WASHINGTON (AP) —Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Monday removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.

Major physicians and public health groups criticized the move to oust all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Kennedy, who was one of the nation’s leading anti-vaccine activists before becoming the nation’s top health official, has not said who he would appoint to the panel, but said it would convene in just two weeks in Atlanta.

Although it’s typically not viewed as a partisan board, the entire current roster of committee members were Biden appointees.

“Without removing the current members, the current Trump administration would not have been able to appoint a majority of new members until 2028,” Kennedy wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/rfk-jr-hhs-moves-to-restore-public-trust-in-vaccines-45495112">a Wall Street Journal opinion piece</a>. “A clean sweep is needed to re-establish public confidence in vaccine science."

When reached by phone, the panel's now-former chair — Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University — declined to comment. But another panel member, Noel Brewer at the University of North Carolina, said he and other committee members received an email late Monday afternoon that said their services on the committee had been terminated but gave no reason.

“I'd assumed I'd continue serving on the committee for my full term,” said Brewer, who joined the panel last summer.

Brewer is a behavioral scientist whose research examines why people get vaccinated and ways to improve vaccination coverage. Whether people get vaccinated is largely influenced by what their doctors recommend, and doctors have been following ACIP guidance.

“Up until today, ACIP recommendations were the gold standard for what insurers should pay for, what providers should recommend, and what the public should look to," he said.

But Kennedy already took the unusual step of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-cdc-kennedy-fd6ab0c7303a4a1698b319885a02ef54">changing COVID-19 recommendations</a>&nbsp;without first consulting the committee — a move criticized by doctors' groups and public health advocates.

“It's unclear what the future holds," Brewer said. “Certainly provider organizations have already started to turn away from ACIP.”

Kennedy said the committee members had too many conflicts of interest. Currently, committee members are required to declare any potential such conflicts, as well as business interests, that arise during their tenure. They also must disclose any possible conflicts at the start of each public meeting.

But Dr. Tom Frieden, president and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives and former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Kennedy's actions were based on false conflict-of-interest claims and set “a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe” by potentially reducing vaccine access for millions of people.

“Make no mistake: Politicizing the ACIP as Secretary Kennedy is doing will undermine public trust under the guise of improving it,” he said in a statement. “We’ll look back at this as a grave mistake that sacrificed decades of scientific rigor, undermined public trust, and opened the door for fringe theories rather than facts.”

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, called Kennedy's mass ouster "a coup.”

“It’s not how democracies work. It’s not good for the health of the nation,” Benjamin told The Associated Press.

Benjamin said the move raises real concerns about whether future committee members will be viewed as impartial. He added that Kennedy is going against what he told lawmakers and the public, and the public health association plans to watch Kennedy “like a hawk."

“He is breaking a promise,” Benjamin said. “He said he wasn’t going to do this."

Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, called the committee a trusted source of science- and data-driven advice and said Kennedy’s move, coupled with declining vaccination rates across the country, will help drive an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases.

“Today’s action to remove the 17 sitting members of ACIP undermines that trust and upends a transparent process that has saved countless lives,” Scott said in a statement.

Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a doctor who had expressed reservations about Kennedy’s nomination but voted to install him as the nation’s health secretary nonetheless, said he had spoken with Kennedy moments after the announcement.

“Of course, now the fear is that the ACIP will be filled up with people who know nothing about vaccines except suspicion,” Cassidy said in a social media post. “I’ve just spoken with Secretary Kennedy, and I’ll continue to talk with him to ensure this is not the case.”

The committee had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-cdc-rfk-trump-acip-74ad20e0a5430bfd6b48d35900c34d13">abruptly postponed</a>&nbsp;its February meeting.

During Kennedy’s confirmation, Cassidy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cassidy-kennedy-trump-health-secretary-e826bc40fddf90829f6438681c5d9275">had expressed concerns</a>&nbsp;about preserving the committee, saying he had sought assurances that Kennedy would keep the panel's current vaccine recommendations.

The webpage that featured the committee’s members was deleted Monday evening, shortly after Kennedy’s announcement.

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Devi Shastri contributed.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

WASHINGTON (AP) —Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Monday removed every member of a scientific committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to use vaccines and pledged to replace them with his own picks.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, we are taking a bold step in restoring public trust by totally reconstituting the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP). A clean sweep is necessary to reestablish public confidence in vaccine science. The entire world once looked to American health… <a href="https://t.co/hTo7xV4Pke">pic.twitter.com/hTo7xV4Pke</a>&mdash; Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecKennedy/status/1932192142748795114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Major physicians and public health groups criticized the move to oust all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.Kennedy, who was one of the nation’s leading anti-vaccine activists before becoming the nation’s top health official, has not said who he would appoint to the panel, but said it would convene in just two weeks in Atlanta.Although it’s typically not viewed as a partisan board, the entire current roster of committee members were Biden appointees.“Without removing the current members, the current Trump administration would not have been able to appoint a majority of new members until 2028,” Kennedy wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/rfk-jr-hhs-moves-to-restore-public-trust-in-vaccines-45495112">a Wall Street Journal opinion piece</a>. “A clean sweep is needed to re-establish public confidence in vaccine science."When reached by phone, the panel's now-former chair — Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University — declined to comment. But another panel member, Noel Brewer at the University of North Carolina, said he and other committee members received an email late Monday afternoon that said their services on the committee had been terminated but gave no reason.“I'd assumed I'd continue serving on the committee for my full term,” said Brewer, who joined the panel last summer.Brewer is a behavioral scientist whose research examines why people get vaccinated and ways to improve vaccination coverage. Whether people get vaccinated is largely influenced by what their doctors recommend, and doctors have been following ACIP guidance.“Up until today, ACIP recommendations were the gold standard for what insurers should pay for, what providers should recommend, and what the public should look to," he said.But Kennedy already took the unusual step of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-vaccines-cdc-kennedy-fd6ab0c7303a4a1698b319885a02ef54">changing COVID-19 recommendations</a>&nbsp;without first consulting the committee — a move criticized by doctors' groups and public health advocates.“It's unclear what the future holds," Brewer said. “Certainly provider organizations have already started to turn away from ACIP.”Kennedy said the committee members had too many conflicts of interest. Currently, committee members are required to declare any potential such conflicts, as well as business interests, that arise during their tenure. They also must disclose any possible conflicts at the start of each public meeting.But Dr. Tom Frieden, president and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives and former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said Kennedy's actions were based on false conflict-of-interest claims and set “a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe” by potentially reducing vaccine access for millions of people.“Make no mistake: Politicizing the ACIP as Secretary Kennedy is doing will undermine public trust under the guise of improving it,” he said in a statement. “We’ll look back at this as a grave mistake that sacrificed decades of scientific rigor, undermined public trust, and opened the door for fringe theories rather than facts.”Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, called Kennedy's mass ouster "a coup.”“It’s not how democracies work. It’s not good for the health of the nation,” Benjamin told The Associated Press.Benjamin said the move raises real concerns about whether future committee members will be viewed as impartial. He added that Kennedy is going against what he told lawmakers and the public, and the public health association plans to watch Kennedy “like a hawk."“He is breaking a promise,” Benjamin said. “He said he wasn’t going to do this."Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, called the committee a trusted source of science- and data-driven advice and said Kennedy’s move, coupled with declining vaccination rates across the country, will help drive an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases.“Today’s action to remove the 17 sitting members of ACIP undermines that trust and upends a transparent process that has saved countless lives,” Scott said in a statement.Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a doctor who had expressed reservations about Kennedy’s nomination but voted to install him as the nation’s health secretary nonetheless, said he had spoken with Kennedy moments after the announcement.“Of course, now the fear is that the ACIP will be filled up with people who know nothing about vaccines except suspicion,” Cassidy said in a social media post. “I’ve just spoken with Secretary Kennedy, and I’ll continue to talk with him to ensure this is not the case.”The committee had been in a state of flux since Kennedy took over. Its first meeting this year had been delayed when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vaccines-cdc-rfk-trump-acip-74ad20e0a5430bfd6b48d35900c34d13">abruptly postponed</a>&nbsp;its February meeting.During Kennedy’s confirmation, Cassidy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cassidy-kennedy-trump-health-secretary-e826bc40fddf90829f6438681c5d9275">had expressed concerns</a>&nbsp;about preserving the committee, saying he had sought assurances that Kennedy would keep the panel's current vaccine recommendations.The webpage that featured the committee’s members was deleted Monday evening, shortly after Kennedy’s announcement.__Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Devi Shastri contributed.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Why RFK Jr. ousted the entire CDC vaccine advisory committee

Memorials
are suggested to FHSU Foundation (to establish a Geology Scholarship) or
Grinnell VFW Post 2864 and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N.
1st, Stockton, KS 67669.

Fredrick 'Freddy' Ralph Sheesley, 76, of Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 5,
2025, at Hays Medical Center surrounded by family.

He was
born on December 30, 1948, in Colby, Kansas, to Fredrick H. and Ferne M.
(Eaton) Sheesley. Freddy graduated from Grinnell High School in 1966, went on
to Colby Community College, then transferred to Fort Hays State University
where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1971—an experience that
fueled his lifelong love for the outdoors and exploration, especially the
geology digs of Northwest Kansas. 

Throughout
his life, Fred embraced many roles: dedicated district executive with the Boy
Scouts of America, proud member of The Masonic Lodge, loyal FHSU alumnus, and
small business owner. He owned and operated an American Family Insurance agency
in Hays for six years and spent many early mornings delivering bread across
western Kansas for Old Home Bread. Prior to retirement, he sold commercial
vehicles for Chevrolet in the KC area.

Fred was
a man of deep passion and kindness—a true sports enthusiast who faithfully
cheered for the FHSU Tigers, Kansas City Chiefs, and KC Royals. He found peace
in nature, whether it was camping, fishing, scouting, or simply enjoying a
cigar on the deck. He had a servant’s heart, always ready with his trademark
phrase, “I’d be glad to help.” Fred was known for his unwavering kindness—never
speaking an unkind word about anyone.

His joy
was in life’s simple pleasures: trout fishing in the Rockies, nights around a
campfire under the stars telling stories, supporting family through small home
projects, recalling college summers spent in McCartney Hall at Sternberg Museum
in addition to Scout Camps Brown and Hansen where he served as a staff member
in college and later became the camp director. Moreover, he loved sharing life
stories and many laughs with his grandchildren.

Fred is
survived by his children, Scott B. (Marlene) Sheesley of St. Joseph, MO, and
Elodie J. Jones of Hays; sister, Roxann Sheesley Nelson of Grinnell, KS; five
grandchildren, Madison (Matt) Nolte, Shawn Sheesley, Avery (Chase) Jones, Katie
Sheesley, and Caleb Sheesley; and one great-grandchild, Miller Nolte; including
many cherished extended family and friends.

He was
preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jan Marie Sheesley; brother-in-law,
Robert Nelson; and niece, Chelsie M. Nelson.

A
Celebration of Life will be held Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10:30 AM at
Celebration Community Church in Hays, KS. Family will receive guests and host a
coffee bar 9:30 AM until service time. Burial will follow in Grinnell City
Cemetery at 1 PM in Grinnell, KS. 

Online
condolences may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749496136536.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Memorials
are suggested to FHSU Foundation (to establish a Geology Scholarship) or
Grinnell VFW Post 2864 and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N.
1st, Stockton, KS 67669.Fredrick 'Freddy' Ralph Sheesley, 76, of Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 5,
2025, at Hays Medical Center surrounded by family.He was
born on December 30, 1948, in Colby, Kansas, to Fredrick H. and Ferne M.
(Eaton) Sheesley. Freddy graduated from Grinnell High School in 1966, went on
to Colby Community College, then transferred to Fort Hays State University
where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1971—an experience that
fueled his lifelong love for the outdoors and exploration, especially the
geology digs of Northwest Kansas. Throughout
his life, Fred embraced many roles: dedicated district executive with the Boy
Scouts of America, proud member of The Masonic Lodge, loyal FHSU alumnus, and
small business owner. He owned and operated an American Family Insurance agency
in Hays for six years and spent many early mornings delivering bread across
western Kansas for Old Home Bread. Prior to retirement, he sold commercial
vehicles for Chevrolet in the KC area.Fred was
a man of deep passion and kindness—a true sports enthusiast who faithfully
cheered for the FHSU Tigers, Kansas City Chiefs, and KC Royals. He found peace
in nature, whether it was camping, fishing, scouting, or simply enjoying a
cigar on the deck. He had a servant’s heart, always ready with his trademark
phrase, “I’d be glad to help.” Fred was known for his unwavering kindness—never
speaking an unkind word about anyone.His joy
was in life’s simple pleasures: trout fishing in the Rockies, nights around a
campfire under the stars telling stories, supporting family through small home
projects, recalling college summers spent in McCartney Hall at Sternberg Museum
in addition to Scout Camps Brown and Hansen where he served as a staff member
in college and later became the camp director. Moreover, he loved sharing life
stories and many laughs with his grandchildren.Fred is
survived by his children, Scott B. (Marlene) Sheesley of St. Joseph, MO, and
Elodie J. Jones of Hays; sister, Roxann Sheesley Nelson of Grinnell, KS; five
grandchildren, Madison (Matt) Nolte, Shawn Sheesley, Avery (Chase) Jones, Katie
Sheesley, and Caleb Sheesley; and one great-grandchild, Miller Nolte; including
many cherished extended family and friends.He was
preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jan Marie Sheesley; brother-in-law,
Robert Nelson; and niece, Chelsie M. Nelson.A
Celebration of Life will be held Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10:30 AM at
Celebration Community Church in Hays, KS. Family will receive guests and host a
coffee bar 9:30 AM until service time. Burial will follow in Grinnell City
Cemetery at 1 PM in Grinnell, KS. Memorials
are suggested to FHSU Foundation (to establish a Geology Scholarship) or
Grinnell VFW Post 2864 and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N.
1st, Stockton, KS 67669.Online
condolences may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Fredrick 'Freddy' Ralph Sheesley

Roy Clark Miller, 95 of Grand Island,
Nebraska, and former Russell, Kansas resident died on Thursday, May 29, 2025,
at Country House Residence in Grand Island.

Roy was born on June 11, 1929, in
Gove County, Kansas, the son of Fay Clark and Hazel Inus (Benson) Miller.&nbsp; He grew up in the Quinter and Gove, Kansas
areas and graduated from Gove Rural High School in 1943.&nbsp; After high school, he attended Ft. Hays State
University, but his time was cut short when he joined the United States
Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan. After being
honorably discharged from the Air Force, he attended Ottawa University where he
received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1958.&nbsp; Later, he attended Emporia State University
and earned his master’s degree in mathematics.&nbsp;
He was united in marriage to Naomi Flo Hull on January 09, 1955 in
Ottawa, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union, Roy and
Naomi were blessed with four children Deb, Pam, Tim, and Randy.&nbsp; Roy taught at Gypsum High School in Gypsum,
Kansas from 1958-1964.&nbsp; In 1964, he moved
to Russell, Kansas to become a math teacher at Russell High School.&nbsp; He loved mathematics and enjoyed teaching his
students how to advance their mathematical skills.&nbsp; He worked for USD 407 for 30 years before
retiring in 1994.&nbsp; He was a longtime
member of the Otterbein Methodist Church in Russell.&nbsp; He enjoyed camping and was a member of SAM’s
Camping Club.&nbsp; He was also a member of the
Russell Square Dancing Club, Russell V.F.W. Post #6240, Russell Elks Lodge, and
Russell Senior Center.&nbsp; Both Roy and
Naomi loved square dancing and were Co-Presidents of the Kansas Square Dance
Association during 1989-1990.&nbsp; He also
enjoyed woodworking, playing cards, and dominoes.&nbsp; Most of all, he delighted in spending time
with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

Surviving family includes his daughters Deb
Miller (Alan Kirton) of Boulder, Colorado and Pam Emahizer (John) of Aurora,
Nebraska; sons Tim Miller of Topeka, Kansas and Randy Miller (Laurie) of
Ottawa, Kansas; brother Tom Miller (Elouise) of Topeka, Kansas; 9 grandchildren
Erin, Trevor, Megan, Jarod, Nicole, Josh,
Nathan, Jordan and Shelby; 18 great-grandchildren Brennan, Hunter, Ava,
Andrew, Isaac, Dylan, Madison, Landon, Kolten, Aiden, Johnathon, Delilah, Jack,
Maddie, Maddox, Harper, Avery, and Olivia.

He was preceded in death by his
parents, wife Naomi on November 08, 2016, three brothers Marvin, Larry, and Max
Miller, sisters Donna May Miller and Marilyn Streets, and granddaughter Lindsay
Miller.

A celebration of Roy’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M.
on June 16, 2025, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell,
Kansas.Burial will follow at the
Russell City Cemetery.Visitation will
be from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM on June 15, 2025, at the mortuary.The family will be greeting guests from 3
P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday afternoon at the mortuary.Memorials may be given to the (RCACF) Russell
County Area Community Foundation and sent in care of the mortuary.Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas,
is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749486092811.jpeg" alt="Roy Clark Miller" />
 <figcaption>Roy Clark Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>Roy Clark Miller, 95 of Grand Island,
Nebraska, and former Russell, Kansas resident died on Thursday, May 29, 2025,
at Country House Residence in Grand Island.Roy was born on June 11, 1929, in
Gove County, Kansas, the son of Fay Clark and Hazel Inus (Benson) Miller.&nbsp; He grew up in the Quinter and Gove, Kansas
areas and graduated from Gove Rural High School in 1943.&nbsp; After high school, he attended Ft. Hays State
University, but his time was cut short when he joined the United States
Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan. After being
honorably discharged from the Air Force, he attended Ottawa University where he
received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1958.&nbsp; Later, he attended Emporia State University
and earned his master’s degree in mathematics.&nbsp;
He was united in marriage to Naomi Flo Hull on January 09, 1955 in
Ottawa, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union, Roy and
Naomi were blessed with four children Deb, Pam, Tim, and Randy.&nbsp; Roy taught at Gypsum High School in Gypsum,
Kansas from 1958-1964.&nbsp; In 1964, he moved
to Russell, Kansas to become a math teacher at Russell High School.&nbsp; He loved mathematics and enjoyed teaching his
students how to advance their mathematical skills.&nbsp; He worked for USD 407 for 30 years before
retiring in 1994.&nbsp; He was a longtime
member of the Otterbein Methodist Church in Russell.&nbsp; He enjoyed camping and was a member of SAM’s
Camping Club.&nbsp; He was also a member of the
Russell Square Dancing Club, Russell V.F.W. Post #6240, Russell Elks Lodge, and
Russell Senior Center.&nbsp; Both Roy and
Naomi loved square dancing and were Co-Presidents of the Kansas Square Dance
Association during 1989-1990.&nbsp; He also
enjoyed woodworking, playing cards, and dominoes.&nbsp; Most of all, he delighted in spending time
with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Surviving family includes his daughters Deb
Miller (Alan Kirton) of Boulder, Colorado and Pam Emahizer (John) of Aurora,
Nebraska; sons Tim Miller of Topeka, Kansas and Randy Miller (Laurie) of
Ottawa, Kansas; brother Tom Miller (Elouise) of Topeka, Kansas; 9 grandchildren
Erin, Trevor, Megan, Jarod, Nicole, Josh,
Nathan, Jordan and Shelby; 18 great-grandchildren Brennan, Hunter, Ava,
Andrew, Isaac, Dylan, Madison, Landon, Kolten, Aiden, Johnathon, Delilah, Jack,
Maddie, Maddox, Harper, Avery, and Olivia.He was preceded in death by his
parents, wife Naomi on November 08, 2016, three brothers Marvin, Larry, and Max
Miller, sisters Donna May Miller and Marilyn Streets, and granddaughter Lindsay
Miller.A celebration of Roy’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M.
on June 16, 2025, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell,
Kansas.Burial will follow at the
Russell City Cemetery.Visitation will
be from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM on June 15, 2025, at the mortuary.The family will be greeting guests from 3
P.M. to 5 P.M. Sunday afternoon at the mortuary.Memorials may be given to the (RCACF) Russell
County Area Community Foundation and sent in care of the mortuary.Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas,
is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Roy Clark Miller

3:14 p.m. June 10, 2025 Editor’s note for clarification: The chart listing outside agencies and their funding requests for 2025 and 2026 has been removed due to inaccuracies. GrowHays requested $165,000 for 2026 and Ellis County Historical Society requested $100,000 in 2025. The total amount requested for 2026 is $1.22 million.

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will review the process for funding outside agencies for the 2026 fiscal year during its meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The Care Council will review most of the requests and present funding recommendations at a future meeting.

Last year, the commission authorized the Care Council to review the remaining agencies. Funding for these agencies is limited at the dollar equivalent of 3/10th of a mill.

Environmental Services Director Justin Craig will request a resolution to implement a secured loads policy at the Ellis County Landfill to address increasing concerns about roadway debris.

The policy is designed to reduce litter, improve public safety and address citizen complaints by enforcing load security standards.

If approved, the policy would be fully enforced starting April 1, 2026. Violators could be subject to a 50% surcharge on landfill fees and possible law enforcement involvement.

Darin Myers, Ellis County Administrator, will request the commission to approve the distribution of alcohol funds.

One-third of the collected alcohol tax revenue is allocated for alcohol and drug programs. The CARE Council recommends dividing the $7,730 evenly between Dream Inc. and the Smoky Hill Foundation for Chemical Dependency.

Highway 40 and Main Street intersection in Victoria

John Schulte, Victoria Mayor, and Brendan Mackay, Public Works Director, will request financial assistance for reconstructing the East Main Street approach to Old Highway 40 in Victoria.

The approach is deteriorating, resulting in large potholes. The City of Victoria is asking the county to fund one-third of the total $124,685 cost.

Mackay will also seek approval to purchase 27,456 gallons of CRS-1HP asphalt emulsion oil for the Catharine Road reconstruction project, which will cost about $74,400.

Craig will request the commission to reappoint David McDaniel and Mason Ruder to new three-year terms on the Joint Planning Commission beginning July 1. Their current terms end on June 30.

An Ellis County resident will ask the commission for guidance on initiating improvements and establishing regular maintenance for a privately accessed oil lead road in northeast Ellis County.

Myers will request a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment for all Ellis County employees, elected officials and contract positions. The adjustment follows the Social Security Administration's 2025 cost-of-living rate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>3:14 p.m. June 10, 2025 Editor’s note for clarification: The chart listing outside agencies and their funding requests for 2025 and 2026 has been removed due to inaccuracies. GrowHays requested $165,000 for 2026 and Ellis County Historical Society requested $100,000 in 2025. The total amount requested for 2026 is $1.22 million.By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will review the process for funding outside agencies for the 2026 fiscal year during its meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.The Care Council will review most of the requests and present funding recommendations at a future meeting.Last year, the commission authorized the Care Council to review the remaining agencies. Funding for these agencies is limited at the dollar equivalent of 3/10th of a mill.<h2>Secured loads policy</h2>Environmental Services Director Justin Craig will request a resolution to implement a secured loads policy at the Ellis County Landfill to address increasing concerns about roadway debris.The policy is designed to reduce litter, improve public safety and address citizen complaints by enforcing load security standards.If approved, the policy would be fully enforced starting April 1, 2026. Violators could be subject to a 50% surcharge on landfill fees and possible law enforcement involvement.<h2>Alcohol funding request</h2>Darin Myers, Ellis County Administrator, will request the commission to approve the distribution of alcohol funds.One-third of the collected alcohol tax revenue is allocated for alcohol and drug programs. The CARE Council recommends dividing the $7,730 evenly between Dream Inc. and the Smoky Hill Foundation for Chemical Dependency.<h2>Highway 40 and Main Street intersection in Victoria</h2>John Schulte, Victoria Mayor, and Brendan Mackay, Public Works Director, will request financial assistance for reconstructing the East Main Street approach to Old Highway 40 in Victoria.The approach is deteriorating, resulting in large potholes. The City of Victoria is asking the county to fund one-third of the total $124,685 cost.<h2>Other business</h2>Mackay will also seek approval to purchase 27,456 gallons of CRS-1HP asphalt emulsion oil for the Catharine Road reconstruction project, which will cost about $74,400.Craig will request the commission to reappoint David McDaniel and Mason Ruder to new three-year terms on the Joint Planning Commission beginning July 1. Their current terms end on June 30.An Ellis County resident will ask the commission for guidance on initiating improvements and establishing regular maintenance for a privately accessed oil lead road in northeast Ellis County.Myers will request a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment for all Ellis County employees, elected officials and contract positions. The adjustment follows the Social Security Administration's 2025 cost-of-living rate.

Ellis County Commission to review agency funding requests

WASHINGTON (AP) —ABC News has suspended correspondent Terry Moran for calling Trump administration deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller a “world class hater” in a since-deleted social media post.

Moran’s post was swiftly condemned by administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance. ABC News, in a statement, said it “stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others.”

The network said Moran was suspended pending further evaluation.

Moran, in his post on X at 12:06 a.m. on Sunday, said President Trump was a hater, too. But he wrote that for Trump, his hatred is a means to an end, “and that end is his own glorification.” For Miller, “his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745978717017.png" alt="&nbsp;Terry Moran taped an Oval Office interview for ABC with President Trump in April- image courtesy White House video" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Terry Moran taped an Oval Office interview for ABC with President Trump in April- image courtesy White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —ABC News has suspended correspondent Terry Moran for calling Trump administration deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller a “world class hater” in a since-deleted social media post.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An ABC journalist <a href="https://twitter.com/TerryMoran?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TerryMoran</a> posted this absolutely vile smear of Stephen Miller. It’s dripping with hatred. Remember that every time you watch ABC’s coverage of the Trump administration. As it happens, I know Stephen quite well. And he’s motivated by love of country. He’s… <a href="https://t.co/hX93zKTWjy">pic.twitter.com/hX93zKTWjy</a>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1931694721354645752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Moran’s post was swiftly condemned by administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance. ABC News, in a statement, said it “stands for objectivity and impartiality in its news coverage and does not condone subjective personal attacks on others.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749480969929.png" alt="Terry Moran image from the White House video of the interview with President Trump" />
 <figcaption>Terry Moran image from the White House video of the interview with President Trump</figcaption>
 </figure>The network said Moran was suspended pending further evaluation.Moran, in his post on X at 12:06 a.m. on Sunday, said President Trump was a hater, too. But he wrote that for Trump, his hatred is a means to an end, “and that end is his own glorification.” For Miller, “his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment. He eats his hate.”

ABC News suspends correspondent for negative social media post

DODGE CITY – The Hays Larks suffered their first loss of the
season Sunday night on the road in Dodge City against the A’s. 

The A’s took advantage of early command issues by Larks
starter Jacob Stribling, who walked four and allowed three runs to score in the
first inning. 

Hays was able to get a run back in the top of the second
inning, when Trent Baker singled home a run, cutting the lead to 3-1, Dodge
City. 

But the A’s, thanks to two more walks, got the run back in
the bottom of the second and led 4-1 through two innings.

Dodge City added a single run in the fourth and three more
runs in the bottom of the sixth inning, building an 8-1 lead.

Hays’ Lane Sparks' home run in the eighth, and they scored
on an error, making it 8-3, Dodge City. 

But that was as close as the Larks would get as the A’s scored
twice in the bottom of the inning on their way to the 10-3 victory.

Jacob Stribling allowed four runs on one hit and allowed
seven walks in three innings and suffered the loss.

Lane Sparks and Trent Baker drove in a pair of runs for the
Larks. 

The Larks are 3-1 and 1-1 in the Rocky Mountain Baseball
League. They host the Kansas Cannons in a non-league game on Tuesday. 

Hays Post SportsDODGE CITY – The Hays Larks suffered their first loss of the
season Sunday night on the road in Dodge City against the A’s. The A’s took advantage of early command issues by Larks
starter Jacob Stribling, who walked four and allowed three runs to score in the
first inning. Hays was able to get a run back in the top of the second
inning, when Trent Baker singled home a run, cutting the lead to 3-1, Dodge
City. But the A’s, thanks to two more walks, got the run back in
the bottom of the second and led 4-1 through two innings.Dodge City added a single run in the fourth and three more
runs in the bottom of the sixth inning, building an 8-1 lead.Hays’ Lane Sparks' home run in the eighth, and they scored
on an error, making it 8-3, Dodge City. But that was as close as the Larks would get as the A’s scored
twice in the bottom of the inning on their way to the 10-3 victory.Jacob Stribling allowed four runs on one hit and allowed
seven walks in three innings and suffered the loss.Lane Sparks and Trent Baker drove in a pair of runs for the
Larks. The Larks are 3-1 and 1-1 in the Rocky Mountain Baseball
League. They host the Kansas Cannons in a non-league game on Tuesday.

⚾Larks suffer first loss of the season at Dodge City

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The <a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition</a> is now renting apartments in the newly renovated St. John's Place.

The first phase of the St. John's renovation includes four two-bedroom, six one-bedroom, one studio and one handicap apartments for a total of 12 units.

The former St. John's nursing home sat empty for 12 years before the Victoria Community Coalition began raising the $3 million necessary to renovate the building.

The coalition broke ground on the apartments in April 2024.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8ef333ba-9b6f-4f12-88ea-0e385dfb7c94">SEE RELATED STORY: St. John's Place in Victoria breaks ground on phase 1 renovations.</a>

The apartments are designed for independent living for moderate-income seniors, based on grants the coalition received to construct the apartments.

You must be 55 years old or older to apply for an apartment.

The apartments rent for between $725 and $1,275, depending on size. Income requirements start at $40,080 to $100,200 a year in annual income for an individual, Marilyn Braun, coalition treasurer, said. Those incomes can be higher for a couple.

The apartments have a separate, secure and handicap accessible entrance to the building.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c41e4048-59de-423e-988b-806e20364567">Some of the amenities in the apartments include pantries, walk-in closets, water softeners, quartz countertops and barn-door entries in some rooms to optimize space.</a>

The showers have low thresholds and built-in seats to make them more accessible for seniors.

The apartments also have a community room and a laundry room for residents' use.

If you are interested in learning more about renting an apartment, you can go to the <a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition website</a>. You can also call 785-735-2200.

"We are very proud of it, and we hope to fill it up," Braun said. "We are going to continue on with the rest of the building. We are working with an architect, and we will be looking at raising money and trying to get our community center done and possibly two Airbnbs."

The coalition has planned for two apartment-style short-term rentals in the building. Those spaces are framed, but yet to be finished.

The Airbnb units will have a separate, secure entrance from the apartments.

The coalition is also looking to develop a child care space in the center and would like to add a small coffee bar.

Braun said the coalition already has designs for the Airbnb space, but they are working to develop plans for the community center and child care.

Once those plans have been done and an estimated cost determined, the coalition can begin applying for grants and fundraising for the next phase of development.

You can donate directly through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">coalition website</a>&nbsp;or mail checks payable to "Victoria Community Coalition" to Victoria Community Coalition, PO Box 94, Victoria, KS 67671.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6454123-e1a4-446d-95f8-2a4870f81803">The Ellis County Historical Society is developing space on the south side of the former nursing home as a satellite campus. </a>

Amanda Rupp, society director, said the timeline for the development of the museum space depends on fundraising.

However, she said she hopes that restrooms, HVAC and floor coverings should be in by the end of next summer.

She said the museum will eventually have volunteer opportunities at the St. John's location, and she hopes some of the St. John's apartment residents will consider participating.

Braun said she is excited about the museum's project.

"That's going to bring a lot of people to our community," she said. "We've got the church. There's a lot of people coming there. They'll have the ability to go see the historical society and see all the heritage and people who came from Russia. ...

"We look forward to being good neighbors."

You can also follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/savetheresthome">Victoria Community Coalition on Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064008405.jpeg" alt="Kitchen in one of the new St. John's Place apartments. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kitchen in one of the new St. John's Place apartments. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition</a> is now renting apartments in the newly renovated St. John's Place.The first phase of the St. John's renovation includes four two-bedroom, six one-bedroom, one studio and one handicap apartments for a total of 12 units.The former St. John's nursing home sat empty for 12 years before the Victoria Community Coalition began raising the $3 million necessary to renovate the building.The coalition broke ground on the apartments in April 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064113771.jpeg" alt="Living room of one of the St. John's Place two-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Living room of one of the St. John's Place two-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8ef333ba-9b6f-4f12-88ea-0e385dfb7c94">SEE RELATED STORY: St. John's Place in Victoria breaks ground on phase 1 renovations.</a>The apartments are designed for independent living for moderate-income seniors, based on grants the coalition received to construct the apartments.You must be 55 years old or older to apply for an apartment.The apartments rent for between $725 and $1,275, depending on size. Income requirements start at $40,080 to $100,200 a year in annual income for an individual, Marilyn Braun, coalition treasurer, said. Those incomes can be higher for a couple.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064183150.jpeg" alt="Low-entry shower in one of the St. John's Place apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Low-entry shower in one of the St. John's Place apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064221909.jpeg" alt="Walk-in closet in one of the St. John's Place two-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Walk-in closet in one of the St. John's Place two-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The apartments have a separate, secure and handicap accessible entrance to the building.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c41e4048-59de-423e-988b-806e20364567">Some of the amenities in the apartments include pantries, walk-in closets, water softeners, quartz countertops and barn-door entries in some rooms to optimize space.</a>The showers have low thresholds and built-in seats to make them more accessible for seniors.The apartments also have a community room and a laundry room for residents' use.If you are interested in learning more about renting an apartment, you can go to the <a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition website</a>. You can also call 785-735-2200.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064286513.jpeg" alt="St. John's Place apartments community room, which also has a TV.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>St. John's Place apartments community room, which also has a TV.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749064338812.jpeg" alt="St. John's Place laundry room.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>St. John's Place laundry room.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"We are very proud of it, and we hope to fill it up," Braun said. "We are going to continue on with the rest of the building. We are working with an architect, and we will be looking at raising money and trying to get our community center done and possibly two Airbnbs."The coalition has planned for two apartment-style short-term rentals in the building. Those spaces are framed, but yet to be finished.The Airbnb units will have a separate, secure entrance from the apartments.The coalition is also looking to develop a child care space in the center and would like to add a small coffee bar.Braun said the coalition already has designs for the Airbnb space, but they are working to develop plans for the community center and child care.Once those plans have been done and an estimated cost determined, the coalition can begin applying for grants and fundraising for the next phase of development.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748631065024.jpeg" alt="St. John's south entrance, which will welcome visitors to the satellite campus for the Ellis County Historical Society.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>St. John's south entrance, which will welcome visitors to the satellite campus for the Ellis County Historical Society.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>You can donate directly through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">coalition website</a>&nbsp;or mail checks payable to "Victoria Community Coalition" to Victoria Community Coalition, PO Box 94, Victoria, KS 67671.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6454123-e1a4-446d-95f8-2a4870f81803">The Ellis County Historical Society is developing space on the south side of the former nursing home as a satellite campus. </a>Amanda Rupp, society director, said the timeline for the development of the museum space depends on fundraising.However, she said she hopes that restrooms, HVAC and floor coverings should be in by the end of next summer.She said the museum will eventually have volunteer opportunities at the St. John's location, and she hopes some of the St. John's apartment residents will consider participating.Braun said she is excited about the museum's project."That's going to bring a lot of people to our community," she said. "We've got the church. There's a lot of people coming there. They'll have the ability to go see the historical society and see all the heritage and people who came from Russia. ..."We look forward to being good neighbors."You can also follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/savetheresthome">Victoria Community Coalition on Facebook</a>.

St. John's Place apartments in Victoria for rent

A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE —&nbsp;CAN HELP REACH GOALS

Preparing to transition a&nbsp;<a href="https://familybusinessmagazine.com/" target="_blank">family business</a>&nbsp;to the next owner — whether it be a family member or third-party buyer — is a process that requires taking the long view. The business owner who decides to retire one year from now without having made any preparations is about 10 years too late. The owner will be able to sell, but may have to make concessions on price, deal structure and tax consequences that would not have been necessary if the proper long-range planning had been done.&nbsp;

While every business is different, it is also true that every business is the same. That is, every business owner needs to look at the distant horizon, questioning basic assumptions about the business, assessing the talents and wishes of family members who may someday become owners, and innovating in ways that keep the company at the top of its game in order to maximize value. All of this takes time and careful planning, preferably with the help of trusted advisors along the way.&nbsp;

Business owners and family farm owners who follow certain steps in planning for exit are more likely to reach the goals they set for a successful transition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to setting goals for a business transition, your first thought may be,&nbsp;“Well, my goal is to sell the business.”&nbsp;But there’s so much more to think about.&nbsp;

Are there family members who may want to own the business, or whom you have been grooming to take over? Or are there key employees whom you have trained and entrusted with the company’s growth and operations over the years?&nbsp;You may think of them as family, too, and they may be candidates for ownership.&nbsp;

Additionally, you should consider what you are going to do in retirement. You may want to step away from the business altogether, or keep a hand in it as a consultant for a few years. Either way, you probably expect some type of retirement cash flow stream.&nbsp;

If you haven’t thought about your post-transition role, now is the time to think about it. And if you are not going to continue being active in the business, what will you do with your time? It’s important to envision your retirement life before you get there. Retirement isn’t just about selling your business and handing over the keys. It’s about having a life afterward, and if you are confident in what that life will look like, it will make it easier for you to do the planning and preparation that your business deserves.&nbsp;

Step 2 — Identifying your Successor&nbsp;

For owners of family businesses and farms, this can be the most emotional factor in transition planning. Perhaps the farm has been in your family for three generations, it is a thriving entity and your son or daughter is eager to take it over. Congratulations — you’re golden. But for many owners, the succession picture is more complicated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maybe you are now 60 years old and you have decided you’ll work till age 70, which gives you 10 years for planning and preparation to transition your company or farm. But when you reach age 70, your children will likely be at least in their mid-40s. If they aren’t already working with you in the business or farm, they may have established careers elsewhere and will be in their prime earning years when you’re ready for them to take over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This reality adds another wrinkle to the planning picture for family business and farm owners. If your long-range goal is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, planning must start while they are fairly young — high school is not too early — so they can gain a college education and work experience that will benefit them and prepare them for ownership.&nbsp;

Communication is one of the most critical factors in preparing for transition of a family entity. If you want and expect your children to take over the family business, it must be discussed at a time when the children can decide whether they want to succeed you and, if so, plan how to prepare themselves. Among&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/industries/agribusiness/">family farms,</a>&nbsp;the majority of transitions involve succession to family members, and it is more common for the younger generation to be involved in the business and to have gotten the education and training needed to run the farm.&nbsp;

In some families, the parents are reluctant to share much information with their children even when the children reach adulthood. But you can’t expect an adult to plan his or her life around taking over a family business if they aren’t privy to critical information that can help them decide, particularly if it could involve taking on a substantial debt. Business transactions can unravel over poor communication, even among family members. When that happens, the owner should have a Plan B, such as selling to a key employee or finding an outside buyer.&nbsp;

Another key point of communication is educating the successor as to the roles you have filled in the operation. Have you, like many owners, acted as the CEO, COO, CMO and HR director? When you transition the business, the next owner — whether it’s a family member or outside buyer — needs to understand all the roles involved and have job descriptions that will guide the hiring of new managers to help run the operation.&nbsp;

Step 3 — Determine your Company’s Value

Often, business owners have an idea of what they think their business is worth, but it’s based more on emotion than hard data. Once planning for a transition starts, obtaining an independent business valuation is an essential step to set a benchmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Typically, the initial valuation is not used to determine an asking price, since the actual transaction is still years in the future. But the report from an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/services/advisory-consulting/business-valuations/">independent valuation professional</a>&nbsp;will reveal the value drivers in your business and help formulate a multi-year improvement plan that will increase the value. This is particularly important if the entity will be sold to an outside buyer or private equity group.&nbsp;

The value of a business helps determine the path toward transition. A $50 million business requires different transition strategies and tax planning than a $5 million business does. If partial gifting of an entity to a family member is part of the plan, the value of the business helps determine the size of the gifted portion, as well as financing and tax planning strategies for the rest.&nbsp;

Buy-sell agreements are essential for any business that has more than one owner. This includes unrelated owners as well as extended family members who own a family business together. A buy-sell agreement stipulates how an owner’s share of a business may be transferred upon their death or departure. Often, these agreements are structured to prevent outsiders from gaining control of part of the business and provide a way to determine the value of each owner’s interest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-business/">Once transition planning has begun in a company, it’s important to review the buy-sell agreement if there is one in place.</a>&nbsp;If there is no buy-sell agreement, now is the time to put one in place. If there is a buy-sell agreement but it is outdated, it should be updated at this time. (Generally, buy-sell agreements should be reviewed every two to three years to ensure they are current.)&nbsp;

If there is more than one owner, the transition plans — even if exit is years away — will be coordinated according to the buy-sell agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

But agreements on paper are only part of the process. It’s important early in the transition planning to get all owners together for a group meeting to discuss the health of the business and the transition plans. After that, individual meetings with each owner can flesh out additional information that wouldn’t be brought up in a group setting, but which provides important insights into any concerns. Trusted advisors are key facilitators for these meetings, often bridging the communication gaps and helping participants work through hard messages.&nbsp;

Taking into account the value of the business, the proportion held by the seller and other factors, the deal structure is generally designed to be as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/tax-tips-when-buying-the-assets-of-a-business/">tax efficient as possible</a>. Some of the factors considered are:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Once the tax strategy is worked out and the deal structure is clear, everyone is on the same page and it’s time to start drafting the legal documents. At that point, the business transition starts to feel real.&nbsp;

One of the most important steps in planning for a business exit may also be one of the most difficult for many owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ask yourself,&nbsp;“Will my business still be relevant five or ten years from now?”&nbsp;

Businesses need to adjust to changing times to stay relevant and to grow their value. Just because you envision retiring in five or ten years does not mean you can stop innovating in your company. Indeed, this is the time to step up innovations and improvements that will increase the value and marketability of the entity.&nbsp;

Is there a new technology that is driving innovation in your industry?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowntech.com/blog/5-steps-every-business-should-take-before-investing-in-ai/">Have you invested in artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help keep your business ahead of the curve?</a>&nbsp;

Most importantly, what is the long-term outlook for your industry? Markets change, technologies change and customer needs change, and failure to adapt and capitalize on changing conditions will render your business irrelevant and lower its value.&nbsp;

This is a lot to think about, but fortunately you have time — IF you are starting the transition process early enough. Moreover, you have a roadmap with clear steps to take.&nbsp;

If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749048941698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE —&nbsp;CAN HELP REACH GOALS</h2><h2>Key Takeaways:</h2><ul>
 <li>A successful business transition takes at least 10 years of planning — not just one.</li><li>Open communication, clear successor plans and a solid valuation are key to preserving your business’s legacy.</li><li>Failing to plan for taxes, relevance and family dynamics can cost you more than just money — it can cost your company’s future.</li>
 </ul>Preparing to transition a&nbsp;<a href="https://familybusinessmagazine.com/" target="_blank">family business</a>&nbsp;to the next owner — whether it be a family member or third-party buyer — is a process that requires taking the long view. The business owner who decides to retire one year from now without having made any preparations is about 10 years too late. The owner will be able to sell, but may have to make concessions on price, deal structure and tax consequences that would not have been necessary if the proper long-range planning had been done.&nbsp;While every business is different, it is also true that every business is the same. That is, every business owner needs to look at the distant horizon, questioning basic assumptions about the business, assessing the talents and wishes of family members who may someday become owners, and innovating in ways that keep the company at the top of its game in order to maximize value. All of this takes time and careful planning, preferably with the help of trusted advisors along the way.&nbsp;Business owners and family farm owners who follow certain steps in planning for exit are more likely to reach the goals they set for a successful transition.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Step 1 — Clarify your Goals</h2>When it comes to setting goals for a business transition, your first thought may be,&nbsp;“Well, my goal is to sell the business.”&nbsp;But there’s so much more to think about.&nbsp;Are there family members who may want to own the business, or whom you have been grooming to take over? Or are there key employees whom you have trained and entrusted with the company’s growth and operations over the years?&nbsp;You may think of them as family, too, and they may be candidates for ownership.&nbsp;Additionally, you should consider what you are going to do in retirement. You may want to step away from the business altogether, or keep a hand in it as a consultant for a few years. Either way, you probably expect some type of retirement cash flow stream.&nbsp;If you haven’t thought about your post-transition role, now is the time to think about it. And if you are not going to continue being active in the business, what will you do with your time? It’s important to envision your retirement life before you get there. Retirement isn’t just about selling your business and handing over the keys. It’s about having a life afterward, and if you are confident in what that life will look like, it will make it easier for you to do the planning and preparation that your business deserves.&nbsp;<h2>Step 2 — Identifying your Successor&nbsp;</h2>For owners of family businesses and farms, this can be the most emotional factor in transition planning. Perhaps the farm has been in your family for three generations, it is a thriving entity and your son or daughter is eager to take it over. Congratulations — you’re golden. But for many owners, the succession picture is more complicated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe you are now 60 years old and you have decided you’ll work till age 70, which gives you 10 years for planning and preparation to transition your company or farm. But when you reach age 70, your children will likely be at least in their mid-40s. If they aren’t already working with you in the business or farm, they may have established careers elsewhere and will be in their prime earning years when you’re ready for them to take over.&nbsp;&nbsp;This reality adds another wrinkle to the planning picture for family business and farm owners. If your long-range goal is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, planning must start while they are fairly young — high school is not too early — so they can gain a college education and work experience that will benefit them and prepare them for ownership.&nbsp;Communication is one of the most critical factors in preparing for transition of a family entity. If you want and expect your children to take over the family business, it must be discussed at a time when the children can decide whether they want to succeed you and, if so, plan how to prepare themselves. Among&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/industries/agribusiness/">family farms,</a>&nbsp;the majority of transitions involve succession to family members, and it is more common for the younger generation to be involved in the business and to have gotten the education and training needed to run the farm.&nbsp;In some families, the parents are reluctant to share much information with their children even when the children reach adulthood. But you can’t expect an adult to plan his or her life around taking over a family business if they aren’t privy to critical information that can help them decide, particularly if it could involve taking on a substantial debt. Business transactions can unravel over poor communication, even among family members. When that happens, the owner should have a Plan B, such as selling to a key employee or finding an outside buyer.&nbsp;Another key point of communication is educating the successor as to the roles you have filled in the operation. Have you, like many owners, acted as the CEO, COO, CMO and HR director? When you transition the business, the next owner — whether it’s a family member or outside buyer — needs to understand all the roles involved and have job descriptions that will guide the hiring of new managers to help run the operation.&nbsp;<h2>Step 3 — Determine your Company’s Value</h2>Often, business owners have an idea of what they think their business is worth, but it’s based more on emotion than hard data. Once planning for a transition starts, obtaining an independent business valuation is an essential step to set a benchmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;Typically, the initial valuation is not used to determine an asking price, since the actual transaction is still years in the future. But the report from an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/services/advisory-consulting/business-valuations/">independent valuation professional</a>&nbsp;will reveal the value drivers in your business and help formulate a multi-year improvement plan that will increase the value. This is particularly important if the entity will be sold to an outside buyer or private equity group.&nbsp;The value of a business helps determine the path toward transition. A $50 million business requires different transition strategies and tax planning than a $5 million business does. If partial gifting of an entity to a family member is part of the plan, the value of the business helps determine the size of the gifted portion, as well as financing and tax planning strategies for the rest.&nbsp;<h2>Step 4 — Consider Buy-Sell Agreements</h2>Buy-sell agreements are essential for any business that has more than one owner. This includes unrelated owners as well as extended family members who own a family business together. A buy-sell agreement stipulates how an owner’s share of a business may be transferred upon their death or departure. Often, these agreements are structured to prevent outsiders from gaining control of part of the business and provide a way to determine the value of each owner’s interest.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-business/">Once transition planning has begun in a company, it’s important to review the buy-sell agreement if there is one in place.</a>&nbsp;If there is no buy-sell agreement, now is the time to put one in place. If there is a buy-sell agreement but it is outdated, it should be updated at this time. (Generally, buy-sell agreements should be reviewed every two to three years to ensure they are current.)&nbsp;If there is more than one owner, the transition plans — even if exit is years away — will be coordinated according to the buy-sell agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;But agreements on paper are only part of the process. It’s important early in the transition planning to get all owners together for a group meeting to discuss the health of the business and the transition plans. After that, individual meetings with each owner can flesh out additional information that wouldn’t be brought up in a group setting, but which provides important insights into any concerns. Trusted advisors are key facilitators for these meetings, often bridging the communication gaps and helping participants work through hard messages.&nbsp;<h2>Step 5 — Focus on Tax Strategy</h2>Taking into account the value of the business, the proportion held by the seller and other factors, the deal structure is generally designed to be as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/tax-tips-when-buying-the-assets-of-a-business/">tax efficient as possible</a>. Some of the factors considered are:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Which entity type will be the most advantageous, a C corporation, S corporation, partnership, LLC or other structure.&nbsp;</li><li>Whether an asset sale or a stock sale is most beneficial.&nbsp;</li><li>If the deal will include partial gifting, a leveraged gift structure that works for the owner may be considered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Moving assets into some type of trust so when the assets are liquidated, such as land and machinery in the case of a farm, it is done on a tax-free basis.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Once the tax strategy is worked out and the deal structure is clear, everyone is on the same page and it’s time to start drafting the legal documents. At that point, the business transition starts to feel real.&nbsp;<h2>Relevance</h2>One of the most important steps in planning for a business exit may also be one of the most difficult for many owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ask yourself,&nbsp;“Will my business still be relevant five or ten years from now?”&nbsp;Businesses need to adjust to changing times to stay relevant and to grow their value. Just because you envision retiring in five or ten years does not mean you can stop innovating in your company. Indeed, this is the time to step up innovations and improvements that will increase the value and marketability of the entity.&nbsp;Is there a new technology that is driving innovation in your industry?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowntech.com/blog/5-steps-every-business-should-take-before-investing-in-ai/">Have you invested in artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help keep your business ahead of the curve?</a>&nbsp;Most importantly, what is the long-term outlook for your industry? Markets change, technologies change and customer needs change, and failure to adapt and capitalize on changing conditions will render your business irrelevant and lower its value.&nbsp;<h2>Questions?</h2>This is a lot to think about, but fortunately you have time — IF you are starting the transition process early enough. Moreover, you have a roadmap with clear steps to take.&nbsp;If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>&nbsp;

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Ten years ago, Floyd Bledsoe walked free after spending more than 16 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. Today, he’s a father of three, an entrepreneur, and the owner of a small farm just outside Hutchinson.

On a chilly November afternoon in 1999, 14-year-old Zetta Camille Arfmann stepped off a school bus in the small town of Oskaloosa and walked into the trailer home she shared with her older sister, brother-in-law, and their two children. She was never seen alive again.

Just days later, Floyd Bledsoe—her sister’s 23-year-old husband—was arrested and charged with Camille’s murder. Despite maintaining his innocence, Bledsoe was convicted in April 2000 of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He was sentenced to life in prison plus 16 years.

In 2004, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld Bledsoe’s conviction. But questions surrounding the handling of the case persisted, particularly over a pretrial agreement signed by the prosecutor, the county sheriff, and a Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agent to not conduct DNA testing on the evidence.

Bledsoe’s legal team secured permission to test the preserved biological evidence. The results were staggering. DNA from a vaginal swab taken from Camille’s body matched Bledsoe’s brother, Tom Bledsoe—not Floyd. Floyd’s DNA was not found on any of the tested evidence. Additional DNA evidence, including samples found on Camille’s socks, implicated Tom and the brothers’ father in the disposal of the body.

As the case unraveled, Tom Bledsoe died by suicide on November 9, 2015, in Bonner Springs. He left behind handwritten confessions, including a note addressed to his parents in which he admitted to raping and killing Camille and implored them to "please tell Floyd I am sorry."

One month later, on December 8, 2015, Judge Gary Nafziger vacated Floyd Bledsoe’s convictions. Prosecutors dropped all charges, and Bledsoe walked free after spending nearly half his life imprisoned for a crime he did not commit.

Since his 2015 exoneration, Bledsoe has settled in Hutchinson and started four businesses. Among them is F-N-J Construction, a home remodeling and decking company, and Bledsoe Serenity Homestead, a working farm where he sells fresh produce and teaches others how to grow their own food.

The journey from prison to purpose hasn’t been easy.

“It takes a toll — mentally, emotionally. It just drains you,” Bledsoe said of his wrongful incarceration. “But it’s also made me who I am today. I went in at 23 and came out at 39. It taught me what true family really is — and sometimes, that’s not the one you’re born into, but the people who choose to walk alongside you.”

Now a father to three young children, Bledsoe’s focus is on creating meaningful experiences — both for his family and the broader community.

That mission comes to life at the Serenity Homestead, where children can interact with animals, ride horses, and experience hands-on farming.

“One of my goals is to teach people how to become self-sustaining,” he said. “You don’t have to rely on the grocery store if you know how to grow your own food.”

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Bledsoe said. “I’ve learned a lot of stuff, gained a lot of great friends, and built a completely different life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749356374241.jpeg" alt="Floyd Bledsoe - Hutch Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Floyd Bledsoe - Hutch Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;Ten years ago, Floyd Bledsoe walked free after spending more than 16 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. Today, he’s a father of three, an entrepreneur, and the owner of a small farm just outside Hutchinson.<h2>Looking back</h2>On a chilly November afternoon in 1999, 14-year-old Zetta Camille Arfmann stepped off a school bus in the small town of Oskaloosa and walked into the trailer home she shared with her older sister, brother-in-law, and their two children. She was never seen alive again.Just days later, Floyd Bledsoe—her sister’s 23-year-old husband—was arrested and charged with Camille’s murder. Despite maintaining his innocence, Bledsoe was convicted in April 2000 of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He was sentenced to life in prison plus 16 years.In 2004, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld Bledsoe’s conviction. But questions surrounding the handling of the case persisted, particularly over a pretrial agreement signed by the prosecutor, the county sheriff, and a Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agent to not conduct DNA testing on the evidence.Bledsoe’s legal team secured permission to test the preserved biological evidence. The results were staggering. DNA from a vaginal swab taken from Camille’s body matched Bledsoe’s brother, Tom Bledsoe—not Floyd. Floyd’s DNA was not found on any of the tested evidence. Additional DNA evidence, including samples found on Camille’s socks, implicated Tom and the brothers’ father in the disposal of the body.As the case unraveled, Tom Bledsoe died by suicide on November 9, 2015, in Bonner Springs. He left behind handwritten confessions, including a note addressed to his parents in which he admitted to raping and killing Camille and implored them to "please tell Floyd I am sorry."One month later, on December 8, 2015, Judge Gary Nafziger vacated Floyd Bledsoe’s convictions. Prosecutors dropped all charges, and Bledsoe walked free after spending nearly half his life imprisoned for a crime he did not commit.<h2>Today</h2>Since his 2015 exoneration, Bledsoe has settled in Hutchinson and started four businesses. Among them is F-N-J Construction, a home remodeling and decking company, and Bledsoe Serenity Homestead, a working farm where he sells fresh produce and teaches others how to grow their own food.The journey from prison to purpose hasn’t been easy.“It takes a toll — mentally, emotionally. It just drains you,” Bledsoe said of his wrongful incarceration. “But it’s also made me who I am today. I went in at 23 and came out at 39. It taught me what true family really is — and sometimes, that’s not the one you’re born into, but the people who choose to walk alongside you.”Now a father to three young children, Bledsoe’s focus is on creating meaningful experiences — both for his family and the broader community.That mission comes to life at the Serenity Homestead, where children can interact with animals, ride horses, and experience hands-on farming.“One of my goals is to teach people how to become self-sustaining,” he said. “You don’t have to rely on the grocery store if you know how to grow your own food.”“It’s been a lot of fun,” Bledsoe said. “I’ve learned a lot of stuff, gained a lot of great friends, and built a completely different life.”