By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

From late-night tacos to a full-scale bar and grill, Storytellers is bringing a new chapter to downtown Hays dining.

Owner Luke Hemphill said the restaurant will be a distinct concept from his popular food truck, Tacos El Guero Guey, which he has operated since 2020.

"We've been running out of room," Hemphill said. "It's always scary making that initial jump, but when the location popped up, it seemed like it was the perfect fit for us."

Storytellers, 509 W. Seventh St., is in the former location of The Tiger Book Shop near Fort Hays State University, but Hemphill said it will welcome the entire community when it opens Wednesday.

"Through the name of the business, we wanted to pay homage to the old tiger bookstore and give it a new creative twist for the restaurant," Hemphill said.

The restaurant’s grand opening week runs Aug. 20–23 and will feature live music and signature cocktails. Hemphill said the menu will include sliders, wings, specialty quesadillas different from the taco trailer’s offerings and a variety of loaded fries.

The custom cocktail menu features drinks such as the house margarita, the octo, dead man’s boots, electric kool-aid and liquid marijuana. Storytellers will offer daily discounts on different food items.

Hemphill moved to the area in 2020 to launch his food trailer and has grown from late-night service near campus to also feeding the community during the day.

"[Tacos El Guero Guey] is still going to stay the same. We've been doing well, getting a lot of feedback from that, and we want to assure everyone that the taco truck isn't going away," he said.

Hemphill said he is grateful for his contractor, Jeff Ruda of Ruda Remodeling, for helping transform the former book shop into his dream business.

Storytellers will be open from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, with Wednesdays possibly closing at midnight depending on the customer volume.

The Tiger Book Shop closed in 2024 after 19 years due to declining business.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3b7914c4-88bb-4598-82a0-a6cac45624f6">SEE RELATED STORY: Historic Hays Tiger Book Shop closes May 15 with final sale</a>

You can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578527575814">Storytellers</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082989627450">Tacos El Guero Guey</a> on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755184988736.jpeg" alt="The front entrance of Storytellers near Fort Hays State University in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The front entrance of Storytellers near Fort Hays State University in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFrom late-night tacos to a full-scale bar and grill, Storytellers is bringing a new chapter to downtown Hays dining.Owner Luke Hemphill said the restaurant will be a distinct concept from his popular food truck, Tacos El Guero Guey, which he has operated since 2020."We've been running out of room," Hemphill said. "It's always scary making that initial jump, but when the location popped up, it seemed like it was the perfect fit for us."Storytellers, 509 W. Seventh St., is in the former location of The Tiger Book Shop near Fort Hays State University, but Hemphill said it will welcome the entire community when it opens Wednesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185056070.jpeg" alt="The bar area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The bar area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185075078.jpeg" alt="The main seating area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The main seating area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185094552.jpeg" alt="Wall art and decorations above booths at Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wall art and decorations above booths at Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Through the name of the business, we wanted to pay homage to the old tiger bookstore and give it a new creative twist for the restaurant," Hemphill said.The restaurant’s grand opening week runs Aug. 20–23 and will feature live music and signature cocktails. Hemphill said the menu will include sliders, wings, specialty quesadillas different from the taco trailer’s offerings and a variety of loaded fries.The custom cocktail menu features drinks such as the house margarita, the octo, dead man’s boots, electric kool-aid and liquid marijuana. Storytellers will offer daily discounts on different food items.Hemphill moved to the area in 2020 to launch his food trailer and has grown from late-night service near campus to also feeding the community during the day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185135173.jpeg" alt="Televisions mounted above the main seating area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Televisions mounted above the main seating area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185154704.jpeg" alt="Pool tables and more seating in another area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pool tables and more seating in another area of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755185182494.jpeg" alt="The bar of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The bar of Storytellers in Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"[Tacos El Guero Guey] is still going to stay the same. We've been doing well, getting a lot of feedback from that, and we want to assure everyone that the taco truck isn't going away," he said.Hemphill said he is grateful for his contractor, Jeff Ruda of Ruda Remodeling, for helping transform the former book shop into his dream business.Storytellers will be open from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, with Wednesdays possibly closing at midnight depending on the customer volume.The Tiger Book Shop closed in 2024 after 19 years due to declining business.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3b7914c4-88bb-4598-82a0-a6cac45624f6">SEE RELATED STORY: Historic Hays Tiger Book Shop closes May 15 with final sale</a>You can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578527575814">Storytellers</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082989627450">Tacos El Guero Guey</a> on Facebook.

Storytellers restaurant/bar brings new flavors to former Hays bookstore

Volga German Sesquicentennial Action Committee

The Volga German Sesquicentennial Action Committee is calling on the community to help preserve Ellis County’s rich Volga German heritage by submitting historical photographs, documents and personal stories for a forthcoming 2026 commemorative publication.

The committee is gathering high-quality images and narratives that showcase all aspects of Volga German immigrant life, from the settlers’ arrival in the 1870s to the present day.

Organizers say contributions will celebrate 150 years of Volga German influence in the region, marking the official sesquicentennial of their arrival in western Kansas in 1876.

The public submissions can cover a broad range of subjects: people and family life, historic buildings and churches, cultural traditions, the German dialect spoken by descendants, recipes and foods, or any other facet of Volga German life.

Personal stories and recollections are welcome in either first-person accounts or third-person narratives.

“We want to ensure this anniversary is celebrated not just with dates and facts, but with the voices and images of the families who built our communities,” said Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis&nbsp;County Historical Society. “Preserving these family photos and stories is vital to understanding who we are as a community. It’s about capturing the everyday lives and traditions of the Volga German families that made this area their home.”

Submissions are being accepted through the project website, OurPeopleOurHome.org which was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Volga Germans arrival in Ellis County.

The site’s Submission Center allows users to upload images, videos or written stories, and contributors are asked to include captions or descriptions for any photographs.

Submissions will be considered for use online, on social media, and in the upcoming published book.

James Bell, publications chair for the Sesquicentennial Action Committee, said that materials from beyond Ellis County are welcome as well.

“We know the region’s Volga German story extends beyond Ellis County’s borders,” Bell said. “If families in surrounding counties have a shared heritage, we encourage them to contribute their stories and photos too. The more perspectives we include, the richer this collection will be.”

For those who have old prints, slides or artifacts that aren’t yet digitized, the committee is offering scanning assistance.

Individuals with physical photographs, letters or other documents can contact organizers via the website to arrange use of scanning equipment or other help in converting items to a digital format.

“If you have a box of old photographs or letters in the attic, we want to help you share those,” Bell said. “We have resources to safely scan and digitize these treasures so they can be part of this preservation effort. Every family keepsake has the potential to tell a story.”

Organizers emphasized that all submitted materials should be original (or submitted with permission of the owner) so that the content can be published without legal issues.

Contributors will retain ownership of their originals; the committee requests only the right to include the material in the sesquicentennial project.

The 150th anniversary celebrations are expected to span throughout 2026, honoring the legacy of the Volga German settlers who first arrived in Ellis County in 1876.

Ellis County became a hub for these immigrants in the late 1870s, when German families who had previously settled in Russia’s Volga River region came to the United States seeking new opportunities.

They established a number of local villages, such as Liebenthal, Catherine, Herzog (now Victoria) and others, that still cherish their Volga German roots.

The upcoming sesquicentennial festivities will highlight this heritage through exhibits, cultural demonstrations, and gatherings of descendants.

A calendar of events for 2026 is being developed and will be published on <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a> website as plans are finalized.

The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia has again chosen Hays to host its national conference in 2026, reflecting the area’s importance as a center of Volga German history.

The publication and events are an initiative of the Sesquicentennial Action Committee to engage the public in celebrating 150 years of Volga German contributions to the area.

Rupp said the success of the project depends on broad community participation.

“This project is truly about community collaboration,” she said. “Every photo album or family tale that gets shared brings us one step closer to preserving our history for the next generation.”

Community members can upload their materials via the Submit Materials page at <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a>.

Those needing assistance or more information may reach out through the site’s Contact Us form or call the Ellis County Historical Society.

The committee encourages early submissions as the commemorative publication will be compiled over the coming months in preparation for the 2026 festivities.

By contributing to <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org </a>local families can help paint a vibrant picture of Volga German life in Ellis County and ensure that our home and our people are remembered for generations to come.

For questions or more information email ourpeople150yearsourhome@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755008317786.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Volga German Sesquicentennial Action CommitteeThe Volga German Sesquicentennial Action Committee is calling on the community to help preserve Ellis County’s rich Volga German heritage by submitting historical photographs, documents and personal stories for a forthcoming 2026 commemorative publication.The committee is gathering high-quality images and narratives that showcase all aspects of Volga German immigrant life, from the settlers’ arrival in the 1870s to the present day.Organizers say contributions will celebrate 150 years of Volga German influence in the region, marking the official sesquicentennial of their arrival in western Kansas in 1876.The public submissions can cover a broad range of subjects: people and family life, historic buildings and churches, cultural traditions, the German dialect spoken by descendants, recipes and foods, or any other facet of Volga German life.Personal stories and recollections are welcome in either first-person accounts or third-person narratives.“We want to ensure this anniversary is celebrated not just with dates and facts, but with the voices and images of the families who built our communities,” said Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis&nbsp;County Historical Society. “Preserving these family photos and stories is vital to understanding who we are as a community. It’s about capturing the everyday lives and traditions of the Volga German families that made this area their home.”Submissions are being accepted through the project website, OurPeopleOurHome.org which was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Volga Germans arrival in Ellis County.The site’s Submission Center allows users to upload images, videos or written stories, and contributors are asked to include captions or descriptions for any photographs.Submissions will be considered for use online, on social media, and in the upcoming published book.James Bell, publications chair for the Sesquicentennial Action Committee, said that materials from beyond Ellis County are welcome as well.“We know the region’s Volga German story extends beyond Ellis County’s borders,” Bell said. “If families in surrounding counties have a shared heritage, we encourage them to contribute their stories and photos too. The more perspectives we include, the richer this collection will be.”For those who have old prints, slides or artifacts that aren’t yet digitized, the committee is offering scanning assistance.Individuals with physical photographs, letters or other documents can contact organizers via the website to arrange use of scanning equipment or other help in converting items to a digital format.“If you have a box of old photographs or letters in the attic, we want to help you share those,” Bell said. “We have resources to safely scan and digitize these treasures so they can be part of this preservation effort. Every family keepsake has the potential to tell a story.”Organizers emphasized that all submitted materials should be original (or submitted with permission of the owner) so that the content can be published without legal issues.Contributors will retain ownership of their originals; the committee requests only the right to include the material in the sesquicentennial project.The 150th anniversary celebrations are expected to span throughout 2026, honoring the legacy of the Volga German settlers who first arrived in Ellis County in 1876.Ellis County became a hub for these immigrants in the late 1870s, when German families who had previously settled in Russia’s Volga River region came to the United States seeking new opportunities.They established a number of local villages, such as Liebenthal, Catherine, Herzog (now Victoria) and others, that still cherish their Volga German roots.The upcoming sesquicentennial festivities will highlight this heritage through exhibits, cultural demonstrations, and gatherings of descendants.A calendar of events for 2026 is being developed and will be published on <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a> website as plans are finalized.The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia has again chosen Hays to host its national conference in 2026, reflecting the area’s importance as a center of Volga German history.The publication and events are an initiative of the Sesquicentennial Action Committee to engage the public in celebrating 150 years of Volga German contributions to the area.Rupp said the success of the project depends on broad community participation.“This project is truly about community collaboration,” she said. “Every photo album or family tale that gets shared brings us one step closer to preserving our history for the next generation.”How to SubmitCommunity members can upload their materials via the Submit Materials page at <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a>.Those needing assistance or more information may reach out through the site’s Contact Us form or call the Ellis County Historical Society.The committee encourages early submissions as the commemorative publication will be compiled over the coming months in preparation for the 2026 festivities.By contributing to <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org </a>local families can help paint a vibrant picture of Volga German life in Ellis County and ensure that our home and our people are remembered for generations to come. For questions or more information email ourpeople150yearsourhome@gmail.com.

Volga German Sesquicentennial Committee seeks heritage submissions

By TISA MASON FHSU President

Even before classes officially begin, our campus is already alive with energy. You can hear the laughter of our international students during orientation on the Quad. You can feel the determination of our Tiger football players as they power through practice in the sweltering Kansas summer heat. By this weekend, most of our on-campus students will be moved in, and on Monday, we’ll turn the page together and begin the 2025–2026 academic year — another exciting chapter in the proud history of Fort Hays State University.

Among the students returning to our residence halls is Dominic “Dom” Hernandez, a high school senior from Hays who is enrolled in our Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS) — FHSU’s premier early college program. While KAMS is known for its unmatched academic rigor, students like Dom also take full advantage of the opportunities our university offers outside the classroom. KAMS students serve in student government, lead in campus organizations, engage in community service, and even take part in cutting-edge research.

Dom’s story is deeply rooted in the values of family, hard work, and education. His father, Manuel Hernandez, grew up in Mexico City, the son of parents who sacrificed greatly so their children could have a better life. Manuel’s mother worked as a cook in the Spanish Embassy, and his father left elementary school to work in construction. Manuel followed his mother’s culinary path, eventually becoming a professional chef.

Dom’s mother, Erin Schamber, grew up in the tiny rural town of Damar (population 107), in a safe and supportive community where everybody knew everybody. Her father’s Peace Corps service inspired her love for travel and other cultures. After building a life in Colorado, Erin and Manuel moved to Hays so Manuel could join the team at Gella’s Restaurant. They thought it would simply be a good place to raise their family. What they didn’t know then was that FHSU would become central to their story.

Manuel is now head chef with Union Catering, delivering between 2,000 and 3,000 meals daily and providing customized catering solutions for a wide range of campus events. Erin earned her master’s degree in social work here at FHSU and went on to launch a rewarding career advocating for youth in the Ellis County juvenile justice system. Both parents have embraced our campus and community, attending events like the Hays Symphony and sending their children to STEM summer camps.

About two years ago, Dom came home from school and told his parents about the KAMS program. “I just wasn’t feeling challenged enough in high school,” Dom said. “My dad taught me and my siblings to always be looking for ways to excel and ways to take advantage of the opportunities we are lucky enough to find.” Dom saw KAMS as an opportunity to embrace his dad’s advice.

During his first year in KAMS, Dom conducted research on advanced insulating materials, journeyed to Ireland to participate in archaeological fieldwork, and attended a National Rural Electric Cooperative Association leadership conference in Washington, D.C. Each state sent students to the conference, and Dom was selected by his peers to represent all of his fellow Kansans as a member of the Youth Leadership Council.

Like the majority of FHSU students, Dom also works part-time. He serves as a barista at the Breathe Coffee shop in downtown Hays, and thinks this experience, well beyond the boundaries of campus, has been especially rewarding.

“Breathe is more than a coffee shop in the sense that it's also an outlet for people to find a community and an environment that is understanding. There are a lot of customers that I've become very close with. They’ve helped me with a lot of things, and I think I've helped them as well,” Dom said.

Patrick McGinnis, the owner of Breathe, believes Dom contributed greatly to the warm and welcoming culture of the coffee shop.

“Dominic understands that through excellence even in the small things, you can make a difference in people’s lives,” McGinnes said. “He is authentic. He cares for everyone and is tirelessly dedicated to becoming the best version of himself.”

The Hernandez family’s presence on campus is already strong this fall. Manuel’s culinary team started serving meals on August 13. Dom’s older brother Leonardo, a sophomore physics major and member of the Tiger Cheer squad, is practicing for our first home football game. And Dom is serving as one of my VIP Student Ambassadors, helping us connect with visitors and share the spirit of FHSU.

The Hernandez family reminds us about the connections we cultivate and the hearts we touch. When Dom’s family arrived in Hays, they never anticipated that Fort Hays State University would weave itself into the fabric of their lives. Yet, today, they are enriching our community in ways that inspire and strengthen us all.

Here’s to another year filled with opportunity, discovery, and the heart of a Tiger that beats powerfully within us all.

Dr. Tisa Mason is the president of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755163137190.jpeg" alt="Manuel Hernandez, Dom Hernandez and Erin Schamber. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Manuel Hernandez, Dom Hernandez and Erin Schamber. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentEven before classes officially begin, our campus is already alive with energy. You can hear the laughter of our international students during orientation on the Quad. You can feel the determination of our Tiger football players as they power through practice in the sweltering Kansas summer heat. By this weekend, most of our on-campus students will be moved in, and on Monday, we’ll turn the page together and begin the 2025–2026 academic year — another exciting chapter in the proud history of Fort Hays State University.Among the students returning to our residence halls is Dominic “Dom” Hernandez, a high school senior from Hays who is enrolled in our Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS) — FHSU’s premier early college program. While KAMS is known for its unmatched academic rigor, students like Dom also take full advantage of the opportunities our university offers outside the classroom. KAMS students serve in student government, lead in campus organizations, engage in community service, and even take part in cutting-edge research.Dom’s story is deeply rooted in the values of family, hard work, and education. His father, Manuel Hernandez, grew up in Mexico City, the son of parents who sacrificed greatly so their children could have a better life. Manuel’s mother worked as a cook in the Spanish Embassy, and his father left elementary school to work in construction. Manuel followed his mother’s culinary path, eventually becoming a professional chef.Dom’s mother, Erin Schamber, grew up in the tiny rural town of Damar (population 107), in a safe and supportive community where everybody knew everybody. Her father’s Peace Corps service inspired her love for travel and other cultures. After building a life in Colorado, Erin and Manuel moved to Hays so Manuel could join the team at Gella’s Restaurant. They thought it would simply be a good place to raise their family. What they didn’t know then was that FHSU would become central to their story.Manuel is now head chef with Union Catering, delivering between 2,000 and 3,000 meals daily and providing customized catering solutions for a wide range of campus events. Erin earned her master’s degree in social work here at FHSU and went on to launch a rewarding career advocating for youth in the Ellis County juvenile justice system. Both parents have embraced our campus and community, attending events like the Hays Symphony and sending their children to STEM summer camps.About two years ago, Dom came home from school and told his parents about the KAMS program. “I just wasn’t feeling challenged enough in high school,” Dom said. “My dad taught me and my siblings to always be looking for ways to excel and ways to take advantage of the opportunities we are lucky enough to find.” Dom saw KAMS as an opportunity to embrace his dad’s advice.During his first year in KAMS, Dom conducted research on advanced insulating materials, journeyed to Ireland to participate in archaeological fieldwork, and attended a National Rural Electric Cooperative Association leadership conference in Washington, D.C. Each state sent students to the conference, and Dom was selected by his peers to represent all of his fellow Kansans as a member of the Youth Leadership Council.Like the majority of FHSU students, Dom also works part-time. He serves as a barista at the Breathe Coffee shop in downtown Hays, and thinks this experience, well beyond the boundaries of campus, has been especially rewarding.“Breathe is more than a coffee shop in the sense that it's also an outlet for people to find a community and an environment that is understanding. There are a lot of customers that I've become very close with. They’ve helped me with a lot of things, and I think I've helped them as well,” Dom said.Patrick McGinnis, the owner of Breathe, believes Dom contributed greatly to the warm and welcoming culture of the coffee shop.“Dominic understands that through excellence even in the small things, you can make a difference in people’s lives,” McGinnes said. “He is authentic. He cares for everyone and is tirelessly dedicated to becoming the best version of himself.”The Hernandez family’s presence on campus is already strong this fall. Manuel’s culinary team started serving meals on August 13. Dom’s older brother Leonardo, a sophomore physics major and member of the Tiger Cheer squad, is practicing for our first home football game. And Dom is serving as one of my VIP Student Ambassadors, helping us connect with visitors and share the spirit of FHSU.The Hernandez family reminds us about the connections we cultivate and the hearts we touch. When Dom’s family arrived in Hays, they never anticipated that Fort Hays State University would weave itself into the fabric of their lives. Yet, today, they are enriching our community in ways that inspire and strengthen us all.Here’s to another year filled with opportunity, discovery, and the heart of a Tiger that beats powerfully within us all.Dr. Tisa Mason is the president of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Heart of a Tiger: The Hernandez family is back on campus

The Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway will be at Auto Collision Specialists from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Stop by to register to become a finalist for a CF Moto U Force 4 seat UTV.&nbsp; 

Auto Collision Specialists wants to remind you that they work with all insurance companies, they are family owned and always willing to help from start to finish. 

If you ever need any help after a fender bender, keep the gang at Auto Collision Specialists in mind.

Special thanks to A &amp; A Coors Miller, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus and Commercial Sign Company!

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

The UTV will be given away at a Fort Hays State University football game on Saturday, Sept. 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753111227517.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750185433864.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4GiQ8bT1mls?si=x0Sy46fK9L1wTVy1" 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>The Lite Beer from Miller UTV Giveaway will be at Auto Collision Specialists from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.Stop by to register to become a finalist for a CF Moto U Force 4 seat UTV.&nbsp; Auto Collision Specialists wants to remind you that they work with all insurance companies, they are family owned and always willing to help from start to finish. If you ever need any help after a fender bender, keep the gang at Auto Collision Specialists in mind.Special thanks to A &amp; A Coors Miller, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus and Commercial Sign Company!Keep listening to Eagle Radio and reading the Hays Post all summer long for your chance to become a finalist.The UTV will be given away at a Fort Hays State University football game on Saturday, Sept. 13.

Become Miller Lite UTV giveaway finalist today at Auto Collision Specialists in Hays!

By GERARD WELLBROCK 
 Hays Post Sports

HAYS, Kan. – One of the biggest questions marks for the Fort
Hays State football team entering this season is the secondary where the Tigers
are needing to replace four starters who combined for 106 career starts.

Redshirt junior Jaxon Kolzow is the lone returning starter
in the secondary. The Salina native played in all 11 games last season, earning
six starts at safety as the season progressed.

"It's definitely different," Kolzow said.
"We're having a whole bunch of guys step up. We've got a lot of
competition right now. We're pushing each other every single day to get better
and grow as a unit."

Despite the team's inexperience, Kolzow believes this year's
defense has the potential to be just as good as last season's. FHSU's defense
was one of the best in the MIAA, allowing a league-low 219.2 passing yards per
game and ranking second in total defense with 330 yards allowed. The Tigers
also finished second in the conference with a plus-eight turnover margin, which
ranked in the top 20 nationally.

"We definitely have the talent back there," Kolzow
said. "It's just everybody getting comfortable and growing with each
other. It takes time getting used to playing with different guys and learning a
whole new defense for some of these guys, but we're getting there."

With seven career starts, Kolzow now finds himself in a
leadership role.

"Last year we had a whole bunch of old guys, so they
kind of told me what to do," he said. "I took that experience from
them and I'm trying to implement that into this year."

By GERARD WELLBROCK 
 Hays Post SportsHAYS, Kan. – One of the biggest questions marks for the Fort
Hays State football team entering this season is the secondary where the Tigers
are needing to replace four starters who combined for 106 career starts.Redshirt junior Jaxon Kolzow is the lone returning starter
in the secondary. The Salina native played in all 11 games last season, earning
six starts at safety as the season progressed.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2153344713&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-fb-camp-kolzow" title="FHSU FB Camp - Kolzow" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU FB Camp - Kolzow</a></div></div>"It's definitely different," Kolzow said.
"We're having a whole bunch of guys step up. We've got a lot of
competition right now. We're pushing each other every single day to get better
and grow as a unit."Despite the team's inexperience, Kolzow believes this year's
defense has the potential to be just as good as last season's. FHSU's defense
was one of the best in the MIAA, allowing a league-low 219.2 passing yards per
game and ranking second in total defense with 330 yards allowed. The Tigers
also finished second in the conference with a plus-eight turnover margin, which
ranked in the top 20 nationally."We definitely have the talent back there," Kolzow
said. "It's just everybody getting comfortable and growing with each
other. It takes time getting used to playing with different guys and learning a
whole new defense for some of these guys, but we're getting there."With seven career starts, Kolzow now finds himself in a
leadership role."Last year we had a whole bunch of old guys, so they
kind of told me what to do," he said. "I took that experience from
them and I'm trying to implement that into this year."

🏈 Kolzow ready to lead FHSU's inexperienced secondary

Arnita Scheck, age 97, of Victoria, Kansas, passed away at her home on Monday, August 11, 2025.  She was born November 27, 1927, on the family farm North of Walker, Kansas to Peter A. and Anna M. (Haberkorn) Dinkel.  She married Seraphine Scheck on June 24, 1946, at Walker, Kansas.  He preceded her in death on November 25, 1998.

She was a homemaker, worked at Travenol Lab., a wonderful maker of angel food cakes and homemade noodles.  She volunteered for over 25 years with the Fort Hays Senior Companions Program, enjoyed playing cards, and spending time with family and friends.    

Arnita was a member of The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, V.F.W. Post #1751 Auxiliary, Saint Fidelis Christian Mothers, and Saint Fidelis Daughters of Isabella all of Victoria, Kansas.

Arnita is survived by her children, Marjorie Dinkel and husband, Kenny; Jeanie Goetz and husband, Jerry; Joe Scheck and wife, Jeanne; Dennis Scheck and wife, Connie; James 'Jim' Scheck and wife, Becky; Dan Scheck; Norman Scheck and wife, Pam; Tim Scheck and wife, Bev; her son-in-law, Eric Brooks; her 33 grandchildren; her 55 great grandchildren; her one great great grandchild; and one on the way. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter A. and Anna M. Dinkel; her husband, Seraphine Scheck; her daughter, Judy Brooks; her grandchildren, Tammy Dinkel-Gilliland and Evan Brooks; her brothers, Edward P. Dinkel; Alfred Dinkel; Alvin Dinkel; Ralph Dinkel; Father Emil Dinkel C.P.P.S.; Virgil Dinkel; her sisters, Sr. Appolonia Dinkel C.S.A.; Laura Miller; and Sr. Lioba Dinkel C.S.A.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 16, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap.  Burial will be in The Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis.

A vigil service will be at 6:00 P.M. Friday, followed by a V.F.W. Auxiliary Memorial Service, Christian Mothers and Daughters of Isabella rosary all at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria.

The family suggests memorials payable to: Hospice of Hays Medical Center; The Basilica of St. Fidelis; or Ft. Hays Senior Companion Program in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671. 

Condolences can be emailed to clineschapels@gmail.com or left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754942486340.jpeg" alt="Arnita Scheck" />
 <figcaption>Arnita Scheck</figcaption>
 </figure>Arnita Scheck, age 97, of Victoria, Kansas, passed away at her home on Monday, August 11, 2025. She was born November 27, 1927, on the family farm North of Walker, Kansas to Peter A. and Anna M. (Haberkorn) Dinkel. She married Seraphine Scheck on June 24, 1946, at Walker, Kansas. He preceded her in death on November 25, 1998.She was a homemaker, worked at Travenol Lab., a wonderful maker of angel food cakes and homemade noodles. She volunteered for over 25 years with the Fort Hays Senior Companions Program, enjoyed playing cards, and spending time with family and friends. Arnita was a member of The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, V.F.W. Post #1751 Auxiliary, Saint Fidelis Christian Mothers, and Saint Fidelis Daughters of Isabella all of Victoria, Kansas.Arnita is survived by her children, Marjorie Dinkel and husband, Kenny; Jeanie Goetz and husband, Jerry; Joe Scheck and wife, Jeanne; Dennis Scheck and wife, Connie; James 'Jim' Scheck and wife, Becky; Dan Scheck; Norman Scheck and wife, Pam; Tim Scheck and wife, Bev; her son-in-law, Eric Brooks; her 33 grandchildren; her 55 great grandchildren; her one great great grandchild; and one on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter A. and Anna M. Dinkel; her husband, Seraphine Scheck; her daughter, Judy Brooks; her grandchildren, Tammy Dinkel-Gilliland and Evan Brooks; her brothers, Edward P. Dinkel; Alfred Dinkel; Alvin Dinkel; Ralph Dinkel; Father Emil Dinkel C.P.P.S.; Virgil Dinkel; her sisters, Sr. Appolonia Dinkel C.S.A.; Laura Miller; and Sr. Lioba Dinkel C.S.A. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 16, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap. Burial will be in The Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis.A vigil service will be at 6:00 P.M. Friday, followed by a V.F.W. Auxiliary Memorial Service, Christian Mothers and Daughters of Isabella rosary all at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria.The family suggests memorials payable to: Hospice of Hays Medical Center; The Basilica of St. Fidelis; or Ft. Hays Senior Companion Program in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671. Condolences can be emailed to clineschapels@gmail.com or left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Arnita Scheck

A Hays man allegedly stole a trailer that has yet to be recovered.

Hays Deputy Police Chief Tim Greenwood said 52-year-old Michael Anthony Brower was taken into custody for two alleged counts of felony theft and criminal property damage.

Greenwood said a 7-by-16-foot utility trailer was stolen from the 1000 block of East 29th Street sometime between July 17 and 23, with the theft reported to police on July 24.

Officers reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby business that allegedly captured a suspect vehicle leaving the area. They identified its license plate, and the car was later found and towed as evidence that same day.

Greenwood said Brower was identified through a match with his driver’s license photo and was also arrested that same day. The 2003 dual-axle utility trailer remains missing and is listed as stolen in the National Crime Information Center database.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755184223217.png" alt="Brower photo Ellis Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Brower photo Ellis Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Hays man allegedly stole a trailer that has yet to be recovered.Hays Deputy Police Chief Tim Greenwood said 52-year-old Michael Anthony Brower was taken into custody for two alleged counts of felony theft and criminal property damage.Greenwood said a 7-by-16-foot utility trailer was stolen from the 1000 block of East 29th Street sometime between July 17 and 23, with the theft reported to police on July 24.Officers reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby business that allegedly captured a suspect vehicle leaving the area. They identified its license plate, and the car was later found and towed as evidence that same day.Greenwood said Brower was identified through a match with his driver’s license photo and was also arrested that same day. The 2003 dual-axle utility trailer remains missing and is listed as stolen in the National Crime Information Center database.

Hays man arrested for alleged trailer theft

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school district is proposing a budget with a mill levy increase.

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

"Yes, the total taxes levied will go up, so we will exceed the revenue-neutral rate," Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said. "The total mill levy crept up a little bit, but mostly because of reductions in state aid and additional costs in special ed."

The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.

Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will go up by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district.

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.

Hays' overall school mill levy is slightly below the state average. That includes the bond mill levy, he said.

The 20 mills that are assessed for schools go to the state and are reallocated to local school districts based on enrollment. The state sets that mill rate, and the local school board has no control over that levy, Hipp said.

The district is predicting a smaller kindergarten class compared to last year's high school graduating class, so it is forecasting a slight decrease in enrollment, Hipp said.

"The student count is what drives everything," Hipp said. "It sets the general fund. So that 20 mills that goes to Topeka, we get back whatever portion of that in the form of state aid."

The district's capital outlay levy is being kept at 8 mills. Although the increase in valuation will bring in another $50,000, the district is losing about $106,000 in state aid, which means the net revenue for capital outlay will be negative, Hipp said.

Thanks in part to the increase in valuation, the budget calls for a slight reduction in the bond and interest mill levy from 11.262 to 11.152 mills. Hipp said the mill rate is calculated based on what the school district needs to make its next bond payment.

The district is in the midst of multiple building construction projects. The largest of those projects is a new Hays High School, which is set to open next week.

The most significant line-item increase in the supplemental general fund budget, about $1 million, is for salary increases.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de2764c1-3767-4d5a-8353-888aa39a31cf">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 board approves 2.5% raise for all personnel</a>

Hipp said the district is saving about $332,000 through position reductions. No one was laid off, but the district left open some positions due to retirements and resignations.

Hipp said this was made possible by smaller class sizes in the lower grades and a move to three elementary school buildings instead of four.

Lincoln Elementary School was permanently closed in the spring.

The district also saw an increase of almost $822,000 for special education. Although Hays hosts the special education cooperation, that figure only includes Hays' portion of the cooperative budget.

Hipp said the school district is facing increasing costs for special education with a decrease in contributions from the state and federal governments.

"Their expenses are set at the student level," Hipp said. "Their expenses are set when we are having individual education plan meetings and deciding on the services kids need. It's federally mandated. It's going to happen."

What is not funded by the state and federal governments has to come from local school districts. Neither the state nor the federal government is fully funding their portions of special education, which is leaving local school districts to pick up more of the tab.

"It's extremely painful across the state," Hipp said.

Hipp said the district has been trying to keep the local mill levy down by using reserve funds, but the district can't use any more reserve without risking not being able to pay its bills.

Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said the district has experienced increased costs for salaries, programs for disabled students, programs used by the co-op's speech pathologists and psychologists, and testing.

The state increased funding by $7 million for special education for the 2026 budget year, but that is for the entire state and is less than 1% of the state's special education budget, Carlin said.

Federal funding has been flat.&nbsp;The federal funding gap for the Hays district alone is almost $2.2 million and the state's gap is more than $1 million.

Carlin has been part of the discussions about fulfilling the state funding shortfall, and he was part of a delegation that met with the Kansas Congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., earlier this summer about closing the federal funding gap.

Carlin said he met personally with Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kan., who said he was interested in new legislation that would fully fund the federal obligation for special education using a stair-step approach over 10 years.

Carlin said Mann expressed concern about the special education law as an unfunded mandate.

"Each student brings with them their own individual needs that we have an obligation to meet," Carlin said. "Even though the feds are funding at 12% of their obligation and the state is funding at less than 70% of their obligation, we are still responsible for 100% of that law.

"Luckily, I work with districts that are committed to maintaining that and doing the best for kids."

The district's revenue-neutral rate and budget hearings are scheduled for the Sept. 8 board meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701185796895.jpg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school district is proposing a budget with a mill levy increase.The district is proposing a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year."Yes, the total taxes levied will go up, so we will exceed the revenue-neutral rate," Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said. "The total mill levy crept up a little bit, but mostly because of reductions in state aid and additional costs in special ed."The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755110772973.png" alt="On a home valued at $239,000, the estimated tax increase for 2026 will be $36. Graph courtesy of Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>On a home valued at $239,000, the estimated tax increase for 2026 will be $36. Graph courtesy of Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will go up by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district.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.Hays' overall school mill levy is slightly below the state average. That includes the bond mill levy, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755104584183.png" alt="A mill rate comparison with other school districts. Hays' mill rate for the last three years are at right in red. The proposed 2026 mill rate is compared to the actual 2025 mill rates for the other districts. The statewide average mill rate for 2025 was 53.320. Hays' proposed mill rate for 2026 is 53.303. The bond mill levy became effective for the first time in 2023. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>A mill rate comparison with other school districts. Hays' mill rate for the last three years are at right in red. The proposed 2026 mill rate is compared to the actual 2025 mill rates for the other districts. The statewide average mill rate for 2025 was 53.320. Hays' proposed mill rate for 2026 is 53.303. The bond mill levy became effective for the first time in 2023. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The 20 mills that are assessed for schools go to the state and are reallocated to local school districts based on enrollment. The state sets that mill rate, and the local school board has no control over that levy, Hipp said.The district is predicting a smaller kindergarten class compared to last year's high school graduating class, so it is forecasting a slight decrease in enrollment, Hipp said."The student count is what drives everything," Hipp said. "It sets the general fund. So that 20 mills that goes to Topeka, we get back whatever portion of that in the form of state aid."The district's capital outlay levy is being kept at 8 mills. Although the increase in valuation will bring in another $50,000, the district is losing about $106,000 in state aid, which means the net revenue for capital outlay will be negative, Hipp said.Thanks in part to the increase in valuation, the budget calls for a slight reduction in the bond and interest mill levy from 11.262 to 11.152 mills. Hipp said the mill rate is calculated based on what the school district needs to make its next bond payment.The district is in the midst of multiple building construction projects. The largest of those projects is a new Hays High School, which is set to open next week.The most significant line-item increase in the supplemental general fund budget, about $1 million, is for salary increases.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de2764c1-3767-4d5a-8353-888aa39a31cf">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 board approves 2.5% raise for all personnel</a>Hipp said the district is saving about $332,000 through position reductions. No one was laid off, but the district left open some positions due to retirements and resignations.Hipp said this was made possible by smaller class sizes in the lower grades and a move to three elementary school buildings instead of four.Lincoln Elementary School was permanently closed in the spring.<h2>Special education funding</h2>The district also saw an increase of almost $822,000 for special education. Although Hays hosts the special education cooperation, that figure only includes Hays' portion of the cooperative budget.Hipp said the school district is facing increasing costs for special education with a decrease in contributions from the state and federal governments."Their expenses are set at the student level," Hipp said. "Their expenses are set when we are having individual education plan meetings and deciding on the services kids need. It's federally mandated. It's going to happen."What is not funded by the state and federal governments has to come from local school districts. Neither the state nor the federal government is fully funding their portions of special education, which is leaving local school districts to pick up more of the tab."It's extremely painful across the state," Hipp said.Hipp said the district has been trying to keep the local mill levy down by using reserve funds, but the district can't use any more reserve without risking not being able to pay its bills.Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said the district has experienced increased costs for salaries, programs for disabled students, programs used by the co-op's speech pathologists and psychologists, and testing.The state increased funding by $7 million for special education for the 2026 budget year, but that is for the entire state and is less than 1% of the state's special education budget, Carlin said.Federal funding has been flat.&nbsp;The federal funding gap for the Hays district alone is almost $2.2 million and the state's gap is more than $1 million.Carlin has been part of the discussions about fulfilling the state funding shortfall, and he was part of a delegation that met with the Kansas Congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., earlier this summer about closing the federal funding gap.Carlin said he met personally with Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kan., who said he was interested in new legislation that would fully fund the federal obligation for special education using a stair-step approach over 10 years.Carlin said Mann expressed concern about the special education law as an unfunded mandate."Each student brings with them their own individual needs that we have an obligation to meet," Carlin said. "Even though the feds are funding at 12% of their obligation and the state is funding at less than 70% of their obligation, we are still responsible for 100% of that law."Luckily, I work with districts that are committed to maintaining that and doing the best for kids."The district's revenue-neutral rate and budget hearings are scheduled for the Sept. 8 board meeting.

Hays USD 489 proposes mill levy increase, sees special ed costs rise

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission reviewed a draft of the 2026 budget for the final time before publication during its Tuesday meeting.

The current draft of the general fund has a 1.84 mill levy increase, from 35.99 mills to 37.83. mills.

Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the mill increase serves as a precaution to help maintain essential services if grants are reduced in the future.

"It at least allows us the flexibility to be able to have a soft landing when we have federal or state grants pulled," he said. "The county, the city and the school board, we're all taking out of the same cookie jar."

During last week's commission meeting, the commission&nbsp;reduced Grow Hay's allocation from $165,000 to $160,000, with the $5,000 reallocated to the Ellis County Historical Society, bringing its total to $115,000.

Commissioner Michael Berges said Grow Hays contacted the commission after that discussion and asked that the $5,000 be reinstated.

"I hate that it looks like we're putting one [outside agency] against the others when in reality, their requests are without consideration of the others," Berges said.

During this week's meeting, the commission reinstated Grow Hays' funding request of $165,000 and also maintained the Ellis County Historical Society's allocation at $115,000.

The Fire District budget draft has an increase in the mill levy from 4 mills to 4.14 mills, with projected revenues of about $781,600 and expenses of about $892,200. The Solid Waste Enterprise Fund has revenues of $1,595,000 with expenses at about $1,576,400.

A public hearing on the revenue-neutral rate and budget is set for Sept. 9.

Request for proposal for appraisal contract services

The Ellis County Appraiser's Office received approval to enter into a consulting agreement with Equitable Solutions for income and expense analysis services.

With the contractor, the county will have better tools to determine market values of commercial and industrial properties, leading to more accurate property tax assessments,&nbsp;Eugene Rupp, county appraiser, said.

The total cost is $21,000 and will be paid in three installments. The expense will be covered from the appraiser's 2025 general fund and the appraiser's capital reserve fund.

The following year, the county appraisal staff will fully take over the analysis, eliminating the need for a contractor in 2027.

Commissioners received an update from Mike Thomas, vice president of WoodRiver Energy, on the natural gas market and the option to lock in natural gas rates for county facilities.

Thomas said in the short term, the gas market is well supplied with stable prices, but in the long term, prices may rise.&nbsp; The commission approved a two-year natural gas contract at $5.10 per million British thermal units.

The commission briefly discussed the county's involvement in a national opioid lawsuit settlement from several years ago. Darin Myers, county administrator, said the county has been receiving payments over the last several years after opting in to do so.

Myers said the county recently received new settlement offer documents related to Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family. These documents came with tight deadlines, and Myers asked permission to sign them with the intention of bringing the documents to a future meeting.

Myers said the settlement funds do not impact the general fund and go into their own.

"By law, certain things that we can use them on are training and different programs specific to opioid use and drug addiction," he said.

The commission unanimously agreed to allow it.

The commission approved a waived fee of about $500 in waste disposal for the upcoming Volga German Oktoberfest, scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27 in Hays.

Commissioners also approved an updated job description for the Noxious Weed Department, including the addition of a new position level. This change aligns with stricter state certification requirements and improves employee retention. No new positions will be created.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission reviewed a draft of the 2026 budget for the final time before publication during its Tuesday meeting.The current draft of the general fund has a 1.84 mill levy increase, from 35.99 mills to 37.83. mills.Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the mill increase serves as a precaution to help maintain essential services if grants are reduced in the future."It at least allows us the flexibility to be able to have a soft landing when we have federal or state grants pulled," he said. "The county, the city and the school board, we're all taking out of the same cookie jar."During last week's commission meeting, the commission&nbsp;reduced Grow Hay's allocation from $165,000 to $160,000, with the $5,000 reallocated to the Ellis County Historical Society, bringing its total to $115,000.Commissioner Michael Berges said Grow Hays contacted the commission after that discussion and asked that the $5,000 be reinstated."I hate that it looks like we're putting one [outside agency] against the others when in reality, their requests are without consideration of the others," Berges said.During this week's meeting, the commission reinstated Grow Hays' funding request of $165,000 and also maintained the Ellis County Historical Society's allocation at $115,000.The Fire District budget draft has an increase in the mill levy from 4 mills to 4.14 mills, with projected revenues of about $781,600 and expenses of about $892,200. The Solid Waste Enterprise Fund has revenues of $1,595,000 with expenses at about $1,576,400.A public hearing on the revenue-neutral rate and budget is set for Sept. 9.<h2>Request for proposal for appraisal contract services</h2>The Ellis County Appraiser's Office received approval to enter into a consulting agreement with Equitable Solutions for income and expense analysis services.With the contractor, the county will have better tools to determine market values of commercial and industrial properties, leading to more accurate property tax assessments,&nbsp;Eugene Rupp, county appraiser, said.The total cost is $21,000 and will be paid in three installments. The expense will be covered from the appraiser's 2025 general fund and the appraiser's capital reserve fund.The following year, the county appraisal staff will fully take over the analysis, eliminating the need for a contractor in 2027.<h2>Natural gas pricing</h2>Commissioners received an update from Mike Thomas, vice president of WoodRiver Energy, on the natural gas market and the option to lock in natural gas rates for county facilities.Thomas said in the short term, the gas market is well supplied with stable prices, but in the long term, prices may rise.&nbsp; The commission approved a two-year natural gas contract at $5.10 per million British thermal units.<h2>Pharmaceutical lawsuit settlement</h2>The commission briefly discussed the county's involvement in a national opioid lawsuit settlement from several years ago. Darin Myers, county administrator, said the county has been receiving payments over the last several years after opting in to do so.Myers said the county recently received new settlement offer documents related to Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family. These documents came with tight deadlines, and Myers asked permission to sign them with the intention of bringing the documents to a future meeting.Myers said the settlement funds do not impact the general fund and go into their own."By law, certain things that we can use them on are training and different programs specific to opioid use and drug addiction," he said.The commission unanimously agreed to allow it.<h2>Other business</h2>The commission approved a waived fee of about $500 in waste disposal for the upcoming Volga German Oktoberfest, scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27 in Hays.Commissioners also approved an updated job description for the Noxious Weed Department, including the addition of a new position level. This change aligns with stricter state certification requirements and improves employee retention. No new positions will be created.

Ellis County Commission discuss final budget draft with mill levy increase

Drivers are advised that during the period of August 16 through Labor Day, September 1, Hays Police Department will join other police agencies across Kansas in a crackdown aimed at removing impaired drivers from the roadways during You Drink. You Drive. You Lose.

In Kansas, preliminary 2024 data shows that 83 people died and more than 1,100 people were injured in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver.

It is illegal to drive while impaired, and just one drink before driving can put you and others in danger, because alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination.

Driving after consuming alcohol or any other potentially impairing substance is a choice you make.

You can make the responsible choice: plan to use a rideshare service, have a designated driver, or call a sober friend or family member to pick you up if you or your driver has been drinking.

The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose enforcement campaign is intended to remind drivers to take a moment to consider how it would be to begin every day with the memory of your decision if it resulted in injury or death. If you are driving impaired, you are not only more likely to crash, but that crash is much more likely to cause serious injury or death. Think about your family, your friends, your coworkers, and neighbors.

And always wear your seat belt, it’s your best defense against impaired drivers. Every trip, every time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755164287288.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police DepartmentDrivers are advised that during the period of August 16 through Labor Day, September 1, Hays Police Department will join other police agencies across Kansas in a crackdown aimed at removing impaired drivers from the roadways during You Drink. You Drive. You Lose.In Kansas, preliminary 2024 data shows that 83 people died and more than 1,100 people were injured in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver.It is illegal to drive while impaired, and just one drink before driving can put you and others in danger, because alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination.Driving after consuming alcohol or any other potentially impairing substance is a choice you make.You can make the responsible choice: plan to use a rideshare service, have a designated driver, or call a sober friend or family member to pick you up if you or your driver has been drinking.The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose enforcement campaign is intended to remind drivers to take a moment to consider how it would be to begin every day with the memory of your decision if it resulted in injury or death. If you are driving impaired, you are not only more likely to crash, but that crash is much more likely to cause serious injury or death. Think about your family, your friends, your coworkers, and neighbors.And always wear your seat belt, it’s your best defense against impaired drivers. Every trip, every time.

Hays Police: You drink. You drive. You lose enforcement campaign just ahead

Lilly &amp; Marie is offering a 15% Back-to-School discount in the month of&nbsp;August&nbsp;for students and parents coming in school shopping!

Senior photos, college style, and classroom confidence—Carol Rome and her team at L&amp;M has you covered.

As students and teachers across the area gear up for a new school year, Lilly &amp; Marie invite you to make this season one to remember—and one to look and feel your best in! Whether you’re shopping for senior photos, back-to-campus outfits, or your go-to classroom staples, boutique owner and stylist Carol Rome is here to help you step into the new school year feeling confident, polished, and completely yourself.

Located on the Bricks at 113 W. 11th St., Lilly &amp; Marie is celebrating its 10th year in Downtown Hays—and with every year, Carol’s commitment to her customers only grows. “I’m so grateful for those who trust me to help them find styles that reflect who they are,” Carol says. “The pieces we wear become part of our memories, and I don’t take that lightly.”

What truly sets Lilly &amp; Marie apart is the personal attention behind every piece. Carol carefully curates each item in the boutique—she doesn’t buy in bulk, which means you won’t see your outfit on every other person in town. Instead, you’ll find thoughtfully chosen styles that blend seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. These are pieces designed to carry you through everyday moments and life’s biggest milestones—with confidence, ease, and timeless style.

If you’re the mom of a high school senior, the team at L&amp;M knows how important finding the right outfit is. It’s all about finding trendy and timeless photos that you can cherish forever, while finding pieces that photograph well.&nbsp; Carol and her team will work one-on-one with you and your daughter to create a look that feels natural, polished, but still true to your senior’s style and personality.&nbsp; Best of all, these are versatile pieces that they’ll actually want to wear again, long after the photo shoot is over.

College students will love the boutique’s blend of coastal trends and elevated basics—ideal for campus life, internships, and weekends out. And teachers can count on Lilly &amp; Marie to build a wardrobe that’s both professional and personal, with pieces that move from the classroom to your life beyond school.

Carol’s styling philosophy is simple: make it easy to look good and feel good. She believes in building a wardrobe of pieces that go the distance—items that can be worn multiple ways, layered, dressed up or down, and always fit with your lifestyle.

So whether you’re prepping for picture day or building your dream closet, stop by Lilly &amp; Marie for a one-on-one styling experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Because when your outfit makes you feel confident, you can be ready for anything this school year brings.

See more on Lilly &amp; Marie's <a href="https://lillyandmarie.square.site/">website</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lillyandmarie">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lillyandmarie/">Instagram</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928570982.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lilly &amp; Marie is offering a 15% Back-to-School discount in the month of&nbsp;August&nbsp;for students and parents coming in school shopping!Senior photos, college style, and classroom confidence—Carol Rome and her team at L&amp;M has you covered.As students and teachers across the area gear up for a new school year, Lilly &amp; Marie invite you to make this season one to remember—and one to look and feel your best in! Whether you’re shopping for senior photos, back-to-campus outfits, or your go-to classroom staples, boutique owner and stylist Carol Rome is here to help you step into the new school year feeling confident, polished, and completely yourself.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928709903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Located on the Bricks at 113 W. 11th St., Lilly &amp; Marie is celebrating its 10th year in Downtown Hays—and with every year, Carol’s commitment to her customers only grows. “I’m so grateful for those who trust me to help them find styles that reflect who they are,” Carol says. “The pieces we wear become part of our memories, and I don’t take that lightly.”What truly sets Lilly &amp; Marie apart is the personal attention behind every piece. Carol carefully curates each item in the boutique—she doesn’t buy in bulk, which means you won’t see your outfit on every other person in town. Instead, you’ll find thoughtfully chosen styles that blend seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. These are pieces designed to carry you through everyday moments and life’s biggest milestones—with confidence, ease, and timeless style.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928733518.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you’re the mom of a high school senior, the team at L&amp;M knows how important finding the right outfit is. It’s all about finding trendy and timeless photos that you can cherish forever, while finding pieces that photograph well.&nbsp; Carol and her team will work one-on-one with you and your daughter to create a look that feels natural, polished, but still true to your senior’s style and personality.&nbsp; Best of all, these are versatile pieces that they’ll actually want to wear again, long after the photo shoot is over.College students will love the boutique’s blend of coastal trends and elevated basics—ideal for campus life, internships, and weekends out. And teachers can count on Lilly &amp; Marie to build a wardrobe that’s both professional and personal, with pieces that move from the classroom to your life beyond school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928611085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carol’s styling philosophy is simple: make it easy to look good and feel good. She believes in building a wardrobe of pieces that go the distance—items that can be worn multiple ways, layered, dressed up or down, and always fit with your lifestyle.So whether you’re prepping for picture day or building your dream closet, stop by Lilly &amp; Marie for a one-on-one styling experience you won’t find anywhere else.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928640302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754928655418.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Because when your outfit makes you feel confident, you can be ready for anything this school year brings.See more on Lilly &amp; Marie's <a href="https://lillyandmarie.square.site/">website</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lillyandmarie">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lillyandmarie/">Instagram</a>.

🏈 Allen seeks to elevate game for Tigers

Firma Dreiling, 91, San Marcos, Texas, died Thursday, May
29, 2025 at Cypress Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in San Marcos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748639156838.jpeg" alt="Firma Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Firma Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>Firma Dreiling, 91, San Marcos, Texas, died Thursday, May
29, 2025 at Cypress Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in San Marcos.She was born November 18, 1933 in Hays, the daughter of
Isidore and Clara (Braun) Binder.&nbsp; On
January 26, 1950, she was united in marriage to Ben F. Dreiling, Jr. and they
celebrated 39 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on April 24,
1989.&nbsp; As a talented artist, Firma taught
ceramics at her shop, Firma’s Ceramic Shop, and while living in Hays, was a member
of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church and the Daughters of Isabella Circle
#254.&nbsp; She treasured time with her
grandchildren and great grandchildren, and as a loving homemaker and excellent
cook, regularly prepared delicious German meals for her family to enjoy.Survivors include her daughter Dottie Freshour of San
Marcus, TX, her sister, Sherry Schmidt and husband Dave of Hays, two
grandchildren, Christopher Freshour and wife Thessa of Carleton, MI and Casey
Hawkins and husband Jonathan of San Marcos, TX, and two great grandchildren,
Steffan Wayne and Summer Jade.She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ben, her
son Ben F. Dreiling, III, two brothers, Floyd and Vernon Binder, and two
sisters, Rose Mary Rupp and Glenda Knapp.Funeral services and a rosary will be at 10:00 am on
Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Damian
Richards officiating, and the family will receive friends from 9:00 am until
service time at the funeral home.&nbsp;
Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Human Society
of the High Plains, and condolences and memories of Firma may be left for her
family at www.haysmemorial.com