Bank of Hays<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757598997650.jpeg" alt=" " />
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Community Shred Day Saturday at Bank of Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two men who were arrested on charges that they allegedly stole money from the Ellis Casey's will face additional charges for felony theft from the Hays Walmart.

Dresean Holden, 20, of Flint, Michigan, and Hakeem Black, 22, of Flint, Michigan, were arrested outside Limon, Colorado, after they were identified as possible suspects in a theft of $1,500 in cash from the Ellis Casey's on Sept. 6.

Lt. Brandon Wright of the Hays Police Department said the suspects allegedly entered the Hays Walmart. One of the suspects allegedly attempted to purchase an iPad using a fraudulent card.

Wright said the clerk thought the card was legitimate, but no charge was made when the card was run.

The second suspect allegedly used a card to make a similar fraudulent transaction for three more iPads. The suspects allegedly left the store with four iPads for which they did not pay, Wright said.

The reported loss was $3,941, which included insurance plans for the iPads.

Evidence was recovered from the suspects upon their arrest that allegedly linked them to several other thefts along the I-70 corridor in Kansas, according to the Ellis Police Department.

Information on the suspects' identities has been provided to the relevant agencies to assist in their investigations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756498934945.jpg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo men who were arrested on charges that they allegedly stole money from the Ellis Casey's will face additional charges for felony theft from the Hays Walmart.Dresean Holden, 20, of Flint, Michigan, and Hakeem Black, 22, of Flint, Michigan, were arrested outside Limon, Colorado, after they were identified as possible suspects in a theft of $1,500 in cash from the Ellis Casey's on Sept. 6.Lt. Brandon Wright of the Hays Police Department said the suspects allegedly entered the Hays Walmart. One of the suspects allegedly attempted to purchase an iPad using a fraudulent card.Wright said the clerk thought the card was legitimate, but no charge was made when the card was run.The second suspect allegedly used a card to make a similar fraudulent transaction for three more iPads. The suspects allegedly left the store with four iPads for which they did not pay, Wright said.The reported loss was $3,941, which included insurance plans for the iPads.Evidence was recovered from the suspects upon their arrest that allegedly linked them to several other thefts along the I-70 corridor in Kansas, according to the Ellis Police Department.Information on the suspects' identities has been provided to the relevant agencies to assist in their investigations.

Suspects in Ellis Casey's theft face additional charges in Hays

NORTH NEWTON, Kan. – The Hays High girls finished fifth
and the boys sixth at the Hesston Special cross country meet Thursday. The meet
was moved to Bethel College due to wet grounds in Hesston.

The girls scored 35 points in the 4A, 5A and 6A
race which was won by Newton who had 17 points, one better than second place
Garden City.

Individually, Ava Biggs finished seventh (24:38.2)
and Serena Wilson who placed eighth (25:27.7) for HHS in the senior girls 5K.
Aralen Maupin finished 11th and Kynli Koeningsman 12th. Bekah Clark placed
ninth in the sophomore race. Alexa Cooley was fifth (24:12.5) and Avrie
Branaman sixth (24:33.2) in the freshman race.

The Indians boys scored 108 points. Andale won the
large school division with 17 points, five less than second place Garden City.

Malachi Chance placed 10th (19:50.2) in the senior
boys 5K. Chris Hollis was 13th (22:41.8). Aiden Hardman finished 17th (22:03.1)
in the junior race, Benson Ramirez led the Indians in the sophomore race with a
22nd place finish (24:26.6). Emmitt Dreiling (22:42.6) finished ninth in the freshman
race.

Hays Post SportsNORTH NEWTON, Kan. – The Hays High girls finished fifth
and the boys sixth at the Hesston Special cross country meet Thursday. The meet
was moved to Bethel College due to wet grounds in Hesston.The girls scored 35 points in the 4A, 5A and 6A
race which was won by Newton who had 17 points, one better than second place
Garden City.Individually, Ava Biggs finished seventh (24:38.2)
and Serena Wilson who placed eighth (25:27.7) for HHS in the senior girls 5K.
Aralen Maupin finished 11th and Kynli Koeningsman 12th. Bekah Clark placed
ninth in the sophomore race. Alexa Cooley was fifth (24:12.5) and Avrie
Branaman sixth (24:33.2) in the freshman race.The Indians boys scored 108 points. Andale won the
large school division with 17 points, five less than second place Garden City.Malachi Chance placed 10th (19:50.2) in the senior
boys 5K. Chris Hollis was 13th (22:41.8). Aiden Hardman finished 17th (22:03.1)
in the junior race, Benson Ramirez led the Indians in the sophomore race with a
22nd place finish (24:26.6). Emmitt Dreiling (22:42.6) finished ninth in the freshman
race.

👟 HHS girls fifth, boys sixth at Hesston Special

A Hays man has been arrested on charges of felony theft and identity theft after allegedly signing up for internet services in the name of a disabled adult for whom he cared.

Curtis Joe Koerner, 39, of Hays, served as a caregiver for a disabled adult for two years.

He allegedly used that person's name to sign up for internet services in 2018 and was continuing to use those services.

Another caregiver was reviewing the victim's bills and found a second account under a different address, according to Lt. Brandon Wright of the Hays Police Department.

Officers were able to locate Koerner at the address associated with the account.

Koerner was arrested on Aug. 26 on requested charges of identity theft and felony theft.

The billing on the account from June 2018 to present amounted to more than $6,200, according to Wright.

Wright said this is a good example of why people should review their bills regularly.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757686077138.png" alt="Koerner photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Koerner photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Hays man has been arrested on charges of felony theft and identity theft after allegedly signing up for internet services in the name of a disabled adult for whom he cared.Curtis Joe Koerner, 39, of Hays, served as a caregiver for a disabled adult for two years.He allegedly used that person's name to sign up for internet services in 2018 and was continuing to use those services.Another caregiver was reviewing the victim's bills and found a second account under a different address, according to Lt. Brandon Wright of the Hays Police Department.Officers were able to locate Koerner at the address associated with the account.Koerner was arrested on Aug. 26 on requested charges of identity theft and felony theft.The billing on the account from June 2018 to present amounted to more than $6,200, according to Wright.Wright said this is a good example of why people should review their bills regularly.

Hays man allegedly steals disabled man's identity, racks up 7 years of internet bills

Schedule for Community/Alumni Participation:

Alumni Participation: Hays High Showcase Assembly 12 p.m., Friday in the Hays High Maroon Gym

Community/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Parade, Friday 5 p.m., Main St.

Community/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Game vs. Garden City, 7 p.m. at the Hays High Football Stadium. Coronation at Halftime&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757620226426.jpeg" alt="Top Row (Left to right) Izaac Fox, Trey Oakley, Jonathan Rigler, Connor Werth, Seth BurkholderBottom Row (Left to Right): Molly Buckles, Chloe Rice, Johanna Jones, Keeley Lowry, Erin Ruder. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Top Row (Left to right) Izaac Fox, Trey Oakley, Jonathan Rigler, Connor Werth, Seth BurkholderBottom Row (Left to Right): Molly Buckles, Chloe Rice, Johanna Jones, Keeley Lowry, Erin Ruder. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High SchoolSchedule for Community/Alumni Participation:Alumni Participation: Hays High Showcase Assembly 12 p.m., Friday in the Hays High Maroon GymCommunity/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Parade, Friday 5 p.m., Main St.Community/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Game vs. Garden City, 7 p.m. at the Hays High Football Stadium. Coronation at Halftime&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays High announces Homecoming Court 2025

Deborah Joyce Watson, age 74, passed away on September 6,
2025, at Hays Med in Hays, Kansas.

Deb was born on September 14, 1950, in Tribune, Kansas, the
beloved daughter of Fred Dale and Elaine (Ingram) Watson.

She dedicated many years of her life to the McCracken School
System as a janitor and took pride in beautifying homes throughout the area
with her skilled painting. 

She shared over 40 wonderful years with her husband, Craig
Rixon, the love of her life. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration to
all who knew them.

Deb is survived by her loving husband, Craig, of McCracken;
her mother, Elaine, of Hays; and her three daughters: Jamie Lynn Sewell of El
Dorado, Shelly Rae DuNah of McCracken, and Tammy Jo Yoke and husband Daniel of
Wichita. She also leaves behind three sisters: Leann (Walter) Hughes of Oakley,
Janice (Bill) Bradstreet of Oakley, and Vanessa (Henry) Reed of Kalvesta; as
well as sisters-in-law Peggy Smith of Jewel and Joy Petz of McCracken.

Deb’s legacy lives on in her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fred; her son,
Verlin Todd Sewell; her brother, Roger Watson; and her son-in-law, Jason DuNah.

A funeral service to celebrate Deb’s life will be held on
Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the McCracken Methodist Church,
with burial to follow at the McCracken Cemetery.

Friends are invited to pay their respects and sign the guest
book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City on Friday, September 12, 2025,
from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Deb’s honor may be made to the
McCracken Methodist Church.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family at
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757440614708.jpeg" alt="Deborah Joyce Watson" />
 <figcaption>Deborah Joyce Watson</figcaption>
 </figure>Deborah Joyce Watson, age 74, passed away on September 6,
2025, at Hays Med in Hays, Kansas.Deb was born on September 14, 1950, in Tribune, Kansas, the
beloved daughter of Fred Dale and Elaine (Ingram) Watson.She dedicated many years of her life to the McCracken School
System as a janitor and took pride in beautifying homes throughout the area
with her skilled painting. She shared over 40 wonderful years with her husband, Craig
Rixon, the love of her life. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration to
all who knew them.Deb is survived by her loving husband, Craig, of McCracken;
her mother, Elaine, of Hays; and her three daughters: Jamie Lynn Sewell of El
Dorado, Shelly Rae DuNah of McCracken, and Tammy Jo Yoke and husband Daniel of
Wichita. She also leaves behind three sisters: Leann (Walter) Hughes of Oakley,
Janice (Bill) Bradstreet of Oakley, and Vanessa (Henry) Reed of Kalvesta; as
well as sisters-in-law Peggy Smith of Jewel and Joy Petz of McCracken.Deb’s legacy lives on in her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.She was preceded in death by her father, Fred; her son,
Verlin Todd Sewell; her brother, Roger Watson; and her son-in-law, Jason DuNah.A funeral service to celebrate Deb’s life will be held on
Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the McCracken Methodist Church,
with burial to follow at the McCracken Cemetery.Friends are invited to pay their respects and sign the guest
book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City on Friday, September 12, 2025,
from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Memorial contributions in Deb’s honor may be made to the
McCracken Methodist Church.Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family at
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Deborah Joyce Watson

Jean
Rietcheck, of Grinnell, KS, died Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Logan
County Senior Living, Oakley, KS. She was 98 years old. 

Jean
was born on August 18, 1927, on the family farm north of Angelus, KS. She was
the youngest of 14 children born to Barney and Regina (Robben) Dickman. 

She
married Jim Rietcheck on November 4, 1947, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church,
Angelus, KS. To this union five children were born, Ronnie, Dan, Jolene, Linda
and Kay. 

Jeannie
was a devoted wife and mother; her family were always her top priority. She was
very active in volunteer work with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Cub and Boy
Scouts, and various church activities. She was a devoted Catholic and vary
rarely missed Sunday Mass. 

Jean
was preceded in death by her husband Jim; her in-laws, Frank and Josephine
Rietcheck; her brothers and spouses, John (Lucille) Dickman, Tony (Phyllis)
Dickman, Msgr. Bernard Dickman, Vince (Ferne) Dickman, Bob (Eunice) Dickman, Ed
(Theresa) Dickman, Gilbert (Juanita) Dickman, Dave (Laureen) Dickman and Al
(Verlene) Dickman; sisters and spouses, Sister Regina Marie, Walburga (Joe)
Albers, Sister Mary Martha and Martha (Jack) Hamer; and brother-in-law Richard
Rietcheck.

She
is survived by her five children, Ronnie (Elsie) Rietcheck, Menlo, KS, Dan
(Carol) Rietcheck, Grinnell, KS, Jolene (Wayne) Beckman, Manhattan, KS, Lynn
(Tom) Heinrich, Grinnell, KS and Kay Rietcheck, Hays, KS; sister-in-law Judith
Rietcheck, Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and 7
great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A
Rosary will be said Monday, September 15, 2025, at 1:30p.m. at the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, KS. The Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00
p.m. with burial in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Grinnell. Memorials may
be made to the Grinnell Cemetery Fund, to replace the American flags at the
cemetery that were destroyed by a recent tornado, and sent in care of Baalmann
Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757600263703.jpeg" alt="Jean Rietcheck" />
 <figcaption>Jean Rietcheck</figcaption>
 </figure>Jean
Rietcheck, of Grinnell, KS, died Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Logan
County Senior Living, Oakley, KS. She was 98 years old. Jean
was born on August 18, 1927, on the family farm north of Angelus, KS. She was
the youngest of 14 children born to Barney and Regina (Robben) Dickman. She
married Jim Rietcheck on November 4, 1947, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church,
Angelus, KS. To this union five children were born, Ronnie, Dan, Jolene, Linda
and Kay. Jeannie
was a devoted wife and mother; her family were always her top priority. She was
very active in volunteer work with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Cub and Boy
Scouts, and various church activities. She was a devoted Catholic and vary
rarely missed Sunday Mass. Jean
was preceded in death by her husband Jim; her in-laws, Frank and Josephine
Rietcheck; her brothers and spouses, John (Lucille) Dickman, Tony (Phyllis)
Dickman, Msgr. Bernard Dickman, Vince (Ferne) Dickman, Bob (Eunice) Dickman, Ed
(Theresa) Dickman, Gilbert (Juanita) Dickman, Dave (Laureen) Dickman and Al
(Verlene) Dickman; sisters and spouses, Sister Regina Marie, Walburga (Joe)
Albers, Sister Mary Martha and Martha (Jack) Hamer; and brother-in-law Richard
Rietcheck.She
is survived by her five children, Ronnie (Elsie) Rietcheck, Menlo, KS, Dan
(Carol) Rietcheck, Grinnell, KS, Jolene (Wayne) Beckman, Manhattan, KS, Lynn
(Tom) Heinrich, Grinnell, KS and Kay Rietcheck, Hays, KS; sister-in-law Judith
Rietcheck, Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and 7
great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.A
Rosary will be said Monday, September 15, 2025, at 1:30p.m. at the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, KS. The Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00
p.m. with burial in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Grinnell. Memorials may
be made to the Grinnell Cemetery Fund, to replace the American flags at the
cemetery that were destroyed by a recent tornado, and sent in care of Baalmann
Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Jean Rietcheck

Lori Ann Flesher, 59, Hays, died Monday, September 8, 2025
at her home.

She was born November 10, 1965 in Goodland, the daughter of
Neal Walter and Lorena Marie (Charbonneau) Flesher.&nbsp; Lori graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian
High School with the class of 1984, and she worked at Golden Belt Bank.

Survivors include her mother, Lorena Flesher of El Dorado,
three brothers, Michael Flesher and wife Paula of Hays, Steven Flesher and wife
Vicki of Wichita, and Kevin Flesher and wife Barbara of Westminster, Colorado,
and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Nick
Parker officiating.&nbsp; The family will
receive friends from 10:00 am until service time with recitation of the rosary
at 10:30, all on Wednesday at the church.&nbsp;
Inurnment will be at a later date in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society
of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Lori may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756479509201.jpg" alt="chrysanthemum, flower background, white, nature, flower wallpaper, flower, korean funeral, beautiful flowers, chrysanthemum morifolium, close up" />
 <figcaption>chrysanthemum, flower background, white, nature, flower wallpaper, flower, korean funeral, beautiful flowers, chrysanthemum morifolium, close up</figcaption>
 </figure>Lori Ann Flesher, 59, Hays, died Monday, September 8, 2025
at her home.She was born November 10, 1965 in Goodland, the daughter of
Neal Walter and Lorena Marie (Charbonneau) Flesher.&nbsp; Lori graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian
High School with the class of 1984, and she worked at Golden Belt Bank.Survivors include her mother, Lorena Flesher of El Dorado,
three brothers, Michael Flesher and wife Paula of Hays, Steven Flesher and wife
Vicki of Wichita, and Kevin Flesher and wife Barbara of Westminster, Colorado,
and numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her father.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Nick
Parker officiating.&nbsp; The family will
receive friends from 10:00 am until service time with recitation of the rosary
at 10:30, all on Wednesday at the church.&nbsp;
Inurnment will be at a later date in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society
of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Lori may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Lori Ann Flesher

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Thursday, September 11 KJLS: Fort Hay State VB vs. Augustana, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pm

Friday, September 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 5:00pm KKQY: Smith Center FB at Phillipsburg, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Choctaw (Okla.), 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Victoria FB at Central Plains, 6:45pm

Saturday, September 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney, 6:00pm

Sunday, September 14 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 12:00pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Thursday, September 11 KJLS: Fort Hay State VB vs. Augustana, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmFriday, September 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 5:00pm KKQY: Smith Center FB at Phillipsburg, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Choctaw (Okla.), 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Victoria FB at Central Plains, 6:45pmSaturday, September 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney, 6:00pmSunday, September 14 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 12:00pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The Hays USD 489 school board decided to create a committee to help shape policy on naming rights for school district facilities.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">The district effectively let an offer from Golden Belt Bank of $200,000 for the naming rights to the new football field at Hays High School expire. That contract would have been for a 10-year term.</a>

The bank set a deadline of Sept. 15 to accept the offer.

Board member Ruth Ruder thanked Golden Belt Bank for what she called a tremendous offer.&nbsp;

"We just recently talked about taxes, and here you're given an opportunity to take $200,000 that is given from Golden Belt Bank," she said.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPONHTXLmgQ">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board passes budget with tax increase</a>

She said although naming of facilities is usually seen at colleges, Hays could be at the forefront of something new.

She said the Golden Belt Bank offer did not include the bank's logo on the turf or changing the name of the school's mascot to the "Golden Belt Indians."

"When you are talking about increasing revenue, this is the way to do it," she said. "I'm not just talking about the football field. I'm talking about the auditorium, the basketball courts, the tennis courts."

Ruder said she could not think of a downside to Golden Belt Bank's offer.

"It's funds in our pocket. It's free funds. To me, that's positivity for the community and positivity on for Hays High School," she said.

Board member Jayme Goetz said she has talked to community members, teachers and coaches about the facility naming issue. She said those people had reservations, but indicated they would approve of naming rights if the price was right.

Goetz said she thought money raised from naming fields should be designated for turf replacement, and the price for those naming rights should be proportional to the cost of that replacement.

She estimated the cost of replacing the turf at $600,000 to $800,000 every eight to 10 years. She proposed naming rights should cost $35,000 to $40,000 per year.

Board member Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp said she believed a policy on naming rights was necessary.

"I am interested in the conversation," she said.

Board member Allen Park said, "If it's worth doing, it should be done right."

"This is policy, and that's our job. I think it should be fair. I think we should give the opportunity to everybody somehow," he said.

Board President Curt Vajnar said he did not think the board had a deadline for making decisions on naming rights. The bank has a deadline, he said.

"The naming of USD 489 facilities belongs to the citizens of Hays, not a business or entity. ... At the end of that end zone, it says Hays. It does not say Hays High School. It belongs to all of us."

Vajnar said he did not think the bank was offering enough for the naming rights for a 10-year contract. He also said he thought all businesses and entities should have the same opportunity to have naming rights, as Park discussed.

He echoed Goetz's comments, saying any money coming from the naming rights of the fields should be designated for field maintenance.

Board Vice President Ken Brooks said he did not think Golden Belt Bank had any ill intentions when making the donation offer.

"They were trying to help our community and help our school district," he said.&nbsp;

Brooks said everything the rest of the board was asking for in the contract was included, except for the donation paying for the full replacement of the turf.

He said the community members he has spoken to have been in favor of accepting the bank's donation.

"I get you may feel this is not enough, but this is a generous offer," Brooks said.

He said the football season was starting, and Golden Belt Bank was the only entity that came forward with such a donation offer.

"I get that we want to have a policy going forward, but I don't think that this is a bad plan," Brooks said. "When I look at what they proposed, I don't see any red flags in there."

Vajnar said he had spoken to officials at the bank, and he believed there was no ill will between the district and the bank.

&nbsp;"If it's worth that to them now, it will be worth it to them three or four months from now," Vajnar said, "Just because they were first doesn't mean it's theirs."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757531043130.jpeg" alt="Hays High School football field viewed from the school's commons" />
 <figcaption>Hays High School football field viewed from the school's commons</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board decided to create a committee to help shape policy on naming rights for school district facilities.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">The district effectively let an offer from Golden Belt Bank of $200,000 for the naming rights to the new football field at Hays High School expire. That contract would have been for a 10-year term.</a>The bank set a deadline of Sept. 15 to accept the offer.Board member Ruth Ruder thanked Golden Belt Bank for what she called a tremendous offer.&nbsp;"We just recently talked about taxes, and here you're given an opportunity to take $200,000 that is given from Golden Belt Bank," she said.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPONHTXLmgQ">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board passes budget with tax increase</a>She said although naming of facilities is usually seen at colleges, Hays could be at the forefront of something new.She said the Golden Belt Bank offer did not include the bank's logo on the turf or changing the name of the school's mascot to the "Golden Belt Indians.""When you are talking about increasing revenue, this is the way to do it," she said. "I'm not just talking about the football field. I'm talking about the auditorium, the basketball courts, the tennis courts."Ruder said she could not think of a downside to Golden Belt Bank's offer."It's funds in our pocket. It's free funds. To me, that's positivity for the community and positivity on for Hays High School," she said.Board member Jayme Goetz said she has talked to community members, teachers and coaches about the facility naming issue. She said those people had reservations, but indicated they would approve of naming rights if the price was right.Goetz said she thought money raised from naming fields should be designated for turf replacement, and the price for those naming rights should be proportional to the cost of that replacement.She estimated the cost of replacing the turf at $600,000 to $800,000 every eight to 10 years. She proposed naming rights should cost $35,000 to $40,000 per year.Board member Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp said she believed a policy on naming rights was necessary."I am interested in the conversation," she said.Board member Allen Park said, "If it's worth doing, it should be done right.""This is policy, and that's our job. I think it should be fair. I think we should give the opportunity to everybody somehow," he said.Board President Curt Vajnar said he did not think the board had a deadline for making decisions on naming rights. The bank has a deadline, he said."The naming of USD 489 facilities belongs to the citizens of Hays, not a business or entity. ... At the end of that end zone, it says Hays. It does not say Hays High School. It belongs to all of us."Vajnar said he did not think the bank was offering enough for the naming rights for a 10-year contract. He also said he thought all businesses and entities should have the same opportunity to have naming rights, as Park discussed.He echoed Goetz's comments, saying any money coming from the naming rights of the fields should be designated for field maintenance.Board Vice President Ken Brooks said he did not think Golden Belt Bank had any ill intentions when making the donation offer."They were trying to help our community and help our school district," he said.&nbsp;Brooks said everything the rest of the board was asking for in the contract was included, except for the donation paying for the full replacement of the turf.He said the community members he has spoken to have been in favor of accepting the bank's donation."I get you may feel this is not enough, but this is a generous offer," Brooks said.He said the football season was starting, and Golden Belt Bank was the only entity that came forward with such a donation offer."I get that we want to have a policy going forward, but I don't think that this is a bad plan," Brooks said. "When I look at what they proposed, I don't see any red flags in there."Vajnar said he had spoken to officials at the bank, and he believed there was no ill will between the district and the bank.&nbsp;"If it's worth that to them now, it will be worth it to them three or four months from now," Vajnar said, "Just because they were first doesn't mean it's theirs."The board did not vote on the issue.

Hays USD 489 postpones naming rights decision, despite bank's deadline

&nbsp;Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Hays Police Department will partner with the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau to present “Pedal Patrol in the Park,” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, in Aubel Bickle Optimist Park at 30th&nbsp;and Sherman Ave.

The goal of the event is to promote bike and scooter safety among young riders, with emphasis on learning correct helmet use and rules of the road for bicycles and scooters.

Events will include rides around the park with the HPD Bike Patrol and Hays Area Bicyclists, along with parent/toddler rides and bicycle seat safety checks for those who ride with a grown-up.&nbsp;

Children aged 0-13 will be encouraged to bring their scooters, bikes, trikes, Little Tikes cars, skateboards – whatever wheels they ride – to the event. Parents are also encouraged to bring their bikes.&nbsp;

A limited number of bicycle helmets will be given away, thanks to a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Heartland Healthy Living Fund of the Heartland Community Foundation.

“This will help us further our goal of improving public safety,” said Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler. “A helmet will help a child form a lifelong healthy habit of being safe every time they ride.”

Attendees can enjoy food trucks, music, games, and bike safety activities. Pfonz’s Smokehaus, The Local, Frozen Frog, and Suck It Up Bubble Cup are scheduled to be at the event.

Story times with the HPD and the Hays Public Library Bookmobile will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Other activities include safety obstacle courses, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/76c208bb-a6aa-4e68-9115-5092bb6f74a1">safety sessions with HPD Bike Patrol officers</a>, the Fort Hays State University MakerVan, yard games, volleyball, basketball, and bicycle safety checks with Precision Valley Golf and Bike Center.

There will be various giveaways and a raffle for three bicycles and one scooter courtesy of Hays Walmart.&nbsp;Raffle tickets can be earned by participating in the safety events throughout the day.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and coolers to the event, but no glass bottles are allowed.&nbsp;Pets on leashes are allowed but owners must clean up after their pets.

For details and updates on this event, check the Community Events calendar at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.visithays.com/">www.VisitHays.com</a>&nbsp;or search Facebook for the event “<a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=pedal%20patrol%20in%20the%20park">Pedal Patrol in the Park.</a>”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757432285538.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Hays Convention and Visitors BureauThe Hays Police Department will partner with the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau to present “Pedal Patrol in the Park,” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, in Aubel Bickle Optimist Park at 30th&nbsp;and Sherman Ave.The goal of the event is to promote bike and scooter safety among young riders, with emphasis on learning correct helmet use and rules of the road for bicycles and scooters.Events will include rides around the park with the HPD Bike Patrol and Hays Area Bicyclists, along with parent/toddler rides and bicycle seat safety checks for those who ride with a grown-up.&nbsp;Children aged 0-13 will be encouraged to bring their scooters, bikes, trikes, Little Tikes cars, skateboards – whatever wheels they ride – to the event. Parents are also encouraged to bring their bikes.&nbsp;A limited number of bicycle helmets will be given away, thanks to a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Heartland Healthy Living Fund of the Heartland Community Foundation.“This will help us further our goal of improving public safety,” said Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler. “A helmet will help a child form a lifelong healthy habit of being safe every time they ride.”Attendees can enjoy food trucks, music, games, and bike safety activities. Pfonz’s Smokehaus, The Local, Frozen Frog, and Suck It Up Bubble Cup are scheduled to be at the event.Story times with the HPD and the Hays Public Library Bookmobile will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.Other activities include safety obstacle courses, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/76c208bb-a6aa-4e68-9115-5092bb6f74a1">safety sessions with HPD Bike Patrol officers</a>, the Fort Hays State University MakerVan, yard games, volleyball, basketball, and bicycle safety checks with Precision Valley Golf and Bike Center.There will be various giveaways and a raffle for three bicycles and one scooter courtesy of Hays Walmart.&nbsp;Raffle tickets can be earned by participating in the safety events throughout the day.Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and coolers to the event, but no glass bottles are allowed.&nbsp;Pets on leashes are allowed but owners must clean up after their pets.For details and updates on this event, check the Community Events calendar at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.visithays.com/">www.VisitHays.com</a>&nbsp;or search Facebook for the event “<a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=pedal%20patrol%20in%20the%20park">Pedal Patrol in the Park.</a>”

Pedal Patrol event focuses on bike, scooter safety

By KAREN MADORIN Hays Post

You’d think a gal who’s celebrated 70 summers would know bumble and honey bees are very different creatures. 

Both are bees but live entirely different lifestyles. Compare them to city and rural residents or people from Alaska and Florida. Until recently, I never considered their differences other than to note one was fuzzier and bigger.

Because we planted more flowers this year, scores more bumble bees zip through our airways, flitting from one blossom to another. Numbers increased enough we may need bee traffic control to prevent wrecks. 

That observation awakened the one time four-year-old-me full of questions needing answers. What do they eat, where do they live, are they like honey bees only bigger, and so on. Once my curiosity fired up, I scoured one article after another to learn these unique creatures are very different from honey bees that share their territory.

Honey bees are smaller with lighter coloring. Often, over a thousand live year-round in above ground hives either man-made or bee-constructed and filled with complex hexagonal wax combs designed to store honey. This labor-intensive lifestyle ensures colonies survive winters to emerge each spring. 

Workers and drones specialize in collecting pollen and nectar, organizing tidy hives and combs, and nurturing expanding populations. It can take seven or more honey bees to harvest nectar from one flower. To succeed, colonies must function as a fine-tuned organization.

Bumble bees, larger, fuzzier, and more intensely colored than honey bees operate with an entirely different mindset. Their colonies are much smaller than honey bees’. As few as 20 to possibly 400 share a hive. Drones and workers live only one season and die before winter. Only the queen survives 'til the next year so bumble bee hives exist for only one season. 

The queen doesn’t over-winter at that site. She scouts a sheltered location where she hibernates and incubates fertilized eggs 'til emerging the following spring. She then establishes a new hive in either a log or tree cavity or in an abandoned animal hole in the ground, lays eggs, and collects enough pollen to get that first hatch started.

The initial emergents are all female and once mature, care for the following hatches which turn into drones and worker bees. Bumble bees make honey, but since they don’t live through the winter, they don’t store it. They produce enough to survive from week to week, tucking it in little wax pots stashed around comb-less, disorganized hives.

Only females sting, and unlike honey bees, they don’t lose their stinger after they use it so they can wreak havoc again. 

Males have no stinger so outdoor-lovers who can identify carriers of XY chromosomes can relax when sizable, fuzzy, yellow and black dudes do a fly-by. No squealing or evasive tactics necessary.

Where it takes multiple honey bees to harvest pollen and nectar from a flower, bumble bees are more efficient. One latches onto a blossom’s anther and flaps its wings. The resulting vibration loosens pollen so the bee can harvest it, or it pollinates nearby blossoms. One researcher mentioned greenhouses utilize bumble bees to increase tomato production.

Some humans earn specialized degrees to learn everything possible about bumble bees. I prefer to watch them vibrating my flowers. 

That said, I enjoyed the time I spent unearthing facts I should have known years ago.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN Hays PostYou’d think a gal who’s celebrated 70 summers would know bumble and honey bees are very different creatures. Both are bees but live entirely different lifestyles. Compare them to city and rural residents or people from Alaska and Florida. Until recently, I never considered their differences other than to note one was fuzzier and bigger.Because we planted more flowers this year, scores more bumble bees zip through our airways, flitting from one blossom to another. Numbers increased enough we may need bee traffic control to prevent wrecks. That observation awakened the one time four-year-old-me full of questions needing answers. What do they eat, where do they live, are they like honey bees only bigger, and so on. Once my curiosity fired up, I scoured one article after another to learn these unique creatures are very different from honey bees that share their territory.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757439651483.jpeg" alt="Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Honey bees are smaller with lighter coloring. Often, over a thousand live year-round in above ground hives either man-made or bee-constructed and filled with complex hexagonal wax combs designed to store honey. This labor-intensive lifestyle ensures colonies survive winters to emerge each spring. Workers and drones specialize in collecting pollen and nectar, organizing tidy hives and combs, and nurturing expanding populations. It can take seven or more honey bees to harvest nectar from one flower. To succeed, colonies must function as a fine-tuned organization.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757439614520.jpeg" alt="Photo by Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Bumble bees, larger, fuzzier, and more intensely colored than honey bees operate with an entirely different mindset. Their colonies are much smaller than honey bees’. As few as 20 to possibly 400 share a hive. Drones and workers live only one season and die before winter. Only the queen survives 'til the next year so bumble bee hives exist for only one season. The queen doesn’t over-winter at that site. She scouts a sheltered location where she hibernates and incubates fertilized eggs 'til emerging the following spring. She then establishes a new hive in either a log or tree cavity or in an abandoned animal hole in the ground, lays eggs, and collects enough pollen to get that first hatch started.The initial emergents are all female and once mature, care for the following hatches which turn into drones and worker bees. Bumble bees make honey, but since they don’t live through the winter, they don’t store it. They produce enough to survive from week to week, tucking it in little wax pots stashed around comb-less, disorganized hives.Only females sting, and unlike honey bees, they don’t lose their stinger after they use it so they can wreak havoc again. Males have no stinger so outdoor-lovers who can identify carriers of XY chromosomes can relax when sizable, fuzzy, yellow and black dudes do a fly-by. No squealing or evasive tactics necessary.Where it takes multiple honey bees to harvest pollen and nectar from a flower, bumble bees are more efficient. One latches onto a blossom’s anther and flaps its wings. The resulting vibration loosens pollen so the bee can harvest it, or it pollinates nearby blossoms. One researcher mentioned greenhouses utilize bumble bees to increase tomato production.Some humans earn specialized degrees to learn everything possible about bumble bees. I prefer to watch them vibrating my flowers. That said, I enjoyed the time I spent unearthing facts I should have known years ago.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Things I ought to know

Go Truck Go, a free family event, will be on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Early Childhood Connections, 2501 E. 13th across from Hays High School.

Children will get to experience vehicles they see daily. Go Truck Go features an ambulance, fire truck, police car, implements and construction vehicles.

Free food and drinks and free informational booths from area resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755701682505.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Go Truck Go, a free family event, will be on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Early Childhood Connections, 2501 E. 13th across from Hays High School.Children will get to experience vehicles they see daily. Go Truck Go features an ambulance, fire truck, police car, implements and construction vehicles.Free food and drinks and free informational booths from area resources.

Go Truck Go to be Sept. 11 at Early Childhood Connections

Gary Lee Schlyer age 79, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on
Saturday, September 6, 2025.

He
was born April 17, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to William 'Bill' and Mary VonFeldt
Schlyer.

Gary grew up in Hays, and attended Saint Joseph Military Academy, and was a
1964 graduate of Hays High School.

He owned and operated Gary’s Body Shop in Hays and Lucas from 1970 to 1976, he
then did body work part-time.&nbsp; He then was a welder and a machinist at
Farley’s Machine Shop in Russell from 1976 to 1997.&nbsp; Gary later moved to
Wichita, which he managed, and was a machinist at Nance Manufacturing until his
retirement.

Gary was a member of Saint Jude Catholic Church, and attended Saint Catherine
of Sienna Catholic Church of Wichita.&nbsp; He also was a member of the
Adoration Chapel.

Gary married Linda (Rohr) and to this union was born three children, Lisa;
Lori; and Lambert. He later married Karen (Staggs) in January of 2000, in
Wichita, and gained three step children.

Gary is survived by his wife, Karen, of Wichita and her three children; his
daughters, Lisa Dudenhoeffer and husband, Dan, St. Louis, MO; Lori Brungardt
and husband, Glenn, Lawrence, KS; his grandchildren, Mckenzie Carlgren and her
husband, Dawson; Lane Brungardt; Scarlett Harmon; his great granddaughter,
Westyn Carlgren; his sister, LaVera Peacock, NV; his children’s mother, Linda
Height and husband, James. &nbsp;

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, William 'Bill' and Mary Schlyer; and
his step father, Ray Hammerschmidt; his son, Lambert Schlyer; his brother,
Virgil Schlyer, his sisters, JoAnn Combs; and Rita Taggert.

A private family graveside inurnment will be at 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 12, 2025 at Saint
Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 A.M. to 1:15 P.M. at
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

The family suggests memorials made payable to Kansas Humane Society, Wichita,
or Food Pantry at Saint Jude Catholic Church, Wichita, in care of&nbsp;
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.

&nbsp;Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757528570105.jpeg" alt="Gary Lee Schlyer" />
 <figcaption>Gary Lee Schlyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Lee Schlyer age 79, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on
Saturday, September 6, 2025.He
was born April 17, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to William 'Bill' and Mary VonFeldt
Schlyer.Gary grew up in Hays, and attended Saint Joseph Military Academy, and was a
1964 graduate of Hays High School.He owned and operated Gary’s Body Shop in Hays and Lucas from 1970 to 1976, he
then did body work part-time.&nbsp; He then was a welder and a machinist at
Farley’s Machine Shop in Russell from 1976 to 1997.&nbsp; Gary later moved to
Wichita, which he managed, and was a machinist at Nance Manufacturing until his
retirement.Gary was a member of Saint Jude Catholic Church, and attended Saint Catherine
of Sienna Catholic Church of Wichita.&nbsp; He also was a member of the
Adoration Chapel.Gary married Linda (Rohr) and to this union was born three children, Lisa;
Lori; and Lambert. He later married Karen (Staggs) in January of 2000, in
Wichita, and gained three step children.Gary is survived by his wife, Karen, of Wichita and her three children; his
daughters, Lisa Dudenhoeffer and husband, Dan, St. Louis, MO; Lori Brungardt
and husband, Glenn, Lawrence, KS; his grandchildren, Mckenzie Carlgren and her
husband, Dawson; Lane Brungardt; Scarlett Harmon; his great granddaughter,
Westyn Carlgren; his sister, LaVera Peacock, NV; his children’s mother, Linda
Height and husband, James. &nbsp;Gary is preceded in death by his parents, William 'Bill' and Mary Schlyer; and
his step father, Ray Hammerschmidt; his son, Lambert Schlyer; his brother,
Virgil Schlyer, his sisters, JoAnn Combs; and Rita Taggert.A private family graveside inurnment will be at 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 12, 2025 at Saint
Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas.The family will receive friends from 11:30 A.M. to 1:15 P.M. at
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.The family suggests memorials made payable to Kansas Humane Society, Wichita,
or Food Pantry at Saint Jude Catholic Church, Wichita, in care of&nbsp;
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.&nbsp;Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Gary Lee Schlyer

Delven Lee Kraft, 89,
passed away on August 8, 2025 at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on April 24, 1936 on
the farm in Trego County, Kansas the son of Jacob and Eva (Eichman) Kraft.

Delven was a farmer and
stockman. He married Vivian Hoover on June 2nd, 1956, in Ness City, Kansas. 

Survivors include his wife,
Vivian Kraft of Ransom; daughter, Renata Kraft of Hays; son, Lee Kraft of
Ransom; daughter, Michele Nuttle of Utica; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Kraft, Codi
Kraft, Dalton Nuttle, Dylan Nuttle; 5 great-grandchildren, Blake Nuttle, Logan
Nuttle, Bodhi Kraft, Taegen Kraft, London Gutierrez; and sister, Helen Wagner
of Ness City. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Herman, Reinhold,
Paul, and Hubert; sisters Darlene Cody and Betty Birzer.

A Celebration of Life will
be held at the Ransom VFW, Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 5:30pm.

Memorial contributions may
be given to the Ransom, KS VFW Post No. 7972, grandson’s
nonprofit “Forgotten Stewardship”, or Donor's Choice.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for
the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757518892172.jpeg" alt="Delven Lee Kraft" />
 <figcaption>Delven Lee Kraft</figcaption>
 </figure>Delven Lee Kraft, 89,
passed away on August 8, 2025 at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on April 24, 1936 on
the farm in Trego County, Kansas the son of Jacob and Eva (Eichman) Kraft.Delven was a farmer and
stockman. He married Vivian Hoover on June 2nd, 1956, in Ness City, Kansas. Survivors include his wife,
Vivian Kraft of Ransom; daughter, Renata Kraft of Hays; son, Lee Kraft of
Ransom; daughter, Michele Nuttle of Utica; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Kraft, Codi
Kraft, Dalton Nuttle, Dylan Nuttle; 5 great-grandchildren, Blake Nuttle, Logan
Nuttle, Bodhi Kraft, Taegen Kraft, London Gutierrez; and sister, Helen Wagner
of Ness City. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Herman, Reinhold,
Paul, and Hubert; sisters Darlene Cody and Betty Birzer.A Celebration of Life will
be held at the Ransom VFW, Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 5:30pm.Memorial contributions may
be given to the Ransom, KS VFW Post No. 7972, grandson’s
nonprofit “Forgotten Stewardship”, or Donor's Choice.Words of sympathy and support may be left for
the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Delven Lee Kraft

Hays city commissioners will conduct two public hearings on Thursday regarding the 2026 budget of $54.3 million.&nbsp;

The 2026 mill levy remains at 25 mills for the 17th consecutive year, while assessed valuation increased by 2.5%. 

"Because the city's valuation is up, the amount generated by the 25 mill levy will also increase," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.

According to example statistics supplied by city staff, the median sales price of a home in Hays is $216,000. The state's residential rate of assessed valuation is 11.5%, equaling $24,840. The assessed valuation is then multiplied by the city mill levy of 0.25, equaling $621 as the amount owed in 2026 city property tax.&nbsp;

A hearing will be held first to exceed the revenue-neutral rate of 24.382 mills in the city's property tax levy.&nbsp;

Commissioners will then take a roll call vote on the resolution.

The public hearing and vote on next year's budget will follow.

The 2026 Budget can be viewed in its entirety by visiting <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/8179/2026-BUDGET-WORKBOOK">https://www.haysusa.com/392/Budgets</a>

The meeting will start with three nuisance abatements recommended by Jesse Rohr, public works director for&nbsp;

• 515 E. 11th • 1716 Douglas Drive • 231 E. 12th

The complete Sept. 11 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09112025-1568">here</a>. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757441659751.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners will conduct two public hearings on Thursday regarding the 2026 budget of $54.3 million.&nbsp;The 2026 mill levy remains at 25 mills for the 17th consecutive year, while assessed valuation increased by 2.5%. "Because the city's valuation is up, the amount generated by the 25 mill levy will also increase," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757513627123.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>According to example statistics supplied by city staff, the median sales price of a home in Hays is $216,000. The state's residential rate of assessed valuation is 11.5%, equaling $24,840. The assessed valuation is then multiplied by the city mill levy of 0.25, equaling $621 as the amount owed in 2026 city property tax.&nbsp;A hearing will be held first to exceed the revenue-neutral rate of 24.382 mills in the city's property tax levy.&nbsp;Commissioners will then take a roll call vote on the resolution.The public hearing and vote on next year's budget will follow.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757441115609.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757441297702.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The 2026 Budget can be viewed in its entirety by visiting <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/8179/2026-BUDGET-WORKBOOK">https://www.haysusa.com/392/Budgets</a>The meeting will start with three nuisance abatements recommended by Jesse Rohr, public works director for&nbsp;• 515 E. 11th • 1716 Douglas Drive • 231 E. 12thThe complete Sept. 11 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09112025-1568">here</a>. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission to conduct 2026 revenue neutral rate, budget hearings Thursday

The Chicago White Sox announced Tuesday they have called up
Hays native Carson Jacobs to the Birmingham Barons, the Double-A affiliate of
the Chicago White Sox.

Jacobs made his debut with the team on the same day. 

He worked around a walk and struck out the side in an inning
of scoreless relief.

Jacobs had previously appeared in 42 games as a member of
the Winston-Salem Dash, the White Sox’s High-A team in the South Atlantic
League.

He had a 6-5 record with two saves and a 4.61 ERA. 

He amassed 80 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings with 36 walks.&nbsp;

Hays Post Sports<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Chicago White Sox are promoting Carson Jacobs to the Birmingham Barons (AA), per <a href="https://twitter.com/_chaseford?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_chaseford</a>. <a href="https://t.co/9LlYr6yrNj">pic.twitter.com/9LlYr6yrNj</a>&mdash; Milb Central (@milb_central) <a href="https://twitter.com/milb_central/status/1964834283526492169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Chicago White Sox announced Tuesday they have called up
Hays native Carson Jacobs to the Birmingham Barons, the Double-A affiliate of
the Chicago White Sox.Jacobs made his debut with the team on the same day. He worked around a walk and struck out the side in an inning
of scoreless relief.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Carson Jacobs strikes out 3 in his AA debut. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Barons?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Barons</a> <a href="https://t.co/36SzR7pWTl">pic.twitter.com/36SzR7pWTl</a>&mdash; FutureSox (@FutureSox) <a href="https://twitter.com/FutureSox/status/1965602545222758763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Jacobs had previously appeared in 42 games as a member of
the Winston-Salem Dash, the White Sox’s High-A team in the South Atlantic
League.He had a 6-5 record with two saves and a 4.61 ERA. He amassed 80 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings with 36 walks.&nbsp;

⚾ Former TMP standout and Hays native, Jacobs called up to “AA”

Wednesday, September 10 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Wednesday, September 10 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pmThursday, September 11 KJLS: Fort Hay State VB vs. Augustana, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmFriday, September 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 5:00pm KKQY: Smith Center FB at Phillipsburg, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Choctaw (Okla.), 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Victoria FB at Central Plains, 6:45pmSaturday, September 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney, 6:00pmSunday, September 14 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 12:00pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2:00pm

The Hays USD 489 school board approved its budget Monday night after conducting budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings.

However, the discussion included some dissent from two of the school board members.

No one offered public comment during either the revenue-neutral rate nor the budget hearings.

The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.43%.

Twenty mills of the property tax levy go to the state and are redistributed on a per-pupil basis. Local school boards have no control over that levy. The amount raised by that levy will increase because the valuation has increased, Hipp said.

The district approved a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.

The district is losing about $193,000 in state aid for the supplemental general fund, Hipp said, which means the net increase from that fund is only about $80,000.

The district also has an 8 mill capital outlay levy. That has remained the same for many years. The amount raised from the 8-mill levy will increase slightly because the valuation increased.

Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will increase by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district. (See the chart above.)

An increase in salaries accounted for a significant portion of the budget increase, Hipp said on Monday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de2764c1-3767-4d5a-8353-888aa39a31cf">The board approved a 2.5% salary increase for all employees in June.</a>

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the budgeting process begins in February with negotiations. The votes taken in September are the culmination of that process.

"At this stage of the game, the budget is established," he said.

"We continue to refine this budget through project planning and every meeting throughout the year," Hipp said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757447164162.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved its budget Monday night after conducting budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings.However, the discussion included some dissent from two of the school board members.No one offered public comment during either the revenue-neutral rate nor the budget hearings.The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.43%.Twenty mills of the property tax levy go to the state and are redistributed on a per-pupil basis. Local school boards have no control over that levy. The amount raised by that levy will increase because the valuation has increased, Hipp said.The district approved a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.The district is losing about $193,000 in state aid for the supplemental general fund, Hipp said, which means the net increase from that fund is only about $80,000.The district also has an 8 mill capital outlay levy. That has remained the same for many years. The amount raised from the 8-mill levy will increase slightly because the valuation increased.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757443953804.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will increase by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district. (See the chart above.)An increase in salaries accounted for a significant portion of the budget increase, Hipp said on Monday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de2764c1-3767-4d5a-8353-888aa39a31cf">The board approved a 2.5% salary increase for all employees in June.</a>Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the budgeting process begins in February with negotiations. The votes taken in September are the culmination of that process."At this stage of the game, the budget is established," he said."We continue to refine this budget through project planning and every meeting throughout the year," Hipp said.Hipp said at this time of year, the district uses an estimated student count to work backward to determine the legal maximum for the budget."At this point in time, the money is allocated," he said. "The only plan B would be to spend contingency reserve to do the things that you have already committed to over the last three or four months or ...""We cut something," Ruder said.Ruder said if the board refused to approve the budget, she wanted the cuts to be determined that night.The district is under a deadline to finalize its budget by Sept. 20.Board member Allen Park said, "You developed the budget with very little input from us. You bring us things to approve, but we are supposed to [explicitly] determine what we are doing to justify raising these taxes.""I don't think we've done that," he said.Ruder said, "When have taxes gone down? ... You have had every opportunity to question the administration. I reached out to Chris [Hipp] and Ron [Wilson] several times. Salary is one that we all voted on. Where are you going to cut?"Park said he was voting against the tax increase because he believed the community had already been taxed enough following the passage of the bond issue."We keep taxing, taxing, taxing and not adjusting a little bit," he said.The vote to approve exceeding the revenue-neutral rate passed 4-2, with Park and board member Jayme Goetz voting against. Board member Derek Yarmer was absent from the meeting.The budget was approved on a vote of 5-1, with Park voting against.The board also approved • A bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School • A contract with The Insurance Guys for the Hays High School Marketing Partnership — Founder Partner package. The Founder Package is priced at $7,500 per year for a three-year term. The business will receive static signage in the Gold auxiliary gym as well as digital advertising.