Hays Police Department arrest log: Feb. 23-March 1, 2025

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741272644468.png" alt="Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted

'Aging with Attitude' estate planning to be offered by Cottonwood Extension District

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A discussion on the future of Hays Saturday kicked off with an eye on the budget.&nbsp;

"We don't have a lot of fluff, and we take care of what we have,"&nbsp;Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said during Saturday's annual city commission retreat at Fort Hays State University.

The seven-hour meeting touched on broad discussions of where the city is now and where it wants to be in 15 years or so.

"The city is living in the gap between its revenues and total operating expenses, minus the Ellis County sales tax (of which the city gets a portion)," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.

Three years are remaining in the 10-year county sales tax that voters approved.&nbsp;

Bielser noted while city sales tax revenues were up 1% in 2024, inflation rose 2%.

The city's local sales tax primarily funds the Hays general fund.

The difference between revenues and expenditures goes into the Commission Capital Reserve fund. In 2024, $3.9 million was transferred. In 2025, a projected $1.2 million will be moved into the fund. The funds are used to pay cash for projects, including streets.

After the quick financial update, the discussion moved on to future capital improvements, keeping up with park amenities, possible STAR bond projects, the long-term R9 Ranch water project, and a proposed starting wage of $20 an hour for all city employees.&nbsp;

Reese Barrick, commissioner, had previously encouraged local businesses to pay all their employees a living wage of at least $20 an hour and said the city should do the same for its staff.

Information provided by Erin Giebler, director of human resources, shows 20 of Hays' 183 full-time employees are making less than $20 an hour, with their wages ranging from $17.52 to $19.89 an hour.&nbsp;

Considerable discussion ensued, with Mayor Sandy Jacobs taking a stand against the idea, which was tabled.

Jacobs repeatedly brought up quality-of-life benefits in Hays.

"We cannot let quality-of-life slide," she said in a discussion about park maintenance. 

Commissioner Shaun Musil said access to parks leads to good physical and mental health.

The 2000 parks master plan calls for all neighborhood parks to have the same basic amenities. However, even with the help of nonprofit service group sponsors, routinely replacing playground equipment is becoming a budget buster.

"Not every park needs the same swing," said Alaina Cunningham, commissioner. "We need to think outside the box on how to redesign our parks for specific groups." 

Suggestions included parks for families with small children, parks for walkers, and parks that focus on natural elements such as flowers, bird watching and water.

Based on population growth and new housing trends, Bielser said another fire station on the east side of town will probably be needed within five to ten years.

"That will mean more capital, equipment and six more firefighters," Dougherty said. 

No potential location for a fourth fire station was mentioned. Fire stations are located downtown at 1507 Main, in northwest Hays at  1732 W. 41st, and at the Hays Regional Airport, which the FAA supports.

Tipping fees at the Ellis County landfill continue to rise, and the city's refuse collection trucks will have to be replaced at some point. All the trucks were purchased at the same time, but Dougherty said it's unlikely they would need simultaneous replacement.

He suggested that all cart collection points could be moved to curbside, alleviating some of the trucks' wear and tear incurred from alley pick up. 

"That might help us avoid a rate increase to replace trucks," Dougherty said.

The Hays Regional Airport's mill levy is 1.5 mills, which will keep the facility operating in the black until 2028.

"We're looking at adding another mill to their operating budget, which would give us wiggle room until 2034," Dougherty said. 

"It costs to fly people out. This increase is coming,"&nbsp;he told commissioners." More passengers mean more expenses, and that's a good problem to have."&nbsp;

"People tell me they only fly out of Wichita or Kansas City if they can't get a flight out of Hays," said Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder in a comment on the airport's passenger growth.

"There would be real consequences to our large employers if the airport were to close," Jacobs said.

Dougherty's update on the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell concluded with the possibility of a small customer rate increase.

"We don't know yet what the operational costs will be, but we won't lose our conservation mindset," Dougherty said.

Possible ideas for state Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds were discussed. 

STAR bonds are bond financing for Kansas municipalities to develop major commercial, entertainment and tourism destinations. The bonds are paid off through the sales tax revenue generated by the development.

The potential of partnering with the Sternberg Museum of Natural History and the Hays Recreation Commission was mentioned.

Commissioners also reviewed various housing and business development projects underway. 

Ruder said he'd like to see the Neighborhood Revitalization Program be expanded to consider the age of facilities and not by certain property boundaries as they are now. The suggestion will be further examined at a future city commission work session.

 Commissioners looked at the economic impact on the city from out-of-town visitors to popular events.&nbsp;

"When I think of where we were 15 years ago, I'm really proud," Musil said. "Hays has real draw power."

"We were productive today, with engaged staff and commissioners," said Jacobs  at the conclusion of the retreat.&nbsp;

"We're keeping our eye on the budget and spending it wisely as we look to our future five and 15 years from now."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741198695300.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners and key city staff at Saturday's annual commission retreat. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners and key city staff at Saturday's annual commission retreat. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA discussion on the future of Hays Saturday kicked off with an eye on the budget.&nbsp;"We don't have a lot of fluff, and we take care of what we have,"&nbsp;Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said during Saturday's annual city commission retreat at Fort Hays State University.The seven-hour meeting touched on broad discussions of where the city is now and where it wants to be in 15 years or so.<h2>The budget</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741191874897.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"The city is living in the gap between its revenues and total operating expenses, minus the Ellis County sales tax (of which the city gets a portion)," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.Three years are remaining in the 10-year county sales tax that voters approved.&nbsp;Bielser noted while city sales tax revenues were up 1% in 2024, inflation rose 2%.The city's local sales tax primarily funds the Hays general fund.The difference between revenues and expenditures goes into the Commission Capital Reserve fund. In 2024, $3.9 million was transferred. In 2025, a projected $1.2 million will be moved into the fund. The funds are used to pay cash for projects, including streets.After the quick financial update, the discussion moved on to future capital improvements, keeping up with park amenities, possible STAR bond projects, the long-term R9 Ranch water project, and a proposed starting wage of $20 an hour for all city employees.&nbsp;<h2>$20/hour minimum city wage</h2>Reese Barrick, commissioner, had previously encouraged local businesses to pay all their employees a living wage of at least $20 an hour and said the city should do the same for its staff.Information provided by Erin Giebler, director of human resources, shows 20 of Hays' 183 full-time employees are making less than $20 an hour, with their wages ranging from $17.52 to $19.89 an hour.&nbsp;Considerable discussion ensued, with Mayor Sandy Jacobs taking a stand against the idea, which was tabled.<h2>Park maintenance</h2>Jacobs repeatedly brought up quality-of-life benefits in Hays."We cannot let quality-of-life slide," she said in a discussion about park maintenance. Commissioner Shaun Musil said access to parks leads to good physical and mental health.The 2000 parks master plan calls for all neighborhood parks to have the same basic amenities. However, even with the help of nonprofit service group sponsors, routinely replacing playground equipment is becoming a budget buster."Not every park needs the same swing," said Alaina Cunningham, commissioner. "We need to think outside the box on how to redesign our parks for specific groups." Suggestions included parks for families with small children, parks for walkers, and parks that focus on natural elements such as flowers, bird watching and water. <h2>Eastside fire station</h2>Based on population growth and new housing trends, Bielser said another fire station on the east side of town will probably be needed within five to ten years."That will mean more capital, equipment and six more firefighters," Dougherty said. No potential location for a fourth fire station was mentioned. Fire stations are located downtown at 1507 Main, in northwest Hays at 1732 W. 41st, and at the Hays Regional Airport, which the FAA supports.<h2>Refuse collection costs</h2>Tipping fees at the Ellis County landfill continue to rise, and the city's refuse collection trucks will have to be replaced at some point. All the trucks were purchased at the same time, but Dougherty said it's unlikely they would need simultaneous replacement.He suggested that all cart collection points could be moved to curbside, alleviating some of the trucks' wear and tear incurred from alley pick up. "That might help us avoid a rate increase to replace trucks," Dougherty said.<h2>Airport use, operating expenses up</h2>The Hays Regional Airport's mill levy is 1.5 mills, which will keep the facility operating in the black until 2028. "We're looking at adding another mill to their operating budget, which would give us wiggle room until 2034," Dougherty said. "It costs to fly people out. This increase is coming,"&nbsp;he told commissioners." More passengers mean more expenses, and that's a good problem to have."&nbsp;"People tell me they only fly out of Wichita or Kansas City if they can't get a flight out of Hays," said Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder in a comment on the airport's passenger growth."There would be real consequences to our large employers if the airport were to close," Jacobs said.<h2>R9 Ranch water project</h2>Dougherty's update on the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell concluded with the possibility of a small customer rate increase."We don't know yet what the operational costs will be, but we won't lose our conservation mindset," Dougherty said.<h2>STAR bonds</h2>Possible ideas for state Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds were discussed. STAR bonds are bond financing for Kansas municipalities to develop major commercial, entertainment and tourism destinations. The bonds are paid off through the sales tax revenue generated by the development.The potential of partnering with the Sternberg Museum of Natural History and the Hays Recreation Commission was mentioned.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741198786725.jpeg" alt="Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs gestures to the planned Tallgrass Phase 4 housing development in east Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs gestures to the planned Tallgrass Phase 4 housing development in east Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also reviewed various housing and business development projects underway. Ruder said he'd like to see the Neighborhood Revitalization Program be expanded to consider the age of facilities and not by certain property boundaries as they are now. The suggestion will be further examined at a future city commission work session. Commissioners looked at the economic impact on the city from out-of-town visitors to popular events.&nbsp;"When I think of where we were 15 years ago, I'm really proud," Musil said. "Hays has real draw power." "We were productive today, with engaged staff and commissioners," said Jacobs at the conclusion of the retreat.&nbsp;"We're keeping our eye on the budget and spending it wisely as we look to our future five and 15 years from now."

Hays city commissioners keep eyes on the budget during retreat

TOPEKA — Young cattlemen and women from across the state met in Topeka February 25-26 for the first installment of the 2025 Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) Young Stockmen’s Academy (YSA). Merck Animal Health remains the exclusive program sponsor, partnering with KLA to host members for an in-depth look into KLA and the beef industry.&nbsp;A series of four seminars are held throughout the year in various locations across Kansas.

Though the initial class meeting was delayed due to winter weather,&nbsp;16 of the 20 YSA members were able to attend this session and learn about the array of member services provided by KLA, hear about the importance of being an advocate for the livestock industry, see KLA lobbyists in action at the state Capitol and take part in the annual KLA Legislative Meeting &amp; Dinner. 

Additionally, YSA members attended a Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee meeting at the Capitol and participated in a financial planning seminar conducted by Pinion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As part of an interactive session led by KLA communications staff and WIBW-Topeka farm broadcaster Greg Akagi, the group was given an overview of various outlets available to help tell the beef production story, as well as how to handle media inquiries. Class members saw multiple examples of how many producers, including KLA members and YSA alumni, use diverse methods to share their message with consumers. Akagi led the class in mock radio and television interviews.

Members of the 2025 YSA class are Paige Adams, Hutchinson; Kyler Berning, Leoti; Walker Clawson, Meade; Jenna Fitzsimmons, Cunningham; Jenna Goetzmann, Manhattan; Hayden Guetterman, Paola; Luke Higgason, Larned; Jenna Hlavaty, Cimarron; Hunter Hope, Jetmore; Jordan Koons, Buffalo, OK; Elizabeth Lutz, Nickerson; Camryn Ricker, Ford; Jamie Schaake, Garden City; Luke Schneider, Saint John; Madelyn Stackley, El Dorado; Caleb Volkman, Hugoton; Daniel Walsh, Manhattan; Clayton Wharton, Syracuse; Cassandra Wolff, Caldwell; and Wyatt Woods, Cimarron.

The second YSA session will be held in May. Members will have the opportunity to learn more about the agribusiness and beef retail industries in the Kansas City area.

KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of members at both the state and federal levels. Voluntary dues dollars paid by producers are used for programs that benefit KLA members in the areas of legislative representation, regulatory assistance, legal troubleshooting, communications and the advancement of youth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740680873120.jpeg" alt="Kansas Livestock Association Young Stockmen's Academy members on the floor of the Kansas Senate.&nbsp; Pictured are (front row, L to R) Jenna Goetzmann, Manhattan; Jamie Schaake, Garden City; Jenna Fitzsimmons, Cunningham; Madelyn Stackley, El Dorado; Camryn Ricker, Ford; Jordan Koons, Buffalo, OK; Cassandra Wolff, Caldwell; (back row, L to R) Jenna Hlavaty, Cimarron; Hunter Hope, Jetmore; Luke Higgason, Larned; Hayden Guetterman, Paola; Kyler Berning, Leoti; Wyatt Woods, Cimarron; Clayton Wharton, Syracuse; Walker Clawson, Meade; and Liz Lutz, Nickerson. Photo courtesy KLA" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Livestock Association Young Stockmen's Academy members on the floor of the Kansas Senate.&nbsp; Pictured are (front row, L to R) Jenna Goetzmann, Manhattan; Jamie Schaake, Garden City; Jenna Fitzsimmons, Cunningham; Madelyn Stackley, El Dorado; Camryn Ricker, Ford; Jordan Koons, Buffalo, OK; Cassandra Wolff, Caldwell; (back row, L to R) Jenna Hlavaty, Cimarron; Hunter Hope, Jetmore; Luke Higgason, Larned; Hayden Guetterman, Paola; Kyler Berning, Leoti; Wyatt Woods, Cimarron; Clayton Wharton, Syracuse; Walker Clawson, Meade; and Liz Lutz, Nickerson. Photo courtesy KLA</figcaption>
 </figure>KLA TOPEKA — Young cattlemen and women from across the state met in Topeka February 25-26 for the first installment of the 2025 Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) Young Stockmen’s Academy (YSA). Merck Animal Health remains the exclusive program sponsor, partnering with KLA to host members for an in-depth look into KLA and the beef industry.&nbsp;A series of four seminars are held throughout the year in various locations across Kansas.Though the initial class meeting was delayed due to winter weather,&nbsp;16 of the 20 YSA members were able to attend this session and learn about the array of member services provided by KLA, hear about the importance of being an advocate for the livestock industry, see KLA lobbyists in action at the state Capitol and take part in the annual KLA Legislative Meeting &amp; Dinner. Additionally, YSA members attended a Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee meeting at the Capitol and participated in a financial planning seminar conducted by Pinion.&nbsp;&nbsp;As part of an interactive session led by KLA communications staff and WIBW-Topeka farm broadcaster Greg Akagi, the group was given an overview of various outlets available to help tell the beef production story, as well as how to handle media inquiries. Class members saw multiple examples of how many producers, including KLA members and YSA alumni, use diverse methods to share their message with consumers. Akagi led the class in mock radio and television interviews.Members of the 2025 YSA class are Paige Adams, Hutchinson; Kyler Berning, Leoti; Walker Clawson, Meade; Jenna Fitzsimmons, Cunningham; Jenna Goetzmann, Manhattan; Hayden Guetterman, Paola; Luke Higgason, Larned; Jenna Hlavaty, Cimarron; Hunter Hope, Jetmore; Jordan Koons, Buffalo, OK; Elizabeth Lutz, Nickerson; Camryn Ricker, Ford; Jamie Schaake, Garden City; Luke Schneider, Saint John; Madelyn Stackley, El Dorado; Caleb Volkman, Hugoton; Daniel Walsh, Manhattan; Clayton Wharton, Syracuse; Cassandra Wolff, Caldwell; and Wyatt Woods, Cimarron.The second YSA session will be held in May. Members will have the opportunity to learn more about the agribusiness and beef retail industries in the Kansas City area.KLA is a trade organization representing the business interests of members at both the state and federal levels. Voluntary dues dollars paid by producers are used for programs that benefit KLA members in the areas of legislative representation, regulatory assistance, legal troubleshooting, communications and the advancement of youth.

Area members meet for KLA Young Stockmen Academy

While researching Kelly Theater information in WaKeeney, I included background details. 

James Keeney, a Chicago land speculator purchased the town site from the Kansas Pacific Railroad in 1877. Working with business partner Albert Warren, the two surveyed the site in 1878. In 1879, they combined their names to title the newly founded community WaKeeney, promoting it as the “Queen City of the High Plains.”

Those familiar with a landscape divided by the significant 100th Meridian know this as a land of little rain, extreme temperatures, and harsh landscape. Native people migrated through seasonally to harvest buffalo but didn’t remain year-round.&nbsp;The Misters Keeney and Warren clearly possessed serious sales skills to turn their land speculation into Royal Habitat.

That said, a mere 34 years later, pre-WW I residents of WaKeeney and region could purchase tickets to watch movies in the Garden Theatre, owned by H.S. Givler, managed by CB Kelly.

By March 7, 1929, for a 25 to 50 cent admission fee, an audience sat in a dark theatre to watch "Airwings," a modern film with a synchronous score that included sounds of airplanes, machine guns, wind, and music. Keep in mind, this occurred prior to talking movies. The soundtrack ran separately from the movie.

On March 17, 1929, "Alias Jimmy Valentine", a William Haines all-talking picture was a “revelation to patrons of the Garden Theatre.” 

Imagine conversations viewers shared after watching a film that included visuals and audio on the same reel. Folks attending the movies in WaKeeney, KS, must have thought they did live in the Queen City of the High Plains after they experienced high-tech in their hometown. According to the Western Kansas News on March 21, 1929, the Garden Theater offered four talking movie viewings the prior Sunday.

Near the Ides of March, on the 22nd in 1929, Wakeeney 7th and 8th grade classes watched Julius Caeser at the Garden Theater with a discounted 10 cent ticket. According to the local paper, they enjoyed the movie. One can suppose discussions around family tables that evening were more than a little interesting.

Current readers wouldn’t think anything wrong about showing movies on a Sunday, but readers in 1929 understood CB Kelly, theatre manager, violated local Blue Laws, labor statutes forbidding businesses from operating on Sundays. 

According to the May 2, Western Kansas World edition, local law enforcement arrested Mr. Kelly for operating a picture show on Sunday in mid-January. He paid bond and awaited his May trial. Judge Peacock presided, County Attorney John Parsons prosecuted, and attorney Herman Long defended CB. Much to the relief of local audiences, the jury acquitted Mr. Kelly, who returned to his job at the Garden Theatre.

Unfortunately, in August, a malfunctioning projector contributed to overheated film catching fire and destroying the Garden Theatre. The fire occurred during a movie, and according to the Western Kansas World, once the audience noticed the fire, they calmly exited the facility. 

Despite the viewers' survival, the theatre and both adjoining buildings burned. The fire grew large enough that the nearby Ellis Fire Department sent a truck to help control flames. The crew from Ellis claimed they made it from Ellis to WaKeeney in 20 minutes.

CB Kelly turned Givler’s catastrophe into opportunity, purchased two lots, and rebuilt a 500-seat movie theatre, which he named the Kelly Theatre. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN While researching Kelly Theater information in WaKeeney, I included background details. James Keeney, a Chicago land speculator purchased the town site from the Kansas Pacific Railroad in 1877. Working with business partner Albert Warren, the two surveyed the site in 1878. In 1879, they combined their names to title the newly founded community WaKeeney, promoting it as the “Queen City of the High Plains.”Those familiar with a landscape divided by the significant 100th Meridian know this as a land of little rain, extreme temperatures, and harsh landscape. Native people migrated through seasonally to harvest buffalo but didn’t remain year-round.&nbsp;The Misters Keeney and Warren clearly possessed serious sales skills to turn their land speculation into Royal Habitat.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740608044762.jpeg" alt="Kelly theatre marquee. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Kelly theatre marquee. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>That said, a mere 34 years later, pre-WW I residents of WaKeeney and region could purchase tickets to watch movies in the Garden Theatre, owned by H.S. Givler, managed by CB Kelly.By March 7, 1929, for a 25 to 50 cent admission fee, an audience sat in a dark theatre to watch "Airwings," a modern film with a synchronous score that included sounds of airplanes, machine guns, wind, and music. Keep in mind, this occurred prior to talking movies. The soundtrack ran separately from the movie.On March 17, 1929, "Alias Jimmy Valentine", a William Haines all-talking picture was a “revelation to patrons of the Garden Theatre.” Imagine conversations viewers shared after watching a film that included visuals and audio on the same reel. Folks attending the movies in WaKeeney, KS, must have thought they did live in the Queen City of the High Plains after they experienced high-tech in their hometown. According to the Western Kansas News on March 21, 1929, the Garden Theater offered four talking movie viewings the prior Sunday.Near the Ides of March, on the 22nd in 1929, Wakeeney 7th and 8th grade classes watched Julius Caeser at the Garden Theater with a discounted 10 cent ticket. According to the local paper, they enjoyed the movie. One can suppose discussions around family tables that evening were more than a little interesting.Current readers wouldn’t think anything wrong about showing movies on a Sunday, but readers in 1929 understood CB Kelly, theatre manager, violated local Blue Laws, labor statutes forbidding businesses from operating on Sundays. According to the May 2, Western Kansas World edition, local law enforcement arrested Mr. Kelly for operating a picture show on Sunday in mid-January. He paid bond and awaited his May trial. Judge Peacock presided, County Attorney John Parsons prosecuted, and attorney Herman Long defended CB. Much to the relief of local audiences, the jury acquitted Mr. Kelly, who returned to his job at the Garden Theatre.Unfortunately, in August, a malfunctioning projector contributed to overheated film catching fire and destroying the Garden Theatre. The fire occurred during a movie, and according to the Western Kansas World, once the audience noticed the fire, they calmly exited the facility. Despite the viewers' survival, the theatre and both adjoining buildings burned. The fire grew large enough that the nearby Ellis Fire Department sent a truck to help control flames. The crew from Ellis claimed they made it from Ellis to WaKeeney in 20 minutes.CB Kelly turned Givler’s catastrophe into opportunity, purchased two lots, and rebuilt a 500-seat movie theatre, which he named the Kelly Theatre. More to come on this venture.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Kelly Theatre—Part 1

Founded in 1967, the Hays Arts Council (HAC) was the first community arts agency in Kansas. Its mission is to foster, promote, and support creative expression while enhancing community engagement with the arts. The HAC hosts the Smoky Hill Art Competition and Exhibition (Kansas’ oldest ongoing fine arts competition, now in its 55th year), the Five State Photography Competition and Exhibition (40 years strong), and four annual art walks.

A 2023 economic impact study by Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute estimates 17,402 annual visitors to the HAC, generating $275,450 in economic impact. The report highlights how the HAC's activities contribute to individual well-being and community vibrancy beyond measurable dollars.

The HAC also works with students across 12 public and private schools in five towns and three counties, engaging approximately 3,500 students annually, with 2,900 receiving arts programming at least three times per year. Research underscores the arts' positive impact on youth, improving self-esteem, social skills, and behavioral outcomes.

Despite the HAC’s deep community impact, its facilities are outdated and inefficient. The space includes:

· One functional (and barely accessible) restroom · Cramped office space and small, disjointed storage areas · A galley kitchen too small for effective use · No dedicated meeting/conference space · An unsafe layout requiring visitors to exit one building to enter another, even in inclement weather · Outdated plumbing and electrical systems

As time passes, renovation costs only increase. That’s why the HAC launched the For the Heart of Hays $3 million campaign to:

· Connect the two buildings into one seamless, efficient, and safe space · Expand educational and experiential spaces for interactive arts programming · Modernize and enhance aesthetics while improving accessibility · Expand the kitchen and add conference space for community use · Upgrade restrooms and other spaces within the gallery to be fully ADA-compliant · Elevate our facilities to match the quality of exhibitions, programs, and events HAC provides

The renovated space will allow the HAC to offer expanded youth and adult art classes, larger exhibits, performance art, and new community collaborations. The improvements will further establish the HAC as a cultural hub, attracting even more visitors to Downtown Hays. For more information or to support the campaign, visit <a href="http://www.haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays">www.haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741207080216.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays, Kansas - March 2025Founded in 1967, the Hays Arts Council (HAC) was the first community arts agency in Kansas. Its mission is to foster, promote, and support creative expression while enhancing community engagement with the arts. The HAC hosts the Smoky Hill Art Competition and Exhibition (Kansas’ oldest ongoing fine arts competition, now in its 55th year), the Five State Photography Competition and Exhibition (40 years strong), and four annual art walks.<div><iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ezMhNOIadW9jZbC-LLD6Nr0beeU4zYc3/preview" width="640" height="480" allow="autoplay"></iframe></div>A 2023 economic impact study by Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute estimates 17,402 annual visitors to the HAC, generating $275,450 in economic impact. The report highlights how the HAC's activities contribute to individual well-being and community vibrancy beyond measurable dollars.The HAC also works with students across 12 public and private schools in five towns and three counties, engaging approximately 3,500 students annually, with 2,900 receiving arts programming at least three times per year. Research underscores the arts' positive impact on youth, improving self-esteem, social skills, and behavioral outcomes.<h2>The Need for Renovation</h2>Despite the HAC’s deep community impact, its facilities are outdated and inefficient. The space includes:· One functional (and barely accessible) restroom · Cramped office space and small, disjointed storage areas · A galley kitchen too small for effective use · No dedicated meeting/conference space · An unsafe layout requiring visitors to exit one building to enter another, even in inclement weather · Outdated plumbing and electrical systemsAs time passes, renovation costs only increase. That’s why the HAC launched the For the Heart of Hays $3 million campaign to:· Connect the two buildings into one seamless, efficient, and safe space · Expand educational and experiential spaces for interactive arts programming · Modernize and enhance aesthetics while improving accessibility · Expand the kitchen and add conference space for community use · Upgrade restrooms and other spaces within the gallery to be fully ADA-compliant · Elevate our facilities to match the quality of exhibitions, programs, and events HAC provides<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741207301825.jpeg" alt="Scan to donate" />
 <figcaption>Scan to donate</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A Brighter Future for Arts in Hays</h2>The renovated space will allow the HAC to offer expanded youth and adult art classes, larger exhibits, performance art, and new community collaborations. The improvements will further establish the HAC as a cultural hub, attracting even more visitors to Downtown Hays. For more information or to support the campaign, visit <a href="http://www.haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays">www.haysartscouncil.org/heart-of-hays</a>.

SecondWind IV & Wellness featured on Doctors on Call

(6) Hays High vs (11) Hutchinson Wednesday, Mar. 5th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2245054">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

The Hays High boys open postseason play by hosting Hutchinson on Wednesday evening at 6:00.

Hays(12-8) earned the home game with the eight seed in 5A West. Hutchinson(10-10) is the nine seed.

Tip-off&nbsp; is set for 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>(6) Hays High vs (11) Hutchinson Wednesday, Mar. 5th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2245054">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>The Hays High boys open postseason play by hosting Hutchinson on Wednesday evening at 6:00.Hays(12-8) earned the home game with the eight seed in 5A West. Hutchinson(10-10) is the nine seed.Tip-off&nbsp; is set for 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network.

🏀🎥 Hays High boys open postseason with Hutchinson

TMP-Marian at Wichita County Wednesday, March 5 – 6:00 p.m. Leoti, Kan. - Wichita County High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2245076">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Leoti Wednesday to take on the Wichita County Indians in the 2A Sublette semifinals.&nbsp;

The game will tip off at 6 p.m. on the&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian at Wichita County Wednesday, March 5 – 6:00 p.m. Leoti, Kan. - Wichita County High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2245076">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Leoti Wednesday to take on the Wichita County Indians in the 2A Sublette semifinals.&nbsp;The game will tip off at 6 p.m. on the&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian travels to Wichita Co. for sub-state semis

HaysMed HaysMed announced today via Facebook ...

We are happy to announce that the visitor restrictions and mask requirements previously implemented due to the increased spread of Influenza have now been lifted!

Effective immediately: - Visitors of all ages are welcome. - Surgical masks are no longer required in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), The Birth Center/NICU (OB), and the Dreiling Schmidt Cancer Institute.

We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and dedication to keeping our community safe during this time.

Your efforts have made a significant difference!

We will continue to monitor health trends closely and keep you updated with any changes. Thank you for being a part of our community's health and safety.

HaysMed HaysMed announced today via Facebook ...We are happy to announce that the visitor restrictions and mask requirements previously implemented due to the increased spread of Influenza have now been lifted!Effective immediately: - Visitors of all ages are welcome. - Surgical masks are no longer required in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), The Birth Center/NICU (OB), and the Dreiling Schmidt Cancer Institute.We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and dedication to keeping our community safe during this time.Your efforts have made a significant difference!We will continue to monitor health trends closely and keep you updated with any changes. Thank you for being a part of our community's health and safety.

Mask, visitor restrictions lifted at HaysMed

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

Fort Hays State University men’s basketball fans were excited when the annual MIAA Championships seedings were released Sunday.

The Tigers, who earned the No. 2 seed, are set to play their first game of the tournament at 2:15 p.m. Thursday at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri.

No one might have been more pleased with that seeding than Lena Grill, the mother of Tiger sophomore Kyle Grill from Maize.

That time slot fit perfectly into a basketball-packed schedule for Lena, who has two other sons playing (and a husband coaching) games this week.

Starting Tuesday, Lena’s Google calendar shows her scheduled for five games in five days in three different states. And if things go as planned, it will be six days in a row if FHSU advances to Sunday’s MIAA championship game.

Lena’s husband, Chris Grill, is head coach for the Maize High School boys’ basketball team. They are parents to Caleb (a graduate student at the University of Missouri), Kyle (a sophomore at FHSU) and Alec (a senior at Maize High).

While both parents make it a point to attend as many college games as possible, Lena sometimes travels alone or with friends because of her husband’s high school schedule. Chris is a math teacher at Maize High, and Lena works for the Wichita School District and saves all her vacation days for basketball season.

Taking to the road to play and watch basketball games has been a way of life for a lot of years for Chris and Lena, former college basketball players who met while playing at Butler County Community College in El Dorado.

All three of their sons have been involved in sports their entire lives.

However, this is the first season that both older brothers are playing college ball in the same year. Kyle redshirted his first year at FHSU in 2022-23, and Caleb missed last season due to an injury.

Knowing this would be a busy year on the road, the Grills bought a used vehicle to use specifically for traveling to basketball games.

Lena flew to a game just once this season, so she has become quite familiar with their 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.&nbsp;

Before this week, the Grills had logged more than 18,000 miles to the Hyundai’s odometer. And they will add about 1,500 more this week.

After playing a reserve role for FHSU as a redshirt freshman last year, Kyle worked his way into the starting lineup along with four seniors this season.

Following a standout career at Maize High, where he helped the Eagles reach the state championship game in his junior and senior years, Kyle chose FHSU over other schools.

“Fort Hays showed the most interest in me, and I built a better relationship with their three coaches than any others,” he said. “Then I watched a game where Fort Hays played at Newman, and they played so hard defensively. That’s something I really love, playing that hard, so Fort Hays fit my play style.”

Once here, he says he wouldn’t trade the atmosphere for anywhere else. FHSU is consistently ranked at or near the top of NCAA Division II schools for game attendance.

“We have the best fans in the country. We consistently have 2,500 to 3,000 fans in the stands,” he said. “And I think that makes a huge difference. It gives us energy and makes it a lot more fun.”

FHSU fans also are known to travel well and support their teams on the road, as they will at this weekend’s MIAA Tournament.

The Grill brothers also follow each other well, watching their games online.

And they all have apparel from each other’s schools.

This year made it interesting for the Grills with Caleb’s and Kyle’s mascots both being Tigers.

While they own some shirts with an MU Tiger and and FHSU’s Victor E. Tiger, they also have some gear with just Tigers across the front. And some accessories can be used for both since both school colors are black and gold.

With Caleb and Alec in their final years at their respective schools, Lena prioritizes those games if there are scheduling conflicts.

However, when she looked back at this season’s schedule, she saw her attendance was fairly even among the three.

Considering their location in the Wichita area, the Grills are actually able to attend more FHSU road games than those at home.

However, the Grills always enjoy coming to Hays for games and also catch a lot of Kyle’s games on TV on the MIAA Network.

The family was treated to a fun three days in late February when they were in Columbia to watch Caleb score 25 points and grab 10 rebounds in a 110-98 upset of No. 4-ranked Alabama on Wednesday, Feb. 19.

The following night, they tuned in on their TV to watch Kyle score 20 points and grab nine rebounds in a 79-52 home win over Missouri Southern.

And just one night later, Alec, Maize High’s point guard, helped lead the Eagles to a 79-52 victory over Haysville-Campus.

Maize High started this week on a winning note Tuesday night with an exciting 64-62 overtime victory over Garden City in first-round action of the Class 6A sub-state on the Eagles’ home floor.&nbsp;

Dad and Mom Grill are headed to Norman, Oklahoma, today to watch Caleb and his Missouri Tigers play the Oklahoma Sooners in an SEC game tonight.

Following Kyle’s MIAA tournament game Thursday in Kansas City, Alec and his coach will take on Wichita Northwest in the sub-state finals on Friday night in Maize for a shot at making next week’s 6A state tournament.

The next day, Mom, Dad and Alec will be in Columbia, Mo., for Caleb’s Senior Day game with Kentucky.

March madness will continue for the Grills next week when Missouri travels to Nashville for the SEC Tournament.

MU also is on track to make the 2025 NCAA D-I Tournament. And there’s still the possibility for more post-season action for both Kyle and Alec, who also has plans to play college ball like his brothers after high school.

But for now, Lena isn’t looking too far ahead – except to Sunday.

The Grills will miss FHSU’s potential semifinal game on Saturday in Kansas City because of Caleb’s Senior Day activities in Columbia. But they would like nothing better than to stop in KC on their way home to watch the Tigers in Sunday’s MIAA championship game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741194135975.jpeg" alt="Lena and Chris Grill, far right, put in a lot of windshield time, traveling to watch their three sons play basketball. Fort Hays State University’s Kyle Grill, middle, is joined by his parents and older brother Caleb and younger brother Alec at last year’s NCAA Division II playoffs. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Lena and Chris Grill, far right, put in a lot of windshield time, traveling to watch their three sons play basketball. Fort Hays State University’s Kyle Grill, middle, is joined by his parents and older brother Caleb and younger brother Alec at last year’s NCAA Division II playoffs. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostFort Hays State University men’s basketball fans were excited when the annual MIAA Championships seedings were released Sunday.The Tigers, who earned the No. 2 seed, are set to play their first game of the tournament at 2:15 p.m. Thursday at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri.No one might have been more pleased with that seeding than Lena Grill, the mother of Tiger sophomore Kyle Grill from Maize.That time slot fit perfectly into a basketball-packed schedule for Lena, who has two other sons playing (and a husband coaching) games this week.Starting Tuesday, Lena’s Google calendar shows her scheduled for five games in five days in three different states. And if things go as planned, it will be six days in a row if FHSU advances to Sunday’s MIAA championship game.Lena’s husband, Chris Grill, is head coach for the Maize High School boys’ basketball team. They are parents to Caleb (a graduate student at the University of Missouri), Kyle (a sophomore at FHSU) and Alec (a senior at Maize High).While both parents make it a point to attend as many college games as possible, Lena sometimes travels alone or with friends because of her husband’s high school schedule. Chris is a math teacher at Maize High, and Lena works for the Wichita School District and saves all her vacation days for basketball season.Taking to the road to play and watch basketball games has been a way of life for a lot of years for Chris and Lena, former college basketball players who met while playing at Butler County Community College in El Dorado.All three of their sons have been involved in sports their entire lives.However, this is the first season that both older brothers are playing college ball in the same year. Kyle redshirted his first year at FHSU in 2022-23, and Caleb missed last season due to an injury.Knowing this would be a busy year on the road, the Grills bought a used vehicle to use specifically for traveling to basketball games.Lena flew to a game just once this season, so she has become quite familiar with their 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.&nbsp;Before this week, the Grills had logged more than 18,000 miles to the Hyundai’s odometer. And they will add about 1,500 more this week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741194191940.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University’s Kyle Grill, left, with his brothers Caleb and Alec after one of Caleb’s games at the University of Missouri. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University’s Kyle Grill, left, with his brothers Caleb and Alec after one of Caleb’s games at the University of Missouri. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kyle sold on FHSU</h2>After playing a reserve role for FHSU as a redshirt freshman last year, Kyle worked his way into the starting lineup along with four seniors this season.Following a standout career at Maize High, where he helped the Eagles reach the state championship game in his junior and senior years, Kyle chose FHSU over other schools.“Fort Hays showed the most interest in me, and I built a better relationship with their three coaches than any others,” he said. “Then I watched a game where Fort Hays played at Newman, and they played so hard defensively. That’s something I really love, playing that hard, so Fort Hays fit my play style.”Once here, he says he wouldn’t trade the atmosphere for anywhere else. FHSU is consistently ranked at or near the top of NCAA Division II schools for game attendance.“We have the best fans in the country. We consistently have 2,500 to 3,000 fans in the stands,” he said. “And I think that makes a huge difference. It gives us energy and makes it a lot more fun.”FHSU fans also are known to travel well and support their teams on the road, as they will at this weekend’s MIAA Tournament.The Grill brothers also follow each other well, watching their games online.And they all have apparel from each other’s schools.This year made it interesting for the Grills with Caleb’s and Kyle’s mascots both being Tigers.While they own some shirts with an MU Tiger and and FHSU’s Victor E. Tiger, they also have some gear with just Tigers across the front. And some accessories can be used for both since both school colors are black and gold.With Caleb and Alec in their final years at their respective schools, Lena prioritizes those games if there are scheduling conflicts.However, when she looked back at this season’s schedule, she saw her attendance was fairly even among the three.Considering their location in the Wichita area, the Grills are actually able to attend more FHSU road games than those at home.However, the Grills always enjoy coming to Hays for games and also catch a lot of Kyle’s games on TV on the MIAA Network.The family was treated to a fun three days in late February when they were in Columbia to watch Caleb score 25 points and grab 10 rebounds in a 110-98 upset of No. 4-ranked Alabama on Wednesday, Feb. 19.The following night, they tuned in on their TV to watch Kyle score 20 points and grab nine rebounds in a 79-52 home win over Missouri Southern.And just one night later, Alec, Maize High’s point guard, helped lead the Eagles to a 79-52 victory over Haysville-Campus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741194220138.jpeg" alt="Lena Grill, mother of FHSU’s Kyle Grill, is a frequent fan at Tiger games. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Lena Grill, mother of FHSU’s Kyle Grill, is a frequent fan at Tiger games. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>This week’s schedule</h2>Maize High started this week on a winning note Tuesday night with an exciting 64-62 overtime victory over Garden City in first-round action of the Class 6A sub-state on the Eagles’ home floor.&nbsp;Dad and Mom Grill are headed to Norman, Oklahoma, today to watch Caleb and his Missouri Tigers play the Oklahoma Sooners in an SEC game tonight.Following Kyle’s MIAA tournament game Thursday in Kansas City, Alec and his coach will take on Wichita Northwest in the sub-state finals on Friday night in Maize for a shot at making next week’s 6A state tournament.The next day, Mom, Dad and Alec will be in Columbia, Mo., for Caleb’s Senior Day game with Kentucky.March madness will continue for the Grills next week when Missouri travels to Nashville for the SEC Tournament.MU also is on track to make the 2025 NCAA D-I Tournament. And there’s still the possibility for more post-season action for both Kyle and Alec, who also has plans to play college ball like his brothers after high school.But for now, Lena isn’t looking too far ahead – except to Sunday.The Grills will miss FHSU’s potential semifinal game on Saturday in Kansas City because of Caleb’s Senior Day activities in Columbia. But they would like nothing better than to stop in KC on their way home to watch the Tigers in Sunday’s MIAA championship game.

FHSU basketball parents logging massive mileage following 3 sons

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kensington public water supply system located in Smith County. 

The advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of Kensington indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-476-2668 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019566f7fa28-b9e64427-4f1a-41d1-aea5-1de2c7bd5678-000000/NZ1ruiX0RWEGMdPKjq5EkJhwK9ybFcycauYdVov_x-Q=395">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706371129693.jpeg" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kensington public water supply system located in Smith County. The advisory was issued because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of Kensington indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-476-2668 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019566f7fa28-b9e64427-4f1a-41d1-aea5-1de2c7bd5678-000000/NZ1ruiX0RWEGMdPKjq5EkJhwK9ybFcycauYdVov_x-Q=395">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>.

Boil Water Advisory rescinded for Kensington

FHSU crime log: Feb. 28-March 6, 2025

In the past several years the legislature has focused on adding additional funding to our water agencies. 

Over 270 communities applied for the 2024 funding period, requesting a total of $237 million. Thirty-nine technical assistance grants and 24 water projects grants were awarded to 70 communities and special districts related to water. A total of $26,287,103 was awarded for Technical Assistance Grant Funds, Water Project Grant Funds and Loan Assistance. 

The communities awarded funding in the 40th Senate District and western Kansas in this round of grants are:&nbsp; • Technical Assistance Grants: Wallace, Ellis, Bunker Hill, Norcatur, Quinter • Loan Assistance Grants: Liebenthal, Gorham, Hill City, Gove, Plainville, Ellis County • Water Projects: Palco, Collyer.

Additional bills passed by the Senate which have been sent to the House include:

Greeley County contacted the Kansas Attorney General after local voters passed a bond proposal for specified improvements for Tribune school district USD200. The county did not meet compliance verification, and the Attorney General refused to approve the funds. SB2 will remedy the situation and will allow Greeley County to proceed with their improvements.

SB64 would amend Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) statutes. The bill would extend the timeline for a KPERS member to request an administrative hearing to appeal a decision made by the KPERS Board of Trustees without a hearing. The bill would also update KPERS statues to align with federal Internal Revenue Code regulations relating to the applicable age for required minimum distribution of pension benefits, recalculation of life expectancy for determining benefits distributions from a defined contribution or deferred contribution plan, and the addition of a SIMPLE IRA that meets specific rollover requirements to the list of eligible retirement plans. Last year KPERS return on investments returned $1.6B.

SB126 would enact the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact. The compacts would facilitate the interstate practice of physician assistants (PAs) with the goal of improving public access to medical services and achieve several objectives that reduce administrative burden while increasing availability of licensed PAs as well as cooperation among member state licensing bodies.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell number is 785 899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA March 4, 2025In the past several years the legislature has focused on adding additional funding to our water agencies. Over 270 communities applied for the 2024 funding period, requesting a total of $237 million. Thirty-nine technical assistance grants and 24 water projects grants were awarded to 70 communities and special districts related to water. A total of $26,287,103 was awarded for Technical Assistance Grant Funds, Water Project Grant Funds and Loan Assistance. The communities awarded funding in the 40th Senate District and western Kansas in this round of grants are:&nbsp; • Technical Assistance Grants: Wallace, Ellis, Bunker Hill, Norcatur, Quinter • Loan Assistance Grants: Liebenthal, Gorham, Hill City, Gove, Plainville, Ellis County • Water Projects: Palco, Collyer.Additional bills passed by the Senate which have been sent to the House include: Greeley County contacted the Kansas Attorney General after local voters passed a bond proposal for specified improvements for Tribune school district USD200. The county did not meet compliance verification, and the Attorney General refused to approve the funds. SB2 will remedy the situation and will allow Greeley County to proceed with their improvements.SB64 would amend Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) statutes. The bill would extend the timeline for a KPERS member to request an administrative hearing to appeal a decision made by the KPERS Board of Trustees without a hearing. The bill would also update KPERS statues to align with federal Internal Revenue Code regulations relating to the applicable age for required minimum distribution of pension benefits, recalculation of life expectancy for determining benefits distributions from a defined contribution or deferred contribution plan, and the addition of a SIMPLE IRA that meets specific rollover requirements to the list of eligible retirement plans. Last year KPERS return on investments returned $1.6B.SB126 would enact the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact. The compacts would facilitate the interstate practice of physician assistants (PAs) with the goal of improving public access to medical services and achieve several objectives that reduce administrative burden while increasing availability of licensed PAs as well as cooperation among member state licensing bodies.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell number is 785 899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

BILLINGER: Senate Update March 4, 2025

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.

Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.

 I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. 

Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. 

"We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."

Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage. I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept.… <a href="https://t.co/bBWCxBsiH5">pic.twitter.com/bBWCxBsiH5</a>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1897152308666097785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. Thank you, President Trump!Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. "We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has brought common sense back to the White House.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897114382225826239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America is the strongest country in the world. After four years of weakness, we once again have a President who acts like it.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897125228536643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

🎥Kansas First District Rep. on Trump's address to Congress

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

During a stop in Hays last week, Gov. Kelly visited the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a> construction site.

The $6 million, 14,000-square-foot community center near 27th and Canterbury is scheduled to be completed in July.

It will house a child care center, Hays Senior Center and community rooms for public use.

James Robben,&nbsp;director of business development and special projects, said the seniors want to attract a square dancing competition to Hays. They would use the community room for this purpose.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the community needs more meeting space.

"There is so much about this that is for the whole community," she said. "It just makes you smile when you tell the story. It was the right thing to do at the right time."

The facility is being billed as an opportunity for intergenerational interaction between seniors and children in the child care center.

The center includes a storm shelter that can be used by senior center, child care and surrounding Grove housing development residents.

Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, which has spearheaded the development, said the shelter added to the center's price tag. Still, the development group felt it was a priority for the project.

The senior center will have a patio and a three-season room off the playground so seniors can watch the children play.

The child care center, which Bright Minds Academy will run, will open in August. It will have a capacity for 77 children.&nbsp;

Bright Minds is now taking names for a waiting list for the facility.

Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children's Cabinet, said the Children's Cabinet has been able to add more than 3,600 child care slots. Once all the slots in the works are added, including those at the community center in Hays, the cabinet will have helped add about 6,300 child care slots in Kansas.

Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund granted the project $3.5 million. The center was also supported through private funding, including a Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation donation.

The state funds came from a tobacco settlement to the states and were designated for early childhood education by the Kansas Legislature in 1999.

Kelly said child care is needed for businesses to attract and retain employees.

Kelly said the center was a good example of a public-private partnership.

The community center is part of a larger housing project, The Grove, which is being marketed toward seniors.

Work has begun on infrastructure for The Grove housing addition. Most recently, work was being done to lay a sewer for the addition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741120949851.jpeg" alt="James Robben, director of business development and special projects for Grow Hays, far left, speaks with&nbsp;Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children's Cabinet, middle, and Gov. Laura Kelly, right, as they tour the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>James Robben, director of business development and special projects for Grow Hays, far left, speaks with&nbsp;Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children's Cabinet, middle, and Gov. Laura Kelly, right, as they tour the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDuring a stop in Hays last week, Gov. Kelly visited the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a> construction site.The $6 million, 14,000-square-foot community center near 27th and Canterbury is scheduled to be completed in July.It will house a child care center, Hays Senior Center and community rooms for public use.James Robben,&nbsp;director of business development and special projects, said the seniors want to attract a square dancing competition to Hays. They would use the community room for this purpose.Mayor Sandy Jacobs said the community needs more meeting space."There is so much about this that is for the whole community," she said. "It just makes you smile when you tell the story. It was the right thing to do at the right time."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741121073079.jpeg" alt="A community room in the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;in The Grove housing addition. The Hays Senior Center's new space is to the left. The building is set to be completed in July.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A community room in the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>&nbsp;in The Grove housing addition. The Hays Senior Center's new space is to the left. The building is set to be completed in July.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741121010236.jpeg" alt="The child care wing in the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>. The center will have space for 77 children. The secure entrance can be seen at the far left. The office is in the center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The child care wing in the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52b97519-b934-46eb-bdf3-8bd246bf2675">Bob&nbsp;and Pat Schmidt Community Center</a>. The center will have space for 77 children. The secure entrance can be seen at the far left. The office is in the center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The facility is being billed as an opportunity for intergenerational interaction between seniors and children in the child care center.The center includes a storm shelter that can be used by senior center, child care and surrounding Grove housing development residents.Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, which has spearheaded the development, said the shelter added to the center's price tag. Still, the development group felt it was a priority for the project.The senior center will have a patio and a three-season room off the playground so seniors can watch the children play.The child care center, which Bright Minds Academy will run, will open in August. It will have a capacity for 77 children.&nbsp;Bright Minds is now taking names for a waiting list for the facility.Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children's Cabinet, said the Children's Cabinet has been able to add more than 3,600 child care slots. Once all the slots in the works are added, including those at the community center in Hays, the cabinet will have helped add about 6,300 child care slots in Kansas.Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund granted the project $3.5 million. The center was also supported through private funding, including a Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation donation.The state funds came from a tobacco settlement to the states and were designated for early childhood education by the Kansas Legislature in 1999.Kelly said child care is needed for businesses to attract and retain employees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741121109384.jpeg" alt="The exterior of the $6 million, 14,000-square-foot community center, which is near 27th and Canterbury.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The exterior of the $6 million, 14,000-square-foot community center, which is near 27th and Canterbury.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741121039561.jpeg" alt="Excavators were working last week on the infrastructure for The Grove housing addition. The addition, which is adjacent to HaysMed, will be geared toward seniors.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Excavators were working last week on the infrastructure for The Grove housing addition. The addition, which is adjacent to HaysMed, will be geared toward seniors.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Kelly said the center was a good example of a public-private partnership.The community center is part of a larger housing project, The Grove, which is being marketed toward seniors. Work has begun on infrastructure for The Grove housing addition. Most recently, work was being done to lay a sewer for the addition.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a9010c42-afe6-43c7-8310-fa044f54b847">SEE RELATED STORY: Grow Hays year in review: Housing still key to growth</a>

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