On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Monique Koerner, Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp; Family and Community Wellness agent, about upcoming programs for new babysitters ages 10 and older, and the prenatal education program Becoming A Mom.

<div><iframe title="K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District Prenatal Education Program and Babysitting Clinic" 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=jhcpx-18ff4ab-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Monique Koerner, Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp; Family and Community Wellness agent, about upcoming programs for new babysitters ages 10 and older, and the prenatal education program Becoming A Mom.</p>

🎙Post Podcast: Extension programs for new babysitters and for moms-to-be

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the recent grant awards and two new funds at the Heartland Community Foundation with Sarah Meitner, executive director.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: 33 project awards granted by Heartland Community Foundation in spring cycle" 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=97nsn-18fdca0-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the recent grant awards and two new funds at the Heartland Community Foundation with Sarah Meitner, executive director.</p>

🎙POST PODCAST: 33 area project awards granted by Heartland Community Foundation in spring cycle

<b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i>

Grow Hays has announced it has two new tenants for the Microfactory.

The $4.5 million, 30,000-square-foot facility opened in March 2024, but has not had any manufacturing tenants until now.

The Microfactory is designed to be a space that manufacturers can rent at lower than the market rate as they launch new businesses or product lines.

The two new tenants were set to start their leases in July, but the names of those businesses have not yet been released.

One of the tenants is a regional engineering firm that will set up a lab to test soil compaction and concrete, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said.

The engineering firm will occupy about 2,500 square feet.

A Canadian manufacturer will be signing a lease in mid-July for 5,000 to 10,000 square feet of the facility.

The facility has about 28,000 square feet of shop space and 2,000 square feet dedicated to offices.

Williams said the facility will not be quite half full once the two new companies are in place.

"We are still working with some others," Williams said. "We had one that did not work out because of insurance. That is one of the challenges in an incubator space like this. You have to have some level of compatibility between your tenants because they are occupying, in essence, the same building."

The facility was partially funded by a $2.6 million base grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce.&nbsp;The Patterson Family Foundation and Robert E. and Patrica Schmidt Foundation each contributed $500,000 to the project. The Innovation Center in Norton bridged the gap with a $750,000 interest-free loan.

Williams emphasized that the city or county did not fund the Microfactory and is not owned by either.

"The city and county haven't invested a dime," Williams said. "They won't invest a dime in this structure. ... There have been no local tax dollars invested in this project.

"The purpose of it is to, in the long term, develop a space where we can generate and build small manufacturers and have them grow," he said. "I struggle because I see negative comments on social media. I struggle to see that this is ever a bad thing. We are a not-for-profit organization.

"We own this space to provide space for prospective tenants who are ultimately employing people and growing their businesses. It costs the local taxpayers nothing, and it's going to pay dividends to this community for the next 50 to 100 years."

Williams said he did not see anything negative about the project, but he has seen some misunderstandings about the project among community members.

Grow Hays is paying property taxes on the building, which will be allocated to the local school capital outlay fund.

"We are offering the space at a small fraction of what it would cost a small manufacturer to build a building or locate elsewhere," Williams said.

He said the idea is that a manufacturer starts in the Microfactory. Then, after three to five years, it grows large enough to move into its own facility.

"It's an annuity that will continue to pay dividends to this community for a long, long time," Williams said.

With an unemployment rate of about 2.7%, Hays lacks the workforce to recruit a large manufacturer.&nbsp;

"We have to take this approach of starting small and building new organizations through entrepreneurship and growth and organic growth as opposed to the smoke-stack business moving in and operating here," Williams said.

Business owners&nbsp;interested in renting space in the Microfactory can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a>&nbsp;at 785-628-3102 to speak with David Clingan, director of recruitment and retention.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710359203890.jpeg" alt="Microfactory. File photo" />
                        <figcaption>Microfactory. File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" 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=8ytk6-18ed266-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><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Grow Hays has announced it has two new tenants for the Microfactory.</p><p>The $4.5 million, 30,000-square-foot facility opened in March 2024, but has not had any manufacturing tenants until now.</p><p>The Microfactory is designed to be a space that manufacturers can rent at lower than the market rate as they launch new businesses or product lines.</p><p>The two new tenants were set to start their leases in July, but the names of those businesses have not yet been released.</p><p>One of the tenants is a regional engineering firm that will set up a lab to test soil compaction and concrete, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said.</p><p>The engineering firm will occupy about 2,500 square feet.</p><p>A Canadian manufacturer will be signing a lease in mid-July for 5,000 to 10,000 square feet of the facility.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710359455020.jpeg" alt="Microfactory. File photo" />
                        <figcaption>Microfactory. File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The facility has about 28,000 square feet of shop space and 2,000 square feet dedicated to offices.</p><p>Williams said the facility will not be quite half full once the two new companies are in place.</p><p>"We are still working with some others," Williams said. "We had one that did not work out because of insurance. That is one of the challenges in an incubator space like this. You have to have some level of compatibility between your tenants because they are occupying, in essence, the same building."</p><p>The facility was partially funded by a $2.6 million base grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce.&nbsp;The Patterson Family Foundation and Robert E. and Patrica Schmidt Foundation each contributed $500,000 to the project. The Innovation Center in Norton bridged the gap with a $750,000 interest-free loan.</p><p>Williams emphasized that the city or county did not fund the Microfactory and is not owned by either.</p><p>"The city and county haven't invested a dime," Williams said. "They won't invest a dime in this structure. ... There have been no local tax dollars invested in this project.</p><p>"The purpose of it is to, in the long term, develop a space where we can generate and build small manufacturers and have them grow," he said. "I struggle because I see negative comments on social media. I struggle to see that this is ever a bad thing. We are a not-for-profit organization.</p><p>"We own this space to provide space for prospective tenants who are ultimately employing people and growing their businesses. It costs the local taxpayers nothing, and it's going to pay dividends to this community for the next 50 to 100 years."</p><p>Williams said he did not see anything negative about the project, but he has seen some misunderstandings about the project among community members.</p><p>Grow Hays is paying property taxes on the building, which will be allocated to the local school capital outlay fund.</p><p>"We are offering the space at a small fraction of what it would cost a small manufacturer to build a building or locate elsewhere," Williams said.</p><p>He said the idea is that a manufacturer starts in the Microfactory. Then, after three to five years, it grows large enough to move into its own facility.</p><p>"It's an annuity that will continue to pay dividends to this community for a long, long time," Williams said.</p><p>With an unemployment rate of about 2.7%, Hays lacks the workforce to recruit a large manufacturer.&nbsp;</p><p>"We have to take this approach of starting small and building new organizations through entrepreneurship and growth and organic growth as opposed to the smoke-stack business moving in and operating here," Williams said.</p><p>Business owners&nbsp;interested in renting space in the Microfactory can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a>&nbsp;at 785-628-3102 to speak with David Clingan, director of recruitment and retention.</p>

🎙 Microfactory in Hays announces first two tenants

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Bryan VonFeldt, treasurer of The Bricks board of directors about the Downtown Hays Market and the upcoming Bazaar on the Bricks.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'The Bricks' board treasurer Bryan VonFeldt" 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=6ucwj-18f23ed-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><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Bryan VonFeldt, treasurer of The Bricks board of directors about the Downtown Hays Market and the upcoming Bazaar on the Bricks.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: 'The Bricks' board treasurer on Downtown Market, Bazaar on Bricks

<i>Morning Blend show host Jeff Leiker interviews the Spin Doctors prior to their performance at 9:30 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i>

<a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Learn more about the festival at&nbsp;https://wildwestfestival.com/.</a>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749222209289.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Spin Doctors Interview" 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=s9xnd-18f57f3-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><p><i>Morning Blend show host Jeff Leiker interviews the Spin Doctors prior to their performance at 9:30 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i></p><p><a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Learn more about the festival at&nbsp;https://wildwestfestival.com/.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Spin Doctors to perform at tonight's Wild West Festival

<i>Morning Bull show host Dustin Armbruster interviews Drew Baldridge prior to his performance at 9:30 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749222209289.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Drew Baldrige Interview" 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=bmsm5-18f5455-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>
You</div><p><i>Morning Bull show host Dustin Armbruster interviews Drew Baldridge prior to his performance at 9:30 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i></p><p><a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Learn more about the festival at&nbsp;https://wildwestfestival.com/.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Drew Baldridge to perform at tonight's Wild West Festival

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.</i>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661448577852.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Sen. Jerry Moran" 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=egx63-18f541d-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><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Senator Moran on the Big Beautiful Bill

<i>Morning Bull show host Dustin Armbruster interviews Walker Montgomery prior to his performance at 7 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i>

<div><iframe title="Walker Montgomery Wild West Festival Interview" 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=wuhem-18f2409-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><p><i>Morning Bull show host Dustin Armbruster interviews Walker Montgomery prior to his performance at 7 tonight at the Wild West Festival in Municipal Park in Hays.</i></p><p><a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Learn more about the festival at&nbsp;https://wildwestfestival.com/.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Walker Montgomery to perform at tonight's Wild West Festival

Join Eagle Radio of Hays on this holiday trip to Branson, Missouri.

11:30 a.m. Casino or shopping at Legends and lunch

6 p.m. Lambert’s Cafe - dinner and dessert

10 a.m.--"Down Home Country Show" and lunch

5:30 p.m.--Heroes Taste &amp; Taps plated dinner

3:30 p.m.--"David" at the Sight and Sound Theater

7:30 p.m.--"A Christmas Story" dinner and show

8 a.m. Leave Branson and travel home with a few favorite stops and lunch along the way.

We will be staying at the beautiful Stone Castle in Branson, Missouri. It is a wonderful hotel with great amenities, such as a full hot breakfast daily, indoor corridors, two indoor pools and spas, mini fridge, and much more. 

This trip includes three nights lodging, round-trip bus transportation, breakfast at hotel, ALL meals, six shows or activities, all taxes, bus driver tip, and all gratuities on the above items.

Lunch is on your own each day on the trip. All times will be updated at the time of the trip. Lodging, menus, shows and itineraries are subject to change due to reasons beyond our control.

Single $1,295, double $1,195, triple $1,155 and $1,125 quad occupancy.

All the above times are starting show times.

All times will be updated at the time of the trip for when to load the bus.

<h2>Radio of Hays: Branson 2025</h2><p>November 9-12, 2025</p><p>Join Eagle Radio of Hays on this holiday trip to Branson, Missouri.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745357466081.jpeg" alt=""A Christmas Story"&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>"A Christmas Story"&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025</h2><p>TBA Leave Hays</p><p>11:30 a.m. Casino or shopping at Legends and lunch</p><p>6 p.m. Lambert’s Cafe - dinner and dessert</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745357353400.jpeg" alt=""David" Sight &amp; Sound theater.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>"David" Sight &amp; Sound theater.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Monday, Nov. 10, 2025</h2><p>10 a.m.--"Down Home Country Show" and lunch</p><p>2 p.m.--"Hughes Brothers Christmas" Show</p><p>5:30 p.m.--Heroes Taste &amp; Taps plated dinner</p><p>7:30 p.m.--"Dean-Z Christmas Show"</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745357382117.jpeg" alt="Dean Z.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Dean Z.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025</h2><p>9 a.m.--Branson Landing or Tanger Outlet</p><p>Lunch at Pickin’ Porch Deli</p><p>Branson Craft Mall</p><p>3:30 p.m.--"David" at the Sight and Sound Theater</p><p>7:30 p.m.--"A Christmas Story" dinner and show</p><p>After Show--Lights of Joy</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745357405699.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Wednesday, November 12, 2025</h2><p>8 a.m. Leave Branson and travel home with a few favorite stops and lunch along the way.</p><p>Arrive back in Hays at about 7 p.m.</p><p>We will be staying at the beautiful Stone Castle in Branson, Missouri. It is a wonderful hotel with great amenities, such as a full hot breakfast daily, indoor corridors, two indoor pools and spas, mini fridge, and much more. </p><p>This trip includes three nights lodging, round-trip bus transportation, breakfast at hotel, ALL meals, six shows or activities, all taxes, bus driver tip, and all gratuities on the above items.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745357428432.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Lunch is on your own each day on the trip. All times will be updated at the time of the trip. Lodging, menus, shows and itineraries are subject to change due to reasons beyond our control.</p><p>Single $1,295, double $1,195, triple $1,155 and $1,125 quad occupancy.</p><p>All the above times are starting show times.</p><p>All times will be updated at the time of the trip for when to load the bus.</p>

Reserve your seats today for Radio of Hays: Branson 2025

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about snacking with Jessica Phelan, asst. professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Is it a snack or is it a meal?" 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=p7zb4-18eb629-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><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about snacking with Jessica Phelan, asst. professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Is it a snack or is it a meal?

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Hays city commissioners approved more steps Thursday in the process for two new planned housing developments.

A public hearing was conducted regarding the rehabilitation of the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. Hays developer Tim Speno, One Twenty Seven Investments LLC, wants to construct three Airbnb apartments.&nbsp;

Commissioners approved a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant application to the Kansas Department of Commerce on Speno's behalf. There is no financial obligation to the city.

Also approved were resolutions certifying legal authority and declaring a building blighted.

A district rezoning request was approved for 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to residential multi-family. Aaron Dreher of AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to build housing  designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully&nbsp;furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.

Three revisions to the Unified Development Code were approved, which govern accessory structures,&nbsp;such as gazebos or garden sheds.

Proposed are the elimination of&nbsp;<br>• Side and rear setbacks for accessory structures 120 square feet and smaller<br>• Maximum number of two accessory structures that can be placed on a single parcel&nbsp;<br>• Restrictions on the size of accessory structures in agriculture districts, which are on the edge of town.

Commissioners Reese Barrick and Alaina Cunningham were absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263247761.png" alt="Hays developer Tim Speno plans to rehabilitate the second floor of 1012 Main into Airbnb rental units. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Hays developer Tim Speno plans to rehabilitate the second floor of 1012 Main into Airbnb rental units. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays City commission approves next steps in new housing" 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=m3jva-18ed263-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><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Hays city commissioners approved more steps Thursday in the process for two new planned housing developments.</p><p>A public hearing was conducted regarding the rehabilitation of the second floor of the building at 1012 Main St. Hays developer Tim Speno, One Twenty Seven Investments LLC, wants to construct three Airbnb apartments.&nbsp;</p><p>Commissioners approved a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant application to the Kansas Department of Commerce on Speno's behalf. There is no financial obligation to the city.</p><p>Also approved were resolutions certifying legal authority and declaring a building blighted.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747325020538.png" alt="2707 Canal Blvd. City of Hays image" />
                        <figcaption>2707 Canal Blvd. City of Hays image</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>A district rezoning request was approved for 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to residential multi-family. Aaron Dreher of AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to build housing  designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully&nbsp;furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.</p><p>Three revisions to the Unified Development Code were approved, which govern accessory structures,&nbsp;such as gazebos or garden sheds.</p><p>Proposed are the elimination of&nbsp;<br>• Side and rear setbacks for accessory structures 120 square feet and smaller<br>• Maximum number of two accessory structures that can be placed on a single parcel&nbsp;<br>• Restrictions on the size of accessory structures in agriculture districts, which are on the edge of town.</p><p>Commissioners Reese Barrick and Alaina Cunningham were absent from the meeting.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

🎙 Hays City commission approves next steps in new housing

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the 2025 area wheat crop and harvest with Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District agriculture agent</i>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Local wheat harvest update" 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=3b6dc-18e6fb2-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><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the 2025 area wheat crop and harvest with Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District agriculture agent</i>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Local wheat harvest update

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;

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<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays -  High Plains Mental Health - Crisis Intervention Center" 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=3k5mq-18e19ee-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><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p>Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.</p>

 🎙Post Podcast: Williams on Crisis Intervention Center in Hays

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with nurse practitioner Babe Breit about her advanced practice on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Learn more about her practice on her website.</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Breit Advanced Practice Clinic" 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=a9f8h-18e046e-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><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with nurse practitioner Babe Breit about her advanced practice on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p><a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Learn more about her practice on her website.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast-Breit Advanced Practice Clinic

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with James Bowden on the new Kernza wheat variety that was developed in Kansas.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4QTsxCp1QbE?si=RGRJXWET7f5HPrA6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with James Bowden on the new Kernza wheat variety that was developed in Kansas.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: James Bowden on new wheat variety

The construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.

Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.

Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.

Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.

The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.

The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.

Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.

The change orders are still well within the $1 million contingency fund established for the project. With the latest change orders that have been approved, more than $300,000 remains in the high school project's contingency fund, with the project nearing completion.

The change order included modifications to the track and field layout. Superintendent Ron Wilson said after a meeting with coaches, it was decided there wasn't enough room between the pole vault and high jump areas, so the designers moved the pole vault area.

There were similar concerns about the two discus rings being too close together. The change order also included some changes to the sidewalks in the softball and baseball areas.

The board did not approve the $38,000 change order for murals inside the high school.

Weddle said one of these murals in the auxiliary gym is complete. He said Nabholz moved forward with the painting to keep the project on schedule.

He said the murals were not included in the original budget because the designers and the district were undecided about their placement until the project was under construction.

Because the school board did not approve that change order, Nabholz will be responsible for the work that has already been done.

Board member Derek Yarmer said he saw the murals as an unneeded expense.

Yarmer said he thought the district should dedicate the $38,000 to other buildings in the district.

Board President Curt Vainar and Vice President Jayme Goetz said the district could revisit the murals once all of the other bond projects are complete.

Board member Ruth Ruder said, "We are going to have this big, beautiful high school and we're not going to see these murals for a year or two or five years."

Board member Ken Brooks noted the murals will cost more if they are delayed.

He added, "We're cheating them out of money."

He said that is not the way to treat a company that provides good work for the district.

Goetz said, "That's the risk that's involved."

Ruder noted Roosevelt had murals and logos in its new addition. She emphasized that branding is important.

Yarmer argued spending the $38,000 on the murals was going to prevent bathrooms from being repaired in other buildings.

Brooks said no, it was not. The funds for the murals were well within the contingency fund for the high school.

Yarmer said, "We can't the way we are spending money."

The motion to approve the change orders without the murals passed on a vote of 4-3, with Brooks, Ruder and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp voting against.

Brooks asked again after the vote what the district was going to do to compensate Nabholz for the mural that had already been completed.

Weddle said Nabholz would not charge the district for the completed mural.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750190815339.png" alt="The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>The turf has been laid for the new Hays High School football field. The school is scheduled to open in August, in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Hays High on schedule, budget, but without murals" 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=8s8a3-18dd50f-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>
Podbean Player
</div><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The construction of the new Hays High School is on budget and on schedule to open in August at the start of the school year.</p><p>Nabholz Construction provided an update on the construction project and presented information about a proposed change order for the high school.</p><p>Turf has been laid on the athletic fields. Flooring is almost complete in the two gyms, and work on the bleachers is ongoing.</p><p>Workers are completing the punch list on areas A and B of the high school. This includes the science labs.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191181442.png" alt="Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Newly turfed Hays High soccer field.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191243670.png" alt="Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Hays High football field. The home bleachers and atheltic wing can be seen on the right. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The west wing, which includes parts A and B, the center atrium (area C) and the east wing (areas D and E), is set to be substantially complete by July 7.</p><p>The rest of the project is scheduled to be substantially complete by Aug. 13.</p><h2>High school change order</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191348983.png" alt="Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund." />
                        <figcaption>Complete bond projects budget. The school board did not approved $38,000 for murals at Hays High School in the latest change order for the project. More than $300,000 remains in the Hays High School contingency fund.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Dylan Weddle, Nabholz project manager, presented the board with $111,062 in change orders for the Hays High project at the school board meeting Monday night.</p><p>The change orders are still well within the $1 million contingency fund established for the project. With the latest change orders that have been approved, more than $300,000 remains in the high school project's contingency fund, with the project nearing completion.</p><p>The change order included modifications to the track and field layout. Superintendent Ron Wilson said after a meeting with coaches, it was decided there wasn't enough room between the pole vault and high jump areas, so the designers moved the pole vault area.</p><p>There were similar concerns about the two discus rings being too close together. The change order also included some changes to the sidewalks in the softball and baseball areas.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191639731.png" alt="Main gym. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Main gym. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191658330.png" alt="The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>The school board voted&nbsp; Monday to not pay for a change order for murals for the new Hays High School. This mural in the auxillary gym was already completed, and Nabholz Construction will have to eat the cost of the painting. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The board did not approve the $38,000 change order for murals inside the high school.</p><p>Weddle said one of these murals in the auxiliary gym is complete. He said Nabholz moved forward with the painting to keep the project on schedule.</p><p>He said the murals were not included in the original budget because the designers and the district were undecided about their placement until the project was under construction.</p><p>Because the school board did not approve that change order, Nabholz will be responsible for the work that has already been done.</p><p>Board member Derek Yarmer said he saw the murals as an unneeded expense.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191851678.png" alt="The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos" />
                        <figcaption>The entrances for the new high school have been completed. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Yarmer said he thought the district should dedicate the $38,000 to other buildings in the district.</p><p>Board President Curt Vainar and Vice President Jayme Goetz said the district could revisit the murals once all of the other bond projects are complete.</p><p>Board member Ruth Ruder said, "We are going to have this big, beautiful high school and we're not going to see these murals for a year or two or five years."</p><p>Board member Ken Brooks noted the murals will cost more if they are delayed.</p><p>He added, "We're cheating them out of money."</p><p>He said that is not the way to treat a company that provides good work for the district.</p><p>Goetz said, "That's the risk that's involved."</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750191921975.png" alt="Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos" />
                        <figcaption>Academic areas in the new high school are nearing completion. On the left is a special education classroom. On the right is a science classroom. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Ruder noted Roosevelt had murals and logos in its new addition. She emphasized that branding is important.</p><p>Yarmer argued spending the $38,000 on the murals was going to prevent bathrooms from being repaired in other buildings.</p><p>Brooks said no, it was not. The funds for the murals were well within the contingency fund for the high school.</p><p>"We can have both," Brooks said.</p><p>Yarmer said, "We can't the way we are spending money."</p><p>The motion to approve the change orders without the murals passed on a vote of 4-3, with Brooks, Ruder and Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp voting against.</p><p>Brooks asked again after the vote what the district was going to do to compensate Nabholz for the mural that had already been completed.</p><p>Yarmer said, "It's free."</p><p>Weddle said Nabholz would not charge the district for the completed mural.</p>

Hays High proceeds on schedule, budget but without murals

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Karissa Frasier about her new position as Community Health Worker with the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Ellis County.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Meet the new Community Health Worker for the Cottonwood Extension District" 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=c24cx-18d3283-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><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Karissa Frasier about her new position as Community Health Worker with the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Ellis County.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Meet new Community Health Worker for Cottonwood Extension District

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about St. John's Place in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - St. John's Place" 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=cjdnk-18d770f-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>
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 </div><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about St. John's Place in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p>Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses St. John's Place in Victoria

The Hays City Commission on Thursday approved a $5.9 million contract with PWC to renovate the former Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, into a new police/municipal court facility.

PWC, Hays, was awarded the design-build contract for a guaranteed maximum price. The project will provide the police station with more than twice the operational space it has. The city currently rents space from the county. 

The new facility will give the city room for growth. The space should be adequate for about 20 years. If the city needs to expand further, it could build in the lot's courtyard, which would extend the building's life by another 30 years.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs lauded the project, saying it is saving taxpayers about $4.5 million compared to building a new facility from the ground up.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said, "When we started the project, we wanted to do it right. We wanted to have space for future growth and keep on budget."

"We are very happy with where we are at," he said of the project.

Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main, which is expected to be open by Sept. 1.

The commission approved new cemetery fees, with most doubling in price.

Jeff Boyle, director of Parks, said the fees had not been updated in about 20 years. Most of the fees were below the cost of the services.

The proposed prices will place the city near the middle of the pack in terms of other Kansas communities of the same size.

However, Boyle said the fees are still only at about a break-even point. He said the cemetery is still operating at a deficit.

The new fee structure will bring the average burial and headstone placement cost to $1,040.

Jacobs said the city needs to continue reviewing fees for all departments so the community is not faced with such significant increases.

The other commissioners agreed, saying they appreciated the review, but hoped fee increases could be more gradual in the future.

The city commission approved a low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine.

The old sign was built to last eight years and lasted 16, said Melissa Dixon, CVB executive director. The deteriorated sign, installed in 2007, has been dark for two years. Dixon said the message software is no longer supported.

Commercial Sign, Hays, was the low bidder at $44,773.

About 18,000 vehicles per day pass through the intersection of 27th and Vine streets.

Dixon said the sign was the first impression Hays gave most visitors.

Jacobs said it is a great way to tell the Hays story.

The city will pay a 30% increase in the premium for its 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;

Kim Rupp, finance director, said the city has experienced major claims from wind and hail over the last few years, which have driven up the cost of insurance.

The city's property was recently revalued, which also contributed to the increase.

Rupp said the staff intends to actively pursue the remarketing process for the renewal in 2026-2027, including an examination of hybrid coverage and self-funding.

The commission was slated to discuss backyard chickens during its next work session, but has pushed that agenda item into July to allow all of the commission members to be present.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749834574599.png" alt="Hays Police Station. Courtesy image" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Police Station. Courtesy image</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: City commission recap" 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=pghim-18d7793-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>
Podbean Player
 </div><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The Hays City Commission on Thursday approved a $5.9 million contract with PWC to renovate the former Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, into a new police/municipal court facility.</p><p>PWC, Hays, was awarded the design-build contract for a guaranteed maximum price. The project will provide the police station with more than twice the operational space it has. The city currently rents space from the county. </p><p>The new facility will give the city room for growth. The space should be adequate for about 20 years. If the city needs to expand further, it could build in the lot's courtyard, which would extend the building's life by another 30 years.</p><p>Mayor Sandy Jacobs lauded the project, saying it is saving taxpayers about $4.5 million compared to building a new facility from the ground up.</p><p>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said, "When we started the project, we wanted to do it right. We wanted to have space for future growth and keep on budget."</p><p>"We are very happy with where we are at," he said of the project.</p><p>Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main, which is expected to be open by Sept. 1.</p><h2>Cemetery fees</h2><p>The commission approved new cemetery fees, with most doubling in price.</p><p>Jeff Boyle, director of Parks, said the fees had not been updated in about 20 years. Most of the fees were below the cost of the services.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749652979894.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749653001784.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The proposed prices will place the city near the middle of the pack in terms of other Kansas communities of the same size.</p><p>However, Boyle said the fees are still only at about a break-even point. He said the cemetery is still operating at a deficit.</p><p>The new fee structure will bring the average burial and headstone placement cost to $1,040.</p><p>Jacobs said the city needs to continue reviewing fees for all departments so the community is not faced with such significant increases.</p><p>The other commissioners agreed, saying they appreciated the review, but hoped fee increases could be more gradual in the future.</p><h2>Welcome sign</h2><p>The city commission approved a low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine.</p><p>The old sign was built to last eight years and lasted 16, said Melissa Dixon, CVB executive director. The deteriorated sign, installed in 2007, has been dark for two years. Dixon said the message software is no longer supported.</p><p>Commercial Sign, Hays, was the low bidder at $44,773.</p><p>About 18,000 vehicles per day pass through the intersection of 27th and Vine streets.</p><p>Dixon said the sign was the first impression Hays gave most visitors.</p><p>Jacobs said it is a great way to tell the Hays story.</p><h2>Insurance</h2><p>The city will pay a 30% increase in the premium for its 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;</p><p>Kim Rupp, finance director, said the city has experienced major claims from wind and hail over the last few years, which have driven up the cost of insurance.</p><p>The city's property was recently revalued, which also contributed to the increase.</p><p>Rupp said the staff intends to actively pursue the remarketing process for the renewal in 2026-2027, including an examination of hybrid coverage and self-funding.</p><h2>Chickens</h2><p>The commission was slated to discuss backyard chickens during its next work session, but has pushed that agenda item into July to allow all of the commission members to be present.</p>

🎙 City commission approves $5.9 million contract for Hays police/court facility

<i>The "No Bummer Summer Challenge" is underway and youth in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties can enjoy it thanks to the Heartland Community Foundation.</i>

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, executive director.</i>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d9ba60a-5dde-40be-8cf1-70bdffa7e06e">SEE MORE HERE: Heartland Launched 'No Bummer Summer' challenges for teen and kids across Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties</a>

Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'No Bummer Summer Challenge'" 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=6aukr-18d1994-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><p><i>The "No Bummer Summer Challenge" is underway and youth in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties can enjoy it thanks to the Heartland Community Foundation.</i></p><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Sara Meitner, executive director.</i></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d9ba60a-5dde-40be-8cf1-70bdffa7e06e">SEE MORE HERE: Heartland Launched 'No Bummer Summer' challenges for teen and kids across Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties</a></p><p>Flyers with full challenge lists are available on the Heartland Community Foundation’s Facebook page, online at&nbsp;<a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or stop by a local HCF office.</p>

🎙Post Podcast: 'No Bummer Summer Challenge'

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wThfInJo1G4?si=G3Nd_OswCAXvGIqf" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Travel on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad

<i>It's summer time at Fort Hays State University, and the campus is filled with young campers.</i>

<i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the Science and Mathematics Education Institute with Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the FHSU College of Education, and Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason discusses the 78th year of the High Plains Band Camp.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Summer camps at Fort Hays State University" 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=cnwvd-18cb550-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><p><i>It's summer time at Fort Hays State University, and the campus is filled with young campers.</i></p><p><i>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the Science and Mathematics Education Institute with Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the FHSU College of Education, and Chief Communications Officer Scott Cason discusses the 78th year of the High Plains Band Camp.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer camps at Fort Hays State University

<b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Behind the secured doors of the Ellis County Jail, day-to-day life runs on routine, respect and a commitment to safety, according to an Ellis County detention lieutenant.

Ellis County Detention Lt. Dustin Barnes said the 72-bed jail in the center of Hays operates differently than many people might assume.

"It's not like you see on TV. Especially nowadays. It's not throwing them in the cell and throwing away the keys," Barnes said.

The jail houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing and serving short-term sentences. Staff also manage inmate transports to the Kansas Department of Corrections when required and are responsible for access to health care within the facility.

Officers rotate through day, evening and night shifts, handling responsibilities ranging from court scheduling to housekeeping. Barnes said the jail has 18 detention officers, with someone always keeping watch.

"At any given time, we have at least three on staff," Barnes said. "Always a minimum of three as one person has to sit at the control center and maintain coverage of cameras, doors and intercoms."

Safety measures include a multi-door security system and officers equipped with tasers. Barnes said detention officers do not carry the same gear as patrol officers as a precaution.

"Guns are not allowed in the detention center just for the off chance that someone gets hold of one of them," he said. "We also don't use pepper spray on the jail floor. ... We would pretty much be taking out an entire pod if we used it."

At a recent <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0afd692a-c0a3-4262-b7a9-87337cdeaada">Ellis County Commission meeting</a>, Sheriff Scott Braun received approval to purchase 16 stab-proof vests for detention officers. Barnes said the department had applied for a grant to get them.

Barnes said the booking process involves bringing arrestees through a secure garage, moving them into a pre-booking room, and collecting and storing their personal belongings.

Within the two-floor jail, inmates are separated based on behavior, with dormitory-style areas reserved for lower-level offenders who may even show courtesy to officers despite the circumstances.

"They're human beings. They've made a mistake, are paying their debt to society and are going through their court proceedings. It's sort of a give-and-take respect sort of thing," Barnes said.

The county jail works with outside organizations such as High Plains Mental Health to provide care for inmates with mental health needs.

Barnes has worked in the county jail for six years. He said detention officer training includes a one-week jail academy in Hutchinson and 20 hours of continuing online education. Officers can request additional training if they choose.

You can view the Ellis County Jail booking logs posted weekly <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">here</a>.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733777655657.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
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</div><p><b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Behind the secured doors of the Ellis County Jail, day-to-day life runs on routine, respect and a commitment to safety, according to an Ellis County detention lieutenant.</p><p>Ellis County Detention Lt. Dustin Barnes said the 72-bed jail in the center of Hays operates differently than many people might assume.</p><p>"It's not like you see on TV. Especially nowadays. It's not throwing them in the cell and throwing away the keys," Barnes said.</p><p>The jail houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing and serving short-term sentences. Staff also manage inmate transports to the Kansas Department of Corrections when required and are responsible for access to health care within the facility.</p><p>Officers rotate through day, evening and night shifts, handling responsibilities ranging from court scheduling to housekeeping. Barnes said the jail has 18 detention officers, with someone always keeping watch.</p><p>"At any given time, we have at least three on staff," Barnes said. "Always a minimum of three as one person has to sit at the control center and maintain coverage of cameras, doors and intercoms."</p><p>Safety measures include a multi-door security system and officers equipped with tasers. Barnes said detention officers do not carry the same gear as patrol officers as a precaution.</p><p>"Guns are not allowed in the detention center just for the off chance that someone gets hold of one of them," he said. "We also don't use pepper spray on the jail floor. ... We would pretty much be taking out an entire pod if we used it."</p><p>At a recent <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0afd692a-c0a3-4262-b7a9-87337cdeaada">Ellis County Commission meeting</a>, Sheriff Scott Braun received approval to purchase 16 stab-proof vests for detention officers. Barnes said the department had applied for a grant to get them.</p><p>Barnes said the booking process involves bringing arrestees through a secure garage, moving them into a pre-booking room, and collecting and storing their personal belongings.</p><p>Within the two-floor jail, inmates are separated based on behavior, with dormitory-style areas reserved for lower-level offenders who may even show courtesy to officers despite the circumstances.</p><p>"They're human beings. They've made a mistake, are paying their debt to society and are going through their court proceedings. It's sort of a give-and-take respect sort of thing," Barnes said.</p><p>The county jail works with outside organizations such as High Plains Mental Health to provide care for inmates with mental health needs.</p><p>Barnes has worked in the county jail for six years. He said detention officer training includes a one-week jail academy in Hutchinson and 20 hours of continuing online education. Officers can request additional training if they choose.</p><p>You can view the Ellis County Jail booking logs posted weekly <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">here</a>.</p>

🎙 Lieutenant shares daily operations of Ellis County Jail

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