Door with Brown Overlay. Retail $1,800. 10K Torsion 12" STD 2 BRKT Wood. Section 4 - ALL. 1/8 tempered 3 pane Lite Opening. 15.9% of door. Tested &amp; verified U-factor 0.096. 1" Tube. Slide Lock; 11-Ball nylon; 1 - 2x2 E Struct; TRK BRKT Loose; DEC. Handles HFO Foam

C&amp;E Door Garage Door retail $1,800. Current Bid: $198.00&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

This is a gift certificate from H and H Roofing in Larned for 100 feet of gutters for your home. H &amp; H Roofing is your solution for fascia and soffit work, siding installation, vinyl window replacement and residential and commercial roofing services. Since 2007, they've made it their mission to keep homes in this part of Kansas in good condition. Now, they're ready to bring their expertise to your doorstep.

H &amp; H Roofing gutters retail value $1,000. Current Bid: $210.00&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

JDR Painting Services has been Western Kansas' residential and commercial painting leader for over 13 years. They've added a special and unique offering - exterior metal building painting. The JDR crew now paints big metal shops, pole barns, warehouses and other metal buildings. This certificate is good toward metal building painting only. Bid on this certificate from JDR Painting Services. Visit jdrpainting.com

JDR Painting retail value $500 Current Bid: $50.00&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

$500 Certificate&nbsp;Centennial Flooring 

Centennial Flooring has a showroom full of flooring options for your home. Carpet in hundreds of color choices. Along with hardwood flooring, laminate, luxury vinyl, tile, natural stone and vinyl flooring too. The store for your décor … Centennial Flooring, 2206 Vine in Hays. One certificate per customer. Certificate valid through October 31st 2025.

Centennial Flooring retail value $500 Current bid: $80&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">BID NOW!</a>

Spruce up your home/office with great deals from the Eagle Radio Auction LIVE NOW!

WAKEENEY — Western Cooperative Electric is proud to announce the selection of four outstanding local students to represent the cooperative in this year’s Youth Leadership Trips. Two of the students will travel to Washington, D.C., for the prestigious Youth Tour, while the other two will attend the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Colorado.

These programs provide a unique opportunity for young leaders to learn about the cooperative business model, engage with peers from across the nation, and experience leadership development activities in a hands-on environment.&nbsp;

The students chosen for the Washington, D.C. Youth Tour are: Nick Robben, Hoxie High School, son of Doug and Kim Robben, and Ethan Carroll, Ellis High School, son of Matt and Nicole Carroll. The students selected for the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Colorado are: Delilah Reever, Otis-Bison High School, daughter of Kristi Reever, and Payton Reever, Otis-Bison High School, daughter of Kristi Reever.&nbsp;

“We are thrilled to offer these students the chance to participate in such impactful programs,” said CEO/GM Nolan Numrich. “These trips will provide not only a deeper understanding of cooperatives but also an opportunity for these young leaders to grow and develop skills they can carry into their future careers and community involvement.”

&nbsp;Western Cooperative Electric remains committed to investing in the future of local youth through leadership and educational opportunities. By supporting these students, the cooperative continues to uphold its mission of empowering communities and fostering the next generation of leaders.&nbsp;

For more information about the Youth Leadership Trips and Western Cooperative Electric’s commitment to youth development, please contact Christina Hayes at 785-743-5561 or christinah@westerncoop.com.

About Western Cooperative Electric:&nbsp;

Western Cooperative Electric provides reliable, affordable energy to communities across its service territory. The cooperative is dedicated to supporting community development, promoting energy efficiency, and delivering exceptional member service. Western Cooperative Electric is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney, Kansas. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across thirteen Kansas counties. Together, with the help of our members, Western Co-op is committed to building a stronger future for the communities we serve.

For more information about Western Cooperative, visit <a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/">www.westerncoop.com</a>.&nbsp;

Local students selected by Western Cooperative Electric for youth leadership trips

The last time the city of Hays updated its building code to conform with the International Code Council was 2015, with adoption of those changes in 2017.

City commissioners heard proposed updates Thursday from Jesse Rohr, public works director, which included input from local licensed contractors.

Minor amendments were proposed, including:

• Certain provisions for small residential structures such as tiny homes • Provisions for electric vehicle charging systems in residential homes • Provisions for photovoltaic systems (solar charging systems) • Increased flexibility and more options in fire protection systems

The proposals incorporate the latest advancements in structural integrity and technology, increase fire and life safety, ensure accessibility and energy efficiency and allow for modern construction techniques and materials.

The commission discussed a resolution for a public hearing to establish a reinvestment housing incentive district for Tallgrass 2nd Addition, Phase 4, which is planned for 101 lots northeast of 22nd Street and Wheatland Ave.

The local developer, Heart of America, would provide a deposit equal to 30% of projected infrastructure costs.&nbsp; 

Heart of America is proposing the city finance and construct the infrastructure and utilize district revenues, plus the deposit, to offset Hays' costs.

Eligible projects costs are estimated at $6 million while the district is expected to generate about $6.8 million in revenue over a 25-year term.

Commissioners will be asked to vote on both items at their next meeting.

The commission also gave permission to the Downtown Hays Development Corporation to build a 12' x 16' storage building adjacent to the pavilion in Union Pacific Plaza, a city park.&nbsp;

The downtown group will finance construction of the building, which will have electricity.

"Our downtown market manager will be able to do their job from inside the building and won't have to continually move needed supplies from our office to the pavilion on Saturdays," said Julie Ryder, DHDC executive director. Items for other community events will also be stored in the building.

City Manager Toby Dougherty presented a status update on the Smoky Hill River water wellfield.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/303a045a-3677-45e2-99d9-b19653abaad1">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays, Russell to ask for Cedar Bluff water release as drought conditions intensify</a>

During commissioner comments, Mayor Sandy Jacobs thanked emergency responders and Midwest Energy crews for their work during Wednesday's blizzard. Power was off to about 6,100 customers in west Hays for up to seven hours.&nbsp;

A 20-minute executive session was held at the end of the meeting to discuss data related to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, or individual proprietorships.

City of Hays to update 2024 building codes

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

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LAWRENCE, Kan. - Bob Davis, the legendary play by play voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers and Kansas Jayhawks, has passed away at the age of 80, his family announced Friday.

Davis is survived by his son, Steven, daughter-in-law Katie and grandchildren Landon, Will, Millie and Hattie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, who died March 13, 2025, in Lawrence. Bob and Linda were married for 53 years. Bob passed away Thursday, March 20th.&nbsp;

A 48-year veteran of broadcasting in the state of Kansas, Davis was born in Iola, and grew up in Topeka where he graduated from Topeka West High School in 1962. Davis stayed in Topeka to attend Washburn, where he graduated in 1967 with a degree in history. Davis launched his legendary broadcast career the following year in 1968 when hired by KAYS&nbsp; and began his broadcasting career during the summer of 1968 calling American Legion baseball. He was the play-by-play voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers until 1984, his tenure culminating by calling the 1984 NAIA National Championship won by the FHSU men's basketball team.

Davis took over the KU play-by-play duties in 1984 until his retirement in 2016.&nbsp;He was on the call for the Jayhawks men's basketball national titles in 1988 and 2008 as well as the Jayhawks Orange Bowl victory in 2008. 

In addition to FHSU and KU, Davis called the NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four for CBS Radio six times in 1990, 1992 and 1994-97. Also, in 1997, Davis joined the Kansas City Royals, calling games for radio and television for 16 years.&nbsp;

Davis earned numerous accolades for his work. He was named the Kansas Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sports Writers Association 14 times, the last coming in 2015.. Davis was also named the two-time recipient of the Oscar Stauffer Sports Broadcasting Award by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) in 1975 and 1978.

Davis was named to several Hall of Fames including: • Fort Hays State Athletics Hall of Fame (1990) • Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2006) • Topeka West HS Graduates Hall of Fame (2011) • Topeka-Shawnee County Baseball Hall of Fame (2016) • Kansas Sports Hall of Fame (2016) • Hays HS Athletics Hall of Fame (2024)

Bob Davis, legendary Tigers and Jayhawks voice, dies

On March 19th, 2025, Deputies responded to the 1900 block of Mount Pleasant Road for a vehicle in the ditch. Upon arrival, they found a vehicle that had burnt up with skeletal remains in it. No foul play is suspected, and the case is still under investigation.

Remains discovered inside vehicle in Ellis County

Sunday, March 23 KAYS: Fort Hays State SB (DH) vs. Northwest Missouri State, 12:40pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

NEW YORK (AP) —George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.

Foreman's family&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHe5UtIJ4IQ/" target="_blank">announced his death on social media</a>.

“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose," his family wrote.

A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.

Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.

He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer's two heavyweight belts.

Foreman's transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.

He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.

George Foreman, the glowering heavyweight who became a lovable champion, dies at 76

PITTSBURG, Kan. - A trio of Brady Kreutzer home runs helped the 27th-ranked Fort Hays State baseball team rally to defeat Pittsburg State in extra innings on Friday at Al Ortolani Field, with the Tigers winning 9-8 in 10 innings. The MIAA-leading Tigers improved to 18-5 overall and 13-1 in league play after their sixth-straight win, while the Gorillas dip to 17-6 on the year and 7-6 in conference action.

Fort Hays State had an uphill climb all afternoon after the Gorillas jumped in front with five runs in the first two innings. The Tigers broke through with two runs in the top of the third after Jamison Armstrong led off with a single. Derek Woolwine later worked a two-out walk, extending the inning for Elliott Herrmann who plated a run with a single down the right-field line. Trey DeGarmo followed with an RBI double to right center, helping FHSU close within 5-2.

Kreutzer drilled his first home run of the day in the next inning to pull the Tigers within 5-3 before Pittsburg State plated another run in the home half of the fifth. Kreutzer answered right back with his second home run in as many at bats, crushing a 1-1 pitch over the fence in left to make the score 6-4.

Ty Riley completed his outing with a scoreless sixth inning before Kaleb Carpenter came on to record a pair of scoreless innings of relief, stranding runners in scoring position each time. Woolwine added another Tiger home run in the top of the seventh, closing the gap to one run, 6-5.

A pair of free bases opened the top of the eighth before Tony Moore delivered a pinch-hit double into the right-field corner, giving Fort Hays State its first lead of the day at 7-6. It was Moore's first at bat in three weeks after suffering an injury in the series against Missouri Western. Zane Knox later added another run with a two-out single to right, giving FHSU an 8-6 advantage.

Brandon Chavez opened the ninth inning with a strikeout before the Gorillas rattled off a single, a triple and a sacrifice fly to even the score 8-8, sending things to extra innings. Kreutzer clubbed his third home run of the game with one out in the 10th, sending an 0-1 pitch soaring over the wall in left center. Chavez (4-0) then locked down the win with a groundout and back-to-back strikeouts in the bottom of the inning.

Kreutzer's three home run performance is the most in a game for the Tigers since 2012 when Ryan Busboom hit three against Bethany (4/24/12) and is the most by a Tiger against a Division II team since Kyle Stacken did so against Metro State in 2010 (3/23/2010). It is the 12th time a Division II player has accumulated three home runs in a game this season and just the second-such performance by an MIAA player on the year.

Kreutzer was 3-for-4 with three RBI and three runs, while DeGarmo also collected three of FHSU's 16 base hits. Knox, Woolwine and Cesar Saavedra all had two hits on the day, with Woolwine scoring twice and Moore plating two RBI.

Riley ate up six innings on the mound, allowing six runs on nine hits and six walks while striking out six batters. Carpenter retired six of the eight batters he faced over two scoreless frames, allowing a pair of doubles while striking out one batter. Chavez struck out three batters in 2.0 innings of work while allowing two runs on three hits.

Fort Hays State is now 2-0 in extra inning matchups this season.

The Tigers will look to secure the series victory on Saturday (March 22) when the teams face off again in Pittsburg beginning at 2 p.m.

⚾ Kreutzer's three-homer day helps No. 27 Tigers rally past Gorillas

SPRING HILL, Kan. - Shayla Nordlund earned her second top five finish of the season this week (March 20-21) at the Konzem Invitational, helping the Fort Hays State women's golf team to a seventh-place finish. Rockhurst hosted the event at Sycamore Ridge Golf Course, a par-72, 5,685-yard layout.

The Tigers turned in team scores of 354 in round one and 363 in round two, finishing the week at 141-over, 28 shots clear of the team that finished in eighth place.

Nordlund was in first place after day one, carding a two-over 74 on Thursday to sit atop the 59-player field. Conditions worsened on Friday, with high sustained winds elevating the field average by nearly two strokes. The freshman finished the week with a 13-over 85, finishing the week at 15-over which was five strokes off the lead. Nordlund tied for third in the field with four birdies while ranking 10th with 18 pars across the 36 holes.

Competing as an individual, Abbie Norris turned in rounds of 89 and 84 to finish in a tie for 25th place. Norris posted the lowest round on the team on Friday. She ranked eighth in the field with three birdies on the week.

Hayden York finished in a tie for 36th at 36-over after firing rounds of 88 and 92, while Kiley Maier placed 42nd with rounds of 92 and 93 (41-over). Emma Walz turned in scores of 100 and 93 to finish in 47th place, while Avery Blasi withdrew from the event and was unable to post a final score.

Rockhurst won the event at 62-over par after rounds of 314 and 324, one shot in front of Washburn (322-317, 63-over). Keira Ronsick of Washburn placed first at 10-over for the week after rounds of 75 and 79.

Fort Hays State will wrap up the regular season next month when they head to Monkey Island, Okla. for the Spring Regional Preview April 7-8.

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