Fort Hays State University has a new vice-president for economic and workforce placement.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Ben Shears and Tisa Mason, FHSU president.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ben Shears, new FHSU vice-president for economic and workforce placement" 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=492c5-192931f-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>Fort Hays State University has a new vice-president for economic and workforce placement.On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Ben Shears and Tisa Mason, FHSU president.

🎙Post Podcast: Ben Shears, new FHSU vice-president for economic, workforce placement

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The Bricks in downtown Hays has a new executive director. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Lee Ann June and Ben Dome, operations director.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751574667181.jpeg" alt="Lee Ann June. Photo courtesy of The Bricks in Downtown Hays" />
 <figcaption>Lee Ann June. Photo courtesy of The Bricks in Downtown Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: New executive director of The Bricks Lee Ann June" 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=hct6t-19261f1-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>The Bricks in downtown Hays has a new executive director. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Lee Ann June and Ben Dome, operations director.

🎙Post Podcast: New executive director of The Bricks Lee Ann June

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Ellis County Undersheriff Tim Deines about the typical duties of a sheriff's deputy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Duties of a deputy with Ellis Co. Undersheriff Tim Deines" 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=tp4z3-19277e7-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Ellis County Undersheriff Tim Deines about the typical duties of a sheriff's deputy.

🎙Post Podcast: A deputy's duties explained by Ellis Co. Undersheriff Tim Deines

Will the new Hays High School open in time for the first day of school on Aug. 20?

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Dustin Armbruster talks with Shawn Henderson, Hays High principal about the new USD&nbsp;489 building.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Will the new Hays High School open in time for the first day of classes?" 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=zubxj-192ad00-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>Will the new Hays High School open in time for the first day of school on Aug. 20?On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Dustin Armbruster talks with Shawn Henderson, Hays High principal about the new USD&nbsp;489 building.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Will Hays High School open in time for the first day of classes?

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman with teacher Morgan Berkgren about the national winners of the KidWind Challenge from schools in Oakley.&nbsp;

<div><iframe width="843" height="240" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J5dqPRJ94ug" title="Forward Ever Morgan Berkgren" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman with teacher Morgan Berkgren about the national winners of the KidWind Challenge from schools in Oakley.&nbsp;

🎤Forward Ever: National KidWind Challenge winners from Oakley

On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Gene Stramel about Medicare supplemental and drug plans and an upcoming free seminar on those plans offered by Insurance Planning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732570055257.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: IPI Medicare" 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=w3ag9-19248ab-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Gene Stramel about Medicare supplemental and drug plans and an upcoming free seminar on those plans offered by Insurance Planning.

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning on Medicare supplements, drug plans

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center, which will be opening soon in Hays, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is set to open this month.

Grow Hays received its occupancy permit last week.&nbsp;

Bright Minds will be opening its child care facility on the north side of the building, and the senior center will be moving into south side of the building before the end of the month.

The center area of the building is a community room that will be available to rent through Grow Hays. Call 785-628-3102&nbsp;for more information.

Grow Hays will host an official ribbon cutting at 9 a.m. Friday,&nbsp; Aug 29.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754266840678.jpeg" alt="The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is complete. An official ribbon cutting will be Aug. 29. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is complete. An official ribbon cutting will be Aug. 29. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</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=95ks2-1920048-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>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center, which will be opening soon in Hays, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754266948112.jpeg" alt="A room in the child care center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A room in the child care center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center is set to open this month.Grow Hays received its occupancy permit last week.&nbsp;Bright Minds will be opening its child care facility on the north side of the building, and the senior center will be moving into south side of the building before the end of the month.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267084189.jpeg" alt="The child care wing of the community center has a storm shelter that will accommodate 300 people. The windows have reinforced steel doors. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The child care wing of the community center has a storm shelter that will accommodate 300 people. The windows have reinforced steel doors. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The center area of the building is a community room that will be available to rent through Grow Hays. Call 785-628-3102&nbsp;for more information.Grow Hays will host an official ribbon cutting at 9 a.m. Friday,&nbsp; Aug 29.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267262237.jpeg" alt="One of the child care rooms in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the child care rooms in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267375754.jpeg" alt="Washing machine in the new child care center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Washing machine in the new child care center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267457163.jpeg" alt="A conference room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. The space is available to rent by community members. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A conference room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. The space is available to rent by community members. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267523529.jpeg" alt="The community room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. This large open room is available to rent through Grow Hays. It has multiple TVs for presentations.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The community room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. This large open room is available to rent through Grow Hays. It has multiple TVs for presentations.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267694878.jpeg" alt="New senior center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New senior center in the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267748911.jpeg" alt="A commercial kitchen is available for use by the senior center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A commercial kitchen is available for use by the senior center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754267836942.jpeg" alt="The sun room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center looks out onto the child care's playground. The community center was designed to allow intergenerational interactions between seniors and children.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The sun room in the new Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center looks out onto the child care's playground. The community center was designed to allow intergenerational interactions between seniors and children.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754268391734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Please submit your questions for Doug Williams for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

🎙 Schmidt Community Center complete, ribbon cutting set for Aug. 29

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Greg Bollella about the Kansas swiftwater rescue team's work in providing aid during the recent Texas floods.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/heyYTnnSWk4?si=8sPdf2R-xpYIf0XG" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Greg Bollella about the Kansas swiftwater rescue team's work in providing aid during the recent Texas floods.

🎤 Forward Ever: Greg Bollella: Kansan swfitwater rescue in Texas

Are you looking for expert care for your skin? At Breit Advanced Practice Clinic, we offer a range of minor dermatology procedures to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

From mole removals to skin tag treatments, our experienced practitioners are here to help.

Visit us today and experience the best in minor dermatological care.

Call us at 785-656-6363 or visit our website at <a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Breitclinic.com</a> &nbsp;to book your appointment now!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687377204244.jpeg" alt="Babe Breit" />
 <figcaption>Babe Breit</figcaption>
 </figure>Breit Advanced Practice ClinicYour Skin, Our Priority<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Breit Advanced Practice Clinic, Your Skin, Our Priority" 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=x4wyp-191e4c4-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>Are you looking for expert care for your skin? At Breit Advanced Practice Clinic, we offer a range of minor dermatology procedures to keep your skin healthy and glowing.From mole removals to skin tag treatments, our experienced practitioners are here to help.Visit us today and experience the best in minor dermatological care.Call us at 785-656-6363 or visit our website at <a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Breitclinic.com</a> &nbsp;to book your appointment now!

🎙 Sponsored: Breit Advanced Practice Clinic, Your Skin, Our Priority

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about housing on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="post podcast new logo (mobile).jpg" />
 <figcaption>post podcast new logo (mobile).jpg</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=ratam-19157db-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>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about housing on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays on housing

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The latest analysis of the housing market in Hays by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, shows a need for new living units in all categories.

A housing study is required by state statute before the economic incentive tool, Reinvestment Housing Incentive District, can be used. The city has six such incentive district projects underway.

City commissioners had a robust, hour-long discussion about housing during their meeting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We really are doing good things," said Alaina Cunningham, commissioner. "There's still obstacles to overcome, and obviously, the data is showing we still have housing needs.&nbsp;

"Affordability is going to be a different definition for all of us. ... But I really feel as a whole, we are trying to look at all the options and making things affordable and trying to encourage development, mostly private development," Cunningham said.&nbsp;

Vice Mayor Mason Ruder pointed out the slowdown and even elimination of state and federal incentives for housing projects, particularly low-income developments.&nbsp;

"We sometimes get railroaded by state and federal cuts ... for programs that are supposed to help solve some of these problems," Ruder said. 

"Instead of saying we're done, we're here discussing different avenues we can take without throwing straight cash at it because ... we like having money in reserves," he said.

The city plans for a 1% annual population growth rate, which Doug Williams, Grow Hays&nbsp;executive director, called "aggressive."&nbsp;An average annual construction of 95 housing units is required to support a 1% growth rate. 

Details of the housing report showed the mix of housing has shifted&nbsp;from single-family and duplex to&nbsp;single-family and multi-family over the past three years.&nbsp;The greatest need is for households making less than $25,000&nbsp; and more than $75,000 annually. 

The shortage of housing is likely to persist as there are more job openings than available units. The report concluded that due to the lack of private market response to produce a variety of units, the city and its partners will need to provide incentives and share risk in the production and maintenance of housing.&nbsp;

"It takes us, the community at large, current businesses and businesses looking at us, people moving in and people that have lived here forever. ... that's how we get things done. ...", Ruder said.

The 2025 Hays housing study is available on the city's <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07242025-1561">website</a>.&nbsp;

In other business, a public hearing was conducted with no comment for a $300,000 state Community Development Block Grant request. 

Hays developer Tim Speno, One Twenty Seven Investments, plans to rehabilitate the second floor of the 100-year-old building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb rental units.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There is no financial obligation to the city.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753450663457.png" alt="Single family home in Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Single family home in Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe latest analysis of the housing market in Hays by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, shows a need for new living units in all categories.A housing study is required by state statute before the economic incentive tool, Reinvestment Housing Incentive District, can be used. The city has six such incentive district projects underway.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: New Hays housing study is available; more living units of all types needed" 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=bwxbf-19157c4-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>City commissioners had a robust, hour-long discussion about housing during their meeting Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We really are doing good things," said Alaina Cunningham, commissioner. "There's still obstacles to overcome, and obviously, the data is showing we still have housing needs.&nbsp;"Affordability is going to be a different definition for all of us. ... But I really feel as a whole, we are trying to look at all the options and making things affordable and trying to encourage development, mostly private development," Cunningham said.&nbsp;Vice Mayor Mason Ruder pointed out the slowdown and even elimination of state and federal incentives for housing projects, particularly low-income developments.&nbsp;"We sometimes get railroaded by state and federal cuts ... for programs that are supposed to help solve some of these problems," Ruder said. "Instead of saying we're done, we're here discussing different avenues we can take without throwing straight cash at it because ... we like having money in reserves," he said.The city plans for a 1% annual population growth rate, which Doug Williams, Grow Hays&nbsp;executive director, called "aggressive."&nbsp;An average annual construction of 95 housing units is required to support a 1% growth rate. Details of the housing report showed the mix of housing has shifted&nbsp;from single-family and duplex to&nbsp;single-family and multi-family over the past three years.&nbsp;The greatest need is for households making less than $25,000&nbsp; and more than $75,000 annually. The shortage of housing is likely to persist as there are more job openings than available units. The report concluded that due to the lack of private market response to produce a variety of units, the city and its partners will need to provide incentives and share risk in the production and maintenance of housing.&nbsp;"It takes us, the community at large, current businesses and businesses looking at us, people moving in and people that have lived here forever. ... that's how we get things done. ...", Ruder said.The 2025 Hays housing study is available on the city's <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07242025-1561">website</a>.&nbsp;In other business, a public hearing was conducted with no comment for a $300,000 state Community Development Block Grant request. Hays developer Tim Speno, One Twenty Seven Investments, plans to rehabilitate the second floor of the 100-year-old building at 1012 Main St. into Airbnb rental units.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is no financial obligation to the city.

🎙 New Hays housing study available; more living units of all types needed

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

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

Last week, was the recommendation for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/33aec9ef-6d8a-48ef-9d5f-12cac8cb4980">wheat-free windows</a>. These windows include periods 30 days prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting window by zone in Kansas.

As the wheat curl mite is a community pest, coordinated breaks in volunteer wheat and other cereals will have the highest likelihood of lowering local and statewide mite levels moving into our 2025 optimal winter wheat planting date periods. This week, we address the role of other crops in the landscape.

Revisiting the role of other crops and weeds in the landscape

The question about the role of alternative crops and grasses in the landscape is frequently raised. The general risk of species as reservoirs for the mite and virus complex depends on several factors, including:

1. How well the curl mite reproduces on a given host,

2. How susceptible the host is to the virus,

3. The presence of the host during critical periods over the summer,

4. How those periods overlap with the wheat crop, and

5. How much of the host is present in the landscape during those critical summer months (host density)?

That information was taken together to develop the relative risk of host species to harbor wheat curl mites over the summer (Figure 2). You’ll notice that the list includes cereal crops, weeds, and pasture grasses. In all, over 90 species have been shown to harbor the mites or virus to some level. Legumes are not known hosts for the curl mite or viruses.

Volunteer wheat left over the summer is the highest risk host because it checks all the boxes for risk. The curl mites will reproduce rapidly on volunteer wheat, it is usually present right after harvest, may be left through fall planting, it is susceptible to the viruses, and it can build to high levels in the landscape. This is why the first line of defense against wheat streak will always be volunteer wheat management (ideally during wheat-free windows).

Volunteer wheat can also “hide” in summer crops planted after wheat harvest as well as cover crops, complicating the ability to determine the risk of other crops in the landscape. For example, if wheat that is harvested in June and grain sorghum (or corn and soybean) is planted into that same field after wheat harvest, secondary flushes of volunteer wheat will be difficult to control.

Winter cereals planted early (during the wheat-free windows) for grazing or cover cropping may pose a risk for harboring curl mites. Species like barley, oats, rye, and triticale have all been shown to host both the mites and the virus at fairly high levels. 

When at all possible, early planting of these crops near fields that will be established with a fall wheat crop should be avoided. Including these crops in a summer cover crop mix can also be risky for bridging the curl mites and viruses to the fall wheat crop.

To a lesser extent, corn and sorghum can also host the mite and virus complex. These crops are generally considered of low concern for epidemics in Kansas. 

Most of the research that we’ve reviewed has demonstrated that these crops are most conducive to curl mite survival during early growth stages. 

So, for example, corn/sorghum at a young stage when wheat is drying down would be at higher risk for curl mites than late-planted corn. It appears that curl mites are limited to corn husks later in the season and can result in symptoms of kernel red streak through feeding damage. Kernel red streak is generally considered a cosmetic issue in corn, but can serve as a sign that curl mites were present. 

Most commercial corn hybrids are resistant to wheat streak mosaic virus and High Plains wheat mosaic virus and will not experience yield losses to those viruses. Importantly, it appears that curl mite populations rapidly decline in the corn crop after the crop reaches black layer.

Weedy grass hosts (detailed in Figure 2) are generally a lower concern, unless they are allowed to build to high levels and remain established through the summer months. Their role in epidemics is dictated by their abundance and the time they are allowed to persist in the landscape.

Information provided by Kelsey Andersen Onofre, Extension Wheat Pathologist.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at&nbsp;scampbel@ksu.edu&nbsp;or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747233937338.jpeg" alt="Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Wheat streak mosaic management and wheat-free windows" 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=rrc69-19111fa-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>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThis article is the second in a multi-week series on wheat streak mosaic complex management to address the 2025 outbreak. Last week, was the recommendation for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/33aec9ef-6d8a-48ef-9d5f-12cac8cb4980">wheat-free windows</a>. These windows include periods 30 days prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting window by zone in Kansas. As the wheat curl mite is a community pest, coordinated breaks in volunteer wheat and other cereals will have the highest likelihood of lowering local and statewide mite levels moving into our 2025 optimal winter wheat planting date periods. This week, we address the role of other crops in the landscape.Revisiting the role of other crops and weeds in the landscapeThe question about the role of alternative crops and grasses in the landscape is frequently raised. The general risk of species as reservoirs for the mite and virus complex depends on several factors, including:1. How well the curl mite reproduces on a given host,2. How susceptible the host is to the virus,3. The presence of the host during critical periods over the summer,4. How those periods overlap with the wheat crop, and5. How much of the host is present in the landscape during those critical summer months (host density)?That information was taken together to develop the relative risk of host species to harbor wheat curl mites over the summer (Figure 2). You’ll notice that the list includes cereal crops, weeds, and pasture grasses. In all, over 90 species have been shown to harbor the mites or virus to some level. Legumes are not known hosts for the curl mite or viruses.Volunteer wheat left over the summer is the highest risk host because it checks all the boxes for risk. The curl mites will reproduce rapidly on volunteer wheat, it is usually present right after harvest, may be left through fall planting, it is susceptible to the viruses, and it can build to high levels in the landscape. This is why the first line of defense against wheat streak will always be volunteer wheat management (ideally during wheat-free windows).Volunteer wheat can also “hide” in summer crops planted after wheat harvest as well as cover crops, complicating the ability to determine the risk of other crops in the landscape. For example, if wheat that is harvested in June and grain sorghum (or corn and soybean) is planted into that same field after wheat harvest, secondary flushes of volunteer wheat will be difficult to control.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753460814466.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753460845582.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Winter cereals planted early (during the wheat-free windows) for grazing or cover cropping may pose a risk for harboring curl mites. Species like barley, oats, rye, and triticale have all been shown to host both the mites and the virus at fairly high levels. When at all possible, early planting of these crops near fields that will be established with a fall wheat crop should be avoided. Including these crops in a summer cover crop mix can also be risky for bridging the curl mites and viruses to the fall wheat crop.To a lesser extent, corn and sorghum can also host the mite and virus complex. These crops are generally considered of low concern for epidemics in Kansas. Most of the research that we’ve reviewed has demonstrated that these crops are most conducive to curl mite survival during early growth stages. So, for example, corn/sorghum at a young stage when wheat is drying down would be at higher risk for curl mites than late-planted corn. It appears that curl mites are limited to corn husks later in the season and can result in symptoms of kernel red streak through feeding damage. Kernel red streak is generally considered a cosmetic issue in corn, but can serve as a sign that curl mites were present. Most commercial corn hybrids are resistant to wheat streak mosaic virus and High Plains wheat mosaic virus and will not experience yield losses to those viruses. Importantly, it appears that curl mite populations rapidly decline in the corn crop after the crop reaches black layer.Weedy grass hosts (detailed in Figure 2) are generally a lower concern, unless they are allowed to build to high levels and remain established through the summer months. Their role in epidemics is dictated by their abundance and the time they are allowed to persist in the landscape.Information provided by Kelsey Andersen Onofre, Extension Wheat Pathologist. Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at&nbsp;scampbel@ksu.edu&nbsp;or by calling 785-628-9430.

🎙CAMPBELL: Wheat streak mosaic management: Role of other hosts in landscape

The Ellis County Historical Society has been collecting
artifacts and other historical items for several years and that has led to an
overabundance of items that are duplicate and may not fit their mission.

Executive Director Amanda Rupp says they will host a sale on
Saturday as part of the Bazaar on the Bricks in downtown Hays.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ellis County Historical Society" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=adaaq-1914974-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Ellis County Historical Society has been collecting
artifacts and other historical items for several years and that has led to an
overabundance of items that are duplicate and may not fit their mission.Executive Director Amanda Rupp says they will host a sale on
Saturday as part of the Bazaar on the Bricks in downtown Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Historical Society offering artifacts for sale

KAYS Morning Blend Host Jeff Leiker chats with Jack Hues, lead singer for Wang Chung. The band will be performing in Dodge City on Friday.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Wang Chung takes the stage with Rick Springfield's &quot;I Want My 80's Tour&quot; in Dodge City, Friday" 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=dwsmn-190f42a-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>KAYS Morning Blend Host Jeff Leiker chats with Jack Hues, lead singer for Wang Chung. The band will be performing in Dodge City on Friday.

🎙 Post Podcast: Wang Chung

Hays Community Theatre will stage the ABBA hit musical "Mamma Mia!" at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University Campus.

"Mamma Mia!" is a jukebox sensation based on a book by Catherine Johnson and music by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus from the band ABBA, said Director Pamela Grizzell.

"If you were a kid in the '70s, the place to go was Stardust Skate Center, and the tunes playing through the air were ABBA. It really touches a generation. They have taken all of the ABBA songs and created a sensational playlist that makes you want to sing along, dance along," she said.

The musical premiered at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End in 1999.

The film adaptation was released in summer 2008 and starred Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried and Pierce Brosnan.

The story opens as friends and family are gathering for the wedding of young Sophie Sheridan. 

Sophie has never met her father and invites several men who had relationships with her mother, Donna, in an attempt to determine which one is her dad.

Her mother doesn't know of Sophie's plan, and it has been a long time since she has seen any of the men from her past.

Bill Gasper, assistant director, said the musical offers a little romance and surprise, and in the end, Donna reunites with her love.

"It's the theme of family, freindship and coming of age and discovering who you really are," Grizzell said.

The cast comprises 33 actors, with Rebecca Cole playing Sophie, the daughter, and Anita Walters playing Donna, the mother.

"We have a lot of senior actors in Hays who don't always have those opportunities to shine," Grizzell said, "and this is like the golden ticket for them. It provides a venue, an outlet for them to show off their craft."

Grizzell said the cast includes actors of all ages, and that is the meaning of community theater.

"I have to give it to the board, who chose this show," she said. "Not only is it something that the audience is going to love, but it also really reflects all the actors' abilities in our community, and it lets everybody get involved."

Gasper said he wanted to echo the praise of the cast.

"This show has a lot of choreography, more than most shows do. ... They have really held together and done a great job on that. Our principal actors are excellent," he said. "They sing well. Our ensemble, I think, sounds phenomenal when they are singing together.&nbsp;

"It is overall a very, very good dynamic show. I have been involved in a lot of productions, and this is really top-notch."

Grizzell said the actors in this production have a lot of insight.&nbsp;

"Because some of them are a little older, they bring life experiences with them," she said. "Monte Smith is the one who comes to mind. He has been with the community theater for a long time and even directed at the high school for a few years. 

"He brings a wealth of knowledge and instinct on where he needs to be and what he needs to do and how he can draw that extra emotion out."

She said several actors in the show have the ability to bring the show to life.

Gasper taught at Hays High School and still directs shows there, but he said he has been a bit overwhelmed by the move from the community theatre venue downtown to the performing arts center.&nbsp;

The crew began teardown on Sunday and has less than a week to fine-tune the sets, audio and lights.

Tickets must be purchased through <a href="https://www.hctks.com/">HCTKS.com</a>&nbsp;or at the door and are $15 each.&nbsp;

The show's music director is Amy Staab, and the director of choreography is Nathan Leiker

Cast list Sophie Sheridan—Rebecca Cole&nbsp; Ali—McKynlee Stecklein&nbsp; Lisa—Allie Straub Donna Sheridan—Anita Walters Tanya Chesham-Leigh—Wendy Richmeier Rosie Mulligan—Dana Jo Stanton&nbsp; Sam Carmichael—Travis Grizzell Harry Bright—Andy Stanton Bill Austin—Monte Smith Sky—Nathan Stecklein Pepper—Arron Hardin Eddie—Nathan Leiker Father—Alexandrios	Everett Robert Young Sophie—Victoria Heimann Ensemble (Local residents)—Mia Baltodano, Sadie Campbell, EJ Fenwick, Lydia Funk, Allison Goertzen, Morgan Greenwood (waitress), Zachary Leiker, Rowan Neeley, Bryler Russell, Madicyn Urban, Olivia Werth&nbsp;

Ensemble (Tourists)	Adam Conkey, Nicole Feyerherm,&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeanne Geist, Lilly Kimberlein, Adrian Normandin,&nbsp; Everett Robert, Holly Trullinger, Katie Vaughn&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216488723.jpeg" alt="Cast members dance and sing to a reprise of Mamma Mia! at the conclusion of the Hays Community Theatre's performance of the musical "Mamma Mia!" Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Cast members dance and sing to a reprise of Mamma Mia! at the conclusion of the Hays Community Theatre's performance of the musical "Mamma Mia!" Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Community Theatre Presents Mamma Mia" 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=5cb5j-1911222-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>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays Community Theatre will stage the ABBA hit musical "Mamma Mia!" at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University Campus."Mamma Mia!" is a jukebox sensation based on a book by Catherine Johnson and music by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus from the band ABBA, said Director Pamela Grizzell."If you were a kid in the '70s, the place to go was Stardust Skate Center, and the tunes playing through the air were ABBA. It really touches a generation. They have taken all of the ABBA songs and created a sensational playlist that makes you want to sing along, dance along," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216525539.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Lisa (Allie Straub) and Ali (McKynlee Stecklein) listen as Sophie (Rebecca Cole) reads from her mom’s diary in Act 1 of Mamma Mia!, which will be presented Thursday-Saturday by Hays Community Theatre at Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Lisa (Allie Straub) and Ali (McKynlee Stecklein) listen as Sophie (Rebecca Cole) reads from her mom’s diary in Act 1 of Mamma Mia!, which will be presented Thursday-Saturday by Hays Community Theatre at Beach-Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216437758.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Taking a trip down memory lane, Donna and the Dynamos sing “Dancing Queen.” The trio is comprised of Tanya (Wendy Richmeier), Donna (Anita Walters), and Rosie (Dana Jo Stanton).&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Taking a trip down memory lane, Donna and the Dynamos sing “Dancing Queen.” The trio is comprised of Tanya (Wendy Richmeier), Donna (Anita Walters), and Rosie (Dana Jo Stanton).&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The musical premiered at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End in 1999.The film adaptation was released in summer 2008 and starred Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried and Pierce Brosnan.The story opens as friends and family are gathering for the wedding of young Sophie Sheridan. Sophie has never met her father and invites several men who had relationships with her mother, Donna, in an attempt to determine which one is her dad.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216476722.jpeg" alt="Expressing her emotions related to the love she once had, Donna (Anita Walters) sings “The Winner Takes It All.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Expressing her emotions related to the love she once had, Donna (Anita Walters) sings “The Winner Takes It All.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216209544.jpeg" alt="Tanya (Wendy Richmeier) brushes off the advances of young suitor Pepper (Arron Hardin) during the song “Does Your Mother Know.”&nbsp; Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Tanya (Wendy Richmeier) brushes off the advances of young suitor Pepper (Arron Hardin) during the song “Does Your Mother Know.”&nbsp; Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Her mother doesn't know of Sophie's plan, and it has been a long time since she has seen any of the men from her past.Bill Gasper, assistant director, said the musical offers a little romance and surprise, and in the end, Donna reunites with her love."It's the theme of family, freindship and coming of age and discovering who you really are," Grizzell said.The cast comprises 33 actors, with Rebecca Cole playing Sophie, the daughter, and Anita Walters playing Donna, the mother.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216510988.jpeg" alt="Harry (Andy Stanton) and Donna (Anita Walters) reminisce their past time together in the song “Our Last Summer.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Harry (Andy Stanton) and Donna (Anita Walters) reminisce their past time together in the song “Our Last Summer.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"We have a lot of senior actors in Hays who don't always have those opportunities to shine," Grizzell said, "and this is like the golden ticket for them. It provides a venue, an outlet for them to show off their craft."Grizzell said the cast includes actors of all ages, and that is the meaning of community theater."I have to give it to the board, who chose this show," she said. "Not only is it something that the audience is going to love, but it also really reflects all the actors' abilities in our community, and it lets everybody get involved."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216549303.jpeg" alt="Returning from a fishing trip, Rosie (Dana Jo Stanton) and Bill (Monte Smith) are not shy about revealing their feelings for each other.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Returning from a fishing trip, Rosie (Dana Jo Stanton) and Bill (Monte Smith) are not shy about revealing their feelings for each other.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216565405.jpeg" alt="Sophie and Sky are interrupted by a group of party-goers, who arrive on the scene to take Sky away to his bachelor’s party.&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Sophie and Sky are interrupted by a group of party-goers, who arrive on the scene to take Sky away to his bachelor’s party.&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gasper said he wanted to echo the praise of the cast."This show has a lot of choreography, more than most shows do. ... They have really held together and done a great job on that. Our principal actors are excellent," he said. "They sing well. Our ensemble, I think, sounds phenomenal when they are singing together.&nbsp;"It is overall a very, very good dynamic show. I have been involved in a lot of productions, and this is really top-notch."Grizzell said the actors in this production have a lot of insight.&nbsp;"Because some of them are a little older, they bring life experiences with them," she said. "Monte Smith is the one who comes to mind. He has been with the community theater for a long time and even directed at the high school for a few years. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and instinct on where he needs to be and what he needs to do and how he can draw that extra emotion out."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216588521.jpeg" alt="On the eve of their wedding, Sophie (Rebecca Cole) and Sky (Nathan Stecklein) sing “Lay All Your Love On Me.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>On the eve of their wedding, Sophie (Rebecca Cole) and Sky (Nathan Stecklein) sing “Lay All Your Love On Me.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753216454756.jpeg" alt="Donna (Anita Walters) considers a proposal from her lost love, Sam, (Travis Grizzell) as he sings “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post" />
 <figcaption>Donna (Anita Walters) considers a proposal from her lost love, Sam, (Travis Grizzell) as he sings “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by Bill Gasper/Special to Post</figcaption>
 </figure>She said several actors in the show have the ability to bring the show to life.Gasper taught at Hays High School and still directs shows there, but he said he has been a bit overwhelmed by the move from the community theatre venue downtown to the performing arts center.&nbsp;The crew began teardown on Sunday and has less than a week to fine-tune the sets, audio and lights.Tickets must be purchased through <a href="https://www.hctks.com/">HCTKS.com</a>&nbsp;or at the door and are $15 each.&nbsp;The show's music director is Amy Staab, and the director of choreography is Nathan LeikerCast list Sophie Sheridan—Rebecca Cole&nbsp; Ali—McKynlee Stecklein&nbsp; Lisa—Allie Straub Donna Sheridan—Anita Walters Tanya Chesham-Leigh—Wendy Richmeier Rosie Mulligan—Dana Jo Stanton&nbsp; Sam Carmichael—Travis Grizzell Harry Bright—Andy Stanton Bill Austin—Monte Smith Sky—Nathan Stecklein Pepper—Arron Hardin Eddie—Nathan Leiker Father—Alexandrios	Everett Robert Young Sophie—Victoria Heimann Ensemble (Local residents)—Mia Baltodano, Sadie Campbell, EJ Fenwick, Lydia Funk, Allison Goertzen, Morgan Greenwood (waitress), Zachary Leiker, Rowan Neeley, Bryler Russell, Madicyn Urban, Olivia Werth&nbsp; Ensemble (Tourists)	Adam Conkey, Nicole Feyerherm,&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeanne Geist, Lilly Kimberlein, Adrian Normandin,&nbsp; Everett Robert, Holly Trullinger, Katie Vaughn&nbsp;

Hays Community Theatre to present ABBA hit musical 'Mamma Mia!'

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

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Summer activities at the Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=f9rfr-1908cba-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director of the Hays Arts Council about summer art center activities and the upcoming Fall Art Walk on Aug. 22.

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer activities at the Hays Arts Council

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the property taxes and ongoing building projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></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=jvgqv-190bc2a-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>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the property taxes and ongoing building projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays on property taxes

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Adam Kober, a former Hays Mason, about the upcoming free health and cancer screening outreach in Hays.&nbsp;

The walk-in clinic is a collaboration between the University of Kansas Cancer Center and the Masonic Cancer Alliance.

It will be held 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 26&nbsp; at the First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th.&nbsp;

Screenings will be available for prostate cancer, skin cancer and colorectal cancer. Information will be available about tobacco cessation.&nbsp;

No appointment is necessary and all ages are welcome.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Free health and cancer screening clinic in 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=acmq9-190a453-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Adam Kober, a former Hays Mason, about the upcoming free health and cancer screening outreach in Hays.&nbsp;The walk-in clinic is a collaboration between the University of Kansas Cancer Center and the Masonic Cancer Alliance.It will be held 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 26&nbsp; at the First United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th.&nbsp;Screenings will be available for prostate cancer, skin cancer and colorectal cancer. Information will be available about tobacco cessation.&nbsp;No appointment is necessary and all ages are welcome.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Free health, cancer screening clinic in Hays

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks with Jonathan Finch of the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qB5SqMyOHUU?si=jS62hJlTL-99VeA5" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks with Jonathan Finch of the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

🎤 Forward Ever: Jonathan Finch of National Weather Service

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Hays Police Department conducted a multi-day active shooter training to prepare officers for high-stress situations.

On Tuesday, Hays police officers were at the permanently closed AMC movie theater,&nbsp;2918 Vine St. On Wednesday, multiple agencies trained at Roosevelt Elementary,&nbsp;2000 MacArthur Road. Hays police officers will be training at the AMC theater again today.

Det. David Gillian is leading the training sessions and said each setting offers different obstacles and challenges that responding officers may encounter.

"The main objective is to ensure that officers are appropriately trained and know how to appropriately respond to an active shooter event," Gillian said.

Gillian told the officers on Wednesday as they debriefed after running a scenario, "We pray that this doesn't happen."

The Hays Police Department worked alongside the city of Ellis Police Department, Victoria Police Department, Fort Hays State University Police, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Wildlife and Parks.

"These events are rapidly evolving. They offer challenges in themselves for one agency to go to, and now you start compiling all the different agencies within Ellis County that would likely respond to, you've got a lot of different moving parts," Gillian said. "It's crucial to train in that type of environment."

Gillian said the training consisted of firing blanks and included actors, some of whom were school staff members.

This is the second year of multi-agency training, following last year's training at Wilson Elementary School.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays police, local agencies train for active shooter response" 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=6xh9y-1908ccb-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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752694295599.jpeg" alt="Officers breach a classroom during an active shooter training exercise at Roosevelt Elementary School on Wednesday. In this scenario, an active shooter has been firing inside a classroom, and officers have just shot the perpetrator (right). Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers breach a classroom during an active shooter training exercise at Roosevelt Elementary School on Wednesday. In this scenario, an active shooter has been firing inside a classroom, and officers have just shot the perpetrator (right). Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post The Hays Police Department conducted a multi-day active shooter training to prepare officers for high-stress situations.On Tuesday, Hays police officers were at the permanently closed AMC movie theater,&nbsp;2918 Vine St. On Wednesday, multiple agencies trained at Roosevelt Elementary,&nbsp;2000 MacArthur Road. Hays police officers will be training at the AMC theater again today.Det. David Gillian is leading the training sessions and said each setting offers different obstacles and challenges that responding officers may encounter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752698632365.jpeg" alt="Officers prepare to breach a classroom with a suspected active shooter inside during training Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers prepare to breach a classroom with a suspected active shooter inside during training Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752698143477.jpeg" alt="Officers begin to breach a classroom during active shooter training on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers begin to breach a classroom during active shooter training on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752697605032.jpeg" alt="An actor portrays an active shooter as area law enforcement officers enter a classroom Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An actor portrays an active shooter as area law enforcement officers enter a classroom Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752694732487.jpeg" alt="Officers respond to shots being fired during an active shooter training Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Officers used blank rounds to engage actors in multiple scenarios.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers respond to shots being fired during an active shooter training Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Officers used blank rounds to engage actors in multiple scenarios.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752696270934.jpeg" alt="Officers subdue an active shooter during a training exercise&nbsp;on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School as actors portray victims lying in a hallway. A training officer in a yellow vest at left observes. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers subdue an active shooter during a training exercise&nbsp;on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School as actors portray victims lying in a hallway. A training officer in a yellow vest at left observes. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"The main objective is to ensure that officers are appropriately trained and know how to appropriately respond to an active shooter event," Gillian said.Gillian told the officers on Wednesday as they debriefed after running a scenario, "We pray that this doesn't happen."The Hays Police Department worked alongside the city of Ellis Police Department, Victoria Police Department, Fort Hays State University Police, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Wildlife and Parks."These events are rapidly evolving. They offer challenges in themselves for one agency to go to, and now you start compiling all the different agencies within Ellis County that would likely respond to, you've got a lot of different moving parts," Gillian said. "It's crucial to train in that type of environment."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752695101666.jpeg" alt="School staff play the role of victims in an active shooter training on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. The actors were asked to cry out to simulate the chaos that officers would face during a real active shooter incident. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>School staff play the role of victims in an active shooter training on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. The actors were asked to cry out to simulate the chaos that officers would face during a real active shooter incident. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752695412138.jpeg" alt="An officer applies a&nbsp;tourniquet to the leg of a wounded actor during&nbsp;active shooter training on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Multiple law enforcement agencies from the area participated in the training. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An officer applies a&nbsp;tourniquet to the leg of a wounded actor during&nbsp;active shooter training on Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Multiple law enforcement agencies from the area participated in the training. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752696581260.jpeg" alt="Jess Reling, assistant to the superintendent, portrays a victim during active shooter training. Officers were charged with triaging and trying to evacuate victims during the scenarios. Some actors portrayed deceased individuals, and dummies were used to represent children. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jess Reling, assistant to the superintendent, portrays a victim during active shooter training. Officers were charged with triaging and trying to evacuate victims during the scenarios. Some actors portrayed deceased individuals, and dummies were used to represent children. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752698279943.jpeg" alt="An officer evacuates an injured victim as training officers observe during active shooter training Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An officer evacuates an injured victim as training officers observe during active shooter training Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gillian said the training consisted of firing blanks and included actors, some of whom were school staff members.This is the second year of multi-agency training, following last year's training at Wilson Elementary School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752697946760.jpeg" alt="An officer helps check a room for additional threats during active shooter training on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An officer helps check a room for additional threats during active shooter training on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752696950553.jpeg" alt="A Hays police officer handcuffs a perpetrator as a training officer looks on during an active shooter drill Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Actors portray injured victims in the background. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A Hays police officer handcuffs a perpetrator as a training officer looks on during an active shooter drill Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Actors portray injured victims in the background. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752698901100.jpeg" alt="Officers debrief after running an active shooter scenario Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Officers from the Hays Police Department, Ellis Police Department, Victoria Police Department, Fort Hays State University Police, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Wildlife and Parks participated in the training Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers debrief after running an active shooter scenario Wednesday at Roosevelt Elementary School. Officers from the Hays Police Department, Ellis Police Department, Victoria Police Department, Fort Hays State University Police, the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Wildlife and Parks participated in the training Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 📷 Hays police, local agencies train for active shooter response

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, about the economic impact of Hays Regional Airport, along with an update about The Grove housing project.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Economic impact of Hays Regional Airport; Update on The Grove" 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=qc5qr-1902166-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, about the economic impact of Hays Regional Airport, along with an update about The Grove housing project.

🎙 Post Podcast: Economic impact of Hays Regional Airport; The Grove development update

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>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.

🎙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>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.

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

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>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostGrow 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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710359455020.jpeg" alt="Microfactory. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Microfactory. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>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.