By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Hays residents lined Vine Street Sunday in silent prayer, holding signs united by a single message: choose life.

The 2025 National Life Chain opened with a prayer service at St. Joseph Cemetery. Fr. Nick Parker of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church led the service, reading scripture and highlighting God’s intimate creation of each person.

"It's a wonderful witness that we have today, where we are able to show our love for the born, the unborn, the young, the old, and let people know that they are truly children of God," he said.

The annual event is a peaceful, hour-long demonstration held on the first Sunday of October, where church members and congregations gather to express their stance on abortion publicly.

Parker encouraged attendees to demonstrate compassion and peace rather than anger or judgment, emphasizing the importance of love for all people.

Alicia Knight, an organizer, described the Life Chain as a public expression of faith meant to connect with others and encourage support for the movement.

"There is a large community that is pro-life that believes in the right to life. From natural conception to natural death," she said. "It should also encourage those who have chosen abortion, for them to feel mercy and love for any decision that they made, and that they are welcomed here too."

Knight said anyone who has had an abortion or is pregnant and seeking support can reach out to <a href="https://ccnks.org/">Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas</a> or <a href="https://www.rachelsvineyard.org/">Rachel's Vineyard</a>, which its website describes as a place to “renew, rebuild and redeem hearts broken by abortion.”

Chase and Julie Berg said they believe it is important to raise awareness about what they consider the "tragedy of abortion."

"If we can't protect our citizens at the most vulnerable state of life, then why does anybody think they're going to be protected in the U.S.?" Chase said.

"The opposing side can be very loud. It's important to show that we're here, respectful, and we want to show up with love and kindness," Julie said.

Chase and Julie attended the demonstration with their baby and said they have four children. They added they hope to see more young people take part in next year’s Life Chain.

"Be pro-life or there won't be a next generation," Chase said. "It's not a young person's issue, it's an everybody's issue."

Hays residents join National Life Chain in silent demonstration

By 9 a.m. this morning, Hays received .61 inches of rain. Hays has received .84 inches in the month of October,&nbsp;according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays has received 23.34 of moisture year-to-date.

On average, Hays receives 2.18 inches of rain in October and 22.50 inches of moisture year-to-date by the end of October.&nbsp;

The forecast for today is a 20% chance of storms, with a high of 55 and a low of 45. A 40% chance of storms is expected for tonight.

A slight chance of storms is also expected on Tuesday, followed by mostly sunny skies with a high of 62.

Hays receives rain; storms expected until Tuesday

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

The government shutdown has not had an effect on government energy reports. In an online announcement last week, the US Energy Information Administration said it will update its website, release publications and collect survey data as scheduled until further notice. According to the announcement, EIA will be able to operate for what was called "...a period of time during the lapse in appropriations."

US crude production in July was the best ever.&nbsp; The government reports total output rose to nearly 423 million barrels. That's over 13.6 million barrels a day. The Energy Information Administration reports Texas accounted for just over 5.8 million daily barrels. That's more than the next 12 states combined.&nbsp; New Mexico weighs in with 2.2 million barrels a day. North Dakota remains in the number-three slot with 1.17 million barrels a day. Kansas operators pumped 2.1 million barrels or 71-thousand barrels a day, which marks a slight increase over June.

The government reports an increase in commercial crude-oil inventories of 1.8 million barrels. The total is over 416 million. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

Operators of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve added 700,000 barrels this week, bringing the total over 406 million barrels. They've added more than 24 million refill barrels in the last year.

Fuel inventories rose this week. Deliveries of both regular gas and diesel are below the five-year average, signaling weak demand at the pump. Total commercial petroleum inventories are up by 6.4 million barrels from a week ago.

Kansas regulators okayed 54 new intent-to-drill notices in Kansas in September, the same as the month before but down by 83 intents from September last year. That's 596 intents so far this year. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports one new intent in Barton County, two in Ellis County, and one in Russell County.

Operators in The Sunflower State completed 12 wells this week with eight in Western Kansas including one in Stafford County. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 862 well-completions so far this year, compared to over a thousand a year ago.

Kansas regulators okayed eight new drilling permits this week, all of them west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County and one in Gove County. That's 523 new drilling locations this year, compared to 813 last year at this time.

The Kansas Rig Count is up one in the eastern half of the state at five rigs, and up two in Western Kansas with ten.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service reports the statewide rig count is up 25% from last week, nearly 12 percent lower than last month, and more than 46% lower than a year ago.

Baker Hughes reports 549 active drilling rigs this week, which is unchanged from last week. The count in Texas is down two rigs. Wyoming and Pennsylvania are each down one. Operations offshore, as well as on land in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Utah are each up one rig.

Crude imports dropped more than half a million barrels a day to just over 5.8 million. Crude exports dropped under four million barrels a day after topping five million two weeks ago. The US is a net crude importer by two million barrels a day, and a net refined-products exporter at over five million.

Oil and gas employment in Texas continues to rise, with twist.&nbsp; The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) reports oil and gas extraction employment dropped by 200 jobs.&nbsp; But TIPRO reports an increase of 400 jobs in the services sector. That adds up to a workforce of more than 205,000 all told, and a net gain of 200 jobs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: US crude production sets monthly record

Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling announced that early voting for the upcoming election will begin on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Administration Center, 718 Main Street, Hays.

Early voting hours will be Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The final day of early voting will be Monday, November 3, ending at 12:00 noon. For voter convenience, there will also be Saturday early voting on November 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Administration Center.

The last day to register to vote is Tuesday, October 14, 2025, when voter registration books will close.

Advance mail ballots will be mailed on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Voters may request an advance mail ballot by completing an application. Applications are available online, by calling the County Clerk’s Office to have one mailed, or by visiting the office at 718 Main Street.

“As always, my office is here to assist voters,” said Dreiling. “If you have questions about registration, early voting, or advance ballots, please don’t hesitate to call us.”

For more information, please contact the Ellis County Clerk’s Office at 785-628-9410.

Early voting starts Oct. 20 for Nov. election; last day to register is Oct. 14

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Health insurance rates for Ellis County employees are expected to increase by less than anticipated.&nbsp;

The Ellis County Commission will vote on the insurance contract renewals for employees during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.

The premium changes cover health, dental and vision.&nbsp;Blue Cross Blue Shield premiums would increase by 3.6% over 2025 rates, which is below the 7% increase budgeted and would create about $42,500 in general fund savings for 2026.

The commission will be asked to approve an agreement granting AMP Rentals temporary access to a county-owned water well, allowing for the well's use until a rural water meter is obtained from the Trego County Rural Water District.

The water would be used for limited business and personal purposes, with all expenses and compliance obligations covered by Adam Pray, with Platinum Builders, or the future landowner.

ACCESS Transportation will request the commission’s approval to sign letters of support for its program, which uses the county’s annual subsidy as matching funds for state transportation grants.

For 2026, the county has budgeted $50,000 in its General Fund for ACCESS Transportation.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc146924-9a33-439f-bb6a-180129cff07a">Because of increasing costs, ACCESS is still facing a budget shortfall for 2026.</a>

The commission will review and decide whether to approve and sign an amendment to the Build 2019 Grant for the Northwest Business Corridor Truck Route Improvements Project.

The amendment would not change the project's scope or total cost but updates the agreement to account for final project costs and extends the timeline for post-construction performance measures.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ee13dc26-a8f1-4c06-bcdd-fbfafc63c292">SEE RELATED STORY: Local officials advocate for 183 Bypass, I-70 bridge reconstruction</a>

The commission will consider approving an updated job description for the IT Director position. Approval would allow HR to begin advertising the position on Nov. 1.

The commission will consider approving a list of surplus vehicles and equipment to be sold through an auction, including a fire engine from Victoria.

The Hays Chamber of Commerce will provide an update on the efforts of the Ellis County Workforce Committee and the Child Care Taskforce.

Northwest Kansas Planning &amp; Development Commission will provide an update on what the organization is doing in the area.

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10072025-702">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission to decide on insurance premiums 

The Hays City Commission and USD 489 Board of Education (BOE) candidate election forum is set for October 6th at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on Fort Hays State University’s campus.

Candidates for the USD 489 BOE will open the forum at 6 p.m. and conclude by 7:00 p.m. After a 15-minute intermission including refreshments, Hays City Commission candidates will take the stage at 7:15 and will conclude by 8:45 p.m.

In a partnership with the American Democracy Project, FHSU Student Government Association, FHSU Docking Institute of Public Affairs, Tiger Media Network, and The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, this election forum provides voters in the City of Hays and USD 489 district boundaries the opportunity to learn about each of the candidates and their stances on important community issues. A special thank you is extended to event sponsors Midwest Energy and The Hays Daily News.

To submit questions in advance of the forum, email sarah@hayschamber.com.

Thank you to Tiger Media Network for offering a livestream/replay of the event for those who are unable to attend in person. The event link can be found here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIXUNR_XQP7TX183o_vxCw">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIXUNR_XQP7TX183o_vxCw</a>

Important fall 2025 election dates and information:

· Early voting begins Tuesday, October 14th at the Ellis County Administration building located at 718 Main St. and ends at noon on Monday, November 3rd. · Election day is November 4th. · Polling locations can be found here: <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations</a> · To view other races on the ballot and for general information, visit: <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/759/2025-Election">https://www.ellisco.net/759/2025-Election</a>.

About The Chamber in Hays, Kansas The Chamber in Hays, Kansas’ mission is to accelerate business connections and advocate community advancement. Through facilitation of the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County, the Ellis County Workforce Committee, Leadership Hays, and other programs, The Chamber is dedicated to improving quality of life for all Ellis County residents.

Fall election forum set for tonight

Ellis County Jail bookings: Sept. 28-Oct.4, 2025

Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2025

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

BELOIT and HAYS — Fort Hays Tech | North Central is proud to announce a significant achievement in its ongoing commitment to student success. Thanks to the generous support of numerous donors, in collaboration with the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation, a record-breaking 115 scholarships have been awarded across both the Beloit and Hays campuses during the 2025/2026 academic year.

 Fort Hays Tech | North Central hosted receptions for students and donors at the Hays campus on Wednesday, September 24 and at the Beloit campus on Wednesday, October 1. 

The success of these scholarship programs would not be possible without the generosity and commitment of the donors who have made them a reality. Their belief in the potential of students and their dedication to technical education have set an inspiring example, encouraging the recipients to pay it forward and support future generations in their pursuit of knowledge. 

These scholarships, created by dedicated benefactors, have been established to provide vital financial assistance to students pursuing a variety of programs at Fort Hays Tech | North Central. The enduring legacy of these donors is reflected in the annual scholarships they have created, ensuring that students receive support not only now but into the future.

 Eric Burks, president of Fort Hays Tech | North Central, expressed his gratitude, "Honoring the legacy of our donors, their contributions, and their leadership in educating our future workforce is a pleasure, and we can't thank them enough for their generosity.”

 "We are deeply grateful to these donors for establishing these important scholarship funds, of which we are honored to administer," said Mendi Anschutz, director of advancement for the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Hays Tech | North Central awards record-breaking 115 student scholarships 

By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to Hays Post

Drs. Curt and Christie Brungardt, professors emeriti at Fort Hays State University, will be back on campus Friday, Oct. 10. They will deliver an American Democracy Project Times Talk in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The couple founded Jana’s Campaign in memory their daughter, Jana Mackey, a Hays native who was a 25-year-old law student at the University of Kansas when she lost her life to violence perpetrated by an ex-boyfriend in 2008.

Jana’s Campaign is an organization dedicated to preventing relationship-based violence.

The Brungardts will be speaking from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 10 in the Trails Room of the Memorial Union on campus. A light lunch will be provided. Their free presentation is titled “Behind Every Statistic is a Story.”

Dr. Hsin-Yen Yang, co-director of the American Democracy Project at FHSU, said in a news release: “This timely discussion will explore the realities of relationship violence, its far-reaching impact, and how we can work together to prevent it—on campus and beyond. Through storytelling, education, and real-world strategies, Jana’s Campaign will challenge us to look beyond the statistics and recognize the human lives behind them. Learn how advocacy, leadership, and student action can help end the cycle of abuse and build safer communities.”

A Zoom option is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fhsu.zoom.us/j/87459170203?pwd=fKallyDd6WWJqcRRsXc7G9Tk3bzWPg.1">https://fhsu.zoom.us/j/87459170203?pwd=fKallyDd6WWJqcRRsXc7G9Tk3bzWPg.1</a>.

The meeting ID is 874 5917 0203, and the passcode is 536587. Yang said that the session will also be recorded.

More information about Jana’s Campaign is available at <a href="https://www.janascampaign.org/">janascampaign.org</a>.

Brungardts to discuss Jana’s Campaign during public talk at FHSU

DORRANCE — The Dorrance American Legion will host a steak feed Saturday, Oct. 11.

Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m. with the meal served at 6:30 p.m.

* 12 OR 6-OUNCE RIBEYE WITH BAKED POTATO, CORN, GREEN BEANS, TEA OR WATER, AND A BIG SELECTION OF DESSERTS WILL BE SERVED* 

Cold beer and mixed drinks will be available. 

Proceeds go to the Dorrance American Legion.&nbsp;

Dorrance American Legion to host ribeye steak feed Oct. 11

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Ellis Co RWD 1C public water supply system located in Ellis County. The advisory was issued because of loss of a pressure due to maintenance in the distribution system.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the Ellis Co RWD 1C, indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-628-2186 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199aff40888-4adfae95-bbad-4d17-862c-42a4e6aa8859-000000/AhcqCkK9CGn_xqvRI8kP-hsezFT_d1XotX2eUmyWxHE=425">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>.

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for Ellis Co RWD 1C, Ellis County

October 12,&nbsp;9:30 AM Alton UMC Harvest Praise Service 408 Mill St., Alton 67623 Join us at 9:30 AM!

October 12, 11:30 AM-3:00 PM Fall Family Fun Day Roadside Park, Hwy. 24, Downs

Bring your lawn chairs, sit and chat, enjoy music and fun! Yard games, Kids games, Golf Cart Poker Run, and more! Enjoy the park amenities together as a community!

October 12, 5:00-7:00 PM Free Square Dancing Lessons Front Porch Event Center and Bakery, 602 Mill St., Alton, KS Sept. 28, Oct. 12, October 26, November 9, November 23, December 28 Graduation Party

&nbsp;These are free lessons with the hope of stress-free learning, entertainment, and fellowship. You are asked to bring a finger food each time for all to enjoy. For more information call Peg Anschutz at 785-483-0660.

October 18, 1:00-4:00 PM Annual Pumpkin Party Downs Community Garden, 1312 Kansas St. Downs, KS

Bring the whole family and enjoy an afternoon of games, crafts, and fun!

October 25,&nbsp;5:00-9:00 PM Tangled Web Trick or Treat in the Park Lyman T. Earl Park, Alton, KS

There will be crafts, games and prizes!&nbsp;Any questions, call Robbin at 785-346-2128 Ext. 3

October 31,&nbsp;3:30-5:00 PM

Join us downtown Osborne as the chamber businesses pass out Halloween treats!

October events in Osborne County

The items are arriving fast and furious for the Eagle On-Line Auction at Hays Post.

Because of this, the auction has started early, and is going on right NOW!&nbsp; If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

Dive into a digital treasure trove of savings with the Eagle Radio Online Auction!

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

Bid now on an expansive collection ranging from home essentials to tantalizing restaurant gift cards, and valuable services from esteemed local companies and save.

 Whether you're seeking something specific or just browsing for unexpected finds, our vast selection promises both variety and value. 

The Eagle Radio online auction — where saving money is just a click away!

Eagle Radio Auction live now!

Western Plains Arts Association

COLBY — Oakley High School auditorium will be the&nbsp;Western Plains Arts Association (WPAA) next program with "The Sons of the Pioneers" returning to entertain on Sunday, October 12.

The program will start at 3 p.m. Tickets will be available to purchase at the door or by WPAA season ticket which can also be purchased that day at the door.

We thank Dane G. Hansen and Logan County Community Foundation for their grants for this program along with area sponsors.

"The Sons of the Pioneers", the most influential and revered of all western music groups, celebrate an unparalleled 91 continuous years of performance, thrilling audiences with enchanting harmonies and picturesque images of the majestic American West. 

In 2025, the legendary group extends its remarkable run through nine decades, carrying the legacy of the outfit’s landmark, Grammy-honored music to new ears. Originals like “Cool Water,” “Tumbling Tumbleweeds,” and “The Timber Trail” have come to define western music itself and are also deeply rooted in American culture. 

When Roy Rogers (then Leonard Slye) and gifted songwriters Bob Nolan and Tim Spencer founded the group in late 1933 and developed their trademark “Pioneer sound,” little did they realize they were launching a juggernaut that would become the longest-lived popular music group in American music history, creating a vast catalog of treasured music along the way.

Through the years, more than 40 gifted singers and instrumentalists have rotated into the group to build the Pioneers’ historic musical legacy. The Pioneers are the most decorated group in the history of western music, earning membership in the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Western Music Association Hall of Fame, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, the Texas Swing Hall of Fame, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, to name a few. 

The group’s music has been honored by the Grammy Hall of Fame, and the Smithsonian Institution named the group one of America’s “National Treasures.” 

They enjoy meeting those who attend and would gladly take pictures after the program.

'The Sons of the Pioneers' to perform in Oakley Oct. 12

United Wireless Arena, managed by VenuWorks, is&nbsp;excited to announce that Randy Rogers Band, Casey Donahew, and Josh Abbott Band&nbsp;will be coming to Dodge City on Friday, December 5&nbsp;For their “Dodge City Takeover" concert.

Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. on December 5 and the concert will start at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets for Dodge City Takeover will&nbsp;go on sale Friday, October 3 at 10 a.m. CST.&nbsp; 

Tickets can be&nbsp;purchased at the United Wireless Arena box office or online through Ticketmaster.com. Ticket&nbsp;prices start at $55 for reserved seating, depending on location, plus applicable fees and taxes.

United Wireless Arena is an exclusive Ticketmaster facility and cannot guarantee tickets&nbsp;purchased as resale or through a third-party vendor.&nbsp;

Handicapped accessible seating must be arranged directly through the United Wireless Arena&nbsp;Ticket Office.

United Wireless Arena has a&nbsp;clear bag policy in place. Please check our website for more&nbsp;details.&nbsp;Please note that ice will be down and covered on the floor. The building will be colder than&nbsp;normal so please plan accordingly.

As Country music continues broadening its influence in every corner of the modern soundscape, the quickly growing 'Red Dirt' genre, which encapsulates the Western lifestyle and outlaw sound, is taking centerstage lead by acts such as the influential Randy Rogers Band. 

For over 20 years, the band's roster and traditional approach have remained unchanged and inspired the surge in a new generation of artists. Acts such as Parker McCollum, Koe Wetzel, Flatland Cavalry, and William Beckmann all began their musical careers on the building blocks set forth by Randy Rogers Band. 

The band's second album, Rollercoaster, is applauded as one of the most impactful collections in the Texas music scene. The influence of this record garnered the band bookings in venues once thought out of reach and made them a pillar of 'Red Dirt' Country music. 

In 2024, the record celebrated its 20th anniversary, and the Randy Rogers Band released a re-mastered/re-sequenced edition of Rollercoaster to commemorate the music that ignited their long-lasting journey as a staple Texas music act. 

Now, the band is back with brand new music after two years, kicking off 2025 with their track, “Break Itself,” off their upcoming EP, The Going, out on October 24th. The EP includes the band's other recent releases, "Is This Thing Workin” featuring Country superstar, Parker McCollum, and the EP title track, "The Going." The project is an updated sound that still anchors to the Red Dirt genre that made them one of the most influential bands out of Texas.&nbsp;

Texas Country Powerhouse and Fort Worth native, Casey Donahew—honored with his own “Casey Donahew Day” on October 22 and whose beloved song “Stockyards” was named the city’s official anthem—continues to define the sound of Texas country. 

Over more than two decades, Donahew has earned a devoted following by delivering vivid, relatable narratives that blend cowboy grit, love stories, and offbeat characters. 

His latest release, "Never Not Love You," a 17-track tour de force, underscores his ability to capture life’s highs and lows with a storyteller’s precision and a showman’s heart. With 12 albums and an astounding 29 singles reaching the top of the Texas charts, Donahew has proven himself a consistent hitmaker and one of the genre’s most durable voices. 

Known for writing the majority of his material solo, he maintains a deeply personal connection to his music, allowing fans to experience his unmistakable perspective. His songs have also crossed into mainstream culture, landing placements in hit television dramas including Yellowstone and Tulsa King, as well as the feature film Vengeance, further solidifying his reputation as one of country music’s most authentic storytellers. 

Beyond the studio and stage, Donahew has emerged as a creative entrepreneur. Alongside his wife Melinda, he founded the acclaimed Boots On The Beach festival in Cabo San Lucas, now in its ninth year and featuring a powerhouse roster of Texas and country stars. This annual event reflects Donahew’s dedication to fostering community, elevating fellow artists, and creating unforgettable fan experiences.

 With decades of chart-topping hits, acclaimed live performances, and a steadfast commitment to authenticity, Casey Donahew remains at the forefront of modern Texas country music.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For nearly two decades, Josh Abbott Band (JAB) have held strong as one of the most potent and vital forces in Texas country music. Fronted by singer/songwriter/guitarist Josh Abbott, the band has built an ardent following on the strengths of their fiery live show, wide-ranging instrumentation, relentless touring schedule, and seven acclaimed studio albums spotlighting their unique sound and honest songwriting. With three RIAA gold-certified singles, JAB has found success while staying true to their independent spirit.

JAB first formed at Texas Tech University in 2006 when Josh started playing with fraternity brother Austin Davis (banjo). Joining up soon after in 2008 was Edward Villanueva (drums, percussion) with others joining later down the road: David Fralin (2015, keys, mandolin), Jimmy Hartman (2018, bass, harmonies), Kris Farrow (2022, electric guitar, harmonies), Adam Hill (2022, fiddle, harmonies).

 Over the years, JAB has steadily raised their profile while elevating their artistry. Their 2010 sophomore album "She’s Like Texas" debuted on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and delivered gold-certified hits like its poignant title track and “Oh, Tonight”—a charming duet with Kacey Musgraves that marked their first song to chart on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs. 

After winning four awards at the inaugural Texas Regional Radio Music Awards (including both Album of the Year and Single of the Year), the band went on to release "Small Town Family Dream" (a 2012 LP that debuted on Top Country Albums and climbed to #15 on the all-genre Billboard 200), then returned several years later in 2015 with the critically acclaimed and intensely personal "Front Row Seat". 

Boasting standouts like the country radio hit “Wasn’t That Drunk” feat. Carly Pearce, Josh Abbott Band ascended to a new level of stardom and making their national television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, in addition to appearing on Conan the following year. From there, the band persisted on their upward trajectory with 2017’s unique "Until My Voice Goes Out" (a sonically adventurous album), 2020’s critically acclaimed "The Highway Kind" (featuring gold-certified hit “Settle Me Down”), and 2024’s bold "Somewhere Down The Road". 

The most recent release from JAB, 2025’s "The Encore", arrives as a celebration of the 10-year anniversary of their landmark album "Front Row Seat". Featuring “Even Girls Like You” and “Selfish,” the EP shines a spotlight on songs originally recorded during the Front Row Seat sessions but intentionally held back until the right moment.

With recent milestones including debuts at Stagecoach Festival, The Long Road Festival in England, and the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, JAB continues to make great strides in cementing their legacy as Texas country legends.&nbsp;

Randy Rogers Band, Casey Donahew, Josh Abbott Band coming to United Wireless Arena in Dodge City

Thanks to the Hays VFW Post #9076  Honor Guards for adding the POW flag to the American flag  that they donated for the flag pole at the location of the Bob &amp; Pat Schmidt Community Center on Friday, Sept. 26.

The POW flag was a welcomed addition to complete the pole near the Hays Senior Center new location.



Hays VFW Post #9076 donates POW flag to Community Center, Hays Senior Center flag pole 

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces multiple charges for a shooting at a home in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2734/Roscoe-COMPLAINTREDACTED">Nathan Roscoe</a>, 42,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Assault, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm charges.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2735/Roscoe-PCREDACTED-1">Click here to read the probable cause statement</a>

On September 27, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence regarding shots fired and located the victim who was alert and conscious. The victim had an obvious wound on his head and was transported to a nearby hospital where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the head, a<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2735/Roscoe-PCREDACTED-1">ccording to court records</a>.

Based on witness reports, Roscoe was identified as the shooter and was still in the residence before complying with the deputies’ orders and being taken into custody.&nbsp;

Roscoe remains jailed on a $50,000 bond.&nbsp;

Victim survived after shot in the head by Kansas City felon

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in connection with sex crimes involving a runaway teen was back in court Friday.

Samuel Loredo, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal sodomy and one count each of indecent liberties with a child, sexual exploitation of a child, and aggravated interference with parental custody before&nbsp;Judge Quentin Pittman, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's ofice.

Just after noon November 18, 2024 law enforcement in Murray, Kentucky informed the Wichita Police Department that a 14-year-old runaway may be in Wichita based on their investigation, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

Wichita police responded to the area of 2300 N Woodlawn in Wichita where it was believed that the child may have been. Patrol and Investigations began working together to find additional information to locate the juvenile and determine the circumstances around their presence in Wichita.

Throughout the afternoon and the evening detectives with the Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit worked to conduct additional interviews. Through those interviews, detectives determined that Loredo was communicating with the 14-year-old and arranged for the juvenile to travel to Wichita.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested&nbsp; Loredo, and booked him into Sedgwick County Jail.

Officers with the Wichita Police Department NET team located the juvenile wandering the area.&nbsp; &nbsp;Loredo is scheduled for sentencing on November 14.&nbsp;Loredo remains in the Sedgwick County jail.

Kan. man enters plea in sex assault of runaway 14-year-old

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is spending millions of dollars on television advertising in select metro areas around the country, an Associated Press tally found, aimed at recruiting local officers frustrated with their cities’ restrictions on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/immigration">immigration enforcement</a>&nbsp;into President Donald Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-congress-deportations-immigration-raids-homeland-security-a2c6a2f726629e62bd0199aee68294f6">mass deportation efforts</a>.

“You took an oath to protect and serve, to keep your family, your city, safe,” the narrator says, as images of the cities targeted and ICE agents arresting people move across the screen. “But in sanctuary cities, you’re ordered to stand down while dangerous illegals walk free.”

The campaign — airing in more than a dozen cities, including Chicago, Seattle and Atlanta — is part of ICE’s $30 billion initiative to hire 10,000 more deportation officers by the end of the year to supercharge deportations. The money is part of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-hiring-trump-border-mass-deportations-ed1580c3f5c0c2a2b5c1ebd621574365">the $76.5 billion sought by Trump’s Republican administration</a>&nbsp;for ICE — a 10-fold increase in its current budget — as part of the sweeping, multitrillion-dollar&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sign-tax-cut-bill-july-4-3804df732e461a626fd8c2b43413c3f0">tax breaks and spending cuts bill</a>&nbsp;enacted in July.

ICE is already offering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-hiring-trump-border-mass-deportations-ed1580c3f5c0c2a2b5c1ebd621574365">bonuses of up to $50,000 for new recruits</a>&nbsp;and other benefits such as tuition reimbursement as it seeks to fast-track hiring.

And while some parts of the federal government are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">shut down</a>&nbsp;as the result of Congress’ failure to pass a spending measure last week, the ICE ads reflect that the push for mass deportations, the Trump administration’s top priority, is still flush with cash.

The ads open with video of each metro’s familiar skyline and the narrator’s voice announcing, for example, “Attention, Miami law enforcement.” Beyond that, the spots are identical, inviting officers to “join ICE and help us catch the worst of the worst. Drug traffickers. Gang members. Predators,” according to a review of the ads on the ad-tracking service AdImpact.

The 30-second spots began running in mid-September in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Boston; Chicago; Denver; New York; Philadelphia; Sacramento, California; Seattle; and Washington, D.C. Adding to the list a week ago: Atlanta; Dallas; El Paso, Texas; Houston; Miami; Salt Lake City; and San Antonio.

As of Monday, total spending on the ads had topped $6.5 million, with the most spent since mid-September being $853,745 in the Seattle area. However, Atlanta saw the most in the past week, more than $947,000, according to AdImpact.

It was unclear why ICE targeted those locations and not others. There is no standard definition of what is a sanctuary jurisdiction although it generally refers to cities or states that limit their cooperation with ICE. Some but not all of the cities appear on a Justice Department list of cities that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-sanctuary-cities-deportation-95277c47a04cdd5e07bbc29da51c0813">“that impede enforcement of federal immigration laws.”</a>

Asked in an AP email to explain why specific areas were chosen as advertising targets, Department of Homeland Security officials declined to provide an explanation. Instead, they replied with a Sept. 16 press release, near the beginning of the ad campaign, reporting that it had received more than 150,000 applications and had extended 18,000 tentative job offers.

Some cities where the ads have been playing, particularly Boston and Chicago, have been repeatedly criticized by the Trump administration for their policies that limit how much they can work with federal immigration enforcement. ICE has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigrants-boston-ice-trump-sanctuary-cities-ee2a10f0300029da49fcbd45365e031a">launched immigration crackdowns</a>&nbsp;in both of those cities. Local officials in Chicago have been particularly outspoken against the stepped-up enforcement.

Albuquerque is among the smallest metropolitan areas where the ads are airing, though the city’s mayor, Tim Keller, has been a vocal opponent of the Trump administration’s immigration policy. In July, Keller signed an executive order barring city employees from assisting federal authorities with civil immigration enforcement “unless legally required.”

Local police can’t compete with ICE promises

The AP reached out to police departments in areas where the ads were running. Most departments either did not respond or said they did not comment on actions of outside agencies. A few, including Sacramento and Miami, said they had not noticed any of their officers leaving for positions at ICE or DHS.

Four of the markets where the ads are playing are in Texas, including San Antonio.

Danny Diaz, the president of the city’s Police Officers Association, said he’d seen the ads and was concerned about prospective recruits who might be thinking of joining the city’s police department joining ICE instead.

“We can’t compete with a $50,000 signing bonus,” Diaz said. “I do think that the younger generation will jump on that.”

The government shutdown could dampen ICE’s recruitment hopes, he said.

“They’re furloughing federal employees, and I don’t think individuals want to leave one department to go work for a federal agency when they don’t know if they’re going to receive a check or not,” he said, referring to the lapse in funding that has led to federal law enforcement officers going without pay.

Philadelphia police Capt. John Walker said it’s too early to tell whether the ad campaign has had an impact on the city’s recruiting. Instead, he suggested, the ads appeared more geared toward reassuring viewers that the Trump administration was addressing illegal immigration.

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