On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;94.3FM/1400AM The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses the upcoming Cottonwood Extension District coyote trapping and calling program with Agent Stacy Campbell.

<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=coyote+hays+post#:~:text=Coyote%20program%20scheduled%20for%20Ellis,https%3A//hayspost.com%20%E2%80%BA%20posts">Read about the event here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Cottonwood Extension District plans coyote trapping, calling program Oct. 18" 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=tb2md-14d3b8d-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;94.3FM/1400AM The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses the upcoming Cottonwood Extension District coyote trapping and calling program with Agent Stacy Campbell.<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=coyote+hays+post#:~:text=Coyote%20program%20scheduled%20for%20Ellis,https%3A//hayspost.com%20%E2%80%BA%20posts">Read about the event here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood Extension District plans coyote trapping, calling program Oct. 18

FHSU’s College of Health and Behavioral Sciences will host a showing of “Why,” presented by KU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18 at Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The film reinforces the importance of seeing and approaching Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias as a community with a focus on early detection.

Individuals featured in the film include those diagnosed with dementia, their family members, physicians, nurses, and researchers.

“’Why’ addresses the barriers in recognizing and addressing early cognitive changes as well as supporting a hopeful, empowered approach to moving forward,” said Dr. Jeff Briggs, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. “The more we all know about brain health, dementia, and Alzheimer’s, the better prepared we are in creating a supportive community.”

The film’s runtime is 37 minutes. Time will be provided afterward for questions and comments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586864679582.jpeg" alt="Alzheimer's Association" />
 <figcaption>Alzheimer's Association</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University RelationsFHSU’s College of Health and Behavioral Sciences will host a showing of “Why,” presented by KU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18 at Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The film reinforces the importance of seeing and approaching Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias as a community with a focus on early detection.Individuals featured in the film include those diagnosed with dementia, their family members, physicians, nurses, and researchers.“’Why’ addresses the barriers in recognizing and addressing early cognitive changes as well as supporting a hopeful, empowered approach to moving forward,” said Dr. Jeff Briggs, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. “The more we all know about brain health, dementia, and Alzheimer’s, the better prepared we are in creating a supportive community.”The film’s runtime is 37 minutes. Time will be provided afterward for questions and comments.

Film about Alzheimer's early detection to be show at FHSU Wednesday; public invited 

The Hays Police Department responded to 155 incidents Sept. 24- Oct. 7, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.

<figure>
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 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 155 incidents Sept. 24- Oct. 7, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays Police Department activities log, Sept. 24-Oct. 7 

WASHINGTON, DC — Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 71 million Americans will increase 3.2 percent in 2024, the Social Security Administration announced recently. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by more than $50 per month starting in January.

More than 66 million Social Security beneficiaries will see the 3.2 percent cost-of-living adjustment beginning in January 2024. Increased payments to approximately 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 29, 2023. (Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits).

“Social Security and SSI benefits will increase in 2024, and this will help millions of people keep up with expenses,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, acting commissioner of Social Security.

Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $168,600 from $160,200.

Social Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December. Individuals who have a personal&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>&nbsp;account can view their cost-of-living adjustment notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. People can set up text or email alerts when there is a new message--such as their adjustment notice--waiting for them in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>.

People will need to have a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>&nbsp;account by November 14 to see their cost-of-living adjustment notice online. To get started, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">www.ssa.gov/myaccount</a>.

Information about Medicare changes for 2024 will be available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.medicare.gov/">www.medicare.gov</a>. For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, their new 2024 benefit amount will be available in December through the mailed cost-of-living adjustment notice and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security's</a>&nbsp;Message Center.

The Social Security Act provides for how the adjustment is calculated. The Social Security Act ties the annual cost-of-living adjustment to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

To read more, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/cola/">www.ssa.gov/cola</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634133091707.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Social Security AdministrationWASHINGTON, DC — Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 71 million Americans will increase 3.2 percent in 2024, the Social Security Administration announced recently. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by more than $50 per month starting in January.More than 66 million Social Security beneficiaries will see the 3.2 percent cost-of-living adjustment beginning in January 2024. Increased payments to approximately 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 29, 2023. (Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits).“Social Security and SSI benefits will increase in 2024, and this will help millions of people keep up with expenses,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, acting commissioner of Social Security.Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $168,600 from $160,200.Social Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December. Individuals who have a personal&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>&nbsp;account can view their cost-of-living adjustment notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. People can set up text or email alerts when there is a new message--such as their adjustment notice--waiting for them in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>.People will need to have a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security</a>&nbsp;account by November 14 to see their cost-of-living adjustment notice online. To get started, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">www.ssa.gov/myaccount</a>.Information about Medicare changes for 2024 will be available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.medicare.gov/">www.medicare.gov</a>. For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, their new 2024 benefit amount will be available in December through the mailed cost-of-living adjustment notice and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my Social Security's</a>&nbsp;Message Center.The Social Security Act provides for how the adjustment is calculated. The Social Security Act ties the annual cost-of-living adjustment to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.To read more, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/cola/">www.ssa.gov/cola</a>.

Social Security announces 3.2 percent benefit increase for 2024

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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 </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 Dept. arrest log, Sept. 24-Oct. 7, 2023  

Bill would help refugees resettle in the United States

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

GARDEN CITY — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas said he anticipates advancing the Afghan Adjustment Act closer to passage by the end of the year.

Moran told a small audience at a listening stop in Garden City on Thursday that he expects the bill that would help refugees from Afghanistan resettle in the U.S. will receive the support it needs to be passed in 2024.

Mohammad Hassani, a resettled Afghan now working as a refugee case manager for Catholic Charities in Garden City, asked Moran when he thought the bill might become law, following two previous attempts by lawmakers to pass it. The crowd applauded when Hassani said his special immigrant visa, which allows him to legally live and work in the U.S., was approved last month.

“There’s more than 150 Afghans living here in Garden City, and I’m here on behalf of all of the Afghans here,” Hassani said. “Are there any updates? Because we’re so hopeful for the approval of this bill.”

Moran said there are “a couple of senators” who are objecting to some of the details of the bill, and that he and others in the chamber are “working to solve their objections.”

“It’s like every immigration bill in the United States, in Congress,” Moran said. “It is picked to death, and nothing seems to happen. The goal is to have this bill completed by the end of the year.”

Moran later clarified for Kansas Reflector that Sen. Tom Cotton, a veteran from Arkansas, is one of those objecting to the bill.

<a target="_blank" href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/4177275-afghan-refugees-are-stuck-in-us-limbo-as-congress-fails-to-move-legislation/">The Hill reported in August</a>&nbsp;that Cotton presented his own resettlement bill as an alternative to the Afghan Adjustment Act, which was reintroduced a few weeks earlier. Cotton’s bill didn’t secure any Democratic co-sponsors and ultimately failed. When the Afghan Adjustment Act gained support from both Democrats and Republicans and was slated to become an amendment to a defense policy bill, Cotton’s office put a hold on that amendment, effectively stalling it.

The Hill quoted a statement from Cotton’s office that supported legal stability and paths to citizenship for refugees, but it read in part, “we can’t cut corners or risk giving green cards to terrorists embedded in the evacuated masses.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, also objected to the Afghan Adjustment Act when it was first introduced last year. The bill would allow Afghans who are admitted to the U.S. with a temporary humanitarian status to apply for permanent legal residency with less interference from the asylum system or the Special Immigrant Visa program — both of which experience severe backlogs and lengthy processing times.

It would also expand the Special Immigrant Visa to include previously omitted specialized military groups such as the Female Tactical Platoon of Afghanistan and the Special Mission Wing of Afghanistan. Soldiers in both groups served alongside U.S. special forces during the two-decade conflict. The Female Tactical Platoon is composed of more than 100 Afghan women who have taken up arms against the Taliban since 2021. The Special Mission Wing is a swift response team that is a subset of the Afghan Air Force.

Additionally, the law would create a task force to develop methods for supporting Afghans outside of the U.S. who are eligible for the Special Immigrant Visa.

Along with his Garden City stop, Moran also visited Lakin and Syracuse Thursday to listen to residents’ questions and concerns as part of his annual listening tour.

<h2>Bill would help refugees resettle in the United States</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697565059756.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas visits Garden City as part of his annual tour of the state. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas visits Garden City as part of his annual tour of the state. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas said he anticipates advancing the Afghan Adjustment Act closer to passage by the end of the year.Moran told a small audience at a listening stop in Garden City on Thursday that he expects the bill that would help refugees from Afghanistan resettle in the U.S. will receive the support it needs to be passed in 2024.Mohammad Hassani, a resettled Afghan now working as a refugee case manager for Catholic Charities in Garden City, asked Moran when he thought the bill might become law, following two previous attempts by lawmakers to pass it. The crowd applauded when Hassani said his special immigrant visa, which allows him to legally live and work in the U.S., was approved last month.“There’s more than 150 Afghans living here in Garden City, and I’m here on behalf of all of the Afghans here,” Hassani said. “Are there any updates? Because we’re so hopeful for the approval of this bill.”Moran said there are “a couple of senators” who are objecting to some of the details of the bill, and that he and others in the chamber are “working to solve their objections.”“It’s like every immigration bill in the United States, in Congress,” Moran said. “It is picked to death, and nothing seems to happen. The goal is to have this bill completed by the end of the year.”Moran later clarified for Kansas Reflector that Sen. Tom Cotton, a veteran from Arkansas, is one of those objecting to the bill.<a target="_blank" href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/4177275-afghan-refugees-are-stuck-in-us-limbo-as-congress-fails-to-move-legislation/">The Hill reported in August</a>&nbsp;that Cotton presented his own resettlement bill as an alternative to the Afghan Adjustment Act, which was reintroduced a few weeks earlier. Cotton’s bill didn’t secure any Democratic co-sponsors and ultimately failed. When the Afghan Adjustment Act gained support from both Democrats and Republicans and was slated to become an amendment to a defense policy bill, Cotton’s office put a hold on that amendment, effectively stalling it.The Hill quoted a statement from Cotton’s office that supported legal stability and paths to citizenship for refugees, but it read in part, “we can’t cut corners or risk giving green cards to terrorists embedded in the evacuated masses.”Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, also objected to the Afghan Adjustment Act when it was first introduced last year. The bill would allow Afghans who are admitted to the U.S. with a temporary humanitarian status to apply for permanent legal residency with less interference from the asylum system or the Special Immigrant Visa program — both of which experience severe backlogs and lengthy processing times.It would also expand the Special Immigrant Visa to include previously omitted specialized military groups such as the Female Tactical Platoon of Afghanistan and the Special Mission Wing of Afghanistan. Soldiers in both groups served alongside U.S. special forces during the two-decade conflict. The Female Tactical Platoon is composed of more than 100 Afghan women who have taken up arms against the Taliban since 2021. The Special Mission Wing is a swift response team that is a subset of the Afghan Air Force.Additionally, the law would create a task force to develop methods for supporting Afghans outside of the U.S. who are eligible for the Special Immigrant Visa.Along with his Garden City stop, Moran also visited Lakin and Syracuse Thursday to listen to residents’ questions and concerns as part of his annual listening tour.

Sen. Moran hopes to see Afghan Adjustment Act completed by the end of the year

Five candidates are running for four seats on the Ellis 388 school board. Those candidates include Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern, Stephanie Johnson and Brian Shannon.

Four candidates are running for three positions on the Ellis City Council. Those candidates include Devin Henderson, Brady Richards, John Walz and Terry Zerfas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697233293243.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Five candidates are running for four seats on the Ellis 388 school board. Those candidates include Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern, Stephanie Johnson and Brian Shannon.Four candidates are running for three positions on the Ellis City Council. Those candidates include Devin Henderson, Brady Richards, John Walz and Terry Zerfas.Cover photo by Pixabay.

Ellis Chamber to host Ellis school board, city council candidate forum Wednesday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

In an effort to increase the number of highly-trained nursing professionals in rural Kansas, Fort Hays State University has received two federal grants totaling more than $4 million from the&nbsp;Health and Human Services Administration.&nbsp;

Making the announcement last week during a news conference was U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., alongside FHSU President Tisa Mason.

“When you look at the factors that determine the future prospects of a community, one of the most critical is access to healthcare,” Moran said. “It means families can stay, and babies can be born in our communities. And it means that our seniors can remain in their homes.”

Mason said the 93 percent pass rate FHSU nursing graduates posted on licensure examinations in 2022 is higher than the average among Kansas Board of Regents universities (86 percent), and higher than the national average (80 percent).

“The good news we are sharing today is the direct result of the way our nursing colleagues relentlessly pursue excellence in nursing education – at a time when the nursing shortage in rural Kansas is a very real challenge,” Mason said.

Jenny Manry, the chairwoman of the FHSU Department of Nursing, thanked Moran for his support and recognized the contributions of her nursing colleagues in the pursuit of the two grants.

"I first became interested in becoming a nurse when I was hospitalized along with my twin sister with pneumonia in the fifth grade," Manry told the crowd. "Since becoming department chair, I've had the opportunity to work with countless nurses and nurse practitioners who have a passion for rural western Kansas."&nbsp;

The first grant is a four-year&nbsp;Advanced Nursing Education Workforce Program grant for $2.6 million.

Michelle VanDerWege, assistant professor, said "students chosen to receive ANEW grant funding who plan to practice in rural western Kansas will receive more than $20,000 as a stipend for the final three years of the grant. And through this grant, we will provide onsite continuing education through national certification review courses and skills workshops free of charge to our preceptors and students."

The second grant is a Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention three-year $1.5 million award.

Tanya Smith, assistant department chairwoman and associate professor of nursing, said&nbsp;“the NEPQR-SET grant will be used to support expanded simulation training that prepares nursing students for service in rural areas. Students who indicate their plan to pursue positions planning west of Salina will receive $10,000 after completing a simulation residency in their final semester.” 

Statistics shared by Mason from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing show that 100,000 nurses left the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2027, almost 900,000, or one-fifth of the 4.5 million total registered nurses in the U.S., intend to leave the workforce.

Nursing programs offered at Fort Hays State include the bachelor of science in nursing, the master of science in nursing, and the doctor of nursing practice program. The department is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697477032990.jpeg" alt="Dr. Janelle Harding ,&nbsp;Dr. Michelle VanDerWege, Dr. Jenny Manry, and Dr. Tanya Smith, Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing faculty, discuss how the department will utilize its award of&nbsp; $4 million in federal grants by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Photo and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Janelle Harding ,&nbsp;Dr. Michelle VanDerWege, Dr. Jenny Manry, and Dr. Tanya Smith, Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing faculty, discuss how the department will utilize its award of&nbsp; $4 million in federal grants by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Photo and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIn an effort to increase the number of highly-trained nursing professionals in rural Kansas, Fort Hays State University has received two federal grants totaling more than $4 million from the&nbsp;Health and Human Services Administration.&nbsp;Making the announcement last week during a news conference was U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., alongside FHSU President Tisa Mason.“When you look at the factors that determine the future prospects of a community, one of the most critical is access to healthcare,” Moran said. “It means families can stay, and babies can be born in our communities. And it means that our seniors can remain in their homes.”Mason said the 93 percent pass rate FHSU nursing graduates posted on licensure examinations in 2022 is higher than the average among Kansas Board of Regents universities (86 percent), and higher than the national average (80 percent).“The good news we are sharing today is the direct result of the way our nursing colleagues relentlessly pursue excellence in nursing education – at a time when the nursing shortage in rural Kansas is a very real challenge,” Mason said.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UHtf24FBtus"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jenny Manry, the chairwoman of the FHSU Department of Nursing, thanked Moran for his support and recognized the contributions of her nursing colleagues in the pursuit of the two grants."I first became interested in becoming a nurse when I was hospitalized along with my twin sister with pneumonia in the fifth grade," Manry told the crowd. "Since becoming department chair, I've had the opportunity to work with countless nurses and nurse practitioners who have a passion for rural western Kansas."&nbsp;The first grant is a four-year&nbsp;Advanced Nursing Education Workforce Program grant for $2.6 million.Michelle VanDerWege, assistant professor, said "students chosen to receive ANEW grant funding who plan to practice in rural western Kansas will receive more than $20,000 as a stipend for the final three years of the grant. And through this grant, we will provide onsite continuing education through national certification review courses and skills workshops free of charge to our preceptors and students."The second grant is a Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention three-year $1.5 million award.Tanya Smith, assistant department chairwoman and associate professor of nursing, said&nbsp;“the NEPQR-SET grant will be used to support expanded simulation training that prepares nursing students for service in rural areas. Students who indicate their plan to pursue positions planning west of Salina will receive $10,000 after completing a simulation residency in their final semester.” Statistics shared by Mason from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing show that 100,000 nurses left the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2027, almost 900,000, or one-fifth of the 4.5 million total registered nurses in the U.S., intend to leave the workforce.Nursing programs offered at Fort Hays State include the bachelor of science in nursing, the master of science in nursing, and the doctor of nursing practice program. The department is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.&nbsp;

🎥 $4 million in federal grants to expand FHSU rural nursing programs 

KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Businesses
and individuals from across the state were honored Thursday night at the B-29
Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita for their outstanding
contributions to Kansas communities and the state’s economy at the Kansas Department
of Commerce’s 2023&nbsp;To the Stars: Kansas Business Awards&nbsp;ceremony.&nbsp;

Governor Laura Kelly announced at the ceremony that
Atwood-based SurePoint Ag Systems has won the 2023 Governor’s Award of
Excellence and Tank Connection in Parsons earned the Governor’s Exporter of the
Year Award.

“SurePoint Ag Systems and Tank Connection are both advanced
manufacturing businesses having great success on the global stage,” Kelly said. “These companies, and all of the&nbsp;To the Stars&nbsp;nominees
and award-winners, represent the best of Kansas business. Their success shows
that the stars are truly the limit for businesses in our great state.”&nbsp;

A record 297 businesses, organizations and individuals were
nominated in nine categories for this year’s&nbsp;To the Stars: Kansas Business
Awards. Nominees were reviewed and scored for various criteria such as
business expansion, employee recruitment and retention practices, training and
educational programs, capital investments, and support of local community
events. A total of 245 Merit Awards and 43 Regional Awards were presented at
the event. Additionally, one nominee in each category was designated a
Statewide Winner, making them finalists for the Governor’s Award of
Excellence.&nbsp;

“The Kansas economy is booming because of these innovative
entrepreneurs,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David
Toland said. “When we talk about Kansas being the best state in the nation
to live, work and raise a family, we know it is possible because of great
companies driving success in their communities. It is an honor to celebrate
their achievements.”&nbsp;

The 2023 Governor’s Award of Excellence winner, SurePoint
Ag Systems, was founded in 2007 in Atwood. SurePoint specializes in providing
solutions for the control and application of liquid and dry fertilizer, seed
and chemicals. Their goal is to help producers apply the right product, in the
right place, at the perfect rate. With more than 70 full-time employees and
numerous seasonal workers, SurePoint Ag Systems ships products all across North
America, as well as internationally.

In addition, the following businesses and businesspeople
were 2023 Statewide Award winners:&nbsp;

The Governor’s Exporter of the Year award has been given to
a Kansas company for more than three decades. The award brings statewide
recognition to companies for their exporting efforts and showcases companies as
role models of exporting success in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 2023 Exporter of the Year winner, Tank Connection, is
the global leader in dry bulk and liquid storage systems, providing a complete
performance package to suit their clients’ needs. The company encompasses
multiple manufacturing facilities located in southeast Kansas and are the only
storage tank manufacturer in the world that designs, fabricates and installs
all four major types of steel storage tanks. The employee-owned Tank Connection
has sales outlets across the globe.

Other finalists for the Exporter of the Year award include
NORAG in Bucyrus and Lubrication Engineers in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697465274238.jpeg" alt="The Kansas Department of Commerce’s 2023 To the Stars Kansas Business Awards ceremony" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Department of Commerce’s 2023 To the Stars Kansas Business Awards ceremony</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCETOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Businesses
and individuals from across the state were honored Thursday night at the B-29
Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita for their outstanding
contributions to Kansas communities and the state’s economy at the Kansas Department
of Commerce’s 2023&nbsp;To the Stars: Kansas Business Awards&nbsp;ceremony.&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced at the ceremony that
Atwood-based SurePoint Ag Systems has won the 2023 Governor’s Award of
Excellence and Tank Connection in Parsons earned the Governor’s Exporter of the
Year Award.“SurePoint Ag Systems and Tank Connection are both advanced
manufacturing businesses having great success on the global stage,” Kelly said. “These companies, and all of the&nbsp;To the Stars&nbsp;nominees
and award-winners, represent the best of Kansas business. Their success shows
that the stars are truly the limit for businesses in our great state.”&nbsp;A record 297 businesses, organizations and individuals were
nominated in nine categories for this year’s&nbsp;To the Stars: Kansas Business
Awards. Nominees were reviewed and scored for various criteria such as
business expansion, employee recruitment and retention practices, training and
educational programs, capital investments, and support of local community
events. A total of 245 Merit Awards and 43 Regional Awards were presented at
the event. Additionally, one nominee in each category was designated a
Statewide Winner, making them finalists for the Governor’s Award of
Excellence.&nbsp;“The Kansas economy is booming because of these innovative
entrepreneurs,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David
Toland said. “When we talk about Kansas being the best state in the nation
to live, work and raise a family, we know it is possible because of great
companies driving success in their communities. It is an honor to celebrate
their achievements.”&nbsp;The 2023 Governor’s Award of Excellence winner, SurePoint
Ag Systems, was founded in 2007 in Atwood. SurePoint specializes in providing
solutions for the control and application of liquid and dry fertilizer, seed
and chemicals. Their goal is to help producers apply the right product, in the
right place, at the perfect rate. With more than 70 full-time employees and
numerous seasonal workers, SurePoint Ag Systems ships products all across North
America, as well as internationally.In addition, the following businesses and businesspeople
were 2023 Statewide Award winners:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>SurePoint Ag Systems, Atwood – Agribusiness Award</li><li>Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City – Apprenticeship
 Champions and Partners Award</li><li>Phazebreak Coatings, Olathe – Business Innovation Award</li><li>ComfortCare Homes, Wichita – Healthcare/Nonprofit Award</li><li>MaiCo Industries, Ellsworth – Manufacturing/Distribution Award</li><li>Zephyr Products, Leavenworth – Non-Traditional Talent Pools Award</li><li>B’s Hometown Market, La Crosse – Retail/Service Award</li><li>Dr. Megan Bartley, Clothed in Compassion, Hutchinson – Under 30
 Entrepreneur and Businessperson Award</li><li>John Boucard, Tesseract Ventures, Overland Park – Welcome Back Award</li>
 </ul>The Governor’s Exporter of the Year award has been given to
a Kansas company for more than three decades. The award brings statewide
recognition to companies for their exporting efforts and showcases companies as
role models of exporting success in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 2023 Exporter of the Year winner, Tank Connection, is
the global leader in dry bulk and liquid storage systems, providing a complete
performance package to suit their clients’ needs. The company encompasses
multiple manufacturing facilities located in southeast Kansas and are the only
storage tank manufacturer in the world that designs, fabricates and installs
all four major types of steel storage tanks. The employee-owned Tank Connection
has sales outlets across the globe.Other finalists for the Exporter of the Year award include
NORAG in Bucyrus and Lubrication Engineers in Wichita.

Western Kansas businesses honored at Commerce’s ‘To The Stars’ ceremony

SHERMAN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 352 officials are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged school threat.

On Monday, morning the Sherman county law enforcement required the Goodland Junior/Senior High School go to a lockdown situation, according to&nbsp;Superintendent Bill Bierman.

According to the sheriff's office, all schools were put on high alert for a threat made against staff and the High School. Deputies located the suspect and placed them into custody.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the suspect or details on possible charges.

SHERMAN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 352 officials are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged school threat.On Monday, morning the Sherman county law enforcement required the Goodland Junior/Senior High School go to a lockdown situation, according to&nbsp;Superintendent Bill Bierman.According to the sheriff's office, all schools were put on high alert for a threat made against staff and the High School. Deputies located the suspect and placed them into custody.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the suspect or details on possible charges.

Suspect in custody after alleged threat at NW Kan. high school

HaysMed recently honored 174 associates who have reached milestones in their service at HaysMed.

45 Year Joyce Heffel Paulette Kroeger Debra Miller Cynthia Robben JoAnn Schauvliege Stephanie Staab

40 Year Kaylene Kruse Debbie Linenberger Susan Little

35 Year Vicky Sauer Terry Siek

30 Year Christine Augustine Wanda Augustine Jamie Dinkel Pamela Mayers JoDee McCarty Shawn Mulkey Denise Pfeifer Melanie Urban

25 Year Holly Bittel Sarah Dreiling Tanya Fross Lesa Klozenbucher Patricia Lane Patrica Larson Constance Mermis Amanda Meyers Nikki Mihm Stephanie Niblock Leslie Olmstead Chada Schleicher&nbsp; Laura Schwindt Mary Selensky Courtney Smith Christy Stahl&nbsp; Marsha Stremel Carolyn Terry Gayla Wichman

&nbsp;20 Year &nbsp; &nbsp; Lindsy Allen Steven Balthazor Stephanie Banker&nbsp; Kelly Brungardt Ross Buckles, DO Shanna Carrillo&nbsp; &nbsp; LeAnn Dix Sarah Fischer&nbsp; Patrick Green Heather Harris, DO&nbsp; Traci Jacobs Laura McCarter Melanie McCoy Cristina Meier Kelly Myers Tara Roa Amanda Schmidt Warren Smith

15 Year Kirsten Angell Kimberly Befort Kristina Befort Brenda Bryant William Cadoret Shawn Clark Roxanne Einsel Tara Harding Shauna Keil Carmen Keller Jessica Kirwan Dustin Koster Kalin Labarge Lynn Leiker Michelle Moeckel Maggie Moeder Laura Monroe Andrea Paul Brenda Reiff Kaitlin Robben Jennifer Schmidt Glenda Schuetz Tiffany Scott Devere Walker Amy Wasinger Mackenzie Waugh Sharon Wendell Debra Wendland Kimberly Wiles Jennifer Williams&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;10 Year Jennifer Anderson Chelsea Angel Camilla Ballinger Stephanie Beougher Kylee Bombardier Michelle Braun Michelle Chittenden Jeffrey Droegemeier Lindsey Fox Ashley Garcia Kylie Geist Elizabeth Goetz Tonya Grogg Mohammed Janif, MD Shannon Kibel Leroy Kleinsorge Desirea Long Nancy Luecke Katie McQueen Kelly Miller Alison Nuttle Catherine Robinson Lesly Rupp Travis Rupp Meredith Sarver Kelsey Schrant Calie Sherman Gwendolyn Sillmon Abby Stenzel Lisa Thummel Kellie Werner Molly Wilkens Nicole Winstead

5 Year Anthony Accurso, MD Kelsey Accurso Oluwaseun Akinbo, MD Darlene Arnhold Kendra Barnes Nancy Bergman Garrah Birdsall Jensen Boys Christine Burgardt Patricia Crawley, MD Max DeCarvalho, MD Victoria Donnelly Cesar Garcia II Lauren Gerard Mackenzie Gianacopolos Stephen Giebler Malea Gilman Paul Gosselin Tamra Hajny Emily Hallam Vicki Hawthorne Amy Herl Carrie Hines Megan Homolka Pramod Janga, MD Kristen Jones Janie Klein Miran Krannawitter Loan Lam Shaila Leach Lesa Lowry Bailey McCain Karissa Nelson Lauren Pallister Suzanna Paneno Molly Paul Aaron Pfeifer, MD Sarah Powers Kaitlyn Richmeier Tiffany Robben Alice Rohr Subrahmanyeswara Samavedi, MD Ashley Schmidt Sheena Sexson Dustin Smith Kara Snook-Hatch Lindsey Stephenson Megan Stouffer Kathleen Thompson Carol Vajnar Steven Waring, MD Marlee William Sarah Worcester Cindy Zadina

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625772030158.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYSMEDHaysMed recently honored 174 associates who have reached milestones in their service at HaysMed.Those recognized were:45 Year Joyce Heffel Paulette Kroeger Debra Miller Cynthia Robben JoAnn Schauvliege Stephanie Staab40 Year Kaylene Kruse Debbie Linenberger Susan Little35 Year Vicky Sauer Terry Siek30 Year Christine Augustine Wanda Augustine Jamie Dinkel Pamela Mayers JoDee McCarty Shawn Mulkey Denise Pfeifer Melanie Urban25 Year Holly Bittel Sarah Dreiling Tanya Fross Lesa Klozenbucher Patricia Lane Patrica Larson Constance Mermis Amanda Meyers Nikki Mihm Stephanie Niblock Leslie Olmstead Chada Schleicher&nbsp; Laura Schwindt Mary Selensky Courtney Smith Christy Stahl&nbsp; Marsha Stremel Carolyn Terry Gayla Wichman &nbsp;20 Year &nbsp; &nbsp; Lindsy Allen Steven Balthazor Stephanie Banker&nbsp; Kelly Brungardt Ross Buckles, DO Shanna Carrillo&nbsp; &nbsp; LeAnn Dix Sarah Fischer&nbsp; Patrick Green Heather Harris, DO&nbsp; Traci Jacobs Laura McCarter Melanie McCoy Cristina Meier Kelly Myers Tara Roa Amanda Schmidt Warren Smith 15 Year Kirsten Angell Kimberly Befort Kristina Befort Brenda Bryant William Cadoret Shawn Clark Roxanne Einsel Tara Harding Shauna Keil Carmen Keller Jessica Kirwan Dustin Koster Kalin Labarge Lynn Leiker Michelle Moeckel Maggie Moeder Laura Monroe Andrea Paul Brenda Reiff Kaitlin Robben Jennifer Schmidt Glenda Schuetz Tiffany Scott Devere Walker Amy Wasinger Mackenzie Waugh Sharon Wendell Debra Wendland Kimberly Wiles Jennifer Williams&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10 Year Jennifer Anderson Chelsea Angel Camilla Ballinger Stephanie Beougher Kylee Bombardier Michelle Braun Michelle Chittenden Jeffrey Droegemeier Lindsey Fox Ashley Garcia Kylie Geist Elizabeth Goetz Tonya Grogg Mohammed Janif, MD Shannon Kibel Leroy Kleinsorge Desirea Long Nancy Luecke Katie McQueen Kelly Miller Alison Nuttle Catherine Robinson Lesly Rupp Travis Rupp Meredith Sarver Kelsey Schrant Calie Sherman Gwendolyn Sillmon Abby Stenzel Lisa Thummel Kellie Werner Molly Wilkens Nicole Winstead 5 Year Anthony Accurso, MD Kelsey Accurso Oluwaseun Akinbo, MD Darlene Arnhold Kendra Barnes Nancy Bergman Garrah Birdsall Jensen Boys Christine Burgardt Patricia Crawley, MD Max DeCarvalho, MD Victoria Donnelly Cesar Garcia II Lauren Gerard Mackenzie Gianacopolos Stephen Giebler Malea Gilman Paul Gosselin Tamra Hajny Emily Hallam Vicki Hawthorne Amy Herl Carrie Hines Megan Homolka Pramod Janga, MD Kristen Jones Janie Klein Miran Krannawitter Loan Lam Shaila Leach Lesa Lowry Bailey McCain Karissa Nelson Lauren Pallister Suzanna Paneno Molly Paul Aaron Pfeifer, MD Sarah Powers Kaitlyn Richmeier Tiffany Robben Alice Rohr Subrahmanyeswara Samavedi, MD Ashley Schmidt Sheena Sexson Dustin Smith Kara Snook-Hatch Lindsey Stephenson Megan Stouffer Kathleen Thompson Carol Vajnar Steven Waring, MD Marlee William Sarah Worcester Cindy Zadina &nbsp;

HaysMed associates honored for years of service

<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/2023/10/1697479969028.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The winner of $50 in the 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16 Eagle Radio/Hays Post Cash Grab Contest is Matt Walter of Hays. He was listening to 101.9 The Bull KKQY.

The winner of $50 in the 3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16 Eagle Radio/Hays Post Cash Grab Contest is Nancy Muck of Hays. She was listening to 101.9 The Bull KKQY.

Listen to Eagle Radio stations, including 94.3 KAYS; 99.5 KZ Country KHAZ; 103.3 The Mix KJLS; 101.9 The Bull KKQY; and Hull Broadcasting's 96.9 KFIX for the keyword at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

You will have 20 minutes to go to the Hays Post and enter the keyword.

All entries will have a chance to win the grand prize of $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680036055088.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The winner of $50 in the 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16 Eagle Radio/Hays Post Cash Grab Contest is Matt Walter of Hays. He was listening to 101.9 The Bull KKQY.The winner of $50 in the 3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16 Eagle Radio/Hays Post Cash Grab Contest is Nancy Muck of Hays. She was listening to 101.9 The Bull KKQY.Listen to Eagle Radio stations, including 94.3 KAYS; 99.5 KZ Country KHAZ; 103.3 The Mix KJLS; 101.9 The Bull KKQY; and Hull Broadcasting's 96.9 KFIX for the keyword at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.You will have 20 minutes to go to the Hays Post and enter the keyword.All entries will have a chance to win the grand prize of $1,000.

Monday Oct. 16 Cash Grab winners; you can win too

By John P. Tretbar Eagle Communications

U.S. operators set an all-time record for crude oil production last week. According to the Energy Information Administration, domestic output averaged 13,218,000 barrels per day last week. That's the best weekly tally ever, 140,000 barrels per day higher than the previous record set in March of 2020. The Energy Information Administration says the total is up 298,000 barrels per day from a week ago and nearly 1.3 million barrels per day higher than a year ago.

Crude-oil inventories increased by 10.2 million barrels, the biggest weekly increase in stockpiles since February. The total, not including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, is over 424 million barrels as of October 6. The government said U.S. crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels per day, an increase of 115-thousand barrels per day.

Friday the 13th proved lucky for crude operators last week, after prices jumped by nearly five dollars. Friday's settlement on the Nymex for November light sweet crude was $87.69 per barrel, up $4.78 on the day. That's the highest closing price in nearly two weeks. Lunchtime prices Monday were slightly lower, trading over $87 in New York and a few cents over $90 a barrel in London. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $78 a barrel spiking more than four dollars on Friday.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was 622 active drilling rigs, adding four oil rigs and subtracting one gas rig from last week's count. The total in Texas four rigs. New Mexico was down two.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up three east of Wichita to 15 active rigs, and unchanged at 25 rigs in western Kansas. The weekly tally is up eleven percent from a month ago but down 32% from a year ago. Drilling was underway on Friday on four leases in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.

Kansas operators have spudded 1,019 wells so far this year, down 24% from year ago. Total footage drilled lags last year by nearly 26%.&nbsp; 

Regulators approved 50 new drilling locations statewide last week, with 40 new permits in eastern Kansas and ten west of Wichita including one in Ellis County.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports operators in Kansas completed 30 new wells last week. Regulators in the #3 crude-producing state reported three-percent production growth in August. 

North Dakota crude output topped 1.2 million barrels per day. The state's Department of Mineral Resources says preliminary numbers reflect an all-time record for natural gas production at more than 3.3 million cubic feet per day.

Exxon Mobil and Pioneer Natural Resources jointly announced an all-stock merger agreement worth more than $60 billion. The combined company will boast reserves of 16-billion barrels in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. Output is expected to double to roughly 1.3 million barrels per day. That could grow to about two million barrels per day in the next four years.

The government reports U.S. crude-oil exports during the first half of this year averaged a fraction less than four million barrels per day. That's the highest level since Congress lifted the ban on crude exports eight years ago. 

The Energy Information Administration has reported a number of firsts and records during the first six months of this year. The U.S. set records for the export of propane and petroleum products. Production totals continue to approach the record, with July output up to the second highest ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By John P. Tretbar Eagle CommunicationsU.S. operators set an all-time record for crude oil production last week. According to the Energy Information Administration, domestic output averaged 13,218,000 barrels per day last week. That's the best weekly tally ever, 140,000 barrels per day higher than the previous record set in March of 2020. The Energy Information Administration says the total is up 298,000 barrels per day from a week ago and nearly 1.3 million barrels per day higher than a year ago.Crude-oil inventories increased by 10.2 million barrels, the biggest weekly increase in stockpiles since February. The total, not including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, is over 424 million barrels as of October 6. The government said U.S. crude imports averaged 6.3 million barrels per day, an increase of 115-thousand barrels per day.Friday the 13th proved lucky for crude operators last week, after prices jumped by nearly five dollars. Friday's settlement on the Nymex for November light sweet crude was $87.69 per barrel, up $4.78 on the day. That's the highest closing price in nearly two weeks. Lunchtime prices Monday were slightly lower, trading over $87 in New York and a few cents over $90 a barrel in London. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $78 a barrel spiking more than four dollars on Friday.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was 622 active drilling rigs, adding four oil rigs and subtracting one gas rig from last week's count. The total in Texas four rigs. New Mexico was down two.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up three east of Wichita to 15 active rigs, and unchanged at 25 rigs in western Kansas. The weekly tally is up eleven percent from a month ago but down 32% from a year ago. Drilling was underway on Friday on four leases in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Kansas operators have spudded 1,019 wells so far this year, down 24% from year ago. Total footage drilled lags last year by nearly 26%.&nbsp; Regulators approved 50 new drilling locations statewide last week, with 40 new permits in eastern Kansas and ten west of Wichita including one in Ellis County. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports operators in Kansas completed 30 new wells last week. Regulators in the #3 crude-producing state reported three-percent production growth in August. North Dakota crude output topped 1.2 million barrels per day. The state's Department of Mineral Resources says preliminary numbers reflect an all-time record for natural gas production at more than 3.3 million cubic feet per day.Exxon Mobil and Pioneer Natural Resources jointly announced an all-stock merger agreement worth more than $60 billion. The combined company will boast reserves of 16-billion barrels in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. Output is expected to double to roughly 1.3 million barrels per day. That could grow to about two million barrels per day in the next four years.The government reports U.S. crude-oil exports during the first half of this year averaged a fraction less than four million barrels per day. That's the highest level since Congress lifted the ban on crude exports eight years ago. The Energy Information Administration has reported a number of firsts and records during the first six months of this year. The U.S. set records for the export of propane and petroleum products. Production totals continue to approach the record, with July output up to the second highest ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: U.S. sets all-time crude production record

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 speaks with The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Manager of Education and Outreach from High Plains Mental Health Center Kaley Conner about the upcoming first session of the Child Care Provider Quarterly Professional Development Series, set for 6 p.m. Oct. 26.

<div><iframe title="First Hays Child Care Provider Professional Development Series set for Oct. 26" 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=3wudr-14d22be-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;Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Manager of Education and Outreach from High Plains Mental Health Center Kaley Conner about the upcoming first session of the Child Care Provider Quarterly Professional Development Series, set for 6 p.m. Oct. 26.

🎙 Post Podcast: Child Care Provider Professional Development Series set for Oct. 26

The Ellis County Sheriff's Department responded to 231 incidents Oct. 8-14, 2023, according to the department's incidents report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>ELSOThe Ellis County Sheriff's Department responded to 231 incidents Oct. 8-14, 2023, according to the department's incidents report.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
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Ellis County Sheriff incidents report, Oct. 8-14

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Historical Society is set to host its first meeting tonight in preparation for the 150th celebration of Volga German immigrants
settling in Ellis County and western Kansas. 

Volga German settlers first came to Ellis County in 1876, and
the official sesquicentennial is in 2026. Historical Society Executive
Director Amanda Rupp said they want to start planning now for what they
anticipate will be a year-long celebration.

“This is really just the very first planning phase. We know
that it's going to be here in a couple of years. The historical society, fittingly I think, wants to take the lead on just being the chair organization that initiates and keeps all the moving parts in order,”
Rupp said.

Rupp said in past years the celebrations have included a
play, a mock wedding ceremony showing wedding traditions and a
video.

“We've invited all of the church leaders from all the little
villages, some organization leaders for Oktoberfest or the different Volga
German, groups to join us,” Rupp said, “but anybody is welcome.”

In 2026 the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, headquartered in Lincoln, Neb., will host its annual conference again in
Hays, Rupp said.

“I went to the conference this year, and everybody from
California and Utah and Colorado and everyplace were excited that it was going
to be back in Hays, because it was the most fun one they've had,” Rupp said. 

Rupp said Monday’s meeting will start with a quick overview
of history and a list of other activities from past celebrations. 

“This one's just a collaboration and a brainstorming session,
and it'll hopefully evolve after that,” Rupp said. 

The meeting is open to the public. Society members encourage anyone
who wants to volunteer or has an idea on ways to celebrate the sesquicentennial
to attend.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Historical Society is set to host its first meeting tonight in preparation for the 150th celebration of Volga German immigrants
settling in Ellis County and western Kansas. Volga German settlers first came to Ellis County in 1876, and
the official sesquicentennial is in 2026. Historical Society Executive
Director Amanda Rupp said they want to start planning now for what they
anticipate will be a year-long celebration.“This is really just the very first planning phase. We know
that it's going to be here in a couple of years. The historical society, fittingly I think, wants to take the lead on just being the chair organization that initiates and keeps all the moving parts in order,”
Rupp said.Rupp said in past years the celebrations have included a
play, a mock wedding ceremony showing wedding traditions and a
video.“We've invited all of the church leaders from all the little
villages, some organization leaders for Oktoberfest or the different Volga
German, groups to join us,” Rupp said, “but anybody is welcome.”In 2026 the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, headquartered in Lincoln, Neb., will host its annual conference again in
Hays, Rupp said.“I went to the conference this year, and everybody from
California and Utah and Colorado and everyplace were excited that it was going
to be back in Hays, because it was the most fun one they've had,” Rupp said. Rupp said Monday’s meeting will start with a quick overview
of history and a list of other activities from past celebrations. “This one's just a collaboration and a brainstorming session,
and it'll hopefully evolve after that,” Rupp said. The meeting is open to the public. Society members encourage anyone
who wants to volunteer or has an idea on ways to celebrate the sesquicentennial
to attend.

Ellis County Historical Society preps to honor 150 years of Volga Germans

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Women Who Lead officially launched as a new nonprofit in Ellis County under a new name on Friday during a Hays Chamber Chat.

The organization, formerly known as Wonder Women League, was founded with 26 members in 2018 under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County.

In the year Women Who Lead was founded, Nancy Jeter was the chairwoman of the United Way campaign. She said she knew many women who wanted to help the community but didn't know where to start.

Jeter and Rhonda Meyerhoff served as co-chairwomen of the organization for its first several years.

During its first year, the organization created a Born Learning Trail in Hays to help young children learn shapes and colors. It also sponsored a self-defense class. Many projects have followed.

The organization's mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community.

"We have a new name and a new look, but our mission remains the same," Jeter, president, said Friday.

It has grown to more than 150 members this year, Jeter said. She said it was time to cut the cord from the United Way, which provided support services to the organization during its growth.

The organization has completed 15 projects to date in 2023 alone.

Recent projects have included&nbsp;Born Learning Trail in Ellis, Russ Tuttle's Cyber Security presentation and collecting food for the Fort Hays State Univeristy food pantry.

Some of he organization's ongoing projects include Matthew's Gift, Project Suitcase and a scholarship for Ellis County women.

Matthew's Gift provides bags with care items for families who have to have a loved one transported from HaysMed to a trauma center.&nbsp;

Matthew’s Gift is named in honor of 3-year old Matthew Wellbrock, son of Curtis and Jeanna Wellbrock. In September 2016, Matthew was tragically injured and subsequently transferred from HaysMed to receive critical care at another facility. 

There are about 75 transfers each year, and the project will continue as long as financially viable, according to the Women Who Lead.

Project Suitcase provides children who are removed from their homes by law enforcement or social services the gift of a duffle bag containing a soft blanket, stuffed animal, new pajamas and underwear, toys, toiletries, and a McDonald's gift card.

In the spring, Women Who Lead provided three $1,000 scholarships for women from Ellis County who are attending secondary schools in Ellis County this school year. Applications for the next scholarship will be opening soon with the deadline of March 31.

Women Who Lead is working on a project to light the Hays dog park. Lighting for the dog park is the No. 1 request to the City of Hays Parks Department.

Residents say they could take their dogs out to the park early in the morning before work (and after work for those that work later in the evening) if the park had lights, the organization said.

There have been reports of coyotes in the park after dark, and lighting would help alleviate the problem, according to the parks department.

There will be a lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 8 at the dog park at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. The public is invited to attend. 

Women Who Lead will be accepting donations for the Humane Society of High Plains at the event, including:

• Purina dog, puppy, cat or kitten chow • Rawhides and bones • Puppy training pads • Non-clumping cat litter • Dog and cat toys • Leashes and collars • Window cleaner • Bleach

Women Who Lead projects are funded through donations and dues of its members, as well as community sponsors and donations.

"As our sponsors grow, so do the number and the scope of the projects we do to benefit the community," Jeter said.&nbsp;

To learn more about Women Who Lead, follow its Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/womenwholead.org">www.facebook.com/womenwholead.org</a>. The organization will be launching a new website soon.

Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a member of the Women Who Lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697223933374.jpeg" alt="Members of Women Who Lead cut the ribbon to celebrate the organization's new name and becoming an independent nonprofit. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Members of Women Who Lead cut the ribbon to celebrate the organization's new name and becoming an independent nonprofit. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Women Who Lead officially launched as a new nonprofit in Ellis County under a new name on Friday during a Hays Chamber Chat.The organization, formerly known as Wonder Women League, was founded with 26 members in 2018 under the umbrella of the United Way of Ellis County.In the year Women Who Lead was founded, Nancy Jeter was the chairwoman of the United Way campaign. She said she knew many women who wanted to help the community but didn't know where to start.Jeter and Rhonda Meyerhoff served as co-chairwomen of the organization for its first several years. During its first year, the organization created a Born Learning Trail in Hays to help young children learn shapes and colors. It also sponsored a self-defense class. Many projects have followed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697224061521.jpeg" alt="Women Who Lead was founded in 2018 by 26 women. It now has more than 150 members in Ellis County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Women Who Lead was founded in 2018 by 26 women. It now has more than 150 members in Ellis County. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The organization's mission is to inspire and empower women to affect change in their community."We have a new name and a new look, but our mission remains the same," Jeter, president, said Friday.It has grown to more than 150 members this year, Jeter said. She said it was time to cut the cord from the United Way, which provided support services to the organization during its growth.The organization has completed 15 projects to date in 2023 alone.Recent projects have included&nbsp;Born Learning Trail in Ellis, Russ Tuttle's Cyber Security presentation and collecting food for the Fort Hays State Univeristy food pantry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695063779015.jpeg" alt="Russ Tuttle, an expert on cybersecurity and sex trafficking, speaks in Hays in September. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Russ Tuttle, an expert on cybersecurity and sex trafficking, speaks in Hays in September. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Some of he organization's ongoing projects include Matthew's Gift, Project Suitcase and a scholarship for Ellis County women.Matthew's Gift provides bags with care items for families who have to have a loved one transported from HaysMed to a trauma center.&nbsp;Matthew’s Gift is named in honor of 3-year old Matthew Wellbrock, son of Curtis and Jeanna Wellbrock. In September 2016, Matthew was tragically injured and subsequently transferred from HaysMed to receive critical care at another facility. There are about 75 transfers each year, and the project will continue as long as financially viable, according to the Women Who Lead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623968281656.jpeg" alt="Nancy Jeter, Women Who Lead president, shows examples of items in a Project Suitcase duffle bags. The bags are given to children who are removed from their homes by law enforcement or social services. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Nancy Jeter, Women Who Lead president, shows examples of items in a Project Suitcase duffle bags. The bags are given to children who are removed from their homes by law enforcement or social services. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Project Suitcase provides children who are removed from their homes by law enforcement or social services the gift of a duffle bag containing a soft blanket, stuffed animal, new pajamas and underwear, toys, toiletries, and a McDonald's gift card.In the spring, Women Who Lead provided three $1,000 scholarships for women from Ellis County who are attending secondary schools in Ellis County this school year. Applications for the next scholarship will be opening soon with the deadline of March 31.Women Who Lead is working on a project to light the Hays dog park. Lighting for the dog park is the No. 1 request to the City of Hays Parks Department.Residents say they could take their dogs out to the park early in the morning before work (and after work for those that work later in the evening) if the park had lights, the organization said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697224446319.jpeg" alt="The family of Matthew Wellbrock at the dedication of the Matthew's Gift Project.&nbsp;Matthew's Gift provides bags with care items for families who have to have a loved one transported from HaysMed to a trauma center. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The family of Matthew Wellbrock at the dedication of the Matthew's Gift Project.&nbsp;Matthew's Gift provides bags with care items for families who have to have a loved one transported from HaysMed to a trauma center. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>There have been reports of coyotes in the park after dark, and lighting would help alleviate the problem, according to the parks department.There will be a lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 8 at the dog park at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. The public is invited to attend. Women Who Lead will be accepting donations for the Humane Society of High Plains at the event, including:• Purina dog, puppy, cat or kitten chow • Rawhides and bones • Puppy training pads • Non-clumping cat litter • Dog and cat toys • Leashes and collars • Window cleaner • Bleach<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215905105.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Women Who Lead projects are funded through donations and dues of its members, as well as community sponsors and donations."As our sponsors grow, so do the number and the scope of the projects we do to benefit the community," Jeter said.&nbsp;To learn more about Women Who Lead, follow its Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/womenwholead.org">www.facebook.com/womenwholead.org</a>. The organization will be launching a new website soon.Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a member of the Women Who Lead.

Women Who Lead launches new name as independent nonprofit

The Victoria Community Coalition is sponsoring a voters’ forum for candidates who have filed for the Victoria USD 432 school board.

In order for community members to become acquainted with the candidates, they are invited to attend a gathering at 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 in the elementary school cafeteria.

Since there is only one candidate running for Victoria City Council, and he will be out of town, the audience will only hear from those candidates who choose to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631534233229.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Victoria Community Coalition is sponsoring a voters’ forum for candidates who have filed for the Victoria USD 432 school board.The ballot will have 11 names.In order for community members to become acquainted with the candidates, they are invited to attend a gathering at 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 in the elementary school cafeteria.Since there is only one candidate running for Victoria City Council, and he will be out of town, the audience will only hear from those candidates who choose to attend.

Victoria school board candidate forum set for Oct. 22

Enrollment is staying stable for Hays USD 489.

The school reported a head count of 3,070&nbsp; K-12 students on the official reporting day on Sept. 20, up slightly from just over 3,000 students last year.

The district has 280 students in pre-K programs. Those students are counted differently for budgeting purposes.

"We did see an increase in our enrollment numbers this year, which is always a good thing.," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "We had 98 new students enroll in our district this year, which is evidence of the great things going on in our schools and the Hays community."

"Families are seeing our district as a place where they want their kids to go to school.  We also had an increase of students returning to our district who had previously attended our schools but left for various reasons and have come back."

Hays High School's enrollment was up from 964 students last year on Sept. 20 students to 1,013 this year.

"Our largest class sizes are at the high school right now," Wilson said. "I do think the bond has been a big contributor to the number of new students who have enrolled in our schools this year as well as returning to our district. We look forward to seeing future growth in years to come because of the opportunities that our new facilities will provide."

Hays Middle School enrollment dropped by eight students from 725 to 717 students.

The elementary schools dropped from a combined enrollment of 1,349 students to 1,340 students.

The state bases its funding on enrollment numbers.

However, Wilson said the numbers reported on Sept. 20 were headcount numbers.

The numbers will be audited. The state also has a complicated weighting formal. For instance, the district receives more funding for "at-risk" students who come from low-income families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631625295887.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEnrollment is staying stable for Hays USD 489.The school reported a head count of 3,070&nbsp; K-12 students on the official reporting day on Sept. 20, up slightly from just over 3,000 students last year.The district has 280 students in pre-K programs. Those students are counted differently for budgeting purposes."We did see an increase in our enrollment numbers this year, which is always a good thing.," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "We had 98 new students enroll in our district this year, which is evidence of the great things going on in our schools and the Hays community.""Families are seeing our district as a place where they want their kids to go to school. We also had an increase of students returning to our district who had previously attended our schools but left for various reasons and have come back."Hays High School's enrollment was up from 964 students last year on Sept. 20 students to 1,013 this year."Our largest class sizes are at the high school right now," Wilson said. "I do think the bond has been a big contributor to the number of new students who have enrolled in our schools this year as well as returning to our district. We look forward to seeing future growth in years to come because of the opportunities that our new facilities will provide."Hays Middle School enrollment dropped by eight students from 725 to 717 students.The elementary schools dropped from a combined enrollment of 1,349 students to 1,340 students.The state bases its funding on enrollment numbers.However, Wilson said the numbers reported on Sept. 20 were headcount numbers.The numbers will be audited. The state also has a complicated weighting formal. For instance, the district receives more funding for "at-risk" students who come from low-income families.

Hays High enrollment up, according USD 489 report

Shopping for healthy foods has become more difficult than ever. As new products continue to hit the shelves, claims found on food packaging can be challenging to navigate. Many health buzzwords can make a person think that a certain food is better than another, but that’s not always the case. This is why it is always important to read food labels and ingredient lists.

No matter the branding, healthy foods are likely low in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. 

Saturated fats are okay in small amounts but too much can cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries. 

Sodium is hidden in most packaged foods, and it leads to high blood pressure. In fact, most Americans consume almost 150% above the recommended sodium daily intake, and to no surprise, more than 122 million Americans have high blood pressure. 

Sugar found in naturally occurring foods such as fruit and milk are good for your body. These naturally occurring sugars are included in the “Total Sugars” on a food label which you don’t need to fret about too much. On the other hand, “Added Sugars” are not natural, and you should keep an eye out for them. A few common examples are high fructose corn syrup, cane juice, and malt syrup.

No matter the marketing, understanding food labels will help you know if a product is truly a good option. Nonetheless, there are many terms out there that may confuse shoppers. Let’s take a look at a few:

Light: You may assume that a product labeled “light” has fewer calories, but it can actually refer to the flavor- not the nutrition content.

Made with real fruit: Manufacturers do not have to include the percentage of fruit included in an item. In fact, a product “made with real fruit” can have as little as 1% of real fruit.

Multigrain/ Wheat: Just because a product label includes “multigrain” or “wheat” does not mean that it is 100% whole grain. Whole grains include more fiber, are less processed, and keep you fuller for longer. Checking the ingredient list to ensure a product is not made with enriched flour and is 100% whole grain is worthwhile.

Superfoods: The “superfood” marketing scheme can be applied to any food that is nutrient-dense. Many superfood products claim to have cancer-fighting properties, but there is little scientific basis to confirm this. It is certainly true that a balanced diet full of unprocessed, vitamin-rich foods can reduce the risk of cancer, but it is unlikely that any single product will have this impact.

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/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Shopping for healthy foods has become more difficult than ever. As new products continue to hit the shelves, claims found on food packaging can be challenging to navigate. Many health buzzwords can make a person think that a certain food is better than another, but that’s not always the case. This is why it is always important to read food labels and ingredient lists.No matter the branding, healthy foods are likely low in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. Saturated fats are okay in small amounts but too much can cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries. Sodium is hidden in most packaged foods, and it leads to high blood pressure. In fact, most Americans consume almost 150% above the recommended sodium daily intake, and to no surprise, more than 122 million Americans have high blood pressure. Sugar found in naturally occurring foods such as fruit and milk are good for your body. These naturally occurring sugars are included in the “Total Sugars” on a food label which you don’t need to fret about too much. On the other hand, “Added Sugars” are not natural, and you should keep an eye out for them. A few common examples are high fructose corn syrup, cane juice, and malt syrup.No matter the marketing, understanding food labels will help you know if a product is truly a good option. Nonetheless, there are many terms out there that may confuse shoppers. Let’s take a look at a few:Light: You may assume that a product labeled “light” has fewer calories, but it can actually refer to the flavor- not the nutrition content.Made with real fruit: Manufacturers do not have to include the percentage of fruit included in an item. In fact, a product “made with real fruit” can have as little as 1% of real fruit.Multigrain/ Wheat: Just because a product label includes “multigrain” or “wheat” does not mean that it is 100% whole grain. Whole grains include more fiber, are less processed, and keep you fuller for longer. Checking the ingredient list to ensure a product is not made with enriched flour and is 100% whole grain is worthwhile.Superfoods: The “superfood” marketing scheme can be applied to any food that is nutrient-dense. Many superfood products claim to have cancer-fighting properties, but there is little scientific basis to confirm this. It is certainly true that a balanced diet full of unprocessed, vitamin-rich foods can reduce the risk of cancer, but it is unlikely that any single product will have this impact.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;

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