By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A Hays man allegedly threatened his girlfriend with a knife during a domestic dispute while a child was present in the home.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said 38-year-old James Edward Foster of Hays was arrested for alleged aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, endangering a child and domestic battery.

Scheibler said the incident occured at 11:56 p.m. on July 24 in the 1900 block of MacArthur St., where officers responded to a report that Foster had allegedly pulled a knife on his girlfriend during an argument and made threatening gestures.

Scheibler said the woman and the child were not injured. Officers allegedly found additional weapons at the scene: a short-barreled AR-15 rifle and a handgun.

Foster was booked into the Ellis County Jail on July 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754655072728.png" alt="Foster photo Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Foster photo Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Hays man allegedly threatened his girlfriend with a knife during a domestic dispute while a child was present in the home.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said 38-year-old James Edward Foster of Hays was arrested for alleged aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, endangering a child and domestic battery.Scheibler said the incident occured at 11:56 p.m. on July 24 in the 1900 block of MacArthur St., where officers responded to a report that Foster had allegedly pulled a knife on his girlfriend during an argument and made threatening gestures.Scheibler said the woman and the child were not injured. Officers allegedly found additional weapons at the scene: a short-barreled AR-15 rifle and a handgun.Foster was booked into the Ellis County Jail on July 25.

Hays man arrested for allegedly threatening woman with knife

HAYS, Kan. (Aug. 7, 2025) — The Hays Police Department is issuing a public safety alert regarding a significant increase in scams that coerce residents into sending money through Bitcoin Automated Teller Machines (BTMs).

These sophisticated schemes, often involving impersonation of government officials or trusted entities, have resulted in substantial financial losses for victims nationwide, and Hays is not immune.

"Let me be absolutely clear: no legitimate government agency, law enforcement, or utility company will ever demand payment through a Bitcoin ATM, gift card, or wire transfer,” said Hays Chief of Police Don Scheibler. “If someone tells you to use one of these machines to pay a fine, resolve an issue, or protect your money, it is a scam. Hang up immediately and verify the request through official channels."

Scammers typically initiate contact through unexpected phone calls, text messages, or email, often creating a high-pressure, urgent scenario.

They may pose as IRS agents threatening arrest for unpaid taxes, law enforcement officials claiming involvement in money laundering, or tech support representatives warning of compromised bank accounts.

The common thread is the demand for immediate payment via a Bitcoin ATM, often directing victims to specific locations and providing QR codes to facilitate the transfer of funds directly to the scammer's digital wallet.

"These criminals exploit fear and a sense of urgency," Scheibler said. "They will keep you on the phone, preventing you from seeking advice from family or friends, and pressure you into withdrawing large sums of cash. Once that cash is deposited into a Bitcoin ATM and converted to cryptocurrency, it is almost impossible to retrieve."

The financial toll of these scams is alarming.

Nationally, fraud losses involving Bitcoin ATMs have surged, increasing nearly tenfold from 2020 to 2023, and exceeding $65 million in tracking the first half of 2024 alone, according to the latest information available.

The median loss reported by individuals who used BTMs in these scams was a staggering $10,000.

Individuals aged 60 and over are disproportionately affected, accounting for approximately $46 million, or 71%, of reported BTM-related losses in the first half of this year.

Broader cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes have led to billions of dollars in losses annually.

The difficulty in recovering funds stems from the inherent nature of cryptocurrency transactions.

Once funds are transferred via a BTM, the transaction is irreversible.

The decentralized and often anonymous nature of blockchain technology, coupled with the international reach of these criminal networks, makes tracing and recovering stolen funds exceptionally challenging for law enforcement.

Scammers frequently disperse stolen cryptocurrency across numerous digital wallets to obscure their tracks, further complicating recovery efforts.

Further, victims are often re-victimized by "recovery scams," fraudulent services that promise to retrieve lost cryptocurrency for an upfront fee, only to steal more money.

The Hays Police Department urges all residents to remain vigilant and follow these critical prevention tips:

· Never respond to unsolicited calls, texts, or emails demanding immediate payment, especially if they involve Bitcoin ATMs, gift cards, or wire transfers.

· Always verify requests independently. If you receive a suspicious call from an alleged government agency or business, hang up and call them back using a phone number found on their official website or a trusted bill, not one provided by the caller.

· Slow down. Scammers rely on panic. Take time to think and discuss the situation with a trusted family member or friend.

· Understand that legitimate entities will never demand payment in cryptocurrency.

If you believe you have been targeted by a Bitcoin ATM scam or any other financial fraud, please contact the Hays Police Department immediately at (785) 625-1030.

You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754594104162.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police DepartmentHAYS, Kan. (Aug. 7, 2025) — The Hays Police Department is issuing a public safety alert regarding a significant increase in scams that coerce residents into sending money through Bitcoin Automated Teller Machines (BTMs).These sophisticated schemes, often involving impersonation of government officials or trusted entities, have resulted in substantial financial losses for victims nationwide, and Hays is not immune."Let me be absolutely clear: no legitimate government agency, law enforcement, or utility company will ever demand payment through a Bitcoin ATM, gift card, or wire transfer,” said Hays Chief of Police Don Scheibler. “If someone tells you to use one of these machines to pay a fine, resolve an issue, or protect your money, it is a scam. Hang up immediately and verify the request through official channels."Scammers typically initiate contact through unexpected phone calls, text messages, or email, often creating a high-pressure, urgent scenario.They may pose as IRS agents threatening arrest for unpaid taxes, law enforcement officials claiming involvement in money laundering, or tech support representatives warning of compromised bank accounts.The common thread is the demand for immediate payment via a Bitcoin ATM, often directing victims to specific locations and providing QR codes to facilitate the transfer of funds directly to the scammer's digital wallet."These criminals exploit fear and a sense of urgency," Scheibler said. "They will keep you on the phone, preventing you from seeking advice from family or friends, and pressure you into withdrawing large sums of cash. Once that cash is deposited into a Bitcoin ATM and converted to cryptocurrency, it is almost impossible to retrieve."The financial toll of these scams is alarming.Nationally, fraud losses involving Bitcoin ATMs have surged, increasing nearly tenfold from 2020 to 2023, and exceeding $65 million in tracking the first half of 2024 alone, according to the latest information available.The median loss reported by individuals who used BTMs in these scams was a staggering $10,000.Individuals aged 60 and over are disproportionately affected, accounting for approximately $46 million, or 71%, of reported BTM-related losses in the first half of this year.Broader cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes have led to billions of dollars in losses annually.The difficulty in recovering funds stems from the inherent nature of cryptocurrency transactions.Once funds are transferred via a BTM, the transaction is irreversible.The decentralized and often anonymous nature of blockchain technology, coupled with the international reach of these criminal networks, makes tracing and recovering stolen funds exceptionally challenging for law enforcement.Scammers frequently disperse stolen cryptocurrency across numerous digital wallets to obscure their tracks, further complicating recovery efforts.Further, victims are often re-victimized by "recovery scams," fraudulent services that promise to retrieve lost cryptocurrency for an upfront fee, only to steal more money.The Hays Police Department urges all residents to remain vigilant and follow these critical prevention tips:· Never respond to unsolicited calls, texts, or emails demanding immediate payment, especially if they involve Bitcoin ATMs, gift cards, or wire transfers.· Always verify requests independently. If you receive a suspicious call from an alleged government agency or business, hang up and call them back using a phone number found on their official website or a trusted bill, not one provided by the caller.· Slow down. Scammers rely on panic. Take time to think and discuss the situation with a trusted family member or friend.· Understand that legitimate entities will never demand payment in cryptocurrency.If you believe you have been targeted by a Bitcoin ATM scam or any other financial fraud, please contact the Hays Police Department immediately at (785) 625-1030.You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.

Hays Police Department warns residents targeted by Bitcoin ATM scams

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will honor High Plains Mental Health's funding request of about $378,600.

The Ellis County Commission reviewed the third draft of the 2026 budget. Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested several adjustments to funding for outside agencies requesting assistance.

"I would like to fund [High Plains Mental Health] at the full level, but the additional $76,000 would be from all sales tax and not property tax," Leiker said.

High Plains Mental Health's request is a significant increase from last year’s $299,975, with the additional funds designated for its <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c63c3c89-fd3c-4923-8d01-509e92168ce0">Crisis Intervention Center</a>.

Leiker also said he wanted to reevaluate the county’s scholarship program, which was initially established to support county employees and local students.

"A lot of the students are not employee-related. There's some, but I think we're kind of missing our target, and maybe we need to hit the pause on the scholarship, reevaluate and utilize some of those funds," he said.

Leiker proposed reducing the scholarship program’s funding from $20,000 to $10,000 and reallocating that $10,000 to DSNWK, meeting its original $250,000 request.

Commissioner Michael Berges said the program supports retention efforts and should not be fully cut in 2026. Commissioner Neal Younger supported a reduction in scholarship funding until next year’s budget.

Grow Hays and Ellis County Historical Society

Younger proposed reducing Grow Hays’ funding from $165,000 to $160,000 and reallocating the $5,000 to the Ellis County Historical Society, increasing its total to $115,000.

The following are additional funding allocations and changes discussed for the 2026 budget:

• DSNWK KidLink to receive $120,000 • ACCESS Transportation to receive $50,000 • Hays Humane Society to receive $2,600 • Ellis County Conservation District to receive $72,646, an increase from $65,750 • United Way of Ellis County to receive $2,500 (reduced at a previous meeting) • Ameritown was removed from the 2026 budget

Darin Myers, county administrator, said AmeriTown could either seek funding through the county’s contingency fund or submit a request to the Ellis County Care Council.

ACCESS Transportation also requested $82,000 from the City of Hays to help offset the loss of state funding, but the city has yet to decide. The service offers public transportation primarily to low-income, elderly and disabled individuals.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c896b49-4c58-4425-a998-474c7c4b6da4">SEE RELATED STORY: ACCESS Public Transportation faces 2026 budget shortfall&nbsp;</a>

Myers said the total outside agency funding in the budget amounts to $1,256,548, a $797 decrease from the previous draft.

The current draft has a 1.84 mill levy increase, from 35.99 mills to 37.83. mills.

The mill levy increase includes the commissioners' request to add 1 mill ($542,695), which will replace the expected revenue decrease of the Oil and Gas Depletion fund ($425,865) in future years.

The proposed budget also includes a $200,000 increase in interest revenue. That will help reduce the overall mill levy by one-third of a mill for 2026.

Berges suggested slightly lowering the increase to align with the amount previously transferred from the oil depletion fund, but the commission ultimately agreed to keep the full 1 mill increase.

Final changes can be made by Aug. 12, with the public hearing set for Sept. 9.

The commission continued its discussion on capital improvement projects, including the possibility of issuing a bond to fund more than $9.75 million in facility upgrades.

"This allows us to do some projects without using property taxes," Berges said.

Myers said that if the sales tax is not renewed in 2030, the county would have to increase property taxes by 7 to 8 mills to cover bond payments.

"What's nice about the sales taxes is that the majority... is paid by people traveling in and out of Ellis County, not necessarily Ellis County residents," he said.

The commission reviewed photos of the EMS and fire station facilities in the city of Ellis, which are experiencing water damage, mold risks and limited space. Repairs and upgrades are estimated to cost $2 million.

The following are other projects and estimates that the commission discussed:

•&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and Communications Department Renovation, estimated budget of $3 million •&nbsp;Administrative Building 110 fan coil units, estimated at&nbsp;$1.25 million •&nbsp;Courthouse HVAC replacement, estimated at $3.5 million •&nbsp;Landfill Transfer Station Expansion •&nbsp;Storage Building at Public Works

Berges said the projects will need to be carefully prioritized in the years ahead and noted the courthouse HVAC system experienced issues over the weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743602398322.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will honor High Plains Mental Health's funding request of about $378,600.The Ellis County Commission reviewed the third draft of the 2026 budget. Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested several adjustments to funding for outside agencies requesting assistance."I would like to fund [High Plains Mental Health] at the full level, but the additional $76,000 would be from all sales tax and not property tax," Leiker said.High Plains Mental Health's request is a significant increase from last year’s $299,975, with the additional funds designated for its <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c63c3c89-fd3c-4923-8d01-509e92168ce0">Crisis Intervention Center</a>.<h2>DSNWK and the county scholarship program</h2>Leiker also said he wanted to reevaluate the county’s scholarship program, which was initially established to support county employees and local students."A lot of the students are not employee-related. There's some, but I think we're kind of missing our target, and maybe we need to hit the pause on the scholarship, reevaluate and utilize some of those funds," he said.Leiker proposed reducing the scholarship program’s funding from $20,000 to $10,000 and reallocating that $10,000 to DSNWK, meeting its original $250,000 request.Commissioner Michael Berges said the program supports retention efforts and should not be fully cut in 2026. Commissioner Neal Younger supported a reduction in scholarship funding until next year’s budget.<h2>Grow Hays and Ellis County Historical Society</h2>Younger proposed reducing Grow Hays’ funding from $165,000 to $160,000 and reallocating the $5,000 to the Ellis County Historical Society, increasing its total to $115,000.The following are additional funding allocations and changes discussed for the 2026 budget:• DSNWK KidLink to receive $120,000 • ACCESS Transportation to receive $50,000 • Hays Humane Society to receive $2,600 • Ellis County Conservation District to receive $72,646, an increase from $65,750 • United Way of Ellis County to receive $2,500 (reduced at a previous meeting) • Ameritown was removed from the 2026 budgetDarin Myers, county administrator, said AmeriTown could either seek funding through the county’s contingency fund or submit a request to the Ellis County Care Council.ACCESS Transportation also requested $82,000 from the City of Hays to help offset the loss of state funding, but the city has yet to decide. The service offers public transportation primarily to low-income, elderly and disabled individuals.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c896b49-4c58-4425-a998-474c7c4b6da4">SEE RELATED STORY: ACCESS Public Transportation faces 2026 budget shortfall&nbsp;</a>Myers said the total outside agency funding in the budget amounts to $1,256,548, a $797 decrease from the previous draft.<h2>Mill levy increase proposal</h2>The current draft has a 1.84 mill levy increase, from 35.99 mills to 37.83. mills.The mill levy increase includes the commissioners' request to add 1 mill ($542,695), which will replace the expected revenue decrease of the Oil and Gas Depletion fund ($425,865) in future years.The proposed budget also includes a $200,000 increase in interest revenue. That will help reduce the overall mill levy by one-third of a mill for 2026.Berges suggested slightly lowering the increase to align with the amount previously transferred from the oil depletion fund, but the commission ultimately agreed to keep the full 1 mill increase.Final changes can be made by Aug. 12, with the public hearing set for Sept. 9.<h2>Capital improvement projects and bonding</h2>The commission continued its discussion on capital improvement projects, including the possibility of issuing a bond to fund more than $9.75 million in facility upgrades."This allows us to do some projects without using property taxes," Berges said.Myers said that if the sales tax is not renewed in 2030, the county would have to increase property taxes by 7 to 8 mills to cover bond payments."What's nice about the sales taxes is that the majority... is paid by people traveling in and out of Ellis County, not necessarily Ellis County residents," he said.The commission reviewed photos of the EMS and fire station facilities in the city of Ellis, which are experiencing water damage, mold risks and limited space. Repairs and upgrades are estimated to cost $2 million.The following are other projects and estimates that the commission discussed:•&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and Communications Department Renovation, estimated budget of $3 million •&nbsp;Administrative Building 110 fan coil units, estimated at&nbsp;$1.25 million •&nbsp;Courthouse HVAC replacement, estimated at $3.5 million •&nbsp;Landfill Transfer Station Expansion •&nbsp;Storage Building at Public WorksBerges said the projects will need to be carefully prioritized in the years ahead and noted the courthouse HVAC system experienced issues over the weekend.

Ellis County Commission readjusts 2026 funding; discuss 1 mill tax hike

It is time for judicial reform in Kansas. 

Here is what is happening: Gov. Laura Kelly just chose her appointee for the state Supreme Court. Her choice was limited to a recommended three from a panel of mostly attorneys, the Supreme Court Nominating Commission. Never heard of this commission? Have no idea who sits on it? You are not alone.

The truth is that these advisers are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://americansforprosperity.org/takebackthebench/">unelected political insiders</a>&nbsp;who meet behind closed doors. Often they are left-leaning trial attorneys. As a result, the commission usually selects nominees that are beholden to a certain party line, ideology, or to litigators themselves.

Kansas is the only state in the whole country that gives unelected attorneys majority control over judicial picks — and it is not working for us.

The state Supreme Court is the highest court in Kansas. Its decisions set binding legal precedent lower courts must follow. Trusting so few, unaccountable people to choose justices virtually guarantees that special interests will be the only voices that will be listened to by the state Supreme Court.

Justices’ decisions have ramifications for residents, families, businesses, schools, the entire economy, and more. With such an enormous reach into our daily lives, Kansans should expect more transparency in the process — especially since our state Supreme Court is one of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/#:~:text=Track%20record,largely%20the%20same%2C%20he%20said.">most</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/#:~:text=Track%20record,largely%20the%20same%2C%20he%20said.">overturned</a>&nbsp;in the country.

The fact that our justices frequently misinterpret the law creates continuous uncertainty for state lawmakers, businesses, and citizens. The court often gets it wrong because the process for picking justices is wrong. The entire system must be reformed to put more power into the hand of the people.

In August 2026, voters will have the chance to do just that by voting for a ballot initiative, Question 1, that would amend the state constitution to allow direct elections of state Supreme Court justices.

Currently 22 states, from Texas to Pennsylvania and Oregon to Alabama, allow voters to choose who sits on the state Supreme Court. Another 18 states have judicial nominations similar to the federal model, where elected officials control the nomination of Supreme Court judges and voters, in turn, can hold those elected officials accountable for their choices.

It is time Kansas join the majority. It is time that we, not an unelected panel of special interest lawyers, get to decide who sits on the state Supreme Court.

Some opponents of Question 1 will point out Kansans are able to vote whether a justice&nbsp;stays&nbsp;on the court. That is true. After a justice's first full year in office, he or she must stand for a retention vote. If the justice earns a majority of the vote, they get to remain in office for another&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Supreme-Court#:~:text=Kansas%20Supreme%20Court&amp;text=After%20a%20justice's%20first%20full,a%20term%20of%20six%20years.">six years</a>.

But just because this claim is true, does not make the system sound.

Retention votes are an insufficient check on unaccountable judges. In fact, since&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2014/b2013_14/committees/misc/ctte_h_jud_1_20130122_02_other.pdf">99%</a>&nbsp;of judges are retained, these votes are a little like a dictator claiming they held “free elections.” In systems like that, voters do not really have a voice.

That is true in Kansas today as well. At no point do we have an opportunity to have a say in who the judge is. Giving us that voice is the only true reform that will remove special interests from our selection system.

It is time that Kansas stops bypassing the will of the people. It is time the governor stops giving power to select lawyers, and it is time we stop letting political insiders influence our state Supreme Court.

In August 2026, vote “yes” on Question 1.

State Representative Barb Wasinger (R-Hays) District 111

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>It is time for judicial reform in Kansas. Here is what is happening: Gov. Laura Kelly just chose her appointee for the state Supreme Court. Her choice was limited to a recommended three from a panel of mostly attorneys, the Supreme Court Nominating Commission. Never heard of this commission? Have no idea who sits on it? You are not alone.The truth is that these advisers are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://americansforprosperity.org/takebackthebench/">unelected political insiders</a>&nbsp;who meet behind closed doors. Often they are left-leaning trial attorneys. As a result, the commission usually selects nominees that are beholden to a certain party line, ideology, or to litigators themselves. Kansas is the only state in the whole country that gives unelected attorneys majority control over judicial picks — and it is not working for us.The state Supreme Court is the highest court in Kansas. Its decisions set binding legal precedent lower courts must follow. Trusting so few, unaccountable people to choose justices virtually guarantees that special interests will be the only voices that will be listened to by the state Supreme Court.Justices’ decisions have ramifications for residents, families, businesses, schools, the entire economy, and more. With such an enormous reach into our daily lives, Kansans should expect more transparency in the process — especially since our state Supreme Court is one of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/#:~:text=Track%20record,largely%20the%20same%2C%20he%20said.">most</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/#:~:text=Track%20record,largely%20the%20same%2C%20he%20said.">overturned</a>&nbsp;in the country. The fact that our justices frequently misinterpret the law creates continuous uncertainty for state lawmakers, businesses, and citizens. The court often gets it wrong because the process for picking justices is wrong. The entire system must be reformed to put more power into the hand of the people.In August 2026, voters will have the chance to do just that by voting for a ballot initiative, Question 1, that would amend the state constitution to allow direct elections of state Supreme Court justices.Currently 22 states, from Texas to Pennsylvania and Oregon to Alabama, allow voters to choose who sits on the state Supreme Court. Another 18 states have judicial nominations similar to the federal model, where elected officials control the nomination of Supreme Court judges and voters, in turn, can hold those elected officials accountable for their choices.It is time Kansas join the majority. It is time that we, not an unelected panel of special interest lawyers, get to decide who sits on the state Supreme Court.Some opponents of Question 1 will point out Kansans are able to vote whether a justice&nbsp;stays&nbsp;on the court. That is true. After a justice's first full year in office, he or she must stand for a retention vote. If the justice earns a majority of the vote, they get to remain in office for another&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Supreme-Court#:~:text=Kansas%20Supreme%20Court&amp;text=After%20a%20justice's%20first%20full,a%20term%20of%20six%20years.">six years</a>.But just because this claim is true, does not make the system sound.Retention votes are an insufficient check on unaccountable judges. In fact, since&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2014/b2013_14/committees/misc/ctte_h_jud_1_20130122_02_other.pdf">99%</a>&nbsp;of judges are retained, these votes are a little like a dictator claiming they held “free elections.” In systems like that, voters do not really have a voice. That is true in Kansas today as well. At no point do we have an opportunity to have a say in who the judge is. Giving us that voice is the only true reform that will remove special interests from our selection system.It is time that Kansas stops bypassing the will of the people. It is time the governor stops giving power to select lawyers, and it is time we stop letting political insiders influence our state Supreme Court.In August 2026, vote “yes” on Question 1.State Representative Barb Wasinger (R-Hays) District 111

LETTER: It’s time for direct elections for the state Supreme Court

Following a recent water main break at the intersection of Sixth and Main, the City of Hays has finalized a repair plan and will begin work on Thursday, Aug. 7.

Repairs to the damaged infrastructure and the roadway are expected to take up to two weeks.

During the repair period, the intersection of Sixth and Main will be closed.

Main Street will be closed near the intersection, and the 100 block of West Sixth Street will also be inaccessible to through traffic.

Traffic signs will be placed to alert motorists of the closures and direct them to alternate routes.

"We appreciate the community's patience as we work to repair the damage," said Director of Water Resources Jeff Crispin. "Our crews will be working diligently to restore the infrastructure and the roadway as quickly and safely as possible."

The project will address the damage to both the underground infrastructure and the street surface caused by the break.

The City of Hays reminds all residents and visitors to exercise caution when traveling near the construction zone and to follow all posted detour signs. For updates follow the City of Hays on Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky, Nextdoor, TikTok and LinkedIn, or visit HaysUSA.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysFollowing a recent water main break at the intersection of Sixth and Main, the City of Hays has finalized a repair plan and will begin work on Thursday, Aug. 7.Repairs to the damaged infrastructure and the roadway are expected to take up to two weeks.During the repair period, the intersection of Sixth and Main will be closed.Main Street will be closed near the intersection, and the 100 block of West Sixth Street will also be inaccessible to through traffic.Traffic signs will be placed to alert motorists of the closures and direct them to alternate routes."We appreciate the community's patience as we work to repair the damage," said Director of Water Resources Jeff Crispin. "Our crews will be working diligently to restore the infrastructure and the roadway as quickly and safely as possible."The project will address the damage to both the underground infrastructure and the street surface caused by the break.The City of Hays reminds all residents and visitors to exercise caution when traveling near the construction zone and to follow all posted detour signs. For updates follow the City of Hays on Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky, Nextdoor, TikTok and LinkedIn, or visit HaysUSA.com.

Repairs to Hays' Main St. following water main leak begin today

More than 6,100 rubber ducks peddled their way to the finish line for a $10,000 prize at the tenth-annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County Duck Derby.

The main events on Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park also included a Duck Dash for kids with prizes for the top 20 and a cardboard boat regatta for businesses.

The winners of the grand prize and nine other prizes were announced Wednesday and were published today on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AyVaDr62q/">Big Brothers Big Sisters Facebook page</a>:

First - Brett Zollinger&nbsp;- $10,000 grand prize Second - Kerry Wasinger - one night stay-cation in a spa cabin Third - Kalin LaBarge - Apple iPad Fourth - Curt &amp; Jeanna Wellbrock - two round-trip airline tickets Fifth - Gary Short - iRobot Roomba Sixth - Bryan Phillips - Napoleon Travel Q Grill and $200 gift card from Bigg E Meats Seventh - Mike Koerner - two GA Fort Hays State University all-sport tickets for 2025 to 2026 season Eighth - Kathy Rupp - Ray-Ban sunglasses and Shoeless Joe vintage baseball glove Ninth prize - Darrell Seibel - $300 gift card from Walmart 10th prize - JoAnne Berens - Breathe Coffee House gift basket Last place duck - Christa Language - duck bluetooth shower speaker

Zollinger said half of the $10,000 award will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County.

High Plains Baptist Church&nbsp;received the Spirit Award and the 2025 Forward Always Cardboard Regatta - Race for a Cause Champion Award, taking first place.

The Hays Water Resource Department received the Best in Show award and the Big Brothers Big Sisters match team received the Titanic Award.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made 160 matches so far this year with individuals or families who provide support and mentorship. 34 children are on a waiting list for their match.

For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasbigs.org/">website</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisCoBigs">Facebook page</a>.

The Local Food Truck was at the race, donating 10% of sales. All proceeds from the Duck Derby will go towards&nbsp;Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754538661398.jpeg" alt="Ducks going down a slide into the lazy river Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park during the Big Brothers Big Sisters Duck Derby. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ducks going down a slide into the lazy river Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park during the Big Brothers Big Sisters Duck Derby. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostMore than 6,100 rubber ducks peddled their way to the finish line for a $10,000 prize at the tenth-annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County Duck Derby.The main events on Wednesday at the Hays Aquatic Park also included a Duck Dash for kids with prizes for the top 20 and a cardboard boat regatta for businesses.The winners of the grand prize and nine other prizes were announced Wednesday and were published today on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AyVaDr62q/">Big Brothers Big Sisters Facebook page</a>:First - Brett Zollinger&nbsp;- $10,000 grand prize Second - Kerry Wasinger - one night stay-cation in a spa cabin Third - Kalin LaBarge - Apple iPad Fourth - Curt &amp; Jeanna Wellbrock - two round-trip airline tickets Fifth - Gary Short - iRobot Roomba Sixth - Bryan Phillips - Napoleon Travel Q Grill and $200 gift card from Bigg E Meats Seventh - Mike Koerner - two GA Fort Hays State University all-sport tickets for 2025 to 2026 season Eighth - Kathy Rupp - Ray-Ban sunglasses and Shoeless Joe vintage baseball glove Ninth prize - Darrell Seibel - $300 gift card from Walmart 10th prize - JoAnne Berens - Breathe Coffee House gift basket Last place duck - Christa Language - duck bluetooth shower speakerZollinger said half of the $10,000 award will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754538750747.jpeg" alt="Photos by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
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 </figure>High Plains Baptist Church&nbsp;received the Spirit Award and the 2025 Forward Always Cardboard Regatta - Race for a Cause Champion Award, taking first place.The Hays Water Resource Department received the Best in Show award and the Big Brothers Big Sisters match team received the Titanic Award.<figure>
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 </figure>Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County has made 160 matches so far this year with individuals or families who provide support and mentorship. 34 children are on a waiting list for their match.For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasbigs.org/">website</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisCoBigs">Facebook page</a>.The Local Food Truck was at the race, donating 10% of sales. All proceeds from the Duck Derby will go towards&nbsp;Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters.

📷 UPDATED: Big Brothers Big Sisters Duck Derby awards $10,000 grand prize

Everyone wants a place to call “home,” but being able to use that term hasn’t been easy for some people in western Kansas.

Tiger Media Network’s documentary, “The Cost of a Dream,” explores housing concerns in Hays through the eyes of local residents, city officials and community leaders. TMN is the student-produced convergent media hub at Fort Hays State University.

Produced by TMN’s summer internship team of Kyson Evans, Katie Kuhlman and Taylor Thompson, the documentary sheds light on the challenges of finding affordable, family-friendly housing.

The film offers an in-depth look at how housing insecurity affects cities like Hays, contributing to a rise in housing instability and even homelessness for working families, single parents and vulnerable populations. It also examines potential solutions and efforts being made to address the issues.

“Coming from the capital city of Topeka, city development isn’t something you often think about — it just happens around you,” Evans said. “But in a smaller town like Hays, you really see how interconnected everything is. Everyone is part of a larger web, working toward the same goal. That kind of collaboration was something special and worth documenting.”

Working on the summer project gave the producers a new perspective on how deeply housing issues affect entire communities — not just individuals.

“This documentary is important to me because it helps bring awareness to the housing issues that often go unnoticed,” Thompson said. “By sharing these stories, we hope to start conversations and inspire real change in communities like Hays.”

Evans and Thompson had prior experience with documentary filmmaking from the Advanced Video course at FHSU, but this was the first project of this scale for the group.

“Overall, this was a one-of-a-kind experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone,” Kuhlman said. “It allowed me to try something completely new and explore a different direction in my career that I hadn’t considered before.”

“The Cost of a Dream” will premiere at 6 p.m. Aug. 7, on the Tiger <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33a-opih-uA">Media Network YouTube channel</a>.

The documentary is the third long-form feature produced by TMN summer interns during the last three summers.

“This year’s summer documentary is a bit different than the last two,” said Nick Schwien, director of Tiger Media Network. “This one is a bit more localized and focuses on an issue that is relevant to many in Hays. Through the roughly eight weeks of work, the students conducted multiple interviews and worked as a team in a real-world environment. 

"Our ability to provide learning opportunities like these have helped students stand out in the job market when applying for employment after graduation. Kyson, Katie and Taylor took on a tough topic and worked hard to produce a quality product.”

Additional videos and information can be found on the documentary's website: https://www.thecostofadreamfilm.info/.

Kyson Evans is a senior from Topeka studying Information Networking and Telecommunications: Digital Media Production and Journalism.

Taylor Thompson is a senior from Leavenworth studying Information Networking and Telecommunications: Digital Media Production and Journalism.

Katie Kuhlman is a senior from Great Bend studying Applied Business Studies: Marketing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754490109431.png" alt="Image from "The Cost of a Dream" by Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Image from "The Cost of a Dream" by Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIGER MEDIA NETWORKEveryone wants a place to call “home,” but being able to use that term hasn’t been easy for some people in western Kansas.Tiger Media Network’s documentary, “The Cost of a Dream,” explores housing concerns in Hays through the eyes of local residents, city officials and community leaders. TMN is the student-produced convergent media hub at Fort Hays State University.Produced by TMN’s summer internship team of Kyson Evans, Katie Kuhlman and Taylor Thompson, the documentary sheds light on the challenges of finding affordable, family-friendly housing.The film offers an in-depth look at how housing insecurity affects cities like Hays, contributing to a rise in housing instability and even homelessness for working families, single parents and vulnerable populations. It also examines potential solutions and efforts being made to address the issues.“Coming from the capital city of Topeka, city development isn’t something you often think about — it just happens around you,” Evans said. “But in a smaller town like Hays, you really see how interconnected everything is. Everyone is part of a larger web, working toward the same goal. That kind of collaboration was something special and worth documenting.”Working on the summer project gave the producers a new perspective on how deeply housing issues affect entire communities — not just individuals.“This documentary is important to me because it helps bring awareness to the housing issues that often go unnoticed,” Thompson said. “By sharing these stories, we hope to start conversations and inspire real change in communities like Hays.”Evans and Thompson had prior experience with documentary filmmaking from the Advanced Video course at FHSU, but this was the first project of this scale for the group.“Overall, this was a one-of-a-kind experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone,” Kuhlman said. “It allowed me to try something completely new and explore a different direction in my career that I hadn’t considered before.”<div></div>“The Cost of a Dream” will premiere at 6 p.m. Aug. 7, on the Tiger <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33a-opih-uA">Media Network YouTube channel</a>.The documentary is the third long-form feature produced by TMN summer interns during the last three summers.“This year’s summer documentary is a bit different than the last two,” said Nick Schwien, director of Tiger Media Network. “This one is a bit more localized and focuses on an issue that is relevant to many in Hays. Through the roughly eight weeks of work, the students conducted multiple interviews and worked as a team in a real-world environment. "Our ability to provide learning opportunities like these have helped students stand out in the job market when applying for employment after graduation. Kyson, Katie and Taylor took on a tough topic and worked hard to produce a quality product.”Additional videos and information can be found on the documentary's website: https://www.thecostofadreamfilm.info/.Kyson Evans is a senior from Topeka studying Information Networking and Telecommunications: Digital Media Production and Journalism.Taylor Thompson is a senior from Leavenworth studying Information Networking and Telecommunications: Digital Media Production and Journalism.Katie Kuhlman is a senior from Great Bend studying Applied Business Studies: Marketing.

Trio produces documentary on housing in Hays; premieres Thursday

SHERIDAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Sheridan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Colorado driven by&nbsp; Erik Favio&nbsp; Santamaria Cornelio, 39, Hoxie, was eastbound on U.S. 24 at County Road 40.

The pickup traveled off the&nbsp; roadway to the south and began sliding sideways. The vehicle jumped County Rd 40 W and began rolling sideways into a field. It rolled multiple times and the driver was ejected.

&nbsp;EMS transported Santamaria Cornelio to AmberMed Hospital in Hoxie for treatment of serious injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP&gt;

SHERIDAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Sheridan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Colorado driven by&nbsp; Erik Favio&nbsp; Santamaria Cornelio, 39, Hoxie, was eastbound on U.S. 24 at County Road 40.The pickup traveled off the&nbsp; roadway to the south and began sliding sideways. The vehicle jumped County Rd 40 W and began rolling sideways into a field. It rolled multiple times and the driver was ejected.&nbsp;EMS transported Santamaria Cornelio to AmberMed Hospital in Hoxie for treatment of serious injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP&gt;

NW Kan. man hospitalized after violent rollover accident

Herzogfest weekend is August 8 and 9 in Victoria. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenton Hoffman, committee president and vice-president Jennifer Bernes about the German-themed event.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Celebrate Herzogfest in Victoria this weekend" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=wihw5-19277f6-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Herzogfest weekend is August 8 and 9 in Victoria. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenton Hoffman, committee president and vice-president Jennifer Bernes about the German-themed event.&nbsp;

🎙Celebrate Herzogfest in Victoria this weekend

Killdeer performing vociferous speed walk--shuffle step--pause actions or broken wing charades add interest to any waterside visit. Who knew two adult killdeer repeating "skree skree skree"s followed by "kill dee" calls as they searched for high protein insects would turn our front lawn into my favorite summer birding site? Add four uncoordinated juveniles to multiply the fun!

This bird’s onomatopoetic "kill-dee" cry makes it obvious why folks commonly call them killdeer. 

Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus’s scientific name for them is more apt—Charadrius vociferus. These noisy birds mastered the art of charade with their clever broken wing imitation designed to lure threats away from nests and young. How crazy something the size of a robin and weighing only ounces can be so loudly dramatic!

At first contact, I thought our pair of lawn picnickers shared the fate of a Colorado chipmunk that wound up in our yard a couple years ago—lost. 

 Research explains killdeer often exist as non-shore shorebirds. Sure, some live near water, but others support themselves and their young, relying on short grass lawns, pastures, prairies, driveways, parking lots and golf courses to provide sustenance. 

Apparently, south WaKeeney meets their home sweet home requirements.

A big parking lot bordered by airport runways bordered by pastures makes up the truck stop. East of Highway 283, six well-trimmed yards tempt these creatures to cross two lanes of scorching asphalt to nourish themselves with succulent insects and other invertebrates. 

Think Killdeer Diners, Drive Ins and Dives.

After satisfying dietary needs, these attractive birds focus on nesting. Once again, their 15-acre killdeer range provides essentials so the pair can scrape a ground nest from dirt and rock. This one-time ancient seabed turned farm field turned truck stop plus bonus neighborhood offers dirt and limestone pebbles to convert into an incubator/nursery for four to six buff or beige eggs the pair produces and hopefully hatches.

We haven’t spied their nest, but it exists because this week, two adult killdeer safely led four feathered young across the highway to hunt insects in our neighborhood. We missed the fluffball/toothpick leg stage, but these tweens charm us. Seeing adult killdeer run-walk-shuffle-pause to grab a meal captured our interest. Watching gawky fledglings seek food produces pure comedy.

One did a classic vaudeville face plant one morning when it dove for breakfast. A sibling rolled beak over tail-end while matching wits with an escaping insect. During these antics, the parents gobbled necessary calories while scanning for predators.

Though we haven’t personally triggered a dramatic broken wing charade, cars entering the drive have. The most threatened adult flashes that orange Stranger Danger rump toward the front fender and skews one wing so it appears broken. Often, the performer adds a limp to convince that mechanical behemoth they’re seriously injured easy prey. Once the car passes, a miraculously healed killdeer resumes eating.

We researched this crew to see how much longer we’ll enjoy their company. One source noted young killdeer fly at 25 days. Based on size and feather development, migration day creeps ever closer. Our free entertainment ends soon.

We best gander often to enjoy killdeer watching while these non-shore shore birds dine and perform in our yard.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753890324981.jpeg" alt="Killdeer. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Killdeer. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN Killdeer performing vociferous speed walk--shuffle step--pause actions or broken wing charades add interest to any waterside visit. Who knew two adult killdeer repeating "skree skree skree"s followed by "kill dee" calls as they searched for high protein insects would turn our front lawn into my favorite summer birding site? Add four uncoordinated juveniles to multiply the fun!This bird’s onomatopoetic "kill-dee" cry makes it obvious why folks commonly call them killdeer. Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus’s scientific name for them is more apt—Charadrius vociferus. These noisy birds mastered the art of charade with their clever broken wing imitation designed to lure threats away from nests and young. How crazy something the size of a robin and weighing only ounces can be so loudly dramatic!At first contact, I thought our pair of lawn picnickers shared the fate of a Colorado chipmunk that wound up in our yard a couple years ago—lost. Nope, not lost. Research explains killdeer often exist as non-shore shorebirds. Sure, some live near water, but others support themselves and their young, relying on short grass lawns, pastures, prairies, driveways, parking lots and golf courses to provide sustenance. Apparently, south WaKeeney meets their home sweet home requirements.A big parking lot bordered by airport runways bordered by pastures makes up the truck stop. East of Highway 283, six well-trimmed yards tempt these creatures to cross two lanes of scorching asphalt to nourish themselves with succulent insects and other invertebrates. Think Killdeer Diners, Drive Ins and Dives.After satisfying dietary needs, these attractive birds focus on nesting. Once again, their 15-acre killdeer range provides essentials so the pair can scrape a ground nest from dirt and rock. This one-time ancient seabed turned farm field turned truck stop plus bonus neighborhood offers dirt and limestone pebbles to convert into an incubator/nursery for four to six buff or beige eggs the pair produces and hopefully hatches.We haven’t spied their nest, but it exists because this week, two adult killdeer safely led four feathered young across the highway to hunt insects in our neighborhood. We missed the fluffball/toothpick leg stage, but these tweens charm us. Seeing adult killdeer run-walk-shuffle-pause to grab a meal captured our interest. Watching gawky fledglings seek food produces pure comedy.One did a classic vaudeville face plant one morning when it dove for breakfast. A sibling rolled beak over tail-end while matching wits with an escaping insect. During these antics, the parents gobbled necessary calories while scanning for predators.Though we haven’t personally triggered a dramatic broken wing charade, cars entering the drive have. The most threatened adult flashes that orange Stranger Danger rump toward the front fender and skews one wing so it appears broken. Often, the performer adds a limp to convince that mechanical behemoth they’re seriously injured easy prey. Once the car passes, a miraculously healed killdeer resumes eating.We researched this crew to see how much longer we’ll enjoy their company. One source noted young killdeer fly at 25 days. Based on size and feather development, migration day creeps ever closer. Our free entertainment ends soon.We best gander often to enjoy killdeer watching while these non-shore shore birds dine and perform in our yard.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Shorebirds grazing town lawns

<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/2025/8/1754488757525.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

First Care Clinic is excited to welcome Sydni Niernberger, Nurse Practitioner, to our dedicated medical team. With a strong background in patient-centered care and a passion for improving health outcomes, Sydni brings valuable experience and energy to the clinic. Her addition supports our continued commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for individuals and families across the region.

Sydni earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Washburn University and is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

First Care Clinic Medical Director, Dr. Christine Fisher states, “Sydni is the perfect addition to our clinic. She is from Hays and is well known in the community and by our staff. She comes with years of clinical experience. We are very fortunate to have such a kind, talented, hard-working provider join our practice!”

“We are very excited to have Sydni join our provider team at First Care Clinic.” Says Eric Flax, First Care Clinic CEO, “Sydni is an experienced provider with roots in our community. To have her back in Hays is such a positive thing for the health of our community. Having Sydni joining First Care reaffirms our commitment to our community to provide compassionate, quality care for all.”

First Care Clinic welcomes new medical patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is available to those who qualify. Patients can view our providers and request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at (785) 621-4990.

First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, with over ninety employees across their three locations in Hays, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They provide family medicine, express care, pharmaceutical, behavioral health, and family dentistry services.

First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at (785) 621-4990. Patients can also schedule same-day Express Care visits on our website. Book a time and skip the line!

“The region’s premier medical home, dedicated to providing access to compassionate, quality care for all.”

For more information, contact Danielle Windholz, Director of Operations, at First Care Clinic (785-621-4990).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753894037622.jpeg" alt="Sydni Niernberger" />
 <figcaption>Sydni Niernberger</figcaption>
 </figure>First Care Clinic is excited to welcome Sydni Niernberger, Nurse Practitioner, to our dedicated medical team. With a strong background in patient-centered care and a passion for improving health outcomes, Sydni brings valuable experience and energy to the clinic. Her addition supports our continued commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for individuals and families across the region.Sydni earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Washburn University and is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.First Care Clinic Medical Director, Dr. Christine Fisher states, “Sydni is the perfect addition to our clinic. She is from Hays and is well known in the community and by our staff. She comes with years of clinical experience. We are very fortunate to have such a kind, talented, hard-working provider join our practice!”“We are very excited to have Sydni join our provider team at First Care Clinic.” Says Eric Flax, First Care Clinic CEO, “Sydni is an experienced provider with roots in our community. To have her back in Hays is such a positive thing for the health of our community. Having Sydni joining First Care reaffirms our commitment to our community to provide compassionate, quality care for all.”First Care Clinic welcomes new medical patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is available to those who qualify. Patients can view our providers and request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at (785) 621-4990.ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, with over ninety employees across their three locations in Hays, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They provide family medicine, express care, pharmaceutical, behavioral health, and family dentistry services.First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at (785) 621-4990. Patients can also schedule same-day Express Care visits on our website. Book a time and skip the line!“The region’s premier medical home, dedicated to providing access to compassionate, quality care for all.”For more information, contact Danielle Windholz, Director of Operations, at First Care Clinic (785-621-4990).

City commission to make final review of draft 2026 budget at Thursday work session 

A new chapter of security is taking shape in Hays as the Kansas National Guard breaks ground on a facility to improve emergency response across western Kansas.

The ceremony celebrated the construction of a new readiness center Wednesday for a nearly 50,000-square-foot facility costing about $19.3 million which will replace the outdated 1963 armory. Gov. Laura Kelly said the site will serve as a mobilization hub during state and federal soldier deployments.

"The presence of a Kansas National Guard Armory in the heart of northwest Kansas is a strategic and necessary investment," Kelly said.

The two-story facility will provide long-term support for Kansas Army National Guard operations and serve as the home of the 997th Brigade Support Battalion. It will be fully equipped to accommodate individual and group training,&nbsp;Kelly said.

The center will accommodate 127 traditional soldiers and 20 full-time staff. It is located near the corner of 240th Avenue and W. 52nd Street, north of Interstate 70.

Several National Guard officials spoke on the facility’s significance during the ceremony, as well as Kansas U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran.

"It will change the landscape of Hays," Moran said. "The National Guard Armory has been a component of our community for as long as I can remember."

Moran said he is working to establish the <a href="https://dodstarbase.org/">Department of Defense’s Starbase program</a> at the facility, offering students hands-on STEM education and experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497857046.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly with several other officials and Kansas National Guard soldiers holding shovels at the groundbreaking ceremony for a new readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly with several other officials and Kansas National Guard soldiers holding shovels at the groundbreaking ceremony for a new readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA new chapter of security is taking shape in Hays as the Kansas National Guard breaks ground on a facility to improve emergency response across western Kansas.The ceremony celebrated the construction of a new readiness center Wednesday for a nearly 50,000-square-foot facility costing about $19.3 million which will replace the outdated 1963 armory. Gov. Laura Kelly said the site will serve as a mobilization hub during state and federal soldier deployments."The presence of a Kansas National Guard Armory in the heart of northwest Kansas is a strategic and necessary investment," Kelly said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497882989.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly speaking at&nbsp;the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly speaking at&nbsp;the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497922587.png" alt="A rendering for the new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>A rendering for the new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The two-story facility will provide long-term support for Kansas Army National Guard operations and serve as the home of the 997th Brigade Support Battalion. It will be fully equipped to accommodate individual and group training,&nbsp;Kelly said.The center will accommodate 127 traditional soldiers and 20 full-time staff. It is located near the corner of 240th Avenue and W. 52nd Street, north of Interstate 70.Several National Guard officials spoke on the facility’s significance during the ceremony, as well as Kansas U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497974769.jpeg" alt="Sen. Jerry Moran speaking at&nbsp;the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Jerry Moran speaking at&nbsp;the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754498000805.jpeg" alt="A rendering of the interior of the new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>A rendering of the interior of the new Kansas National Guard readiness center in Hays. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>"It will change the landscape of Hays," Moran said. "The National Guard Armory has been a component of our community for as long as I can remember."Moran said he is working to establish the <a href="https://dodstarbase.org/">Department of Defense’s Starbase program</a> at the facility, offering students hands-on STEM education and experience.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754498024744.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly with several other officials and Kansas National Guard soldiers in the turning of the soil ceremony&nbsp;for a new readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly with several other officials and Kansas National Guard soldiers in the turning of the soil ceremony&nbsp;for a new readiness center in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Kansas National Guard, Gov. Kelly break ground on new center in Hays

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

This article is the third in a multi-week K-State agronomy series on wheat streak mosaic complex management to address the 2025 outbreak. 

Week 1 was the introduction of a Kansas wheat-free windows recommendation and discussion on herbicide recommendations for volunteer wheat.&nbsp; (<a href="https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/article/wheat-streat-mosaic-management-pay-attention-to-wheat-free-windows-650-1">https://bit.ly/4eSVKgP</a>)&nbsp;

Week 2 was discussion of the role of alternate hosts in the landscape. (<a href="https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/article/wheat-streak-mosaic-management-the-role-of-other-hosts-in-the-landscape-651-1">https://bit.ly/3GIY2Ta</a>)&nbsp;

Week 3 the discussion will be on variety selection as part of an integrated management program for wheat streak mosaic.

In the first article of this series, the recommendation for wheat-free windows (Figure 1) was discussed. These windows include periods 30 days prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting window by zone in Kansas. 

As the wheat curl mite is a community pest, coordinated breaks in volunteer wheat and other cereals will have the highest likelihood of lowering local and statewide mite levels moving into our 2025 optimal winter wheat planting date periods. Volunteer wheat that emerges after the fall crop is already established poses a lower risk as a green bridge and can be thought of in a similar way as the fall crop. Fall wheat planted early, during wheat-free windows, risks bridging wheat curl mite to the fall-established crop.

Here are some important considerations for achieving success with wheat-free windows:

· All volunteer wheat should be terminated and completely dead prior to the start of your regional wheat-free window.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753886398730.png" alt="A leaf with characteristic symptoms of wheat streak mosaic complex. Photo taken in Russell in 2025. Photo by Kelsey Andersen Onofre/ K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>A leaf with characteristic symptoms of wheat streak mosaic complex. Photo taken in Russell in 2025. Photo by Kelsey Andersen Onofre/ K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThis article is the third in a multi-week K-State agronomy series on wheat streak mosaic complex management to address the 2025 outbreak. Week 1 was the introduction of a Kansas wheat-free windows recommendation and discussion on herbicide recommendations for volunteer wheat.&nbsp; (<a href="https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/article/wheat-streat-mosaic-management-pay-attention-to-wheat-free-windows-650-1">https://bit.ly/4eSVKgP</a>)&nbsp;Week 2 was discussion of the role of alternate hosts in the landscape. (<a href="https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/article/wheat-streak-mosaic-management-the-role-of-other-hosts-in-the-landscape-651-1">https://bit.ly/3GIY2Ta</a>)&nbsp;Week 3 the discussion will be on variety selection as part of an integrated management program for wheat streak mosaic. In the first article of this series, the recommendation for wheat-free windows (Figure 1) was discussed. These windows include periods 30 days prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting window by zone in Kansas. As the wheat curl mite is a community pest, coordinated breaks in volunteer wheat and other cereals will have the highest likelihood of lowering local and statewide mite levels moving into our 2025 optimal winter wheat planting date periods. Volunteer wheat that emerges after the fall crop is already established poses a lower risk as a green bridge and can be thought of in a similar way as the fall crop. Fall wheat planted early, during wheat-free windows, risks bridging wheat curl mite to the fall-established crop.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753885909019.png" alt="Figure 1. Proposed wheat-free windows in different regions of Kansas to reduce the likelihood of a wheat streak mosaic complex outbreak during the subsequent season. Wheat-free windows are defined as the 30-day period prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting date for the region.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Figure 1. Proposed wheat-free windows in different regions of Kansas to reduce the likelihood of a wheat streak mosaic complex outbreak during the subsequent season. Wheat-free windows are defined as the 30-day period prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting date for the region.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Here are some important considerations for achieving success with wheat-free windows:· All volunteer wheat should be terminated and completely dead prior to the start of your regional wheat-free window.· Where possible, the fall wheat crop should not be planted until the end of the wheat-free window.· Other winter cereals (such as rye and triticale) should not be planted during this period as they can serve as a “bridge” for the curl mites to move to fall-established wheat.· A regional “break” in the volunteer wheat green bridge will allow for wheat curl mites to die off prior to the start of the optimal wheat planting window.· Volunteer wheat that emerges after this period is of less concern, as it will be emerging at a similar time as the fall-established winter wheat crop.· Success is dependent on coordinated efforts in communities.Management with genetic resistance: Another tool in the toolboxIn addition to controlling volunteer wheat, genetic resistance is also an important component of a good integrated pest management strategy for wheat streak mosaic complex control. It’s important to note that while some varieties provide partial protection against the wheat streak complex, there is no silver bullet variety that will work in all scenarios. That is, all commercial varieties will be symptomatic under some conditions, but the degree of yield loss to the virus complex will vary between varieties.As a reminder, yield loss to wheat streak complex is highly influenced by. Timing of infection, composition of viruses, and variety choice.We know that fall infections and infections that occur in earlier stages of wheat development (prior to jointing) can result in the highest levels of yield loss. Infections that occur after the flag leaf and booting growth stages generally result in lower levels of yield loss. It should be noted that infections can occur in the fall and remain “dormant” in the plants until the weather warms in the spring. This is why we can sometimes see symptoms come on suddenly when the weather warms in the spring.In addition to the timing of infection, the composition of viruses in a given field can impact final yield losses. Infections with more than one virus (WSMV + TriMV, for example) can result in synergistic yield losses. It was common to see infections with two or more viruses in Kansas in 2025.When we think about variety resistance in the context of wheat streak mosaic complex, there are two main types. Resistance to the virus and resistance to the mite.When it comes to resistance to the virus, several genes have been described (wsm1, wsm2, and wsm3). The gene wsm2 is most widely available in Kansas varieties, including KS Territory (red), KS Mako (red), KS Bill Snyder (red), KS Dallas (red), KS Hamilton (red), Guardian (red),Oakley CL (red), Joe (white), and KS Big Bow (white). This resistance gene can help with severe wheat streak mosaic virus infections, but has key limitations. For example:· This gene is effective against wheat streak mosaic virus but not against Triticum mosaic virus or High Plains wheat mosaic virus. In 2025, many mixed infections were detected with more than one of the viruses in the complex. So, it was not uncommon to see a variety with wsm2 appear symptomatic in the field. In many of these cases, Triticum mosaic virus was detected in the sample.· The resistance conferred by wsm2 can also become less effective at high temperatures, although resistance in KS Dallas and KS Hamilton seems to endure greater temperatures before breaking down (~ 70º F). The resistance is much less effective if wheat is planted too early for grazing or if high temperatures persist into October. KS Silverado (white) also has temperature-sensitive resistance to wheat streak mosaic, although from a different source than wsm2.In addition, there are a handful of varieties with resistance to the wheat curl mite (cmc4), including Guardian, Canvas, TAM 112, Byrd, Avery, Langin, Kivari AX, KS Western Star, Whistler, Crescent AX, Incline AX, Fortify SF, TAM 115, TAM 204, and T158. These varieties remain susceptible to viral diseases, but they generally slow the development of the mite populations in the fall. This resistance can help reduce the risk of severe disease, but will not provide enough protection if wheat is planted in close proximity to volunteer wheat or other hosts infested with large populations of the curl mites and virus.Central versus western Kansas: Location matters Unfortunately, many of these varieties are adapted to western Kansas and may not be the best options for production systems in the central corridor. Some central Kansas-adapted varieties, including Rockstar, AP Prolific, SY Wolverine, LCS Photon AX, LCS Helix AX, and LCS Julep, tolerate WSMV infection better than others. It should be noted that, for all the reasons mentioned above, these varieties will still appear symptomatic under high disease pressure. KS Mako is a new release out of the K-State Manhattan breeding program that is adapted for the central corridor of the state and carries the wsm2 gene. These varieties will still show symptoms of WSMV but may yield better than other varieties that are more susceptible.More information on variety selection can be found here: MF991 KS. Wheat Variety Guide <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/kansas-wheat-variety-guide-2024_MF991.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF991.pdf</a>. A newer version of this publication will be released in the coming weeks.Information provided by Kelsey Andersen Onofre, Extension Wheat Pathologist.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at&nbsp;scampbel@ksu.edu&nbsp;or by calling 785-628-9430.