A robot tried to rob a bank but was caught when its battery died.<br>Police have no plans to charge the suspect.


Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

<p>A robot tried to rob a bank but was caught when its battery died.<br>Police have no plans to charge the suspect.</p><p>
Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 01/03/24

My friend warned me not to steal the kitchen utensils, but it’s a whisk I’m willing to take.

Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

<p>My friend warned me not to steal the kitchen utensils, but it’s a whisk I’m willing to take.</p><p>Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 01/02/24

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

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703890565601.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

Three-day weather outlook

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703890428376.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703890297784.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

As the new year approaches, it is a time of reflection. 

So as we wrap up the year, and look forward to 2024 here is a look back at the top 10 local Hays Post stories from 2023.

Hays man arrested by FBI in $4.5 million fraud scheme targeting elderly

In July, Hays resident Christopher Lang was charged with a criminal complaint in the&nbsp;U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2166a4d6-7ac2-483b-bf16-84d3a9f8d25e">hayspost.com/posts/2166a4d6-7ac2-483b-bf16-84d3a9f8d25e</a>.

Cattleman's Cafe to offer 'grandma's cooking' in new Hays location

Just as 2023 was kicking off, Cattleman's Steak House announced they would be opening a location in Hays in addition to their Liberal and Sublette locations.&nbsp;The cafe offers comfort food favorites, such as chicken-fried steaks, meatloaf, pot roast, hamburgers, salads and steaks and has quickly developed into a staple for many area residents.

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c9b5cd92-a70c-4ae7-b853-e755153c432f">hayspost.com/posts/c9b5cd92-a70c-4ae7-b853-e755153c432f</a>.

Shooting outside Hays bar leaves person dead

In June, an argument outside of a bar in Hays ended with one man dead and another jailed.&nbsp;Larry Braun was allegedly killed by Keith Ostrom, leading to a grand jury indictment charging Ostrom with voluntary manslaughter, criminal discharge of a firearm, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and endangerment.

Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cb25e09c-b11a-4bc4-9df4-321f1f528bcb">hayspost.com/posts/cb25e09c-b11a-4bc4-9df4-321f1f528bcb</a>.

Young mom from Hays sues Kansas Board of Cosmetology to offer sugaring

In October, Hays resident Bryn Green sued the Kansas&nbsp;Board of Cosmetology in order to offer sugaring,&nbsp;an ancient grooming technique that uses a mixture of sugar, lemon juice and water to safely remove unwanted hair without obtaining an occupational license with the assistance of the Kansas Justice Institute.&nbsp;

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/14a7b433-3f84-4a2b-97ac-9ea092742473">hayspost.com/posts/14a7b433-3f84-4a2b-97ac-9ea092742473</a>.

Hays felon arrested on suspicion of attempted murder

In March, Hays Police responded to a domestic disturbance finding a victim with multiple stab wounds. Collin Micheal McMillin would later be arrested on charges of attempted murder.

Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/453cb422-cd9e-4386-8103-8e6c8f7ff224">hayspost.com/posts/453cb422-cd9e-4386-8103-8e6c8f7ff224</a>.

McMillin is currently in custody in the Ellis County Jail.

Ellis County man found guilty of pre-meditated murder after week-long trial

In September, a criminal case dating to Halloween 2019 was closed after the conviction of Colby Alan Trickle for the pre-meditated first-degree murder of his wife, Kristin Trickle.

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6c032e6-536c-4ad8-b646-fea6b6b293bf">hayspost.com/posts/b6c032e6-536c-4ad8-b646-fea6b6b293bf</a>.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0379c4b5-8e93-4dcb-8d83-cfb4b8537b90">Colby Trickle was sentenced in November</a> to life in prison and is currently being held in the El Dorado Correctional Facility.<br>

Hays PD reports arrests following fentanyl-linked overdose death

In March, two Hays residents were arrested on drug charges stemming from a death in February from fentanyl ingestion. Kimberly Schmeidler and Brandon Kahrs were both charged with alleged drug distribution after a search of their home located drugs that matched the pills found during the initial investigation.

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d7ff76bf-a6d5-4493-8470-3d110f0ded4f">hayspost.com/posts/d7ff76bf-a6d5-4493-8470-3d110f0ded4f</a>.

Vehicle drives into Gross Memorial; train crash may be related

In June, an unnamed suspect allegedly drove inside Gross Memorial Coliseum on the Fort Hays Campus, causing significant damage. A vehicle matching the description later drove onto train tracks near the university and was struck by a train.

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/703cf48a-78d2-4eea-b296-3fab7397c6d9">hayspost.com/posts/703cf48a-78d2-4eea-b296-3fab7397c6d9</a>.

Locals pack Brass Rail bar for last time after more than 70 years in Hays

In October, area residents had one last chance to visit an iconic part of downtown Hays, The Brass Rail, after the building was sold and before the over-70-year-old bar closed for the last time.&nbsp;

Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63d75fa4-f2c2-468b-865c-515c72d8e17b">hayspost.com/posts/63d75fa4-f2c2-468b-865c-515c72d8e17b</a>

Plans for the building have not yet been announced, but demolition is currently underway inside.

Blue Light Body Art opens with new name on Main in Hays

In February, after 15 years at Vine and Eighth, Sore Loser, Tattoo rebranded and moved downtown with the new name Blue Light Body Arts.

Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/96919371-593d-482a-8dec-5e5b23ed7638">hayspost.com/posts/96919371-593d-482a-8dec-5e5b23ed7638</a>.

The business continues operating in the new location.

<p>As the new year approaches, it is a time of reflection. </p><p>So as we wrap up the year, and look forward to 2024 here is a look back at the top 10 local Hays Post stories from 2023.</p><h2>Hays man arrested by FBI in $4.5 million fraud scheme targeting elderly</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688408367149.png" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In July, Hays resident Christopher Lang was charged with a criminal complaint in the&nbsp;U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.</p><p>The Lang case has yet to go to trial.</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2166a4d6-7ac2-483b-bf16-84d3a9f8d25e">hayspost.com/posts/2166a4d6-7ac2-483b-bf16-84d3a9f8d25e</a>.</p><h2>Cattleman's Cafe to offer 'grandma's cooking' in new Hays location</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703881790098.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Just as 2023 was kicking off, Cattleman's Steak House announced they would be opening a location in Hays in addition to their Liberal and Sublette locations.&nbsp;The cafe offers comfort food favorites, such as chicken-fried steaks, meatloaf, pot roast, hamburgers, salads and steaks and has quickly developed into a staple for many area residents.</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c9b5cd92-a70c-4ae7-b853-e755153c432f">hayspost.com/posts/c9b5cd92-a70c-4ae7-b853-e755153c432f</a>.</p><h2>Shooting outside Hays bar leaves person dead</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687978043263.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In June, an argument outside of a bar in Hays ended with one man dead and another jailed.&nbsp;Larry Braun was allegedly killed by Keith Ostrom, leading to a grand jury indictment charging Ostrom with voluntary manslaughter, criminal discharge of a firearm, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and endangerment.</p><p>Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cb25e09c-b11a-4bc4-9df4-321f1f528bcb">hayspost.com/posts/cb25e09c-b11a-4bc4-9df4-321f1f528bcb</a>.</p><h2>Young mom from Hays sues Kansas Board of Cosmetology to offer sugaring</h2><p>In October, Hays resident Bryn Green sued the Kansas&nbsp;Board of Cosmetology in order to offer sugaring,&nbsp;an ancient grooming technique that uses a mixture of sugar, lemon juice and water to safely remove unwanted hair without obtaining an occupational license with the assistance of the Kansas Justice Institute.&nbsp;</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/14a7b433-3f84-4a2b-97ac-9ea092742473">hayspost.com/posts/14a7b433-3f84-4a2b-97ac-9ea092742473</a>.</p><p>The case remains ongoing.</p><h2>Hays felon arrested on suspicion of attempted murder</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680189341105.png" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In March, Hays Police responded to a domestic disturbance finding a victim with multiple stab wounds. Collin Micheal McMillin would later be arrested on charges of attempted murder.</p><p>Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/453cb422-cd9e-4386-8103-8e6c8f7ff224">hayspost.com/posts/453cb422-cd9e-4386-8103-8e6c8f7ff224</a>.</p><p>McMillin is currently in custody in the Ellis County Jail.</p><h2>Ellis County man found guilty of pre-meditated murder after week-long trial</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626522324942.png" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In September, a criminal case dating to Halloween 2019 was closed after the conviction of Colby Alan Trickle for the pre-meditated first-degree murder of his wife, Kristin Trickle.</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6c032e6-536c-4ad8-b646-fea6b6b293bf">hayspost.com/posts/b6c032e6-536c-4ad8-b646-fea6b6b293bf</a>.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0379c4b5-8e93-4dcb-8d83-cfb4b8537b90">Colby Trickle was sentenced in November</a> to life in prison and is currently being held in the El Dorado Correctional Facility.<br></p><h2>Hays PD reports arrests following fentanyl-linked overdose death</h2><p>In March, two Hays residents were arrested on drug charges stemming from a death in February from fentanyl ingestion. Kimberly Schmeidler and Brandon Kahrs were both charged with alleged drug distribution after a search of their home located drugs that matched the pills found during the initial investigation.</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d7ff76bf-a6d5-4493-8470-3d110f0ded4f">hayspost.com/posts/d7ff76bf-a6d5-4493-8470-3d110f0ded4f</a>.</p><h2>Vehicle drives into Gross Memorial; train crash may be related</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703886115812.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In June, an unnamed suspect allegedly drove inside Gross Memorial Coliseum on the Fort Hays Campus, causing significant damage. A vehicle matching the description later drove onto train tracks near the university and was struck by a train.</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/703cf48a-78d2-4eea-b296-3fab7397c6d9">hayspost.com/posts/703cf48a-78d2-4eea-b296-3fab7397c6d9</a>.</p><h2>Locals pack Brass Rail bar for last time after more than 70 years in Hays</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698166384468.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In October, area residents had one last chance to visit an iconic part of downtown Hays, The Brass Rail, after the building was sold and before the over-70-year-old bar closed for the last time.&nbsp;</p><p>Read the original story at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63d75fa4-f2c2-468b-865c-515c72d8e17b">hayspost.com/posts/63d75fa4-f2c2-468b-865c-515c72d8e17b</a></p><p>Plans for the building have not yet been announced, but demolition is currently underway inside.</p><h2>Blue Light Body Art opens with new name on Main in Hays</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675965490569.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In February, after 15 years at Vine and Eighth, Sore Loser, Tattoo rebranded and moved downtown with the new name Blue Light Body Arts.</p><p>Read the original story at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/96919371-593d-482a-8dec-5e5b23ed7638">hayspost.com/posts/96919371-593d-482a-8dec-5e5b23ed7638</a>.</p><p>The business continues operating in the new location.</p>

Goodbye 2023: A look back at the biggest local stories of the year

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703890117149.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.</i>

<div><iframe title="United Way fundraising campaign underway" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d23j6-1538d74-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: United Way fundraising campaign underway

Did you hear about the two guys that got arrested for stealing a calendar? They both got six months!

<p>Did you hear about the two guys that got arrested for stealing a calendar? They both got six months!</p><p>Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 12/29/23

<b>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY</b><br>Kansas Reflector/Hays Post<br>

TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.

“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.

Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.

Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research.

"I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."

Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;

"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;

Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent.

"The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."

Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.

He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a>

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Kansas had real GDP expansion of 7.4 percent in the second quarter from April through June. Overall, 44 states and District of Columbia were on the plus side in that quarter ranging from a positive 8.7 percent in Wyoming to a negative 1.4 percent in Vermont.

The border states to Kansas featured advances and a setback in real GDP during the second quarter. Growth in Nebraska came in at 5.9 percent while Oklahoma was at 4.5 percent and Colorado at 2.6 precent. Missouri slumped to a minus 0.1 percent.

In the first quarter of 2023, Nebraska topped the five-state region at 12.3 percent growth in real GDP from January to March. The other states: Kansas, 6 percent; Missouri, 2.6 percent; Oklahoma, 2.5 percent and Colorado, 1.9 percent. Each state and the District of Columbia grew in the first quarter and the spread nationally had North Dakota at a positive 12.4 percent and Rhode Island and Alabama at a plus 0.1 percent.

“Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment,” Kelly said on Wednesday. “It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”

Meanwhile, Kansas recorded the third-ranked growth in personal income at 4.9 percent during the third quarter. Farming income contributed to the state’s improvement in personal income during the period.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703780956907.jpeg" alt="The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption>The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY</b><br>Kansas Reflector/Hays Post<br></p><p>TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.</p><div><iframe title="Ellis County reports highest GDP growth in Kansas in 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jvmpp-1537c10-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.</p><p>“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.</p><p>Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703781951685.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research.</p><p>"I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."</p><p>Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;</p><p>"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;</p><p>Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent.</p><p>"The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."</p><p>Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.</p><p>He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a></p><p>The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Kansas had real GDP expansion of 7.4 percent in the second quarter from April through June. Overall, 44 states and District of Columbia were on the plus side in that quarter ranging from a positive 8.7 percent in Wyoming to a negative 1.4 percent in Vermont.</p><p>The border states to Kansas featured advances and a setback in real GDP during the second quarter. Growth in Nebraska came in at 5.9 percent while Oklahoma was at 4.5 percent and Colorado at 2.6 precent. Missouri slumped to a minus 0.1 percent.</p><p>In the first quarter of 2023, Nebraska topped the five-state region at 12.3 percent growth in real GDP from January to March. The other states: Kansas, 6 percent; Missouri, 2.6 percent; Oklahoma, 2.5 percent and Colorado, 1.9 percent. Each state and the District of Columbia grew in the first quarter and the spread nationally had North Dakota at a positive 12.4 percent and Rhode Island and Alabama at a plus 0.1 percent.</p><p>“Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment,” Kelly said on Wednesday. “It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”</p><p>Meanwhile, Kansas recorded the third-ranked growth in personal income at 4.9 percent during the third quarter. Farming income contributed to the state’s improvement in personal income during the period.</p>

🎙 Ellis County highest 2023 GDP growth in state; Kansas leads nation during third quarter 

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703797092483.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

What do you get when you cross a snowman and a vampire?<br>Frostbite.

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

<p>What do you get when you cross a snowman and a vampire?<br>Frostbite.</p><p>Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 12/28/23

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703733678316.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar chair Tamara Hamel about the 2024 event.</i>

<div><iframe title="Holy Family Elementary plans 2024 Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vidx7-1537c2e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar chair Tamara Hamel about the 2024 event.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Holy Family Elementary plans 2024 Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar

What is the difference between a fashionably attired young man and a tired dog? <br>One wears an entire costume and the other simply pants.

<p>What is the difference between a fashionably attired young man and a tired dog? <br>One wears an entire costume and the other simply pants.</p><p>Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 12/27/23

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703280508975.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

Q: How does a snowman get to work? <br>A: By icicle.

Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

<p>Q: How does a snowman get to work? <br>A: By icicle.</p><p>Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 12/26/23

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703280358692.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703280216373.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.</i><br>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1vLx27MX6tM?si=lJFOVPeAtwVvITvh" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.</i><br></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703198670088.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

What did the wise men say at the end of the story?<br>"But wait, there's myrrh?<br>


Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

<p>What did the wise men say at the end of the story?<br>"But wait, there's myrrh?<br></p><p>
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a></p>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 12/20/23

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702935574462.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702678154796.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a></p>

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the recent letter of support signed by the Hays City Commission to support Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses Medicaid expansion" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=imb2e-15286b0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the recent letter of support signed by the Hays City Commission to support Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

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