By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Fair’s third grandstand event of the week was the Ranch Rodeo in Hays.

Spectators watched trailer loading and team roping Thursday at the Ellis County Fairgrounds.

Tickets for the fair can be purchased in advance&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/36944/ellis-county-fair?fbclid=IwY2xjawKujTRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6VFdJNnVTa0NYYk82ZUp4AR44_gw2XjWFjbazSFQJZE4y3MXwLLePpTZO8DU_vIYc0eKGGESB4xXlYUunwA_aem_v9FbcbBjuUHs1yaGOY1NgA">here</a>&nbsp;or at the gate. A pass covering seven events costs $40, and a single-night admission costs $20. Children age 5 and younger get in free.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c8ea7165-2251-4394-ab31-9785dfdf788e">SEE RELATED STORY: Five free nights of rock to light up Ellis County Fair</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dd373ce5-e23f-4a60-bc72-6a6ffb27d422">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Fair offers week of family fun</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52d736e5-de04-4b4b-a988-277667123f6a">SEE RELATED STORY: Midget wrestling set to shake up Ellis County Fair</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b14a780-50e1-4795-b899-9800bd00a9d7">SEE RELATED STORY: Engines to roar as Moto Rodeo races into Ellis County Fair</a>

You can follow the Ellis County Fair on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063657276403">Facebook</a>.

Ellis County Fair 2025 Ranch Rodeo

&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

Become an instant finalist in the Miller Lite UTV Giveaway from A&amp;A Coors-Miller and Briney Motorsports of Hays. Sign up Friday at the Ellis County Fair.

The UTV also will be at Doghouse Liquor on Saturday.

Register for a 4-seat CF-Moto U-Force 1000 valued at $20,000.&nbsp;

Additional thanks to Advantage Glass Plus and Commercial Sign of Hays.

Keep listening and reading the Hays Post all summer long for your chance to become a finalist.

The UTV will be given away at a Fort Hays State University football game on Saturday, Sept. 13.

Watch the Hays Post for finalist announcements.

Become Miller Lite UTV giveaway finalist Friday at Ellis County Fair!

The Women Who Lead still has raffle tickets left for its 31 Days of Cash drawing in August.&nbsp;

Tickets are $25 each. A maximum of 500 tickets will be sold.

A drawing will be conducted each day in August. 

Prizes will be $75 each day Aug. 1-15 $125 each day Aug. 16-28 $250 on Aug. 29 $500 on Aug. 30 $1,000 on Aug 31

All proceeds from the raffle will support scholarships for women in Ellis County pursuing post-secondary education.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eb1eab34-3efe-439b-b038-a0dc1afb6465">This spring, Women Who Lead awarded eight $1,000 scholarships.</a> Help us continue to support women's education in 2026 with your generous donation and maybe win some cash in the process.

Tickets can be purchased from Renee Moritz at the Bank of Hays, by calling Moritz at 785-650-1095 or emailing rmoritz@bankofhays.com.

You can also purchase tickets at the Eagle Radio Media Center, 2300 Hall St., Hays. Ask for Scarlett Deutscher or Cristina Janney. You may also contact Janney at crisksu@gmail.com or 785-301-2077.

Tickets on sale for Women Who Lead raffle; funds support scholarships

The Hays Youth Advisory Leadership Board is sponsoring a Cruise Main Street event Friday, June 18, beginning at 9 p.m. in the Chestnut Street District of downtown Hays.

There is no charge to participate or attend.

It's a nostalgic celebration of car culture for all ages!

For more information contact Mario Hernandez, board member, at 785-365-9216.

Cruise downtown Hays Main Street Friday with the Youth Leadership Advisory Board

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 16.

“Over the last six years, Kansas has become a hot spot for new and expanding businesses — and that means our career opportunities are not just growing, they’re booming,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “It’s our diligent and hardworking workforce that draws notable companies to Kansas — and now, with a wide array of opportunities across the state, there is a career path for every Kansan.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Fb4daf857-385f-4588-bff0-3708ada08f3d%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-july-16th,-2025%2Fattendee/1/01010197f0a98fde-5ece3302-bb3d-46f5-927b-3772cd7e586a-000000/w_R7V4jiNqhMZx9967mChXW34f-zKEcrGS6giDjB6c8=413">here</a>.

 Virtual Statewide Job Fair is Wednesday; open to jobseekers, employers

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;

Sign up for free Hays Post Newsletter

City of Hays The city of Hays will begin asphalt sealcoating work on select streets starting this month, weather permitting.

Sealcoating protects and extends the life of pavement while improving safety and appearance.

During the project, affected areas will be temporarily closed or reduced to one lane. All vehicles must be moved by the dates noted on contractor notices to avoid towing.

Residents are encouraged to follow all posted signage and use caution while the sealcoat cures. The full project map and details are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/155/Project-Management">HaysUSA.com</a>.

Please note that weather conditions could delay the schedule.

This important preventative maintenance is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to maintain road quality.

The city appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation.

Questions may be directed to the City of Hays Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Sealcoating project set to begin as early as today

The Heartland Community Foundation invites all interested residents, leaders, and community stakeholders to two upcoming Strategic Doing meetings in Trego and Rooks counties. These collaborative gatherings are designed to bring people together to address local opportunities and challenges through a practical, action-oriented approach. 

Plainville Thursday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m. at Plainville Senior Center Topic: The Future of Redbud Village and Estates

 Redbud Village and Estates has served as a vital provider of long-term care and employment since 1963. As the facility undergoes a cultural and operational renewal, the time is right for the community to consider its future direction. This session will focus on sustaining and strengthening Redbud for future generations.

 “For decades, Redbud has provided essential services in our area,” said Deanna Hammerschmidt, Heartland’s Rooks County director. “We’re asking our neighbors to join us, share their ideas, and help shape a strong path forward.” 

WaKeeney Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Western Kansas Electric Cooperative Community Room Topic: Exploring Opportunities for WaKeeney and Trego County

 This broader session will highlight current projects in the area and invite residents to contribute ideas and feedback.&nbsp;Participants will help identify actionable next steps to ensure continued community vitality.

&nbsp;“Strategic Doing goes beyond just sharing ideas—it’s focused on taking action,” said Savannah Downing, Heartland’s Trego County director. “We’re inviting our community members in WaKeeney to come together and be part of creating real solutions.”

Both meetings use the Strategic Doing model, a guided process that helps communities form collaborative groups, develop practical solutions, and build momentum through measurable steps. 

Participation is also part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, which encourages long-term, collaborative thinking by offering additional grant opportunities to communities that actively engage in this process. 

No RSVP is required. Refreshments will be provided at both events. All are welcome. 

For more information: Plainville meeting: Contact Deanna Hammerschmidt at 785-621-4090 or visit www.heartlandcf.org. WaKeeney meeting: Contact Savannah Downing at 785-743-3270 or email savannah@gscf.org.&nbsp;

Strategic Doings in Plainville, WaKeeney hosted by Heartland Community Foundation 

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ellisjrfreefair">Ellis Jr. Free Fair</a>

93rd annual Ellis Jr. Free Fair runs July 22-26 

Palco to celebrate Christmas in July at McKenna Youth & Activity Center

HaysMed is pleased to welcome Sarah Powers, APRN, to the DeBakey Heart Institute cardiovascular and thoracic surgery team. 

Powers has been a valued member of the HaysMed team since 2010, serving in a variety of clinical roles across the organization. Most recently, she completed her doctor of nursing practice from Fort Hays State University, further elevating her ability to deliver advanced, patient-centered care.

Powers began her career at HaysMed as a float CNA in the clinics and launched her nursing career on the medical floor. She later transitioned to the ICU, where she developed a strong interest in complex patient care and cardiology. Over the years, she has supported several departments, including Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, Associate Health, and most recently, the Emergency Room.

“I’ve truly enjoyed serving the people of western Kansas and Hays,” said Powers. “Working in both the clinic and in the OR is something I’m really looking forward to. I’ve professionally grown up with these nurses, providers, and staff. Being on both sides of inpatient and outpatient care is a real passion of mine, and I’m very excited for what’s ahead.”

In her new role, Powers will provide comprehensive cardiology care, supporting both inpatient and outpatient services, and contributing to the continued growth of the DeBakey Heart Institute’s mission to deliver exceptional cardiovascular care to the region.

Please join us in welcoming Sarah Powers, APRN, as she continues her journey of compassionate, expert care, now as a key member of the HaysMed cardiology team.

HaysMed welcomes Sarah Powers, APRN, to DeBakey Heart Institute

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A woman was injured this morning when she allegedly fell asleep while driving on Interstate 70 near Oakley and crashed.

A semi driven by Deborah Kay Maidon, 52, of Wichita was eastbound on Interstate 70 four miles west of Oakley at about 6:13 a.m. today when she allegedly fell asleep, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol crash report.

The vehicle&nbsp;entered the median, crossing the westbound lanes. The semi then went into the north ditch, causing the driver to overcorrect, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The vehicle emerged from the north ditch, re-entering the westbound lanes and crossing the median a second time. The semi then came to rest on both eastbound lanes, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The eastbound lanes of the interstate had to be closed for a time this morning while the wreck was cleared.

Maidon received minor injuries and was taken to Logan County Hospital, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol report.

Maidon was wearing her seatbelt, according to the accident report.

Semi crash near Oakley temporarily closes I-70

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Meadow Acres Mobile Home Park public water supply system in Hays.&nbsp;

 The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the Meadow Acres Mobile Home Park 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;

Boil water advisory rescinded for Hays' Meadow Acres Mobile Home Park

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened eastbound I-70 between Colby and Oakley. The roadway was temporarily closed due to a crash.

NORTON — The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed eastbound I-70 between Colby and Oakley due to a crash.

Motorists are advised to use alternate routes. KDOT does not have an estimated time for reopening.

For the latest updates on road closures, conditions and construction information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101981d929d05-1f48303c-9b01-428c-bc6c-1482ac77a85f-000000/kHHbiJUJ2b7q_12VuE6csm2mX2Gd_iBEwF2B36wBDVk=414">KanDrive</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

UPDATE: Eastbound I-70 now open between Colby and Oakley

The 4th Annual Child Care Provider Appreciation sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless was a huge success! Over 60 child care professionals from Ellis County attended the event.

In April of 2025, the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County received a grant from Child Care Aware of Kansas in the amount of $30,000 to help purchase items for crisis bags and emergency response as well as fund professional development programs for the next year for area providers.

Stepping up to the plate to help purchase items for the crisis bags were civic organizations Kiwanis Club of Hays, Women Who Lead, the Chamber in Hays, as well as Golden Plains Credit Union.

The crisis bags included backpacks, first aid kits approved by the American Red Cross, and emergency procedure flip charts that will help them respond quickly in the event of a variety of crisis situations, diapers, activities for children, crisis drill schedules, and templates for tracking children/guardian information.

Although the event is over, there are still 30 bags available for local providers. Child care professionals in Ellis County may still pick up a bag at the Chamber in Hays office at 2700 Vine St.

The Child Care Task Force of Ellis County is facilitated by the Chamber in Hays. Its mission is providing resources for child care professionals to cultivate our next generation of community leaders and workforce.

For more information about the Child Care Task Force or the Chamber in Hays, call 785- 628-8201 or visit <a href="http://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a>.

Local child care providers receive crisis bags at appreciation event

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place June 18, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

The following projects were held from the May 21, 2025, letting.

KDOT announces approved June bids for northwest Kansas

By TISA MASON FHSU President

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) has a new reason to celebrate as Hailey Witte makes her mark in the world of rodeo. Hailing from Crookston, Nebraska, Hailey is not just an aspiring athlete but a true hometown hero who recently qualified to compete at the National Rodeo. Her achievements reflect the spirit and excellence that FHSU instills in its students.

From a young age, rodeo has been at the heart of Hailey’s life, influenced heavily by family. With a father who was a team roper and bull rider, and an older sister who competed in high school rodeo, Hailey picked up the reins of the family legacy. “I’ve been around rodeoing my whole life, but I didn’t start competing until 8th grade.” With a major in Animal Science/Pre-Vet and a passion for barrel racing, Hailey is not just a competitor, but a rising star in the sport.

“I found FHSU through a friend on the rodeo team who shared wonderful stories about the program. I was eager to take my rodeo career to the next level, and FHSU felt like the perfect place to do that."

Competing in barrel racing, one of the fastest-paced events in rodeo, requires incredible skill and synergy between horse and rider. “In barrel racing, we have to navigate three barrels set in a cloverleaf pattern as quickly as possible. It takes a lot of training and precision,” Hailey said.

Preparing for national competition brought its own unique set of challenges. “I treated it like any other rodeo and just practiced my normal routine.” The key is being consistent. Hailey has a piece of advice for young athletes aspiring to compete at the national level. “The more consistent you can be, the easier it is to perform at places like nationals.”

During the preliminaries at the nationals, emotions ran high. “I had no idea what to expect, especially since the arena setup was different from what I was used to. But after the first two runs, I was really happy with how things were going.” It takes a very well-trained horse and rider to run at a barrel full speed and still run around the barrel without tipping it over.

Although a slip-up in the third round resulted in .04 seconds short of making the short go (the top 12 and the final round). “I was already so proud of my horse, Hummer. Nationals is a big stage with a lot of pressure. This experience showed me just how competitive we can be, even against the best.”

Looking ahead to the next season, Hailey is eager to return to nationals and improve in the upcoming rodeos. “I plan to make 75 percent of the short goes and showcase my other barrel horse, Billie. I’ve trained Billie for four years.”

Being part of the rodeo team has positively influenced Hailey’s college experience. “It has helped me create a structured schedule, balancing homework with practice. The friendships I’ve made, both within my team and with other students, have been incredible.”

Above all, rodeo is more than a sport for Hailey; it is a central part of her identity. “Rodeo has been my whole life since I was little and has shaped me into the person I am today. Without this sport, I don’t know who I would be or what I would be doing. I have been on a horse before I could walk, and I have spent more time in the practice pen than I have spent anywhere else.”

One of the greatest lessons that rodeo has given Hailey is the ability to keep going until she achieves the result she wants. Working with horses and training young colts teaches patience.

Hailey shows her appreciation to the people who have shaped this journey in a heartfelt acknowledgment. “I’d like to thank my coaches, especially Coach Meier, for his unwavering support, and my family for always believing in me. And a special nod to Jerry and Sandy Harms for their guidance with my horses."

As Hailey continues chasing dreams and setting goals, Tiger Nation takes pride in having such an inspiring representative in the rodeo world. In fact, I have been told that this is only the fourth time FHSU has sent a student to the national rodeo – and the first time in more than 20 years!

The passion, determination, and grace shown during this journey will undoubtedly lead to more accomplishments in the future. Here’s to a promising hope for the next national rodeo and beyond—a true hometown hero, Hailey Witte

Heart of a Tiger: Meet a barrel racing champion in the making

Become an instant finalist in the Miller Lite UTV Giveaway from A&amp;A Coors-Miller and Briney Motorsports of Hays. Sign up Saturday at Doghouse Liquor,&nbsp;2522 Vine St., Hays

Become Miller Lite UTV giveaway finalist Saturday at Doghouse Liquor in Hays!

An Albuquerque man was arrested after allegedly stealing a vehicle and driving it to Hays.

Hays Deputy Police Chief Tim Greenwood said 19-year-old Benjamin Lawrence Belson allegedly stole a 2017 blue Volkswagen Jetta from Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Greenwood said at 6:52 p.m. July 7, after the owner tracked the vehicle to Walmart, officers found the alleged stolen car. Belson was arrested inside the store on requested charges of possession of stolen property and marijuana.

Greenwood said Albuquerque authorities are investigating the alleged theft.

Albuquerque man arrested in Hays for alleged stolen car

ELLIS COUNTY — The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin a bridge repair project along I-70 in Ellis County the week of July 21.

Crews will be making repairs to the undersides of the bridges carrying both eastbound and westbound I-70 over Old Highway 40 near Walker in Ellis County. 

During the work, traffic on Old Highway 40 will be reduced to one lane and directed by a temporary traffic signal. Minor delays, not exceeding 15 minutes, may be possible.

Intermittent lane closures will also be in effect on I-70 during daylight hours. Lane closure information will be available on KDOT’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019814aa6950-9041dd1e-ceda-4414-b37e-a13c220990e5-000000/T6XQcQzoOfoGpnvgsPqIV6AqjG9I0T_nef_J7rK6TkM=414">KanDrive</a>&nbsp;site and the Northwest Kansas KDOT&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNWKansasKDOT%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019814aa6950-9041dd1e-ceda-4414-b37e-a13c220990e5-000000/0BGiG5tTgp3n9bOMAvsuikgW4dhtYUgwvC6ze6zOiN0=414">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fx.com%2FNWKansasKDOT%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019814aa6950-9041dd1e-ceda-4414-b37e-a13c220990e5-000000/QbALb0h1r8QuKgBoWzKV4835U8McB3PpDdMhWZQFKwI=414">X</a>&nbsp;pages.

Wildcat Construction, of Wichita, is the primary contractor for the $426,000 project. Work is expected to be completed by the end of September, conditions permitting.

For more information, please contact KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kevin.zimmer@ks.gov">kevin.zimmer@ks.gov</a>.

I-70 bridge near Walker to be repaired starting Monday

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp;

Friday, July 18
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Miami Marlins, 5:30pm

Saturday, July 19
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Miami Marlins, 2:30pm

Sunday, July 20
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Miami Marlins, 12:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

🎥 Meet the Larks Paul Smith

HAMILTON, Ontario - Former Fort Hays State running back Shane Watts was signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League (CFL), announced on July 16, 2025. Watts played four years at Fort Hays State and wrapped his collegiate career with All-America honors as one of the top running backs in NCAA Division II in 2024.

Watts was an All-America Second Team selection in 2024 by three separate organizations, including the D2CCA, Associated Press (AP), and Don Hansen Football Committee. He was also named to the D2Football.com Elite 100 Team. He was an All-MIAA First Team selection as an all-purpose back, finishing the year with 1,303 rushing yards and 449 receiving yards for 1,752 all-purpose yards. He scored 17 touchdowns for the season, including 13 rushing and four receiving.

By the end of the 2024 season, Watts ranked fourth nationally in all-purpose yards per game (160.8), fourth in total rushing yards, sixth in rushing yards per game (118.5), seventh in scoring (9.3 points per game), and eighth in total touchdowns. He became the first FHSU player in program history to rush for 200 or more yards in consecutive games, going for 201 against Missouri Southern on October 26 and then 250 against Emporia State on November 2.

Watts spent the first two years of his collegiate career as a defensive back with the Tigers, recording 14 tackles, before transitioning to the offensive side of the ball as a running back in 2023. In his two years as a running back, Watts produced a total of 1,979 rushing yards and 606 receiving yards with 23 total touchdowns.

Watts is the second senior from the 2024 FHSU roster to sign with a Canadian Football League team in 2025. Wide receiver Jayden Horace signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders back in April.

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are currently in the middle of their 2025 regular season schedule, which began back on June 7. They are 3-2 overall through five games.

🏈 Shane Watts signed by CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats

🎥 Meet the Larks Nolan Wilson

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Fort Hays State Men's Basketball team had two individuals receive NABC academic recognition for the 2024-25 season. Kyle Grill and Kaleb Hammeke were named to the NABC Honors Court on Thursday (July 17).

The NABC Honors Court includes individuals who have reached their junior, senior or graduate student years academically, while holding a GPA of 3.2 or higher.

Kyle Grill, 3.82 - Management Kaleb Hammeke, 3.36 – MBA (grad school)

"Education is one of the NABC's five core values, and we are proud to recognize the academic accomplishments of these programs and individual student-athletes across our sport," said NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson. "The dedication and hard work of these athletes, along with their coaches and support staff members who prioritize academic success, deserves to be widely celebrated."

🏀 FHSU's Grill and Hammeke named to NABC Honors Court

DALLAS (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was sentenced to 30 days in jail on Thursday after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a chain-reaction crash that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said Rice pleaded guilty to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury in the March 30, 2024, crash. As part of a plea agreement, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors said he was also required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.

Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said that after the crash, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.

The news release from prosecutors included a statement from Rice that was released by his attorney. Rice said in the statement that he’s had “a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole.”

🏈 Chiefs WR Rashee Rice sentenced to 30 days in jail over Dallas high-speed crash

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Three players – Brendan Hausen, Max Jones and David N’Guessan – were selected to the 2024-25 National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Honors Court in announcement by the organization on Thursday (July 17).

The NABC Honors Court is bestowed upon juniors, seniors and/or graduate students who post a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.2 or higher in a given academic year.

N’Guessan earned the honor for the third consecutive season. He was also named to the 2025 Winter Academic All-Big 12. It was the first NABC honors for Hausen and Jones.

In addition to head coach Jerome Tang and Chief of Staff Marco Borne, several individuals play a pivotal role in support of the team’s academic success, including Senior Associate AD Kristin Waller, academic counselor Jamie Cherry and the staff in the Evans Student-Athlete Success Program.

🏀 Trio of Wildcats selected to NABC Honors Court

🎥 Meet the Larks Nick Gray

🎥 Meet the Larks Lorenzo Rios

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly on Thursday joined a coalition of 17 governors in sending a letter to United States Secretary of Education Linda McMahon demanding the immediate release of approximately $6.8 billion in federal education funding. Although the funds were already appropriated by Congress, the U.S. Department of Education announced it would delay distribution. This abrupt decision jeopardizes nearly $43 million for K-12 education in Kansas.

Governors from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Maine, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin all signed onto the letter, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the withholding.

“The Trump administration’s shocking decision to withhold education funding directly harms students and schools in Kansas and across the country,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“This funding is essential to support student learning, teacher training and preparation, and afterschool programs that working parents rely on, especially in rural areas. At a time when teachers should be focused on the upcoming school year, the presidential administration’s failure to release Congressionally appropriated funds undermines our shared responsibility to provide every student with a world-class education. I urge the Trump administration to reverse course on this unwarranted cut.”

The Trump administration’s failure to distribute these funds is an unprecedented cut affecting programs that support teacher recruitment and training, STEM education, academic enhancing technology and digital literacy skills, and afterschool programs. This cut could be especially difficult for rural Kansas schools that rely on the flexibility of these federal funds to meet the needs of students.

Based on state fiscal year 2025 grant awards, states were scheduled to receive the federal funding beginning July 1. On June 30, the U.S. Department of Education informed states that it would not issue the funding due to an internal review.

Schools and adult education providers across the country, including in Kansas, were counting on this funding for the upcoming school year. The Trump administration’s decision to halt releasing the funding on time is causing widespread disruption to planning and operations, potentially forcing program cuts, hiring delays, and service reductions for students most in need.

The full letter to Secretary McMahon can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2025%2F07%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3326988%2FFederal%2520Education%2520Funds%2520Letter.pdf/1/0101019819f96f9f-8d0e12ef-4cee-4e82-bce6-bb52f9ea9d79-000000/xRQmg2n2U8Ehjcm6HEaWh4B08evvML6THxybiAMr6Cc=414">here</a>.

Gov. Kelly demands Trump administration release $6.8 billion in education funding

In several states, a renter has to make $20 or more an hour to afford apartments being leased at Fair Market Value. Nearly half of Americans don’t make enough money to afford a one-bedroom rental.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/naomi-delkamiller-1">Jessica Meza</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KCUR</a>

Personal stories about struggling to make ends meet appear throughout the report, “Out of Reach: The High Cost of Housing.”

Vee, from Missouri, said her small wage increases don’t make a dent in rising rent costs.

“Everything is going up, but the paycheck,” a woman named Detrese from Maryland told the National Low Income Housing Coalition, which authored the report.

The report focuses on the housing wage, defined as the full-time hourly wage needed for workers to afford “a decent rental home that doesn’t occupy more than 30% of their wage.”

On the national level, the data shows, a renter needs to earn about $28 an hour to afford a modest one-bedroom rental without spending 30% of their income to pay for housing. Half of working Americans earn less than that, according to the report.

Published on Thursday, the report begins with an open letter from Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II of Missouri that warns about the ongoing affordable housing and homelessness crisis in the U.S.

“I know these challenges firsthand. As a child, my family and I lived in public housing. We relied on it to put a roof over our heads, and to make sure there was enough money to put food on the table,” Cleaver writes.

In at least four Midwestern states, minimum wage is not enough to afford a two-bedroom rental at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hud.loans/hud-loans-blog/what-is-fair-market-rent/" target="_blank">Fair Market Value</a>.

Renters in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri need to make at least $20 an hour to afford a two-bedroom rental. Minimum wage earners would need to work several full time jobs to afford it.

Costs are even higher in Illinois, where it takes earnings of almost $30 an hour to afford the same size of dwelling.

“People have lower incomes in those places, so the housing might be more affordable, you know, nominally, but not necessarily, relative to people's incomes,” said Dan Emmanuel, the coalition's director of research.

According to the NILHC report, only one out of four prospective renters eligible for housing assistance are able to receive that aid, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nlihc.org/resource/house-appropriations-committee-releases-draft-fy26-spending-bill-cutting-hud-funding" target="_blank">budget cuts</a>&nbsp;to federal programs proposed by Congress will drastically impact those who need it.

Under the 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development measure, almost a billion dollars could be cut from HUD, an amount which the NILHC acknowledges is not as high as&nbsp;<a href="https://nlihc.org/resource/house-appropriations-committee-releases-draft-fy26-spending-bill-cutting-hud-funding" target="_blank">originally proposed</a>.

In remarks at a July&nbsp;<a href="https://appropriations.house.gov/news/remarks/cole-remarks-fy26-transportation-housing-and-urban-development-and-related-agencies-0" target="_blank">Appropriations Committee session</a>, Rep. Tom Cole of Oklahoma, who chairs the committee, said:

"The bill empowers local housing and community development decision-making through Community Development Block Grants and NeighborWorks—capacity-building activities that leverage private housing investment dollars.”

Emmanuel said many people will lose their housing and could become homeless as a result of proposed cuts.

“(HUD) won't be able to serve the same amount of people as in 2025,” Emmanuel said.

Tina Murray, vice president of housing at&nbsp;<a href="https://togetheromaha.org/welcome.html" target="_blank">Together Omaha</a>, a food and housing advocacy group, is worried about the ending of housing programs. She said there is already a big shift in housing affordability in Omaha due to the end of pandemic era federal funds and predicts a gradual rise in evictions after the federal funding is no longer available.

“What we're seeing now are a lot of individuals that I believe will not be able to afford where they're living, or be able to be re-house,” Murray said.

Omaha is one of the most expensive areas for renters in Nebraska. The housing wage in the state’s largest city is about $24, while the state housing wage is $21.57. The average Nebraskan renter earns $17.71 an hour, only about four dollars above the state minimum wage.

According to the report, Kendall County, in the Chicago metropolitan region, is one of the most expensive areas for renters in Illinois. The housing wage there is $36.27, higher than the state’s housing wage of $29.81. The average Illinois renter makes $23.01 an hour, about seven dollars above the minimum wage.

Vikki from Illinois shares her story in the report, describing feeling trapped, as her only housing options to relocate with her son are in "unacceptable conditions."

Emmanual said people of color are disproportionately impacted by the rising cost of rent, lack of affordable housing and low wages.

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