By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The construction of the Tallgrass Addition, using housing incentives, has had an economic impact of $24.4 million on the Hays area.

Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, gave a presentation during the agency's quarterly luncheon on Tuesday, explaining how Reinvestment Housing Incentive Districts work and how they have been utilized in Hays to promote development.

The nonprofit development group Heart of America purchased land for the second addition of the Tallgrass Addition in 2019.

The first 3 phases of the Tallgrass Addition have added 66 lots for development, with 101 more lots to be in the fourth addition, which will stretch north to Interstate 70.

Williams said the Tallgrass addition would not have happened had it not been for the incentive district.

The cost of developing infrastructure, such as streets and sewers, would have been too expensive, he said. Heart of America has invested more than $3 million in developing infrastructure for the first three phases.

In a larger community such as Kansas City, the developer could pass the cost of development on to consumers in the form of higher lot prices. He gave the example of lots selling for $100,000.

Without the incentive district, the lot prices would have averaged $47,738. With the incentive district, the lots averaged about $14,000.

Using special assessments would also push the cost of housing beyond the reach of most buyers, he said.

Had the cost of infrastructure been recouped through special assessments, homeowners would be paying an additional $340 per month to cover the infrastructure costs.

"If you look at the cost of home ownership, that is a significant reduction," Williams said.

The community benefited from the development because Heart of America chose to reconstruct Wheatland Avenue instead of doing an overlay. This created a better street not only for the development but for those entering Fort Hays State University Tech North Central.

"Had that been a private developer, no one would do that," Williams said.

Developers in larger urban areas can build on a larger scale. They built many homes at once. However, local developers might be able to build only one or two houses per year.

The Tallgrass Addition has several basements poured that need to be framed, but Hays only has one framer.

The Tallgrass home buyers were distributed between people who were new to Hays, first-time home buyers, people who were upsizing or downsizing and investors.

"I hear all the time about people coming to our community to accept a job, look for housing, and find out they can't find an acceptable house. [They] end up not coming," he said. "It's happened numerous times."

When you look at the upsizers and downsizers that added another 15 homes to the Hays housing inventory. People are buying the homes that Tallgrass buyers vacate, Williams said.

"The more supply we have, the more likely we are to be able to maintain stable prices," Williams said.

Many of the houses that were vacated by Tallgrass buyers sold for less than the Tallgrass homes. Those vacated homes filled a niche in the housing market, Williams said.

The total revenue from Tallgrass construction was estimated at more than $19 million. This is estimated to have a multiplier effect in the community of 1.26, resulting in a total economic impact of $24.4 million.

The sales tax impact alone was almost $900,000.

Homeowners still pay property taxes. Only the local incremental increase in property tax is allocated toward repayment of the developer's infrastructure costs.

The 20-mill state levy for schools is still in place. The new homes will raise an additional $969,000 for schools over the life of the incentive district.

"There are really no levied tax dollars that have been put into this project, but there have been a whole bunch of dollars that have come back the other way," Williams added later in his presentation.

"In my view, without a doubt, our taxes are lower than they would be because of this development."

The construction has also created jobs in the community, Williams said.

An estimated 116 direct construction jobs and 40 indirect jobs were created. Direct jobs could be carpenters or roofers, people working to build the homes. Indirect jobs could be landscapers.

Another 104 jobs have been created in industries such as retail or restaurants when the construction workers eat out or shop.

Williams said homeownership benefits the community at large.

It increases and stabilizes the workforce. Homeowners are more likely to stay in the community. Their children attended local schools, and they stimulate the economy by shopping, eating at restaurants and using services, such as medical care.

The city agreed to bond the initial $3.1 million&nbsp;Heart of America investment, allowing it to develop the fourth Tallgrass Addition.

Engineering on the latest addition is almost complete. Bids will likely go out in the next 30 days and construction on the infrastructure will likely start this fall, Williams said.

Within eight to nine months, work on building houses is expected to begin, he said.

"There still remains to be strong demand for these [homes]," Williams said.

Williams said the land on which the Tallgrass Addition now sits was producing $127 in property taxes.&nbsp;

"That's the trade for an RHID," he said. "I think it is a pretty good trade because of all that has happened because of the RHID and because the city, county, school district and Heart of America, all of those people were willing to step up to the plate and make something happen."

Mayor Sandy Jacobs lauded the collaboration that went into creating the Tallgrass Addition.

"No one entity could go out and do this on their own," she said. "I think we should be really proud of the collaboration, starting with Heart of America, because that was your first stop, looking for the money. They were able to see that future. I think it is amazing what this community can do when they all put their heads together."

She also said she thought the Tallgrass Addition stimulated development in the community because it highlighted the demand for housing in Hays.

🎙 Housing incentive district reaps millions in economic benefits for community

The Point of Light is the highest recognition given by Thomas More Prep-Marian to honor significant individuals who have given time, talent, or resources through dedicated service to the school. Recipients of the Point of Light award show commitment to our tradition of excellence, are involved in activities that bring honor to the inductee and to TMP-Marian, and have a heart for service.

Inductees are nominated by the TMP-Marian community and voted on by a variety of individuals representing the school administration, staff, alumni, religious, and community for a diversified selection committee.

TMP-Marian is honored to announce the following 2025 Point of Light Inductees:

A lifelong advocate for education and the performing arts, Kathy Dreiling-Amrein has left an indelible mark on TMP-Marian. A 1976 graduate of Victoria High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Music from Fort Hays State University in 1980. Kathy was united in marriage to Frank Dreiling in 1987 until his passing in 1998 and later to Allan Amrein in 2004. Over the course of her remarkable 41-year career in education, she inspired countless students with her passion for music, including 20 years as a faculty member at TMP-Marian. She also served as co-chair of the school’s Centennial Celebration, ensuring that TMP-Marian’s rich history was celebrated with joy and reverence.

Kathy’s professional achievements include being named the KMEA Outstanding Teacher of 2012, serving as KMEA Northwest District President (2011–2012), and being inducted into the Ellis High School Teacher Hall of Fame.

Beyond the classroom, Kathy has remained deeply involved in faith and service. She is an active member of the Hays Lions Club, Christian Mothers, Daughters of Isabella, and the Liturgy Committee at St. Fidelis Parish in Victoria. Her commitment to her community and her school is matched only by her devotion to her family, with husband Allan and daughters Holly Lang ’07 and Hannah Schmidt ’13, and their seven grandchildren.

Gene and Theresa have been married for 49 years, having first met during their college years at St. Mary of the Plains in Dodge City. Together, they have built a strong legacy rooted in faith, family, and service. They are the proud parents of five children—Don, Karen ’98, Matt ’01, Nick ’04, and Patrick ‘05—and the grandparents to 14 grandchildren.

Gene’s influence on TMP-Marian spans decades. For many years, he served as a football coach, shaping the lives of countless student-athletes. He also dedicated himself to leadership roles as Activities Director and Dean of Discipline, and Assistant Principal, as well as serving four years as Assistant Principal at Holy Family Elementary. Some of the highlights of Gene’s time at TMP-M include coaching the Shrine Bowl in ’03 &amp; ’04, receiving the Jack Schramm Spirit Award in 2010, and serving as Homecoming Grand Marshall with Theresa in 2022.

Theresa also made a lasting impact in Catholic education, teaching for 13 years at Holy Family Elementary, where she inspired young learners and helped form the foundation of their academic and spiritual journeys.

Both Gene and Theresa are active members of St. Nicholas of Myra Parish in Hays, where their example of steadfast faith and service continues to inspire.

Duane &amp; Mary Lang are being honored as Points of Light for their commitment to TMP-M. Duane is a 1974 graduate of Ellis High School, and Mary (Wilkerson) Lang is a 1977 graduate of Marian High School. They have three children who graduated from TMP-M: Scott ‘99, Sarah ‘01, and David ‘07. After a 38-year career with Schwan’s Sales, Duane joined the maintenance crew at TMP-M in 2020. Mary joined the alumni staff in 1997 as the alumni office manager and served in that position for 27 years, retiring in 2023. Along with many different alumni board members throughout the years, Fr. Earl Befort, Wanda Billinger, Kathy Kaseforth, and Mary Lang took charge of the many capital improvement projects, including the stained glass windows and renovation projects in the Marian Chapel. This group also spearheaded the planning and organization of the TMP-M School Centennial Celebration in 2008. Through the Auction for Christian Education, Alumni Golf Classic, and soliciting donations from alumni, they helped raise funds for many projects, including new school buses, the alumni storage shed and addition. Duane and Mary have helped with many projects through the years sponsored by the Sports Booster Club, Fine Arts Booster Club, and the Parents, Teachers, and Friends. They are charter members of St. Nicholas of Myra parish, serving as past Eucharistic Ministers and helping on a variety of projects as members of the St. Nicholas Knights of Columbus and Ladies Guild. Duane and Mary are recognized as generous individuals who share an abundance of their time, talents, and treasure for the continued prosperity of TMP-M.

Bob graduated from Atwood High School in 1965 before earning a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. Shortly after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served honorably for two years. Karen graduated from St. Scholastica Academy in 1970 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University. The couple married in 1980 and raised two children, both graduates of TMP-Marian—Kevin ‘03 and Kendra ‘07.

Bob began his teaching and coaching career in 1973, enjoying various stints at TMP-Marian, leaving an enduring legacy on the school’s athletics. Over the years, “Coach T,” as his students called him, taught Physical Education and Driver’s Education while coaching football, pole vault, and his true passion—wrestling. His remarkable career produced 44 state qualifiers, 17 state medalists, 2 state champions, 1 Grand State Champion, and even a Big 12 champion. His name and legacy live on through the Bob Threlkel Wrestling Tournament at Hays Middle School, a tribute to the countless athletes he mentored.

Karen dedicated nearly four decades to the nursing profession, serving faithfully from 1979 until her retirement in 2018. Her vocation was marked not only by her professional excellence but also by her compassion and care for those in need.

Together, Bob and Karen continue to serve their community and their faith. Bob serves on the board of the Church of the Nazarene in Hays, and Karen serves at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

TMP-Marian announces 2025 Point of Light recipients

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Kansas crude prices are up a dollar from last week, but down $1.25 from the first of the month, and nine dollars lower than at the first of the year.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude starts the week at $53.00 a barrel at CHS in McPherson.

Employment in the oil patch is dropping, according to an online report citing government data. The publication Rig Zone cites data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics showing total employment in oil and gas extraction has dropped by 4,000 jobs from January to August. Figures show a month on month drop on four occasions so far this year. Total employment as of August reached 119-thousand workers.

Baker Hughes reports 539 active drilling rigs nationwide, up two oil rigs from last week. The tallies in Texas and New Mexico are each up one, while Oklahoma is down one for the week.&nbsp; US totals are down 51 rigs from the same week a year ago.

The weekly Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service dropped nearly 17% from last week, 25% from last month, and 37% from last year. There are five active rigs in eastern Kansas, down three from a week ago. The total west of Wichita is unchanged at ten rigs.

The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named two brand-new oil fields. They're located in Logan and Ness counties. That's 16 new oil and gas fields so far this year.

Kansas regulators okayed 12 new drilling permits this week, with six in Western Kansas and six east of Wichita. That's 499 so far this year, compared to 733 new drilling locations by this time last year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports eleven new well-completions, 824 so far this year. Three of those are in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County.

Kansas crude oil production in May increased slightly from April, but the daily average drops under 71-thousand barrels. Cumulative output through May reached 10.5 million barrels, dropping the cumulative daily average to 69.64 barrels per day. That's down nearly 3,000 barrels a day from a year ago. Output in Ellis County through May averaged 5,386 barrels a day, down 309 barrels from a year ago. Barton County produced 3,754 barrels a day, down slightly from last year. Russell County is up slightly from a year earlier, at 3,312 barrels a day. Output in Stafford County is also slightly higher, at 2,423 barrels a day.

US crude production topped 13.4 million barrels a day for a third week in a row, and nearly topped 13.5 million for the first time in nearly six months. The Energy Information Administration reports average output of &nbsp;13,495,000 barrels per day, the highest weekly average since March 28. The four-week average, and cumulative production so far this year, are each below 13.5 million barrels a day; each remains nearly two percent higher than a year ago.

The government added another half million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves, which now total more than 405 million barrels. SPR refilled more than 25 million barrels in the last year, at $30-$35 per barrel less than what we sold it for three years ago.

Commercial crude inventories rose nearly four million barrels, topping off at 424.6 million barrels as of September 5. EIA says stockpiles are down about three percent from the five-year average for this time of year.

Crude oil imports are down nearly seven percent from a week ago. They're down nearly nine percent from a year ago, and more than 17 percent from two years ago. The Energy Information Administration reports current average imports of 6.3 million barrels a day. The four-week average is down about half a percentage point from the same four weeks last year.

Crude exports dropped by more than a million daily barrels to 2.7 million barrels per day. Refined product exports jumped about half a million barrels a day to 7.2 million.

News from the Oil Patch: Oil patch employment plummets

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Though often found in agricultural crops, fall armyworms have been found in certain turfgrass species and we’ve had many reports of them recently. This has been a bad year for them in crops as well as in homeowners’ turf.

Description: Young larvae are ½ to ¾ inches long. Mature larvae can reach 1½ inches long. Fall armyworms can be identified by the inverted “Y” on top of the dark head. Adult moths are ½ inch long. The two front wings are brown-grey. Males have more dark markings than females.

Life Cycle: As a tropical insect, fall armyworms are not able to overwinter in Kansas limiting them to 2-4 generations each year. Moths migrate to their seasonal home and lay hundreds of eggs in clusters. Larvae hatch and begin feeding. Once established, new generations can occur every 23-25 days.

Damage: Larvae feed on grass blades. Heavy infestations will occasionally chew the blades to the crown. Though the damage may be unsightly it does not typically kill the grass. Regrowth of the turfgrass can be expedited with rain and/or irrigation.

Control: If insecticide applications are considered, cyhalothrin (Spectracide Triazicide), permethrin (38 Plus Turf, Termite &amp; Ornamental Insect Spray; Hi-Yield Garden &amp; Farm Insect Control; Eight Yard &amp; Garden RTS) and spinosad (Conserve, Monterey Garden Insect Spray, Captain Jack's Dead Bug Brew, Natural Guard Spinosad) and Dylox (BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Control) are commonly available materials registered for control of fall armyworm in turf. Neem oil is also an option if a homeowner does not want to use chemicals.

Spray treatments have greater and quicker contact efficacy than granular applications. Granular treatments require irrigation or rain to activate the insecticide from the dry granular carrier. Professional lawn care service personnel have access to additional materials (such as Scimitar and Deltamethrin) which may have more persistence than homeowner products.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Fall armyworms

<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

2025 Paradise Fall Festival set for Sept. 20

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

State teenagers were arrested on Sept. 7 for allegedly breaking into a Fort Hays State University student dorm.

FHSU Chief of Police Terrance Pierce said at about 6:47 a.m., campus police were dispatched to McMindes Hall to respond to a report of a potential trespassing incident.

Residence life staff in McMindes Hall informed the officer that they had previously escorted 19-year-old Brett Patrick Schmidt of Lawrence and 18-year-old Luke Elias Arredondo of Haysville  from the building because they had violated the university’s visitor policy.

The two were told not to re-enter the building, Pierce said.

Schmidt and Arredeondo later allegedly re-entered the building, broke into a student's dorm while still occupied and stole food products. Pierce said Ellis County Dispatch was made aware of the alleged crimes along with the description of the two suspects.

Hays Police located the two individuals in the 400 Block of West Sixth Street in Hays. Hays Police and University Police arrested the two suspects and transported them to the Ellis County Jail.

Schmidt was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, minor in possession of alcohol, underage possession of tobacco, felony interference with law enforcement and display fictitious identification.

Arredondo was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, minor in possession of alcohol and underage possession of tobacco.

Pierce said Schmidt and Arredondo are not enrolled at the university and had no connection to anyone in the dorm room they allegedly entered. No injuries were reported.

Two arrested after alleged burglary at FHSU student housing

The Ellis County Commission will have a public hearing before deciding on a proposed reinvestment housing incentive district for Big Creek Estates 3rd Addition during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.

The hearing will allow community input before the commission decides whether to approve the resolution and the development agreement.

The project includes road improvements on Reservation Road and has received 25 protest petitions. There is no financial impact to the county in approving the housing incentive district.

Commissioners will be asked to approve a resolution that would authorize the county counselor to initiate foreclosure proceedings on properties with delinquent real estate taxes.

A list provided by the county treasury includes 15 properties with a combined total of $44,394.56 in taxes, penalties and interest owed.

The City of Gorham will request approval for the county public works department to assist with a road rehabilitation project. The project would not create significant direct costs to the county beyond staff time and machinery.

Jeff Ridgway, county communication director, will recognize Dispatcher Rachel Barnes with the Stork award for her exceptional response to a 911 call on April 5 before emergency responders arrived.

Barnes calmly guided the caller through the birth process and afterward during a 16-minute call. This is the second time she has received the award.

Commissioners will be asked to approve a new contract with County Counselor Bill Jeter, effective Jan. 1. The agreement increases Jeter's monthly retainer&nbsp;by $500, from $5,500 to $6,000. The change was initiated by the commission, not by Jeter, and is already included in the 2026 budget.&nbsp;

County EMS will request approval to accept bids from R Enterprise for remounting two ambulances scheduled for replacement in 2025 and 2026, which would be a cost-saving alternative to purchasing new units. An EMS Fund would cover the total cost.

Commissioners will appoint a new member to the Ellis County Library Board to fill a vacancy effective Oct.1. The appointment will run until April 30.&nbsp;

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162025-698">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission sets housing development hearing

Ellis County Jail bookings: Sept. 7-13, 2025

Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Sept. 7-13, 2025

&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

Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter #1655 in Hays is sponsoring a learn-to-fly informational meeting on Thursday, September 18, 6 p.m., at RANS Aircraft, 4600 U.S. Highway 183 Alternate.

Come learn about what is required to become a private pilot. Meet local&nbsp;instructors and pilots, and register for a chance to receive a discovery flight from Hays Aircraft.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Enjoy a complementary hamburger cookout.&nbsp;

Please register to attend by emailing your name and contact information to eaachapter1655@gmail.com no later than Tuesday, September 16.

Learn To Fly informational meeting in Hays Sept. 18

Government surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at&nbsp;Unite Free Shelves (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th Street in Hays, on Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until we run out.&nbsp;Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below:

$2,413&nbsp;Household of one $3,261&nbsp;&nbsp;Household of two $4,109&nbsp;Household of three $4,957&nbsp;&nbsp;Household of four $5,805&nbsp;&nbsp;Household of five $6,653&nbsp;Household of six $7,501&nbsp;Household of seven $8,349&nbsp;&nbsp;Household of eight

*Add&nbsp;&nbsp;$848&nbsp;for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be mixed fruit, grape juice, diced tomatoes, potato slices, dehydrated potato flakes, applesauce cups, catfish, refried beans, Alaskan pollock, canned pumpkin, and cream of mushroom soup.&nbsp; 

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a target="_blank" href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Government surplus commodities to be distributed Sept. 23 in Hays

Katharinenstadt's Essenfest is Oct. 12; Registration open now

Schoenchen Community Center&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4-7 p.m.

Sauerkraut Soup, Green Bean Dumpling Soup Noodles, Ham &amp; Beans, German Sausage Homemade Bread Pies, Kuchens &amp; Cakes Tea or Coffee

&nbsp; $15.00 8 and under Free&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sponsored by the St. Anthony Altar Society&nbsp;

Fundraiser for the St Anthony Park and Playground

50/50 RAFFLE (Need not be present to win)

Oakley's annual Gun, Coin, Knife & Collectible Show is Sept. 20, 21

Community Shred Day Saturday at Bank of Hays

WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Monday applauded the decision by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to approve Kansas’ 2025 provider tax preprint, increasing the provider tax to 6% from 3%, according to a media release from Moran's office.

This will generate revenue from prospective payment system (PPS) hospitals in Kansas, which in turn is matched by federal Medicaid dollars. This change will increase Medicaid rates to Kansas hospitals and physicians and is expected to generate approximately $1 billion annually for Kansas hospitals.

“Last year, the Kansas legislature passed a bill to increase the state’s hospital provider tax, enabling Kansas hospitals and physicians to receive additional federal dollars from Medicaid,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Considering Kansas’ pending application before CMS, I worked to make certain the Medicaid reforms in the Reconciliation Bill would permit Kansas’ pending application to still be considered and approved. I worked with Kansas hospitals, the Kelly administration and Administrator Oz to make certain Kansas’ application was submitted and considered in a timely manner. This change will allow Kansas hospitals to receive additional resources to provide quality, affordable care to Kansans.”

“Kansas hospitals were pleased to learn that the 2025 provider tax preprint, which allows the state to draw down federal matching funds to match the provider assessment at 6%, was approved,”&nbsp;said Chad Austin, President &amp; CEO, Kansas Hospital Association.&nbsp;“As with any significant achievement, it took many to reach this goal including our congressional delegation, led by Senator Moran, as well as the Governor, KDHE leadership and the Medicaid finance team.”

“Senator Moran and his team are long-time champions of healthcare in Kansas,”&nbsp;said Bob Page, President &amp; CEO, The University of Kansas Health System.&nbsp;“We greatly appreciate his efforts to ensure qualifying hospitals across the state, particularly those in rural areas, can now receive much needed additional reimbursement for care provided to Medicaid patients. Access to quality healthcare close to home is critical for rural vitality across Kansas. With current anticipated changes and uncertainty in health care, this is an important step forward for hospitals in our state.”

“We were excited and grateful to learn of the CMS approval of the 2025 Provider Tax preprint,”&nbsp;said Brian Williams, President &amp; CEO, Labette Health.&nbsp;“These resources will help us ensure uninterrupted access to safe, high quality hospital services in the rural Kansas communities that we serve. Senator Moran’s leadership on this issue during the approval process of the One Big Beautiful Bill was exceptionally important to its approval, and our words fall short on the difference this will make in so many Kansans lives.”

“We are grateful to Sen. Moran for his work to ensure Kansas’ pending CMS application remained eligible for consideration amid changes to the Medicaid program,”&nbsp;said Benjamin Anderson, President &amp; CEO, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.&nbsp;“CMS’s decision to approve Kansas’ 2025 Provider Tax increase means more federal support will be available for rural hospitals to continue our work of providing critical services and care to communities across our state.”

Kan. U.S. Senator applauds good financial news for Kan. hospitals

HOLT COUNTY, Mo. —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 3p.. Monday in Holt County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Chevy Equinox driven by a 59-year-old Atchison, Kansas man was northbound on Interstate 29 ten miles north of Oregon, Missouri.&nbsp; The SUV traveled off the west side of the road, struck an embankment, went airborne, rolled onto its roof&nbsp; and the driver was ejected.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Kansas man dies after ejected in SUV rollover accident

A well known Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper used social media to announce his retirement Monday evening.

KHP Trooper Ben Gardner wrote he was deeply fatigued after 26-years with the Patrol.&nbsp; The news comes after the Patrol earlier this month was forced to issue a statement involving&nbsp;confusion over a personal social media post by Gardner. The KHP wrote, "The KHP is aware of a social media post by an employee who appears to be either soliciting or accepting donations in furtherance of personal travel."

On his private social media page September 1, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/55d07e51-697f-4176-9206-a43710f4937a">Gardner wrote that he was</a> driving his Jeep back and forth to Michigan and using a lot of gas. He wrote, "folks had already reached out, so he shared ways that others could help."

Not everyone believed the post was actually from beloved Trooper Ben.

The Kansas Highway Patrol responded, "Because the employee's private posts are often difficult to distinguish from their professional posts, the messages can be confusing and are neither approved by nor associated with KHP business."

On Monday night, Gardner wrote about his retirement.

"Of all the posts I’ve ever made, this one may be the most important. A significant shift from what life has been…"

"This evening, I sat at my laptop and typed the words that made it real. I sent the email. My official notice of retirement.For years, I’ve struggled with this decision. Do I hold on longer, or do I take the step forward?

"So many of us wait.Wait until 5 PM.Wait for Friday.Wait for summer.Wait for adulthood. Wait for happiness.Always waiting for the right moment. But in the waiting, we miss living in the now."

"After over 26 years of service, I am fatigued. Deeply fatigued…That fatigue does not come from the people of Kansas or the countless lives I’ve had the honor of serving."

"Being a servant has been one of the greatest joys of my life.The strain has come from within. From the inner spaces I’ve devoted myself to. Spaces I have deeply loved, but also where I have faced some of my greatest challenges.Through my entire career, I’ve always tried to make decisions that were about purpose, not paycheck. I never sought promotion. I rarely looked for overtime."

"The choices I made were always about moments where I could make a meaningful impact with the people around me. To break the mold a little.To blaze a trail.To show what I believe the service of this position was always meant to be.￼To leave the space I held better than when I received it.I have full faith that I have done just that.It seems that so many individuals in this profession exit long before they ever make it to retirement."

And standing here now, I can understand why. It has been such an honor to serve as I have over these last 26 years. Pride, laughter, fear, embarrassment, and deep sadness have all been part of my journey."

"After traveling to Michigan for my dad’s graveside ceremony, I found some clarity."

"Being there reminded me that the time we have is so, so valuable.This will work out. It might be bumpy for a little bit, but eventually we grow past the tightness, the worry, and the fatigue of trying to fit in."

"It’s my belief, two weeks is what I have left of this career. It’s hard. It’s emotional. But it’s time." 

"The past will always be part of me, but the future is calling. And I’m choosing to live it now.When the time is right, I want to be more transparent. To share more openly about what I have experienced throughout my career, and especially over these last five years leading up to retirement.  In that moment, you will see my heart more clearly than ever before."

"What I haven’t shared over the last five years… I will.To those who have openly supported me, cheered for me, and defended me when I wasn’t around, thank you. You have carried me further than you know."

Well known State Trooper makes emotional announcement

BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kanas sex offender on new allegations.

Just before 3p.m. Friday, the El Dorado Police Department booked 44-year-old Peter Ferley of El Dorado into the Butler County jail on 23 counts of alleged sexual exploitation of a child, according to a media releas.

The Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children task force and police executed a search warrant after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a cyber tip that alleged sexual exploitation of children through the use of electronic devices. The investigation led to police arrested Ferley.&nbsp; He has been a registered offender since November of 2012 following a conviction for attempted sexual exploit of child; Poss of visual depiction of a child under the age of 18, according to the KBI sex offender registry.

Kansas sex offender back in jail on new sex crime allegations

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an illegal immigrant on multiple allegations after an arrest in Kansas.

Just after 5p.m. September 9, a sheriff's deputy on routine patrol stopped a vehicle on US 75 Highway near the US 36 Highway interchange for speed violation, according to Sheriff John Merchant. The deputy contacted the driver identified as 40-year-old Giesic Centeno ofBeatrice, Nebraska. The deputy detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage and the driver did not possess a valid drivers license.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 The deputy performed field sobriety testing which Centeno failed.&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on 3 prior DUI convictions, Centeno was arrested on charges of Felony DUI and Operate a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid License.&nbsp; It was discovered&nbsp; that Centeno was subject to be deported. Department of Homeland Security agents now have custody of Centeno.

Homeland Security jails man after 4 DUI arrests in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President JD Vance said Monday while hosting Charlie Kirk’s radio show that he is “desperate” for national unity after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">conservative political activist’s killing</a>&nbsp;but that finding common ground with people who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-workplace-speech-firing-29717a8612ccedebabc7cba29e7ef627">celebrated the assassination</a>&nbsp;of his friend is impossible.

The Republican vice president filled in as host of “The Charlie Kirk Show” from his ceremonial office in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House. The livestream of the two-hour program was broadcast in the White House press briefing room and featured a series of appearances by White House and administration officials who knew the 31-year-old Kirk.

Vance, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-jd-vance-turning-point-assassination-49501e2fdcb268c74c7dd929049abcd6">transported Kirk’s body</a>&nbsp;home from Utah to Arizona aboard Air Force Two last week, opened by saying he was “filling in for somebody who cannot be filled in for, but I’ll do my best.” He recounted his conversations with Kirk’s widow, Erika, and her remembrances of him as a kind, loving husband.

In his closing remarks, Vance criticized what he said were lies about Kirk that he blamed for the killing. He also promised that the Trump administration will act to stop anyone who would kill another person because of their words.

“I’m desperate for our country to be united in condemnation of the actions and the ideas that killed my friend,” Vance said on the program. “I want it so badly that I will tell you a difficult truth. We can only have it with people who acknowledge that political violence is unacceptable.”

Vance’s self-described “moonlighting” as substitute radio host, as well as the broadcasting of the program from the White House complex, served as a powerful reminder of Kirk’s close relationship with the Trump-Vance team and the valuable role Kirk’s operation boosting youth voter turnout played on the campaign.

The Republican vice president, 41, was especially close to Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, one of the nation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">largest political organizations</a>&nbsp;with chapters on high school and college campuses. The two began a friendship nearly a decade ago, and Kirk advocated for Vance to be Republican Donald Trump’s choice for vice president last year. Kirk also was someone who had Trump's ear.

Vance spoke in the show's opening segment Monday about being at a loss for words as he sat with Erika Kirk last week. But he said she told him something he'll never forget, which was that her husband had never raised his voice to her and was never “cross or mean-spirited to her.”

Vance allowed that he could not say the same about himself.

“I took from that moment that I needed to be a better husband and I needed to be a better father,” the vice president said on the program, which was streamed on Rumble. “That is the way I'm going to honor my friend.”

Others who joined Vance on Kirk's program were chief of staff Susie Wiles, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., press secretary Karoline Leavitt and deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller.

The conversation turned toward fighting what Vance described as “festering violence on the far left” with Miller, the first guest.

“With God as my witness, we’re going to use every resource we have at the Department of Justice, Homeland Security and throughout this government to identify, disrupt, dismantle and destroy these networks,” Miller said.

Miller added that “it will happen, and we will do it in Charlie’s name.”

Law enforcement officials have said they believe the suspect accused of killing Kirk acted alone.

After Kirk was fatally shot last Wednesday at Utah Valley University, Vance tore up his schedule for the next day — he was scheduled Thursday to attend the 24th annual observance in New York of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks — to fly instead to Orem, Utah, with his wife, second lady Usha Vance.

The couple accompanied Erika Kirk and Charlie Kirk's casket to Arizona aboard Air Force Two.

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