Staffing agency nurses at Larned, Osawatomie cost $60 million annually

TOPEKA — The staffing shortage at Kansas’ psychiatric hospitals in Larned and Osawatomie prompted budget requests of more than $60 million to continue filling the health-care gap with private contract nurses.

The state’s inability to hire a sustainable workforce of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nurse aides and patient care support staff at the two state hospitals has generated bipartisan frustration in the Kansas Legislature.

The challenge has been most acute at Larned State Hospital, which would need $43 million annually to continue receiving the services of about 200 contract staff. The Osawatomie State Hospital requested $23 million for the same purpose.

“We’ve tried everything, but you just can’t force people to go there to work,” said Rep. Will Carpenter, an El Dorado Republican on the Legislature’s interim budget committee. “It’s a question I have no answer for.”

Democratic Rep. Henry Helgerson of Eastborough said: “After four or five years of going down the same path, I’ve lost my patience. We have to do something more radical.”

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said it was time the Legislature to form a separate committee to look into alternatives to embedding tens of millions of dollars annually in the state budget for nurses provided by private agencies. Employing contract nurses costs the hospitals an estimated 2.5 times the cost of hiring a state worker to do the same job.

The state has committed about $70 million to construction of a 50-bed psychiatric hospital in southwest Wichita that could be expanded to 100 beds. That decision has come under scrutiny after a lobbyists for owner of the former Riverside Hospital complex in Wichita suggested the state buy and renovate the old hospital for use as the psychiatric hospital.

In March, the overall job vacancy rate at Larned stood at 45%, while the shortage at Osawatomie was 37%. However, vacancies among nursing staff at Larned reached 69%.

Staffing problems have driven interest at the statehouse in outsourcing to private companies all responsibility for managing the state hospitals serving people in mental health crisis as well as sex offenders placed indefinitely in Larned’s treatment program after serving prison sentences. The number of sexual predators at Larned has expanded to about 230.

“It’s huge and growing by the year,” Carpenter said. “I don’t want to be responsible for letting these folks out.”

The nursing shortage conversation occurred Friday during the first of five meetings by the newly formed 2024 Special Committee on Budget Process and Development. The GOP-inspired committee plans to depart from tradition by introducing its own draft of the state budget in January at opening of the annual legislative session. For many years, the Legislature has worked from blueprints offered by governors.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has been working on her version of the budget. It’s expected her spending priorities would differ from those of a Republican-dominated budget committee.

Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, said the Legislature had to take the lead in sorting out state budget issues. She expressed disdain for tarnishing the process with horse trading behind closed doors at the Capitol.

“The executive branch is not in charge of the budget,” Williams said. “Tension is good when you have three branches of government.”

The 21-member committee plans to consider budget enhancement requests from 26 state agencies amounting to more than $1.2 billion in additional spending in the upcoming fiscal year. The roster included $272 million for the Kansas Board of Regents and $105 million for the Kansas State Department of Education. The list included $450 million to replace Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

During the initial meeting, the majority decided to sidestep the topic of state employee salary increases. The regular House and Senate budget committees will consider compensation issues as well as recommendations from the special budget committee during the 2025 session.

The next meeting of the budget panel won’t occur until after Nov. 20 when the state was scheduled to release an updated snapshot of the state’s revenue stream.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731433403233.png" alt="Coldwater Republican Rep. Kyle Hoffman, right, comments during the latest meeting of the Kansas Legislature’s special budget committee. The panel is expected to meet four more times before submitting its own proposed state government budget to the Legislature in January. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly will also make budget recommendations. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Kansas Legislature video)" />
 <figcaption>Coldwater Republican Rep. Kyle Hoffman, right, comments during the latest meeting of the Kansas Legislature’s special budget committee. The panel is expected to meet four more times before submitting its own proposed state government budget to the Legislature in January. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly will also make budget recommendations. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Kansas Legislature video)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Staffing agency nurses at Larned, Osawatomie cost $60 million annually</h2>TOPEKA — The staffing shortage at Kansas’ psychiatric hospitals in Larned and Osawatomie prompted budget requests of more than $60 million to continue filling the health-care gap with private contract nurses.The state’s inability to hire a sustainable workforce of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nurse aides and patient care support staff at the two state hospitals has generated bipartisan frustration in the Kansas Legislature.The challenge has been most acute at Larned State Hospital, which would need $43 million annually to continue receiving the services of about 200 contract staff. The Osawatomie State Hospital requested $23 million for the same purpose.“We’ve tried everything, but you just can’t force people to go there to work,” said Rep. Will Carpenter, an El Dorado Republican on the Legislature’s interim budget committee. “It’s a question I have no answer for.”Democratic Rep. Henry Helgerson of Eastborough said: “After four or five years of going down the same path, I’ve lost my patience. We have to do something more radical.”House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said it was time the Legislature to form a separate committee to look into alternatives to embedding tens of millions of dollars annually in the state budget for nurses provided by private agencies. Employing contract nurses costs the hospitals an estimated 2.5 times the cost of hiring a state worker to do the same job.The state has committed about $70 million to construction of a 50-bed psychiatric hospital in southwest Wichita that could be expanded to 100 beds. That decision has come under scrutiny after a lobbyists for owner of the former Riverside Hospital complex in Wichita suggested the state buy and renovate the old hospital for use as the psychiatric hospital.In March, the overall job vacancy rate at Larned stood at 45%, while the shortage at Osawatomie was 37%. However, vacancies among nursing staff at Larned reached 69%.Staffing problems have driven interest at the statehouse in outsourcing to private companies all responsibility for managing the state hospitals serving people in mental health crisis as well as sex offenders placed indefinitely in Larned’s treatment program after serving prison sentences. The number of sexual predators at Larned has expanded to about 230.“It’s huge and growing by the year,” Carpenter said. “I don’t want to be responsible for letting these folks out.”The nursing shortage conversation occurred Friday during the first of five meetings by the newly formed 2024 Special Committee on Budget Process and Development. The GOP-inspired committee plans to depart from tradition by introducing its own draft of the state budget in January at opening of the annual legislative session. For many years, the Legislature has worked from blueprints offered by governors.Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has been working on her version of the budget. It’s expected her spending priorities would differ from those of a Republican-dominated budget committee.Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, said the Legislature had to take the lead in sorting out state budget issues. She expressed disdain for tarnishing the process with horse trading behind closed doors at the Capitol.“The executive branch is not in charge of the budget,” Williams said. “Tension is good when you have three branches of government.”The 21-member committee plans to consider budget enhancement requests from 26 state agencies amounting to more than $1.2 billion in additional spending in the upcoming fiscal year. The roster included $272 million for the Kansas Board of Regents and $105 million for the Kansas State Department of Education. The list included $450 million to replace Hutchinson Correctional Facility.During the initial meeting, the majority decided to sidestep the topic of state employee salary increases. The regular House and Senate budget committees will consider compensation issues as well as recommendations from the special budget committee during the 2025 session.The next meeting of the budget panel won’t occur until after Nov. 20 when the state was scheduled to release an updated snapshot of the state’s revenue stream.

Kansas lawmakers anxious about psychiatric hospital nursing shortage; Larned vacancies 69%

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724699319635.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731429320888.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731429330575.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731429343783.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Jail bookings, Nov. 5-11, 2024

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 276 incidents Nov. 4-11, 2024, according to the activity report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444921352.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>ECSOThe Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 276 incidents Nov. 4-11, 2024, according to the activity report.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428837184.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428847960.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428867448.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428881488.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428897208.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428908567.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428921448.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428931568.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731428942175.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Sheriff activity log, Nov. 5-11, 2024

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

The latest crude production reporting in Kansas shows another statewide decline in output, and a shakeup in the county rankings.&nbsp;

Last year saw the lowest production totals since record-keeping began in Kansas, and the state is currently lagging behind that pace. 

The Kansas Geological Survey reports production through July of 15.6 million barrels statewide, down half a million barrels year over year. Most county totals dropped as well.

Ellis County reached 1.21 million barrels through July, down about 60,000 barrels year-over-year. Finney County passes Haskell County to take the number two spot, with total production over 930,000 barrels. That's up more than 100,000 barrels from the total a year ago.

Haskell County notched 857,000 barrels, down from 976,000 a year ago. Barton County produced 828,251 barrels, compared to nearly 870,000 last year. Russell County also dropped, pumping 756,000 barrels, down from 780,000 at this time last year. In Stafford County, operators extracted nearly 505,000 barrels, down 22,000 barrels from a year ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is unchanged after a spike last week, with 15 active drilling rigs east of Wichita and 19 in western Kansas. The tally is up 17% from a month ago, but down nearly six percent from last year at this time.&nbsp; 

Drilling continued Monday on a lease in Barton County, a lease in Ellis County, and two leases in Finney County.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is unchanged from a week ago at 585 rigs. 

There were some changes from state to state, with Louisiana dropping by three rigs, Oklahoma adding two, Pennsylvania and Wyoming up one apiece and Colorado down one. The breakout for horizontal drilling is up three, vertical drops by two rigs and directional is down by one.

Kansas regulators report 163 new intent-to-drill notices in October. That's 1,034 new intents so far this year, down about 150 filings from the first ten months of last year. Barton County reports five new intents in October and 31 through October. Ellis County adds four for a year-to-date total of 14.&nbsp; With none to add in Russell County, the annual total remains at eight, and Stafford County inches up to 17 new intents so far this year, with three filed last month.

Last week, the state okayed 24 new drilling locations, with seven in western Kansas, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. That's 985 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 1,140 new permits a year ago.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 46 completed wells across Kansas last week, 1,137 so far this year. That's down from 1,485 a year ago. There are 28 newly-completed wells in eastern Kansas and 18 west of Wichita, including three in Barton County, one in Russell County and one in Stafford County.

U.S. crude production dropped by about seven thousand barrels a day, but according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, output remained above 13.5 million for a fourth consecutive week, reaching the third highest weekly average ever. 

Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly six percent from the same tally a year ago, topping 13.2 million daily barrels for only the second time in history.

U.S. crude imports outpaced exports by more than three million barrels a day last week. Product exports topped imports by more than six million. Crude exports dropped by nearly 1.5 million daily barrels, for a weekly average of 2.85 million barrels per day. That's about a million barrels a day less than the four-week seasonal average, and two million less than the same four weeks last year. 

U.S. crude imports averaged 6.24 million barrels a day, up nearly half a million barrels a day from a week ago, and exceeding the four-week seasonal average by nearly a quarter million daily barrels.

Commercial crude inventories rose by more than two million barrels to 427.7 million barrels as of November 1. The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year. 

The Energy Department took delivery on 1.4 million barrels of crude for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve last week, pushing the dip stick up to 427.7 million barrels. Strategic stockpiles are up more than ten percent from a year ago.&nbsp; Since April, the government has added 23.2 million barrels, at prices about $20 a barrel cheaper than what they sold it for back in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaThe latest crude production reporting in Kansas shows another statewide decline in output, and a shakeup in the county rankings.&nbsp;Last year saw the lowest production totals since record-keeping began in Kansas, and the state is currently lagging behind that pace. The Kansas Geological Survey reports production through July of 15.6 million barrels statewide, down half a million barrels year over year. Most county totals dropped as well.Ellis County reached 1.21 million barrels through July, down about 60,000 barrels year-over-year. Finney County passes Haskell County to take the number two spot, with total production over 930,000 barrels. That's up more than 100,000 barrels from the total a year ago.Haskell County notched 857,000 barrels, down from 976,000 a year ago. Barton County produced 828,251 barrels, compared to nearly 870,000 last year. Russell County also dropped, pumping 756,000 barrels, down from 780,000 at this time last year. In Stafford County, operators extracted nearly 505,000 barrels, down 22,000 barrels from a year ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is unchanged after a spike last week, with 15 active drilling rigs east of Wichita and 19 in western Kansas. The tally is up 17% from a month ago, but down nearly six percent from last year at this time.&nbsp; Drilling continued Monday on a lease in Barton County, a lease in Ellis County, and two leases in Finney County.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is unchanged from a week ago at 585 rigs. There were some changes from state to state, with Louisiana dropping by three rigs, Oklahoma adding two, Pennsylvania and Wyoming up one apiece and Colorado down one. The breakout for horizontal drilling is up three, vertical drops by two rigs and directional is down by one.Kansas regulators report 163 new intent-to-drill notices in October. That's 1,034 new intents so far this year, down about 150 filings from the first ten months of last year. Barton County reports five new intents in October and 31 through October. Ellis County adds four for a year-to-date total of 14.&nbsp; With none to add in Russell County, the annual total remains at eight, and Stafford County inches up to 17 new intents so far this year, with three filed last month.Last week, the state okayed 24 new drilling locations, with seven in western Kansas, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. That's 985 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 1,140 new permits a year ago.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 46 completed wells across Kansas last week, 1,137 so far this year. That's down from 1,485 a year ago. There are 28 newly-completed wells in eastern Kansas and 18 west of Wichita, including three in Barton County, one in Russell County and one in Stafford County.U.S. crude production dropped by about seven thousand barrels a day, but according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, output remained above 13.5 million for a fourth consecutive week, reaching the third highest weekly average ever. Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly six percent from the same tally a year ago, topping 13.2 million daily barrels for only the second time in history.U.S. crude imports outpaced exports by more than three million barrels a day last week. Product exports topped imports by more than six million. Crude exports dropped by nearly 1.5 million daily barrels, for a weekly average of 2.85 million barrels per day. That's about a million barrels a day less than the four-week seasonal average, and two million less than the same four weeks last year. U.S. crude imports averaged 6.24 million barrels a day, up nearly half a million barrels a day from a week ago, and exceeding the four-week seasonal average by nearly a quarter million daily barrels.Commercial crude inventories rose by more than two million barrels to 427.7 million barrels as of November 1. The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year. The Energy Department took delivery on 1.4 million barrels of crude for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve last week, pushing the dip stick up to 427.7 million barrels. Strategic stockpiles are up more than ten percent from a year ago.&nbsp; Since April, the government has added 23.2 million barrels, at prices about $20 a barrel cheaper than what they sold it for back in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: County crude production rankings shift; Ellis Co. remains at top

United Wireless Arena, managed by VenuWorks, is excited to announce that country music legend, CLINT BLACK will be coming to Dodge City on Saturday, February 8th with his 35th Anniversary of Killin’ Time tour. Doors will open at 6:30 PM on February 8th and Clint Black will take the stage at 7:30 PM.

Country icon Clint Black, one of the truest traditionalists in music over the last three decades, will celebrate the 35th anniversary of his debut album, Killin’ Time, on tour in 2024. A true triple threat singer/guitarist/songwriter, Black has sold more than twenty million records, written and recorded twenty-two #1 singles, and has been awarded nearly two dozen gold and platinum awards, a GRAMMY, and numerous CMA, ACM, and American Music Awards. He’s a member of the Grand Ole Opry and has been honored with stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Nashville Walk of Fame. His musical style encompasses traditional country, honky-tonk, and Western swing. From the beginning, Black’s biggest influences were Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and especially Merle Haggard, to whom his smooth baritone voice was initially compared. One-fourth of country music’s storied Class of 1989, Clint Black's meteoric rise began with Killin’ Time, which produced five consecutive number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country charts. His break-out success put Black on a fast track to super-stardom.

Eventually, Black’s wide-spread appeal and his own creative curiosity led him into the world of acting where he earned roles in dozens of TV shows and feature films including Maverick, Anger Management, The Larry Sanders Show, and many others. The fifth season of his own talk show, Talking in Circles is currently airing on Circle TV and was awarded “Best Talk Show” in Cynopsis Media’s Best of the Best and Rising Star Awards. This year Clint received the Poet’s Award at the ACM Honors, an award given to the most remarkable and enduring talents in country music songwriting. Now, Black revisits the album that started it all, Killin’ Time, with a special world tour that kicked off with three sold-out dates at the renowned Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN, and continues through 2025.

Tickets for Clint Black’s 35th Anniversary of Killin Time will go on sale Friday, October 25th at 10:00 AM CST. Tickets can be purchased at the United Wireless Arena box office or online through Ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $45, $55, or $69 for reserved seating depending on location, plus applicable fees and taxes. United Wireless Arena is an exclusive Ticketmaster facility and cannot guarantee tickets purchased as resale or through a third-party vendor. Doors will open one hour before showtime. Handicapped accessible seating must be arranged directly through the United Wireless Arena Ticket Office. United Wireless Arena has a clear bag policy in place. Please check our website for more details

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731361110846.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedUnited Wireless Arena, managed by VenuWorks, is excited to announce that country music legend, CLINT BLACK will be coming to Dodge City on Saturday, February 8th with his 35th Anniversary of Killin’ Time tour. Doors will open at 6:30 PM on February 8th and Clint Black will take the stage at 7:30 PM.Country icon Clint Black, one of the truest traditionalists in music over the last three decades, will celebrate the 35th anniversary of his debut album, Killin’ Time, on tour in 2024. A true triple threat singer/guitarist/songwriter, Black has sold more than twenty million records, written and recorded twenty-two #1 singles, and has been awarded nearly two dozen gold and platinum awards, a GRAMMY, and numerous CMA, ACM, and American Music Awards. He’s a member of the Grand Ole Opry and has been honored with stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Nashville Walk of Fame. His musical style encompasses traditional country, honky-tonk, and Western swing. From the beginning, Black’s biggest influences were Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and especially Merle Haggard, to whom his smooth baritone voice was initially compared. One-fourth of country music’s storied Class of 1989, Clint Black's meteoric rise began with Killin’ Time, which produced five consecutive number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country charts. His break-out success put Black on a fast track to super-stardom.Eventually, Black’s wide-spread appeal and his own creative curiosity led him into the world of acting where he earned roles in dozens of TV shows and feature films including Maverick, Anger Management, The Larry Sanders Show, and many others. The fifth season of his own talk show, Talking in Circles is currently airing on Circle TV and was awarded “Best Talk Show” in Cynopsis Media’s Best of the Best and Rising Star Awards. This year Clint received the Poet’s Award at the ACM Honors, an award given to the most remarkable and enduring talents in country music songwriting. Now, Black revisits the album that started it all, Killin’ Time, with a special world tour that kicked off with three sold-out dates at the renowned Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN, and continues through 2025.Tickets for Clint Black’s 35th Anniversary of Killin Time will go on sale Friday, October 25th at 10:00 AM CST. Tickets can be purchased at the United Wireless Arena box office or online through Ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $45, $55, or $69 for reserved seating depending on location, plus applicable fees and taxes. United Wireless Arena is an exclusive Ticketmaster facility and cannot guarantee tickets purchased as resale or through a third-party vendor. Doors will open one hour before showtime. Handicapped accessible seating must be arranged directly through the United Wireless Arena Ticket Office. United Wireless Arena has a clear bag policy in place. Please check our website for more details

Clint Black’s 35th anniversary tour includes Dodge City in 2025

Hays Arts Council presents Arty Party tonight

Home 4 Holidays carnival tonight; event to benefit First Call for Help

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Hays VFW honored all who served on Veterans Day with a ceremony filled with patriotism and deep respect for veterans of foreign wars.

On Monday, the ceremony at VFW Post 9076 featured the raising of the colors, a rifle squad, guest speakers and musical tributes.

After the Pledge of Allegiance and an opening prayer, Senior Vice Commander Joe Devine began the morning by explaining the holiday's significance.

“Veterans Day is a rich tradition in the United States and here in Hays. The men and women of the VFW and auxiliary are proud to honor our veterans and those serving today,” Devine said.

The ceremony featured guest speaker Colonel Gregory Akers, a retired United States Marine Corps officer and Fort Hays State University graduate who served 29 years in various Marine Corps roles.

His service took him to Africa, Japan, Afghanistan, Russia and various parts of Europe.

“Veterans Day is when we celebrate all those who have served in the uniform, living and deceased,” Akers said.

Akers provided an in-depth look at the history of Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, to commemorate the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918.

After World War II, Congress broadened the holiday to honor all American veterans, officially renaming it Veterans Day in 1945.

“Not all federal holidays are observed in such a fashion,” Akers said. “Veterans raised their right hand and swore an oath to the constitution to defend the nation against foreign and domestic enemies. It is a social contract with the American people which, in some cases, cost their lives.”

Veterans often struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness as they cope with psychological scars like PTSD, even with support from friends and family.

Akers listed other challenges, such as homelessness, suicide and substance abuse, which made it difficult for veterans to reintegrate into society after serving their country.

"We as a nation have an obligation to take care of these men and women. This is a call to action on your part," he said. "How we treat veterans following their service is critical for the future of our military and the nation's security."

Akers said Kansas is home to roughly 150,000 veterans, with 30% facing some level of disability. In Ellis County, about six World War II veterans remain.

Akers concluded by thanking the VFW post for its dedication to honoring veterans until their final rest.

At the ceremony, High School student Mariella Dreiling was honored as the local winner of the Voice of Democracy scholarship program, receiving a $500 scholarship from Fort Hays VFW Post 9076.

Dreiling read her essay in response to the question, "Is America today our forefathers' vision?" She discussed current challenges like voter apathy, media bias and the decline of moral values.

Dreiling said the answer to this question is no. However, the core principles upon which the United States was founded still hold and deserve recognition, she said.

“United States citizens must respect and abide by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. We must appreciate and strive to maintain what our forefathers accomplished in making America the greatest nation on Earth,” she said.

The event concluded with a flag-folding ritual, in which the flag was folded 13 times to honor veterans, the nation and the values cherished by Americans.

Bob Dreiling provided music throughout the ceremony. A luncheon was provided afterward for attendees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731363789621.jpeg" alt="Senior Vice Commander Joe Devine speaking to veterans at VFW Post 9076 in Hays for Veterans Days. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Senior Vice Commander Joe Devine speaking to veterans at VFW Post 9076 in Hays for Veterans Days. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Hays VFW honored all who served on Veterans Day with a ceremony filled with patriotism and deep respect for veterans of foreign wars.On Monday, the ceremony at VFW Post 9076 featured the raising of the colors, a rifle squad, guest speakers and musical tributes.After the Pledge of Allegiance and an opening prayer, Senior Vice Commander Joe Devine began the morning by explaining the holiday's significance.“Veterans Day is a rich tradition in the United States and here in Hays. The men and women of the VFW and auxiliary are proud to honor our veterans and those serving today,” Devine said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731363821415.jpeg" alt="A rifle squad of veterans lined up outside the VFW Post 9076 in Hays for the flag-raising ceremony. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A rifle squad of veterans lined up outside the VFW Post 9076 in Hays for the flag-raising ceremony. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731363881606.jpeg" alt="A rifle squad of veterans firing their rifles outside the VFW Post 9076 in Hays for the flag-raising ceremony. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A rifle squad of veterans firing their rifles outside the VFW Post 9076 in Hays for the flag-raising ceremony. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731363925254.jpeg" alt="Colonel Gregory Akers speaking at the VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Colonel Gregory Akers speaking at the VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The ceremony featured guest speaker Colonel Gregory Akers, a retired United States Marine Corps officer and Fort Hays State University graduate who served 29 years in various Marine Corps roles.His service took him to Africa, Japan, Afghanistan, Russia and various parts of Europe.“Veterans Day is when we celebrate all those who have served in the uniform, living and deceased,” Akers said.Akers provided an in-depth look at the history of Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, to commemorate the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918.After World War II, Congress broadened the holiday to honor all American veterans, officially renaming it Veterans Day in 1945.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731363978388.jpeg" alt="Veterans and other attendees at the&nbsp;VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Veterans and other attendees at the&nbsp;VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“Not all federal holidays are observed in such a fashion,” Akers said. “Veterans raised their right hand and swore an oath to the constitution to defend the nation against foreign and domestic enemies. It is a social contract with the American people which, in some cases, cost their lives.”Veterans often struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness as they cope with psychological scars like PTSD, even with support from friends and family.Akers listed other challenges, such as homelessness, suicide and substance abuse, which made it difficult for veterans to reintegrate into society after serving their country."We as a nation have an obligation to take care of these men and women. This is a call to action on your part," he said. "How we treat veterans following their service is critical for the future of our military and the nation's security."Akers said Kansas is home to roughly 150,000 veterans, with 30% facing some level of disability. In Ellis County, about six World War II veterans remain.Akers concluded by thanking the VFW post for its dedication to honoring veterans until their final rest.At the ceremony, High School student Mariella Dreiling was honored as the local winner of the Voice of Democracy scholarship program, receiving a $500 scholarship from Fort Hays VFW Post 9076.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731364029608.jpeg" alt="Mariella Dreiling being honored at the VFW Post&nbsp;9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Mariella Dreiling being honored at the VFW Post&nbsp;9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Dreiling read her essay in response to the question, "Is America today our forefathers' vision?" She discussed current challenges like voter apathy, media bias and the decline of moral values.Dreiling said the answer to this question is no. However, the core principles upon which the United States was founded still hold and deserve recognition, she said.“United States citizens must respect and abide by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. We must appreciate and strive to maintain what our forefathers accomplished in making America the greatest nation on Earth,” she said.The event concluded with a flag-folding ritual, in which the flag was folded 13 times to honor veterans, the nation and the values cherished by Americans.Bob Dreiling provided music throughout the ceremony. A luncheon was provided afterward for attendees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731364070157.jpeg" alt="Two veterans preparing the flag for the flag-folding ceremony at VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Two veterans preparing the flag for the flag-folding ceremony at VFW Post 9076 in Hays on Veterans Day. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731364103708.jpeg" alt="A thank you card for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A thank you card for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731364159691.jpeg" alt="Multiple thank you cards for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Multiple thank you cards for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731364130120.jpeg" alt="A thank you card for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A thank you card for veterans at VFW Post 9076. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays VFW honors local veterans in a Veterans Day ceremony

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved a contract with Enterprise on Monday night for fleet management.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the district contacted local dealership Lewis Automotive about a similar lease program. Lewis said they could not match Enterprise's plan and recommended the district use the Enterprise program.

Under the contract,&nbsp;Enterprise will manage the purchase and sale of district vehicles, except buses.

Prior to 2019, the Hays school district bought vehicles through the state bid system at steep discounts. Staff drove the vehicles until they wore out, and then they were auctioned at low prices.

Since the pandemic, that state bid system has not been available. The district has 12 Suburban SUVs, none newer than 2019.&nbsp;Its entire fleet includes 39 non-bus vehicles.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/06ea26c1-8471-4e7d-8372-64895445a845">At the board’s Oct. 21 meeting, Ken Olsen of Enterprise said the purchasing and sale program allows entities to decrease costs while operating newer, safer vehicles.</a>

New vehicles would be phased into the fleet over several years.

Both the city of Hays and Ellis County use one of Enterprise's fleet programs.

Board President Curt Vajnar said he contacted the county and other schools that use the program, and their officials spoke highly of Enterprise.

Based on its significant connections and volume, Enterprise can obtain 10 percent more than the average auction price for most of its vehicles.

Enterprise estimates the district would save almost $89,000 over 10 years using its program to purchase and sell vehicles.

Although the vehicles will be newer, Olsen said district insurance costs usually do not increase because of the improved safety features on the newer vehicles.

The district would still use local dealerships for warranty work.

Board member Allen Park said he thought Enterprise gave a good presentation but did not like how the contract was brought to the board.

He and board member Derek Yarmer said they wanted the contract to be bid.

The contract was approved on a vote of 5-2, with Park and Yarmer voting against it.

Hipp also presented the full-time equivalent audited student enrollment of 3152.4, two students within the district budget.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731376001828.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved a contract with Enterprise on Monday night for fleet management.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the district contacted local dealership Lewis Automotive about a similar lease program. Lewis said they could not match Enterprise's plan and recommended the district use the Enterprise program.Under the contract,&nbsp;Enterprise will manage the purchase and sale of district vehicles, except buses.Prior to 2019, the Hays school district bought vehicles through the state bid system at steep discounts. Staff drove the vehicles until they wore out, and then they were auctioned at low prices.Since the pandemic, that state bid system has not been available. The district has 12 Suburban SUVs, none newer than 2019.&nbsp;Its entire fleet includes 39 non-bus vehicles.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/06ea26c1-8471-4e7d-8372-64895445a845">At the board’s Oct. 21 meeting, Ken Olsen of Enterprise said the purchasing and sale program allows entities to decrease costs while operating newer, safer vehicles.</a>New vehicles would be phased into the fleet over several years.Both the city of Hays and Ellis County use one of Enterprise's fleet programs.Board President Curt Vajnar said he contacted the county and other schools that use the program, and their officials spoke highly of Enterprise.Based on its significant connections and volume, Enterprise can obtain 10 percent more than the average auction price for most of its vehicles.Enterprise estimates the district would save almost $89,000 over 10 years using its program to purchase and sell vehicles.Although the vehicles will be newer, Olsen said district insurance costs usually do not increase because of the improved safety features on the newer vehicles.The district would still use local dealerships for warranty work.Board member Allen Park said he thought Enterprise gave a good presentation but did not like how the contract was brought to the board.He and board member Derek Yarmer said they wanted the contract to be bid.The contract was approved on a vote of 5-2, with Park and Yarmer voting against it.Hipp also presented the full-time equivalent audited student enrollment of 3152.4, two students within the district budget.

Hays USD BOE approved fleet plan contract with Enterprise

§ Hays Area Children’s Center (HACC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) childcare facility that offers care for more than 100 children that range in age from zero to school age in our community.

§ HACC provides a high-quality educational setting with a proven curriculum beginning at age zero! We offer highly trained and certified staff to provide structured learning in a caring environment that sets children up for a successful transition to kindergarten.

§ Currently our services provide consistent care that include a large focus on learning-enriched activities. Our staff is incredibly talented and highly-trained providing fun, consistent learning in a relaxing and comfortable environment!

§ Infant care is a top need in our community and the HACC is one of the few facilities in Hays providing infant care, proudly serving up to 12 infants at a time (the largest infant capacity for centers in Ellis County).

Currently, HACC provides vital, superior childcare to numerous families in our community, and we look forward to being a trusted and high-quality provider in the future. To continue providing these needed services, we need your help!

§ As everyday expenses rise, HACC strives to maintain an affordable cost structure for our families. In the past year we have raised tuition rates twice to further cover the operating costs per child. The higher the monthly tuition rates, the less funds families have to spend in our community.

§ With the goal of the future to provide raises to sustain livable wages to our amazing staff, our current cost structure is not sustainable without outside funding and donations from community organizations who recognize the benefits of the services we provide.

§ Grant funding historically has only supported major long-needed updates to our facility and educational resources for our organization. Most of the time, grants do not cover employee payroll for administrative staff (kitchen, maintenance, etc) and other operating expenses, such as insurance, maintenance for business and computer systems/software, or costs related to regulatory and auditing requirements. HACC works hard to apply for all available grants, but not all requests are granted to us. To cover our operating costs and keep our doors open, we truly depend on our fundraising efforts to bring in donations from organizations like yours!

§ Our fundraising goal for Bright Lights for Little Tykes 2024 is $10,000.00. We are hopeful community support will assist us in reaching this goal! This event provides fundraising opportunities that can be done prior to the event or even from home for individuals that are unable to attend in person. The outreach of this event continues to grow each year!

Our main fundraiser is Bright Lights for Little Tykes. This year our event on November 23rd, 2024 will be held at The Rose Garden Banquet Hall. This year’s theme is “Bright Lights Christmas Luau”. Each ticket for the benefit will include a gourmet meal, two drink tickets, a short program, auction (along with other fundraising opportunities) and an evening of music entertainment from Complete Music.

Please consider one of the sponsorship levels for

o Kindergarten Ready- $3,000.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:

8 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($600 value)

Full logo with a spotlight feature on flyers advertising the event

o Preschool- $1,000.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:

Recognition of business name at the event

Full logo featured on flyers advertising the event

o Toddler- $500.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:

4 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($300 value)

Business name featured on flyers advertising the event

o Infant- $250.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:

2 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($150 value)

Please email events@hacc.info or call 785-625-3257 with any questions. You gift can be mailed to:

Hays Area Children’s Center- Attn: Bright Lights gift

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580941810958.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDid you know?§ Hays Area Children’s Center (HACC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) childcare facility that offers care for more than 100 children that range in age from zero to school age in our community.§ HACC provides a high-quality educational setting with a proven curriculum beginning at age zero! We offer highly trained and certified staff to provide structured learning in a caring environment that sets children up for a successful transition to kindergarten.§ Currently our services provide consistent care that include a large focus on learning-enriched activities. Our staff is incredibly talented and highly-trained providing fun, consistent learning in a relaxing and comfortable environment!§ Infant care is a top need in our community and the HACC is one of the few facilities in Hays providing infant care, proudly serving up to 12 infants at a time (the largest infant capacity for centers in Ellis County).Currently, HACC provides vital, superior childcare to numerous families in our community, and we look forward to being a trusted and high-quality provider in the future. To continue providing these needed services, we need your help!§ As everyday expenses rise, HACC strives to maintain an affordable cost structure for our families. In the past year we have raised tuition rates twice to further cover the operating costs per child. The higher the monthly tuition rates, the less funds families have to spend in our community.§ With the goal of the future to provide raises to sustain livable wages to our amazing staff, our current cost structure is not sustainable without outside funding and donations from community organizations who recognize the benefits of the services we provide.§ Grant funding historically has only supported major long-needed updates to our facility and educational resources for our organization. Most of the time, grants do not cover employee payroll for administrative staff (kitchen, maintenance, etc) and other operating expenses, such as insurance, maintenance for business and computer systems/software, or costs related to regulatory and auditing requirements. HACC works hard to apply for all available grants, but not all requests are granted to us. To cover our operating costs and keep our doors open, we truly depend on our fundraising efforts to bring in donations from organizations like yours!§ Our fundraising goal for Bright Lights for Little Tykes 2024 is $10,000.00. We are hopeful community support will assist us in reaching this goal! This event provides fundraising opportunities that can be done prior to the event or even from home for individuals that are unable to attend in person. The outreach of this event continues to grow each year!Our main fundraiser is Bright Lights for Little Tykes. This year our event on November 23rd, 2024 will be held at The Rose Garden Banquet Hall. This year’s theme is “Bright Lights Christmas Luau”. Each ticket for the benefit will include a gourmet meal, two drink tickets, a short program, auction (along with other fundraising opportunities) and an evening of music entertainment from Complete Music.Please consider one of the sponsorship levels forBright Lights for Little Tykes 2024:o Kindergarten Ready- $3,000.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:8 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($600 value)Spotlight Recognition at the EventFull logo with a spotlight feature on flyers advertising the eventTags on our Facebook page if desiredo Preschool- $1,000.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:8 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($600 value)Recognition of business name at the eventFull logo featured on flyers advertising the evento Toddler- $500.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:4 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($300 value)Business name featured on flyers advertising the evento Infant- $250.00 donation (including in kind). This includes:2 tickets for the Bright Lights Fundraiser ($150 value)Business name featured on flyers advertising the eventPlease email events@hacc.info or call 785-625-3257 with any questions. You gift can be mailed to:Hays Area Children’s Center- Attn: Bright Lights gift94 Lewis DriveHays, KS 67601

Hays Area Children's Center to host Bright Lights Christmas Luau

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

The 4-H year runs from October 1 through September 30 of each year. Youth select projects in October or November and work on learning new skills, improving others, and participating in related leadership and community service throughout the year.

Celebrating involvement and accomplishments is an important and fun part of this process! About 80 4-H members and their families gathered on Sunday, November 3, to share a meal, good fellowship, and celebrate 4-H members.

A committee puts together the theme and decides on the meal. They did a great job this year to Level Up with 4-H, a video game themed event! One of the families provided roasters of soup while another took care of the desserts! It was a great way to begin the evening.

One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the focus on communication skills and leadership, and both were on display as 4-H Council officers Melody Braddy, Kassie Linsner, Ailey Williams, and Jonas Kern served as our emcees for the evening.

Each 4-H club has an opportunity to share about events they participated in and to showcase the awards for their club members. It is so much fun to see each club gather with their project awards for a group photo!

In addition, there are a few special awards presented. The Key Award is for 4-H members who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in leadership, citizenship, community service, demonstrations, judging and the holding of club and county offices. In short, it recognizes 4-H members who have lived up to the high ideals expressed by the 4-H Club Pledge. Jonas Kern received his Key Award as a 10-year member of the Ellinwood Energizers and is involved in a wide variety of project areas. In particular, he was recognized at the 2024 Emerald Circle banquet, held during Discovery Days, for having the Kansas 4-H Wildlife Project Record. He is a member of the Cottonwood 4-H2O Ambassadors and presents water educational information to a wide variety of audiences. He is an active member of Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and the 4-H Livestock Committee and has held numerous offices in all of these organizations. He is a gracious leader who is willing to listen but keep the decision-making process moving forward.

The “I Dare You” Leadership award was first offered in 1941 by the late Williams H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina company in St. Louis. He challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award inspired the book, “I Dare You” written by Danforth in which he encourages a balanced life of mental, physical, social, and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership. Ailey Williams, the first recipient holds multiple leadership roles in her club, Junior Leaders, and 4-H Council. In addition, she always shows up with a smile and a “can do” attitude for any task. Melody Braddy, the second recipient, also holds multiple leadership roles across our county and is a candidate for the Kansas Youth Leadership Council this year. Her creative spark is visible in many activities and projects. Both of these young women are incredibly involved in school activities in addition to 4-H yet show up and LEAD activities! I was particularly pleased to see their commitment and engagement the last couple of years as the Visual Arts superintendents. They had a short and sharp learning curve the first year but have gained much experience in the last two years!

Our final special awards are the Friends of 4-H. The first was presented to Shane and Hayley Dicks for their many years as Busy Buzzers club leaders and advisers for the 4-H Livestock Committee and 4-H Ambassadors. The second was presented to the family of the late Frank Ochs who was a 4-H champion and cheerleader to many 4-H families. His smile and jokes in the barn will be greatly missed but we look forward to many years of involvement by his family.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe 4-H year runs from October 1 through September 30 of each year. Youth select projects in October or November and work on learning new skills, improving others, and participating in related leadership and community service throughout the year.Celebrating involvement and accomplishments is an important and fun part of this process! About 80 4-H members and their families gathered on Sunday, November 3, to share a meal, good fellowship, and celebrate 4-H members.A committee puts together the theme and decides on the meal. They did a great job this year to Level Up with 4-H, a video game themed event! One of the families provided roasters of soup while another took care of the desserts! It was a great way to begin the evening.One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the focus on communication skills and leadership, and both were on display as 4-H Council officers Melody Braddy, Kassie Linsner, Ailey Williams, and Jonas Kern served as our emcees for the evening.Each 4-H club has an opportunity to share about events they participated in and to showcase the awards for their club members. It is so much fun to see each club gather with their project awards for a group photo!In addition, there are a few special awards presented. The Key Award is for 4-H members who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in leadership, citizenship, community service, demonstrations, judging and the holding of club and county offices. In short, it recognizes 4-H members who have lived up to the high ideals expressed by the 4-H Club Pledge. Jonas Kern received his Key Award as a 10-year member of the Ellinwood Energizers and is involved in a wide variety of project areas. In particular, he was recognized at the 2024 Emerald Circle banquet, held during Discovery Days, for having the Kansas 4-H Wildlife Project Record. He is a member of the Cottonwood 4-H2O Ambassadors and presents water educational information to a wide variety of audiences. He is an active member of Junior Leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, and the 4-H Livestock Committee and has held numerous offices in all of these organizations. He is a gracious leader who is willing to listen but keep the decision-making process moving forward.The “I Dare You” Leadership award was first offered in 1941 by the late Williams H. Danforth, founder of the Ralston Purina company in St. Louis. He challenged young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of service. The award inspired the book, “I Dare You” written by Danforth in which he encourages a balanced life of mental, physical, social, and spiritual development as the backbone of leadership. Ailey Williams, the first recipient holds multiple leadership roles in her club, Junior Leaders, and 4-H Council. In addition, she always shows up with a smile and a “can do” attitude for any task. Melody Braddy, the second recipient, also holds multiple leadership roles across our county and is a candidate for the Kansas Youth Leadership Council this year. Her creative spark is visible in many activities and projects. Both of these young women are incredibly involved in school activities in addition to 4-H yet show up and LEAD activities! I was particularly pleased to see their commitment and engagement the last couple of years as the Visual Arts superintendents. They had a short and sharp learning curve the first year but have gained much experience in the last two years!Our final special awards are the Friends of 4-H. The first was presented to Shane and Hayley Dicks for their many years as Busy Buzzers club leaders and advisers for the 4-H Livestock Committee and 4-H Ambassadors. The second was presented to the family of the late Frank Ochs who was a 4-H champion and cheerleader to many 4-H families. His smile and jokes in the barn will be greatly missed but we look forward to many years of involvement by his family.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Celebrating achievements

<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/2024/11/1731360781010.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><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

Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;

Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="bd7a5da3-c5ef-4232-b5d0-42bd8f241519" data-routing="hash" data-script="haple7"></div>
<script defer src="
https://embed-1069960.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js"
data-ss-script="haple7">/**/</script></div>Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

📷 HONOR OUR VETERANS: 2024 Veterans photo gallery

COLBY -- Colby Community College announced the launch of a women's wrestling program, set to begin competing in the fall of 2025. The Trojans will participate in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and face off against other community colleges.

The CCC Athletic Department has initiated a national search for the program’s inaugural head coach.

"We are excited to bring women's wrestling to Colby Community College," said Athletic Director Kenny Hernandez. "Wrestling has been a staple of Trojan Athletics, and this will provide more opportunities for the sport to grow."

Women's wrestling is one of the fastest-growing sports in college athletics, with the NJCAA set to host its Women's Wrestling Invitational Championship in Council Bluffs, Iowa, this spring. The Trojans will become only the second Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) member to offer the sport.

Scholarships are available for the program. Female students interested in wrestling at CCC can submit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.colbytrojans.com/sports/wrest/recruitment">wrestling recruitment form</a>.

<a href="https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/ColbyCommunityCollege/744000024808202-head-women-s-wrestling-coach">Applications for the head coach</a>&nbsp;position are also being accepted.

For more information and updates on the women's wrestling program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/">ColbyTrojans.com</a>&nbsp;or email Kenny Hernandez at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kenny.hernandez@colbycc.edu?subject=Women%27s%20Wrestling">kenny.hernandez@colbycc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCOLBY -- Colby Community College announced the launch of a women's wrestling program, set to begin competing in the fall of 2025. The Trojans will participate in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and face off against other community colleges.The CCC Athletic Department has initiated a national search for the program’s inaugural head coach."We are excited to bring women's wrestling to Colby Community College," said Athletic Director Kenny Hernandez. "Wrestling has been a staple of Trojan Athletics, and this will provide more opportunities for the sport to grow."Women's wrestling is one of the fastest-growing sports in college athletics, with the NJCAA set to host its Women's Wrestling Invitational Championship in Council Bluffs, Iowa, this spring. The Trojans will become only the second Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) member to offer the sport.Scholarships are available for the program. Female students interested in wrestling at CCC can submit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.colbytrojans.com/sports/wrest/recruitment">wrestling recruitment form</a>.<a href="https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/ColbyCommunityCollege/744000024808202-head-women-s-wrestling-coach">Applications for the head coach</a>&nbsp;position are also being accepted.For more information and updates on the women's wrestling program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/">ColbyTrojans.com</a>&nbsp;or email Kenny Hernandez at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kenny.hernandez@colbycc.edu?subject=Women%27s%20Wrestling">kenny.hernandez@colbycc.edu</a>.

Colby Community College announces Women's Wrestling starting in 2025

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

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

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

<div></div>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

Editor's note: Corrected 12 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11.

Recent economic data from the Docking Institute of Public Affairs showed that Ellis County had the highest poverty rate in the region at 18%.

Another 23% were classified as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, or ALICE. These households are above the federal poverty level but cannot afford the basic cost of living in their county. They do not qualify for public assistance.

Combined, that equals 41% or more than 4 out of 10 Ellis County residents who are struggling financially.

Erica Berges, director of the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a>, said the ALICE families are employed, sometimes working multiple jobs, but are not making enough to make ends meet.&nbsp;

The median household income for Ellis County is $59,665. According to the data from United for ALICE, the survival budget for a family with two adults and two children, with the children in child care, is $67,164. That works out to be $33.58 per hour or $16.79 per hour for each adult, with both adults working full time.&nbsp;

The Kansas minimum wage is $7.25 for non-tipped employees.

Hays is a retail hub, and many of those jobs do not pay high wages. Even entry-level positions in education and health care often do not pay high enough wages to meet a survival budget.

Forty-six percent of households with workers who are nursing assistants and 42% of households who are teaching assistants are ALICE households.

“It’s pretty easy to comment, ‘Oh, they just need to go find a higher paying job,’” Bergers said. “If you don’t have a college degree, your options are limited. You want to better yourself and get a college degree, but how are you going to afford that? How are you going to find time to do that if you’re working multiple jobs to make ends meet.”

The population with the highest percentage of households in poverty or under the ALICE threshold are single mothers at 73%.

The next most affected group is households headed by someone 25 and younger. Sixty-nine percent of those households are affected. Students might work retail or food services jobs to accommodate their school schedules, but those are typically lower-paying jobs.

The third most affected group is senior citizens, with 48% of households affected.

Although Social Security lifts many of these households above the federal poverty level, they still don’t have enough income to satisfy a survival budget.

Berges also said some of the figures used in the Docking study seemed low, including $458 per month for rent.&nbsp;

Apartments.com listed the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Hays as $611. Zillow listed the median rent at $800.

Berges said some of the housing in Hays is liveable, but the apartments and homes are not in the best shape.

Hays does not have a rental inspection program, although it has been discussed in years past.

Macey Pfeifer, director of First Call for Help, said her agency has seen increased demand for housing assistance. First Call for Help also recently received a grant from Union Pacific to help people with deposits and the first month’s rent. She said demand for that assistance has also been high.

First Call for Help also provides utility assistance, and Pfeifer said demand also increased in October. She said there was an increase in utility shutoffs before Midwest Energy initiated its Cold Weather Rule, which prohibits utility disconnection during the winter.&nbsp;

Pfeifer said requests for assistance usually increase again in the spring, with some people owing $1,000 or more.

First Call for Help has a client whose utilities have been shut off for more than a year, Pfeifer said. She’s been using a garden hose from a neighbor.

“Everything adds up, and the money doesn’t go very far,” Pfeifer said.

Pfeifer said she thought the increase in assistance has been driven largely by inflation.

“The hourly wage people are receiving is not reflecting the increases they see around them,” she said. “Normal places do a 3% increase, but with everything going up way more than 3%, it’s hard.”

During a recent city commission meeting, Hays City Commissioner Reese Barrick urged local businesses to increase their wages.

“The reality is it would take to get all of Hays outside of poverty and not always struggling week to week and month to month, would people with jobs making $25 an hour,” he said.

He added, “We wouldn’t have to have all of these [nonprofit] organizations if we were able to pay people enough so they were outside of the risk zone every month. …

“If we want a community where everyone can participate and put money back into the community by shopping everywhere, then we have to pay people enough so they can participate. We can take care of the poverty level. It’s really a wage thing.”

The most recent available data is from 2022, prior to record-setting inflation driving up costs, especially food costs.

According to the USDA, food prices have increased about 7.3% since 2022.&nbsp;

"Look at the budget," Berges said. "They are paying $1,300. That's probably three meals a day. They're cutting out a meal. They have to cut that expense. With transportation, they might own two carts. They need to probably sell one.

"Those are the decisions those families are probably having to make."

Hays has public transportation through the ACCESS program. However, there is no fixed route for that service, which makes it difficult for workers to rely on it to travel back and forth to work, she said.

Berges said a working adult may be one flat tire or car breakdown away from a crisis.&nbsp;If they can't get to work, they can get fired, Berges said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731001805145.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's note: Corrected 12 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostRecent economic data from the Docking Institute of Public Affairs showed that Ellis County had the highest poverty rate in the region at 18%.Another 23% were classified as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, or ALICE. These households are above the federal poverty level but cannot afford the basic cost of living in their county. They do not qualify for public assistance.Combined, that equals 41% or more than 4 out of 10 Ellis County residents who are struggling financially.Erica Berges, director of the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a>, said the ALICE families are employed, sometimes working multiple jobs, but are not making enough to make ends meet.&nbsp;The median household income for Ellis County is $59,665. According to the data from United for ALICE, the survival budget for a family with two adults and two children, with the children in child care, is $67,164. That works out to be $33.58 per hour or $16.79 per hour for each adult, with both adults working full time.&nbsp;The Kansas minimum wage is $7.25 for non-tipped employees.Hays is a retail hub, and many of those jobs do not pay high wages. Even entry-level positions in education and health care often do not pay high enough wages to meet a survival budget.Forty-six percent of households with workers who are nursing assistants and 42% of households who are teaching assistants are ALICE households.“It’s pretty easy to comment, ‘Oh, they just need to go find a higher paying job,’” Bergers said. “If you don’t have a college degree, your options are limited. You want to better yourself and get a college degree, but how are you going to afford that? How are you going to find time to do that if you’re working multiple jobs to make ends meet.”The population with the highest percentage of households in poverty or under the ALICE threshold are single mothers at 73%.The next most affected group is households headed by someone 25 and younger. Sixty-nine percent of those households are affected. Students might work retail or food services jobs to accommodate their school schedules, but those are typically lower-paying jobs.The third most affected group is senior citizens, with 48% of households affected.Although Social Security lifts many of these households above the federal poverty level, they still don’t have enough income to satisfy a survival budget.Berges also said some of the figures used in the Docking study seemed low, including $458 per month for rent.&nbsp;Apartments.com listed the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Hays as $611. Zillow listed the median rent at $800.Berges said some of the housing in Hays is liveable, but the apartments and homes are not in the best shape.Hays does not have a rental inspection program, although it has been discussed in years past.Macey Pfeifer, director of First Call for Help, said her agency has seen increased demand for housing assistance. First Call for Help also recently received a grant from Union Pacific to help people with deposits and the first month’s rent. She said demand for that assistance has also been high.First Call for Help also provides utility assistance, and Pfeifer said demand also increased in October. She said there was an increase in utility shutoffs before Midwest Energy initiated its Cold Weather Rule, which prohibits utility disconnection during the winter.&nbsp;Pfeifer said requests for assistance usually increase again in the spring, with some people owing $1,000 or more.First Call for Help has a client whose utilities have been shut off for more than a year, Pfeifer said. She’s been using a garden hose from a neighbor.“Everything adds up, and the money doesn’t go very far,” Pfeifer said.Pfeifer said she thought the increase in assistance has been driven largely by inflation.“The hourly wage people are receiving is not reflecting the increases they see around them,” she said. “Normal places do a 3% increase, but with everything going up way more than 3%, it’s hard.”During a recent city commission meeting, Hays City Commissioner Reese Barrick urged local businesses to increase their wages.“The reality is it would take to get all of Hays outside of poverty and not always struggling week to week and month to month, would people with jobs making $25 an hour,” he said.He added, “We wouldn’t have to have all of these [nonprofit] organizations if we were able to pay people enough so they were outside of the risk zone every month. …“If we want a community where everyone can participate and put money back into the community by shopping everywhere, then we have to pay people enough so they can participate. We can take care of the poverty level. It’s really a wage thing.”The most recent available data is from 2022, prior to record-setting inflation driving up costs, especially food costs.According to the USDA, food prices have increased about 7.3% since 2022.&nbsp;"Look at the budget," Berges said. "They are paying $1,300. That's probably three meals a day. They're cutting out a meal. They have to cut that expense. With transportation, they might own two carts. They need to probably sell one."Those are the decisions those families are probably having to make."Hays has public transportation through the ACCESS program. However, there is no fixed route for that service, which makes it difficult for workers to rely on it to travel back and forth to work, she said.Berges said a working adult may be one flat tire or car breakdown away from a crisis.&nbsp;If they can't get to work, they can get fired, Berges said.&nbsp;United Way of Kansas is trying to lobby the legislature on behalf of the ALICE households to bring more state resources to bear."People in poverty, they have more access to federal and state resources—food stamps, SNAP, WIC, Section 8," she said. "The poverty level for two adults and two children is $31,000, so if you make just slightly over, you don't qualify for any of that, yet you still need this help."Berges said some of the United Way partner agencies help families who are above the poverty line, but they can only do so much with their limited funds, she said."It's really those ALICE households who are feeling the pinch because the poverty line has not changed, yet the cost of everything is going up," she said.&nbsp;United Way receives many calls for rent and utility assistance. Although United Way doesn't offer direct assistance, it refers people to agencies that do."People always need a place to stay, and obviously, they always need heat or water or electricity," she said. "Whereas the food, maybe they can get by.""One thing with this community is that there are still gaps, but there are good resources in food pantries," Berges said.She said a need that is not being met is health care, including dental. United Way of Kansas is advocating for Medicaid expansion in its United for Alice campaign."If you don't get health care, that can snowball into something bigger, and that can affect the hospital and the clinics," Berges said.Berges said she hopes the data opens some community members' eyes."A lot of people who I work with, I don't think we can relate unless we know someone personally who is going through something like that. You take that for granted," Berges said.Anyone needing assistance can call 211 to access United Way’s statewide referral system. They can also download the United Ways Ellis County Community Resources Directory app on Apple or Android devices or <a href="https://elliscountykshelp.com/">CLICK HERE.</a>You can contact First Call for Help at&nbsp;785-623-2800&nbsp;or visit its office from 8 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at 607 E. 13th St., Hays.

Local