By BECKY KISER Hays Post&nbsp;

The holiday season is here and November is already filled with lots of events and activities in Hays for the entire family to enjoy.

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, talks about some of the fun happenings in Hays this month.

For an updated list of November activities, check the Hays community events calendar on the CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673100607004.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post&nbsp;The holiday season is here and November is already filled with lots of events and activities in Hays for the entire family to enjoy.Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, talks about some of the fun happenings in Hays this month.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VfQyuygxVDs" title="Hays CVB November events" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730829105386.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>For an updated list of November activities, check the Hays community events calendar on the CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

🎥 Holiday happenings in Hays kick off in November

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by Jayden Renee&nbsp;Hinrichs, 17, Bloomer, Wisconsin, was westbound in the&nbsp;2300 block of Old 40 Old.&nbsp; The pickup enter the north ditch, returned to the roadway where driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The pickup traveled back into the north ditch broadside and rolled.

EMS transported Hinrichs to Hays Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by Jayden Renee&nbsp;Hinrichs, 17, Bloomer, Wisconsin, was westbound in the&nbsp;2300 block of Old 40 Old.&nbsp; The pickup enter the north ditch, returned to the roadway where driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The pickup traveled back into the north ditch broadside and rolled.EMS transported Hinrichs to Hays Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Teen hospitalized in Hays after pickup rollover crash

I-70 EB/WB is closed from Denver to Colby through Saturday.

The National Weather Service is forecasting an extreme impact of snow in parts of Colorado and along I-70 west of Denver Friday evening into Saturday morning.

I-70 EB/WB is closed from Denver to Colby through Saturday.The National Weather Service is forecasting an extreme impact of snow in parts of Colorado and along I-70 west of Denver Friday evening into Saturday morning.

I-70 closed in both directions from Denver to Colby

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Magistrate Judge Richard Flax will retain his position in the 23rd Judicial District.

Voters cast 904 votes for Flax, and 659 votes for challenger Travis Phillips, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper.&nbsp;

Flax was first elected to the magistrate judge position in 1996.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668788514818.png" alt="Flax" />
 <figcaption>Flax</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMagistrate Judge Richard Flax will retain his position in the 23rd Judicial District.Flax serves position 3 in Trego County.Voters cast 904 votes for Flax, and 659 votes for challenger Travis Phillips, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper.&nbsp;Flax was first elected to the magistrate judge position in 1996.

Flax retains magistrate judge position in Trego County

RAWLINS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30a.m. Wednesday in Rawlins County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Saturn Vue driven by&nbsp;Lawrence Stephen&nbsp;Longwolf, 25, Vacaville, California, was northbound on Kansas 25 approximately eight miles south of U.S. 36

The driver fell asleep and woke up as the SUV was leaving the roadway to the east. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle crossed the southbound lane, entered the west ditch sideways and rolled.

EMS transported a passenger Kylie R.&nbsp; Cisco, 23, Anadarko, Oklahoma, to the Rawlins County Hospital.&nbsp; Longwolf and a 1-year-old passenger were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RAWLINS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30a.m. Wednesday in Rawlins County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Saturn Vue driven by&nbsp;Lawrence Stephen&nbsp;Longwolf, 25, Vacaville, California, was northbound on Kansas 25 approximately eight miles south of U.S. 36The driver fell asleep and woke up as the SUV was leaving the roadway to the east. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle crossed the southbound lane, entered the west ditch sideways and rolled.EMS transported a passenger Kylie R.&nbsp; Cisco, 23, Anadarko, Oklahoma, to the Rawlins County Hospital.&nbsp; Longwolf and a 1-year-old passenger were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman hospitalized after NW Kansas rollover accident

The Ellis County Clerk said Tuesday night voter turnout in the county was lower than she expected.

She said she hoped for a turnout in the 80% range, but Ellis County's turnout was 65%.

"This is a huge election," she said. "To say the least, I was disappointed in the 65% turnout. We still got 65% of people to turn out. I can't be too mad, but I wish it were more."

Dreiling said the election was "flawless." She had no issues at polling locations on the day of the election.

She also said advance voting was as strong as she has seen it in her 16 years working in the clerk's office and went very smoothly.

Dreiling brought in two extra poll workers to assist in advance voting at the Ellis County Administration Center, which include a morning for Saturday voting.

Twenty-five percent of Ellis County voters cast advance ballots in person or by mail-in ballots during this General Election.

Dreiling said the lack of contested down-ballot races might have affected turnout.

The clerk's race was the only contested county elected official race this election. All the other positions went to Republicans in uncontested races.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1873ff67-3bab-44c2-896b-8aee3a992496">See complete Ellis County results here.</a>

The city of Ellis had four candidates for three seats up for grabs on its city council.

Both Kansas House of Representative Republican incumbents Barb Wasinger, who represents Hays, and Ken Rahjes, who represents rural Ellis County and surrounding counties, won their races by wide margins.

The Ellis County election results will not be official until the canvass on Nov. 18. Dreiling said voters cast 299 provisional ballots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646335925302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Ellis County Clerk said Tuesday night voter turnout in the county was lower than she expected.She said she hoped for a turnout in the 80% range, but Ellis County's turnout was 65%."This is a huge election," she said. "To say the least, I was disappointed in the 65% turnout. We still got 65% of people to turn out. I can't be too mad, but I wish it were more."Dreiling said the election was "flawless." She had no issues at polling locations on the day of the election.She also said advance voting was as strong as she has seen it in her 16 years working in the clerk's office and went very smoothly.Dreiling brought in two extra poll workers to assist in advance voting at the Ellis County Administration Center, which include a morning for Saturday voting.Twenty-five percent of Ellis County voters cast advance ballots in person or by mail-in ballots during this General Election.Dreiling said the lack of contested down-ballot races might have affected turnout.The clerk's race was the only contested county elected official race this election. All the other positions went to Republicans in uncontested races.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1873ff67-3bab-44c2-896b-8aee3a992496">See complete Ellis County results here.</a>The city of Ellis had four candidates for three seats up for grabs on its city council.Both Kansas House of Representative Republican incumbents Barb Wasinger, who represents Hays, and Ken Rahjes, who represents rural Ellis County and surrounding counties, won their races by wide margins.The Ellis County election results will not be official until the canvass on Nov. 18. Dreiling said voters cast 299 provisional ballots.

Ellis County voter turnout lower than expected

After a contentious race that revolved around voter accessibility, Republican Incumbent Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling earned a second term by a wide margin.

Dreiling received 9,971 votes, and her Democratic challenger, Laura Allen, received 2,975 in the General Election on Tuesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1873ff67-3bab-44c2-896b-8aee3a992496">See full Ellis County results here.</a>

&nbsp;"I take that result [to mean I have had] four years of being county clerk and running a really flawless office. I take it that the voters who voted to keep me in office [know] that I'm going to continue for another four years, and I'll stand by what I said," Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling said.

She said she does not see any major flaws in the office's functions and hopes to continue as she has.

Dreiling's opposition supported opening a voting location on the Fort Hays State University campus. Dreiling said she has not seen the voting participation among students living on campus to support that move.

However, she said she will continue to look at voter turnout.

"I'm going to continue to do what I've been doing for four years because it's worked out," she said. "Everything that has been brought up by my opponent or the ACLU, I'm already doing."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3d714e17-52a8-4997-aba5-25f6a9672cc0">SEE RELATED STORY: Letter to the Editor: Ellis County Clerk says flyer misrepresents her positions</a>

"I would like to No. 1 thank all the voters who put their trust in me four years ago and [hope they will]&nbsp; continue to trust me for the next four years,"&nbsp;" Dreiling said. 

"I want to thank my staff for helping me pull off one of the most important elections that I may see as county clerk, and I definitely want to thank my board workers who put in a long, huge 13-hour day today.

"Everything was flawless. I didn't have one issue at any polling location. It was a really good election."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730910732065.jpeg" alt="Bobbi Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Bobbi Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter a contentious race that revolved around voter accessibility, Republican Incumbent Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling earned a second term by a wide margin.Dreiling received 9,971 votes, and her Democratic challenger, Laura Allen, received 2,975 in the General Election on Tuesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1873ff67-3bab-44c2-896b-8aee3a992496">See full Ellis County results here.</a>&nbsp;"I take that result [to mean I have had] four years of being county clerk and running a really flawless office. I take it that the voters who voted to keep me in office [know] that I'm going to continue for another four years, and I'll stand by what I said," Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling said.She said she does not see any major flaws in the office's functions and hopes to continue as she has.Dreiling's opposition supported opening a voting location on the Fort Hays State University campus. Dreiling said she has not seen the voting participation among students living on campus to support that move.However, she said she will continue to look at voter turnout."I'm going to continue to do what I've been doing for four years because it's worked out," she said. "Everything that has been brought up by my opponent or the ACLU, I'm already doing."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3d714e17-52a8-4997-aba5-25f6a9672cc0">SEE RELATED STORY: Letter to the Editor: Ellis County Clerk says flyer misrepresents her positions</a>"I would like to No. 1 thank all the voters who put their trust in me four years ago and [hope they will]&nbsp; continue to trust me for the next four years,"&nbsp;" Dreiling said. "I want to thank my staff for helping me pull off one of the most important elections that I may see as county clerk, and I definitely want to thank my board workers who put in a long, huge 13-hour day today."Everything was flawless. I didn't have one issue at any polling location. It was a really good election."

Ellis County Clerk responds after win in heated race

A 34-year-old Pennsylvania man shot himself in the head with a handgun Monday morning just west of the front gate to the Ellis County Sanitary Landfill.

&nbsp;At 10:32 a.m., dispatchers received a call from a male stating he was "parked at the Environmental Office and was going to kill himself and to send someone to pick him up."

Officers arrived minutes later and found a body in the grassy area just west of the building. The man was transported to ER where he died. 

Ellis County SheriffA 34-year-old Pennsylvania man shot himself in the head with a handgun Monday morning just west of the front gate to the Ellis County Sanitary Landfill. &nbsp;At 10:32 a.m., dispatchers received a call from a male stating he was "parked at the Environmental Office and was going to kill himself and to send someone to pick him up."Officers arrived minutes later and found a body in the grassy area just west of the building. The man was transported to ER where he died. 
The investigation is continuing.&nbsp;

Ellis County Sheriff investigate death at landfill

BUNKER HILL, KS – On the next&nbsp;Traveling Kansas, we visit Rooks County and check out some of the many things to see and do. We will learn about their diverse economy, outdoor recreation, and special events. This episode will air on&nbsp;November 14th&nbsp;at 7 PM.&nbsp; It will also re-air on&nbsp;11/15 at 2 PM, 11/21 at 7 PM, and 11/22 at 2 PM.

“We’re thrilled to feature Rooks County in this episode of&nbsp;Traveling Kansas,” said Chuck Becker, Senior Sales/Underwriting Associate. “The beauty of Kansas lies not only in its landscapes but in the stories of its people, and we can’t wait to share the story of Rooks County with our viewers.”

Traveling Kansas&nbsp;showcases the unique stories, landscapes, and communities across the Sunflower State. In this special Rooks County episode, viewers will explore local treasures like&nbsp;the Rooks County Historical Museum, Webster State Park, and&nbsp;the Barn Quilt Wall in Stockton, as well as meet the residents whose pride and passion bring these places to life.

“The&nbsp;Traveling Kansas&nbsp;series produced by Smoky Hill Public Television are high quality shows that highlight the uniqueness of our communities and counties of western Kansas,” said Roger Hrabe,&nbsp;Rooks County Economic Development Director.&nbsp; “Rooks County is proud to have our attractions, businesses, and events featured as part of the series.&nbsp; We look forward to welcoming all our visitors!”&nbsp;

Smoky Hills PBS invites everyone to tune in on November 14 and discover why Rooks County is a must-see destination in Kansas. This episode will also be available to stream on the Smoky Hills PBS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">website</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel</a>.

For more information on the premiere or how to support Smoky Hills PBS programming, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

Traveling Kansas&nbsp;is a Smoky Hills PBS production that highlights Kansas communities, events and natural wonders.&nbsp; Previous episodes can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/show/traveling-kansas/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.

This episode is made possible by:&nbsp;Rooks County Economic Development, Rooks County Health Center, StrataKan Exploration, Midwest Family Health, BirdDog Aviation, Stahl Products, LLC, Damar Community Foundation

To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream/">&nbsp;LLS Channel</a>, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV.&nbsp; You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices.&nbsp; For more information, visit<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">&nbsp;SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS is committed to providing educational and entertaining programming for viewers of all ages.&nbsp; As a trusted source of quality content, we strive to inspire, inform, and engage our community through television, online platforms, and community events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697057314330.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBUNKER HILL, KS – On the next&nbsp;Traveling Kansas, we visit Rooks County and check out some of the many things to see and do. We will learn about their diverse economy, outdoor recreation, and special events. This episode will air on&nbsp;November 14th&nbsp;at 7 PM.&nbsp; It will also re-air on&nbsp;11/15 at 2 PM, 11/21 at 7 PM, and 11/22 at 2 PM.“We’re thrilled to feature Rooks County in this episode of&nbsp;Traveling Kansas,” said Chuck Becker, Senior Sales/Underwriting Associate. “The beauty of Kansas lies not only in its landscapes but in the stories of its people, and we can’t wait to share the story of Rooks County with our viewers.”Traveling Kansas&nbsp;showcases the unique stories, landscapes, and communities across the Sunflower State. In this special Rooks County episode, viewers will explore local treasures like&nbsp;the Rooks County Historical Museum, Webster State Park, and&nbsp;the Barn Quilt Wall in Stockton, as well as meet the residents whose pride and passion bring these places to life.“The&nbsp;Traveling Kansas&nbsp;series produced by Smoky Hill Public Television are high quality shows that highlight the uniqueness of our communities and counties of western Kansas,” said Roger Hrabe,&nbsp;Rooks County Economic Development Director.&nbsp; “Rooks County is proud to have our attractions, businesses, and events featured as part of the series.&nbsp; We look forward to welcoming all our visitors!”&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS invites everyone to tune in on November 14 and discover why Rooks County is a must-see destination in Kansas. This episode will also be available to stream on the Smoky Hills PBS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">website</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel</a>.For more information on the premiere or how to support Smoky Hills PBS programming, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;Traveling Kansas&nbsp;is a Smoky Hills PBS production that highlights Kansas communities, events and natural wonders.&nbsp; Previous episodes can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/show/traveling-kansas/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.This episode is made possible by:&nbsp;Rooks County Economic Development, Rooks County Health Center, StrataKan Exploration, Midwest Family Health, BirdDog Aviation, Stahl Products, LLC, Damar Community Foundation###Ways to Watch:To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream/">&nbsp;LLS Channel</a>, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV.&nbsp; You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices.&nbsp; For more information, visit<a href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">&nbsp;SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS is committed to providing educational and entertaining programming for viewers of all ages.&nbsp; As a trusted source of quality content, we strive to inspire, inform, and engage our community through television, online platforms, and community events.

Smoky Hills PBS visits Rooks Co. on next Traveling Kansas

<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/2024/11/1730826288533.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

In an exciting development for aspiring nurses across rural Kansas, the Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing has announced the launch of its new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. 

This innovative program is designed to meet the needs of students who seek a flexible educational path, making it particularly beneficial for those living in rural areas who may not have local access to a nursing program.

Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN program, states that the hybrid program is a great option for students who are juggling work commitments and cannot attend a traditional 8 a.m.-5 p.m. nursing program.

“This program is an excellent option for students who are unable to move to Hays or another community with a nursing program, students who enjoy and have experience with online learning, or those who already hold a previous bachelor’s or associates degree, or another credential—such as a paramedic or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)—and are seeking to earn a BSN in nursing,” Smith said.

By offering a combination of virtual and face-to-face learning experiences, FHSU is making it easier for students to pursue their nursing careers without needing to relocate or commute daily to campus. 

The hybrid format offers the flexibility of taking theory-based courses online, with synchronous learning opportunities that enable real-time interaction with instructors and classmates. To minimize travel, lab and clinical experiences are bundled together, allowing students to make fewer trips to Hays while utilizing clinical sites closer to home.

This unique educational model prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN examination, a crucial step toward becoming a registered nurse (RN). With FHSU's strong track record in nursing education, including a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX exam for recent cohorts, students can be confident in the quality of their education.

"I am so excited to impact the nursing workforce by educating through a hybrid modality, allowing students to stay in their own communities and travel to Hays for bundled clinical experiences,” said Dr. Jenny Manry, chair of the Department of Nursing. “By educating students in place, we can increase nurses across Western Kansas and throughout the state.”

The hybrid pre-licensure BSN program is an ideal fit for students who have excelled in virtual learning environments or those who are balancing other commitments that make traditional, face-to-face education less feasible. Clinical activities will be completed through a variety of modalities and hospitals, ensuring students gain essential hands-on experience while remaining close to their communities.

This program is launching at a time when the need for nurses in Kansas is growing rapidly. 

According to the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Health Care Workforce Report, the Kansas Department of Labor projects 20,049 RN job openings by 2030, making this a prime opportunity for students to enter the field and meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals.

Admission to the hybrid program occurs once per year, with a fall semester start date. 

Due to the program's competitive nature, students are encouraged to apply early. The application cycle opens on November 1, with a priority deadline of January 1 and a final deadline of June 15, or until the cohort is filled. Late applicants may be considered for the following application cycle.

 Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and submit official transcripts from any previously attended institutions.

This new hybrid program offers a unique opportunity for students who are eager to pursue a career in nursing but need the flexibility of studying from home while still receiving the high-quality education for which FHSU is known.

For more information or to apply, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN program, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tlsmith17@fhsu.edu">tlsmith17@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730382312461.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University nursing students. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University nursing students. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsIn an exciting development for aspiring nurses across rural Kansas, the Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing has announced the launch of its new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This innovative program is designed to meet the needs of students who seek a flexible educational path, making it particularly beneficial for those living in rural areas who may not have local access to a nursing program.Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN program, states that the hybrid program is a great option for students who are juggling work commitments and cannot attend a traditional 8 a.m.-5 p.m. nursing program.“This program is an excellent option for students who are unable to move to Hays or another community with a nursing program, students who enjoy and have experience with online learning, or those who already hold a previous bachelor’s or associates degree, or another credential—such as a paramedic or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)—and are seeking to earn a BSN in nursing,” Smith said.By offering a combination of virtual and face-to-face learning experiences, FHSU is making it easier for students to pursue their nursing careers without needing to relocate or commute daily to campus. The hybrid format offers the flexibility of taking theory-based courses online, with synchronous learning opportunities that enable real-time interaction with instructors and classmates. To minimize travel, lab and clinical experiences are bundled together, allowing students to make fewer trips to Hays while utilizing clinical sites closer to home.This unique educational model prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN examination, a crucial step toward becoming a registered nurse (RN). With FHSU's strong track record in nursing education, including a 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX exam for recent cohorts, students can be confident in the quality of their education."I am so excited to impact the nursing workforce by educating through a hybrid modality, allowing students to stay in their own communities and travel to Hays for bundled clinical experiences,” said Dr. Jenny Manry, chair of the Department of Nursing. “By educating students in place, we can increase nurses across Western Kansas and throughout the state.”The hybrid pre-licensure BSN program is an ideal fit for students who have excelled in virtual learning environments or those who are balancing other commitments that make traditional, face-to-face education less feasible. Clinical activities will be completed through a variety of modalities and hospitals, ensuring students gain essential hands-on experience while remaining close to their communities.This program is launching at a time when the need for nurses in Kansas is growing rapidly. According to the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Health Care Workforce Report, the Kansas Department of Labor projects 20,049 RN job openings by 2030, making this a prime opportunity for students to enter the field and meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals.Admission to the hybrid program occurs once per year, with a fall semester start date. Due to the program's competitive nature, students are encouraged to apply early. The application cycle opens on November 1, with a priority deadline of January 1 and a final deadline of June 15, or until the cohort is filled. Late applicants may be considered for the following application cycle. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and submit official transcripts from any previously attended institutions.This new hybrid program offers a unique opportunity for students who are eager to pursue a career in nursing but need the flexibility of studying from home while still receiving the high-quality education for which FHSU is known.For more information or to apply, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN program, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tlsmith17@fhsu.edu">tlsmith17@fhsu.edu</a>.

FHSU launches hybrid pre-licensure BSN program in nursing

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Tuesday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp; Jimi Wayne&nbsp; Hill, 26, Timken, was southbound on U.S. 183 at South County Line Road.

The driver fell asleep. The car traveled off the road to the west and the driver overcorrected. The Honda then crossed U.S. 183 to the east and struck a utility pole.

EMS transported Hill to Hays Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Tuesday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp; Jimi Wayne&nbsp; Hill, 26, Timken, was southbound on U.S. 183 at South County Line Road.The driver fell asleep. The car traveled off the road to the west and the driver overcorrected. The Honda then crossed U.S. 183 to the east and struck a utility pole.EMS transported Hill to Hays Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas driver fell asleep and car struck utility pole

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Russell sales tax questions results, all precincts reporting

Registered voters in Ellis County: 20,431 Ballots cast: 13,297 Voter turnout: 65.08%

All precincts reporting. Preliminary results, pending canvass. * denotes incumbent Italics designates the projected winner.

President Kamala Harris, D,&nbsp; —3,411&nbsp; Donald Trump, R,&nbsp; —9,519 Robert Kennedy Jr., I, —178 Chase Oliver, L, —67

U.S. House of Representatives, Dist. 1 Paul Buskirk, D, —3,033 * Tracey Mann, R, —9,826

Kansas State Senate Dist. 40 * Richard Billinger, R, — 11,130

Kansas House of Representatives Dist. 110 (from Ellis County only) * Ken Rahjes, R, —2,129 Ellace Henderson, D —460

Kansas House of Representatives Dist. 111 Joseph Lantz IV, D, —2,744 * Barb Wasinger, R, —7,548 Judge 23rd Judicial District, First Division * Thomas Drees, R, —11,192

Judge 23rd Judicial District, Second Division Curtis Brown, R, —11,309 Ellis County Clerk * Bobbi Dreiling, R, — 9,971 Laura Allen, D, —2,975

Ellis County Treasurer * Vernon Ruder Jr., R, —11,278 Ellis County Register of Deeds * Rebecca Herzog, R, — 7,074

Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham, R, —11,113

Ellis County Sheriff * Scott Braun, R, —11,524

Ellis County Commissioner, District 2 * Neal Younger, R, —3,556

Ellis County Commissioner, District 3 * Nathan D. Leiker, R, —4,193

Ellis City Council member (3 positions at large)&nbsp; Dava Gaschler —588 * Jolene Niernberger —486 * Martin V LaBarge —613 Trevor LaBarge —439

Trustee Big Creek Township James Graham, R —1,143

Trustee Buckeye Township &nbsp;Joe Wilkerson, R, —564

Treasurer Big Creek Township Casey F. Herrman, R, —1,124

Treasurer Buckeye Township David Rupp, R, —587

Treasurer Freedom Township Florian Dome, D, —141

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 </figure>All precincts reportingRegistered voters in Ellis County: 20,431 Ballots cast: 13,297 Voter turnout: 65.08%All precincts reporting. Preliminary results, pending canvass. * denotes incumbent Italics designates the projected winner.President Kamala Harris, D,&nbsp; —3,411&nbsp; Donald Trump, R,&nbsp; —9,519 Robert Kennedy Jr., I, —178 Chase Oliver, L, —67U.S. House of Representatives, Dist. 1 Paul Buskirk, D, —3,033 * Tracey Mann, R, —9,826Kansas State Senate Dist. 40 * Richard Billinger, R, — 11,130Kansas House of Representatives Dist. 110 (from Ellis County only) * Ken Rahjes, R, —2,129 Ellace Henderson, D —460Kansas House of Representatives Dist. 111 Joseph Lantz IV, D, —2,744 * Barb Wasinger, R, —7,548 Judge 23rd Judicial District, First Division * Thomas Drees, R, —11,192Judge 23rd Judicial District, Second Division Curtis Brown, R, —11,309 Ellis County Clerk * Bobbi Dreiling, R, — 9,971 Laura Allen, D, —2,975Ellis County Treasurer * Vernon Ruder Jr., R, —11,278 Ellis County Register of Deeds * Rebecca Herzog, R, — 7,074Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham, R, —11,113 Ellis County Sheriff * Scott Braun, R, —11,524 Ellis County Commissioner, District 2 * Neal Younger, R, —3,556Ellis County Commissioner, District 3 * Nathan D. Leiker, R, —4,193Ellis City Council member (3 positions at large)&nbsp; Dava Gaschler —588 * Jolene Niernberger —486 * Martin V LaBarge —613 Trevor LaBarge —439Trustee Big Creek Township James Graham, R —1,143Trustee Buckeye Township &nbsp;Joe Wilkerson, R, —564Treasurer Big Creek Township Casey F. Herrman, R, —1,124Treasurer Buckeye Township David Rupp, R, —587Treasurer Freedom Township Florian Dome, D, —141

2024 General Election Ellis County results, all precincts reporting

The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, reported .6 inches of rain on Monday.

This was the first measurable rain for the month and would bring the yearly precipitation total to 20.75 inches.

That is compared to an average of 22.11 inches of precipitation by the end of November.

The forecast for today is supposed to be sunny, with a high of 59.

However, rain is forecasted to occur every day this week through Saturday.

Highs are forecast to be in the mid-50s to mid-40s. Lows are forecast in the mid-30s.

Ellis County was reportedly in moderate drought on Thursday when the Kansas Drought Monitor was released.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, reported .6 inches of rain on Monday.This was the first measurable rain for the month and would bring the yearly precipitation total to 20.75 inches.That is compared to an average of 22.11 inches of precipitation by the end of November.The forecast for today is supposed to be sunny, with a high of 59.However, rain is forecasted to occur every day this week through Saturday.Highs are forecast to be in the mid-50s to mid-40s. Lows are forecast in the mid-30s.Ellis County was reportedly in moderate drought on Thursday when the Kansas Drought Monitor was released.<figure>
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Dry spell broken; more rain in forecast

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC Yukon driven by Antonio Brice&nbsp;Kuhlman, 18, Oberlin was southbound on U.S. 83 approximately six miles north of U.S. 24.

The SUV left roadway entered the north ditch, struck a field road, went airborne, landed and rolled into the north ditch.

EMS transported Kuhlman to the hospital in Colby. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC Yukon driven by Antonio Brice&nbsp;Kuhlman, 18, Oberlin was southbound on U.S. 83 approximately six miles north of U.S. 24.The SUV left roadway entered the north ditch, struck a field road, went airborne, landed and rolled into the north ditch.EMS transported Kuhlman to the hospital in Colby. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas teen hospitalized after SUV rollover accident

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Hays Police Department arrest log, Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 2024

The Hays Police Department responded to 72 incidents Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.

Hays Police DepartmentThe Hays Police Department responded to 72 incidents Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays Police Department activity log, Oct. 27-Nov. 2, 2024

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Several unlocked vehicles were allegedly burglarized over the weekend in Hays.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said personal items were stolen from five cars after a suspect allegedly engaged in 'car surfing,' moving from car to car.

The burglaries occurred on Oak Street, East 19th Street, East 17th Street, and East 16th Street between Friday and the early hours of Saturday.

Personal items such as purses and credit cards were taken, Scheibler said. Some were recovered nearby after being discarded by the suspect, who only kept desired items.

Scheibler reminds residents to lock their vehicles and avoid leaving valuable items inside, especially with upcoming holidays.

If you have any information about the Friday and Saturday burglaries, please call 785-625-1011.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716320706146.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostSeveral unlocked vehicles were allegedly burglarized over the weekend in Hays.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said personal items were stolen from five cars after a suspect allegedly engaged in 'car surfing,' moving from car to car.The burglaries occurred on Oak Street, East 19th Street, East 17th Street, and East 16th Street between Friday and the early hours of Saturday.Personal items such as purses and credit cards were taken, Scheibler said. Some were recovered nearby after being discarded by the suspect, who only kept desired items.No arrests have been made.&nbsp;Scheibler reminds residents to lock their vehicles and avoid leaving valuable items inside, especially with upcoming holidays.If you have any information about the Friday and Saturday burglaries, please call 785-625-1011.

Multiple unlocked vehicles burglarized in Hays over weekend

The Cold Weather Rule, designed to help Kansans who are behind on their utility payments avoid disconnection during the winter months, began Nov. 1 and will remain in effect through March 31.

While the Cold Weather Rule is in effect, utility companies cannot disconnect a customer's service when the local temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees within the following 48-hour period. The Kansas Corporation Commission, the agency that regulates public utilities in the state, implemented the rule in 1983 to prevent utility companies from disconnecting a customer's natural gas or electric service during periods of extreme cold.

The Cold Weather Rule also requires utility companies to offer a 12-month payment plan to allow consumers to maintain or re-establish service. Any residential customer with a past due balance will qualify for payment arrangements; however, it is the customer's responsibility to contact their gas or electric company to make those arrangements.

Payment plan terms to maintain or restore service require that customers agree to pay 1/12th of the total amount owed, 1/12th of the current bill, the full amount of any disconnection or reconnection fee, plus any applicable deposit to the utility. The remaining balance must be paid in equal payments over the next 11 months, in addition to the current monthly bill.

The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric and natural gas utility companies under the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fabout-us%2Fjurisdiction%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010192e2cf1e13-321f06f3-f239-4455-a35c-afedf010f73e-000000/TDox5wy81A3kegg57CpJahXG6R9tmgdneiSD1rcWpNI=377">KCC's jurisdiction</a>, however many municipal utilities and cooperatives have similar winter weather policies.

Information about the Cold Weather Rule is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinkprotect.cudasvc.com%2Furl%3Fa=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%252Fconsumer-information%252Fcold-weather-rule%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26c=E%252C1%252CEFhPWc-npJHC7SLIDM6OMuVKUr3wX9Xg4C-2l1zFp6i2MFyzNb_qLElkJQELZugDIrGtLQMT5BD4XlfbuOEOM56KVuryQVxL6SMnhGA16QG8r25Q%26typo=1%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010192e2cf1e13-321f06f3-f239-4455-a35c-afedf010f73e-000000/DaOjQAaGpaOUxumUmbV9_9SMqbd3gJYvp1rmK2V3uqw=377">Commission’s website</a>. Kansans may also contact their local utility company or the KCC's Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at (800) 662-0027 or 785-271-3140.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729086734517.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Cold Weather Rule, designed to help Kansans who are behind on their utility payments avoid disconnection during the winter months, began Nov. 1 and will remain in effect through March 31.While the Cold Weather Rule is in effect, utility companies cannot disconnect a customer's service when the local temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees within the following 48-hour period. The Kansas Corporation Commission, the agency that regulates public utilities in the state, implemented the rule in 1983 to prevent utility companies from disconnecting a customer's natural gas or electric service during periods of extreme cold.The Cold Weather Rule also requires utility companies to offer a 12-month payment plan to allow consumers to maintain or re-establish service. Any residential customer with a past due balance will qualify for payment arrangements; however, it is the customer's responsibility to contact their gas or electric company to make those arrangements.Payment plan terms to maintain or restore service require that customers agree to pay 1/12th of the total amount owed, 1/12th of the current bill, the full amount of any disconnection or reconnection fee, plus any applicable deposit to the utility. The remaining balance must be paid in equal payments over the next 11 months, in addition to the current monthly bill.The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric and natural gas utility companies under the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%2Fabout-us%2Fjurisdiction%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010192e2cf1e13-321f06f3-f239-4455-a35c-afedf010f73e-000000/TDox5wy81A3kegg57CpJahXG6R9tmgdneiSD1rcWpNI=377">KCC's jurisdiction</a>, however many municipal utilities and cooperatives have similar winter weather policies.Information about the Cold Weather Rule is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinkprotect.cudasvc.com%2Furl%3Fa=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kcc.ks.gov%252Fconsumer-information%252Fcold-weather-rule%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26c=E%252C1%252CEFhPWc-npJHC7SLIDM6OMuVKUr3wX9Xg4C-2l1zFp6i2MFyzNb_qLElkJQELZugDIrGtLQMT5BD4XlfbuOEOM56KVuryQVxL6SMnhGA16QG8r25Q%26typo=1%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010192e2cf1e13-321f06f3-f239-4455-a35c-afedf010f73e-000000/DaOjQAaGpaOUxumUmbV9_9SMqbd3gJYvp1rmK2V3uqw=377">Commission’s website</a>. Kansans may also contact their local utility company or the KCC's Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at (800) 662-0027 or 785-271-3140.

Kansas Cold Weather Rule in effect

Election Day is today. Vote at your polling location from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling said Tuesday morning there was a 24.5 percent turnout of early voters. Dreiling said she's expecting a total local turnout as high as 89 percent.

To find out where your polling location is, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/" target="_blank">VoterView</a>&nbsp;website. Here you can&nbsp;enter your name and birth date on the voting registration tab to get your current polling location, county voting history, view your current ballot and more.

Read the Hays Post and listen to Eagle Radio for complete election results.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730813058611.jpeg" alt="Nearly 20 voters were lined up at the Hays Recreation Center Tuesday waiting for polls to open at 7 a.m. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Nearly 20 voters were lined up at the Hays Recreation Center Tuesday waiting for polls to open at 7 a.m. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730813242254.jpeg" alt="Residents out early Tuesday morning to vote in the Nov. general election. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Residents out early Tuesday morning to vote in the Nov. general election. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostElection Day is today. Vote at your polling location from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling said Tuesday morning there was a 24.5 percent turnout of early voters. Dreiling said she's expecting a total local turnout as high as 89 percent.To find out where your polling location is, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/" target="_blank">VoterView</a>&nbsp;website. Here you can&nbsp;enter your name and birth date on the voting registration tab to get your current polling location, county voting history, view your current ballot and more.Read the Hays Post and listen to Eagle Radio for complete election results.

Election Day today; find your polling location

The survey, by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, found one-third of Kansans think the state and local government are not doing enough to conserve water.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/people/celia-hack">Celia Hack</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KMUW&nbsp;</a>

Half of Kansans are either very or moderately concerned that Kansas may be running out of water, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf" target="_blank">new statewide survey by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University</a>.

“I can remember, 20 years ago, nobody wanted to talk about the depletion of the Ogallala (Aquifer),” said state Sen. Carolyn McGinn, who also serves as a member of the Kansas Water Authority. “And now, I mean, farmers are talking about it.”

Parts of western and central Kansas have battled severe drought the last several years. Wichita is currently enforcing outdoor watering restrictions as a result.

In response, the Docking Institute decided to include questions about water conservation for the first time in its annual survey.

“As we are seeing drier conditions in general, we thought it was important to know what Kansans are thinking about these water conservation efforts that are being put in place by local governments,” said Alexandra Middlewood, a political science professor at Wichita State University who worked on the survey.

One in three Kansans think state and local governments are not doing enough to conserve water. Between 33% and 40% think state and local governments, respectively, are doing the right amount.

A tiny minority – less than 4% – of Kansans think the state and local governments are doing too much when it comes to water conservation.

Middlewood said the survey results seem to indicate resistance to water restrictions like the city of Wichita’s is less than may be expected.

"If you read the comments on news articles, there are a lot of people who are upset about those restrictions,” Middlewood said. “But what it looks like statewide is that that's actually not a larger trend – that that is a small minority."

Gary Janzen is Wichita’s public works and utilities director, as well as a member of the Kansas Water Authority. He said getting “buy-in from the community” on water conservation is vital.

“The more people understand where we're going with this, what our challenges are, what our long-term goals are, I think we're going to be at a better place,” Janzen said.

At the state level, Kansas officials are currently engaged in conversations about how it will implement the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansas-water-plan-ksdot.hub.arcgis.com/pages/43fece0129754084a2e560c0f9ae3990" target="_blank">Kansas Water Plan</a>, which focuses in part on conserving and protecting water in aquifers and reservoirs. The Kansas Water Office held 14 meetings across the state this summer and fall to get feedback on a potential plan to invest $140 million a year to carry out the water plan.

Currently, Kansas puts about $60 million a year toward the water plan.

“I think because we've gone out and talked to different regions, that people are starting to think about their water supply,” McGinn said.

McGinn did say that the Kansas Legislature is skeptical about the proposal to more than double the water plan’s budget. The water plan budget already&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/20/new-laws-increase-accountability-for-kansas-water-districts-set-aside-conservation-funding/" target="_blank">increased significantly in 2023</a>, and she said she wants to see results from those programs before adding more money.

The survey asked whether Kansans prefer voluntary action or new laws limiting water consumption to conserve water. At both the state and local level, about one in three respondents believed new laws were the way to go, while another third wanted voluntary action. The last third didn’t know.

McGinn said she doesn’t see mandatory water restrictions coming from the state level in the near future. The money allocated to the state water plan goes to programs like buying water rights, monitoring wells,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nwd.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Stories/Article/3574987/dwindling-capacity-at-tuttle-creek-reservoir-calls-for-an-urgent-and-innovative/" target="_blank">dredging reservoirs</a>&nbsp;and improving dam safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730739063644.png" alt="The Arkansas River is currently lowered in Wichita as part of a downtown improvement project.&nbsp;Hugo Phan/KMUW" />
 <figcaption>The Arkansas River is currently lowered in Wichita as part of a downtown improvement project.&nbsp;Hugo Phan/KMUW</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The survey, by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, found one-third of Kansans think the state and local government are not doing enough to conserve water.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/people/celia-hack">Celia Hack</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">KMUW&nbsp;</a> Half of Kansans are either very or moderately concerned that Kansas may be running out of water, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf" target="_blank">new statewide survey by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University</a>.“I can remember, 20 years ago, nobody wanted to talk about the depletion of the Ogallala (Aquifer),” said state Sen. Carolyn McGinn, who also serves as a member of the Kansas Water Authority. “And now, I mean, farmers are talking about it.”Parts of western and central Kansas have battled severe drought the last several years. Wichita is currently enforcing outdoor watering restrictions as a result.In response, the Docking Institute decided to include questions about water conservation for the first time in its annual survey.“As we are seeing drier conditions in general, we thought it was important to know what Kansans are thinking about these water conservation efforts that are being put in place by local governments,” said Alexandra Middlewood, a political science professor at Wichita State University who worked on the survey.One in three Kansans think state and local governments are not doing enough to conserve water. Between 33% and 40% think state and local governments, respectively, are doing the right amount.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730739420057.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A tiny minority – less than 4% – of Kansans think the state and local governments are doing too much when it comes to water conservation.Middlewood said the survey results seem to indicate resistance to water restrictions like the city of Wichita’s is less than may be expected."If you read the comments on news articles, there are a lot of people who are upset about those restrictions,” Middlewood said. “But what it looks like statewide is that that's actually not a larger trend – that that is a small minority."Gary Janzen is Wichita’s public works and utilities director, as well as a member of the Kansas Water Authority. He said getting “buy-in from the community” on water conservation is vital.“The more people understand where we're going with this, what our challenges are, what our long-term goals are, I think we're going to be at a better place,” Janzen said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730739675456.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>At the state level, Kansas officials are currently engaged in conversations about how it will implement the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansas-water-plan-ksdot.hub.arcgis.com/pages/43fece0129754084a2e560c0f9ae3990" target="_blank">Kansas Water Plan</a>, which focuses in part on conserving and protecting water in aquifers and reservoirs. The Kansas Water Office held 14 meetings across the state this summer and fall to get feedback on a potential plan to invest $140 million a year to carry out the water plan.Currently, Kansas puts about $60 million a year toward the water plan.“I think because we've gone out and talked to different regions, that people are starting to think about their water supply,” McGinn said.McGinn did say that the Kansas Legislature is skeptical about the proposal to more than double the water plan’s budget. The water plan budget already&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/20/new-laws-increase-accountability-for-kansas-water-districts-set-aside-conservation-funding/" target="_blank">increased significantly in 2023</a>, and she said she wants to see results from those programs before adding more money.The survey asked whether Kansans prefer voluntary action or new laws limiting water consumption to conserve water. At both the state and local level, about one in three respondents believed new laws were the way to go, while another third wanted voluntary action. The last third didn’t know.McGinn said she doesn’t see mandatory water restrictions coming from the state level in the near future. The money allocated to the state water plan goes to programs like buying water rights, monitoring wells,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nwd.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Stories/Article/3574987/dwindling-capacity-at-tuttle-creek-reservoir-calls-for-an-urgent-and-innovative/" target="_blank">dredging reservoirs</a>&nbsp;and improving dam safety.

Survey: 1 in 2 Kansans concerned about state’s water supply

Members of Fort Hays State University's Criminal Justice Club traveled to Garden City Community College in October to compete in the Region 3 Conference. 

Academic poster presentations, Ryan Deitering, Hays, first place upper division and Dominic Graves, Tescott, second place lower division

Written exams:&nbsp;Criminal Law, Mackenzie Zimmerman, Hays, third place lower division

ACJA Knowledge, Kylie Huelsmann, Oakley, third place lower division, Mariah Carrillo, second place upper division

Corrections, Matthias Pearce, Wallace, third place lower division, Mackenzie Zimmerman, second place lower division, Tamara Lynn, professor of criminal justice, third place professional division

Juvenile Justice, Matthias Pearce, third place lower division, Mackenzie Zimmerman, second place lower division, Tamara Lynn, third place professional division &nbsp;

Police administration, Matthias Pearce, second place lower division, Mariah Carrillo, Garden City, second place upper division, Dr. Tamara Lynn, third place professional division

Physical agility, Male 25 and under, Dominic Graves, Tescott

Crime scene investigation, Kylie Huelsmann, Dominic Graves, and Xitlaly Marino, Garden City, 3rd place upper division, Ryan Deitering, Mackenzie Zimmerman, and Matthias Pearce, first place upper division

Firearms individual, Caleb Purvis, Westmoreland, second place upper division

Firearms teams, Mariah Carrillo, Caleb Purvis, and Dominic Graves, second place upper division, Tamara Lynn, Xitlaly Marino, and Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence, third place professional division.

“Criminal Justice Club members always do well at both regional and national conferences,” Dr. Lynn said.&nbsp; “More importantly than winning, students develop lifelong friendships during these conferences, as they support one another.”

The club competed with three teams from Kansas, one from Nebraska, and one from Missouri. 

The club members will begin preparing for the spring 2025 national conference of the American Criminal Justice Association, which will be hosted by Long Beach College in Long Beach, Calif.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730382585171.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University Criminal Justice Club. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University Criminal Justice Club. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsMembers of Fort Hays State University's Criminal Justice Club traveled to Garden City Community College in October to compete in the Region 3 Conference. The group won several awards:Academic poster presentations, Ryan Deitering, Hays, first place upper division and Dominic Graves, Tescott, second place lower divisionWritten exams:&nbsp;Criminal Law, Mackenzie Zimmerman, Hays, third place lower divisionACJA Knowledge, Kylie Huelsmann, Oakley, third place lower division, Mariah Carrillo, second place upper divisionCorrections, Matthias Pearce, Wallace, third place lower division, Mackenzie Zimmerman, second place lower division, Tamara Lynn, professor of criminal justice, third place professional divisionJuvenile Justice, Matthias Pearce, third place lower division, Mackenzie Zimmerman, second place lower division, Tamara Lynn, third place professional division &nbsp;Police administration, Matthias Pearce, second place lower division, Mariah Carrillo, Garden City, second place upper division, Dr. Tamara Lynn, third place professional divisionPhysical agility, Male 25 and under, Dominic Graves, TescottCrime scene investigation, Kylie Huelsmann, Dominic Graves, and Xitlaly Marino, Garden City, 3rd place upper division, Ryan Deitering, Mackenzie Zimmerman, and Matthias Pearce, first place upper divisionFirearms individual, Caleb Purvis, Westmoreland, second place upper divisionFirearms teams, Mariah Carrillo, Caleb Purvis, and Dominic Graves, second place upper division, Tamara Lynn, Xitlaly Marino, and Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence, third place professional division.“Criminal Justice Club members always do well at both regional and national conferences,” Dr. Lynn said.&nbsp; “More importantly than winning, students develop lifelong friendships during these conferences, as they support one another.”The club competed with three teams from Kansas, one from Nebraska, and one from Missouri. The club members will begin preparing for the spring 2025 national conference of the American Criminal Justice Association, which will be hosted by Long Beach College in Long Beach, Calif.