Albert R. Yanke, 92, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born on March 3, 1933, in Beaver, Oklahoma, to Robert and Hannah (Kirschman) Yanke.

Albert grew up in the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle and graduated from Follett, Texas High School in 1951. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in 1956 and then served his country for three years in the United States military. Upon returning, he completed his teaching certificate at Oklahoma State University in 1960. Albert taught in Oklahoma for many years before moving to Kansas, where he managed a large farm. His meticulous record keeping, patience, and keen eye for detail served him well in both teaching and farming.

Albert married Pat Smith on June 11, 1961, and together they built a loving home for their two children, Basil and Gretchen. After Pat’s passing, God blessed him with a second chapter of love when he married Karlynn Fabrizius on November 18, 2000, and his heart and home grew to welcome four more children—Alana, Alan, Amy, Ayn and families.

Albert’s life reflected his strong Christian faith. He taught by example, shared his knowledge generously, and always had time for others. He enjoyed singing with the High Plains Barbershop Chorus, farming (even when it meant battling yucca plants), fishing, hunting, and playing games—especially when he could claim victory over his grandchildren at the board game table.

He was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in WaKeeney.

Albert is survived by his children: Basil (Dea) Yanke of Atchison, KS, Gretchen (Fred) Hafliger of WaKeeney, Alana Kasparek of Oskaloosa, KS, Alan (Laura) Fabrizius of Wilson, KS, Amy (Keith) Wilson of Riverton, KS, and Ayn (Pat) Wilson of Wichita, KS; brothers, Clarence (Marilyn) Yanke of Sunray, TX and Vernon Yanke of Amarillo, TX; 18 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wives; sister, Bonita McKisson; grandson, Christopher Kasparek; and great-grandson, Liam Kasparek.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:30AM at Zion Lutheran Church in Trego Center, with Visitation beginning at 9AM until service time.

Memorials are suggested to Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus and Zion Lutheran Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754931008746.jpeg" alt="Albert R. Yanke" />
 <figcaption>Albert R. Yanke</figcaption>
 </figure>Albert R. Yanke, 92, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born on March 3, 1933, in Beaver, Oklahoma, to Robert and Hannah (Kirschman) Yanke.Albert grew up in the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle and graduated from Follett, Texas High School in 1951. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in 1956 and then served his country for three years in the United States military. Upon returning, he completed his teaching certificate at Oklahoma State University in 1960. Albert taught in Oklahoma for many years before moving to Kansas, where he managed a large farm. His meticulous record keeping, patience, and keen eye for detail served him well in both teaching and farming.Albert married Pat Smith on June 11, 1961, and together they built a loving home for their two children, Basil and Gretchen. After Pat’s passing, God blessed him with a second chapter of love when he married Karlynn Fabrizius on November 18, 2000, and his heart and home grew to welcome four more children—Alana, Alan, Amy, Ayn and families.Albert’s life reflected his strong Christian faith. He taught by example, shared his knowledge generously, and always had time for others. He enjoyed singing with the High Plains Barbershop Chorus, farming (even when it meant battling yucca plants), fishing, hunting, and playing games—especially when he could claim victory over his grandchildren at the board game table.He was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in WaKeeney.Albert is survived by his children: Basil (Dea) Yanke of Atchison, KS, Gretchen (Fred) Hafliger of WaKeeney, Alana Kasparek of Oskaloosa, KS, Alan (Laura) Fabrizius of Wilson, KS, Amy (Keith) Wilson of Riverton, KS, and Ayn (Pat) Wilson of Wichita, KS; brothers, Clarence (Marilyn) Yanke of Sunray, TX and Vernon Yanke of Amarillo, TX; 18 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.He is preceded in death by his parents; wives; sister, Bonita McKisson; grandson, Christopher Kasparek; and great-grandson, Liam Kasparek.A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:30AM at Zion Lutheran Church in Trego Center, with Visitation beginning at 9AM until service time.Memorials are suggested to Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus and Zion Lutheran Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com

Albert R. Yanke

Beginning Tuesday, August 12, the intersection of 13th Street and Canterbury Drive will become a 4-way stop as this intersection will be getting traffic light upgrades and modifications. 

 Temporary stop signs will be utilized at this intersection. 

We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Public Works office 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Tuesday, August 12, the intersection of 13th Street and Canterbury Drive will become a 4-way stop as this intersection will be getting traffic light upgrades and modifications. Temporary stop signs will be utilized at this intersection. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Public Works office 785-628-7350.

13th & Canterbury intersection to be temporary 4-way stop in Hays starting Tuesday

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will review the fourth draft of the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting Tuesday.

This is the last chance for the commission to make changes before the proposed budget is published. After publication, a public hearing on the revenue-neutral rate and budget will be set for Sept. 9.

During last week’s meeting, the commission discussed High Plains Mental Health’s funding request of about $378,600 and its plan to honor it.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/214198c7-e910-476d-b7b7-6c39644d6eb9">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission readjusts 2026 funding; discusses 1 mill tax hike</a>

Request for proposal for appraisal contract services

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

The proposal also includes staff training to eventually bring the service in-house and eliminate the need for a contractor by 2027.

This request comes after the retirement of the county’s longtime contractor earlier this year. The goal for 2026 is for the appraisal staff to handle most of the analysis with Equitable Solutions offering limited guidance.

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

Commissioners will receive an update from Mike Thomas, vice president of WoodRiver Energy, on the option to lock in natural gas rates for county facilities. The aim is to protect against price surges like those seen during the February 2021 cold spell, when rates exceeded $600 per million British thermal units.

The commission will decide between one to three-year fixed rate options. The current price rate for Ellis County is $5.65.

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

Commissioners will also be asked to approve an updated job description for the Noxious Weed Department, including the addition of a new position level. This change aims to align with stricter state certification requirements and improve employee retention.&nbsp;No new positions would be created.

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08122025-692">here</a>.

<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 will review the fourth draft of the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting Tuesday.This is the last chance for the commission to make changes before the proposed budget is published. After publication, a public hearing on the revenue-neutral rate and budget will be set for Sept. 9.During last week’s meeting, the commission discussed High Plains Mental Health’s funding request of about $378,600 and its plan to honor it.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/214198c7-e910-476d-b7b7-6c39644d6eb9">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission readjusts 2026 funding; discusses 1 mill tax hike</a><h2>Request for proposal for appraisal contract services</h2>The Ellis County Appraiser's Office is seeking approval to enter into a consulting agreement with Equitable Solutions for commercial and industrial income and expense analysis services.The proposal also includes staff training to eventually bring the service in-house and eliminate the need for a contractor by 2027.This request comes after the retirement of the county’s longtime contractor earlier this year. The goal for 2026 is for the appraisal staff to handle most of the analysis with Equitable Solutions offering limited guidance.The total cost is $21,000 and would be paid in three installments. The expense will be covered from the appraiser's 2025 general fund and the capital reserve fund.<h2>Natural gas pricing</h2>Commissioners will receive an update from Mike Thomas, vice president of WoodRiver Energy, on the option to lock in natural gas rates for county facilities. The aim is to protect against price surges like those seen during the February 2021 cold spell, when rates exceeded $600 per million British thermal units.The commission will decide between one to three-year fixed rate options. The current price rate for Ellis County is $5.65.<h2>Other business</h2>The commission will be asked to approve a waived fee of about $500 in waste disposal for the upcoming Volga German Oktoberfest, scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27 in Hays.Commissioners will also be asked to approve an updated job description for the Noxious Weed Department, including the addition of a new position level. This change aims to align with stricter state certification requirements and improve employee retention.&nbsp;No new positions would be created.You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08122025-692">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission to discuss fourth 2026 budget draft

 The Bricks in Downtown Hays invites the community to Sip, Stroll, and&nbsp;Support The Bricks at the return of&nbsp;Wines &amp; Steins, presented by Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic.

Tickets are on sale now for the event, which will take place on Saturday, September 6, from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.

This 21+ ticketed event offers guests the opportunity to enjoy carefully curated wine and beer pairings at 12&nbsp;unique “stroll stops” throughout Downtown Hays. Each stop features thoughtfully paired hors d’oeuvres from&nbsp;local restaurants and caterers — all while highlighting the vibrant businesses and cultural atmosphere of The&nbsp;Bricks.

This year’s presenting sponsor, Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic, is also the exclusive glassware&nbsp;sponsor. All attendees will receive a commemorative tasting glass as part of their experience.

New for 2025, each guest will also receive an interactive tasting passport that includes pairing notes, vendor&nbsp;highlights, exclusive coupons, and space to rate your favorite sips and stops. 

Additional fundraising features this&nbsp;year include a gift card pull and a 50/50 raffle to support ongoing initiatives.

Tickets are $75 and available now at <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/wines-steins">downtownhays.com/wines-steins</a>.

Only 250 tickets will be sold. With the&nbsp;cancellation of Brews on The Bricks this year, this event is expected to sell out — early ticket purchases are&nbsp;highly encouraged.

All proceeds support The Bricks in Downtown Hays, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the&nbsp;economic and cultural vibrancy of the downtown district through events, beautification, and community&nbsp;partnerships.

“Wines &amp; Steins is a community favorite that celebrates Downtown Hays,” said Lee Ann June, executive&nbsp;director of The Bricks. “It brings people together in a meaningful and delicious way. We’re thrilled to partner&nbsp;with Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic this year and can’t wait to welcome both new and returning&nbsp;guests to sip, stroll, and support The Bricks.”

For sponsorship information, contact the director at TheBricks@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754499995774.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Bricks&nbsp;in Downtown Hays The Bricks in Downtown Hays invites the community to Sip, Stroll, and&nbsp;Support The Bricks at the return of&nbsp;Wines &amp; Steins, presented by Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic.Tickets are on sale now for the event, which will take place on Saturday, September 6, from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.This 21+ ticketed event offers guests the opportunity to enjoy carefully curated wine and beer pairings at 12&nbsp;unique “stroll stops” throughout Downtown Hays. Each stop features thoughtfully paired hors d’oeuvres from&nbsp;local restaurants and caterers — all while highlighting the vibrant businesses and cultural atmosphere of The&nbsp;Bricks.This year’s presenting sponsor, Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic, is also the exclusive glassware&nbsp;sponsor. All attendees will receive a commemorative tasting glass as part of their experience.New for 2025, each guest will also receive an interactive tasting passport that includes pairing notes, vendor&nbsp;highlights, exclusive coupons, and space to rate your favorite sips and stops. Additional fundraising features this&nbsp;year include a gift card pull and a 50/50 raffle to support ongoing initiatives.Tickets are $75 and available now at <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/wines-steins">downtownhays.com/wines-steins</a>. Only 250 tickets will be sold. With the&nbsp;cancellation of Brews on The Bricks this year, this event is expected to sell out — early ticket purchases are&nbsp;highly encouraged.All proceeds support The Bricks in Downtown Hays, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the&nbsp;economic and cultural vibrancy of the downtown district through events, beautification, and community&nbsp;partnerships.“Wines &amp; Steins is a community favorite that celebrates Downtown Hays,” said Lee Ann June, executive&nbsp;director of The Bricks. “It brings people together in a meaningful and delicious way. We’re thrilled to partner&nbsp;with Prospectively Healthy &amp; Wellness Clinic this year and can’t wait to welcome both new and returning&nbsp;guests to sip, stroll, and support The Bricks.”For sponsorship information, contact the director at TheBricks@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

Tickets on sale now for Wines & Steins: A night of pairings and purpose in Downtown Hays

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751574667181.jpeg" alt="Lee Ann June. Photo courtesy of The Bricks in Downtown Hays" />
 <figcaption>Lee Ann June. Photo courtesy of The Bricks in Downtown Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: New executive director of The Bricks Lee Ann June" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=hct6t-19261f1-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Bricks in downtown Hays has a new executive director. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Lee Ann June and Ben Dome, operations director.

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

Beginning Monday evening, Aug. 11, the Vine Street roundabouts in Hays will be getting new pavement markings installed. 

This work will be done during the evening hours as to limit daytime traffic interruptions. 

Please use caution in these areas as traffic control devices will be used. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Public Works office 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday evening, Aug. 11, the Vine Street roundabouts in Hays will be getting new pavement markings installed. This work will be done during the evening hours as to limit daytime traffic interruptions. Please use caution in these areas as traffic control devices will be used. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Public Works office 785-628-7350.

Hays roundabouts to get new pavement markings Monday night 

By <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/06/this-might-not-be-your-first-rodeo-but-it-was-mine-far-out-in-western-kansas/?emci=adba5576-7372-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&amp;emdi=2478e2b6-a372-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

Last month I attended patriotic night at the Ellis County Fair. I turned up just after 6:30 p.m. and ordered two stale hot dogs. The main event wouldn’t start until 8 p.m. so I ate them while watching sheep showmanship from a nearby picnic table.

After eating and wandering through the petting zoo, I made my way to the main arena, where the setting sun cast a warm glow on the bleachers and surrounding scenery. In the distance, a single pumpjack labored up and down on a small grassy hill. It was an picturesque setting for my first rodeo.

The night began with a prayer and the introduction of the rodeo queens. In his prayer, the announcer gave thanks for, among other things: being an American, owning a gun and the freedom to enjoy the rodeo.

Next, the rodeo queens, one of whom was as young as 10 years old, galloping around the arena’s perimeter on horseback with the flags of the rodeo’s corporate sponsors rippling in the wind behind them. State Farm Insurance, Ashley Home Furniture and Midwest Energy were among the company names I recognized.

Flying the flags of large corporations and an insurance company struck me as antithetical to the daring and rugged independence that I associated with the cowboy culture of the West.

With this one observation, I began to wonder about the dissonance between our romanticized idea of the cowboy and the Wild West and the rodeo I had come to see. Were we paying homage to something that was long gone or engaging in the fantasy that it still existed?

I contemplated as I looked around at my fellow audience members and took in the first event, steer wrestling or “bulldogging” as it is also called. In this event, a cowboy on horseback chases down a young steer, dismounts at speed, grabs the creature by the neck and wrestles it to the ground. I admired the sportsmanship and athleticism on display, while silently chuckling at the idea that we were playing with our food.

The end of the event brought a short interlude, during which audience members streamed toward the concession stand. They returning minutes later arms laden with beer, hot dogs and cheeseburgers wrapped in tin foil.

Indulgence in snack and drink is by no means unique to American sporting events, but it made me think. The opening prayer at the rodeo was a prayer of gratitude; gratitude for freedom, yes, but also for the freedom to indulge. The freedom to indulge in gun ownership and events like the rodeo.

This orgy of snacking and drinking combined with the corporate sponsors and glaring stadium lights seemed so at odds with the image of a lone cowboy, recently supped on a bowl of beans, climbing into his bedroll beneath a starry sky.

The more I thought about it, the more ironic it seemed. The indulgence, the excess, the corporate sponsors, all represented the very things that killed the Wild West.

The desire for more — more land, more beef, more money — pushed small ranches increasingly into the hands of large corporate farms.

Most of the prairie and grasslands that once bore witness to great cattle drives, outlaws and gunslingers has been dissected and bought up. Today, 98% of land in Kansas in privately owned. Cattle now crowd behind steel gates; their movements governed more by boardroom agricultural elites than by the rains and changing seasons.

As I watched the rodeo, I felt that I was witnessing a spiritually neutered version of the American cowboy. The roping skills and horsemanship were still there, but the spiritual independence of the cowboy roaming across the plains had been stripped away by the business interests that now sponsored its commemoration.

If I had been witnessing a conscious commemoration of the now-expired life of the cowboy and the West, I would have been content with my rodeo experience. But instead, I felt that the audience was indulging in a double truth: enjoying the fruits of the system that killed the cowboy while pretending that the spirit and terrain of his existence lingered.

In the end I have mixed emotions. On the one hand, the idea of American West shouldn’t be reduced to my romantic imagination. It was a brutal time of disease, genocide and hardship. But the spiritually barren landscape of corporate farming and parceled land offers poor consolation.

I find it hard to fault people for seeking pleasure and solace in their cultural heritage. I enjoyed seeing the smiling faces and the pleasure people clearly derived from the rodeo.

The spirit of the Wild West is not likely to be resurrected, especially when the economic forces preventing its resurrection are so robust. But what I hope for is an acknowledgment of where we stand in relation to the ideal and the forces that killed it. Doing that brings us far closer to the spirit of the cowboy than engaging in the fantasy that it still exists.

Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp;

Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754493755371.jpeg" alt="Columnist Sam Foglesong wonders about the dissonance between our romanticized idea of the cowboy and the Ellis County rodeo he came to see in Hays. Getty Images" />
 <figcaption>Columnist Sam Foglesong wonders about the dissonance between our romanticized idea of the cowboy and the Ellis County rodeo he came to see in Hays. Getty Images</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sam-foglesong/">SAM FOGLESONG</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/06/this-might-not-be-your-first-rodeo-but-it-was-mine-far-out-in-western-kansas/?emci=adba5576-7372-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&amp;emdi=2478e2b6-a372-f011-8dc9-6045bda9d96b&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>Last month I attended patriotic night at the Ellis County Fair. I turned up just after 6:30 p.m. and ordered two stale hot dogs. The main event wouldn’t start until 8 p.m. so I ate them while watching sheep showmanship from a nearby picnic table.After eating and wandering through the petting zoo, I made my way to the main arena, where the setting sun cast a warm glow on the bleachers and surrounding scenery. In the distance, a single pumpjack labored up and down on a small grassy hill. It was an picturesque setting for my first rodeo.The night began with a prayer and the introduction of the rodeo queens. In his prayer, the announcer gave thanks for, among other things: being an American, owning a gun and the freedom to enjoy the rodeo.Next, the rodeo queens, one of whom was as young as 10 years old, galloping around the arena’s perimeter on horseback with the flags of the rodeo’s corporate sponsors rippling in the wind behind them. State Farm Insurance, Ashley Home Furniture and Midwest Energy were among the company names I recognized.Flying the flags of large corporations and an insurance company struck me as antithetical to the daring and rugged independence that I associated with the cowboy culture of the West.With this one observation, I began to wonder about the dissonance between our romanticized idea of the cowboy and the Wild West and the rodeo I had come to see. Were we paying homage to something that was long gone or engaging in the fantasy that it still existed?I worried that we might be doing both.I contemplated as I looked around at my fellow audience members and took in the first event, steer wrestling or “bulldogging” as it is also called. In this event, a cowboy on horseback chases down a young steer, dismounts at speed, grabs the creature by the neck and wrestles it to the ground. I admired the sportsmanship and athleticism on display, while silently chuckling at the idea that we were playing with our food.The end of the event brought a short interlude, during which audience members streamed toward the concession stand. They returning minutes later arms laden with beer, hot dogs and cheeseburgers wrapped in tin foil.Indulgence in snack and drink is by no means unique to American sporting events, but it made me think. The opening prayer at the rodeo was a prayer of gratitude; gratitude for freedom, yes, but also for the freedom to indulge. The freedom to indulge in gun ownership and events like the rodeo.This orgy of snacking and drinking combined with the corporate sponsors and glaring stadium lights seemed so at odds with the image of a lone cowboy, recently supped on a bowl of beans, climbing into his bedroll beneath a starry sky.The more I thought about it, the more ironic it seemed. The indulgence, the excess, the corporate sponsors, all represented the very things that killed the Wild West.The desire for more — more land, more beef, more money — pushed small ranches increasingly into the hands of large corporate farms.Most of the prairie and grasslands that once bore witness to great cattle drives, outlaws and gunslingers has been dissected and bought up. Today, 98% of land in Kansas in privately owned. Cattle now crowd behind steel gates; their movements governed more by boardroom agricultural elites than by the rains and changing seasons.As I watched the rodeo, I felt that I was witnessing a spiritually neutered version of the American cowboy. The roping skills and horsemanship were still there, but the spiritual independence of the cowboy roaming across the plains had been stripped away by the business interests that now sponsored its commemoration.If I had been witnessing a conscious commemoration of the now-expired life of the cowboy and the West, I would have been content with my rodeo experience. But instead, I felt that the audience was indulging in a double truth: enjoying the fruits of the system that killed the cowboy while pretending that the spirit and terrain of his existence lingered.In the end I have mixed emotions. On the one hand, the idea of American West shouldn’t be reduced to my romantic imagination. It was a brutal time of disease, genocide and hardship. But the spiritually barren landscape of corporate farming and parceled land offers poor consolation.I find it hard to fault people for seeking pleasure and solace in their cultural heritage. I enjoyed seeing the smiling faces and the pleasure people clearly derived from the rodeo.The spirit of the Wild West is not likely to be resurrected, especially when the economic forces preventing its resurrection are so robust. But what I hope for is an acknowledgment of where we stand in relation to the ideal and the forces that killed it. Doing that brings us far closer to the spirit of the cowboy than engaging in the fantasy that it still exists.Sam Foglesong is a scholar of African Studies and a writer who lives in Hays.&nbsp;Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

OPINION: This might not be your first rodeo. But it was mine, far out in western Kansas

As a kid growing up in the farm country of central Ohio, my summer income came from the same source as all other farm boys near and far; baling hay! 

I know I’m aging myself here, but we’re talking pre-round bale days; we’re talking wagon load after wagon load of at least 100 square bales apiece, loaded on wagons pulled behind the baler, taken to the barn, unloaded onto an elevator and stacked into the loft. 

The farm boys in our neighborhood were the usual ornery, free-spirited lot, but we all knew how to work hard, and come hayin’ time each year we became a necessary commodity to most local farmers. 

Such was the case with Chester Campbell. “Chet” as he was known, lived across the road from me, and for reasons unknown, didn’t seem to care much for us neighborhood boys. I think the feelings were mutual, but like I said, once his hay was down, his opinion of us changed dramatically.

Ohio has groundhogs like Kansas has coyotes; wherever there is ground there are groundhogs. 

Groundhogs, best known as woodchucks, look like overgrown prairie dogs, short stumpy tail and all, and can easily grow to weigh ten pounds or more. They have two sharp incisor teeth in the front of their mouth, much like a beaver, and eat all types of green plant life. They dig their burrows in fence rows and woodlots where they can easily sneak out into fields of young growing crops and wreak havoc. Like mini-combines they choose a row of tender young soybean plants, straddle the row and eat every plant off to the ground for several feet.

We had a dog named “Silly” who was a groundhog slayin’ machine. Silly knew just how and where to grab them, and would shake them till their teeth rattled. One day we heard a huge ruckus coming from the cornfield by the house. Upon investigation, it was Silly who had caught a groundhog, probably sneaking through the cornfield on its way back to the safety of its den. When the fight was over, Silly was victorious as usual, the groundhog was dead and a patch of corn the size of a pickup was flattened from the fray.

Now old man Campbell also had a dog, sort of a cross between a beagle and a basset, named Wimpy. As I remember Wimpy was a good old dog, just not the “sharpest knife in the drawer,” if you know what I mean. 

One particular day, about this time of the year, Campbell’s hay was ready to bale, and, as usual, three of us neighbor boys suddenly became handier to him than sliced bread! The hay field was bordered by a creek on one side and by woods on one end, and those borders were riddled with woodchuck dens.

Empty wagons were pulled behind the baler, and when one was loaded, we stopped long enough to unhook the loaded one, hook up to the empty behind us and go again. 

In the middle of one such exchange, we heard the most awful wailing, screeching and thrashing imaginable coming from the nearby field edge. The three of us ran to investigate and found Wimpy in the weeds with a big groundhog fastened securely to the end of his snout! Around and around they went, the woodchuck showing no intentions of letting go.

 We all knew better than to try and interrupt the festivities barehanded, so we scrambled to find something to end the brawl and save Wimpy’s snout. The back of all the hay wagons had metal “pockets” welded to them into which wooden racks could be inserted to provide something solid to stack the back row of hay bales against.&nbsp;

One wagon happened to have just single 2x4’s in those pockets, so someone grabbed one and ran back to the brawl. After taking careful aim amidst the ball of thrashing fur, a well placed wallop across the groundhog's back dropped it to the ground and sent it diving for its burrow minus Wimpy, who raced shrieking toward the house. So ended Wimpy's close encounter with the woodchuck, and I sincerely doubt he ever saw one that close again.

Although I’ve not heard of groundhogs in my neck of the woods, they are in eastern Kansas and will probably someday make their way here much like the armadillos have. Each time I go to Hutchinson I marvel at the prairie dog “city” there around the mall, and I think to myself that if our commercial food supply is ever cut off and I want something different than fish or venison, I’ll simply head to the mall with a pellet gun and fill my freezer; I’m sure prairie dog tastes just like chicken...

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754301004577.jpeg" alt="Woodchuck. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Woodchuck. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILANDAs a kid growing up in the farm country of central Ohio, my summer income came from the same source as all other farm boys near and far; baling hay! I know I’m aging myself here, but we’re talking pre-round bale days; we’re talking wagon load after wagon load of at least 100 square bales apiece, loaded on wagons pulled behind the baler, taken to the barn, unloaded onto an elevator and stacked into the loft. The farm boys in our neighborhood were the usual ornery, free-spirited lot, but we all knew how to work hard, and come hayin’ time each year we became a necessary commodity to most local farmers. Such was the case with Chester Campbell. “Chet” as he was known, lived across the road from me, and for reasons unknown, didn’t seem to care much for us neighborhood boys. I think the feelings were mutual, but like I said, once his hay was down, his opinion of us changed dramatically.Ohio has groundhogs like Kansas has coyotes; wherever there is ground there are groundhogs. Groundhogs, best known as woodchucks, look like overgrown prairie dogs, short stumpy tail and all, and can easily grow to weigh ten pounds or more. They have two sharp incisor teeth in the front of their mouth, much like a beaver, and eat all types of green plant life. They dig their burrows in fence rows and woodlots where they can easily sneak out into fields of young growing crops and wreak havoc. Like mini-combines they choose a row of tender young soybean plants, straddle the row and eat every plant off to the ground for several feet.We had a dog named “Silly” who was a groundhog slayin’ machine. Silly knew just how and where to grab them, and would shake them till their teeth rattled. One day we heard a huge ruckus coming from the cornfield by the house. Upon investigation, it was Silly who had caught a groundhog, probably sneaking through the cornfield on its way back to the safety of its den. When the fight was over, Silly was victorious as usual, the groundhog was dead and a patch of corn the size of a pickup was flattened from the fray.Now old man Campbell also had a dog, sort of a cross between a beagle and a basset, named Wimpy. As I remember Wimpy was a good old dog, just not the “sharpest knife in the drawer,” if you know what I mean. One particular day, about this time of the year, Campbell’s hay was ready to bale, and, as usual, three of us neighbor boys suddenly became handier to him than sliced bread! The hay field was bordered by a creek on one side and by woods on one end, and those borders were riddled with woodchuck dens.Empty wagons were pulled behind the baler, and when one was loaded, we stopped long enough to unhook the loaded one, hook up to the empty behind us and go again. In the middle of one such exchange, we heard the most awful wailing, screeching and thrashing imaginable coming from the nearby field edge. The three of us ran to investigate and found Wimpy in the weeds with a big groundhog fastened securely to the end of his snout! Around and around they went, the woodchuck showing no intentions of letting go. We all knew better than to try and interrupt the festivities barehanded, so we scrambled to find something to end the brawl and save Wimpy’s snout. The back of all the hay wagons had metal “pockets” welded to them into which wooden racks could be inserted to provide something solid to stack the back row of hay bales against.&nbsp;One wagon happened to have just single 2x4’s in those pockets, so someone grabbed one and ran back to the brawl. After taking careful aim amidst the ball of thrashing fur, a well placed wallop across the groundhog's back dropped it to the ground and sent it diving for its burrow minus Wimpy, who raced shrieking toward the house. So ended Wimpy's close encounter with the woodchuck, and I sincerely doubt he ever saw one that close again.Although I’ve not heard of groundhogs in my neck of the woods, they are in eastern Kansas and will probably someday make their way here much like the armadillos have. Each time I go to Hutchinson I marvel at the prairie dog “city” there around the mall, and I think to myself that if our commercial food supply is ever cut off and I want something different than fish or venison, I’ll simply head to the mall with a pellet gun and fill my freezer; I’m sure prairie dog tastes just like chicken...Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Outdoor Kansas: Wimpy and the woodchuck

VICTORIA - Victoria doubled in size as Herzogfest drew crowds from all over Ellis County to celebrate German culture.

The two-day celebration ran Friday and Saturday on Main Street, featuring German food, children's activities, live music and a car show.

<a href="https://theherzogfest.com/about/">The celebration remembers the town’s origins</a> when ethnic Germans from Russia’s Volga River region founded the town of Herzog in 1876, near the earlier English settlement of Victoria, which was founded in 1873 by George Grant.

Most English settlers later returned to Britain, but the Germans stayed and the two towns merged in 1913.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754763933183.jpeg" alt="Vehicles from the 42nd annual Herzogfest car show in Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Vehicles from the 42nd annual Herzogfest car show in Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostVICTORIA - Victoria doubled in size as Herzogfest drew crowds from all over Ellis County to celebrate German culture.The two-day celebration ran Friday and Saturday on Main Street, featuring German food, children's activities, live music and a car show.<a href="https://theherzogfest.com/about/">The celebration remembers the town’s origins</a> when ethnic Germans from Russia’s Volga River region founded the town of Herzog in 1876, near the earlier English settlement of Victoria, which was founded in 1873 by George Grant.Most English settlers later returned to Britain, but the Germans stayed and the two towns merged in 1913.<figure>
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📷 42nd annual Herzogfest wraps up

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is pleased to announce Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) as the 2025 Tiger Nation Partner of the Year Award recipient. The Tiger Nation Partner program is a partnership involving businesses and organizations in the Hays community, and this year, we recognize one of those participating businesses.

“Tiger spirit runs deep in our community,” said Janette Meis, chair of the Tiger Nation Partners committee. “Each year, it becomes more difficult to choose just one partner because so many show incredible support. While not every business or organization can contribute similarly, whether through large donations or other means, the Tiger Nation Partners program ensures that any supporter can be recognized, no matter the size of their commitment.”

“Being selected as the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year by Fort Hays is a great honor,” said Jerry Michaud, president/CEO of DSNWK. “FHSU and DSNWK&nbsp;have so many overlaps:&nbsp;our&nbsp;staff are students and graduates; our missions help build skills, develop talents, and prepare people for success in their&nbsp;lives.”

FHSU established the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year award to honor a Hays community business or non-profit organization that goes above and beyond in showcasing its Tiger pride. Community partners considered for the award are invited to demonstrate their Tiger spirit in a variety of ways, including:

All local businesses and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to join the Tiger Nation Partners program. Registration is free; simply visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqpr2FAQAuXj-2B7xKnAvucSOAQvUyjtfJPNlvQ6oAD3XtEfOO1_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO86FMDbrRmBW-2B-2BEfhK-2FoqoiX8DFEEUdJziDmAa7VR3HkLe4OWpu8h09wn-2FgGg2VBxhzSgg1XGToxm4WZrUcLdkw2XWw88mlfbDK5dYA4x6zUBAk5c0yZgGcxVnhHNE5KPpsa2Gv0Q6ErSNcCKB2ckzS2UGatUOpUzyFYcy3icxxhozqaK5DRpadkTABCbhTscqAsY7pV-2BEtajxh1R9Y9DQC3dtFlgvaUFonesEELCc8Qkx3m-2F8a23ZNFJFczN3wNB">www.fhsu.edu/tigernation</a>&nbsp;and fill out a form. With three partner categories available, you can participate even if you aren’t able to provide a discount or service.

DSNWK received the award during the Chamber Chat hosted by FHSU and The Chamber in Hays on July 25. Past recipients include Sunflower Bank (2022), Golden Plains Credit Union (2023), and The Paisley Pear (2024).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497842195.jpeg" alt="Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year 2025. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas is the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year 2025. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University (FHSU) is pleased to announce Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) as the 2025 Tiger Nation Partner of the Year Award recipient. The Tiger Nation Partner program is a partnership involving businesses and organizations in the Hays community, and this year, we recognize one of those participating businesses.“Tiger spirit runs deep in our community,” said Janette Meis, chair of the Tiger Nation Partners committee. “Each year, it becomes more difficult to choose just one partner because so many show incredible support. While not every business or organization can contribute similarly, whether through large donations or other means, the Tiger Nation Partners program ensures that any supporter can be recognized, no matter the size of their commitment.”“Being selected as the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year by Fort Hays is a great honor,” said Jerry Michaud, president/CEO of DSNWK. “FHSU and DSNWK&nbsp;have so many overlaps:&nbsp;our&nbsp;staff are students and graduates; our missions help build skills, develop talents, and prepare people for success in their&nbsp;lives.”FHSU established the Tiger Nation Partner of the Year award to honor a Hays community business or non-profit organization that goes above and beyond in showcasing its Tiger pride. Community partners considered for the award are invited to demonstrate their Tiger spirit in a variety of ways, including:<ul>
 <li>Creating or sharing TGOF-themed social media content</li><li>Encouraging employees to be ‘caught’ wearing FHSU Tiger gear at work and around town</li><li>Purchasing FHSU-branded apparel for staff through the Victor E. Gift and Apparel Company</li><li>Highlighting how their organization has “Tigerized” its workspace</li>
 </ul>All local businesses and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to join the Tiger Nation Partners program. Registration is free; simply visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqpr2FAQAuXj-2B7xKnAvucSOAQvUyjtfJPNlvQ6oAD3XtEfOO1_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO86FMDbrRmBW-2B-2BEfhK-2FoqoiX8DFEEUdJziDmAa7VR3HkLe4OWpu8h09wn-2FgGg2VBxhzSgg1XGToxm4WZrUcLdkw2XWw88mlfbDK5dYA4x6zUBAk5c0yZgGcxVnhHNE5KPpsa2Gv0Q6ErSNcCKB2ckzS2UGatUOpUzyFYcy3icxxhozqaK5DRpadkTABCbhTscqAsY7pV-2BEtajxh1R9Y9DQC3dtFlgvaUFonesEELCc8Qkx3m-2F8a23ZNFJFczN3wNB">www.fhsu.edu/tigernation</a>&nbsp;and fill out a form. With three partner categories available, you can participate even if you aren’t able to provide a discount or service.DSNWK received the award during the Chamber Chat hosted by FHSU and The Chamber in Hays on July 25. Past recipients include Sunflower Bank (2022), Golden Plains Credit Union (2023), and The Paisley Pear (2024).

FHSU announces 2025 Tiger Nation Partner of the Year

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a series of improvement projects along portions of highways K-18 and U.S. 183 in Rooks and Ellis counties the week of Aug. 11.

The first project will involve milling and overlay on 12 miles of U.S. 183 starting at S Road north of Plainville and ending at the Ellis County line. 

Crews will then resurface approximately 13 miles of K-18 between Palco and Plainville. 

The final project will continue milling and overlay on 15 miles U.S. 183 in Ellis County beginning at the Rooks County line and ending near 55th&nbsp;Street in Hays.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane and directed by flaggers and a pilot car through the areas where crews are actively working. Motorists should plan for delays not exceeding 15 minutes during daylight hours.

KDOT expects the projects to be completed in late October, conditions permitting.

Bettis Construction and Asphalt, of Topeka, is the primary contractor for the projects with a combined contract cost of $7.2 million. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740607149605.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a series of improvement projects along portions of highways K-18 and U.S. 183 in Rooks and Ellis counties the week of Aug. 11.The first project will involve milling and overlay on 12 miles of U.S. 183 starting at S Road north of Plainville and ending at the Ellis County line. Crews will then resurface approximately 13 miles of K-18 between Palco and Plainville. The final project will continue milling and overlay on 15 miles U.S. 183 in Ellis County beginning at the Rooks County line and ending near 55th&nbsp;Street in Hays.Traffic will be reduced to one lane and directed by flaggers and a pilot car through the areas where crews are actively working. Motorists should plan for delays not exceeding 15 minutes during daylight hours.KDOT expects the projects to be completed in late October, conditions permitting.Bettis Construction and Asphalt, of Topeka, is the primary contractor for the projects with a combined contract cost of $7.2 million. For more information, contact KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kevin.zimmer@ks.gov">kevin.zimmer@ks.gov</a>.

Highway construction projects set in Rooks, Ellis counties

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Two minor changes were made to the draft 2026 budget during the Hays City Commission work session Thursday.

The Rural Opportunity Zone expenditure was adjusted down due to a smaller-than-anticipated number of program applications, said Toby Dougherty, city manager.

City staff also upped the estimate on transient guest taxes by $42,000 for 2026.&nbsp;

"This is something we receive quarterly so it may be hard to get a good grasp on trends," Dougherty said. "But (staff) feels confident enough based off our last couple of disbursements."&nbsp;

The current transient guest tax in Hays, paid by those staying at motels and Airbnbs, is 8.25%.

There was no discussion of the outside agency requests, which included a new additional request from ACCESS public transportation operated by Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas. ACCESS is<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/607b329e-6b85-472d-b51e-171347751383"> asking the city for another $82,500</a>, as well as <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c896b49-4c58-4425-a998-474c7c4b6da4">county monies</a>, to help replace reduced state funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mason Ruder, vice-mayor, noted there were no new large projects slated for 2026.

"I appreciate this budget," Ruder said. "We want to make sure we're not overextending ourselves, while still taking care of our employees and our the projects we do have."

The top project priorities next year are improvements to Oak Street between 27th and 29th Streets, and 22nd Street from Vine to Canterbury.

A revenue-neutral public hearing, followed by the budget public hearing, will be held during the Sept. 11 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

The mill levy for Hays remains at 25 mills for the 17th consecutive year. Total assessed valuation is up 2.5%.

Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, presented a resolution and an engineering services agreement to establish a benefit district for&nbsp;32 lots in the Covenant Estates First Addition in west Hays. The developer,&nbsp;Covenant&nbsp;Land &amp; Developing Inc., has petitioned the city for street, stormwater, water, and&nbsp;sanitary sewer improvements through the use of a benefit district.

The engineer’s estimate for total construction costs of the improvements is $2.9 million. Seventy percent&nbsp;of the costs will be special assessed, with&nbsp;the remaining 30% being paid by the developer.&nbsp;No city capital would be expended.

A $221,000 engineering agreement with&nbsp;Sloan Engineering and Consulting, Hays, has been prepared for the infrastructure improvements in Phase 1.

Both items will move on to the Aug. 14 meeting.

High Plains Mental Health Center made a $49,964 request to the city for a portion of opioid settlement funds. The state distributes the opioid funds to municipalities and must be allocated for opioid and substance use disorder abatement. 

City staff recommended the mental health center be granted $45,481 to purchase social detoxification treatment chairs and infusion pumps for its new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c63c3c89-fd3c-4923-8d01-509e92168ce0">Crisis Intervention Center</a>&nbsp;under construction in Hays. It will serve 28 western Kansas counties.&nbsp;

"This (center) will take a lot of pressure off hospital emergency rooms and jails," said Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center.

The grant request will be considered at the next commission meeting.&nbsp;

Mayor Sandy Jacobs was absent from the work session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754669515961.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty (left) discuss changes to the draft 2026 budget during the Aug. 7 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty (left) discuss changes to the draft 2026 budget during the Aug. 7 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostTwo minor changes were made to the draft 2026 budget during the Hays City Commission work session Thursday.The Rural Opportunity Zone expenditure was adjusted down due to a smaller-than-anticipated number of program applications, said Toby Dougherty, city manager.City staff also upped the estimate on transient guest taxes by $42,000 for 2026.&nbsp;"This is something we receive quarterly so it may be hard to get a good grasp on trends," Dougherty said. "But (staff) feels confident enough based off our last couple of disbursements."&nbsp;The current transient guest tax in Hays, paid by those staying at motels and Airbnbs, is 8.25%.There was no discussion of the outside agency requests, which included a new additional request from ACCESS public transportation operated by Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas. ACCESS is<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/607b329e-6b85-472d-b51e-171347751383"> asking the city for another $82,500</a>, as well as <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1c896b49-4c58-4425-a998-474c7c4b6da4">county monies</a>, to help replace reduced state funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;Mason Ruder, vice-mayor, noted there were no new large projects slated for 2026."I appreciate this budget," Ruder said. "We want to make sure we're not overextending ourselves, while still taking care of our employees and our the projects we do have."The top project priorities next year are improvements to Oak Street between 27th and 29th Streets, and 22nd Street from Vine to Canterbury.A revenue-neutral public hearing, followed by the budget public hearing, will be held during the Sept. 11 city commission meeting.&nbsp;The mill levy for Hays remains at 25 mills for the 17th consecutive year. Total assessed valuation is up 2.5%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754496181254.png" alt="Covenant Estates First Addition. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Covenant Estates First Addition. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Covenant Estates First Addition</h2>Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, presented a resolution and an engineering services agreement to establish a benefit district for&nbsp;32 lots in the Covenant Estates First Addition in west Hays. The developer,&nbsp;Covenant&nbsp;Land &amp; Developing Inc., has petitioned the city for street, stormwater, water, and&nbsp;sanitary sewer improvements through the use of a benefit district.The engineer’s estimate for total construction costs of the improvements is $2.9 million. Seventy percent&nbsp;of the costs will be special assessed, with&nbsp;the remaining 30% being paid by the developer.&nbsp;No city capital would be expended.A $221,000 engineering agreement with&nbsp;Sloan Engineering and Consulting, Hays, has been prepared for the infrastructure improvements in Phase 1.Both items will move on to the Aug. 14 meeting.<h2>Opioid Fund Grant Request</h2>High Plains Mental Health Center made a $49,964 request to the city for a portion of opioid settlement funds. The state distributes the opioid funds to municipalities and must be allocated for opioid and substance use disorder abatement. City staff recommended the mental health center be granted $45,481 to purchase social detoxification treatment chairs and infusion pumps for its new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c63c3c89-fd3c-4923-8d01-509e92168ce0">Crisis Intervention Center</a>&nbsp;under construction in Hays. It will serve 28 western Kansas counties.&nbsp;"This (center) will take a lot of pressure off hospital emergency rooms and jails," said Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center.The grant request will be considered at the next commission meeting.&nbsp;Mayor Sandy Jacobs was absent from the work session.

Revised 2026 draft budget shows an uptick in transient guest tax revenues for Hays

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Duties of a deputy with Ellis Co. Undersheriff Tim Deines" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=tp4z3-19277e7-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Ellis County Undersheriff Tim Deines about the typical duties of a sheriff's deputy.

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

&nbsp;Kansas House Democrats announced at the beginning of the summer that they were hitting the road for their inaugural Fight Back Tour, a statewide initiative aimed at engaging directly with Kansans, listening to community concerns, and outlining their vision for the future of the state.&nbsp;

“This tour is about showing up and fighting back against the extremism we're seeing at all levels of government, but especially in Topeka,” said House Democratic Leader Brandon Woodard. “The Kansas House Democrats are committed to listening to Kansans who are not feeling heard right now and taking action. When all is said and done, the Kansas House Democrats will have traveled to 14 different cities throughout the state, energizing hundreds of Kansans for the future of state politics.”&nbsp;

The Fight Back Tour features Democratic legislators traveling across Kansas to meet with constituents, highlight legislative priorities, and discuss ways to protect and expand the rights and opportunities of working families. Kansas House Democrats are working in collaboration with local county parties, stakeholders, and advocacy groups in each community to engage Kansans and amplify voices from every corner of the state.&nbsp;

The Kansas House Democrats' Fight Back Tour is heading to Hays, Kansas, on Friday, August 15.&nbsp;

● Hays: Aug. 15, 6–8 p.m.&nbsp;at Glassman Bird Law, Hays&nbsp;

The Hays event will feature a social hour with local legislators from 6:00 to 7 p.m., followed by remarks and a Q&amp;A session with State Representatives from 7 to 8 p.m.&nbsp;

Additional information and RSVP forms can be found on the Kansas House Democrats website https://www.kansashousedemocrats.com/fight-back-tour-2025&nbsp;

Remaining Fight Back Tour Dates and Locations:&nbsp;

● Aug. 15 – Hays, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 21 – Kansas City, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 27 - Manhattan, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 28 – Leavenworth, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 29 - Emporia, KS&nbsp; ● Sept. 23 - Lenexa, KS&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754079174877.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Kansas House Democrats announced at the beginning of the summer that they were hitting the road for their inaugural Fight Back Tour, a statewide initiative aimed at engaging directly with Kansans, listening to community concerns, and outlining their vision for the future of the state.&nbsp;“This tour is about showing up and fighting back against the extremism we're seeing at all levels of government, but especially in Topeka,” said House Democratic Leader Brandon Woodard. “The Kansas House Democrats are committed to listening to Kansans who are not feeling heard right now and taking action. When all is said and done, the Kansas House Democrats will have traveled to 14 different cities throughout the state, energizing hundreds of Kansans for the future of state politics.”&nbsp;The Fight Back Tour features Democratic legislators traveling across Kansas to meet with constituents, highlight legislative priorities, and discuss ways to protect and expand the rights and opportunities of working families. Kansas House Democrats are working in collaboration with local county parties, stakeholders, and advocacy groups in each community to engage Kansans and amplify voices from every corner of the state.&nbsp;The Kansas House Democrats' Fight Back Tour is heading to Hays, Kansas, on Friday, August 15.&nbsp;● Hays: Aug. 15, 6–8 p.m.&nbsp;at Glassman Bird Law, Hays&nbsp;The Hays event will feature a social hour with local legislators from 6:00 to 7 p.m., followed by remarks and a Q&amp;A session with State Representatives from 7 to 8 p.m.&nbsp;Additional information and RSVP forms can be found on the Kansas House Democrats website https://www.kansashousedemocrats.com/fight-back-tour-2025&nbsp;Remaining Fight Back Tour Dates and Locations:&nbsp;● Aug. 15 – Hays, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 21 – Kansas City, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 27 - Manhattan, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 28 – Leavenworth, KS&nbsp; ● Aug. 29 - Emporia, KS&nbsp; ● Sept. 23 - Lenexa, KS&nbsp;

🏈🎧 Full circle: Gavin Meyers' journey brings him home

Lucille Betty (Pierce) Reif passed away peacefully at her home in Plainville, Kansas on August 7, 2025.

Lucille was born on July 2, 1941, to Tabea (Eichman) and Orville 'O.A.' Pierce. She was the seventh child and a very gracious and loving sister to LeRoy, Pauline, Lillian, Shirley, and Myra. She grew up in Trego and Graham County, Kansas, in a family that was all musically inclined. Lucille and her sister Shirley often saved their egg money to buy music books, then spent hours singing and yodeling together—a tradition that lasted their entire lives. Whenever the family gathered, music was sure to follow.

Lucille attended school in Graham County and graduated from Hill City High School in 1959. She dreamed of pursuing a musical career, but her heart led her to devote herself to raising a family.

Lucille married Charles Lesley Reif on April 29, 1962, in LaCrosse, Kansas. They lived in several towns before settling in Plainville in 1966, where they raised their family. Together they had seven children: Tabea Reif of Hutchinson; Michael (Emily) Reif of Hays; Mark Reif; Sara McWhirter of Dighton; Laura (Kendall) Foss of Plainville; Marvin Reif of Plainville; and Donna Reif Ochs of Arizona. Later, two more children were added to the family: Astrid (Yens) Unbehaun of Germany and Cory (Audra) Williams of Iowa. Lucille was blessed with 25 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, and she also welcomed many “extra” children into her home over the years, making each feel like part of the family.

Lucille spent most of her life as a homemaker, though she held a few jobs outside the home. She worked at Travenol in Hays and often carpooled with the ladies she worked with. She also worked for Ken’s during the Christmas season and at Stop-To-Shop for a short time. Many in the area remember her running the cotton candy trailer for Robert Carmichael at the Rooks County Fair.

When her older boys became involved in rodeo, Lucille did too. After serving as secretary for the Plainville High School Rodeo, she became an officer for the Kansas State High School Rodeo. She was also a dedicated member of the Daughters of Isabella for 58 years, serving as a local, state, and international officer, the latter for five years.

Lucille’s volunteer spirit extended to Sacred Heart School, where she helped in the lower grades and the library. Some of her greatest joys came from creating things with her hands for the people she loved. She crocheted Afghans for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each one stitched with care and given from the heart. From the scraps in her sewing room, she fashioned aprons, and she could just as easily create a blanket, quilt, or even a wedding dress. Sewing was second nature to her, and every project was made with love and the purest intentions. One of her more unique creations was a red tuxedo she made for a tuxedo shop in Emporia owned by Charles’s aunt and uncle—long before colored tuxedos were available. The gentleman who wore it was the Man of Honor, and Lucille made sure it was perfect.

In her later years, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren accompanying them to appointments when needed or calling just to invite them to lunch. Every family member holds a special memory with her—whether it was baking, canning, gardening, singing, rodeoing, crocheting, or sewing. She did it all and ran the office for Reif Welding and Construction, the family business she and Charles started in 1969 and operated for 50 years. Retiring was not what she wanted to do, but she stepped away when she could still enjoy traveling with Charles. 

Travel became a joy, with yearly trips to Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming and the Jazz Festival in Evergreen, Colorado. One of her favorite trips was to Germany for her “extra” daughter’s wedding – a trip she and Charles made two more times. They also went to Alberta, Canada for the international D of I meetings.

Lucille will be remembered for her generosity, talents, and unwavering love for her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother LeRoy; infant brothers Lloyde and Abraham; sisters Pauline and Shirley; son Mark Reif; and son-in-law Neil McWhirter.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, August 11, 2025, at 10:30AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville, with burial following at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, August 10, from 6–8 p.m., with a Vigil and Rosary at 7 p.m., all at the church.

Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Church or Sacred Heart School and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663. 

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754689540007.jpeg" alt="Lucille Betty (Pierce) Reif" />
 <figcaption>Lucille Betty (Pierce) Reif</figcaption>
 </figure>Lucille Betty (Pierce) Reif passed away peacefully at her home in Plainville, Kansas on August 7, 2025.Lucille was born on July 2, 1941, to Tabea (Eichman) and Orville 'O.A.' Pierce. She was the seventh child and a very gracious and loving sister to LeRoy, Pauline, Lillian, Shirley, and Myra. She grew up in Trego and Graham County, Kansas, in a family that was all musically inclined. Lucille and her sister Shirley often saved their egg money to buy music books, then spent hours singing and yodeling together—a tradition that lasted their entire lives. Whenever the family gathered, music was sure to follow.Lucille attended school in Graham County and graduated from Hill City High School in 1959. She dreamed of pursuing a musical career, but her heart led her to devote herself to raising a family.Lucille married Charles Lesley Reif on April 29, 1962, in LaCrosse, Kansas. They lived in several towns before settling in Plainville in 1966, where they raised their family. Together they had seven children: Tabea Reif of Hutchinson; Michael (Emily) Reif of Hays; Mark Reif; Sara McWhirter of Dighton; Laura (Kendall) Foss of Plainville; Marvin Reif of Plainville; and Donna Reif Ochs of Arizona. Later, two more children were added to the family: Astrid (Yens) Unbehaun of Germany and Cory (Audra) Williams of Iowa. Lucille was blessed with 25 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, and she also welcomed many “extra” children into her home over the years, making each feel like part of the family.Lucille spent most of her life as a homemaker, though she held a few jobs outside the home. She worked at Travenol in Hays and often carpooled with the ladies she worked with. She also worked for Ken’s during the Christmas season and at Stop-To-Shop for a short time. Many in the area remember her running the cotton candy trailer for Robert Carmichael at the Rooks County Fair.When her older boys became involved in rodeo, Lucille did too. After serving as secretary for the Plainville High School Rodeo, she became an officer for the Kansas State High School Rodeo. She was also a dedicated member of the Daughters of Isabella for 58 years, serving as a local, state, and international officer, the latter for five years.Lucille’s volunteer spirit extended to Sacred Heart School, where she helped in the lower grades and the library. Some of her greatest joys came from creating things with her hands for the people she loved. She crocheted Afghans for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each one stitched with care and given from the heart. From the scraps in her sewing room, she fashioned aprons, and she could just as easily create a blanket, quilt, or even a wedding dress. Sewing was second nature to her, and every project was made with love and the purest intentions. One of her more unique creations was a red tuxedo she made for a tuxedo shop in Emporia owned by Charles’s aunt and uncle—long before colored tuxedos were available. The gentleman who wore it was the Man of Honor, and Lucille made sure it was perfect.In her later years, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren accompanying them to appointments when needed or calling just to invite them to lunch. Every family member holds a special memory with her—whether it was baking, canning, gardening, singing, rodeoing, crocheting, or sewing. She did it all and ran the office for Reif Welding and Construction, the family business she and Charles started in 1969 and operated for 50 years. Retiring was not what she wanted to do, but she stepped away when she could still enjoy traveling with Charles. Travel became a joy, with yearly trips to Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming and the Jazz Festival in Evergreen, Colorado. One of her favorite trips was to Germany for her “extra” daughter’s wedding – a trip she and Charles made two more times. They also went to Alberta, Canada for the international D of I meetings.Lucille will be remembered for her generosity, talents, and unwavering love for her family.She was preceded in death by her parents; brother LeRoy; infant brothers Lloyde and Abraham; sisters Pauline and Shirley; son Mark Reif; and son-in-law Neil McWhirter.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, August 11, 2025, at 10:30AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville, with burial following at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, August 10, from 6–8 p.m., with a Vigil and Rosary at 7 p.m., all at the church.Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Church or Sacred Heart School and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com

Lucille Betty (Pierce) Reif

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling head coach Alijah Jeffery announced the signing of 13 newcomers for the upcoming 2025-26 season. It will be the program's second official season of team competition after going 8-2 in dual competition in 2024-25 and qualifying nine wrestlers to the NCWWC Championships for NCAA schools. This will be the first year women's wrestling is an official NCAA championship sport and will conduct regional and national championship events in 2026.

Below are capsules with information about each of the newcomers. They will join 23 returners on the roster from 2024-25, making a total squad size of 36 going into 2025-26. All but one of the nine NCWWC national qualifiers from last year return to the team this year.

Jaidyn Alvarado, Fr., Junction City, Kan. / Junction City HS

Junction City HS: State champion as a senior in Kansas Class 6A with a record of 33-1.

Jade Blackheart, Fr., White Rock, N.M. / Los Alamos HS

Los Alamos HS: Undefeated state champion as a junior at 145…State runner-up as a senior…Three-time state placer overall and four-time state qualifier.

Maddy Blow, Fr., Topeka, Kan. / Washburn Rural HS

Washburn Rural HS: Three-time state qualifier and finished fourth at the Kansas Class 6A state championship as a senior…Reached 100 wins in her prep career.

Kennedy Farrar, Fr., Yuma, Ariz. / Gila Ridge HS

Gila Ridge HS: Two-time Arizona Division 1 state champion…Four-time state qualifier and placer…Earned folkstyle All-America honors…Ranked 13th nationally for her class.

Olivia Griffin, Fr., Puyallup, Wash. / Peninsula HS

Peninsula HS: State placer in both freestyle and folkstyle disciplines.

Ashlyn Hahn, Fr., Stockton, Kan. / Stockton HS

Stockton HS: Undefeated state champion as a senior in Kansas Class 3-2-1A with a record of 41-0…Had an overall record of 140-15 in high school, recording 117 wins by fall…Four-time state qualifier and three-time state placer.

Peyton Hellmann, Fr., Tabor, S.D. / Bon Homme-Scotland-Avon HS

Bon Homme-Scotland-Avon HS: First ever five-time state champion in the state of South Dakota…Won 128 consecutive matches to close out her prep career, spanning from early her sophomore year to the end of her senior year…Won all five of her titles in different classes (2025-145, 2024-138, 2023-132, 2022-126, 2021-129)…Three-time Mitchell Republic Girls Wrestler of the Year…Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award for South Dakota from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame…Freestyle All-America honors…Third-place finisher in World Team Trials.

Kaylan Hitchcock, Fr., Olathe, Kan. / Olathe North HS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754685580129.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling head coach Alijah Jeffery announced the signing of 13 newcomers for the upcoming 2025-26 season. It will be the program's second official season of team competition after going 8-2 in dual competition in 2024-25 and qualifying nine wrestlers to the NCWWC Championships for NCAA schools. This will be the first year women's wrestling is an official NCAA championship sport and will conduct regional and national championship events in 2026.Below are capsules with information about each of the newcomers. They will join 23 returners on the roster from 2024-25, making a total squad size of 36 going into 2025-26. All but one of the nine NCWWC national qualifiers from last year return to the team this year.Jaidyn Alvarado, Fr., Junction City, Kan. / Junction City HSJunction City HS: State champion as a senior in Kansas Class 6A with a record of 33-1.Jade Blackheart, Fr., White Rock, N.M. / Los Alamos HSLos Alamos HS: Undefeated state champion as a junior at 145…State runner-up as a senior…Three-time state placer overall and four-time state qualifier.Maddy Blow, Fr., Topeka, Kan. / Washburn Rural HSWashburn Rural HS: Three-time state qualifier and finished fourth at the Kansas Class 6A state championship as a senior…Reached 100 wins in her prep career.Kennedy Farrar, Fr., Yuma, Ariz. / Gila Ridge HSGila Ridge HS: Two-time Arizona Division 1 state champion…Four-time state qualifier and placer…Earned folkstyle All-America honors…Ranked 13th nationally for her class.Olivia Griffin, Fr., Puyallup, Wash. / Peninsula HSPeninsula HS: State placer in both freestyle and folkstyle disciplines.Ashlyn Hahn, Fr., Stockton, Kan. / Stockton HSStockton HS: Undefeated state champion as a senior in Kansas Class 3-2-1A with a record of 41-0…Had an overall record of 140-15 in high school, recording 117 wins by fall…Four-time state qualifier and three-time state placer.Peyton Hellmann, Fr., Tabor, S.D. / Bon Homme-Scotland-Avon HSBon Homme-Scotland-Avon HS: First ever five-time state champion in the state of South Dakota…Won 128 consecutive matches to close out her prep career, spanning from early her sophomore year to the end of her senior year…Won all five of her titles in different classes (2025-145, 2024-138, 2023-132, 2022-126, 2021-129)…Three-time Mitchell Republic Girls Wrestler of the Year…Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award for South Dakota from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame…Freestyle All-America honors…Third-place finisher in World Team Trials.Kaylan Hitchcock, Fr., Olathe, Kan. / Olathe North HSOlathe North HS: Two-time state champion…Four-time state placer overall, which includes a pair of runner-up finishes…First to record 150 wins in a prep career for girls wrestling in Kansas and finished with 181 wins…Recorded 150 falls throughout her high school career…Region Wrestler of the Year as a senior…Sunflower League Wrestler of the Year as a senior.Leiannah Landreth, Fr., Peck, Kan. / Mulvane HSMulvane HS: Undefeated state champion as a senior…Posted a record of 150-7 in high school…Fargo All-American…Four-time state placer overall, including a pair of runner-up finishes and a third-place finish… Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award for Kansas from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.Samara Markwardt, Jr., Muskogee, Okla. / Carl Albert State CollegeCarl Albert State: Earned NJCAA All-America honors with a sixth place finish nationally her freshman year in 2022-23…Will Rogers HS: Oklahoma state champion and folkstyle nationals All-American…Oklahoma Coaches Association Wrestler of the Year… Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award for Oklahoma from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.Camila Martinez, Fr., Benton, Kan. / Remington HSRemington HS: State champion in Kansas Class 3-2-1A as a senior…Wichita Eagle All-Metro selection.Hayleen Martinez, Fr., Liberal, Kan. / Liberal HSLiberal HS: Two-time state champion in Kansas Class 6A, winning as a junior and senior…Earned Fargo All-America honors…Ranked among the top 10 nationally at 190.Morgan Maschmann, Fr., Beatrice, Neb. / Beatrice HSBeatrice HS: Undefeated state champion as a senior in Nebraska…Earned Fargo All-America honors…USA Junior Folkstyle national finalist.