<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/2025/6/1750772690293.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

Arthur's Pizza &amp; Mexican Foods, 103 W. Ninth St. in Ellis, has been a favorite local restaurant since its opening in 1986.

Owned by Gilbert and Cheryl Kinderknecht since 1998, Arthurs offers delicious pizza and Mexican cuisine, and a Marvelous Monthly Meal each month. Those specials have included pizza, pasta, soup, rolls and Mexican entrees. June's Marvelous Monthly Meal is Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos

Arthur's has garnered several accolades over the years:

* Voted #1 in the 8 Wonders of Northwest Kansas Cuisine in 2010

* Featured in Kansas Magazine's online poll as one of Kansas' Best Pizza Places in 2011

* Received a Merritt Award from the Kansas Department of Commerce in 2013

* Included in Only in Your State/Kansas' list of 9 Pizza Places So Good Your Mouth May Explode in 2015

* Chicken Alfredo Pizza ranked #2 on the list of 13 dishes you have to eat in Kansas before you die in 2016

* Retail/Service Business of the Year and the Northwest Kansas Area Retail/Service in October 2024 from Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, David Toland

Arthur's is a major sponsor of the Ellis Polar Express. The Polar Express will be held Dec. 5, 6 and 7. They support fundraising efforts for the Ellis High School sophomore class, which pays for the junior/senior prom each year. They also offer discounts to nonprofit groups in the area for fundraising or event food. They host several kids events throughout the year, such as P is for Pizza school tours, Dino Day and Arthur’s Pizza Academy, with details below:

Do you like to eat pizza? Register to be a part of the Ellis Rec Commission/Arthur's Pizza Academy. You'll get your hands on experience with making dough, rolling out crust, folding boxes, topping your pizza and much more. Make your own pizza and serve it to two guests.

Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Lunch served at noon)

Cost: $30 per kid (Includes a T-shirt, medium pizza and three drinks)

(Each participant can bring a max of two guests for lunch)

For more information, contact Katie Armstrong at 785-726-3718 or email at ellisrecoffice@gbta.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749585115755.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Arthur's Pizza &amp; Mexican Foods, 103 W. Ninth St. in Ellis, has been a favorite local restaurant since its opening in 1986.Owned by Gilbert and Cheryl Kinderknecht since 1998, Arthurs offers delicious pizza and Mexican cuisine, and a Marvelous Monthly Meal each month. Those specials have included pizza, pasta, soup, rolls and Mexican entrees. June's Marvelous Monthly Meal is Chicken Bacon Ranch NachosArthur's has garnered several accolades over the years:* Voted #1 in the 8 Wonders of Northwest Kansas Cuisine in 2010* Featured in Kansas Magazine's online poll as one of Kansas' Best Pizza Places in 2011* Received a Merritt Award from the Kansas Department of Commerce in 2013* Included in Only in Your State/Kansas' list of 9 Pizza Places So Good Your Mouth May Explode in 2015* Chicken Alfredo Pizza ranked #2 on the list of 13 dishes you have to eat in Kansas before you die in 2016* Retail/Service Business of the Year and the Northwest Kansas Area Retail/Service in October 2024 from Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, David Toland<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749585156134.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Arthur's is a major sponsor of the Ellis Polar Express. The Polar Express will be held Dec. 5, 6 and 7. They support fundraising efforts for the Ellis High School sophomore class, which pays for the junior/senior prom each year. They also offer discounts to nonprofit groups in the area for fundraising or event food. They host several kids events throughout the year, such as P is for Pizza school tours, Dino Day and Arthur’s Pizza Academy, with details below:<h2>Arthur's Pizza Academy 2025</h2>Do you like to eat pizza? Register to be a part of the Ellis Rec Commission/Arthur's Pizza Academy. You'll get your hands on experience with making dough, rolling out crust, folding boxes, topping your pizza and much more. Make your own pizza and serve it to two guests.Registration deadline: July 23, 2025Age: 7-12 years oldTime: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Lunch served at noon)Place: Arthur's Pizza and Mexican FoodsCost: $30 per kid (Includes a T-shirt, medium pizza and three drinks)Date: Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025Limitation: Max of 15 kids(Each participant can bring a max of two guests for lunch)Registration ends on July 23, 2025.For more information, contact Katie Armstrong at 785-726-3718 or email at ellisrecoffice@gbta.net.

Ellis Trail sign that honors Nicodemus settlers vandalized

From Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman on Facebook:

Eastbound I-70 is temporarily shut down at Ellis due to a semi truck fire. Vehicles are being directed down the off ramp and then they can get back on using the on-ramp. Please slow down if you were in this area!

According to a Kansas Department of Transportation camera as of 2:30 p.m. today at the Ellis 146 exit, there is a semi on fire in the westbound lanes.

Smoke is blowing over both lanes of traffic, and traffic is being diverted.

We will post more infromation as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750794171913.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750797607837.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750797618184.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750797628734.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750797638019.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman</figcaption>
 </figure>From Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod&nbsp; Hileman on Facebook: Eastbound I-70 is temporarily shut down at Ellis due to a semi truck fire. Vehicles are being directed down the off ramp and then they can get back on using the on-ramp. Please slow down if you were in this area!____Hays PostAccording to a Kansas Department of Transportation camera as of 2:30 p.m. today at the Ellis 146 exit, there is a semi on fire in the westbound lanes.Smoke is blowing over both lanes of traffic, and traffic is being diverted.We will post more infromation as it becomes available.

Update: Semi on fire near Ellis exit on I-70

Hays Police Department activity log: June 15-21, 2025

Hays Police Department arrest log: June 15-21, 2025

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation will temporarily close both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-70 at Exit 157 near Hays on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29.

During daylight hours on both days, traffic will be diverted through the exit and entrance ramps and back onto I-70. The traffic diversion is scheduled to end by 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 29.

The closure is necessary for crews to set steel girder beams for construction of the new U.S. 183 bypass bridge over I-70, which is part of the project to improve the U.S. 183 bypass and I-70 interchange. Project work began in spring 2023 and is expected to be completed later this fall, conditions permitting.

For more information, contact KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kevin.zimmer@ks.gov">kevin.zimmer@ks.gov</a>. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750859792897.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Transportation" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Transportation</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation will temporarily close both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-70 at Exit 157 near Hays on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29.During daylight hours on both days, traffic will be diverted through the exit and entrance ramps and back onto I-70. The traffic diversion is scheduled to end by 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 29.The closure is necessary for crews to set steel girder beams for construction of the new U.S. 183 bypass bridge over I-70, which is part of the project to improve the U.S. 183 bypass and I-70 interchange. Project work began in spring 2023 and is expected to be completed later this fall, conditions permitting.For more information, contact KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kevin.zimmer@ks.gov">kevin.zimmer@ks.gov</a>. &nbsp;

I-70 Exit 157 east, westbound lanes to close this weekend in Hays

The painters&nbsp;from <a href="https://www.brickmobbrickup.com/">Brickmob of Wichita</a>&nbsp;applied the final coat of paint this weekend to a new mural on the south side of the&nbsp;<a href="https://stemharvest.org/" target="_blank">STEM Harvest</a>&nbsp;building, 507 Main,&nbsp;Hays.

Brickmob is co-owned by&nbsp;Chris Garcia and his wife, Nicky Rocho. The art for the mural was created by Joe Worley.

The mural was made possible thanks to a grant from the Beach Family Foundation.

Garcia said STEM Harvest's owner, Dallas Haselhorst, wanted a mural in a different style than others in Hays and that would promote the science mission of STEM Harvest, which is a nonprofit organization primarily focused on kids' STEM education, especially technologies such as programming, 3D printing, prototyping and electronics.

The mural, which is an urban, graphic-novel design, showcases Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla and technology in general, Garcia said.

Tesla can be seen with lightning bolts in his hands that shoot down into the electric charging station on the south wall of the building.

It also includes the following "Easter Eggs": the Linux Penguin, the debugging "moth" popularized by Admiral Grace Hopper, the Konami code, MST3k and the symbol for a black hole.

You can learn more about the mural and its "Easter Eggs" at&nbsp;<a href="https://stemharvest.org/stem-harvest-mural/">stemharvest.org/stem-harvest-mural/</a>.

Painting began in May, but Garcia said the project has been in the works for several years. The mural took about 250 hours of painting time.

Garcia said painting conditions were not ideal over the weekend. Winds were gusting to 40 mph, and high temperatures were in the upper nineties.

Garcia, a graduate of Wichita State University, co-founded Brickmob with several other artists in 2014.

"I had a day job, but I wanted to continue doing my artwork, so I reached out to three other artists whom I thought could work well together, I could work well with and could bring something to the table," he said.

They started selling prints, T-shirts and small sculptures at art fairs.

They had the opportunity to do a mural at an art festival in Wichita.

"We all fell in love with it immediately," he said of mural painting. "There was something about being outside and working in the elements and fresh air and seeing your artwork on a grand scale for everyone to enjoy."

"We were literally changing the landscape of where we were at," he said.

In Kansas, the Brickmob has also created murals in El Dorado, Valley Center, Goddard, Osawatomie, Kansas City and Hillsboro. They have also painted murals in Oklahoma and Texas.

One of the company's significant goals is to employ artists and pay them a fair wage.

However, Garcia and his wife love to take on projects that involve kids or socially driven programs.

The STEM Harvest mural fit perfectly within that mission, Garcia said.

Garcia said he thought the new mural will be a complementary addition to the other murals in downtown Hays. The crew took time to drive around Hays and view the other murals in the community.

"There is definitely some skill here. I can appreciate that," he said.

"There's a lot of realism and things that have to do with history and the Western aesthetic for artwork, which is really cool. We embrace that too. But with [our mural] being more graphical and brightly colored, I didn't see anything like this in town. This one is really going to stand out in comparison."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705043756.jpeg" alt="The new mural on the south side of the STEM Harvest building,&nbsp;507 Main, Hays, depicts&nbsp;Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla and technology in general. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new mural on the south side of the STEM Harvest building,&nbsp;507 Main, Hays, depicts&nbsp;Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla and technology in general. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe painters&nbsp;from <a href="https://www.brickmobbrickup.com/">Brickmob of Wichita</a>&nbsp;applied the final coat of paint this weekend to a new mural on the south side of the&nbsp;<a href="https://stemharvest.org/" target="_blank">STEM Harvest</a>&nbsp;building, 507 Main,&nbsp;Hays.Brickmob is co-owned by&nbsp;Chris Garcia and his wife, Nicky Rocho. The art for the mural was created by Joe Worley.The mural was made possible thanks to a grant from the Beach Family Foundation.Garcia said STEM Harvest's owner, Dallas Haselhorst, wanted a mural in a different style than others in Hays and that would promote the science mission of STEM Harvest, which is a nonprofit organization primarily focused on kids' STEM education, especially technologies such as programming, 3D printing, prototyping and electronics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705088572.jpeg" alt="Artist German Andrade of the Brickmob paints a portrait of Einstein, which is part of the new STEM Harvets mural.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Artist German Andrade of the Brickmob paints a portrait of Einstein, which is part of the new STEM Harvets mural.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The mural, which is an urban, graphic-novel design, showcases Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla and technology in general, Garcia said.Tesla can be seen with lightning bolts in his hands that shoot down into the electric charging station on the south wall of the building.It also includes the following "Easter Eggs": the Linux Penguin, the debugging "moth" popularized by Admiral Grace Hopper, the Konami code, MST3k and the symbol for a black hole.You can learn more about the mural and its "Easter Eggs" at&nbsp;<a href="https://stemharvest.org/stem-harvest-mural/">stemharvest.org/stem-harvest-mural/</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705191486.jpeg" alt="The mural crew working on the STEM Harvest building on Friday. The artists paint light to dark. The black was the last color applied during the weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The mural crew working on the STEM Harvest building on Friday. The artists paint light to dark. The black was the last color applied during the weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705218820.jpeg" alt="Chris Garcia, co-owner of the Brickmob, said the new STEM Harvest mural has been in the planning stage for several years. The artist finished the project this weekend after spending a total of 250 painting hours on the mural.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Chris Garcia, co-owner of the Brickmob, said the new STEM Harvest mural has been in the planning stage for several years. The artist finished the project this weekend after spending a total of 250 painting hours on the mural.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Painting began in May, but Garcia said the project has been in the works for several years. The mural took about 250 hours of painting time.Garcia said painting conditions were not ideal over the weekend. Winds were gusting to 40 mph, and high temperatures were in the upper nineties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750706312808.jpeg" alt="Joe Worley, who designed the mural, paints earlier this summer. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Joe Worley, who designed the mural, paints earlier this summer. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Garcia, a graduate of Wichita State University, co-founded Brickmob with several other artists in 2014."I had a day job, but I wanted to continue doing my artwork, so I reached out to three other artists whom I thought could work well together, I could work well with and could bring something to the table," he said.They started selling prints, T-shirts and small sculptures at art fairs.They had the opportunity to do a mural at an art festival in Wichita."We all fell in love with it immediately," he said of mural painting. "There was something about being outside and working in the elements and fresh air and seeing your artwork on a grand scale for everyone to enjoy.""We were literally changing the landscape of where we were at," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705321985.jpeg" alt="The new mural looking west to east. On the left, Nikola Tesla is directing lightning bolts into the electric vehicle charging station. Also under the electric meter is a moth—one of the murals, "Easter Eggs."&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new mural looking west to east. On the left, Nikola Tesla is directing lightning bolts into the electric vehicle charging station. Also under the electric meter is a moth—one of the murals, "Easter Eggs."&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In Kansas, the Brickmob has also created murals in El Dorado, Valley Center, Goddard, Osawatomie, Kansas City and Hillsboro. They have also painted murals in Oklahoma and Texas.One of the company's significant goals is to employ artists and pay them a fair wage.However, Garcia and his wife love to take on projects that involve kids or socially driven programs.The STEM Harvest mural fit perfectly within that mission, Garcia said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750705447918.jpeg" alt="The mural looking east to west on the south side of the STEM Harvest building. To the left of Einstein, you can see the "Mystery Science Theatre 3000" trio. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The mural looking east to west on the south side of the STEM Harvest building. To the left of Einstein, you can see the "Mystery Science Theatre 3000" trio. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Garcia said he thought the new mural will be a complementary addition to the other murals in downtown Hays. The crew took time to drive around Hays and view the other murals in the community."There is definitely some skill here. I can appreciate that," he said."There's a lot of realism and things that have to do with history and the Western aesthetic for artwork, which is really cool. We embrace that too. But with [our mural] being more graphical and brightly colored, I didn't see anything like this in town. This one is really going to stand out in comparison."

Brickmob finishes new mural on STEM Harvest building in Hays

TMP-Marian is pleased to announce the new faculty joining the Hays school for the 2025-26 school year. 

Ms. Whitney Befort will teach 6th grade social studies and 6th grade crop science as well as lead the high school Scholar’s Bowl team. Ms. Befort graduated from TMP-Marian High School in 2022 and is graduating from Fort Hays State University in May 2026 with a bachelor’s degree in history secondary education.

 "I am extremely excited to come back to my high school and teach 6th grade social studies. I have many fond memories of TMP-Marian from when I was a student, and I am hoping to help students grow in their studies and interests!” Ms. Befort said.

Ms. Rhonda Windholz is returning to TMP-Marian as well, not as a former student, but as a former teacher. Ms. Windholz taught at TMP-Marian from 2022-2024. Mrs. Windholz recently moved back to Hays from Tennessee. She has worked in education for 29 years. 

“I’ve done much soul searching and praying this year and am excited to give back and help prepare our students for their future,” Ms. Windholz said.

Mr. Conor Nicholl will teach 6th and 7th grade English Language Arts as well as coach the junior high girls basketball team. Additionally, in the spring, he will assist with the softball team. 

Mr. Nicholl most recently taught English language arts at Victoria Jr/Sr High School. He may be familiar to many Monarchs because he was the JH girls basketball head coach for the 2023-24 season. He was also a high school girls basketball assistant coach and assistant softball coach during the 2023-24 school year. 

"I am very happy to rejoin the TMP-M community," Nicholl said. "My family and I have long held TMP-M in high esteem. We love the faith-filled atmosphere and the smaller school environment. I am happy to be involved as both an educator and a coach with TMP-M and excited for what's to come." 

Other teaching assignment announcements: Sr. Mary Monica will teach senior religion including overseeing the Senior Capstone projects. Mr. Rick Binder will teach 8th grade religion and Confirmation prep. Ms. Brenda Rose will take on Lead Teacher duties in the junior high while continuing to teach 8th grade language arts.

Located in Hays, Kan., Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic school serving grades 6-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594947025649.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MarianTMP-Marian is pleased to announce the new faculty joining the Hays school for the 2025-26 school year. Ms. Whitney Befort will teach 6th grade social studies and 6th grade crop science as well as lead the high school Scholar’s Bowl team. Ms. Befort graduated from TMP-Marian High School in 2022 and is graduating from Fort Hays State University in May 2026 with a bachelor’s degree in history secondary education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750427764852.png" alt="Whitney Befort, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo" />
 <figcaption>Whitney Befort, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo</figcaption>
 </figure> "I am extremely excited to come back to my high school and teach 6th grade social studies. I have many fond memories of TMP-Marian from when I was a student, and I am hoping to help students grow in their studies and interests!” Ms. Befort said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750427829849.png" alt="Rhonda Windholz, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo" />
 <figcaption>Rhonda Windholz, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ms. Rhonda Windholz is returning to TMP-Marian as well, not as a former student, but as a former teacher. Ms. Windholz taught at TMP-Marian from 2022-2024. Mrs. Windholz recently moved back to Hays from Tennessee. She has worked in education for 29 years. “I’ve done much soul searching and praying this year and am excited to give back and help prepare our students for their future,” Ms. Windholz said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750428042492.png" alt="Conor Nicholl, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo" />
 <figcaption>Conor Nicholl, TMP Marian. TMP-M photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mr. Conor Nicholl will teach 6th and 7th grade English Language Arts as well as coach the junior high girls basketball team. Additionally, in the spring, he will assist with the softball team. Mr. Nicholl most recently taught English language arts at Victoria Jr/Sr High School. He may be familiar to many Monarchs because he was the JH girls basketball head coach for the 2023-24 season. He was also a high school girls basketball assistant coach and assistant softball coach during the 2023-24 school year. "I am very happy to rejoin the TMP-M community," Nicholl said. "My family and I have long held TMP-M in high esteem. We love the faith-filled atmosphere and the smaller school environment. I am happy to be involved as both an educator and a coach with TMP-M and excited for what's to come." Other teaching assignment announcements: Sr. Mary Monica will teach senior religion including overseeing the Senior Capstone projects. Mr. Rick Binder will teach 8th grade religion and Confirmation prep. Ms. Brenda Rose will take on Lead Teacher duties in the junior high while continuing to teach 8th grade language arts. Located in Hays, Kan., Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic school serving grades 6-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and leadership formation.

TMP-Marian announces new teaching faculty hires

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in July. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas. 

Listed below are the employees and their hometowns.&nbsp;

• Jeffrey Lathen, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Meade • Derrick Nordyke, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Hugoton

• John Hochard, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Holton

• Joshua Bachura, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Wilseyz • David Freeland, Equipment Mechanic Specialist, Mayettaz • Stephanie Knudson, Engineering Technician Senior, Horton • Craig Schlott, Assistant District Construction/Maintenance Engineer, Garden City

• Rick Giebler, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;Hays • Tyler Molt, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Atchison

• Christopher Trundle, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Topeka

• Randy Miller, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Ellinwood • Matthew Newfield, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Newton

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739902891919.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in July. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas. Listed below are the employees and their hometowns.&nbsp;Those celebrating 40 years:• Jeffrey Lathen, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Meade • Derrick Nordyke, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;HugotonThose celebrating 35 years:• John Hochard, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;HoltonThose celebrating 25 years:• Joshua Bachura, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Wilseyz • David Freeland, Equipment Mechanic Specialist, Mayettaz • Stephanie Knudson, Engineering Technician Senior, Horton • Craig Schlott, Assistant District Construction/Maintenance Engineer, Garden City Those celebrating 20 years:• Rick Giebler, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;Hays • Tyler Molt, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, AtchisonThose celebrating 15 years:• Christopher Trundle, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;TopekaThose celebrating 10 years:• Randy Miller, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Ellinwood • Matthew Newfield, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Newton

Hays KDOT employee celebrates service anniversary

A fundraiser breakfast will be held Saturday, June 28, 8-11 a.m., at the Hays First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th, for four-year-old Emersyn Rice and her family who are former Hays residents.

Emersyn was recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy and the Rices moved to be closer to her medical specialists.&nbsp;

The message below is from parents Jessie and Talon Rice.

"Our families would like to thank our hometown of Hays and the western Kansas communities for your ongoing love, prayers, and support as we continue to navigate Emersyn’s journey. 

"have experienced overwhelming kindness from the time Emersyn was born at 26 weeks gestation in 2021 and her recent cerebral palsy diagnosis. 

"We want to extend that heartfelt gratitude and thank Lisa Gagnon, one of Emersyn’s nurses from our time at Hays Medical Center, who so kindly is putting this benefit together for our family. 

"All outpouring of love and support will go towards Emersyn’s continued medical costs. 

"Emersyn is our miracle, one who continues to shine brightly and brings so much joy to the world. Keep shining, Emersyn! We are so proud of you!"

Brenton and Andrea Hoffman will be catering the meal as a donation to the family.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750342285541.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted A fundraiser breakfast will be held Saturday, June 28, 8-11 a.m., at the Hays First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th, for four-year-old Emersyn Rice and her family who are former Hays residents.Emersyn was recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy and the Rices moved to be closer to her medical specialists.&nbsp;The message below is from parents Jessie and Talon Rice."Our families would like to thank our hometown of Hays and the western Kansas communities for your ongoing love, prayers, and support as we continue to navigate Emersyn’s journey. "have experienced overwhelming kindness from the time Emersyn was born at 26 weeks gestation in 2021 and her recent cerebral palsy diagnosis. "We want to extend that heartfelt gratitude and thank Lisa Gagnon, one of Emersyn’s nurses from our time at Hays Medical Center, who so kindly is putting this benefit together for our family. "All outpouring of love and support will go towards Emersyn’s continued medical costs. "Emersyn is our miracle, one who continues to shine brightly and brings so much joy to the world. Keep shining, Emersyn! We are so proud of you!"Brenton and Andrea Hoffman will be catering the meal as a donation to the family.&nbsp;

'Breakfast with Emersyn' fundraiser supports former Hays resident 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750690156984.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>

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

There is a good deal of interest in using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones for the application of pesticides. In this context, a drone is a small, remotely controlled fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. 

A drone application might be appealing to individuals wanting to spray where it is not practical or desirable to use a traditional spray, or perhaps, for spot spraying. Applications are limited by the size of the payload the unmanned aircraft system is able to carry, and compliance and logistics for such applications can be challenging. 

If you are someone who is considering using a drone for applications, here is some basic information regarding licenses that you need to know before you apply any pesticides. 

You should comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) requirements, and pesticide label directions to operate a drone for pesticide spraying.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations All drone-based chemical applications must adhere to FAA regulations, most of which are described in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) under 14 CFR Part 137, which governs the use of aircraft – including drones – to apply agricultural chemicals. In order to obtain a Part 137 UAS certification, an individual should apply for the necessary exemptions, submit necessary documentation, including drone registration information and the pilot’s agricultural aircraft operator certificate.

Drone registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. In addition, a drone operator must have a Remote Pilot Certification, which requires passing an exam and paying a fee. The certification must be renewed every 24 months by training and testing, which is available online at no cost. The testing and training include information about regulations, airspace, weather, and night operations.

Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Requirements State level regulations require that proof of drone registration with the FAA be submitted to the KDA, evidence of certification, such as a Remote Pilot Certificate, and additional information. Moreover, the operator must be certified as a commercial pesticide applicator in the appropriate category, such as Agricultural Pest Control, through KDA.

The applicator needs to provide the KDA with the make, model, serial number (if applicable), and any other requested information related to the drone and submit a completed and signed application to apply pesticide products. 

If a drone-based pesticide spray is operated as a business, a Pesticide Business License from KDA is required. This license verifies that the business complies with state regulations regarding pesticide application. Moreover, such a business should complete an application to receive approval before completing such pesticide applications. 

More information about KDA policies and different applications can be found on the KDA website: <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/pesticide-and-fertilizer/unmanned-aircraft-systems">https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/pesticide-and-fertilizer/unmanned-aircraft-systems </a>

Information provided by Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator, fmiller@ksu.edu.

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749552852985.jpeg" alt="Spray drone. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Spray drone. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThere is a good deal of interest in using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones for the application of pesticides. In this context, a drone is a small, remotely controlled fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. A drone application might be appealing to individuals wanting to spray where it is not practical or desirable to use a traditional spray, or perhaps, for spot spraying. Applications are limited by the size of the payload the unmanned aircraft system is able to carry, and compliance and logistics for such applications can be challenging. If you are someone who is considering using a drone for applications, here is some basic information regarding licenses that you need to know before you apply any pesticides. You should comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) requirements, and pesticide label directions to operate a drone for pesticide spraying.Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations All drone-based chemical applications must adhere to FAA regulations, most of which are described in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) under 14 CFR Part 137, which governs the use of aircraft – including drones – to apply agricultural chemicals. In order to obtain a Part 137 UAS certification, an individual should apply for the necessary exemptions, submit necessary documentation, including drone registration information and the pilot’s agricultural aircraft operator certificate. Drone registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. In addition, a drone operator must have a Remote Pilot Certification, which requires passing an exam and paying a fee. The certification must be renewed every 24 months by training and testing, which is available online at no cost. The testing and training include information about regulations, airspace, weather, and night operations.Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Requirements State level regulations require that proof of drone registration with the FAA be submitted to the KDA, evidence of certification, such as a Remote Pilot Certificate, and additional information. Moreover, the operator must be certified as a commercial pesticide applicator in the appropriate category, such as Agricultural Pest Control, through KDA. The applicator needs to provide the KDA with the make, model, serial number (if applicable), and any other requested information related to the drone and submit a completed and signed application to apply pesticide products. If a drone-based pesticide spray is operated as a business, a Pesticide Business License from KDA is required. This license verifies that the business complies with state regulations regarding pesticide application. Moreover, such a business should complete an application to receive approval before completing such pesticide applications. More information about KDA policies and different applications can be found on the KDA website: <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/pesticide-and-fertilizer/unmanned-aircraft-systems">https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/pesticide-and-fertilizer/unmanned-aircraft-systems </a>Information provided by Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator, fmiller@ksu.edu.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.

CAMPBELL: Unmanned aerial vehicle pesticide applications 

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

The government says your electric bill will go up slightly compared to last summer. The Energy Information Administration forecasts an average monthly bill, nationwide, of $178, compared to $173 a month last summer. The report suggests that consumption will go down this summer, driven by cooler weather. But EIA says that will only partially offset rising residential electric rates expected in most areas of the US.

July crude expired Friday a few pennies below $75 a barrel. The August NYMEX contract was below $74 at the close of trading Friday. Crude prices were not spiking as many expected Monday. NYMEX crude was a few cents higher, still trading a few cents below $74 a barrel by lunchtime Monday. London Brent was over $77 by midday Monday.

US Rig Counts drop for the eighth week in a row. Baker Hughes reports 554 active rigs across the country. The total in Texas is down four rigs, Oklahoma is down two and North Dakota is down one. New Mexico and Wyoming each gained two rigs. Colorado and Louisiana each added one rig.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down one rig or eight percent from a week ago, down 45% from a month ago, and down 61% from a year ago. There are two active drilling rigs in the eastern half of the state, and nine in Western Kansas, which is down one rig from a week ago.

The state okayed nine new drilling locations in Kansas. Five of them are east of Wichita, and four are in Western Kansas. Drilling permits this year trail last year by 133 permits.

The 563 well-completions reported this year trail last year by just six wells. Out of 17 new completions last week in Kansas, seven are west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County and another in Haskell County.

US crude stockpiles dropped by the biggest amount in nearly a year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports commercial inventories of just under 421 million barrels, down nearly 12 million barrels from a week earlier. The last inventory decline this large was in the week through June 28, 2024.

The Strategic Petroleum Reserve took delivery on 200,000 barrels last week, or 31.4 million barrels in the last year. The total is now over 402 million barrels.

Crude production in the United States was nearly unchanged, dropping by eight barrels per day in Alaska, but increasing eleven barrels a day in the rest of the country, for a net increase of three barrels a day compared to a week earlier. Total output now averages 13,431,000 barrels a day.

The Administration will green-light energy development in The National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a patch roughly the size of Indiana that's believed to contain 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil. The government is repealing Biden-era curbs blocking oil drilling across most of the 23-million acre reserve. The state estimates output from the reserve will climb to nearly 140,000 barrels per day by the year 2033, compared to just 16,000 barrels per day now. ConocoPhillips is developing its 600-million-barrel Willow project in the NPR-A, which is expected to produce its first oil in three years.

Total energy production in the US last year outpaced the record set the year before, with total energy production over 103 quadrillion British thermal units...that's up about one percent from 2023. The Energy Information Administration says several individual energy sources set records as well, including crude oil, natural gas, natural gas plant liquids, biofuels, solar and wind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaThe government says your electric bill will go up slightly compared to last summer. The Energy Information Administration forecasts an average monthly bill, nationwide, of $178, compared to $173 a month last summer. The report suggests that consumption will go down this summer, driven by cooler weather. But EIA says that will only partially offset rising residential electric rates expected in most areas of the US.July crude expired Friday a few pennies below $75 a barrel. The August NYMEX contract was below $74 at the close of trading Friday. Crude prices were not spiking as many expected Monday. NYMEX crude was a few cents higher, still trading a few cents below $74 a barrel by lunchtime Monday. London Brent was over $77 by midday Monday.US Rig Counts drop for the eighth week in a row. Baker Hughes reports 554 active rigs across the country. The total in Texas is down four rigs, Oklahoma is down two and North Dakota is down one. New Mexico and Wyoming each gained two rigs. Colorado and Louisiana each added one rig.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down one rig or eight percent from a week ago, down 45% from a month ago, and down 61% from a year ago. There are two active drilling rigs in the eastern half of the state, and nine in Western Kansas, which is down one rig from a week ago.The state okayed nine new drilling locations in Kansas. Five of them are east of Wichita, and four are in Western Kansas. Drilling permits this year trail last year by 133 permits.The 563 well-completions reported this year trail last year by just six wells. Out of 17 new completions last week in Kansas, seven are west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County and another in Haskell County.US crude stockpiles dropped by the biggest amount in nearly a year.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports commercial inventories of just under 421 million barrels, down nearly 12 million barrels from a week earlier. The last inventory decline this large was in the week through June 28, 2024.The Strategic Petroleum Reserve took delivery on 200,000 barrels last week, or 31.4 million barrels in the last year. The total is now over 402 million barrels.Crude production in the United States was nearly unchanged, dropping by eight barrels per day in Alaska, but increasing eleven barrels a day in the rest of the country, for a net increase of three barrels a day compared to a week earlier. Total output now averages 13,431,000 barrels a day.The Administration will green-light energy development in The National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a patch roughly the size of Indiana that's believed to contain 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil. The government is repealing Biden-era curbs blocking oil drilling across most of the 23-million acre reserve. The state estimates output from the reserve will climb to nearly 140,000 barrels per day by the year 2033, compared to just 16,000 barrels per day now. ConocoPhillips is developing its 600-million-barrel Willow project in the NPR-A, which is expected to produce its first oil in three years.Total energy production in the US last year outpaced the record set the year before, with total energy production over 103 quadrillion British thermal units...that's up about one percent from 2023. The Energy Information Administration says several individual energy sources set records as well, including crude oil, natural gas, natural gas plant liquids, biofuels, solar and wind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Prices steady despite tensions

Ellis County Jail bookings: June 15-21, 2025

Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: June 15-21, 2025

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Fair is giving everyone a chance to showcase their talents through friendly competitions.

The fair runs from July 11 to 19 and includes car races, rodeos, family-friendly fun and contests.

Participants must register at <a href="https://fairentry.com/Fair/SignIn/21262">fairentry.com</a> by July 7, with drop-off and judging dates varying by category. An account will need to be created if not already. Afterwards, you can choose your class and electronically enter it. There is no cost to enter.

Ellis County Fair Vice President Jill Pfannenstiel highlighted divisions such as gardening, child care art and photography.

Although many people are familiar with the 4-H competitions, the fair offers open classes to all residents.

“Photography is a real popular division at the fair,"&nbsp;Pfannenstiel said.

Most entries should be dropped off from 3 to 7 p.m. July 14 at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. Entries for food, crops and horticulture must be dropped off between 8 and 9 a.m. July 15.

Floriculture entries will be accepted on July 16. Participants are eligible to receive cash prizes based on ribbon awards.

Open Class judging will be July 15 and is closed to the public. Entries and prizes can be picked up from 8 to 10 a.m. on July 20 at the Schenk Building.

Exhibits and entries at the fair are judged into four ribbon groups: purple, blue, red and white. Purple ribbons represent the highest standard, and only entries in this group are eligible for advanced awards.

If judges determine the quality merits it, a champion and reserve champion may be selected in each subdivision. Prize money is awarded in the open class division, with champions earning $15, reserve champions $10 and purple ribbon winners receiving $5 for first, $3 for second, and $2 for third.

Pfannenstiel said there will be extra cash prizes for open class foods and photography that will get an additional $15.

You can find a complete list of Ellis County Fair Open Class competitions, including categories, classes, rules and entry requirements <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/5779/2025-Open-Class-Fair-Book">here</a>.

The Ellis County 4-H Youth Development program will also be held, featuring its own contests and judging process. A full list of 4-H class competitions can be found <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/5699/2025-4HDivisionECFBook---Updated">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750273149957.jpeg" alt="Award-winning open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Award-winning open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Fair is giving everyone a chance to showcase their talents through friendly competitions.The fair runs from July 11 to 19 and includes car races, rodeos, family-friendly fun and contests.Participants must register at <a href="https://fairentry.com/Fair/SignIn/21262">fairentry.com</a> by July 7, with drop-off and judging dates varying by category. An account will need to be created if not already. Afterwards, you can choose your class and electronically enter it. There is no cost to enter.Ellis County Fair Vice President Jill Pfannenstiel highlighted divisions such as gardening, child care art and photography.Although many people are familiar with the 4-H competitions, the fair offers open classes to all residents.“Photography is a real popular division at the fair,"&nbsp;Pfannenstiel said.Most entries should be dropped off from 3 to 7 p.m. July 14 at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. Entries for food, crops and horticulture must be dropped off between 8 and 9 a.m. July 15.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750273127620.jpeg" alt="Award-winning open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Award-winning open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750273171674.jpeg" alt="Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750273196525.jpeg" alt="Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750273250992.jpeg" alt="Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Open class entries at the Ellis County Fair. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Floriculture entries will be accepted on July 16. Participants are eligible to receive cash prizes based on ribbon awards.Open Class judging will be July 15 and is closed to the public. Entries and prizes can be picked up from 8 to 10 a.m. on July 20 at the Schenk Building.Exhibits and entries at the fair are judged into four ribbon groups: purple, blue, red and white. Purple ribbons represent the highest standard, and only entries in this group are eligible for advanced awards.If judges determine the quality merits it, a champion and reserve champion may be selected in each subdivision. Prize money is awarded in the open class division, with champions earning $15, reserve champions $10 and purple ribbon winners receiving $5 for first, $3 for second, and $2 for third.Pfannenstiel said there will be extra cash prizes for open class foods and photography that will get an additional $15.You can find a complete list of Ellis County Fair Open Class competitions, including categories, classes, rules and entry requirements <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/5779/2025-Open-Class-Fair-Book">here</a>.The Ellis County 4-H Youth Development program will also be held, featuring its own contests and judging process. A full list of 4-H class competitions can be found <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/5699/2025-4HDivisionECFBook---Updated">here</a>.

Ellis County opens registration for 4-H, open competitions

RUSSELL COUNTY —A man drowned on Saturday at Wilson Lake.

Just after noon Saturday,&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell County Communications received a 911 call about a possible drowning at Lucas Swim Beach, Wilson Lake in Russell County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire, Army Corp of Engineers, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Russell County Emergency Management, and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene.

After a thorough search of the area, a body was located by boat sonar under the water. Divers were deployed and just after 2:30p.m. 43-year-old Lee Andrew Williams of Kansas City Missouri was recovered.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750690381838.png" alt="Wilson Lake photo Army Corps of Engineers" />
 <figcaption>Wilson Lake photo Army Corps of Engineers</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —A man drowned on Saturday at Wilson Lake.Just after noon Saturday,&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell County Communications received a 911 call about a possible drowning at Lucas Swim Beach, Wilson Lake in Russell County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire, Army Corp of Engineers, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Russell County Emergency Management, and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the scene.After a thorough search of the area, a body was located by boat sonar under the water. Divers were deployed and just after 2:30p.m. 43-year-old Lee Andrew Williams of Kansas City Missouri was recovered.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Sheriff: Body of drowning victim recovered at Wilson Lake

The <a href="https://haysfumc.com/">Hays First United Methodist Church of Hays</a>, 305 W. 7th St., is excited to announce they have awarded nine $1,000 scholarships to church youth.

The scholarship is intended to help cover educational expenses for the first semester or term at any accredited vocational–technical program, community college, or four-year college.

Criteria for the Hays United Methodist Church scholarship are that the students are preferably members, have participated in church programs while attending high school, and have demonstrated leadership skills in their community, school, church, and/or extracurricular activities.&nbsp; 

The 2025 scholarship recipients are:&nbsp; Nathan Chung, Camdyn Copper, Ian Henderson, Maycie Holdeman, Isabelle Jones, Emmaline Leuschner, Evelynn Reichel, Haley Roth, and Reaghan Wamser.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746629830767.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The <a href="https://haysfumc.com/">Hays First United Methodist Church of Hays</a>, 305 W. 7th St., is excited to announce they have awarded nine $1,000 scholarships to church youth. The scholarship is intended to help cover educational expenses for the first semester or term at any accredited vocational–technical program, community college, or four-year college.Criteria for the Hays United Methodist Church scholarship are that the students are preferably members, have participated in church programs while attending high school, and have demonstrated leadership skills in their community, school, church, and/or extracurricular activities.&nbsp; The 2025 scholarship recipients are:&nbsp; Nathan Chung, Camdyn Copper, Ian Henderson, Maycie Holdeman, Isabelle Jones, Emmaline Leuschner, Evelynn Reichel, Haley Roth, and Reaghan Wamser.

Hays First United Methodist Church awards scholarships to church youth

Samuel Allen, a longtime resident and active member of the Hays community, has officially announced his candidacy for the Hays City Commission in the 2025 municipal election. 

Drawing on his diverse background in public service, nonprofit work, and higher education, Allen brings a thoughtful, community-first approach to local leadership.

&nbsp;“Hays is home,”&nbsp;Allen said. “It’s the place I’ve always come back to—because no matter where life has taken me, this community has remained a constant source of strength, support, and purpose. Now, I want to give back by helping Hays remain a place where everyone can build a future.”

Allen has worn many hats over the years—each shaped by a desire to serve others. He has worked in food pantries and clinics in St. Louis, spent time in religious formation with the Order of Friars Minor in Maryland, and most recently, interned with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran in Washington, D.C., where he contributed to health care policy, higher education and constituent services.&nbsp;

“These experiences have taught me to listen first, to lead with compassion, and to stay grounded in common sense,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Whether you're working at a food pantry, helping someone navigate health care or assisting a constituent with federal programs, the heart of public service is the same—showing up, doing the work, and putting people first.”

Currently completing his degree in political science at Fort Hays State University, Allen is committed to building a stronger, more responsive local government. His campaign for city commission is focused on tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing Hays today—while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Hays has seen the closure of too many small businesses—some only months old, others decades established. Allen believes the city must take a more proactive role in helping local businesses succeed, from reducing unnecessary red tape and simplifying permitting processes to increasing outreach and engagement with entrepreneurs.

“When local businesses close, our economy, identity, and community spirit all take a hit,” Allen said. “We need to work directly with business owners to understand their needs and create a more business-friendly environment.”

Allen is a strong advocate for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Hays. He sees housing affordability as a cornerstone of economic stability and community growth.

“Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a young family, or a retiree on a fixed income, you deserve access to safe and affordable housing,”&nbsp;he said. “We can’t expect people to stay and build a life here if they can’t afford to live here.”

As water scarcity becomes an ever more urgent concern across western Kansas, Allen is calling for strong city leadership on water conservation and infrastructure. He supports long-term efforts such as the Edwards County pipeline and believes conservation should be a citywide priority.

“Water is life—especially in our part of the state,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Investing in sustainable infrastructure today will secure our community’s future for decades to come.”

Leadership with Integrity and Heart

Allen’s commitment to public service is shaped by his Catholic faith, his life experiences, and his belief in treating others with dignity and respect. A proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, he grounds his work in values of compassion, humility, and civic responsibility.&nbsp;

“I’ve seen Hays through many lenses—as a student, a worker, a volunteer, and a neighbor,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Now, I’m ready to serve as a commissioner who listens, leads with integrity, and makes decisions that reflect the needs of everyone in this community.”

Allen’s campaign is centered on accessibility, transparency and action. He is running to ensure that every resident—no matter their age, background or income—has a voice in shaping the future of Hays.

To learn more about Samuel Allen’s campaign for Hays City Commission or to get involved, visit<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/"></a>

<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/">allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com">allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com</a>.

Samuel Allen: Working for&nbsp;Hays, Working for&nbsp;You.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750345202754.jpeg" alt="Hays City Commission candidate Samuel Allen. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays City Commission candidate Samuel Allen. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSamuel Allen, a longtime resident and active member of the Hays community, has officially announced his candidacy for the Hays City Commission in the 2025 municipal election. Drawing on his diverse background in public service, nonprofit work, and higher education, Allen brings a thoughtful, community-first approach to local leadership.&nbsp;“Hays is home,”&nbsp;Allen said. “It’s the place I’ve always come back to—because no matter where life has taken me, this community has remained a constant source of strength, support, and purpose. Now, I want to give back by helping Hays remain a place where everyone can build a future.”Allen has worn many hats over the years—each shaped by a desire to serve others. He has worked in food pantries and clinics in St. Louis, spent time in religious formation with the Order of Friars Minor in Maryland, and most recently, interned with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran in Washington, D.C., where he contributed to health care policy, higher education and constituent services.&nbsp;“These experiences have taught me to listen first, to lead with compassion, and to stay grounded in common sense,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Whether you're working at a food pantry, helping someone navigate health care or assisting a constituent with federal programs, the heart of public service is the same—showing up, doing the work, and putting people first.”Currently completing his degree in political science at Fort Hays State University, Allen is committed to building a stronger, more responsive local government. His campaign for city commission is focused on tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing Hays today—while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future.Allen’s key priorities:Supporting Local BusinessesHays has seen the closure of too many small businesses—some only months old, others decades established. Allen believes the city must take a more proactive role in helping local businesses succeed, from reducing unnecessary red tape and simplifying permitting processes to increasing outreach and engagement with entrepreneurs.“When local businesses close, our economy, identity, and community spirit all take a hit,” Allen said. “We need to work directly with business owners to understand their needs and create a more business-friendly environment.”Expanding Affordable HousingAllen is a strong advocate for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Hays. He sees housing affordability as a cornerstone of economic stability and community growth.“Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a young family, or a retiree on a fixed income, you deserve access to safe and affordable housing,”&nbsp;he said. “We can’t expect people to stay and build a life here if they can’t afford to live here.”Protecting Our Water FutureAs water scarcity becomes an ever more urgent concern across western Kansas, Allen is calling for strong city leadership on water conservation and infrastructure. He supports long-term efforts such as the Edwards County pipeline and believes conservation should be a citywide priority.“Water is life—especially in our part of the state,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Investing in sustainable infrastructure today will secure our community’s future for decades to come.”Leadership with Integrity and HeartAllen’s commitment to public service is shaped by his Catholic faith, his life experiences, and his belief in treating others with dignity and respect. A proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, he grounds his work in values of compassion, humility, and civic responsibility.&nbsp;“I’ve seen Hays through many lenses—as a student, a worker, a volunteer, and a neighbor,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Now, I’m ready to serve as a commissioner who listens, leads with integrity, and makes decisions that reflect the needs of everyone in this community.”Allen’s campaign is centered on accessibility, transparency and action. He is running to ensure that every resident—no matter their age, background or income—has a voice in shaping the future of Hays.To learn more about Samuel Allen’s campaign for Hays City Commission or to get involved, visit<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/"></a><a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/">allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com">allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com</a>.Samuel Allen: Working for&nbsp;Hays, Working for&nbsp;You.

Samuel Allen announces candidacy for Hays City Commission

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

It might seem like a simple everyday movement, but the ability to get up and down off the floor is one of the strongest indicators of overall health, mobility, and longevity. As people age or become less active, this basic movement often becomes harder—but maintaining it can have powerful health benefits that extend far beyond convenience.

Getting on and off the floor requires a combination of strength, coordination, flexibility, and balance. It engages major muscle groups—especially in the legs, core and hips—while also testing joint mobility and motor control. Regularly performing this movement acts as a functional fitness test, revealing how well your body works as a unit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictIt might seem like a simple everyday movement, but the ability to get up and down off the floor is one of the strongest indicators of overall health, mobility, and longevity. As people age or become less active, this basic movement often becomes harder—but maintaining it can have powerful health benefits that extend far beyond convenience.Getting on and off the floor requires a combination of strength, coordination, flexibility, and balance. It engages major muscle groups—especially in the legs, core and hips—while also testing joint mobility and motor control. Regularly performing this movement acts as a functional fitness test, revealing how well your body works as a unit.According to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, researchers found that people who could sit and rise from the floor without using their hands had significantly lower risks of mortality. This movement is essentially a snapshot of physical capability and resilience. The easier and more confidently you can do it, the more likely your musculoskeletal system is functioning optimally.One of the major health risks for older adults is falling. In fact, falls are a leading cause of injury-related death in people over 65. The ability to get up from the floor doesn’t just mean avoiding injury; it also means recovering quickly if a fall does occur. Being able to stand up without assistance reduces the fear and consequences of falling, promoting confidence and independence.Incorporating floor-based movements into regular workouts can improve proprioception (the body’s ability to sense its position in space), which helps prevent instability and accidents. Simple exercises like Turkish gets-ups, deep squats, or even sitting cross-legged the floor and standing back up can improve this vital skill over time.When you move from the floor to standing, your body uses a range of joints—ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, and the spine. Keeping these joints mobile and strong helps prevent stiffness, improves posture, and supports better functional movement patterns. Motion is lotion!Additionally, core engagement is critical during the transition. Strengthening the core isn’t just about aesthetics—it plays a vital role in stabilizing the spine and supportin daily activities. Getting off the floor naturally trains these muscles in a way that mimics real-world needs.Modern lifestyles often involve prolonged sitting in chairs, leading to poor posture and reduced mobility. Getting on the floor to play with kids, stretch, or simply read can reintroduce natural movement patterns that are often mission from daily routines. Even just sitting cross-legged or in a squat position periodically helps to maintain hip mobility and spine alignment.Though it may seem basic, the act of getting gup and down off the floor is a full-body movement that offers significant health insights and benefits. It supports longevity, mobility, independence, and injury prevention. Making this movement a regular part of your life—either through exercise or everyday activities—can help you stay active, capable, and confident as you age.Stay tuned, next week we will discuss another marker of health and longevity!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu