The Cheapo Depot furniture store, 1001 Vine, Hays, announced Friday via Facebook that it will permanently close its doors after 40 years in business.

We are closing our doors with so much thankfulness and gratitude!!

After more than 40 incredible years of serving Hays and the surrounding area as Furniture Kingdom and Cheapo Depo, we want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all our loyal customers.

Your trust, support, and friendship have made our family furniture business a success for over four decades — and we are truly thankful and grateful for every memory shared along the way.

Thank you again for your loyalty and friendship.

Here’s to a FINAL CELEBRATION of Cheapo Depo of Hays’ LEGACY!

A note from Frank and Viv Kreutzer ...The King and Queen of Furniture!

We would like to take the time to thank all of our past customers for all the wonderful years we experienced during our years of owning Furniture Kingdom and Cheapo Depo.

It is because of you that our years in business were so successful. Thank you again.!! God Bless You! — Frank and Viv

I am so very thankful and grateful for the loyal customers who have walked through our doors over the years and made us a success.

We have come to consider so many of you as family, and I will always treasure the friendships that have grown along the way.

I’m especially grateful to the Hays community and surrounding areas for choosing us as your furniture and mattress store.

Your support has truly been a blessing in my life.

As I close this chapter, I will miss seeing so many familiar, friendly faces, but my heart is excited to see how God will use me for His glory in the days ahead.

May God’s blessings be upon you and your families always. — With heartfelt gratitude, Tina

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757366151740.jpeg" alt="Kreutzer family" />
 <figcaption>Kreutzer family</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe Cheapo Depot furniture store, 1001 Vine, Hays, announced Friday via Facebook that it will permanently close its doors after 40 years in business.In a Facebook post, Tina Kreutzer said,We are closing our doors with so much thankfulness and gratitude!!After more than 40 incredible years of serving Hays and the surrounding area as Furniture Kingdom and Cheapo Depo, we want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all our loyal customers. Your trust, support, and friendship have made our family furniture business a success for over four decades — and we are truly thankful and grateful for every memory shared along the way.Thank you again for your loyalty and friendship. Here’s to a FINAL CELEBRATION of Cheapo Depo of Hays’ LEGACY! A note from Frank and Viv Kreutzer ...The King and Queen of Furniture!We would like to take the time to thank all of our past customers for all the wonderful years we experienced during our years of owning Furniture Kingdom and Cheapo Depo.It is because of you that our years in business were so successful. Thank you again.!! God Bless You! — Frank and VivA note from Tina Kreutzer ...I am so very thankful and grateful for the loyal customers who have walked through our doors over the years and made us a success.We have come to consider so many of you as family, and I will always treasure the friendships that have grown along the way.I’m especially grateful to the Hays community and surrounding areas for choosing us as your furniture and mattress store.Your support has truly been a blessing in my life.As I close this chapter, I will miss seeing so many familiar, friendly faces, but my heart is excited to see how God will use me for His glory in the days ahead. May God’s blessings be upon you and your families always. — With heartfelt gratitude, Tina

Cheapo Depo furniture in Hays announces closure

LOGAN — At 6 a.m. on Friday, the Phillips County Sheriff's Office assisted the Federal Bureau of Investigation, according to a post on the sheriff's Facebook page.

A search warrant was executed in the 400 block of West Church Street, Logan. 

 This is an ongoing federal investigation allegedly involving victims across multiple states, according to the post.

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 </figure>LOGAN — At 6 a.m. on Friday, the Phillips County Sheriff's Office assisted the Federal Bureau of Investigation, according to a post on the sheriff's Facebook page. A search warrant was executed in the 400 block of West Church Street, Logan. This is an ongoing federal investigation allegedly involving victims across multiple states, according to the post.

FBI executes search warrant on Friday in Logan

At 8:48 a.m. Saturday, the Ellis Police Department was notified of a theft that occurred at Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington.

Employees alleged that two black males had entered Casey’s and were successful in stealing about $1,500 in cash from the store. 

An attempt to locate was broadcast, and two suspects were located outside Limon, Colorado and were identified as Dresean Holden, 20, of Flint Michigan, and Hakeem Black, 22, of Flint, Michigan.

Evidence was recovered from the suspects that allegedly linked them to several other thefts along the I-70 corridor in Kansas, according to the Ellis Police Department.

 Information on the suspects' identities has been provided to those agencies to further their investigations.

Arrest affidavits have been forwarded to the Ellis County Attorney’s Office for consideration of charges. 

"I’d like to thank Ellis County Communications, the Hays Police Department, and the Lincoln County Colorado Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said in a news release.

No further information will be released at this time, as investigation is still ongoing.

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 </figure>Ellis Police DepartmentAt 8:48 a.m. Saturday, the Ellis Police Department was notified of a theft that occurred at Casey’s General Store, 213 Washington.Employees alleged that two black males had entered Casey’s and were successful in stealing about $1,500 in cash from the store. An attempt to locate was broadcast, and two suspects were located outside Limon, Colorado and were identified as Dresean Holden, 20, of Flint Michigan, and Hakeem Black, 22, of Flint, Michigan.Evidence was recovered from the suspects that allegedly linked them to several other thefts along the I-70 corridor in Kansas, according to the Ellis Police Department. Information on the suspects' identities has been provided to those agencies to further their investigations.Arrest affidavits have been forwarded to the Ellis County Attorney’s Office for consideration of charges. "I’d like to thank Ellis County Communications, the Hays Police Department, and the Lincoln County Colorado Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case," Avery Smith, Ellis Police Chief, said in a news release.No further information will be released at this time, as investigation is still ongoing.

Men arrested after theft at Ellis Casey's

Congratulations&nbsp;to Nancy Stramel and Ryan Sultzer from Hays, our latest finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway. 

Their names were selected as finalists at Stone House Spirit and Cigar in Hays on Friday.

Special thanks to Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, Commercial Sign Company, and A &amp; A Coors Miller of Hays!

Your last chance to sign up to be a finalist will be on Friday at Elite Detailing.

The winner will be drawn at the Fort Hays State University football game on Saturday night.

13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Hauptman – Briney Motorsports – 7-25-2025

14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rod Goetz – Briney Motorsports – 7-25-2025

15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chad McCarty – Discount Smokes – 8-1-2025

16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nolan Allen – Discount Smokes – 8-1-2025

17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Coomes – Phillipsburg Rodeo – 8-1-2025

18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matt Van Allen – Phillipsburg Rodeo – 8-1-2025

19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pierce Day – Ole 40 Express – 8-4-2025

20.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shane Wilson – Ole 40 Express – 8-4-2025

21.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lyn Klein – Auto Collision Specialists – 8-15-2025

22.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kyle Kirmer – Auto Collision Specialists – 8-15-2025

23.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Darin Myers – National Radio Day at Eagle – 8-20-2025

24.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Kaba – National Radio Day at Eagle – 8-20-2025

25.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Duane Lang – Kaiser Liquor – 8-22-2025

26.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wanda Oborny – Kaiser Liquor – 8-22-2025

27.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Lonnon – Nate’s Liquor – 8-29-2025

28.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn Summers – Nate’s Liquor – 8-29-2025

29.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charles Ramsay – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 8-30-2025

30.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marlena Dinkel – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 8-30-2025

31.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Sultzer – Stone House Spirit &amp; Cigar – 9-5-2025

32.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nancy Stramel – Stone House Spirit &amp; Cigar – 9-5-2025

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753111227517.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750185433864.png" alt="UTV logos.png" />
 <figcaption>UTV logos.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations&nbsp;to Nancy Stramel and Ryan Sultzer from Hays, our latest finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway. Their names were selected as finalists at Stone House Spirit and Cigar in Hays on Friday.Special thanks to Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, Commercial Sign Company, and A &amp; A Coors Miller of Hays!Your last chance to sign up to be a finalist will be on Friday at Elite Detailing.The winner will be drawn at the Fort Hays State University football game on Saturday night.Below is the list of the finalists:<ol>
 <li>Garrett Bland – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025</li><li>Earl Brungardt – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025</li><li>Tara Graham – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025</li><li>Brad Leitner – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025</li><li>Becky Wachs – WWF – 7-3-2025</li><li>Kirby Garrison – WWF – 7-3-2025</li><li>Marlin Sherfick – Trego Co. Fair – 7-11-2025</li><li>Dale Pfannenstiel – Trego Co. Fair – 7-11-2025</li><li>Danny Wasinger – Ellis Co. Fair – 7-18-2025</li><li>Brett Davidson – Ellis Co. Fair – 7-18-2025</li><li>Erin Storer – Doghouse Liquor – 7-19-2025</li><li>Landon Paul – Doghouse Liquor – 7-19-2025</li>
 </ol>13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Hauptman – Briney Motorsports – 7-25-202514.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rod Goetz – Briney Motorsports – 7-25-202515.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chad McCarty – Discount Smokes – 8-1-202516.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nolan Allen – Discount Smokes – 8-1-202517.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Coomes – Phillipsburg Rodeo – 8-1-202518.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matt Van Allen – Phillipsburg Rodeo – 8-1-202519.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pierce Day – Ole 40 Express – 8-4-202520.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shane Wilson – Ole 40 Express – 8-4-202521.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lyn Klein – Auto Collision Specialists – 8-15-202522.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kyle Kirmer – Auto Collision Specialists – 8-15-202523.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Darin Myers – National Radio Day at Eagle – 8-20-202524.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Kaba – National Radio Day at Eagle – 8-20-202525.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Duane Lang – Kaiser Liquor – 8-22-202526.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wanda Oborny – Kaiser Liquor – 8-22-202527.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;John Lonnon – Nate’s Liquor – 8-29-202528.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn Summers – Nate’s Liquor – 8-29-202529.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charles Ramsay – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 8-30-202530.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marlena Dinkel – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 8-30-202531.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Sultzer – Stone House Spirit &amp; Cigar – 9-5-202532.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nancy Stramel – Stone House Spirit &amp; Cigar – 9-5-2025

Stone House Spirit's finalists named for Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will have a public hearing before adopting the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.

The hearing provides taxpayers with the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate, as well as a proposed mill levy increase of 1.96 mills.

Personnel policy change for retiree insurance

The county will be asked to approve a personnel policy change regarding retiree health insurance, as mandated by a Kansas statute.

The law requires local governments that offer health insurance also to make the coverage available to retirees and their dependents, provided they apply within 30 days of retirement and meet other eligibility requirements. Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old.

New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department

The county health department will request approval to purchase a new electronic health record system, replacing an outdated one. The five-year purchase price of about $77,100 will be prepaid using Workforce Development Grant funds.

A homeowner will request approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. No county funds or assistance will be asked for.

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09092025-696">here</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will have a public hearing before adopting the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.The hearing provides taxpayers with the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate, as well as a proposed mill levy increase of 1.96 mills.<h2>Personnel policy change for retiree insurance</h2>The county will be asked to approve a personnel policy change regarding retiree health insurance, as mandated by a Kansas statute.The law requires local governments that offer health insurance also to make the coverage available to retirees and their dependents, provided they apply within 30 days of retirement and meet other eligibility requirements. Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old.<h2>New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department</h2>The county health department will request approval to purchase a new electronic health record system, replacing an outdated one. The five-year purchase price of about $77,100 will be prepaid using Workforce Development Grant funds.<h2>Other business</h2>A homeowner will request approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. No county funds or assistance will be asked for.You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09092025-696">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission sets 2026 budget hearing

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will conduct budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.

The district is proposing a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.

Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will increase by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 proposes mill levy increase, sees special ed costs rise</a>

The board is also set to further discuss naming rights for school facilities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 pauses Hays High football field naming rights donation discussion</a>

The school board put on hold a donation from Golden Belt Bank for the naming rights of the new Hays High football field.

The bank has offered a $200,000 donation for the naming rights. That offer expires Sept. 15.

Although some board members favored accepting the donation for the naming rights, other board members, including Board President Curt Vajnar, wanted the decision delayed.

The board will also consider a bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will conduct budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.The hearings are open to the public.The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.The district is proposing a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will increase by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 proposes mill levy increase, sees special ed costs rise</a>Naming rightsThe board is also set to further discuss naming rights for school facilities.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 pauses Hays High football field naming rights donation discussion</a>The school board put on hold a donation from Golden Belt Bank for the naming rights of the new Hays High football field.The bank has offered a $200,000 donation for the naming rights. That offer expires Sept. 15.Although some board members favored accepting the donation for the naming rights, other board members, including Board President Curt Vajnar, wanted the decision delayed.The board will also consider a bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School.

USD 489 school board to consider budget; Hays High field naming

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

NYMEX crude drops to its lowest closing price since May 30. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped &nbsp;$1.61 to a settlement price of $61.87 per barrel. Futures prices in New York rebounded half a dollar or more on Monday, topping $62 by midday.

Kansas prices also reached three-month lows. Kansas Common crude is fetching $52 a barrel, the lowest price at CHS in McPherson since June 1.

The government reports an increase in US crude stockpiles of nearly 2.5 million barrels to 420.7 million. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.

The government added another half-million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The total is now up 25 million barrels or 6.6 percent from a year ago.

US crude-oil production topped 13.4 million barrels a day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration says output of 13,423,000 barrels a day in the week through August 29th, down 16,000 barrels from the week before.

US crude output topped 13.5 million barrels per day in June for the first time this year. The government's monthly output report is up one percent from May and 2.5 percent higher than in June of 2024. Output in the top three states also advanced. Texas output rose 200,000 barrels a day(+0.2%) to just over 5.7 million.&nbsp; Production in New Mexico spiked 1.8 percent to 2.2 million barrels a day. Output in North Dakota rose nearly three percent to 1.15 million barrels per day.

US crude oil production through June surpassed 2.4 million barrels, averaging 13,389 barrels per day. Texas pumped nearly 5.7 million barrels per day in the first six months of the year. That's almost as much as the next 12 states combined, which produced a combined 5.8 million barrels per day.

Kansas output averaged 71,000 daily barrels in June, up 2,000 daily barrels or 0.7 percent from May. That's down 4.3 percent from June of last year. For the first six months of the year, Kansas has averaged 69-thousand barrels a day.

The US imported 6.7 million barrels a day last week, an increase of more than half a million daily barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports the four week average is up 4.4 percent from last year at this time.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up two oil rigs but down one gas rig for a total of 537 active rigs across the US. The tally for horizontal rigs is down two. The report for Texas is up two while New Mexico is down two from a week ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up two rigs in eastern Kansas, but down one west of Wichita for a total of 18 active rotary drilling rigs.&nbsp; That tally is down 28 percent from a year ago.

Regulators report 54 new intent-to-drill notices in Kansas last month, down from 91 in July and 87 in August of last year. A Web site search at the KCC includes three intents in Stafford County in August and three in Haskell County.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 12 new well completions this week with seven in eastern Kansas and five west of Wichita including one in Finney County. That's 813 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 907 by this time last year.

Kansas regulators okayed nine drilling locations across the state. The four new permits in Western Kansas include one in Barton County. That's 487 new drilling permits so far this year, down from 685 a year ago.

The dramatic spike in US output over the last five years is driven almost entirely by ten counties. Between 2020 and 2024, crude oil production in the United States grew by nearly two million barrels a day. The government says 93% of that growth came in just ten counties in Texas and New Mexico. Production from the rest of the United States, including offshore output, grew by just 130,000 barrels a day.

Output in two counties, Lea and Eddy in New Mexico, grew by nearly a million barrels per day during those five years, more than half the growth reported nationwide. Eight additional counties in Texas account for 40% of national output growth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652188903167.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaNYMEX crude drops to its lowest closing price since May 30. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped &nbsp;$1.61 to a settlement price of $61.87 per barrel. Futures prices in New York rebounded half a dollar or more on Monday, topping $62 by midday.Kansas prices also reached three-month lows. Kansas Common crude is fetching $52 a barrel, the lowest price at CHS in McPherson since June 1.The government reports an increase in US crude stockpiles of nearly 2.5 million barrels to 420.7 million. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.The government added another half-million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The total is now up 25 million barrels or 6.6 percent from a year ago.US crude-oil production topped 13.4 million barrels a day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration says output of 13,423,000 barrels a day in the week through August 29th, down 16,000 barrels from the week before.US crude output topped 13.5 million barrels per day in June for the first time this year. The government's monthly output report is up one percent from May and 2.5 percent higher than in June of 2024. Output in the top three states also advanced. Texas output rose 200,000 barrels a day(+0.2%) to just over 5.7 million.&nbsp; Production in New Mexico spiked 1.8 percent to 2.2 million barrels a day. Output in North Dakota rose nearly three percent to 1.15 million barrels per day.US crude oil production through June surpassed 2.4 million barrels, averaging 13,389 barrels per day. Texas pumped nearly 5.7 million barrels per day in the first six months of the year. That's almost as much as the next 12 states combined, which produced a combined 5.8 million barrels per day.Kansas output averaged 71,000 daily barrels in June, up 2,000 daily barrels or 0.7 percent from May. That's down 4.3 percent from June of last year. For the first six months of the year, Kansas has averaged 69-thousand barrels a day.The US imported 6.7 million barrels a day last week, an increase of more than half a million daily barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports the four week average is up 4.4 percent from last year at this time.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up two oil rigs but down one gas rig for a total of 537 active rigs across the US. The tally for horizontal rigs is down two. The report for Texas is up two while New Mexico is down two from a week ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up two rigs in eastern Kansas, but down one west of Wichita for a total of 18 active rotary drilling rigs.&nbsp; That tally is down 28 percent from a year ago.Regulators report 54 new intent-to-drill notices in Kansas last month, down from 91 in July and 87 in August of last year. A Web site search at the KCC includes three intents in Stafford County in August and three in Haskell County.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 12 new well completions this week with seven in eastern Kansas and five west of Wichita including one in Finney County. That's 813 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 907 by this time last year.Kansas regulators okayed nine drilling locations across the state. The four new permits in Western Kansas include one in Barton County. That's 487 new drilling permits so far this year, down from 685 a year ago.The dramatic spike in US output over the last five years is driven almost entirely by ten counties. Between 2020 and 2024, crude oil production in the United States grew by nearly two million barrels a day. The government says 93% of that growth came in just ten counties in Texas and New Mexico. Production from the rest of the United States, including offshore output, grew by just 130,000 barrels a day.Output in two counties, Lea and Eddy in New Mexico, grew by nearly a million barrels per day during those five years, more than half the growth reported nationwide. Eight additional counties in Texas account for 40% of national output growth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude prices drop to 3-month lows

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Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2025

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Ellis County Jail bookings: Aug. 30-Sept. 6, 2025

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

<div></div>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a><figure>
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

Giant wild animals filled the sky during the Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show on Saturday and Sunday.

The event was at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, organized by the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau and the Hays Recreation Commission.

Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri provided the kites of all shapes and sizes, accompanied by food trucks and family activities spread throughout the sports complex.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757271914090.jpeg" alt="Massive kites, provided by&nbsp;Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri, during the&nbsp;Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Massive kites, provided by&nbsp;Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri, during the&nbsp;Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostGiant wild animals filled the sky during the Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show on Saturday and Sunday.The event was at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, organized by the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau and the Hays Recreation Commission.Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri provided the kites of all shapes and sizes, accompanied by food trucks and family activities spread throughout the sports complex.<figure>
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📷 Colorful kites soar over Hays at Prairie Winds Show

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

Changes in income, increased expenses, and other financial stresses can be overwhelming.

We have several publications available that can help identify opportunities and provide insight into coping with and handling tough financial times.

One of these, “When Your Income Drops: Coping With Stress”, was just updated in August and includes some ways to understand and help in addressing financial situations. 

None of us handle finances or financial stress in the exact same way. This can create additional stress within a household when all are not on the same page. This publication is part of a series which include additional topics such as “Making Ends Meet”, “Don’t Panic; Take Control”, and “Sharpening Survival Skills”.

Another publication that can be useful for any household is “How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup.”

 It notes that a financial checkup is just as important as a physical checkup and can help identify problems, chart progress, and outline action steps to achieve goals. It is a great tool for helping with a household discussion about priorities and financial management. It covers great information highlighting a tax checkup, credit checkup, insurance checkup, a retirement checkup, and an investment checkup.

We don’t have any workshops planned for the immediate future on financial planning or budgeting so let us know if we can provide a resource or guide to help in navigating financial stresses.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictChanges in income, increased expenses, and other financial stresses can be overwhelming.We have several publications available that can help identify opportunities and provide insight into coping with and handling tough financial times.One of these, “When Your Income Drops: Coping With Stress”, was just updated in August and includes some ways to understand and help in addressing financial situations. None of us handle finances or financial stress in the exact same way. This can create additional stress within a household when all are not on the same page. This publication is part of a series which include additional topics such as “Making Ends Meet”, “Don’t Panic; Take Control”, and “Sharpening Survival Skills”.Another publication that can be useful for any household is “How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup.” It notes that a financial checkup is just as important as a physical checkup and can help identify problems, chart progress, and outline action steps to achieve goals. It is a great tool for helping with a household discussion about priorities and financial management. It covers great information highlighting a tax checkup, credit checkup, insurance checkup, a retirement checkup, and an investment checkup.We don’t have any workshops planned for the immediate future on financial planning or budgeting so let us know if we can provide a resource or guide to help in navigating financial stresses.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Get your financial checkup

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced that 27 local and off-system bridge projects across Kansas, including several in the region, will receive a combined total of $40.5 million in state and federal funding as part of two local bridge improvement programs.

“By funding bridge projects across our state, we are directly investing in the future of our communities,” Kelly&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Repairing and replacing aging bridges ensures people and commerce can move safely and efficiently throughout Kansas.”

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $46.5 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, and over 5,000 of those bridges need updates to meet today’s standards.

“The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program has allowed us to enhance our commitment to local bridges,”&nbsp;Secretary Reed said. “This is about more than just infrastructure; it's about strengthening the vital connections that keep our towns and cities thriving.”

KDOT will award about $20 million through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2026. 

The funds will go to 11 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four deficient bridges will be permanently removed from local systems. 

The KLBIP, established in 2015, provides funds to local public authorities for the replacement or rehabilitation of deficient city and county-owned bridges. The program also allows cities and counties to be awarded additional funds for the removal of deficient bridges.

KDOT will award $20.5 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2027 to fund 16 projects across the state. The OSB program was established to comply with federal requirements to use a specific portion of federal funds for bridges not on the federal-aid system. The funding is a combination of federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, Bridge Program Funds, and state funds.

The OSB and KLBIP programs are used for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that consider items such as bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 163 applications requesting $189.3 million.

The recipients and project locations for the KLBIP and OSB programs include the following areas.

2026 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects

2027 Off-System Bridge Program Project Recommendations

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744384842051.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced that 27 local and off-system bridge projects across Kansas, including several in the region, will receive a combined total of $40.5 million in state and federal funding as part of two local bridge improvement programs.“By funding bridge projects across our state, we are directly investing in the future of our communities,” Kelly&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Repairing and replacing aging bridges ensures people and commerce can move safely and efficiently throughout Kansas.”Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $46.5 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, and over 5,000 of those bridges need updates to meet today’s standards.“The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program has allowed us to enhance our commitment to local bridges,”&nbsp;Secretary Reed said. “This is about more than just infrastructure; it's about strengthening the vital connections that keep our towns and cities thriving.”KDOT will award about $20 million through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2026. The funds will go to 11 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four deficient bridges will be permanently removed from local systems. The KLBIP, established in 2015, provides funds to local public authorities for the replacement or rehabilitation of deficient city and county-owned bridges. The program also allows cities and counties to be awarded additional funds for the removal of deficient bridges.KDOT will award $20.5 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2027 to fund 16 projects across the state. The OSB program was established to comply with federal requirements to use a specific portion of federal funds for bridges not on the federal-aid system. The funding is a combination of federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, Bridge Program Funds, and state funds.The OSB and KLBIP programs are used for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that consider items such as bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 163 applications requesting $189.3 million.The recipients and project locations for the KLBIP and OSB programs include the following areas.2026 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects<figure>
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Ellis County, area bridge projects awarded state funding

BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS is proud to present&nbsp;Growing Together, an all-new local mini-series created and produced by Smoky Hills PBS. This engaging series brings families trusted resources, practical tools, and expert advice for raising children at every stage of life.

From babies taking their first bites to young adults preparing for independence,&nbsp;Growing Together&nbsp;explores the challenges and triumphs of parenting and caregiving with real stories, local voices, and evidence-based guidance.

“Local productions like Growing Together are what make Smoky Hills PBS unique,” said Sara Oberle, producer/director of&nbsp;Growing Together&nbsp;and Smoky Hills PBS sales underwriting associate.&nbsp; “By focusing on the needs of Kansas families, we’re able to provide resources that are both practical and deeply meaningful to our communities.”

These all new episodes will air on Tuesdays at 7 p.m., exclusively on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; Rebroadcasts will be available on Sundays at 3:30 p.m., ensuring multiple opportunities for viewers to tune in.&nbsp; Streaming options will also be available on the free&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/pbs-app/">PBS app</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@SmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube</a>&nbsp;channel.

For more information on broadcast times and additional coverage details, please visit our website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or download the free Smoky Hills PBS mobile app for Android and iPhone users.

Growing Together is made possible by a partnership with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/locations/great-bend-campus-hospital-great-bend-ks">The&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/locations/great-bend-campus-hospital-great-bend-ks">University of Kansas Health System (Great Bend)</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bcbsks.com/">Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansashealth.org/">Kansas Health Foundation Grant</a>, United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, Western Kansas Community Foundation Grant, Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Southwind Bank, Salina Pediatric Care (Salina Regional Health Center), Danny and Janis Reichenborn, Wilson State Bank, and La Pasadita Camiceria.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756916061214.png" alt="Smoky Hills PBS" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hills PBS</figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBS BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS is proud to present&nbsp;Growing Together, an all-new local mini-series created and produced by Smoky Hills PBS. This engaging series brings families trusted resources, practical tools, and expert advice for raising children at every stage of life.From babies taking their first bites to young adults preparing for independence,&nbsp;Growing Together&nbsp;explores the challenges and triumphs of parenting and caregiving with real stories, local voices, and evidence-based guidance.“Local productions like Growing Together are what make Smoky Hills PBS unique,” said Sara Oberle, producer/director of&nbsp;Growing Together&nbsp;and Smoky Hills PBS sales underwriting associate.&nbsp; “By focusing on the needs of Kansas families, we’re able to provide resources that are both practical and deeply meaningful to our communities.”These all new episodes will air on Tuesdays at 7 p.m., exclusively on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; Rebroadcasts will be available on Sundays at 3:30 p.m., ensuring multiple opportunities for viewers to tune in.&nbsp; Streaming options will also be available on the free&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/pbs-app/">PBS app</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@SmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube</a>&nbsp;channel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756914827224.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>For more information on broadcast times and additional coverage details, please visit our website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or download the free Smoky Hills PBS mobile app for Android and iPhone users.Growing Together is made possible by a partnership with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/locations/great-bend-campus-hospital-great-bend-ks">The&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/locations/great-bend-campus-hospital-great-bend-ks">University of Kansas Health System (Great Bend)</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bcbsks.com/">Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansashealth.org/">Kansas Health Foundation Grant</a>, United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, Western Kansas Community Foundation Grant, Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Southwind Bank, Salina Pediatric Care (Salina Regional Health Center), Danny and Janis Reichenborn, Wilson State Bank, and La Pasadita Camiceria.

Smoky Hills PBS announces new production

<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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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757080147873.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University is expanding as the allied health program moves in with the nursing program.&nbsp;

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Crista Beiker, chair of allied health department, and Jenny Manry, nursing department chair, along with president Tisa Mason about of the growth of the two departments.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Expansion of Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=5mxvf-1954898-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University is expanding as the allied health program moves in with the nursing program.&nbsp;On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Crista Beiker, chair of allied health department, and Jenny Manry, nursing department chair, along with president Tisa Mason about of the growth of the two departments.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Expansion of Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Here are several changes / updates to hunting and fishing regulations that will take effect September 12, 2025.

Expanded senior license options and a longer coyote season are among key changes.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) has announced several regulation updates taking effect September 12, including new discounted licenses for Kansas seniors and an extended season for night vision coyote hunting.

Kansas residents ages 65–74 will soon have access to three new multi-year license options:

· 5-Year Combination Hunting &amp; Fishing License – $90

One-year senior licenses remain available at half the standard adult rate.

“We introduced these new options after our authority to offer the deeply discounted 10-year senior licenses—commonly known as the senior lifetime license—expired,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “While we’re still working to bring back the 10-year license, these five-year options give seniors more choices right now.”

Hunters using night vision equipment will now have a longer season to pursue coyotes. The updated season runs from September 1 to March 31, excluding firearm deer seasons. Due to the timing of the regulation change, the 2025–2026 season will only include:

· Trout Permit Fee Increase: Raised from $12 to $17.50 to cover rising stocking costs.

· Mussel Fees Removed: Mussel fishing and dealer fees were eliminated because commercial mussel harvesting was banned in 2022.

· Muzzleloader Ammunition Update: Hunters may now use either lead or non-lead (nontoxic) shot when hunting big game with muzzleloaders—a type of firearm loaded from the front of the barrel.

· More whitetail antlerless deer tags will be available in southeastern and central Kansas.

· Fewer whitetail antlerless deer tags will be available in northwestern Kansas due to declining deer populations.

· Extended firearm season dates were added for southeastern deer management units.

· 2025-2026 dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range were set to support military access while respecting Department of Defense operations.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism maintains a very good and informative website, so go to <a href="https://ksoutdoors.gov/">www.ksoutdoors.gov</a> to stay informed of further changes, updates and for more valuable information to help you continue to enjoy Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsHere are several changes / updates to hunting and fishing regulations that will take effect September 12, 2025.Expanded senior license options and a longer coyote season are among key changes.The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) has announced several regulation updates taking effect September 12, including new discounted licenses for Kansas seniors and an extended season for night vision coyote hunting.New 5-Year Senior LicensesKansas residents ages 65–74 will soon have access to three new multi-year license options:· 5-Year Hunting License – $50· 5-Year Fishing License – $50· 5-Year Combination Hunting &amp; Fishing License – $90One-year senior licenses remain available at half the standard adult rate.“We introduced these new options after our authority to offer the deeply discounted 10-year senior licenses—commonly known as the senior lifetime license—expired,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “While we’re still working to bring back the 10-year license, these five-year options give seniors more choices right now.”Longer Night Vision Coyote SeasonHunters using night vision equipment will now have a longer season to pursue coyotes. The updated season runs from September 1 to March 31, excluding firearm deer seasons. Due to the timing of the regulation change, the 2025–2026 season will only include:· September 29–December 2, 2025· December 15–31, 2025· January 1–March 31, 2026Other Regulation Updates· Trout Permit Fee Increase: Raised from $12 to $17.50 to cover rising stocking costs.· Mussel Fees Removed: Mussel fishing and dealer fees were eliminated because commercial mussel harvesting was banned in 2022.· Muzzleloader Ammunition Update: Hunters may now use either lead or non-lead (nontoxic) shot when hunting big game with muzzleloaders—a type of firearm loaded from the front of the barrel.· Deer Permit Adjustments:· More whitetail antlerless deer tags will be available in southeastern and central Kansas.· Fewer whitetail antlerless deer tags will be available in northwestern Kansas due to declining deer populations.· Extended firearm season dates were added for southeastern deer management units.· 2025-2026 dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range were set to support military access while respecting Department of Defense operations.The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism maintains a very good and informative website, so go to <a href="https://ksoutdoors.gov/">www.ksoutdoors.gov</a> to stay informed of further changes, updates and for more valuable information to help you continue to enjoy Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: New wildlife regulations take effect September 12

Fort Hays State University paid tribute to those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.

The memorial stair climb began Saturday at 7:46 a.m. at Lewis Field Stadium, one hour before the first plane struck the North Tower in 2001. The opening consisted of the national anthem and a moment of silence.

Participants chose to run or walk the stadium steps or complete laps around the Lewis Field turf.

Dozens of first responders, including firefighters in full gear, honored 9/11 heroes by replicating the efforts of those who climbed the World Trade Center.

20-year-old Jose Amaya, a paid-on-call firefighter with the Ellis County Fire Department, said that although he was not born before 2001, he stayed motivated by imagining himself in the shoes of those who attempted the climb.

"We don't exactly see what those first responders did on 9/11, but we kind of get a feeling of what they had to suffer through to get up to the top of the World Trade Center," Amaya said.

18-year-old Kamdem Keller, a county firefighter, said he drew motivation from remembering the first responders who ran toward danger.

"When you're out here with this gear on and you're doing it, you realize these guys were making a push that not very many people could make," Keller said.

Gear typically weighs between 45 and 75 pounds.

After the climb, Amaya said he hopes the public recognizes firefighters’ dedication to serving the community.

"I'm glad I joined the fire department. They feel like a second family to me," he said.

Keller said he hopes the public will continue to support all first responders, including fire, law enforcement and EMT.

"Support your first responders, no matter what agency they are," Keller said. "These are tough jobs. You see some really challenging things, but if you're there to support them, it helps them give a deeper push in their day-to-day life."

As participants completed their laps, footage and audio from the New York attacks were displayed on the big screen at Lewis Field Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757188909962.jpeg" alt="A firefighter climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University paid tribute to those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.The memorial stair climb began Saturday at 7:46 a.m. at Lewis Field Stadium, one hour before the first plane struck the North Tower in 2001. The opening consisted of the national anthem and a moment of silence.Participants chose to run or walk the stadium steps or complete laps around the Lewis Field turf.Dozens of first responders, including firefighters in full gear, honored 9/11 heroes by replicating the efforts of those who climbed the World Trade Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757188991995.jpeg" alt="Participants and first responders during a moment of silence at the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lewis Field Stadium. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Participants and first responders during a moment of silence at the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lewis Field Stadium. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189029943.jpeg" alt="Firefighters climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189076414.jpeg" alt="Firefighters and a participant climbing down the&nbsp;Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters and a participant climbing down the&nbsp;Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189140215.jpeg" alt="Firefighters climbing up the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters climbing up the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189114128.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University athletes participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University athletes participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189204760.jpeg" alt="Jose Amaya with the Ellis County Fire Department resting during the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jose Amaya with the Ellis County Fire Department resting during the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>20-year-old Jose Amaya, a paid-on-call firefighter with the Ellis County Fire Department, said that although he was not born before 2001, he stayed motivated by imagining himself in the shoes of those who attempted the climb."We don't exactly see what those first responders did on 9/11, but we kind of get a feeling of what they had to suffer through to get up to the top of the World Trade Center," Amaya said.18-year-old Kamdem Keller, a county firefighter, said he drew motivation from remembering the first responders who ran toward danger."When you're out here with this gear on and you're doing it, you realize these guys were making a push that not very many people could make," Keller said.Gear typically weighs between 45 and 75 pounds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189251032.jpeg" alt="A firefighter and his gear at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter and his gear at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189289828.jpeg" alt="Firefighters resting at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. A picture of fallen New York Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Martini is taped to the back of a firefighter's gear. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters resting at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. A picture of fallen New York Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Martini is taped to the back of a firefighter's gear. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189461695.jpeg" alt="Firefighters at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189305329.jpeg" alt="A firefighter with an axe&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter with an axe&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189407913.jpeg" alt="A young boy with firefighter gear&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A young boy with firefighter gear&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189169097.jpeg" alt="A tired firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A tired firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>After the climb, Amaya said he hopes the public recognizes firefighters’ dedication to serving the community."I'm glad I joined the fire department. They feel like a second family to me," he said.Keller said he hopes the public will continue to support all first responders, including fire, law enforcement and EMT."Support your first responders, no matter what agency they are," Keller said. "These are tough jobs. You see some really challenging things, but if you're there to support them, it helps them give a deeper push in their day-to-day life."As participants completed their laps, footage and audio from the New York attacks were displayed on the big screen at Lewis Field Stadium.Breakfast was served after the climb.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189528412.jpeg" alt="A firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189693574.jpeg" alt="A timeline of events from Sept. 11, 2001, next to participants of the memorial stair climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero" />
 <figcaption>A timeline of events from Sept. 11, 2001, next to participants of the memorial stair climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189352096.jpeg" alt="Firefighters sitting next to a boy at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters sitting next to a boy at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189567194.jpeg" alt="Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189751905.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Officers holding the Kansas and United States flag during a moment of silence&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Officers holding the Kansas and United States flag during a moment of silence&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189714839.jpeg" alt="Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 Young firefighters pay tribute to 9/11 victims; FHSU Memorial Stair Climb

By&nbsp;BRIAN WHEPLEY <a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/about/news/news-archive/medical-student-returns-to-kansas-hometown-for-clerkship-rural-medical-training.html">KU News Service</a>

Third-year medical student Jack Thomas considered going somewhere besides his hometown of Scott City to fulfill KU School of Medicine-Wichita’s rural training requirement. But the appeal of a familiar family medicine clinic and time with his family, friends, dog and mother’s cooking won out.

“It’s interesting seeing people you know. My first day there I saw one of my neighbors and had the chance to reconnect and help them,” Thomas says of the family medicine clerkship.

“I always look to connect rural students back to their rural roots if they’re interested,” says&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/l152f027.html">Lynn Fisher, M.D.</a>, associate professor of family and community medicine and assistant clerkship director. “It’s like a puzzle,” he says of balancing locations and student interests that can include going back home and facets of family medicine such as obstetrics, pediatrics, surgery, emergency care and &nbsp;hospital care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756994227961.jpeg" alt="Third-year medical student Jack Thomas, center, is learning from Libby Hineman, M.D., Christopher Cupp, M.D., and their colleague (not pictured) Matthew Lightner, M.D., this summer at the Scott City Clinic. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Third-year medical student Jack Thomas, center, is learning from Libby Hineman, M.D., Christopher Cupp, M.D., and their colleague (not pictured) Matthew Lightner, M.D., this summer at the Scott City Clinic. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;BRIAN WHEPLEY <a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/about/news/news-archive/medical-student-returns-to-kansas-hometown-for-clerkship-rural-medical-training.html">KU News Service</a> Third-year medical student Jack Thomas considered going somewhere besides his hometown of Scott City to fulfill KU School of Medicine-Wichita’s rural training requirement. But the appeal of a familiar family medicine clinic and time with his family, friends, dog and mother’s cooking won out.“It’s interesting seeing people you know. My first day there I saw one of my neighbors and had the chance to reconnect and help them,” Thomas says of the family medicine clerkship.“I always look to connect rural students back to their rural roots if they’re interested,” says&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/l152f027.html">Lynn Fisher, M.D.</a>, associate professor of family and community medicine and assistant clerkship director. “It’s like a puzzle,” he says of balancing locations and student interests that can include going back home and facets of family medicine such as obstetrics, pediatrics, surgery, emergency care and &nbsp;hospital care.Thomas is no stranger to the Scott City Clinic, as he participated in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/academics/premedical-programs/scholars-in-health.html">Scholars in Health</a>&nbsp;as a Kansas State University undergraduate. The program identifies Kansas residents interested in becoming primary care doctors in underserved areas and, having met academic and other requirements, guarantees medical school admission. As a scholar, he shadowed Scott City physicians.This time around, his immersion shifted from watching to doing. That ranges from writing case notes to navigating the electronic medical record system to following a visiting general surgeon and an ear, nose and throat specialist. He’s done morning rounds and gotten to see patients on his own and with Libby Hineman, M.D., and colleagues Chris Cupp, M.D., and Matthew Lightner, M.D. – all KU School of Medicine graduates.“It’s been different in that I’ve been going in and seeing and talking to patients and then presenting a differential diagnosis,” Thomas says. “The three doctors are really good teachers and very helpful in me gaining clinical skills like physical exams.”And he’s gotten hands-on, from removing skin lesions to sewing stitches to what Hineman calls “a perk of coming way out here,” helping deliver a baby via C-section one week and scrubbing in for a laparoscopic procedure the next.Family medicine, “it’s a nice rotation to do at the beginning of your third year before you get into all those specialty rotations,” says Hineman, who’s known Thomas since starting practice in Scott City in 2006.<h2>Finding a painful path to medicine</h2>Growing up in the town of about 4,000, where his father works in natural gas sales and mother was a radiology technician, Thomas wasn’t immersed in medicine. That changed during his junior year of high school when the distance runner – a state champion in cross-country and the 3,200 meter – tore a critical hip cartilage, the labrum, at a critical time, college recruiting season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756994043210.jpeg" alt="Jack Thomas during his days running for Scott Community High School, where he won two state titles. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jack Thomas during his days running for Scott Community High School, where he won two state titles. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“It was my whole life,” he says of running, so the injury was devastating and the journey to successful treatment and recovery left an impression.He saw different orthopedists for assessment and feels fortunate to have found a Colorado hip specialist who delivered a sobering timeframe for recovery but also provided the expertise to enable Thomas to heal and earn a spot on the K-State cross-country team. He’d run for two years in college before fully turning his attention to a new passion, medicine.Thomas, whose first two years of medical school were in Kansas City, initially wanted to pursue orthopedics but has shifted toward dermatology, an interest furthered by a family history of skin cancer and skin issues of his own. He sees the need for rural dermatologists and can envision a practice with visits to multiple rural locations, and Hineman says they’ve discussed how a rural specialty practice is more doable now than in the past.Still, Thomas has made no final decision on a specialty: “I want to go through all the other rotations to see if there’s something I really enjoy.”<h2>How the clerkships work</h2>Medical students have long had a required fourth-year, four-week rural rotation. Starting last year, though, students choosing to do the longer third-year family medicine clerkship in a rural location can use it to satisfy the fourth-year requirement.It’s a change that allows students more time for fourth-year electives but also – as Hineman and Fisher mentioned – encourages earlier exposure to rural practice. As a result, it’s an opportunity for students to be sold on family medicine before the residency match process kicks in and makes a switch more challenging.Fisher handles the Wichita campus’ rural placements, about 40-plus annually for third years, while the Kansas City campus coordinates those for its students and Salina’s. Volunteer preceptors – the local physician mentors – are available in almost every county with full-time family physicians.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756994133325.jpeg" alt="Third-year medical student Jack Thomas, right, is spending the summer learning from Matthew Lightner, M.D., a KU School of Medicine-Wichita graduate, and other doctors at the Scott City Clinic. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Third-year medical student Jack Thomas, right, is spending the summer learning from Matthew Lightner, M.D., a KU School of Medicine-Wichita graduate, and other doctors at the Scott City Clinic. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“Some sites take multiple students almost every month of the year. Some sites will take a student three or four times a year. Some sites may take a student once or twice a year. It just runs the gamut,” says Fisher, noting sites might drop in and out if they lose physicians. Scott City, for example, stopped taking students when it went from five doctors to three.“The doctors, a lot of them KU graduates, are wanting to give back to future students. Teaching helps keep you on your toes, and we know it also helps prevent burnout,” Fisher says. “I think hospital systems do it because you never know when that potentially could land you a future recruit. Sometimes students love a site so much that they may go back multiple times because they really have an interest.”Seeing rural practice in action can be a powerful recruiting tool. Fisher notes his fourth-year med school rotation in Quinter led to his 15 years of rural practice. Scott City will soon return to a full complement of five doctors and restore obstetrics care when Morgan Gillam, M.D., and Brittany Peach, M.D., KUSM-Wichita and Via Christi family medicine graduates, join the practice. Both did rotations during residency there.“They loved the community, but they also loved our practice and how we worked together,” Hineman says. “It gave them that peek into, ‘Hey, I might want to work there someday.’”In addition to teaching about medicine, Hineman says, preceptors can share how a small-town physician can achieve a work-life balance – or something close to it – amid late-night deliveries, ER and vacation coverage, and raising a family. Often, the job extends beyond medical care: “The physicians play such an important role in the community, and community members look to them for leadership,” Thomas says.While still debating a specialty, Thomas appreciates family medicine.“They take care of the whole family and take care of people their entire lives. They know how to form relationships with patients,” Thomas says. “You’re doing a lot of procedures, filling the role of general surgeon, delivering babies, acting as an internist. You have to know a lot about everything.”