The Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation is announcing its annual Founders' Week, a celebration that pays tribute to the pioneering spirits who envisioned and established Fort Hays Tech | North Central in 1964, and those who have contributed since. As Fort Hays Tech | North Central celebrates its 60th anniversary, Founders' Week, spans from November 4 to November 8, 2024, as a week of reflection, appreciation, and community spirit on both the Beloit and Hays campuses.

A group of remarkable trailblazers had a vision for a local technical education institution in the early 1960’s. Their tenacity and dedication led to the establishment of Fort Hays Tech | North Central as the first technical college in the state of Kansas. Founders' Week is a special time to honor these visionary leaders, as well as the instructors, administrators, and all members of the Fort Hays Tech | North Central community who have contributed to a legacy of excellence.

Founders’ Week is filled with exciting events that will take place in Beloit and Hays, bringing students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community together to celebrate the spirit of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.

Monday, November 4 - Birthday Party on Beloit Campus: On Monday, November 4, Founders' Week will begin with a Birthday Party on the Beloit Campus in honor of Fort Hays Tech | North Central Founders and the establishment of the Technical College. A 60th Anniversary staff photo will be at 4:00pm, following this, students, faculty, and staff will enjoy cupcakes, and fun birthday party food and activities.

Tuesday, November 5 - Hays Hall of Fame Award Ceremony: The Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation will present this year’s recipient of the Hall of Fame Award on the Hays Campus on Tuesday, November 5, at 4:30 pm in Room B of the Business Occupations Center. Current Board of Trustees member, Dale Montgomery, who has served on the Board since 1987 and is still contributing at every meeting, has played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of the College will be recognized. The public is encouraged to attend.

Wednesday, November 6 - Beloit Hall of Fame Award Ceremony: On Wednesday, November 6, the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation will present the annual Hall of Fame award at

4:30pm in the Conference Room of the Student Union on the Beloit Campus. This year’s recipient is Dean Haddock, the “grandfather of technical education in the state of Kansas.” Dean researched and advocated for post-secondary technical education in the state as well as helped establish Fort Hays Tech | North Central in Beloit. The public is encouraged to attend.

Carpentry Alumni Social Event: At 5:30pm, following the Hall of Fame event, the Carpentry/Construction Technology Program will host an alumni event in the carpentry shop. All carpentry alumni, current students, faculty, staff and the public are invited to attend. This will be a great time to catch up with former classmates and reminisce with former instructors.

Thursday, November 7 - Birthday Party on Hays Campus Rounding out the week on Thursday, November 7, another Birthday Party will be hosted on the Hays Campus to honor Fort Hays Tech | North Central Founders and the establishment of our Technical College. A 60th Anniversary staff photo at 11:30am, following this, students, faculty, and staff will enjoy a food truck lunch, cake and fun birthday activities.

Ending November 8 - Week of Giving Match Campaign: Throughout Founders' Week, Fort Hays Tech | North Central is joining forces with our amazing donors to make a difference in the lives of future students. All supporters are invited to participate in our Week of Giving Match Campaign from November 4-8, where all donations made through our website donation portal will be generously matched. For more information about donating during our Founders' Week of Giving and to contribute, please visit https://fhtechnc.edu/donate-now/.

Founders' Week is a time to celebrate our past, present, and future. We invite the community to join us in commemorating our rich history and supporting the continued success of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727899367603.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation is announcing its annual Founders' Week, a celebration that pays tribute to the pioneering spirits who envisioned and established Fort Hays Tech | North Central in 1964, and those who have contributed since. As Fort Hays Tech | North Central celebrates its 60th anniversary, Founders' Week, spans from November 4 to November 8, 2024, as a week of reflection, appreciation, and community spirit on both the Beloit and Hays campuses.A group of remarkable trailblazers had a vision for a local technical education institution in the early 1960’s. Their tenacity and dedication led to the establishment of Fort Hays Tech | North Central as the first technical college in the state of Kansas. Founders' Week is a special time to honor these visionary leaders, as well as the instructors, administrators, and all members of the Fort Hays Tech | North Central community who have contributed to a legacy of excellence.Founders’ Week is filled with exciting events that will take place in Beloit and Hays, bringing students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community together to celebrate the spirit of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.Monday, November 4 - Birthday Party on Beloit Campus: On Monday, November 4, Founders' Week will begin with a Birthday Party on the Beloit Campus in honor of Fort Hays Tech | North Central Founders and the establishment of the Technical College. A 60th Anniversary staff photo will be at 4:00pm, following this, students, faculty, and staff will enjoy cupcakes, and fun birthday party food and activities.Tuesday, November 5 - Hays Hall of Fame Award Ceremony: The Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation will present this year’s recipient of the Hall of Fame Award on the Hays Campus on Tuesday, November 5, at 4:30 pm in Room B of the Business Occupations Center. Current Board of Trustees member, Dale Montgomery, who has served on the Board since 1987 and is still contributing at every meeting, has played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of the College will be recognized. The public is encouraged to attend.Wednesday, November 6 - Beloit Hall of Fame Award Ceremony: On Wednesday, November 6, the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Foundation will present the annual Hall of Fame award at4:30pm in the Conference Room of the Student Union on the Beloit Campus. This year’s recipient is Dean Haddock, the “grandfather of technical education in the state of Kansas.” Dean researched and advocated for post-secondary technical education in the state as well as helped establish Fort Hays Tech | North Central in Beloit. The public is encouraged to attend.Carpentry Alumni Social Event: At 5:30pm, following the Hall of Fame event, the Carpentry/Construction Technology Program will host an alumni event in the carpentry shop. All carpentry alumni, current students, faculty, staff and the public are invited to attend. This will be a great time to catch up with former classmates and reminisce with former instructors.Thursday, November 7 - Birthday Party on Hays Campus Rounding out the week on Thursday, November 7, another Birthday Party will be hosted on the Hays Campus to honor Fort Hays Tech | North Central Founders and the establishment of our Technical College. A 60th Anniversary staff photo at 11:30am, following this, students, faculty, and staff will enjoy a food truck lunch, cake and fun birthday activities.Ending November 8 - Week of Giving Match Campaign: Throughout Founders' Week, Fort Hays Tech | North Central is joining forces with our amazing donors to make a difference in the lives of future students. All supporters are invited to participate in our Week of Giving Match Campaign from November 4-8, where all donations made through our website donation portal will be generously matched. For more information about donating during our Founders' Week of Giving and to contribute, please visit https://fhtechnc.edu/donate-now/.Founders' Week is a time to celebrate our past, present, and future. We invite the community to join us in commemorating our rich history and supporting the continued success of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.

Founders’ week of events at Fort Hays Tech | North Central: Honoring Trailblazers, celebrating community and giving back

The Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the dirt pile at the landfill is temporarily closed on Friday, November 8, due to muddy conditions.

Due to the present muddy roads and conditions at the Ellis County Landfill, the Construction and Demolition pile is now closed for today.&nbsp;

&nbsp;These loads will not be allowed to dump in the transfer station for disposal.  We can still accept trees and trash for Municipal Waste/Transfer Station disposal.

If anything changes, we will let you know.

If you have any questions, please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579287163220.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the dirt pile at the landfill is temporarily closed on Friday, November 8, due to muddy conditions.Due to the present muddy roads and conditions at the Ellis County Landfill, the Construction and Demolition pile is now closed for today.&nbsp;&nbsp;These loads will not be allowed to dump in the transfer station for disposal. We can still accept trees and trash for Municipal Waste/Transfer Station disposal.If anything changes, we will let you know.If you have any questions, please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE: Rain, muddy conditions close parts of Ellis County Landfill today

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

New York crude prices rose two dollars a barrel on Monday, wiping out two dollar weekly losses last week. Prices were up nearly three percent in lunchtime trading Tuesday. Near-month NYMEX crude was over $71 a barrel and London Brent was rising toward $75. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $59.75 per barrel after gaining a quarter a barrel on Friday.

US crude-oil production in August is up 1.5% over July, averaging 13.4 million barrels a day. That's the highest monthly average in history. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports production totaled 415 million barrels nationwide, up 2.7% year-over-year. Kansas output rose 1.4%, for a total of 2,387,000 barrels or 77,000 barrels a day. We now drop to number 13 in the state rankings, lagging behind Montana and Louisiana. Texas produced nearly half of the national total at 180 million barrels, or 5.8 million barrels a day. That's more than all the other states combined.

Domestic crude-oil production topped 13.5 million barrels a day for a third week in a row last week, setting another all-time weekly record at 13,535,000 barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration reports cumulative production so far this year is also at an all-time high over 13.2 million daily barrels.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was up one gas rig but down one oil rig for a total of 585 active drilling rigs. Texas was down two. Oklahoma was down one. North Dakota, Utah and Pennsylvania were each up one rig.

The Kansas Rig Count is up nearly 31% to 34 active drilling rigs, with 15 in eastern Kansas, up five, and 19 west of Wichita, which is up three for the week. The statewide tally is up 21% over a month ago but down nearly six percent from last year at this time. Operators were drilling or about to start on four leases in Barton County, one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County on Friday. Independent Oil and Gas also reports drilling activity on leases in Finney and Haskell counties.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports nine new well-completions last week, with five in eastern Kansas and four west of Wichita. That's 1,091 so far this year, down from 1,399 by the end of October last year. Kansas regulators report 43 new drilling locations with permits statewide, with 13 in Western Kansas including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The state reports 961 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 1,115 through October of 2023.

Crude-oil imports last week outpaced crude exports by 1.7 million barrels a day. Petroleum product exports dwarf imports by nearly five million barrels a day. Crude imports for the week through October 25th were down nearly half a million barrels a day from the week before at six million barrels per day. The four week average is down more than two percent from a year ago. Crude exports averaged 4.3 million barrels a day. The four-week average is down more than seven percent from a year ago at just over four million barrels a day.

US commercial crude stockpiles dropped half a million barrels to 425.5 million as of October 25th. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five year average for this time of year.

The government added 1.2 million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, raising the total to more than 385 million barrels. DOE has added more than 21 million barrels since resuming refill operations last April. &nbsp;The government announced what could be last call for SPR refills for the near future.&nbsp; An announcement from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Project Management Office seeks three million barrels of US sour crude for delivery in April and May at a price no higher than $79.99 per barrel. The purchase would leave the government with little money to buy more until lawmakers replenish the purchase funding. The Biden administration, or the next one, will need to work with Congress to fill up the SPR purchasing fund. It is unclear exactly how much money is left in that fund. DOE told Reuters on last week that if the prices are right, they will continue to buy crude with available emergency revenues.&nbsp; The Energy Department has now bought back more than 55 million barrels at an average price of about $76 per barrel, nearly $20 lower than the $95 a barrel price it sold the oil for in 2022.

Supplies are down and demand is up, but the national average for regular gasoline Thursday was down nearly 35 cents per gallon from a year ago, at $3.13 per gallon. Kansas was one of 20 states with average pump prices below $3 a gallon. The statewide average for regular was $2.78 a gallon, according to the auto club AAA. Diesel prices were also lower despite relatively low supplies and increasing demand. The national average for diesel is down a dollar and a dime from last year at $3.55 per gallon. In Kansas the average of $3.25 down $1.34 per gallon year-over-year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670507085360.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaNew York crude prices rose two dollars a barrel on Monday, wiping out two dollar weekly losses last week. Prices were up nearly three percent in lunchtime trading Tuesday. Near-month NYMEX crude was over $71 a barrel and London Brent was rising toward $75. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $59.75 per barrel after gaining a quarter a barrel on Friday.US crude-oil production in August is up 1.5% over July, averaging 13.4 million barrels a day. That's the highest monthly average in history. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports production totaled 415 million barrels nationwide, up 2.7% year-over-year. Kansas output rose 1.4%, for a total of 2,387,000 barrels or 77,000 barrels a day. We now drop to number 13 in the state rankings, lagging behind Montana and Louisiana. Texas produced nearly half of the national total at 180 million barrels, or 5.8 million barrels a day. That's more than all the other states combined.Domestic crude-oil production topped 13.5 million barrels a day for a third week in a row last week, setting another all-time weekly record at 13,535,000 barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration reports cumulative production so far this year is also at an all-time high over 13.2 million daily barrels.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was up one gas rig but down one oil rig for a total of 585 active drilling rigs. Texas was down two. Oklahoma was down one. North Dakota, Utah and Pennsylvania were each up one rig.The Kansas Rig Count is up nearly 31% to 34 active drilling rigs, with 15 in eastern Kansas, up five, and 19 west of Wichita, which is up three for the week. The statewide tally is up 21% over a month ago but down nearly six percent from last year at this time. Operators were drilling or about to start on four leases in Barton County, one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County on Friday. Independent Oil and Gas also reports drilling activity on leases in Finney and Haskell counties.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports nine new well-completions last week, with five in eastern Kansas and four west of Wichita. That's 1,091 so far this year, down from 1,399 by the end of October last year. Kansas regulators report 43 new drilling locations with permits statewide, with 13 in Western Kansas including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The state reports 961 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 1,115 through October of 2023.Crude-oil imports last week outpaced crude exports by 1.7 million barrels a day. Petroleum product exports dwarf imports by nearly five million barrels a day. Crude imports for the week through October 25th were down nearly half a million barrels a day from the week before at six million barrels per day. The four week average is down more than two percent from a year ago. Crude exports averaged 4.3 million barrels a day. The four-week average is down more than seven percent from a year ago at just over four million barrels a day.US commercial crude stockpiles dropped half a million barrels to 425.5 million as of October 25th. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five year average for this time of year.The government added 1.2 million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, raising the total to more than 385 million barrels. DOE has added more than 21 million barrels since resuming refill operations last April. &nbsp;The government announced what could be last call for SPR refills for the near future.&nbsp; An announcement from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Project Management Office seeks three million barrels of US sour crude for delivery in April and May at a price no higher than $79.99 per barrel. The purchase would leave the government with little money to buy more until lawmakers replenish the purchase funding. The Biden administration, or the next one, will need to work with Congress to fill up the SPR purchasing fund. It is unclear exactly how much money is left in that fund. DOE told Reuters on last week that if the prices are right, they will continue to buy crude with available emergency revenues.&nbsp; The Energy Department has now bought back more than 55 million barrels at an average price of about $76 per barrel, nearly $20 lower than the $95 a barrel price it sold the oil for in 2022.Supplies are down and demand is up, but the national average for regular gasoline Thursday was down nearly 35 cents per gallon from a year ago, at $3.13 per gallon. Kansas was one of 20 states with average pump prices below $3 a gallon. The statewide average for regular was $2.78 a gallon, according to the auto club AAA. Diesel prices were also lower despite relatively low supplies and increasing demand. The national average for diesel is down a dollar and a dime from last year at $3.55 per gallon. In Kansas the average of $3.25 down $1.34 per gallon year-over-year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: More US production records topple

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>

<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/2024/11/1730741367631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730741376943.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730741386831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

Ellis County Jail bookings, Oct. 29-Nov. 4, 2024

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 333 incidents Oct. 29-Nov. 4, 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 333 incidents Oct. 29-Nov. 4, 2024, according to the activity report.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740902304.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740918968.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740928991.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740939703.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740951239.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740962872.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740972552.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740984568.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730740994215.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730741003712.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Sheriff activity log, Oct. 29-Nov. 4, 2024

The Cancer Council of Ellis County and FHSU would like for YOU to join us in the fight against cancer by participating in the Twist Out Cancer Yoga-thon. 

The Yoga-thon is Thursday, Nov. 14 in Cunningham Hall 122 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. 

You do not have to know how to do Yoga to participate. 

Yoga leaders are there to instruct during each session. 

Teams are allowed up to 10 members for a $50 registration fee. 

Teams are encouraged to collect donations to help raise money for the Cancer Council of Ellis County. 

The individual that collects the most donations wins a Lenovo Tab M8 4th Generation courtesy Auto World Used Cars. 

The Team that collectively completes the most hours of yoga receives admission to and is recognized at the FHSU Men’s basketball game on February 22, 2025. 

For more information contact Anita Walters, amwalters@fhsu.edu / 785-628-5335 or the Cancer Council of Ellis County, ccecks@eaglecom.net / 785-625-6653. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591377623834.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Cancer Council of Ellis County and FHSU would like for YOU to join us in the fight against cancer by participating in the Twist Out Cancer Yoga-thon. The Yoga-thon is Thursday, Nov. 14 in Cunningham Hall 122 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. You do not have to know how to do Yoga to participate. Yoga leaders are there to instruct during each session. Teams are allowed up to 10 members for a $50 registration fee. Teams are encouraged to collect donations to help raise money for the Cancer Council of Ellis County. The individual that collects the most donations wins a Lenovo Tab M8 4th Generation courtesy Auto World Used Cars. The Team that collectively completes the most hours of yoga receives admission to and is recognized at the FHSU Men’s basketball game on February 22, 2025. For more information contact Anita Walters, amwalters@fhsu.edu / 785-628-5335 or the Cancer Council of Ellis County, ccecks@eaglecom.net / 785-625-6653. Registration is due by Noon on Nov. 8.

Cancer Council plans 'Twist Out Cancer Yoga-thon'

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Nick and Andrea Felder knew they were headed for a big life change when the couple found out they were pregnant again nine months after the birth of their twins.

The couple was living in Topeka and working for Blue Cross Blue Shield. Nick has a degree in structural engineering, and Andrea worked in accounting.

With a third child younger than 3 soon to come into their household, the couple wanted to move back to western Kansas, where they were raised.&nbsp;

When they started inquiring about child care, Nick said people laughed at them. Child care slots were extremely difficult to find in Hays at that time, and it was almost impossible to find three open slots for siblings younger than 2.

"That's when we realized what need there was for something," Nick said. "That's when we combined the need for us to combine career paths with the obvious need for child care and just the love for our kids and our family's kids, nieces and nephews."

The Felders decided to take a leap of faith. They set out to open a child care center, Bright Minds Academy.

As the couple worked through the red tape of buying land and rezoning property on Wheatland Drive, Nick was also studying to receive his child care center director certification.

The couple also sold their house and moved into a small townhome to have the capital to invest in the center.

"We just knew we wanted to get back here," Andrea said.

Well, we all know what happened next— the pandemic hit.

The Felders were able to remain open during the pandemic. They had door drop-off and special precautions that included temperature checks. The Ellis County Health Department also allowed the center to maintain a room for COVID-positive children.&nbsp;

Andrea said another significant challenge has been staffing. State regulations require a minimum number of adults in each classroom. If someone is sick, they must scramble to find someone to substitute or be forced to send children home.

Nick and Andrea substitute, but they have also hired a full-time staff member who can alternate between classes as needed.

"It's a stressor every single day," Andrea said.

The center's mission is to provide the next generation with the best quality of care and education.&nbsp;

Nick said centers have an advantage in that children can socialize and learn with their peers. The center also doesn't have to close. In-home providers might have to close if someone is sick.

The center serves children from birth through 5 and provides age-appropriate education. Under Kansas' newly revised regulations, the Wheatland center is licensed for 63 children.

"We know that 0 to 5, they learn primarily through play-based learning," Nick said.

Andrea said they modeled their center after a similar facility their twins attended when they were younger.

The center offered extracurricular activities, so the parents had opportunities to get to know each other. She said it felt like a family, and that's what the Felders wanted for Bright Minds.

The Felders said they have reaped the rewards of working with children and families.

"It's definitely more stressful than our previous jobs," Andrea said, "but the payback is 10 fold. I feel like our quality of life is a lot better. It is a lot more fulfilling. 

"Just this last year, we had preschoolers graduate who started with us in the infant room. Just seeing them from here to there, some tears were shed."

"The kids walking through the door and their faces lighting up to see you and see their teachers and be happy to be here, it's hard to describe the feeling you get from that versus working in insurance," he said.

The Felders now have four children. The twins are 7, and all four of the children have attended Bright Minds. The youngest of the four started coming to the center when he was 2 weeks old.

"It was a motivating factor," Nick said. "We get to work with kids, but we also get to see our kids anytime down the hall if we wanted to."

Parent James Robben nominated the Felders for the October Child Care Champion Award.

"Bright Minds Academy not only provides child care, but they provide a warm and educational learning environment for the children," Robben said. "I'm so glad we decided to send our children to Bright Minds. Nick, Andrea, and all of the staff at BMA do an amazing job. It really feels like an in-home family day care, but with the education qualities we were looking for."

One year ago, HaysMed opened a child care center on its campus. The hospital contracts with the Felders to operate that facility, which is licensed for 84 children.

The Grove Community Center will open next year, and the Felders will also contract to operate it.

Bright Minds is taking deposits to hold spots at The Grove. Under the new regulations, The Grove will be able to accommodate up to 83 children.

Because The Grove community center will also be the new home to the Hays Senior Center, the Felders also hope to incorporate an intergenerational aspect to that center.

Nick said the child care capacity in Hays has increased substantially since the couple opened Bright Minds.

"We want the people who were in our shoes six years ago and got chuckled at on the phone to be able to call and actually find care and be able to move here,"&nbsp; he said.

Both of the facilities they manage now are almost full.

The couple said Hays should be close to meeting its child care needs once The Grove is completed. They would like to expand and open child care homes in more rural areas of the region.

Andrea, 38, attended school in Victoria, and Nick, 37, attended school through middle school in Ransom.

"We don't want to see those types of communities fizzle out because of a problem like child care," Nick said.

Nick said Bright Minds could not be possible without its staff.

"We just manage the chaos," he said. "It's really our teachers and our staff who do the Lord's work in here. We couldn't do anything without the good people we have here."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730404434835.jpeg" alt="Nick and Andrea Felder, Bright Minds Academy owners, were named the October Child Care Champions. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Nick and Andrea Felder, Bright Minds Academy owners, were named the October Child Care Champions. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostNick and Andrea Felder knew they were headed for a big life change when the couple found out they were pregnant again nine months after the birth of their twins.The couple was living in Topeka and working for Blue Cross Blue Shield. Nick has a degree in structural engineering, and Andrea worked in accounting.With a third child younger than 3 soon to come into their household, the couple wanted to move back to western Kansas, where they were raised.&nbsp;When they started inquiring about child care, Nick said people laughed at them. Child care slots were extremely difficult to find in Hays at that time, and it was almost impossible to find three open slots for siblings younger than 2."That's when we realized what need there was for something," Nick said. "That's when we combined the need for us to combine career paths with the obvious need for child care and just the love for our kids and our family's kids, nieces and nephews."The Felders decided to take a leap of faith. They set out to open a child care center, Bright Minds Academy.As the couple worked through the red tape of buying land and rezoning property on Wheatland Drive, Nick was also studying to receive his child care center director certification.The couple also sold their house and moved into a small townhome to have the capital to invest in the center."We just knew we wanted to get back here," Andrea said.The center opened in January 2020.Well, we all know what happened next— the pandemic hit.The Felders were able to remain open during the pandemic. They had door drop-off and special precautions that included temperature checks. The Ellis County Health Department also allowed the center to maintain a room for COVID-positive children.&nbsp;Andrea said another significant challenge has been staffing. State regulations require a minimum number of adults in each classroom. If someone is sick, they must scramble to find someone to substitute or be forced to send children home.Nick and Andrea substitute, but they have also hired a full-time staff member who can alternate between classes as needed."It's a stressor every single day," Andrea said.The center's mission is to provide the next generation with the best quality of care and education.&nbsp;Nick said centers have an advantage in that children can socialize and learn with their peers. The center also doesn't have to close. In-home providers might have to close if someone is sick.The center serves children from birth through 5 and provides age-appropriate education. Under Kansas' newly revised regulations, the Wheatland center is licensed for 63 children."We know that 0 to 5, they learn primarily through play-based learning," Nick said.Andrea said they modeled their center after a similar facility their twins attended when they were younger.The center offered extracurricular activities, so the parents had opportunities to get to know each other. She said it felt like a family, and that's what the Felders wanted for Bright Minds.The Felders said they have reaped the rewards of working with children and families."It's definitely more stressful than our previous jobs," Andrea said, "but the payback is 10 fold. I feel like our quality of life is a lot better. It is a lot more fulfilling. "Just this last year, we had preschoolers graduate who started with us in the infant room. Just seeing them from here to there, some tears were shed."Nick also shared his memories."The kids walking through the door and their faces lighting up to see you and see their teachers and be happy to be here, it's hard to describe the feeling you get from that versus working in insurance," he said.The Felders now have four children. The twins are 7, and all four of the children have attended Bright Minds. The youngest of the four started coming to the center when he was 2 weeks old."It was a motivating factor," Nick said. "We get to work with kids, but we also get to see our kids anytime down the hall if we wanted to."Parent James Robben nominated the Felders for the October Child Care Champion Award."Bright Minds Academy not only provides child care, but they provide a warm and educational learning environment for the children," Robben said. "I'm so glad we decided to send our children to Bright Minds. Nick, Andrea, and all of the staff at BMA do an amazing job. It really feels like an in-home family day care, but with the education qualities we were looking for."One year ago, HaysMed opened a child care center on its campus. The hospital contracts with the Felders to operate that facility, which is licensed for 84 children.The Grove Community Center will open next year, and the Felders will also contract to operate it.Bright Minds is taking deposits to hold spots at The Grove. Under the new regulations, The Grove will be able to accommodate up to 83 children.Because The Grove community center will also be the new home to the Hays Senior Center, the Felders also hope to incorporate an intergenerational aspect to that center.Nick said the child care capacity in Hays has increased substantially since the couple opened Bright Minds."We want the people who were in our shoes six years ago and got chuckled at on the phone to be able to call and actually find care and be able to move here,"&nbsp; he said.Both of the facilities they manage now are almost full.The couple said Hays should be close to meeting its child care needs once The Grove is completed. They would like to expand and open child care homes in more rural areas of the region.Andrea, 38, attended school in Victoria, and Nick, 37, attended school through middle school in Ransom."We don't want to see those types of communities fizzle out because of a problem like child care," Nick said.Nick said Bright Minds could not be possible without its staff."We just manage the chaos," he said. "It's really our teachers and our staff who do the Lord's work in here. We couldn't do anything without the good people we have here."

Child Care Champions take leap of faith to start new careers in child care

The 94th Annual 4-H Achievement Banquet was recently held on Oct. 26 at the Ellis Co. Fairgrounds in Hays to honor Ellis Co. 4-Her’s! More than 150 4-H members, their families, and special guests attended the annual awards banquet sponsored by the Ellis County 4-H Council. This year they recognized all Ellis Co. 4-H members, leaders and supporters.

Nominated as outstanding 4-H members from the 4-H clubs were

Big Creek Astros Isaac Moreno Preslie Werth

Buckeye Jr. Farmers Faith Schmeidler Brynlee Walter

Ellis Sunflowers Kylee Pfeifer Hunter Talkington

Shooting Sports Zachary McCall Gavin Bemis

The Senior winners were Faith Schmeidler and Ella Neher, and the Junior winners were Preslie Werth and Brynlee Walter.

Grace Schmeidler and John Weisenborn were awarded the “I Dare You” leadership award. The National I Dare You Leadership Award is given in recognition of personal integrity, balanced living, and potential for leadership. Each recipient receives a copy of Danforth’s inspirational book, I Dare You. Grace Schmeidler has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and service through her extensive involvement in 4-H and beyond. Grace’s reference describes her as “honest, dependable, and incredibly hardworking," adding that she goes above and beyond in her 4-H roles and is always willing to help others learn and grow. John Weisenborn has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and service through his involvement in 4-H, school, and Boy Scouts of America. His reference describes John as a strong leader with a deep commitment to helping others and improving his community. His positive impact and drive make him a deserving recipient of the "I Dare You" Award.

The Kansas Key Award is presented to 10% of Kansas 4-H’ers who attain a high level of leadership throughout their 4-H career. You must be enrolled in the 4-H Leadership project for 4

years and complete 9 of 11 leadership goals set out by the State 4-H program. This special 4-H leadership award went to Grace Schmeidler and John Weisenborn.

Marisa Wasinger was awarded the 2024 Rosemary Smith 4-H Scholarship given by her family in memory of long time 4-H Leader Rosemary Smith. Marisa has served at many levels in her 4-H career to help promote 4-H. Her latest has been as a member of the Cottonwood Extension District 4-H Water Ambassadors and as the Ellis County 4-H Council President.

Receiving Gold Certificates for their Project Record books were Addy Haffner – Jr. Clothing, Bret Pope – Jr. Beef and Wood Science, James Wheeler – Jr. Poultry, Jessa Taylor – Foods and Nutrition, Alaina Yarmer – Int. Clothing, Poultry, and Self-Determined, Audrey Yarmer – Int, Dog, Poultry, and Recreation, Brynlee Walter – Int. Beef, Foods and Nutrition, Meat Goat, Photography, Sheep, and Visual Arts, Cannon Vajnar – Int. Entomology, Karci Kimzey - Int. Horse, Kate Pope – Int. Wood Science, Layne Haffner – Int. Shopping in Style, Chloey Brown – Sr. Foods and Nutrition and Photography, Faith Schmeidler – Sr. Beef, Grace Schmeidler – Sr. Leadership, Keeli Kimzey – Sr. Horse, Lizzy Vajnar – Sr. Communications and Meat Goat winners will advance to the NW Area competition in January.

Each 4-H Club in the county has the opportunity to nominate a business and an individual who they feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help Ellis Co. 4-H. The Ellis Co. 4-H Council makes the final decision on who to recognize as a “Friend of 4-H”.

This year’s individual Friend of 4-H goes to Bill &amp; Susan Rajewski. They were nominated by the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. Bill and Susan have a definitive love for 4-H and the youth of Ellis County. Susan was the long-time co-leader of the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. In that role, she was a strong advocate for club members and encouraged each to actively participate in local, regional, and state activities. She was also well known for her cute, hand-crocheted doodads that always contained a treat of some kind, usually candy. Both Bill and Susan have always answered the call when asked to lend a hand. Susan stepped up as the superintendent of the Foods Challenge when it first come to the Ellis County Fair and has been involved since. She is also the fair superintendent for open-class arts and crafts. They also support 4-Hers through their participation as buyers at the Ellis County Fair Livestock Auction. Thank you for your dedication to Ellis County 4-H, through both volunteerism and financial support, you truly are a Friend of 4-H!

This year’s business Friend of 4-H is the Bank of Hays, nominated by the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. The Bank of Hays was founded in 2004 with the goal of meeting the needs of the Hays

community. One of the ways they have shown that commitment to community support is through their devotion to Ellis County 4-H ever since. Shortly after the new bank building opened, Bank of Hays hosted a 4-H photography exhibit. In the years since, Bank of Hays has contributed in many and varied ways, from volunteering at 4-H events to being one of the donors for the construction of the new food stand. For many years, Bank of Hays has funded the exhibitor breakfast at the Ellis County Fair at the request of the Ellis County 4-H Council. The exhibitor breakfast is a key event to kick-off fair activities and is something that exhibitors and judges both appreciate. For all of these reasons, it is clear that the Bank of Hays is highly deserving of being name the Business 2024 Friend of 4-H.

All Ellis Co. 4-H members present received their certificate of completion of the 2023-2024 4-H Program Year and if criteria were meet, they were awarded membership pins based on the number of years and level of involvement in the local and statewide 4-H program activities. Club leaders and Shooting Sports instructors were also recognized for their dedication to the 4-H program.

Congratulations &amp; thank you to these individuals for their dedication to and support of Ellis County 4-H youth.

The evening concluded with the 4-H Scholarship &amp; Development Committee holding a silent and live auction to raise money for 4-H activities and graduating senior scholarships. If you would like to donate to the organization please contact our office at 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730675483176.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 94th Annual 4-H Achievement Banquet was recently held on Oct. 26 at the Ellis Co. Fairgrounds in Hays to honor Ellis Co. 4-Her’s! More than 150 4-H members, their families, and special guests attended the annual awards banquet sponsored by the Ellis County 4-H Council. This year they recognized all Ellis Co. 4-H members, leaders and supporters.Nominated as outstanding 4-H members from the 4-H clubs wereSR Nominees JR NomineesBig Creek Astros Isaac Moreno Preslie WerthBuckeye Jr. Farmers Faith Schmeidler Brynlee WalterEllis Sunflowers Kylee Pfeifer Hunter TalkingtonGemini Jrs. Kimberly Sack Eva BetzShooting Sports Zachary McCall Gavin BemisVictoria Vikings Ella Neher Esther NeherThe Senior winners were Faith Schmeidler and Ella Neher, and the Junior winners were Preslie Werth and Brynlee Walter.Grace Schmeidler and John Weisenborn were awarded the “I Dare You” leadership award. The National I Dare You Leadership Award is given in recognition of personal integrity, balanced living, and potential for leadership. Each recipient receives a copy of Danforth’s inspirational book, I Dare You. Grace Schmeidler has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and service through her extensive involvement in 4-H and beyond. Grace’s reference describes her as “honest, dependable, and incredibly hardworking," adding that she goes above and beyond in her 4-H roles and is always willing to help others learn and grow. John Weisenborn has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and service through his involvement in 4-H, school, and Boy Scouts of America. His reference describes John as a strong leader with a deep commitment to helping others and improving his community. His positive impact and drive make him a deserving recipient of the "I Dare You" Award.The Kansas Key Award is presented to 10% of Kansas 4-H’ers who attain a high level of leadership throughout their 4-H career. You must be enrolled in the 4-H Leadership project for 4years and complete 9 of 11 leadership goals set out by the State 4-H program. This special 4-H leadership award went to Grace Schmeidler and John Weisenborn.Marisa Wasinger was awarded the 2024 Rosemary Smith 4-H Scholarship given by her family in memory of long time 4-H Leader Rosemary Smith. Marisa has served at many levels in her 4-H career to help promote 4-H. Her latest has been as a member of the Cottonwood Extension District 4-H Water Ambassadors and as the Ellis County 4-H Council President.Receiving Gold Certificates for their Project Record books were Addy Haffner – Jr. Clothing, Bret Pope – Jr. Beef and Wood Science, James Wheeler – Jr. Poultry, Jessa Taylor – Foods and Nutrition, Alaina Yarmer – Int. Clothing, Poultry, and Self-Determined, Audrey Yarmer – Int, Dog, Poultry, and Recreation, Brynlee Walter – Int. Beef, Foods and Nutrition, Meat Goat, Photography, Sheep, and Visual Arts, Cannon Vajnar – Int. Entomology, Karci Kimzey - Int. Horse, Kate Pope – Int. Wood Science, Layne Haffner – Int. Shopping in Style, Chloey Brown – Sr. Foods and Nutrition and Photography, Faith Schmeidler – Sr. Beef, Grace Schmeidler – Sr. Leadership, Keeli Kimzey – Sr. Horse, Lizzy Vajnar – Sr. Communications and Meat Goat winners will advance to the NW Area competition in January.Each 4-H Club in the county has the opportunity to nominate a business and an individual who they feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help Ellis Co. 4-H. The Ellis Co. 4-H Council makes the final decision on who to recognize as a “Friend of 4-H”.This year’s individual Friend of 4-H goes to Bill &amp; Susan Rajewski. They were nominated by the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. Bill and Susan have a definitive love for 4-H and the youth of Ellis County. Susan was the long-time co-leader of the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. In that role, she was a strong advocate for club members and encouraged each to actively participate in local, regional, and state activities. She was also well known for her cute, hand-crocheted doodads that always contained a treat of some kind, usually candy. Both Bill and Susan have always answered the call when asked to lend a hand. Susan stepped up as the superintendent of the Foods Challenge when it first come to the Ellis County Fair and has been involved since. She is also the fair superintendent for open-class arts and crafts. They also support 4-Hers through their participation as buyers at the Ellis County Fair Livestock Auction. Thank you for your dedication to Ellis County 4-H, through both volunteerism and financial support, you truly are a Friend of 4-H!This year’s business Friend of 4-H is the Bank of Hays, nominated by the Gemini Jrs 4-H Club. The Bank of Hays was founded in 2004 with the goal of meeting the needs of the Hayscommunity. One of the ways they have shown that commitment to community support is through their devotion to Ellis County 4-H ever since. Shortly after the new bank building opened, Bank of Hays hosted a 4-H photography exhibit. In the years since, Bank of Hays has contributed in many and varied ways, from volunteering at 4-H events to being one of the donors for the construction of the new food stand. For many years, Bank of Hays has funded the exhibitor breakfast at the Ellis County Fair at the request of the Ellis County 4-H Council. The exhibitor breakfast is a key event to kick-off fair activities and is something that exhibitors and judges both appreciate. For all of these reasons, it is clear that the Bank of Hays is highly deserving of being name the Business 2024 Friend of 4-H.All Ellis Co. 4-H members present received their certificate of completion of the 2023-2024 4-H Program Year and if criteria were meet, they were awarded membership pins based on the number of years and level of involvement in the local and statewide 4-H program activities. Club leaders and Shooting Sports instructors were also recognized for their dedication to the 4-H program.Congratulations &amp; thank you to these individuals for their dedication to and support of Ellis County 4-H youth.The evening concluded with the 4-H Scholarship &amp; Development Committee holding a silent and live auction to raise money for 4-H activities and graduating senior scholarships. If you would like to donate to the organization please contact our office at 785-628-9430.

4-H host annual Achievement Banquet

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Over the past several decades, researchers across the country have recognized the strong correlation between parents’ and caregivers’ educational attainment and children’s educational outcomes. We know that families thrive when they learn together.

Back in 1994, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) worked with Congress to designate November 1 as National Family Literacy Day®. Each year for the past 29 years, we have joined libraries, schools, and educational programs across the country to celebrate National Family Literacy Month throughout each November.

Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success in school. Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bedtime. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important.

Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. Exposing children to books from birth or even prenatally is a great way to aid their development. Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills. Fine motor skills are important to develop now so when they get to school they can hold pencils, crayons, and scissors.

Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware, actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! Talk to them about what they are doing. If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.

While libraries are great and offer many programs to get children involved with books and reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building a library at home as well. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents. Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child every month from birth to age five. They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are age appropriate also. The program is available both in Ellis and Barton County. Contact information is below.

Fax: 785-623-2432 Email: burban@usd489.com

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictOver the past several decades, researchers across the country have recognized the strong correlation between parents’ and caregivers’ educational attainment and children’s educational outcomes. We know that families thrive when they learn together.Back in 1994, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) worked with Congress to designate November 1 as National Family Literacy Day®. Each year for the past 29 years, we have joined libraries, schools, and educational programs across the country to celebrate National Family Literacy Month throughout each November.Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success in school. Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bedtime. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important.Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. Exposing children to books from birth or even prenatally is a great way to aid their development. Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills. Fine motor skills are important to develop now so when they get to school they can hold pencils, crayons, and scissors.Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware, actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! Talk to them about what they are doing. If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.While libraries are great and offer many programs to get children involved with books and reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building a library at home as well. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents. Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child every month from birth to age five. They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are age appropriate also. The program is available both in Ellis and Barton County. Contact information is below.United Way of Central Kansas1409 WILLIAMS STGREAT BEND KS 67530Contact: Ken MarstonPhone: 620-792-2409Fax: Email: kmarston@greatbendpl.infoEllis County Imagination Library2501 E 13TH STHAYS KS 67601Contact: Brenda UrbanPhone: 785-623-2430Fax: 785-623-2432 Email: burban@usd489.comMonique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: November-National Family Literacy Month

<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/2024/11/1730675175639.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 Program planned

ADELPHI, MD -- John Paul GrimesJr. of Victoria, earned a(n) Bachelor of Science Cum Laude in Cybersecurity Technology from University of Maryland Global Campus in summer 2024.

Grimes was one of more than 3,200 students worldwide who earned degrees from UMGC in the summer 2024 term.

University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit umgc.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621901088969.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedADELPHI, MD -- John Paul GrimesJr. of Victoria, earned a(n) Bachelor of Science Cum Laude in Cybersecurity Technology from University of Maryland Global Campus in summer 2024.Grimes was one of more than 3,200 students worldwide who earned degrees from UMGC in the summer 2024 term.University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit umgc.edu.

John Paul Grimes Jr. of Victoria earns degree from University of Maryland Global Campus

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

So, I woke up this morning to the strangest sound. It’s like a constant “pattering” sound of some sort on the roof. Oh wait, it’s raining, almost forgot what that sounded like! As I sat here contemplating this week’s column, the soothing sound of the rain and the dark morning brought back memories of this deer hunt years ago on a morning just like this.

Naturally, after the driest summer on record, it started to rain when deer hunting and trapping seasons arrived. It had rained most of Friday night and was still drizzling at the crack of dawn Saturday morn. Ever the macho deer hunter, I still crawled from beneath my electric blanket at zero dark thirty to brave the elements. The problem was that either a lengthy drive or a long walk was required to get to all our stand spots but one, and after the amount of rain we had gotten, walking was the only option. Again, being the macho deer hunter, I’m not against a bit of an early morning walk, but I know each boot would have accumulated five pounds of mud and I’d have been soaked once I arrived. so, I drove to that one stand where I could park in an old farm yard and walk just behind the buildings to a nice raised stand built from an old fuel tank support. That took care of the mud part, but it was still raining, so instead of setting on top, I crawled beneath the floor of the raised blind and got comfortable in a camp chair.

The floor of the stand was about two feet above me and not totally water tight, but an occasional drip sure trumped sitting in the rain. We’d always heard a pair of great horned owls at this old farmstead, and that morning I also got to watch them as they wound down from a nights hunting and geared up to snooze the day away. The first owl sat on a power pole a couple hundred yards in front of me and called to its mate that I could hear but not yet see. Soon the mate silently flew to the top of a tall cedar so that they were just a stone’s throw away from each other. I had no idea which owl was the male and which was the female, but the calls were very different. Both calls used the same number of syllables, but one call was higher pitched like a woman’s alto tone, and the other was more of a baritone pitch. After awhile, one owl flew off, then the other and the woods was quiet again except for the slow staccato of the drizzling rain and the “plop” made by the occasional drop dripping through the “roof” onto my vinyl vest.

Then came the blackbirds; probably numbering into the tens of thousands, the flying horde actually made a low, muffled roar like the wind blowing through the trees. They landed in the wheat some ways away, but like waves in a living sea of black lapping against the shore, the huge swarm was constantly on the move. Birds from one end would fly up and move to a different spot so that the assemblage appeared to crawl slowly across the field like a giant ameba. Once in the air again, the monstrous flock swirled and twirled like a Kansas twister marching across the plains.

In the distance I began again to hear a muffled roar like the wind slowly picking up. “Was it more blackbirds” I wondered? No, this time it was a rain shower as it crawled across the field. The drone became louder and louder until it encompassed the deer stand and the occasional drip became a constant stream. I waited it out and when it had subsided some, I put my hood up and headed for the dry safety of the pickup.

Maybe these sorts of things seem to you like odd topics to write about, but not to me. I know I get so caught up and focused on shooting the deer or catching the fish that I totally miss everything around me. So, the next time you’re sitting in a deer stand or rocking with the waves on a boat in the lake, concentrate on seeing things you usually miss, then close your eyes for awhile and just listen to nature around you and learn to experience God’s marvelous creation in its entirety. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsSo, I woke up this morning to the strangest sound. It’s like a constant “pattering” sound of some sort on the roof. Oh wait, it’s raining, almost forgot what that sounded like! As I sat here contemplating this week’s column, the soothing sound of the rain and the dark morning brought back memories of this deer hunt years ago on a morning just like this.Naturally, after the driest summer on record, it started to rain when deer hunting and trapping seasons arrived. It had rained most of Friday night and was still drizzling at the crack of dawn Saturday morn. Ever the macho deer hunter, I still crawled from beneath my electric blanket at zero dark thirty to brave the elements. The problem was that either a lengthy drive or a long walk was required to get to all our stand spots but one, and after the amount of rain we had gotten, walking was the only option. Again, being the macho deer hunter, I’m not against a bit of an early morning walk, but I know each boot would have accumulated five pounds of mud and I’d have been soaked once I arrived. so, I drove to that one stand where I could park in an old farm yard and walk just behind the buildings to a nice raised stand built from an old fuel tank support. That took care of the mud part, but it was still raining, so instead of setting on top, I crawled beneath the floor of the raised blind and got comfortable in a camp chair.The floor of the stand was about two feet above me and not totally water tight, but an occasional drip sure trumped sitting in the rain. We’d always heard a pair of great horned owls at this old farmstead, and that morning I also got to watch them as they wound down from a nights hunting and geared up to snooze the day away. The first owl sat on a power pole a couple hundred yards in front of me and called to its mate that I could hear but not yet see. Soon the mate silently flew to the top of a tall cedar so that they were just a stone’s throw away from each other. I had no idea which owl was the male and which was the female, but the calls were very different. Both calls used the same number of syllables, but one call was higher pitched like a woman’s alto tone, and the other was more of a baritone pitch. After awhile, one owl flew off, then the other and the woods was quiet again except for the slow staccato of the drizzling rain and the “plop” made by the occasional drop dripping through the “roof” onto my vinyl vest.Then came the blackbirds; probably numbering into the tens of thousands, the flying horde actually made a low, muffled roar like the wind blowing through the trees. They landed in the wheat some ways away, but like waves in a living sea of black lapping against the shore, the huge swarm was constantly on the move. Birds from one end would fly up and move to a different spot so that the assemblage appeared to crawl slowly across the field like a giant ameba. Once in the air again, the monstrous flock swirled and twirled like a Kansas twister marching across the plains.In the distance I began again to hear a muffled roar like the wind slowly picking up. “Was it more blackbirds” I wondered? No, this time it was a rain shower as it crawled across the field. The drone became louder and louder until it encompassed the deer stand and the occasional drip became a constant stream. I waited it out and when it had subsided some, I put my hood up and headed for the dry safety of the pickup.Maybe these sorts of things seem to you like odd topics to write about, but not to me. I know I get so caught up and focused on shooting the deer or catching the fish that I totally miss everything around me. So, the next time you’re sitting in a deer stand or rocking with the waves on a boat in the lake, concentrate on seeing things you usually miss, then close your eyes for awhile and just listen to nature around you and learn to experience God’s marvelous creation in its entirety. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Sights and sounds from beneath a deer stand

Alyssa Church of Hays has earned the highest award in Girl Scouting— the Gold Award, and she will be recognized this weekend in Wichita for her achievement.

Church created 100 Homework Buddy bags for children in the five elementary schools in Hays.

Church, 16, is a junior at Thomas More Prep-Marian and an Ambassador-level Girl Scout.&nbsp;

The bags were filled with new and used school supplies. Some of the supplies included crayons, pencils, markers, erasers, glue, rulers, colored pencils and a homemade crayon that Church made herself.

Church also included sheets highlighting good study habits.

She also decorated the outside of the bags.

Although First Call for Help has the annual Back Pack for Kids school supply giveaway, those school supplies are meant to stay at school.

Church wanted the Hays children to have school supplies they could take home to use when they were working on homework.

"A lot of kids don't have things at home," she said. "They don't have a box of crayons or markers at home. The purpose of my project is to give them the supplies they need to successfully complete their homework at&nbsp; home."

Church conducted a drive for supplies at school and sent out a request on social media.

Church said when she was presenting her project to the awards committee, one of the members, who had been a kindergarten teacher, said one of her students tried to sneak school supplies from the classroom into his backpack because the child had nothing to use at home for homework.

Church developed the project idea because she wanted to rehome the pencils, markers and crayons her family no longer used.

"I wanted a way for the families who needed them to get them," she said.

&nbsp;Church had to complete 80 hours of volunteer service toward her project and earn a Journey badge to earn her Gold Award.

Church hopes to be a preschool teacher after she graduates high school.

"I just love being around kids. I love kids. I love being around the little ones who are preschool or kindergarten age," she said.

Church has experience babysitting and worked at Bright Minds Academy in its preschool this summer.

Church said she loves helping people, and she's been able to do that through Girl Scouts.

She and her Troop — No. 11210 — have been together since kindergarten.

Church's mother, Amy, has been her leader since the beginning.

"I'm very proud. I read that only 5.4 percent of Girl Scouts make their Gold Award. She put a lot of hard work into it," Amy said.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is often compared to the Boy Scout Eagle Award. Awardees can apply for special scholarships. They can also join the military at one rank higher, as can Eagle Scouts.

Her project was approved by the Gold Award committee in spring 2023, and Church presented the bags to the schools at the beginning of this school year.

The four girls who remain in the troop also have participated in various service projects.

Although the Gold Award is an individual project, troops can do the precursors to it—the Bronze and Silver awards—with their troops.

Girl Scouts complete their Bronze Awards as Juniors in the fourth or fifth grades. Silver Awards are completed when Girl Scouts are Cadettes in middle school.

Troop 11210 members created homemade dog toys for the Humane Society of the High Plains for their Bronze Award. They made activity bags, called Kid Kits, for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County and Court Appointed Special Advocates for their Silver Award.

Church has also traveled with Girl Scouts. This summer, she went whitewater rafting in Colorado and made the cover of a Girl Scout magazine.

"Being a Girl Scout is so much fun since I started in kindergarten," Church said. "I'm really glad that I was able to be a Girl Scout this long and complete my Gold Award."

Amy said she has also enjoyed being a volunteer.

"Looking back at these girls since kindergarten and seeing how much they have matured and grown over the years and their friendships and their bonds," she said. ... We've done a lot—a lot of volunteer work, service work. We put on our church Easter egg hunt.

"I've watched them grow, and in two years, they'll be in college, and maybe they'll be a Girl Scout leader and volunteer that way and give back," she said.

Alyssa said she would like to be a Girl Scout leader as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Girl Scout or volunteering with Girl Scouts, you can call 1-888-686-6468 or email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gskh.org">info@gskh.org</a>.

Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a Girl Scout volunteer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730218132422.jpeg" alt="Girl Scout Alyssa Church of Hays with the Homework Buddy bags she made for students in Hays. Church's service project helped her earn the highest award in Girl Scouting—the Gold Award. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Girl Scout Alyssa Church of Hays with the Homework Buddy bags she made for students in Hays. Church's service project helped her earn the highest award in Girl Scouting—the Gold Award. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAlyssa Church of Hays has earned the highest award in Girl Scouting— the Gold Award, and she will be recognized this weekend in Wichita for her achievement.Church created 100 Homework Buddy bags for children in the five elementary schools in Hays.Church, 16, is a junior at Thomas More Prep-Marian and an Ambassador-level Girl Scout.&nbsp;The bags were filled with new and used school supplies. Some of the supplies included crayons, pencils, markers, erasers, glue, rulers, colored pencils and a homemade crayon that Church made herself.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730218404036.jpeg" alt="Girl Scout Alyssa Church with&nbsp;supplies she received from Thomas More Prep-Marian students. The students donated 475 items. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Girl Scout Alyssa Church with&nbsp;supplies she received from Thomas More Prep-Marian students. The students donated 475 items. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Church also included sheets highlighting good study habits.She also decorated the outside of the bags.Although First Call for Help has the annual Back Pack for Kids school supply giveaway, those school supplies are meant to stay at school.Church wanted the Hays children to have school supplies they could take home to use when they were working on homework."A lot of kids don't have things at home," she said. "They don't have a box of crayons or markers at home. The purpose of my project is to give them the supplies they need to successfully complete their homework at&nbsp; home."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730218616491.jpeg" alt="Contents of one of Church's Homework Buddy Bags. The bags contain supplies students can use to complete homework at home.&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Contents of one of Church's Homework Buddy Bags. The bags contain supplies students can use to complete homework at home.&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Church conducted a drive for supplies at school and sent out a request on social media.Church said when she was presenting her project to the awards committee, one of the members, who had been a kindergarten teacher, said one of her students tried to sneak school supplies from the classroom into his backpack because the child had nothing to use at home for homework.Church developed the project idea because she wanted to rehome the pencils, markers and crayons her family no longer used."I wanted a way for the families who needed them to get them," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730218714621.jpeg" alt="Church delivering Homework Buddy bags to Holy Family Elementary School. Church made 100 bags. Each of the five elementary schools in Hays received bags. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Church delivering Homework Buddy bags to Holy Family Elementary School. Church made 100 bags. Each of the five elementary schools in Hays received bags. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Church had to complete 80 hours of volunteer service toward her project and earn a Journey badge to earn her Gold Award.Church hopes to be a preschool teacher after she graduates high school."I just love being around kids. I love kids. I love being around the little ones who are preschool or kindergarten age," she said.Church has experience babysitting and worked at Bright Minds Academy in its preschool this summer.Church said she loves helping people, and she's been able to do that through Girl Scouts.She and her Troop — No. 11210 — have been together since kindergarten.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730218911268.jpeg" alt="Church presenting Homework Buddy bags to O'Loughlin Elementary School Principal Rene Burns. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Church presenting Homework Buddy bags to O'Loughlin Elementary School Principal Rene Burns. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Church's mother, Amy, has been her leader since the beginning."I'm very proud. I read that only 5.4 percent of Girl Scouts make their Gold Award. She put a lot of hard work into it," Amy said.The Girl Scout Gold Award is often compared to the Boy Scout Eagle Award. Awardees can apply for special scholarships. They can also join the military at one rank higher, as can Eagle Scouts.Her project was approved by the Gold Award committee in spring 2023, and Church presented the bags to the schools at the beginning of this school year.The four girls who remain in the troop also have participated in various service projects.Although the Gold Award is an individual project, troops can do the precursors to it—the Bronze and Silver awards—with their troops.Girl Scouts complete their Bronze Awards as Juniors in the fourth or fifth grades. Silver Awards are completed when Girl Scouts are Cadettes in middle school.Troop 11210 members created homemade dog toys for the Humane Society of the High Plains for their Bronze Award. They made activity bags, called Kid Kits, for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County and Court Appointed Special Advocates for their Silver Award.Church has also traveled with Girl Scouts. This summer, she went whitewater rafting in Colorado and made the cover of a Girl Scout magazine."Being a Girl Scout is so much fun since I started in kindergarten," Church said. "I'm really glad that I was able to be a Girl Scout this long and complete my Gold Award."Amy said she has also enjoyed being a volunteer."Looking back at these girls since kindergarten and seeing how much they have matured and grown over the years and their friendships and their bonds," she said. ... We've done a lot—a lot of volunteer work, service work. We put on our church Easter egg hunt."I've watched them grow, and in two years, they'll be in college, and maybe they'll be a Girl Scout leader and volunteer that way and give back," she said.Alyssa said she would like to be a Girl Scout leader as well.If you are interested in becoming a Girl Scout or volunteering with Girl Scouts, you can call 1-888-686-6468 or email us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gskh.org">info@gskh.org</a>.Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a Girl Scout volunteer.

Hays Girl Scout earns highest award in Scouting with Homework Buddy project

ACCESS General Public Transportation serving the City of Hays Kansas would like to make the public aware of a scheduling change in the operating hours of ACCESS Public Transportation.

Starting November 30, 2024, ACCESS will be changing the weekend operating hours schedule. The new hours will be from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sundays, which means the first ride for the day will be at 6:15 AM and the last available ride will be at 3:30 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

ACCESS looks forward to helping meet the transportation needs of the citizens of Hays, Kansas and of visitors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625263605210.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWKACCESS General Public Transportation serving the City of Hays Kansas would like to make the public aware of a scheduling change in the operating hours of ACCESS Public Transportation.Starting November 30, 2024, ACCESS will be changing the weekend operating hours schedule. The new hours will be from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sundays, which means the first ride for the day will be at 6:15 AM and the last available ride will be at 3:30 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.ACCESS looks forward to helping meet the transportation needs of the citizens of Hays, Kansas and of visitors.

ACCESS Public Transportation announces operational hours change

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Corporation Commission has received a report that an individual claiming to be working with the KCC is calling utility customers and offering a 30% discount on their electric bills. 

Based on what has been reported, the caller asks about Medicare or Medicaid eligibility, then asks for a credit card so the refund can be applied.

This individual is not affiliated with the KCC and the agency urges consumers to use caution if they receive a call. 

Above all, if you receive a call like this, do not provide credit card information. 

More information will be released if it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578754176087.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Corporation CommissionTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Corporation Commission has received a report that an individual claiming to be working with the KCC is calling utility customers and offering a 30% discount on their electric bills. Based on what has been reported, the caller asks about Medicare or Medicaid eligibility, then asks for a credit card so the refund can be applied.This individual is not affiliated with the KCC and the agency urges consumers to use caution if they receive a call. Above all, if you receive a call like this, do not provide credit card information. More information will be released if it becomes available.

KCC warns consumers to beware of electric savings scam

Colby Community College will continue to make higher education affordable for Northwest Kansas in the spring 2025 semester with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.colbycc.edu/student/financial-aid/pay-for-college/scholarships/colby-commitment.html">Colby Commitment Scholarship</a>, a tuition, fees, and books benefit for students on free and reduced lunches attending high schools in the institution's 14-county service area. Additionally, all juniors and seniors at any public, private, or home school in Thomas County qualify.

Area students who do not live in Thomas County or qualify for free and reduced lunches can take classes for just $50 per credit hour, which includes tuition, fees, and books.

Students at high schools in Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace counties may be eligible according to family-adjusted gross income in relation to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) income guidelines for Free and Reduced Meals.

The College Board of Trustees unanimously approved the extension at their Oct. 21 meeting. Trustees agreed to review the award again in the spring of 2026.

“We are so grateful to the Colby Community College Board of Trustees for extending this opportunity,” said CCC President Dr. Seth Carter. “These scholarships directly help the students who need it the most and enhance education and access in Northwest Kansas.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedColby Community College will continue to make higher education affordable for Northwest Kansas in the spring 2025 semester with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.colbycc.edu/student/financial-aid/pay-for-college/scholarships/colby-commitment.html">Colby Commitment Scholarship</a>, a tuition, fees, and books benefit for students on free and reduced lunches attending high schools in the institution's 14-county service area. Additionally, all juniors and seniors at any public, private, or home school in Thomas County qualify.Area students who do not live in Thomas County or qualify for free and reduced lunches can take classes for just $50 per credit hour, which includes tuition, fees, and books.Students at high schools in Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego, and Wallace counties may be eligible according to family-adjusted gross income in relation to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) income guidelines for Free and Reduced Meals.The College Board of Trustees unanimously approved the extension at their Oct. 21 meeting. Trustees agreed to review the award again in the spring of 2026.“We are so grateful to the Colby Community College Board of Trustees for extending this opportunity,” said CCC President Dr. Seth Carter. “These scholarships directly help the students who need it the most and enhance education and access in Northwest Kansas.”The Colby Commitment Scholarship is renewed annually. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbycc.edu/commitmento">www.colbycc.edu/commitment</a>&nbsp;or contact the Registrar's Office at (785) 460-5509 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:registrar@colbycc.edu">registrar@colbycc.edu</a>.

Local