Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Erica Schmidt to senior manager of power supply and Zach Binder to manager of resource planning. Both bring extensive experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to Sunflower’s goal of supplying reliable, cost-effective wholesale power and powering the needs of its member cooperatives.

In her new role, Erica Schmidt provides strategic leadership and oversight for all power supply functions, including power contracts, resource planning, market operations, billing, and fuel procurement. She directs the activities of the power supply and contracts department to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and compliant operations that strengthen Sunflower’s resource adequacy and long-term energy strategy.

“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue serving an organization that’s filled with incredibly talented and knowledgeable employees,” Schmidt said. “I’ve been fortunate to learn from so many of my colleagues over the years, and I look forward to building on that foundation as we work together to support our members and strengthen our power supply strategy for the future.”

A native of Garden City, Schmidt holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Kansas State University and a master of business administration from Friends University. Since joining Sunflower in 2010, she has held roles in corporate services, supply chain, and power supply, most recently serving as manager of power contracts. She and her husband, Josh, reside in Garden City with their five children, Corbin, Peyton, Zoe, Addyson, and Mia.

Zach Binder was appointed to lead Sunflower’s resource planning, resource adequacy, and fuel procurement functions. In his new position, he will provide strategic leadership and technical expertise to ensure Sunflower’s generation resources are effectively planned to meet future power needs. His responsibilities include modeling long-term energy demand, maintaining accurate forecasts, and evaluating a range of solutions including energy efficiency programs, demand-side management, and renewable energy resources.

After joining Sunflower in 2018, he advanced to senior financial analyst in 2022, and later that same year became settlements supervisor, where he gained deeper involvement in power supply operations. His proven leadership and analytical expertise have prepared him well for this expanded role.

A native of Hays, Binder holds a bachelor of business administration from Fort Hays State University. He and his wife, Amber, reside in Hays with their children, Theron and Brixton.

“Erica and Zach have both demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to Sunflower’s mission,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s president and chief executive officer. “Their promotions reflect not only their achievements but also the confidence we have in their ability to guide our organization toward an even stronger, more reliable future.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762450360832.png" alt="Erica Schmidt and Zach Binder. Photos courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Erica Schmidt and Zach Binder. Photos courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower ElectricHays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Erica Schmidt to senior manager of power supply and Zach Binder to manager of resource planning. Both bring extensive experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to Sunflower’s goal of supplying reliable, cost-effective wholesale power and powering the needs of its member cooperatives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762450063153.jpeg" alt="Erica Schmidt. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Erica Schmidt. Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>In her new role, Erica Schmidt provides strategic leadership and oversight for all power supply functions, including power contracts, resource planning, market operations, billing, and fuel procurement. She directs the activities of the power supply and contracts department to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and compliant operations that strengthen Sunflower’s resource adequacy and long-term energy strategy.“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue serving an organization that’s filled with incredibly talented and knowledgeable employees,” Schmidt said. “I’ve been fortunate to learn from so many of my colleagues over the years, and I look forward to building on that foundation as we work together to support our members and strengthen our power supply strategy for the future.”A native of Garden City, Schmidt holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Kansas State University and a master of business administration from Friends University. Since joining Sunflower in 2010, she has held roles in corporate services, supply chain, and power supply, most recently serving as manager of power contracts. She and her husband, Josh, reside in Garden City with their five children, Corbin, Peyton, Zoe, Addyson, and Mia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762450226743.jpeg" alt="Zach Binder.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric" />
 <figcaption>Zach Binder.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo courtesy Sunflower Electric</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Binder was appointed to lead Sunflower’s resource planning, resource adequacy, and fuel procurement functions. In his new position, he will provide strategic leadership and technical expertise to ensure Sunflower’s generation resources are effectively planned to meet future power needs. His responsibilities include modeling long-term energy demand, maintaining accurate forecasts, and evaluating a range of solutions including energy efficiency programs, demand-side management, and renewable energy resources.After joining Sunflower in 2018, he advanced to senior financial analyst in 2022, and later that same year became settlements supervisor, where he gained deeper involvement in power supply operations. His proven leadership and analytical expertise have prepared him well for this expanded role.A native of Hays, Binder holds a bachelor of business administration from Fort Hays State University. He and his wife, Amber, reside in Hays with their children, Theron and Brixton.“Erica and Zach have both demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to Sunflower’s mission,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s president and chief executive officer. “Their promotions reflect not only their achievements but also the confidence we have in their ability to guide our organization toward an even stronger, more reliable future.”About Sunflower

Sunflower Electric announces 2 promotions

<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/2025/11/1762529350592.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

The Morland Community Foundation, in conjunction with the city of Morland, is pleased to announce we are nearing completion of phase 1 at our Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.

This project began with an idea from Vietnam Veteran Sgt. Ray Toll. Ray served honorably in the central region of Vietnam until he was wounded by a sniper round while crossing a rice paddy.

Ray received a Purple Heart and was discharged shortly after. Ray has been the inspiration and driving force behind this project. He has never wavered in his dedication; the man simply has no "give up."

Our project has taken over three years to get to this point and will continue into the future.

Ray made a wooden model of this project and took it to multiple events to show the public what we were going to build.

He even utilized the help of his granddaughter, Winter, to help work the display stands and booths at local events to promote our project.

We have implemented a "buy a brick" program where anyone can purchase a brick and have a veteran's name, rank and place of service sandblasted into a brick, that brick will then be display on a raised platform in our park with other veterans.

We include current active-duty military members and veterans in our memorial. Anyone who served or is serving can have an honorable place in our memorial.

Our dedication ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11.

For more information or to purchase a brick, you can visit <a href="http://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans">www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans</a>.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KBByu2CKyH0?si=ZUOUNkPLB0r9opPe" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Morland Community Foundation, in conjunction with the city of Morland, is pleased to announce we are nearing completion of phase 1 at our Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.This project began with an idea from Vietnam Veteran Sgt. Ray Toll. Ray served honorably in the central region of Vietnam until he was wounded by a sniper round while crossing a rice paddy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276671546.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Ray Toll&nbsp;and his granddaughter, Winter, talking with residents about our project. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Ray Toll&nbsp;and his granddaughter, Winter, talking with residents about our project. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure> Ray received a Purple Heart and was discharged shortly after. Ray has been the inspiration and driving force behind this project. He has never wavered in his dedication; the man simply has no "give up."Our project has taken over three years to get to this point and will continue into the future.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276691180.jpeg" alt="Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ray made a wooden model of this project and took it to multiple events to show the public what we were going to build.He even utilized the help of his granddaughter, Winter, to help work the display stands and booths at local events to promote our project.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276717914.jpeg" alt="Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>We have implemented a "buy a brick" program where anyone can purchase a brick and have a veteran's name, rank and place of service sandblasted into a brick, that brick will then be display on a raised platform in our park with other veterans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276790930.jpeg" alt="Ray Toll at North Platte Nebraska's veterans memorial.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ray Toll at North Platte Nebraska's veterans memorial.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>We include current active-duty military members and veterans in our memorial. Anyone who served or is serving can have an honorable place in our memorial.Our dedication ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11.For more information or to purchase a brick, you can visit <a href="http://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans">www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276813298.jpeg" alt="Ray Toll's brick at North Platte Nebraska's veterans memorial.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ray Toll's brick at North Platte Nebraska's veterans memorial.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276831914.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Ray Toll in uniform. He was with the 173rd Airborne Unit.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Ray Toll in uniform. He was with the 173rd Airborne Unit.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762276850630.jpeg" alt="Morland firefighters placing a statue in the park.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Morland firefighters placing a statue in the park.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Post Podcast: Meet new FHSU Rodeo head coach Trevor Meier

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Today I want to pay homage to man’s best friend, for nowhere is man’s best friend appreciated more than in the world of outdoor sportsmen. They sit beside us in hunting blinds; often so close they’re nearly beneath us. They help us carry our gear to and from campsites, the boat, the woods and even back to the truck when the excursion is over. They are perfectly at home in the pickup, whether in the back, on the floor or in the seat beside us. They require very little in the way of maintenance, perhaps an occasional scrubbing to keep them squeaky clean. Yet, these stalwart companions provide us with years of dedicated, selfless service. Of course, I’m talking about man’s best friend, the plastic 5-gallon bucket.

I wish they had existed when I was a kid. Oh, we had 5-gallon buckets, but not plastic. Dad had a hanging feed bunk in the barn and if you couldn’t surprise the steers and beat them to the bunk at feeding time, the only way to survive the ordeal was to beat them out of the way with the bucket. I ruined more metal buckets that way than I care to remember. Had they been plastic, they’d have lasted forever. But, like I stated above, no one depends upon plastic 5-gallon buckets more than the outdoor sports enthusiast. They come in white, gray, green, black and camouflage. They can have metal handles or plastic. They are the ultimate seat / equipment carrier rolled into one.

No fisherman worth his or her fish and chips will have less than half-a-dozen, and that’s just in the boat. Be sure to designate one on the boat for those inopportune times when the need arises to relieve yourself of your morning coffee in the middle of the lake, an especially useful feature for your wife or girlfriend. Although a tad large, they also work well for bailing out water rushing into the boat when you fail to put the drain plug back into the drain hole in the transom before leaving the dock. When ice fishing, 2 nice white ones (to color coordinate with your surroundings) will carry your rods, tackle, bait and lunch onto the ice. One turned upside down will then become your seat, while the other holds your fish. Fitted with a lid of some description, one bucket can do both. When a fish is caught, simply jump up, lift the lid, deposit the fish then close the lid and repose yourself again. For you intense ice fishermen (you know who you are) this also hides your catch from prying eyes. In any fishing situation, plastic 5-gallon buckets are the ideal tool for transporting fish. Once home, they again spring into action as the supreme vessel to hold all the “by-product” when cleaning your catch. Bass Pro even sells a fish cleaning board specially made to fit the top of one. I also found a kit containing all the necessary parts to turn a 5-gallon bucket into an aerated bait container.

Though fishing seems to bring out the best in 5-gallon buckets, hunters also benefit from them. Again, they are the cat’s meow for carrying equipment to and from a blind or stand. To carry all my trapping supplies, I use one fitted with a canvas tool carrier. Though small camp chairs are probably more comfortable for a long wait, the buckets again excel as seats. Cabela’s offers a variety of seats, all made to fit 5-gallon buckets. One named the “Silent Spin Bucket Seat,” is equipped with bearings like a lazy susan, allowing a hunter to swivel and see in different directions. This seat can be purchased alone, with an added storage pouch that drapes around the bucket, or with an attached&nbsp;“stadium” seat, complete with back. Kits are also available with all the components needed to convert our friend the bucket into a hanging deer feeder (a nice camouflage colored number is probably best suited here.)

Not a hunter or fisherman, and feeling left out?... Wait, there’s more! What’s the most logical use for a plastic 5-gallon bucket around the campsite?... Right you are! I found several products to turn 5-gallon buckets into portable camp toilets. One called “Luggable Loo” is a toilet seat and lid that the company says, “effortlessly snaps on and off” any 5-gallon bucket, and allows you to “Stop dreading the call of nature when enjoying your next hunting, fishing or camping trip.” Now if you truly do dread “the call of nature” you may have some deeper problems than where to answer it. Anyway, they should probably make one in pink for the ladies and call it Luggable Louis. Just remember, these things won’t flush and don’t set over a hole in the ground so you become responsible for disposing of the contents! Please take the high ground here and empty them at the camps designated dumping station. Don’t nonchalantly toss it under the neighbor’s camper and try to blame it on their big dog.

Someone has said that there is no greater force in the universe than that force that holds 5-gallon buckets together when stacked. We buy them full of some product, use the product, and are left with the bucket, which, in some cases, is probably more useful than the product inside. So, after reading this, find you best friend and give them a little extra attention; kiss your wife and scratch the dog too while you’re at it…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735433168440.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsToday I want to pay homage to man’s best friend, for nowhere is man’s best friend appreciated more than in the world of outdoor sportsmen. They sit beside us in hunting blinds; often so close they’re nearly beneath us. They help us carry our gear to and from campsites, the boat, the woods and even back to the truck when the excursion is over. They are perfectly at home in the pickup, whether in the back, on the floor or in the seat beside us. They require very little in the way of maintenance, perhaps an occasional scrubbing to keep them squeaky clean. Yet, these stalwart companions provide us with years of dedicated, selfless service. Of course, I’m talking about man’s best friend, the plastic 5-gallon bucket.I wish they had existed when I was a kid. Oh, we had 5-gallon buckets, but not plastic. Dad had a hanging feed bunk in the barn and if you couldn’t surprise the steers and beat them to the bunk at feeding time, the only way to survive the ordeal was to beat them out of the way with the bucket. I ruined more metal buckets that way than I care to remember. Had they been plastic, they’d have lasted forever. But, like I stated above, no one depends upon plastic 5-gallon buckets more than the outdoor sports enthusiast. They come in white, gray, green, black and camouflage. They can have metal handles or plastic. They are the ultimate seat / equipment carrier rolled into one.No fisherman worth his or her fish and chips will have less than half-a-dozen, and that’s just in the boat. Be sure to designate one on the boat for those inopportune times when the need arises to relieve yourself of your morning coffee in the middle of the lake, an especially useful feature for your wife or girlfriend. Although a tad large, they also work well for bailing out water rushing into the boat when you fail to put the drain plug back into the drain hole in the transom before leaving the dock. When ice fishing, 2 nice white ones (to color coordinate with your surroundings) will carry your rods, tackle, bait and lunch onto the ice. One turned upside down will then become your seat, while the other holds your fish. Fitted with a lid of some description, one bucket can do both. When a fish is caught, simply jump up, lift the lid, deposit the fish then close the lid and repose yourself again. For you intense ice fishermen (you know who you are) this also hides your catch from prying eyes. In any fishing situation, plastic 5-gallon buckets are the ideal tool for transporting fish. Once home, they again spring into action as the supreme vessel to hold all the “by-product” when cleaning your catch. Bass Pro even sells a fish cleaning board specially made to fit the top of one. I also found a kit containing all the necessary parts to turn a 5-gallon bucket into an aerated bait container.Though fishing seems to bring out the best in 5-gallon buckets, hunters also benefit from them. Again, they are the cat’s meow for carrying equipment to and from a blind or stand. To carry all my trapping supplies, I use one fitted with a canvas tool carrier. Though small camp chairs are probably more comfortable for a long wait, the buckets again excel as seats. Cabela’s offers a variety of seats, all made to fit 5-gallon buckets. One named the “Silent Spin Bucket Seat,” is equipped with bearings like a lazy susan, allowing a hunter to swivel and see in different directions. This seat can be purchased alone, with an added storage pouch that drapes around the bucket, or with an attached&nbsp;“stadium” seat, complete with back. Kits are also available with all the components needed to convert our friend the bucket into a hanging deer feeder (a nice camouflage colored number is probably best suited here.)Not a hunter or fisherman, and feeling left out?... Wait, there’s more! What’s the most logical use for a plastic 5-gallon bucket around the campsite?... Right you are! I found several products to turn 5-gallon buckets into portable camp toilets. One called “Luggable Loo” is a toilet seat and lid that the company says, “effortlessly snaps on and off” any 5-gallon bucket, and allows you to “Stop dreading the call of nature when enjoying your next hunting, fishing or camping trip.” Now if you truly do dread “the call of nature” you may have some deeper problems than where to answer it. Anyway, they should probably make one in pink for the ladies and call it Luggable Louis. Just remember, these things won’t flush and don’t set over a hole in the ground so you become responsible for disposing of the contents! Please take the high ground here and empty them at the camps designated dumping station. Don’t nonchalantly toss it under the neighbor’s camper and try to blame it on their big dog.Someone has said that there is no greater force in the universe than that force that holds 5-gallon buckets together when stacked. We buy them full of some product, use the product, and are left with the bucket, which, in some cases, is probably more useful than the product inside. So, after reading this, find you best friend and give them a little extra attention; kiss your wife and scratch the dog too while you’re at it…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Man’s best friend, we love you!

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Messiah Lutheran Church of Hays celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special service and dinner on Oct. 26.

Families who had been members since the church's founding joined the celebration, including Dixie Dies and family, who traveled 1,300 miles from Montana to attend the service. 

Joel Histerman and Keith Kohlmeier were special guest pastors for the morning's service.

The first service of Messiah Lutheran was conducted on Oct. 29, 1950,&nbsp;(Reformation Sunday) with the Rev. H. T. Munderloh of Russell&nbsp;leading the worship. The service, attended by 17, was in the Christian Church building at Eighth and&nbsp;Walnut.

The official organization of Messiah Lutheran took place on Jan. 4,&nbsp;1951, with six voting members. They were Bill Duitsman,&nbsp;Ralph Fink, Paul Gross, Robert Naegele, Walter Naegele and&nbsp;Robert O’Gara.

On June 7, 1953, the Rev. Frederick Rhode was installed&nbsp;as the first resident pastor of the congregation. Ground had&nbsp;been broken for the construction of the first chapel at 20th&nbsp;and Main on Oct. 19, 1952. The chapel was dedicated on&nbsp;Sept. 20, 1953.

Dixie Dies, 75, is the daughter of Ed and Geneva Dies, founding members of the church. She and her siblings grew up in the church. However, Dixie married after high school, and she and her spouse moved out of Hays.

Her parents stayed in Hays and remained members of the church throughout their lives.

"The chapel was small and cozy," Dixie Dies said. "We had Christmas programs and Sunday school downstairs. It was fun. I have a lot of warm memories."

She said she remembers dressing up for the Christmas pageants, but she most looked forward to the small bag of candy she and the other children received at the end of the program.

She was also a member of the youth group, Alpha Key Rho, which was active year-round. During the summer, the youth attended picnics.&nbsp;

"It was small and sort of like a big neighborhood, where everybody knew everybody and everybody's kids and what they were doing," she said.

The original chapel, with its thick redwood beams, is still a part of the current church building. The chapel continues to house the original baptismal font, at which the first child baptized in the church, Barry Dies, Dixie's younger brother, was baptized.

Dixie's nephew was the first child baptized in the new sanctuary.

"It's just pride that this has continued," Dixie said. "It's lasted, and you can tell by the congregation this morning the fellowship they have for each other. I stepped out of my car, and a woman I hadn't seen in 30 or 40 years said, 'Dixie, it's nice to see you!' Just like it was last Sunday."

Dixie said it was essential to have a church to grow up in. During the 1960s, Hays was dominated by the Catholic congregations, she said.

"To have our own group, our own place, it was important," she said.

On March 20, 1960, the educational unit was dedicated.

Groundbreaking ceremonies&nbsp;were conducted on Dec. 15, 1968, for the present chapel. The cornerstone was laid on May 25, 1969, and the dedication was on Nov. 2, 1969.

Renovation of the original chapel was completed in 2000, converting the space into a meeting room. The church's courtyard addition was constructed between 2003 and 2006.

Tina (Kaempfe) Anguish created a history of the church's 75 years for the celebration. Her family began attending the church shortly after it was founded.

"We are a very family- and community-oriented church. My dad was the congregational president for our 40th. My mom and her good friend,&nbsp;Geneva Dies, were in charge of our 50th history and church directory book. Here I am as church historian for our 75th," she said.

Anguish began updating the church's historical archives in 2020 when she moved back to Hays.

The church was established with a campus ministry in mind for what is now Fort Hays State University.

Tina's father, Jerry Kaempfe, began attending Messiah in 1951 as a freshman at Fort Hays. Her mother, Viola Vincent Kaempfe, began attending in about 1955 or '56.

They were married in the original chapel in 1959. 

Tina's Aunt Bonnie (Kaempfe) married her Uncle Darrell Gabel at Messiah Lutheran in 1961. Aunts Mary and Bonnie were also active in the Gamma Delta group, which was the college group for Lutheran Fort Hays students.

Tina was baptized at the church in 1962. Her brother, who she thinks was named after the church's Rev. Polley, was baptized in the church in 1967. Both siblings were confirmed in the church.

Tina and her brother's marriages (1987, 1992) and their parents' funerals were at Messiah Lutheran. Her dad died in 2011, and her mother in 2018.&nbsp;

Fontaine and Jack Hilgers also met in the Gamma Delta youth group when they were freshmen and were married in 1966. Jack died in 2023.

Jack served in Vietnam, but the couple ultimately settled on his grandfather's farm near Plainville.

Fontaine, 81, attended the 75th anniversary celebration and said being a member of the church had been a great support throughout the couple's lives.

Gary and Ila Hulett have been members for 62 years. The couple's son and daughter grew up attending Sunday school at the church.

Ila, 89, said she had happy memories of Sunday School, working with children, sponsoring the college group and attending Ladies Guild meetings.

"Being together with my husband," she said. "We both worked at the college and encouraged the young college students to attend."

"I have years and years of fond memories," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762545870045.jpeg" alt="The Messiah Lutheran Church&nbsp;congregation in Hays gathered on Oct. 26 to celebrate the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Messiah Lutheran Church&nbsp;congregation in Hays gathered on Oct. 26 to celebrate the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762375491202.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMessiah Lutheran Church of Hays celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special service and dinner on Oct. 26.Families who had been members since the church's founding joined the celebration, including Dixie Dies and family, who traveled 1,300 miles from Montana to attend the service. Joel Histerman and Keith Kohlmeier were special guest pastors for the morning's service.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546002197.png" alt="Messiah Lutheran Church's original chapel and parsonage. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Messiah Lutheran Church's original chapel and parsonage. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546111301.png" alt="The interior of the original chapel. The original chapel is a part of the church building at 2000 Main and is still used by the church today. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The interior of the original chapel. The original chapel is a part of the church building at 2000 Main and is still used by the church today. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The first service of Messiah Lutheran was conducted on Oct. 29, 1950,&nbsp;(Reformation Sunday) with the Rev. H. T. Munderloh of Russell&nbsp;leading the worship. The service, attended by 17, was in the Christian Church building at Eighth and&nbsp;Walnut.The official organization of Messiah Lutheran took place on Jan. 4,&nbsp;1951, with six voting members. They were Bill Duitsman,&nbsp;Ralph Fink, Paul Gross, Robert Naegele, Walter Naegele and&nbsp;Robert O’Gara.On June 7, 1953, the Rev. Frederick Rhode was installed&nbsp;as the first resident pastor of the congregation. Ground had&nbsp;been broken for the construction of the first chapel at 20th&nbsp;and Main on Oct. 19, 1952. The chapel was dedicated on&nbsp;Sept. 20, 1953.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546318277.jpeg" alt="Bary Dies was the first child baptized in the Messiah Lutheran Church of Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Bary Dies was the first child baptized in the Messiah Lutheran Church of Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546329273.jpeg" alt="The original Baptismal font from Messiah Lutheran Church was first used in 1953.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The original Baptismal font from Messiah Lutheran Church was first used in 1953.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Dixie Dies, 75, is the daughter of Ed and Geneva Dies, founding members of the church. She and her siblings grew up in the church. However, Dixie married after high school, and she and her spouse moved out of Hays.Her parents stayed in Hays and remained members of the church throughout their lives."The chapel was small and cozy," Dixie Dies said. "We had Christmas programs and Sunday school downstairs. It was fun. I have a lot of warm memories."She said she remembers dressing up for the Christmas pageants, but she most looked forward to the small bag of candy she and the other children received at the end of the program.She was also a member of the youth group, Alpha Key Rho, which was active year-round. During the summer, the youth attended picnics.&nbsp;"It was small and sort of like a big neighborhood, where everybody knew everybody and everybody's kids and what they were doing," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546911265.png" alt="The church's current chapel was dedicated in 1969. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The church's current chapel was dedicated in 1969. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The original chapel, with its thick redwood beams, is still a part of the current church building. The chapel continues to house the original baptismal font, at which the first child baptized in the church, Barry Dies, Dixie's younger brother, was baptized.Dixie's nephew was the first child baptized in the new sanctuary."It's just pride that this has continued," Dixie said. "It's lasted, and you can tell by the congregation this morning the fellowship they have for each other. I stepped out of my car, and a woman I hadn't seen in 30 or 40 years said, 'Dixie, it's nice to see you!' Just like it was last Sunday."Dixie said it was essential to have a church to grow up in. During the 1960s, Hays was dominated by the Catholic congregations, she said."To have our own group, our own place, it was important," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546544870.jpeg" alt="The Messiah Lutheran Church congregation gathered in its original chapel on March 20, 1960, for the dedication of the church's education wing. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Messiah Lutheran Church congregation gathered in its original chapel on March 20, 1960, for the dedication of the church's education wing. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 20, 1960, the educational unit was dedicated.Groundbreaking ceremonies&nbsp;were conducted on Dec. 15, 1968, for the present chapel. The cornerstone was laid on May 25, 1969, and the dedication was on Nov. 2, 1969.Renovation of the original chapel was completed in 2000, converting the space into a meeting room. The church's courtyard addition was constructed between 2003 and 2006.Tina (Kaempfe) Anguish created a history of the church's 75 years for the celebration. Her family began attending the church shortly after it was founded."We are a very family- and community-oriented church. My dad was the congregational president for our 40th. My mom and her good friend,&nbsp;Geneva Dies, were in charge of our 50th history and church directory book. Here I am as church historian for our 75th," she said.Anguish began updating the church's historical archives in 2020 when she moved back to Hays.The church was established with a campus ministry in mind for what is now Fort Hays State University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762546684181.jpeg" alt="The wedding ceremony for Jerry Kaempfe and&nbsp;Viola Vincent Kaempfe on Aug. 30, 1959. They were the parents of&nbsp;Tina (Kaempfe) Anguish, a current member of the church. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The wedding ceremony for Jerry Kaempfe and&nbsp;Viola Vincent Kaempfe on Aug. 30, 1959. They were the parents of&nbsp;Tina (Kaempfe) Anguish, a current member of the church. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Tina's father, Jerry Kaempfe, began attending Messiah in 1951 as a freshman at Fort Hays. Her mother, Viola Vincent Kaempfe, began attending in about 1955 or '56.They were married in the original chapel in 1959. Tina's Aunt Bonnie (Kaempfe) married her Uncle Darrell Gabel at Messiah Lutheran in 1961. Aunts Mary and Bonnie were also active in the Gamma Delta group, which was the college group for Lutheran Fort Hays students.Tina was baptized at the church in 1962. Her brother, who she thinks was named after the church's Rev. Polley, was baptized in the church in 1967. Both siblings were confirmed in the church.Tina and her brother's marriages (1987, 1992) and their parents' funerals were at Messiah Lutheran. Her dad died in 2011, and her mother in 2018.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762547031732.jpeg" alt="Old vacation Bible school T-shirts were part of the history display for the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Old vacation Bible school T-shirts were part of the history display for the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Fontaine and Jack Hilgers also met in the Gamma Delta youth group when they were freshmen and were married in 1966. Jack died in 2023.Jack served in Vietnam, but the couple ultimately settled on his grandfather's farm near Plainville.Fontaine, 81, attended the 75th anniversary celebration and said being a member of the church had been a great support throughout the couple's lives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762547193690.jpeg" alt="Messiah Lutheran Church children sing on Oct. 26 during the church's 75th anniversary celebration. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Messiah Lutheran Church children sing on Oct. 26 during the church's 75th anniversary celebration. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762547441908.jpeg" alt="Congregation members join in a catered lunch on Oct. 26 to celebrate the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Congregation members join in a catered lunch on Oct. 26 to celebrate the church's 75th anniversary. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762547699443.jpeg" alt="The current Messiah Lutheran Church Chapel.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The current Messiah Lutheran Church Chapel.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary and Ila Hulett have been members for 62 years. The couple's son and daughter grew up attending Sunday school at the church.Ila, 89, said she had happy memories of Sunday School, working with children, sponsoring the college group and attending Ladies Guild meetings."Being together with my husband," she said. "We both worked at the college and encouraged the young college students to attend.""I have years and years of fond memories," she said.

NWester: Messiah Lutheran Church in Hays celebrates 75th anniversary

The holidays may be difficult for those grieving the loss of a loved one. GriefShare will offer a free “Surviving the Holidays” seminar from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Youth Room at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.

Carol Spalsbury, one of the organizers, said that the event “reassures people who are grieving the loss of a loved one that they are not alone—that help is available.

“The event offers encouragement and practical advice to navigate the Thanksgiving and Christmas season,” she said. “It gives insight into what to expect and strength to go on.”

Refreshments will be provided. In order for organizers to have adequate materials on hand, attendees are asked to pre-register by Friday, Nov. 14, by contacting the church at (785) 628-8887 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nocc@northoak.net">nocc@northoak.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762183756107.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe holidays may be difficult for those grieving the loss of a loved one. GriefShare will offer a free “Surviving the Holidays” seminar from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Youth Room at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.Carol Spalsbury, one of the organizers, said that the event “reassures people who are grieving the loss of a loved one that they are not alone—that help is available.“The event offers encouragement and practical advice to navigate the Thanksgiving and Christmas season,” she said. “It gives insight into what to expect and strength to go on.”Refreshments will be provided. In order for organizers to have adequate materials on hand, attendees are asked to pre-register by Friday, Nov. 14, by contacting the church at (785) 628-8887 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nocc@northoak.net">nocc@northoak.net</a>.

Grief support group to present free seminar

Ellis High School Senior, Tayler Schmidt, was selected to participate in the North West Kansas Music Educators Association District Honor Band for 2025. This will be Tayler’s second year as first chair Bass Clarinet and will allow her to audition for the KMEA State Honor Band in January. Way to go, Tayler!!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762353525421.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School Senior Tayler Schmidt. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School Senior Tayler Schmidt. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEllis High School Senior, Tayler Schmidt, was selected to participate in the North West Kansas Music Educators Association District Honor Band for 2025. This will be Tayler’s second year as first chair Bass Clarinet and will allow her to audition for the KMEA State Honor Band in January. Way to go, Tayler!!

Ellis High School senior earns first chair in District Honor Band

By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX Insight Kansas

With&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-house-speaker-waves-white-flag-on-special-session-as-congresswoman-considers-senate-run/">the failure of the Republican leadership’s push to call a special redistricting session</a>, Kansas has now joined&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/28/the-republicans-thwarting-the-white-houses-redistricting-hopes-00625911">states like Indiana and New Hampshire</a>, where a critical number of Republican legislators were unmoved by Trump’s unprecedented demand that state parties redraw their congressional districts in the middle of the decade to make them more Republican-friendly.

Why didn’t the Republican caucus in Topeka quickly acquiesce to the president’s insistence on creating a map that will supposedly increase the odds of the GOP maintaining control over the House of Representatives? There are many reasons, and the fact that the Republican leadership plans to try again during the regular session in January suggests that they think those reasons can be overcome, and votes will be there eventually.

But one reason that may not go away is a pretty profound one—that the theory of representation employed as a justification for the redistricting push is, historically speaking, un-American.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson’s enthusiasm for redistricting was clear from the start.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-senate-secures-gop-petition-signatures-to-call-special-legislative-session/">He quickly rounded up sufficient votes for a special session from his Republican colleagues</a>, and talked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kake.com/home/redistricting-roadblock-kansas-state-rep-explains-refusal-to-sign-petition-for-special-session/article_4521cf93-8fda-4a12-80fb-9782e4612c7c.html">broadly about</a>&nbsp;how redistricting was essential to the success of Trump’s agenda. If Kansas couldn’t push through a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-11-04/many-johnson-county-residents-want-to-stay-unified-as-kansas-republicans-try-to-redistrict">highly unpopular division of Johnson County</a>, and thus hopefully make it harder for Representative Sharice Davids, the sole Democrat in the Kansas congressional delegation, to once again win re-election, then “all the good things we're doing will stop,” which means that it is “all hands on deck to try to keep the movement moving forward.”

Note that the movement he mentions is centered in Washington DC—not Topeka. This means he understands representation as keyed to national ideological concerns, not to actual Kansas constituents. Masterson might disagree, insisting that,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://independentvoterproject.org/voter-stats/ks">as Republican voters in Kansas outnumber Democratic voters by almost two-to-one</a>, it’s fair to provide those constituents with, as he put it, “an aligned voice in DC.” But that puts the ideological cart before the Constitutional horse.

To believe, like Masterson, that “all four of Kansas's U.S. House districts should basically represent the breakdown of Kansas,” is to privilege ideological representation over local needs. Yet that localism was key to the formation of the House of Representatives in the first place.

Yes, more Kansans consider themselves conservative than liberal. But the Kansans that live in Johnson County aren’t the same as those that live in Masterson’s Butler County; in fact, given how often Davis has been re-elected, their ideological breakdown is likely the reverse of what is typical for the state overall. And part of the point of having a bicameral Congress was so House districts could enable different constituent-based representatives to bring forward entirely local concerns which the more deliberation-based Senate would have to balance out—and thus, through compromise, presumably achieve some kind of common good.

Debates over forms representation aren’t new; they play out constantly, with real consequences. For example, changes in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-11-08/wichita-school-district-voters-opt-to-change-the-way-board-members-are-elected">the rules for school board elections in Wichita</a>, Kansas’s largest school district, empowered local voters over city-wide majorities, and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columnhttps:/www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article312783765.html">results were dramatic</a>.

Typically, politicians pay close attention to such debates; thus far in Kansas, enough Republicans have—for perhaps this as well as other reasons—and thus have resisted Trump’s redistricting stampede. Of course, in a polarized era, with constitutional norms being disregarded left and right, it might be quaint to think that a mere argument about the historical need for different systems of representation might actually change anyone’s mind, much less Senator Masterson’s. But one can always hope—as well as keep up the pressure into January.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750955074364.jpeg" alt="Russell Arben Fox&nbsp;teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Russell Arben Fox&nbsp;teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX Insight KansasWith&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-house-speaker-waves-white-flag-on-special-session-as-congresswoman-considers-senate-run/">the failure of the Republican leadership’s push to call a special redistricting session</a>, Kansas has now joined&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/28/the-republicans-thwarting-the-white-houses-redistricting-hopes-00625911">states like Indiana and New Hampshire</a>, where a critical number of Republican legislators were unmoved by Trump’s unprecedented demand that state parties redraw their congressional districts in the middle of the decade to make them more Republican-friendly.Why didn’t the Republican caucus in Topeka quickly acquiesce to the president’s insistence on creating a map that will supposedly increase the odds of the GOP maintaining control over the House of Representatives? There are many reasons, and the fact that the Republican leadership plans to try again during the regular session in January suggests that they think those reasons can be overcome, and votes will be there eventually.But one reason that may not go away is a pretty profound one—that the theory of representation employed as a justification for the redistricting push is, historically speaking, un-American.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson’s enthusiasm for redistricting was clear from the start.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-senate-secures-gop-petition-signatures-to-call-special-legislative-session/">He quickly rounded up sufficient votes for a special session from his Republican colleagues</a>, and talked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kake.com/home/redistricting-roadblock-kansas-state-rep-explains-refusal-to-sign-petition-for-special-session/article_4521cf93-8fda-4a12-80fb-9782e4612c7c.html">broadly about</a>&nbsp;how redistricting was essential to the success of Trump’s agenda. If Kansas couldn’t push through a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-11-04/many-johnson-county-residents-want-to-stay-unified-as-kansas-republicans-try-to-redistrict">highly unpopular division of Johnson County</a>, and thus hopefully make it harder for Representative Sharice Davids, the sole Democrat in the Kansas congressional delegation, to once again win re-election, then “all the good things we're doing will stop,” which means that it is “all hands on deck to try to keep the movement moving forward.”Note that the movement he mentions is centered in Washington DC—not Topeka. This means he understands representation as keyed to national ideological concerns, not to actual Kansas constituents. Masterson might disagree, insisting that,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://independentvoterproject.org/voter-stats/ks">as Republican voters in Kansas outnumber Democratic voters by almost two-to-one</a>, it’s fair to provide those constituents with, as he put it, “an aligned voice in DC.” But that puts the ideological cart before the Constitutional horse.To believe, like Masterson, that “all four of Kansas's U.S. House districts should basically represent the breakdown of Kansas,” is to privilege ideological representation over local needs. Yet that localism was key to the formation of the House of Representatives in the first place.Yes, more Kansans consider themselves conservative than liberal. But the Kansans that live in Johnson County aren’t the same as those that live in Masterson’s Butler County; in fact, given how often Davis has been re-elected, their ideological breakdown is likely the reverse of what is typical for the state overall. And part of the point of having a bicameral Congress was so House districts could enable different constituent-based representatives to bring forward entirely local concerns which the more deliberation-based Senate would have to balance out—and thus, through compromise, presumably achieve some kind of common good.Debates over forms representation aren’t new; they play out constantly, with real consequences. For example, changes in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-11-08/wichita-school-district-voters-opt-to-change-the-way-board-members-are-elected">the rules for school board elections in Wichita</a>, Kansas’s largest school district, empowered local voters over city-wide majorities, and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columnhttps:/www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article312783765.html">results were dramatic</a>.Typically, politicians pay close attention to such debates; thus far in Kansas, enough Republicans have—for perhaps this as well as other reasons—and thus have resisted Trump’s redistricting stampede. Of course, in a polarized era, with constitutional norms being disregarded left and right, it might be quaint to think that a mere argument about the historical need for different systems of representation might actually change anyone’s mind, much less Senator Masterson’s. But one can always hope—as well as keep up the pressure into January.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

Insight Kansas: Ty Masterson’s un-American (and, for now, failed) argument for redistricting

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762526742983.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>

Family Worship: Ten Words That Can Change Your Life - Exodus 20 1:11

Hospice at HaysMed is once again offering its Hospice Community Christmas Tree to remember those who have died and honor those who are still living.

The tree will be decorated with brass doves, each engraved with the name of the person being remembered or honored. The suggested donation is $20 per dove. The tree will be on display at HaysMed during the Christmas holiday season.

Checks made payable to Hospice at HaysMed, along with the name of the person being honored or remembered, may be sent to HaysMed Foundation, 2220 Canterbury Drive, Hays, KS 67601.

The Hays Med Hospice ornaments orders are due by Dec. 11.

“Donations enhance the resources available for education, support the volunteer and bereavement programs in their entirety, and cover patient-related expenses not paid for by insurance,” a news release said.

Hospice at HaysMed has been in existence for more than 30 years, “providing hope, comfort, and understanding for the terminally ill and their families,” the news release said. It provides services in Ellis, Russell, Rush, and Rooks counties.

More information is available at 785-623-6200 or 800-990-0731.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762279713063.jpeg" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>Hospice at HaysMed is once again offering its Hospice Community Christmas Tree to remember those who have died and honor those who are still living.The tree will be decorated with brass doves, each engraved with the name of the person being remembered or honored. The suggested donation is $20 per dove. The tree will be on display at HaysMed during the Christmas holiday season.Checks made payable to Hospice at HaysMed, along with the name of the person being honored or remembered, may be sent to HaysMed Foundation, 2220 Canterbury Drive, Hays, KS 67601.The Hays Med Hospice ornaments orders are due by Dec. 11.“Donations enhance the resources available for education, support the volunteer and bereavement programs in their entirety, and cover patient-related expenses not paid for by insurance,” a news release said.Hospice at HaysMed has been in existence for more than 30 years, “providing hope, comfort, and understanding for the terminally ill and their families,” the news release said. It provides services in Ellis, Russell, Rush, and Rooks counties.More information is available at 785-623-6200 or 800-990-0731.

Hospice taking orders for Christmas tree ornaments

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation has extended the closure of a portion of U.S. 281 in northern Osborne County.

The highway has been closed for reconstruction since late March and was originally scheduled to reopen by the end of November; however, construction setbacks have delayed progress. KDOT now anticipates reopening the route by the end of December, with the revised schedule dependent on weather and construction conditions.

U.S. 281 remains closed from the north U.S. 24 junction to the south city limits of Portis. Motorists should continue following the signed detour on U.S. 281, U.S. 36, K-181 and U.S. 24.

For more information, please contact District Construction Engineer Jim Riener at 785-302-6204 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.riener@ks.gov">jim.riener@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739902891919.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation has extended the closure of a portion of U.S. 281 in northern Osborne County.The highway has been closed for reconstruction since late March and was originally scheduled to reopen by the end of November; however, construction setbacks have delayed progress. KDOT now anticipates reopening the route by the end of December, with the revised schedule dependent on weather and construction conditions.U.S. 281 remains closed from the north U.S. 24 junction to the south city limits of Portis. Motorists should continue following the signed detour on U.S. 281, U.S. 36, K-181 and U.S. 24.For more information, please contact District Construction Engineer Jim Riener at 785-302-6204 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.riener@ks.gov">jim.riener@ks.gov</a>.

U.S. 281 reopening in Osborne County delayed

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Fall is a wonderful season for agriculture and a time to, hopefully, reap the bounty of the year’s production.&nbsp; If producers have access to crop residue fields following grain harvest, then preparing to turn cattle out to graze such acres is one task that deserves to be near the top of the priority list.&nbsp; Grain sorghum represents an excellent opportunity to extend the grazing season.&nbsp; However, there are several important management considerations that need to be kept in mind with grazing sorghum residue.

Understandably, the absence of fences and water sources is one of the biggest limitations for residue grazing.&nbsp; Many acres are grown in rain-fed systems in which sourcing water from an irrigation well is not possible. Likewise, hauling water long distances is usually not practical.&nbsp; However, if water can be supplied and temporary fences put up, then grazing sorghum residues is usually economical.&nbsp; A single strand of electric fence can work quite well for keeping cows contained, while 2 or more strands may be needed for small calves.

Unlike actively growing forages, both the quantity and quality of residue available for grazing will be highest immediately following harvest and will steadily decline over time due to weathering, trampling, and consumption by cattle. Regarding forage quantity, field data indicate about 2.5 to 3.0 tons of residue per acre on average is produced following harvest.&nbsp; If accounting for 50% of the total residue on the field as available for grazing and of that amount 50% was utilized, then one acre would supply enough forage for one gestating cow for approximately 50 to 60 days.

High amounts of grain on the surface of the field pose a risk of acidosis, particularly for animals with experience grazing residue fields. Cattle selectively graze and will seek out and consume any grain present first.&nbsp; The degree to which grain in the field poses a risk is dependent on many factors, but levels greater than 10 to 15 bushels per acre generally require additional caution.&nbsp; Avoiding turning hungry animals directly on to fields by filling them up on forage, strip grazing to reduce the amount grain available per animal, supplementing low amounts of grain initially before turning them out, and feeding sodium bicarbonate as a rumen buffer are all strategies that may be used to decrease risk of acidosis.

Nitrate and prussic acid toxicity are both conditions that increase in prevalence due to plant stress and cause asphyxiation in the animal, yet are distinctly independent from each other.&nbsp; Nitrates accumulate in the base of the stalk or stem, and while issues associated with nitrate toxicity are generally less common in grazing situations as compared to when cattle are fed a diet, for this reason it is critical to manage stocking rate so that cattle are not forced to consume the lower 1/3rd&nbsp;of the stalk or stem.&nbsp; Prussic acid can occur in plant species within the broader sorghum family, and primarily accumulates in young, rapidly growing plant tissue.&nbsp; Therefore, avoiding grazing sorghum residue around a frost event and for the first 7 days following a killing freeze is a sound practice. Just as with harvested forages, representative samples of standing forage can be collected for analysis of nitrate and prussic acid to determine risk levels and guide management decisions.

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

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682229509.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictFall is a wonderful season for agriculture and a time to, hopefully, reap the bounty of the year’s production.&nbsp; If producers have access to crop residue fields following grain harvest, then preparing to turn cattle out to graze such acres is one task that deserves to be near the top of the priority list.&nbsp; Grain sorghum represents an excellent opportunity to extend the grazing season.&nbsp; However, there are several important management considerations that need to be kept in mind with grazing sorghum residue.Understandably, the absence of fences and water sources is one of the biggest limitations for residue grazing.&nbsp; Many acres are grown in rain-fed systems in which sourcing water from an irrigation well is not possible. Likewise, hauling water long distances is usually not practical.&nbsp; However, if water can be supplied and temporary fences put up, then grazing sorghum residues is usually economical.&nbsp; A single strand of electric fence can work quite well for keeping cows contained, while 2 or more strands may be needed for small calves.Unlike actively growing forages, both the quantity and quality of residue available for grazing will be highest immediately following harvest and will steadily decline over time due to weathering, trampling, and consumption by cattle. Regarding forage quantity, field data indicate about 2.5 to 3.0 tons of residue per acre on average is produced following harvest.&nbsp; If accounting for 50% of the total residue on the field as available for grazing and of that amount 50% was utilized, then one acre would supply enough forage for one gestating cow for approximately 50 to 60 days.High amounts of grain on the surface of the field pose a risk of acidosis, particularly for animals with experience grazing residue fields. Cattle selectively graze and will seek out and consume any grain present first.&nbsp; The degree to which grain in the field poses a risk is dependent on many factors, but levels greater than 10 to 15 bushels per acre generally require additional caution.&nbsp; Avoiding turning hungry animals directly on to fields by filling them up on forage, strip grazing to reduce the amount grain available per animal, supplementing low amounts of grain initially before turning them out, and feeding sodium bicarbonate as a rumen buffer are all strategies that may be used to decrease risk of acidosis.Nitrate and prussic acid toxicity are both conditions that increase in prevalence due to plant stress and cause asphyxiation in the animal, yet are distinctly independent from each other.&nbsp; Nitrates accumulate in the base of the stalk or stem, and while issues associated with nitrate toxicity are generally less common in grazing situations as compared to when cattle are fed a diet, for this reason it is critical to manage stocking rate so that cattle are not forced to consume the lower 1/3rd&nbsp;of the stalk or stem.&nbsp; Prussic acid can occur in plant species within the broader sorghum family, and primarily accumulates in young, rapidly growing plant tissue.&nbsp; Therefore, avoiding grazing sorghum residue around a frost event and for the first 7 days following a killing freeze is a sound practice. Just as with harvested forages, representative samples of standing forage can be collected for analysis of nitrate and prussic acid to determine risk levels and guide management decisions.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Grazing sorgum residues

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Agiliti expansion and other city incentive requests on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=fisfa-19b7e93-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300%22 loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Agiliti expansion and other city incentive requests on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.Please submit your questions for Doug for future interviews to&nbsp;hayspost@eaglemedia.com.

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays on Agiliti expansion in Hays

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Several projects that would create more jobs in Hays and advance business and housing developments were reviewed by city commissioners on Thursday.

The requests were moved on to next week's meeting for a final vote.

A proposed expansion project by Agiliti Hays would add 140 new employees to its workforce of 91. The medical equipment manufacturer leases its facility at 500 Commerce Parkway and wants to&nbsp;buy, renovate and expand the buildings, which formerly housed Sizewise.&nbsp;

The developer is requesting industrial revenue bonds be issued, using the city as a conduit, to benefit the $6.55-million project.&nbsp;

The bonds would allow the developer to obtain a sales tax exemption for all purchases related to construction and a real property tax abatement for the project for up to 10 years.

Industrial revenue bonds issuances do not count against the city’s debt limit or rating and do not require taxpayer commitment.

24-7 Travel Plaza and Convenience Store

Triplett, Salina, developer of a new 24/7 Travel Store plaza to be built just north of Interstate 70, Exit 157, is also requesting the issuance of industrial revenue bonds. The city commission has already created a tax increment financing district on the property.&nbsp;The developer will also request a community improvement district from the city in the future.

The 9,000-square-foot travel plaza and convenience store would include gas and diesel fuel, electric vehicle charging stations, a dog park, RV overnight camp sites and some food service.

Ted Augustine, president of 24/7 Travel Stores, told commissioners it has been difficult to secure a full-service restaurant for the plaza, and project development will continue as the search for a restaurant continues.

"We do plan to proceed without one," Augustine said. "It's been a challenge to encourage a franchisee to join us out there. We do plan to provide some quick-service food in there."

The industrial revenue bonds are estimated to provide a benefit valued at $125,687. The project cost is about $11.1 million, with estimated annual retail sales of $5 million and fuel sales of $20 million.&nbsp;

Audience member David Koshiol, who made an unsuccessful run for the Hays City Commission, asked commissioners if it was always necessary for the city to offer economic incentives to development investors.

"We're the middle grounds between Kansas City and Denver. People are going to come here to invest in Hays," Koshiol said. "I think they'd still be willing to come and invest in Hays because they're still going to make more than they invest."

Newly re-elected commissioner Shaun Musil said when he first started 12 years ago, the city gave out no incentives and wasn't growing.

"The last five or six years we've been giving out more than we ever have, and we've seen a lot of growth.&nbsp; ... It's just the way people are doing business now," Musil said.

"...I hate giving out incentives," he said, "but if we bring more people to this town, more people stopping in Hays, I think it's worth it."

Commissioner Alaina Cunningham said she agreed with Koshiol that Hays is a desirable location, "but in conversations I've had with developers, without incentives, we just can't get anyone here."

Former Lincoln Elementary School renovation

Hays developer Michael Graham is seeking a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District to renovate the former Lincoln Elementary School building, 1906 Ash, into a 26-unit multi-family housing facility and to construct seven additional structures on the property, each with four units.

Graham is requesting the district finance the project on a pay-as-you-go basis over 25 years, estimated to generate $1.3 million in incremental property tax revenues collected on the project site. Eligible project costs are estimated to be about $4.3 million.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs said she is excited about the housing project, especially because it is considered infill.

"No additional infrastructure needed. Everything is there, ready to go," she said. "It's also walkable to so many places."

The city is working with Grow Hays and the Heart of America to develop 101 lots in the Tallgrass Phase 4 housing development in east Hays, which requires the installation of gas and electric utilities.

The city earlier agreed to finance infrastructure costs. 

Midwest Energy requires prepayment for contracts related to electric and gas installations, estimated at $797,457. If the proposed agreement is approved, Midwest Energy will be paid from the temporary notes, which will cover all other infrastructure costs associated with the development. Reinvestment Housing Incentive District revenues would ultimately pay those costs.

The Kansas Department of Transportation solicited proposals for Hays' north multi-use path from 41st and Hall east to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp;

It will eventually connect with the HaysMed/Grove path, which is currently under construction, and the 22nd Street path.

The low bid came from Morgan Brothers of La Crosse for $1.6 million.

If approved, the city will pay $387,000, and KDOT will pay the remaining $1.2 million.

The city received a 2026 renewal proposal for employees' health insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield, which would result in a 12.8% increase in premiums.

Market bids from two other companies were significantly higher, according to Erin Giebler, human resources director. 

She told commissioners a significant portion of the premium increase is due to employee utilization, while the remainder can be attributed to market inflation.

"This is a high amount for the city but still well below the average," Giebler said. "We're still getting good rates from Blue Cross Blue Shield."

The recommended 2026 renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of&nbsp;Kansas would provide employees with a triple-option health insurance, not to exceed&nbsp;$2,013,000. It would be funded out of the Employee Benefit Levy Fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762536301572.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners during the Nov. 6 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners during the Nov. 6 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSeveral projects that would create more jobs in Hays and advance business and housing developments were reviewed by city commissioners on Thursday.The requests were moved on to next week's meeting for a final vote.Agiliti HaysA proposed expansion project by Agiliti Hays would add 140 new employees to its workforce of 91. The medical equipment manufacturer leases its facility at 500 Commerce Parkway and wants to&nbsp;buy, renovate and expand the buildings, which formerly housed Sizewise.&nbsp;The developer is requesting industrial revenue bonds be issued, using the city as a conduit, to benefit the $6.55-million project.&nbsp;The bonds would allow the developer to obtain a sales tax exemption for all purchases related to construction and a real property tax abatement for the project for up to 10 years.Industrial revenue bonds issuances do not count against the city’s debt limit or rating and do not require taxpayer commitment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762532255941.png" alt="Site of planned 24/7 Travel Store in Hays at&nbsp;the southeast corner of 230th Avenue and 55th Street. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>Site of planned 24/7 Travel Store in Hays at&nbsp;the southeast corner of 230th Avenue and 55th Street. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>24-7 Travel Plaza and Convenience StoreTriplett, Salina, developer of a new 24/7 Travel Store plaza to be built just north of Interstate 70, Exit 157, is also requesting the issuance of industrial revenue bonds. The city commission has already created a tax increment financing district on the property.&nbsp;The developer will also request a community improvement district from the city in the future.The 9,000-square-foot travel plaza and convenience store would include gas and diesel fuel, electric vehicle charging stations, a dog park, RV overnight camp sites and some food service.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762531071745.jpeg" alt="24/7 Travel Stores President Ted Augustine gave an update Nov. 6 to the Hays City Commission about plans for the new 24/7 Travel Store truck stop and convenience store at Interstate 70, Exit 157. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>24/7 Travel Stores President Ted Augustine gave an update Nov. 6 to the Hays City Commission about plans for the new 24/7 Travel Store truck stop and convenience store at Interstate 70, Exit 157. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Ted Augustine, president of 24/7 Travel Stores, told commissioners it has been difficult to secure a full-service restaurant for the plaza, and project development will continue as the search for a restaurant continues."We do plan to proceed without one," Augustine said. "It's been a challenge to encourage a franchisee to join us out there. We do plan to provide some quick-service food in there."The industrial revenue bonds are estimated to provide a benefit valued at $125,687. The project cost is about $11.1 million, with estimated annual retail sales of $5 million and fuel sales of $20 million.&nbsp;Audience member David Koshiol, who made an unsuccessful run for the Hays City Commission, asked commissioners if it was always necessary for the city to offer economic incentives to development investors."We're the middle grounds between Kansas City and Denver. People are going to come here to invest in Hays," Koshiol said. "I think they'd still be willing to come and invest in Hays because they're still going to make more than they invest."Newly re-elected commissioner Shaun Musil said when he first started 12 years ago, the city gave out no incentives and wasn't growing."The last five or six years we've been giving out more than we ever have, and we've seen a lot of growth.&nbsp; ... It's just the way people are doing business now," Musil said."...I hate giving out incentives," he said, "but if we bring more people to this town, more people stopping in Hays, I think it's worth it."Commissioner Alaina Cunningham said she agreed with Koshiol that Hays is a desirable location, "but in conversations I've had with developers, without incentives, we just can't get anyone here."Former Lincoln Elementary School renovationHays developer Michael Graham is seeking a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District to renovate the former Lincoln Elementary School building, 1906 Ash, into a 26-unit multi-family housing facility and to construct seven additional structures on the property, each with four units.Graham is requesting the district finance the project on a pay-as-you-go basis over 25 years, estimated to generate $1.3 million in incremental property tax revenues collected on the project site. Eligible project costs are estimated to be about $4.3 million.Mayor Sandy Jacobs said she is excited about the housing project, especially because it is considered infill."No additional infrastructure needed. Everything is there, ready to go," she said. "It's also walkable to so many places."Tallgrass Phase 4 utilities&nbsp;The city is working with Grow Hays and the Heart of America to develop 101 lots in the Tallgrass Phase 4 housing development in east Hays, which requires the installation of gas and electric utilities.The city earlier agreed to finance infrastructure costs. Midwest Energy requires prepayment for contracts related to electric and gas installations, estimated at $797,457. If the proposed agreement is approved, Midwest Energy will be paid from the temporary notes, which will cover all other infrastructure costs associated with the development. Reinvestment Housing Incentive District revenues would ultimately pay those costs.North side multi-use pathThe Kansas Department of Transportation solicited proposals for Hays' north multi-use path from 41st and Hall east to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp;It will eventually connect with the HaysMed/Grove path, which is currently under construction, and the 22nd Street path.The low bid came from Morgan Brothers of La Crosse for $1.6 million.If approved, the city will pay $387,000, and KDOT will pay the remaining $1.2 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762534296672.jpeg" alt="Erin Giebler, director of human resources, said the 12.8% premium increase for employees health insurance is mostly due to the cost of doing business. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Erin Giebler, director of human resources, said the 12.8% premium increase for employees health insurance is mostly due to the cost of doing business. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City employee health insuranceThe city received a 2026 renewal proposal for employees' health insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield, which would result in a 12.8% increase in premiums.Market bids from two other companies were significantly higher, according to Erin Giebler, human resources director. She told commissioners a significant portion of the premium increase is due to employee utilization, while the remainder can be attributed to market inflation."This is a high amount for the city but still well below the average," Giebler said. "We're still getting good rates from Blue Cross Blue Shield."The recommended 2026 renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of&nbsp;Kansas would provide employees with a triple-option health insurance, not to exceed&nbsp;$2,013,000. It would be funded out of the Employee Benefit Levy Fund.

Hays City Commission says Incentives necessary as plans for business, housing move forward

HaysMed is pleased to welcome Dr. Derek Peckham, DO, a board-certified physician, to its Emergency Department team.

Dr. Peckham brings a strong educational and professional background to his role. He completed his residency at Lincoln Family Medicine Center and earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from A.T. Still University. He also holds an undergraduate degree from Fort Hays State University in Hays.

Dr. Peckham’s connection to HaysMed began early in his career, having worked as a phlebotomist from 2016 to 2018. His return to HaysMed as an emergency physician reflects his continued commitment to serving the Hays community with excellence in patient care.

He joins a highly skilled team in HaysMed’s 13-bed Emergency Department, which is fully staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced physicians, nurses, and emergency care professionals dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care.

Dr. Peckham’s addition strengthens an already exceptional team, and HaysMed is proud to have him back as part of its mission to deliver expert emergency care to the community and region.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762525566772.jpeg" alt="Derek Peckham, DO. Photo courtesy Hays Med" />
 <figcaption>Derek Peckham, DO. Photo courtesy Hays Med</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed is pleased to welcome Dr. Derek Peckham, DO, a board-certified physician, to its Emergency Department team.Dr. Peckham brings a strong educational and professional background to his role. He completed his residency at Lincoln Family Medicine Center and earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from A.T. Still University. He also holds an undergraduate degree from Fort Hays State University in Hays.Dr. Peckham’s connection to HaysMed began early in his career, having worked as a phlebotomist from 2016 to 2018. His return to HaysMed as an emergency physician reflects his continued commitment to serving the Hays community with excellence in patient care.He joins a highly skilled team in HaysMed’s 13-bed Emergency Department, which is fully staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced physicians, nurses, and emergency care professionals dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care.Dr. Peckham’s addition strengthens an already exceptional team, and HaysMed is proud to have him back as part of its mission to deliver expert emergency care to the community and region.

HaysMed welcomes doctor to Emergency Department

The Community Engaged Art Program at Fort Hays State University is hosting a food drive to benefit the clients of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) and other community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Amy Schmierbach, one of the event’s organizers, said in a news release, that for many people with disabilities, typical “food drive” items are difficult to open and use.

“Lack of developed motor skills, such as an inability to use a can opener; cognitive issues with understanding complex instructions following a recipe; or dependency on others to cook for them are just some of the barriers to accessible food for people with disabilities, especially those who live independently,” she said.

“Donating items with simple packaging or taking an extra step to prepare items in ways that eliminate difficult-to-open containers, such as removing items from boxes and placing them in easy-to-access containers, helps individual living with disabilities have accessible food.”

Schmierbach, professor of art, has prepared a list of suggested items that are more accessible for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Donors are asked to drop off the following specified, non-perishable food items on campus at the Center for Art building at the Atrium drop-off box or at DSNWK’s Custom Creations, 1107 Main St.:

Yogurt cups and other single-serving dairy products, such as pudding cups; canned fruits and vegetables with&nbsp;pop-top lids;&nbsp;instant oatmeal or cream of wheat;&nbsp;applesauce cups or pouches&nbsp;; non-perishable, non-frozen, microwavable meals&nbsp;(Easy Mac, Chef Boyardee, Minute Rice); meat and cheese snack packs; fruit cups and Jell-O; granola bars and trail mix; instant mashed potatoes; and microwave popcorn.

Schmierbach said if people are unsure if an item qualifies as “accessible” for someone with a disability, they can ask themselves these four questions:

Can it be stored outside of refrigeration?&nbsp;Is it easy to open? Is it shelf-stable? Does it require fewer than two or three steps to prepare?

If the answer to all four questions is “yes,” then the item is “accessible,” she said.

Steve Keil, communications officer for DSNWK, said the food drive is coming at a good time to help those DSNWK clients who rely on SNAP benefits.

“DSNWK would like to thank FHSU for coordinating this food drive for the people we serve and supporting them with food items during these uncertain times.&nbsp;DSNWK serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from the SNAP program. We hope that the SNAP benefit issues at the federal level will resolve soon,&nbsp;and there appears to be some relief coming.&nbsp;

“It means a great deal to us that others are thinking of their neighbors with disabilities, those we serve, in this outreach.&nbsp; All donations received from this generous food drive will go directly to those served by DSNWK in its Supported Living program and group residential living sites,” Keil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those who wish to make a financial donation may drop off a check at Custom Creations made out to DSNWK with the subject line: food drive. The drive will continue through 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761572821862.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Community Engaged Art Program at Fort Hays State University is hosting a food drive to benefit the clients of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) and other community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities.Amy Schmierbach, one of the event’s organizers, said in a news release, that for many people with disabilities, typical “food drive” items are difficult to open and use.“Lack of developed motor skills, such as an inability to use a can opener; cognitive issues with understanding complex instructions following a recipe; or dependency on others to cook for them are just some of the barriers to accessible food for people with disabilities, especially those who live independently,” she said.“Donating items with simple packaging or taking an extra step to prepare items in ways that eliminate difficult-to-open containers, such as removing items from boxes and placing them in easy-to-access containers, helps individual living with disabilities have accessible food.”Schmierbach, professor of art, has prepared a list of suggested items that are more accessible for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Donors are asked to drop off the following specified, non-perishable food items on campus at the Center for Art building at the Atrium drop-off box or at DSNWK’s Custom Creations, 1107 Main St.:Yogurt cups and other single-serving dairy products, such as pudding cups; canned fruits and vegetables with&nbsp;pop-top lids;&nbsp;instant oatmeal or cream of wheat;&nbsp;applesauce cups or pouches&nbsp;; non-perishable, non-frozen, microwavable meals&nbsp;(Easy Mac, Chef Boyardee, Minute Rice); meat and cheese snack packs; fruit cups and Jell-O; granola bars and trail mix; instant mashed potatoes; and microwave popcorn.Schmierbach said if people are unsure if an item qualifies as “accessible” for someone with a disability, they can ask themselves these four questions:Can it be stored outside of refrigeration?&nbsp;Is it easy to open? Is it shelf-stable? Does it require fewer than two or three steps to prepare?If the answer to all four questions is “yes,” then the item is “accessible,” she said.Steve Keil, communications officer for DSNWK, said the food drive is coming at a good time to help those DSNWK clients who rely on SNAP benefits.“DSNWK would like to thank FHSU for coordinating this food drive for the people we serve and supporting them with food items during these uncertain times.&nbsp;DSNWK serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from the SNAP program. We hope that the SNAP benefit issues at the federal level will resolve soon,&nbsp;and there appears to be some relief coming.&nbsp;“It means a great deal to us that others are thinking of their neighbors with disabilities, those we serve, in this outreach.&nbsp; All donations received from this generous food drive will go directly to those served by DSNWK in its Supported Living program and group residential living sites,” Keil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those who wish to make a financial donation may drop off a check at Custom Creations made out to DSNWK with the subject line: food drive. The drive will continue through 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17.

FHSU food drive to make donated food accessible for people with disabilities

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

With over 80 years of experience serving producers, the Kansas Farm Management Association (KFMA) maintains a long-term commitment to Kansas agriculture, by building strong relationships with ag producers. 

Twenty-four KFMA economists, strategically located around the state who are part of the Department of K-State Agricultural Economics, comprise the professional staff of the KFMA program. The economists/fieldmen work cooperatively with farm families to provide members with production and financial management information for use in decision making.

The primary goal of the KFMA program is to provide each member with information that can be used to help make farm and family decisions. KFMA Economists assist producers by providing the following information and services:

If you would like further information about becoming a member of KFMA visit <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma">https://www.agmanager.info/kfma</a> or contact Mark Dikeman, KFMA Director at 785-532-0516, dikemanm@ksu.edu or you can contact your local county or district Extension office and they can put you in contact too with KFMA.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762280893453.jpeg" alt="Kansas Farm Management Association&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Farm Management Association&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWith over 80 years of experience serving producers, the Kansas Farm Management Association (KFMA) maintains a long-term commitment to Kansas agriculture, by building strong relationships with ag producers. Twenty-four KFMA economists, strategically located around the state who are part of the Department of K-State Agricultural Economics, comprise the professional staff of the KFMA program. The economists/fieldmen work cooperatively with farm families to provide members with production and financial management information for use in decision making.The primary goal of the KFMA program is to provide each member with information that can be used to help make farm and family decisions. KFMA Economists assist producers by providing the following information and services:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762280704581.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>If you would like further information about becoming a member of KFMA visit <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma">https://www.agmanager.info/kfma</a> or contact Mark Dikeman, KFMA Director at 785-532-0516, dikemanm@ksu.edu or you can contact your local county or district Extension office and they can put you in contact too with KFMA.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

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