By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/18/gov-laura-kelly-seeks-deeper-water-resource-commitment-from-25-legislature/?emci=67ef80f7-8dbd-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=af9cdaff-efbd-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly plans to deploy political capital during the 2025 Kansas legislative session to broaden commitment to a bipartisan, multigenerational investment in protection of the state’s water supply.

Kelly, a Democrat midway through her second term, said during a interview with Kansas Reflector that shaping a water roadmap would require collaboration among diverse interests from industry and government.

The approach could draw upon the tradition of the GOP-led Legislature crafting politically popular 10-year transportation plans, she said.

“I don’t expect to solve the water crisis as we speak or even by the end of my term, but I would like to have in place a solid infrastructure like we do with transportation,” Kelly said.

No longer, the governor said, should policy makers at all levels view water as an issue to be addressed by the next generation. Each generation ought to take strategic steps beneficial to the next two generations of Kansans, Kelly said.

She anticipated there would be Republican and Democratic legislators enthusiastic about the focus on water, but opposition was certain to emerge in the Capitol.

“I’m probably the first governor to have the political capital that I can spend to get this done,” said Kelly, who has promised not to seek another political office. “It’s not going to be easy to work with the multitude of agencies that have something to do with water and bring that all together and have them working together with the stakeholders.”

The Kansas Water Authority has hosted two-dozen regional and more than a dozen local council advisory meetings to get a better sense of priorities.

Meanwhile, Kelly said she would open the legislative session in January by renewing support for legislation that fully funded the K-12 public education system and maintained the state’s dedication to transportation infrastructure.

“I want to build on a lot of what we’ve already done,” she said. “I want to make sure that we fully fund schools. I want to put more money into special education. I want to continue building that robust early childhood system. We’ve come a long way. There’s more to do before I leave.”

Kelly said she wouldn’t abandon her campaign to convince the Legislature to expand eligibility for Medicaid among lower-income Kansans.

In each of the past six years, she’s recommended a plan for moving Kansas off the list of states blocking expansion. At this point, only 10 states maintain roadblocks to reform.

“I’ve got my number seven coming up,” she said. “We’re not giving up. We’ll continue on that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735434078605.jpeg" alt="Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a Kansas Reflector interview that she was committed to solidifying investment in water, K-12 education and transportation programs when the 2025 Kansas Legislature convened in January.&nbsp; Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a Kansas Reflector interview that she was committed to solidifying investment in water, K-12 education and transportation programs when the 2025 Kansas Legislature convened in January.&nbsp; Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/18/gov-laura-kelly-seeks-deeper-water-resource-commitment-from-25-legislature/?emci=67ef80f7-8dbd-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=af9cdaff-efbd-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly plans to deploy political capital during the 2025 Kansas legislative session to broaden commitment to a bipartisan, multigenerational investment in protection of the state’s water supply.Kelly, a Democrat midway through her second term, said during a interview with Kansas Reflector that shaping a water roadmap would require collaboration among diverse interests from industry and government.The approach could draw upon the tradition of the GOP-led Legislature crafting politically popular 10-year transportation plans, she said.“I don’t expect to solve the water crisis as we speak or even by the end of my term, but I would like to have in place a solid infrastructure like we do with transportation,” Kelly said.No longer, the governor said, should policy makers at all levels view water as an issue to be addressed by the next generation. Each generation ought to take strategic steps beneficial to the next two generations of Kansans, Kelly said.She anticipated there would be Republican and Democratic legislators enthusiastic about the focus on water, but opposition was certain to emerge in the Capitol.“I’m probably the first governor to have the political capital that I can spend to get this done,” said Kelly, who has promised not to seek another political office. “It’s not going to be easy to work with the multitude of agencies that have something to do with water and bring that all together and have them working together with the stakeholders.”The Kansas Water Authority has hosted two-dozen regional and more than a dozen local council advisory meetings to get a better sense of priorities.Meanwhile, Kelly said she would open the legislative session in January by renewing support for legislation that fully funded the K-12 public education system and maintained the state’s dedication to transportation infrastructure.“I want to build on a lot of what we’ve already done,” she said. “I want to make sure that we fully fund schools. I want to put more money into special education. I want to continue building that robust early childhood system. We’ve come a long way. There’s more to do before I leave.”Kelly said she wouldn’t abandon her campaign to convince the Legislature to expand eligibility for Medicaid among lower-income Kansans.In each of the past six years, she’s recommended a plan for moving Kansas off the list of states blocking expansion. At this point, only 10 states maintain roadblocks to reform.“I’ve got my number seven coming up,” she said. “We’re not giving up. We’ll continue on that.”

Gov. Kelly seeks deeper water resource commitment from ’25 Legislature

<a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON</a> Huck Boyd National Institute/KSU&nbsp;

Bigfoot has been sighted. And, boy, is he big!

Today we’ll meet the owner of a rural Kansas welding shop that does metal repairs and millwright work, and also finds time for fun projects -- such as constructing a giant model of Bigfoot.

Derek Fagan is the owner and founder of Coyote Welding in Kinsley, Kansas. Born in McPherson, he served as a mechanic in the military and took welding classes at night. After the service, he moved to Kinsley and took welding jobs in the area. For 21 years, he worked as a welder at Cimarron Welding.

In 2021, his boss at Cimarron Welding chose to retire. “I already had this building in Kinsley, so I decided to open my own shop here,” Fagan said. He bought equipment from his former boss.

“That equipment had the initials CW engraved on it for Cimarron Welding,” Fagan said. “I decided to name my business Coyote Welding so I could use the same initials.”

The Coyote is the mascot of the local high school, so it was a perfect fit. Coyote Welding opened in March 2022. Today, Coyote Welding is a full-service repair, maintenance and metal fabrication business.

“I do a lot of repair work for the farmers around here,” Fagan said. The company also manufactures parts for major agribusiness companies in the region.

Fagan has twin sons and a younger daughter, Christa, who works in the medical field. One son, Andrew, studied civil engineering at K-State and works for BG Construction in Manhattan. The other son, Daniel, studied engineering design at Fort Hays State and has joined Coyote Welding.

The boys grew up around this type of metal production.

“I spent a summer as in intern sitting behind a desk at a company in Kansas City, and I knew I wanted to do more hands-on work,” Daniel said. “I took every shop class I could in high school.”

He adds: “When I was in school at Fort Hays State, our teacher wanted us to do a class project, so we built a 3D model of a tiger head (the college mascot).” That gave Daniel the idea that he could build other structures.

“At Coyote Welding, Daniel runs the plasma table,” Fagan said. He designs and manufactures parts as needed. The plasma cutter also allows them to create intricate designs in metal.

For fun, Daniel found a digital file online that he could use to program the plasma cutter to cut the pieces necessary to build a model of the mythical Bigfoot. “The file imports into the plasma software and tells the plasma cutter how to cut the pieces,” he said.

In the shop, they bend and weld the pieces together to create the final product.

“I was able to scale up the design from 9 feet to nearly 12 feet,” Fagan said. There were 97 pieces of metal, bent by hand, as needed. Five hundred bends were needed.

The result was an almost 12-foot-tall Bigfoot that stands outside the Coyote Welding shop along Highway 56 in Kinsley. It is highly visible right next to the highway.

To say this is eye-catching would be an understatement. Countless vehicles have made a U-turn to get a closer look.

“People stop all the time to take pictures,” Fagan said. The pictures have even been posted on Wichita television.

The Fagans have created other structures as well. They constructed a remarkably lifelike model of a dog. For Halloween, they built a giant metal jack-o-lantern. They designed Christmas-themed products, such as snowmen and candy canes.

“We build that stuff for fun when we have time,” Fagan said.

While these projects are for fun, they have generated visibility for Coyote Welding. That’s good to see in a rural community such as Kinsley, population 1,456 people. Now, that’s rural.

For more information, search for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090751690997">Coyote Welding on Facebook</a>.

Bigfoot has been sighted in Kansas. We commend Derek and Daniel Fagan of Coyote Welding, who are making a difference by building this business and creating a huge piece of visual art.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623560862487.jpeg" alt="Ron Wilson,&nbsp;director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson,&nbsp;director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:rwilson@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By RON WILSON</a> Huck Boyd National Institute/KSU&nbsp;Bigfoot has been sighted. And, boy, is he big!Today we’ll meet the owner of a rural Kansas welding shop that does metal repairs and millwright work, and also finds time for fun projects -- such as constructing a giant model of Bigfoot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735653914998.jpeg" alt="Bigfoot statue standing outside Coyote Welding in Kinsley, Kansas. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bigfoot statue standing outside Coyote Welding in Kinsley, Kansas. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Derek Fagan is the owner and founder of Coyote Welding in Kinsley, Kansas. Born in McPherson, he served as a mechanic in the military and took welding classes at night. After the service, he moved to Kinsley and took welding jobs in the area. For 21 years, he worked as a welder at Cimarron Welding.In 2021, his boss at Cimarron Welding chose to retire. “I already had this building in Kinsley, so I decided to open my own shop here,” Fagan said. He bought equipment from his former boss.“That equipment had the initials CW engraved on it for Cimarron Welding,” Fagan said. “I decided to name my business Coyote Welding so I could use the same initials.”The Coyote is the mascot of the local high school, so it was a perfect fit. Coyote Welding opened in March 2022. Today, Coyote Welding is a full-service repair, maintenance and metal fabrication business.“I do a lot of repair work for the farmers around here,” Fagan said. The company also manufactures parts for major agribusiness companies in the region.Fagan has twin sons and a younger daughter, Christa, who works in the medical field. One son, Andrew, studied civil engineering at K-State and works for BG Construction in Manhattan. The other son, Daniel, studied engineering design at Fort Hays State and has joined Coyote Welding.The boys grew up around this type of metal production.“I spent a summer as in intern sitting behind a desk at a company in Kansas City, and I knew I wanted to do more hands-on work,” Daniel said. “I took every shop class I could in high school.”He adds: “When I was in school at Fort Hays State, our teacher wanted us to do a class project, so we built a 3D model of a tiger head (the college mascot).” That gave Daniel the idea that he could build other structures.“At Coyote Welding, Daniel runs the plasma table,” Fagan said. He designs and manufactures parts as needed. The plasma cutter also allows them to create intricate designs in metal.For fun, Daniel found a digital file online that he could use to program the plasma cutter to cut the pieces necessary to build a model of the mythical Bigfoot. “The file imports into the plasma software and tells the plasma cutter how to cut the pieces,” he said.In the shop, they bend and weld the pieces together to create the final product.“I was able to scale up the design from 9 feet to nearly 12 feet,” Fagan said. There were 97 pieces of metal, bent by hand, as needed. Five hundred bends were needed.The result was an almost 12-foot-tall Bigfoot that stands outside the Coyote Welding shop along Highway 56 in Kinsley. It is highly visible right next to the highway.To say this is eye-catching would be an understatement. Countless vehicles have made a U-turn to get a closer look.“People stop all the time to take pictures,” Fagan said. The pictures have even been posted on Wichita television.The Fagans have created other structures as well. They constructed a remarkably lifelike model of a dog. For Halloween, they built a giant metal jack-o-lantern. They designed Christmas-themed products, such as snowmen and candy canes.“We build that stuff for fun when we have time,” Fagan said.While these projects are for fun, they have generated visibility for Coyote Welding. That’s good to see in a rural community such as Kinsley, population 1,456 people. Now, that’s rural.For more information, search for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090751690997">Coyote Welding on Facebook</a>.Bigfoot has been sighted in Kansas. We commend Derek and Daniel Fagan of Coyote Welding, who are making a difference by building this business and creating a huge piece of visual art.It is definitely a sight to see.

Now That’s Rural: Derek Fagan, Coyote Welding in Kinsley

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735580030046.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 Eagle Media Center in Hays will be closed Tuesday afternoon starting at noon and all day Wednesday for the New Year holiday.

The office will reopen at 9 a.m. Thursday morning.

The Eagle Media Center in Hays will be closed Tuesday afternoon starting at noon and all day Wednesday for the New Year holiday.The office will reopen at 9 a.m. Thursday morning.Have a Happy New Year!

Eagle Media Center closed Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday for holiday

A Verizon representative said, as of about noon Tuesday, Verizon cellular service was out in Hays.

The business is working to restore service, but the representative did not know when service would be back on line.

Hays PostA Verizon representative said, as of about noon Tuesday, Verizon cellular service was out in Hays.The business is working to restore service, but the representative did not know when service would be back on line.

Verizon cellular outage affecting Hays

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Last year the oil and gas industry set a record for mergers and acquisitions, an eye-popping $192 billion in transactions. But like a lot of records in the industry it won't last long. 

With hundreds of transactions this year, the total through September is nearly $124 billion, and there are still several large deals on the table.

U.S. crude production dropped to the second best weekly tally ever. 

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) U.S. crude output dropped by 19,000 barrels a day from last week's all-time high, but still stands as the second-best weekly report ever. The average is 13,585,000 barrels per day, marking only the sixth week over 13.5 million.

Commercial crude inventories dropped by more than four million barrels to just under 417 million barrels. EIA says stockpiles are down five percent from the five-year seasonal average.

 EIA took delivery on 300,000 barrels for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The SPR now totals 393.3 million barrels, an increase of 40 million barrels in the last year.

The Energy Information Administration says U.S. natural gas production set a record of over 113 billion cubic feet per day last year, with five states pumping 70% of that. Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, West Virginia and New Mexico are the top producers of natural gas in this country. 

EIA says natural gas consumption rose 1% to an annual high last year. Electricity generation was the chief driver of the increase. Consumption of natural gas at power plants averaged over 35 billion cubic feet per day, or about 40% of U.S. consumption.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows 25 active rigs, with nine in the eastern half of the state, which is up two, and 16 in western Kansas, which is down one. Two operators in Ellis County have suspended drilling for the holidays, and are expected to resume next week.

The year-end total for new oil and gas fields in Kansas is down by half from last year. 

At its final meeting of the year, the Kansas Geological Society last week recognized and named six new oil-and-gas fields in Kansas. That brings the year-end total to 28 new fields, compared to 57 last year.

The U.S. imports more crude oil than we export, by 2.7 million barrels a day. We export more petroleum products than we import by over five million barrels a day.

Domestic crude oil imports averaged 6.5 million barrels a day in the week through December 20, down 178,000 daily barrels from the week before. That's up nearly 200,000 barrels a day from a year ago and two years ago.&nbsp;EIA reports four-week average imports are down more than two percent from last year, at nearly 6.6 million barrels a day.

Crude exports dropped by nearly 1.2 million barrels a day from a week ago to 3.7 million daily barrels. That's up 200,000 from last year, but down 300,000 daily barrels from two years ago. Four-week average exports are up three percent from last year.

Output in the number three crude-producing state dropped to 1.17 million barrels a day in October. Permits, completions, and rig counts are all up. 

The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports the state had 19,334 producing wells in October, an all-time record. October's gas capture statistic dropped to 94%, meaning six percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells is either vented into the air or burned off at the well head. Natural gas production was down four percent month-over-month.

Huge production in Texas has historically been tied to huge energy employment. But those numbers are dropping.

 The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) said its November report ends five straight months of job growth. Employment in the upstream sector, before crude gets to the refinery, slipped to 194,400, down 1,500 positions compared to October.&nbsp; Jobs in extraction fell by 600, while oilfield service hiring slid by 900 jobs.

A new energy watchdog in Colorado says a criminal probe may be in order after they uncovered hundreds of fraudulent pollution reports filed in the last five years by some big names in the industry. 

Colorado’s Energy and Carbon Management Commission says contractors for Chevron and Occidental Petroleum submitted reports with bogus data for at least 344 oil and gas wells across the state, painting a misleading picture of their pollution levels. 

According to the report, consultants for a third company also filed forms with falsified information for an unspecified number of wells. Some of the reports obscured the levels of dangerous contaminants in nearby soils, including arsenic and benzene among other pollutants.&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 MediaLast year the oil and gas industry set a record for mergers and acquisitions, an eye-popping $192 billion in transactions. But like a lot of records in the industry it won't last long. With hundreds of transactions this year, the total through September is nearly $124 billion, and there are still several large deals on the table.U.S. crude production dropped to the second best weekly tally ever. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) U.S. crude output dropped by 19,000 barrels a day from last week's all-time high, but still stands as the second-best weekly report ever. The average is 13,585,000 barrels per day, marking only the sixth week over 13.5 million.Commercial crude inventories dropped by more than four million barrels to just under 417 million barrels. EIA says stockpiles are down five percent from the five-year seasonal average. EIA took delivery on 300,000 barrels for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The SPR now totals 393.3 million barrels, an increase of 40 million barrels in the last year.The Energy Information Administration says U.S. natural gas production set a record of over 113 billion cubic feet per day last year, with five states pumping 70% of that. Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, West Virginia and New Mexico are the top producers of natural gas in this country. EIA says natural gas consumption rose 1% to an annual high last year. Electricity generation was the chief driver of the increase. Consumption of natural gas at power plants averaged over 35 billion cubic feet per day, or about 40% of U.S. consumption.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows 25 active rigs, with nine in the eastern half of the state, which is up two, and 16 in western Kansas, which is down one. Two operators in Ellis County have suspended drilling for the holidays, and are expected to resume next week.The year-end total for new oil and gas fields in Kansas is down by half from last year. At its final meeting of the year, the Kansas Geological Society last week recognized and named six new oil-and-gas fields in Kansas. That brings the year-end total to 28 new fields, compared to 57 last year.The U.S. imports more crude oil than we export, by 2.7 million barrels a day. We export more petroleum products than we import by over five million barrels a day.Domestic crude oil imports averaged 6.5 million barrels a day in the week through December 20, down 178,000 daily barrels from the week before. That's up nearly 200,000 barrels a day from a year ago and two years ago.&nbsp;EIA reports four-week average imports are down more than two percent from last year, at nearly 6.6 million barrels a day.Crude exports dropped by nearly 1.2 million barrels a day from a week ago to 3.7 million daily barrels. That's up 200,000 from last year, but down 300,000 daily barrels from two years ago. Four-week average exports are up three percent from last year.Output in the number three crude-producing state dropped to 1.17 million barrels a day in October. Permits, completions, and rig counts are all up. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports the state had 19,334 producing wells in October, an all-time record. October's gas capture statistic dropped to 94%, meaning six percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells is either vented into the air or burned off at the well head. Natural gas production was down four percent month-over-month.Huge production in Texas has historically been tied to huge energy employment. But those numbers are dropping. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) said its November report ends five straight months of job growth. Employment in the upstream sector, before crude gets to the refinery, slipped to 194,400, down 1,500 positions compared to October.&nbsp; Jobs in extraction fell by 600, while oilfield service hiring slid by 900 jobs.A new energy watchdog in Colorado says a criminal probe may be in order after they uncovered hundreds of fraudulent pollution reports filed in the last five years by some big names in the industry. Colorado’s Energy and Carbon Management Commission says contractors for Chevron and Occidental Petroleum submitted reports with bogus data for at least 344 oil and gas wells across the state, painting a misleading picture of their pollution levels. According to the report, consultants for a third company also filed forms with falsified information for an unspecified number of wells. Some of the reports obscured the levels of dangerous contaminants in nearby soils, including arsenic and benzene among other pollutants.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: Oil & gas mergers, acquisitions reach another record

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Start 2025 on the right foot by joining a First Day Hike at a Kansas State Park! These guided hikes, organized annually by parks staff, encourage individuals and families to embrace the New Year with outdoor exploration and a connection to nature.

This year, more than 1,000 hikes will take place across the country, including 24&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2FSpecial-Events%2FFirst-Day-Hikes%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/1mZZ-S44jYx1-WunbNSndJHJS8VmI6os274VsQQfEA4=385">First Day Hike events</a>&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/4iMIuewwmYnheWz_b4NCIxX8c5tluLvnFVEDGhPnL5Y=385">Kansas State Parks</a>.

Among the participating area state parks are Cedar Bluff,&nbsp; Kanopolis Webster and Wilson.

While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary, each one aims to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of our state parks' natural, cultural, and historical resources, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout 2025.

“This marks our 14th year of offering First Day Hikes in Kansas State Parks, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “These events are a fun, healthy way to kick off the New Year, beat cabin fever, and explore some of the most beautiful areas in our state.”

Where to ParticipateFor a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on Jan. 1, 2025, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2FSpecial-Events%2FFirst-Day-Hikes%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/2/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/ieWojxL1jdL8RWBnUoKaWVkJ-qViS4UWWeQlFXjZLfs=385">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes</a>.

Participants can choose from a variety of guided hikes that fit their comfort level, including scenic walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And if hiking isn’t for you, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun activities, from boating and fishing to horseback riding, or enjoy a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.

What To Bring Kansas State Park staff recommend the following items for a successful First Day Hike:

• Water • Snacks • Weather-appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat, or raincoat)&nbsp; •&nbsp;Hiking shoes • Binoculars • Hiking stick • Camera

Limited First Day Hike t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

A vehicle permit will be required at all state park entrances; a daily vehicle permit can be purchased for $5 at each park.

First Day Hikes originated at the Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts in 1992. The program has since expanded nationwide, with nearly all 50 states now participating.

For more information on First Day Hikes across the country, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fstateparks.org%2Fspecial-programs%2Ffirst-day-hikes/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/VzZ6cyCzRqsQTLBCnSLYrn7md3JH4sI3jK7WFuQ8WfQ=385">stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes</a>. And don’t forget to share your First Day Hike experiences on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/2/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/qz93fOsrFaV9hU5ckF4kdG4v8Fvb6Vqwn5XlMHMYrdQ=385">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find a Kansas State Park nearest you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735641694867.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPTOPEKA&nbsp;– Start 2025 on the right foot by joining a First Day Hike at a Kansas State Park! These guided hikes, organized annually by parks staff, encourage individuals and families to embrace the New Year with outdoor exploration and a connection to nature.This year, more than 1,000 hikes will take place across the country, including 24&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2FSpecial-Events%2FFirst-Day-Hikes%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/1mZZ-S44jYx1-WunbNSndJHJS8VmI6os274VsQQfEA4=385">First Day Hike events</a>&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/4iMIuewwmYnheWz_b4NCIxX8c5tluLvnFVEDGhPnL5Y=385">Kansas State Parks</a>. Among the participating area state parks are Cedar Bluff,&nbsp; Kanopolis Webster and Wilson.While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary, each one aims to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of our state parks' natural, cultural, and historical resources, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout 2025.“This marks our 14th year of offering First Day Hikes in Kansas State Parks, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “These events are a fun, healthy way to kick off the New Year, beat cabin fever, and explore some of the most beautiful areas in our state.”Where to ParticipateFor a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on Jan. 1, 2025, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2FSpecial-Events%2FFirst-Day-Hikes%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/2/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/ieWojxL1jdL8RWBnUoKaWVkJ-qViS4UWWeQlFXjZLfs=385">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes</a>.What To Expect Participants can choose from a variety of guided hikes that fit their comfort level, including scenic walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And if hiking isn’t for you, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun activities, from boating and fishing to horseback riding, or enjoy a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.What To Bring Kansas State Park staff recommend the following items for a successful First Day Hike:• Water • Snacks • Weather-appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat, or raincoat)&nbsp; •&nbsp;Hiking shoes • Binoculars • Hiking stick • CameraLimited First Day Hike t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A vehicle permit will be required at all state park entrances; a daily vehicle permit can be purchased for $5 at each park.First Day Hikes originated at the Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts in 1992. The program has since expanded nationwide, with nearly all 50 states now participating.For more information on First Day Hikes across the country, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fstateparks.org%2Fspecial-programs%2Ffirst-day-hikes/1/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/VzZ6cyCzRqsQTLBCnSLYrn7md3JH4sI3jK7WFuQ8WfQ=385">stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes</a>. And don’t forget to share your First Day Hike experiences on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=firstday/2/0101019419d221e9-044015f8-277c-4e9f-ad7d-dc75b06fdbea-000000/qz93fOsrFaV9hU5ckF4kdG4v8Fvb6Vqwn5XlMHMYrdQ=385">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find a Kansas State Park nearest you.

Cedar Bluff, Wilson among Kansas state parks offering First Day Hikes on Jan. 1

As the new year approaches, it is a time of reflection.

As we close out the year and look ahead to 2025, here is a look back at the top 10 local Hays Post stories from 2024.

10. Hays man seriously injured in incident outside bar

A Hays resident was hospitalized with a serious head injury after an altercation outside of the Sip 'N' Spin, 209 W. 10th, Hays, early Jan.21.

Damien L. Wood, 19, of Bosque, New Mexico, was arrested on a charge of aggravated battery, said Deputy Hays Police Chief Brian Dawson.

A 35-year-old Hays man was taken to HaysMed with a head injury and then flown to KU Medical Center in Kansas City.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1b6d928b-12a4-482b-a583-e5613a0dcc2e">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays man seriously injured outside bar</a>

9. LGBTQ+ inclusion Glitter+Ash event on FHSU campus sparks backlash

An event that combined ashes and glitter to celebrate Ash Wednesday sparked a backlash in the Hays community.

Fort Hays State University students or members of the public were able to be blessed with the traditional ashes or ashes mixed with glitter at the Memorial Union.

Organizers billed the event as a means to foster inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.

More than 200 people commented on a Facebook posting on the event. Some comments were supportive, and&nbsp;other community members expressed outrage.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff4ed31a-2c69-4d33-9b90-9a0d46d1c675">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;LGBTQ+ inclusion Glitter+Ash event on FHSU campus sparks backlash</a>

8. Man from Hays dies after pickup, semi crash

A man from Hays died in an accident just before 9 p.m. Dec. 17 in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp; Frick, 40, Hays, was southbound on U.S. 183 at Munjor Road.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck a northbound semi driven by Jesse W. Crum, 34, Colorado. After impact, both vehicles traveled into the west ditch and came to rest on their wheels.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2c7bee46-550f-486a-8134-1348b8fa9f4c">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Man from Hays dies after pickup semi crash</a>

7. 48 Hours to feature Hays death: 'Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind'

A woman who lived in Hays was found dying from a gunshot wound. Evidence at the scene did not add up. Prosecutors came up with a new way—they say—to find out what really happened.

On April 27 on KWCH, Erin Moriarty Reported in “48 Hours: Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind."&nbsp;

In the early morning hours of Halloween 2019 in Hays, Colby Trickle called 911 and said he woke up to his ears ringing and saw his wife, Kristen Trickle, bleeding next to him in the bed.

Since authorities were divided on the evidence they saw at the crime scene, they tried something new and ordered a very different type of autopsy, an autopsy of Kristen Trickle’s mind.

That investigation eventually led from what Colby Trickle said was suicide to&nbsp;Colby's conviction in his wife's death.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c33423c-1f63-4d7b-98ec-a4ded347e85e">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;48 Hours to feature Hays Death’ Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind’</a>

6. Grow Hays announces new shopping center project north of I-70

Grow Hays has contracted to purchase 9.1 acres of land north of Home Depot in Hays. They hope to construct a new shopping center on the land.

The land is north of Interstate 70 on East 41st Street.

Doug Williams, director of Grow Hays, said&nbsp;multiple big-box retailers have expressed interest in Hays.

Williams estimated the new shopping center would generate $20 million in annual sales, which would generate $600,000 combined annually in additional sales tax for the city of Hays, Ellis County and the Hays USD 489 bond issue.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68c83702-3486-4109-b74f-2a7ee851a4fe">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Grow Hays announces new shopping center</a>

Ellis County law enforcement authorities investigated the death of a 5-month-old boy who died on April 2 in Hays.

28-year-old Abraham Duran Leon of Hays was arrested on June 17 in connection with the death of his son, Fernando Leon.

An autopsy report revealed the child had methamphetamine in his system and died from complications related to methamphetamine intoxication.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b3e788cd-7e44-4409-a2e4-07584c0e793a">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Hays infant’s death still under investigation</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b82bb20e-49b1-41cf-bf36-fb0b29acf58a">SEE RELATED STORY: Arrest made in Hays infant death investigation</a>

4. Love's store location in Hays to be put up for sale

Love's Country Store, 2500 Vine, Hays, closed this week after being in operation in that location since the late 1970s.

"Love's made the business decision to close its country store in Hays, Kansas, effective May 7, 2024. This store was opened in the late 1970s, and customer demand for the country store model has decreased in recent years," said&nbsp;Tracey Budz, Love's director of corporate communications, in an email.

Love’s is planning to put the property on the market for sale, Budz said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5fe47100-3d66-44bb-97b3-25aceb8379e3">SEE RELATED STORY: UPDATE: Love's store location in Hays to be put up for sale</a>

A 16-year-old was killed in a rollover accident southwest of Hays in the early morning hours of Oct. 5.

In a press release, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said the accident was reported at about 12:30 a.m. near 230th Avenue and Spring Hill Road.

Braun said the teen was one of four teenagers in the car that left the roadway and rolled.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2eab323d-7e99-4dea-878c-9c3087e74868">SEE RELATED STORY: Teen killed in Ellis County accident</a>

2. Hays man arrested for battery after choking victim

A man was arrested in Hays on Sept. 21 for aggravated battery after reportedly choking another man until he lost consciousness.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said that 19-year-old Aiden Amrein was arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail following an altercation with another man.

Scheibler said Amrein got on the back of the alleged victim while they were on the ground and placed him in a chokehold until the victim lost consciousness.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78986be0-0dfe-405f-b2a7-d971a3fe7459">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Hays man arrested for battery after choking victim</a>

1. HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration

The No. 1 Hays Post story of 2024 is not a single story but a series of stories and letters to the editor dating back to August. 

Doctors and staff at HaysMed began expressing concern about HaysMed administration and the loss of medical staff in August. Dr. Jerod Grove, HaysMed surgeon, announced he was leaving the hospital in November.

He was followed by Dr. Robert Rodriguez, an oncologist.

Both doctors filed lawsuits in federal court against the hospital, alleging the noncompete clauses in their contracts are too broad and will harm patients' access to medical care in western Kansas.&nbsp;

HaysMed administrators said noncompete clauses in medical staff members' contracts are standard practice. The hospital has countersued the doctors.

According to Grove's lawsuit, HaysMed has lost 12 physicians, two certified registered nurse anesthetists, and three midlevel providers. None of these have remained in the region and provide services to the residents of the state's western half.

As of Dec. 12, the doctors announced they were trying to resolve their contract disputes with the hospital amicably.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">HaysMed losses $5M, current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a05ca048-415e-412f-bcea-55ff325a76b9">SEE RELATED STORY: Second doctor sues HaysMed over noncompete clause in contract</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctor files lawsuit against HaysMed, seeks to continue practicing in western Kansas</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff47d31e-0893-42cc-9d64-36235a52511f">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: Oncologist announces resignation from HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2be22ca4-173c-464f-b507-918c1bbcc5a8">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital</a>

As the new year approaches, it is a time of reflection.As we close out the year and look ahead to 2025, here is a look back at the top 10 local Hays Post stories from 2024.<h2>10. Hays man seriously injured in incident outside bar</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734971456233.png" alt="Wood-photo Ellis Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Wood-photo Ellis Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>A Hays resident was hospitalized with a serious head injury after an altercation outside of the Sip 'N' Spin, 209 W. 10th, Hays, early Jan.21.Damien L. Wood, 19, of Bosque, New Mexico, was arrested on a charge of aggravated battery, said Deputy Hays Police Chief Brian Dawson.A 35-year-old Hays man was taken to HaysMed with a head injury and then flown to KU Medical Center in Kansas City.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1b6d928b-12a4-482b-a583-e5613a0dcc2e">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays man seriously injured outside bar</a><h2>9. LGBTQ+ inclusion Glitter+Ash event on FHSU campus sparks backlash</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734971817147.jpeg" alt="Jaelyn Sutter, FHSU student and member of Us4U, receives ashes on Ash Wednesday from Pastor Ben Houchen of the St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Hays during a Glitter+Ash event at the FHSU Memorial Union. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jaelyn Sutter, FHSU student and member of Us4U, receives ashes on Ash Wednesday from Pastor Ben Houchen of the St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Hays during a Glitter+Ash event at the FHSU Memorial Union. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>An event that combined ashes and glitter to celebrate Ash Wednesday sparked a backlash in the Hays community.Fort Hays State University students or members of the public were able to be blessed with the traditional ashes or ashes mixed with glitter at the Memorial Union.Organizers billed the event as a means to foster inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.More than 200 people commented on a Facebook posting on the event. Some comments were supportive, and&nbsp;other community members expressed outrage.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff4ed31a-2c69-4d33-9b90-9a0d46d1c675">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;LGBTQ+ inclusion Glitter+Ash event on FHSU campus sparks backlash</a><h2>8. Man from Hays dies after pickup, semi crash</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665405753233.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A man from Hays died in an accident just before 9 p.m. Dec. 17 in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp; Frick, 40, Hays, was southbound on U.S. 183 at Munjor Road.The pickup crossed the center line and struck a northbound semi driven by Jesse W. Crum, 34, Colorado. After impact, both vehicles traveled into the west ditch and came to rest on their wheels.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2c7bee46-550f-486a-8134-1348b8fa9f4c">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Man from Hays dies after pickup semi crash</a><h2>7. 48 Hours to feature Hays death: 'Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind'</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734972232571.png" alt="Kristen Trickle courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kristen Trickle courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A woman who lived in Hays was found dying from a gunshot wound. Evidence at the scene did not add up. Prosecutors came up with a new way—they say—to find out what really happened.On April 27 on KWCH, Erin Moriarty Reported in “48 Hours: Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind."&nbsp;In the early morning hours of Halloween 2019 in Hays, Colby Trickle called 911 and said he woke up to his ears ringing and saw his wife, Kristen Trickle, bleeding next to him in the bed.Since authorities were divided on the evidence they saw at the crime scene, they tried something new and ordered a very different type of autopsy, an autopsy of Kristen Trickle’s mind.That investigation eventually led from what Colby Trickle said was suicide to&nbsp;Colby's conviction in his wife's death.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4c33423c-1f63-4d7b-98ec-a4ded347e85e">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;48 Hours to feature Hays Death’ Kristen Trickle: Autopsy of the Mind’</a><h2>6. Grow Hays announces new shopping center project north of I-70</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734972432784.jpeg" alt="Proposed location of a new shopping center in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Proposed location of a new shopping center in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Grow Hays has contracted to purchase 9.1 acres of land north of Home Depot in Hays. They hope to construct a new shopping center on the land.The land is north of Interstate 70 on East 41st Street.Doug Williams, director of Grow Hays, said&nbsp;multiple big-box retailers have expressed interest in Hays.Williams estimated the new shopping center would generate $20 million in annual sales, which would generate $600,000 combined annually in additional sales tax for the city of Hays, Ellis County and the Hays USD 489 bond issue.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/68c83702-3486-4109-b74f-2a7ee851a4fe">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Grow Hays announces new shopping center</a><h2>5. Hays infant's death</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734973706234.jpeg" alt="Fernando Leon" />
 <figcaption>Fernando Leon</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County law enforcement authorities investigated the death of a 5-month-old boy who died on April 2 in Hays.28-year-old Abraham Duran Leon of Hays was arrested on June 17 in connection with the death of his son, Fernando Leon.An autopsy report revealed the child had methamphetamine in his system and died from complications related to methamphetamine intoxication.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b3e788cd-7e44-4409-a2e4-07584c0e793a">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Hays infant’s death still under investigation</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b82bb20e-49b1-41cf-bf36-fb0b29acf58a">SEE RELATED STORY: Arrest made in Hays infant death investigation</a> <h2>4. Love's store location in Hays to be put up for sale</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734973901986.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Love's Country Store, 2500 Vine, Hays, closed this week after being in operation in that location since the late 1970s."Love's made the business decision to close its country store in Hays, Kansas, effective May 7, 2024. This store was opened in the late 1970s, and customer demand for the country store model has decreased in recent years," said&nbsp;Tracey Budz, Love's director of corporate communications, in an email.Love’s is planning to put the property on the market for sale, Budz said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5fe47100-3d66-44bb-97b3-25aceb8379e3">SEE RELATED STORY: UPDATE: Love's store location in Hays to be put up for sale</a><h2>3. Teen killed in Ellis County accident</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614390375120.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A 16-year-old was killed in a rollover accident southwest of Hays in the early morning hours of Oct. 5.In a press release, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said the accident was reported at about 12:30 a.m. near 230th Avenue and Spring Hill Road.Braun said the teen was one of four teenagers in the car that left the roadway and rolled.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2eab323d-7e99-4dea-878c-9c3087e74868">SEE RELATED STORY: Teen killed in Ellis County accident</a><h2>2. Hays man arrested for battery after choking victim</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734974135428.png" alt="Amrein photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Amrein photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>A man was arrested in Hays on Sept. 21 for aggravated battery after reportedly choking another man until he lost consciousness.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said that 19-year-old Aiden Amrein was arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail following an altercation with another man.Scheibler said Amrein got on the back of the alleged victim while they were on the ground and placed him in a chokehold until the victim lost consciousness.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/78986be0-0dfe-405f-b2a7-d971a3fe7459">SEE RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Hays man arrested for battery after choking victim</a><h2>1. HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592337955905.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The No. 1 Hays Post story of 2024 is not a single story but a series of stories and letters to the editor dating back to August. Doctors and staff at HaysMed began expressing concern about HaysMed administration and the loss of medical staff in August. Dr. Jerod Grove, HaysMed surgeon, announced he was leaving the hospital in November.He was followed by Dr. Robert Rodriguez, an oncologist.Both doctors filed lawsuits in federal court against the hospital, alleging the noncompete clauses in their contracts are too broad and will harm patients' access to medical care in western Kansas.&nbsp;HaysMed administrators said noncompete clauses in medical staff members' contracts are standard practice. The hospital has countersued the doctors.According to Grove's lawsuit, HaysMed has lost 12 physicians, two certified registered nurse anesthetists, and three midlevel providers. None of these have remained in the region and provide services to the residents of the state's western half.As of Dec. 12, the doctors announced they were trying to resolve their contract disputes with the hospital amicably.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">HaysMed losses $5M, current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a05ca048-415e-412f-bcea-55ff325a76b9">SEE RELATED STORY: Second doctor sues HaysMed over noncompete clause in contract</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctor files lawsuit against HaysMed, seeks to continue practicing in western Kansas</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff47d31e-0893-42cc-9d64-36235a52511f">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: Oncologist announces resignation from HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2be22ca4-173c-464f-b507-918c1bbcc5a8">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital</a>

Goodbye 2024: A look back at the biggest local stories of the year

NORTON — The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a bridge replacement project along U.S. 24 near Stockton the week of Jan. 6.

KDOT will replace the current structure, which is located approximately 0.25 mile west of the U.S. 183/U.S. 24 junction, with a rigid frame box bridge. 

During the first phase of the project, traffic will be reduced to one lane on the eastbound lane and be directed through the work zone by a temporary traffic signal. 

Once the first phase is completed, traffic will move onto the west side of the bridge with one lane maintained in each direction.

Drivers traveling through the area should plan for minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.

KDOT expects the project to be completed in late July, conditions permitting.

Klaver Construction of Wichita is the primary contractor for the $2.3 million project. 

For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Dan Moore at 785-302-6200 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:daniel.moore@ks.gov">daniel.moore@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630526008903.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTNORTON — The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a bridge replacement project along U.S. 24 near Stockton the week of Jan. 6.KDOT will replace the current structure, which is located approximately 0.25 mile west of the U.S. 183/U.S. 24 junction, with a rigid frame box bridge. During the first phase of the project, traffic will be reduced to one lane on the eastbound lane and be directed through the work zone by a temporary traffic signal. Once the first phase is completed, traffic will move onto the west side of the bridge with one lane maintained in each direction.Drivers traveling through the area should plan for minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.KDOT expects the project to be completed in late July, conditions permitting.Klaver Construction of Wichita is the primary contractor for the $2.3 million project. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Dan Moore at 785-302-6200 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:daniel.moore@ks.gov">daniel.moore@ks.gov</a>.

U.S. 24 bridge to be replaced near Stockton

<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/study-finds-parents-more-open-to-racially-diverse-media-for-children-than-previously-thought">KU News Service</a>

LAWRENCE — New research from the University of Kansas has found that most parents recall watching media with diverse racial and ethnic portrayals of characters with their children and that their own racial-ethnic identity predicted their attitudes toward such content, but not necessarily their beliefs.

Judy Watts, assistant professor of journalism &amp; mass communications at KU, led a study in which 367 Black, Latinx and white parents of children ages 4-7 were surveyed about media they’ve consumed with their kids. Two-thirds of respondents recalled consuming media such as television, movies, video games or books with portrayals of diverse characters and those of races different than their own.

“I was interested in seeing what led some parents in selecting what racially and ethnically diverse media to watch with their children,” Watts said. “My previous research was more conceptually focused on things kids learn in school or media effects over the lifespan. Childhood is an important time to learn about ourselves and others who may be different from ourselves.”

For the study, parents were asked to identify their race, ethnicity and that of their children. The Black, white and Latinx parents were also asked about their attitudes about media representations of race, such as if portrayals they recalled were helpful or not to determine attitudes about such media. They were also asked about ethnic/racial identity with questions such about how strongly they feel they belong with people who share their race and/or ethnicity.

Findings showed that Black and Latinx parents differed significantly on racial/ethnic identity than white parents, but not from each other, with both reporting higher levels of racial identity. That held consistent with previous research on ethnic/racial identity. The parents were also asked about the type of content featuring racial/ethnic depictions they recalled consuming with their children, how diverse the characters were and what sort of situations they were depicted in.

“Seeing what types of content families watched was very intriguing. Black families tended to watch content featuring members of their race. That is possibly because that type of diverse content wasn’t always as readily available as it is now,” Watts said. “Latinx families watched a lot of content featuring characters of their own race/ethnicity, but also with mixed characters. That could speak to things like assimilation into culture.”

The research was tested on themes of social identity gratification and multicultural theories. The former holds that people prefer to consume depictions of people similar to themselves, while the latter holds that people who have a strong racial/ethnic identity are favorable to depictions of other races and ethnicities as well. Each theory was partially supported by findings that ultimately, parents are open to diverse content for their children and their attitudes toward racially and ethnically diverse media portrayals are more open than previous research has indicated.

“This research shows that parents want to show their children diverse content that reflects their own racial/ethnic identities and that they’re open to diverse content as well,” Watts said. “It shows parents are supportive of diversity in content of media their children consume. Parents have various socialization goals for their children. They want to help them learn about their own identities and expose them to others. I think it shows it’s not a dichotomous decision or that it has to be one or the other.”

The study was supported by a research cultivation grant from the National Research Communication Association and was published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08824096.2024.2420056">Communication Research Reports.</a>

Watts, who conducts research into media effects and influences, said the study’s results show parents have varying goals for using media to help their children learn about themselves as well as their identities. She is conducting follow-up research examining explicit and implicit portrayals of racial interactions in children’s media. 

Specifically, she is comparing portrayals including anthropomorphized animals and human characters and their use of racial characteristics to analyze if children understand such racial cues, which characters they liked and to which they assign morality.

The current study showed that nearly two-thirds of parents recalled seeing racially and ethnically diverse portrayals of characters with their children, often in positive contexts, such as characters with differing backgrounds being friends.

“I think this suggests that parents are open to and seeking racially and ethnically diverse content and having more diverse content available in children’s media in recent decades has been helpful,” Watts said. “It also helps us understand parents’ motivations in media they choose for their kids.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735300591898.jpeg" alt=""Dora the Explorer," a program commonly cited by parents in a study about children's media featuring racially and ethnically diverse characters. Image credit: Nickelodeon Animation Studios." />
 <figcaption>"Dora the Explorer," a program commonly cited by parents in a study about children's media featuring racially and ethnically diverse characters. Image credit: Nickelodeon Animation Studios.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/study-finds-parents-more-open-to-racially-diverse-media-for-children-than-previously-thought">KU News Service</a>LAWRENCE — New research from the University of Kansas has found that most parents recall watching media with diverse racial and ethnic portrayals of characters with their children and that their own racial-ethnic identity predicted their attitudes toward such content, but not necessarily their beliefs.Judy Watts, assistant professor of journalism &amp; mass communications at KU, led a study in which 367 Black, Latinx and white parents of children ages 4-7 were surveyed about media they’ve consumed with their kids. Two-thirds of respondents recalled consuming media such as television, movies, video games or books with portrayals of diverse characters and those of races different than their own.“I was interested in seeing what led some parents in selecting what racially and ethnically diverse media to watch with their children,” Watts said. “My previous research was more conceptually focused on things kids learn in school or media effects over the lifespan. Childhood is an important time to learn about ourselves and others who may be different from ourselves.”For the study, parents were asked to identify their race, ethnicity and that of their children. The Black, white and Latinx parents were also asked about their attitudes about media representations of race, such as if portrayals they recalled were helpful or not to determine attitudes about such media. They were also asked about ethnic/racial identity with questions such about how strongly they feel they belong with people who share their race and/or ethnicity.Findings showed that Black and Latinx parents differed significantly on racial/ethnic identity than white parents, but not from each other, with both reporting higher levels of racial identity. That held consistent with previous research on ethnic/racial identity. The parents were also asked about the type of content featuring racial/ethnic depictions they recalled consuming with their children, how diverse the characters were and what sort of situations they were depicted in.“Seeing what types of content families watched was very intriguing. Black families tended to watch content featuring members of their race. That is possibly because that type of diverse content wasn’t always as readily available as it is now,” Watts said. “Latinx families watched a lot of content featuring characters of their own race/ethnicity, but also with mixed characters. That could speak to things like assimilation into culture.”The research was tested on themes of social identity gratification and multicultural theories. The former holds that people prefer to consume depictions of people similar to themselves, while the latter holds that people who have a strong racial/ethnic identity are favorable to depictions of other races and ethnicities as well. Each theory was partially supported by findings that ultimately, parents are open to diverse content for their children and their attitudes toward racially and ethnically diverse media portrayals are more open than previous research has indicated.“This research shows that parents want to show their children diverse content that reflects their own racial/ethnic identities and that they’re open to diverse content as well,” Watts said. “It shows parents are supportive of diversity in content of media their children consume. Parents have various socialization goals for their children. They want to help them learn about their own identities and expose them to others. I think it shows it’s not a dichotomous decision or that it has to be one or the other.”The study was supported by a research cultivation grant from the National Research Communication Association and was published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08824096.2024.2420056">Communication Research Reports.</a>Watts, who conducts research into media effects and influences, said the study’s results show parents have varying goals for using media to help their children learn about themselves as well as their identities. She is conducting follow-up research examining explicit and implicit portrayals of racial interactions in children’s media. Specifically, she is comparing portrayals including anthropomorphized animals and human characters and their use of racial characteristics to analyze if children understand such racial cues, which characters they liked and to which they assign morality.The current study showed that nearly two-thirds of parents recalled seeing racially and ethnically diverse portrayals of characters with their children, often in positive contexts, such as characters with differing backgrounds being friends.“I think this suggests that parents are open to and seeking racially and ethnically diverse content and having more diverse content available in children’s media in recent decades has been helpful,” Watts said. “It also helps us understand parents’ motivations in media they choose for their kids.”

KU study finds parents more open to racially diverse media for children than previously thought

Registration is now available for a four-part workshop series aimed at helping Midwest farm families develop succession plans for passing on or leaving the business.

The series, Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women, will be available at 63 sites in three states, as well as offered online. 

It is being produced through a partnership between extension professionals at Kansas State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Purdue University.

Registration is available online for those wishing to attend in-person and costs $60 through Jan. 12, which includes meals and educational materials. The fee increases to $75 after Jan. 12. Organizers say there is an online option available for $75, but “highly encourage” participants to attend in-person due to the value of group discussions with other participants.

The workshops will be held on successive Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 21 and 28, and continuing on Feb. 4 and 11.

“The focus of the workshops is to help people figure out how to set up their succession plan and find the resources they need to implement it on their farm,” said LaVell Winsor, a K-State farm analyst.

This year’s workshops continue a tradition of educational classes for women in agriculture from K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, which hosted a series on farm finances in 2020, risk management on the farm in 2022, and land leasing in 2023.

“Succession planning has become a hot button topic, though it should have been that way forever,” said Ashlee Westerhold, director of K-State’s Office of Farm and Ranch Transition. “In agriculture, we’re always in a state of transition. So there are a lot of questions, whether you’re age 45 and thinking that (the family’s) farm will some day be yours, or you’re age 75 and wondering how you’re going to pass that to the next generation.”

According to data from the U.S. Census, 70% of U.S. farmland will transfer to the next generation within 20 years. 

“The impact of farms transitioning – either successfully to the next generation or unsuccessfully in the form of a land and estate sale – has implications for rural communities and rural prosperity,” Westerhold said.

The topics that will be covered in the four-part workshop series include: ·&nbsp; Motivation for succession planning ·&nbsp; Family communication around estate and transition planning ·&nbsp; Financial aspects of estate and transition plans ·&nbsp; Legal aspects of putting your plan into place.

“We’ll also talk about how to pick a provider for all of those pieces,” Winsor said. “The goal is to give people the tools they need to succeed. They can take them home, work on the plan with their families and start to put their succession plan together.”

The workshop is part of K-State’s Women in Ag series, though all sessions are available to all people.

The Great Bend and Hays offices are on the list of host sites for this in person workshop. You can call either 620-793-1910 or 785-628-9430 with and questions about these programs or for help registering.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Registration is now available for a four-part workshop series aimed at helping Midwest farm families develop succession plans for passing on or leaving the business.The series, Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women, will be available at 63 sites in three states, as well as offered online. It is being produced through a partnership between extension professionals at Kansas State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Purdue University.Registration is available online for those wishing to attend in-person and costs $60 through Jan. 12, which includes meals and educational materials. The fee increases to $75 after Jan. 12. Organizers say there is an online option available for $75, but “highly encourage” participants to attend in-person due to the value of group discussions with other participants.The workshops will be held on successive Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 21 and 28, and continuing on Feb. 4 and 11.“The focus of the workshops is to help people figure out how to set up their succession plan and find the resources they need to implement it on their farm,” said LaVell Winsor, a K-State farm analyst.This year’s workshops continue a tradition of educational classes for women in agriculture from K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, which hosted a series on farm finances in 2020, risk management on the farm in 2022, and land leasing in 2023.“Succession planning has become a hot button topic, though it should have been that way forever,” said Ashlee Westerhold, director of K-State’s Office of Farm and Ranch Transition. “In agriculture, we’re always in a state of transition. So there are a lot of questions, whether you’re age 45 and thinking that (the family’s) farm will some day be yours, or you’re age 75 and wondering how you’re going to pass that to the next generation.”According to data from the U.S. Census, 70% of U.S. farmland will transfer to the next generation within 20 years. “The impact of farms transitioning – either successfully to the next generation or unsuccessfully in the form of a land and estate sale – has implications for rural communities and rural prosperity,” Westerhold said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735571409325.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The topics that will be covered in the four-part workshop series include: ·&nbsp; Motivation for succession planning ·&nbsp; Family communication around estate and transition planning ·&nbsp; Financial aspects of estate and transition plans ·&nbsp; Legal aspects of putting your plan into place.“We’ll also talk about how to pick a provider for all of those pieces,” Winsor said. “The goal is to give people the tools they need to succeed. They can take them home, work on the plan with their families and start to put their succession plan together.”The workshop is part of K-State’s Women in Ag series, though all sessions are available to all people.The Great Bend and Hays offices are on the list of host sites for this in person workshop. You can call either 620-793-1910 or 785-628-9430 with and questions about these programs or for help registering.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

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