By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Messiah Lutheran Church of Hays celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special service and dinner on Oct. 26.

Families who had been members since the church's founding joined the celebration, including Dixie Dies and family, who traveled 1,300 miles from Montana to attend the service. 

Joel Histerman and Keith Kohlmeier were special guest pastors for the morning's service.

The first service of Messiah Lutheran was conducted on Oct. 29, 1950,&nbsp;(Reformation Sunday) with the Rev. H. T. Munderloh of Russell&nbsp;leading the worship. The service, attended by 17, was in the Christian Church building at Eighth and&nbsp;Walnut.

The official organization of Messiah Lutheran took place on Jan. 4,&nbsp;1951, with six voting members. They were Bill Duitsman,&nbsp;Ralph Fink, Paul Gross, Robert Naegele, Walter Naegele and&nbsp;Robert O’Gara.

On June 7, 1953, the Rev. Frederick Rhode was installed&nbsp;as the first resident pastor of the congregation. Ground had&nbsp;been broken for the construction of the first chapel at 20th&nbsp;and Main on Oct. 19, 1952. The chapel was dedicated on&nbsp;Sept. 20, 1953.

Dixie Dies, 75, is the daughter of Ed and Geneva Dies, founding members of the church. She and her siblings grew up in the church. However, Dixie married after high school, and she and her spouse moved out of Hays.

Her parents stayed in Hays and remained members of the church throughout their lives.

"The chapel was small and cozy," Dixie Dies said. "We had Christmas programs and Sunday school downstairs. It was fun. I have a lot of warm memories."

She said she remembers dressing up for the Christmas pageants, but she most looked forward to the small bag of candy she and the other children received at the end of the program.

She was also a member of the youth group, Alpha Key Rho, which was active year-round. During the summer, the youth attended picnics.&nbsp;

"It was small and sort of like a big neighborhood, where everybody knew everybody and everybody's kids and what they were doing," she said.

The original chapel, with its thick redwood beams, is still a part of the current church building. The chapel continues to house the original baptismal font, at which the first child baptized in the church, Barry Dies, Dixie's younger brother, was baptized.

Dixie's nephew was the first child baptized in the new sanctuary.

"It's just pride that this has continued," Dixie said. "It's lasted, and you can tell by the congregation this morning the fellowship they have for each other. I stepped out of my car, and a woman I hadn't seen in 30 or 40 years said, 'Dixie, it's nice to see you!' Just like it was last Sunday."

Dixie said it was essential to have a church to grow up in. During the 1960s, Hays was dominated by the Catholic congregations, she said.

"To have our own group, our own place, it was important," she said.

On March 20, 1960, the educational unit was dedicated.

Groundbreaking ceremonies&nbsp;were conducted on Dec. 15, 1968, for the present chapel. The cornerstone was laid on May 25, 1969, and the dedication was on Nov. 2, 1969.

Renovation of the original chapel was completed in 2000, converting the space into a meeting room. The church's courtyard addition was constructed between 2003 and 2006.

Tina (Kaempfe) Anguish created a history of the church's 75 years for the celebration. Her family began attending the church shortly after it was founded.

"We are a very family- and community-oriented church. My dad was the congregational president for our 40th. My mom and her good friend,&nbsp;Geneva Dies, were in charge of our 50th history and church directory book. Here I am as church historian for our 75th," she said.

Anguish began updating the church's historical archives in 2020 when she moved back to Hays.

The church was established with a campus ministry in mind for what is now Fort Hays State University.

Tina's father, Jerry Kaempfe, began attending Messiah in 1951 as a freshman at Fort Hays. Her mother, Viola Vincent Kaempfe, began attending in about 1955 or '56.

They were married in the original chapel in 1959. 

Tina's Aunt Bonnie (Kaempfe) married her Uncle Darrell Gabel at Messiah Lutheran in 1961. Aunts Mary and Bonnie were also active in the Gamma Delta group, which was the college group for Lutheran Fort Hays students.

Tina was baptized at the church in 1962. Her brother, who she thinks was named after the church's Rev. Polley, was baptized in the church in 1967. Both siblings were confirmed in the church.

Tina and her brother's marriages (1987, 1992) and their parents' funerals were at Messiah Lutheran. Her dad died in 2011, and her mother in 2018.&nbsp;

Fontaine and Jack Hilgers also met in the Gamma Delta youth group when they were freshmen and were married in 1966. Jack died in 2023.

Jack served in Vietnam, but the couple ultimately settled on his grandfather's farm near Plainville.

Fontaine, 81, attended the 75th anniversary celebration and said being a member of the church had been a great support throughout the couple's lives.

Gary and Ila Hulett have been members for 62 years. The couple's son and daughter grew up attending Sunday school at the church.

Ila, 89, said she had happy memories of Sunday School, working with children, sponsoring the college group and attending Ladies Guild meetings.

"Being together with my husband," she said. "We both worked at the college and encouraged the young college students to attend."

"I have years and years of fond memories," she said.

NWester: Messiah Lutheran Church in Hays celebrates 75th anniversary

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Today I want to pay homage to man’s best friend, for nowhere is man’s best friend appreciated more than in the world of outdoor sportsmen. They sit beside us in hunting blinds; often so close they’re nearly beneath us. They help us carry our gear to and from campsites, the boat, the woods and even back to the truck when the excursion is over. They are perfectly at home in the pickup, whether in the back, on the floor or in the seat beside us. They require very little in the way of maintenance, perhaps an occasional scrubbing to keep them squeaky clean. Yet, these stalwart companions provide us with years of dedicated, selfless service. Of course, I’m talking about man’s best friend, the plastic 5-gallon bucket.

I wish they had existed when I was a kid. Oh, we had 5-gallon buckets, but not plastic. Dad had a hanging feed bunk in the barn and if you couldn’t surprise the steers and beat them to the bunk at feeding time, the only way to survive the ordeal was to beat them out of the way with the bucket. I ruined more metal buckets that way than I care to remember. Had they been plastic, they’d have lasted forever. But, like I stated above, no one depends upon plastic 5-gallon buckets more than the outdoor sports enthusiast. They come in white, gray, green, black and camouflage. They can have metal handles or plastic. They are the ultimate seat / equipment carrier rolled into one.

No fisherman worth his or her fish and chips will have less than half-a-dozen, and that’s just in the boat. Be sure to designate one on the boat for those inopportune times when the need arises to relieve yourself of your morning coffee in the middle of the lake, an especially useful feature for your wife or girlfriend. Although a tad large, they also work well for bailing out water rushing into the boat when you fail to put the drain plug back into the drain hole in the transom before leaving the dock. When ice fishing, 2 nice white ones (to color coordinate with your surroundings) will carry your rods, tackle, bait and lunch onto the ice. One turned upside down will then become your seat, while the other holds your fish. Fitted with a lid of some description, one bucket can do both. When a fish is caught, simply jump up, lift the lid, deposit the fish then close the lid and repose yourself again. For you intense ice fishermen (you know who you are) this also hides your catch from prying eyes. In any fishing situation, plastic 5-gallon buckets are the ideal tool for transporting fish. Once home, they again spring into action as the supreme vessel to hold all the “by-product” when cleaning your catch. Bass Pro even sells a fish cleaning board specially made to fit the top of one. I also found a kit containing all the necessary parts to turn a 5-gallon bucket into an aerated bait container.

Though fishing seems to bring out the best in 5-gallon buckets, hunters also benefit from them. Again, they are the cat’s meow for carrying equipment to and from a blind or stand. To carry all my trapping supplies, I use one fitted with a canvas tool carrier. Though small camp chairs are probably more comfortable for a long wait, the buckets again excel as seats. Cabela’s offers a variety of seats, all made to fit 5-gallon buckets. One named the “Silent Spin Bucket Seat,” is equipped with bearings like a lazy susan, allowing a hunter to swivel and see in different directions. This seat can be purchased alone, with an added storage pouch that drapes around the bucket, or with an attached&nbsp;“stadium” seat, complete with back. Kits are also available with all the components needed to convert our friend the bucket into a hanging deer feeder (a nice camouflage colored number is probably best suited here.)

Not a hunter or fisherman, and feeling left out?... Wait, there’s more! What’s the most logical use for a plastic 5-gallon bucket around the campsite?... Right you are! I found several products to turn 5-gallon buckets into portable camp toilets. One called “Luggable Loo” is a toilet seat and lid that the company says, “effortlessly snaps on and off” any 5-gallon bucket, and allows you to “Stop dreading the call of nature when enjoying your next hunting, fishing or camping trip.” Now if you truly do dread “the call of nature” you may have some deeper problems than where to answer it. Anyway, they should probably make one in pink for the ladies and call it Luggable Louis. Just remember, these things won’t flush and don’t set over a hole in the ground so you become responsible for disposing of the contents! Please take the high ground here and empty them at the camps designated dumping station. Don’t nonchalantly toss it under the neighbor’s camper and try to blame it on their big dog.

Someone has said that there is no greater force in the universe than that force that holds 5-gallon buckets together when stacked. We buy them full of some product, use the product, and are left with the bucket, which, in some cases, is probably more useful than the product inside. So, after reading this, find you best friend and give them a little extra attention; kiss your wife and scratch the dog too while you’re at it…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Man’s best friend, we love you!

The holidays may be difficult for those grieving the loss of a loved one. GriefShare will offer a free “Surviving the Holidays” seminar from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Youth Room at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.

Carol Spalsbury, one of the organizers, said that the event “reassures people who are grieving the loss of a loved one that they are not alone—that help is available.

“The event offers encouragement and practical advice to navigate the Thanksgiving and Christmas season,” she said. “It gives insight into what to expect and strength to go on.”

Refreshments will be provided. In order for organizers to have adequate materials on hand, attendees are asked to pre-register by Friday, Nov. 14, by contacting the church at (785) 628-8887 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nocc@northoak.net">nocc@northoak.net</a>.

Grief support group to present free seminar

Ellis High School Senior, Tayler Schmidt, was selected to participate in the North West Kansas Music Educators Association District Honor Band for 2025. This will be Tayler’s second year as first chair Bass Clarinet and will allow her to audition for the KMEA State Honor Band in January. Way to go, Tayler!!

Ellis High School senior earns first chair in District Honor Band

By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX Insight Kansas

With&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-house-speaker-waves-white-flag-on-special-session-as-congresswoman-considers-senate-run/">the failure of the Republican leadership’s push to call a special redistricting session</a>, Kansas has now joined&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/28/the-republicans-thwarting-the-white-houses-redistricting-hopes-00625911">states like Indiana and New Hampshire</a>, where a critical number of Republican legislators were unmoved by Trump’s unprecedented demand that state parties redraw their congressional districts in the middle of the decade to make them more Republican-friendly.

Why didn’t the Republican caucus in Topeka quickly acquiesce to the president’s insistence on creating a map that will supposedly increase the odds of the GOP maintaining control over the House of Representatives? There are many reasons, and the fact that the Republican leadership plans to try again during the regular session in January suggests that they think those reasons can be overcome, and votes will be there eventually.

But one reason that may not go away is a pretty profound one—that the theory of representation employed as a justification for the redistricting push is, historically speaking, un-American.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson’s enthusiasm for redistricting was clear from the start.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-senate-secures-gop-petition-signatures-to-call-special-legislative-session/">He quickly rounded up sufficient votes for a special session from his Republican colleagues</a>, and talked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kake.com/home/redistricting-roadblock-kansas-state-rep-explains-refusal-to-sign-petition-for-special-session/article_4521cf93-8fda-4a12-80fb-9782e4612c7c.html">broadly about</a>&nbsp;how redistricting was essential to the success of Trump’s agenda. If Kansas couldn’t push through a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-11-04/many-johnson-county-residents-want-to-stay-unified-as-kansas-republicans-try-to-redistrict">highly unpopular division of Johnson County</a>, and thus hopefully make it harder for Representative Sharice Davids, the sole Democrat in the Kansas congressional delegation, to once again win re-election, then “all the good things we're doing will stop,” which means that it is “all hands on deck to try to keep the movement moving forward.”

Note that the movement he mentions is centered in Washington DC—not Topeka. This means he understands representation as keyed to national ideological concerns, not to actual Kansas constituents. Masterson might disagree, insisting that,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://independentvoterproject.org/voter-stats/ks">as Republican voters in Kansas outnumber Democratic voters by almost two-to-one</a>, it’s fair to provide those constituents with, as he put it, “an aligned voice in DC.” But that puts the ideological cart before the Constitutional horse.

To believe, like Masterson, that “all four of Kansas's U.S. House districts should basically represent the breakdown of Kansas,” is to privilege ideological representation over local needs. Yet that localism was key to the formation of the House of Representatives in the first place.

Yes, more Kansans consider themselves conservative than liberal. But the Kansans that live in Johnson County aren’t the same as those that live in Masterson’s Butler County; in fact, given how often Davis has been re-elected, their ideological breakdown is likely the reverse of what is typical for the state overall. And part of the point of having a bicameral Congress was so House districts could enable different constituent-based representatives to bring forward entirely local concerns which the more deliberation-based Senate would have to balance out—and thus, through compromise, presumably achieve some kind of common good.

Debates over forms representation aren’t new; they play out constantly, with real consequences. For example, changes in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-11-08/wichita-school-district-voters-opt-to-change-the-way-board-members-are-elected">the rules for school board elections in Wichita</a>, Kansas’s largest school district, empowered local voters over city-wide majorities, and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columnhttps:/www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article312783765.html">results were dramatic</a>.

Typically, politicians pay close attention to such debates; thus far in Kansas, enough Republicans have—for perhaps this as well as other reasons—and thus have resisted Trump’s redistricting stampede. Of course, in a polarized era, with constitutional norms being disregarded left and right, it might be quaint to think that a mere argument about the historical need for different systems of representation might actually change anyone’s mind, much less Senator Masterson’s. But one can always hope—as well as keep up the pressure into January.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

Insight Kansas: Ty Masterson’s un-American (and, for now, failed) argument for redistricting

<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

Family Worship: Ten Words That Can Change Your Life - Exodus 20 1:11

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation has extended the closure of a portion of U.S. 281 in northern Osborne County.

The highway has been closed for reconstruction since late March and was originally scheduled to reopen by the end of November; however, construction setbacks have delayed progress. KDOT now anticipates reopening the route by the end of December, with the revised schedule dependent on weather and construction conditions.

U.S. 281 remains closed from the north U.S. 24 junction to the south city limits of Portis. Motorists should continue following the signed detour on U.S. 281, U.S. 36, K-181 and U.S. 24.

For more information, please contact District Construction Engineer Jim Riener at 785-302-6204 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.riener@ks.gov">jim.riener@ks.gov</a>.

U.S. 281 reopening in Osborne County delayed

Hospice at HaysMed is once again offering its Hospice Community Christmas Tree to remember those who have died and honor those who are still living.

The tree will be decorated with brass doves, each engraved with the name of the person being remembered or honored. The suggested donation is $20 per dove. The tree will be on display at HaysMed during the Christmas holiday season.

Checks made payable to Hospice at HaysMed, along with the name of the person being honored or remembered, may be sent to HaysMed Foundation, 2220 Canterbury Drive, Hays, KS 67601.

The Hays Med Hospice ornaments orders are due by Dec. 11.

“Donations enhance the resources available for education, support the volunteer and bereavement programs in their entirety, and cover patient-related expenses not paid for by insurance,” a news release said.

Hospice at HaysMed has been in existence for more than 30 years, “providing hope, comfort, and understanding for the terminally ill and their families,” the news release said. It provides services in Ellis, Russell, Rush, and Rooks counties.

More information is available at 785-623-6200 or 800-990-0731.

Hospice taking orders for Christmas tree ornaments

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Fall is a wonderful season for agriculture and a time to, hopefully, reap the bounty of the year’s production.&nbsp; If producers have access to crop residue fields following grain harvest, then preparing to turn cattle out to graze such acres is one task that deserves to be near the top of the priority list.&nbsp; Grain sorghum represents an excellent opportunity to extend the grazing season.&nbsp; However, there are several important management considerations that need to be kept in mind with grazing sorghum residue.

Understandably, the absence of fences and water sources is one of the biggest limitations for residue grazing.&nbsp; Many acres are grown in rain-fed systems in which sourcing water from an irrigation well is not possible. Likewise, hauling water long distances is usually not practical.&nbsp; However, if water can be supplied and temporary fences put up, then grazing sorghum residues is usually economical.&nbsp; A single strand of electric fence can work quite well for keeping cows contained, while 2 or more strands may be needed for small calves.

Unlike actively growing forages, both the quantity and quality of residue available for grazing will be highest immediately following harvest and will steadily decline over time due to weathering, trampling, and consumption by cattle. Regarding forage quantity, field data indicate about 2.5 to 3.0 tons of residue per acre on average is produced following harvest.&nbsp; If accounting for 50% of the total residue on the field as available for grazing and of that amount 50% was utilized, then one acre would supply enough forage for one gestating cow for approximately 50 to 60 days.

High amounts of grain on the surface of the field pose a risk of acidosis, particularly for animals with experience grazing residue fields. Cattle selectively graze and will seek out and consume any grain present first.&nbsp; The degree to which grain in the field poses a risk is dependent on many factors, but levels greater than 10 to 15 bushels per acre generally require additional caution.&nbsp; Avoiding turning hungry animals directly on to fields by filling them up on forage, strip grazing to reduce the amount grain available per animal, supplementing low amounts of grain initially before turning them out, and feeding sodium bicarbonate as a rumen buffer are all strategies that may be used to decrease risk of acidosis.

Nitrate and prussic acid toxicity are both conditions that increase in prevalence due to plant stress and cause asphyxiation in the animal, yet are distinctly independent from each other.&nbsp; Nitrates accumulate in the base of the stalk or stem, and while issues associated with nitrate toxicity are generally less common in grazing situations as compared to when cattle are fed a diet, for this reason it is critical to manage stocking rate so that cattle are not forced to consume the lower 1/3rd&nbsp;of the stalk or stem.&nbsp; Prussic acid can occur in plant species within the broader sorghum family, and primarily accumulates in young, rapidly growing plant tissue.&nbsp; Therefore, avoiding grazing sorghum residue around a frost event and for the first 7 days following a killing freeze is a sound practice. Just as with harvested forages, representative samples of standing forage can be collected for analysis of nitrate and prussic acid to determine risk levels and guide management decisions.

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.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Grazing sorgum residues

Due to the observance of the Veteran’s Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, refuse/recycling route collection schedules in Hays will be altered as follows: Monday, November 10 and Tuesday, November 11 will both be picked up on Monday, November 10. 

There will be no changes to the Wednesday, November 12 through Friday, November 14 collection schedules.

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Refuse/recycling collection in Hays changed due to Veterans Day 

The Community Engaged Art Program at Fort Hays State University is hosting a food drive to benefit the clients of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) and other community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Amy Schmierbach, one of the event’s organizers, said in a news release, that for many people with disabilities, typical “food drive” items are difficult to open and use.

“Lack of developed motor skills, such as an inability to use a can opener; cognitive issues with understanding complex instructions following a recipe; or dependency on others to cook for them are just some of the barriers to accessible food for people with disabilities, especially those who live independently,” she said.

“Donating items with simple packaging or taking an extra step to prepare items in ways that eliminate difficult-to-open containers, such as removing items from boxes and placing them in easy-to-access containers, helps individual living with disabilities have accessible food.”

Schmierbach, professor of art, has prepared a list of suggested items that are more accessible for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Donors are asked to drop off the following specified, non-perishable food items on campus at the Center for Art building at the Atrium drop-off box or at DSNWK’s Custom Creations, 1107 Main St.:

Yogurt cups and other single-serving dairy products, such as pudding cups; canned fruits and vegetables with&nbsp;pop-top lids;&nbsp;instant oatmeal or cream of wheat;&nbsp;applesauce cups or pouches&nbsp;; non-perishable, non-frozen, microwavable meals&nbsp;(Easy Mac, Chef Boyardee, Minute Rice); meat and cheese snack packs; fruit cups and Jell-O; granola bars and trail mix; instant mashed potatoes; and microwave popcorn.

Schmierbach said if people are unsure if an item qualifies as “accessible” for someone with a disability, they can ask themselves these four questions:

Can it be stored outside of refrigeration?&nbsp;Is it easy to open? Is it shelf-stable? Does it require fewer than two or three steps to prepare?

If the answer to all four questions is “yes,” then the item is “accessible,” she said.

Steve Keil, communications officer for DSNWK, said the food drive is coming at a good time to help those DSNWK clients who rely on SNAP benefits.

“DSNWK would like to thank FHSU for coordinating this food drive for the people we serve and supporting them with food items during these uncertain times.&nbsp;DSNWK serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from the SNAP program. We hope that the SNAP benefit issues at the federal level will resolve soon,&nbsp;and there appears to be some relief coming.&nbsp;

“It means a great deal to us that others are thinking of their neighbors with disabilities, those we serve, in this outreach.&nbsp; All donations received from this generous food drive will go directly to those served by DSNWK in its Supported Living program and group residential living sites,” Keil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those who wish to make a financial donation may drop off a check at Custom Creations made out to DSNWK with the subject line: food drive. The drive will continue through 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17.

FHSU food drive to make donated food accessible for people with disabilities

In light of the federal food assistance challenges our country is facing, Hays Post is hosting a food drive this coming week. 

On Tuesday, we will be collecting food for the Community Assistance Center, on Wednesday, we will collect food for First Call for Help, and Thursday, we will collect food for St. Joseph’s Food Bank. 

We will have our big, red radio station truck in front of the station from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, to make it easy for you to drop off your non-perishable food items.

If you would rather contribute cash to these organizations, you can bring your cash donation into the radio station, and we’ll deliver it to the designated pantry of your choice.

It's the Hays Post Food Drive, this coming Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.&nbsp; 

Please consider giving if you can, and thank you from all of us at Hays Post dot com, Hull Broadcasting, and Eagle Media…Our Community…Connected!

Hays Post to sponsor food drive next week

Fort Hays State University STEM-ED Student Chapter&nbsp;presents their annual Christmas Show&nbsp;“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” at&nbsp;Sternberg Museum of Natural History (Seibel Lobby), 3000 Sternberg Dr., Hays.

The presentation will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025. Admission is free.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sponsored by the Science and Mathematics Education Institute<a target="_blank" href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>

For Information contact Dr. Janet Stramel at 785-628-4474 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jkstramel@fhsu.edu">jkstramel@fhsu.edu</a>

'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' presented by FHSU STEM-ED students on Dec. 6

The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance (ECMA) will host its monthly meeting at noon Wednesday, Nov. 12, at Hays First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh St.

Anyone wishing to make a presentation to the group must make prior arrangements by contacting Cheryl Glassman, ECMA president, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:president@ourecma.com">president@ourecma.com</a>.

Ellis County Ministerial Alliance sets meeting

NICODEMUS — Thomas Wellington will be honored and remembered for his dedication in making this veteran’s memorial a reality. He was dedicated to the protection of the rights of all American citizens and served two terms in Vietnam, so that his brother Tim Wellington would not have to. He was a dedicated descendant of the Nicodemus pioneer settlers and was a great preservationist and interpretive steward of this great town. To him we honor this memorial.

Set for 11 a.m. Nov. 11 at&nbsp;Memorial Site—Washington St. Nicodemus.&nbsp;(Refreshments Following—Ernestine’s KBFA Certified Kitchen)

Nicodemus Veterans Memorial dedication set for Nov. 11

City of Hays offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in observance of the Veteran's Day holiday.

City of Hays offices closed in observance of the Veteran's Day holiday

CORRECTION: Ellis Food Pantry information corrected as of 10:11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 7.

First Call for Help,&nbsp;&nbsp;607 E. 13th,&nbsp; 785-623-2800 &nbsp;Accessible 8 a.m.-noon and 1-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday&nbsp; Food pantry/box distribution-One per family every 30 days, ID required Meals on Wheels-Elderly or disabled individuals-call for more information

Catholic Charities, 1011 Centennial Blvd., 785-625-2644 &nbsp;Accessible 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday&nbsp; &nbsp;Food box distribution-One per family per month Some paperwork required

St. Joseph Food Bank,&nbsp;&nbsp;210 W 13th, 785-625-7356 Distribution-First and third Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon (Kennedy building, back entrance) Serving everyone, basic household information needed

&nbsp;Community Assistance Center,&nbsp;208 E. 12th, 785-625-9110 Accessible 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Monday-Friday,&nbsp; Serving Ellis County residents, proof of income and residency (utility bill or lease)

&nbsp;FHSU Tiger Pantry - Located in Memorial Union-Chestnut Room Accessible 9:30-11:30 a.m.&nbsp;Monday-Friday and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Friday Fresh fruit and vegetables when available. Serving students, faculty and staff at Fort Hays State University

&nbsp;Unite Ministry,&nbsp;&nbsp;The Gamer's Guild,&nbsp;&nbsp;200 E. Eighth,&nbsp; 785-259-2539 &nbsp;Accessible 5 to 10 p.m. Monday-Friday and 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday&nbsp; &nbsp;Food pantry and free store

&nbsp;Ellis County Health Department-NOT AVAILABLE DURING FEDERAL SHUTDOWN &nbsp;WIC (Women Infants and Children) ONLY-Income and other requirements

North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak, 785-628-8887 Accessible 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m.-noon Friday. PLEASE CALL FIRST

New Life Center,&nbsp;1701 E. 22nd, 785-625-5528 Accessible 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday&nbsp; PLEASE CALL FIRST

Hays High School,&nbsp; counseling office, 785-623-2600 Accessible Monday-Friday during school hours Serving students and their families in need Hays Middle School, Donna Lubers,&nbsp; 785-623-2450 Accessible Monday-Friday during school hours Serving students and their families in need PLEASE CALL FIRST

St. Fidelis Church,&nbsp;601 10th, 785-735-2777 Serving area parishes and transients&nbsp; PLEASE CALL FIRST

Ellis Nutrition Center,&nbsp;103 W. Eighth, 785-726-1278 Accessible Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Serving USD 388 School District and the surrounding area Home deliveries for elderly/disabled. Call NWKS Area Agency on Aging&nbsp;

Ellis Food Pantry, 210 Madison, 785-650-4225 Accessible either the first or last day of the month, call to confirm. Residents need to live in Ellis USD 388.

First Call for Help,&nbsp;607 E. 13th, 785-623-2800 Accesible de lunes a viernes de 8:00 a. m. a 12:00 p. m. y de 1:00 p. m. a 4:30 p. m. Distribución de cajas/despensas de alimentos: una por familia cada 30 días, se requiere identificación

Catholic Charities, 1011 Centennial Blvd., 785-625-2644&nbsp;&nbsp; Accesible de lunes a jueves de 8:00 a 17:00 horas Distribución de cajas de alimentos: una por familia por mes Se requiere algo de papeleo

Banco de alimentos&nbsp;de&nbsp;St. Joseph, 210 W 13th, 785-625-7356 Renee Michaud Distribución: 1.er y 3.er sábado de cada mes, de 9:00 a. m. a 12:00 p. m. (edificio Kennedy, entrada trasera) Al servicio de todos, se necesita información básica del hogar.

Community Assistance Center,&nbsp;208 E. 12th, 785-625-9110 Theresa Hill Accesible de lunes a viernes, de 8:30 a. m. a 12:30 p. m. Sirviendo a los residentes del condado de Ellis, comprobante de ingresos y residencia (factura de servicios públicos o contrato de arrendamiento)

Despensa Tiger de FHSU - ubicada en&nbsp;Sala Memorial Union-Chestnut,&nbsp;Accesible de lunes a viernes de 9:30 a. m. a 11:30 a. m. y de 3:30 p. m. a 5:30 p. m. Viernes Frutas y verduras frescas cuando estén disponibles. Al servicio de estudiantes, profesores y personal de la Universidad Estatal de Fort Hays

Unite Ministry,&nbsp;The Gamer's Guild, 200 E. 8th, 785-259-2539 Accesible de lunes a viernes de 17:00 a 22:00 horas y sábados y domingos de 14:00 a 22:00 horas. Despensa de alimentos y tienda gratuita

Departamento de Salud del Condado de Ellis -&nbsp;NO DISPONIBLE DURANTE EL CIERRE DEL GOBIERNO FEDERAL WIC (Mujeres, bebés y niños) SOLAMENTE - Requisitos de ingresos y otros

North Oak Community Church,&nbsp;3000 Oak, 785-628-8887 Accesible de lunes a jueves de 9:00 a 15:00 horas; viernes de 9:00 a 12:00 horas POR FAVOR LLAME PRIMERO

New Life Center,&nbsp;1701 E. 22nd, 785-625-5528 Accesible de lunes a jueves de 10:00 a 17:00 horas POR FAVOR LLAME PRIMERO

Hays High School,&nbsp; counseling office, 785-623-2600 Accesible de lunes a viernes durante el horario escolar Sirviendo a los estudiantes y sus familias necesitadas

Hays Middle School,&nbsp;Donna Lubers,&nbsp; 785-623-2450 Accesible de lunes a viernes durante el horario escolar Sirviendo a los estudiantes de HMS y sus familias necesitadas&nbsp; &nbsp;POR FAVOR LLAME PRIMERO

St. Fidelis Church,&nbsp;601 10th, 785-735-2777 Sirviendo parroquias y transeúntes del área POR FAVOR LLAME PRIMERO

Ellis Nutrition Center,&nbsp;103 W. 8th, 785-726-1278 Accesible de lunes a martes, jueves y viernes. Sirviendo al Distrito Escolar 388 y sus alrededores&nbsp; Entregas a domicilio para personas mayores o discapacitadas. Llame a la Agencia del Área sobre el Envejecimiento de NWKS&nbsp;

Ellis Food Pantry,&nbsp;103 W. 8th, 785-726-1278 Accesible Ya sea el primer o último día del mes, llame para confirmar

Food pantries in Ellis County; bancos de alimentos en el condado de Ellis

KANSAS CITY—Teamwork and technology led to the arrest of a drunk driver who fled from a deputy just after midnight on November 6, according to a social media report from the Clay County Sheriff. 

A Traffic Safety Unit deputy tried to stop a vehicle with no headlights, a common sign of impaired driving, near N.E. Parvin Road and N. Belmont Avenue. The driver fled and nearly struck another vehicle traveling northbound, before losing control and striking the back of a parked semi truck's trailer. 

The driver ran into Worlds of Fun. Worlds of Fun security started checking their cameras and were able to get a rough idea of where the suspect was as he moved through the park. Clay County Deputies put up their drone, which led law enforcement right to the suspect.

Officers from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ClaycomoPD?__cft__[0]=AZW5iqdO8kWopKSnwdWcNGhCdhztbHmDWCooqqytxssxIIS235dC2Hd9biDwqRgoewcAaVbmI2EA9F_QgdFI0K4t1Pj0rPqVCesjtpQbEGY-S9bNfNPqcas1m5NDMmnp9GBz-klfh3loVTGpHs8fsRX3tb89rNWjTxXJiVCgvknT-fTnXe1Y3ajdCGO0ijfxN1Y&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Claycomo Police Department</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064540068196&amp;__cft__[0]=AZW5iqdO8kWopKSnwdWcNGhCdhztbHmDWCooqqytxssxIIS235dC2Hd9biDwqRgoewcAaVbmI2EA9F_QgdFI0K4t1Pj0rPqVCesjtpQbEGY-S9bNfNPqcas1m5NDMmnp9GBz-klfh3loVTGpHs8fsRX3tb89rNWjTxXJiVCgvknT-fTnXe1Y3ajdCGO0ijfxN1Y&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Pleasant Valley Missouri Police Department</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GladstoneMOPD?__cft__[0]=AZW5iqdO8kWopKSnwdWcNGhCdhztbHmDWCooqqytxssxIIS235dC2Hd9biDwqRgoewcAaVbmI2EA9F_QgdFI0K4t1Pj0rPqVCesjtpQbEGY-S9bNfNPqcas1m5NDMmnp9GBz-klfh3loVTGpHs8fsRX3tb89rNWjTxXJiVCgvknT-fTnXe1Y3ajdCGO0ijfxN1Y&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Gladstone MO Police</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcpolice?__cft__[0]=AZW5iqdO8kWopKSnwdWcNGhCdhztbHmDWCooqqytxssxIIS235dC2Hd9biDwqRgoewcAaVbmI2EA9F_QgdFI0K4t1Pj0rPqVCesjtpQbEGY-S9bNfNPqcas1m5NDMmnp9GBz-klfh3loVTGpHs8fsRX3tb89rNWjTxXJiVCgvknT-fTnXe1Y3ajdCGO0ijfxN1Y&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Missouri Police Department</a> all had responded to surround the area. Tests later showed the suspect's blood alcohol content was over the legal limit.

Reginald L. Finch, 22, has been charged with aggravated fleeing a stop, driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of an accident.

Sheriff: Drunk driver ran from crash into Worlds of Fun

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;stretched into its 40th day Sunday even as senators stayed in Washington for a grueling weekend session hoping to find an end to the funding fight that has disrupted flights nationwide, threatened food assistance for millions of Americans and left federal workers without pay.

The Senate has so far shown few signs of progress over a weekend that could be crucial for the shutdown fight. Republican leaders are hoping to hold votes on a new package of bills that would reopen the government into January while also approving full-year funding for several parts of government. But the necessary Democratic support for that effort was far from guaranteed.

“We’re only a handful of votes away” from passing a bill to reopen the government,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/john-thune">Senate Majority Leader John Thune</a>, R-S.D., said Saturday.

Still, Democratic leaders are pushing hard for an extension of subsidies for health plans offered under the Affordable Care Act marketplace. Republicans have rejected that offer, but signaled openness to an emerging proposal from a small group of moderate Democrats to end the shutdown in exchange for a later vote on the “Obamacare” subsidies, which make coverage more affordable.

For those enrolled in Affordable Care Act exchanges, premiums on average are expected to more than double next year if Congress allows the enhanced subsidies to lapse.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said the pledge to hold a vote on extending the health care subsidies would be a “wasteful gesture” unless “you have the commitment of the speaker of the House that he will support it and that the president of the United States will sign it.”

President Donald Trump has made clear he is unlikely to compromise any time soon. He pressed Republicans again over the weekend to get rid of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-filibuster-resistance-senate-thune-shutdown-e2facc2a1a32811d294b1bd16853f307">Senate’s filibuster rules</a>&nbsp;that prevent the chamber from advancing on most legislation unless there is support from 60 senators.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., and others, negotiating among themselves and with some rank-and-file Republicans, have been discussing bills that would pay for parts of government — food aid, veterans programs and the legislative branch, among other things — and extend funding for everything else until December or January. The agreement would only come with the promise of a future health care vote, rather than a guarantee of extended subsidies.

It was unclear whether enough Democrats would support such a plan. Even with a deal, Trump appears unlikely to support an extension of the health benefits. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also said this past week that he would not commit to a health vote.

Republican leaders only need five additional votes to fund the government, and the group involved in the talks has ranged from 10 to 12 Democratic senators.

Some Republicans have said they are open to extending the COVID-19-era tax credits as premiums could skyrocket for millions of people, but they want new limits on who can receive the subsidies. They lined up Saturday to take to the Senate floor and argue that subsidies for the plans should be routed through individuals.

“We’re going to replace this broken system with something that is actually better for the consumer,” Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said.

Trump wants Republicans to end the shutdown quickly and scrap the filibuster, which requires 60 Senate votes for most legislation, so they can bypass Democrats altogether. Vice President JD Vance, a former Ohio senator, endorsed the idea in an online post Saturday, saying Republicans who want to keep the filibuster are “wrong.”

Republicans have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-filibuster-resistance-senate-thune-shutdown-e2facc2a1a32811d294b1bd16853f307">rejected</a>&nbsp;Trump’s call, and Thune is eyeing a bipartisan package that mirrors the proposal the moderate Democrats have been sketching out. What Thune, who has refused to negotiate, might promise on health care is unknown.

The package would replace the House-passed legislation that the Democrats have rejected 14 times since the shutdown began Oct. 1. The current bill would only extend government funding until Nov. 21.

A test vote on new legislation could come in the next few days if Thune decides to move forward.

Then Democrats would have a crucial choice: Keep fighting for a meaningful deal on extending&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-obamacare-shutdown-e94d96a8a837a5f7f681dc6893872d3b">the subsidies</a>&nbsp;that expire in January, while prolonging the pain of the shutdown? Or vote to reopen the government and hope for the best as Republicans promise an eventual health care vote, but not a guaranteed outcome.

Schumer on Saturday persisted in arguing that Republicans should accept a one-year extension of the subsidies before negotiating the future of the tax credits.

“Doing nothing is derelict because people will go bankrupt, people will lose insurance, people will get sicker,” Schumer said in a floor speech. “That’s what will happen if this Congress fails to act.”

Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim, Joey Cappelletti, Mary Clare Jalonick and Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.

Government shutdown at 40 days as senators work through the weekend

WASHINGTON (AP) —Federal and state health officials are investigating 13 cases in 10 states of infant botulism linked to baby formula that was being recalled, authorities said Saturday.

ByHeart Inc. agreed to begin recalling two lots of the company's Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, the Food and Drug Administration said in a statement.

All 13 infants were hospitalized after consuming formula from two lots: 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2.

The cases occurred in Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Washington.

No deaths were reported. The FDA said it was investigating how the contamination happened and whether it affected any other products.

Available online and through major retailers, the product accounted for an estimated 1% of national formula sales, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

People who bought the recalled formula should record the lot number if possible before throwing it out or returning it to where it was purchased, the CDC said in a statement.

They should use a dishwasher or hot, soapy water to clean items and surfaces that touched the formula. And they should seek medical care right away if an infant has consumed recalled formula and then had poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing or decreased facial expression.

Infant botulism is caused by a bacterium that produces toxins in the large intestine.

Symptoms can take weeks to develop, so parents should keep vigilant, the CDC said.

Symptoms of&nbsp;Infant botulism&nbsp;&nbsp;

Infant botulism in 10 US states linked to formula being recalled

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A suspect in the November 1, death of a woman in Kansas City, Kansas has been charged.

The Wyandotte County District Attorney's office has charged 22-year-old Kevin Calamaco-Morales with felony first-degree murder in the shooting death of 20-year-old Ana Juarez.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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