By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

The Environmental Protection Agency has required each state to update their certification and training plans, which outline private and commercial pesticide certification in Kansas for agricultural producers.

Starting January 1, 2025 there will be three options for applicators to receive certification. These include:

· Closed-book examination (We will still offer this option at the Extension Office)

· Attend an in-person training to obtain certification

· Complete an online training that will be released

The new options to be able to get a private pesticide certification will also be the same for a producer to recertify.

Farmers &amp; ranchers--if you need to get your private applicator license, DO NOT DELAY and get to your local County of District Extension Office before the Christmas Holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Environmental Protection Agency has required each state to update their certification and training plans, which outline private and commercial pesticide certification in Kansas for agricultural producers.Starting January 1, 2025 there will be three options for applicators to receive certification. These include:· Closed-book examination (We will still offer this option at the Extension Office)· Attend an in-person training to obtain certification· Complete an online training that will be releasedThe new options to be able to get a private pesticide certification will also be the same for a producer to recertify.Farmers &amp; ranchers--if you need to get your private applicator license, DO NOT DELAY and get to your local County of District Extension Office before the Christmas Holiday.

CAMPBELL: Private pesticide applicator licensing, recertification changes announced

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734114058653.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

TMP-Marian&nbsp;at Hill City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hill City, Kan. - Hill City High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1839530">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin Mid-Continent League play Friday night on the road at Hill City.

The Monarchs are coming off a seventh-place girls and an eighth-place boys finish at the Hays City Shootout on Saturday.

Tipoff of the girl's game is set for 6&nbsp;p.m. from Hill City on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian&nbsp;at Hill City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hill City, Kan. - Hill City High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1839530">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin Mid-Continent League play Friday night on the road at Hill City.The Monarchs are coming off a seventh-place girls and an eighth-place boys finish at the Hays City Shootout on Saturday.Tipoff of the girl's game is set for 6&nbsp;p.m. from Hill City on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP travels to Hill City for MCL opener

Hays High vs Junction City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772600"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

&nbsp;The Hays High Indians are at home tonight to take on the Junction City Bluejays.

The 8th-ranked girls are 4-0, and the boys are 3-1 after their wins at Liberal on Tuesday.

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6 p.m., and the boys' game will follow on the Indians Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Junction City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772600"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>&nbsp;The Hays High Indians are at home tonight to take on the Junction City Bluejays.The 8th-ranked girls are 4-0, and the boys are 3-1 after their wins at Liberal on Tuesday.Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6 p.m., and the boys' game will follow on the Indians Sports Network.

🏀🎥 Hays High hosts Junction City

This week's prize was courtesy of sponsor Dr. Melinda Miner - The Dentist in Hays.

Listen to KAYS, 94.3 FM, between 7 a.m. and midnight Mondays through Thursdays for the codeword of the day. Enter the codeword on the Hays Post, and you'll have a chance to win!

The contest runs through&nbsp;through Dec. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734118129833.jpeg" alt="Eagle Radio programmers Jeff Leiker, left, and Theresa Trapp, Rrght, award Kerri Lacy of Hays, center , the week five Reindeer Radio prize. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Radio programmers Jeff Leiker, left, and Theresa Trapp, Rrght, award Kerri Lacy of Hays, center , the week five Reindeer Radio prize. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>This week's prize was courtesy of sponsor Dr. Melinda Miner - The Dentist in Hays.Listen to KAYS, 94.3 FM, between 7 a.m. and midnight Mondays through Thursdays for the codeword of the day. Enter the codeword on the Hays Post, and you'll have a chance to win!The contest runs through&nbsp;through Dec. 20.

Reindeer Radio week 5 winner announced

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;988 Suicide Helpline chief officer Tia Dole.

The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call or text 988 or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://988lifeline.org/">988lifeline.org</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.crisistextline.org/">Crisis Text Line</a>&nbsp;is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HOME to 741741. It is free, available 24/7 and confidential.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HdkVjfSrKxI?si=KsRD_lNpyox17HNN" 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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;988 Suicide Helpline chief officer Tia Dole.The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call or text 988 or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://988lifeline.org/">988lifeline.org</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.crisistextline.org/">Crisis Text Line</a>&nbsp;is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HOME to 741741. It is free, available 24/7 and confidential.

🎤Forward Ever: 988 Suicide Helpline chief officer Tia Dole

Ellis County
Sheriff Scott J. Braun is pleased to announce the promotion of Tim
Deines to Undersheriff, Garrett
Brening to Patrol Lieutenant, Braden Parke to Patrol Sergeant,
and Trevor Dinkel to Patrol
Sergeant. 

These promotions recognize their dedication,
hard work, and commitment to serving our community with integrity and
professionalism.

Undersheriff Tim Deines began his
career with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office in 1998 when he was hired to work
as a full-time jailer. In 2000, he
was promoted to Deputy I, attending and graduating from the Kansas Law
Enforcement Basic Training Academy in December of 2000 as a member of the 162nd
Basic Class. He was promoted to
Deputy II in 2009 and then Patrol Sergeant in 2017, where he served in that
role until 2020. In 2020, he was
promoted to Detention Lieutenant and oversaw the day-to-day operations. Later, in 2020, the positions of Patrol
Lieutenant and Jail Lieutenant were combined under the supervision of Deines. He continued in that role until 2023, when
the two positions were again
split; he stayed as the Patrol Lieutenant. Over the years, he has taken on several extra roles within the office, including Firearms
Instructor, Taser Instructor, CIT Certified, and is currently on the CIT
Council. He also served in various
other roles within the Sheriff’s Office.

Lieutenant Garrett Brening graduated from
Hays High School in 1999 and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
from Fort Hays State University in 2004.
In 2003, he began his career as a
reserve Detention Officer with the Ellis County
Sheriff's Office before
being hired full-time as a Detention Officer in 2004.
He was promoted to a Deputy and assigned to Court House in
2006, followed by his appointment as a road Deputy in 2007. During this time,
he successfully graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Academy as a
member of the 200th Basic Class. In 2016, he was assigned to the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit. In 2017, he
was promoted to Patrol Sergeant. In 2024,
he completed the Certified Public Manager
program through the University of Kansas, further
enhancing his professional development.

Sergeant Braden Parke graduated from
Ellis High School in 2014 and earned an associate's degree in criminal justice
from Hutchinson Community College in 2016. In December 2016, he began his
career with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, working in the Detention
Division. In September 2020, he was promoted to Patrol Deputy, graduating from
the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center as a member of the 273rd Basic
Training Class in February 2021. He completed
the KLETC Field
Training Officer course
in January 2024 and the KU Extended
Supervisory Leadership Training in late 2024.

Sergeant
Trevor Dinkel graduated from
Victoria High School in 2007 and
began his career as a Detention
Officer with the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office in February 2009. He
worked there until May of 2010 when he was hired by Russell County SO as a
Jailer. One year later, in May 2011, he was promoted to Deputy. In 2017, he was
given the position of detective. While working for Russell County Sheriff’s Office,
he was assigned to the Special Operations Group (Tactical Team). He also became a D.A.R.E. instructor. While he
was employed full-time
with Russell SO, he worked part- time for Russell Police
Department for two years
as a
patrolman and worked
two years for Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism as a Seasonal Park Ranger
(law enforcement). Ellis County Sheriff's
Office hired him in March of 2021 as a Jail Deputy.
He was reassigned to patrol
four months later, in July 2021. He completed the KLETC Field Training Officer
course in January 2024 and the KU Extended Supervisory Leadership Training in
late 2024.

Sheriff
Scott J. Braun stated, “We are proud
to promote these outstanding individuals who exemplify our office's
values and mission. Their leadership and commitment to public service
set a strong example for all
our team members and the community we serve.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614390375120.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedEllis County
Sheriff Scott J. Braun is pleased to announce the promotion of Tim
Deines to Undersheriff, Garrett
Brening to Patrol Lieutenant, Braden Parke to Patrol Sergeant,
and Trevor Dinkel to Patrol
Sergeant. These promotions recognize their dedication,
hard work, and commitment to serving our community with integrity and
professionalism.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734044802855.jpeg" alt="Undersheriff Tim Deines (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Undersheriff Tim Deines (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Undersheriff Tim Deines began his
career with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office in 1998 when he was hired to work
as a full-time jailer. In 2000, he
was promoted to Deputy I, attending and graduating from the Kansas Law
Enforcement Basic Training Academy in December of 2000 as a member of the 162nd
Basic Class. He was promoted to
Deputy II in 2009 and then Patrol Sergeant in 2017, where he served in that
role until 2020. In 2020, he was
promoted to Detention Lieutenant and oversaw the day-to-day operations. Later, in 2020, the positions of Patrol
Lieutenant and Jail Lieutenant were combined under the supervision of Deines. He continued in that role until 2023, when
the two positions were again
split; he stayed as the Patrol Lieutenant. Over the years, he has taken on several extra roles within the office, including Firearms
Instructor, Taser Instructor, CIT Certified, and is currently on the CIT
Council. He also served in various
other roles within the Sheriff’s Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734044836994.jpeg" alt="Lieutenant Garrett Brening&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Lieutenant Garrett Brening&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Lieutenant Garrett Brening graduated from
Hays High School in 1999 and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
from Fort Hays State University in 2004.
In 2003, he began his career as a
reserve Detention Officer with the Ellis County
Sheriff's Office before
being hired full-time as a Detention Officer in 2004.
He was promoted to a Deputy and assigned to Court House in
2006, followed by his appointment as a road Deputy in 2007. During this time,
he successfully graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Academy as a
member of the 200th Basic Class. In 2016, he was assigned to the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit. In 2017, he
was promoted to Patrol Sergeant. In 2024,
he completed the Certified Public Manager
program through the University of Kansas, further
enhancing his professional development.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734044882928.jpeg" alt="Sergeant Braden Parke (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Braden Parke (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sergeant Braden Parke graduated from
Ellis High School in 2014 and earned an associate's degree in criminal justice
from Hutchinson Community College in 2016. In December 2016, he began his
career with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, working in the Detention
Division. In September 2020, he was promoted to Patrol Deputy, graduating from
the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center as a member of the 273rd Basic
Training Class in February 2021. He completed
the KLETC Field
Training Officer course
in January 2024 and the KU Extended
Supervisory Leadership Training in late 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734099487590.jpeg" alt="Sergeant Trevor Dinkel&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Trevor Dinkel&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sergeant
Trevor Dinkel graduated from
Victoria High School in 2007 and
began his career as a Detention
Officer with the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office in February 2009. He
worked there until May of 2010 when he was hired by Russell County SO as a
Jailer. One year later, in May 2011, he was promoted to Deputy. In 2017, he was
given the position of detective. While working for Russell County Sheriff’s Office,
he was assigned to the Special Operations Group (Tactical Team). He also became a D.A.R.E. instructor. While he
was employed full-time
with Russell SO, he worked part- time for Russell Police
Department for two years
as a
patrolman and worked
two years for Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism as a Seasonal Park Ranger
(law enforcement). Ellis County Sheriff's
Office hired him in March of 2021 as a Jail Deputy.
He was reassigned to patrol
four months later, in July 2021. He completed the KLETC Field Training Officer
course in January 2024 and the KU Extended Supervisory Leadership Training in
late 2024.Sheriff
Scott J. Braun stated, “We are proud
to promote these outstanding individuals who exemplify our office's
values and mission. Their leadership and commitment to public service
set a strong example for all
our team members and the community we serve.”

Ellis Co. Sheriff announces new Undersheriff, promotions

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Recreation Commission's routine annual report to city commissioners on Dec. 5 turned into a 30-minute discussion about the long-term future of the two municipal swimming pools and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

Roger Bixenman, recreation superintendent, and Jeff Boyle, Hays parks director, presented the 2024 operations and financial review to the city commission at its work session. Recreation commission board members were present in the audience.&nbsp;

The city and the recreation commission will split the operating loss of $50,895 for the Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool. Under a long-standing agreement, the city will reimburse the recreation commission half of the loss, or&nbsp;$25,447.

The year-to-date pool expenses for the city, including the requested reimbursement, are $178,054.&nbsp;

Boyle showed a history of attendance at the aquatic park.&nbsp;

Although the total in 2024 was the highest since 2019, the numbers have slowly decreased since the pool opened in 2000.&nbsp;

The Hays Aquatic Park had the most visitors in 2001, the second year of its operation, with almost 85,000. In 2024, there were 46,000 visitors.

The decline was expected as other similar water parks opened in the region, Boyle said.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked Bixenman what the city could do to help turn the numbers around.

"I know it's never going to be a profit maker. ... Is there a way to minimize the loss and move forward?" Jacobs asked.

Bixenman said the city commission's decision earlier this year to increase daily admission to $5 and slightly raise season passes was helpful.

He noted the pool's footprint is landlocked, hindering expansion. There has been some talk of adding a climbing wall and a small slide in the diving well area.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"But that also increases your staff (need)," Bixenman said.

 Many Hays Aquatic Park lifeguards are college students who must leave for school well before Labor Day, shortening the number of days the pool is open for the summer.

Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex made a profit of $39,883 this year, which is deposited into the recreation commission's operating budget as part of the entities' agreement.&nbsp;The city's year-to-date expenditures for maintaining the complex are $235,243.

Boyle estimated the turf at the sports complex would have to be replaced in about 10 years, a major expense.

2,675 recreation commission league games were played in 2024 with almost 14,000 participants.&nbsp;

Adult softball numbers keep going down, in keeping with a national trend, said&nbsp;Brandon Maska, adult sports and sports complex director.

A shortage of umpires nationally has caused local staffing problems, maxing out the number of games the facility can host.

City commissioner Shaun Musil encouraged the recreation commission employees and board members to look at the big picture.

"I think you guys do a great job, and that's why our hotels are full. But I think all of us need to be looking at what we can do next," Musil said.

"These people are staying two or three days, and shopping. That's what makes our community go."

The city's general fund primarily depends on local sales tax revenue.

Bixenman said the recreation commission conducted a strategic doing in 2022, which included adding a second recreation center as the biggest priority.

"We've got some things in place to maybe look at that," Bixenman said.

Jacobs said it's always her goal to look at least five to 10 years out and where the money will come from.&nbsp;

"If we're going to plan for it and we're going to participate in that, we'd like to have that information shared," she said.

Musil suggested the city commission organize a couple of work sessions with the recreation commission.

"You're out with the community. You may be hearing things we don't," Musil said. "If we put all our heads together, maybe we can come up with something.

&nbsp;"I don't want us to be complacent. I want us to keep growing."

A more in-depth discussion between the two entities will be scheduled soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733853059528.jpeg" alt="Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission superintendent, presents an annual review to the city commission on Dec. 5. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission superintendent, presents an annual review to the city commission on Dec. 5. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Recreation Commission's routine annual report to city commissioners on Dec. 5 turned into a 30-minute discussion about the long-term future of the two municipal swimming pools and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.Roger Bixenman, recreation superintendent, and Jeff Boyle, Hays parks director, presented the 2024 operations and financial review to the city commission at its work session. Recreation commission board members were present in the audience.&nbsp;The city and the recreation commission will split the operating loss of $50,895 for the Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool. Under a long-standing agreement, the city will reimburse the recreation commission half of the loss, or&nbsp;$25,447.The year-to-date pool expenses for the city, including the requested reimbursement, are $178,054.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733512049296.png" alt="Attendance history at Hays swimming pools. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Attendance history at Hays swimming pools. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Boyle showed a history of attendance at the aquatic park.&nbsp;Although the total in 2024 was the highest since 2019, the numbers have slowly decreased since the pool opened in 2000.&nbsp;The Hays Aquatic Park had the most visitors in 2001, the second year of its operation, with almost 85,000. In 2024, there were 46,000 visitors.The decline was expected as other similar water parks opened in the region, Boyle said.Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked Bixenman what the city could do to help turn the numbers around."I know it's never going to be a profit maker. ... Is there a way to minimize the loss and move forward?" Jacobs asked.Bixenman said the city commission's decision earlier this year to increase daily admission to $5 and slightly raise season passes was helpful.He noted the pool's footprint is landlocked, hindering expansion. There has been some talk of adding a climbing wall and a small slide in the diving well area.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But that also increases your staff (need)," Bixenman said. Many Hays Aquatic Park lifeguards are college students who must leave for school well before Labor Day, shortening the number of days the pool is open for the summer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733852924151.png" alt="Hays Recreation Commission" />
 <figcaption>Hays Recreation Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex made a profit of $39,883 this year, which is deposited into the recreation commission's operating budget as part of the entities' agreement.&nbsp;The city's year-to-date expenditures for maintaining the complex are $235,243.Boyle estimated the turf at the sports complex would have to be replaced in about 10 years, a major expense.2,675 recreation commission league games were played in 2024 with almost 14,000 participants.&nbsp;Adult softball numbers keep going down, in keeping with a national trend, said&nbsp;Brandon Maska, adult sports and sports complex director.A shortage of umpires nationally has caused local staffing problems, maxing out the number of games the facility can host.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CMuBaOjkpZY" title="Musil on HRD" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>City commissioner Shaun Musil encouraged the recreation commission employees and board members to look at the big picture."I think you guys do a great job, and that's why our hotels are full. But I think all of us need to be looking at what we can do next," Musil said."These people are staying two or three days, and shopping. That's what makes our community go."The city's general fund primarily depends on local sales tax revenue.Bixenman said the recreation commission conducted a strategic doing in 2022, which included adding a second recreation center as the biggest priority."We've got some things in place to maybe look at that," Bixenman said.Jacobs said it's always her goal to look at least five to 10 years out and where the money will come from.&nbsp;"If we're going to plan for it and we're going to participate in that, we'd like to have that information shared," she said.Musil suggested the city commission organize a couple of work sessions with the recreation commission."You're out with the community. You may be hearing things we don't," Musil said. "If we put all our heads together, maybe we can come up with something.&nbsp;"I don't want us to be complacent. I want us to keep growing."A more in-depth discussion between the two entities will be scheduled soon.

🎥 Hays Rec Commission, city talk future of swimming pools, sports complex  

More than five days have passed since the murder of United Health Care CEO Brian Thompson. While investigators have since apprehended a suspect, political pundits are still struggling to understand a public reaction to the killing that was widely unsympathetic and, in some cases, even jubilant.&nbsp;

Thousands of Americans took to social media with comments like “My thoughts and prayers are out of network.” referencing United Health Care’s lamentable record of denying insurance claims at rates far above the industry standard.&nbsp;

Conservative commentators like Ben Shapiro were quick to condemn these reactions, labeling them as evidence of a morally corrupt leftist philosophy that condones the murder of ideological opponents. In a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeRnWYn-GTQ&amp;t=375s">50-minute YouTube video</a>, Shapiro reminded viewers that Thompson had a family, emphasizing that the appropriate response to “bad” or “disliked” policies is democratic reform, not violence.

Shapiro is mistaken in suggesting that the positive public reaction to Thompson’s killing was unique to the left. Comments celebrating or mocking his death have come from across the political spectrum. Under Shapiro’s own video, dozens of conservatives expressed little sympathy for the CEO, reflecting widespread frustration with a health care system that prioritizes profits over people.

With <a target="_blank" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1127305/#:~:text=Exorbitant%20medical%20bills%20in%20the,according%20to%20a%20new%20study.">40% of bankruptcies</a> in the U.S. tied to medical debt, nearly every American has felt the sting of greedy insurance practices. It is no surprise that resentment toward Thompson transcends political lines.

The disproportionate moral outrage Shapiro directs at the reaction to the murder, compared to the systemic suffering caused by companies like UnitedHealthcare, is disappointing. For Shapiro and other conservative pundits, death and suffering—even on a large scale—that occurs within or because of an established system are morally excusable, worthy only of tepidly critical descriptions like “bad” or “not ideal.”

Imagine this: your child is battling cancer. Her treatment causes constant nausea and vomiting, but your insurance company refuses to cover anti-nausea medication, claiming it’s “nonessential.” They deny other critical treatments as well, leaving you unable to afford the care she needs. After months of suffering, she dies. You are left not only with unbearable grief but also with crushing medical debt.

This scenario is not hypothetical—it reflects the reality for countless families denied essential care by UnitedHealthcare, which reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2024/01/12/unitedhealth-group-profits-hit-23-billion-in-2023/">$22 billion in profits last year</a>.

Had this level of suffering been caused by a terrorist attack rather than a corporation, public celebrations of the perpetrator’s demise would likely be lauded, not condemned. Shapiro and others would likely lead the applause.

On another note, the notion that Americans can simply “change the system democratically” ignores the immense barriers to reform. Billion-dollar corporations wield disproportionate influence, drowning out the voices of ordinary people. For many, peaceful avenues for change feel inaccessible, if not impossible. The people drowning in medical debt, in other words, the people most in need of systemic change, are precisely the people with the least access to the resources needed to bring it about. Quite frankly, it is surprising that Thompson’s murder is the first of its kind in recent history.&nbsp;

Framing the killing of Thompson as "revolutionary leftist evil" ignores the broader context. It is not a rejection of democracy but an act of desperation against a system that permits the wealthiest members of our society to make a profit out of sickness and pain. If the killing and its celebration are antidemocratic, why doesn't the system that inspired it receive similar criticism?

If anything, the killing aligns with an American tradition of radical resistance against oppressive systems—an uncomfortable truth for those who romanticize acts of rebellion in the past while condemning present ones.

More than five days have passed since the murder of United Health Care CEO Brian Thompson. While investigators have since apprehended a suspect, political pundits are still struggling to understand a public reaction to the killing that was widely unsympathetic and, in some cases, even jubilant.&nbsp;Thousands of Americans took to social media with comments like “My thoughts and prayers are out of network.” referencing United Health Care’s lamentable record of denying insurance claims at rates far above the industry standard.&nbsp;Conservative commentators like Ben Shapiro were quick to condemn these reactions, labeling them as evidence of a morally corrupt leftist philosophy that condones the murder of ideological opponents. In a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeRnWYn-GTQ&amp;t=375s">50-minute YouTube video</a>, Shapiro reminded viewers that Thompson had a family, emphasizing that the appropriate response to “bad” or “disliked” policies is democratic reform, not violence.Shapiro is mistaken in suggesting that the positive public reaction to Thompson’s killing was unique to the left. Comments celebrating or mocking his death have come from across the political spectrum. Under Shapiro’s own video, dozens of conservatives expressed little sympathy for the CEO, reflecting widespread frustration with a health care system that prioritizes profits over people.With <a target="_blank" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1127305/#:~:text=Exorbitant%20medical%20bills%20in%20the,according%20to%20a%20new%20study.">40% of bankruptcies</a> in the U.S. tied to medical debt, nearly every American has felt the sting of greedy insurance practices. It is no surprise that resentment toward Thompson transcends political lines.The disproportionate moral outrage Shapiro directs at the reaction to the murder, compared to the systemic suffering caused by companies like UnitedHealthcare, is disappointing. For Shapiro and other conservative pundits, death and suffering—even on a large scale—that occurs within or because of an established system are morally excusable, worthy only of tepidly critical descriptions like “bad” or “not ideal.”Imagine this: your child is battling cancer. Her treatment causes constant nausea and vomiting, but your insurance company refuses to cover anti-nausea medication, claiming it’s “nonessential.” They deny other critical treatments as well, leaving you unable to afford the care she needs. After months of suffering, she dies. You are left not only with unbearable grief but also with crushing medical debt.This scenario is not hypothetical—it reflects the reality for countless families denied essential care by UnitedHealthcare, which reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2024/01/12/unitedhealth-group-profits-hit-23-billion-in-2023/">$22 billion in profits last year</a>.Had this level of suffering been caused by a terrorist attack rather than a corporation, public celebrations of the perpetrator’s demise would likely be lauded, not condemned. Shapiro and others would likely lead the applause.On another note, the notion that Americans can simply “change the system democratically” ignores the immense barriers to reform. Billion-dollar corporations wield disproportionate influence, drowning out the voices of ordinary people. For many, peaceful avenues for change feel inaccessible, if not impossible. The people drowning in medical debt, in other words, the people most in need of systemic change, are precisely the people with the least access to the resources needed to bring it about. Quite frankly, it is surprising that Thompson’s murder is the first of its kind in recent history.&nbsp;Framing the killing of Thompson as "revolutionary leftist evil" ignores the broader context. It is not a rejection of democracy but an act of desperation against a system that permits the wealthiest members of our society to make a profit out of sickness and pain. If the killing and its celebration are antidemocratic, why doesn't the system that inspired it receive similar criticism?If anything, the killing aligns with an American tradition of radical resistance against oppressive systems—an uncomfortable truth for those who romanticize acts of rebellion in the past while condemning present ones.—&nbsp;Sam Foglesong of Hays

LETTER: Pundits fail to understand lack of sympathy for UnitedHealthCare CEO

ELLIS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 GMC Terrain driven by Judith K. Smith, 74, Hays, was northbound on U.S. 183 approximately one and one half miles south of Hays.&nbsp; The SUV struck a deer that had run onto the road.

EMS transported Smith a passenger in the vehicle, Leslie E.&nbsp;Smith, 78, Hays, to Hays Medical Center. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 GMC Terrain driven by Judith K. Smith, 74, Hays, was northbound on U.S. 183 approximately one and one half miles south of Hays.&nbsp; The SUV struck a deer that had run onto the road.EMS transported Smith a passenger in the vehicle, Leslie E.&nbsp;Smith, 78, Hays, to Hays Medical Center. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 from Hays hospitalized after SUV, deer crash

Hays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.

The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.

For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

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Hays Pride community potluck set for Saturday

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

LANE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Thursday in Lane County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F350 driven by Colton M. Bush, 18,&nbsp;Bush, Dighton, was westbound on East Road 90 at Kansas 23.

 The driver failed to stop at the stop sign and struck a 1999 Peterbilt semi driven by Luis A.&nbsp; Melendez, 60, Garden City.

EMS transported&nbsp; Melendez to the Lane County hospital. Bush was not injured. Melendez was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Thursday in Lane County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F350 driven by Colton M. Bush, 18,&nbsp;Bush, Dighton, was westbound on East Road 90 at Kansas 23. The driver failed to stop at the stop sign and struck a 1999 Peterbilt semi driven by Luis A.&nbsp; Melendez, 60, Garden City.EMS transported&nbsp; Melendez to the Lane County hospital. Bush was not injured. Melendez was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after pickup, semi crash

We would like to provide an update regarding the lawsuit we filed against HaysMed concerning our noncompete agreements. After careful reflection and time spent in court, we have concluded that engaging in open dialogue with HaysMed would be more beneficial for our community, especially for the patients who rely on HaysMed and all other medical providers in the community for their medical needs.

It’s unfortunate that this dispute has spilled over into the community and affected it in the way that it has. Therefore, we are pleased to announce that we, along with HaysMed, have decided to meet and explore ways to resolve our differences. Our collective goal is to find a solution that benefits everyone involved—HaysMed, ourselves, and, most importantly, the community we serve.

We genuinely appreciate the vital role HaysMed and the other medical providers play in the community and throughout western Kansas. We want nothing more than to see HaysMed thrive. We understand that there has been some concern and frustration among community members regarding our disagreement, which has been highlighted in the media and on social platforms. We kindly ask for your patience as we work toward a resolution, and we urge everyone to refrain from expressing negative comments in the media or online. As you can well imagine, these disparaging comments are disruptive and interfere with the ability to provide patient care and recruit physicians to our community.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we and HaysMed strive to keep our community a wonderful place to live, raise families and receive quality medical care.

—&nbsp;Drs. Jerod Grove and Robert Rodriguez

Craig Uhrich, attorney for the two doctors, said today that the doctors have not dropped their lawsuits but are talking with HaysMed officials about how to resolve their dispute.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a05ca048-415e-412f-bcea-55ff325a76b9">SEE RELATED STORY: Second doctor sues HaysMed over noncompete clause in contract</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctor files lawsuit against HaysMed, seeks to continue practicing in western Kansas</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff47d31e-0893-42cc-9d64-36235a52511f">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: Oncologist announces resignation from HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2be22ca4-173c-464f-b507-918c1bbcc5a8">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital</a>

We would like to provide an update regarding the lawsuit we filed against HaysMed concerning our noncompete agreements. After careful reflection and time spent in court, we have concluded that engaging in open dialogue with HaysMed would be more beneficial for our community, especially for the patients who rely on HaysMed and all other medical providers in the community for their medical needs.It’s unfortunate that this dispute has spilled over into the community and affected it in the way that it has. Therefore, we are pleased to announce that we, along with HaysMed, have decided to meet and explore ways to resolve our differences. Our collective goal is to find a solution that benefits everyone involved—HaysMed, ourselves, and, most importantly, the community we serve.We genuinely appreciate the vital role HaysMed and the other medical providers play in the community and throughout western Kansas. We want nothing more than to see HaysMed thrive. We understand that there has been some concern and frustration among community members regarding our disagreement, which has been highlighted in the media and on social platforms. We kindly ask for your patience as we work toward a resolution, and we urge everyone to refrain from expressing negative comments in the media or online. As you can well imagine, these disparaging comments are disruptive and interfere with the ability to provide patient care and recruit physicians to our community.Thank you for your understanding and support as we and HaysMed strive to keep our community a wonderful place to live, raise families and receive quality medical care.—&nbsp;Drs. Jerod Grove and Robert RodriguezCraig Uhrich, attorney for the two doctors, said today that the doctors have not dropped their lawsuits but are talking with HaysMed officials about how to resolve their dispute.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a05ca048-415e-412f-bcea-55ff325a76b9">SEE RELATED STORY: Second doctor sues HaysMed over noncompete clause in contract</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctor files lawsuit against HaysMed, seeks to continue practicing in western Kansas</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff47d31e-0893-42cc-9d64-36235a52511f">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: Oncologist announces resignation from HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2be22ca4-173c-464f-b507-918c1bbcc5a8">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital</a>

LETTER: Former HaysMed doctors in talks with hospital to resolve contract dispute

City of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. 

The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.

As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.

City of HaysCity of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.Thank you for your cooperation!

Hays water conservation request lifted

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scammers love a good disguise. One day they show up texting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/www.consumer.ftc.gov/files/fedex_phishing_text_social_media_graphic_01142021.png">delivery you missed</a>, the next they say you need to sort an&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/netflixscreenshot.jpg">issue with your Netflix account</a>. Here’s how to avoid these phishing scams.

<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams">Phishing emails and text messages</a>&nbsp;often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Maybe it’s an unexpected email or text message pretending to be from a company you know or trust, like a utility company asking you to make a payment. Or maybe it’s an unexpected party invitation that looks like it’s from a friend or family member.

Don’t click on links or download attachments in these messages. It might lead to a request for personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number — and&nbsp;<a href="https://ftc.gov/idtheft">identity theft</a>. Or, the link or attachment could download harmful&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-and-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;onto your device.

How can you spot these scams? If you get an email or text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, ask yourself:&nbsp;Do I have an account with the company or know the person who contacted me?

If the answer is “No,”&nbsp;it’s likely a phishing scam. While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t unexpectedly email or text with a link to update your payment or account information. For other signs of phishing, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">How to recognize phishing</a>.

If the answer is “Yes,”&nbsp;contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real —&nbsp;not&nbsp;the information in the email.&nbsp;Or contact your friend directly on a separate email or text string to confirm it’s really them. They’ll understand if you’re suspicious about that unexpected invitation to click a link.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733957299946.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC&nbsp;&nbsp;Scammers love a good disguise. One day they show up texting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/www.consumer.ftc.gov/files/fedex_phishing_text_social_media_graphic_01142021.png">delivery you missed</a>, the next they say you need to sort an&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/netflixscreenshot.jpg">issue with your Netflix account</a>. Here’s how to avoid these phishing scams.<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams">Phishing emails and text messages</a>&nbsp;often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Maybe it’s an unexpected email or text message pretending to be from a company you know or trust, like a utility company asking you to make a payment. Or maybe it’s an unexpected party invitation that looks like it’s from a friend or family member.Don’t click on links or download attachments in these messages. It might lead to a request for personal information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number — and&nbsp;<a href="https://ftc.gov/idtheft">identity theft</a>. Or, the link or attachment could download harmful&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-and-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;onto your device.How can you spot these scams? If you get an email or text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, ask yourself:&nbsp;Do I have an account with the company or know the person who contacted me?If the answer is “No,”&nbsp;it’s likely a phishing scam. While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t unexpectedly email or text with a link to update your payment or account information. For other signs of phishing, check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">How to recognize phishing</a>.If the answer is “Yes,”&nbsp;contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real —&nbsp;not&nbsp;the information in the email.&nbsp;Or contact your friend directly on a separate email or text string to confirm it’s really them. They’ll understand if you’re suspicious about that unexpected invitation to click a link.&nbsp;

Phishing scams can be hard to spot

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved change orders for the Hays High School softball field on Monday night.

The board tabled change orders on the high school so they could speak about them further with representatives of its architectural firm, DLR Group.

The change orders for the softball field include a dugout similar to the HHS baseball fields. The dugouts were planned as chain link, and now they will be CMU dugouts with roofs.

&nbsp;Extra lanes for the bullpen and batting cages, electrical upgrades, and infrastructure for a grandstand and pressbox were also added.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the administration plans to bring a plan to add the grandstand and pressbox to the field as a capital outlay project.

The changes will allow all of the softball players to practice at the same field.

The cost of the softball upgrades is $228,000. These funds will be taken from the Hays High School bond contingency fund and will not increase the overall budget for the Hays High project.

The other order, at a cost of $208,000, was for structural and finish changes identified as construction progressed.

These types of changes are very common on large construction projects, Wilson said. They account for a fraction of the project's total $100 million cost.

The change order cost will be paid from the contingency fund and will not increase the total cost of the Hays High School project.

The Hays High School project continues to be on schedule, and the school is set to open in August.

The Nabholz Construction representative said some plan revisions are only identified once construction begins. This can require minor modifications to the architectural drawings. A $1 million contingency fund has been built into the HHS project budget to allow for these anticipated changes.

Even with structural and softball change orders, more than half of that contingency fund will remain.

School board members questioned why any changes needed to be made and expressed frustration that the school district needed to pay for the change order.

The Nabholz representative said the number of change orders and design adjustments were consistent with a project of the high's shool's size. He said some of the changes were structurally important to complete the building.

Wilson, who has also been involved in two other bond-funded projects in his career, said change orders are to be expected, and the requested change orders align with the project's scope.

"This is a $100 million high school," he said. "You are thinking very small right now."

He said Nabholz, the district construction manager at risk, has 20 to 30 full-time staff managing all the project details.

"I don't think you are giving them enough credit," Wilson said.

Board member Jayme Goetz said she did not think the school district should have to foot the bill for the whole change order.

She said she thought DLR should be present to discuss the change order.

The Nabholz representative said there could be more change orders but added he thought most of the design change orders had been addressed.

The Hays High project is more than 55 percent complete, he said.

The high school change orders were tabled to be considered at a special meeting that would include representatives of DLR.

The softball field change orders were approved on a vote of 5-2, with board members Allen Park and Derek Yarmer voting against.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733947132041.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of Hays High School. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of Hays High School. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved change orders for the Hays High School softball field on Monday night.The board tabled change orders on the high school so they could speak about them further with representatives of its architectural firm, DLR Group.The change orders for the softball field include a dugout similar to the HHS baseball fields. The dugouts were planned as chain link, and now they will be CMU dugouts with roofs.&nbsp;Extra lanes for the bullpen and batting cages, electrical upgrades, and infrastructure for a grandstand and pressbox were also added.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the administration plans to bring a plan to add the grandstand and pressbox to the field as a capital outlay project.The changes will allow all of the softball players to practice at the same field.The cost of the softball upgrades is $228,000. These funds will be taken from the Hays High School bond contingency fund and will not increase the overall budget for the Hays High project.The other order, at a cost of $208,000, was for structural and finish changes identified as construction progressed.These types of changes are very common on large construction projects, Wilson said. They account for a fraction of the project's total $100 million cost.The change order cost will be paid from the contingency fund and will not increase the total cost of the Hays High School project.The Hays High School project continues to be on schedule, and the school is set to open in August.The Nabholz Construction representative said some plan revisions are only identified once construction begins. This can require minor modifications to the architectural drawings. A $1 million contingency fund has been built into the HHS project budget to allow for these anticipated changes.Even with structural and softball change orders, more than half of that contingency fund will remain.School board members questioned why any changes needed to be made and expressed frustration that the school district needed to pay for the change order.The Nabholz representative said the number of change orders and design adjustments were consistent with a project of the high's shool's size. He said some of the changes were structurally important to complete the building.Wilson, who has also been involved in two other bond-funded projects in his career, said change orders are to be expected, and the requested change orders align with the project's scope."This is a $100 million high school," he said. "You are thinking very small right now."He said Nabholz, the district construction manager at risk, has 20 to 30 full-time staff managing all the project details."I don't think you are giving them enough credit," Wilson said.Board member Jayme Goetz said she did not think the school district should have to foot the bill for the whole change order.She said she thought DLR should be present to discuss the change order.The Nabholz representative said there could be more change orders but added he thought most of the design change orders had been addressed.The Hays High project is more than 55 percent complete, he said.The high school change orders were tabled to be considered at a special meeting that would include representatives of DLR.The softball field change orders were approved on a vote of 5-2, with board members Allen Park and Derek Yarmer voting against.

Hays USD 489 BOE members hesitant about high school change orders

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14

.• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics,&nbsp;Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.

• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English,&nbsp;Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.

• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance,&nbsp;Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.

• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education,&nbsp;Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business,&nbsp;Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science,&nbsp;Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology,&nbsp;Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.

• Amaya Dungan, senior in music,&nbsp;Salina, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the Graduate School.

• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences,&nbsp;Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Josephine Benson, junior in English,&nbsp;Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.

• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance,&nbsp;Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism,&nbsp;Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.

The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:

• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.

• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.

• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

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 </figure>SubmittedMANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics,&nbsp;Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English,&nbsp;Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance,&nbsp;Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education,&nbsp;Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business,&nbsp;Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science,&nbsp;Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology,&nbsp;Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.• Amaya Dungan, senior in music,&nbsp;Salina, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the Graduate School.• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences,&nbsp;Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Josephine Benson, junior in English,&nbsp;Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance,&nbsp;Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism,&nbsp;Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:Dec. 13• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.Dec. 14• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

Area K-State students to serve as speakers, musicians at fall 2024 commencement

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Marshall ‑&nbsp;36‑58 KA‑7566‑01 – U.S. 36, beginning at the Marshall/Osborne county line east to 4th Street in Marysville, milling and overlay, 8.2 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,940,197.72.

Marshall ‑&nbsp;99‑58 KA‑7544‑01 ‑ K‑99, beginning at the K‑99/U.S. 36 junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 14.5 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,338,224.36.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑4881‑02 ‑ Bridge #132 over Ruby Avenue; bridge #134 over Metropolitan Avenue; bridge #136 over 18th Street Expressway; bridge #138 over KCT Railway; bridge #140 over Osage Avenue, bridge replacement, 0.9 mile, Hawkins Construction Co., Omaha, Nebraska, $121,849,845.46.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑7472‑01 ‑ K‑5, beginning at the I‑635/K‑5 junction east to the McCormick Road/Sunshine Road junction, milling and overlay, 2.1 miles, J M Fahey Construction Company, Grandview, Missouri, $1,615,655.75.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;14‑27 KA‑7535‑01 ‑ K‑14, beginning at the K‑14/K‑140 junction north to the I‑70/K‑14 junction, milling and overlay, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,630,009.16.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;4‑27 KA‑7536‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/McPherson county line, milling and overlay, 6.7 miles, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,634,016.40

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;111‑27 KA‑7573‑01 ‑ K‑111 beginning at the north city limits of Kanopolis to the K‑111/K‑156 junction, milling and overlay, 5.3 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $868,571.20.

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 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastMarshall ‑&nbsp;36‑58 KA‑7566‑01 – U.S. 36, beginning at the Marshall/Osborne county line east to 4th Street in Marysville, milling and overlay, 8.2 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,940,197.72.Marshall ‑&nbsp;99‑58 KA‑7544‑01 ‑ K‑99, beginning at the K‑99/U.S. 36 junction north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, milling and overlay, 14.5 miles, Hall Brothers Inc., Marysville, Kansas, $3,338,224.36.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;69‑105 KA‑4881‑02 ‑ Bridge #132 over Ruby Avenue; bridge #134 over Metropolitan Avenue; bridge #136 over 18th Street Expressway; bridge #138 over KCT Railway; bridge #140 over Osage Avenue, bridge replacement, 0.9 mile, Hawkins Construction Co., Omaha, Nebraska, $121,849,845.46.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑7472‑01 ‑ K‑5, beginning at the I‑635/K‑5 junction east to the McCormick Road/Sunshine Road junction, milling and overlay, 2.1 miles, J M Fahey Construction Company, Grandview, Missouri, $1,615,655.75.District Two — North CentralEllsworth ‑&nbsp;14‑27 KA‑7535‑01 ‑ K‑14, beginning at the K‑14/K‑140 junction north to the I‑70/K‑14 junction, milling and overlay, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,630,009.16.Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;4‑27 KA‑7536‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/Rice county line east to the Ellsworth/McPherson county line, milling and overlay, 6.7 miles, 7.4 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,634,016.40Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;111‑27 KA‑7573‑01 ‑ K‑111 beginning at the north city limits of Kanopolis to the K‑111/K‑156 junction, milling and overlay, 5.3 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $868,571.20.McPherson ‑&nbsp;4‑59 KA‑7537‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/McPherson county line east and north to the McPherson/Saline county line (exclude the city of Lindsborg), milling and overlay, 15.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,310,335.50.Saline ‑&nbsp;4‑85 KA‑7538‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the McPherson/Saline county line east to the I‑135/K‑4 junction, milling and overlay, 1.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $238,538.20.District Three — NorthwestEllis ‑&nbsp;183‑26 KA‑7520‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the end of portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) north of 55th Street north to the Rooks/Ellis county line, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,303,459.94.Gove ‑&nbsp;23‑32 KA‑7521‑01 ‑ K‑23, beginning at the Lane/Gove county line north to the south city limits of Gove City, milling and overlay, 17.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,273,602.96.Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7517‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the U.S. 183/K‑18 junction north to the S Road/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 4.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $858,151.43.Rooks ‑&nbsp;183‑82 KA‑7519‑01 – U.S. 183, beginning at the Rooks/Ellis county line north to the K‑18/U.S. 183 junction, milling and overlay, 7.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,649,957.90.Rooks ‑&nbsp;18‑82 KA‑7518‑01 ‑ K‑18, beginning at the 5 Road/K‑18 junction east to 0.48 mile east of the east city limits of Plainville, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 12.8 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,412,383.80.District Four — SoutheastAllen ‑&nbsp;59‑1 KA‑7529‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Neosho/Allen county line north to the Allen/Anderson county line, ultra thin bonded asphalt surfacing, 21.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,546,836.47.Anderson ‑&nbsp;169‑2 KA‑7534‑01 – U.S. 169, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to 0.59 mile north of the K‑58/U.S. 169 junction, milling and overlay, 4.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $759,965.64.Anderson ‑&nbsp;59‑2 KA‑7530‑01 – U.S. 59, beginning at the Allen/Anderson county line north to the U.S. 169/U.S. 59 south junction, milling and overlay, 15.1 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,751,122.83Cherokee ‑&nbsp;7‑11 KA‑1586‑02 ‑ K‑7, intersection of K‑7/Star Valley Road (along the north side of Star Valley Road), special, Heck &amp; Wicker Inc., Parsons, Kansas, $578,529.65.Cherokee ‑&nbsp;166‑11 KA‑7453‑01 – U.S. 166, from the Labette/Cherokee county line east to the west city limits of Baxter Springs, milling and overlay, 18.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,002,160.44.Crawford ‑&nbsp;47‑19 KA‑7452‑01 ‑ K‑47, from the east city limits of Girard east to the U.S. 69/K‑47 junction, milling and overlay, 7.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,154,458.48.Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7531‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the Elk/Cowley county line east to the U.S. 160/K‑99 west junction, milling and overlay, 13.6 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,697,425.00.Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7533‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the U.S. 160/K‑99 east junction east to the east city limits of Longton, milling and overlay, 11.5 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,615,577.90Elk ‑&nbsp;160‑25 KA‑7532‑01 – U.S. 160, beginning at the east city limits of Longton east to the Elk/Montgomery county line, milling and overlay, 7.9 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,181,313.90.Labette ‑&nbsp;166‑50 KA‑7461‑01 – U.S. 166, beginning at the Montgomery/Labette county line east to the U.S. 59/U.S. 166 north junction; then U.S. 59/U.S. 166 south junction east to the Labette/Cherokee county line, milling and overlay, 24.2 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $4,289,100.83District Five — South CentralRice ‑&nbsp;56‑80 KA‑6455‑01 – U.S. 56 at two locations - beginning 0.25 mile east of 10th Road, east to 0.14 mile east of 11th Road, guard fence, 1.0 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $568,091.25.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;42‑87 KA‑7457‑01 ‑ K‑42, 4-lane/2-lane transition (West MacArthur Road) northeast to South Hoover Road, overlay, 3.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $1,947,992.45.District Six — SouthwestGreeley ‑&nbsp;96‑36 KA‑7539‑01 ‑ K‑96, beginning at the Colorado/Kansas state line east to the K‑27/K‑96 junction, milling and overlay, 15.9 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $5,981,427.03.Hamilton ‑&nbsp;27‑38 KA‑7540‑01 ‑ K‑27, beginning at the U.S. 50/K‑27 west junction north to the Greeley/Hamilton county line, milling and overlay, 19.4 miles Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,913,003.20.Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7541‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the Kearny/Wichita county line north to the K‑96/K‑25 junction, milling and overlay, 19.1 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $2,344,621.49.Wichita ‑&nbsp;25‑102 KA‑7542‑01 ‑ K‑25, beginning at the K‑96/K‑25 junction north to the Wichita/Logan county line, milling and overlay, 15.2 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $1,987,573.70.The following projects have been approved from the Oct. 16, 2024, letting.Brown ‑&nbsp;36‑7 KA‑6450‑01 – U.S. 36, from west city limits in Fairview to east city limits, grading and surfacing, 0.6 mile, Ebert Construction Co Inc &amp; Subsidiary, Wamego, Kansas, $2,297,375.52.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 N‑0773‑01 – Basehor, trail between 155th Street and 158th Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 1.0 mile, Kings Construction Co. Inc., Oskaloosa, Kansas, $1,379,597.35.Riley ‑&nbsp;82‑81 KA‑7468‑01 – K‑82, from the U.S. 77/K‑82 north junction north to the U.S. 24/K‑82 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,417,916.43.Riley ‑&nbsp;81 TE‑0525‑01 – Juliette Avenue, from Pierre Street to Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, surfacing, 0.1 mile, Bayer Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $1,210,882.95.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0779‑01 – Kansas Avenue, located approximately 0.33 mile west of U.S. 69, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Gunter Construction Company, Kansas City, Kansas, $673,235.50.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;105 N‑0781‑01 – Trailhead on North James Street at Kansas City levee access point, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.1 mile, Multicon Inc., Park City, Kansas, $317,151.52.Marion ‑&nbsp;77‑57 KA‑7490‑01 – U.S. 77, from 0.14 mile north of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction north to 0.28 mile south of the U.S. 56/K‑150/U.S. 77 junction, milling and overlay, 8.3 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,598,626.62.Marion ‑&nbsp;50‑57 KA‑7491‑01 – U.S. 50, from 0.32 mile east of the U.S. 50/U.S. 77 junction east to the Marion/Chase county line, overlay, 5.7 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $1,929,159.25.Ellis ‑&nbsp;26 C‑5221‑01 – County bridge, over Big Creek located 6.0 miles south and 1.0 mile west of Walker, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $673,540.75.Smith ‑&nbsp;281‑92 KA‑7481‑01 – U.S. 281 from the Smith/Osborne county Line north to the south city limits of Smith Center, milling and overlay, 13.0 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,841,723.91.Harvey ‑&nbsp;50‑40 KA‑7460‑01 – U.S. 50, hot mix asphalt south of the I‑135/U.S. 50 junction east to the Harvey/Marion county line, milling and overlay, 11.7 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,705,193.91.Seward ‑&nbsp;54‑88 KA‑7501‑01 – U.S. 54, from 0.48 mile northeast of Road R northeast to the Meade/Seward county line, milling and overlay, 8.4 miles, J &amp; R Sand Company Inc., Liberal, Kansas, $2,113,474.59.Chase ‑&nbsp;9 C‑5219‑01 – County bridge, over Cottonwood River located 0.8 mile west of Cedar Point, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa,&nbsp;$1,748,517.51.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑6712‑01 – I‑35, I‑635 and U.S. 69 in Kansas City Metro, intelligent transportation system, Capital Electric Line Builders Inc., Parkville, Missouri, $2,705,470.00.

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