By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

To allow for move-in time, Hays Middle School students will have an extended Christmas break.&nbsp;HMS will not have classes on Dec. 18, 19 or Jan. 6. Other Hays schools will be in session on those days.

The middle school is moving into the former high school building on 13th Street. The school has been undergoing renovations since May.

The middle school is planning an open house for students on Tuesday, Jan. 6, so they can see their new classrooms.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle, O'Loughlin Elementary projects on schedule</a>

To ease traffic flow, HMS start and release times will be staggered by 10 minutes compared to the high school.

Pick up and drop off for HMS students will be on the west side of the school in the former Hays High School student parking lot, according to Principal Tom Albers.

Visitors to the school will need to enter Hays Middle School through the main entrance on the west side of the school, which was also the main entrance for the former high school. Visitors will need to check in through the office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763502408793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTo allow for move-in time, Hays Middle School students will have an extended Christmas break.&nbsp;HMS will not have classes on Dec. 18, 19 or Jan. 6. Other Hays schools will be in session on those days.The middle school is moving into the former high school building on 13th Street. The school has been undergoing renovations since May.The middle school is planning an open house for students on Tuesday, Jan. 6, so they can see their new classrooms.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle, O'Loughlin Elementary projects on schedule</a>To ease traffic flow, HMS start and release times will be staggered by 10 minutes compared to the high school.Pick up and drop off for HMS students will be on the west side of the school in the former Hays High School student parking lot, according to Principal Tom Albers.Visitors to the school will need to enter Hays Middle School through the main entrance on the west side of the school, which was also the main entrance for the former high school. Visitors will need to check in through the office.

Hays Middle School to extend student Christmas break to allow for move

ELLIS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp; Collins, Cort William Collins, 20, Winona, was eastbound&nbsp;in the 2400 Block of Old Highway 40.&nbsp; The pickup traveled off the road&nbsp;to the right and then re-entered the road at Spring Hill. The pickup crossed over to the north ditch and rolled.

EMS transported Collins and a passenger Hunter Lee Still, 20, Sharon Springs, to Hays Medical Center where Still was pronounced deceased. They were not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F250 driven by&nbsp; Collins, Cort William Collins, 20, Winona, was eastbound&nbsp;in the 2400 Block of Old Highway 40.&nbsp; The pickup traveled off the road&nbsp;to the right and then re-entered the road at Spring Hill. The pickup crossed over to the north ditch and rolled.EMS transported Collins and a passenger Hunter Lee Still, 20, Sharon Springs, to Hays Medical Center where Still was pronounced deceased. They were not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after pickup rollover crash

ELLIS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported three&nbsp;pedestrians were loading a disabled vehicle onto a trailer pulled by a 1996 Ford F250 on the north shoulder of Interstate 70 near the 183 Bypass.&nbsp;&nbsp; The pickup was legally parked and towing a 2014 Eagle trailer which was hauling a 2009 Chevy Tahoe. One pedestrian was attempting to strap down the vehicle on the side of the trailer closest to the roadway. 

A westbound 2026 Freightliner semi driven by Alejandro&nbsp;Fuentes-Castro, 53, Wilmington, Deleware, failed to maintain his lane, and struck the pedestrian who was located on the roadway side of the vehicle.

Julio&nbsp;Caesar Villarreal, 37, WaKeeney, was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Klines Mortuary. Two other pedestrians identified as Randall L&nbsp;Hilgers, 42, WaKeeney and&nbsp; Juan A.&nbsp; Mejia, 53, San Diego, California, were not injured. An 11-year-old in the 1996 Ford pulling the trailer was not injured.&nbsp; Both the Ford pickup and Chevy Tahoe sustained damage.

Fuentes-Castro was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported three&nbsp;pedestrians were loading a disabled vehicle onto a trailer pulled by a 1996 Ford F250 on the north shoulder of Interstate 70 near the 183 Bypass.&nbsp;&nbsp; The pickup was legally parked and towing a 2014 Eagle trailer which was hauling a 2009 Chevy Tahoe. One pedestrian was attempting to strap down the vehicle on the side of the trailer closest to the roadway. A westbound 2026 Freightliner semi driven by Alejandro&nbsp;Fuentes-Castro, 53, Wilmington, Deleware, failed to maintain his lane, and struck the pedestrian who was located on the roadway side of the vehicle.Julio&nbsp;Caesar Villarreal, 37, WaKeeney, was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Klines Mortuary. Two other pedestrians identified as Randall L&nbsp;Hilgers, 42, WaKeeney and&nbsp; Juan A.&nbsp; Mejia, 53, San Diego, California, were not injured. An 11-year-old in the 1996 Ford pulling the trailer was not injured.&nbsp; Both the Ford pickup and Chevy Tahoe sustained damage.Fuentes-Castro was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Westbound I-70 will be shutdown at mile post 157 for a fatality investigation. Westbound traffic will be diverted to the U-183 bypass, then Old Hwy 40 to Yocemento where you can get back on I-70. Unknown how long it will be shutdown. <a href="https://t.co/aOPtTIwz6G">pic.twitter.com/aOPtTIwz6G</a>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/2000341053745103126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

KHP: Westbound I-70 now open after an investigation of a fatal crash

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks about nutrition and fitness tracking apps with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Nutrition and fitness tracking apps" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=vm23i-19ea6cd-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks about nutrition and fitness tracking apps with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Nutrition, fitness tracking apps 

K-State Research and Extension

The recent blast of cold weather is a reminder that preparing livestock watering systems for freezing temperatures should begin now. 

Long-time Extension agent Herschel George shares tips and strategies for making sure livestock have drinking water available during the winter months. 

Sometimes a little effort now can save hours of labor thawing frozen waterers in bitter cold weather. Based on decades of real-world experience and ingenuity, the video&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/86fWePfmDgE" target="_blank">Livestock Watering: Wintertime Watering</a>&nbsp;provides down-to-earth examples and instructions for winterizing on-farm livestock waterers.

The video is one of 10 related to livestock watering that can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/pubs/videos.html" target="_blank">https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/pubs/videos.html</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition, KSU Kanopolis Reservoir Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds have potential cost-share assistance to help with alternative water supplies, riparian fencing, cover crops and more.&nbsp; for questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist, at 785-769-3297.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764345228514.jpeg" alt="K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension The recent blast of cold weather is a reminder that preparing livestock watering systems for freezing temperatures should begin now. Long-time Extension agent Herschel George shares tips and strategies for making sure livestock have drinking water available during the winter months. Sometimes a little effort now can save hours of labor thawing frozen waterers in bitter cold weather. Based on decades of real-world experience and ingenuity, the video&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/86fWePfmDgE" target="_blank">Livestock Watering: Wintertime Watering</a>&nbsp;provides down-to-earth examples and instructions for winterizing on-farm livestock waterers.The video is one of 10 related to livestock watering that can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/pubs/videos.html" target="_blank">https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/pubs/videos.html</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, KSU Kanopolis Reservoir Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds have potential cost-share assistance to help with alternative water supplies, riparian fencing, cover crops and more.&nbsp; for questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist, at 785-769-3297.

K-State Research & Extension: Tips for preparing livestock waterers for freezing weather

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I recently saw a Facebook post from Amanda Sellers in Arkansas, sharing her feelings concerning comments she received about a hunting picture she’d posted. Her reply sincerely struck a chord with me, so I asked for, and received her permission to share her post as a weekly column. 

In this post, she shows such an awareness and gives such a good and simple explanation of the importance hunting plays in our country, that I thought it needed to be passed-on. So here, in her own words is Amanda’s perception of the role hunting plays in their lifestyle.

“I am a homeschooling mom of 12 kids, raised in north-central Arkansas. I have traveled to many countries and lived halfway across the U.S. just to sell everything and move back to our roots. We do mission work local and foreign, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to raise my family the way we do - connected to the land and our heritage!

"I shared a hunting photo recently and it brought in a lot of strong reactions. I understand why. Hunting can feel uncomfortable if you didn't grow up around it. But I want to share why it matters where we live and why so many families in this region still participate in it.

"For generations, people here processed their own food. They understood where it came from. They used the meat to feed their families and honored the animal by not wasting it.

"Today most of us are so disconnected from our food system that we forget what actually has to happen for food to reach a store shelf.

"Hunting in our area is also part of caring for the land. When wildlife populations grow beyond what the ecosystem can support, animals face starvation, disease, and slow painful deaths. Regulated hunting keeps the population healthy and prevents suffering. It is one of the ways we protect the wildlife that lives in the forests around us.

"There is another point that matters to me. If we care this deeply about protecting life in the woods, we should care even more about protecting life in the womb. Human life begins at conception. It is precious from the very first moment it exists and deserves protection just as fiercely.

"My heart in sharing any of this is simple. Connection matters. Stewardship matters. Life matters. And understanding where our food comes from, and why we value all forms of life, is something worth talking about.”

Given the distance our country as a whole has chosen to distance itself from God, and given the fact that now, so many opinions are formed and so many decisions are made using emotions alone, with little or no factual input, its refreshing and comforting to hear the above. 

Thank you, Amanda… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsI recently saw a Facebook post from Amanda Sellers in Arkansas, sharing her feelings concerning comments she received about a hunting picture she’d posted. Her reply sincerely struck a chord with me, so I asked for, and received her permission to share her post as a weekly column. In this post, she shows such an awareness and gives such a good and simple explanation of the importance hunting plays in our country, that I thought it needed to be passed-on. So here, in her own words is Amanda’s perception of the role hunting plays in their lifestyle.“I am a homeschooling mom of 12 kids, raised in north-central Arkansas. I have traveled to many countries and lived halfway across the U.S. just to sell everything and move back to our roots. We do mission work local and foreign, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to raise my family the way we do - connected to the land and our heritage!"I shared a hunting photo recently and it brought in a lot of strong reactions. I understand why. Hunting can feel uncomfortable if you didn't grow up around it. But I want to share why it matters where we live and why so many families in this region still participate in it."For generations, people here processed their own food. They understood where it came from. They used the meat to feed their families and honored the animal by not wasting it."Today most of us are so disconnected from our food system that we forget what actually has to happen for food to reach a store shelf."Hunting in our area is also part of caring for the land. When wildlife populations grow beyond what the ecosystem can support, animals face starvation, disease, and slow painful deaths. Regulated hunting keeps the population healthy and prevents suffering. It is one of the ways we protect the wildlife that lives in the forests around us."There is another point that matters to me. If we care this deeply about protecting life in the woods, we should care even more about protecting life in the womb. Human life begins at conception. It is precious from the very first moment it exists and deserves protection just as fiercely."My heart in sharing any of this is simple. Connection matters. Stewardship matters. Life matters. And understanding where our food comes from, and why we value all forms of life, is something worth talking about.”Given the distance our country as a whole has chosen to distance itself from God, and given the fact that now, so many opinions are formed and so many decisions are made using emotions alone, with little or no factual input, its refreshing and comforting to hear the above. Thank you, Amanda… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Amanda’s perception

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, was in Hays Tuesday to discuss his campaign for Kansas Secretary of State.

The Fort Hays State University College Republicans hosted Proctor, who aims to restore confidence in elections by promoting greater transparency, preventing noncitizens from voting, cleaning voter rolls and limiting ballot harvesting.

Proctor highlighted the end of the state’s three-day grace period for mail ballots. Starting in 2026, all ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day.

"Sometimes somebody was winning on election night, and a few days later, somebody else is winning. That erodes confidence and transparency," he said.

An attendee raised concerns that ending the three-day grace period would reduce access for disabled and mail-in voters. Proctor responded that many ballots in the 2024 primary arrived without postmarks and could not be legally counted.

Proctor said he is working to add more early-voting days to compensate for the removal of the three-day grace period.

Proctor said noncitizen voting is a top concern he hears from Kansans.&nbsp;He cited the case of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8470cecb-0838-4214-866b-a7e94a754339">Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man charged with alleged election fraud after being elected mayor of Coldwater</a>.&nbsp;Proctor labeled it a fixable problem.

Proctor said the DMV has, at times, registered noncitizens to vote. He said that last year the Kansas Secretary of State’s office obtained a list of noncitizens with driver’s licenses and identified about 80 on the voter rolls, with roughly 20 suspected of having cast ballots.

Proctor said Kansas now requires the DMV to regularly provide noncitizen lists to the state to clean voter rolls, following the passage of <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2020/">House Bill 2020</a> earlier this year. The Secretary of State cannot remove voters, but can direct county election officers to remove the names of noncitizens from voter rolls.

"Do I believe that there is a vast conspiracy for noncitizens to vote in the state of Kansas? No," he said. "The point is that we can tell people with confidence, no, we know noncitizens aren't voting because we're scrubbing the voter rolls."

Proctor said ballot harvesting is another threat to election integrity, especially in competitive districts like his own. He said left-leaning nonprofits target infrequent voters who would likely support Democratic candidates if they turned out to participate.

"They send them mail-in-ballot requests after mail-in ballot requests that are pre-filled out, so the voter just has to sign it, put it in the mail and they'll get a mail-in ballot. They keep sending it to them until they get sick of receiving them," Proctor said.

Proctor claimed in his district, during his first re-election, he won by a narrow margin and claims nonprofit ballot harvesting almost produced enough votes to cost him the race.

Proctor said nonprofit workers from outside Kansas come into the state to take part in ballot harvesting. He pointed to a law limiting individuals to submitting no more than 10 ballots that are not their own, but said he wants to pursue further changes to strengthen that restriction.

"I want to change the law so that you have to be a qualified Kansas elector to turn in a Kansas ballot because," he said. "The second thing is that right now on the ballot, the person who turns it in for somebody else has to sign. I want them to also have to put their driver's license number."

Proctor said with safeguards to conceal the license number, this step would allow officials to track who is submitting ballots and enforce the 10-ballot limit. He said he would restore a prosecutor and a law enforcement officer to the secretary of state’s office to support enforcement efforts.

Proctor also raised concerns about nonprofits that are not required to disclose their funding sources. He said money will always flow into politics and argued, rather than trying to restrict it through regulations, it should be fully exposed.

"I am for radical disclosure. I believe that whether you get one cent or $1 million from somebody, you should have to report it. It should be 100% transparent," he said.

Proctor said nonprofits campaigning for or against constitutional amendments could accept foreign money because of a loophole. He said this raises concerns not only about sovereignty but also about election integrity.&nbsp;

Proctor and his wife opened a restaurant in Leavenworth in 2006. He said after launching the business, he began receiving numerous notices about regulations he was not following or complying with.

"I'm of the mind that if the state puts a regulation on a business owner, it's the state's responsibility to make sure that the business owner knows the regulation. That's common sense to me," he said.

Proctor often saw businesses closing, buildings sitting vacant and families leaving his hometown. He hopes to make it easier to start a business if elected as Secretary of State.

Proctor spoke about his background and motivation for entering politics after serving 25 years in the army, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

He was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020 and now serves as chairman of both the House Elections Committee and the Joint Committee on Kansas Security. Proctor is also an assistant professor at Wichita State University, where he teaches courses on national security.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765383662113.jpeg" alt="Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostRep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, was in Hays Tuesday to discuss his campaign for Kansas Secretary of State.The Fort Hays State University College Republicans hosted Proctor, who aims to restore confidence in elections by promoting greater transparency, preventing noncitizens from voting, cleaning voter rolls and limiting ballot harvesting.Proctor highlighted the end of the state’s three-day grace period for mail ballots. Starting in 2026, all ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day."Sometimes somebody was winning on election night, and a few days later, somebody else is winning. That erodes confidence and transparency," he said.An attendee raised concerns that ending the three-day grace period would reduce access for disabled and mail-in voters. Proctor responded that many ballots in the 2024 primary arrived without postmarks and could not be legally counted.Proctor said he is working to add more early-voting days to compensate for the removal of the three-day grace period.Proctor said noncitizen voting is a top concern he hears from Kansans.&nbsp;He cited the case of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8470cecb-0838-4214-866b-a7e94a754339">Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man charged with alleged election fraud after being elected mayor of Coldwater</a>.&nbsp;Proctor labeled it a fixable problem.Proctor said the DMV has, at times, registered noncitizens to vote. He said that last year the Kansas Secretary of State’s office obtained a list of noncitizens with driver’s licenses and identified about 80 on the voter rolls, with roughly 20 suspected of having cast ballots.Proctor said Kansas now requires the DMV to regularly provide noncitizen lists to the state to clean voter rolls, following the passage of <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2020/">House Bill 2020</a> earlier this year. The Secretary of State cannot remove voters, but can direct county election officers to remove the names of noncitizens from voter rolls."Do I believe that there is a vast conspiracy for noncitizens to vote in the state of Kansas? No," he said. "The point is that we can tell people with confidence, no, we know noncitizens aren't voting because we're scrubbing the voter rolls."Proctor said ballot harvesting is another threat to election integrity, especially in competitive districts like his own. He said left-leaning nonprofits target infrequent voters who would likely support Democratic candidates if they turned out to participate."They send them mail-in-ballot requests after mail-in ballot requests that are pre-filled out, so the voter just has to sign it, put it in the mail and they'll get a mail-in ballot. They keep sending it to them until they get sick of receiving them," Proctor said.Proctor claimed in his district, during his first re-election, he won by a narrow margin and claims nonprofit ballot harvesting almost produced enough votes to cost him the race.Proctor said nonprofit workers from outside Kansas come into the state to take part in ballot harvesting. He pointed to a law limiting individuals to submitting no more than 10 ballots that are not their own, but said he wants to pursue further changes to strengthen that restriction."I want to change the law so that you have to be a qualified Kansas elector to turn in a Kansas ballot because," he said. "The second thing is that right now on the ballot, the person who turns it in for somebody else has to sign. I want them to also have to put their driver's license number."Proctor said with safeguards to conceal the license number, this step would allow officials to track who is submitting ballots and enforce the 10-ballot limit. He said he would restore a prosecutor and a law enforcement officer to the secretary of state’s office to support enforcement efforts.Proctor also raised concerns about nonprofits that are not required to disclose their funding sources. He said money will always flow into politics and argued, rather than trying to restrict it through regulations, it should be fully exposed."I am for radical disclosure. I believe that whether you get one cent or $1 million from somebody, you should have to report it. It should be 100% transparent," he said.Proctor said nonprofits campaigning for or against constitutional amendments could accept foreign money because of a loophole. He said this raises concerns not only about sovereignty but also about election integrity.&nbsp;Proctor and his wife opened a restaurant in Leavenworth in 2006. He said after launching the business, he began receiving numerous notices about regulations he was not following or complying with."I'm of the mind that if the state puts a regulation on a business owner, it's the state's responsibility to make sure that the business owner knows the regulation. That's common sense to me," he said.Proctor often saw businesses closing, buildings sitting vacant and families leaving his hometown. He hopes to make it easier to start a business if elected as Secretary of State.Proctor spoke about his background and motivation for entering politics after serving 25 years in the army, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.He was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020 and now serves as chairman of both the House Elections Committee and the Joint Committee on Kansas Security. Proctor is also an assistant professor at Wichita State University, where he teaches courses on national security.

Secretary of state candidate Proctor calls for election transparency

During a recent gathering of Kansas Community College presidents held at Garden City Community College, Dennis King, Fort Hays State University associate vice president for enrollment leadership, introduced a new scholarship program designed to provide funds to Kansas Community College presidents to distribute directly to students who plan to attend FHSU, but need additional financial aid to successfully transition to a four-year degree program.

The FHSU Community College President Scholarship will provide scholarship dollars that each of Kansas’ 19 community college presidents can use at their discretion to assist those students in greatest financial need.&nbsp;

“We chose this approach because it aligns well with our goal of maximizing the positive impact of the financial aid dollars we have available each year,” King said.

Funding for this scholarship is one of FHSU’s key institutional aid initiatives, designed to promote transfer pathways and advance student retention at both community college and FHSU. The program will officially launch in the new calendar year, and award recommendations will be due to FHSU from community college partners on April 1 for the fall 2026 semester and on December 1 for the Spring 2027 semester.

“We're really excited by the opportunity to partner with Fort Hays State to offer our most needy students scholarships,” said Kansas Community College Association Executive Director Heather Morgan. “We look forward to seeing the impact of this program on Kansas’ workforce and the role it will undoubtedly play in making Kansas students the key drivers of Kansas’ future economy.”

Colby Community College President Seth Carter expressed his appreciation for FHSU’s new Community College President’s Scholarship, stating, “This is the first scholarship I've ever seen like this in the state of Kansas, and I think it's incredible that FHSU has taken this initiative, and it’s the direct result of a collaborative process that is the hallmark of our relationship with the university.”

Garden City Community College President Ryan Ruda said he sees this new scholarship program as yet another example of FHSU’s ongoing commitment to better serve students. “This will definitely help our students with access and affordability and create a stronger connection between our institutions, a connection that will lead to a stronger transfer process and more fluid communications between FHSU and Kansas’ community colleges.”

For more information on Fort Hays State University’s Community College President’s Scholarship, as well as the wide array of scholarship and financial aid opportunities available at FHSU, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0Wiugn9JKxzwm4dkQSJMZeGWudFm-2FmZBVwALvKoxpds97XUKd64r-2FLwHDTLI6f6u7Q-3D-3DCR2q_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oonHh7oZcNejpOknRccnjIjZMGdEhGHfAV483rKzz8fnp4deE4QqIJyNQYFQ-2FHopnhvKgicFO6PZV9baMoYmpN2YISAYdUBI6wukvafkSsM6w8lZvaReHWLhk2TwHnsiERkteOcny22W4UwrZm-2Bpl4Hp9J3WnbhSzm9k6Qx4jTIvlZFTbNzuN0LU-2FyoURRmlCUjCWxUXSQoOB821EG-2BsDcaMddRzbwNi8LHhvhTM9XdHcJSSNY90vpkcCeXawvpEuKXaQRZkjqX9iOKZDJaAiz8g5egr68g1S-2BlEKxru3Dyn3VOZc9He9T8DA3Lc0nPkn">www.fhsu.edu/admissions/scholarships/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765553848936.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsDuring a recent gathering of Kansas Community College presidents held at Garden City Community College, Dennis King, Fort Hays State University associate vice president for enrollment leadership, introduced a new scholarship program designed to provide funds to Kansas Community College presidents to distribute directly to students who plan to attend FHSU, but need additional financial aid to successfully transition to a four-year degree program.The FHSU Community College President Scholarship will provide scholarship dollars that each of Kansas’ 19 community college presidents can use at their discretion to assist those students in greatest financial need.&nbsp;“We chose this approach because it aligns well with our goal of maximizing the positive impact of the financial aid dollars we have available each year,” King said.Funding for this scholarship is one of FHSU’s key institutional aid initiatives, designed to promote transfer pathways and advance student retention at both community college and FHSU. The program will officially launch in the new calendar year, and award recommendations will be due to FHSU from community college partners on April 1 for the fall 2026 semester and on December 1 for the Spring 2027 semester.“We're really excited by the opportunity to partner with Fort Hays State to offer our most needy students scholarships,” said Kansas Community College Association Executive Director Heather Morgan. “We look forward to seeing the impact of this program on Kansas’ workforce and the role it will undoubtedly play in making Kansas students the key drivers of Kansas’ future economy.”Colby Community College President Seth Carter expressed his appreciation for FHSU’s new Community College President’s Scholarship, stating, “This is the first scholarship I've ever seen like this in the state of Kansas, and I think it's incredible that FHSU has taken this initiative, and it’s the direct result of a collaborative process that is the hallmark of our relationship with the university.”Garden City Community College President Ryan Ruda said he sees this new scholarship program as yet another example of FHSU’s ongoing commitment to better serve students. “This will definitely help our students with access and affordability and create a stronger connection between our institutions, a connection that will lead to a stronger transfer process and more fluid communications between FHSU and Kansas’ community colleges.”For more information on Fort Hays State University’s Community College President’s Scholarship, as well as the wide array of scholarship and financial aid opportunities available at FHSU, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0Wiugn9JKxzwm4dkQSJMZeGWudFm-2FmZBVwALvKoxpds97XUKd64r-2FLwHDTLI6f6u7Q-3D-3DCR2q_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oonHh7oZcNejpOknRccnjIjZMGdEhGHfAV483rKzz8fnp4deE4QqIJyNQYFQ-2FHopnhvKgicFO6PZV9baMoYmpN2YISAYdUBI6wukvafkSsM6w8lZvaReHWLhk2TwHnsiERkteOcny22W4UwrZm-2Bpl4Hp9J3WnbhSzm9k6Qx4jTIvlZFTbNzuN0LU-2FyoURRmlCUjCWxUXSQoOB821EG-2BsDcaMddRzbwNi8LHhvhTM9XdHcJSSNY90vpkcCeXawvpEuKXaQRZkjqX9iOKZDJaAiz8g5egr68g1S-2BlEKxru3Dyn3VOZc9He9T8DA3Lc0nPkn">www.fhsu.edu/admissions/scholarships/</a>.

FHSU partners with Kansas’ 19 community colleges on new scholarship program

TOPEKA — With a cold front&nbsp;expected to hit the region this weekend, the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas&nbsp;urges families to take steps to heat their home safely.

Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year, and home fire responses go up significantly during cold months. On average, Red Cross Disaster Action Teams in Kansas and Oklahoma responded to a fire every six and a half hours in October. In November, it was every five hours. So far this month, it’s every three and a half hours.

“December, January and February are peak months for home heating fires” said Jane Blocher, executive director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Help protect your family by taking steps to heat your home safely all winter, like keeping heating equipment at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:

To help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.

If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyz3S2yAUheHVQIcGuPwWFG68Dc8VXCwSFDmg2OPdZ-z52uectyRpyWDmlJR3FoIM0fAtOVnAIqwADh256LMkrcitWGsNlHlLLkKMIKtZo3U3ZQKgBAfKO2bkbIV-t79ix9ZpTOF8DC56vxbxzPmXXT4D72k7z8dkcGH6yvT19Xotg0oex5zLMe5MX2v7U8T7-DdEPzJ2kTd8nDSW7dw736k0FIM64STRSvrC7QcYXFT03kc-0obv-TjmyYwkvHf6Hpd87Hyeg2j_xFDRqxxWsepghLGuipirFRpMCNYoG3Llz6T_BwAA__9Op1_o">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762538118187.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>American Red CrossTOPEKA — With a cold front&nbsp;expected to hit the region this weekend, the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas&nbsp;urges families to take steps to heat their home safely.Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year, and home fire responses go up significantly during cold months. On average, Red Cross Disaster Action Teams in Kansas and Oklahoma responded to a fire every six and a half hours in October. In November, it was every five hours. So far this month, it’s every three and a half hours.“December, January and February are peak months for home heating fires” said Jane Blocher, executive director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Help protect your family by taking steps to heat your home safely all winter, like keeping heating equipment at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:<ul>
 <li>If you must use a space heater, never leave it unattended. Place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor. Don’t place it on rugs and carpets, or near bedding and drapes.</li><li>Plug space heater power cords directly into outlets&nbsp;— never into an extension cord. Turn the space heater off every time you leave the room or go to sleep.&nbsp;</li><li>Keep children, pets and anything that can burn at least three feet&nbsp;away from heating equipment.&nbsp;</li><li>Never use a cooking range&nbsp;or oven&nbsp;to heat your home.</li><li>Never leave a fire burning in the fireplace unattended. Make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home. Use a glass or metal fire screen to keep embers in the fireplace.</li><li>Have furnaces, chimneys, fireplaces, wood and coal stoves inspected annually&nbsp;by a professional and cleaned if necessary.</li>
 </ul>PREVENT HOME FIRE TRAGEDIESTo help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.IF YOU NEED HELP If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyz3S2yAUheHVQIcGuPwWFG68Dc8VXCwSFDmg2OPdZ-z52uectyRpyWDmlJR3FoIM0fAtOVnAIqwADh256LMkrcitWGsNlHlLLkKMIKtZo3U3ZQKgBAfKO2bkbIV-t79ix9ZpTOF8DC56vxbxzPmXXT4D72k7z8dkcGH6yvT19Xotg0oex5zLMe5MX2v7U8T7-DdEPzJ2kTd8nDSW7dw736k0FIM64STRSvrC7QcYXFT03kc-0obv-TjmyYwkvHf6Hpd87Hyeg2j_xFDRqxxWsepghLGuipirFRpMCNYoG3Llz6T_BwAA__9Op1_o">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

Red Cross tips to heat your home safely as temperatures fall

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

By any honest measure, too many Kansas families are struggling to make ends meet. 

The latest State of ALICE in Kansas report—ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—finds that 38% of Kansas households were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023, meaning they could not afford the basics even while working. That includes 12% living in poverty and another 26% who earn too much to qualify for aid but still can’t cover essentials like housing, child care, food, transportation, and healthcare.

This isn’t a fringe problem; it’s the working backbone of our economy. These are Kansans we depend on daily, like child‑care providers, home‑health aides, cashiers, and delivery drivers. Kansans feel the squeeze. 

In the 2025 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey—conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University—36.1% said the Kansas economy is getting worse, and 46.5% reported feeling very or moderately concerned that the state’s economy could seriously threaten their family’s welfare—a worry that ticked up from last year. When people don’t see a path to stability, they pull back on spending, on investing in education, on starting businesses. That feeds a cycle of slower growth.

Inflation adds insult to injury. In September, prices across the Midwest rose 3.1%. Housing costs are up 4.5% and rent surged 5.0% compared to 3.4% nationally. For a Kansas renter already under ALICE’s budget pressure, that is the difference between paying for a car repair or skipping the prescription refill.

The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that lower-income households experience greater impact from inflation than higher-income ones, meaning Kansans living on tighter budgets face disproportionate pressures. After adjusting for inflation, Kansas’ median household incomes have barely budged post-COVID, lagging behind national progress. Inflation’s heavier burden on lower-income families widens this gap, as working families spend more of their limited incomes on essentials.

Meanwhile, the recent federal government shutdown made a bad situation worse. Kansas Action for Children reports that the shutdown disrupted key economic data flows (including unemployment statistics) and contributed to state revenues missing estimates by $3.4 million in September due to a steep $35.4 million shortfall in corporate income tax receipts, despite&nbsp;stronger individual income and sales taxes. Overall receipts for the month were about 1.9% lower than in September 2024.

Beyond numbers on a page, the shutdown threatened essential benefits: SNAP and WIC faced imminent disruption, putting nearly 190,000 Kansans at risk of losing food assistance, with 48,000 WIC recipients depending on nutrition support for mothers and children. When Washington cannot keep the lights on, the ripple effects hit our paychecks, our schools, our main streets, and exacerbated those among us who are already vulnerable.

When federal policy falters, Kansas families pay the price first. Stabilize the basics—food assistance, health insurance support, small‑business lending, predictable budgets—and we give vulnerable households the breathing room to become the bedrock of the state’s growth rather than the warning siren of its fragility.

If we want a Kansas where hard work reliably leads to stability, we need policies that stop pushing families underwater and start helping them reach the shore.

As the Kansas Legislature gears up for its 2026 session, lawmakers are already sending signals about where priorities lie—the initial bills suggest little additional support for working families. Early filings include a proposal to delay school start dates until after Labor Day; legislation aimed at loosening library-district governance; and a “Kansas Teacher Shortage Relief Act” to ease re-entry for retired educators.

These bills signal lawmakers’ attention to core community institutions like schools and libraries, but if our state truly wants to lift those families hovering near or beneath the ALICE threshold, the session must go further.

Legislators should prioritize enhanced affordability—expanding access to affordable child care, increasing housing subsidies, and upgrading income thresholds to reflect changing living costs. Federal programs remain vital, but state action can shield families when Washington falters.

The 2026 Legislature has a choice: tinker at the edges or invest in Kansans’ ability to thrive. If leadership is serious about long-term economic resilience, it must anchor its agenda in policies that pair educational and community improvements with real financial support. That means not just making communities stronger, but lifting the families who live in them.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740007073583.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasBy any honest measure, too many Kansas families are struggling to make ends meet. The latest State of ALICE in Kansas report—ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—finds that 38% of Kansas households were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023, meaning they could not afford the basics even while working. That includes 12% living in poverty and another 26% who earn too much to qualify for aid but still can’t cover essentials like housing, child care, food, transportation, and healthcare.This isn’t a fringe problem; it’s the working backbone of our economy. These are Kansans we depend on daily, like child‑care providers, home‑health aides, cashiers, and delivery drivers. Kansans feel the squeeze. In the 2025 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey—conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University—36.1% said the Kansas economy is getting worse, and 46.5% reported feeling very or moderately concerned that the state’s economy could seriously threaten their family’s welfare—a worry that ticked up from last year. When people don’t see a path to stability, they pull back on spending, on investing in education, on starting businesses. That feeds a cycle of slower growth.Inflation adds insult to injury. In September, prices across the Midwest rose 3.1%. Housing costs are up 4.5% and rent surged 5.0% compared to 3.4% nationally. For a Kansas renter already under ALICE’s budget pressure, that is the difference between paying for a car repair or skipping the prescription refill.The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that lower-income households experience greater impact from inflation than higher-income ones, meaning Kansans living on tighter budgets face disproportionate pressures. After adjusting for inflation, Kansas’ median household incomes have barely budged post-COVID, lagging behind national progress. Inflation’s heavier burden on lower-income families widens this gap, as working families spend more of their limited incomes on essentials.Meanwhile, the recent federal government shutdown made a bad situation worse. Kansas Action for Children reports that the shutdown disrupted key economic data flows (including unemployment statistics) and contributed to state revenues missing estimates by $3.4 million in September due to a steep $35.4 million shortfall in corporate income tax receipts, despite&nbsp;stronger individual income and sales taxes. Overall receipts for the month were about 1.9% lower than in September 2024.Beyond numbers on a page, the shutdown threatened essential benefits: SNAP and WIC faced imminent disruption, putting nearly 190,000 Kansans at risk of losing food assistance, with 48,000 WIC recipients depending on nutrition support for mothers and children. When Washington cannot keep the lights on, the ripple effects hit our paychecks, our schools, our main streets, and exacerbated those among us who are already vulnerable.When federal policy falters, Kansas families pay the price first. Stabilize the basics—food assistance, health insurance support, small‑business lending, predictable budgets—and we give vulnerable households the breathing room to become the bedrock of the state’s growth rather than the warning siren of its fragility.If we want a Kansas where hard work reliably leads to stability, we need policies that stop pushing families underwater and start helping them reach the shore.As the Kansas Legislature gears up for its 2026 session, lawmakers are already sending signals about where priorities lie—the initial bills suggest little additional support for working families. Early filings include a proposal to delay school start dates until after Labor Day; legislation aimed at loosening library-district governance; and a “Kansas Teacher Shortage Relief Act” to ease re-entry for retired educators.These bills signal lawmakers’ attention to core community institutions like schools and libraries, but if our state truly wants to lift those families hovering near or beneath the ALICE threshold, the session must go further.Legislators should prioritize enhanced affordability—expanding access to affordable child care, increasing housing subsidies, and upgrading income thresholds to reflect changing living costs. Federal programs remain vital, but state action can shield families when Washington falters.The 2026 Legislature has a choice: tinker at the edges or invest in Kansans’ ability to thrive. If leadership is serious about long-term economic resilience, it must anchor its agenda in policies that pair educational and community improvements with real financial support. That means not just making communities stronger, but lifting the families who live in them.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

INSIGHST KANSAS: Kansas families are drowning. Will 2026 lawmakers throw a lifeline?

JAY HARRIS Cottonwood Extension District

As we turn the calendar to December and reflect on the year behind us, one theme continues to stand out across the Cottonwood Extension District: community matters. Not just as a concept, but as a lived experience; built through relationships, shared learning, and people willing to step forward and make a difference.

Cooperative Extension has existed in Kansas for more than a century, but its strength today is the same as it was in 1914: local people helping local people, supported by university research. And when you look closely, you’ll find Extension woven into the fabric of nearly every part of community life.

You see it in a 4-H member learning leadership skills for the first time while preparing a project for the county fair. You see it in a producer seeking support during drought or planning for next year’s pasture and forage needs. You see it in families who attend wellness or financial programs and leave with tools to improve their quality of life. And you see it in the countless volunteers who give time, talent, and heart to strengthen their communities.

Extension work is diverse; agriculture, youth development, health, family resources, community vitality, but it is all driven by the same belief: Knowledge is most powerful when it is shared.

In a world with search engines, apps, and endless online information, some might ask: Why do we still need Extension?

· Google can provide information, but it can’t provide connection.

· Technology can offer data, but it cannot replace trusted relationships.

· And online advice can be generic, but Extension is specific to Kansas, our climate, our challenges, and our way of life.

Extension doesn’t just deliver facts. It delivers understanding, context, and support grounded in real-world experience.

Even more importantly, Extension builds confidence, especially in young people. When a 4-H member gives their first speech, masters a skill, or discovers a new interest that may become a career, they’re experiencing something much bigger than a moment. They’re experiencing growth — the kind that stays with them long after awards and ribbons are forgotten.

As we prepare to enter a new year, I want to offer sincere gratitude to the Cottonwood District communities, partners, and volunteers who make this work meaningful. Your support ensures that Extension remains strong, relevant, and accessible.

And as always, we are here for you. Whether you’re producing food, raising a family, strengthening a community organization, or simply trying something new, Extension is your partner.

Because Extension isn’t just a service. It’s a relationship. It’s a commitment. And most of all, Extension is community.

Wishing you a season of peace, gratitude, and connection. We look forward to serving you in the new year.

Jay Harris&nbsp; is the District Director for K-State Extension, Cottonwood District (Ellis and Barton Counties).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745338245919.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JAY HARRIS Cottonwood Extension DistrictAs we turn the calendar to December and reflect on the year behind us, one theme continues to stand out across the Cottonwood Extension District: community matters. Not just as a concept, but as a lived experience; built through relationships, shared learning, and people willing to step forward and make a difference.Cooperative Extension has existed in Kansas for more than a century, but its strength today is the same as it was in 1914: local people helping local people, supported by university research. And when you look closely, you’ll find Extension woven into the fabric of nearly every part of community life.You see it in a 4-H member learning leadership skills for the first time while preparing a project for the county fair. You see it in a producer seeking support during drought or planning for next year’s pasture and forage needs. You see it in families who attend wellness or financial programs and leave with tools to improve their quality of life. And you see it in the countless volunteers who give time, talent, and heart to strengthen their communities.Extension work is diverse; agriculture, youth development, health, family resources, community vitality, but it is all driven by the same belief: Knowledge is most powerful when it is shared.In a world with search engines, apps, and endless online information, some might ask: Why do we still need Extension?The answer is simple:· Google can provide information, but it can’t provide connection.· Technology can offer data, but it cannot replace trusted relationships.· And online advice can be generic, but Extension is specific to Kansas, our climate, our challenges, and our way of life.Extension doesn’t just deliver facts. It delivers understanding, context, and support grounded in real-world experience.Even more importantly, Extension builds confidence, especially in young people. When a 4-H member gives their first speech, masters a skill, or discovers a new interest that may become a career, they’re experiencing something much bigger than a moment. They’re experiencing growth — the kind that stays with them long after awards and ribbons are forgotten.As we prepare to enter a new year, I want to offer sincere gratitude to the Cottonwood District communities, partners, and volunteers who make this work meaningful. Your support ensures that Extension remains strong, relevant, and accessible.And as always, we are here for you. Whether you’re producing food, raising a family, strengthening a community organization, or simply trying something new, Extension is your partner.Because Extension isn’t just a service. It’s a relationship. It’s a commitment. And most of all, Extension is community.Wishing you a season of peace, gratitude, and connection. We look forward to serving you in the new year.Jay Harris&nbsp; is the District Director for K-State Extension, Cottonwood District (Ellis and Barton Counties).

HARRIS: Extension is community: Why local engagement matters

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765546425442.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/2025/12/1765546610038.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>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657833314681.jpeg" alt="Family Worship Center" />
 <figcaption>Family Worship Center</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://castbox.fm/app/castbox/player/id4390834/id624002607?v=8.22.11&autoplay=0" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="500"></iframe></div>

Winter weather advisory in affect through midnight

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.

For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765301569977.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Boys StateMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

Applications open for 2026 Kansas Boys State in Manhattan

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Kansas State University Research and Extension invites beef producers from Pawnee County and all surrounding counties to attend the upcoming Calving School on Wednesday, December 17 at the J.A. Haas Building, 400 E. 18th Street, Larned. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the steak meal and program beginning at 6:00 p.m.

This educational event is designed to support producers across central and western Kansas as they prepare for the upcoming calving season. The program will feature practical, research-based information that benefits operations of all sizes and experience levels.

Two K-State specialists will lead the evening’s presentations:&nbsp;Dr. AJ Tarpoff, K-State Associate Professor and Beef Extension Veterinarian, and&nbsp;Dr. Jason Warner, K-State Assistant Professor and Extension Cow-Calf Specialist.

Dr. Tarpoff will outline the normal stages of calving and provide practical instruction on how to recognize and manage difficult calving situations. His presentation will include guidance on when and how to intervene, along with a hands-on demonstration using a life-size cow and calf model to show proper use of calving equipment.

Dr. Warner will discuss winter cow/calf management strategies to help producers maintain herd health through the colder months. He will also cover key pre-calving nutritional fundamentals that support strong calves and productive cows.&nbsp;

“Calving season brings its own set of challenges, and our goal is to equip producers with tools they can take home and use right away,” said Kyle Grant, Pawnee County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent. “We are excited to welcome participants not only from Pawnee County, but from all neighboring counties as well. This program is truly designed for the region.”

The event is being hosted in collaboration with 21 Central District, Cottonwood District, Ford County, Gray County, Hodgeman County, Rice County, and Walnut Creek District, all working together to promote the program and support attendance from across the area.

A complimentary steak meal will be provided, and participants are asked to RSVP by Friday, December 12.

To register call the Pawnee County Extension Office at&nbsp;620-285-6901,email Kyle Grant at&nbsp;kkgrant@ksu.edu,or register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_emOKM1G0QLYiog6">bit.ly/pawnee-fallagprograms</a>.

This program is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, including Bar F; Cauble Prisoner Transport Service LLC; Crieg Grandy Trucking LLC; Diamond Ag Research Inc.; Farm Bureau Financial Services – Leigh Anne Seeman; Frick Veterinary Services; G-S Cattle, Co.; Golden Valley Inc.; Grant Farms; Hanson Farming, Co.; High Plains Farm Credit; Josefiak Meats, Co.; La Crosse Livestock Market, LLC; Larned Veterinary Clinic, P.A.; Loving Farms; Maxwell Farm to Table; Meade Locker &amp; Processing LLC; National Beef Dodge City; Pawnee County COOP; Seeman Farms; Seibert Feeding LLC; Snodgrass Transfer LLC; and Ward Feed Yard, Inc.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701716288462.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictKansas State University Research and Extension invites beef producers from Pawnee County and all surrounding counties to attend the upcoming Calving School on Wednesday, December 17 at the J.A. Haas Building, 400 E. 18th Street, Larned. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the steak meal and program beginning at 6:00 p.m.This educational event is designed to support producers across central and western Kansas as they prepare for the upcoming calving season. The program will feature practical, research-based information that benefits operations of all sizes and experience levels.Two K-State specialists will lead the evening’s presentations:&nbsp;Dr. AJ Tarpoff, K-State Associate Professor and Beef Extension Veterinarian, and&nbsp;Dr. Jason Warner, K-State Assistant Professor and Extension Cow-Calf Specialist.Dr. Tarpoff will outline the normal stages of calving and provide practical instruction on how to recognize and manage difficult calving situations. His presentation will include guidance on when and how to intervene, along with a hands-on demonstration using a life-size cow and calf model to show proper use of calving equipment.Dr. Warner will discuss winter cow/calf management strategies to help producers maintain herd health through the colder months. He will also cover key pre-calving nutritional fundamentals that support strong calves and productive cows.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765381035305.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“Calving season brings its own set of challenges, and our goal is to equip producers with tools they can take home and use right away,” said Kyle Grant, Pawnee County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent. “We are excited to welcome participants not only from Pawnee County, but from all neighboring counties as well. This program is truly designed for the region.”The event is being hosted in collaboration with 21 Central District, Cottonwood District, Ford County, Gray County, Hodgeman County, Rice County, and Walnut Creek District, all working together to promote the program and support attendance from across the area.A complimentary steak meal will be provided, and participants are asked to RSVP by Friday, December 12.To register call the Pawnee County Extension Office at&nbsp;620-285-6901,email Kyle Grant at&nbsp;kkgrant@ksu.edu,or register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_emOKM1G0QLYiog6">bit.ly/pawnee-fallagprograms</a>.This program is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, including Bar F; Cauble Prisoner Transport Service LLC; Crieg Grandy Trucking LLC; Diamond Ag Research Inc.; Farm Bureau Financial Services – Leigh Anne Seeman; Frick Veterinary Services; G-S Cattle, Co.; Golden Valley Inc.; Grant Farms; Hanson Farming, Co.; High Plains Farm Credit; Josefiak Meats, Co.; La Crosse Livestock Market, LLC; Larned Veterinary Clinic, P.A.; Loving Farms; Maxwell Farm to Table; Meade Locker &amp; Processing LLC; National Beef Dodge City; Pawnee County COOP; Seeman Farms; Seibert Feeding LLC; Snodgrass Transfer LLC; and Ward Feed Yard, Inc.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

BOOR: K-State Research, Extension to host calving school in Pawnee County on Wednesday

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays, who gives a year-end business development and housing update, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=482zn-19ec002-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300%22 loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays, who gives a year-end business development and housing update, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays gives year-end update

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The city of Hays approved financing for three projects to create new businesses and expand others.

Ordinances to authorize issuing industrial revenue bonds for the expansion of Agiliti and Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. were unanimously approved by the city commission during its meeting on Thursday.&nbsp;

Agiliti leases the former Sizewise facility in south Hays and employs about 91 employees. The company plans to purchase the building and expand its campus, completing the $6.5 million project by the end of 2027. About 140 additional jobs will be added over five years at the medical equipment manufacturer.&nbsp;

The bonds, which have no taxpayer commitment, would allow Agiliti to obtain a sales tax exemption for all construction-related purchases and a real property tax abatement for up to 10 years.

The new location of Vernies Trux-N-Equip. is at 48th Street and General Hays, site of the former Hays Livestock sales barn.  &nbsp;

Vernie's&nbsp;is asking for the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for the $2.2-million project, which is nearing completion. No property tax abatement is requested. A community improvement district is also being sought.

Exit 161 construction engineering contract

Bids were sought for construction engineering services for infrastructure construction, including water/sewer main extensions and street/intersection improvements to a city-owned 90-acre greenfield site at Interstate 70, Exit 161. 

Commissioners approved the low bid of $38,632 from Driggs Design Group, PA, with the cost to be funded from general obligation bonds.

"There are some grant dollars involved, and this bond issue comes from debt that is rolling off, so there won't be any impact to property tax dollars," Toby Dougherty, city manager,&nbsp;said.

The infrastructure would serve 11 buildable lots, ranging in size from 2 to 8 acres, for commercial and residential development.

Following a review of its 2025 pool season operation, the Hays Recreation Commission requested a 50% reimbursement for its operating loss, as outlined in the pool services agreement with the city. City commissioners voted to pay $25,501 to the recreation commission from the 2025 General Fund Pool Budget.

Commissioners re-appointed Hays resident Hali Bielser to the CARE Council for a second two-year term.

The 2026 cereal malt beverage city licenses for participating businesses were approved.

Commissioners also heard from Ellis County Cottonwood Extension Agents Monique Koerner, Karissa Frasier and Tamara Roberts about their programs and upcoming projects for 2026.&nbsp;

Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, told the commission the chamber is circulating a petition to Hays residents urging the state Water Transfer Panel to hold the final hearing and approve the transfer application from Hays and Russell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham were absent from the meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765556290561.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners at the Dec. 11 meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners at the Dec. 11 meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays approved financing for three projects to create new businesses and expand others.Ordinances to authorize issuing industrial revenue bonds for the expansion of Agiliti and Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. were unanimously approved by the city commission during its meeting on Thursday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765556053525.png" alt="Agililti-Hays is on the south end of Commerce Parkway. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Agililti-Hays is on the south end of Commerce Parkway. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Agiliti leases the former Sizewise facility in south Hays and employs about 91 employees. The company plans to purchase the building and expand its campus, completing the $6.5 million project by the end of 2027. About 140 additional jobs will be added over five years at the medical equipment manufacturer.&nbsp;The bonds, which have no taxpayer commitment, would allow Agiliti to obtain a sales tax exemption for all construction-related purchases and a real property tax abatement for up to 10 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765555821943.png" alt="New location of Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>New location of Vernie's Trux-N-Equip. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The new location of Vernies Trux-N-Equip. is at 48th Street and General Hays, site of the former Hays Livestock sales barn. &nbsp;Vernie's&nbsp;is asking for the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for the $2.2-million project, which is nearing completion. No property tax abatement is requested. A community improvement district is also being sought.Exit 161 construction engineering contractBids were sought for construction engineering services for infrastructure construction, including water/sewer main extensions and street/intersection improvements to a city-owned 90-acre greenfield site at Interstate 70, Exit 161. Commissioners approved the low bid of $38,632 from Driggs Design Group, PA, with the cost to be funded from general obligation bonds."There are some grant dollars involved, and this bond issue comes from debt that is rolling off, so there won't be any impact to property tax dollars," Toby Dougherty, city manager,&nbsp;said.The infrastructure would serve 11 buildable lots, ranging in size from 2 to 8 acres, for commercial and residential development.Pool reimbursement requestFollowing a review of its 2025 pool season operation, the Hays Recreation Commission requested a 50% reimbursement for its operating loss, as outlined in the pool services agreement with the city. City commissioners voted to pay $25,501 to the recreation commission from the 2025 General Fund Pool Budget.CARE CouncilCommissioners re-appointed Hays resident Hali Bielser to the CARE Council for a second two-year term.Cereal malt beverage licensesThe 2026 cereal malt beverage city licenses for participating businesses were approved.Citizen commentsCommissioners also heard from Ellis County Cottonwood Extension Agents Monique Koerner, Karissa Frasier and Tamara Roberts about their programs and upcoming projects for 2026.&nbsp;Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, told the commission the chamber is circulating a petition to Hays residents urging the state Water Transfer Panel to hold the final hearing and approve the transfer application from Hays and Russell.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays City Commission" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=chr44-19ebffa-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham were absent from the meeting.

 🎙 Hays City Commission approves industrial revenue bonds for two business expansions

Hays High School Academic Booster Club

The Hays High School Academic Booster Club (ABC) awards scholarships to graduating seniors yearly to recognize their academic and extracurricular accomplishments. These students have excelled in the classroom, volunteered in the community, worked part-time, and participated in numerous school activities. ABC scholarships help recipients continue their education by covering college and technical school expenses.

Last year, we awarded $500 scholarships to 19 outstanding students. Many expressed their sincere appreciation for receiving the scholarship from our organization, noting how the funds will help them reach their academic and career goals.

We need your support to continue awarding scholarships to these remarkable students. Please consider sponsoring a full scholarship of $500 or a partial scholarship of $150-$300. Any donation, however, no matter the amount, will be greatly appreciated and make a meaningful difference. 

We hope to award 20 scholarships this year, and your donation will move us one step closer to our $10,000 fundraising goal!

You can donate by mailing a check to the Hays High Academic Booster Club. You can also call the USD 489 Foundation office to donate, but you must specify that you want your donation to go to the Hays High School Academic Booster Club. All donations are tax-deductible. 

If you have any questions, please contact one of the following ABC Officers.

Thank you for supporting Hays High students!

Please mail checks to: Hays High School Attn: Academic Booster Club 2500 E. 13th Street Hays, KS 67601&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765294096567.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High School Academic Booster ClubThe Hays High School Academic Booster Club (ABC) awards scholarships to graduating seniors yearly to recognize their academic and extracurricular accomplishments. These students have excelled in the classroom, volunteered in the community, worked part-time, and participated in numerous school activities. ABC scholarships help recipients continue their education by covering college and technical school expenses.Last year, we awarded $500 scholarships to 19 outstanding students. Many expressed their sincere appreciation for receiving the scholarship from our organization, noting how the funds will help them reach their academic and career goals.We need your support to continue awarding scholarships to these remarkable students. Please consider sponsoring a full scholarship of $500 or a partial scholarship of $150-$300. Any donation, however, no matter the amount, will be greatly appreciated and make a meaningful difference. We hope to award 20 scholarships this year, and your donation will move us one step closer to our $10,000 fundraising goal!You can donate by mailing a check to the Hays High Academic Booster Club. You can also call the USD 489 Foundation office to donate, but you must specify that you want your donation to go to the Hays High School Academic Booster Club. All donations are tax-deductible. If you have any questions, please contact one of the following ABC Officers.Thank you for supporting Hays High students!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765293720954.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Please mail checks to: Hays High School Attn: Academic Booster Club 2500 E. 13th Street Hays, KS 67601&nbsp;&nbsp;

Invest in education by helping fund local scholarships for Hays' future leaders 

GREAT BEND — Bundle up and bring the whole family for an afternoon of frosty fun and hands-on discovery at our Winter Wonders of the Wetlands Drop-In STEM event at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center on Friday, December 26, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Explore how animals survive and thrive in Kansas wetlands during the coldest months through five exciting activity stations—each one tied to a different STEAM theme.

S – Track Mysteries - Become a wildlife detective. Match mysterious tracks to their wetland animal owners and learn how to read nature’s clues. Create your own winter track mystery scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765463433745.jpeg" alt="Kansas Wetlands Education Center" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wetlands Education Center</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsGREAT BEND — Bundle up and bring the whole family for an afternoon of frosty fun and hands-on discovery at our Winter Wonders of the Wetlands Drop-In STEM event at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center on Friday, December 26, from 1 to 4 p.m.Explore how animals survive and thrive in Kansas wetlands during the coldest months through five exciting activity stations—each one tied to a different STEAM theme.S – Track Mysteries - Become a wildlife detective. Match mysterious tracks to their wetland animal owners and learn how to read nature’s clues. Create your own winter track mystery scene.T – Soundscape Station - Can you match the bird call to the right bird? Listen closely and test your skills with real mounts and audio clips from wetland species.E – Duck Feet Design - Engineer your own duck foot and test it in water to see how well it paddles. Discover how webbed feet help birds move through chilly wetlands.A – Build a Snowglobe - Get creative and craft your own winter wetland snowglobe to take home—complete with glittery snow and animal scenes.M – Migration Distance Math - Play our giant Chutes &amp; Ladders-style tarp game to explore how far birds travel to reach Kansas wetlands in winter.Free admission and fun for all ages. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. No registration required.Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, on 592 NE K-156 Highway. More information can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0ToY5DtrhqW4tcsCTuD3Jv2sbxY4kRVWBngdisOboYoX5L5t_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOvt24xkb7U0plK5YizdrcvL-2FPbriLPeAXbw0Ue1wJzAnTmIN3AY-2BMc8exSj6tt1vyrY4JDngYEhoft2kZwh9GFdOEQFj9p3Q0AjIi5u-2B-2BVT9dH3N4U5QAn-2BKtrzSoyHDY2-2FNUI2-2BCmTV35F7vSYSDrzgrjyZMFmsq0a3FS37REHBEw0mwEa3aht9-2FZnj38kjI-2BVcK0fiG6RCRqu5kZAdXpBR8RRn63FK36hI1zw6U-2FsKfsMNSZAOJMXJn4mP896UO">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

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