By BECKY KISER Hays Post

In 2019, the city of Hays purchased a 90-acre tract of greenfield property immediately northeast of Interstate 70, Exit 161, for development opportunities.

During Thursday's work session, city commissioners will hear a proposed award for engineering services for water/sewer main extensions under I-70, abutting street/intersection improvements and internal infrastructure improvements in that acreage.

The low bid is from&nbsp;Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, for $118,750.

In 2022, the city hired RDG Planning and Design to conduct a market analysis and conceptual rendering of the property. It includes commercial, office and residential development, along with walking trails, public art and open space.

There is no specific development plan at this time, said Jarrod Kuckelman, Hays management analyst.

"There was a concept feasibility study put together of the acreage and what could fit out there on that property. It highlighted the goals of what the commissioners would like the property utilized for," Kuckelman said.

"That study is frequently shared with developers who are looking for a spot in Hays."

Two other bid recommendations will be heard Thursday.

Jeff Boyle, parks director, will discuss the east multi-use connector paths. It will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum.

The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays.&nbsp;Once all these new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.

Jeff Crispin, director of water resources, will discuss the demolition of obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.

Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;

One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.

A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000. 

Boyle and Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission superintendent, will discuss the 2024 financial report and attendance at the pools and the sports complex.

This year, the recreation commission's total operating loss at the Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool was $50,895. An agreement between the city and HRC splits the loss between the two entities, with each paying $25,447.

Attendance at the Hays Aquatic Park increased in 2024, with 46,004 patrons visiting the pool compared to 43,204 in 2023. Wilson Pool visitation decreased to 2,653 in 2024 compared to 2,903 in 2023.&nbsp;

The Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex neted a profit of $39,883 for the rec commission in 2024.

The Dec. 5 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12052024-1514">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733249649196.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIn 2019, the city of Hays purchased a 90-acre tract of greenfield property immediately northeast of Interstate 70, Exit 161, for development opportunities. During Thursday's work session, city commissioners will hear a proposed award for engineering services for water/sewer main extensions under I-70, abutting street/intersection improvements and internal infrastructure improvements in that acreage.The low bid is from&nbsp;Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, for $118,750.In 2022, the city hired RDG Planning and Design to conduct a market analysis and conceptual rendering of the property. It includes commercial, office and residential development, along with walking trails, public art and open space.There is no specific development plan at this time, said Jarrod Kuckelman, Hays management analyst.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ywsngqohcD0" title="Jarrod Kuckelman Exit 161 property" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>"There was a concept feasibility study put together of the acreage and what could fit out there on that property. It highlighted the goals of what the commissioners would like the property utilized for," Kuckelman said."That study is frequently shared with developers who are looking for a spot in Hays."Two other bid recommendations will be heard Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733323114929.png" alt="Northeast Hays multi-use paths connectors. Image courtesy City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Northeast Hays multi-use paths connectors. Image courtesy City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeff Boyle, parks director, will discuss the east multi-use connector paths. It will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum.The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays.&nbsp;Once all these new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733326033068.png" alt="Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility,&nbsp;755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility,&nbsp;755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeff Crispin, director of water resources, will discuss the demolition of obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000. Boyle and Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission superintendent, will discuss the 2024 financial report and attendance at the pools and the sports complex.This year, the recreation commission's total operating loss at the Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool was $50,895. An agreement between the city and HRC splits the loss between the two entities, with each paying $25,447.Attendance at the Hays Aquatic Park increased in 2024, with 46,004 patrons visiting the pool compared to 43,204 in 2023. Wilson Pool visitation decreased to 2,653 in 2024 compared to 2,903 in 2023.&nbsp;The Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex neted a profit of $39,883 for the rec commission in 2024.The Dec. 5 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12052024-1514">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

🎥 I-70 Exit 161 city property to be linked to city infrastructure for future development  

RUSSELL COUNTY —Russell Police Department officers in Russell are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries.

Early Wednesday, the Russell Police Department started receiving reports of vehicle burglaries occurring throughout the city, according to a media release.

 The vehicle burglaries targeted unlocked vehicles in all areas of Russell. Investigation into these incidents is ongoing and 23 separate vehicle burglaries have been reported. 

Police are asking residents who have surveillance camera systems to review their camera footage on December 4, from 12a.m. to 6:00a.m.

 If residents find something suspicious on their camera footage or were burglarized and haven’t reported it, please contact police at 785-483-2121.

A crime prevention reminder: park in well-lit areas, always lock your vehicles, and do not keep valuables stored in vehicles. If you must store valuables in vehicles, store them in the trunk.

RUSSELL COUNTY —Russell Police Department officers in Russell are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries.Early Wednesday, the Russell Police Department started receiving reports of vehicle burglaries occurring throughout the city, according to a media release. The vehicle burglaries targeted unlocked vehicles in all areas of Russell. Investigation into these incidents is ongoing and 23 separate vehicle burglaries have been reported. Police are asking residents who have surveillance camera systems to review their camera footage on December 4, from 12a.m. to 6:00a.m. If residents find something suspicious on their camera footage or were burglarized and haven’t reported it, please contact police at 785-483-2121.A crime prevention reminder: park in well-lit areas, always lock your vehicles, and do not keep valuables stored in vehicles. If you must store valuables in vehicles, store them in the trunk.

Police investigating series of vehicle burglaries in Russell

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Safe Kids Kansas will present its Annual Awards today, December 3, at 1:30 p.m. The awards recognize outstanding contributions by individuals, coalitions, organizations and businesses toward reducing unintentional injury to Kansas children. The awards will be presented virtually via Zoom.

Awards include the prestigious&nbsp;Dr. Dennis Cooley Award of Excellence, named in honor of pediatrician Dr. Dennis Cooley of Topeka. This year’s Cooley Award will be presented to&nbsp;Christy Schunn, Executive Director of the KIDS Network.

Christy’s early experience as a social worker providing bereavement services to families who had lost an infant led her to a career path in prevention. Her leadership in educating and supporting families in providing safe sleep environments for their infants has resulted in changes to policies and practices from hospitals to child care. Additionally, she collaborated to develop a Safe Sleep Instructor certification program that has expanded beyond Kansas.

“Christy is known for being an enthusiastic collaborator and convener, bringing partners together around tables and pulling communities together to advocate and educate safe sleep practices to protect infants from the leading cause of death between their first month and first birthday,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, State Coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas, said.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to work with Christy Schunn and the KIDS Network and to bestow her with our highest honor.”

Safe Kids Kansas will also present awards for the Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety, Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety, Outstanding Coalition Organization, Local Coalition of the Year and Service Recognition.

The Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).

KDOT&nbsp;released the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fbureaus%2FburTrafficSaf%2Fdrivetozerocrashdatadashboards.asp%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%23:~:text=Transportation%2520safety%2520partners%2520can%2520use,make%2520data%252Ddriven%2520safety%2520decisions./1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/hQGM7TFe82C-Kv2JxM2jjr_VaaZhkSZoWt13lcS3gqc=382">Drive to Zero Data Dashboard</a>&nbsp;as a tool to assist traffic safety partners in understanding fatal and suspected serious crashes occurring in Kansas. This tool helps organizations like Safe Kids Kansas and communities identify, location and other information pertaining to the type and severity of crashes experienced to help develop more effective interventions and direct prevention messaging and programs.

The Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety&nbsp;the KIDS Network.

The KIDS Network&nbsp;has been a crucial partner of Safe Kids Kansas for over 20 years. Their staff has led the Safe Sleep efforts of our coalition, which over time has evolved to include a network of over 190 certified Safe Sleep Instructors (SSIs). After surveying birthing hospitals in Kansas about their infant sleep policies and practices, they developed a&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kidsks.org%2Fsafe-sleep-star-toolkit.html%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/ouJPDUAMtiQ9gfOIOtTNaJSMSUMlpjXwghxyEWmyXRg=382">Safe Sleep Star Toolkit</a>&nbsp;and launched the Safe Sleep Star designation to recognize hospitals and clinics promoting safe sleep policies and risk-reduction strategies. They presented nationally and internationally on collaborative efforts in Kansas and continue to work to provide devices such as safety-approved portable cribs to families with infants who live in settings that put them at increased risk, along with resources on safe sleep practices.

The Outstanding Coalition Organization&nbsp;Operation Lifesaver.

Operation Lifesaver&nbsp;has been a national leader in rail safety education since its establishment in 1972. They are one of the few addressing this risk through education. Operation Lifesaver participates in many Safe Kids-hosted events, including Safe Kids Day at the Zoo and National Injury Prevention Day. They provide education and awareness to prevent collisions, injuries and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings. They distributed hundreds of copies of the Safe Kids Worldwide book “Clifford and the Railroad Crossing,” to help educate families through reading.

The Local Coalition of the Year&nbsp;award was presented to&nbsp;Safe Kids Mitchell County.

Safe Kids Mitchell County&nbsp;has provided childhood injury prevention outreach to their community by distributing safety devices to home visiting programs and community awareness events, such as Bucks for Buckles. The coalition works with the community to support the Kids Café summer program, providing lunch&nbsp; and safety presentations on Bicycle and Railroad Safety. Local Child Passenger Safety Technicians offer assistance with car seat installation and help families who cannot afford a car seat. Blad serves as the coalition coordinator; the lead agency is the Mitchell County Health Department.

Service Recognition&nbsp;Awards were presented to&nbsp;Lt. Michael Racy&nbsp;with the Kansas Highway Patrol,&nbsp;Technical Trooper Tod Hileman&nbsp;with the Kansas Highway Patrol, and&nbsp;Deputy Tyler Kruzel&nbsp;with the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

Lt. Michael Racy&nbsp;serves with the Kansas Highway Patrol since 2001, including as a Public Resource Officer in the Southwest Kansas Troop E area from 2011 until 2023, when he was promoted to Lieutenant. LT Racy was instrumental to the Child Passenger Safety program’s success in southwest Kansas, serving as both a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)and an instructor training new CPSTs in southwest Kansas each year. He advocates for safe driving and occupant protection, partnering with local agencies, schools, businesses and community events to spread awareness. Mike is a resource to families in his community and region, provides assistance and mentorship with other Public Resource Officers across the state and helps Safe Kids Kansas reach families in need. Lt. Racy is truly an advocate for safety.

Technical Trooper Tod Hileman&nbsp;has served with the Kansas Highway Patrol since 1998, including as the Northwest Kansas Public Resource Officer for Troop D since 2003.&nbsp; He has been in a safety education role for over 20 years, dedicating his work to keeping the citizens of Kansas safe. Trooper Hileman is a CPST and instructor and is found at community events and schools with the seatbelt convincer to educate on the importance of wearing seatbelts. A 15-year-old teenager credited Trooper Tod with saving her life because of a safety program he taught at her high school.&nbsp; She lost control of her vehicle, left the roadway and rolled three times. After being safely removed from the vehicle, she told the responding Trooper, “I always wear my seatbelt because of Trooper Tod.”&nbsp; This is just one example of the lives he has impacted throughout his time on the patrol.&nbsp; He is an advocate for safe driving and beyond and is a selfless ambassador for the safety of Kansans.

Deputy Tyler Kruzel&nbsp;serves his community as a CPST. In this role, he is always friendly and welcoming to families, actively listening to parents and caregivers, taking time to answer questions while providing education in a respectful and professional manner. In addition, Tyler assists with community events, such as the Back to School Safety Fair. It’s easy to see that Tyler is passionate about helping families and wants to keep their children safe in and around vehicles.

Thank you to all our 2024 honorees.&nbsp; We are grateful for their service to Kansas kids and families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670511310194.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTOPEKA –&nbsp;Safe Kids Kansas will present its Annual Awards today, December 3, at 1:30 p.m. The awards recognize outstanding contributions by individuals, coalitions, organizations and businesses toward reducing unintentional injury to Kansas children. The awards will be presented virtually via Zoom.Awards include the prestigious&nbsp;Dr. Dennis Cooley Award of Excellence, named in honor of pediatrician Dr. Dennis Cooley of Topeka. This year’s Cooley Award will be presented to&nbsp;Christy Schunn, Executive Director of the KIDS Network.Christy’s early experience as a social worker providing bereavement services to families who had lost an infant led her to a career path in prevention. Her leadership in educating and supporting families in providing safe sleep environments for their infants has resulted in changes to policies and practices from hospitals to child care. Additionally, she collaborated to develop a Safe Sleep Instructor certification program that has expanded beyond Kansas.“Christy is known for being an enthusiastic collaborator and convener, bringing partners together around tables and pulling communities together to advocate and educate safe sleep practices to protect infants from the leading cause of death between their first month and first birthday,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, State Coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas, said.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to work with Christy Schunn and the KIDS Network and to bestow her with our highest honor.”Safe Kids Kansas will also present awards for the Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety, Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety, Outstanding Coalition Organization, Local Coalition of the Year and Service Recognition.The Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).KDOT&nbsp;released the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fbureaus%2FburTrafficSaf%2Fdrivetozerocrashdatadashboards.asp%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%23:~:text=Transportation%2520safety%2520partners%2520can%2520use,make%2520data%252Ddriven%2520safety%2520decisions./1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/hQGM7TFe82C-Kv2JxM2jjr_VaaZhkSZoWt13lcS3gqc=382">Drive to Zero Data Dashboard</a>&nbsp;as a tool to assist traffic safety partners in understanding fatal and suspected serious crashes occurring in Kansas. This tool helps organizations like Safe Kids Kansas and communities identify, location and other information pertaining to the type and severity of crashes experienced to help develop more effective interventions and direct prevention messaging and programs.The Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety&nbsp;the KIDS Network.The KIDS Network&nbsp;has been a crucial partner of Safe Kids Kansas for over 20 years. Their staff has led the Safe Sleep efforts of our coalition, which over time has evolved to include a network of over 190 certified Safe Sleep Instructors (SSIs). After surveying birthing hospitals in Kansas about their infant sleep policies and practices, they developed a&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kidsks.org%2Fsafe-sleep-star-toolkit.html%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/ouJPDUAMtiQ9gfOIOtTNaJSMSUMlpjXwghxyEWmyXRg=382">Safe Sleep Star Toolkit</a>&nbsp;and launched the Safe Sleep Star designation to recognize hospitals and clinics promoting safe sleep policies and risk-reduction strategies. They presented nationally and internationally on collaborative efforts in Kansas and continue to work to provide devices such as safety-approved portable cribs to families with infants who live in settings that put them at increased risk, along with resources on safe sleep practices.The Outstanding Coalition Organization&nbsp;Operation Lifesaver.Operation Lifesaver&nbsp;has been a national leader in rail safety education since its establishment in 1972. They are one of the few addressing this risk through education. Operation Lifesaver participates in many Safe Kids-hosted events, including Safe Kids Day at the Zoo and National Injury Prevention Day. They provide education and awareness to prevent collisions, injuries and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings. They distributed hundreds of copies of the Safe Kids Worldwide book “Clifford and the Railroad Crossing,” to help educate families through reading.The Local Coalition of the Year&nbsp;award was presented to&nbsp;Safe Kids Mitchell County.Safe Kids Mitchell County&nbsp;has provided childhood injury prevention outreach to their community by distributing safety devices to home visiting programs and community awareness events, such as Bucks for Buckles. The coalition works with the community to support the Kids Café summer program, providing lunch&nbsp; and safety presentations on Bicycle and Railroad Safety. Local Child Passenger Safety Technicians offer assistance with car seat installation and help families who cannot afford a car seat. Blad serves as the coalition coordinator; the lead agency is the Mitchell County Health Department.Service Recognition&nbsp;Awards were presented to&nbsp;Lt. Michael Racy&nbsp;with the Kansas Highway Patrol,&nbsp;Technical Trooper Tod Hileman&nbsp;with the Kansas Highway Patrol, and&nbsp;Deputy Tyler Kruzel&nbsp;with the Douglas County Correctional Facility.Lt. Michael Racy&nbsp;serves with the Kansas Highway Patrol since 2001, including as a Public Resource Officer in the Southwest Kansas Troop E area from 2011 until 2023, when he was promoted to Lieutenant. LT Racy was instrumental to the Child Passenger Safety program’s success in southwest Kansas, serving as both a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)and an instructor training new CPSTs in southwest Kansas each year. He advocates for safe driving and occupant protection, partnering with local agencies, schools, businesses and community events to spread awareness. Mike is a resource to families in his community and region, provides assistance and mentorship with other Public Resource Officers across the state and helps Safe Kids Kansas reach families in need. Lt. Racy is truly an advocate for safety.Technical Trooper Tod Hileman&nbsp;has served with the Kansas Highway Patrol since 1998, including as the Northwest Kansas Public Resource Officer for Troop D since 2003.&nbsp; He has been in a safety education role for over 20 years, dedicating his work to keeping the citizens of Kansas safe. Trooper Hileman is a CPST and instructor and is found at community events and schools with the seatbelt convincer to educate on the importance of wearing seatbelts. A 15-year-old teenager credited Trooper Tod with saving her life because of a safety program he taught at her high school.&nbsp; She lost control of her vehicle, left the roadway and rolled three times. After being safely removed from the vehicle, she told the responding Trooper, “I always wear my seatbelt because of Trooper Tod.”&nbsp; This is just one example of the lives he has impacted throughout his time on the patrol.&nbsp; He is an advocate for safe driving and beyond and is a selfless ambassador for the safety of Kansans.Deputy Tyler Kruzel&nbsp;serves his community as a CPST. In this role, he is always friendly and welcoming to families, actively listening to parents and caregivers, taking time to answer questions while providing education in a respectful and professional manner. In addition, Tyler assists with community events, such as the Back to School Safety Fair. It’s easy to see that Tyler is passionate about helping families and wants to keep their children safe in and around vehicles.Thank you to all our 2024 honorees.&nbsp; We are grateful for their service to Kansas kids and families.

Local KHP trooper honored as Safe Kids Kansas recognizes advocates for life-saving work

One of my favorite childhood memories or perhaps adult memories involves using a bright light to cast finger shadows of rabbits, birds, and other creatures onto a blank wall. One morning years ago, I noticed Mother Nature playing her own shadow games on Big Creek below my kitchen window. These engaging and active silhouettes encouraged me to pay close attention to fun the “old girl” could concoct using barren branches, agile squirrels, and flitting birds.

A number of factors played into this ethereal extravaganza. First of all, water filled the creek that winter, providing a surface that reflected dozens of scampering critters in the overhead branches at any one time. Also, the creek hadn’t frozen for long periods due to unseasonably warm temperatures. This sharpened mirror-like effects on the slow-moving water. Next, the red line on the thermometer recorded mornings chilly enough to invigorate squirrels and birds, but not so cold it forced them into huddled energy preservation mode.

Another bonus was unnaturally clear air—no fog, no mist, no moisture of any kind obscured reflections. Finally, weekends provided time to be home around 8:30 a.m. when the rising sun popped over the hill in just the right spot to project a myriad of cottonwood, ash, and locust shadows onto our winding brook.

What I saw when I gazed out the window onto Big Creek was a most unusual circus. Instead of actual critters, I viewed shadows of furry, acrobatic figures chasing one another from one silhouetted high branch to another up and down the bank. The inconsequential forms appeared to fly as they leapt across open space. I suspect that previous spring’s tornado created greater gaps than the squirrels were used to based on the stretches their images made as they vaulted from one landing zone to another.

Amazingly, those breaches didn’t faze the furry acrobats as they launched wiry forms from limb to limb across death-defying spans. The fearless rodents blasted off across open territory with the fearlessness of Flying Wallendas.

Every now and then I spied one of the reflections performing a flip or winding itself artfully around a branch like it wanted to enhance its routine into something exotic. Working in tandem, several choreographed a chase scene that rivaled Steve McQueen’s in The Thomas Crown Affair. In addition to fury critters’ mirrored dives, leaps, twirls, shadows of big and little birds hovered and darted in and out of the darkly profiled scenes. Where to look first became that morning’s challenge. Who cared about coffee?

I don’t know how I’d missed this show on previous weekend mornings. Perhaps that year’s presentation had more to do with earlier mentioned factors—unnaturally warm temperatures and lack of moisture in the air that provided clarity we normally didn’t experience most winter mornings. Whatever the reasons, I recorded this shadow play in my memory banks so I can now sit back and smile at the memory of frisky squirrels turning somersaults in my mind. What a joy to relive that moment!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733340864860.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINOne of my favorite childhood memories or perhaps adult memories involves using a bright light to cast finger shadows of rabbits, birds, and other creatures onto a blank wall. One morning years ago, I noticed Mother Nature playing her own shadow games on Big Creek below my kitchen window. These engaging and active silhouettes encouraged me to pay close attention to fun the “old girl” could concoct using barren branches, agile squirrels, and flitting birds.A number of factors played into this ethereal extravaganza. First of all, water filled the creek that winter, providing a surface that reflected dozens of scampering critters in the overhead branches at any one time. Also, the creek hadn’t frozen for long periods due to unseasonably warm temperatures. This sharpened mirror-like effects on the slow-moving water. Next, the red line on the thermometer recorded mornings chilly enough to invigorate squirrels and birds, but not so cold it forced them into huddled energy preservation mode.Another bonus was unnaturally clear air—no fog, no mist, no moisture of any kind obscured reflections. Finally, weekends provided time to be home around 8:30 a.m. when the rising sun popped over the hill in just the right spot to project a myriad of cottonwood, ash, and locust shadows onto our winding brook.What I saw when I gazed out the window onto Big Creek was a most unusual circus. Instead of actual critters, I viewed shadows of furry, acrobatic figures chasing one another from one silhouetted high branch to another up and down the bank. The inconsequential forms appeared to fly as they leapt across open space. I suspect that previous spring’s tornado created greater gaps than the squirrels were used to based on the stretches their images made as they vaulted from one landing zone to another.Amazingly, those breaches didn’t faze the furry acrobats as they launched wiry forms from limb to limb across death-defying spans. The fearless rodents blasted off across open territory with the fearlessness of Flying Wallendas.Every now and then I spied one of the reflections performing a flip or winding itself artfully around a branch like it wanted to enhance its routine into something exotic. Working in tandem, several choreographed a chase scene that rivaled Steve McQueen’s in The Thomas Crown Affair. In addition to fury critters’ mirrored dives, leaps, twirls, shadows of big and little birds hovered and darted in and out of the darkly profiled scenes. Where to look first became that morning’s challenge. Who cared about coffee?I don’t know how I’d missed this show on previous weekend mornings. Perhaps that year’s presentation had more to do with earlier mentioned factors—unnaturally warm temperatures and lack of moisture in the air that provided clarity we normally didn’t experience most winter mornings. Whatever the reasons, I recorded this shadow play in my memory banks so I can now sit back and smile at the memory of frisky squirrels turning somersaults in my mind. What a joy to relive that moment!

MADORIN: Winter morning shadow plays

<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/2024/12/1733340671189.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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733428046404.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>

2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.

In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.

The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.

Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.

Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618601684951.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

WaKeeney's Wreaths Across America ceremony Dec. 14

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 celebrated the opening of the new Roosevelt Elementary School addition Monday night.

The addition and renovation is the first project completed under the $145 million bond issue.

Teachers worked on moving into the new space last week. Students' first day in the new addition was Monday.

"These new spaces will offer flexibility for new learning opportunities for students and staff that they've never had," Superintendent Ron Wilson said Monday night.

"While today we are celebrating the opening of a new and improved Roosevelt, we are also celebrating the beginning of something great that will occur across our district over the next two years as we continue to provide great learning space for all students and staff across our district," Wilson said, alluding to the other bond-funded projects that are in the works.

New classrooms were added to the Roosevelt to make it a four-section school, which means that it will be able to accommodate four classes of each grade, kindergarten through fifth.

Fourth- and fifth-grade students will occupy classrooms in the new addition, which also includes a gym and new library.

Previously, the school had one room used as a cafeteria, gym and auditorium, which made scheduling difficult.

A STEM teacher has been added at each elementary school. Roosevelt will now have a classroom dedicated to STEM classes.

The school board has approved the purchase of new furniture for the school, but it is on order.

Wilson thanked many people for supporting the bond issue and the construction project, including the school board, architects DLR Group and Nabholz Construction, the construction manager.

"We would also not be here today without the tremendous support of the Hays USD 489 parents," Wilson said. "... and the Hays community members who united and voted for this bond because they believed better school buildings were needed.&nbsp;

"But they also believed that better school buildings would help the Hays community thrive and survive for our future. New and improved schools will help us compete for families who will be making decisions about where they want to live and raise their families."

Wilson said new buildings do not do the work of educating students.&nbsp;

"But they no doubt will contribute to the positive experiences for our students and staff, and learning and fun will occur every day at Roosevelt for many, many years to come," he said.

Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Chris Sramek said Monday was an amazing day for the staff and students.

"Years of planning, hard work and collaboration have shown our community's commitment to education, to growth and to the potential of our students," she said.

"As our students walked through the doors this morning, I saw the sparkle in their eyes as they took in these new spaces," Sramek said. "That sparkle, the excitement, wonder and possibility reminds us all of why this project is so important."

The school is designed with the students in mind, she said.

"[It offers] spaces that inspire creativity, encourage collaboration and provide opportunities to grow in every way," Sramek said.

She said the building is its students' legacy.

"One thing you will always carry with you is this incredible memory of signing the beam that now stands as a permanent part of your school. Not many people can say they signed a piece of history—a beam that holds up walls and symbolizes the strength of this community,"&nbsp;Sramek said.

"Every time you walk through these halls, you will know that pride is literally built into the school," she said. "Students, this is for you. May this school inspire you to dream bigger, think deeper and always strive to do your best," she said.

"This investment is not just about today but about the future, about equipping our children with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. It is about creating a space where students feel valued, empowered and excited to learn. We are Roosevelt,"&nbsp;Sramek said.

&nbsp;Work is underway on the new Hays High School, which will be adjacent to the current Hays High on East 13th Street. That building is set to open in August.

The current high school will be converted into a middle school, and the middle school will be converted into an elementary school.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c9d8521-815b-4f1d-8bf6-ddea11091306">Work on an addition at O'Loughlin Elementary School is set to begin after the first of the year.</a>

Lincoln Elementary School will close in May. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">The district is working on a contract to sell the Lincoln building to developer Michael Graham, who plans to renovate the building into apartments.</a>

The district also plans to close Wilson Elementary School. Upon the closure of the Rockwell Administration Center, Wilson will likely be used for administrative offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733243961095.jpeg" alt="Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Chris Sramek and students&nbsp;Sloan Goetz and&nbsp;Aria Howard cut the ribbon on the Roosevelt Elementary School renovation and addition project during a ceremony Monday night at the school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Chris Sramek and students&nbsp;Sloan Goetz and&nbsp;Aria Howard cut the ribbon on the Roosevelt Elementary School renovation and addition project during a ceremony Monday night at the school.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 celebrated the opening of the new Roosevelt Elementary School addition Monday night.The addition and renovation is the first project completed under the $145 million bond issue.Teachers worked on moving into the new space last week. Students' first day in the new addition was Monday."These new spaces will offer flexibility for new learning opportunities for students and staff that they've never had," Superintendent Ron Wilson said Monday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244038645.jpeg" alt="The new STEM lab at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new STEM lab at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"While today we are celebrating the opening of a new and improved Roosevelt, we are also celebrating the beginning of something great that will occur across our district over the next two years as we continue to provide great learning space for all students and staff across our district," Wilson said, alluding to the other bond-funded projects that are in the works.New classrooms were added to the Roosevelt to make it a four-section school, which means that it will be able to accommodate four classes of each grade, kindergarten through fifth.Fourth- and fifth-grade students will occupy classrooms in the new addition, which also includes a gym and new library.Previously, the school had one room used as a cafeteria, gym and auditorium, which made scheduling difficult.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244143425.jpeg" alt="The new Roosevelt gym. The school did not have a separate gym before the renovation. The cafeteria doubled as a gym.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new Roosevelt gym. The school did not have a separate gym before the renovation. The cafeteria doubled as a gym.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244165318.jpeg" alt="The new Roosevelt gym with bleachers.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new Roosevelt gym with bleachers.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244436218.jpeg" alt="A climbing wall in the new Roosevelt Elementary School gym.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A climbing wall in the new Roosevelt Elementary School gym.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>A STEM teacher has been added at each elementary school. Roosevelt will now have a classroom dedicated to STEM classes.The school board has approved the purchase of new furniture for the school, but it is on order.Wilson thanked many people for supporting the bond issue and the construction project, including the school board, architects DLR Group and Nabholz Construction, the construction manager."We would also not be here today without the tremendous support of the Hays USD 489 parents," Wilson said. "... and the Hays community members who united and voted for this bond because they believed better school buildings were needed.&nbsp;"But they also believed that better school buildings would help the Hays community thrive and survive for our future. New and improved schools will help us compete for families who will be making decisions about where they want to live and raise their families."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244407836.jpeg" alt="One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The renovated school will be able to accommodate four classes of each grade.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The renovated school will be able to accommodate four classes of each grade.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244566102.jpeg" alt="One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The fourth and fifth grades will be housed in the new addition. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The fourth and fifth grades will be housed in the new addition. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Wilson said new buildings do not do the work of educating students.&nbsp;"But they no doubt will contribute to the positive experiences for our students and staff, and learning and fun will occur every day at Roosevelt for many, many years to come," he said.Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Chris Sramek said Monday was an amazing day for the staff and students."Years of planning, hard work and collaboration have shown our community's commitment to education, to growth and to the potential of our students," she said."As our students walked through the doors this morning, I saw the sparkle in their eyes as they took in these new spaces," Sramek said. "That sparkle, the excitement, wonder and possibility reminds us all of why this project is so important."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244621268.jpeg" alt="One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244645370.jpeg" alt="One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The students' first day in the new classrooms was Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the new classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. The students' first day in the new classrooms was Monday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The school is designed with the students in mind, she said."[It offers] spaces that inspire creativity, encourage collaboration and provide opportunities to grow in every way," Sramek said.She said the building is its students' legacy."One thing you will always carry with you is this incredible memory of signing the beam that now stands as a permanent part of your school. Not many people can say they signed a piece of history—a beam that holds up walls and symbolizes the strength of this community,"&nbsp;Sramek said."Every time you walk through these halls, you will know that pride is literally built into the school," she said. "Students, this is for you. May this school inspire you to dream bigger, think deeper and always strive to do your best," she said."This investment is not just about today but about the future, about equipping our children with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. It is about creating a space where students feel valued, empowered and excited to learn. We are Roosevelt,"&nbsp;Sramek said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244694451.jpeg" alt="The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. The school's new entrance can be seen at the opposite end of the room. The renovation also included new offices. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. The school's new entrance can be seen at the opposite end of the room. The renovation also included new offices. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244916684.jpeg" alt="The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733244934467.jpeg" alt="The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The new Roosevelt Elementary School Library. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Other bond projects</h2>&nbsp;Work is underway on the new Hays High School, which will be adjacent to the current Hays High on East 13th Street. That building is set to open in August.The current high school will be converted into a middle school, and the middle school will be converted into an elementary school.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c9d8521-815b-4f1d-8bf6-ddea11091306">Work on an addition at O'Loughlin Elementary School is set to begin after the first of the year.</a>Lincoln Elementary School will close in May. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">The district is working on a contract to sell the Lincoln building to developer Michael Graham, who plans to renovate the building into apartments.</a>The district also plans to close Wilson Elementary School. Upon the closure of the Rockwell Administration Center, Wilson will likely be used for administrative offices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733245013022.jpeg" alt="Renovations in the older portion of Roosevelt included paint and carpet. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Renovations in the older portion of Roosevelt included paint and carpet. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733245038685.jpeg" alt="A new collaborative space at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A new collaborative space at Roosevelt Elementary School. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733245243703.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson, center, addresses a crowd at the Roosevelt Elementary School ribbon cutting and open house Monday night. To his left is Roosevelt Principal Chris Sramek. To Wilson's right are Architect Mike Fahey of DLR Group and Bret Collins of Nabholz Construction, the project manager. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson, center, addresses a crowd at the Roosevelt Elementary School ribbon cutting and open house Monday night. To his left is Roosevelt Principal Chris Sramek. To Wilson's right are Architect Mike Fahey of DLR Group and Bret Collins of Nabholz Construction, the project manager. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733245265172.jpeg" alt="Due to the cold weather, parents, children, staff and guests packed the Roosevelt Elementary School library for a ribbon cutting for the school's addition and renovation project on Monday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Due to the cold weather, parents, children, staff and guests packed the Roosevelt Elementary School library for a ribbon cutting for the school's addition and renovation project on Monday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays USD celebrates opening of Roosevelt Elementary School addition

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Ellis High School inducted 13 juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. 

Requirements for NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, an accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.

The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248192517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Ellis High School inducted 13 juniors and 12 seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements for NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, an accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248256322.jpeg" alt="Back Row, 1st year members: Owen Richards (Jr.), son of Brady and Jamie Richards; Leah Reed (Jr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Carson Schartz (Jr.), son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Caleb Noble-Heit (Sr.), son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Ethan Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Payten Burd (Jr.), daughter of Shaun and Emily Burd; Avery Boydston (Jr.), daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Jaren Frickey (Jr.), son of Brian and Michelle Frickey; Eliana Brull (Jr.), daughter of Steven and Sheresa Brull. Middle Row: Kia Mader (Jr.), daughter of Michael and Mindi Mader; Kinzie Sunley (Jr.), granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Sienna Schmidt (Jr.), daughter of Dick and Shannon Schmidt; Raegan Jimenez (Jr.), daughter of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Ashlyn Kroeger (Jr.), daughter of Matt and Rachael Kroeger; Morgan Armbrister (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister." />
 <figcaption>Back Row, 1st year members: Owen Richards (Jr.), son of Brady and Jamie Richards; Leah Reed (Jr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Carson Schartz (Jr.), son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Caleb Noble-Heit (Sr.), son of Coady and Kelsey Heit; Ethan Carroll (Jr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Payten Burd (Jr.), daughter of Shaun and Emily Burd; Avery Boydston (Jr.), daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Jaren Frickey (Jr.), son of Brian and Michelle Frickey; Eliana Brull (Jr.), daughter of Steven and Sheresa Brull. Middle Row: Kia Mader (Jr.), daughter of Michael and Mindi Mader; Kinzie Sunley (Jr.), granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Sienna Schmidt (Jr.), daughter of Dick and Shannon Schmidt; Raegan Jimenez (Jr.), daughter of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Ashlyn Kroeger (Jr.), daughter of Matt and Rachael Kroeger; Morgan Armbrister (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Crystal Armbrister.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733248290368.jpeg" alt="Front Row, 2nd year members: Chance Jimenez (Sr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Maleah Vine (Sr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Brooke Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Natalee North (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Sr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Taegan Shannon (Sr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Sr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Toby Honas (Sr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas." />
 <figcaption>Front Row, 2nd year members: Chance Jimenez (Sr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Maleah Vine (Sr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Brooke Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Natalee North (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; Isabella Eck (Sr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Sr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Sr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Taegan Shannon (Sr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Sr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Toby Honas (Sr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis High School inducts 25 into National Honor Society

NESS COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries in Ness City on Monday.

Approximately 17 vehicles were burglarized between the 300 Block of N Iowa Street, 200 and 300 Blocks of E Locust, and 100 Block of N Depot Street in Ness City, according to a social media report from the Ness County Sheriff.

The Sheriff's office asked residents in Ness City to check your vehicles for suspicious activity and report it right away. 

Even if you don't have anything stolen, the sheriff's office still needs your assistance. It is extremely likely there are more victims. "As part of a thorough investigation, the sheriff asked for "all residents to check&nbsp; home surveillance systems for suspicious persons overnight."

NESS COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries in Ness City on Monday.Approximately 17 vehicles were burglarized between the 300 Block of N Iowa Street, 200 and 300 Blocks of E Locust, and 100 Block of N Depot Street in Ness City, according to a social media report from the Ness County Sheriff.The Sheriff's office asked residents in Ness City to check your vehicles for suspicious activity and report it right away. Even if you don't have anything stolen, the sheriff's office still needs your assistance. It is extremely likely there are more victims. "As part of a thorough investigation, the sheriff asked for "all residents to check&nbsp; home surveillance systems for suspicious persons overnight."

Sheriff investigating series of vehicle burglaries in Ness City

The “Little Town of Bethlehem” nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors on&nbsp;Sundays &nbsp;Dec. 8, 15, 22,&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;Christmas Day.&nbsp; 

Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling Carol at&nbsp;785-<a href="tel:735-9282">735-9282</a>.

This is the 98th year of the nativity, begun by the parish priest Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927.&nbsp; 

Over the years, the nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas.&nbsp; 

Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee.&nbsp; 

Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. 

A special section of the nativity is dedicated to our veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few. 

The nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background.&nbsp; 

Four trickling waterfalls,&nbsp; animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927.

St. Boniface Catholic Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and two miles east.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575910677432.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe “Little Town of Bethlehem” nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors on&nbsp;Sundays &nbsp;Dec. 8, 15, 22,&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;Christmas Day.&nbsp; All times are&nbsp;1 to 5 p.m.&nbsp; Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling Carol at&nbsp;785-<a href="tel:735-9282">735-9282</a>.This is the 98th year of the nativity, begun by the parish priest Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927.&nbsp; Over the years, the nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas.&nbsp; Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee.&nbsp; Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. A special section of the nativity is dedicated to our veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few. The nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background.&nbsp; Four trickling waterfalls,&nbsp; animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927.St. Boniface Catholic Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and two miles east.

Nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church opens for visitors

At 5:51 p.m. Monday, the Ellis Police Department received a request for a welfare check on a community member.

At 7:19 p.m., the community member was located by an Ellis Police Officer, deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at the Ellis High School football field in the 400 block of West 10th Street in Ellis.

No foul play is suspected at this time, and there is no threat to community safety.

An autopsy will be conducted at a later date by the 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office.

The community member’s name will not be released, per the request of the family.

"The members of the Ellis Police Department extend their heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time, and we pray they find peace and comfort.

I’d like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office for their assistance with this case," said Avery Smith, Ellis police chief.

Ellis Police DepartmentAt 5:51 p.m. Monday, the Ellis Police Department received a request for a welfare check on a community member.At 7:19 p.m., the community member was located by an Ellis Police Officer, deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at the Ellis High School football field in the 400 block of West 10th Street in Ellis.No foul play is suspected at this time, and there is no threat to community safety.An autopsy will be conducted at a later date by the 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office.The community member’s name will not be released, per the request of the family."The members of the Ellis Police Department extend their heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time, and we pray they find peace and comfort.

I’d like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the 23rd Judicial District Coroner’s Office for their assistance with this case," said Avery Smith, Ellis police chief.

Death at Ellis High School football field believed to be suicide

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A 42-year-old Hays man was sentenced last month to more than
two and a half years in prison for killing a man outside a Hays bar in June 2023. 

Keith Allen Ostrom was initially charged with voluntary
manslaughter in the death of 63-year-old Larry Braun outside the Horseshoe Bar
in Hays on June 25, 2023. 

Ostrom was sentenced Wednesday, Nov. 20, to 32 months in prison by
Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun.

According to the Hays Police Department, in the early
morning hours of Sunday, June 26, 2023, 63-year-old Larry D. Braun was shot in
the neck following an incident at the Horseshoe Bar.

Braun died as a result of his wounds, and police arrested
Ostrom.

Court documents showed that Ostrom had claimed that the
shooting was in self-defense. He, at one point during the investigation, told
police that he believed Braun had a knife.

Court documents indicated Ostrom claimed the shooting was self-defense. At one point during the investigation, he told police he believed Braun had a knife.

However, according to the initial police report, Ostrom did not tell
police on the scene about the knife.

Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson said a witness to the
event that night, who was sober, told police that Braun did not have a knife, but during grand jury testimony, the witness said Braun did have a knife. 

Anderson said the questions about self-defense were the main
reason he presented the case to a grand jury.

On Aug. 9, 2023, the 15-member grand jury returned an
indictment charging Ostrom with voluntary manslaughter, criminal discharge of a
firearm, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and endangerment.

In October, Ostrom pleaded guilty to involuntary
manslaughter.

At sentencing, Ostrom’s attorney requested the judge
sentence him to probation instead of prison.

They cited his lack of criminal history, his age, and his
current medical condition—he has a kidney condition that requires several dialysis
treatments a week—as all reasons why the judge should sentence Ostrom to
probation instead of prison.

Braun denied the motion, saying that if you take a life in
Ellis County, there have to be consequences.

He sentenced Ostrom to 32 months in prison. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA 42-year-old Hays man was sentenced last month to more than
two and a half years in prison for killing a man outside a Hays bar in June 2023. Keith Allen Ostrom was initially charged with voluntary
manslaughter in the death of 63-year-old Larry Braun outside the Horseshoe Bar
in Hays on June 25, 2023. Ostrom was sentenced Wednesday, Nov. 20, to 32 months in prison by
Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun.According to the Hays Police Department, in the early
morning hours of Sunday, June 26, 2023, 63-year-old Larry D. Braun was shot in
the neck following an incident at the Horseshoe Bar.Braun died as a result of his wounds, and police arrested
Ostrom.Court documents showed that Ostrom had claimed that the
shooting was in self-defense. He, at one point during the investigation, told
police that he believed Braun had a knife.Court documents indicated Ostrom claimed the shooting was self-defense. At one point during the investigation, he told police he believed Braun had a knife.However, according to the initial police report, Ostrom did not tell
police on the scene about the knife.Ellis County Attorney Robert Anderson said a witness to the
event that night, who was sober, told police that Braun did not have a knife, but during grand jury testimony, the witness said Braun did have a knife. Anderson said the questions about self-defense were the main
reason he presented the case to a grand jury.On Aug. 9, 2023, the 15-member grand jury returned an
indictment charging Ostrom with voluntary manslaughter, criminal discharge of a
firearm, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and endangerment.In October, Ostrom pleaded guilty to involuntary
manslaughter.At sentencing, Ostrom’s attorney requested the judge
sentence him to probation instead of prison.They cited his lack of criminal history, his age, and his
current medical condition—he has a kidney condition that requires several dialysis
treatments a week—as all reasons why the judge should sentence Ostrom to
probation instead of prison.Braun denied the motion, saying that if you take a life in
Ellis County, there have to be consequences.He sentenced Ostrom to 32 months in prison.

Hays man sentenced to prison in 2023 killing outside bar

HaysMed has filed a counterclaim against Dr. Jerod Grove and Greeley County Hospital.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">Grove has sued HaysMed, alleging the noncompete clause of his contract was too restrictive.</a>

Grove is seeking an injunction to allow him to continue practicing medicine in Tribune while the lawsuit is being resolved. He is also requesting unspecified damages to be determined at trial.

Grove, a general surgeon, resigned from HaysMed on Nov. 12. HaysMed has employed him for nine years.

Grove has signed a contract with Greeley Health to practice at the Greeley County Hospital in Tribune, Kansas.&nbsp;

The noncompete clause stipulates Grove can't practice medicine within 110 miles of the city of Hays and 30 miles in any direction from the city limits of any other city or town where the physician performs services on behalf of the hospital for two years.

In the counterclaim, HaysMed is requesting unspecified damages against Grove and Greeley County Hospital.

Grove and another surgeon were working at Greeley County Hospital through a HaysMed outreach program. When Greeley County Hospital hired Grove, its CEO terminated its agreement with HaysMed to operate the outreach program, according to HaysMeds' counterclaim.

The counterclaim also says while employed by HaysMed, Grove also served on HaysMed’s Board of Directors and filled various other leadership positions, making him privy to much, if not all,&nbsp;of HaysMed’s confidential business information.

Grove's most recent contract was set to expire at the end of December. HaysMed had initiated negotiations with Grove for a new contract.

According to the lawsuit, during negotiations, Grove indicated that his “line in the sand” was that his new pay be $610,000 per year and that no minimum amount of work be required.

According to the lawsuit, HaysMed was unwilling to meet Grove’s demand, and later in the summer, Grove gave his 90-day notice.

HaysMed notified Greeley County Hospital about Grove's noncompete clause and its intent to enforce that portion of his contract.

Grove responded through his attorney, Chris McGowne, to the counterclaim.

"We are in receipt of HaysMed's counterclaims and cross claims. While we understand this is a part of the legal process, we are disappointed that they have chosen a path that could end up depriving numerous individuals across western Kansas from receiving&nbsp;necessary and vital health care services," McGowne said in an email Monday.

"However, Dr. Grove is committed to fighting for the citizens of western Kansas to ensure they are able to access quality and affordable health services, and he is able to ensure continuity of care. We have the utmost faith in the judicial process and look forward to having&nbsp;our day in court," according to the statement.&nbsp;

Trice Watts, Greeley County Hospital CEO, said he did not wish to comment on Monday as the hospital had yet to be formally served papers on the lawsuit.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/72d9adfa-8b21-4d60-bd8c-049da4c03137">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: HaysMed surgeon announces departure</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>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592337955905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHaysMed has filed a counterclaim against Dr. Jerod Grove and Greeley County Hospital.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">Grove has sued HaysMed, alleging the noncompete clause of his contract was too restrictive.</a>Grove is seeking an injunction to allow him to continue practicing medicine in Tribune while the lawsuit is being resolved. He is also requesting unspecified damages to be determined at trial.Grove, a general surgeon, resigned from HaysMed on Nov. 12. HaysMed has employed him for nine years.Grove has signed a contract with Greeley Health to practice at the Greeley County Hospital in Tribune, Kansas.&nbsp;The noncompete clause stipulates Grove can't practice medicine within 110 miles of the city of Hays and 30 miles in any direction from the city limits of any other city or town where the physician performs services on behalf of the hospital for two years.In the counterclaim, HaysMed is requesting unspecified damages against Grove and Greeley County Hospital.Grove and another surgeon were working at Greeley County Hospital through a HaysMed outreach program. When Greeley County Hospital hired Grove, its CEO terminated its agreement with HaysMed to operate the outreach program, according to HaysMeds' counterclaim.The counterclaim also says while employed by HaysMed, Grove also served on HaysMed’s Board of Directors and filled various other leadership positions, making him privy to much, if not all,&nbsp;of HaysMed’s confidential business information.Grove's most recent contract was set to expire at the end of December. HaysMed had initiated negotiations with Grove for a new contract.According to the lawsuit, during negotiations, Grove indicated that his “line in the sand” was that his new pay be $610,000 per year and that no minimum amount of work be required.According to the lawsuit, HaysMed was unwilling to meet Grove’s demand, and later in the summer, Grove gave his 90-day notice.HaysMed notified Greeley County Hospital about Grove's noncompete clause and its intent to enforce that portion of his contract.Grove responded through his attorney, Chris McGowne, to the counterclaim."We are in receipt of HaysMed's counterclaims and cross claims. While we understand this is a part of the legal process, we are disappointed that they have chosen a path that could end up depriving numerous individuals across western Kansas from receiving&nbsp;necessary and vital health care services," McGowne said in an email Monday."However, Dr. Grove is committed to fighting for the citizens of western Kansas to ensure they are able to access quality and affordable health services, and he is able to ensure continuity of care. We have the utmost faith in the judicial process and look forward to having&nbsp;our day in court," according to the statement.&nbsp;Trice Watts, Greeley County Hospital CEO, said he did not wish to comment on Monday as the hospital had yet to be formally served papers on the lawsuit.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/72d9adfa-8b21-4d60-bd8c-049da4c03137">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: HaysMed surgeon announces departure</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>

HaysMed files counterclaim against surgeon, Greeley County Hospital

&nbsp;Holiday shopping and gift-giving can often be challenging, but even more so when shopping for a person living with dementia. There 54,500 Kansas residents living with Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on the stage of dementia, some well-intentioned gifts may no longer be appropriate or practical for the person.

“Selecting an appropriate gift for someone living with dementia requires careful thought and consideration,” said Denise Vann, Alzheimer’s Association – Central &amp; Western Kansas Chapter Program Director. “You want to start by considering where the person is cognitively so you can choose a gift they are able to use and enjoy. One of the best gifts you can give is simply spending time with the person.”&nbsp;

To help holiday shoppers, the Alzheimer's Association has released its 2024 Holiday Gift Guide, offering gift ideas for individuals living in the<a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages">early, middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s disease</a>. The guide also includes gift suggestions aimed at keeping those living with dementia engaged and involved in everyday tasks, as well as gift ideas for the 11 million family members and friends across the country&nbsp;serving as unpaid caregivers for these individuals.&nbsp;

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the early stages:&nbsp;&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dry-erase calendars and white boards&nbsp;with colorful markers are a perfect way to list reminders or day-to-day activities.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Label makers&nbsp;can help people with memory challenges stay organized and keep track of everyday household items and belongings.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gift cards&nbsp;for ride-sharing services or a favorite activity (movie, restaurant, golf) allowing the person to remain active.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;GPS trackers&nbsp;(bracelets, watches, keyrings) can keep people living with dementia safe while allowing them to stay independent. These devices provide real-time location updates of your family member. Smaller trackers can be used to help keep track of frequently misplaced items including keys, wallets and phones.&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A “memory” calendar&nbsp;featuring family photos – write in special family occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the middle-to-late stages:

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Music playlists&nbsp;that include the person’s favorite artists or songs.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing&nbsp;that is easy to put on, remove and wash, such as sweat suits, slip-on blouses/shirts, non-slip socks, Velcro shoes, wrinkle-free nightgowns, nightshirts or a fluffy bathrobe.&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Framed photographs or a photo collage&nbsp;created specifically for your loved one. Insert the names of the people in the photos to help with identification.&nbsp;&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Soothing gifts&nbsp;that can help with anxiety like a handheld massage ball or a soft blanket.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adaptive dining accessories&nbsp;such as no-spill cups, plate guards and silverware with specifically designed handles that enable greater independence during meals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

5 gifts to help with everyday tasks and keep the person living with Alzheimer’s engaged:&nbsp;&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A memory phone&nbsp;that can store pictures with the names and contact information of family and friends.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Puzzle and activity books&nbsp;are a great way to keep a person living with dementia cognitively engaged. Some books are developed specifically for people with cognitive challenges. Select books that are appropriate for the person’s cognition level and offer fun without being overwhelming.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Card/Board games&nbsp;offer an opportunity to involve other family members and friends, allowing others to spend time with the person living with dementia. Some games offer various skill levels, which can keep the caregiver, other family members and the care recipient engaged at cognitively appropriate levels.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An outing&nbsp;to a movie, play or concert, sporting event, museum or possibly an organized holiday shopping trip with friends and family.&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Engage your loved one&nbsp;in making homemade gifts for the family, painting ornaments, decorating stockings, table setting, scrapbooking or other activity gifts.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time&nbsp;is the most important gift you can give a dementia caregiver.&nbsp;Spend time with the person living with dementia and allow the caregiver a chance to run errands, go to their own doctor’s appointment, participate in a support group or engage in an activity that helps them recharge. Even one hour could make a big difference in providing the caregiver with some relief.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-made coupons&nbsp;for cleaning the house, cooking a meal, mowing the lawn or shoveling the driveway.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gift cards and certificates&nbsp;for restaurants or meal delivery, laundry/dry cleaning services, lawn care services, computer/technology support, house cleaning services, and personal pampering services such as massages and pedicures.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Books.&nbsp;In addition to giving novels on the caregiver's "must read" list, there are a number of books on caregiving and maintaining self-health.

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-care items&nbsp;such as a bundle of personal care items (moisturizers, bath bombs, foot creams, scrubs, soaps).

For more tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/holidaytips">alz.org/holidaytips</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721947869199.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;Holiday shopping and gift-giving can often be challenging, but even more so when shopping for a person living with dementia. There 54,500 Kansas residents living with Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on the stage of dementia, some well-intentioned gifts may no longer be appropriate or practical for the person.“Selecting an appropriate gift for someone living with dementia requires careful thought and consideration,” said Denise Vann, Alzheimer’s Association – Central &amp; Western Kansas Chapter Program Director. “You want to start by considering where the person is cognitively so you can choose a gift they are able to use and enjoy. One of the best gifts you can give is simply spending time with the person.”&nbsp;To help holiday shoppers, the Alzheimer's Association has released its 2024 Holiday Gift Guide, offering gift ideas for individuals living in the<a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages">early, middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s disease</a>. The guide also includes gift suggestions aimed at keeping those living with dementia engaged and involved in everyday tasks, as well as gift ideas for the 11 million family members and friends across the country&nbsp;serving as unpaid caregivers for these individuals.&nbsp;5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the early stages:&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dry-erase calendars and white boards&nbsp;with colorful markers are a perfect way to list reminders or day-to-day activities.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Label makers&nbsp;can help people with memory challenges stay organized and keep track of everyday household items and belongings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gift cards&nbsp;for ride-sharing services or a favorite activity (movie, restaurant, golf) allowing the person to remain active.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;GPS trackers&nbsp;(bracelets, watches, keyrings) can keep people living with dementia safe while allowing them to stay independent. These devices provide real-time location updates of your family member. Smaller trackers can be used to help keep track of frequently misplaced items including keys, wallets and phones.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A “memory” calendar&nbsp;featuring family photos – write in special family occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the middle-to-late stages:●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Music playlists&nbsp;that include the person’s favorite artists or songs.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing&nbsp;that is easy to put on, remove and wash, such as sweat suits, slip-on blouses/shirts, non-slip socks, Velcro shoes, wrinkle-free nightgowns, nightshirts or a fluffy bathrobe.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Framed photographs or a photo collage&nbsp;created specifically for your loved one. Insert the names of the people in the photos to help with identification.&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Soothing gifts&nbsp;that can help with anxiety like a handheld massage ball or a soft blanket.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adaptive dining accessories&nbsp;such as no-spill cups, plate guards and silverware with specifically designed handles that enable greater independence during meals.&nbsp;&nbsp;5 gifts to help with everyday tasks and keep the person living with Alzheimer’s engaged:&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A memory phone&nbsp;that can store pictures with the names and contact information of family and friends.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Puzzle and activity books&nbsp;are a great way to keep a person living with dementia cognitively engaged. Some books are developed specifically for people with cognitive challenges. Select books that are appropriate for the person’s cognition level and offer fun without being overwhelming.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Card/Board games&nbsp;offer an opportunity to involve other family members and friends, allowing others to spend time with the person living with dementia. Some games offer various skill levels, which can keep the caregiver, other family members and the care recipient engaged at cognitively appropriate levels.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An outing&nbsp;to a movie, play or concert, sporting event, museum or possibly an organized holiday shopping trip with friends and family.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Engage your loved one&nbsp;in making homemade gifts for the family, painting ornaments, decorating stockings, table setting, scrapbooking or other activity gifts.5 gifts for dementia caregivers:●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time&nbsp;is the most important gift you can give a dementia caregiver.&nbsp;Spend time with the person living with dementia and allow the caregiver a chance to run errands, go to their own doctor’s appointment, participate in a support group or engage in an activity that helps them recharge. Even one hour could make a big difference in providing the caregiver with some relief.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-made coupons&nbsp;for cleaning the house, cooking a meal, mowing the lawn or shoveling the driveway.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gift cards and certificates&nbsp;for restaurants or meal delivery, laundry/dry cleaning services, lawn care services, computer/technology support, house cleaning services, and personal pampering services such as massages and pedicures.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Books.&nbsp;In addition to giving novels on the caregiver's "must read" list, there are a number of books on caregiving and maintaining self-health.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Self-care items&nbsp;such as a bundle of personal care items (moisturizers, bath bombs, foot creams, scrubs, soaps).For more tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://alz.org/holidaytips">alz.org/holidaytips</a>.