Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about tax incentives on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

Williams will be answering questions from readers and listeners during the next Grow Hays interview at 8:45 a.m. Friday on the Morning Blend on KAYS, 1400 AM, 94.3 FM.

Please submit your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays - Tax Incentives" 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=yz5zw-18b8a60-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 tax incentives on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.Williams will be answering questions from readers and listeners during the next Grow Hays interview at 8:45 a.m. Friday on the Morning Blend on KAYS, 1400 AM, 94.3 FM.Please submit your questions to hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams discusses tax incentives

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Willow House, a seven-bed, long-term care facility, is celebrating 10 years in Hays.

The home-based facility also offers adult day care, Shayne Unsworth, RN and owner said.

Willow House provides a home atmosphere. It is in a home in a quiet neighborhood in north Hays. The care home is privately owned and accepts private pay clients.

Willow House is state-regulated instead of federally regulated.

"We have a lot more flexibility in being able to regulate personal choice for the residents and how they like to live this part of their lives," said Analiese Unsworth, Shayne's wife and Willow House co-owner.

&nbsp;Willow House encourages visits from family members and even pets.

The care home has fewer structured activities, but they encourage residents to participate in activities and hobbies they enjoy, such as games, watching sports on the big screen, music or gardening.

"In larger facilities, you feel like you're shuffled around and you have to do what's on their agenda,"&nbsp;Analiese said. "In here, you get to do what you like... A lot of people want to stay in their own home, and this is the next best thing to be in a home environment with 24-hour care."

The home has a large yard planted with flowers and vegetables, which the residents can enjoy. The backyard is accessible by a wheelchair ramp or the residents can watch birds and admire the flowers through large windows that look out onto the garden.

The home has three dual-occupancy rooms and one single-occupancy room. The house is handicap accessible. When the couple bought the home, they enlarged the doorways to facilitate maneuvering wheelchairs and walkers.

Because the care home is small, it can more easily cater to the individual needs and desires of its clients, Analiese said.

Shayne said with the small number of residents, people aren't having long waits for call lights. Staff members are usually just in the next room.

If someone wants to sleep in and eat their breakfast later in the morning, that is possible. Most of the meals are home-cooked, which allows the staff to prepare some of the residents' favorites, he said.

Shayne has previous experience working in a nursing home and home health. He has also worked as a traveling nurse and at the Larned State Hospital.

Willow House is required to have medical staff on site 24 hours a day. Shayne said staffing levels depend on the needs of the home's clients.&nbsp;

Willow House is equipped to offer assisted living through the end of life.&nbsp;

"The goal is that once they are here, they can stay in their house until they pass," Shayne said. "They don't have to move into any other facilities."

Many of the Willow House clients have memory issues. Shayne said those clients tend to do better in the home setting than in a large facility.

"They can get a routine without many people interfering with their routine," he said.

Low turnover also means the clients see the same faces every day, Shayne said.

Willow House does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. It does accept private pay, long-term care insurance and some veterans' benefits.

Willow House has openings. You can learn more about the facility on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063600362736">Facebook page</a>. You can call&nbsp;785-621-4959 or email&nbsp;willowsthouse@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747773993112.jpeg" alt="Willow House is a seven-bed, long-term care facility in Hays. The home is staffed 24/7, handicap accessible and offers flexible living for senior adults. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Willow House is a seven-bed, long-term care facility in Hays. The home is staffed 24/7, handicap accessible and offers flexible living for senior adults. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWillow House, a seven-bed, long-term care facility, is celebrating 10 years in Hays.The home-based facility also offers adult day care, Shayne Unsworth, RN and owner said.Willow House provides a home atmosphere. It is in a home in a quiet neighborhood in north Hays. The care home is privately owned and accepts private pay clients.Willow House is state-regulated instead of federally regulated.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ExP_JXUc6vs?si=w2ZG0DxxmT4ffhFz" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>"We have a lot more flexibility in being able to regulate personal choice for the residents and how they like to live this part of their lives," said Analiese Unsworth, Shayne's wife and Willow House co-owner.&nbsp;Willow House encourages visits from family members and even pets.The care home has fewer structured activities, but they encourage residents to participate in activities and hobbies they enjoy, such as games, watching sports on the big screen, music or gardening."In larger facilities, you feel like you're shuffled around and you have to do what's on their agenda,"&nbsp;Analiese said. "In here, you get to do what you like... A lot of people want to stay in their own home, and this is the next best thing to be in a home environment with 24-hour care."The home has a large yard planted with flowers and vegetables, which the residents can enjoy. The backyard is accessible by a wheelchair ramp or the residents can watch birds and admire the flowers through large windows that look out onto the garden.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747774034827.jpeg" alt="Shayne Unsworth, co-owner of Willow House, in the care home's garden in Hays. Unsworth, an RN, opened Willow House 10 years ago after working in nursing homes and home health. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Shayne Unsworth, co-owner of Willow House, in the care home's garden in Hays. Unsworth, an RN, opened Willow House 10 years ago after working in nursing homes and home health. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The home has three dual-occupancy rooms and one single-occupancy room. The house is handicap accessible. When the couple bought the home, they enlarged the doorways to facilitate maneuvering wheelchairs and walkers.Because the care home is small, it can more easily cater to the individual needs and desires of its clients, Analiese said.Shayne said with the small number of residents, people aren't having long waits for call lights. Staff members are usually just in the next room.If someone wants to sleep in and eat their breakfast later in the morning, that is possible. Most of the meals are home-cooked, which allows the staff to prepare some of the residents' favorites, he said.Shayne has previous experience working in a nursing home and home health. He has also worked as a traveling nurse and at the Larned State Hospital.Willow House is required to have medical staff on site 24 hours a day. Shayne said staffing levels depend on the needs of the home's clients.&nbsp;Willow House is equipped to offer assisted living through the end of life.&nbsp;"The goal is that once they are here, they can stay in their house until they pass," Shayne said. "They don't have to move into any other facilities."Many of the Willow House clients have memory issues. Shayne said those clients tend to do better in the home setting than in a large facility."They can get a routine without many people interfering with their routine," he said.Low turnover also means the clients see the same faces every day, Shayne said.Willow House does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. It does accept private pay, long-term care insurance and some veterans' benefits.Willow House has openings. You can learn more about the facility on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063600362736">Facebook page</a>. You can call&nbsp;785-621-4959 or email&nbsp;willowsthouse@gmail.com.

Willow House in Hays offers long-term care in family atmosphere

PUEBLO, Colo. - Former Hays High standout and state champ Jordan Dale earned another All-American finish at the 2025&nbsp;NCAA II National Championships.

Dale&nbsp;equaled his season-best jump en route to a fifth-place finish with a mark of 2.12m (6-11.50). Dale also finished fifth at the 2025 indoor championships as he earned his fifth All-American award. He was seventh in the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 2024 and was 11th in 2023 adding an eighth-place indoor finish in 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748138051328.png" alt="Washburn Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>Washburn Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsPUEBLO, Colo. - Former Hays High standout and state champ Jordan Dale earned another All-American finish at the 2025&nbsp;NCAA II National Championships.Dale&nbsp;equaled his season-best jump en route to a fifth-place finish with a mark of 2.12m (6-11.50). Dale also finished fifth at the 2025 indoor championships as he earned his fifth All-American award. He was seventh in the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 2024 and was 11th in 2023 adding an eighth-place indoor finish in 2024.

👟 Dale earns another All-America finish at D2 Outdoor Championships

TOPEKA – Hays High’s Izabel Schmidt wrapped her illustrious high school career with a second-place finish in the 50 yard freestyle and placed third in the 100 yard freestyle at the 5-1A State Swimming and Diving Championships at the Capital Federal Natatorium. Schmidt was also a part of two relays the placed in the final day of the competition Saturday.

It's the second year in-a-row that Schmidt has finished runner-up in the 50 free to Hillsboro’s Lauryn Vogt who has won the event three-straight years and set a new state meet record Saturday with a time of 23:39. Schmidt finished at 24:17.

Schmidt finished third in the 100 free for a second-straight year. Vogt was the winner with a time of 50:28. Wichita Trinity Academy’s Alexa Howard finished second at 51:92 with Schmidt at 52:91.&nbsp;

Schmidt was fourth in both the 50 and 100 as a sophomore and was sixth in 100 as a freshman and seventh in the 50. She owns seven school records (50 free, 100 free, 100 butterfly, 200 free, 200 individual medley, 500 free, 100 breaststroke). Her breaststroke record (1:11.13) was just set at the Western Athletic Conference meet last week.

Schmidt along with Jaylen Hughes, Lucy Tippy and Breckyn Wahlmeier were a part of two state qualifying relays. The 200 yard freestyle team finished fifth with a time of 1:45.06. The 400 yard freestyle placed eighth with a time of 3:55.23, four seconds faster than their Friday preliminary time.

The Indians finished eighth in the team standings with 90 points. Andover won the title with 304 points outdistancing second place Blue Valley Southwest who tallied 276.5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748137188461.png" alt="Scott Paske/KSHSAA Covered" />
 <figcaption>Scott Paske/KSHSAA Covered</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsTOPEKA – Hays High’s Izabel Schmidt wrapped her illustrious high school career with a second-place finish in the 50 yard freestyle and placed third in the 100 yard freestyle at the 5-1A State Swimming and Diving Championships at the Capital Federal Natatorium. Schmidt was also a part of two relays the placed in the final day of the competition Saturday.It's the second year in-a-row that Schmidt has finished runner-up in the 50 free to Hillsboro’s Lauryn Vogt who has won the event three-straight years and set a new state meet record Saturday with a time of 23:39. Schmidt finished at 24:17.Schmidt finished third in the 100 free for a second-straight year. Vogt was the winner with a time of 50:28. Wichita Trinity Academy’s Alexa Howard finished second at 51:92 with Schmidt at 52:91.&nbsp;Schmidt was fourth in both the 50 and 100 as a sophomore and was sixth in 100 as a freshman and seventh in the 50. She owns seven school records (50 free, 100 free, 100 butterfly, 200 free, 200 individual medley, 500 free, 100 breaststroke). Her breaststroke record (1:11.13) was just set at the Western Athletic Conference meet last week.Schmidt along with Jaylen Hughes, Lucy Tippy and Breckyn Wahlmeier were a part of two state qualifying relays. The 200 yard freestyle team finished fifth with a time of 1:45.06. The 400 yard freestyle placed eighth with a time of 3:55.23, four seconds faster than their Friday preliminary time.The Indians finished eighth in the team standings with 90 points. Andover won the title with 304 points outdistancing second place Blue Valley Southwest who tallied 276.5.

🏊‍♀️ Schmidt runner-up in 50 free at 5-1A state meet

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22FATIMA%20HUSSEIN%20and%20ALAN%20SUDERMAN%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By FATIMA HUSSEIN and ALAN SUDERMAN Associated Press</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration says making cents doesn't make sense anymore.

The U.S. Mint has made its final order of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/learn/coins-and-medals/circulating-coins/penny?srsltid=AfmBOorp-P0PbOJ5jRYvigQlRIm4B-3l4zGXxjxQJQtTp0bE4wPjPh8E">penny</a>&nbsp;blanks and plans to stop producing the coin when those run out, a Treasury Department official confirmed Thursday. This move comes as the cost of making pennies has increased markedly, by upward of 20% in 2024, according to the Treasury.

By stopping the penny's production, the Treasury expects an immediate annual savings of $56 million in reduced material costs, according to the official, who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity to preview the news.

In February, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-penny-treasury-mint-192e3b9ad9891d50e7014997653051ba">announced</a>&nbsp;that he had ordered his administration to cease production of the 1-cent coin.

“For far too long the United States has minted pennies which literally cost us more than 2 cents. This is so wasteful!” Trump wrote at that time in a post on his Truth Social site. “I have instructed my Secretary of the US Treasury to stop producing new pennies.”

There are about 114 billion pennies currently in circulation in the United States — that's $1.14 billion — but they are greatly underutilized, the Treasury says. The penny was one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/learn/history/us-circulating-coins">first coins made</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Mint after its establishment in 1792.

The nation's treasury secretary has the authority to mint and issue coins “in amounts the secretary decides are necessary to meet the needs of the United States.”

Advocates for ditching the penny cite its high production cost — almost 4 cents per penny now, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/content/dam/usmint/reports/2024-annual-report.pdf">the U.S. Mint</a>&nbsp;— and limited utility. Fans of the penny cite its usefulness in charity drives and relative bargain in production costs compared with the nickel, which costs almost 14 cents to mint.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the news.

Pennies are the most popular coin made by the U.S. Mint, which reported making 3.2 billion of them last year. That’s more than half of all the new coins it made last year.

Congress, which dictates currency specifications such as the size and metal content of coins, could make Trump’s order permanent through law. But past congressional efforts to ditch the penny have failed.

Two bipartisan bills to kill the penny permanently were introduced this year.

Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lee.senate.gov%2F2025%2F5%2Flee-merkley-bill-would-save-taxpayers-millions-by-ending-penny-production&amp;data=05%7C02%7CFHussein%40ap.org%7C0654612ecd2d4ec3808408dd9942af9f%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638835233891671752%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Bzu01aKqBRZ%2FA8JUhDlqQx9lGZmEakeg5R1X4Fz2mwE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Make Sense Not Cents Act</a>&nbsp;this month. In April, Reps. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., and Robert Garcia, D-Calif., along with Sens. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced the Common Cents Act.

Jay Zagorsky, professor of markets, public policy, and law at Boston University, said that while he supports the move to end penny production, Congress must include language in any proposed legislation to require rounding up in pricing, which will eliminate the demand for pennies.

Zagorsky, who recently published a book called “The Power of Cash: Why Using Paper Money is Good for You and Society,” said otherwise simply ditching the penny will only increase demand for nickels, which are even more expensive, at 14 cents to produce.

“If we suddenly have to produce a lot of nickels — and we lose more money on producing every nickel — eliminating the penny doesn't make any sense.”

Mark Weller, executive director of the Americans for Common Cents group — which conducts research and provides information to Congress and the Executive Branch on the value and benefits of the penny — says “there has been an evolution over the past six months that inevitability the production of the penny will be halted.”

His group advocates for the U.S. to find ways to reduce the cost of producing the nickel, especially since it will be more in demand once the penny is totally eliminated from circulation.

“It's incumbent on Treasury to come up with a cheaper way to make the nickel,” Weller said. “Let's make sure we're making our coins as least expensively as possible and maintaining the option to use cash in transactions.”

Suderman reported from Richmond, Virginia.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22FATIMA%20HUSSEIN%20and%20ALAN%20SUDERMAN%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By FATIMA HUSSEIN and ALAN SUDERMAN Associated Press</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration says making cents doesn't make sense anymore.The U.S. Mint has made its final order of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/learn/coins-and-medals/circulating-coins/penny?srsltid=AfmBOorp-P0PbOJ5jRYvigQlRIm4B-3l4zGXxjxQJQtTp0bE4wPjPh8E">penny</a>&nbsp;blanks and plans to stop producing the coin when those run out, a Treasury Department official confirmed Thursday. This move comes as the cost of making pennies has increased markedly, by upward of 20% in 2024, according to the Treasury.By stopping the penny's production, the Treasury expects an immediate annual savings of $56 million in reduced material costs, according to the official, who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity to preview the news.In February, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-penny-treasury-mint-192e3b9ad9891d50e7014997653051ba">announced</a>&nbsp;that he had ordered his administration to cease production of the 1-cent coin.“For far too long the United States has minted pennies which literally cost us more than 2 cents. This is so wasteful!” Trump wrote at that time in a post on his Truth Social site. “I have instructed my Secretary of the US Treasury to stop producing new pennies.”There are about 114 billion pennies currently in circulation in the United States — that's $1.14 billion — but they are greatly underutilized, the Treasury says. The penny was one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/learn/history/us-circulating-coins">first coins made</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Mint after its establishment in 1792.The nation's treasury secretary has the authority to mint and issue coins “in amounts the secretary decides are necessary to meet the needs of the United States.”Advocates for ditching the penny cite its high production cost — almost 4 cents per penny now, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usmint.gov/content/dam/usmint/reports/2024-annual-report.pdf">the U.S. Mint</a>&nbsp;— and limited utility. Fans of the penny cite its usefulness in charity drives and relative bargain in production costs compared with the nickel, which costs almost 14 cents to mint.The Wall Street Journal first reported the news.Pennies are the most popular coin made by the U.S. Mint, which reported making 3.2 billion of them last year. That’s more than half of all the new coins it made last year.Congress, which dictates currency specifications such as the size and metal content of coins, could make Trump’s order permanent through law. But past congressional efforts to ditch the penny have failed.Two bipartisan bills to kill the penny permanently were introduced this year.Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., introduced the&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lee.senate.gov%2F2025%2F5%2Flee-merkley-bill-would-save-taxpayers-millions-by-ending-penny-production&amp;data=05%7C02%7CFHussein%40ap.org%7C0654612ecd2d4ec3808408dd9942af9f%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638835233891671752%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Bzu01aKqBRZ%2FA8JUhDlqQx9lGZmEakeg5R1X4Fz2mwE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Make Sense Not Cents Act</a>&nbsp;this month. In April, Reps. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., and Robert Garcia, D-Calif., along with Sens. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced the Common Cents Act.Jay Zagorsky, professor of markets, public policy, and law at Boston University, said that while he supports the move to end penny production, Congress must include language in any proposed legislation to require rounding up in pricing, which will eliminate the demand for pennies.Zagorsky, who recently published a book called “The Power of Cash: Why Using Paper Money is Good for You and Society,” said otherwise simply ditching the penny will only increase demand for nickels, which are even more expensive, at 14 cents to produce.“If we suddenly have to produce a lot of nickels — and we lose more money on producing every nickel — eliminating the penny doesn't make any sense.”Mark Weller, executive director of the Americans for Common Cents group — which conducts research and provides information to Congress and the Executive Branch on the value and benefits of the penny — says “there has been an evolution over the past six months that inevitability the production of the penny will be halted.”His group advocates for the U.S. to find ways to reduce the cost of producing the nickel, especially since it will be more in demand once the penny is totally eliminated from circulation.“It's incumbent on Treasury to come up with a cheaper way to make the nickel,” Weller said. “Let's make sure we're making our coins as least expensively as possible and maintaining the option to use cash in transactions.”__Suderman reported from Richmond, Virginia.

US Mint moves forward with plans to kill the penny

It's time for <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/summer-classes">Sizzlin' Summer 2025 </a>at the Hays Arts Council. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director, about the variety of classes for children.

<figure>
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: It's a Sizzlin' Summer at the Hays Arts Council" 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=jssc3-18b57ca-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>It's time for <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/summer-classes">Sizzlin' Summer 2025 </a>at the Hays Arts Council. On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Brenda Meder, executive director, about the variety of classes for children.<figure>
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🎙Post Podcast: It's a Sizzlin' Summer at the Hays Arts Council

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city of Hays is facing a potential 50% cut to the Essential Air Service federal funds awarded to its commercial airline carrier, SkyWest/United, Mayor Sandy Jacobs announced during Thursday's city commission meeting.&nbsp;

The Trump administration's 2026 budget proposal includes a 50% cut to the program, which began in 1978.

"That would absolutely wipe us out in this community. I don't know how we would move forward," Jacobs said. "Without it, we would not have commercial service in Hays."

"For us, to make that up, we would have to increase our mill levy from 25 to 44. That's almost double the mills just to cover that annual subsidy," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor.&nbsp;

Jacobs and the other commissioners have contacted Hays' congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., encouraging them to oppose the proposed cut.&nbsp;

"The airport is a huge economic impact for Hays and the region," Ruder said. "Without commercial air service, you would have to drive four hours to get to Kansas City, Wichita or Denver for a commercial flight."

Commissioners also encouraged local residents and business leaders to contact national leaders with their concerns.

"This is huge for all of us, and it's important to take our time to contact all our representatives," said Reese Barrick, commissioner, who read off office phone numbers for Sens. Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall and Rep. Tracy Mann.

Sen. Jerry Moran, Hays office:&nbsp;785-628-6401 Sen. Roger Marshall, Garden City office: 620-765-7800 Rep. Tracy Mann, Dodge City office: 620-682-7340

"I think it's important for the Trump administration to find ways to cut wasteful spending," said Commissioner Shaun Musil, "but this is not wasteful, kind of like our water (federal BRIC grant) that got cut. 

"... This keeps Hays relevant. We have doctors that fly in to perform services. We have international students at Fort Hays State University."

SkyWest receives an annual $6.5 million subsidy for commercial flight service in Hays.&nbsp;

Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal and Salina airports also utilize the&nbsp;U.S. Department of Transportation Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 22-year-old deteriorating crosswind runway at Hays Regional Airport will be reconstructed next spring. 

The crosswind runway&nbsp;4-22 and the main runway 16-34 will both have to be shut down for three weeks as the work is done. Major users of the airport have been notified, although the start date is not yet finalized. Helicopter operations will still be allowed.

City commissioners unanimously approved a low bid of $6,676,180 to&nbsp;Smoky Hill, Salina, for the project during their meeting Thursday. They also approved a construction engineer services agreement with Lochner, Lenexa, for $445,800.

The Federal Aviation Administration will pay for 95% of the $7.5 million project. The city's cost share will be 5%, or $356,000.

Hays is eligible for the FAA funding thanks to record airport boardings and participation by its commercial carrier, SkyWest/United, in the Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;

In other business, commissioners approved a rezoning request, final plat and annexation for Covenant Estates 1st Addition. The 20-acre housing project is in northwest Hays&nbsp;west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st streets.

The plat is comprised of three city blocks with 54 lots. 

The developer, Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Inc., plans to plat, rezone and annex the remaining 55 acres of property lying to the north of Phase 1 in phases from south to north during the next few years. 

The following board appointments recommended by the mayor were approved:

A 20-minute executive session was declared at the end of the meeting for matters covered under attorney/client privilege. No action was taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715783526078.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Hays Regional Airport" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Hays Regional Airport</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays is facing a potential 50% cut to the Essential Air Service federal funds awarded to its commercial airline carrier, SkyWest/United, Mayor Sandy Jacobs announced during Thursday's city commission meeting.&nbsp;The Trump administration's 2026 budget proposal includes a 50% cut to the program, which began in 1978."That would absolutely wipe us out in this community. I don't know how we would move forward," Jacobs said. "Without it, we would not have commercial service in Hays.""For us, to make that up, we would have to increase our mill levy from 25 to 44. That's almost double the mills just to cover that annual subsidy," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays City Commission" 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=2eup8-18b8a55-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>Jacobs and the other commissioners have contacted Hays' congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., encouraging them to oppose the proposed cut.&nbsp;"The airport is a huge economic impact for Hays and the region," Ruder said. "Without commercial air service, you would have to drive four hours to get to Kansas City, Wichita or Denver for a commercial flight."Commissioners also encouraged local residents and business leaders to contact national leaders with their concerns."This is huge for all of us, and it's important to take our time to contact all our representatives," said Reese Barrick, commissioner, who read off office phone numbers for Sens. Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall and Rep. Tracy Mann.The field office contact numbers areSen. Jerry Moran, Hays office:&nbsp;785-628-6401 Sen. Roger Marshall, Garden City office: 620-765-7800 Rep. Tracy Mann, Dodge City office: 620-682-7340"I think it's important for the Trump administration to find ways to cut wasteful spending," said Commissioner Shaun Musil, "but this is not wasteful, kind of like our water (federal BRIC grant) that got cut. "... This keeps Hays relevant. We have doctors that fly in to perform services. We have international students at Fort Hays State University."SkyWest receives an annual $6.5 million subsidy for commercial flight service in Hays.&nbsp;Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal and Salina airports also utilize the&nbsp;U.S. Department of Transportation Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Crosswind Runway Reconstruction</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747411320330.png" alt="Hays Regional Airport" />
 <figcaption>Hays Regional Airport</figcaption>
 </figure>The 22-year-old deteriorating crosswind runway at Hays Regional Airport will be reconstructed next spring. The crosswind runway&nbsp;4-22 and the main runway 16-34 will both have to be shut down for three weeks as the work is done. Major users of the airport have been notified, although the start date is not yet finalized. Helicopter operations will still be allowed.City commissioners unanimously approved a low bid of $6,676,180 to&nbsp;Smoky Hill, Salina, for the project during their meeting Thursday. They also approved a construction engineer services agreement with Lochner, Lenexa, for $445,800.The Federal Aviation Administration will pay for 95% of the $7.5 million project. The city's cost share will be 5%, or $356,000.Hays is eligible for the FAA funding thanks to record airport boardings and participation by its commercial carrier, SkyWest/United, in the Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747851312144.png" alt="Covenant Estates 1st Addition. Image courtesy City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Covenant Estates 1st Addition. Image courtesy City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Covenant Estates 1st Addition</h2>In other business, commissioners approved a rezoning request, final plat and annexation for Covenant Estates 1st Addition. The 20-acre housing project is in northwest Hays&nbsp;west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st streets.The plat is comprised of three city blocks with 54 lots. The developer, Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Inc., plans to plat, rezone and annex the remaining 55 acres of property lying to the north of Phase 1 in phases from south to north during the next few years. <h2>Mayoral Appointments Approved</h2>The following board appointments recommended by the mayor were approved:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748018522026.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Executive session</h2>A 20-minute executive session was declared at the end of the meeting for matters covered under attorney/client privilege. No action was taken.

🎙Hays faces loss of federal air funds

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension

The Department of Agronomy and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will host several winter wheat variety plot tours in different regions of the state. Please make plans to attend a plot tour near you to see and learn about the newest available and upcoming wheat varieties, their agronomics, and their disease reactions. 

Below is a preliminary list of plot tour dates, times, and locations with directions. 

This list will be continuously added to and updated in the K-State Agronomy eUpdates in the coming weeks. To subscribe to the <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/eupdates/">K-State Agronomy eUpdates</a>, simply google it in your internet browser. It only takes seconds to do and your email is never shared with anyone.

Some of the upcoming wheat plot tours in our area are:

May 28: 7:30 a.m. - Phillipsburg 1:00 p.m. - Plainville. For more information, contact Cody Miller at 785-543-6845. 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Ellis County, at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays across from the main buildings on the west side of 240th Avenue. RSVP is greatly appreciated for the meal count at&nbsp; <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_brT0WxfHCBxXZJk">bit.ly/KSRECottonwoodDistrictWheatPlotTours</a> or by calling our office 785-628-9430 or email Theresa tam3@ksu.edu.

May 29: 9:30 a.m. Rush County 2:00 p.m. Ness County 6:00 p.m. Lane County. For more information contact Lacey Noterman at 785-798-3921.

Plots tours scheduled after May 29 are being finalized, and details will be updated soon. Stay tuned to the eUpdate for any changes to this schedule.

If you would like to start receiving the Cottonwood Extension District monthly newsletter, send us your email to receive an email notification and link when it comes out each month. Send your email to Theresa Meis tam3@ksu.edu.

 The newsletter can contain information on lawn, garden, and tree care, agronomic and livestock production information for producers, family and community health information, 4-H &amp; Youth Development and upcoming Cottonwood District events.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850316151.png" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood ExtensionThe Department of Agronomy and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will host several winter wheat variety plot tours in different regions of the state. Please make plans to attend a plot tour near you to see and learn about the newest available and upcoming wheat varieties, their agronomics, and their disease reactions. Below is a preliminary list of plot tour dates, times, and locations with directions. This list will be continuously added to and updated in the K-State Agronomy eUpdates in the coming weeks. To subscribe to the <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension/eupdates/">K-State Agronomy eUpdates</a>, simply google it in your internet browser. It only takes seconds to do and your email is never shared with anyone.Some of the upcoming wheat plot tours in our area are:May 28: 7:30 a.m. - Phillipsburg 1:00 p.m. - Plainville. For more information, contact Cody Miller at 785-543-6845. 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Ellis County, at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays across from the main buildings on the west side of 240th Avenue. RSVP is greatly appreciated for the meal count at&nbsp; <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_brT0WxfHCBxXZJk">bit.ly/KSRECottonwoodDistrictWheatPlotTours</a> or by calling our office 785-628-9430 or email Theresa tam3@ksu.edu.May 29: 9:30 a.m. Rush County 2:00 p.m. Ness County 6:00 p.m. Lane County. For more information contact Lacey Noterman at 785-798-3921.Plots tours scheduled after May 29 are being finalized, and details will be updated soon. Stay tuned to the eUpdate for any changes to this schedule.<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Wheat variety plots and the wheat streak mosaic virus" 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=rtpzc-18b71f1-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>If you would like to start receiving the Cottonwood Extension District monthly newsletter, send us your email to receive an email notification and link when it comes out each month. Send your email to Theresa Meis tam3@ksu.edu. The newsletter can contain information on lawn, garden, and tree care, agronomic and livestock production information for producers, family and community health information, 4-H &amp; Youth Development and upcoming Cottonwood District events.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

🎙CAMPBELL: 2025 Kansas wheat plot tours

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/df55f42f-849b-4bde-a72b-318953725ac4">Click here for more.&nbsp;</a>

It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat. The family needs a fun activity for the weekend or you need a new stylist or someone to look at your brakes.

The Hays Post is launching an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.

The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.

See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.

Hays businesses who wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.

<h2>Precision Valley Golf &amp; Bike Center</h2><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WyrQ7qfNSiM?si=XfA-hUPUEa0EvJrP" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/df55f42f-849b-4bde-a72b-318953725ac4">Click here for more.&nbsp;</a>----It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat. The family needs a fun activity for the weekend or you need a new stylist or someone to look at your brakes.The Hays Post is launching an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.The directory is free for our readers.Hays businesses who wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748027468179.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

👟 Monarchs qualify four more for state

PUEBLO, Colo. - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams saw another school record go down Friday on day two of the 2025 NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships.

Nolan Churchman broke his own school record in the decathlon by 139 points with a 10-event total of 7,360, finishing in fifth place to earn a spot on the All-American podium. After compiling a personal-best 4,035 points on day one, the senior wrapped up his career with three outdoor personal bests on Friday. He opened the day with a personal-best 15.19 in the 110m hurdles to collect 827 points before adding a personal best in the discus (128-9, 649 points) and an outdoor PR in the pole vault (15-1, 790 points). Churchman then accumulated 1,059 points across the final two events (javelin throw - 150-10 - 529 points, 1,500m run - 5:05.30 - 530 points).

The performance helped Churchman earn his eighth All-American trophy, including seven in multi-events (four heptathlon, three decathlon) and one in a relay. The Saint George, Kan. native posted outdoor or wind legal personal bests in five of the 10 events, including the 100m dash, high jump, 110m hurdles, discus and pole vault.

After breaking the school record in the discus throw earlier this season (160-2, 48.81m), Emma Slade placed 13th at the national meet with a top heave of 153-2. The freshman recorded that mark on her first attempt before adding a toss of 144-11 on her third attempt. She was one of only two freshman in the field of 22 competitors at the championship event.

Toby Wahlmeier concluded the day in the prelims of the 200m dash. Running in the third and final heat, the junior finished in 20th place with a time of 21.39.

The Tigers will wrap things up at the national meet with day three on Saturday (May 24) beginning at noon CT when Annabeth Baalmann competes in the women's pole vault. Wahlmeier will then team up with Hayden Albright, Avrey Albright and Drew Tolar in the 4x100m relay finals at 6:20 p.m. CT.

Full FHSU Results Day Two Women Discus 13th - Emma Slade - 153-2

Men 200m Dash Prelims 20th - Toby Wahlmeier - 21.39

Decathlon 5th - Nolan Churchman - 7,360 points @ ! - 4 team points 100m - 10.69 - 931 LJ - 23-2 - 828 SP - 37-4.5 - 569 HJ - 6-6.25 - 794 400m - 47.93 - 913 110mH - 15.19 - 827 DT - 128-9 - 649 PV - 15-1 - 790 JT - 150-10 - 529 1,500m - 5:05.30 - 530

Day One Women 10,000m Run 9th - Emily Diercks - 35:37.29 %

Men 4x100m Prelims 5th - Hayden Albright, Toby Wahlmeier, Avrey Albright, Drew Tolar - 39.71 q !

Long Jump 20th - Nolan Churchman - 23-1.25

Pole Vault 18th - Josiah Ball - 15-9.75

Decathlon 3rd - Nolan Churchman - 4,035 100m - 10.69 - 931 LJ - 23-2 - 828 SP - 37-4.5 - 569 HJ - 6-6.25 - 794 400m - 47.93 - 913

! - indicates school record @ - indicates first team All-American % - indicates second team All-American

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748050130074.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsPUEBLO, Colo. - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams saw another school record go down Friday on day two of the 2025 NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships.Nolan Churchman broke his own school record in the decathlon by 139 points with a 10-event total of 7,360, finishing in fifth place to earn a spot on the All-American podium. After compiling a personal-best 4,035 points on day one, the senior wrapped up his career with three outdoor personal bests on Friday. He opened the day with a personal-best 15.19 in the 110m hurdles to collect 827 points before adding a personal best in the discus (128-9, 649 points) and an outdoor PR in the pole vault (15-1, 790 points). Churchman then accumulated 1,059 points across the final two events (javelin throw - 150-10 - 529 points, 1,500m run - 5:05.30 - 530 points).The performance helped Churchman earn his eighth All-American trophy, including seven in multi-events (four heptathlon, three decathlon) and one in a relay. The Saint George, Kan. native posted outdoor or wind legal personal bests in five of the 10 events, including the 100m dash, high jump, 110m hurdles, discus and pole vault.After breaking the school record in the discus throw earlier this season (160-2, 48.81m), Emma Slade placed 13th at the national meet with a top heave of 153-2. The freshman recorded that mark on her first attempt before adding a toss of 144-11 on her third attempt. She was one of only two freshman in the field of 22 competitors at the championship event.Toby Wahlmeier concluded the day in the prelims of the 200m dash. Running in the third and final heat, the junior finished in 20th place with a time of 21.39.The Tigers will wrap things up at the national meet with day three on Saturday (May 24) beginning at noon CT when Annabeth Baalmann competes in the women's pole vault. Wahlmeier will then team up with Hayden Albright, Avrey Albright and Drew Tolar in the 4x100m relay finals at 6:20 p.m. CT.Full FHSU Results Day Two Women Discus 13th - Emma Slade - 153-2Men 200m Dash Prelims 20th - Toby Wahlmeier - 21.39Decathlon 5th - Nolan Churchman - 7,360 points @ ! - 4 team points 100m - 10.69 - 931 LJ - 23-2 - 828 SP - 37-4.5 - 569 HJ - 6-6.25 - 794 400m - 47.93 - 913 110mH - 15.19 - 827 DT - 128-9 - 649 PV - 15-1 - 790 JT - 150-10 - 529 1,500m - 5:05.30 - 530Day One Women 10,000m Run 9th - Emily Diercks - 35:37.29 % Men 4x100m Prelims 5th - Hayden Albright, Toby Wahlmeier, Avrey Albright, Drew Tolar - 39.71 q !Long Jump 20th - Nolan Churchman - 23-1.25 Pole Vault 18th - Josiah Ball - 15-9.75Decathlon 3rd - Nolan Churchman - 4,035 100m - 10.69 - 931 LJ - 23-2 - 828 SP - 37-4.5 - 569 HJ - 6-6.25 - 794 400m - 47.93 - 913 ! - indicates school record @ - indicates first team All-American % - indicates second team All-Americanq - qualified for finals

👟 Churchman shatters FHSU decathlon record at D2 Outdoor Championships

PAWNEE COUNTY– Rhonda Hudson-McNutt, 47, appeared in the Pawnee County District Court in custody Thursday afternoon for sentencing on two separate felony cases, according to Pawnee&nbsp; County Attorney Doug McNett.

In July of 2024, Hudson-McNutt was arrested on probable cause without incident following an investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department. 

She was charged with Blackmail, Breach of Privacy, to wit: disseminating nude images, Identity Theft,&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting a felony crime,&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting information in a felony investigation, and Criminal False Communication. She was also charged in a separate criminal complaint with misdemeanor Trespass.

Hudson-McNutt subsequently posted bond and was released. However, on August 9, 2024, the defendant was arrested for violating the no contact conditions of her bond. Incident to that arrest, she was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine.

On November 19, 2024, the she entered no contest pleas in the first case to&nbsp; Breach of Privacy, to wit: disseminating nude images, Identity Theft, and&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting a felony crime. She also entered a no contest plea to Possession of Methamphetamine. In exchange for the pleas, the State dismiss remain charges. Following the plea hearing, the defendant was release on bond but was re-arrested the following day for violating the no contact condition.

In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that in July of 2024 Hudson-McNutt threatened an individual that she would contact law enforcement to falsely claim he sexually assaulted her if that individual didn’t disclose the whereabouts of her estranged husband. The investigation revealed that she also distributed without permission nude images of the individual that she’d gained access to. During this same timeframe Hudson-McNutt also accessed her estranged husband’s email account and sent an email to the Kansas Department of Children and Families claiming to confess to child sex crimes.

Following an extended sentencing hearing which included testimony from the victims, District Judge Bruce Gatterman denied her request for probation citing her behavior on bond and sentenced Hudson-McNutt to an aggregated sentence of 47 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722530095728.png" alt="Hudson-McNutt photo P awnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hudson-McNutt photo P awnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY– Rhonda Hudson-McNutt, 47, appeared in the Pawnee County District Court in custody Thursday afternoon for sentencing on two separate felony cases, according to Pawnee&nbsp; County Attorney Doug McNett.In July of 2024, Hudson-McNutt was arrested on probable cause without incident following an investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department. She was charged with Blackmail, Breach of Privacy, to wit: disseminating nude images, Identity Theft,&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting a felony crime,&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting information in a felony investigation, and Criminal False Communication. She was also charged in a separate criminal complaint with misdemeanor Trespass.Hudson-McNutt subsequently posted bond and was released. However, on August 9, 2024, the defendant was arrested for violating the no contact conditions of her bond. Incident to that arrest, she was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine.On November 19, 2024, the she entered no contest pleas in the first case to&nbsp; Breach of Privacy, to wit: disseminating nude images, Identity Theft, and&nbsp; Interference with Law Enforcement, to wit: falsely reporting a felony crime. She also entered a no contest plea to Possession of Methamphetamine. In exchange for the pleas, the State dismiss remain charges. Following the plea hearing, the defendant was release on bond but was re-arrested the following day for violating the no contact condition.In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that in July of 2024 Hudson-McNutt threatened an individual that she would contact law enforcement to falsely claim he sexually assaulted her if that individual didn’t disclose the whereabouts of her estranged husband. The investigation revealed that she also distributed without permission nude images of the individual that she’d gained access to. During this same timeframe Hudson-McNutt also accessed her estranged husband’s email account and sent an email to the Kansas Department of Children and Families claiming to confess to child sex crimes.Following an extended sentencing hearing which included testimony from the victims, District Judge Bruce Gatterman denied her request for probation citing her behavior on bond and sentenced Hudson-McNutt to an aggregated sentence of 47 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas woman gets plea deal for blackmail, ID theft

TOPEKA – Hays High will be the No. 5 seed at the KSHSAA Class 5A State Baseball Championship and open with Shawnee Heights at 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 29 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

The Indians (18-8) are coming off a pair of one-run victories over Salina South and Andover to win their own regional this past Wednesday at Leo-Harper Field. 

This will be HHS’ 14th state tournament appearance and first since 2021 when they finished third.

The Thunderbirds (21-7) are the No. 4 seed and defeated Highland Park and De Soto in regionals. Shawnee Heights lost to 5-2 to Spring Hill in last year's state quarterfinals.

5A State Baseball Eck Stadium Wichita, Kan. Thursday, May 29 [1] St. Thomas Aquinas (24-4) vs. [8] Valley Center (17-11), 11:00 a.m. [4] Shawnee Heights (21-7) vs. Hays (18-8), 1:15 p.m. [2] Great Bend (23-5) vs. [7] Kansas City-Piper (17-10, 3:30 p.m. [3] Blue Valley Southwest (21-6) vs. [6] Goddard-Eisenhower (18-10), 5:45 p.m.

Friday, May 30 Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 11:00 a.m. Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 1:15 p.m. Third Place, 3:30 p.m. Championship, 5:45 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748008726740.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsTOPEKA – Hays High will be the No. 5 seed at the KSHSAA Class 5A State Baseball Championship and open with Shawnee Heights at 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 29 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.The Indians (18-8) are coming off a pair of one-run victories over Salina South and Andover to win their own regional this past Wednesday at Leo-Harper Field. This will be HHS’ 14th state tournament appearance and first since 2021 when they finished third.The Thunderbirds (21-7) are the No. 4 seed and defeated Highland Park and De Soto in regionals. Shawnee Heights lost to 5-2 to Spring Hill in last year's state quarterfinals.5A State Baseball Eck Stadium Wichita, Kan. Thursday, May 29 [1] St. Thomas Aquinas (24-4) vs. [8] Valley Center (17-11), 11:00 a.m. [4] Shawnee Heights (21-7) vs. Hays (18-8), 1:15 p.m. [2] Great Bend (23-5) vs. [7] Kansas City-Piper (17-10, 3:30 p.m. [3] Blue Valley Southwest (21-6) vs. [6] Goddard-Eisenhower (18-10), 5:45 p.m. Friday, May 30 Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 11:00 a.m. Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 1:15 p.m. Third Place, 3:30 p.m. Championship, 5:45 p.m.

⚾ Indians five-seed at 5A state, open with Shawnee Heights

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump rewarded top investors in one of his cryptocurrency projects with a swanky dinner on Thursday night, an event that showed the ascendance of an emerging financial industry — and also the president’s willingness to mix public office with personal profit.

Some 220 of the biggest investors in the $TRUMP&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-meme-coin-token-75bf67ef9e6e54bf455f2f9f03470be3">meme coin</a>&nbsp;were invited to Trump’s luxury golf club in Northern Virginia, where they dined on filet mignon and halibut. According to participants’ posts on social media, Trump spoke for about half an hour before dancing to the song “YMCA.”

Despite the White House insisting that Trump would be attending the event “in his personal time,” he stood behind a lectern with the presidential seal as he touted an industry that’s generating profits for his family business.

After feeling unfairly targeted under President Joe Biden, the crypto industry has quickly become a powerful political force, donating huge sums to help Trump and friendly lawmakers. The U.S. Senate is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-stablecoins-cryptocurrency-coin-trump-5b551cf99c288c4f6059ed1689d6fcb4">advancing</a>&nbsp;key pro-crypto legislation while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-trump-meme-coins-price-high-2bdb8db9bfea9acc5d0f88a99759c855">bitcoin prices soar</a>.

However, even some pro-Trump crypto enthusiasts worry that the president’s personal involvement may be undermining their efforts to establish credibility and stability for the industry.

“It’s distasteful and an unnecessary distraction,” said Nic Carter, a Trump supporter and partner at the crypto investment firm Castle Island Ventures, who said the president is “hugging us to death” with his private crypto businesses. “We would much rather that he passes common sense legislation and leave it at that.”

As the president uses crypto as a platform to make money for his brand in unprecedented ways, it’s also creating an opportunity for potentially shadowy buyers to use the anonymity of the internet to buy access to the president. The lack of transparency was evident on a poster board at the dinner, where participants signed a ranking of top investors. Some used their real names; others used pseudonyms.

No media was allowed into the dinner, and the president was at his golf club for only about an hour. Protesters gathered outside the club holding signs that said “stop crypto corruption” and “no corrupt fools.”

Trump said the event was “good, very good” as he returned to the White House.

Concerns about Trump’s crypto ventures predate Inauguration Day

Three days before Trump took office on Jan. 20, he announced the creation of the $TRUMP meme coin at the fancy Crypto Ball held down the street from the White House. He described it as a way for his supporters to “have fun.”

Meme coins are the crypto sector’s black sheep. They are often created as a joke, with no real utility and prone to extremely wild price swings that tend to enrich a small group of insiders at the expense of less sophisticated investors.

The president’s meme coin is different, however, and has a clear utility: access to Trump. In addition to Thursday’s dinner, the top 25 were invited to a private reception with the president, with the top four getting $100,000 crypto-themed and Trump-branded watches.

Trump’s meme coin saw an initial spike in value, followed by a steep drop. Its creators, which include an entity controlled by the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-deal-conflicts-saudi-arabia-emoluments-7379bee2e307d39bd43b534a05ae3207">Trump Organization</a>, have made hundreds of millions of dollars by collecting fees on trades.

First lady&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/melania-trump">Melania Trump</a>&nbsp;has her own meme coin, and Trump’s sons, Eric and Don Jr. — who are running the Trump Organization while their father is president — announced they are partnering with an existing firm to create a crypto mining company.

The Trump family also holds about a 60% stake in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-digital-assets-a08456edc5947451f3f23b184ed9fb29">World Liberty Financial</a>, a crypto project that provides yet another avenue where investors are buying in and enriching the president’s relatives. World Liberty has launched its own stablecoin, USD1. The project got a boost recently when World Liberty announced an investment fund in the United Arab Emirates would be using $2 billion worth of USD1 to purchase a stake in Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange.

Stablecoins have values pegged to fixed assets like the U.S. dollar. Issuers profit by collecting the interest on the Treasury bonds and other assets used to back the stablecoins.

Crypto is now one of the most significant sources of the Trump family’s wealth.

“He’s becoming a salesman-in-chief,” said James Thurber, an American University professor emeritus who has long studied and taught about corruption around the world. “It allows for huge conflicts of interest.”

“I’m a big crypto fan,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One during last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mideast-trip-uae-qatar-russia-ukraine-963b695c94b908a2f9c76271ea9d131b">trip to the Middle East</a>. “I’ve been that from the beginning, right from the campaign.”

That wasn’t always true. During his first term, Trump posted in July 2019 that cryptocurrencies were “not money” and had value that was “highly volatile and based on thin air.”

“Unregulated Crypto Assets can facilitate unlawful behavior, including drug trade,” he added then. Even after leaving office in 2021, Trump told Fox Business Network that bitcoin, the world’s most popular cryptocurrency, “seems like a scam.”

Trump began to shift during a crypto event at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida in May 2024, receiving assurances that industry backers would spend lavishly to get him reelected. Another major milestone came last June, when Trump attended a high-dollar fundraiser at the San Francisco home of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/david-sacks">David Sacks</a>.

Those close to Trump, including his sons and billionaire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/elon-musk">Elon Musk</a>, helped further push his embrace of the industry. Sacks is now the Trump administration’s crypto czar, and many Cabinet members — including Commerce Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/howard-lutnick-trump-tariffs-commerce-department-9788590bbee10d09d3cb91822b0c9687">Howard Lutnick</a>&nbsp;and Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;— have long been enthusiastic crypto boosters.

“I don’t have faith in the dollar,” Transportation Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/sean-duffy">Sean Duffy</a>&nbsp;said in a 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/video/6319141888112" target="_blank">interview</a>. “I’m bullish on bitcoin.”

Trump + crypto: A political marriage of convenience

Many top crypto backers were naturally wary of traditional politics, but gravitated toward Trump last year. They bristled at how Biden’s Securities and Exchange Commission aggressively brought civil suits against several major crypto companies.

Since Trump took office, many such cases have been dropped or paused, including one alleging that Justin Sun, a China-born crypto entrepreneur, and his company engaged in market manipulation and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-59" target="_blank">paid celebrities</a>&nbsp;for undisclosed promotions.

Sun, who once paid $6.2 million for a piece of art involving a banana taped to a wall, and then ate the banana, helped the Trumps start World Liberty Financial with an early $75 million investment.

Sun has&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/justinsuntron/status/1924676460461310008" target="_blank">disclosed</a>&nbsp;on social media that he is the biggest holder of $TRUMP meme coins and is attending Thursday’s dinner.

“I’m excited to connect with everyone, talk crypto, and discuss the future of our industry,” Sun said in advance.

He posted a video of Trump entering the private reception.

“Did you get to see the helicopter?” Trump said.

Are Trump family profits hurting other crypto investors?

Trump has signed executive orders promoting the industry, including calls to create a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-reserve-trump-crypto-sacks-5c91a1ab3dab9a8c86d4bc42b8db3f8f">government bitcoin reserve</a>. In March, Trump convened the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-summit-bitcoin-sacks-c87505c8cf0aaef3398bf0bb1139b420">cryptocurrency summit</a>&nbsp;at the White House.

But some of the industry’s biggest names, often brash and outspoken, have kept mostly mum on Trump’s meme coins and other projects.

“It’s not my place to really comment on President Trump’s activity,” Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said at a recent public event.

Meanwhile, a top legislative priority for crypto-backers, a bill clarifying how digital assets are to be regulated, has advanced in the Senate. But some Democrats have tried to stall other pro-crypto legislation over the president’s personal dealings — and see the dinner as a particularly egregious case.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said the gathering was “in effect, putting a ‘for sale’ sign on the White House.”

“It’s auctioning off access,” Blumenthal said on a Thursday press call.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president is attending “in his personal time.” The White House has also said it has nothing to do with Trump’s meme coin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748014971200.png" alt="File image from White House video&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>File image from White House video&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump rewarded top investors in one of his cryptocurrency projects with a swanky dinner on Thursday night, an event that showed the ascendance of an emerging financial industry — and also the president’s willingness to mix public office with personal profit.Some 220 of the biggest investors in the $TRUMP&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-meme-coin-token-75bf67ef9e6e54bf455f2f9f03470be3">meme coin</a>&nbsp;were invited to Trump’s luxury golf club in Northern Virginia, where they dined on filet mignon and halibut. According to participants’ posts on social media, Trump spoke for about half an hour before dancing to the song “YMCA.”Despite the White House insisting that Trump would be attending the event “in his personal time,” he stood behind a lectern with the presidential seal as he touted an industry that’s generating profits for his family business.After feeling unfairly targeted under President Joe Biden, the crypto industry has quickly become a powerful political force, donating huge sums to help Trump and friendly lawmakers. The U.S. Senate is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-stablecoins-cryptocurrency-coin-trump-5b551cf99c288c4f6059ed1689d6fcb4">advancing</a>&nbsp;key pro-crypto legislation while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-trump-meme-coins-price-high-2bdb8db9bfea9acc5d0f88a99759c855">bitcoin prices soar</a>.However, even some pro-Trump crypto enthusiasts worry that the president’s personal involvement may be undermining their efforts to establish credibility and stability for the industry.“It’s distasteful and an unnecessary distraction,” said Nic Carter, a Trump supporter and partner at the crypto investment firm Castle Island Ventures, who said the president is “hugging us to death” with his private crypto businesses. “We would much rather that he passes common sense legislation and leave it at that.”As the president uses crypto as a platform to make money for his brand in unprecedented ways, it’s also creating an opportunity for potentially shadowy buyers to use the anonymity of the internet to buy access to the president. The lack of transparency was evident on a poster board at the dinner, where participants signed a ranking of top investors. Some used their real names; others used pseudonyms.No media was allowed into the dinner, and the president was at his golf club for only about an hour. Protesters gathered outside the club holding signs that said “stop crypto corruption” and “no corrupt fools.”Trump said the event was “good, very good” as he returned to the White House.<h2>Concerns about Trump’s crypto ventures predate Inauguration Day</h2>Three days before Trump took office on Jan. 20, he announced the creation of the $TRUMP meme coin at the fancy Crypto Ball held down the street from the White House. He described it as a way for his supporters to “have fun.”Meme coins are the crypto sector’s black sheep. They are often created as a joke, with no real utility and prone to extremely wild price swings that tend to enrich a small group of insiders at the expense of less sophisticated investors.The president’s meme coin is different, however, and has a clear utility: access to Trump. In addition to Thursday’s dinner, the top 25 were invited to a private reception with the president, with the top four getting $100,000 crypto-themed and Trump-branded watches.Trump’s meme coin saw an initial spike in value, followed by a steep drop. Its creators, which include an entity controlled by the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-deal-conflicts-saudi-arabia-emoluments-7379bee2e307d39bd43b534a05ae3207">Trump Organization</a>, have made hundreds of millions of dollars by collecting fees on trades.First lady&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/melania-trump">Melania Trump</a>&nbsp;has her own meme coin, and Trump’s sons, Eric and Don Jr. — who are running the Trump Organization while their father is president — announced they are partnering with an existing firm to create a crypto mining company.The Trump family also holds about a 60% stake in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-digital-assets-a08456edc5947451f3f23b184ed9fb29">World Liberty Financial</a>, a crypto project that provides yet another avenue where investors are buying in and enriching the president’s relatives. World Liberty has launched its own stablecoin, USD1. The project got a boost recently when World Liberty announced an investment fund in the United Arab Emirates would be using $2 billion worth of USD1 to purchase a stake in Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange.Stablecoins have values pegged to fixed assets like the U.S. dollar. Issuers profit by collecting the interest on the Treasury bonds and other assets used to back the stablecoins.Crypto is now one of the most significant sources of the Trump family’s wealth.“He’s becoming a salesman-in-chief,” said James Thurber, an American University professor emeritus who has long studied and taught about corruption around the world. “It allows for huge conflicts of interest.”<h2>How Trump changed his mind on crypto</h2>“I’m a big crypto fan,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One during last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mideast-trip-uae-qatar-russia-ukraine-963b695c94b908a2f9c76271ea9d131b">trip to the Middle East</a>. “I’ve been that from the beginning, right from the campaign.”That wasn’t always true. During his first term, Trump posted in July 2019 that cryptocurrencies were “not money” and had value that was “highly volatile and based on thin air.”“Unregulated Crypto Assets can facilitate unlawful behavior, including drug trade,” he added then. Even after leaving office in 2021, Trump told Fox Business Network that bitcoin, the world’s most popular cryptocurrency, “seems like a scam.”Trump began to shift during a crypto event at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida in May 2024, receiving assurances that industry backers would spend lavishly to get him reelected. Another major milestone came last June, when Trump attended a high-dollar fundraiser at the San Francisco home of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/david-sacks">David Sacks</a>.Those close to Trump, including his sons and billionaire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/elon-musk">Elon Musk</a>, helped further push his embrace of the industry. Sacks is now the Trump administration’s crypto czar, and many Cabinet members — including Commerce Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/howard-lutnick-trump-tariffs-commerce-department-9788590bbee10d09d3cb91822b0c9687">Howard Lutnick</a>&nbsp;and Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;— have long been enthusiastic crypto boosters.“I don’t have faith in the dollar,” Transportation Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/sean-duffy">Sean Duffy</a>&nbsp;said in a 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/video/6319141888112" target="_blank">interview</a>. “I’m bullish on bitcoin.”<h2>Trump + crypto: A political marriage of convenience</h2>Many top crypto backers were naturally wary of traditional politics, but gravitated toward Trump last year. They bristled at how Biden’s Securities and Exchange Commission aggressively brought civil suits against several major crypto companies.Since Trump took office, many such cases have been dropped or paused, including one alleging that Justin Sun, a China-born crypto entrepreneur, and his company engaged in market manipulation and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-59" target="_blank">paid celebrities</a>&nbsp;for undisclosed promotions.Sun, who once paid $6.2 million for a piece of art involving a banana taped to a wall, and then ate the banana, helped the Trumps start World Liberty Financial with an early $75 million investment.Sun has&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/justinsuntron/status/1924676460461310008" target="_blank">disclosed</a>&nbsp;on social media that he is the biggest holder of $TRUMP meme coins and is attending Thursday’s dinner.“I’m excited to connect with everyone, talk crypto, and discuss the future of our industry,” Sun said in advance.He posted a video of Trump entering the private reception.“Did you get to see the helicopter?” Trump said.“Yeah! Super cool,” Sun responded.<h2>Are Trump family profits hurting other crypto investors?</h2>Trump has signed executive orders promoting the industry, including calls to create a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-reserve-trump-crypto-sacks-5c91a1ab3dab9a8c86d4bc42b8db3f8f">government bitcoin reserve</a>. In March, Trump convened the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-crypto-summit-bitcoin-sacks-c87505c8cf0aaef3398bf0bb1139b420">cryptocurrency summit</a>&nbsp;at the White House.But some of the industry’s biggest names, often brash and outspoken, have kept mostly mum on Trump’s meme coins and other projects.“It’s not my place to really comment on President Trump’s activity,” Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said at a recent public event.Meanwhile, a top legislative priority for crypto-backers, a bill clarifying how digital assets are to be regulated, has advanced in the Senate. But some Democrats have tried to stall other pro-crypto legislation over the president’s personal dealings — and see the dinner as a particularly egregious case.Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said the gathering was “in effect, putting a ‘for sale’ sign on the White House.”“It’s auctioning off access,” Blumenthal said on a Thursday press call.White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president is attending “in his personal time.” The White House has also said it has nothing to do with Trump’s meme coin.___

Trump hosts top crypto investors as some fear he’s putting personal profits first

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The National Weather Service in Dodge City reports a slight risk of severe storms today across western Kansas, with the potential for hail 2 inches in diameter.

If low stratus clouds persist across a larger area of western Kansas this afternoon, the slight risk area may be adjusted to a smaller region than the current forecast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748018667811.jpeg" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe National Weather Service in Dodge City reports a slight risk of severe storms today across western Kansas, with the potential for hail 2 inches in diameter.If low stratus clouds persist across a larger area of western Kansas this afternoon, the slight risk area may be adjusted to a smaller region than the current forecast.Today's high is expected to reach 67, with a low of 52. Showers are likely Saturday through the night, with a high of 62 and a low of 51. Rain is also likely Sunday during the day, with a high near 61 and a low of 48.Showers are expected to continue through Memorial Day, with a chance of nighttime thunderstorms. The high is forecast to be 61 and the low 46.Tuesday will see a short break from the rain with mostly cloudy skies. It will be followed by a possible chance of showers and thunderstorms at night, with a high of 68 and a low of 50.