By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

HAYS – The Ellis County Commission began the process of trimming
the number of townships within the county at its meeting this week.

On Tuesday, in a 2-0 vote, Commissioner Michael Berges was absent,
the commission approved five resolutions that disorganize five townships and
attach them to four other townships. The resolutions move to cut the number of
townships from nine to four.

Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling said
she has been working on this process since she took office in 2021. She said there
had been townships that had asked for disorganization in the last couple of years.

“People did not want to run for the offices when they were
on the ballot,” Dreiling said. “When people would have write-in names, we would
call them and they usually turned the position down.”

Dreiling said all of the township boards approved the moves
presented and approved by the commission.

The resolutions disorganize Catherine and Ellis townships
and attach them to Buckeye Township. The resolutions also disorganized Lookout Township and attached it
to Big Creek Township. Victoria Township was disorganized and attached to Herzog
Township and they disorganized Wheat Township and attached it to Freedom Township.

Dreiling said because the townships no longer take care of
the roads, the Public Works Department does, most of the townships were
collecting taxes to go through the processes required by state statute to
produce a budget even though they did not have any governmental functions.

“A lot of the township were just levying for money, to pay
their board members, to do their publication of their budget and the preparation
of their budget and to pay for the treasurer bond,” Dreiling said. “For quite a
few years a lot of them haven’t even been levying anything because they have
money in their coffers that they are trying to spend down.”

Dreiling said any money left over for the townships that are
being disorganized would go to the township there are being attached to.

Now that the resolutions have been approved, the clerk will
have a public hearing at 8:30 a.m. on July 18. Any resident of the
township can ask questions at that time.

If there are residents who want to challenge the resolutions,
they can file a petition. However, the petition must have a majority of township residents' signatures and be filed with the county clerk’s office within 30 days of the
final publication of the notice to disorganize in the local newspaper.

If the petition is certified by the clerk's office then the measure would to a ballot question for townships residents.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostHAYS – The Ellis County Commission began the process of trimming
the number of townships within the county at its meeting this week.On Tuesday, in a 2-0 vote, Commissioner Michael Berges was absent,
the commission approved five resolutions that disorganize five townships and
attach them to four other townships. The resolutions move to cut the number of
townships from nine to four.Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling said
she has been working on this process since she took office in 2021. She said there
had been townships that had asked for disorganization in the last couple of years.“People did not want to run for the offices when they were
on the ballot,” Dreiling said. “When people would have write-in names, we would
call them and they usually turned the position down.”Dreiling said all of the township boards approved the moves
presented and approved by the commission.The resolutions disorganize Catherine and Ellis townships
and attach them to Buckeye Township. The resolutions also disorganized Lookout Township and attached it
to Big Creek Township. Victoria Township was disorganized and attached to Herzog
Township and they disorganized Wheat Township and attached it to Freedom Township.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687444107971.jpeg" alt="This is a map of what the new townships would look like pending public hearings." />
 <figcaption>This is a map of what the new townships would look like pending public hearings.</figcaption>
 </figure>Dreiling said because the townships no longer take care of
the roads, the Public Works Department does, most of the townships were
collecting taxes to go through the processes required by state statute to
produce a budget even though they did not have any governmental functions.“A lot of the township were just levying for money, to pay
their board members, to do their publication of their budget and the preparation
of their budget and to pay for the treasurer bond,” Dreiling said. “For quite a
few years a lot of them haven’t even been levying anything because they have
money in their coffers that they are trying to spend down.”Dreiling said any money left over for the townships that are
being disorganized would go to the township there are being attached to.Now that the resolutions have been approved, the clerk will
have a public hearing at 8:30 a.m. on July 18. Any resident of the
township can ask questions at that time.If there are residents who want to challenge the resolutions,
they can file a petition. However, the petition must have a majority of township residents' signatures and be filed with the county clerk’s office within 30 days of the
final publication of the notice to disorganize in the local newspaper.If the petition is certified by the clerk's office then the measure would to a ballot question for townships residents.

Ellis County Commission votes to cut number of townships

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the Phillips County Rural Water District 1 public water supply system in Phillips County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on June 22 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-540-4051 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjIuNzg2MjE5MTEifQ.cBdRTBlY5x1oe_9CIiDsDTX5KpcchNssaQ77yuca8jY/s/1305913623/br/207235605078-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety and lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the Phillips County Rural Water District 1 public water supply system in Phillips County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on June 22 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-540-4051 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjIuNzg2MjE5MTEifQ.cBdRTBlY5x1oe_9CIiDsDTX5KpcchNssaQ77yuca8jY/s/1305913623/br/207235605078-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety and lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Boil water advisory issued for Phillips County Rural Water District 1

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

This year's annual <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival</a>, which will be June 29 through July 4, is again filled with star-studded performances.

Headliners include country acts Chris Janson on Thursday and Jackson Dean on Friday. Ashley Cooke will open for Janson and Shane Profitt will open for Dean. Saturday is the festival's traditional rock night with AC/DC tribute band Hells Bells opening for Arch Allies.

Ticket prices have increased this year. VIP tickets will be $200. Advance general admission tickets for all three nights are $30 and single-night general admission tickets at the gate are $35. Tickets can be purchased now. You can find a link on the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/tickets/">festival website</a>. You can also follow the festival on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">Facebook</a>.

General admission tickets can be purchased at all three Hays Cervs locations and both Hays Dillons locations. Both VIP and general admission tickets can be purchased at the Hays Welcome Center at 2700 Vine in Hays.

The parade will be at 10 a.m. July 1 in downtown Hays. The theme is "America for You and Me in 2023."

Fireworks will be on Tuesday night, July 4.

Thursday, June 29 7:30 to 9 p.m. Big Loud / Back Blocks Music artist Ashley Cooke is an emerging country artist with&nbsp;chart-climbing hits like “Never Til Now."&nbsp;

Other singles have included "It's Been a Year," "Back in the Saddle" and "Good Goodbye" with Jimmie Allen.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ashleycooke.com/">You can listen on Cooke's website</a>.

She's had her Grand Ole Opry debut, national TV appearances on ABC’s “The Bachelorette" and toured with Cole Swindell and Jordan Davis.

The festival website described her lyrics as skillfully crafted and her&nbsp;performances as unforgettable, adding she has an effortless vocal beauty and a bold sense of internal grit, freely mixing it up with the boys while she rallies the girls. 

"Hailing from Parkland, Fla., and moved by emotional hit makers like Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts and Kelly Clarkson, Cooke embraces the energy of pop and depth of country, writing her first song by age 11," the festival website said.

Cooke moved to Nashville at 18 and attended Belmont University, but she did not study music. After entering the school's Country Showcase on a whim and winning, Cooke decided to pursue music for a year.

When the pandemic had other plans, Cooke went to TikTok where she built a fanbase.

Thursday, June 29, 9:30 to 11 p.m.

Chris Janson has had five singles on the Billboard Hot 100.&nbsp;His big hits include “Buy Me A Boat," “Fix A Drink," "Drunk Girl," which was an ACM Award-winner, “Good Vibes” and “Done." His latest single is "All I Need is You." You can watch his latest video on his <a href="https://www.chrisjanson.com/">website</a>.

The festival website said breakout country star Janson is a platinum-selling recording artist, high-octane entertainer, multi-instrumentalist, award-winning singer/songwriter and Grand Ole Opry member.

His debut single “Buy Me A Boat” was recognized as the iHeartRadio Music Awards “Country Song of the Year,” and MusicRow named his single “Drunk Girl” its “Song of the Year” winner. 

Bobby Bones named Janson “One of the greatest entertainers in country music.”&nbsp; 

Janson has earned more than 7.4 billion airplay impressions to date, according to the festival website.

At the end of 2021, Shane Profitt of Columbia, Tenn., was still pulling overtime at his job with the city, busting his back about an hour south of Nashville and living for the weekend, according to the festival website.

But now the 22-year-old is rocking sold-out crowds, touring with his chart-topping hero and writing modern country tunes so genuine, they slip on like a pair of broken-in work boots, the festival website said.

“Back in November I was still working for the city of Columbia, getting up at 6 o’clock every morning and working eight hours a day – and I hated every minute of it,” the festival website quoted Profitt. “When people hear the name Shane Profitt, I want them to automatically know I’m no different than them, because I actually lived that 40-hour-week life. And it wasn’t that long ago.”

Profitt has signed with BMLG Records/Harpeth 60 Records. He has a three-song collection, Maury County Line, which&nbsp; includes “Better Off Fishin',” “Guys Like Me” and&nbsp;“How It Oughta Be."&nbsp;

Profitt is scheduled to perform at the Grand Ole Opry on April 29 and during the CMA Music Festival in June. Learn more about this artist on his <a href="https://www.shaneprofitt.com/">website</a>.

Friday, June 30 9:30 to 11 p.m.

Fast-rising country singer/songwriter&nbsp;Jackson Dean&nbsp;is quickly earning a reputation for his old school, gritty, lyric-driven, outlaw style of country, according to the festival website.

The Maryland native’s single, “Don’t Come Lookin’” was the fastest debut to reach No. 1 in 2022 and cemented Jackson as the youngest solo male country artist to reach the top of the charts with a debut, the festival website said.

Jackson has joined bills with acts including Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Brantley Gilbert, Kane Brown, Jake Owen, Brooks &amp; Dunn, Lee Brice and Brothers Osborne.

He has landed spots on the&nbsp;Billboard Hot 100,&nbsp;the soundtrack for Netflix’s "The Ice Road" and&nbsp;a John Dutton scene in "Yellowstone," a song that had 80 million streams. He has been nominated for the ACM New Male Artist of the Year.

Mature beyond his years, Jackson opted to move out to a cinderblock, concrete floor, one-room shack on the back of his grandfather’s property with no heat and no plumbing at just 18 years old, the festival website said.

An adventurous and carefree spirit, the 22-year-old multi-instrumentalist, is also an old soul and skilled artisan whose pastimes include making leather goods, wood-burned art and disappearing into the woods to sleep under the stars, the website said.

Visit&nbsp; Dean's website,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fbigmachinelabelgroup.us7.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3dada70aba29278f3df16e674a4%26id%3d063f32478d%26e%3d67a4a35473&amp;c=E,1,ngf0yQW-UV2eSLCIT2icZPAZT0SM8Mwqtkz1KmR_Z5v8b5514hmxqkYPX-j-qWBAVCw4Yj3DRdZrpBmaZcXKvluaMG1pUT98xsI051qUT1hHH_tvlxGzSH0,&amp;typo=1">jacksondeanmusic.com</a>,&nbsp;to learn more about the artist.

Saturday, July 1&nbsp; 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Hells/Bells, together for 22 years, has toured in 42 States and seven countries. The band bills itself as the No. 1 AC/DC tribute band.

"With authentic costuming, the look, the sound, the cannons, the bell and all of the crazy antics of Angus Young, Hells/Bells is total energy, absolute adrenaline – the most complete party experience acclaimed across the United States, Honduras, Mexico, Trinidad and Europe by many die-hard fans," the festival website said.

You'll hear all the hits of both singers, Bon Scott and Brian Johnson, along with pyrotechnics.

You can learn more about the band and see videos and more photos at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hellsbellsrocks.com">www.hellsbellsrocks.com</a>.

Arch Allies is a timeless tribute band centered around making classic rock sing-alongs with dynamic vocals, huge guitars, dashing keyboards and powerful drums, according to the festival website.

You can expect hits from Bon Jovi, Queen, Journey, Styx, REO, Boston, Def Leppard and Queen.

Check out the <a href="https://archallies.square.site/">band's website</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/arch.allies">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682017567565.jpeg" alt="Headliners for the 2023 Wild West Festival in Hays. Photos courtesy of the Wild West Festival." />
 <figcaption>Headliners for the 2023 Wild West Festival in Hays. Photos courtesy of the Wild West Festival.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThis year's annual <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival</a>, which will be June 29 through July 4, is again filled with star-studded performances. Headliners include country acts Chris Janson on Thursday and Jackson Dean on Friday. Ashley Cooke will open for Janson and Shane Profitt will open for Dean. Saturday is the festival's traditional rock night with AC/DC tribute band Hells Bells opening for Arch Allies.Ticket prices have increased this year. VIP tickets will be $200. Advance general admission tickets for all three nights are $30 and single-night general admission tickets at the gate are $35. Tickets can be purchased now. You can find a link on the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/tickets/">festival website</a>. You can also follow the festival on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">Facebook</a>.General admission tickets can be purchased at all three Hays Cervs locations and both Hays Dillons locations. Both VIP and general admission tickets can be purchased at the Hays Welcome Center at 2700 Vine in Hays.The parade will be at 10 a.m. July 1 in downtown Hays. The theme is "America for You and Me in 2023."Fireworks will be on Tuesday night, July 4.<h2>Ashley Cooke</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004271352.png" alt="Ashley Cooke / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Cooke / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday, June 29 7:30 to 9 p.m. Big Loud / Back Blocks Music artist Ashley Cooke is an emerging country artist with&nbsp;chart-climbing hits like “Never Til Now."&nbsp;Other singles have included "It's Been a Year," "Back in the Saddle" and "Good Goodbye" with Jimmie Allen.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ashleycooke.com/">You can listen on Cooke's website</a>.She's had her Grand Ole Opry debut, national TV appearances on ABC’s “The Bachelorette" and toured with Cole Swindell and Jordan Davis.The festival website described her lyrics as skillfully crafted and her&nbsp;performances as unforgettable, adding she has an effortless vocal beauty and a bold sense of internal grit, freely mixing it up with the boys while she rallies the girls. "Hailing from Parkland, Fla., and moved by emotional hit makers like Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts and Kelly Clarkson, Cooke embraces the energy of pop and depth of country, writing her first song by age 11," the festival website said.Cooke moved to Nashville at 18 and attended Belmont University, but she did not study music. After entering the school's Country Showcase on a whim and winning, Cooke decided to pursue music for a year.When the pandemic had other plans, Cooke went to TikTok where she built a fanbase.<h2>Chris Janson</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004342120.png" alt="Chris Janson / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Chris Janson / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday, June 29, 9:30 to 11 p.m.Chris Janson has had five singles on the Billboard Hot 100.&nbsp;His big hits include “Buy Me A Boat," “Fix A Drink," "Drunk Girl," which was an ACM Award-winner, “Good Vibes” and “Done." His latest single is "All I Need is You." You can watch his latest video on his <a href="https://www.chrisjanson.com/">website</a>.The festival website said breakout country star Janson is a platinum-selling recording artist, high-octane entertainer, multi-instrumentalist, award-winning singer/songwriter and Grand Ole Opry member.His debut single “Buy Me A Boat” was recognized as the iHeartRadio Music Awards “Country Song of the Year,” and MusicRow named his single “Drunk Girl” its “Song of the Year” winner. Bobby Bones named Janson “One of the greatest entertainers in country music.”&nbsp; Janson has earned more than 7.4 billion airplay impressions to date, according to the festival website.<h2>Shane Profitt</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004382838.png" alt="Shane Profitt / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Shane Profitt / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Friday, June 30, 7:30 to 9 p.m.At the end of 2021, Shane Profitt of Columbia, Tenn., was still pulling overtime at his job with the city, busting his back about an hour south of Nashville and living for the weekend, according to the festival website.But now the 22-year-old is rocking sold-out crowds, touring with his chart-topping hero and writing modern country tunes so genuine, they slip on like a pair of broken-in work boots, the festival website said.“Back in November I was still working for the city of Columbia, getting up at 6 o’clock every morning and working eight hours a day – and I hated every minute of it,” the festival website quoted Profitt. “When people hear the name Shane Profitt, I want them to automatically know I’m no different than them, because I actually lived that 40-hour-week life. And it wasn’t that long ago.”Profitt has signed with BMLG Records/Harpeth 60 Records. He has a three-song collection, Maury County Line, which&nbsp; includes “Better Off Fishin',” “Guys Like Me” and&nbsp;“How It Oughta Be."&nbsp;Profitt is scheduled to perform at the Grand Ole Opry on April 29 and during the CMA Music Festival in June. Learn more about this artist on his <a href="https://www.shaneprofitt.com/">website</a>.<h2>Jackson Dean</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004407019.png" alt="Jackson Dean / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Jackson Dean / Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Friday, June 30 9:30 to 11 p.m. Fast-rising country singer/songwriter&nbsp;Jackson Dean&nbsp;is quickly earning a reputation for his old school, gritty, lyric-driven, outlaw style of country, according to the festival website.The Maryland native’s single, “Don’t Come Lookin’” was the fastest debut to reach No. 1 in 2022 and cemented Jackson as the youngest solo male country artist to reach the top of the charts with a debut, the festival website said.Jackson has joined bills with acts including Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Brantley Gilbert, Kane Brown, Jake Owen, Brooks &amp; Dunn, Lee Brice and Brothers Osborne.He has landed spots on the&nbsp;Billboard Hot 100,&nbsp;the soundtrack for Netflix’s "The Ice Road" and&nbsp;a John Dutton scene in "Yellowstone," a song that had 80 million streams. He has been nominated for the ACM New Male Artist of the Year.Mature beyond his years, Jackson opted to move out to a cinderblock, concrete floor, one-room shack on the back of his grandfather’s property with no heat and no plumbing at just 18 years old, the festival website said.An adventurous and carefree spirit, the 22-year-old multi-instrumentalist, is also an old soul and skilled artisan whose pastimes include making leather goods, wood-burned art and disappearing into the woods to sleep under the stars, the website said.Visit&nbsp; Dean's website,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fbigmachinelabelgroup.us7.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3dada70aba29278f3df16e674a4%26id%3d063f32478d%26e%3d67a4a35473&amp;c=E,1,ngf0yQW-UV2eSLCIT2icZPAZT0SM8Mwqtkz1KmR_Z5v8b5514hmxqkYPX-j-qWBAVCw4Yj3DRdZrpBmaZcXKvluaMG1pUT98xsI051qUT1hHH_tvlxGzSH0,&amp;typo=1">jacksondeanmusic.com</a>,&nbsp;to learn more about the artist.<h2>Hells Bells</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004451987.png" alt="Hells Bells&nbsp;Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Hells Bells&nbsp;Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Saturday, July 1&nbsp; 7:30 to 9 p.m.Hells/Bells, together for 22 years, has toured in 42 States and seven countries. The band bills itself as the No. 1 AC/DC tribute band."With authentic costuming, the look, the sound, the cannons, the bell and all of the crazy antics of Angus Young, Hells/Bells is total energy, absolute adrenaline – the most complete party experience acclaimed across the United States, Honduras, Mexico, Trinidad and Europe by many die-hard fans," the festival website said.You'll hear all the hits of both singers, Bon Scott and Brian Johnson, along with pyrotechnics.You can learn more about the band and see videos and more photos at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hellsbellsrocks.com">www.hellsbellsrocks.com</a>.<h2>Arch Allies</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682004484136.png" alt="Arch Allies&nbsp;Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Arch Allies&nbsp;Photo courtesy of the Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>Saturday, July 1 9:30 to 11 p.m.Arch Allies is a timeless tribute band centered around making classic rock sing-alongs with dynamic vocals, huge guitars, dashing keyboards and powerful drums, according to the festival website.You can expect hits from Bon Jovi, Queen, Journey, Styx, REO, Boston, Def Leppard and Queen.Check out the <a href="https://archallies.square.site/">band's website</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/arch.allies">Facebook</a>.

Tickets on sale for Wild West Festival; check out headliners

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

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

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

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

Warning: Coarse language - Courtesy video

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

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

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

Pierce said the Gross Memorial case is under investigation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vehicle drives into Gross Memorial; train crash may be related

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The R9 Ranch water case involving the cities of Hays and Russell has been remanded back to district court by the Kansas Supreme Court.

An appeal by the Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, commonly known as Water PACK, was filed Tuesday prior to the public comments hearing in Hays that night.

In an email Wednesday to Hays Post, Myndee Lee, Lee Schwalb, LLC attorneys for Water PACK and Edwards County, wrote that the state supreme court's ruling is in response to a request by her clients.

"The crux of the remand is to determine whether Water PACK and Edwards County indeed possess the legal standing required to pursue the appeal.

"In their brief, the cities of Hays and Russell argued ... that Water PACK and Edwards County may lack the necessary standing to proceed with the case. In response ... [Water PACK and Edwards County] sought the Supreme Court's intervention to remand the case back to the district court for an evidentiary hearing. Alternatively, they requested ... permission to supplement the existing record," Lee wrote.

This development "marks a significant victory for Water PACK and Edwards County," Lee said.&nbsp;

Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty, who testified at Tuesday night's public hearing as did Russell City Manager Jon Quinday, said Wednesday morning he is not worried about the remand.

Dougherty said this is an appeal of a district court judge's decision on the actual master order in the R9 water rights development process. The master order governs the water rights.&nbsp;

There was a legal challenge to that order that was adjudicated in district court. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b955bac6-ca51-4278-9d5a-f584fef4f286">Hays and Russell prevailed</a> in the matter.

That ruling in district court was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0138868d-c7e8-42fb-8e0f-c03df67eb36e">appealed</a>.

"We filed a motion to move it to the Supreme Court ... because we wanted to get it done as soon as possible,"&nbsp;Dougherty said.

Then Tuesday afternoon, Hays and Russell got an order from the chief justice that the Supreme Court is remanding a small portion of that order back to Edwards County District Court Judge Bruce Gatterman.

"The Supreme Court had a question on whether or not Water PACK had a standing in the matter to actually bring the case forward,"&nbsp;Dougherty said. "The Supreme Court does not decide on matters of standing. That's an issue that's done in a lower court.

"Essentially what they did is set everything aside, put the proceedings on hold and sent a very specific question back to Judge Gatterman about standing.&nbsp;

"If Water PACK doesn't have standing, then the case goes away. If Judge Gatterman confirms they do have standing, then the proceedings move on as originally planned."&nbsp;

Dougherty said he thought the public comments hearing overseen by Kansas Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin went about as expected.

"I was happy for our comments from Hays and Russell ... the people who spoke had very poignant things to say," Dougherty said.

Dougherty said the comments by the attorneys and public speaking on behalf of Water PACK and Edwards County were filled with "mistruths and twisted logic. We've been fighting [those] since day one."

Attorney Charles Lee spoke for his clients Water PACK and Edwards County.

"We're not opposed in principle. Our objection is to the volume of water the cities seek to transfer," Lee said.&nbsp;

He went on to express concerns about what he said was a serious adverse impact on the aquifer over time and a projection that the capacity to irrigate from the aquifer will be diminished or eliminated.

Quoting from their own expert, Lee said the groundwater recharge from precipitation on the R9 Ranch under the conditions associated with the proposed transfer would only be about 56 percent of the recharge that was estimated for the historical conditions that existed from 1991 to 2007.

Lee said Water PACK and Edwards County want to share a finite resource important to rural and urban constituencies.

"We believe there is a middle ground," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated at 9:41 a.m. Thursday, June 22, 2023 to include the following written comments to Hays Post from Charles Lee, lead attorney for Water PACK and Edwards County.

In this case, the cities of Hays and Russell had for the first time raised the issue of Water PACK’s standing before the Supreme Court. They failed to do so at the District Court level before the case was appealed. Standing is a legal concept that requires an entity to show that it, or in this case Water PACK’s membership, is presently aggrieved or adversely affected by the agency action or may be in the future.

Because the cities failed to raise the issue before the District Court, there was no factual record that would allow the Supreme Court to make a determination about the standing question. Since that was the case, Water PACK asked the Supreme Court to either return the case to the District Court for a factual hearing on the question of standing or allow Water PACK to include additional facts in the appellate record that would have demonstrated Water PACK’s standing. The Supreme Court chose to return the case to the Edwards County court for additional fact-finding. We are pleased to have that forum that will allow us to show conclusively that Water PACK members are at substantial risk of harm by virtue of the present terms of the order approving the cities’ application to change the use of the R9 ranch water rights from irrigation to municipal use.

In respect to the public hearing, we were very pleased to be able to participate and to have the opportunity to present the Water PACK and Edwards County perspectives. We made three principal points. First, we are not opposed to the proposed water transfer under all circumstances. We simply believe based upon experience and notable expert analysis that the volume of water the cities propose to pump from R9 is unsustainable in the sense that doing so will have a materially adverse effect on the health of the aquifer.

Second, the amount of water the cities propose to transfer is unneeded. The city manager has confirmed that to be true in his recent deposition. Our experts confirm that fact. It is notable that Hays has never sought professional advice regarding its future water needs.

Third, we are concerned that the proposed transfer cannot meet the test of demonstrating a net benefit from approval of the project. The cities’ consultant pegs the initial capital cost at 134.9 million dollars. That figure does not account for ongoing operations, maintenance costs and/or probable future water treatment costs. As early as 2013, when the project cost was estimated at 66.3 million dollars, the Hays city finance director estimated that ratepayers’ monthly water bills would increase approximately 70 percent. Even that figure is uncertain because the city manager has declined to obtain a rate impact study.

As we stated at the meeting, Water PACK and Edwards County are only opposed to the transfer as it is presently structured. Both entities want to share a finite resource that is profoundly important to both rural and urban constituencies.

John Janssen farms near the R9 Ranch property and is a member of Water PACK.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When you put that water in the pipeline, it no longer goes into the subsurface as recharge. It disappears completely," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Janssen said he thinks the transfer will happen and he has no problem with that, but he thinks the amount the cities plan to use each year is too much.

There are approximately 7,647 acre feet of water rights for irrigation on the R9 Ranch.

Utilizing consumptive-use calculations, engineers for the project have determined 6,756 acre-feet of water will be available for municipal use each year. The cities voluntarily agreed to limit actual use to a 10-year rolling average of 4,800 acre-feet.&nbsp;

Janssen said he thinks that's still too much.

"I wish we'd sit down at the table and figure out that Hays and Russell could live with 4,000 [acre-feet] and we could live with that 4,000," he said.&nbsp;

Hays has stopped irrigating the ranch as it gradually converted the land back to a natural state.&nbsp;

Russell City Council member Dustin Madden said triggering the water transfer act, which would be for the first time in Kansas in its current form, requires proof the project will benefit the entire state.

"Our area represents over 35,000 people and a more than $2 billion economy," he said.

"Think about what the loss of that would do to the state of Kansas (if there is no long-term water supply). That right there meets the criteria for benefiting the state of Kansas, to me."&nbsp;

Madden referenced the water conservation measures both Russell and Hays have had in place for years.

"We have exhausted all other feasible options," he said.

Also speaking on behalf of Hays and Russell were state Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and former representative Eber Phelps, both of whom are former Hays city commissioners involved in the R9 project.&nbsp;

Oral arguments that had been set for Sept. 13 have been removed from the Supreme Court's September docket.&nbsp;

The formal public hearing for the&nbsp;water transfer process is scheduled to start July 19 in Wichita.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687381446382.jpeg" alt="Don Bickle, Jr. , Hays business owner, delivers remarks in support of&nbsp; the Water Transfer Act for the cities of Hays and Russell during a public comments hearing Tuesday in Hays. Photos and video by Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Don Bickle, Jr. , Hays business owner, delivers remarks in support of&nbsp; the Water Transfer Act for the cities of Hays and Russell during a public comments hearing Tuesday in Hays. Photos and video by Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe R9 Ranch water case involving the cities of Hays and Russell has been remanded back to district court by the Kansas Supreme Court.An appeal by the Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, commonly known as Water PACK, was filed Tuesday prior to the public comments hearing in Hays that night.In an email Wednesday to Hays Post, Myndee Lee, Lee Schwalb, LLC attorneys for Water PACK and Edwards County, wrote that the state supreme court's ruling is in response to a request by her clients."The crux of the remand is to determine whether Water PACK and Edwards County indeed possess the legal standing required to pursue the appeal."In their brief, the cities of Hays and Russell argued ... that Water PACK and Edwards County may lack the necessary standing to proceed with the case. In response ... [Water PACK and Edwards County] sought the Supreme Court's intervention to remand the case back to the district court for an evidentiary hearing. Alternatively, they requested ... permission to supplement the existing record," Lee wrote.This development "marks a significant victory for Water PACK and Edwards County," Lee said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687374076254.jpeg" alt="Jon Quinday, Russell City manager&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jon Quinday, Russell City manager&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty, who testified at Tuesday night's public hearing as did Russell City Manager Jon Quinday, said Wednesday morning he is not worried about the remand.Dougherty said this is an appeal of a district court judge's decision on the actual master order in the R9 water rights development process. The master order governs the water rights.&nbsp;There was a legal challenge to that order that was adjudicated in district court. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b955bac6-ca51-4278-9d5a-f584fef4f286">Hays and Russell prevailed</a> in the matter.That ruling in district court was <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0138868d-c7e8-42fb-8e0f-c03df67eb36e">appealed</a>."We filed a motion to move it to the Supreme Court ... because we wanted to get it done as soon as possible,"&nbsp;Dougherty said.Then Tuesday afternoon, Hays and Russell got an order from the chief justice that the Supreme Court is remanding a small portion of that order back to Edwards County District Court Judge Bruce Gatterman."The Supreme Court had a question on whether or not Water PACK had a standing in the matter to actually bring the case forward,"&nbsp;Dougherty said. "The Supreme Court does not decide on matters of standing. That's an issue that's done in a lower court."Essentially what they did is set everything aside, put the proceedings on hold and sent a very specific question back to Judge Gatterman about standing.&nbsp;"If Water PACK doesn't have standing, then the case goes away. If Judge Gatterman confirms they do have standing, then the proceedings move on as originally planned."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687373035246.jpeg" alt="Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin presided over Tuesday's public comments hearing at Fort Hays State University regarding the R9 Ranch water transfer request. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin presided over Tuesday's public comments hearing at Fort Hays State University regarding the R9 Ranch water transfer request. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Dougherty said he thought the public comments hearing overseen by Kansas Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin went about as expected."I was happy for our comments from Hays and Russell ... the people who spoke had very poignant things to say," Dougherty said.Dougherty said the comments by the attorneys and public speaking on behalf of Water PACK and Edwards County were filled with "mistruths and twisted logic. We've been fighting [those] since day one."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687374488277.jpeg" alt="Charles D. Lee, Lee Schwalb LLC, represents Water PACK and Edwards County. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Charles D. Lee, Lee Schwalb LLC, represents Water PACK and Edwards County. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Attorney Charles Lee spoke for his clients Water PACK and Edwards County."We're not opposed in principle. Our objection is to the volume of water the cities seek to transfer," Lee said.&nbsp;He went on to express concerns about what he said was a serious adverse impact on the aquifer over time and a projection that the capacity to irrigate from the aquifer will be diminished or eliminated. Quoting from their own expert, Lee said the groundwater recharge from precipitation on the R9 Ranch under the conditions associated with the proposed transfer would only be about 56 percent of the recharge that was estimated for the historical conditions that existed from 1991 to 2007.Lee said Water PACK and Edwards County want to share a finite resource important to rural and urban constituencies."We believe there is a middle ground," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated at 9:41 a.m. Thursday, June 22, 2023 to include the following written comments to Hays Post from Charles Lee, lead attorney for Water PACK and Edwards County.In this case, the cities of Hays and Russell had for the first time raised the issue of Water PACK’s standing before the Supreme Court. They failed to do so at the District Court level before the case was appealed. Standing is a legal concept that requires an entity to show that it, or in this case Water PACK’s membership, is presently aggrieved or adversely affected by the agency action or may be in the future.Because the cities failed to raise the issue before the District Court, there was no factual record that would allow the Supreme Court to make a determination about the standing question. Since that was the case, Water PACK asked the Supreme Court to either return the case to the District Court for a factual hearing on the question of standing or allow Water PACK to include additional facts in the appellate record that would have demonstrated Water PACK’s standing. The Supreme Court chose to return the case to the Edwards County court for additional fact-finding. We are pleased to have that forum that will allow us to show conclusively that Water PACK members are at substantial risk of harm by virtue of the present terms of the order approving the cities’ application to change the use of the R9 ranch water rights from irrigation to municipal use.In respect to the public hearing, we were very pleased to be able to participate and to have the opportunity to present the Water PACK and Edwards County perspectives. We made three principal points. First, we are not opposed to the proposed water transfer under all circumstances. We simply believe based upon experience and notable expert analysis that the volume of water the cities propose to pump from R9 is unsustainable in the sense that doing so will have a materially adverse effect on the health of the aquifer.Second, the amount of water the cities propose to transfer is unneeded. The city manager has confirmed that to be true in his recent deposition. Our experts confirm that fact. It is notable that Hays has never sought professional advice regarding its future water needs.Third, we are concerned that the proposed transfer cannot meet the test of demonstrating a net benefit from approval of the project. The cities’ consultant pegs the initial capital cost at 134.9 million dollars. That figure does not account for ongoing operations, maintenance costs and/or probable future water treatment costs. As early as 2013, when the project cost was estimated at 66.3 million dollars, the Hays city finance director estimated that ratepayers’ monthly water bills would increase approximately 70 percent. Even that figure is uncertain because the city manager has declined to obtain a rate impact study.As we stated at the meeting, Water PACK and Edwards County are only opposed to the transfer as it is presently structured. Both entities want to share a finite resource that is profoundly important to both rural and urban constituencies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687374971236.jpeg" alt="John Janssen is an Edwards County farmer with land near the R9 Ranch, which is owned by the cities of Hays and Russell. Photo by Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>John Janssen is an Edwards County farmer with land near the R9 Ranch, which is owned by the cities of Hays and Russell. Photo by Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>John Janssen farms near the R9 Ranch property and is a member of Water PACK.&nbsp;&nbsp;"When you put that water in the pipeline, it no longer goes into the subsurface as recharge. It disappears completely," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Janssen said he thinks the transfer will happen and he has no problem with that, but he thinks the amount the cities plan to use each year is too much.There are approximately 7,647 acre feet of water rights for irrigation on the R9 Ranch.Utilizing consumptive-use calculations, engineers for the project have determined 6,756 acre-feet of water will be available for municipal use each year. The cities voluntarily agreed to limit actual use to a 10-year rolling average of 4,800 acre-feet.&nbsp;Janssen said he thinks that's still too much."I wish we'd sit down at the table and figure out that Hays and Russell could live with 4,000 [acre-feet] and we could live with that 4,000," he said.&nbsp;Hays has stopped irrigating the ranch as it gradually converted the land back to a natural state.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/q8CIRmdA-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Russell Edwards Co Farmer" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
</div>Russell City Council member Dustin Madden said triggering the water transfer act, which would be for the first time in Kansas in its current form, requires proof the project will benefit the entire state."Our area represents over 35,000 people and a more than $2 billion economy," he said."Think about what the loss of that would do to the state of Kansas (if there is no long-term water supply). That right there meets the criteria for benefiting the state of Kansas, to me."&nbsp;Madden referenced the water conservation measures both Russell and Hays have had in place for years."We have exhausted all other feasible options," he said.Also speaking on behalf of Hays and Russell were state Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and former representative Eber Phelps, both of whom are former Hays city commissioners involved in the R9 project.&nbsp;Oral arguments that had been set for Sept. 13 have been removed from the Supreme Court's September docket.&nbsp;The formal public hearing for the&nbsp;water transfer process is scheduled to start July 19 in Wichita.&nbsp;

🎥 R9 Ranch water rights case remanded to district court

Online shopping can be convenient and easy. But with sometimes lots of screens before you get to check-out, you could wind up signed up for a service without even knowing it. What’s worse, it can be tough to cancel. Read on to learn how to protect yourself from unwanted services and charges.

June 21,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/06/ftc-takes-action-against-amazon-enrolling-consumers-amazon-prime-without-consent-sabotaging-their">the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Amazon</a>,&nbsp;saying the company violated the law by enrolling people in its Amazon Prime subscription service without their permission, continuing to charge them, and making it hard to cancel.

The FTC says the company used a series of hurdles — known as “dark patterns” — to make it hard for customers to understand that they were starting a Prime subscription. These dark patterns also made it hard for people to cancel their Prime subscriptions by making them hunt for the right place to cancel online, and then click through complicated extra pages to cancel. Often, consumers would call Amazon’s customer service, only to be referred back to the website to cancel, making the process even more frustrating.

To help avoid unwanted services and charges when you shop online:

If a company signed you up for a subscription service without your permission, or if you have problems with&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/getting-out-free-trials-auto-renewals-negative-option-subscriptions#How%20to%20stop%20a%20subscription">canceling a subscription service,</a>&nbsp;tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687381170411.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLLEEN TRESSLER FTCOnline shopping can be convenient and easy. But with sometimes lots of screens before you get to check-out, you could wind up signed up for a service without even knowing it. What’s worse, it can be tough to cancel. Read on to learn how to protect yourself from unwanted services and charges.June 21,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/06/ftc-takes-action-against-amazon-enrolling-consumers-amazon-prime-without-consent-sabotaging-their">the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Amazon</a>,&nbsp;saying the company violated the law by enrolling people in its Amazon Prime subscription service without their permission, continuing to charge them, and making it hard to cancel.The FTC says the company used a series of hurdles — known as “dark patterns” — to make it hard for customers to understand that they were starting a Prime subscription. These dark patterns also made it hard for people to cancel their Prime subscriptions by making them hunt for the right place to cancel online, and then click through complicated extra pages to cancel. Often, consumers would call Amazon’s customer service, only to be referred back to the website to cancel, making the process even more frustrating.To help avoid unwanted services and charges when you shop online:<ul>
 <li>Watch what goes into your shopping cart.&nbsp;Even if you empty your cart and leave the site without completing your purchase, you still could have been enrolled in a subscription service.</li><li>Watch for pre-checked boxes.&nbsp;They may sign you up for a product or service.</li><li>Carefully review your order before completing a transaction.&nbsp;If something got added that you don’t want, make sure to remove it.</li><li>Make sure you didn’t get charged for something you don’t want.&nbsp;Check your order confirmation to see. If you did, contact the company to cancel and get a refund. Make sure you get — and keep — the written confirmation.</li><li>Watch your bank or credit card statements.&nbsp;If you’re in a subscription, you’ve tried to cancel, and the company won’t stop charging your account, dispute it with your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0219-disputing-credit-card-charges">credit</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0213-lost-or-stolen-credit-atm-and-debit-cards#Limit">debit card</a>&nbsp;issuer.</li><li>Look for auto-renewals.&nbsp;Unless you cancel, you’ll continue to be charged.</li>
 </ul>If a company signed you up for a subscription service without your permission, or if you have problems with&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/getting-out-free-trials-auto-renewals-negative-option-subscriptions#How%20to%20stop%20a%20subscription">canceling a subscription service,</a>&nbsp;tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Were you charged for Amazon Prime without your permission?

By TISA MASON FHSU President

Fort Hays State University is pleased to welcome its new dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, Dr. J. David Macey. Dr. Macey will join us on Monday.

The college Dr. Macey will lead recently began working through a comprehensive reorganization focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, positioning the college to grow, leveraging new academic program opportunities, and creating a collaborative and engaging organizational culture that articulates the value of a liberal arts education.

This appointment is a significant milestone for the university, and we are thrilled to have found someone with such an impressive background and wealth of experience. The new dean brings a fresh perspective to the role, and we are confident that he will lead the college to new heights.

Thus, I am honored to introduce Dr. Macey to our wonderful community via this Heart of a Tiger column.

Like me, David grew up in Massachusetts. His undergraduate degree is from Yale University in Connecticut and his first job after college was as a cook at a storefront soup kitchen in Brooklyn, New York. He later worked as a bank teller and was a Catholic seminarian before earning graduate degrees in English literature at Brown University and Vanderbilt University.

Dr. Macey has served as a faculty member at a small private liberal arts college in Washington state (University of Puget Sound) and a medium-sized public regional comprehensive university in Oklahoma (University of Central Oklahoma). He has also served as an assistant vice president for diversity, inclusion, and globalization and the interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Signaling a good fit with Tiger Nation, Dr. Macey’s career is marked by hard work, thoughtfulness, achievement, and demonstrated commitment to an ethic of care. He received several awards from the University of Central Oklahoma, including the Modeling the Way Award, the Neely Excellence in Teaching Award, and the Division of Student Affairs Faculty Adviser of the Year Award. He also received the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice's Oklahoma City Humanitarian Award and the Cimarron Alliance's Torch Award.

On a more personal note, David has lived in Oklahoma City for the past twenty years, where his husband, Thomas Horne, has been an English professor (Oklahoma City Community College). Four cats round out their household: Mildred Pierces (a gray tabby), Burt Lancatster (an orange tuxedo tabby), Elvira Whiskress of the Dark (a Bombay), and Prid E. Kitty (an orange tabby).

“I’ve followed the great work of Fort Hays State University’s students, faculty, and staff for many years and am excited by the spirit and creativity of the Tiger Nation! The university has been on the cutting edge of innovation in transformative teaching and learning, online and international education, and affordability and access – all of which will be critical to the future of public higher education. I was impressed by the warmth&nbsp;and the energy of FHSU’s students, faculty, and staff when I visited campus, and I can’t wait to join the university community,” David said.

David is excited to be moving to Hays and looks forward to becoming involved in the community, stating: “Thomas and I are enjoying learning more about Hays and its cultural activities, its restaurants (we’ve found some great ones already!), and its opportunities for service and civic engagement. We look forward to many happy years in Hays!”

FHSU and the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences are home to some of the most talented and dedicated faculty members in the country, and we believe that Dean Macey will provide the leadership and vision necessary to build on our success.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is welcoming new leaders to Tiger Nation. So, it is truly a joy for me to celebrate FHSU’s newest senior leader. I am thrilled to welcome David and Thomas to Fort Hays State University as well as to our wonderful Ellis County community. We look forward to working with Dr. Macey as he embarks on this exciting new chapter at Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentFort Hays State University is pleased to welcome its new dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, Dr. J. David Macey. Dr. Macey will join us on Monday.The college Dr. Macey will lead recently began working through a comprehensive reorganization focused on enhancing operational efficiencies, positioning the college to grow, leveraging new academic program opportunities, and creating a collaborative and engaging organizational culture that articulates the value of a liberal arts education.This appointment is a significant milestone for the university, and we are thrilled to have found someone with such an impressive background and wealth of experience. The new dean brings a fresh perspective to the role, and we are confident that he will lead the college to new heights.Thus, I am honored to introduce Dr. Macey to our wonderful community via this Heart of a Tiger column.Like me, David grew up in Massachusetts. His undergraduate degree is from Yale University in Connecticut and his first job after college was as a cook at a storefront soup kitchen in Brooklyn, New York. He later worked as a bank teller and was a Catholic seminarian before earning graduate degrees in English literature at Brown University and Vanderbilt University.Dr. Macey has served as a faculty member at a small private liberal arts college in Washington state (University of Puget Sound) and a medium-sized public regional comprehensive university in Oklahoma (University of Central Oklahoma). He has also served as an assistant vice president for diversity, inclusion, and globalization and the interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Central Oklahoma.Signaling a good fit with Tiger Nation, Dr. Macey’s career is marked by hard work, thoughtfulness, achievement, and demonstrated commitment to an ethic of care. He received several awards from the University of Central Oklahoma, including the Modeling the Way Award, the Neely Excellence in Teaching Award, and the Division of Student Affairs Faculty Adviser of the Year Award. He also received the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice's Oklahoma City Humanitarian Award and the Cimarron Alliance's Torch Award.On a more personal note, David has lived in Oklahoma City for the past twenty years, where his husband, Thomas Horne, has been an English professor (Oklahoma City Community College). Four cats round out their household: Mildred Pierces (a gray tabby), Burt Lancatster (an orange tuxedo tabby), Elvira Whiskress of the Dark (a Bombay), and Prid E. Kitty (an orange tabby).“I’ve followed the great work of Fort Hays State University’s students, faculty, and staff for many years and am excited by the spirit and creativity of the Tiger Nation! The university has been on the cutting edge of innovation in transformative teaching and learning, online and international education, and affordability and access – all of which will be critical to the future of public higher education. I was impressed by the warmth&nbsp;and the energy of FHSU’s students, faculty, and staff when I visited campus, and I can’t wait to join the university community,” David said.David is excited to be moving to Hays and looks forward to becoming involved in the community, stating: “Thomas and I are enjoying learning more about Hays and its cultural activities, its restaurants (we’ve found some great ones already!), and its opportunities for service and civic engagement. We look forward to many happy years in Hays!”FHSU and the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences are home to some of the most talented and dedicated faculty members in the country, and we believe that Dean Macey will provide the leadership and vision necessary to build on our success.One of the most rewarding parts of my job is welcoming new leaders to Tiger Nation. So, it is truly a joy for me to celebrate FHSU’s newest senior leader. I am thrilled to welcome David and Thomas to Fort Hays State University as well as to our wonderful Ellis County community. We look forward to working with Dr. Macey as he embarks on this exciting new chapter at Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: New leadership for College of Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences

GREAT BEND - Barton students Tyler Reif of Hoisington and Lili Shubert of WaKeeney were awarded the Noyce Teacher Leader Program Scholarship from Fort Hays State University to study STEM education for the fall semester.

According to promotional materials from FHSU, the Noyce Teacher Leader Program is more than just a scholarship as it helps prepare students to become an outstanding science or mathematics teacher serving in a high-needs district. Eight individuals were selected for a $14,591 scholarship each. They will receive specialized coursework focused on topics such as distance learning technologies, leadership, and issues facing high-needs schools.

In addition to preparation for teaching, additional resources are provided to support travel to conferences and extended support over the first three years of teaching to transition from student to a teacher.

While attending Barton, Shubert and Reif were student mentors in Barton’s STEM Buddies after-school program at Ellinwood Grade school. Additionally, Shubert was a member of the women’s basketball team. Reif was president of the Barton STEM Club and is a member of the Kansas National Education Association, which gives pre-service educators the opportunity to earn micro-credentials, extend their leadership skills, compete for scholarships, and qualify for liability insurance and discounts on travel and shopping.

For more information, please contact Biology Instructor Charlotte Cates at 620-792-9331 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:catesc@bartonccc.edu">catesc@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687289558144.jpeg" alt="Lili Shubert and Tyler Reif. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Lili Shubert and Tyler Reif. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - Barton students Tyler Reif of Hoisington and Lili Shubert of WaKeeney were awarded the Noyce Teacher Leader Program Scholarship from Fort Hays State University to study STEM education for the fall semester.According to promotional materials from FHSU, the Noyce Teacher Leader Program is more than just a scholarship as it helps prepare students to become an outstanding science or mathematics teacher serving in a high-needs district. Eight individuals were selected for a $14,591 scholarship each. They will receive specialized coursework focused on topics such as distance learning technologies, leadership, and issues facing high-needs schools.In addition to preparation for teaching, additional resources are provided to support travel to conferences and extended support over the first three years of teaching to transition from student to a teacher.While attending Barton, Shubert and Reif were student mentors in Barton’s STEM Buddies after-school program at Ellinwood Grade school. Additionally, Shubert was a member of the women’s basketball team. Reif was president of the Barton STEM Club and is a member of the Kansas National Education Association, which gives pre-service educators the opportunity to earn micro-credentials, extend their leadership skills, compete for scholarships, and qualify for liability insurance and discounts on travel and shopping.For more information, please contact Biology Instructor Charlotte Cates at 620-792-9331 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:catesc@bartonccc.edu">catesc@bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton students awarded FHSU Noyce Teacher Leader Program Scholarship

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687366657780.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

Meet Remy Stull, a multi-sport athlete extraordinaire with an insatiable desire to share his knowledge gained from years of athletic experience. 

From the tender age of five, Remy's passion for sports was ignited, and he has never looked back since.

 Thanks to his supportive coaches and teammates over the years, Remy has honed his leadership skills to become a natural-born leader.

Armed with this skillset, he is eager to impart his expertise to young athletes at the upcoming five-day camp. Remy's approach to training involves working out several times a week with the mindset that greatness is earned through hard work and dedication.

He believes in giving your all to earn your place on the team, coupled with a positive attitude that acknowledges failures as a part of the learning experience. 

His commitment to excellence has seen him attend several athletic camps/combines such as the Northwest Missouri State camp, Fort Hays State University camp, Sharp Performance, accompanied with numerous college football offers. 

Remy's athletic prowess is not limited to football alone; he also excelled in track and basketball, earning a spot on the varsity team for both sports. As a defensive player, Remy's strength and tenacity are unmatched.

He is a great leader who motivates his team and keeps them hyped up and ready to play.

 Remy remains humble and driven to help the younger generation in his community reach their full potential.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687017445863.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Meet Remy Stull, a multi-sport athlete extraordinaire with an insatiable desire to share his knowledge gained from years of athletic experience. From the tender age of five, Remy's passion for sports was ignited, and he has never looked back since. Thanks to his supportive coaches and teammates over the years, Remy has honed his leadership skills to become a natural-born leader. Armed with this skillset, he is eager to impart his expertise to young athletes at the upcoming five-day camp. Remy's approach to training involves working out several times a week with the mindset that greatness is earned through hard work and dedication. He believes in giving your all to earn your place on the team, coupled with a positive attitude that acknowledges failures as a part of the learning experience. His commitment to excellence has seen him attend several athletic camps/combines such as the Northwest Missouri State camp, Fort Hays State University camp, Sharp Performance, accompanied with numerous college football offers. Remy's athletic prowess is not limited to football alone; he also excelled in track and basketball, earning a spot on the varsity team for both sports. As a defensive player, Remy's strength and tenacity are unmatched. He is a great leader who motivates his team and keeps them hyped up and ready to play. Remy remains humble and driven to help the younger generation in his community reach their full potential.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis Co. Emergency Mgr. discuses fireworks regulations, safety tips

Rainfall amounts varied greatly around Hays as a storm moved through the area Tuesday night.

The K-State Ag Research Center reported .13 inches of rain overnight. However, a report from north of Hays was 1.98 inches of rain. A report one mile east of Yocemento was .60 inches of rain.

The ag research center has received 2.41 inches for the month of June. The average precipitation by the end of June for Hays is 3.46 inches.

Ellis County remains in exceptional drought, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor, which was released on Thursday.

The ag research center has reported 8.62 inches of precipitation for the year. The area receives an average of 11.27 inches by the end of June.

Hays has a 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 a.m. tonight, according to the National Weather Service. Rain chances persist into Thursday, increasing to 50 percent Thursday night and Friday and some rain chances remain into early Saturday morning.&nbsp;

Skies are forecast to clear Saturday and Sunday with highs in the 90s.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostRainfall amounts varied greatly around Hays as a storm moved through the area Tuesday night.The K-State Ag Research Center reported .13 inches of rain overnight. However, a report from north of Hays was 1.98 inches of rain. A report one mile east of Yocemento was .60 inches of rain.The ag research center has received 2.41 inches for the month of June. The average precipitation by the end of June for Hays is 3.46 inches.Ellis County remains in exceptional drought, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor, which was released on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687364619623.png" alt="June 15, 2023, Kansas Drought Monitor map" />
 <figcaption>June 15, 2023, Kansas Drought Monitor map</figcaption>
 </figure>The ag research center has reported 8.62 inches of precipitation for the year. The area receives an average of 11.27 inches by the end of June.Hays has a 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 a.m. tonight, according to the National Weather Service. Rain chances persist into Thursday, increasing to 50 percent Thursday night and Friday and some rain chances remain into early Saturday morning.&nbsp;Skies are forecast to clear Saturday and Sunday with highs in the 90s.Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Rainfall varies in Hays area with up to 2 inches reported

The Hays USD 489 school board Monday night approved pay raises for teachers, classified staff, administrators and substitute teachers.

The board approved the teachers' contract, which includes the addition of $1,825 to all teachers' base pay as well as vertical and horizontal movement on the salary schedule. These raises constitute an increase of about 4.35 percent.

In addition, the contract includes longevity bonuses of $1,800 for teachers who are with the district 25 years or more and $2,100 for teachers who have been employed with the district for 30 years or more.

"We are in a position to reward employees this year at all levels," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "We have made recommendations at all levels that we think are fair."

Administrators also received a straight 4.35 percent increase in their salaries. The board has traditionally given administrators the same percentage raise as has been negotiated in the teachers' contract.

Board member Curt Vajnar said he favored a flat fee increase for administrators.

Because the administrators are making more to start, 4.35 percent equals $4,000 to $7,000 in raises, he said.

Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp suggested the board approve the raises but further discuss a change in the way the district gives administrators raises at the upcoming board retreat in August.

Board member Allen Park objected to the administration pay raises, although he voted in favor of the raises for all other staff.

Park, who is a former district principal, said he did not think the board had done its due diligence in reviewing administrative costs.

He said the district was giving the administrators a "blank check."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687282415970.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board on Monday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board on Monday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="USD 489 Board of Education approves faculty, staff raises" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mmasf-143a39a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board Monday night approved pay raises for teachers, classified staff, administrators and substitute teachers.The board approved the teachers' contract, which includes the addition of $1,825 to all teachers' base pay as well as vertical and horizontal movement on the salary schedule. These raises constitute an increase of about 4.35 percent.In addition, the contract includes longevity bonuses of $1,800 for teachers who are with the district 25 years or more and $2,100 for teachers who have been employed with the district for 30 years or more."We are in a position to reward employees this year at all levels," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "We have made recommendations at all levels that we think are fair."Administrators also received a straight 4.35 percent increase in their salaries. The board has traditionally given administrators the same percentage raise as has been negotiated in the teachers' contract.Board member Curt Vajnar said he favored a flat fee increase for administrators.Because the administrators are making more to start, 4.35 percent equals $4,000 to $7,000 in raises, he said.Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp suggested the board approve the raises but further discuss a change in the way the district gives administrators raises at the upcoming board retreat in August.Board member Allen Park objected to the administration pay raises, although he voted in favor of the raises for all other staff.Park, who is a former district principal, said he did not think the board had done its due diligence in reviewing administrative costs.He said the district was giving the administrators a "blank check."Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said all of the administrators were receiving the same 4.35 percent raise.Board member Tammy Wellbrock objected to Park's portrayal of district administrators."I don't think we keep good administrators when we have conservations that imply that they don't do their jobs, which you have often," Wellbrock said referring to Park. "I don't think we keep good administrators when we don't pay them accordingly."Board president Craig Pallister, who is also a former district principal, said pay raises help to retain experienced, quality administrators."We should be saying, 'We're glad you're here,' and that is represented by a pay raise ... It is hard to hear every year people on this board say that administrators shouldn't be getting that much pay," he said.The administrators' pay raises were approved on a vote of 6-1, with Park voting against the measure.&nbsp;Classified staff will receive a 7 percent raise."Our classified staff move the engine as much as classroom teachers and administrators," Wilson said. "They are valuable, and that is why we are recommending the 7 percent increase."Hipp said the district still has classified positions open for the fall, and he hopes the raise will help recruit people to fill those vacancies.With the raise, the starting classified staff wage will be $13.06 per hour.Wellbrock said the district is competing against other school districts for certified staff but has to compete against other businesses in Ellis County for classified staff, such as paraprofessionals and janitors.The board also voted to increase the daily rate for substitute teachers.&nbsp;Below are the new rates: Consecutive days in the assignment, rate per day for 2021-22 and 2023-2024&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Long-term substitute rate&nbsp;45 days + — $220 increased to $245&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Extended substitute rate&nbsp;16-44 days —$170 increased to $185 Daily substitute rate&nbsp;0-15 days — $110 increased to $125Hipp said although the district has a competitive pay rate for substitute teachers, it is still struggling to find qualified substitutes.All of the raises will take effect at the beginning of the fiscal year on July 1.<h2>Bond work</h2>Work on additions and renovations at Roosevelt Elementary School are underway.The design for the new Hays High School is complete. Construction bids are out, and ground should be broken on that project by Labor Day, Wilson said.He said work on O'Loughlin Elementary School is in the schematic phase.Wilson also recognized the Hays nutrition staff, which has been working hard to provide food through the<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4044a482-8aa4-4d47-96cf-c8db2fea76ce"> summer meal program</a>. The program is serving an average of 810 meals per day, Mondays through Thursdays.&nbsp;Wilson congratulated Dan Balman, video productions instructor, on his retirement.

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