<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/2023/11/1700861367367.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

ELLIS — On Tuesday, November 21, 2023, Ellis High School inducted ten juniors and nine seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements to get into NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.

The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:

(BACK ROW) 1st year members: Maleah Vine (Jr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Jadyn Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Brooke Starns (Jr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Taegan Shannon (Jr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Jr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Natalee North (Jr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Jr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Jr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Chance Jimenez (Jr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Toby Honas (Jr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas; and Isabella Eck (Jr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck

(FRONT ROW) 2nd year members: Mason Younger (Sr.), son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Taylor Seibel (Sr.), daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Ava Reed (Sr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Kylee Pfeifer (Sr.), daughter of Brandon and Chandra Pfeifer; Emily James (Sr.), daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens; Kaydawn Haag (Sr.), daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag; Macy Eberle (Sr.), daughter of Cory and Michele Eberle; and Austin Carroll (Sr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661924756.png" alt="Ellis USD 388" />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388</figcaption>
 </figure>EHSELLIS — On Tuesday, November 21, 2023, Ellis High School inducted ten juniors and nine seniors into the local chapter of the National Honor Society. Requirements to get into NHS are a 3.5 GPA, leadership in seven organizations within the school or community, accumulation of 40 hours of community service, and a positive character evaluation by teachers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661585638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The following students were inducted into the National Honor Society:(BACK ROW) 1st year members: Maleah Vine (Jr.), daughter of Dustin and Tanna Vine; Jadyn Starns (Sr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Brooke Starns (Jr.), daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Taegan Shannon (Jr.), daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon; Alyssa Rome (Jr.), daughter of James and Sandra Rome; Natalee North (Jr.), daughter of Travis and Ava North; MaKenzie Kohlrus (Jr.), daughter of Travis and Susie Kohlrus; Addison Kohl (Jr.), daughter of Jeff and Emily Kohl; Chance Jimenez (Jr.), son of Javi and Jessica Jimenez; Toby Honas (Jr.), son of Randy and Wendy Honas; and Isabella Eck (Jr.), daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck(FRONT ROW) 2nd year members: Mason Younger (Sr.), son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Taylor Seibel (Sr.), daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Ava Reed (Sr.), daughter of Darin and April Reed; Kylee Pfeifer (Sr.), daughter of Brandon and Chandra Pfeifer; Emily James (Sr.), daughter of Wesley James and Alice Berens; Kaydawn Haag (Sr.), daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag; Macy Eberle (Sr.), daughter of Cory and Michele Eberle; and Austin Carroll (Sr.), son of Matt and Nicole Carroll<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661780260.jpeg" alt="1st year NHS members, Ellis High School 2023-2024" />
 <figcaption>1st year NHS members, Ellis High School 2023-2024</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661709503.jpeg" alt="2nd year NHS members, Ellis High School 2023-2024" />
 <figcaption>2nd year NHS members, Ellis High School 2023-2024</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis High School inducts 19 into National Honor Society 

RUSSELL — As a result of a forecasted snowstorm and snowstorms impeding traffic and causing difficulty in the clearance of streets, parking upon the following listed streets, designated as emergency snow routes, in the city of Russell is prohibited beginning at 6 a.m., November 25, 2023, and until further notice:

• Copeland Street from Wichita Avenue to Wisconsin Street • Lincoln Street from Wichita Avenue to 15th Street • Wisconsin Street from Van Houten to Copeland Street • 15th Street from Van Houten Street to Copeland Street • Ash Street from Wichita Avenue to Dorrance Street • Jewell Street from Fossil Street to Maple Street • Maple Street from Jewell Street to Luray Street • Luray Street from Maple Street to Kansas Street • Kansas Street from Luray Street to Jewell Street

Any vehicle parked on an emergency snow route after such time may be towed. Any expenses incurred for vehicles requiring towing away as a result of snow removal work shall be the owner or operator's responsibility and not at the expense or responsibility of the city of Russell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700882689531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of Russell RUSSELL — As a result of a forecasted snowstorm and snowstorms impeding traffic and causing difficulty in the clearance of streets, parking upon the following listed streets, designated as emergency snow routes, in the city of Russell is prohibited beginning at 6 a.m., November 25, 2023, and until further notice:• Copeland Street from Wichita Avenue to Wisconsin Street • Lincoln Street from Wichita Avenue to 15th Street • Wisconsin Street from Van Houten to Copeland Street • 15th Street from Van Houten Street to Copeland Street • Ash Street from Wichita Avenue to Dorrance Street • Jewell Street from Fossil Street to Maple Street • Maple Street from Jewell Street to Luray Street • Luray Street from Maple Street to Kansas Street • Kansas Street from Luray Street to Jewell StreetAny vehicle parked on an emergency snow route after such time may be towed. Any expenses incurred for vehicles requiring towing away as a result of snow removal work shall be the owner or operator's responsibility and not at the expense or responsibility of the city of Russell.

Russell issues no parking on designated snow routes starting at 6 a.m. Saturday

LOGAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Friday in Logan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Western Star Straight Truck driven by Billy Jack Pruitt, 52, Oakley, was southbound on County Road 460 just north of Jayhawk.

The truck left the roadway to the right, traveled off to the left and then back to the right.&nbsp; It slid backwards into the ditch and came to rest on its wheels facing north.

EMS transported Pruitt to the Logan County Hospital. He was not waring a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Friday in Logan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Western Star Straight Truck driven by Billy Jack Pruitt, 52, Oakley, was southbound on County Road 460 just north of Jayhawk.The truck left the roadway to the right, traveled off to the left and then back to the right.&nbsp; It slid backwards into the ditch and came to rest on its wheels facing north.EMS transported Pruitt to the Logan County Hospital. He was not waring a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after truck crash

Congrats to Debbie Ross of Hays for winning the second prize in our weekly KAYS Reindeer Radio giveaway!

The prize this week was sponsored by&nbsp;The ARC of Central Plains Thriftshop.

Listen to 94.3 FM/1400 AM KAYS Monday through Thursday next week, listen for the code word and enter it here on Hays Post for more chances to win!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700251607468.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congrats to Debbie Ross of Hays for winning the second prize in our weekly KAYS Reindeer Radio giveaway!The prize this week was sponsored by&nbsp;The ARC of Central Plains Thriftshop.Listen to 94.3 FM/1400 AM KAYS Monday through Thursday next week, listen for the code word and enter it here on Hays Post for more chances to win!

Reindeer Radio week 2 winner announced

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses upcoming events at the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Cottonwood District continues information programing for area residents" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ytbpg-150a159-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses upcoming events at the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood District continues information programing for area residents

OAKLEY — The city of Oakley will be implementing emergency snow routes at midnight Saturday.&nbsp;

 Please remove all vehicles off of the snow routes. Also please remove vehicles off the secondary routes and consider removing vehicles from narrow streets and one-way streets to give the plows room to operate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668426123306.jpg" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of OakleyOAKLEY — The city of Oakley will be implementing emergency snow routes at midnight Saturday.&nbsp; Please remove all vehicles off of the snow routes. Also please remove vehicles off the secondary routes and consider removing vehicles from narrow streets and one-way streets to give the plows room to operate.&nbsp;

Oakley implementing emergency snow routes at midnight Saturday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Between students on campus, online students, and international student partnership programs, Fort Hays State University had a total enrollment of 16,984 students for academic year 2023. 

Slightly more than 2,000 of those students came from Ellis County. There were another 4,731 students from western Kansas.

The economic impact of Fort Hays State on Ellis County in fiscal year 2022 is estimated between $167.8 million and $239.2 million dollars.&nbsp;

President Tisa Mason spoke to Hays city commissioners Nov. 9 about the university's mission and updated commitments.

Two years ago, FHSU began exploring a strategic affiliation with NCK Technical College in Hays and Beloit, and Northwest Technical College in Goodland.&nbsp;

Campus committees and governing boards of the three institutions approved the affiliation in January. It was passed by the Kansas legislature in the 2023 session.&nbsp;

Next comes a request for the Higher Learning Commission's approval and finalizing a formal affiliation agreement in the summer of 2024.&nbsp;

The goal, says Mason, is to be able to start admitting students under the new structure by fall 2024.

"We want to help western Kansas by no longer working in competition or even a simple cooperation, but strategically joining forces and working together to help students, businesses, and western Kansas communities to thrive," Mason said.

The basic structure is a governance transfer from the local technical college boards to FHSU, with all three institutions keeping their separate funding streams and Higher Learning Commission accreditations.&nbsp;

The schools will unite with one brand - Tigers - and utilize the colors black and gold.&nbsp;

"That has passed both the tech college boards unanimously," Mason said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Hays State's annual legislative budget request is underway with four "asks" that have been endorsed by the Kansas Board of Regents.&nbsp;

The nursing program at Fort Hays State is focused on working in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Based on consistent pass rates of 100% in the doctorate of nursing practice program and a pass rate of 100% on-track this year for the bachelor of science in nursing, the Kansas Board of Nursing has allowed the department to increase undergraduate student enrollment by 67%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mason said she finds that "incredible" and "there is a waiting list" of prospective nursing students.

To accommodate the increase, FHSU will ask the legislature for $15 million to add two floors on top of the Stroup Building, home to the nursing department. Another recurring $400,000 will be requested to hire more nursing faculty as well as to build a simulation lab.&nbsp;

FHSU wants $750,000 to create a centralized professional and continuing education unit to deliver workforce development.&nbsp;

"We want to drive technical education, specialized certifications, and respond to the rapidly growing need for&nbsp; re-skilling and up-skilling, especially as artificial intelligence and other trends significantly interrupt the work environment as we know it today."&nbsp; &nbsp;

"I'm so impressed by this," said Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor. "We need it so badly."

Smaller budget requests will be made for the other two initiatives.

A request for $250,000 for five years will be made for telehealth certification for mental health providers and to increase the counseling program capacity by 50 students.

A review of data provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on mental health professional shortage areas indicates most of Kansas falls into that category.

The fourth funding request for a recurring $220,000 would be used to establish assistantships designed to support businesses and schools that need help with technology services.&nbsp;

"Our graduate program in computer science is growing online. We want to bring some of those students into our community and get them on campus.&nbsp;

"We want to take some of their time and put them in schools, non-profits, small businesses, to help them with their computer and IT needs."

The federal and state governments are all committed to broadband expansion, especially in rural communities such as those in the FHSU service area.&nbsp;

"It will be critical to have a support system in place," Mason said.

"I can't wait to see in about five years where all this will have gone," said Shaun Musil, mayor, "especially for small businesses. It's very much appreciated."

<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dEizX_G69P4" title="FHSU requests for legislative funding in 2024" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostBetween students on campus, online students, and international student partnership programs, Fort Hays State University had a total enrollment of 16,984 students for academic year 2023. Slightly more than 2,000 of those students came from Ellis County. There were another 4,731 students from western Kansas.The economic impact of Fort Hays State on Ellis County in fiscal year 2022 is estimated between $167.8 million and $239.2 million dollars.&nbsp;President Tisa Mason spoke to Hays city commissioners Nov. 9 about the university's mission and updated commitments.Two years ago, FHSU began exploring a strategic affiliation with NCK Technical College in Hays and Beloit, and Northwest Technical College in Goodland.&nbsp;Campus committees and governing boards of the three institutions approved the affiliation in January. It was passed by the Kansas legislature in the 2023 session.&nbsp;Next comes a request for the Higher Learning Commission's approval and finalizing a formal affiliation agreement in the summer of 2024.&nbsp;The goal, says Mason, is to be able to start admitting students under the new structure by fall 2024."We want to help western Kansas by no longer working in competition or even a simple cooperation, but strategically joining forces and working together to help students, businesses, and western Kansas communities to thrive," Mason said.The basic structure is a governance transfer from the local technical college boards to FHSU, with all three institutions keeping their separate funding streams and Higher Learning Commission accreditations.&nbsp;The schools will unite with one brand - Tigers - and utilize the colors black and gold.&nbsp;"That has passed both the tech college boards unanimously," Mason said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fort Hays State's annual legislative budget request is underway with four "asks" that have been endorsed by the Kansas Board of Regents.&nbsp;The nursing program at Fort Hays State is focused on working in rural Kansas.&nbsp;Based on consistent pass rates of 100% in the doctorate of nursing practice program and a pass rate of 100% on-track this year for the bachelor of science in nursing, the Kansas Board of Nursing has allowed the department to increase undergraduate student enrollment by 67%.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mason said she finds that "incredible" and "there is a waiting list" of prospective nursing students.To accommodate the increase, FHSU will ask the legislature for $15 million to add two floors on top of the Stroup Building, home to the nursing department. Another recurring $400,000 will be requested to hire more nursing faculty as well as to build a simulation lab.&nbsp;FHSU wants $750,000 to create a centralized professional and continuing education unit to deliver workforce development.&nbsp;"We want to drive technical education, specialized certifications, and respond to the rapidly growing need for&nbsp; re-skilling and up-skilling, especially as artificial intelligence and other trends significantly interrupt the work environment as we know it today."&nbsp; &nbsp;"I'm so impressed by this," said Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor. "We need it so badly."Smaller budget requests will be made for the other two initiatives.A request for $250,000 for five years will be made for telehealth certification for mental health providers and to increase the counseling program capacity by 50 students.A review of data provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on mental health professional shortage areas indicates most of Kansas falls into that category.The fourth funding request for a recurring $220,000 would be used to establish assistantships designed to support businesses and schools that need help with technology services.&nbsp;"Our graduate program in computer science is growing online. We want to bring some of those students into our community and get them on campus.&nbsp;"We want to take some of their time and put them in schools, non-profits, small businesses, to help them with their computer and IT needs."The federal and state governments are all committed to broadband expansion, especially in rural communities such as those in the FHSU service area.&nbsp;"It will be critical to have a support system in place," Mason said."I can't wait to see in about five years where all this will have gone," said Shaun Musil, mayor, "especially for small businesses. It's very much appreciated."

🎥 FHSU strategy update presented to Hays city commission

One of my favorite campus events is our annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The Tiger Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1986 to honor former Fort Hays State University athletes, coaches, administrators, and community members who have made an extraordinary contribution to Tiger athletics.

What I love most is the authentic celebration of humble, extraordinary people who share stories of grit, humor, and, most of all, love – love of their sport, teammates, and coaches. It is a day when our honorees gather with family, teammates, and friends to smile, laugh, and, I guarantee, shed a tear. It is a day for gratitude, heart, and thanksgiving.

Here, in Part 1 of this two-part column, are the first four of eight stories that filled me with emotion and appreciation for the 2023 Hall of Fame inductees. The remaining stories will be included in my next column.

Tyrone Shepard's story is an inspiring tale of achievement and selflessness. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Tyrone carved out an exceptional basketball career that left a lasting impression. Despite his undeniable talent, his humble approach and focus on teamwork set him apart from others.

Head men's basketball Coach Mark Johnson spoke highly of Tyrone's character and profound influence on the team. Tyrone's upbringing and high school basketball experience played a pivotal role in shaping him into the player and person he became. Raised by a mother who instilled values of hard work and caring for others, Tyrone understood that success went beyond personal achievements; it was about winning as a team.

Tyrone's calm demeanor and level-headedness earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates. In fact, his popularity drew in large crowds, leading to the first-ever advanced sellout in Fort Hays State basketball history during his 2006 season.

Tyrone's selflessness and team-oriented mindset were evident in every aspect of his play. Despite having talented teammates and playing on a deep roster, he never complained about minutes or shots. Coach Johnson recalled a remarkable incident during senior night when Tyrone offered his starting spot to a teammate - an act that showcased his incredible leadership and willingness to put others before himself.

Tyrone's story serves as a reminder of the true essence of team sports. It highlights how selflessness, humility, and a strong work ethic can propel individuals and teams to exceptional achievements. Tyrone's journey is an inspiration to future athletes, demonstrating that true success is built on camaraderie, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to a shared goal.

Jim Belch's journey through the wrestling world is an inspiring testament to dedication and passion. Hailing from Goodland, Kansas, Jim's achievements as a wrestler and coach profoundly impact those who know his story.

As a two-time All-American and a prominent figure in Kansas wrestling, Jim's success on the mat showcases his unwavering commitment to the sport. But his influence didn't end there.

Transitioning into coaching, Jim dedicated 33 years of his life to mentoring student-athletes at various schools, including Atwood, Wellington, and Lawrence High School. His coaching prowess was unparalleled, becoming the first Kansas High School coach to achieve 300 dual wins and setting a standard of excellence for others to follow.

Jim's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of mentorship, camaraderie, and a shared passion. Not only have individuals been positively influenced by Jim's guidance, but an entire community has been uplifted by his presence. His story stands as a testament to the lasting impact one person can make when they pour their heart and soul into something they love.

Another touching story introduces Richard and Tawnita Augustine, who served as coaches for the Fort Hays State women's gymnastics team in the 1980s. Their impact on the program and the athletes they coached profoundly led to multiple All-American performances and top-five finishes in the NCAA Division II.

The sport of gymnastics was strong in Kansas when the Augustines started with the program, but over time, the shrinking number of local high school programs led to the need to recruit from across the nation. The Augustines reached out far and wide to build FHSU into a national championship contender by the mid-1980s with athletes from all over the United States, including Hawaii, New York, Alaska, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Maryland, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, and Kansas. By the program's last year in 1990, FHSU was the only school remaining in Kansas with a women's team.

What resonated most for me about their story was how they epitomized the ethic of care for which our campus is known. The long-lasting influence of the Augustines was so evident as they shared with pride their continued involvement to this day in the lives of all the Tiger athletes they coached and loved as a close-knit family they built around their team. Their coaching went beyond gymnastics. They caringly shaped successful individuals who pursued careers in various fields, creating lifelong friendships, cherished memories, and a lasting legacy. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering support nurtured young athletes, helping them grow into strong, intelligent, and successful women. The Augustines' legacy will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to be a part of their journey.

Daniel Traffas, a native of Sharon, Kansas, left an indelible mark on the baseball field during his time at Fort Hays State. His achievements as a pitcher are a testament to his talent and unwavering dedication. In his senior year, Daniel soared to new heights, earning the prestigious title of the 1995-Mile-High Intercollegiate Baseball League Pitcher of the Year. With an impressive 8-3 record and a remarkable 2.47 ERA, he dominated the baseball diamond.

What stood out for me in Daniel’s story was his family bonds. Behind every great individual lies a support system that drives them forward. For Daniel, this pillar of strength was his mother, Karen. Amidst their father's health battles, Karen selflessly took on the responsibility of caring for the family, exemplifying unwavering resilience. Her commitment and ability to juggle numerous roles without complaint left a lasting impact on me.

Daniels’ love of baseball is largely due to his father's influence. Countless hours were spent practicing together, forging a bond that would last a lifetime. Even in the face of adversity, when an accidental injury left their father with a broken jaw during a practice session, his resilience and unyielding spirit shone through. The vivid memory of their dad's sacrifice serves as a poignant example of the love and admiration between father and son.

This heartfelt story encapsulated a range of emotions, from excitement and gratitude to admiration and love. And that is what I love most about this annual celebration. It is a reminder of the profound impact that family, teammates, and coaches can have on an individual's life. Daniel Traffas' journey is a testament to the resilience and unwavering dedication required to achieve greatness.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason</figcaption>
 </figure>One of my favorite campus events is our annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The Tiger Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1986 to honor former Fort Hays State University athletes, coaches, administrators, and community members who have made an extraordinary contribution to Tiger athletics.What I love most is the authentic celebration of humble, extraordinary people who share stories of grit, humor, and, most of all, love – love of their sport, teammates, and coaches. It is a day when our honorees gather with family, teammates, and friends to smile, laugh, and, I guarantee, shed a tear. It is a day for gratitude, heart, and thanksgiving.Here, in Part 1 of this two-part column, are the first four of eight stories that filled me with emotion and appreciation for the 2023 Hall of Fame inductees. The remaining stories will be included in my next column.Tyrone Shepard's story is an inspiring tale of achievement and selflessness. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Tyrone carved out an exceptional basketball career that left a lasting impression. Despite his undeniable talent, his humble approach and focus on teamwork set him apart from others.Head men's basketball Coach Mark Johnson spoke highly of Tyrone's character and profound influence on the team. Tyrone's upbringing and high school basketball experience played a pivotal role in shaping him into the player and person he became. Raised by a mother who instilled values of hard work and caring for others, Tyrone understood that success went beyond personal achievements; it was about winning as a team.Tyrone's calm demeanor and level-headedness earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates. In fact, his popularity drew in large crowds, leading to the first-ever advanced sellout in Fort Hays State basketball history during his 2006 season.Tyrone's selflessness and team-oriented mindset were evident in every aspect of his play. Despite having talented teammates and playing on a deep roster, he never complained about minutes or shots. Coach Johnson recalled a remarkable incident during senior night when Tyrone offered his starting spot to a teammate - an act that showcased his incredible leadership and willingness to put others before himself.Tyrone's story serves as a reminder of the true essence of team sports. It highlights how selflessness, humility, and a strong work ethic can propel individuals and teams to exceptional achievements. Tyrone's journey is an inspiration to future athletes, demonstrating that true success is built on camaraderie, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to a shared goal.Jim Belch's journey through the wrestling world is an inspiring testament to dedication and passion. Hailing from Goodland, Kansas, Jim's achievements as a wrestler and coach profoundly impact those who know his story.As a two-time All-American and a prominent figure in Kansas wrestling, Jim's success on the mat showcases his unwavering commitment to the sport. But his influence didn't end there.Transitioning into coaching, Jim dedicated 33 years of his life to mentoring student-athletes at various schools, including Atwood, Wellington, and Lawrence High School. His coaching prowess was unparalleled, becoming the first Kansas High School coach to achieve 300 dual wins and setting a standard of excellence for others to follow.Jim's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of mentorship, camaraderie, and a shared passion. Not only have individuals been positively influenced by Jim's guidance, but an entire community has been uplifted by his presence. His story stands as a testament to the lasting impact one person can make when they pour their heart and soul into something they love.Another touching story introduces Richard and Tawnita Augustine, who served as coaches for the Fort Hays State women's gymnastics team in the 1980s. Their impact on the program and the athletes they coached profoundly led to multiple All-American performances and top-five finishes in the NCAA Division II.The sport of gymnastics was strong in Kansas when the Augustines started with the program, but over time, the shrinking number of local high school programs led to the need to recruit from across the nation. The Augustines reached out far and wide to build FHSU into a national championship contender by the mid-1980s with athletes from all over the United States, including Hawaii, New York, Alaska, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Maryland, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, and Kansas. By the program's last year in 1990, FHSU was the only school remaining in Kansas with a women's team.What resonated most for me about their story was how they epitomized the ethic of care for which our campus is known. The long-lasting influence of the Augustines was so evident as they shared with pride their continued involvement to this day in the lives of all the Tiger athletes they coached and loved as a close-knit family they built around their team. Their coaching went beyond gymnastics. They caringly shaped successful individuals who pursued careers in various fields, creating lifelong friendships, cherished memories, and a lasting legacy. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering support nurtured young athletes, helping them grow into strong, intelligent, and successful women. The Augustines' legacy will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to be a part of their journey.Daniel Traffas, a native of Sharon, Kansas, left an indelible mark on the baseball field during his time at Fort Hays State. His achievements as a pitcher are a testament to his talent and unwavering dedication. In his senior year, Daniel soared to new heights, earning the prestigious title of the 1995-Mile-High Intercollegiate Baseball League Pitcher of the Year. With an impressive 8-3 record and a remarkable 2.47 ERA, he dominated the baseball diamond.What stood out for me in Daniel’s story was his family bonds. Behind every great individual lies a support system that drives them forward. For Daniel, this pillar of strength was his mother, Karen. Amidst their father's health battles, Karen selflessly took on the responsibility of caring for the family, exemplifying unwavering resilience. Her commitment and ability to juggle numerous roles without complaint left a lasting impact on me.Daniels’ love of baseball is largely due to his father's influence. Countless hours were spent practicing together, forging a bond that would last a lifetime. Even in the face of adversity, when an accidental injury left their father with a broken jaw during a practice session, his resilience and unyielding spirit shone through. The vivid memory of their dad's sacrifice serves as a poignant example of the love and admiration between father and son.This heartfelt story encapsulated a range of emotions, from excitement and gratitude to admiration and love. And that is what I love most about this annual celebration. It is a reminder of the profound impact that family, teammates, and coaches can have on an individual's life. Daniel Traffas' journey is a testament to the resilience and unwavering dedication required to achieve greatness.

Heart of a Tiger: Reflections on 2023 Tiger Athletics Hall of Fame celebration, Part 1

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, is taking significant strides to empower justice-involved individuals across the state through the Re-entry Specialized Employment Counseling &amp; Training (ReSpECT)WORKS&nbsp;program. This program provides intensive case management and career navigation for eligible individuals released from the prison system in Kansas.

The&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program, administered in partnership with the Kansas Department of Corrections, was established in 2021 to help reduce the state’s recidivism rate in Kansas, which is currently at 35 percent.

“This program focuses on providing an opportunity for justice-involved Kansans to secure sustainable, living-wage employment in order to actively participate in society and break the cycle of incarceration,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“In turn, employers that need talent can be rest-assured these candidates have a pool of resources to help them succeed.”

The program currently operates through federal funding that the agency competes for, such as the $4 million Pathway Home grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor in 2021.

Assistance is provided on an as-needed basis and includes:

• Job preparation, exploration and planning&nbsp; •&nbsp; Occupational skills training&nbsp; •&nbsp; Rental assistance&nbsp; •&nbsp; Transportation and other basic needs-related payments •&nbsp; Supplies and work clothes &nbsp; • &nbsp;Intensive case management and employment counseling •&nbsp; Assistance obtaining state identification &nbsp; •&nbsp; Other individualized services&nbsp;

“We know that those who obtain a livable wage job upon release from prison are a third less likely to return,”&nbsp;Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda said. “We are excited about our partnership with&nbsp;KANSASWORKS and the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program, as it provides an added layer of resources to help these individuals succeed once they have returned to the community.”

A unique aspect of&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;is that participants remain with the same case manager pre- and post-release. Additionally, participants receive 12 months of follow-up upon securing stable employment. The objective of this method is to assist participants by providing comprehensive, personalized service that will help lead them into and retain high-demand, sustainable-wage jobs and decrease the likelihood to re-offend.

To date, the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program has enrolled 360 justice-involved participants and has achieved an employment rate of more than 70 percent.

“Our approach to this program is intentional, and the feedback that we’ve gotten from those enrolled is encouraging,”&nbsp;Assistant Secretary of Commerce Mike Beene said.&nbsp;“All of this is about putting the human element back into the equation, and the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program facilitates that.”

The Kansas Department of Commerce hopes to expand the program and increase the annual number of justice-involved individuals served annually to 120 within the next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700058677200.png" alt="Pixabay AI-generated" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay AI-generated</figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, is taking significant strides to empower justice-involved individuals across the state through the Re-entry Specialized Employment Counseling &amp; Training (ReSpECT)WORKS&nbsp;program. This program provides intensive case management and career navigation for eligible individuals released from the prison system in Kansas.The&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program, administered in partnership with the Kansas Department of Corrections, was established in 2021 to help reduce the state’s recidivism rate in Kansas, which is currently at 35 percent.“This program focuses on providing an opportunity for justice-involved Kansans to secure sustainable, living-wage employment in order to actively participate in society and break the cycle of incarceration,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“In turn, employers that need talent can be rest-assured these candidates have a pool of resources to help them succeed.”The program currently operates through federal funding that the agency competes for, such as the $4 million Pathway Home grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor in 2021.Assistance is provided on an as-needed basis and includes:• Job preparation, exploration and planning&nbsp; •&nbsp; Occupational skills training&nbsp; •&nbsp; Rental assistance&nbsp; •&nbsp; Transportation and other basic needs-related payments •&nbsp; Supplies and work clothes &nbsp; • &nbsp;Intensive case management and employment counseling •&nbsp; Assistance obtaining state identification &nbsp; •&nbsp; Other individualized services&nbsp; “We know that those who obtain a livable wage job upon release from prison are a third less likely to return,”&nbsp;Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda said. “We are excited about our partnership with&nbsp;KANSASWORKS and the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program, as it provides an added layer of resources to help these individuals succeed once they have returned to the community.”A unique aspect of&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;is that participants remain with the same case manager pre- and post-release. Additionally, participants receive 12 months of follow-up upon securing stable employment. The objective of this method is to assist participants by providing comprehensive, personalized service that will help lead them into and retain high-demand, sustainable-wage jobs and decrease the likelihood to re-offend.To date, the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program has enrolled 360 justice-involved participants and has achieved an employment rate of more than 70 percent.“Our approach to this program is intentional, and the feedback that we’ve gotten from those enrolled is encouraging,”&nbsp;Assistant Secretary of Commerce Mike Beene said.&nbsp;“All of this is about putting the human element back into the equation, and the&nbsp;ReSpECTWORKS&nbsp;program facilitates that.”The Kansas Department of Commerce hopes to expand the program and increase the annual number of justice-involved individuals served annually to 120 within the next year.

Commerce program opens employment pathway for justice-involved Kansans

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700767123600.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>

SALINE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chrysler Town &amp; Country driven by Vicki Lynne&nbsp;Doyle, 61, Ellis, was westbound on Interstate 70 five miles east of the Interstate 135 interchange.

The van rear-ended a 2024 Buick Enclave driven by Sharon&nbsp;Hendricks, 73, Bird City, who had slowed for upcoming road construction.

EMS transported&nbsp;Doyle to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;Hendricks was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chrysler Town &amp; Country driven by Vicki Lynne&nbsp;Doyle, 61, Ellis, was westbound on Interstate 70 five miles east of the Interstate 135 interchange.The van rear-ended a 2024 Buick Enclave driven by Sharon&nbsp;Hendricks, 73, Bird City, who had slowed for upcoming road construction.EMS transported&nbsp;Doyle to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;Hendricks was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman from Ellis hospitalized after I-70 rear-end crash

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses holiday safety with <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/232/Fire-Department" target="_blank">Hays Fire Department </a>Chief Ryan Hagans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this holiday season with these tips from the Hays Fire Department" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d8mit-150858e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses holiday safety with <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/232/Fire-Department" target="_blank">Hays Fire Department </a>Chief Ryan Hagans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay safe this holiday season with these tips from the Hays Fire Department

The Kiwanis Club of Hays is working on one of its final projects, a memorial garden at Kiwanis Park, to commemorate our “Seven Acts of Kindness for 70 Years of Service,” being celebrated this year.

Kiwanis President Chelsey Ladd shared, “The Kiwanis Club of Hays has been fortunate to have numerous members over the years who have made a positive difference in the lives of children in our community and across the state. In memory of these members, our club is grateful for the opportunity to honor and pay tribute to them and the impact they’ve made.”

The club is currently working with the City of Hays Parks Department to prepare the garden space at Kiwanis Park located on Harvest Road.

Kiwanis memorial garden project coordinator Sarah Wasinger shared, “There have been so many trailblazers who have paved the way for current and future members of our club who have passed away, and we want to ensure that as many names are included in this memorial garden project as possible. Those who passed away while they were members as well as deceased members who were a part of the club in Hays for five plus years or served as a former club president are eligible to receive this recognition.”

Names are currently being taken for the memorial garden project.

Community members are encouraged to email Wasinger at sarah@hayschamber.com or call 785-650-2196 no later than December 15. Names may also be messaged to the club’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayskiwanis">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;

The expected completion for this project is spring 2024.

Kiwanis Club of Hays was chartered on May 5, 1953. The club currently has 95 members and meets weekly for lunch on Thursdays at noon at Smoky Hill Country Club. All community members are welcome to attend meetings to learn more information about becoming a member. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631119203853.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Kiwanis Club of Hays is working on one of its final projects, a memorial garden at Kiwanis Park, to commemorate our “Seven Acts of Kindness for 70 Years of Service,” being celebrated this year.Kiwanis President Chelsey Ladd shared, “The Kiwanis Club of Hays has been fortunate to have numerous members over the years who have made a positive difference in the lives of children in our community and across the state. In memory of these members, our club is grateful for the opportunity to honor and pay tribute to them and the impact they’ve made.”The club is currently working with the City of Hays Parks Department to prepare the garden space at Kiwanis Park located on Harvest Road.Kiwanis memorial garden project coordinator Sarah Wasinger shared, “There have been so many trailblazers who have paved the way for current and future members of our club who have passed away, and we want to ensure that as many names are included in this memorial garden project as possible. Those who passed away while they were members as well as deceased members who were a part of the club in Hays for five plus years or served as a former club president are eligible to receive this recognition.”Names are currently being taken for the memorial garden project. Community members are encouraged to email Wasinger at sarah@hayschamber.com or call 785-650-2196 no later than December 15. Names may also be messaged to the club’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayskiwanis">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;The expected completion for this project is spring 2024.About Kiwanis Club of HaysKiwanis Club of Hays was chartered on May 5, 1953. The club currently has 95 members and meets weekly for lunch on Thursdays at noon at Smoky Hill Country Club. All community members are welcome to attend meetings to learn more information about becoming a member. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.

Names being sought for Hays Kiwanis Club memorial garden at Kiwanis Park

RUSH COUNTY— "Night of the Father's Love," a Christmas musical  directed by Mark DeWald, will be performed by the Rush County Community Choir on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2:00 p.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Liebenthal and again at 4:00 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church  in La Crosse. 

A free will offering will be accepted and refreshments will follow at both churches. Everyone is invited.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700494618626.jpeg" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedRUSH COUNTY— "Night of the Father's Love," a Christmas musical directed by Mark DeWald, will be performed by the Rush County Community Choir on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2:00 p.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Liebenthal and again at 4:00 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in La Crosse. A free will offering will be accepted and refreshments will follow at both churches. Everyone is invited.

Christmas musical to be presented in Liebenthal, La Crosse Dec. 3

For local women Jeannine Bloss and Cindy Hertel, employees at Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, Thanksgiving this year is more than a feast. The year delivered amazing blessings not only for them but for six other women.

Cindy and I taught together in Ellis for more than a decade. I recall her joking that she wouldn’t share her favorite snack, but she’d donate a kidney if you needed one. This spring, she got to do exactly that.

She switched careers after devoting more than two decades to teaching high school English, leaving education to serve eventually as Sunflower’s communications manager. Although she missed working with students, she loved the challenges of producing informative documents, brochures, reports, videos, and other materials with a team of fellow creatives.

As well as finding her job satisfying, Cindy repeatedly expressed how she valued working for a company built on the pillar of servant leadership. Four years ago, she received the opportunity to serve in a big way.

Fellow employee Jeannine Bloss shared via a company memo that she needed a kidney donation due to a deteriorating health condition. Cindy, whose father underwent dialysis before he passed away, didn’t hesitate to join several fellow employees in initiating the steps necessary to see if they could help Jeannine.

This began a series of medical evaluations that determined Cindy passed the tests to donate a kidney, but, unfortunately, she and Jeannine didn’t match for a direct donation. Despite that bump in the road, the two learned they could continue because KU Medical Center has a paired-kidney exchange program to deal with such contingencies. Cindy’s kidney would go to a matched candidate enabling to Jeannine to receive a compatible kidney from another donor.

Over many months, Cindy updated family and friends regarding progress toward the donation. In late March of this year, Cindy and Jeannine received confirmation that the kidney donation chain, the second largest chain KU Med has done, was in place. Four female donors would have a kidney transplanted to four female recipients.

Interestingly, Cindy’s donor surgery took place on Tuesday of Holy Week. Her daughter Seri kept loved ones in the loop, texting, “Doctor said everything went great. Kidney is being transplanted right now. We’ll see her once she wakes up and gets to her room.” Two days later, Holy Thursday evolved into a double blessing when doctors dismissed Cindy to recuperate at home.

Speaking of blessings, among the transplant team was former student Clay King. After he graduated from Ellis High School and then university, he attended medical school, eventually specializing in surgery. Now, he serves as a member of the KU transplant team, offering hope to those with failing kidneys.

When Cindy called to say, “Guess who’s on my transplant team?” her cheering section nearly raised the roof with shouts of thanksgiving. During a later visit, Cindy recounted how Clay cleverly distracted her pre-op nerves, bantering about the legendary Hertel Research Paper.

As Cindy healed in Ellis, her friend Jeannine and her donor underwent surgery the following week. Once everyone recovered, the eight ladies in the donation chain met at KU Med to celebrate with the medical team who made four miracles possible.

More than six months have passed since Holy Week in April. During that time four women have experienced functioning kidneys. As donors, recipients, loved ones, and medical team celebrate another Thanksgiving, they can count special blessings this year. 

Interested in being a kidney donor? Visit <a href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/specialties/organ-transplant/become-an-organ-donor">https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/specialties/organ-transplant/become-an-organ-donor</a> or call 913-588-1277.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700233782406.jpeg" alt="Jeannine Bloss and Cindy Hertel at KU Medical Center for Transplantation. Photo courtesy Cindy Hertel" />
 <figcaption>Jeannine Bloss and Cindy Hertel at KU Medical Center for Transplantation. Photo courtesy Cindy Hertel</figcaption>
 </figure>For local women Jeannine Bloss and Cindy Hertel, employees at Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, Thanksgiving this year is more than a feast. The year delivered amazing blessings not only for them but for six other women.Cindy and I taught together in Ellis for more than a decade. I recall her joking that she wouldn’t share her favorite snack, but she’d donate a kidney if you needed one. This spring, she got to do exactly that.She switched careers after devoting more than two decades to teaching high school English, leaving education to serve eventually as Sunflower’s communications manager. Although she missed working with students, she loved the challenges of producing informative documents, brochures, reports, videos, and other materials with a team of fellow creatives.As well as finding her job satisfying, Cindy repeatedly expressed how she valued working for a company built on the pillar of servant leadership. Four years ago, she received the opportunity to serve in a big way.Fellow employee Jeannine Bloss shared via a company memo that she needed a kidney donation due to a deteriorating health condition. Cindy, whose father underwent dialysis before he passed away, didn’t hesitate to join several fellow employees in initiating the steps necessary to see if they could help Jeannine.This began a series of medical evaluations that determined Cindy passed the tests to donate a kidney, but, unfortunately, she and Jeannine didn’t match for a direct donation. Despite that bump in the road, the two learned they could continue because KU Medical Center has a paired-kidney exchange program to deal with such contingencies. Cindy’s kidney would go to a matched candidate enabling to Jeannine to receive a compatible kidney from another donor.Over many months, Cindy updated family and friends regarding progress toward the donation. In late March of this year, Cindy and Jeannine received confirmation that the kidney donation chain, the second largest chain KU Med has done, was in place. Four female donors would have a kidney transplanted to four female recipients.Interestingly, Cindy’s donor surgery took place on Tuesday of Holy Week. Her daughter Seri kept loved ones in the loop, texting, “Doctor said everything went great. Kidney is being transplanted right now. We’ll see her once she wakes up and gets to her room.” Two days later, Holy Thursday evolved into a double blessing when doctors dismissed Cindy to recuperate at home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700086071630.jpeg" alt="Cindy Hertel with former student Clay King. Photo courtesy Cindy Hertel" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Hertel with former student Clay King. Photo courtesy Cindy Hertel</figcaption>
 </figure>Speaking of blessings, among the transplant team was former student Clay King. After he graduated from Ellis High School and then university, he attended medical school, eventually specializing in surgery. Now, he serves as a member of the KU transplant team, offering hope to those with failing kidneys.When Cindy called to say, “Guess who’s on my transplant team?” her cheering section nearly raised the roof with shouts of thanksgiving. During a later visit, Cindy recounted how Clay cleverly distracted her pre-op nerves, bantering about the legendary Hertel Research Paper.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700086258972.jpeg" alt="Kidney transplant chain with Cindy Hertel at right end and&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeannine Bloss next to her. Photo courtesy KU Medical Communications" />
 <figcaption>Kidney transplant chain with Cindy Hertel at right end and&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeannine Bloss next to her. Photo courtesy KU Medical Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>As Cindy healed in Ellis, her friend Jeannine and her donor underwent surgery the following week. Once everyone recovered, the eight ladies in the donation chain met at KU Med to celebrate with the medical team who made four miracles possible.More than six months have passed since Holy Week in April. During that time four women have experienced functioning kidneys. As donors, recipients, loved ones, and medical team celebrate another Thanksgiving, they can count special blessings this year. Interested in being a kidney donor? Visit <a href="https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/specialties/organ-transplant/become-an-organ-donor">https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/specialties/organ-transplant/become-an-organ-donor</a> or call 913-588-1277. A life depends on it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Thanksgiving – More than a feast

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700677515355.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>

Thanksgiving is around the corner and you’ve likely experienced a range of emotions planning for the holiday. Maybe you’re excited to see family, relieved to have a day off work, or maybe you’re stressed about how much food you’ve got to prepare. Despite the good or bad feelings related to Turkey Day, have you pondered the original name of the holiday itself, “Thanksgiving?”

Thanksgiving is rooted in the tradition of autumn harvest festivals. It has been celebrated for centuries, and George Washington made it an official holiday. He proclaimed that the people of the United States observe "a day of public thanksgiving and prayer."

As you prepare for the big day, I challenge you to remember the origin of the holiday: gratitude. 

Gratitude is the readiness to show appreciation and to return kindness. Research has found that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed. In fact, a study showed that people who wrote one letter of thanksgiving for three weeks reported better mental health up to three months after the exercise ended. When people focus on the good in their lives, they tend to ruminate less on their negative experiences. Gratitude not only reduces the risk of depression, but it lowers stress which is a top cause of chronic illnesses including high blood pressure and heart disease.

As you can see, gratitude improves both mental and physical condition. If you’re interested in practicing gratitude for Thanksgiving and beyond, here are a few ways to make it routine:

· Recall three good things that happen to you each day. This may be a fun habit for you and your kids as you tuck them in at night!

· Keep a gratitude journal. Jotting down things you are grateful for is likely to change your perspective. You might see more positivity in the world around you. Looking through the pages of blessings in your life after a tough day may also be especially handy.

· Use your phone for good. We all find ourselves tied to our smart devices, so make it a priority to send a few “thank you” texts per week.

· Be self-aware of complaining. It’s easy to get drawn into a cycle of negativity when things aren’t going your way. To combat this habit, every time you complain, try to find the silver lining. When you can find the good in every situation, there is less room to fixate on the negatives of life.

Regardless of how you decide to practice gratitude, I encourage you to try it. Joshua Brown, a doctor of psychological science said it best, “Much of our time and energy is spent pursuing things we currently don’t have. Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do.”

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanksgiving is around the corner and you’ve likely experienced a range of emotions planning for the holiday. Maybe you’re excited to see family, relieved to have a day off work, or maybe you’re stressed about how much food you’ve got to prepare. Despite the good or bad feelings related to Turkey Day, have you pondered the original name of the holiday itself, “Thanksgiving?”Thanksgiving is rooted in the tradition of autumn harvest festivals. It has been celebrated for centuries, and George Washington made it an official holiday. He proclaimed that the people of the United States observe "a day of public thanksgiving and prayer."As you prepare for the big day, I challenge you to remember the origin of the holiday: gratitude. Gratitude is the readiness to show appreciation and to return kindness. Research has found that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed. In fact, a study showed that people who wrote one letter of thanksgiving for three weeks reported better mental health up to three months after the exercise ended. When people focus on the good in their lives, they tend to ruminate less on their negative experiences. Gratitude not only reduces the risk of depression, but it lowers stress which is a top cause of chronic illnesses including high blood pressure and heart disease.As you can see, gratitude improves both mental and physical condition. If you’re interested in practicing gratitude for Thanksgiving and beyond, here are a few ways to make it routine:· Recall three good things that happen to you each day. This may be a fun habit for you and your kids as you tuck them in at night!· Keep a gratitude journal. Jotting down things you are grateful for is likely to change your perspective. You might see more positivity in the world around you. Looking through the pages of blessings in your life after a tough day may also be especially handy.· Use your phone for good. We all find ourselves tied to our smart devices, so make it a priority to send a few “thank you” texts per week.· Be self-aware of complaining. It’s easy to get drawn into a cycle of negativity when things aren’t going your way. To combat this habit, every time you complain, try to find the silver lining. When you can find the good in every situation, there is less room to fixate on the negatives of life.Regardless of how you decide to practice gratitude, I encourage you to try it. Joshua Brown, a doctor of psychological science said it best, “Much of our time and energy is spent pursuing things we currently don’t have. Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do.”Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Thanksgiving: A day of gratitude

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses Grow Hays' funding request for The Grove in Hays with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.

Read more at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b73f54b-75e4-4eb9-aa82-7fce4efa3ebe" target="_blank">Grow Hays asks city for $1M, financing changes for housing developments</a>.

<div><iframe title="Hays City Commission contributes $1 million toward community center project" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=grziu-150728e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses Grow Hays' funding request for The Grove in Hays with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.Read more at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b73f54b-75e4-4eb9-aa82-7fce4efa3ebe" target="_blank">Grow Hays asks city for $1M, financing changes for housing developments</a>.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays City Commission contributes $1 million toward community center project

The Hays Police Department responded to 65&nbsp; incidents Nov. 12-18, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 65&nbsp; incidents Nov. 12-18, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays Police Department activity logs, Nov. 12-18, 2023

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593008521837.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>---------------------------------------------------------<figure>
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Hays Police Department arrest logs, Nov. 12-18, 2023

Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio underway

The city of Hays has agreed to contribute $1 million towards the community center project at the planned mixed housing development, The Grove.

The project, to be built north of Hays Medical Center by Grow Hays, has secured slightly more than $4.2 million of the estimated total cost of $6 million for the project. That includes a $3.6 million grant from the state's capital fund accelerator project.&nbsp;

"This will be an intergenerational facility," said Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays.&nbsp;

"It will provide a proper home for our senior center. ... The location now out on the highway (2450 E. 8th) is not safe at certain times and it's difficult to get to. I believe the attendance will be much better in the new facility."&nbsp;

The community center also contains a child care center with 77 slots, which Williams said fits the city's future needs for child care.&nbsp;

"We've made great strides, thanks to Sarah Wasinger and the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County, but that doesn't mean the problem is resolved.

"We need to position ourselves for any growth opportunity that comes along and child care is always going to be a part of that, " Williams said.

The facility will also have community rooms for the public to use for events and activities.&nbsp;

"I think it's going to be a great recruiting tool for our community," he said.

Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, spent some time recently at the current senior center, hearing the wants and needs of patrons for something bigger and better.&nbsp;

"I believe we owe these people so much," Jacobs said. "This community was built by the people using this facility and we are now the benefactors of that."

Commissioner Reese Barrick said "we're putting our money where our&nbsp; mouth is. We've been trying to push businesses to help with childcare for the people that work for them. This is a chance for us to help with that part."&nbsp;

Commissioners informally agreed to the request at their Nov. 16 work session following Williams' presentation and made it official during their meeting Tuesday afternoon.

The community center must be completed by late 2025, according to a provision in the state grant.

The money will come from the commission capital reserve fund. Mayor Shaun Musil noted it does not involve a tax hike of any type.&nbsp;

Williams also spoke to the commission about a proposed funding arrangement with Heart of America Development Corporation for future development and a potential rural housing incentive district policy exception for The Grove and Tallgrass Phase 4 developments.

The non-profit economic development group Heart of America purchased the land for the Tallgrass housing addition in January 2020 and the city approved the incentive district in June 2020.&nbsp;

"This project has outperformed anything than we had planned on," Williams said.

Phase 1 is occupied and Phase 2 has 14 of its 18 homes under construction. The first 14 are all sold.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Street infrastructure for Phase 3 and its 12 homes is scheduled to start in the spring.&nbsp;

Heart of America is asking to be cashed out of the first three phases of the Tallgrass development and then moving ahead with Phase 4.&nbsp;

"The current pay-as-you-go policy is somewhat self-limiting in that a developer spends all their money and they have to wait a long, long time to get it back," Williams said.&nbsp;

The rural housing incentive district captures the property tax increments&nbsp;to be paid to the developer over 20 years.&nbsp;

The city would receive the property tax increments and pay Heart of America approximately $2.4 million for recovery of its investment.

City staff would use existing incentive revenues to fund a revenue bond. The monies generated by the bond would allow Heart of America to move forward with Phase 4 of the Tallgrass development as well as the build-out of the industrial park on Commerce Parkway.

"What Doug is pitching tonight is we cash them out and they do these two things," said Toby Dougherty, city manager. "But those things would be governed by a new development agreement that spells out all the details.

"We look at this as a pretty safe bet because the revenues - the improvements - are already there. It's highly unlikely property values would drop that much.&nbsp; Very low risk on our part."

Williams also presented the idea of a bonded rural housing incentive district for development of Tallgrass Phase 4 and The Grove. 

It would utilize a financing mechanism where the developer places 30% down, and the infrastructure is then created along with an rural housing incentive district. The city would then issue temporary notes to fund the capital infrastructure improvements. After enough houses are built, the city would use the property taxes generated by the incentive district to fund a revenue bond. 

Dougherty said this plan does come with some risks "of something not getting built, something that exists in our current policy.

"Essentially, we are bonding the remainder of that 70%. So if the lots don't sell or don't get built on,&nbsp;you may end up with a lot but you don't have any revenue to pay those lot special assessments [for infrastructure] and would have to pay it on your own.

"There's a risk profile any way you go on that."

The proposed financing changes will be discussed at a future meeting.

<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GDccXcZC7vE" title="Grow Hays financing plans" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays has agreed to contribute $1 million towards the community center project at the planned mixed housing development, The Grove.The project, to be built north of Hays Medical Center by Grow Hays, has secured slightly more than $4.2 million of the estimated total cost of $6 million for the project. That includes a $3.6 million grant from the state's capital fund accelerator project.&nbsp;"This will be an intergenerational facility," said Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays.&nbsp;"It will provide a proper home for our senior center. ... The location now out on the highway (2450 E. 8th) is not safe at certain times and it's difficult to get to. I believe the attendance will be much better in the new facility."&nbsp;The community center also contains a child care center with 77 slots, which Williams said fits the city's future needs for child care.&nbsp;"We've made great strides, thanks to Sarah Wasinger and the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County, but that doesn't mean the problem is resolved."We need to position ourselves for any growth opportunity that comes along and child care is always going to be a part of that, " Williams said.The facility will also have community rooms for the public to use for events and activities.&nbsp;"I think it's going to be a great recruiting tool for our community," he said.Sandy Jacobs, vice-mayor, spent some time recently at the current senior center, hearing the wants and needs of patrons for something bigger and better.&nbsp;"I believe we owe these people so much," Jacobs said. "This community was built by the people using this facility and we are now the benefactors of that."Commissioner Reese Barrick said "we're putting our money where our&nbsp; mouth is. We've been trying to push businesses to help with childcare for the people that work for them. This is a chance for us to help with that part."&nbsp;Commissioners informally agreed to the request at their Nov. 16 work session following Williams' presentation and made it official during their meeting Tuesday afternoon.The community center must be completed by late 2025, according to a provision in the state grant.The money will come from the commission capital reserve fund. Mayor Shaun Musil noted it does not involve a tax hike of any type.&nbsp;Williams also spoke to the commission about a proposed funding arrangement with Heart of America Development Corporation for future development and a potential rural housing incentive district policy exception for The Grove and Tallgrass Phase 4 developments.The non-profit economic development group Heart of America purchased the land for the Tallgrass housing addition in January 2020 and the city approved the incentive district in June 2020.&nbsp;"This project has outperformed anything than we had planned on," Williams said.Phase 1 is occupied and Phase 2 has 14 of its 18 homes under construction. The first 14 are all sold.&nbsp;&nbsp;Street infrastructure for Phase 3 and its 12 homes is scheduled to start in the spring.&nbsp;Heart of America is asking to be cashed out of the first three phases of the Tallgrass development and then moving ahead with Phase 4.&nbsp;"The current pay-as-you-go policy is somewhat self-limiting in that a developer spends all their money and they have to wait a long, long time to get it back," Williams said.&nbsp;The rural housing incentive district captures the property tax increments&nbsp;to be paid to the developer over 20 years.&nbsp;The city would receive the property tax increments and pay Heart of America approximately $2.4 million for recovery of its investment.City staff would use existing incentive revenues to fund a revenue bond. The monies generated by the bond would allow Heart of America to move forward with Phase 4 of the Tallgrass development as well as the build-out of the industrial park on Commerce Parkway."What Doug is pitching tonight is we cash them out and they do these two things," said Toby Dougherty, city manager. "But those things would be governed by a new development agreement that spells out all the details."We look at this as a pretty safe bet because the revenues - the improvements - are already there. It's highly unlikely property values would drop that much.&nbsp; Very low risk on our part."Williams also presented the idea of a bonded rural housing incentive district for development of Tallgrass Phase 4 and The Grove. It would utilize a financing mechanism where the developer places 30% down, and the infrastructure is then created along with an rural housing incentive district. The city would then issue temporary notes to fund the capital infrastructure improvements. After enough houses are built, the city would use the property taxes generated by the incentive district to fund a revenue bond. Dougherty said this plan does come with some risks "of something not getting built, something that exists in our current policy."Essentially, we are bonding the remainder of that 70%. So if the lots don't sell or don't get built on,&nbsp;you may end up with a lot but you don't have any revenue to pay those lot special assessments [for infrastructure] and would have to pay it on your own."There's a risk profile any way you go on that."The proposed financing changes will be discussed at a future meeting.

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