HAYS, Kan. — Local Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid is shining a spotlight on the importance of workers’ compensation coverage for area businesses, emphasizing that smart, tailored insurance solutions can help business owners better manage both cost and complexity.

As local businesses continue to navigate rising operational expenses, Proehl-Kofoid is reminding employers that Farmers Insurance offers a workers’ comp program designed with flexibility and simplicity in mind.

“Many business owners don’t realize how manageable work comp can be when it's set up properly,” said Proehl-Kofoid. “At Farmers, we help clients understand the ins and outs of their policy so they’re not left with surprises — just peace of mind.”

One standout feature she promotes is Real Time Billing, a service that aligns workers’ comp premiums with actual payroll. This pay-as-you-go option ensures that businesses aren’t overpaying or underpaying throughout the year. It also helps with cash flow and simplifies the audit process — something many business owners find stressful.

“Real Time Billing is a game changer,” Proehl-Kofoid added. “It allows businesses to stay accurate and up to date, which makes managing insurance that much easier.”

By working with Farmers Insurance, Hays-area businesses not only gain access to customizable coverage, but also benefit from local, responsive service that understands the unique needs of Kansas entrepreneurs.

For more information on workers’ compensation or to schedule a consultation, contact Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid at her Farmers Insurance office, 2703 Hall in Hays.&nbsp; You can also visit the below website:

<a href="https://www.farmers.com/business/workers-compensation/">https://www.farmers.com/business/workers-compensation/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753131930690.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. — Local Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid is shining a spotlight on the importance of workers’ compensation coverage for area businesses, emphasizing that smart, tailored insurance solutions can help business owners better manage both cost and complexity.As local businesses continue to navigate rising operational expenses, Proehl-Kofoid is reminding employers that Farmers Insurance offers a workers’ comp program designed with flexibility and simplicity in mind.“Many business owners don’t realize how manageable work comp can be when it's set up properly,” said Proehl-Kofoid. “At Farmers, we help clients understand the ins and outs of their policy so they’re not left with surprises — just peace of mind.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753131954767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One standout feature she promotes is Real Time Billing, a service that aligns workers’ comp premiums with actual payroll. This pay-as-you-go option ensures that businesses aren’t overpaying or underpaying throughout the year. It also helps with cash flow and simplifies the audit process — something many business owners find stressful.“Real Time Billing is a game changer,” Proehl-Kofoid added. “It allows businesses to stay accurate and up to date, which makes managing insurance that much easier.”By working with Farmers Insurance, Hays-area businesses not only gain access to customizable coverage, but also benefit from local, responsive service that understands the unique needs of Kansas entrepreneurs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753131979867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For more information on workers’ compensation or to schedule a consultation, contact Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid at her Farmers Insurance office, 2703 Hall in Hays.&nbsp; You can also visit the below website:<a href="https://www.farmers.com/business/workers-compensation/">https://www.farmers.com/business/workers-compensation/</a>

2 Kansas men hospitalized after semi, pickup crash

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ellisjrfreefair">Ellis Jr. Free Fair</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752154555637.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ellisjrfreefair">Ellis Jr. Free Fair</a>

93rd annual Ellis Jr. Free Fair runs July 22-26 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Heavy rainfall Monday night slowed the Ellis County Fire Department’s response to a hay bale fire.

Ellis County Assistant Fire Chief Lyle Pantle said the department received a call at 8:22 p.m. for the fire south of the 1800 block of Saline River Road.

Pantle said reaching the site was difficult because the muddy field prevented fire trucks from accessing it. At 9:07 p.m., Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers radioed from the scene, saying that they expected to be on site for an extended period.

Pantle said lighter pickups were used to transport personnel and tools, including rakes, shovels and pitchforks, to spread out the hay bale since tightly rolled bales can take hours to burn. Additional rainfall also helped extinguish the fire.

Pantle said the official cause of the fire hasn’t been determined, but a lightning strike is suspected. No injuries were reported.

Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay said the fire department notified them at 10 p.m. about water over Saline River Road, but it had receded by 4 a.m. Tuesday.

No damage was reported as a result of the flooding.

Flash flood warnings were in effect for Ellis and Trego counties from about 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4a952903-297f-49e5-8315-c544bc415bac">SEE RELATED STORY: Welcome rain falls in Hays overnight Monday</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751902451563.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostHeavy rainfall Monday night slowed the Ellis County Fire Department’s response to a hay bale fire.Ellis County Assistant Fire Chief Lyle Pantle said the department received a call at 8:22 p.m. for the fire south of the 1800 block of Saline River Road.Pantle said reaching the site was difficult because the muddy field prevented fire trucks from accessing it. At 9:07 p.m., Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers radioed from the scene, saying that they expected to be on site for an extended period.Pantle said lighter pickups were used to transport personnel and tools, including rakes, shovels and pitchforks, to spread out the hay bale since tightly rolled bales can take hours to burn. Additional rainfall also helped extinguish the fire.Pantle said the official cause of the fire hasn’t been determined, but a lightning strike is suspected. No injuries were reported.Ellis County Public Works Director Brendan Mackay said the fire department notified them at 10 p.m. about water over Saline River Road, but it had receded by 4 a.m. Tuesday.No damage was reported as a result of the flooding.Flash flood warnings were in effect for Ellis and Trego counties from about 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4a952903-297f-49e5-8315-c544bc415bac">SEE RELATED STORY: Welcome rain falls in Hays overnight Monday</a>

Ellis County rain delays fire response, lightning suspected as cause

At about 9:30 p.m. July 17, 2025, deputies with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a domestic disturbance that had occurred in the 300 block of Hopewell Road, located in rural Ellis County.

Upon arrival, deputies contacted a 40-year-old female who had sustained multiple injuries as a result of the disturbance.

Through the course of the investigation, deputies were able to identify the suspect as 37-year-old Cody Evan Garrett of WaKeeney.

With the assistance of the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Garrett would later be located at a residence in Trego County and taken into custody. 

Garrett was booked into the Ellis County Jail on charges of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and criminal damage to Property.

Garrett remains in the Ellis County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol for their assistance in this investigation. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753197701190.png" alt="Garrett" />
 <figcaption>Garrett</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County SheriffAt about 9:30 p.m. July 17, 2025, deputies with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a domestic disturbance that had occurred in the 300 block of Hopewell Road, located in rural Ellis County.Upon arrival, deputies contacted a 40-year-old female who had sustained multiple injuries as a result of the disturbance.Through the course of the investigation, deputies were able to identify the suspect as 37-year-old Cody Evan Garrett of WaKeeney.With the assistance of the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Garrett would later be located at a residence in Trego County and taken into custody. Garrett was booked into the Ellis County Jail on charges of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and criminal damage to Property.Garrett remains in the Ellis County Jail on a $500,000 bond.The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol for their assistance in this investigation.

Sheriff releases details on arrest for attempted 2nd-degree murder

Hays Police Department arrest log: July 13-19, 2025

Hays Police Department activity log: July 13-19, 2025

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

After a high of 102 degrees Monday, the temperature cooled off a little as a summertime thunderstorm moved through Hays during the evening hours and overnight.

The official total&nbsp; amount of rain measured at the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town was 1.46 inches. The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, received 1.50 inches.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e67f10b8-70f3-45f7-a002-76990b4a3f5a">Flash flood warnings</a> were issued for Ellis and Trego Counties from just before 8 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Hays still remains about an inch below normal for the month of July and the year-to-date.

Average monthly moisture for July is 3.33 inches. As of July 21, Hays has received 2.39 inches. Average moisture for the year to-date is 14.67 inches. Hays has measured&nbsp;13.43 inches so far in 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718896799079.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAfter a high of 102 degrees Monday, the temperature cooled off a little as a summertime thunderstorm moved through Hays during the evening hours and overnight.The official total&nbsp; amount of rain measured at the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town was 1.46 inches. The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, received 1.50 inches.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e67f10b8-70f3-45f7-a002-76990b4a3f5a">Flash flood warnings</a> were issued for Ellis and Trego Counties from just before 8 p.m. until 1 a.m.Hays still remains about an inch below normal for the month of July and the year-to-date.Average monthly moisture for July is 3.33 inches. As of July 21, Hays has received 2.39 inches. Average moisture for the year to-date is 14.67 inches. Hays has measured&nbsp;13.43 inches so far in 2025.

Welcome rain falls in Hays overnight Monday

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director of the Hays Arts Council about summer art center activities and the upcoming Fall Art Walk on Aug. 22.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Summer activities at the Hays Arts Council" 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=f9rfr-1908cba-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>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director of the Hays Arts Council about summer art center activities and the upcoming Fall Art Walk on Aug. 22.

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer activities at the Hays Arts Council

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale is coming to the heart of Hays to give local vendors, businesses and nonprofits a chance to set up shop.

The sale runs from 7:30 a.m. to noon on Main Street. Lee Ann June, executive director of the Bricks in Downtown Hays, said the event will feature more than 50 vendors, along with downtown retailers.

"There's everything from your homemade food items to different nonprofits, and items to wear and personalize," June said.

The annual sale stretches from Eighth to 12th streets. The Downtown Hays Market will also take place alongside Bazaar on the Bricks at 7:30 a.m. under the Downtown Hays Pavilion.

Bryan VonFeldt, treasurer of the Bricks board of directors, said the day will also be full of family fun with a bouncy house, bubble machine and chalk for kids.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/36bedd43-80a3-489f-a1f9-7768ab328c62">SEE RELATED STORY: Post Podcast: 'The Bricks'&nbsp; board treasurer on Downtown Market, Bazaar on the Bricks</a>

Commemorative bricks will be sold at the event to help fund a shed for storing Downtown Hays Market supplies, June said.

You can visit the Bricks in Downtown Hays' <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/bazaar-on-the-bricks">website</a>&nbsp;for a vendor list and locations once they become available.&nbsp;You can also follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">Facebook</a>.

The event was previously known as the Sidewalk Bazaar, which started in 1963, and has undergone several changes. It was initially intended as an annual back-to-school clothing sale for downtown businesses.

You can find more information on the Bricks in Downtown Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/bazaar-on-the-bricks">website</a>&nbsp;and follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753113007078.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostBazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale is coming to the heart of Hays to give local vendors, businesses and nonprofits a chance to set up shop.The sale runs from 7:30 a.m. to noon on Main Street. Lee Ann June, executive director of the Bricks in Downtown Hays, said the event will feature more than 50 vendors, along with downtown retailers."There's everything from your homemade food items to different nonprofits, and items to wear and personalize," June said.The annual sale stretches from Eighth to 12th streets. The Downtown Hays Market will also take place alongside Bazaar on the Bricks at 7:30 a.m. under the Downtown Hays Pavilion.Bryan VonFeldt, treasurer of the Bricks board of directors, said the day will also be full of family fun with a bouncy house, bubble machine and chalk for kids.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/36bedd43-80a3-489f-a1f9-7768ab328c62">SEE RELATED STORY: Post Podcast: 'The Bricks'&nbsp; board treasurer on Downtown Market, Bazaar on the Bricks</a>Commemorative bricks will be sold at the event to help fund a shed for storing Downtown Hays Market supplies, June said.You can visit the Bricks in Downtown Hays' <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/bazaar-on-the-bricks">website</a>&nbsp;for a vendor list and locations once they become available.&nbsp;You can also follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">Facebook</a>.The event was previously known as the Sidewalk Bazaar, which started in 1963, and has undergone several changes. It was initially intended as an annual back-to-school clothing sale for downtown businesses.You can find more information on the Bricks in Downtown Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/bazaar-on-the-bricks">website</a>&nbsp;and follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bazaar on the Bricks Sidewalk Sale set for Saturday in Hays

HOXIE — As part of the Main Street Arts Council’s 10th anniversary celebrations, we are beyond excited to announce a special performance with Broadway performer, singer, and songwriter Desi Oakley.

Oakley is a versatile and accomplished Broadway performer, singer-songwriter, and voiceover artist based in New York City. Raised in Wichita, she began her theatrical journey at Music Theatre Wichita, taking on roles such as Eponine in Les Misérables and Ariel in The Little Mermaid. She continued her studies at the University of Michigan, earning a BFA in Musical Theatre.

Oakley's Broadway credits include Wicked, where she served as a swing and understudied Elphaba and Nessarose; the 2012 revival of Annie, where she understudied Grace Farrell and Lily St. Regis; and the 2014 revival of Les Misérables, where she was an understudy for Fantine. She also performed in the National Tour of Evita as the alternate for Eva Perón.

In addition to her stage work, Oakley has co-starred on television in shows such as Gotham (FOX), The Gilded Age (HBO), and Only Murders in the Building (Hulu). She has also recorded voiceovers for national commercials and appeared in films like Dear Evan Hansen, Tick, Tick... Boom!, and Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.

As a singer-songwriter, Oakley has released several albums, including Don't Look Back (2014), Repeat (2019), and A Pocket of Time (2020), with proceeds from the latter benefiting the Dramatists Guild Foundation. She is also passionate about mentoring young artists and co-founded the Pop Rock Broadway program in 2019 to provide training and support to aspiring performers.

The public is invited to see Oakley perform in a free concert on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hoxie High School Auditorium, 1625 Queen Avenue. This concert will be a memorable evening for all to enjoy, and we encourage everyone to attend.

The concert is free, however, ticket reservations are required and can be made online at <a href="https://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events</a>. Free-will donations will be accepted.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to see Desi Oakley live in performance!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752767685487.jpeg" alt="Desi Oakley. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Desi Oakley. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Main Street Arts CouncilHOXIE — As part of the Main Street Arts Council’s 10th anniversary celebrations, we are beyond excited to announce a special performance with Broadway performer, singer, and songwriter Desi Oakley.Oakley is a versatile and accomplished Broadway performer, singer-songwriter, and voiceover artist based in New York City. Raised in Wichita, she began her theatrical journey at Music Theatre Wichita, taking on roles such as Eponine in Les Misérables and Ariel in The Little Mermaid. She continued her studies at the University of Michigan, earning a BFA in Musical Theatre.Oakley's Broadway credits include Wicked, where she served as a swing and understudied Elphaba and Nessarose; the 2012 revival of Annie, where she understudied Grace Farrell and Lily St. Regis; and the 2014 revival of Les Misérables, where she was an understudy for Fantine. She also performed in the National Tour of Evita as the alternate for Eva Perón.In addition to her stage work, Oakley has co-starred on television in shows such as Gotham (FOX), The Gilded Age (HBO), and Only Murders in the Building (Hulu). She has also recorded voiceovers for national commercials and appeared in films like Dear Evan Hansen, Tick, Tick... Boom!, and Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.As a singer-songwriter, Oakley has released several albums, including Don't Look Back (2014), Repeat (2019), and A Pocket of Time (2020), with proceeds from the latter benefiting the Dramatists Guild Foundation. She is also passionate about mentoring young artists and co-founded the Pop Rock Broadway program in 2019 to provide training and support to aspiring performers.The public is invited to see Oakley perform in a free concert on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hoxie High School Auditorium, 1625 Queen Avenue. This concert will be a memorable evening for all to enjoy, and we encourage everyone to attend.The concert is free, however, ticket reservations are required and can be made online at <a href="https://www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events">www.mainstreetartscouncil.com/events</a>. Free-will donations will be accepted.Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to see Desi Oakley live in performance!

Main Street Arts Council celebrates 10th year with special Broadway guest artist

Each year the Kansas Sheriffs Association awards up to $19,000 worth of educational scholarships to eligible members or family members. The eight-member Scholarship Committee, chaired by Lyon County Sheriff Jeff Cope, receive the written applications, and conduct interviews with all applicants. This year, fifteen $1,000 awards were issued along with one $2,000 Sheriff Matt Samuels Award and one $2,000 Wilson/Fletcher Memorial Scholarship.

Sheriff Samuels was killed in the line of duty on January 19th, 2005, and shortly after that, this scholarship was established in his honor. This year there were 34 scholarship applications to be considered. The Wilson/Fletcher Memorial Scholarship represents former Executive Director Darrell Wilson and Deputy Director John Fletcher who both passed away in 2025.

Winning one of the $1,000 Scholarships for 2025 is Taegan Shannon. Taegan is attending the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS. Her application was sponsored by her father, Brian Shannon.

The Kansas Sheriffs Association wishes Taegan our best for her educational future.

Sheriff Sandy Horton, Retired Executive Director Kansas Sheriffs Association

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752778834178.jpeg" alt="Kansas Sheriffs' Association" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Sheriffs' Association</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEach year the Kansas Sheriffs Association awards up to $19,000 worth of educational scholarships to eligible members or family members. The eight-member Scholarship Committee, chaired by Lyon County Sheriff Jeff Cope, receive the written applications, and conduct interviews with all applicants. This year, fifteen $1,000 awards were issued along with one $2,000 Sheriff Matt Samuels Award and one $2,000 Wilson/Fletcher Memorial Scholarship.Sheriff Samuels was killed in the line of duty on January 19th, 2005, and shortly after that, this scholarship was established in his honor. This year there were 34 scholarship applications to be considered. The Wilson/Fletcher Memorial Scholarship represents former Executive Director Darrell Wilson and Deputy Director John Fletcher who both passed away in 2025.Winning one of the $1,000 Scholarships for 2025 is Taegan Shannon. Taegan is attending the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS. Her application was sponsored by her father, Brian Shannon.The Kansas Sheriffs Association wishes Taegan our best for her educational future.Sheriff Sandy Horton, Retired Executive Director Kansas Sheriffs Association

Kansas Sheriff Association awards scholarships

We're reaching out from Feeding Hays because we're looking for passionate folks to join our board of directors. You are invited to a prospective board of directors meeting on Sunday, September 14, 6:30 p.m. at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.

Why join the board of Feeding Hays? Well, are you aware that 39% of Ellis County residents are working and yet are living BELOW the poverty level*. Feeding Hays is dedicated to combating food insecurity right here in our community. We do this by providing free, weekly, hot meals, donating to USD489 student lunch debt account and providing food through our pantry. It's incredibly rewarding work, and we see the positive impact every day. We have provided over 4,000 meals and donated over $2,500 towards student lunch debt in the past 12 months.

As we move towards the next phase of growth, creating a stable and committed board plays a crucial role in guiding our efforts, helping us make important decisions, and meeting our goals for the future of Feeding Hays. We're a friendly, dedicated group, and we believe that a diverse range of voices makes us stronger. You don't need prior board experience – just a desire to help your neighbors and time to contribute.

If you've been looking for a way to make a real difference in Hays, this could be a fantastic opportunity. We're especially interested in people who are enthusiastic, have fresh ideas, and are ready to roll up their sleeves to support our mission.

Interested in learning more? Please plan to join us Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at at 6:30 p.m. and email MAPFeedingHays@gmail.com or call/text Ben Houchen at 785-259-2851.

Thanks for considering joining us in the fight against food insecurity in Hays!

*Data from United for Alice, KS - <a href="https://www.unitedforalice.org/introducing-ALICE/Kansas">https://www.unitedforalice.org/introducing-ALICE/Kansas </a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753109394836.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWe're reaching out from Feeding Hays because we're looking for passionate folks to join our board of directors. You are invited to a prospective board of directors meeting on Sunday, September 14, 6:30 p.m. at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.Why join the board of Feeding Hays? Well, are you aware that 39% of Ellis County residents are working and yet are living BELOW the poverty level*. Feeding Hays is dedicated to combating food insecurity right here in our community. We do this by providing free, weekly, hot meals, donating to USD489 student lunch debt account and providing food through our pantry. It's incredibly rewarding work, and we see the positive impact every day. We have provided over 4,000 meals and donated over $2,500 towards student lunch debt in the past 12 months.As we move towards the next phase of growth, creating a stable and committed board plays a crucial role in guiding our efforts, helping us make important decisions, and meeting our goals for the future of Feeding Hays. We're a friendly, dedicated group, and we believe that a diverse range of voices makes us stronger. You don't need prior board experience – just a desire to help your neighbors and time to contribute.If you've been looking for a way to make a real difference in Hays, this could be a fantastic opportunity. We're especially interested in people who are enthusiastic, have fresh ideas, and are ready to roll up their sleeves to support our mission.Interested in learning more? Please plan to join us Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at at 6:30 p.m. and email MAPFeedingHays@gmail.com or call/text Ben Houchen at 785-259-2851.Thanks for considering joining us in the fight against food insecurity in Hays!Warmly, The Feeding Hays Team*Data from United for Alice, KS - <a href="https://www.unitedforalice.org/introducing-ALICE/Kansas">https://www.unitedforalice.org/introducing-ALICE/Kansas </a>

Feeding Hays seeking board members

<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/2025/7/1753104754498.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

At 7:57 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
  heavy rain across the warned area, including northern Ellis County and northeastern Trego County.

Between 1 and 4 inches of rain
  have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 3 inches in 1
  hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in
  the warned area.

Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin
  shortly.&nbsp;

Affected areas may include&nbsp;small creeks and streams, urban           areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as           other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

This includes the following streams and drainages...

  Big Creek trib NE of Ellis, Wild Horse Creek, Spring Creek tributary, Sweetwater Creek, Tomcat Creek, Saline River, Big Creek  tributary N, East Spring Creek tributary, Saline River tributary,  Saline River trib S, Sand Creek, N. Fk Big Creek trib NW  Catherine, East Spring Creek, North Fork Big Creek, Shaw Creek,  Big Creek and Big Creek trib N of Ellis.

Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750198914810.jpg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>At 7:57 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
 heavy rain across the warned area, including northern Ellis County and northeastern Trego County.Between 1 and 4 inches of rain
 have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 3 inches in 1
 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in
 the warned area.Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin
 shortly.&nbsp;Affected areas may include&nbsp;small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.This includes the following streams and drainages... Big Creek trib NE of Ellis, Wild Horse Creek, Spring Creek tributary, Sweetwater Creek, Tomcat Creek, Saline River, Big Creek tributary N, East Spring Creek tributary, Saline River tributary, Saline River trib S, Sand Creek, N. Fk Big Creek trib NW Catherine, East Spring Creek, North Fork Big Creek, Shaw Creek, Big Creek and Big Creek trib N of Ellis.Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

Flash flood warning for Ellis, Trego counties

The Kansas Association of Broadcasters announced its annual&nbsp;2025 Station Awards for Excellence in Broadcasting on Monday.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio and the Hays Post were honored with six awards in the medium-sized radio market division.

The winners will be recognized at the Kansas Association Station Awards Dinner during the association's Annual Convention in Manhattan on Oct. 6.&nbsp;

Dustin Armbruster, Mike Holliday - Best Morning Show, 101.9 FM - The Bull Morning Show&nbsp;- 1st&nbsp;Place

Gerard Wellbrock - Complete Sportscast&nbsp; -&nbsp;KJLS MIX 103.3 FM - 7 a.m. Sports&nbsp;- 2nd&nbsp;Place

Gerard Wellbrock - Sports Play-By-Play -&nbsp;FHSU Basketball -&nbsp;&nbsp;KJLS MIX 103.3 FM-&nbsp;&nbsp;2nd&nbsp;Place

Cristina Janney, Jordan Schaefer - Multimedia Storytelling - "A Voice for Karen" - Hays Post and KAYS 94.3 FM, 1400 AM - 1st&nbsp;Place

Read the four-part series "A Voice for Karen" links below:

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f6fb5eb0-494c-4518-992a-6bffdf7c38c9">A Voice for Karen: Living behind a curtain of silence</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/83db8380-36ef-4fae-998f-19d47159e964">A Voice for Karen: Leaving and going back</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a1a463f9-45a3-424b-86b8-1445e2bf2959">A Voice for Karen: He took her away from us</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/65023111-a863-47a5-bca5-8be446e5ab78">A Voice for Karen: 'A slap in the face,' hope for others</a>

Cristina Janney - Public Affairs Program - Options Housing First&nbsp; - KAYS 94.3 FM, 1400 AM- 1st&nbsp;Place

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d08e005e-d047-47c3-b223-360cc8e14b89">Listen to the Podcast Options Housing First.</a>

Theresa Trapp - Public Affairs Program -&nbsp;WaterSmart Hays Boil Water Advisory Update - KHAZ 99 FM -&nbsp;Honorable Mention

Hays PostThe Kansas Association of Broadcasters announced its annual&nbsp;2025 Station Awards for Excellence in Broadcasting on Monday.&nbsp;Eagle Radio and the Hays Post were honored with six awards in the medium-sized radio market division.The winners will be recognized at the Kansas Association Station Awards Dinner during the association's Annual Convention in Manhattan on Oct. 6.&nbsp;The Hays winners are as follows:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645543996271.jpeg" alt="Dustin Armbruster" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Armbruster</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610640372314.jpeg" alt="Mike Holliday" />
 <figcaption>Mike Holliday</figcaption>
 </figure>Dustin Armbruster, Mike Holliday - Best Morning Show, 101.9 FM - The Bull Morning Show&nbsp;- 1st&nbsp;Place<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753180904705.jpeg" alt="Gerard Wellbrock" />
 <figcaption>Gerard Wellbrock</figcaption>
 </figure>Gerard Wellbrock - Complete Sportscast&nbsp; -&nbsp;KJLS MIX 103.3 FM - 7 a.m. Sports&nbsp;- 2nd&nbsp;PlaceGerard Wellbrock - Sports Play-By-Play -&nbsp;FHSU Basketball -&nbsp;&nbsp;KJLS MIX 103.3 FM-&nbsp;&nbsp;2nd&nbsp;Place<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580744283323.jpeg" alt="Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753134340949.jpeg" alt="Jordan Schaefer" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Schaefer</figcaption>
 </figure>Cristina Janney, Jordan Schaefer - Multimedia Storytelling - "A Voice for Karen" - Hays Post and KAYS 94.3 FM, 1400 AM - 1st&nbsp;PlaceRead the four-part series "A Voice for Karen" links below:<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f6fb5eb0-494c-4518-992a-6bffdf7c38c9">A Voice for Karen: Living behind a curtain of silence</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/83db8380-36ef-4fae-998f-19d47159e964">A Voice for Karen: Leaving and going back</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a1a463f9-45a3-424b-86b8-1445e2bf2959">A Voice for Karen: He took her away from us</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/65023111-a863-47a5-bca5-8be446e5ab78">A Voice for Karen: 'A slap in the face,' hope for others</a>Cristina Janney - Public Affairs Program - Options Housing First&nbsp; - KAYS 94.3 FM, 1400 AM- 1st&nbsp;Place<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d08e005e-d047-47c3-b223-360cc8e14b89">Listen to the Podcast Options Housing First.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753134399022.jpeg" alt="Theresa Trapp" />
 <figcaption>Theresa Trapp</figcaption>
 </figure>Theresa Trapp - Public Affairs Program -&nbsp;WaterSmart Hays Boil Water Advisory Update - KHAZ 99 FM -&nbsp;Honorable Mention

Eagle Radio, Hays Post win 6 Kansas Association of Broadcasters awards

By JOHN P.&nbsp;TRETBAR Eagle Media

Chevron closes on its biggest deal yet, several months after it was first announced. Chevron has completed its $53 BILLION acquisition of Hess Corporation, after winning an arbitration against ExxonMobil. The dispute was over Hess assets northeast of South America offshore Guyana. The arbitration delayed the takeover for over a year. The government also cleared the way for Hess Chairman John Hess to join Chevron's Board of Directors.

The government delivers the first 300,000 barrels from strategic stockpiles to help out a struggling refinery, with more to come. The Energy Department is offering up to a million barrels of crude from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in what's called an exchange deal. ExxonMobil's refinery in Louisiana has been socked by what are described as offshore supply issues. They took delivery of the 300,000 barrels last week. According to the agreement, the oil company will replace the borrowed SPR crude along with additional barrels at no cost to taxpayers. Total SPR stockpiles drop to 402.7 million barrels for the week. EIA says commercial stockpiles dropped nearly four million barrels to just over 422 million.

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped a quarter a barrel on Friday, and starts this week at fifty-seven fifty ($57.50) per barrel. That's down 25 cents from last week, up a dollar-seventy-five ($ 1.75) from the first of the month and down four and a half dollars ($4.50) a barrel from the first of the year.

Weekly drilling stats spike in eastern Kansas. West of Wichita...not so much. &nbsp;*Regulators okayed 24 new drilling locations, 21 of them east of Wichita. That's 391 permits so far in 2025, compared to 537 last year at this time.*Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 31 newly-completed wells across the state. Just four of those are west of Wichita, including one well in Barton County and one in Ellis County. The year-to-date total is 682 wells statewide, compared to 713 a year ago.*At 22 active rigs, the Kansas Rig Count is up 70% from last week and more than 80% from last month. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports eleven active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up six. The tally in Western Kansas is up three to eleven rigs.

Baker Hughes reports a slight increase in its weekly rig count, which dropped to a nearly four-year low last week. The latest weekly tally is up by nine gas rigs. The breakout for horizontal drilling is up seven rigs. The tally for oil rigs was down by two rigs from a week ago. New Mexico is up four rigs. The count in Texas is down two rigs from last week.

US crude production dipped slightly last week to 13,375,000 barrels per day, a two-month low. Four-week average output remains a few daily barrels above 13.4 million and is up from a year ago. Average production so far this year is just over 13.46 million barrels per day, up nearly 2.5 percent compared to a year ago.

The government reports a big spike in crude exports, but the US remains a net crude importer. The US imports more crude oil than it imports by 2.8 million barrels per day. Our refined product exports outpace product imports by more than five million barrels per day, making us a net petroleum exporter by 2.2 million barrels a day.

Crude imports increased to 6.4 million barrels a day, &nbsp;up 366,000 barrels a day from last week. This week's tally is up nearly 700,000 barrels a day from a year ago, and is 800,000 higher than two years ago.

Crude exports averaged just over 3.5 million barrels a day, up by 27 percent from a week ago, but down 11 percent from last year at this time. The four-week average is up 21 percent from a year ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685114004842.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P.&nbsp;TRETBAR Eagle MediaChevron closes on its biggest deal yet, several months after it was first announced. Chevron has completed its $53 BILLION acquisition of Hess Corporation, after winning an arbitration against ExxonMobil. The dispute was over Hess assets northeast of South America offshore Guyana. The arbitration delayed the takeover for over a year. The government also cleared the way for Hess Chairman John Hess to join Chevron's Board of Directors.The government delivers the first 300,000 barrels from strategic stockpiles to help out a struggling refinery, with more to come. The Energy Department is offering up to a million barrels of crude from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in what's called an exchange deal. ExxonMobil's refinery in Louisiana has been socked by what are described as offshore supply issues. They took delivery of the 300,000 barrels last week. According to the agreement, the oil company will replace the borrowed SPR crude along with additional barrels at no cost to taxpayers. Total SPR stockpiles drop to 402.7 million barrels for the week. EIA says commercial stockpiles dropped nearly four million barrels to just over 422 million.Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped a quarter a barrel on Friday, and starts this week at fifty-seven fifty ($57.50) per barrel. That's down 25 cents from last week, up a dollar-seventy-five ($ 1.75) from the first of the month and down four and a half dollars ($4.50) a barrel from the first of the year.Weekly drilling stats spike in eastern Kansas. West of Wichita...not so much. &nbsp;*Regulators okayed 24 new drilling locations, 21 of them east of Wichita. That's 391 permits so far in 2025, compared to 537 last year at this time.*Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 31 newly-completed wells across the state. Just four of those are west of Wichita, including one well in Barton County and one in Ellis County. The year-to-date total is 682 wells statewide, compared to 713 a year ago.*At 22 active rigs, the Kansas Rig Count is up 70% from last week and more than 80% from last month. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports eleven active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up six. The tally in Western Kansas is up three to eleven rigs.Baker Hughes reports a slight increase in its weekly rig count, which dropped to a nearly four-year low last week. The latest weekly tally is up by nine gas rigs. The breakout for horizontal drilling is up seven rigs. The tally for oil rigs was down by two rigs from a week ago. New Mexico is up four rigs. The count in Texas is down two rigs from last week.US crude production dipped slightly last week to 13,375,000 barrels per day, a two-month low. Four-week average output remains a few daily barrels above 13.4 million and is up from a year ago. Average production so far this year is just over 13.46 million barrels per day, up nearly 2.5 percent compared to a year ago.The government reports a big spike in crude exports, but the US remains a net crude importer. The US imports more crude oil than it imports by 2.8 million barrels per day. Our refined product exports outpace product imports by more than five million barrels per day, making us a net petroleum exporter by 2.2 million barrels a day.Crude imports increased to 6.4 million barrels a day, &nbsp;up 366,000 barrels a day from last week. This week's tally is up nearly 700,000 barrels a day from a year ago, and is 800,000 higher than two years ago.Crude exports averaged just over 3.5 million barrels a day, up by 27 percent from a week ago, but down 11 percent from last year at this time. The four-week average is up 21 percent from a year ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Chevron closes $54B Hess Corp takeover

The unemployment rate in Ellis County jumped .7% from 2.7% in May to 3.4% in June, according to the Kansas Department of Labor.

The rates in Gove and Trego counties were up .6% to 4%. And Russell County's unemployment rate was up to 4.1%

Although many northwest counties saw increases in thier unemployment rates in June, most counties remained at or below 4%.

The Ellis County rate is up slightly compared to the 3.1% rate reported in June 2024.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate statewide of 3.8% in June. 

This is unchanged from 3.8% in May and an increase from 3.6% in June 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas stayed the same at 67% in June.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,800 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,200 over the month, while government jobs increased by 600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in private education and health services (+1,900 jobs). The largest decrease was in&nbsp;construction&nbsp;(-800 jobs).

Since June 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 10,300. This change is due to an increase of 6,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,600 government jobs.

Technical Note: This release includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for June 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers, while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including June 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753115663099.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of LaborThe unemployment rate in Ellis County jumped .7% from 2.7% in May to 3.4% in June, according to the Kansas Department of Labor.The rates in Gove and Trego counties were up .6% to 4%. And Russell County's unemployment rate was up to 4.1%Although many northwest counties saw increases in thier unemployment rates in June, most counties remained at or below 4%.The Ellis County rate is up slightly compared to the 3.1% rate reported in June 2024.Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate statewide of 3.8% in June. This is unchanged from 3.8% in May and an increase from 3.6% in June 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas stayed the same at 67% in June.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 3,800 from May. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 3,200 over the month, while government jobs increased by 600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in private education and health services (+1,900 jobs). The largest decrease was in&nbsp;construction&nbsp;(-800 jobs).Since June 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 10,300. This change is due to an increase of 6,700 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,600 government jobs.Technical Note: This release includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for June 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers, while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including June 12.

Ellis County unemployment rate jumps in June

Congratulations to Doug Kutina from Ellis and Bernita Augustine from WaKeeney&nbsp; on becoming finalists in the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart Giveaway on Saturday at American Shooters.

They join other finalists: 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lance Armbruster – Wild West Festival – 7-2-2025 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Curtis Wellbrock – Wild West Festival – 7-2-2025 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Cellmer – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 7-5-2025 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Barry Gilliland – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 7-5-2025 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debbie Windholz – Malay’s Market – 7-12-2025 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Darren Dunn – Malay’s Market – 7-12-2025

Special thanks to our sponsor A &amp; A Coors Yuengling.

Keep listening to Eagle Radio and reading the Hays Post all summer long for your chance to become a finalist.

The $10,000 golf cart will be given away at this year’s Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753111486077.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Doug Kutina from Ellis and Bernita Augustine from WaKeeney&nbsp; on becoming finalists in the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart Giveaway on Saturday at American Shooters.They join other finalists: 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lance Armbruster – Wild West Festival – 7-2-2025 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Curtis Wellbrock – Wild West Festival – 7-2-2025 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Cellmer – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 7-5-2025 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Barry Gilliland – Mr. K’s Foodtown – 7-5-2025 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debbie Windholz – Malay’s Market – 7-12-2025 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Darren Dunn – Malay’s Market – 7-12-2025Special thanks to our sponsor A &amp; A Coors Yuengling.Keep listening to Eagle Radio and reading the Hays Post all summer long for your chance to become a finalist.The $10,000 golf cart will be given away at this year’s Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 26.

Yuengling Flight Golf Cart finalists named from American Shooters

Congratulations to&nbsp; Danny Wasinger and&nbsp; Brett Davidson&nbsp;from Hays on being selected as finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway on Friday at the Ellis County Fair.

Congratulations to Erin Storer from Hays and Landon Paul from Hays&nbsp;on being selected as finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway on Saturday at Doghouse Liquor.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Garrett Bland – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Earl Brungardt – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tara Graham – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Leitner – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Becky Wachs – Wild West Festival – 7-3-2025 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kirby Garrison – Wild West Festival – 7-3-2025 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marlin Sherfick – Trego County Fair – 7-11-2025 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dale Pfannenstiel – Trego County Fair – 7-11-2025

The Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway is courtesy of A &amp; A Coors and Miller, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, Commercial Sign Company, Hull Broadcasting and the Eagle Media Center of Hays.

The UTV will be given away at a Fort Hays Football Game on Saturday, Sept. 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750185433864.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750183630238.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to&nbsp; Danny Wasinger and&nbsp; Brett Davidson&nbsp;from Hays on being selected as finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway on Friday at the Ellis County Fair.Congratulations to Erin Storer from Hays and Landon Paul from Hays&nbsp;on being selected as finalists in the Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway on Saturday at Doghouse Liquor.They join the following finalists.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Garrett Bland – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Earl Brungardt – Relay for Life Golf Tournament – 6-13-2025 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tara Graham – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brad Leitner – LoKal Country Bar – 6-27-2025 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Becky Wachs – Wild West Festival – 7-3-2025 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kirby Garrison – Wild West Festival – 7-3-2025 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marlin Sherfick – Trego County Fair – 7-11-2025 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dale Pfannenstiel – Trego County Fair – 7-11-2025The Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway is courtesy of A &amp; A Coors and Miller, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, Commercial Sign Company, Hull Broadcasting and the Eagle Media Center of Hays.Keep listening to Eagle Radio and reading the Hays Post all summer long for your chance to become a finalist.The UTV will be given away at a Fort Hays Football Game on Saturday, Sept. 13.

Ellis County Fair, Doghouse Liquor finalists named for Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway

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Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: July 13-19, 2025

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Ellis County Jail bookings: July 13-19, 2025

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Raised on Country Sweepstakes Powered by Hayden Outdoors Real Estate - Agent Cody VonLintel 

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post

On a warm summertime evening, hundreds of baseball fans flock to Larks Park. Some are of a certain age, remembering days—and games—gone by. Others are youngsters who are just discovering the joy of summer baseball in Hays, America.

Young or old, there is something special about Larks baseball. When the home team rallies for a victory, people say it’s “Larks Magic.” But the magic goes far beyond what one can find between the white lines.

Fans look forward to fun in the sun every summer.

They wear their Larks T-shirts and caps; they chow down on Larks burgers; they catch up with other fans they might not have seen since the summer before. Their kids play catch behind the visitor’s dugout and fight for foul balls.&nbsp;

Frank Leo is in his 43rd season as the Larks’ manager.

When the original Jayhawk League disbanded after the 2018 season, Hays played in another league for a year before joining the Rocky Mountain Baseball League, where the Larks won their fifth title in six years this summer.

Hays has an automatic berth at the 91st National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita. The Larks, who have made the season finale almost every year under Leo, open defense of their title on Thursday with a 6 p.m. game against the Seattle Blackfins at Eck Stadium. Like every year, a big Larks crowd is expected to cheer on their favorite team.

Leo, now 75, remembered the years when perhaps 50 fans would show up for a game, on a good night. However, with the help of community support, the program has slowly evolved into what it is today.

“It is a special story,” Leo said, “what it was and what it has become.”

The Larks program was in danger of folding, not that long ago. After recruiting a team for the 2007 season, the organization faced financial difficulties and was at risk of not being able to field a team that summer. Leo understood that could not be allowed to happen.

“I knew if you canceled something (for a season), you’re not going to get it back,” Leo said. “(College) coaches are going to be hesitant to send somebody out here. When you’re done for a couple of years, people may not support you as much as they did.”

“After 2007, I think we found out people wanted Larks baseball in the summertime,” he added. “That’s when it started getting bigger and bigger.”

Once word got out around town about the Larks’ financial woes in 2007, businesses rushed to sponsor games, allowing free admission to continue. The Larks also formed the Diamond Club, where individuals could contribute financially at different monetary levels.

Having game sponsors provides the organization with the necessary boost in income needed every year to field a team.

“The sponsorships are one of our big fundraisers,” Leo said. “It’s very key to our program.”

Winning helps, too. The Larks, year in and year out, rarely lose at home.

“There’s no substitute for winning,” Leo said. “Fortunately, we’ve been successful.”

Keith Harper was Leo’s pitching coach for all 39 years they were together coaching the Hays High School baseball team. Harper is now in his 20th summer as the pitching coach for the Larks.

Harper still throws batting practice even at 72 years old. You can find him on the mound day in, day out, tossing 300 or 400 pitches in 90-degree heat in the afternoon sun.

“I love it,” Harper said. “I’ve been doing it for 43 years.”

Leo and Harper have been together since their days at Fort Hays.

After playing for the Tigers, Leo was in his first year as an assistant coach when Harper joined the program.

A Colby native, Harper also played basketball for the Tigers and played everything but first base and catcher in the spring. A pitcher for the Colby American Legion team when he was in high school, Harper never pitched in college, but he studied pitching.

“It’s about understanding the game, and dedicating yourself to understanding the elements of pitching,” Leo said. “You don’t necessarily have to be a pitcher to teach people how to pitch. Keith has the knack of understanding the mechanics and being able to relate them to his players.”

During games, Harper studies the deliveries of his pitchers from his rocking chair next to the dugout.

You see, Harper likes to rock. He really likes to rock. About six years ago, he brought a portable folding rocking chair to the park.

“I said, ‘If I’m going to sit here and chart, I’d rather rock and chart,’ ” Harper said. “I love to rock.”

“It just relaxes me,” he added. “ I can’t explain it.”

Harper thinks of his pitchers like family. The players, the fans, the community–it’s a family atmosphere.

“That’s exactly what we wanted,” Harper said. “The community has bought in. They want to be a part of this.”

The community stepped up financially, and community members stepped up by volunteering to become host families.

“It’s a community event, the cheapest place to entertain yourself in Hays, Kansas,” Harper said. “We do entertain.”

Harper said he is asked by opposing coaches how the Larks draw so well, how they create such a good atmosphere. It’s a lot of hard work through the years, is his standard reply.

“Because of the passion, the money that’s been donated, the families who take care of these kids,” Harper said, “we’ve built a little monster at Larks Park.”

After a Larks’ home win, Frank Sinatra’s song “New York, New York,” can be heard blaring over the loudspeakers. That’s not by happenstance. It's a tribute to Leo, a New York City native and Yankee fan who came to Hays to play baseball at Fort Hays.

Ken Windholz–public address announcer for Fort Hays State University football and basketball games for the past 25 years–also has been the PA guy for Larks’ home games since 2013.

When Windholz took over announcing duties, he wanted the atmosphere at Larks Park to feel like a baseball game.