By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Hays' dogs made a big splash Saturday as they took over the pool for a day of tail-wagging fun.

The Hays Recreation Commission welcomed dogs of all sizes, from small pugs to towering huskies, for the special event. Pet owners got in on the fun too, paddling alongside their four-legged companions.

📷Local dogs cool off at Hays Aquatic Park

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Recent obituaries and service times

TOPEKA — Medicare open enrollment is scheduled to run Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. That’s when seniors can switch coverage between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage or change a prescription drug plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Original Medicare is a health plan that has two parts: Part A (hospital insurance) covers in-patient hospital and skilled nursing care, and Part B (medical insurance) covers services from physicians and other health care providers. 

Original Medicare is managed by the federal government. This is the typical Medicare insurance most people are familiar with. These plans typically cost about $185 a month (with the cost deducted from your social security check) plus deductibles and co-payments. Many people pay extra for Medigap, to cover copays and other out-of-pocket costs, as well as a Part D plan for drug coverage.

Medicare Advantage is a health plan called Part C and is offered by private insurance companies as an alternative to Original Medicare.&nbsp; It replaces and cancels your Original Medicare plan if you choose this option. It provides the benefits of Part A, B, and often D, usually for about the same amount, with lower copays, so there’s no need for Medigap. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits not in Original Medicare, such as fitness classes or vision and dental care.

Choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage requires careful consideration of your finances and health needs. Medicare Advantage plans can carry hidden risks, especially for people with major health issues. Some people in Medicare Advantage plans may end up paying unexpectedly high costs when they become ill or find that their network lacks the providers they need.

With Original Medicare individuals can see any provider who accepts Medicare, which is most.

 However, Medicare Advantage plans typically require that you get care from a more limited network of providers, and in most cases, you will need a pre-authorization from the insurance payer to see specialists, receive Part B drugs, get skilled nursing facility stays or inpatient hospital stays, receive mental health services or receive diagnostic services such as procedures, labs, tests, therapy, dialysis, hearing, eye exams, dental care and many other services.

A <a href="https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M23-2480">study in the Annal of Internal Medicine</a> found that switching to Medicare Advantage was associated with increased financial burden among vulnerable populations, especially those with low incomes.

 Medicare Advantage plans also may be especially problematic for people in rural areas. A 2024 study found that nearly 6 in 10 Medicare beneficiaries living in rural areas were in Original Medicare driven by that fact that there was limited participation of local doctors and hospitals in Medicare Advantage plan networks. The networks of providers in rural areas are especially narrow, making it harder for people to get care.

In addition, several hospitals across the county have decided not to accept Medicare Advantage plans as they can be detrimental to the patients they serve and often not reliable in payments for care. This also is true in Kansas, where we have seen an increasing number of hospitals not accepting Medicare Advantage plans.

Nearly all <a href="https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-premiums-out-of-pocket-limits-supplemental-benefits-and-prior-authorization/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Medicare Advantage plans</a> (99%) require approvals and authorizations before care can be given. In a<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/prior-authorization-survey.pdf"> 2024 American Medical Association survey</a>, 93% of physicians polled said authorizations delayed medical care.&nbsp; Medicare Advantage plans denied 3.2 million prior authorization requests for health care services in whole or in part in 2023, or 6.4 percent of the 50 million requests submitted on behalf of enrollees that year, according to a <a href="https://www.kff.org/medicare/nearly-50-million-prior-authorization-requests-were-sent-to-medicare-advantage-insurers-in-2023/">KFF analysis of federal data</a>.

Kansans should be aware that the only way to learn about a Medicare Advantage plans’ approval and authorization practices is to ask your physician and hospital provider. Contact your local health care providers. They can connect you with individuals who can help you navigate the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.

The Kansas Hospital Association is a voluntary, non-profit organization existing to be the leading advocate and resource for members. KHA membership includes 242 member facilities, of which 124 are full-service, community hospitals. Founded in 1910, KHA’s vision is: “Optimal Health for Kansans and Kansas Hospitals.

Understand your options before open enrollment, says Kansas Hospital Association

WAKEENEY — Western Cooperative Electric, in partnership with CoBank, has announced the recipients of the 2025 Sharing Success Grants. This year, Western Cooperative Electric received 24 applications from organizations across its service territory, making the selection process especially competitive for the Board of Trustees. &nbsp;

After careful review, four community-focused projects were awarded a combined total of $30,000 in grant funding:&nbsp;

“These projects represent the heart of the Sharing Success program—strengthening communities, preserving history, and improving quality of life for residents across the region,” said Christina Hayes, member services manager for Western Cooperative Electric. “The board was honored to receive so many strong applications and inspired by the dedication of local organizations working to make a difference.” &nbsp;

The Sharing Success Grant program, jointly funded by Western Cooperative Electric and CoBank, provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, schools, and local government entities that serve a public purpose. Since its inception, the program has helped fund a wide variety of community projects, including infrastructure improvements, cultural initiatives, and educational enhancements. &nbsp;

Applications for the 2026 Sharing Success Grant cycle will open on January 1, 2026. Eligible organizations located within Western Cooperative Electric’s service territory are encouraged to apply. &nbsp;

For more information about the program or to submit an application in 2026, visit <a href="https://www.westerncoop.com/">www.westerncoop.com</a>. Questions may be directed to Christina Hayes, Member Services Manager, at 785-743-5561 or chayes@westerncoop.com.&nbsp;

Area towns recipients of Sharing Success grants from Western Cooperative Electric 

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

As work-life balance becomes a central concern for employees across industries, family-friendly workplace policies are gaining ground. More employers are recognizing that supporting workers in their roles as parents and caregivers leads to higher productivity, lower turnover, and stronger workplace morale.

In recent years, the demand for family-friendly benefits has surged, driven largely by the changing demographics of the workforce. The rise of dual-income households increased remote work, and shifting expectations among younger employees have all contributed to a growing call for more flexible and accommodating work environments.

Family-friendly workplaces typically offer a range of supportive policies, including flexible scheduling, breastfeeding support, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, bring infants to work program and hybrid or remote work options. Some companies have gone further, adding on-site childcare centers, eldercare support, and expanded mental health services tailored to family needs.

These changes are not limited to large corporations. Small and mid-sized businesses, as well as public sector organizations, are changing their policies. Many are finding that even incremental improvements—such as allowing for staggered shifts, job-sharing arrangements, or part-time options—can make a meaningful difference for employees managing family responsibilities.

One of the most common and impactful changes has been the normalization of flexible work hours. By allowing employees to adjust their schedules to fit caregiving duties, employers are reducing burnout and absenteeism while improving engagement. 

Remote and hybrid work arrangements have also become standard in many industries, enabling parents to better manage daily routines without compromising their professional responsibilities.

Paid parental leave is another area of focus. More companies are now offering extended leave periods for both mothers and fathers, moving beyond the minimum requirements set by law.

In addition to supporting employees during major life events like childbirth or adoption, many employers are also addressing everyday challenges families face. Subsidized childcare, backup care options, and dependent care flexible spending accounts are helping working parents manage rising care costs.

The shift toward family-friendly workplaces has demonstrated clear business benefits. Companies that offer robust support for families often see improved employee retention and increased loyalty. Workers who feel their needs are recognized and accommodated tend to be more engaged and committed to their roles, contributing to overall organizational performance.

Despite the progress, some challenges remain. Implementing family-focused policies can be difficult in industries that rely on fixed shifts or in-person operations. Budget constraints also limit what some small businesses can offer. However, many organizations are finding that creative solutions and a culture of flexibility can still deliver meaningful support without requiring large investments.

As expectations around work continue to evolve, family-friendly policies are becoming not just a competitive advantage, but a workplace standard. Employers who adapt to these changes are positioning themselves to attract and retain a more diverse, satisfied, and resilient workforce. 

Click the links for more information about Family Friendly Workplaces at <a href="https://allinforkansaskids.org/communities/family-friendly-workplaces/">All in For Kansas Kids</a> or <a href="https://www.kcsl.org/resources/family-friendly-workplaces/">Kansas Children’s Service League</a>.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Family-friendly workplaces gaining ground

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

First Care Clinic, Inc. is proud to announce an exciting expansion of its Pediatric Primary Care services. 

Beginning immediately, the clinic will now provide comprehensive care for children starting at six months of age, extending the previous age range which began at two years old. This enhancement allows First Care Clinic to better support families by offering earlier access to preventive care, developmental screenings, and well-child visits during a critical stage of a child’s growth and health.

“Expanding our Pediatric Primary Care means more children in our community will have access to the comprehensive, compassionate healthcare they deserve,” said Dr. Christine Fisher, medical director at First Care Clinic. “Our goal is to partner with families to help every child grow up healthy, supported, and ready to thrive.”

These expanded services will be available with Alexis Ibarra, nurse practitioner, at their 22nd Street location in Hays. Ibarra brings a compassionate, patient-centered approach to pediatric care, offering well-child exams, immunizations, sick visits, developmental screenings, and support for common childhood concerns. Families can expect personalized, high-quality care in a welcoming environment designed to meet the unique needs of infants and young children.

First Care Clinic CEO, Eric Flax explains, "By expanding our primary care services to meet the needs of the youngest members of our community, we reaffirm our commitment to First Care Clinic’s mission — providing compassionate, high-quality care for all. Parents who bring their children to Alexis will quickly discover what we already know: she is an exceptional provider who connects deeply with her patients and, when it comes to the little ones, with their parents as well."

General Pediatric Primary Care services will continue to be provided by all medical providers at both Family Medicine locations for children two years of age and older.

First Care Clinic welcomes new patients and accepts all major insurances. A Sliding Fee Scale discount is available to those who qualify. Patients can view our providers and request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic at 785- 621-4990.

ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.

First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, with over ninety employees across their three locations in Hays, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They provide family medicine, express care, pharmaceutical, behavioral health, and family dentistry services.

All Wheels Car Show in Phillipsburg Sept. 20

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about housing and the ribbon cutting of the Bob and Pat Community Center on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

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

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays on new community center

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Well, yet another birthday has come and gone. 

It seems that since I’ve turned 70, my “check engine light” has come on and refuses to go out. It flickers on and off occasionally, but never goes completely off. 

Don’t get me wrong, at 74, I’m blessed more than many, and I praise God for that, but it seems like I daily feel like the proverbial “old fisherman,” and I’ve devised a questionnaire so you can see if you too fit into that category. 

You’re probably an old fisherman if you still smell like Ben Gay even after you’ve cleaned your fish.

If you waste countless hours of prime fishing time reeling and casting, reeling and casting, because you can’t remember whether or not you just re-baited your hook, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If, after reaching quickly under the boat seat for the dip net, you’ve found yourself holding your cane instead, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If you have ever started to hold the line between your teeth only to discover you’ve left your teeth at home at home, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If removing that occasional fishbone from your teeth can now be accomplished by removing your teeth and tapping them on the table, you just might be an old fisherman.

If your shore lunch now includes a tall, cool thermos of Metamucil and a box of prunes, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If your fishing buddies are now more than happy to take you along to their secret “honey holes” because they are confident you’ll never remember where you were anyway, you’re probably an old fisherman.

You’re probably an old fisherman if your wife now begs to go fishing with you because she’s afraid you’ll forget your way back home (you should feel lucky she wants you back home).

You’re probably an old fisherman if your favorite fishing chair is now one of those fancy walkers with a seat on it, and you are relegated to fishing from the boat dock because that’s the only place level enough to park it, or if you recently removed a seat from your boat to make room for your walker.

You just might be an old fisherman, if to you, the letters GPS mean Gotta’ Pee Soon.

It’s easy for anyone to drive off with their coffee cup sitting on the roof or the bumper of the pickup, but if you have gotten to the lake and turned around to back your boat down the boat ramp only to discover the boat was still parked in the driveway at home, you’re an old fisherman.

And finally, I’m sure you’re an old fisherman if your eyesight has gotten so dim that you now haul home all the carp you catch because you mistake them for trophy bass.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Are you an old fisherman? Take the test

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A long-abandoned downtown building has been transformed into a new event center in the heart of Hays.

Cassidy Sowers, general manager of Gella’s Diner and LB Brewing, said the space is designed to meet the demand for a larger venue downtown.

"It was technically a historical building, so we couldn't completely redo it," Sowers said. "We kind of brought old history back to life and added some modern touches to it."

The venue, 121 E. 11th St., was created from a vacant building next to the diner, which Sowers said now includes a state-of-the-art catering kitchen, bar and other amenities.

The room includes a projector and can hold up to 126 people with seating for 92, accommodating events such as business meetings, Christmas parties, small weddings, wedding receptions and celebrations of life.

Renovations began more than a year ago. Sowers said it is now available for booking, with reservations taken at 785-621-2739.

The Chamber in Hays will host <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/24032430886448819">a grand opening and ribbon-cutting</a> for the event center at 3 p.m. Sept. 4.

"We're eager to get this place going," Sowers said.

Sowers said culinary students from Fort Hays Tech North Central are already using the kitchen for classes conducted Mondays through Wednesdays.

In addition to the new space next door, Gella’s has renovated a smaller banquet room called The Nook to host smaller gatherings when the larger room is booked.

The Nook features a modern design with a TV and plug-ins for work meetings or small parties, and seating for up to 36 guests.&nbsp;Sowers said the smaller room can be reserved but is also available for everyday diners.

"I just want to get people in here. I want them to see it because it's a drastic change. It's a night-and-day difference," Sowers said.

The kitchen in the larger event venue will handle catering for off-site events, with a new menu to be introduced. Sowers said everything was made possible by the team she is a part of.

You can visit the diner's website <a href="https://www.lbbrewing.com/">here</a> and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LbBrewing">Facebook</a>.

New event center in downtown Hays open for booking

&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

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Countryside Estates Mobile Home Park, Hays, public water supply system located in Ellis County. 

The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure due to water main breaks. 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 Countryside Estates 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;

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.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 308-629-7874 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/1/01000198d25f9524-f7654a83-a856-44b0-9b2b-8b9023b12a28-000000/MnWJRWFVuA6x_VD3vR714V82LXQUmM4s0Vzpn-nFI7M=419">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>.

Boil Water Advisory rescinded for Hays' Countryside Estates mobile home park

After 25 impactful years, HaysMed is retiring its traditional drive-thru flu shot clinic and launching a more flexible, integrated approach to community health. Starting this fall, flu shots will be offered during its monthly blood screening events- providing a convenient, one-stop opportunity for preventive care.

 The decision to discontinue the drive-thru format comes in response to changing community needs and increased access to free flu shots at local pharmacies such as Walgreens, Walmart, and Dillon’s. While the HaysMed drive-thru clinic once served nearly 4,000 individuals annually, recent participation has dropped below 1,500. This new format allows the hospital to better align with current trends and improve accessibility for the community.

Participants can now receive a free flu shot, participate in blood screening lab draws, or do both- all in one visit. Flu shots will be available on the following Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. – 10:00a.m. at Entrance B (Miller Pavillion), using parking Lot B on September 6, October 4, or November 1, 2025.

Children’s flu shots will be administered in the same area as adult vaccinations to simplify the experience for families. To help with flow and minimize wait times, participants may choose to go directly to the flu shot station or begin with blood screening.

Since its inception, HaysMed has proudly administered 69,802 flu shots to the community. In 2024 alone, the hospital provided 1,300 adult and 378 pediatric vaccines free of charge, thanks to the support of the HaysMed Foundation.

The HaysMed flu shot events have also supported local families through food donations. In 2024, participants donated 583 pounds of canned food to the Community Assistance Center. Since 2007, the hospital collected a total of 26,854 pounds- nearly 13.5 tons of food! 

All attendees are encourage to bring a non-perishable food item to continue this tradition of giving back.

Watch the HaysMed 2025 Flu Shot video&nbsp;below about this change.

HaysMed is thrilled to continue partnering with Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays North Central Tech nursing students, who will assist with flu shot administration. Their involvement ensures hands-on learning and reflects the spirit of community collaboration.

· Free flu shots available for individuals 6 months and older

· Participants may choose to receive a flu shot, participate in blood screening lab draws, or both

· Consent forms available at&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu/">haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a> – please complete, print, and bring a signed copy for each person being vaccinated

· Short-sleeved shirts recommended for ease of vaccination

· Egg-free vaccines will not be available; individuals with egg allergies should consult their healthcare provider

· High-dose flu vaccines for those 65+ will not be offered at these events

For more information about blood screenings, visit the most recent <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/august-volunteer-community-blood-screenings/">monthly blood screenings article</a>. For flu shot updates, maps, and logistics, visit <a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu/">haysmedfoundation.org/flu/</a>.

Together, HaysMed is working to keep the community healthy, strong, and connected- now in a format that’s more convenient than ever.

HaysMed announces new format for 2025 free Community Flu Shot Event

Free Community Shred Day offered by Bank of Hays

Hays High Sept. 4 soccer game cancelled

The Hays City Commission and the Russell City Council will have a joint meeting at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the Russell City Hall, 133 W. Eighth St., Russell.

The topic of discussion will be the joint development of the R9 water supply.

Hays, Russell city leaders to discuss R9 development Aug. 27 in Russell

Hungry for bierocks? Place your order with the Cancer Council of Ellis County for their BIEROCK FUNDRAISER until Monday, September 1, 2025. These delicious bierocks are made by Cervs on Main Street. 

To place your order call the Cancer Council at 785-625-6653 or mail your order to 701 Riley St., Hays KS 67601. 

Orders must be paid for at time of order. 

Pick up will be Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the south side of Main Street Cervs, 1601 Main Street.

Cost is $30 for ½ dozen or $50 for a dozen; with cheese $35 for ½ dozen or $60 for a dozen.

The Cancer Council of Ellis County is a local organization that has been helping Ellis County residents dealing with cancer for 39 years.

Bierocks fundraiser underway for Cancer Council of Ellis County

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the Countryside Estates MHP, Hays KS public water supply system located in Ellis County.

This advisory does not affect customers who receive water from the City of Hays or the Ellis County Rural Water public water supplies.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on August 20, 2025 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. 

KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure due to water main breaks. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 308-629-7874, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:

<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/1/01000198c7cf103e-b5dd857c-0c66-491f-97af-6acfb416de7f-000000/K-ttGxp_qLoiwLVNNGSosH35J2YOwLctNbOZJYIYxBE=419">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil Water Advisory issued for Countryside Mobile Home Estates in Hays

Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Smith Center public water supply system located in Smith County. 

The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of Smith Center 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: 785-282-3812 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/1/01000198c7d5cfe1-90876970-fc05-4764-9a29-d719ffec7777-000000/4h5BJoIFe_zZg571dAAEBXrYQlO7Ky8M127R5fpYU-0=419">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>.

Boil Water Advisory for Smith Center rescinded

DICKINSON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a pharmacy in Abilene.

According to a social media report from Paterson Health Care Pharmacy, 105 NW 3rd Street in Abilene, the fire occurred Sunday night. There were no injuries but significant damage due to the fire, smoke and the pharmacy is working with officials to determine the next steps to be taken. 

&nbsp;Pharmacy operations are currently suspended and the business has no way to access patient info that is backed up on the software server. This means the pharmacy cannot perform any transfers as well.

The pharmacy we will provide updates on social media and on our phone system as soon as possible.

&nbsp;The pharmacy encouraged customers to call their doctor and have a prescription sent to another pharmacy. 

Fire temporarily closes Kansas pharmacy

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Two more suspects accused in connection with the death of a 1-year-old Kansas boy will go to trial Monday.

Roames Bonner, who was 17 at the time of the crime, will face a bench trial Monday afternoon in Judge Jeffery Goering's courtroom. The Judge earlier this year  ruled Bonner can be tried as an adult, according to the District Attorney's office.

Jonathan Tillery-Matthais, 21, will face a jury trial in Judge Jeffery Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. That trial is to begin Monday morning.

Bonner, 21-year-old Jonathan Tillery-Matthias and&nbsp;26-year-old K’Veion Richard all of Wichita, were charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and criminal discharge of a firearm for the death of 1-year-old Taidyn Anderson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 7p.m. February 19, police responded to a shooting in the 2500 block of South Oliver, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses. Through the investigation, officers learned that two adult females were struck by gunfire and 1-year-old Taidyn Anderson was also struck by gunfire and died of his injuries.

Police identified three suspects in the case and the following day arrested&nbsp; Bonner, Richard and&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=746317">Tillery-Matthias&nbsp;</a>.

At the time of the crime,&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=746317">Tillery-Matthias</a>&nbsp;was on pre-trial supervision for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm into an Occupied Vehicle stemming from a Wichita Police investigation.<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=232072">&nbsp;Richard&nbsp;</a>was on Parole for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault x2, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

Police believe that this was a targeted event which led to the death of the boy. In April, Richard was sentenced to life in prison for the boy's death.

Kansas teen faces trial in death of one-year-old boy

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/demetris-nellas">DEMETRIS NELLAS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mae-anderson">MAE ANDERSON</a>

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — The end of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-russia-india-9e388a55583e7007149819c52f0fd71b">exemption on tariff duties for low-value packages</a>&nbsp;coming into the United States is causing multiple international postal services to pause shipping as they await more clarity on the rule.

The exemption, known as the “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/de-minimis-trump-tariffs-china-1b52319a85572331baf31cb6287ecddf">de minimis” exemption</a>, allows packages worth less than $800 to come into the U.S. duty free. A total of 1.36 billion packages were sent in 2024 under this exemption, for goods worth $64.6 billion, according to data from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Agency.

It is set to expire on Friday. On Saturday, postal services around Europe announced that they are suspending the shipment of many packages to the United States amid confusion over new import duties.

Postal services in Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Italy said they will stop shipping most merchandise to the U.S. effective immediately. France and Austria will follow on Monday.

The U.K.'s Royal Mail said it would halt shipments to the U.S. on Tuesday to allow time for those packages to arrive before duties kick in. Items originating in the United Kingdom worth over $100 — including gifts to friends and family — will incur a 10% duty, it said.

“Key questions remain unresolved, particularly regarding how and by whom customs duties will be collected in the future, what additional data will be required, and how the data transmission to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will be carried out,” DHL, the largest shipping provider in Europe, said in a statement.

The company said starting Saturday it “will no longer be able to accept and transport parcels and postal items containing goods from business customers destined for the US.”

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tariffs">trade framework agreed on by the U.S. and the European Union</a>&nbsp;last month set a 15% tariff on the vast majority of products shipped from the EU. Packages under $800 will now also be subject to the tariff.

The U.S. duty-free&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/de-minimis-trump-tariffs-china-1b52319a85572331baf31cb6287ecddf">exemption for goods originating from China</a>&nbsp;ended in May as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to curb American shoppers from ordering low-value Chinese goods. The exemption is being extended to shipments from around the world.

Many European postal services say they are pausing deliveries now because they cannot guarantee the goods will enter the U.S. before Aug. 29. They cite ambiguity about what kind of goods are covered by the new rules, and the lack of time to process their implications.

Postnord, the Nordic logistics company, and Italy’s postal service announced similar suspensions effective Saturday.

“In the absence of different instructions from US authorities ... Poste Italiane will be forced, like other European postal operators, to temporarily suspend acceptance of all shipments containing goods destined for the United States, starting August 23. Mail shipments not containing merchandise will continue to be accepted,” Poste Italiane said Friday.

Shipping by services such as DHL Express remains possible, it added.

Björn Bergman, head of PostNord’s Group Brand and Communication, said the pause was “unfortunate but necessary to ensure full compliance of the newly implemented rules.”

In the Netherlands, PostNL spokesperson Wout Witteveen said the Trump administration is pressing ahead with the new duties despite U.S. authorities lacking a system to collect them. He said that PostNL is working closely with its U.S. counterparts to find a solution.

“If you have something to send to America, you should do it today,” Witteveen told The Associated Press.

Austrian Post, Austria’s leading logistics and postal service provider, stated that the last acceptance of commercial shipments to the U.S., including Puerto Rico, will take place Tuesday.

France’s national postal service, La Poste, said the U.S. did not provide full details or allow enough time for the French postal service to prepare for new customs procedures.

″Despite discussions with U.S. customs services, no time was provided to postal operators to re-organize and assure the necessary computer updates to conform to the new rules,″ it said in a statement.

PostEurop, an association of 51 European public postal operators, said that if no solution can be found by Aug. 29 all its members will likely follow suit.

Anderson reported from New York. Associated Press writers Angela Charlton in Paris; Costas Kantouris in Thessaloniki, Greece; Stephanie Lichtenstein in Vienna; Brian Melley in London and Molly Quell in Amsterdam contributed to this report.

Tariff confusion: Postal services suspend package shipments to US 

SHAWNEE COUNTY —The Topeka Zoo announced the passing of giraffe, Liz on Sunday. The Giraffe &amp; Friends building was temporarily closed to the public n Sunday. The giraffes still had access to their outdoor yards.

Liz (full name Elizabeth) was born August 21, 2018 at the Topeka Zoo &amp; Conservation Center to parents Hope and Sgt. Peppers. Her namesake was a very generous late supporter, Elizabeth Stratton. 

More than 1300 viewers tuned in to the live YouTube video of the birth, welcoming her into the world.&nbsp; The Zoo is currently gathering more information the cause of her death.

 Liz died Sunday night at approximately 10 pm. The zoo share more information once pending results are in from Liz’s recent exam. We are very appreciative of any mindful comments or letters of support and would love to read any special memories of Liz that supporters want to highlight. Cards for staff can be dropped off in the Zoo's gift shop. Giraffe feedings will resume Sunday, August 31.

7-year-old giraffe dies at Kansas zoo

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a Saturday afaternoon homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 39-year-old Victor Austin, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

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