By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Joint Ellis County Planning Commission advanced a $275 million solar project at its meeting on Monday.

The commission unanimously voted to move consideration of a conditional-use permit for the solar development in southwest Ellis County to the Ellis County Commission.

The land on which the solar project would be built is zoned agricultural.

The county commission will likely consider the permit request at its Jan. 6 meeting. A 14-day protest period will end on Dec. 31.

Developer ibV of Florida presented to a packed audience of about 75 people, with those both for and against the project in attendance.

IbV answered a litany of questions about the project, which would generate 175MW of power for the&nbsp;Southwest Power Pool energy market, connecting via Midwest Energy at the 345-kilovolt Spearville-Post Rock.

The facility will include 600- to 700-W panels mounted on a tracking system to follow the sun throughout the day. The maximum height of the panels will be about 12 feet.

The facility will have no battery storage on site.

One audience member asked if there was capacity in the line to receive the additional power.

The ibV team said they have been in the analysis process for several years, and yes, there is capacity in the line.

Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, asked if ibV had an agreement yet to sell the power; Robin Saiz, ibV vice president, said no. He said that is one of the next steps in the process, but an agreement has not yet been reached.

Wasinger also asked if the power would stay in Kansas.

Saiz said the electricity will take the path of least resistance. He likened the power grid to a swimming pool. If you dump water into the pool, it raises the pool's level. If you jump in the pool, you don't know whether the water touching your body came from the specific water you just added.

He said the new solar project will increase the reliability of the whole grid, including for local users.

He said the Southwest Power Pool has recently planned to expand into Colorado, which occurred after ibV started planning this project.

He said he could not guarantee the power would remain in Kansas.

The project's total acreage is about 1,829 acres, according to the ibV report submitted to the planning commission. It would be at 170th and Mount Pleasant. The Tallgrass Project, as ibV has named it, will be built across multiple parcels, about 7 miles southwest of Hays and 9 miles southeast of Ellis.

Steven Link, senior project developer, said the company chose Ellis County because there is demand for energy in this region, there is a tie-in point for the project and the location offers relatively flat land in a rural setting.

"We are trying to inject a different type of energy on [the grid] besides oil production, not replace it," Link said.

Strategic Economic Research conducted an economic impact study for ibV, estimating 148 new jobs would be created locally during construction and 17 in the long term.

The research firm estimated $10.2 million in local earnings would be created during construction, with almost $1 million in annual long-term local earnings in Ellis County.

The project could net as much as $25.9 million in property tax revenue across the taxing entities during the estimated 35-year life of the project, according to the research firm.

IbV is estimated construction on the project will begin in 2027, with about 18 months until completion in 2028.

ibV requested up to three years to begin construction because they anticipated potential supply chain issues with some high-voltage equipment. County regulations require construction to begin within a year, with an option for a one-year extension.

Link said ibV will be responsible for the infrastructure necessary to support the project. This includes roads and water. ibV will establish an escrow account with expenses paid to the county for road work that might be needed.

The ibV representatives said they do not intend to tap into rural water at this time.

Link said the project anticipated using pond water or accessing water from another place. Link said the solar panels could be dry mopped.

Once the project is complete, the ibV representatives anticipate using 250 gallons of potable water per day at the site. That is to service the site's operations and maintenance building, which three people will staff. The water usage will be for the building's bathroom and kitchenette.

Keith Pfannenstiel, local resident, expressed concern about the facility's water use. He asserted the company had not accounted for its water usage.

He said he tried to speak at the last meeting of the rural water district but was not allowed to by Amy Befort, who is also one of the landowners leasing their land to ibV.

He alleged a conflict of interest. Pfannenstiel said he was going to file a complaint with the Ellis County Attorney.

Befort denied the allegation. She said her family's lease agreement with the ibV included no water rights. She said her property has the only rural water meter near the project, and it is certified for residential and livestock use only.

Befort said she has placed Pfannenstiel on the next rural water board meeting agenda. She alleged Pfannetiel had spread misinformation that the solar project would use rural water.

Pfannenstiel expressed concerns the solar panels could break and pollute groundwater. However, Befort noted solar panels, including those installed by Pfannenstiel, had been used for years to power water-well pumps and oil pumps in the area.

No one had expressed concerns about pollution before, she said.

"Some people are afraid of change," she said. "They are afraid of progress. I want you to seriously ask yourself, where would society be today without change or progress? Renewable enregy, solar energy is progress.

"This solar project has the capability to be a vital part of our community's future by bringing in millions of dollars in tax revenue and providing community projects supported by ibV energy. 

"Please, I ask you, don't allow a minority of uninformed people to stop progress and deny the people of Ellis County the many benefits of this solar project," Befort said.

Local resident Mike Werth and others asked about the potential for hail damage.

The solar panels are made of thick glass and silicone. The panels are rated to withstand winds up to 110 mph and hail of up to 90 mm, the ibV team said.

The facility will also carry insurance.&nbsp;

IbV was asked what would happen if a tornado or hailstorm wiped out the facility.

Saiz said ibV will have a decommission plan backed by a bond.

However, he said it would be in the best interests of ibV and its investors to rebuild so that it could maximize its return on investment.

Patrick Ripa, ibV executive director of planning and engineering, said the panels are also designed to be able to tilt to prevent damage. 

The panels can be laid flat in the event of a wind storm. They can be tilted vertically during hail to minimize exposed surface area and tilted at an angle during snowfall to discourage accumulation on the panels.

Weather stations, which will be monitored 24/7, will be placed throughout the facility, the ibV team said.

Nathan Casper, who lives on Mount Pleasant Road and would be a neighbor to the facility, said the pasture in which the solar project would be built has had two wildfires in the last several years.

He said a neighbor extinguished those fires. The rural fire department didn't make it to the site in time.

He expressed concern about his home and asked about the possibility of soil contamination if the solar panels were damaged in a fire.

Link said the grass at the facility will be mowed or grazed by sheep to 12 inches or less underneath the solar panels.

The site will be monitored by staff onsite as well as 24/7 remote monitoring, and Saiz said the company is very proactive in preventive maintenance.

The ibV team said they will meet with local emergency responders to develop an emergency preparedness plan for the solar project.

IbV has designed its facility to meet all Ellis County setback requirements.&nbsp;

The planning commission, as a condition of the conditional use permit, also required ibV to meet all state and federal permit requirements for a solar facility, including the EPA and the Clean Water Act.

IbV is leasing the land on which the solar panels will sit. Once the panels are decommissioned in about 35 years, the land will revert to the landowners.

ibV will have a plan and bond in place to decommission the facility at the end of its lifetime.

A licensed third party is creating the decommissioning plan. Having that plan in place is a condition of the company's permit.

Link said the panels will not sit on concrete pads, but will be supported through steel pillars.

The decommission plan includes returning the land as close as possible to its original state.

Saiz said long-term research by several U.S. universities has indicated land on which solar panels sit rebounds well after they are removed because the land has been lying fallow for several decades.

If there is disruption of the soil during decommissioning, the land would be reseeded in native grass, the ibV team said.

Local resident Mike Werth questioned the degree to which the project was being subsidized by the government.

"I know county, city, all municipalities are grasping for any little tax dollar they can get," Werth said. "I understand that, but at what cost?"

Ripa said the project is being privately funded, but all energy projects are subsidized, renewable and nonrenewable. All of their competitors are subsidized. He did not disclose the amount of the subsidy.

He said in many parts of the world, solar is the cheapest form of energy and is a renewable source. The efficiency of the panels has increased by 40 to 50% during the last five to seven years.

IbV is finaced through a larger international group, ib vogt GmbH of Germany.

Local resident&nbsp;Curt Staab said he supported the project and the income it would bring to the county.

"Revenue from a new tax stream is a really good thing for the county. We are always needing more money to keep up roads, schools, and so on," he said.

The planning commission also recommended approval of the&nbsp;Big Creek Estates 3rd Addition preliminary plat. That addition, which Adam Pray is developing, will include lots for 14 new homes.

Planning commission sends solar project to Ellis County Commission

Hays High vs Silver Lake/Hesston Friday, Dec. 19 - 3:30 p.m. St. George, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3352219?autoplay=1">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a>

Hays High plays in the championship semifinals of the Flurry on Flush tournament from Rock Creek High School.

The girls' matchup is a state ranked showdown. Hays (6-0) is ranked #4 in 5A. Silver Lake (5-0) is the #2 ranked team in 3A.&nbsp;

On the boys' side Hays (5-1) takes on the top ranked team in 3A. Hesston is 5-0.

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 3:30. The Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show beings at 3:10 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX. Video is available at the above link.

🏀📺 Hays High in championship semifinals at Rock Creek

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to author Ted Harbin about his book, "The World's Toughest Rodeo."

🎙 Forward Ever: Ted Harbin, author of 'World's Toughest Rodeo'

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Fire Department responded to multiple fire-related calls and assisted crews in Russell County on Thursday.

Hays was under a high wind and red flag warning until 6 p.m., with northwest winds reaching 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers said the fires were small and quickly contained.&nbsp;

One fire occurred at 11:41 a.m. near the Fort Hays State University Rodeo Indoor Arena, 1679 230th Ave.

A second fire started after a vehicle left the roadway because of zero visibility, igniting grass beneath the car at 1:02 p.m. in the 1700 block of Cathedral Avenue.

Myers said Ellis County crews provided aid to Russell County shortly before 3 p.m. after two large grass fires ignited between noon and 2 p.m.

A third fire in Ellis County was reported at 3:12 p.m. near the intersection of 330th Avenue and Schoenchen Road in Pfeifer.

No injuries or structural damage were reported in the county. Fire crews remained at the Russell County grass fires into the evening, with the Hays and Claflin fire departments also assisting.

This week marked the fourth anniversary of the Ellis County Fire that tore through Ellis, Russell, Rooks and Osborne counties.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/453b0ec8-d612-4a13-af9d-44b409a18b89">SEE RELATED STORY: Grass fires burn Russell County fields</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a5a31dc8-e139-49db-b918-b6ed269bab6f">SEE RELATED STORY: Bunker Hill fire; KHP shares video of Russell County fire</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/33d6b0eb-1b08-4e7f-8813-4de8df3a3699">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Fire Chief reflects on Four County Fire four years later</a>

Small fires ignite in Ellis County amid high wind, red flag warning

Community members typically provide desserts for the Hays Community Christmas and we are in need of more.&nbsp;

Anyone wanting to provide dessert can contact 785-675-1344 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>.

Desserts still needed for Hays Community Christmas 

Congratulations to Alyssa Balandran of Hays, winner of the week 3 A&amp;A Coors-Yuengling Yuletide giveaway on 101.9 The Bull.

Alyssa wins a Yuengling Varsity Backpack and $25 gift cards to Cervs, Gutierrez Mexican Restaurant, Doghouse Liquor, Thirstys Brew Pub and Grill and Kaiser Liquor, all of Hays.

The Bull crew will take next week off for Christmas.

Get registered for week four's A&amp;A Coors-Yuengling Yuletide giveaway starting on Monday, Dec. 29 at 7:35 a.m.&nbsp;

Week 3 A&A Coors-Yuengling Yuletide giveaway winner announced

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post

Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com.

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

For Demetria Sanchez, education has always been close to home—literally and figuratively. 

A Hays native and graduate of Hays High School, Sanchez recently completed her master of science in biology at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and will begin her next chapter as a full-time biology instructor at her alma mater in spring 2026.

Sanchez’s journey to biology wasn’t a straight path. Initially planning to pursue nursing or a health-related career, she explored several majors before discovering her passion for biology. That turning point came after taking several biology courses, including anatomy and physiology with former FHSU professor Dr. Medhavi Ambardar.

“I met with some amazing biology professors who really were enthusiastic about their field and showing students what biology is all about, how important it is to the world,” Sanchez said.

She earned her bachelor of science in biology in May 2024 and continued on to complete her master’s degree in December 2025. During her time at FHSU, Sanchez immersed herself in research, working closely with Dr. Ambardar to study stress levels in house wrens. As a graduate assistant, she also gained valuable teaching experience in courses such as human anatomy, anatomy and physiology, human biology, and principles of biology.

“While I have enjoyed all my time at Fort Hays State, it was as a graduate student that I felt like I really found my place,” Sanchez said. “The support from all my professors, and the community of fellow grad students, helped make FHSU feel like home.”

Her dedication and talent did not go unnoticed. Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, Chair and professor of biological sciences at FHSU, praised Sanchez’s ability to connect with students and bring real-world context to the classroom.

“Demetria is a dedicated educator and broadly trained biologist,” Phelps-Durr said. “Her background in both field and laboratory research provides real-world context for her teaching, making her an excellent and highly relatable role model for our student body.”

Sanchez’s ties to FHSU run deep. She is the second oldest of seven siblings, with two sisters currently enrolled at FHSU, one studying art and another business, and a younger sister set to join next fall. Beyond academics, Sanchez found community through campus organizations, including the biology club, which helped her feel connected and supported.

“FHSU offers a great variety of opportunities and works hard to help students feel like they belong,” Sanchez said.

From student to instructor, Sanchez’s story reflects the transformative power of education and the strong sense of community at Fort Hays State University. As she steps into her new role, she looks forward to inspiring the next generation of Tigers with the same enthusiasm and support that shaped her own journey.

Fort Hays State graduate finds her calling in biology, joins faculty

The Bricks and the Christmas Committee are proud to share a special new addition to the holiday season in Downtown Hays: handcrafted ornaments created by fourth-grade students from Holy Family School and fifth-grade students from Wilson Elementary, now adorning the Christmas tree at the Pavilion.

Thanks to the initiative of a volunteer on the Christmas Committee, local art teachers were invited to involve their students in helping decorate the tree. The result is a joyful display filled with creativity, color, and the unmistakable heart of the community.

“These ornaments add something truly special,” said Lee Ann June, executive eirector of The Bricks. “They reflect the spirit of our&nbsp;Timeless Traditions&nbsp;theme—bringing together generations, creativity, and community pride in a way that feels meaningful and personal.”&nbsp;

Students and their families are encouraged to visit the Pavilion, enjoy the lights, and see if they can spot their ornament on the tree. Community members are also invited to share photos on social media and tag @DowntownHays.

The Bricks hopes to expand this tradition in future years by incorporating more local schools and students, continuing to build connections that make Downtown Hays a place where memories are made.

“We were so pleased to have the community help decorate these new additions and give the trees a little extra Christmas magic,” June added. “It’s moments like these that remind us why we do this work.”

Handmade ornaments added to Christmas tree at downtown Hays Pavilion

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

Dodge City is a place where history, culture, and community intertwine. It is home to FHSU graduate student and history major David Solis-Enriquez. David's journey is not just about academic pursuit but also a testament to the rich tapestry of his heritage and to the inspiration and support he received from growing up in a nurturing community.

Born to parents who provided him with a strong foundation of faith and family, David’s story unfolds against a humble backdrop. His father, a mill manager at a feedlot, never completed elementary school, while his mother dedicated her life to raising their family. 

Despite his father's limited formal education, David believes his parents instilled in him both immense curiosity about the world and an unwavering drive for achievement.

In a town where over half of the population identifies as Hispanic, growing up in a rural community and surrounded by diverse cultures shaped David’s worldview. “I grew up experiencing a variety of Roman Catholic Hispanic cultures and a passionate interest in soccer.” These experiences sparked his intellectual curiosity about his heritage and a commitment to preserving the community's stories.

Initially pursuing a business degree, David’s transformative experience in Dr. Kim Perez’s Modern World Civilization course opened new doors. He recalls a shocking lecture about the Zoot Suit Riots in World War Two Los Angeles. It was a period of significant racial tension and rioting that pitted American sailors against Mexican, Filipino, and Black immigrants. 

“I was unaware of such a significant historical event,” he reflects, which led him to switch his major to history. “In history, I always learn things that are impactful and thought-provoking. The courses in our History Department are designed to encourage deep thinking. I knew then that I was hooked on history.”

By his junior year, David qualified for the History Department’s accelerated program, allowing high-achieving students like him to transition seamlessly from a B.A. to an M.A. in History. This pathway integrates advanced undergraduate and graduate coursework, facilitating timely completion of the degree.

Currently, David is working on his graduate thesis, focusing on the cultural significance of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe as it is celebrated in Dodge City. This event showcases the traditions brought by immigrants, interwoven into this ancient celebration. “There are all these new traditions and customs being interjected into what is an ancient tradition,” he explains, illustrating how innovation influences cultural events.

The Feast is a nine-day celebration culminating on December 12th, commemorating the Virgin Mary’s apparition to St. Juan Diego in 1531. Celebrated in diverse ways across Mexico, Central America, and South America, the festivities include Mass, processions, and cultural activities honoring Mary as the patroness of the Americas. 

In Dodge City, this celebration reflects the rich diversity of the Catholic community and the regional traditions immigrants have introduced to Southwest Kansas.

In his thesis, David highlights how these immigrant experiences shaped the evolution of this tradition, infusing it with new customs and traditions. A distinctive aspect of the Dodge City Diocese's observance is a two-day torch relay run from Wichita to Dodge City, which symbolizes the dedication of the faithful. 

Traditional dance groups, such as the Monarcas Mujeres—a female ensemble that represents a shift from male-dominated performances—further enrich these festivities, illustrating the integration of contemporary expressions into longstanding traditions.

David’s research was spotlighted in Hollie Marquess’s October 13 episode of the Victor E. History Podcast at FHSU. You can listen to it online at <a href="https://victorehistory.com/">https://victorehistory.com/</a>.

Outside the classroom, David actively engages in co-curricular activities. He serves as the president of Phi Alpha Theta, the national honor society for history majors. He participates in the Hispanic American Leadership Organization, which is devoted to preserving cultural traditions and supporting Hispanic students at FHSU. His commitment to service is seen in his involvement with Circle K, where he empowers youth, and Save the Kids, where he provides essential supplies to children in need.

David Solis-Enriquez embodies the spirit of Fort Hays State University, where initiative, innovation, and encouragement create pathways to success. His story reflects deep-rooted pride, an acknowledgment of past struggles, and a hopeful vision for the future, inspiring others to cherish their heritage and foster a sense of community. 

Through David, we are reminded that the strength of spirit within our students inspires change and elevates our shared journey to create engaged leaders who care about the world.

Every step of the way, David exemplifies that the pursuit of knowledge, love for one’s community, and commitment to service can transform lives and ignite a sense of pride—the hallmarks of a Fort Hays State University education.

Heart of a Tiger: David Solis-Enriquez’s exploration of heritage and history

<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

Hays Angel Tree gift pick up delayed

The Heartland Catholic Parishes have announced the following times for services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (services are listed in chronological order):

Dec. 24 (Wednesday) - Christmas Eve

Immaculate Heart of Mary - 1805 Vine, 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. (Bilingual).

St. Joseph, 215 W. 13th&nbsp;- 5 p.m., 11:30 p.m. choir music, Mass at midnight.

St. Nicholas of Myra, 2901 E. 13th&nbsp;- 5 p.m.

Comeau Catholic Campus Center, 506 W. Sixth – 9 a.m.

Immaculate Heart of Mary, 9 a.m., English; noon, Spanish. No 6 p.m. Mass or confessions.

Hays Medical Center Chapel, 2220 Canterbury Dr. - 11:15 a.m.

The following Protestant churches in Hays have announced their Christmas Eve services. (This is not a comprehensive list. It represents those churches who provided their service times. Services are listed in chronological order):

Celebration Community Church, 5790 230th&nbsp;Ave. - 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4 p.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 2422 Hyacinth Ave. - 2 p.m.

North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. - 5:30 p.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 2703 Fort St. - 5:30 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall St. - 6 p.m.

First Baptist Church, 1111 Fort St. - 6:30 p.m.

First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh - 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. The 5:30 p.m. service will be in both Spanish and English.

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd. - 11 p.m.

UPDATED: Hays churches announce Christmas Eve, Christmas Day service times

City of Hays offices will be closed on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, in celebration of the Christmas Eve holiday and on Thursday, December 25, 2025, in celebration of the Christmas Day holiday.

Ciity of Hays offices closed for Christmas holiday

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

Due to the observance of the Christmas holiday, the refuse/recycling collection schedules will be altered as follows: &nbsp;Monday and Tuesday routes will both be collected on Monday, December 22, Wednesday and Thursday routes will both be collected on Tuesday, December 23. 

There are no anticipated changes to Friday's route.

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclables 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 collections change in Hays for Christmas holiday

Westview Church, 3000 W. 41st, Hays, Christmas Eve Candlelight Service is Wed., December 24, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Candle light Christmas Eve service at Westview Church in Hays 

First United Methodist Church &nbsp;Wednesday, December 24 services on Christmas Eve will be at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. at&nbsp;First United Methodist Church, 305. W. 7th, Hays.

First service is more family oriented; second service is traditional.&nbsp; The 5:30 p.m. service is in English and Spanish.&nbsp;

Christmas Eve services at Hays First United Methodist Church announced

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Applications open for 2026 Kansas Boys State in Manhattan

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

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

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

T – Soundscape Station - Can you match the bird call to the right bird? Listen closely and test your skills with real mounts and audio clips from wetland species.

E – Duck Feet Design - Engineer your own duck foot and test it in water to see how well it paddles. Discover how webbed feet help birds move through chilly wetlands.

A – Build a Snowglobe - Get creative and craft your own winter wetland snowglobe to take home—complete with glittery snow and animal scenes.

M – Migration Distance Math - Play our giant Chutes &amp; Ladders-style tarp game to explore how far birds travel to reach Kansas wetlands in winter.

Free admission and fun for all ages. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. No registration required.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, on 592 NE K-156 Highway. 

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