By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays city commissioners will begin working on the proposed 2026 budget as they hear requests for funds from outside nonprofit organizations during their work session this afternoon.

• Fort Hays State University Hays Scholarship Program for Scholastic Achievement-$100,000 (same as 2025) • Grow Hays-$180,000 (same as 2025) • The Bricks-$54,000 (same as 2025) • CARE Council-$180,000 (same as 2025)

The results of the public opinion poll regarding fireworks use in Hays will be presented by James Bell, public relations officer.

Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, will present the design/build agreement and guaranteed maximum price for Phase 2 services of the new police department and municipal court to be built in Astra Bank, 1100 Fort.&nbsp;

Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main.

 PWC, Hays, has presented a  guaranteed maximum price&nbsp;of $5.9 million to renovate the existing Astra Bank, giving the police station more than twice the operational space it currently has.&nbsp;

Also on the agenda is a proposal to raise fees for the first time in 20 years at the city's two cemeteries, Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery and Mount Allen&nbsp;Cemetery.

The following increases are proposed&nbsp;

A proposed low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine, will be presented by Melissa Dixon, executive director.&nbsp;Commercial Sign, Hays, is the low bidder at $44,773.

Kim Rupp, director of finance, will discuss the city's 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;

The renewal premium is a 30% increase from the year before, but the city's insurance broker, Insurance Planning Inc., Hays, concluded the current provider,&nbsp;MPR, offered the lowest cost option, according to Rupp.

In notes to city commissioners, Rupp said it is&nbsp;staff’s intention to actively pursue the remarketing&nbsp;process for the renewal in 2026-2027.&nbsp;

The complete June 5 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06052025-1550">here</a>.

The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners will begin working on the proposed 2026 budget as they hear requests for funds from outside nonprofit organizations during their work session this afternoon.Asking for city allocations are• Fort Hays State University Hays Scholarship Program for Scholastic Achievement-$100,000 (same as 2025) • Grow Hays-$180,000 (same as 2025) • The Bricks-$54,000 (same as 2025) • CARE Council-$180,000 (same as 2025)The results of the public opinion poll regarding fireworks use in Hays will be presented by James Bell, public relations officer.Collin Bielser, assistant city manager, will present the design/build agreement and guaranteed maximum price for Phase 2 services of the new police department and municipal court to be built in Astra Bank, 1100 Fort.&nbsp;Astra Bank is constructing a new facility at 27th and Main. PWC, Hays, has presented a guaranteed maximum price&nbsp;of $5.9 million to renovate the existing Astra Bank, giving the police station more than twice the operational space it currently has.&nbsp;Also on the agenda is a proposal to raise fees for the first time in 20 years at the city's two cemeteries, Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery and Mount Allen&nbsp;Cemetery.The following increases are proposed&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749138518074.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749138734091.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A proposed low bid for a new LED marquee sign for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2700 Vine, will be presented by Melissa Dixon, executive director.&nbsp;Commercial Sign, Hays, is the low bidder at $44,773.Kim Rupp, director of finance, will discuss the city's 2025-2026 property/liability insurance policy renewal.&nbsp;The renewal premium is a 30% increase from the year before, but the city's insurance broker, Insurance Planning Inc., Hays, concluded the current provider,&nbsp;MPR, offered the lowest cost option, according to Rupp.In notes to city commissioners, Rupp said it is&nbsp;staff’s intention to actively pursue the remarketing&nbsp;process for the renewal in 2026-2027.&nbsp;The complete June 5 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06052025-1550">here</a>.The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission to begin 2026 proposed budget review 

The Board of Directors of United Way of Ellis County announced the upcoming departure of Executive Director Erica Berges, effective June 6, and the appointment of Bill Ring as interim executive director, effective June 9.

Berges has been a dedicated member of the United Way of Ellis County team for over 11 years, beginning her journey in 2014 as an administrative assistant. Her unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission and her exceptional leadership led to her appointment as executive director in 2019. Over the past six years, Erica has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s impact and strengthening community partnerships.

“On behalf of the entire board, we extend our deepest gratitude to Erica for her years of service and the lasting contributions she has made to United Way of Ellis County,” said Jaden Richardson, board president. “Her leadership has been instrumental in driving our mission forward, and we wish her continued success in her future endeavors.”

To ensure a smooth transition, the board has appointed Bill Ring as interim executive director. Ring brings a lifetime of community involvement and nonprofit leadership to the role. 

His passion for service is deeply rooted—his father served as chair of United Way of Miami-Dade County, Florida, in the 1970s—and Ring has continued that legacy through active engagement with several local nonprofits. He currently serves on the boards of multiple community organizations and is well-known for his dedication to the betterment of Ellis County.

Ring retired from Ellis County in 2021 having served as Public Works director. He just finished his fourth year as a substitute teacher for Hays USD 489.

In his interim role, Ring will oversee daily operations and support the organization during the search for a permanent executive director. His leadership will ensure that United Way of Ellis County continues its vital work without interruption.

The Board of Directors is now actively seeking qualified candidates for the executive director position. Individuals with a passion for community service and strong leadership experience are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants may submit a resume and cover letter to info@liveunited.us.

United Way of Ellis County remains committed to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. The board is confident that this transition will usher in a new chapter of growth and impact for the organization

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749129761013.jpeg" alt="Bill Ring. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bill Ring. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Ellis CountyThe Board of Directors of United Way of Ellis County announced the upcoming departure of Executive Director Erica Berges, effective June 6, and the appointment of Bill Ring as interim executive director, effective June 9.Berges has been a dedicated member of the United Way of Ellis County team for over 11 years, beginning her journey in 2014 as an administrative assistant. Her unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission and her exceptional leadership led to her appointment as executive director in 2019. Over the past six years, Erica has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s impact and strengthening community partnerships.“On behalf of the entire board, we extend our deepest gratitude to Erica for her years of service and the lasting contributions she has made to United Way of Ellis County,” said Jaden Richardson, board president. “Her leadership has been instrumental in driving our mission forward, and we wish her continued success in her future endeavors.”To ensure a smooth transition, the board has appointed Bill Ring as interim executive director. Ring brings a lifetime of community involvement and nonprofit leadership to the role. His passion for service is deeply rooted—his father served as chair of United Way of Miami-Dade County, Florida, in the 1970s—and Ring has continued that legacy through active engagement with several local nonprofits. He currently serves on the boards of multiple community organizations and is well-known for his dedication to the betterment of Ellis County.Ring retired from Ellis County in 2021 having served as Public Works director. He just finished his fourth year as a substitute teacher for Hays USD 489.In his interim role, Ring will oversee daily operations and support the organization during the search for a permanent executive director. His leadership will ensure that United Way of Ellis County continues its vital work without interruption.The Board of Directors is now actively seeking qualified candidates for the executive director position. Individuals with a passion for community service and strong leadership experience are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants may submit a resume and cover letter to info@liveunited.us.United Way of Ellis County remains committed to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. The board is confident that this transition will usher in a new chapter of growth and impact for the organization

United Way of Ellis County announces leadership transition

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper was arrested in Hays on suspicion of DUI after a minor vehicle crash.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said officers arrested 37-year-old Davis Jay Whisman of Ellis after officers heard a collision at about 12:30 a.m. on May 31 in the 600 block of Park Street.

Scheibler said officers allegedly saw Whisman leave the scene in a white pickup truck with two passengers and located him within the area.

Whisman exited the vehicle and was arrested for alleged DUI and leaving the scene of an accident,&nbsp;Scheibler said. Officers observed the vehicle had damage consistent with a collision, but no injuries were reported, Scheibler said.

Kansas Highway Patrol Public Information Officer April M. McCollum confirmed Whisman's arrest and that he is a probationary employee undergoing field training.

McCollum said Whisman has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcomes of the DUI case and an internal investigation.

Whisman was booked into the Ellis County Jail but has since been released.&nbsp;Scheibler said all parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

McCollum said the&nbsp;Kansas Highway Patrol maintains high standards concerning the conduct and&nbsp;integrity of its employees and is dedicated to ensuring accountability and preserving public trust.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716320706146.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Kansas Highway Patrol trooper was arrested in Hays on suspicion of DUI after a minor vehicle crash.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said officers arrested 37-year-old Davis Jay Whisman of Ellis after officers heard a collision at about 12:30 a.m. on May 31 in the 600 block of Park Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749068201139.png" alt="Davis Jay Whisman" />
 <figcaption>Davis Jay Whisman</figcaption>
 </figure>Scheibler said officers allegedly saw Whisman leave the scene in a white pickup truck with two passengers and located him within the area.Whisman exited the vehicle and was arrested for alleged DUI and leaving the scene of an accident,&nbsp;Scheibler said. Officers observed the vehicle had damage consistent with a collision, but no injuries were reported, Scheibler said.Kansas Highway Patrol Public Information Officer April M. McCollum confirmed Whisman's arrest and that he is a probationary employee undergoing field training.McCollum said Whisman has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcomes of the DUI case and an internal investigation.Whisman was booked into the Ellis County Jail but has since been released.&nbsp;Scheibler said all parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. McCollum said the&nbsp;Kansas Highway Patrol maintains high standards concerning the conduct and&nbsp;integrity of its employees and is dedicated to ensuring accountability and preserving public trust.

KHP trooper arrested on charge of DUI after hit and run in Hays

BELOIT, Kan. - Several Hutch Post-area student-athletes and coaches will be featured in the annual Eight-Man All-Star Football Games, set for Saturday at Trojan Football Stadium in Beloit.

The Kansas Eight-Man Football Association sponsors the event, which honors the top players from across the state in two showcase matchups. The Division II game will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the Division I contest at 1:30 p.m.

Among the local representatives, Victoria will be well represented in Division II. Cale Braun, Wyatt Griffin and Jeb Miller were selected to the West squad, and Aaron Dinkel will be the West head coach. Logan-Palco’s Rhett Kats and Caleb Sparks along with Wheatland-Grinnell’s Kaden Redburn are on the West team.

Ellis’ Caleb Noble and Trego’s Graeden Deines will play for the Division I West team along with Quinter’s Camden Polifka and Hill City’s Dayton Stephen. State champ Hoxie has three participants in Duncan Bell, Easton Nickelson and Sam Watkins. Hoxie’s Lance Baar is an assistant coach.

The Eight-Man All-Star Game tradition began in 1986 after a group of north central Kansas coaches came together to give recognition to athletes from the state’s smallest schools, many of whom were regularly overlooked for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. With support from similar associations in Nebraska and Oklahoma, the Kansas Eight-Man Football Association (KEMFA) was formed, and the first all-star game was played that summer.

The city of Beloit has served as the game’s permanent host site, with the annual event highlighting the excellence and legacy of eight-man football in Kansas.

Players reported to camp earlier this week to begin preparations.

Division I West • Caleb Noble, Ellis • Dayton Stephen, Hill City • Duncan Bell, Hoxie • Caleb Nickelson, Hoxie • Camden Polifka, Quinter • Graeden Deines, WaKeeney-Trego

Coaches • Lance Baar, Hoxie (West assistant)

Division I East • Dalton Garman, Osborne

East Team Kyler Bergkamp, Little River; Ruxton Birdsong, Little River; Cade Brokes, Sylvan-Lucas; Luke Budke, Chase County; Lucky Cherico, Sedan; Trent Haag, West Elk; Aiden Hekele, Central Plains; Dante Henley, Central-Burden; Eli Hurley, Central Plains; Josh Hutchinson, Oswego; Colton Isch, Madison; Creyo Koop, West Elk; Brodin Koch, Clifton-Clyde; Trextin Koch, Clifton-Clyde; Cooper McDill, Rock Hills; Rayden Myers, Oswego; Oliver Nobert, Clifton-Clyde; Logan Renken, Little River; Victor Ruiz-Torres, Ell-Saline; Jacob Tillberg, Ell-Saline.

Coaches – Derick Budke, Chase County (head); Colby Hamel, Lincoln; JD Johnson, Central Plains.

West Team Duncan Bell, Hoxie; Dorian Culwell, Rawlins County; Graeden Dienes, WaKeeney-Trego; Zac Hendrickson, South Gray; Khris Hermosillo, Wichita County; Alex Holguin, Meade; Cordell Jordan, Oxford; Zach Kraft, Kinsley; Damien Loewen, South Gray; Easton Nickelson, Hoxie; Caleb Noble, Ellis; Camden Polifka, Quinter; JT Prusa, South Central; Jase Rutherford, South Central; Jamie Sarmiento, South Central; Ryan Sramek, Rawlins County; Dayton Stephen, Hill City; Juan Tapia, Wichita County; Sam Watkins, Hoxie; Max Witham, Wichita County.

Coaches – Aaron Sramek, Rawlins County (head); Brett Westrup, South Central; Lance Baar, Hoxie.

Hays Post SportsBELOIT, Kan. - Several Hutch Post-area student-athletes and coaches will be featured in the annual Eight-Man All-Star Football Games, set for Saturday at Trojan Football Stadium in Beloit.The Kansas Eight-Man Football Association sponsors the event, which honors the top players from across the state in two showcase matchups. The Division II game will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the Division I contest at 1:30 p.m.Among the local representatives, Victoria will be well represented in Division II. Cale Braun, Wyatt Griffin and Jeb Miller were selected to the West squad, and Aaron Dinkel will be the West head coach. Logan-Palco’s Rhett Kats and Caleb Sparks along with Wheatland-Grinnell’s Kaden Redburn are on the West team.Ellis’ Caleb Noble and Trego’s Graeden Deines will play for the Division I West team along with Quinter’s Camden Polifka and Hill City’s Dayton Stephen. State champ Hoxie has three participants in Duncan Bell, Easton Nickelson and Sam Watkins. Hoxie’s Lance Baar is an assistant coach.The Eight-Man All-Star Game tradition began in 1986 after a group of north central Kansas coaches came together to give recognition to athletes from the state’s smallest schools, many of whom were regularly overlooked for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. With support from similar associations in Nebraska and Oklahoma, the Kansas Eight-Man Football Association (KEMFA) was formed, and the first all-star game was played that summer.The city of Beloit has served as the game’s permanent host site, with the annual event highlighting the excellence and legacy of eight-man football in Kansas.Players reported to camp earlier this week to begin preparations.<h2>Area Participants</h2>Division I West • Caleb Noble, Ellis • Dayton Stephen, Hill City • Duncan Bell, Hoxie • Caleb Nickelson, Hoxie • Camden Polifka, Quinter • Graeden Deines, WaKeeney-TregoCoaches • Lance Baar, Hoxie (West assistant)Division I East • Dalton Garman, Osborne<h2>Eight-Man All-Star Football Selections</h2>Division IEast Team Kyler Bergkamp, Little River; Ruxton Birdsong, Little River; Cade Brokes, Sylvan-Lucas; Luke Budke, Chase County; Lucky Cherico, Sedan; Trent Haag, West Elk; Aiden Hekele, Central Plains; Dante Henley, Central-Burden; Eli Hurley, Central Plains; Josh Hutchinson, Oswego; Colton Isch, Madison; Creyo Koop, West Elk; Brodin Koch, Clifton-Clyde; Trextin Koch, Clifton-Clyde; Cooper McDill, Rock Hills; Rayden Myers, Oswego; Oliver Nobert, Clifton-Clyde; Logan Renken, Little River; Victor Ruiz-Torres, Ell-Saline; Jacob Tillberg, Ell-Saline.Coaches – Derick Budke, Chase County (head); Colby Hamel, Lincoln; JD Johnson, Central Plains.West Team Duncan Bell, Hoxie; Dorian Culwell, Rawlins County; Graeden Dienes, WaKeeney-Trego; Zac Hendrickson, South Gray; Khris Hermosillo, Wichita County; Alex Holguin, Meade; Cordell Jordan, Oxford; Zach Kraft, Kinsley; Damien Loewen, South Gray; Easton Nickelson, Hoxie; Caleb Noble, Ellis; Camden Polifka, Quinter; JT Prusa, South Central; Jase Rutherford, South Central; Jamie Sarmiento, South Central; Ryan Sramek, Rawlins County; Dayton Stephen, Hill City; Juan Tapia, Wichita County; Sam Watkins, Hoxie; Max Witham, Wichita County.Coaches – Aaron Sramek, Rawlins County (head); Brett Westrup, South Central; Lance Baar, Hoxie.

🏈 Local athletes, coaches set for 8-Man All-Star Game in Beloit

"I can't think of anything more important to Kansas than water." That was the concluding statement of Rep. Jim Minnix, R-Scott City, chairman of the Kansas House Water Committee, who spoke at Tuesday's water summit in Hays.

Minnix, a farmer and former Scott County commissioner, was one of several speakers who addressed water industry professionals and state officials from across Kansas gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Minnix updated the audience on water-related legislation he's championed during his time in office and lamented the tightened 2025 state budget.&nbsp;

"The Kansas House has been working hard on water for the past five years," he said. "It doesn't happen fast." 

The state senate does not have a dedicated water committee.

During its 90-day session, the Kansas Legislature approved Substitute for House Bill&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/HB2172/" target="_blank">2172,</a>&nbsp;which establishes the Water Program Task Force to evaluate the state’s water program and its funding.&nbsp;The task force is also required to establish a water planning work group and submit a report to the legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly.

Minnix said all Kansans live or work "upstream and downstream from somebody. We're in this together."

There are an estimated 15 or so state agencies, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the federal Environmental Protection Agency that oversee water programs in Kansas. Minnix strongly supports Kelly's desire to create a single natural resources office and spend an additional $30 million each year to address the state's water crisis. 

Education, such as the research findings presented at the Know Water Summit, is an important component of helping Kansans understand the future of water quantity and quality in the Sunflower State.

Water conservation is a way of life in Hays, which was cited by numerous speakers for its leadership in the state.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b67d05b8-588a-43fe-9d91-32eb24d3a273">Outdoor watering restrictions</a> went into effect on June 1 and will continue through Sept. 30. Other restrictions are effective year-round.

There are 34 counties in Kansas with a population of more than 15,000 people. Thirty-three of those have adequate surface or groundwater supplies. Only Ellis County does not. The huge underground Ogallala Aquifer, which supports much of western Kansas, does not reach into Ellis County and is declining.&nbsp;

The average daily water use per Hays resident has continued to decrease, said Jeff Crispin, Hays water resources director.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We're at 78 gallons per person per day usage," he said.

The state average is 130 gallons per person, while the regional average is 172 gallons per person.

Hays also must consider water quality, given the city's urban area and the surrounding agricultural operations. Nitrates and phosphorus contaminants must be controlled, along with newer "forever chemicals" or PFAs (polyfluorooctane sulfonate) found in drinking water supplies and surface water across the United States.

"It's not only important for us to produce good water at the water treatment plant," Crispin said, "but also to clean it on the back end of things, such as the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/362/Water-Reclamation-Reuse">water reclamation and reuse facility</a>.&nbsp;

"We need to make sure we're sending the best quality water we can downstream for the next user. We take that very seriously."

The Know Water Summit, a Kansas State University 105 Initiative, was organized and moderated by Stacie Minson, WaKeeney, a K-State watershed specialist with Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watershed WRAPS. 

She also discussed testing to determine what is in private well water and irrigation systems. Private water wells are unregulated in Kansas.&nbsp;

Other speakers included Holly Dickman, city of Hays water conservation specialist along with representatives from the Western Kansas Research Extension Centers, Kansas Department of Health and Environment Water Bureau, Kansas State University, and the Kansas Rural Water Association.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749058433182.jpeg" alt="Rep. Jim Minnix, R-Scott City, chairman of the Kansas House Water Committee. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Jim Minnix, R-Scott City, chairman of the Kansas House Water Committee. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"I can't think of anything more important to Kansas than water." That was the concluding statement of Rep. Jim Minnix, R-Scott City, chairman of the Kansas House Water Committee, who spoke at Tuesday's water summit in Hays.Minnix, a farmer and former Scott County commissioner, was one of several speakers who addressed water industry professionals and state officials from across Kansas gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Minnix updated the audience on water-related legislation he's championed during his time in office and lamented the tightened 2025 state budget.&nbsp; "The Kansas House has been working hard on water for the past five years," he said. "It doesn't happen fast." The state senate does not have a dedicated water committee.During its 90-day session, the Kansas Legislature approved Substitute for House Bill&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/HB2172/" target="_blank">2172,</a>&nbsp;which establishes the Water Program Task Force to evaluate the state’s water program and its funding.&nbsp;The task force is also required to establish a water planning work group and submit a report to the legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly.Minnix said all Kansans live or work "upstream and downstream from somebody. We're in this together."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749058902950.jpeg" alt="2022 reported water use in Kansas counties compiled by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Water Resources." />
 <figcaption>2022 reported water use in Kansas counties compiled by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Water Resources.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are an estimated 15 or so state agencies, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the federal Environmental Protection Agency that oversee water programs in Kansas. Minnix strongly supports Kelly's desire to create a single natural resources office and spend an additional $30 million each year to address the state's water crisis. Education, such as the research findings presented at the Know Water Summit, is an important component of helping Kansans understand the future of water quantity and quality in the Sunflower State. Water conservation is a way of life in Hays, which was cited by numerous speakers for its leadership in the state.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b67d05b8-588a-43fe-9d91-32eb24d3a273">Outdoor watering restrictions</a> went into effect on June 1 and will continue through Sept. 30. Other restrictions are effective year-round.There are 34 counties in Kansas with a population of more than 15,000 people. Thirty-three of those have adequate surface or groundwater supplies. Only Ellis County does not. The huge underground Ogallala Aquifer, which supports much of western Kansas, does not reach into Ellis County and is declining.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749058599736.jpeg" alt="Information about Hays' water conservation programs was provided at one of the interactive water education booths. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Information about Hays' water conservation programs was provided at one of the interactive water education booths. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The average daily water use per Hays resident has continued to decrease, said Jeff Crispin, Hays water resources director.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We're at 78 gallons per person per day usage," he said.The state average is 130 gallons per person, while the regional average is 172 gallons per person.Hays also must consider water quality, given the city's urban area and the surrounding agricultural operations. Nitrates and phosphorus contaminants must be controlled, along with newer "forever chemicals" or PFAs (polyfluorooctane sulfonate) found in drinking water supplies and surface water across the United States."It's not only important for us to produce good water at the water treatment plant," Crispin said, "but also to clean it on the back end of things, such as the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/362/Water-Reclamation-Reuse">water reclamation and reuse facility</a>.&nbsp;"We need to make sure we're sending the best quality water we can downstream for the next user. We take that very seriously."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749058171922.jpeg" alt="Stacie Minson, WaKeeney, a K-State watershed specialist with Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watershed WRAPS talks about irrigation system checks in private water wells. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Stacie Minson, WaKeeney, a K-State watershed specialist with Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watershed WRAPS talks about irrigation system checks in private water wells. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Know Water Summit, a Kansas State University 105 Initiative, was organized and moderated by Stacie Minson, WaKeeney, a K-State watershed specialist with Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watershed WRAPS. She also discussed testing to determine what is in private well water and irrigation systems. Private water wells are unregulated in Kansas.&nbsp;Other speakers included Holly Dickman, city of Hays water conservation specialist along with representatives from the Western Kansas Research Extension Centers, Kansas Department of Health and Environment Water Bureau, Kansas State University, and the Kansas Rural Water Association.&nbsp;

Rep. Minnix: 'Water is most important issue in Kansas'

&nbsp;FHSU University Communications

Each year, Fort Hays State University’s W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship (RCOBE) honors exceptional faculty members for their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and student success.

The annual Faculty of the Year recognition highlights outstanding educators from each of the college’s four academic departments. The selection process is led by the Robbins Ambassador students, who gather nominations from business students and conduct surveys and interviews with finalists to determine the honorees.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Robbins Ambassadors, Jessica Saunders and Lauren Wagner, selected the following Faculty of the Year recipients:

• Dr. Ronald Christian, Department of Applied Business Studies • Dr. Christina Glenn, Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting • Dr. Christianna Pruden, Department of Management • Mr. Jason Zeller, Department of Informatics

“We are so lucky at the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship to have such great faculty,” Wagner said. “They work hard year after year to provide exceptional learning experiences, opportunities, and lasting connections with each student. The selection, interview, and awarding process are all hard calls as RCOBE has numerous deserving faculty.”

“This process was a great way to say, ‘thank you.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748970031259.png" alt="&nbsp;Ronald Christian, Christina Glenn, Christianna Pruden, Jason Zeller. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Ronald Christian, Christina Glenn, Christianna Pruden, Jason Zeller. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University CommunicationsEach year, Fort Hays State University’s W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship (RCOBE) honors exceptional faculty members for their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and student success.The annual Faculty of the Year recognition highlights outstanding educators from each of the college’s four academic departments. The selection process is led by the Robbins Ambassador students, who gather nominations from business students and conduct surveys and interviews with finalists to determine the honorees.For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Robbins Ambassadors, Jessica Saunders and Lauren Wagner, selected the following Faculty of the Year recipients:• Dr. Ronald Christian, Department of Applied Business Studies • Dr. Christina Glenn, Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting • Dr. Christianna Pruden, Department of Management • Mr. Jason Zeller, Department of Informatics“We are so lucky at the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship to have such great faculty,” Wagner said. “They work hard year after year to provide exceptional learning experiences, opportunities, and lasting connections with each student. The selection, interview, and awarding process are all hard calls as RCOBE has numerous deserving faculty.”“This process was a great way to say, ‘thank you.’”

FHSU Robbins College of Business, Entrepreneurship names faculty honorees

This time of year, our lakes are buzzing with activity....boats launched, jet skis revving with excitement, and campers pulling into their favorite spots—ready for a season of summer fun.

We spend time getting our boats tuned up and campers stocked for weekend getaways.

But one thing we never plan for are those sudden summer storms that roll in fast and fierce. Strong wind gusts can knock jet skis clean off the trailer, or tree limbs can crash down on the roof of campers.

Take one more important step...insure your boat, jet ski and camper with Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid in Hays.

With proper coverage on your personal watercraft, camper, or boat, you won't be left high and dry with a huge repair bill.

Claims are handled quickly, so you can be back on the water very soon—less worried, and more focused on making memories.

Call or stop by Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid at 2703 Hall in Hays.

It’s important to review your policies before summer kicks into full swing.

Whether you’re hauling a camper to Cedar Bluff, launching your boat for a lazy Sunday float at Wilson, or racing across the lake on a jet ski at Webster, make sure you're protected.

It only takes a few minutes to check in—and it could save you thousands.

Farmers Insurance Agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid, 2703 Hall in Hays. 785-261-0766

<a target="_blank" href="https://agents.farmers.com/ks/hays/chelsy-proehl-kofoid/">https://agents.farmers.com/ks/hays/chelsy-proehl-kofoid/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748882498258.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748882453510.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This time of year, our lakes are buzzing with activity....boats launched, jet skis revving with excitement, and campers pulling into their favorite spots—ready for a season of summer fun.We spend time getting our boats tuned up and campers stocked for weekend getaways.But one thing we never plan for are those sudden summer storms that roll in fast and fierce. Strong wind gusts can knock jet skis clean off the trailer, or tree limbs can crash down on the roof of campers.Take one more important step...insure your boat, jet ski and camper with Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid in Hays.With proper coverage on your personal watercraft, camper, or boat, you won't be left high and dry with a huge repair bill.Claims are handled quickly, so you can be back on the water very soon—less worried, and more focused on making memories.Call or stop by Farmers Insurance agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid at 2703 Hall in Hays.It’s important to review your policies before summer kicks into full swing.Whether you’re hauling a camper to Cedar Bluff, launching your boat for a lazy Sunday float at Wilson, or racing across the lake on a jet ski at Webster, make sure you're protected.It only takes a few minutes to check in—and it could save you thousands.Farmers Insurance Agent Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid, 2703 Hall in Hays. 785-261-0766<a target="_blank" href="https://agents.farmers.com/ks/hays/chelsy-proehl-kofoid/">https://agents.farmers.com/ks/hays/chelsy-proehl-kofoid/</a>

⚾ Baker leads Larks to win in season opener

The Hays Larks open the 2025 season on the road against the Dodge City&nbsp;A’s at Cavalier Field in Dodge City.

The Larks are coming off winning their first NBC World Series title in program history.

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

You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJXdFHkub4g">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 open the 2025 season on the road against the Dodge City&nbsp;A’s at Cavalier Field in Dodge City.The Larks are coming off winning their first NBC World Series title in program history.First pitch is set for&nbsp;for 7 p.m at Larks Park.You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJXdFHkub4g">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 travel to Dodge City

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Highlighted by a marquee home matchup with UConn, a trip to North Carolina and an appearance at Madison Square Garden against Duke, Kansas men's basketball on Wednesday announced its loaded non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

Additionally, KU will also face power conference foes Missouri and NC State and three more top programs in the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas.

Kansas will host a total of 16 games inside historic Allen Fieldhouse in 2025-26, including six non-conference matchups (Green Bay, Texas A&amp;M Corpus Christi, Princeton, UConn, Towson and Davidson). Season ticket renewal information for the 2025-26 season is available online by clicking here or by getting in touch with your account representative. Those interested in purchasing new season tickets can fill out a form here to be contacted by a ticket representative.

"Once again we have a non-conference schedule that should be one of the most challenging non-conference schedules that anyone will play," KU head coach Bill Self said. "We have a home game against UConn game in early December, away matchups at North Carolina and NC State and neutral games Duke in the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden, the three games at the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas, and another with Missouri in Kansas City. Those, along with the Big 12 competition, make this a very tough and demanding schedule. Our non-conference slate should certainly prepare us for what will be considered another great Big 12 season."

Kansas will open the season at ACC foe Louisville in an exhibition game on Friday, Oct. 24, at the KFC Yum! Center. KU will then host Fort Hays State in an exhibition contest on Tuesday, Oct. 28 in Allen Fieldhouse.

The Jayhawks will open regular season play on Monday, Nov. 3 against Green Bay. Four days later, Kansas will play at fellow blue blood North Carolina on Friday, Nov. 7. This will be the third meeting between the two schools since 2022 with KU claiming the last two contests – 72-69 in the 2022 NCAA title game and 92-89 in Allen Fieldhouse last November.

KU then returns home for a pair of contests against Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Tuesday, Nov. 11 and Princeton on Saturday, Nov. 15.

Kansas and Duke will square off in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, Nov. 18 in New York City at historic Madison Square Garden. Since 2020, KU has won its last five Champions Classic contests. In fact, beginning in 2016, KU has won eight of its last nine Champions Classic battles.

Kansas will make its debut in the Players Era, Nov. 24-27, in Las Vegas. KU will play three games in the event with details and opponents for the Players Era to be announced later.

On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Kansas returns home to host UConn for the second time in the past three seasons. These two powers have won three of the last four NCAA National Championships with KU in 2022 and UConn in 2023 and 2024.

In the last meeting, then-No. 5 Kansas defeated then-No. 4 UConn, 69-65, on Dec. 1, 2023, in Allen Fieldhouse.

Kansas will face Border Showdown foe Missouri on Sunday, Dec. 7 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, and will then travel to NC State on Saturday, Dec. 13, in a return game from last season where KU defeated NC State, 75-60, on Dec. 14, in Allen Fieldhouse.

Kansas closes out non-conference play hosting Towson on Tuesday, Dec. 16, and Davidson on Monday, Dec. 22.

Specific dates and times for the Big 12's 18-game league schedule, along with television details will be announced later. The Big 12 Championship will be March 10-14 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, with NCAA Tournament Selection Sunday set for March 15.

In 2024-25, Kansas ranked 12th in NCAA Division I in strength of schedule, marking the 18th time under head coach Bill Self that the Jayhawks have recorded a top 20 toughest schedule in the nation with 14 of those in the top 10, and 10 in the top three.

Kansas Men's Basketball 2025-26 Schedule (Home games in ALL CAPS; Times and TV to be announced later) Oct. 24 (Fri.) – at Louisville (Exhibition) Oct. 28 (Tue.) – FORT HAYS STATE (EXHIBITION) Nov. 3 (Mon.) – GREEN BAY Nov. 7 (Fri.) – at North Carolina Nov. 11 (Tue.) – TEXAS A&amp;M-CORPUS CHRISTI Nov. 15 (Sat.) – PRINCETON Nov. 18 (Tue.) – vs. Duke (Champions Classic, New York City) Nov. 24-27 (Mon.-Thurs.) – at Players Era (Las Vegas) Dec. 2 (Tue.) – CONNECTICUT Dec. 7 (Sun.) – vs. Missouri (Kansas City, Mo.) Dec. 13 (Sat.) – at NC State Dec. 16 (Tue.) – TOWSON Dec. 22 (Mon.) - DAVIDSON

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749071018878.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. – Highlighted by a marquee home matchup with UConn, a trip to North Carolina and an appearance at Madison Square Garden against Duke, Kansas men's basketball on Wednesday announced its loaded non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season.Additionally, KU will also face power conference foes Missouri and NC State and three more top programs in the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas.Kansas will host a total of 16 games inside historic Allen Fieldhouse in 2025-26, including six non-conference matchups (Green Bay, Texas A&amp;M Corpus Christi, Princeton, UConn, Towson and Davidson). Season ticket renewal information for the 2025-26 season is available online by clicking here or by getting in touch with your account representative. Those interested in purchasing new season tickets can fill out a form here to be contacted by a ticket representative."Once again we have a non-conference schedule that should be one of the most challenging non-conference schedules that anyone will play," KU head coach Bill Self said. "We have a home game against UConn game in early December, away matchups at North Carolina and NC State and neutral games Duke in the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden, the three games at the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas, and another with Missouri in Kansas City. Those, along with the Big 12 competition, make this a very tough and demanding schedule. Our non-conference slate should certainly prepare us for what will be considered another great Big 12 season."Kansas will open the season at ACC foe Louisville in an exhibition game on Friday, Oct. 24, at the KFC Yum! Center. KU will then host Fort Hays State in an exhibition contest on Tuesday, Oct. 28 in Allen Fieldhouse.The Jayhawks will open regular season play on Monday, Nov. 3 against Green Bay. Four days later, Kansas will play at fellow blue blood North Carolina on Friday, Nov. 7. This will be the third meeting between the two schools since 2022 with KU claiming the last two contests – 72-69 in the 2022 NCAA title game and 92-89 in Allen Fieldhouse last November.KU then returns home for a pair of contests against Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Tuesday, Nov. 11 and Princeton on Saturday, Nov. 15.Kansas and Duke will square off in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, Nov. 18 in New York City at historic Madison Square Garden. Since 2020, KU has won its last five Champions Classic contests. In fact, beginning in 2016, KU has won eight of its last nine Champions Classic battles.Kansas will make its debut in the Players Era, Nov. 24-27, in Las Vegas. KU will play three games in the event with details and opponents for the Players Era to be announced later.On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Kansas returns home to host UConn for the second time in the past three seasons. These two powers have won three of the last four NCAA National Championships with KU in 2022 and UConn in 2023 and 2024.In the last meeting, then-No. 5 Kansas defeated then-No. 4 UConn, 69-65, on Dec. 1, 2023, in Allen Fieldhouse.Kansas will face Border Showdown foe Missouri on Sunday, Dec. 7 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, and will then travel to NC State on Saturday, Dec. 13, in a return game from last season where KU defeated NC State, 75-60, on Dec. 14, in Allen Fieldhouse.Kansas closes out non-conference play hosting Towson on Tuesday, Dec. 16, and Davidson on Monday, Dec. 22.Specific dates and times for the Big 12's 18-game league schedule, along with television details will be announced later. The Big 12 Championship will be March 10-14 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, with NCAA Tournament Selection Sunday set for March 15.In 2024-25, Kansas ranked 12th in NCAA Division I in strength of schedule, marking the 18th time under head coach Bill Self that the Jayhawks have recorded a top 20 toughest schedule in the nation with 14 of those in the top 10, and 10 in the top three.Kansas Men's Basketball 2025-26 Schedule (Home games in ALL CAPS; Times and TV to be announced later) Oct. 24 (Fri.) – at Louisville (Exhibition) Oct. 28 (Tue.) – FORT HAYS STATE (EXHIBITION) Nov. 3 (Mon.) – GREEN BAY Nov. 7 (Fri.) – at North Carolina Nov. 11 (Tue.) – TEXAS A&amp;M-CORPUS CHRISTI Nov. 15 (Sat.) – PRINCETON Nov. 18 (Tue.) – vs. Duke (Champions Classic, New York City) Nov. 24-27 (Mon.-Thurs.) – at Players Era (Las Vegas) Dec. 2 (Tue.) – CONNECTICUT Dec. 7 (Sun.) – vs. Missouri (Kansas City, Mo.) Dec. 13 (Sat.) – at NC State Dec. 16 (Tue.) – TOWSON Dec. 22 (Mon.) - DAVIDSON

🏀 KU unveils challenging non-conference slate

Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:

Open a browser on your mobile device and visit the website at <a href="https://hayspost.com">https://hayspost.com</a>.&nbsp; Add it to the Home screen on your mobile device for the best possible experience.&nbsp; Here’s a screenshot that shows you how:<figure>
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How to get full Hays Post experience on your mobile

Hilda Leona (Baum) Jacobs age 90, of Gorham, Kansas, passed
away on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Wheatland Nursing Center Russell, Kansas.

She was born on June 21, 1934, in Susank, Kansas, to Andrew
and Catherine (Schmidt) Baum.&nbsp; Hilda married Donald Jacobs on October 17,
1955, at Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on May 26, 2002.

She was a homemaker, and worked a number of years for
LeReich Bridal.&nbsp; Hilda was a member of Saint Mary’s Help of Christians
Catholic Church, served on the church parish council, served on the township
election board, and was a member of the Gorham Daughters of Isabella, where she
held numerous offices, and helped with many funeral dinners.

Hilda grew up north of Gorham and attended Gorham Schools,
and was a 1952 graduate of Gorham Rural High School.

She enjoyed many social activities, playing cards, attending
her children’s school activities, gardening, traveling, and shopping.&nbsp; She
also enjoyed spending time with her local friends, celebrating their birthday
lunches or taking day trips.&nbsp; Above all, she liked spending time with her
immediate family and her many siblings and their families.

Hilda is survived by her children, Kimberly Pratt and
husband, Wayne, Gorham, KS; Belinda Goodheart and husband, Tim, Overland Park,
KS; Donovan Jacobs and wife, Tammy, Hays, KS; her grandchildren, Tracy Orndoff
(Shawn); Aaron Pratt; Connor Jacobs; her great grandchildren, Chase, Jarah and
Lane Orndoff; Alex and Evie Pratt; her brother, Jake Baum, Kingsville, MO; her
sister, Lydia Kaufman and husband, Gary, Great Bend, KS; her sister-in-law,
Carol Jacobs, Mead, CO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and
Catherine Baum; her husband, Donald Jacobs; her son, Jeffrey Jacobs; her
brothers, Leo Baum; Edward Baum; Kenny Baum; Emil Baum; George Baum; her
sisters, Helen Wolford; Mary Mermis; Josephine Shreve; Rosie Thompson; Margaret
Bissett and Viola Brown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday,
June 9, 2025, at St Mary’s Help of Christian Catholic Church, Gorham, Kansas
with Celebrant, Father Damian Richards.

Burial will be in Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Gorham, Kansas.

A Gorham Daughter of Isabella rosary will be at 6:30 P.M.
Sunday, at the church.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday,
and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Monday, at the church.

The family suggests memorials made payable to: Saint Mary’s
Catholic Church or Saint Mary’s Cemetery Fund in care of Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748976190658.jpeg" alt="Hilda Leona (Baum) Jacobs" />
 <figcaption>Hilda Leona (Baum) Jacobs</figcaption>
 </figure>Hilda Leona (Baum) Jacobs age 90, of Gorham, Kansas, passed
away on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Wheatland Nursing Center Russell, Kansas.She was born on June 21, 1934, in Susank, Kansas, to Andrew
and Catherine (Schmidt) Baum.&nbsp; Hilda married Donald Jacobs on October 17,
1955, at Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on May 26, 2002.She was a homemaker, and worked a number of years for
LeReich Bridal.&nbsp; Hilda was a member of Saint Mary’s Help of Christians
Catholic Church, served on the church parish council, served on the township
election board, and was a member of the Gorham Daughters of Isabella, where she
held numerous offices, and helped with many funeral dinners.Hilda grew up north of Gorham and attended Gorham Schools,
and was a 1952 graduate of Gorham Rural High School.She enjoyed many social activities, playing cards, attending
her children’s school activities, gardening, traveling, and shopping.&nbsp; She
also enjoyed spending time with her local friends, celebrating their birthday
lunches or taking day trips.&nbsp; Above all, she liked spending time with her
immediate family and her many siblings and their families.Hilda is survived by her children, Kimberly Pratt and
husband, Wayne, Gorham, KS; Belinda Goodheart and husband, Tim, Overland Park,
KS; Donovan Jacobs and wife, Tammy, Hays, KS; her grandchildren, Tracy Orndoff
(Shawn); Aaron Pratt; Connor Jacobs; her great grandchildren, Chase, Jarah and
Lane Orndoff; Alex and Evie Pratt; her brother, Jake Baum, Kingsville, MO; her
sister, Lydia Kaufman and husband, Gary, Great Bend, KS; her sister-in-law,
Carol Jacobs, Mead, CO.She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and
Catherine Baum; her husband, Donald Jacobs; her son, Jeffrey Jacobs; her
brothers, Leo Baum; Edward Baum; Kenny Baum; Emil Baum; George Baum; her
sisters, Helen Wolford; Mary Mermis; Josephine Shreve; Rosie Thompson; Margaret
Bissett and Viola Brown.A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday,
June 9, 2025, at St Mary’s Help of Christian Catholic Church, Gorham, Kansas
with Celebrant, Father Damian Richards.Burial will be in Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Gorham, Kansas.A Gorham Daughter of Isabella rosary will be at 6:30 P.M.
Sunday, at the church.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday,
and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Monday, at the church.The family suggests memorials made payable to: Saint Mary’s
Catholic Church or Saint Mary’s Cemetery Fund in care of Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

Hilda Leona (Baum) Jacobs

Reta
Ann (Vacura) Barratt passed away Monday June 2, 2025 at Kearney Regional
Medical Center in Kearney, Nebraska, at the age of 78.&nbsp; She was born
October 22, 1946 in Oberlin, Kansas to Frank and Margaret (Krizek) Vacura.

Reta
was raised on a farm in Custer Township, southeast of Oberlin.&nbsp; She
attended Dresden Consolidated School and graduated from Decatur Community High
School in 1964.

On
February 21, 1965 Reta married her high school sweetheart, Don Barratt, in
Oberlin.&nbsp; Together they raised three daughters and were blessed with two
grandchildren.

Reta
was a homemaker and dedicated farmers wife.&nbsp; She enjoyed time with family
and friends, gardening, baking, and listening to George Strait music. Reta was
a kind, generous woman who will always be remembered for her caring heart.

Survivors
include three daughters: Krystal Barratt of McCook, NE, Laci Larkins of Hays,
KS and Amber Barratt of Hays, KS; two grandchildren: Riley and Tayler; two
sisters: Marcella Capps of Tulsa, OK and Pat (Rod) Fringer of Oberlin, KS, in
addition to other relatives and friends.

She
was preceded in death by her husband, Don Barratt; parents: Frank and Margaret
Vacura; father-in-law: Robert Barratt; mother-in-law: Josephine (Fields)
Barratt; son-in-law: Jesse Larkins; and brother-in-law Allen Capps.

Funeral
service will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in
Oberlin, KS at 2:00PM.&nbsp; Visitation will be on Thursday, June 5, at the
funeral home from 1:00-7:00PM with family receiving guests from
5:00-7:00PM.&nbsp; Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorial
contributions can be made to the Decatur County Hospital or Kearney Regional
Medical Center.&nbsp; Condolences can be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com">www.plumergobber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749067357204.jpeg" alt="Reta Ann (Vacura) Barratt&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Reta Ann (Vacura) Barratt&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Reta
Ann (Vacura) Barratt passed away Monday June 2, 2025 at Kearney Regional
Medical Center in Kearney, Nebraska, at the age of 78.&nbsp; She was born
October 22, 1946 in Oberlin, Kansas to Frank and Margaret (Krizek) Vacura.Reta
was raised on a farm in Custer Township, southeast of Oberlin.&nbsp; She
attended Dresden Consolidated School and graduated from Decatur Community High
School in 1964.On
February 21, 1965 Reta married her high school sweetheart, Don Barratt, in
Oberlin.&nbsp; Together they raised three daughters and were blessed with two
grandchildren.Reta
was a homemaker and dedicated farmers wife.&nbsp; She enjoyed time with family
and friends, gardening, baking, and listening to George Strait music. Reta was
a kind, generous woman who will always be remembered for her caring heart.Survivors
include three daughters: Krystal Barratt of McCook, NE, Laci Larkins of Hays,
KS and Amber Barratt of Hays, KS; two grandchildren: Riley and Tayler; two
sisters: Marcella Capps of Tulsa, OK and Pat (Rod) Fringer of Oberlin, KS, in
addition to other relatives and friends.She
was preceded in death by her husband, Don Barratt; parents: Frank and Margaret
Vacura; father-in-law: Robert Barratt; mother-in-law: Josephine (Fields)
Barratt; son-in-law: Jesse Larkins; and brother-in-law Allen Capps.Funeral
service will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in
Oberlin, KS at 2:00PM.&nbsp; Visitation will be on Thursday, June 5, at the
funeral home from 1:00-7:00PM with family receiving guests from
5:00-7:00PM.&nbsp; Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorial
contributions can be made to the Decatur County Hospital or Kearney Regional
Medical Center.&nbsp; Condolences can be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com">www.plumergobber.com</a>.

Reta Ann (Vacura) Barratt 

Ida Mae (Hamel)
LeSage age 95, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Pinnacle Park
Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Salina, Kansas.

She was born on
January 26, 1930, on the family farm four miles north of Damar, Kansas to Alex and Elsie
(Thibault) Hamel and was the youngest of 16 sixteen children. Dr. Peterson, who
delivered Ida Mae later delivered three of her children, Mark, Alan and Denise.

At age six, Ida
Mae attended a country school near their farm for only one year.&nbsp; She then
rode the school bus to
Damar where she was taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph and graduated from
Damar High
School.&nbsp; She often recounted that, being the youngest in the family, she
was the target of many pranks,
especially from brothers Jack and Willie.

Her father, Alex,
died in January of 1940 before her tenth birthday, and the family (Elsie, Jack, Willie, and Ida
Mae) then moved to a house in Damar in 1941.&nbsp; Ida Mae often babysat for
her many nieces, nephews,
and cousins during her adolescent years.

Ida Mae met Dean
LeSage at a baseball game at Damar, and they soon discovered that they shared a birthday on
January 26.&nbsp; They were married on July 26, 1951, in Damar and settled on a
farm ten miles north of
Damar.&nbsp; Dean preceded her in death on May 17, 2014.&nbsp; They had seven
children.&nbsp;.

After retiring
from farming, Dean and Ida Mae moved to Hays in 1985 where she volunteered at the ARC Thrift
Shop for over 25 years.

While in Hays,
Ida Mae spent her free time visiting with friends, playing dominos, puzzling, weekly bingo and
making frequent trips to Walmart. She occasionally went on horse trail rides
with Dean. Ida Mae
especially enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and reminiscing with
lifelong friends.&nbsp; Her final three weeks were spent at the Pinnacle Park
Nursing Home in Salina.

Ida is survived
by her seven children: Mark LeSage and Sue, Stockton, KS; Alan LeSage and Nyla, Salina, KS;
Leon LeSage and Michelle, Pretty Prairie, KS; Les LeSage and Connie, Winchester, VA;
Denise Goetz and John, Wichita, KS; Renee Oliphant and Doug, Olathe, KS; Deanna LeSage,
Victoria, KS; and her sister-in-law, Antionette Hamel, Hill, City, KS; her grandchildren,
Tiffany LeSage; Jessica LeFort; Tyson LeSage; Preston LeSage; Parker LeSage;
Skye King; Matthew
Goetz; Maria Devaney; Scott Oliphant; Travis Oliphant; Nicole Oliphant; Sydney Ware; Sawyer
LeSage; and her 22 great grandchildren.

She was preceded
in death by her husband Dean, her eleven brothers: Francis, Edmond, Albert, Arthur, Bernard,
Alphonse, Louis, Emery, Oliver, Jasper, and Wilfred, and her four sisters: Alma Waldron, Lucille
Thomie, Edna Haag, and Olive Hamel.

A Mass of
Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, June 6, 2025, at Saint Joseph
Catholic Church, 13th and
Ash, Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet. 

The burial will
be 1:30 P.M. Friday, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney, Kansas.

A vigil service
and rosary will be at 7:00 P.M. Thursday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

Visitation will
be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, at the Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays
and from 9:00 to
10:00 A.M. Friday, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church.

The family
suggests memorials made payable to: DSNWK for the Victoria, Kansas group home or Saint Joseph
Catholic Church in Damar, Kansas in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; &nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749057297385.jpeg" alt="Ida Mae (Hamel) LeSage" />
 <figcaption>Ida Mae (Hamel) LeSage</figcaption>
 </figure>Ida Mae (Hamel)
LeSage age 95, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Pinnacle Park
Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Salina, Kansas.She was born on
January 26, 1930, on the family farm four miles north of Damar, Kansas to Alex and Elsie
(Thibault) Hamel and was the youngest of 16 sixteen children. Dr. Peterson, who
delivered Ida Mae later delivered three of her children, Mark, Alan and Denise.At age six, Ida
Mae attended a country school near their farm for only one year.&nbsp; She then
rode the school bus to
Damar where she was taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph and graduated from
Damar High
School.&nbsp; She often recounted that, being the youngest in the family, she
was the target of many pranks,
especially from brothers Jack and Willie.Her father, Alex,
died in January of 1940 before her tenth birthday, and the family (Elsie, Jack, Willie, and Ida
Mae) then moved to a house in Damar in 1941.&nbsp; Ida Mae often babysat for
her many nieces, nephews,
and cousins during her adolescent years.Ida Mae met Dean
LeSage at a baseball game at Damar, and they soon discovered that they shared a birthday on
January 26.&nbsp; They were married on July 26, 1951, in Damar and settled on a
farm ten miles north of
Damar.&nbsp; Dean preceded her in death on May 17, 2014.&nbsp; They had seven
children.&nbsp;.After retiring
from farming, Dean and Ida Mae moved to Hays in 1985 where she volunteered at the ARC Thrift
Shop for over 25 years.While in Hays,
Ida Mae spent her free time visiting with friends, playing dominos, puzzling, weekly bingo and
making frequent trips to Walmart. She occasionally went on horse trail rides
with Dean. Ida Mae
especially enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and reminiscing with
lifelong friends.&nbsp; Her final three weeks were spent at the Pinnacle Park
Nursing Home in Salina.Ida is survived
by her seven children: Mark LeSage and Sue, Stockton, KS; Alan LeSage and Nyla, Salina, KS;
Leon LeSage and Michelle, Pretty Prairie, KS; Les LeSage and Connie, Winchester, VA;
Denise Goetz and John, Wichita, KS; Renee Oliphant and Doug, Olathe, KS; Deanna LeSage,
Victoria, KS; and her sister-in-law, Antionette Hamel, Hill, City, KS; her grandchildren,
Tiffany LeSage; Jessica LeFort; Tyson LeSage; Preston LeSage; Parker LeSage;
Skye King; Matthew
Goetz; Maria Devaney; Scott Oliphant; Travis Oliphant; Nicole Oliphant; Sydney Ware; Sawyer
LeSage; and her 22 great grandchildren.She was preceded
in death by her husband Dean, her eleven brothers: Francis, Edmond, Albert, Arthur, Bernard,
Alphonse, Louis, Emery, Oliver, Jasper, and Wilfred, and her four sisters: Alma Waldron, Lucille
Thomie, Edna Haag, and Olive Hamel.A Mass of
Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, June 6, 2025, at Saint Joseph
Catholic Church, 13th and
Ash, Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet. The burial will
be 1:30 P.M. Friday, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney, Kansas.A vigil service
and rosary will be at 7:00 P.M. Thursday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.Visitation will
be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, at the Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays
and from 9:00 to
10:00 A.M. Friday, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church.The family
suggests memorials made payable to: DSNWK for the Victoria, Kansas group home or Saint Joseph
Catholic Church in Damar, Kansas in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; &nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Ida Mae (Hamel) LeSage

Fireworks can be discharged in unincorporated areas of the county on and before Independence Day.

On Tuesday, the Ellis County Commission approved fireworks discharge times from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. from July 2 to 4, aligning with the City of Hays’ schedule to make enforcement easier.

The city of Ellis allows discharge from July 3 to 4, and the city of Victoria only allows it on July 4.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748631073672.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFireworks can be discharged in unincorporated areas of the county on and before Independence Day.On Tuesday, the Ellis County Commission approved fireworks discharge times from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. from July 2 to 4, aligning with the City of Hays’ schedule to make enforcement easier.The city of Ellis allows discharge from July 3 to 4, and the city of Victoria only allows it on July 4.&nbsp;

Ellis County sets fireworks discharge rules

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 </figure>Hays Larks

Hays Larks baseball camps on the field during June

On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Brian Weimer and Tiffany Zimmerman about insuring boats and RVS.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: IPI - Boat, RV, Camper Coverage" 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=qgzxv-18c8583-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney talks with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executive Brian Weimer and Tiffany Zimmerman about insuring boats and RVS.

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning on insuring your boat, RV

Reporter Cristina Janney discusses the new Chamber in Hays Workforce Development Committee with Leigh Purdy with the Chamber and Ben Shears with Fort Hays State University on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: The Chamber" 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=gmy64-18c6c33-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 discusses the new Chamber in Hays Workforce Development Committee with Leigh Purdy with the Chamber and Ben Shears with Fort Hays State University on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Chamber in Hays discusses new Workforce Development Committee

The county administrator said the county is within .01 mill of last year as of its draft budget presented on Tuesday.

To keep the mill levy stable, commissioners would need to cut about $100,000 out of the county budget,&nbsp;Darin Myers, county administrator, said as he reviewed a draft of the budget with county commissioners on Tuesday.

County officials are projecting $30.43 million in general fund revenue and $33.33 million in expenditures, an increase from 2025.

The county is waiting for the final assessed valuation from the appraiser.

"This is very preliminary, but the good news is the budget came in at a point where it's not as concerning as originally thought," Myers said.

Myers said the proposed 2026 budget slightly exceeds the revenue-neutral rate, and to stay within the revenue-neutral rate, the county would need to cut about $750,000 from the budget.

Myers said Ellis County has the 13th lowest mill levy in Kansas.&nbsp;

The cash carryover was $4.3 million last year compared to $4.8 million this year, which Myers said will be positive for property taxes.

The current draft includes an estimated 7% increase in health insurance costs. The actual renewal rates will not be determined until after the final budget adoption in September.

Items in the 2026 Ellis County Budget draft include:

• Step wage increase for county employees with a possible cost of living increase mid-year • $1.6 million to the highway fund for road and bridge projects. • Continued funding for the asphalt road maintenance program. • Funding for staff development to attend a Certified Public Manager Course through KU. • Continued transfers to reserves for capital projects. • Finalization of a plan to absorb 911 communications positions from the city of Hays

The commission heard from a few outside agencies and will hear from more at the June 10 meeting. Myers said about 18 agencies have submitted their funding requests to the Ellis County Care Council, which will review them and likely provide recommendations before the end of July.

Some items that are not currently in the first draft budget but the commission has expressed interest in considering include:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748874047174.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe county administrator said the county is within .01 mill of last year as of its draft budget presented on Tuesday.To keep the mill levy stable, commissioners would need to cut about $100,000 out of the county budget,&nbsp;Darin Myers, county administrator, said as he reviewed a draft of the budget with county commissioners on Tuesday.County officials are projecting $30.43 million in general fund revenue and $33.33 million in expenditures, an increase from 2025.The county is waiting for the final assessed valuation from the appraiser."This is very preliminary, but the good news is the budget came in at a point where it's not as concerning as originally thought," Myers said.Myers said the proposed 2026 budget slightly exceeds the revenue-neutral rate, and to stay within the revenue-neutral rate, the county would need to cut about $750,000 from the budget.Myers said Ellis County has the 13th lowest mill levy in Kansas.&nbsp;The cash carryover was $4.3 million last year compared to $4.8 million this year, which Myers said will be positive for property taxes.The current draft includes an estimated 7% increase in health insurance costs. The actual renewal rates will not be determined until after the final budget adoption in September.Items in the 2026 Ellis County Budget draft include:• Step wage increase for county employees with a possible cost of living increase mid-year • $1.6 million to the highway fund for road and bridge projects. • Continued funding for the asphalt road maintenance program. • Funding for staff development to attend a Certified Public Manager Course through KU. • Continued transfers to reserves for capital projects. • Finalization of a plan to absorb 911 communications positions from the city of HaysThe commission heard from a few outside agencies and will hear from more at the June 10 meeting. Myers said about 18 agencies have submitted their funding requests to the Ellis County Care Council, which will review them and likely provide recommendations before the end of July.Some items that are not currently in the first draft budget but the commission has expressed interest in considering include:• Funding for the law enforcement center remodel after the Hays Police Department moves into their new facility in August 2026. • Price increase request from the contract attorneys for the Ellis County District Court. • Funding for IT infrastructure for upgrades in the 911 communications center. • Staffing requests to change the sheriff's office from 8 to 12 hour shifts and adding one additional EMT medic per shift for EMSThe biggest increase in the fire district budget is due to higher insurance costs. Myers said this is because the county must insure both active fire trucks and those still being built.The 2026 solid waste budget is balanced, and no rate increases are planned for municipal waste, Myers said.Commissioner Michael Berges said even though the commission now has a clearer picture of the draft budget, there will be tough financial decisions to make due to state and federal funding cuts to local agencies."I think this is going to be our toughest budget out of the three that I've been through for various reasons," Berges said, "but I appreciate what we have to start here today."<h2>DSNWK budget requests</h2>Commissioners heard from DSNWK President Jerry Michaud about the 2026 fiscal year budget requests for three of the disability services organization's programs.The commission provided $250,000 in 2024 and 2025. The nonprofit is asking for the same amount despite a local funding gap. Michaud said the agency faces ongoing staffing challenges, with 27 open positions, 12 of which are in Ellis County.<h2>Other business</h2>The commission reappointed Eugene Rupp as County Appraiser for a new four-year term starting July 1. Rupp was appointed in December 2023 to finish the term of former appraiser Lisa Ree.The commission was notified of two upcoming vacancies on the Planning &amp; Zoning and Library Boards due to members moving out of the county. Myers announced the openings and invited interested residents to apply <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/494/Citizen-Interest---Volunteer">here</a>.Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, provided an update on ongoing projects and economic development initiatives across Ellis County, such as the Heart of America Development.The commission also approved a new job description for an assistant county attorney in training position.