Frank E. Mussemann, 100, of Hays, Kansas, and formerly of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney.

He was born on December 7, 1924, in WaKeeney to Gerhard and Bessie (Krhut) Mussemann. Frank grew up in WaKeeney and on his 17th birthday in 1941, the bombing of Pearl Harbor marked the beginning of World War II. Answering the call to serve, he enlisted in the United States Navy upon graduation. Frank trained as a pilot in Texas and continued his training in California, where he learned to land aircraft on carriers. When flying near home, he would often circle the family farm as a signal to his mother that he was safe. After his honorable discharge in 1946, he returned to WaKeeney and joined his father in farming, raising cattle and growing a variety of crops.

On November 23, 1948, Frank married Nathalie E. Zeman in WaKeeney. Together they made their home and raised four children: Dennis, Christine, Sharla, and Julie.

Frank was a dedicated member of his community and church. He served as a longtime council member and treasurer of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, was an 80-year member of the American Legion Post #197, served on the WaKeeney Coop Board of Directors, and was a WaKeeney Township Trustee. He enjoyed many years as a member of Big Creek Golf Course where he enjoyed many hours on the greens.

A true outdoorsman, Frank especially loved elk hunting trips in the Colorado mountains, where he would ride horseback and camp in tents for a true backcountry experience. He enjoyed boating, water skiing, camping, and golfing, and found great joy in being active and outdoors.

Frank is survived by his children: Dennis (Lori) Mussemann of Wamego, KS, Christine (Gregory) Trogstad of WaKeeney, Sharla (David) Albers of Brownell, KS, and Julie Mussemann of Kapolei, HI; brother, Glenn (Carol) Mussemann of Carriere, MS; five grandchildren: Taylor (Melinda) Trogstad of Salina, KS, Bethany Trogstad of Prairie Village, KS, Seth (Jami) Albers of Voda, KS, Silas (Megan) Albers of Ransom, KS, and Hannah (Josh) Enslow of Hays, KS; and eleven great-grandchildren: Crew Trogstad, Nelson Murdock, Maura, Thaddeous and Lennox Albers; Zaddok, Everly, and Ensley Albers; Bryson, Hattie, and Joelle Enslow. He is remembered fondly by many special nieces, nephews, and his good friends at Brookdale.

He preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Bessie; wife, Nathalie; infant son, Charles; infant siblings, Elsie and Dale; sisters, Margaret Papes, Agnes Stradal, and Josephine Ziegler; son-in-law, Don Holden; and infant great-grandson, Maddox Albers.

Frank’s long life was one of service, strength, and quiet devotion to his family, community, and country. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 10:30AM at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Wednesday 9:30-10:30AM at the Church.

Memorials are suggested to Bethlehem Lutheran Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750684796816.jpeg" alt="Frank E. Mussemann" />
 <figcaption>Frank E. Mussemann</figcaption>
 </figure>Frank E. Mussemann, 100, of Hays, Kansas, and formerly of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney.He was born on December 7, 1924, in WaKeeney to Gerhard and Bessie (Krhut) Mussemann. Frank grew up in WaKeeney and on his 17th birthday in 1941, the bombing of Pearl Harbor marked the beginning of World War II. Answering the call to serve, he enlisted in the United States Navy upon graduation. Frank trained as a pilot in Texas and continued his training in California, where he learned to land aircraft on carriers. When flying near home, he would often circle the family farm as a signal to his mother that he was safe. After his honorable discharge in 1946, he returned to WaKeeney and joined his father in farming, raising cattle and growing a variety of crops.On November 23, 1948, Frank married Nathalie E. Zeman in WaKeeney. Together they made their home and raised four children: Dennis, Christine, Sharla, and Julie.Frank was a dedicated member of his community and church. He served as a longtime council member and treasurer of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, was an 80-year member of the American Legion Post #197, served on the WaKeeney Coop Board of Directors, and was a WaKeeney Township Trustee. He enjoyed many years as a member of Big Creek Golf Course where he enjoyed many hours on the greens.A true outdoorsman, Frank especially loved elk hunting trips in the Colorado mountains, where he would ride horseback and camp in tents for a true backcountry experience. He enjoyed boating, water skiing, camping, and golfing, and found great joy in being active and outdoors.Frank is survived by his children: Dennis (Lori) Mussemann of Wamego, KS, Christine (Gregory) Trogstad of WaKeeney, Sharla (David) Albers of Brownell, KS, and Julie Mussemann of Kapolei, HI; brother, Glenn (Carol) Mussemann of Carriere, MS; five grandchildren: Taylor (Melinda) Trogstad of Salina, KS, Bethany Trogstad of Prairie Village, KS, Seth (Jami) Albers of Voda, KS, Silas (Megan) Albers of Ransom, KS, and Hannah (Josh) Enslow of Hays, KS; and eleven great-grandchildren: Crew Trogstad, Nelson Murdock, Maura, Thaddeous and Lennox Albers; Zaddok, Everly, and Ensley Albers; Bryson, Hattie, and Joelle Enslow. He is remembered fondly by many special nieces, nephews, and his good friends at Brookdale.He preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Bessie; wife, Nathalie; infant son, Charles; infant siblings, Elsie and Dale; sisters, Margaret Papes, Agnes Stradal, and Josephine Ziegler; son-in-law, Don Holden; and infant great-grandson, Maddox Albers.Frank’s long life was one of service, strength, and quiet devotion to his family, community, and country. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 10:30AM at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Wednesday 9:30-10:30AM at the Church.Memorials are suggested to Bethlehem Lutheran Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.

Frank E. Mussemann

The <a href="https://haysfumc.com/">Hays First United Methodist Church of Hays</a>, 305 W. 7th St., is excited to announce they have awarded nine $1,000 scholarships to church youth.

The scholarship is intended to help cover educational expenses for the first semester or term at any accredited vocational–technical program, community college, or four-year college.

Criteria for the Hays United Methodist Church scholarship are that the students are preferably members, have participated in church programs while attending high school, and have demonstrated leadership skills in their community, school, church, and/or extracurricular activities.&nbsp; 

The 2025 scholarship recipients are:&nbsp; Nathan Chung, Camdyn Copper, Ian Henderson, Maycie Holdeman, Isabelle Jones, Emmaline Leuschner, Evelynn Reichel, Haley Roth, and Reaghan Wamser.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746629830767.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The <a href="https://haysfumc.com/">Hays First United Methodist Church of Hays</a>, 305 W. 7th St., is excited to announce they have awarded nine $1,000 scholarships to church youth. The scholarship is intended to help cover educational expenses for the first semester or term at any accredited vocational–technical program, community college, or four-year college.Criteria for the Hays United Methodist Church scholarship are that the students are preferably members, have participated in church programs while attending high school, and have demonstrated leadership skills in their community, school, church, and/or extracurricular activities.&nbsp; The 2025 scholarship recipients are:&nbsp; Nathan Chung, Camdyn Copper, Ian Henderson, Maycie Holdeman, Isabelle Jones, Emmaline Leuschner, Evelynn Reichel, Haley Roth, and Reaghan Wamser.

Hays First United Methodist Church awards scholarships to church youth

Samuel Allen, a longtime resident and active member of the Hays community, has officially announced his candidacy for the Hays City Commission in the 2025 municipal election. 

Drawing on his diverse background in public service, nonprofit work, and higher education, Allen brings a thoughtful, community-first approach to local leadership.

&nbsp;“Hays is home,”&nbsp;Allen said. “It’s the place I’ve always come back to—because no matter where life has taken me, this community has remained a constant source of strength, support, and purpose. Now, I want to give back by helping Hays remain a place where everyone can build a future.”

Allen has worn many hats over the years—each shaped by a desire to serve others. He has worked in food pantries and clinics in St. Louis, spent time in religious formation with the Order of Friars Minor in Maryland, and most recently, interned with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran in Washington, D.C., where he contributed to health care policy, higher education and constituent services.&nbsp;

“These experiences have taught me to listen first, to lead with compassion, and to stay grounded in common sense,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Whether you're working at a food pantry, helping someone navigate health care or assisting a constituent with federal programs, the heart of public service is the same—showing up, doing the work, and putting people first.”

Currently completing his degree in political science at Fort Hays State University, Allen is committed to building a stronger, more responsive local government. His campaign for city commission is focused on tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing Hays today—while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Hays has seen the closure of too many small businesses—some only months old, others decades established. Allen believes the city must take a more proactive role in helping local businesses succeed, from reducing unnecessary red tape and simplifying permitting processes to increasing outreach and engagement with entrepreneurs.

“When local businesses close, our economy, identity, and community spirit all take a hit,” Allen said. “We need to work directly with business owners to understand their needs and create a more business-friendly environment.”

Allen is a strong advocate for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Hays. He sees housing affordability as a cornerstone of economic stability and community growth.

“Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a young family, or a retiree on a fixed income, you deserve access to safe and affordable housing,”&nbsp;he said. “We can’t expect people to stay and build a life here if they can’t afford to live here.”

As water scarcity becomes an ever more urgent concern across western Kansas, Allen is calling for strong city leadership on water conservation and infrastructure. He supports long-term efforts such as the Edwards County pipeline and believes conservation should be a citywide priority.

“Water is life—especially in our part of the state,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Investing in sustainable infrastructure today will secure our community’s future for decades to come.”

Leadership with Integrity and Heart

Allen’s commitment to public service is shaped by his Catholic faith, his life experiences, and his belief in treating others with dignity and respect. A proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, he grounds his work in values of compassion, humility, and civic responsibility.&nbsp;

“I’ve seen Hays through many lenses—as a student, a worker, a volunteer, and a neighbor,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Now, I’m ready to serve as a commissioner who listens, leads with integrity, and makes decisions that reflect the needs of everyone in this community.”

Allen’s campaign is centered on accessibility, transparency and action. He is running to ensure that every resident—no matter their age, background or income—has a voice in shaping the future of Hays.

To learn more about Samuel Allen’s campaign for Hays City Commission or to get involved, visit<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/"></a>

<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/">allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com">allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com</a>.

Samuel Allen: Working for&nbsp;Hays, Working for&nbsp;You.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750345202754.jpeg" alt="Hays City Commission candidate Samuel Allen. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays City Commission candidate Samuel Allen. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSamuel Allen, a longtime resident and active member of the Hays community, has officially announced his candidacy for the Hays City Commission in the 2025 municipal election. Drawing on his diverse background in public service, nonprofit work, and higher education, Allen brings a thoughtful, community-first approach to local leadership.&nbsp;“Hays is home,”&nbsp;Allen said. “It’s the place I’ve always come back to—because no matter where life has taken me, this community has remained a constant source of strength, support, and purpose. Now, I want to give back by helping Hays remain a place where everyone can build a future.”Allen has worn many hats over the years—each shaped by a desire to serve others. He has worked in food pantries and clinics in St. Louis, spent time in religious formation with the Order of Friars Minor in Maryland, and most recently, interned with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran in Washington, D.C., where he contributed to health care policy, higher education and constituent services.&nbsp;“These experiences have taught me to listen first, to lead with compassion, and to stay grounded in common sense,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Whether you're working at a food pantry, helping someone navigate health care or assisting a constituent with federal programs, the heart of public service is the same—showing up, doing the work, and putting people first.”Currently completing his degree in political science at Fort Hays State University, Allen is committed to building a stronger, more responsive local government. His campaign for city commission is focused on tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing Hays today—while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future.Allen’s key priorities:Supporting Local BusinessesHays has seen the closure of too many small businesses—some only months old, others decades established. Allen believes the city must take a more proactive role in helping local businesses succeed, from reducing unnecessary red tape and simplifying permitting processes to increasing outreach and engagement with entrepreneurs.“When local businesses close, our economy, identity, and community spirit all take a hit,” Allen said. “We need to work directly with business owners to understand their needs and create a more business-friendly environment.”Expanding Affordable HousingAllen is a strong advocate for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Hays. He sees housing affordability as a cornerstone of economic stability and community growth.“Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a young family, or a retiree on a fixed income, you deserve access to safe and affordable housing,”&nbsp;he said. “We can’t expect people to stay and build a life here if they can’t afford to live here.”Protecting Our Water FutureAs water scarcity becomes an ever more urgent concern across western Kansas, Allen is calling for strong city leadership on water conservation and infrastructure. He supports long-term efforts such as the Edwards County pipeline and believes conservation should be a citywide priority.“Water is life—especially in our part of the state,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Investing in sustainable infrastructure today will secure our community’s future for decades to come.”Leadership with Integrity and HeartAllen’s commitment to public service is shaped by his Catholic faith, his life experiences, and his belief in treating others with dignity and respect. A proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, he grounds his work in values of compassion, humility, and civic responsibility.&nbsp;“I’ve seen Hays through many lenses—as a student, a worker, a volunteer, and a neighbor,”&nbsp;Allen said.&nbsp;“Now, I’m ready to serve as a commissioner who listens, leads with integrity, and makes decisions that reflect the needs of everyone in this community.”Allen’s campaign is centered on accessibility, transparency and action. He is running to ensure that every resident—no matter their age, background or income—has a voice in shaping the future of Hays.To learn more about Samuel Allen’s campaign for Hays City Commission or to get involved, visit<a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/"></a><a target="_blank" href="http://allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com/">allen4hayscitycommission.mystrikingly.com</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com">allenforhayscitycommission@gmail.com</a>.Samuel Allen: Working for&nbsp;Hays, Working for&nbsp;You.

Samuel Allen announces candidacy for Hays City Commission

HAYS
– Garrett Gruell had three hits in his season debut, Trent Baker drove in
three runs and the Hays Larks closed out their seven-game homestand with a 13-3
win over the Gameday Angels Sunday evening at Larks Park.

Brady
Kreutzer got the Larks on the board in the third inning with a leadoff double then
scored on a passed ball. Baker added a sacrifice fly later in the inning for a 2-0
lead.

The
Larks (10-2-1, 7-2 RMBL) would add four runs in the fourth. They loaded the bases with
a walk, a single and an error then scored a run when Kaleb Duncan was hit by a pitch and later scored on a passed ball. Lane Sparks added an RBI single for the 6-0 lead.&nbsp; 

Hays
tacked on two more runs in the sixth on a Baker groundout and Gruell single.

The
Larks opened the seventh with a single followed by three straight walks. The last
coming to Kreutzer which drove in a run. Duncan followed with a sacrifice fly.
The Larks scored another run on a double play.

They
closed out the scoring with two in the eighth on a bases loaded walk to Thomas Lyssy
and CJ Reid single.

Starter
Nolan Wilson (1-0) has seven strikeouts with no walks and didn’t allow a hit over
four innings and was awarded the win. Keevyn Goss gave up one earned run over
two innings of relief then Brooks Jones gave up two runs on three hits over the
final two innings.

The Larks did not hit a home run Sunday ending a streak of hitting at least one homer in eight-straight games.

The
Larks went 6-1 on their second longest homestand of the season. They are 7-1-1
at Larks Park this season. They return home for three in late June then close
out the season with their final 10 games at home later in July.

The
Larks open a three-game Rocky Mountain Baseball in Liberal Tuesday. The Bee
Jays are 7-6 on the season after a 22-12 win over the Collegiate Roughriders
Sunday which snapped a three-game losing streak.

Hays
Post SportsHAYS
– Garrett Gruell had three hits in his season debut, Trent Baker drove in
three runs and the Hays Larks closed out their seven-game homestand with a 13-3
win over the Gameday Angels Sunday evening at Larks Park.Brady
Kreutzer got the Larks on the board in the third inning with a leadoff double then
scored on a passed ball. Baker added a sacrifice fly later in the inning for a 2-0
lead.The
Larks (10-2-1, 7-2 RMBL) would add four runs in the fourth. They loaded the bases with
a walk, a single and an error then scored a run when Kaleb Duncan was hit by a pitch and later scored on a passed ball. Lane Sparks added an RBI single for the 6-0 lead.&nbsp; Hays
tacked on two more runs in the sixth on a Baker groundout and Gruell single.The
Larks opened the seventh with a single followed by three straight walks. The last
coming to Kreutzer which drove in a run. Duncan followed with a sacrifice fly.
The Larks scored another run on a double play.They
closed out the scoring with two in the eighth on a bases loaded walk to Thomas Lyssy
and CJ Reid single.Starter
Nolan Wilson (1-0) has seven strikeouts with no walks and didn’t allow a hit over
four innings and was awarded the win. Keevyn Goss gave up one earned run over
two innings of relief then Brooks Jones gave up two runs on three hits over the
final two innings.NO HOMERThe Larks did not hit a home run Sunday ending a streak of hitting at least one homer in eight-straight games.HOMESTAND
SUCCESSThe
Larks went 6-1 on their second longest homestand of the season. They are 7-1-1
at Larks Park this season. They return home for three in late June then close
out the season with their final 10 games at home later in July.UP
NEXTThe
Larks open a three-game Rocky Mountain Baseball in Liberal Tuesday. The Bee
Jays are 7-6 on the season after a 22-12 win over the Collegiate Roughriders
Sunday which snapped a three-game losing streak.

⚾ Larks close out homestand with win over Angels

The Hays Larks host the Gameday Angels in the final game of a four-game series Sunday at Larks Park.&nbsp;

First pitch is set&nbsp; for 6 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;

You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Gameday Angels in the final game of a four-game series Sunday at Larks Park.&nbsp;First pitch is set&nbsp; for 6 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks host Gameday Angels

With a heart of worship and a passion to inspire people into a more meaningful relationship with Jesus, David Vogel has spent a lifetime lifting his voice in churches large and small to praise his Creator and bring glory to God.

David is a versatile tenor, and his concerts transcend generations. Drawing from the musical influences of David Phelps, Kathy Troccoli, Steve Green, Keith &amp; Kristyn Getty, and the entire Gaither songbook—as well from artists such as Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, and Billy Joel—David’s concerts mingle songs from contemporary worship, traditional hymnody, and high-energy gospel into one incredible evening of praise, worship, and inspiration.

Admission is free, and a love offering will be taken to support this music ministry.

Event link:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1413820550067980">https://www.facebook.com/events/1413820550067980</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749221722150.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWith a heart of worship and a passion to inspire people into a more meaningful relationship with Jesus, David Vogel has spent a lifetime lifting his voice in churches large and small to praise his Creator and bring glory to God.David is a versatile tenor, and his concerts transcend generations. Drawing from the musical influences of David Phelps, Kathy Troccoli, Steve Green, Keith &amp; Kristyn Getty, and the entire Gaither songbook—as well from artists such as Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, and Billy Joel—David’s concerts mingle songs from contemporary worship, traditional hymnody, and high-energy gospel into one incredible evening of praise, worship, and inspiration.Admission is free, and a love offering will be taken to support this music ministry.Event link:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1413820550067980">https://www.facebook.com/events/1413820550067980</a>

David Vogel in free concert at Hays First United Methodist Church on July 13

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

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

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - High Plains Mental Health - Crisis Intervention Center" 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=3k5mq-18e19ee-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

 🎙Post Podcast: Williams on Crisis Intervention Center in Hays

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post

As the song goes, home on the range is where the buffalo roam. That is, unless it is Pete Felten’s creation, “Buffalo in Denim.”

Felten, the Hays sculptor famously known for his works of art using limestone, created a buffalo made out of denim patches in 1978. He made this particular buffalo for an exhibit at the Hays Public Library.

“I was having a buffalo show inside the library, little things,” Felten said. “I thought I would do something big for the opening.”

The buffalo later wound up in Dodge City, first at a school and later at a restaurant there. The story goes that there was one time when an intoxicated cowboy tried to ride it. When the restaurant changed ownership recently, Felten’s buffalo was destined for the scrap heap.

However, when Michael Jilg, a Hays artist and former art professor at Fort Hays State University, learned of the plan, he arranged for the buffalo to be relocated back to Hays.

“It just fell out of the sky,” Jilg said of the opportunity to save Felten’s creation. “I think there’s only one.”

Now, 47 years later, the buffalo has found a home at the Ellis County Historical Society’s renovated gallery. The buffalo, which is about 6.5 feet long and 5.5 feet high, was hauled from Dodge City to Hays earlier this month.

The buffalo has a base with wheels underneath it, which were inspected by Felten when it arrived back in Hays. Once it was carried from the van, up the front steps of the museum and into the gallery, the buffalo was easily wheeled into a corner.

“I never knew there was anything he did that wasn’t stone,” said Amanda Rupp, the executive director of the local historical society. “I’m really excited to show it this summer. It’s one of a kind.”

Rupp, who helped carry the buffalo inside the museum, said there was no comparison to how heavy it is in relation to a limestone buffalo of similar size. The denim buffalo has a wire frame with padding inside.

“That’s way lighter,” Rupp said. “It’s top-heavy. It’s not heavy. It’s just awkward.”

Felten, now 92, first started sculpting limestone in 1957. He worked long and hard that summer of ’78 on the buffalo, sewing blue denim patches on the iconic creature that represents the long-ago history of Hays and the American West.

“I had calluses on my fingertips I never had before,” Felten recalled. “I didn’t know what I was getting into.”

The Chamber of Hays had a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning at the gallery in the museum at 100 W. Seventh, in recognition of a successful fundraising campaign. Front and center was “Buffalo in Denim,” casting a wary eye at curious onlookers.

Leigh Purdy, vice-president of membership at the Chamber of Hays, saw the buffalo for the first time at Friday’s gathering.

Purdy remembered that when she worked at a local restaurant while in high school, she would come home smelling like kitchen grease, and was curious to see if Felten’s buffalo also had kitchen smells from being located in a restaurant all those many years. However, the denim buffalo passed the smell test.

“Honestly, he’s in pretty good shape for not being behind a glass panel,” all those years, Purdy said. “It’s a really unique piece.”

The ribbon-cutting, with more than 50 in attendance, kicked off the gallery’s grand re-opening. Felten’s buffalo, as well as a traveling exhibit from Salina’s Smoky Hill Museum – “A Place to Call Home,” which features a replica of a covered wagon – will be on display.

The museum’s summer hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The Smoky Hill exhibit will be on display in Hays until Sept. 28, and the gallery is open to the public at no charge.

Why he chose to create a textile rendition of a bison instead of carving another limestone sculpture is a mystery even to Felten himself.

“I don’t remember that at all, why I would do that,” Felten said, adding he would get material wherever he could find it.

Felten does remember other creatures who enjoyed the denim buffalo slowly coming to life in his studio in downtown Hays.

“My kittens in the studio, they loved it, climbing on it, in it,” Felten said. “I never realized I made a bed for them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750445283623.jpeg" alt="Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis County Historical Society, prepares to cut the ribbon at a Chamber of Hays event Friday morning at the museum’s renovated gallery, which is now open to the public. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis County Historical Society, prepares to cut the ribbon at a Chamber of Hays event Friday morning at the museum’s renovated gallery, which is now open to the public. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750445331233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays PostAs the song goes, home on the range is where the buffalo roam. That is, unless it is Pete Felten’s creation, “Buffalo in Denim.”Felten, the Hays sculptor famously known for his works of art using limestone, created a buffalo made out of denim patches in 1978. He made this particular buffalo for an exhibit at the Hays Public Library.“I was having a buffalo show inside the library, little things,” Felten said. “I thought I would do something big for the opening.”The buffalo later wound up in Dodge City, first at a school and later at a restaurant there. The story goes that there was one time when an intoxicated cowboy tried to ride it. When the restaurant changed ownership recently, Felten’s buffalo was destined for the scrap heap.However, when Michael Jilg, a Hays artist and former art professor at Fort Hays State University, learned of the plan, he arranged for the buffalo to be relocated back to Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750445446095.jpeg" alt="Those in attendance at Friday’s ribbon cutting were able to get an up-close-and-personal look at Felten’s denim buffalo. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Those in attendance at Friday’s ribbon cutting were able to get an up-close-and-personal look at Felten’s denim buffalo. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“It just fell out of the sky,” Jilg said of the opportunity to save Felten’s creation. “I think there’s only one.”Now, 47 years later, the buffalo has found a home at the Ellis County Historical Society’s renovated gallery. The buffalo, which is about 6.5 feet long and 5.5 feet high, was hauled from Dodge City to Hays earlier this month.The buffalo has a base with wheels underneath it, which were inspected by Felten when it arrived back in Hays. Once it was carried from the van, up the front steps of the museum and into the gallery, the buffalo was easily wheeled into a corner.“I never knew there was anything he did that wasn’t stone,” said Amanda Rupp, the executive director of the local historical society. “I’m really excited to show it this summer. It’s one of a kind.”Rupp, who helped carry the buffalo inside the museum, said there was no comparison to how heavy it is in relation to a limestone buffalo of similar size. The denim buffalo has a wire frame with padding inside.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750445467438.jpeg" alt="Even at 92 years of age, Pete Felten gets down on his hands and knees to inspect the wheels attached to the base of one of his works of art before it is moved into the Ellis County Historical Society museum. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Even at 92 years of age, Pete Felten gets down on his hands and knees to inspect the wheels attached to the base of one of his works of art before it is moved into the Ellis County Historical Society museum. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“That’s way lighter,” Rupp said. “It’s top-heavy. It’s not heavy. It’s just awkward.”Felten, now 92, first started sculpting limestone in 1957. He worked long and hard that summer of ’78 on the buffalo, sewing blue denim patches on the iconic creature that represents the long-ago history of Hays and the American West.“I had calluses on my fingertips I never had before,” Felten recalled. “I didn’t know what I was getting into.”The Chamber of Hays had a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning at the gallery in the museum at 100 W. Seventh, in recognition of a successful fundraising campaign. Front and center was “Buffalo in Denim,” casting a wary eye at curious onlookers.Leigh Purdy, vice-president of membership at the Chamber of Hays, saw the buffalo for the first time at Friday’s gathering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750445494533.jpeg" alt="Also on display at the gallery’s re-opening is an exhibit featuring a replica of a covered wagon. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Also on display at the gallery’s re-opening is an exhibit featuring a replica of a covered wagon. Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Purdy remembered that when she worked at a local restaurant while in high school, she would come home smelling like kitchen grease, and was curious to see if Felten’s buffalo also had kitchen smells from being located in a restaurant all those many years. However, the denim buffalo passed the smell test.“Honestly, he’s in pretty good shape for not being behind a glass panel,” all those years, Purdy said. “It’s a really unique piece.”The ribbon-cutting, with more than 50 in attendance, kicked off the gallery’s grand re-opening. Felten’s buffalo, as well as a traveling exhibit from Salina’s Smoky Hill Museum – “A Place to Call Home,” which features a replica of a covered wagon – will be on display.The museum’s summer hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The Smoky Hill exhibit will be on display in Hays until Sept. 28, and the gallery is open to the public at no charge.Why he chose to create a textile rendition of a bison instead of carving another limestone sculpture is a mystery even to Felten himself.“I don’t remember that at all, why I would do that,” Felten said, adding he would get material wherever he could find it.Felten does remember other creatures who enjoyed the denim buffalo slowly coming to life in his studio in downtown Hays.“My kittens in the studio, they loved it, climbing on it, in it,” Felten said. “I never realized I made a bed for them.”

NWester: Another Felten buffalo roams in Hays museum

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Revving into the Ellis County Fair for the first time, the Moto Rodeo brings an adrenaline-pumping show inspired by classic arena competitions.

"It's a rodeo for UTVs, ATVs and dirt bikes," Ellis County Fair Vice President Jill Pfannenstiel said.

Seven nights of ticketed grandstand events are set for July 11-19 at the fair, with this year’s lineup featuring the Moto Rodeo at 8 p.m. on July 19.

The event features barrel racing, flag grab, half laps, and figure 8s. All competitions are timed, and the fastest participant in each division, depending on the number of entries and sponsor contributions, earns cash prizes and trophies.

Pfannenstiel said the event is open to anyone 18 and older with their own vehicle, and a $30 entry fee. Entry forms can be submitted by email to elliscountyfair@gmail.com.

Fair tickets are available in advance <a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/36944/ellis-county-fair?fbclid=IwY2xjawKujTRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6VFdJNnVTa0NYYk82ZUp4AR44_gw2XjWFjbazSFQJZE4y3MXwLLePpTZO8DU_vIYc0eKGGESB4xXlYUunwA_aem_v9FbcbBjuUHs1yaGOY1NgA">online</a>&nbsp;or at the gate. A pass for all seven events costs $40, while single-night admission costs $20. Children 5 and younger get in free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750101924316.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostRevving into the Ellis County Fair for the first time, the Moto Rodeo brings an adrenaline-pumping show inspired by classic arena competitions."It's a rodeo for UTVs, ATVs and dirt bikes," Ellis County Fair Vice President Jill Pfannenstiel said.Seven nights of ticketed grandstand events are set for July 11-19 at the fair, with this year’s lineup featuring the Moto Rodeo at 8 p.m. on July 19.The event features barrel racing, flag grab, half laps, and figure 8s. All competitions are timed, and the fastest participant in each division, depending on the number of entries and sponsor contributions, earns cash prizes and trophies.Pfannenstiel said the event is open to anyone 18 and older with their own vehicle, and a $30 entry fee. Entry forms can be submitted by email to elliscountyfair@gmail.com.Fair tickets are available in advance <a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/36944/ellis-county-fair?fbclid=IwY2xjawKujTRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6VFdJNnVTa0NYYk82ZUp4AR44_gw2XjWFjbazSFQJZE4y3MXwLLePpTZO8DU_vIYc0eKGGESB4xXlYUunwA_aem_v9FbcbBjuUHs1yaGOY1NgA">online</a>&nbsp;or at the gate. A pass for all seven events costs $40, while single-night admission costs $20. Children 5 and younger get in free.

Engines to roar as Moto Rodeo races into Ellis County Fair

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

He's "not sounding the panic alarm," but Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty cautioned city commissioners Thursday the 2026 preliminary budget "will be about maintenance" and "will not expand in scope."

Assessed valuation for the city is up 2.5% from 2025, according to figures from Ellis County.

Sales tax is the primary source of revenue for the city, and the local economy is heavily reliant on consumer spending.&nbsp;

"The budget is based overall on a slightly cautionary approach," Dougherty said.&nbsp;"When you look at inflation, we're barely keeping pace. I could argue we're falling behind."

Budget planning and analysis are overseen by Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, and Kim Rupp, finance director, with input from department heads. The budget plan for 2026 covers the next 18 to 20 months.

"Federal grant programs are drying up or being discontinued, so some of the federal monies we use to subsidize locally are drying up," Dougherty said.&nbsp;

Other factors in next year's budget include increasing import tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which affect consumers.

Retaliatory tariffs are hitting the agriculture industry, which is also important to Hays and Ellis County.

The cost of purchasing vehicles has increased dramatically.

There is talk among some in the financial industry about the increased possibility of a national recession within the next 12 months.

In a recession, people spend less money and drive less, which would affect Hays along with the Ellis County oil economy.&nbsp;

Dougherty said the city is "in extremely good financial shape, and the proposed budget you'll see July third maintains everything —&nbsp; staffing levels, programs, operations."

The draft budget will continue to fund reserves and give a cost-of-living and step pay increases to city employees.&nbsp;

"We're making sure we're taking care of things we have and not expanding, then maybe having to cut those in the future," he said.

"It's not reactionary. It's a realistic budget, in my opinion," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "This team works really, really hard on these budgets."

Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder complimented staff for "always requesting what they need to get the job done and do it right, and no more. They're always looking into the future, which I appreciate."

"I think we've been really aggressive the past few years," said Shaun Musil, commissioner, "and if there's a year we have to pause or maintain, I think this is probably the year to do that. "

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750435602256.jpeg" alt="Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHe's "not sounding the panic alarm," but Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty cautioned city commissioners Thursday the 2026 preliminary budget "will be about maintenance" and "will not expand in scope."Assessed valuation for the city is up 2.5% from 2025, according to figures from Ellis County.Sales tax is the primary source of revenue for the city, and the local economy is heavily reliant on consumer spending.&nbsp;"The budget is based overall on a slightly cautionary approach," Dougherty said.&nbsp;"When you look at inflation, we're barely keeping pace. I could argue we're falling behind."Budget planning and analysis are overseen by Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, and Kim Rupp, finance director, with input from department heads. The budget plan for 2026 covers the next 18 to 20 months."Federal grant programs are drying up or being discontinued, so some of the federal monies we use to subsidize locally are drying up," Dougherty said.&nbsp;Other factors in next year's budget include increasing import tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which affect consumers.Retaliatory tariffs are hitting the agriculture industry, which is also important to Hays and Ellis County.The cost of purchasing vehicles has increased dramatically.There is talk among some in the financial industry about the increased possibility of a national recession within the next 12 months.In a recession, people spend less money and drive less, which would affect Hays along with the Ellis County oil economy.&nbsp;Dougherty said the city is "in extremely good financial shape, and the proposed budget you'll see July third maintains everything —&nbsp; staffing levels, programs, operations."The draft budget will continue to fund reserves and give a cost-of-living and step pay increases to city employees.&nbsp;"We're making sure we're taking care of things we have and not expanding, then maybe having to cut those in the future," he said."It's not reactionary. It's a realistic budget, in my opinion," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor. "This team works really, really hard on these budgets."Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder complimented staff for "always requesting what they need to get the job done and do it right, and no more. They're always looking into the future, which I appreciate.""I think we've been really aggressive the past few years," said Shaun Musil, commissioner, "and if there's a year we have to pause or maintain, I think this is probably the year to do that. "

City manager: 2026 Hays budget will not expand; federal grant programs drying up

HAYS – After suffering their second Rocky Mountain Baseball
League loss of the season the night before, the Hays Larks bounced back Saturday
with a 7-4 win over the Gameday Angels.

The Larks jumped out early, scoring a run in the second
inning on a Dylan LaRue double.

They added single run in the fifth, on a Kaleb Duncan RBI
single. Two runs in the sixth on a LaRue double and one more on a seventh
inning error for a 5-0 Hays lead.

Duncan hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, the eighth
straight game the Larks have homered for a 7-0 lead through eight innings.

Gameday scored four in the top of the ninth inning as the
Larks went on to claim the 7-4 victory. 

Nick Gray allowed just one hit with seven strikeouts in five
innings and earned the win.

Dylan LaRue doubled twice and drove in three runs. Kaleb
Duncan homered and added three RBIs.

Hays improves to 9-2-1 and 6-2 in the RMBL.

The two teams will close out the series Sunday evening with the
first pitch set for 6 p.m. at Larks Park. 

Hays Post SportsHAYS – After suffering their second Rocky Mountain Baseball
League loss of the season the night before, the Hays Larks bounced back Saturday
with a 7-4 win over the Gameday Angels.The Larks jumped out early, scoring a run in the second
inning on a Dylan LaRue double.They added single run in the fifth, on a Kaleb Duncan RBI
single. Two runs in the sixth on a LaRue double and one more on a seventh
inning error for a 5-0 Hays lead.Duncan hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, the eighth
straight game the Larks have homered for a 7-0 lead through eight innings.Gameday scored four in the top of the ninth inning as the
Larks went on to claim the 7-4 victory. Nick Gray allowed just one hit with seven strikeouts in five
innings and earned the win.Dylan LaRue doubled twice and drove in three runs. Kaleb
Duncan homered and added three RBIs.Hays improves to 9-2-1 and 6-2 in the RMBL.The two teams will close out the series Sunday evening with the
first pitch set for 6 p.m. at Larks Park.

⚾ Larks offense leads the way against the Angels

<a href="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/events/4218822">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will kick off at 7 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, featuring 88 of the state’s top high school football players in one final showcase.

Eagle Media is the official radio broadcast partner for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m., with Gerard Wellbrock on play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively.

Click station to listen to live stream

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.

<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750079718324.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/events/4218822">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>DODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will kick off at 7 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, featuring 88 of the state’s top high school football players in one final showcase.Eagle Media is the official radio broadcast partner for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m., with Gerard Wellbrock on play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively.<h2>Eagle Media Stations</h2>Click station to listen to live stream<div><h3><a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Hutchinson: 102.9 FM - (KHUT)</a> *Flagship Station</h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice10.securenetsystems.net/KVGBAM">Great Bend: 104.3 FM - (KVGB)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice9.securenetsystems.net/KKQY">Hays: 101.9 FM - (KKQY)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice10.securenetsystems.net/KINA">Salina: 107.5 FM/910 AM - (KINA)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice9.securenetsystems.net/KQLAFM">Manhattan: 103.5 FM -&nbsp;(KQLA)</a></h3></div>The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

🎧 LISTEN: 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl

The Hays Larks host the Gameday Angels in the third game of a four-game series Saturday at Larks Park.&nbsp;

First pitch is set&nbsp; for 7 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Gameday Angels in the third game of a four-game series Saturday at Larks Park.&nbsp;First pitch is set&nbsp; for 7 p.m at Larks Park.&nbsp;You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

HAYS – The Gameday Angels scored a run in the top of the
ninth inning Friday night as they beat the Hays Larks 3-2 at Larks Park in
Hays.

The two teams proved to be pretty well matched through the
first eight innings of the contest.

First, it was Gameday scoring a single run in the top of the
second inning, on an RBI single, but Hays answered right back with a run in the
bottom of the inning on a Mason Hamlin solo home run, tying the game at one.

The Larks (8-2-1, 5-2 RMBL) have now homered in seven
straight games.

After three straight scoreless innings, the Angels (5-4, 1-1
RMBL) got a solo home run of their own in the top of the sixth. 

But the lead was short-lived when Jackson Babcock drove in a
run in the bottom of the inning on a sacrifice fly, tying the game at two.

After two more scoreless innings, the Angels singled home a
run in the top of the ninth inning to go up 3-2.

But unfortunately for the Larks, they were unable to match
Gameday in the bottom of the inning and suffered the loss.

Trent Baker allowed one run in two innings and suffered the
loss.

Kaleb Duncan, Paul Smith and Thomas Lyssy each collected two
hits in the losing effort.

The two teams will play the third game of the series Saturday at Larks Park.

HAYS – The Gameday Angels scored a run in the top of the
ninth inning Friday night as they beat the Hays Larks 3-2 at Larks Park in
Hays.The two teams proved to be pretty well matched through the
first eight innings of the contest.First, it was Gameday scoring a single run in the top of the
second inning, on an RBI single, but Hays answered right back with a run in the
bottom of the inning on a Mason Hamlin solo home run, tying the game at one.The Larks (8-2-1, 5-2 RMBL) have now homered in seven
straight games.After three straight scoreless innings, the Angels (5-4, 1-1
RMBL) got a solo home run of their own in the top of the sixth. But the lead was short-lived when Jackson Babcock drove in a
run in the bottom of the inning on a sacrifice fly, tying the game at two.After two more scoreless innings, the Angels singled home a
run in the top of the ninth inning to go up 3-2.But unfortunately for the Larks, they were unable to match
Gameday in the bottom of the inning and suffered the loss.Trent Baker allowed one run in two innings and suffered the
loss.Kaleb Duncan, Paul Smith and Thomas Lyssy each collected two
hits in the losing effort.The two teams will play the third game of the series Saturday at Larks Park.

⚾Late run lifts Angels past Larks

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with nurse practitioner Babe Breit about her advanced practice on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Learn more about her practice on her website.</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Breit Advanced Practice Clinic" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=a9f8h-18e046e-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with nurse practitioner Babe Breit about her advanced practice on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.<a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Learn more about her practice on her website.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast-Breit Advanced Practice Clinic

Dozens of vintage vehicles are hitting the road for a week of nostalgia as the Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club International gathers in Hays.

The convention will take place from Sunday through Friday, and the Hampton Inn, 4002 General Hays Road, will serve as the host hotel.

The annual event brings together enthusiasts, collectors and historians from across the country to celebrate the legacy of Kaiser and Frazer automobiles.

Stacie Edgett-Minson, heart of American region manager for the Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club International, said the convention has been staged all over the country, except in Kansas.

"There hasn't been one in this part of the U.S. for years," Minson said.

The week will feature a classic car show with 25 vehicles expected from up to 22 states, including rare 1954 Kaiser Darrins, famous for their fiberglass bodies and sliding doors.

"453 were manufactured, and we have three of them attending our meet at the moment," said Cindy Linner, a lifetime member of the Kaiser Frazer Owners Club International.

Linner and Minson also said Henry J, Willys and Allstate models will be featured at the convention.

The public is welcome at  6 p.m. on Sunday at Frontier Park for a selection of cars on public display, a hamburger barbecue and an ice cream social.

While much of the day is reserved for tours and member-only events, car owners may be in the Home Depot parking lot,&nbsp;1310 E. 41st St.,&nbsp; during the evenings of June 23-25 for visitors to stop by, view vehicles and chat with members.

The official judging is also open to the public and will be from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday in the Home Depot parking lot.

"The members are always happy to talk about their cars. They want to talk about them and show them off. They are their pride and joy," Linner said.

Founded in 1959 in Chicago, the club now comprises members from the United States, Canada and numerous other countries. Members often trade or auction parts such as fenders and engines, and the club assists in reproducing hard-to-find components.

As a child, Minson traveled the country with her parents in their 1954 Kaiser Manhattan, a car her father, Elvin Edgett, still owns today.

Cindy Linner's father was among the club's early members, joining in the early 1960s.

In 1973, the club expanded internationally to enhance efforts to preserve and promote the history of post-1945 vehicles produced by Kaiser-Frazer and its affiliated companies.

"They were manufactured from 1946 to 1955 in the United States," Linner said. "Then they moved the manufacturing to Argentina and continued to manufacture Kaisers until 1963."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750431595491.jpeg" alt="A 1953 Kaiser-Frazer vehicle. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A 1953 Kaiser-Frazer vehicle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDozens of vintage vehicles are hitting the road for a week of nostalgia as the Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club International gathers in Hays.The convention will take place from Sunday through Friday, and the Hampton Inn, 4002 General Hays Road, will serve as the host hotel.The annual event brings together enthusiasts, collectors and historians from across the country to celebrate the legacy of Kaiser and Frazer automobiles.Stacie Edgett-Minson, heart of American region manager for the Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club International, said the convention has been staged all over the country, except in Kansas."There hasn't been one in this part of the U.S. for years," Minson said.The week will feature a classic car show with 25 vehicles expected from up to 22 states, including rare 1954 Kaiser Darrins, famous for their fiberglass bodies and sliding doors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750431830131.jpeg" alt="A 1954 Kaiser Darrin vehicle. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A 1954 Kaiser Darrin vehicle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"453 were manufactured, and we have three of them attending our meet at the moment," said Cindy Linner, a lifetime member of the Kaiser Frazer Owners Club International.Linner and Minson also said Henry J, Willys and Allstate models will be featured at the convention.The public is welcome at 6 p.m. on Sunday at Frontier Park for a selection of cars on public display, a hamburger barbecue and an ice cream social.While much of the day is reserved for tours and member-only events, car owners may be in the Home Depot parking lot,&nbsp;1310 E. 41st St.,&nbsp; during the evenings of June 23-25 for visitors to stop by, view vehicles and chat with members.The official judging is also open to the public and will be from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday in the Home Depot parking lot."The members are always happy to talk about their cars. They want to talk about them and show them off. They are their pride and joy," Linner said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750431689925.jpeg" alt="A 1951 Kaiser-Frazer vehicle. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A 1951 Kaiser-Frazer vehicle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Founded in 1959 in Chicago, the club now comprises members from the United States, Canada and numerous other countries. Members often trade or auction parts such as fenders and engines, and the club assists in reproducing hard-to-find components.As a child, Minson traveled the country with her parents in their 1954 Kaiser Manhattan, a car her father, Elvin Edgett, still owns today.Cindy Linner's father was among the club's early members, joining in the early 1960s.In 1973, the club expanded internationally to enhance efforts to preserve and promote the history of post-1945 vehicles produced by Kaiser-Frazer and its affiliated companies."They were manufactured from 1946 to 1955 in the United States," Linner said. "Then they moved the manufacturing to Argentina and continued to manufacture Kaisers until 1963."

Rare classic cars roll into Hays for international convention

More Airbnb apartments are planned for development in downtown Hays.&nbsp;

Hays developer Tim Speno,&nbsp;One Twenty Seven Investments, wants to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main into three short-term rental units.&nbsp;

Speno is requesting the city of Hays apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project.

The state program is designed to assist private property owners in the rehabilitation of blighted structures. 

The developer is required to provide 25% in matching funds, or $104,315. The total project cost is estimated at $464,505.

The city is the official applicant and has no financial obligation.&nbsp;

The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.

The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor.

"That's one of the huge successes of downtown areas is having people live there and being a vital part of the downtown, so I love seeing this," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor.&nbsp;

The grant application process will be similar to a request made by another Hays developer, Adam Pray, for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f367c960-2038-4546-b83e-7a081f032723">Chestnut Suites</a>, which is currently under renovation at&nbsp;1108 N. Main.&nbsp;

More planned new housing was discussed during a rezoning request for 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.

The owner, Aaron Dreher of AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved the rezoning request&nbsp;for the .607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of little Dillons, 515 W. 27th.&nbsp;

Dreher owns the property to the north and south of the area requested for rezoning and plans to leave the south end, which fronts 27th Street, available for potential commercial development. That site was previously occupied by the Stop 'N Shop convenience store.

Jesse Rohr, public works director, presented three recommendations for minor changes to the Unified Development Code for small accessory structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds.

Proposed are the elimination of side and rear setbacks for accessory structures 120 square feet and smaller; the elimination of the maximum number of two accessory structures that can be placed on a single parcel; and the elimination of restrictions on the size of accessory structures in agriculture districts, which are on the edge of town.&nbsp;

Rohr also recommended a general nuisance abatement for 206 E. 14th.&nbsp;

"We've had no contact from the owner (William Call)," said Rohr. "There's been little to no improvement in the past two months."

All four agenda items will be voted on at the June 26 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263139389.png" alt="1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMore Airbnb apartments are planned for development in downtown Hays.&nbsp;Hays developer Tim Speno,&nbsp;One Twenty Seven Investments, wants to renovate the second floor of the building at 1012 Main into three short-term rental units.&nbsp;Speno is requesting the city of Hays apply for $300,000 in grant money through the Kansas Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Commercial Rehabilitation program to assist with the redevelopment project.The state program is designed to assist private property owners in the rehabilitation of blighted structures. The developer is required to provide 25% in matching funds, or $104,315. The total project cost is estimated at $464,505.The city is the official applicant and has no financial obligation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750263247761.png" alt="1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1012 Main Street, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The building, initially constructed in 1917 as the Hays Building and Loan Association, has housed various businesses over the years and is currently home to Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio.The renovation will involve exterior masonry, interior plumbing, HVAC, and roof improvements to create three rentable units. The quilt studio will continue to operate on the ground floor."That's one of the huge successes of downtown areas is having people live there and being a vital part of the downtown, so I love seeing this," said Sandy Jacobs, mayor.&nbsp;The grant application process will be similar to a request made by another Hays developer, Adam Pray, for <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f367c960-2038-4546-b83e-7a081f032723">Chestnut Suites</a>, which is currently under renovation at&nbsp;1108 N. Main.&nbsp;More planned new housing was discussed during a rezoning request for 2707 Canal Blvd. from commercial general to a residential multi-family district.The owner, Aaron Dreher of AD3 LLC, Hays, plans to&nbsp;build units designed for short- or long-term rentals that are fully furnished for traveling nurses or similar business professionals.The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved the rezoning request&nbsp;for the .607 acres of undeveloped land directly east of little Dillons, 515 W. 27th.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750433250432.png" alt="Zoning map for land surrounding&nbsp;2707 Canal Blvd., where new rental housing is planned. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Zoning map for land surrounding&nbsp;2707 Canal Blvd., where new rental housing is planned. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Dreher owns the property to the north and south of the area requested for rezoning and plans to leave the south end, which fronts 27th Street, available for potential commercial development. That site was previously occupied by the Stop 'N Shop convenience store.Jesse Rohr, public works director, presented three recommendations for minor changes to the Unified Development Code for small accessory structures, such as gazebos or garden sheds.Proposed are the elimination of side and rear setbacks for accessory structures 120 square feet and smaller; the elimination of the maximum number of two accessory structures that can be placed on a single parcel; and the elimination of restrictions on the size of accessory structures in agriculture districts, which are on the edge of town.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750265211704.png" alt="206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750435244191.png" alt="206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo" />
 <figcaption>206 E. 14th, Hays. City of Hays photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Rohr also recommended a general nuisance abatement for 206 E. 14th.&nbsp;"We've had no contact from the owner (William Call)," said Rohr. "There's been little to no improvement in the past two months."All four agenda items will be voted on at the June 26 city commission meeting.&nbsp;