By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

This year’s presidential campaign has featured shocking statements and dramatic moments, including two assassination attempts. More recently, former President Trump made alarming comments about “enemies within” that hint at the use of military force against his political opponents, while Vice President Harris is struggling with a reticence among men of color to vote for her. Despite all this, the election itself may come down to a far more traditional, pocketbook issue.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/2024-election-and-the-economy-survey/?tpt=a">new Bankrate survey</a>&nbsp;shows that 41% of Americans are concerned about inflation.&nbsp; More generally,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/651719/economy-important-issue-2024-presidential-vote.aspx">Gallup</a>&nbsp;finds that the economy is the top issue this year, with 52% of voters calling it “extremely important.”&nbsp;

Inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/page-one-economics/2023/08/25/the-rise-and-fall-of-inflation-during-the-early-2020s#:~:text=Economists%20suggested%20both%20supply%20and,and%20higher%20over%20this%20period.&amp;text=See%2C%20for%20example%2C%20the%20San,and%20continued%20acceleration%20in%20inflation.">surged after the covid pandemic</a>&nbsp;due a variety of factors including clogged supply chains, worker shortages, and pent-up consumer demand.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/federal-spending-was-responsible-2022-spike-inflation-research-shows">One study by MIT researchers</a>&nbsp;found that federal spending was the biggest driver.&nbsp; This included stimulus checks and support for state governments. That spending also had positive effects, likely averting a recession and possibly even a depression.&nbsp; After their spike, inflation rates today are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/latest-inflation-statistics/?tpt=a">back down to 2.4% annually,</a>&nbsp;a level last seen in February 2021.&nbsp; Most economists attribute this control primarily to the Federal Reserve’s policy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clevelandfed.org/center-for-inflation-research/inflation-101/why-does-the-fed-care-start">raising interest rates</a>.&nbsp; So, why are voters still upset?

First is the fact that controlling interest rates does not return prices to pre-inflationary levels.&nbsp; Instead, Fed policy has slowed the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, causing them to stabilize at a point that is 21.4% more expensive than before February 2020.&nbsp; The last time Americans experienced high inflation was in the 1970s. Many older Americans have forgotten, while many younger Americans were not around to experience it.&nbsp; Should the Fed keep going and fight inflation even harder– perhaps even starting a cycle of deflation?&nbsp; If they did, the result could be traumatic.&nbsp; When the Fed finally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/great-inflation">brought inflation to heel in the early 1980s</a>, interest rates were far higher than they are now, unemployment was in the double digits, and the<a href="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/mypath/2422/farm-crisis-1980s">&nbsp;farm economy was absolutely devastated</a>.&nbsp; By contrast,<a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LNS14000024">&nbsp;today’s unemployment rates</a>&nbsp;are historically low.

Americans are also, specifically concerned about housing.&nbsp; Post-pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/us-house-prices-are-forecast-to-rise-more-than-4-percent-next-year">demand for housing is surging</a>, but supply is not keeping up. Loosening up building restrictions and zoning codes seem like good answers, but the American system of government throws up a roadblock:&nbsp; state laws– including here in Kansas– delegate most of these regulations to local governments, creating a patchwork of codes and zoning laws that builders and rehabbers must navigate in order to create and rehabilitate more housing.&nbsp; The recent&nbsp;<a href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2023/10/05/prairie-village-housing-timeline-214778/">rejection of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Prairie Village</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/lenexa-city-council-votes-down-controversial-proposal-for-homeless-shelter-in-city">denial of rezoning for a homeless shelter in Lenexa</a>, are both examples of the Not In My Backyard (NIMBY) politics that keeps housing choices limited.&nbsp; In addition, when developers do move in, they often prefer to build upscale apartments or large, single-family units in exclusive neighborhoods where the profit margin is greatest, doing little to relieve the shortage of&nbsp;affordable&nbsp;homes.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a href="https://immigrationforum.org/article/immigrant-construction-workers-in-the-united-states/">current anti-immigration political climate also contributes to the problem</a>&nbsp;by threatening to limit the number of workers in the construction industry.&nbsp; If Trump is elected and proceeds with plans for mass deportations, the problem will only worsen.&nbsp; Of course, immigrants need homes, too, but research shows that they contribute far more to&nbsp;lowering&nbsp;the cost of housing by working in construction, than they contribute to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jd-vance-debate-immigration-housing-prices-real-estate-federal-reserve/#:~:text=Still%2C%20there%20is%20some%20evidence,but%20although%20a%20small%20one.">raising it through increased demand.</a>&nbsp;

Inflation is a tough problem.&nbsp; Prices are not going back to pre-pandemic levels–the cost of doing so is simply too high.&nbsp; Popular policies like exclusive NIMBY zoning and anti-immigration legislation make the problem worse.&nbsp; Having been confronted with high inflation for the first time since the early 1980s, Americans are now re-learning what to do–and what not to do–in response.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasThis year’s presidential campaign has featured shocking statements and dramatic moments, including two assassination attempts. More recently, former President Trump made alarming comments about “enemies within” that hint at the use of military force against his political opponents, while Vice President Harris is struggling with a reticence among men of color to vote for her. Despite all this, the election itself may come down to a far more traditional, pocketbook issue.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/2024-election-and-the-economy-survey/?tpt=a">new Bankrate survey</a>&nbsp;shows that 41% of Americans are concerned about inflation.&nbsp; More generally,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/651719/economy-important-issue-2024-presidential-vote.aspx">Gallup</a>&nbsp;finds that the economy is the top issue this year, with 52% of voters calling it “extremely important.”&nbsp;Inflation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/page-one-economics/2023/08/25/the-rise-and-fall-of-inflation-during-the-early-2020s#:~:text=Economists%20suggested%20both%20supply%20and,and%20higher%20over%20this%20period.&amp;text=See%2C%20for%20example%2C%20the%20San,and%20continued%20acceleration%20in%20inflation.">surged after the covid pandemic</a>&nbsp;due a variety of factors including clogged supply chains, worker shortages, and pent-up consumer demand.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/federal-spending-was-responsible-2022-spike-inflation-research-shows">One study by MIT researchers</a>&nbsp;found that federal spending was the biggest driver.&nbsp; This included stimulus checks and support for state governments. That spending also had positive effects, likely averting a recession and possibly even a depression.&nbsp; After their spike, inflation rates today are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/banking/federal-reserve/latest-inflation-statistics/?tpt=a">back down to 2.4% annually,</a>&nbsp;a level last seen in February 2021.&nbsp; Most economists attribute this control primarily to the Federal Reserve’s policy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.clevelandfed.org/center-for-inflation-research/inflation-101/why-does-the-fed-care-start">raising interest rates</a>.&nbsp; So, why are voters still upset?First is the fact that controlling interest rates does not return prices to pre-inflationary levels.&nbsp; Instead, Fed policy has slowed the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, causing them to stabilize at a point that is 21.4% more expensive than before February 2020.&nbsp; The last time Americans experienced high inflation was in the 1970s. Many older Americans have forgotten, while many younger Americans were not around to experience it.&nbsp; Should the Fed keep going and fight inflation even harder– perhaps even starting a cycle of deflation?&nbsp; If they did, the result could be traumatic.&nbsp; When the Fed finally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/great-inflation">brought inflation to heel in the early 1980s</a>, interest rates were far higher than they are now, unemployment was in the double digits, and the<a href="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/mypath/2422/farm-crisis-1980s">&nbsp;farm economy was absolutely devastated</a>.&nbsp; By contrast,<a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LNS14000024">&nbsp;today’s unemployment rates</a>&nbsp;are historically low.Americans are also, specifically concerned about housing.&nbsp; Post-pandemic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/us-house-prices-are-forecast-to-rise-more-than-4-percent-next-year">demand for housing is surging</a>, but supply is not keeping up. Loosening up building restrictions and zoning codes seem like good answers, but the American system of government throws up a roadblock:&nbsp; state laws– including here in Kansas– delegate most of these regulations to local governments, creating a patchwork of codes and zoning laws that builders and rehabbers must navigate in order to create and rehabilitate more housing.&nbsp; The recent&nbsp;<a href="https://johnsoncountypost.com/2023/10/05/prairie-village-housing-timeline-214778/">rejection of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Prairie Village</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/lenexa-city-council-votes-down-controversial-proposal-for-homeless-shelter-in-city">denial of rezoning for a homeless shelter in Lenexa</a>, are both examples of the Not In My Backyard (NIMBY) politics that keeps housing choices limited.&nbsp; In addition, when developers do move in, they often prefer to build upscale apartments or large, single-family units in exclusive neighborhoods where the profit margin is greatest, doing little to relieve the shortage of&nbsp;affordable&nbsp;homes.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a href="https://immigrationforum.org/article/immigrant-construction-workers-in-the-united-states/">current anti-immigration political climate also contributes to the problem</a>&nbsp;by threatening to limit the number of workers in the construction industry.&nbsp; If Trump is elected and proceeds with plans for mass deportations, the problem will only worsen.&nbsp; Of course, immigrants need homes, too, but research shows that they contribute far more to&nbsp;lowering&nbsp;the cost of housing by working in construction, than they contribute to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jd-vance-debate-immigration-housing-prices-real-estate-federal-reserve/#:~:text=Still%2C%20there%20is%20some%20evidence,but%20although%20a%20small%20one.">raising it through increased demand.</a>&nbsp;Inflation is a tough problem.&nbsp; Prices are not going back to pre-pandemic levels–the cost of doing so is simply too high.&nbsp; Popular policies like exclusive NIMBY zoning and anti-immigration legislation make the problem worse.&nbsp; Having been confronted with high inflation for the first time since the early 1980s, Americans are now re-learning what to do–and what not to do–in response.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: What is Really Going On With Inflation?

<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/2024/10/1729374122613.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Submitted<h2>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY NEWS</h2>THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!Monday<ol>
 <li>This week is our Diaper Drive for Catholic Charities! Students can bring a pack of diapers to their teachers anytime this week for babies in need!&nbsp;</li><li>Fall Picture Retake Day in the A.C. – we will come on the announcements when the photographer is ready for the students to come down (mid-morning).</li>
 </ol>Tuesday<ol>
 <li>Memorial of St. John Paul II, Pope. </li>
 </ol>Wednesday<ol>
 <li>Memorial of St. John of Capistrano, Priest.&nbsp;</li><li>Kindergarten Field Trip to Pa’s Pumpkin Patch at 9:00 a.m.&nbsp;</li><li>Joyful Noise for 5th grade at 2:30 p.m.</li>
 </ol>Thursday<ol>
 <li>Memorial of St. Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop.&nbsp;</li><li>School Cook Appreciation Day! We are thankful to have Ms. Sue, Ms. Melanie, Ms. Linda and Ms. Rheta in our kitchen each day at HFE! They bake the best homemade breads, prepare delicious meals for us every day, clean up 300 dishes daily, and keep us healthy and energized! Be sure to give them a wave today!&nbsp;</li><li>If you haven’t yet, it’s not too late to bring a pack of diapers to your teachers for our Diaper Drive for Catholic Charities!</li>
 </ol>Friday<ol>
 <li>Hearing Screenings today in the IHM Upper Room.&nbsp;</li><li>The FHSU clinicians will collect your students when they’re ready for you. Hourly staff timesheets are due to Ms. Karla in the office this morning.</li>
 </ol>

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

Road reconstruction on east 13th Street in Hays begins Monday

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Parking areas near academic and residential buildings at Fort Hays State University are becoming increasingly crowded, prompting mixed reactions from students.

Scott Cason, FHSU's chief communications officer, said the university lost parking spaces because of ongoing construction, with more expected.

"We did lose parking spaces close to Forsyth Library and won't have those back until the completion of the renovation project in May 2026," Cason said.

According to the data Cason provided, 3,413 parking spaces are available in Zone 1 and Zone 2, while on-campus student enrollment is 3,745 this year.

A total of 4,700 parking tickets were issued between August 2023 and May 2024.

Zone 1 (green) includes the Memorial Union, Rarick Hall, Tomanek Hall, the Center for Applied Technology, the Forsyth Library and Stroup Hall.

Zone 2 (yellow) primarily includes residential buildings such as Custer Hall, McMindes Hall, Tiger Place, Victor E. Vilage and Wooster apartments.

Cason said on-campus enrollment in 2024 has increased compared to 2022 and 2023 but is still 750 students lower than in the fall of 2019.

Zone 1 parking slightly declined between 2017 and 2022 to 807, further decreasing to 775 in 2024. Zone 2 has remained steady at 2,638 spaces since 2017.

There are 141 accessible parking spaces, 48 cycle parking spaces and 557 staff parking spaces, which have remained consistent in recent years.

Visitor parking has slightly decreased to 58 spaces, down from 64 in 2020 and 2021. Before those years, the number of visitor parking spaces was below 64.

Cason said the Stroup Hall parking lot consistently has available spaces, but reductions may occur in that area next year.

"Due to construction, we will likely lose some parking in the Stroup lot by next fall," he said.

FHSU student Tarek Kolesch lives on campus and said parking is worse this year than last because of construction, but he still finds it tolerable.

"There's been less parking, but I really don't think it has been that bad," he said. "It depends on the time."

Cason said construction-related equipment can be moved, but it is unnecessary.

"We can move items currently being held in parking areas around construction sites but have not observed a need to do this thus far," he said.

FHSU student August Bridges, who lives off-campus, prefers walking to class and rarely drives to campus due to parking challenges.

"[When] we get into the busier part of the week or day, it might get harder to find a parking spot... seven times out of 10, you can find a spot,"&nbsp;Bridges said.

Most of Bridges' classes are in the Center for Applied Technology building and sometimes parks nearby at the Stroup Hall lot.

FHSU student Ryan Funai said his experience with parking has been manageable, with some exceptions, whether near residential or academic buildings.

He said parking on North Campus Drive was difficult last semester, often requiring him to park farther away from his class in Rarick Hall.

"All the parking there is usually pretty awful, especially because it's all parallel parking," he said.

FHSU students Karla Segoviano and Kynlee Flavin live on campus and said there is a shortage of parking spaces near McMindes Hall, a residential building.

"It's terrible. It's very cramped, and I feel like we could use more parking spaces," Seovianno said.

Segovianno said she works late, and when she returns to her dorm, she often has to park one to two blocks away.

"It's not easy to carry all your groceries," Flavin said. "There are 15-minute parking spots, but those are taken too. It's just not ideal at all."

Segovianno and Flavin said finding parking spots is usually tricky on weekdays, while weekends are more leisurely since most students leave campus.

Segovianno said she hopes for more leniency in ticketing, considering the parking difficulties on campus and the high ticket costs.

"I got a $45 ticket... I'm a broke college student trying to get through college. If they could lower that price, that'd be great," she said.&nbsp;

Most violations result in fines of $15 or $45, with a $75 fine for parking too close to a fire hydrant and a $100 fine for unauthorized parking in a handicap-accessible space.

The appeal process requires submitting a <a href="https://webapps.fhsu.edu/TrafficAppealsForm/Default.aspx">form </a>and may include appearing before the University Parking Committee, which consists of students, faculty and staff.

If fines are not paid on time, a $25 late fee is charged. Appeals must be filed within 14 days, and the violation payment will be refunded if approved.

Payments can be made at Student Fiscal Services in Picken Hall, Room 317, or through student Workday accounts.

Parking permits are required for all vehicles parked on campus and must be displayed appropriately. Faculty, staff and students must also register their vehicles each academic year.

Commuter students are eligible for Zone 1 or Zone 2 parking permits, while students residing in residence halls are limited to Zone 2 permits only.

Zone 1 permits cost $25, while Zone 2 permits are $13. You can find more information on permits and parking <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/university-police/parking/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729275891092.jpeg" alt="Closed off parking east of Forsyth Library due to Fort Hays State University construction. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Closed off parking east of Forsyth Library due to Fort Hays State University construction. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostParking areas near academic and residential buildings at Fort Hays State University are becoming increasingly crowded, prompting mixed reactions from students.Scott Cason, FHSU's chief communications officer, said the university lost parking spaces because of ongoing construction, with more expected."We did lose parking spaces close to Forsyth Library and won't have those back until the completion of the renovation project in May 2026," Cason said.According to the data Cason provided, 3,413 parking spaces are available in Zone 1 and Zone 2, while on-campus student enrollment is 3,745 this year.A total of 4,700 parking tickets were issued between August 2023 and May 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729198690988.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University parking map" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University parking map</figcaption>
 </figure>Zone 1 (green) includes the Memorial Union, Rarick Hall, Tomanek Hall, the Center for Applied Technology, the Forsyth Library and Stroup Hall.Zone 2 (yellow) primarily includes residential buildings such as Custer Hall, McMindes Hall, Tiger Place, Victor E. Vilage and Wooster apartments.Cason said on-campus enrollment in 2024 has increased compared to 2022 and 2023 but is still 750 students lower than in the fall of 2019.Zone 1 parking slightly declined between 2017 and 2022 to 807, further decreasing to 775 in 2024. Zone 2 has remained steady at 2,638 spaces since 2017.There are 141 accessible parking spaces, 48 cycle parking spaces and 557 staff parking spaces, which have remained consistent in recent years.Visitor parking has slightly decreased to 58 spaces, down from 64 in 2020 and 2021. Before those years, the number of visitor parking spaces was below 64.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276610135.jpeg" alt="Construction area with parking spaces fenced off at Forsyth Library. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Construction area with parking spaces fenced off at Forsyth Library. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276570932.jpeg" alt="Construction area with parking spaces fenced off at Forsyth Library. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Construction area with parking spaces fenced off at Forsyth Library. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Cason said the Stroup Hall parking lot consistently has available spaces, but reductions may occur in that area next year."Due to construction, we will likely lose some parking in the Stroup lot by next fall," he said.FHSU student Tarek Kolesch lives on campus and said parking is worse this year than last because of construction, but he still finds it tolerable."There's been less parking, but I really don't think it has been that bad," he said. "It depends on the time."Cason said construction-related equipment can be moved, but it is unnecessary."We can move items currently being held in parking areas around construction sites but have not observed a need to do this thus far," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729277681217.jpeg" alt="Cars parked near Forsyth Library and Malloy Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cars parked near Forsyth Library and Malloy Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276881681.jpeg" alt="Cars parked near Forsyth Library and Tomanek Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cars parked near Forsyth Library and Tomanek Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU student August Bridges, who lives off-campus, prefers walking to class and rarely drives to campus due to parking challenges."[When] we get into the busier part of the week or day, it might get harder to find a parking spot... seven times out of 10, you can find a spot,"&nbsp;Bridges said.Most of Bridges' classes are in the Center for Applied Technology building and sometimes parks nearby at the Stroup Hall lot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276942201.jpeg" alt="The Stroup Hall parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Stroup Hall parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276983142.jpeg" alt="The Stroup Hall parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Stroup Hall parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU student Ryan Funai said his experience with parking has been manageable, with some exceptions, whether near residential or academic buildings.He said parking on North Campus Drive was difficult last semester, often requiring him to park farther away from his class in Rarick Hall."All the parking there is usually pretty awful, especially because it's all parallel parking," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729277836541.jpeg" alt="Cars parallel parked on North Campus Drive at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero" />
 <figcaption>Cars parallel parked on North Campus Drive at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729277612977.jpeg" alt="Cars parked on North Campus Drive at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero" />
 <figcaption>Cars parked on North Campus Drive at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU students Karla Segoviano and Kynlee Flavin live on campus and said there is a shortage of parking spaces near McMindes Hall, a residential building."It's terrible. It's very cramped, and I feel like we could use more parking spaces," Seovianno said.Segovianno said she works late, and when she returns to her dorm, she often has to park one to two blocks away."It's not easy to carry all your groceries," Flavin said. "There are 15-minute parking spots, but those are taken too. It's just not ideal at all."Segovianno and Flavin said finding parking spots is usually tricky on weekdays, while weekends are more leisurely since most students leave campus.Segovianno said she hopes for more leniency in ticketing, considering the parking difficulties on campus and the high ticket costs."I got a $45 ticket... I'm a broke college student trying to get through college. If they could lower that price, that'd be great," she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729277932829.jpeg" alt="The parking lot between Malloy and Hammond Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero" />
 <figcaption>The parking lot between Malloy and Hammond Hall at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729277976786.jpeg" alt="The Center for Applied Technology parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Center for Applied Technology parking lot at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729278062449.jpeg" alt="Cars parked in front of Sheridan Hall&nbsp;at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cars parked in front of Sheridan Hall&nbsp;at Fort Hays State University. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Most violations result in fines of $15 or $45, with a $75 fine for parking too close to a fire hydrant and a $100 fine for unauthorized parking in a handicap-accessible space.The appeal process requires submitting a <a href="https://webapps.fhsu.edu/TrafficAppealsForm/Default.aspx">form </a>and may include appearing before the University Parking Committee, which consists of students, faculty and staff.If fines are not paid on time, a $25 late fee is charged. Appeals must be filed within 14 days, and the violation payment will be refunded if approved.Payments can be made at Student Fiscal Services in Picken Hall, Room 317, or through student Workday accounts.Parking permits are required for all vehicles parked on campus and must be displayed appropriately. Faculty, staff and students must also register their vehicles each academic year.Commuter students are eligible for Zone 1 or Zone 2 parking permits, while students residing in residence halls are limited to Zone 2 permits only.Zone 1 permits cost $25, while Zone 2 permits are $13. You can find more information on permits and parking <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/university-police/parking/">here</a>.

FHSU parking decreases in recent years, more expected with construction

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city of Hays will likely increase its transient guest tax rate of 7% for the Convention and Visitors Bureau budget to ensure the fund’s sustainability. 

"As costs have continued to rise, the fund has become unsustainable," Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, told the city commission during their Thursday work session.

Commissioners will vote on a charter ordinance at their Oct. 24 meeting to raise the transient guest tax to 8.25%.

A transient guest tax is a tax imposed on guests of Hays hotels or other lodging facilities.

Five percent of the tax, established in 1998, is allocated toward&nbsp;Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was levied in 2018 to pay for the North Vine Street Corridor improvements.&nbsp;

A 1.25% increase in the tax would generate about another $250,000 annually.

"With the increase in revenue, CVB will be able to increase its advertising budget by 36%, promotions by 18%, and ensure that reserves can continue to be funded," Bielser said.

In addition, $50,000 of the revenue would be added to the amount transferred to the Special Parks maintenance fund for the city’s parks and recreational facilities.

Mayor Sandy Jacobs is glad that's part of the plan. She recently toured all the city's parks and their amenities.

"It would be really nice to do some special things in some of those parks," she said. "It's not that they're bad or awful, but they do need improvement. ... That quality-of-life thing is really important in this community."

Commissioners have previously expressed the need for more advertising and promotion of Hays to outside visitors and travelers.

The city's general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;

Commissioner Shaun Musil wants any increase in the transient guest tax "to be spent wisely" when it comes to advertising. 

"Things have changed from the paper and print we've been using. I'm a paper guy, but people younger than me, that's not their thing," he said.

Musil said he also differs somewhat on the plan to put some of the extra tax dollars into parks maintenance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I want beautiful parks," he said, "but I question how much our parks are being used now as they used to be. We do have an accessible park that is unbelievably busy."

Jacobs said adding play elements to the parks, paid for with taxes, would help attract more kids, noting that the amenities are utilized by residents and visitors alike.

A charter ordinance can be challenged by a petition from voters within 60 days. Hays residents would then be able to vote on it. If not challenged, the charter ordinance and rate increase approved by commissioners would become effective April 1.&nbsp;

Melissa Dixon, Convention, and Visitors Bureau executive director, was in the audience but did not address the commission.

In other business, more advances for The Grove housing development were presented and will be voted on next week.&nbsp;

Developer Grow Hays is moving forward with plans for street, storm sewer, water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements to an area containing 60 lots just north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.

Work on a new community center to be built in The Grove Addition is already underway.

Jesse Rohr, public works director, recommended the low bid of&nbsp;$3,027,348&nbsp; from&nbsp;Sporer Land, Oakley/Colby.

Rohr also recommended a contract with Driggs Design Group, Hays, for construction engineering services for $100,438.

Bielser explained a home rule ordinance is necessary to approve the development agreement and economic development grant for The Grove project. 

Grow Hays has requested the city of Hays finance the infrastructure and then utilize reinvestment housing improvement district (RHID) revenues to offset project costs.

If the development does not generate sufficient revenue increment after six years, the city would have the option to take ownership of all undeveloped parcels.

Erin Giebler, human resources director, presented her recommendation to stay with Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2025 as the health insurance provider for city employees.

"It's a 13% increase," Giebler said, "but that's still well below the national average.

"With this renewal, our annual increase averages 1.13%, well below the national average of 5% per year. Not only is the city's renewal rates lower than the average, the cost is also well below the national average," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729278440108.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners discuss a proposed 1.25% increase in the local transient guest tax at the Oct. 17 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners discuss a proposed 1.25% increase in the local transient guest tax at the Oct. 17 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays will likely increase its transient guest tax rate of 7% for the Convention and Visitors Bureau budget to ensure the fund’s sustainability. "As costs have continued to rise, the fund has become unsustainable," Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, told the city commission during their Thursday work session.Commissioners will vote on a charter ordinance at their Oct. 24 meeting to raise the transient guest tax to 8.25%.A transient guest tax is a tax imposed on guests of Hays hotels or other lodging facilities.Five percent of the tax, established in 1998, is allocated toward&nbsp;Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was levied in 2018 to pay for the North Vine Street Corridor improvements.&nbsp;A 1.25% increase in the tax would generate about another $250,000 annually."With the increase in revenue, CVB will be able to increase its advertising budget by 36%, promotions by 18%, and ensure that reserves can continue to be funded," Bielser said.In addition, $50,000 of the revenue would be added to the amount transferred to the Special Parks maintenance fund for the city’s parks and recreational facilities.Mayor Sandy Jacobs is glad that's part of the plan. She recently toured all the city's parks and their amenities."It would be really nice to do some special things in some of those parks," she said. "It's not that they're bad or awful, but they do need improvement. ... That quality-of-life thing is really important in this community."Commissioners have previously expressed the need for more advertising and promotion of Hays to outside visitors and travelers.The city's general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil wants any increase in the transient guest tax "to be spent wisely" when it comes to advertising. "Things have changed from the paper and print we've been using. I'm a paper guy, but people younger than me, that's not their thing," he said.Musil said he also differs somewhat on the plan to put some of the extra tax dollars into parks maintenance.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I want beautiful parks," he said, "but I question how much our parks are being used now as they used to be. We do have an accessible park that is unbelievably busy."Jacobs said adding play elements to the parks, paid for with taxes, would help attract more kids, noting that the amenities are utilized by residents and visitors alike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729278109176.png" alt="Kansas transient guest tax rates as of Oct. 2024. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Kansas transient guest tax rates as of Oct. 2024. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>A charter ordinance can be challenged by a petition from voters within 60 days. Hays residents would then be able to vote on it. If not challenged, the charter ordinance and rate increase approved by commissioners would become effective April 1.&nbsp;Melissa Dixon, Convention, and Visitors Bureau executive director, was in the audience but did not address the commission.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729279104120.png" alt="The Grove Addition. Image courtesy Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>The Grove Addition. Image courtesy Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>In other business, more advances for The Grove housing development were presented and will be voted on next week.&nbsp;Developer Grow Hays is moving forward with plans for street, storm sewer, water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements to an area containing 60 lots just north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.Work on a new community center to be built in The Grove Addition is already underway.Jesse Rohr, public works director, recommended the low bid of&nbsp;$3,027,348&nbsp; from&nbsp;Sporer Land, Oakley/Colby.Rohr also recommended a contract with Driggs Design Group, Hays, for construction engineering services for $100,438.Bielser explained a home rule ordinance is necessary to approve the development agreement and economic development grant for The Grove project. Grow Hays has requested the city of Hays finance the infrastructure and then utilize reinvestment housing improvement district (RHID) revenues to offset project costs.If the development does not generate sufficient revenue increment after six years, the city would have the option to take ownership of all undeveloped parcels.Erin Giebler, human resources director, presented her recommendation to stay with Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2025 as the health insurance provider for city employees."It's a 13% increase," Giebler said, "but that's still well below the national average."With this renewal, our annual increase averages 1.13%, well below the national average of 5% per year. Not only is the city's renewal rates lower than the average, the cost is also well below the national average," she said.

Hays Convention & Visitors fund 'unsustainable'; guest tax increase sought

THOMAS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Friday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F150 driven by Jeanne B.&nbsp;Sanderson, 73, Northglenn, Colorado, was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately 2 miles east of Kansas 184.

The wind caught the camper the pickup was pulling.&nbsp; The camper began to sway. The driver was unable to control the truck and camper and the vehicle rolled into the south ditch.

EMS transported Sanderson to Citizens Medical Center and a passenger&nbsp; Jasmine A.&nbsp;Mayfield, 32, Grand Junction, Colorado, to Wesley Medical Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Friday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F150 driven by Jeanne B.&nbsp;Sanderson, 73, Northglenn, Colorado, was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately 2 miles east of Kansas 184.The wind caught the camper the pickup was pulling.&nbsp; The camper began to sway. The driver was unable to control the truck and camper and the vehicle rolled into the south ditch.EMS transported Sanderson to Citizens Medical Center and a passenger&nbsp; Jasmine A.&nbsp;Mayfield, 32, Grand Junction, Colorado, to Wesley Medical Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after pickup and camper roll into I-70 ditch

In its first year at Fort Hays State University, the Kansas Bankers Association brought its Young Bank Officers of Kansas (YBOK) Conference to the Robbins Center on Oct. 10.

The 16th&nbsp;annual event featured leadership keynote speakers, a state and federal government relations update, an economic update from the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, and two leadership panels. More than 100 young Kansas bankers attended the conference.

Dr. Emily Lehning of Roots and Legacies Consulting, in a morning presentation, encouraged attendees to expand their leadership abilities by developing emotional intelligence skills.

“Emotional intelligence is the idea that we are more than just what we know,” she said. “You can begin to think about what you can do to use those skills. Having an expanded capacity around emotional intelligence doesn’t just make good human sense, it makes good business sense.”

A panel comprised of W.R. Robbins, chairman and CEO of&nbsp;Farmers Bank and Trust, Great Bend; Jason Williby, president and CEO of&nbsp;FHSU Foundation; Dosse Toulaboe, chair and professor of FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting; and Emily Breit, FHSU professor of finance, discussed efforts to train and retrain the next generation of banking professionals.

A longtime, devoted supporter of FHSU,&nbsp;Robbins, together with his late wife, Yvonne, endowed the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship in 2016, which led to the creation of the Robbins Banking Institute in 2017, the first of its kind in Kansas. He and Yvonne’s interest in establishing the Robbins Banking Institute traced back to FHSU alums they had hired for their bank in Overland Park.

“We were so impressed by the education of students coming out of Fort Hays,” he said. “We felt because of the level of education, we wanted to endow the school.”

Robbins said his financial institution believes in the quality of FHSU’s banking program, particularly in the caliber of FHSU alums he has hired in the past ten years.

“We are so convinced of the program’s quality that our bank has hired a total of five, reaching back ten years,” he said. “And those five are still with the institution. We stand behind what we commit to, and we are very, very happy with that situation.”

It’s not just the financial support that Robbins provides to FHSU that stands out for Breit; it's Robbins’ commitment to return to campus to speak to banking students each year.

“He shares his passion,” Breit said. “He has given back to FHSU in many ways, and I greatly appreciate all he has done. We have found that many students who go through the banking program want to stay in the state, many in Western Kansas. The banking institute is helping create that. It will be W.R.’s legacy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729273752337.jpeg" alt="Panelists Dosse Toulaboe, Emily Breit, W.R. Robbins, and Jason Williby discuss training and retaining the next generation of banking professionals with moderator Alex Orel of the&nbsp;Kansas Bankers Association. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Panelists Dosse Toulaboe, Emily Breit, W.R. Robbins, and Jason Williby discuss training and retaining the next generation of banking professionals with moderator Alex Orel of the&nbsp;Kansas Bankers Association. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsIn its first year at Fort Hays State University, the Kansas Bankers Association brought its Young Bank Officers of Kansas (YBOK) Conference to the Robbins Center on Oct. 10.The 16th&nbsp;annual event featured leadership keynote speakers, a state and federal government relations update, an economic update from the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank, and two leadership panels. More than 100 young Kansas bankers attended the conference.Dr. Emily Lehning of Roots and Legacies Consulting, in a morning presentation, encouraged attendees to expand their leadership abilities by developing emotional intelligence skills.“Emotional intelligence is the idea that we are more than just what we know,” she said. “You can begin to think about what you can do to use those skills. Having an expanded capacity around emotional intelligence doesn’t just make good human sense, it makes good business sense.”A panel comprised of W.R. Robbins, chairman and CEO of&nbsp;Farmers Bank and Trust, Great Bend; Jason Williby, president and CEO of&nbsp;FHSU Foundation; Dosse Toulaboe, chair and professor of FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting; and Emily Breit, FHSU professor of finance, discussed efforts to train and retrain the next generation of banking professionals.A longtime, devoted supporter of FHSU,&nbsp;Robbins, together with his late wife, Yvonne, endowed the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship in 2016, which led to the creation of the Robbins Banking Institute in 2017, the first of its kind in Kansas. He and Yvonne’s interest in establishing the Robbins Banking Institute traced back to FHSU alums they had hired for their bank in Overland Park.“We were so impressed by the education of students coming out of Fort Hays,” he said. “We felt because of the level of education, we wanted to endow the school.”Robbins said his financial institution believes in the quality of FHSU’s banking program, particularly in the caliber of FHSU alums he has hired in the past ten years.“We are so convinced of the program’s quality that our bank has hired a total of five, reaching back ten years,” he said. “And those five are still with the institution. We stand behind what we commit to, and we are very, very happy with that situation.”It’s not just the financial support that Robbins provides to FHSU that stands out for Breit; it's Robbins’ commitment to return to campus to speak to banking students each year.“He shares his passion,” Breit said. “He has given back to FHSU in many ways, and I greatly appreciate all he has done. We have found that many students who go through the banking program want to stay in the state, many in Western Kansas. The banking institute is helping create that. It will be W.R.’s legacy.”

Young bank officers gather at Fort Hays State for key leadership conference

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Cool-season forages require annual fertilization for optimum production. Fall is a good time to plan on fertilizing cool-season improved pasture or hayfields of perennial grasses such as smooth brome. Particular attention must be paid to nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and pH. Ideally a soil sample should be taken before-hand to know how much of each nutrient you need. If you need information on how to take correct soil samples for bromegrass contact your local Extension Office. We have soil probes you can check out to do it as well.

Balanced fertility is essential. For example, adding nitrogen will not produce optimum yields if phosphorus is low. Soils low in phosphate limit plant and root growth. Fertilizer should be applied by broadcasting in the fall or before spring growth begins.

Nitrogen Source - nitrogen management is critical for optimum smooth brome production. Several nitrogen sources are available—liquid nitrogen solutions, urea, ammonium nitrate, and anhydrous ammonia. Anhydrous ammonia is not extensively used on permanent pastures because application is difficult. Nitrogen source research generally has shown little difference among sources under most conditions. When urea fertilizers—including liquid nitrogen—are applied to moist soils covered with grass residue, an enzyme called urease can break down the urea to ammonia, which is lost to the air. This can occur fairly rapidly when moist conditions are followed by warm temperatures, and rapid drying occurs without rain to move the urea into the soil. If urea is applied from November through February, volatilization loss should be minimal.

Application Timing - when brome is grazed or hayed in the fall, the yearly nitrogen application should be split. If adequate soil moisture is available for good growth in late August and early September, apply all phosphorus and potassium indicated by a soil test plus half of the nitrogen recommended per acre. Then before the soil freezes in November or December, apply the remainder of the nitrogen recommended for haying or grazing. Split or late fall applications generally initiate earlier green-up in the spring.

If soil moisture is limited, apply all nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium before the soil freezes in November or December. To minimize loss, do not apply fertilizer to frozen soil.

Spring applications should be made as soon as the soil thaws are acceptable for spring-only grazing or haying. Timely application can be delayed because of wet soils. An application needs to be applied in the fall or early spring to allow sufficient time for fertilizer incorporation to benefit forage production.

Fertilizer Rates (N, P, and K). Due to space limitations for this article. Fertilizer rate recommendations for N, P, and K for established stands of smooth bromegrass can be accessed by going to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu and looking at the Oct. 10th issue of the K-State Agronomy eUpdate.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictCool-season forages require annual fertilization for optimum production. Fall is a good time to plan on fertilizing cool-season improved pasture or hayfields of perennial grasses such as smooth brome. Particular attention must be paid to nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and pH. Ideally a soil sample should be taken before-hand to know how much of each nutrient you need. If you need information on how to take correct soil samples for bromegrass contact your local Extension Office. We have soil probes you can check out to do it as well.Balanced fertility is essential. For example, adding nitrogen will not produce optimum yields if phosphorus is low. Soils low in phosphate limit plant and root growth. Fertilizer should be applied by broadcasting in the fall or before spring growth begins.Nitrogen Source - nitrogen management is critical for optimum smooth brome production. Several nitrogen sources are available—liquid nitrogen solutions, urea, ammonium nitrate, and anhydrous ammonia. Anhydrous ammonia is not extensively used on permanent pastures because application is difficult. Nitrogen source research generally has shown little difference among sources under most conditions. When urea fertilizers—including liquid nitrogen—are applied to moist soils covered with grass residue, an enzyme called urease can break down the urea to ammonia, which is lost to the air. This can occur fairly rapidly when moist conditions are followed by warm temperatures, and rapid drying occurs without rain to move the urea into the soil. If urea is applied from November through February, volatilization loss should be minimal.Application Timing - when brome is grazed or hayed in the fall, the yearly nitrogen application should be split. If adequate soil moisture is available for good growth in late August and early September, apply all phosphorus and potassium indicated by a soil test plus half of the nitrogen recommended per acre. Then before the soil freezes in November or December, apply the remainder of the nitrogen recommended for haying or grazing. Split or late fall applications generally initiate earlier green-up in the spring.If soil moisture is limited, apply all nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium before the soil freezes in November or December. To minimize loss, do not apply fertilizer to frozen soil.Spring applications should be made as soon as the soil thaws are acceptable for spring-only grazing or haying. Timely application can be delayed because of wet soils. An application needs to be applied in the fall or early spring to allow sufficient time for fertilizer incorporation to benefit forage production.Fertilizer Rates (N, P, and K). Due to space limitations for this article. Fertilizer rate recommendations for N, P, and K for established stands of smooth bromegrass can be accessed by going to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu and looking at the Oct. 10th issue of the K-State Agronomy eUpdate.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Fall fertilization of smooth bromegrass

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729299700155.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>

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

<div></div>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

Kansas Department of Transportation

A resurfacing project is underway on a portion of K-25 in Thomas and Logan counties.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves milling and overlaying on a 12-mile portion of the highway starting at the U.S. 40 junction and ending near County Road I. Construction crews will also patch areas of pavement between County Road I and the south city limits of Colby.

Traffic through the areas where crews are actively working will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.&nbsp; KDOT expects work to be complete in early November, conditions permitting.&nbsp;

Bettis Asphalt and Construction, of Topeka, is the primary contractor for the $2.1 million project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or todd.anderson@ks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693945953540.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationA resurfacing project is underway on a portion of K-25 in Thomas and Logan counties.The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves milling and overlaying on a 12-mile portion of the highway starting at the U.S. 40 junction and ending near County Road I. Construction crews will also patch areas of pavement between County Road I and the south city limits of Colby.Traffic through the areas where crews are actively working will be directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.&nbsp; KDOT expects work to be complete in early November, conditions permitting.&nbsp;Bettis Asphalt and Construction, of Topeka, is the primary contractor for the $2.1 million project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or todd.anderson@ks.gov.

K-25 resurfacing project underway south of Colby

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ka8IJ-jhn2g?si=lDrxR15HO4YQn4ZK" 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 Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Fire Marshall spokesman Lance Feyh

GOVE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Friday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Camry driven by Alexandra L.&nbsp;Ortiz, 18, Dodge City, was southbound on Kansas 23 one mile North of Gove County Road I.

The driver fell asleep&nbsp; and the Toyota crossed the center line.

A northbound 1988 Peterbilt semi driven by Ryan S. Moss, 42, Menlo, traveled into the east ditch to avoid a head-on collision.

The Toyota struck the driver's side axle #2 &amp; #3 of the semi. EMS transported both drivers to&nbsp;Gove County Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GOVE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Friday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Camry driven by Alexandra L.&nbsp;Ortiz, 18, Dodge City, was southbound on Kansas 23 one mile North of Gove County Road I.The driver fell asleep&nbsp; and the Toyota crossed the center line.A northbound 1988 Peterbilt semi driven by Ryan S. Moss, 42, Menlo, traveled into the east ditch to avoid a head-on collision.The Toyota struck the driver's side axle #2 &amp; #3 of the semi. EMS transported both drivers to&nbsp;Gove County Medical Center. They were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen hospitalized after crash with a semi

Hays High (4-2, 2-0 WAC) vs Great Bend (6-0, 2-0 WAC) Friday, Oct. 18 - 7 p.m. Great Bend, Kan. – Memorial Stadium

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267916">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians travel to Great Bend Friday night for a huge rivalry matchup with the Great Bend Panthers.&nbsp;

Hays is coming off a shutout win over Dodge City while Great Bend slipped past Liberal 14-7.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High (4-2, 2-0 WAC) vs Great Bend (6-0, 2-0 WAC) Friday, Oct. 18 - 7 p.m. Great Bend, Kan. – Memorial StadiumRadio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267916">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians travel to Great Bend Friday night for a huge rivalry matchup with the Great Bend Panthers.&nbsp;Hays is coming off a shutout win over Dodge City while Great Bend slipped past Liberal 14-7.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

🏈🎥 Hays travels to Great Bend for rivalry matchup with the Panthers

Congratulations to&nbsp;Courtney Molleker of Hays, who won $500 in the third week of the Cash Grab giveaway.

Listen at 9, 11, 1, and 3 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and enter the keyword on&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/">hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;for a chance to win $500 on each Friday in October.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729276852359.jpeg" alt="Courtney Molleker, third from left, was the week three in the Cash Grab Eagle radio giveaway. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtney Molleker, third from left, was the week three in the Cash Grab Eagle radio giveaway. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to&nbsp;Courtney Molleker of Hays, who won $500 in the third week of the Cash Grab giveaway.Listen at 9, 11, 1, and 3 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and enter the keyword on&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/">hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;for a chance to win $500 on each Friday in October.&nbsp;

Cash Grab week 3 winner announced

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

4313 N. Vine St. Hays, KS 67601 785-625-4800

Live life beautifully with the Heartland six-piece rectangular table set. Crafted of rubberwood solids with cathedral white oak and birch veneers, this set features an antique white finish with a tobacco top and consists of the leg table, four ladder back side chairs, and a bench.

The leg table features a thick square-edged planked top that is anchored by heavily turned legs.

The ladder back side chairs have a padded upholstered seat in a grey linen chenille fabric with heavy-turned front legs and nylon chair glides to protect your flooring.

The bench offers a planked seat with a high-low veneer pattern for a unique effect and has heavy-turned legs with nylon chair glides.

Current Bid: $476 Retail Price: $3,899

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729115696349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here to get registered, view items and bid.</a><h2>Wolf Furniture Galleries</h2>4313 N. Vine St. Hays, KS 67601 785-625-4800<h2>Heartland Dining Group</h2>Live life beautifully with the Heartland six-piece rectangular table set. Crafted of rubberwood solids with cathedral white oak and birch veneers, this set features an antique white finish with a tobacco top and consists of the leg table, four ladder back side chairs, and a bench. The leg table features a thick square-edged planked top that is anchored by heavily turned legs. The ladder back side chairs have a padded upholstered seat in a grey linen chenille fabric with heavy-turned front legs and nylon chair glides to protect your flooring.The bench offers a planked seat with a high-low veneer pattern for a unique effect and has heavy-turned legs with nylon chair glides.Dining table - 40” x 72”Current Bid: $476 Retail Price: $3,899

Eagle Auction: Heartland dining table set

The Ellis County unemployment rate dropped from 3% in August to 2.4% in September.&nbsp;

Trego County's jobless rate also dropped slightly to 3.5%, and Rooks County's rate fell almost a percentage point to 3.2% from 4.3% in August.

Unemployment rates for most of the region remain below 4%, with the exception of Decatur County. Many of the region's counties have very low jobless rates at less than 3%.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the state of 3.3% in September. This is unchanged from 3.3% in August and an increase from 2.6% in September 2023.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,700 from August. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs&nbsp;increased by 800 over the month, while government increased by 1,900.

Since September 2023&nbsp;Kansas' seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 19,200. This change is due to an increase of 16,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,700 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729265881712.png" alt="Kansas Department of Labor" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Labor</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of LaborThe Ellis County unemployment rate dropped from 3% in August to 2.4% in September.&nbsp;Trego County's jobless rate also dropped slightly to 3.5%, and Rooks County's rate fell almost a percentage point to 3.2% from 4.3% in August.Unemployment rates for most of the region remain below 4%, with the exception of Decatur County. Many of the region's counties have very low jobless rates at less than 3%.Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the state of 3.3% in September. This is unchanged from 3.3% in August and an increase from 2.6% in September 2023.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,700 from August. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs&nbsp;increased by 800 over the month, while government increased by 1,900.Since September 2023&nbsp;Kansas' seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 19,200. This change is due to an increase of 16,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,700 government jobs.

Unemployment rate in Ellis County down in September

In October,&nbsp; the world's largest steam locomotive will return to Kansas. <a href="https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/schedule/index.htm">Click here </a>to additional details.

Big Boy No. 4014 will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October. No. 4014 will be on display in the following locations:&nbsp;&nbsp;

The train stops in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/schedule/index.htm" target="_blank">Kansas and Missouri</a>&nbsp;are listed below.

Note: All schedule times and locations are subject to change.&nbsp;Please check back periodically for updates and be aware there is&nbsp;no public access&nbsp;to the Big Boy outside these listed stops. Overnight stops are closed to the public unless otherwise noted; afternoon arrival times&nbsp;are not available

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623722971945.png" alt="File photo by Bryan Dennett" />
 <figcaption>File photo by Bryan Dennett</figcaption>
 </figure>In October,&nbsp; the world's largest steam locomotive will return to Kansas. <a href="https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/schedule/index.htm">Click here </a>to additional details.Big Boy No. 4014 will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October. No. 4014 will be on display in the following locations:&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723494736139.png" alt="Map Union Pacific" />
 <figcaption>Map Union Pacific</figcaption>
 </figure>The train stops in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/schedule/index.htm" target="_blank">Kansas and Missouri</a>&nbsp;are listed below.Tuesday, Oct. 15<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. departure — Coffeyville, Kan. to Kansas City, Mo.</li><li>2:15 p.m. arrival; 2:45 p.m. departure — Osawatomie, Kan. (West Pacific Avenue Crossing)</li><li>6:45 p.m. arrival — Kansas City, Mo. (Union Station – 30 W. Pershing Road)</li>
 </ul>Wednesday, Oct. 16<ul>
 <li>Viewing only — Kansas City, Mo. (Union Station – 30 W. Pershing Road)</li>
 </ul>Thursday, Oct. 17<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. departure — Kansas City, Mo. to Salina Kan.</li><li>12:15 p.m. arrival; 12:45 departure — Topeka, Kan. (Great Overland Station – 701 N. Kansas Avenue)</li>
 </ul>Friday, Oct. 18<ul>
 <li>Viewing only — Salina Kan. (Salina Depot – 400 N. 13th Street)</li>
 </ul>Saturday, Oct. 19<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. departure — Salina Kan. to Hays, Kan.</li><li>11 a.m. arrival; 11:30 a.m. departure — Wilson Kan. (Avenue East Crossing)</li>
 </ul>Sunday, Oct. 20<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. departure — Hays, Kan. to Sharon Springs, Kan.</li><li>Noon arrival; 12:30 p.m. departure — Grainfield, Kan. (Main Street Crossing)</li>
 </ul>Monday, Oct. 21<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. departure — Sharon Springs, Kan. to Denver, Colo.</li>
 </ul>Note: All schedule times and locations are subject to change.&nbsp;Please check back periodically for updates and be aware there is&nbsp;no public access&nbsp;to the Big Boy outside these listed stops. Overnight stops are closed to the public unless otherwise noted; afternoon arrival times&nbsp;are not available

Union Pacific’s ‘Big Boy’ to steam into Hays this weekend

By CRISTINA JANNEY&nbsp; Hays Post

Ellis County was listed in moderate drought based on the Kansas Drought Monitor released on Thursday.

Hays has received no measurable precipitation for the month.

Hays's average rainfall for October is 1.45 inches.

Year-to-date, Hays has received 19.93 inches of precipitation, with the average by the end of October 21.38 inches.

The forecast for today is a high of 75 and windy with gusts up to 38 mph.

There's a 20 percent chance for rain before noon Saturday with a high forecast of 72.

Sunday night after 10 p.m. and Monday, a 50% chance of rain returns.&nbsp;

Sunny skies are set to return Tuesday with a high of 8o and dipping into the 70s Wednesday and Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729264546590.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY&nbsp; Hays PostEllis County was listed in moderate drought based on the Kansas Drought Monitor released on Thursday.Hays has received no measurable precipitation for the month.Hays's average rainfall for October is 1.45 inches.Year-to-date, Hays has received 19.93 inches of precipitation, with the average by the end of October 21.38 inches.The forecast for today is a high of 75 and windy with gusts up to 38 mph.There's a 20 percent chance for rain before noon Saturday with a high forecast of 72.Sunday night after 10 p.m. and Monday, a 50% chance of rain returns.&nbsp;Sunny skies are set to return Tuesday with a high of 8o and dipping into the 70s Wednesday and Thursday.

Drought persists across NW Kansas, but rain in the forecast

TMP-Marian (4-2, 3-2 MCL) vs Syracuse (0-6, 0-3 HPL) Friday, Oct. 18- 6 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267968">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Syracuse Bulldogs on Senior Night Friday at Lewis Field Stadium.

The Monarchs are coming off a 28-20 win over the Oakley Plainsmen last week while the Bulldogs are coming off a 47-6 loss to Plainville.

Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Live
coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian (4-2, 3-2 MCL) vs Syracuse (0-6, 0-3 HPL) Friday, Oct. 18- 6 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267968">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Syracuse Bulldogs on Senior Night Friday at Lewis Field Stadium.The Monarchs are coming off a 28-20 win over the Oakley Plainsmen last week while the Bulldogs are coming off a 47-6 loss to Plainville.Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Live
coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.

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