By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Hays VFW’s Veterans Day ceremony will feature retired Command Sgt. Maj. Ivanhoe Love, a Vietnam War veteran, as its keynote speaker on Tuesday.

Mike Morley, commander of VFW Post 9076 in Hays, said love is also the first Black Command Sergeant Major to serve as an instructor at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.

"He was wounded in Vietnam and received a Silver Star for his actions in combat. He is a phenomenal American who's got an incredible life story," Morely said.&nbsp;

The ceremony is set for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 2106 Vine St., and will include a free-will donation lunch with chicken fried chicken, potatoes and gravy, and vegetables. Morley said students from O’Loughlin Elementary School will start the program with the Pledge of Allegiance.

"This is one of the most patriotic communities I've ever lived in," he said.

The Silver Star is one of the nation’s highest military honors. After serving 28 years in the Army and retiring in 1990, Love pursued a career in public service in rural Kansas.

You can learn more about Love during the ceremony. Morley said the free event is open to the public, with a special invitation to fellow veterans.

"If the veterans of Ellis County can take an hour of their day to join us, we would love to have them. We like to recognize everybody, regardless of branch of service or time," he said.

Morley said this year’s event will not include the outdoor flag raising conducted in previous years. The nonprofit offers medical assistance and helps veterans file their VA claims. You can learn more <a href="https://www.vfw.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawN3GfFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFEQ3RzMEhzeXBPRjMyRmo1AR7qR4g62MePlcxYWDlrqFVuUoF8Myhfp4IE8-8lH5Q0TMhg-W6yY8tQEf5EVw_aem_VY0FNVEDm-btcxcbO4VxUA">here</a>.

Hays VFW to honor Vietnam War hero on Veterans Day

The Fort Hays State University Department of Music and Theatre will present William Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost” this November, offering audiences a lively, romantic comedy with a fresh 1960s twist.

Originally written in the 1590s and first performed for Queen Elizabeth I, “Love’s Labour’s Lost” follows a young king and his companions who swear off women for three years to devote themselves to study. Their vows are soon tested when the princess of France and her ladies arrive, turning scholarly discipline into comic chaos.

“Of course, they are pledged to celibacy and studying, but that quickly goes out the window,” said Catherine Trieschmann, FHSU Director of Theatre. “It’s a perfect setup for a romantic comedy.”

Trieschmann has adapted the play by condensing Shakespeare’s text and merging several characters, bringing the running time to about 90 minutes. Her creative decision to set the production in the 1960s highlights the play’s central tension between authority and liberation.

“The play is really about rule-bound authority versus freedom,” Trieschmann said. “I felt like the 1960s were the perfect era for those ideas to percolate.”

To prepare the cast to perform Shakespeare, Trieschmann invited Geoffrey Kent, a professional actor/director from Denver, to lead a Shakespeare boot camp. As one of the best interpreters of Shakespeare in the region, Kent’s guidance helped the student actors explore the language and rhythm of Shakespeare’s work in depth.

“He taught us how to tackle the text and all the resources available for understanding Shakespeare,” Trieschmann said. “It was fantastic.”

The cast of 16 features four Freshmen students in leading roles.

Cast members include (in order of appearance): Sam Schroeder, Karter Smith, Caleb Johnson, Alan Torres, Brett Dreher, Adrian Normandin, Tatum Sander, Holly Trullinger, MyKynlee Stecklein, Jordan Aschenbrenner, Lilly Kimberlin, Allie Straub, Victoria Villines, Addyson Brown, Maelin Johnson, Faith Woods, and Hannah Walker.

“It’s impressive to see how well the students are handling the text,” Trieschmann said. “The play is very funny, almost a farce.”

Vintage costuming from the 1960s, paired with a mid-century modern set designed by Joel Williams, will enhance the production's visual appeal. Live guitar and vocal music will round out the show.

“Love’s Labour’s Lost” will be performed Nov. 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m., and Nov. 16 at 2:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the FHSU Department of Music and Theatre at 785-628-4533 or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0WxBjuGF-2B1DvcDTJBcpJ2RZp0cDQ0xbFdsratANeozV60THO_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOOhX6YP3eyfykLTdaY-2FZnCFm5PDt2troY3beTArjXANkoZHf8z-2BThjdziJ-2FTMZTvWlAWZ0l0hUZz3cbqOqoNlohpho-2BUoZsAzV6Skns94hQrZnmUkJCdN9DNHNE4ov-2FGzhrhjTVTuyPz8va45GYKSTuIjSfucT54gtS1cOcZhaCyR3HnYejSbhMM0Uu0-2F9yfkLSU9wHbpxcogePVBf1i2qGAWbU0lt6jAbv25RYo9oxVT1e0KxFz7yuw7KUhlblB7">https://www.forthaysarts.com/</a>&nbsp;to purchase tickets.

FHSU Dept. of Music, Theatre brings Shakespeare’s 'Love’s Labour’s Lost' to stage

The Bricks in Downtown Hays is accepting entries for the 25th Annual FrostFest Parade, happening Sunday, December 7 at 6:00 p.m. on Main Street. This year’s illuminated parade celebrates the milestone anniversary with the nostalgic theme “Timeless Traditions.”

Businesses, organizations, families, and community groups are invited to take part by creating festive, lighted floats that bring to life the memories and traditions that have stood the test of time. From childhood Christmas moments to treasured family customs, each entry adds to the wonder and warmth of this beloved Hays holiday celebration.

“This year’s theme, Timeless Traditions, is all about honoring the memories that connect generations,” said Lee Ann June, Executive Director of The Bricks. “FrostFest has been a cherished part of Hays for 25 years — and we can’t wait to see how the community brings that magic to life.”

The parade is part of the Christmas Magic on Main Street season, which includes free family events, Santa visits, Clydesdale rides, and downtown festivities throughout November and December.

Entry is free, and all participants must register by Sunday, November 30 at downtownhays.com. Parade guidelines, lineup details, and route maps will be emailed to registrants prior to the event.

Come be part of a “Timeless Tradition” and help light up The Bricks for the 25th Annual FrostFest Parade — a celebration of community, nostalgia, and Christmas cheer!

About The Bricks / Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC)

The Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), also known as The Bricks, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the economic and cultural vibrancy of Downtown Hays. Through community events, business partnerships, and place-making initiatives, DHDC works to preserve our historic charm while fostering a thriving downtown for residents, visitors, and future generations.

Entries open for the 25th-annual FrostFest Parade

Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Erica Schmidt to senior manager of power supply and Zach Binder to manager of resource planning. Both bring extensive experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to Sunflower’s goal of supplying reliable, cost-effective wholesale power and powering the needs of its member cooperatives.

In her new role, Erica Schmidt provides strategic leadership and oversight for all power supply functions, including power contracts, resource planning, market operations, billing, and fuel procurement. She directs the activities of the power supply and contracts department to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and compliant operations that strengthen Sunflower’s resource adequacy and long-term energy strategy.

“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue serving an organization that’s filled with incredibly talented and knowledgeable employees,” Schmidt said. “I’ve been fortunate to learn from so many of my colleagues over the years, and I look forward to building on that foundation as we work together to support our members and strengthen our power supply strategy for the future.”

A native of Garden City, Schmidt holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Kansas State University and a master of business administration from Friends University. Since joining Sunflower in 2010, she has held roles in corporate services, supply chain, and power supply, most recently serving as manager of power contracts. She and her husband, Josh, reside in Garden City with their five children, Corbin, Peyton, Zoe, Addyson, and Mia.

Zach Binder was appointed to lead Sunflower’s resource planning, resource adequacy, and fuel procurement functions. In his new position, he will provide strategic leadership and technical expertise to ensure Sunflower’s generation resources are effectively planned to meet future power needs. His responsibilities include modeling long-term energy demand, maintaining accurate forecasts, and evaluating a range of solutions including energy efficiency programs, demand-side management, and renewable energy resources.

After joining Sunflower in 2018, he advanced to senior financial analyst in 2022, and later that same year became settlements supervisor, where he gained deeper involvement in power supply operations. His proven leadership and analytical expertise have prepared him well for this expanded role.

A native of Hays, Binder holds a bachelor of business administration from Fort Hays State University. He and his wife, Amber, reside in Hays with their children, Theron and Brixton.

“Erica and Zach have both demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to Sunflower’s mission,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s president and chief executive officer. “Their promotions reflect not only their achievements but also the confidence we have in their ability to guide our organization toward an even stronger, more reliable future.”

Sunflower Electric announces 2 promotions

<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 Morland Community Foundation, in conjunction with the city of Morland, is pleased to announce we are nearing completion of phase 1 at our Veterans' Memorial in the city park in Morland, Kansas.

This project began with an idea from Vietnam Veteran Sgt. Ray Toll. Ray served honorably in the central region of Vietnam until he was wounded by a sniper round while crossing a rice paddy.

Ray received a Purple Heart and was discharged shortly after. Ray has been the inspiration and driving force behind this project. He has never wavered in his dedication; the man simply has no "give up."

Our project has taken over three years to get to this point and will continue into the future.

Ray made a wooden model of this project and took it to multiple events to show the public what we were going to build.

He even utilized the help of his granddaughter, Winter, to help work the display stands and booths at local events to promote our project.

We have implemented a "buy a brick" program where anyone can purchase a brick and have a veteran's name, rank and place of service sandblasted into a brick, that brick will then be display on a raised platform in our park with other veterans.

We include current active-duty military members and veterans in our memorial. Anyone who served or is serving can have an honorable place in our memorial.

Our dedication ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11.

For more information or to purchase a brick, you can visit <a href="http://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans">www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/morlandveterans</a>.

🎙 Post Podcast: Meet new FHSU Rodeo head coach Trevor Meier

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate took the first step to end the government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">shutdown</a>&nbsp;on Sunday after a group of moderate Democrats agreed to proceed without a guaranteed extension of health care subsidies, angering many in their caucus who say Americans want them to continue the fight.

In a test vote that is the first in a series of required procedural maneuvers, the Senate voted 60-40 to move toward passing compromise legislation to fund the government and hold a later vote on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that expire Jan. 1. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted with the majority.

 Final passage could be several days away if Democrats object and delay the process.

The agreement does not guarantee the health care subsidies will be extended, as Democrats have demanded for almost six weeks. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York voted against moving ahead with the package, along with all but eight of his Democratic colleagues.

A group of three former governors — New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, New Hampshire Sen. Maggie Hassan and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine — broke the six-week stalemate on Sunday when they agreed to vote to advance three bipartisan annual spending bills and extend the rest of government funding until late January in exchange for a mid-December vote on extending the health care tax credits.

The agreement also includes a reversal of the mass firings of federal workers by the Trump administration since the shutdown began on Oct. 1 and would ensure that federal workers receive back pay.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune quickly endorsed the deal and called an immediate vote to begin the process of approving it as the shutdown continued to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-cancellations-government-shutdown-what-to-know-dea56ba97690b43397a96289f5f949e8">disrupt flights nationwide</a>, threaten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-government-shutdown-trump-4a6edf5a6dbdf18049f1585bf7b61687">food assistance</a>&nbsp;for millions of Americans and leave federal workers without pay.

“The time to act is now,” Thune said.

Returning to the White House on Sunday evening after attending a football game, President Donald Trump did not say whether he endorsed the deal. But he said, “It looks like we’re getting close to the shutdown ending.”

In addition to Shaheen, King and Hassan, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, home to tens of thousands of federal workers, also voted in favor of moving forward on the agreement. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the No. 2 Democrat, Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman and Nevada Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen also voted yes.

The moderates had expected a larger number of Democrats to vote with them as 10-12 Democratic senators had been part of the negotiations. But in the end, only five Democrats switched their votes — the exact number that Republicans needed. King, Cortez Masto and Fetterman had already been voting to open the government since Oct. 1.

The vote was temporarily delayed on Sunday evening as three conservatives who often criticize spending bills, Republican Sens. Mike Lee of Utah, Rick Scott of Florida and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, withheld their votes and huddled with Thune at the back of the chamber. They eventually voted yes after speaking to Trump, Lee said.

Another Republican, Sen John Cornyn of Texas, had to fly back from Texas to deliver the crucial 60th vote.

After Democrats met for over two hours to discuss the proposal, Schumer said he could not “in good faith” support it.

Schumer, who received blowback from his party in March when he voted to keep the government open, said that Democrats have now “sounded the alarm” on health care.

“We will not give up the fight,” he said.

Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who caucuses with the Democrats, said giving up the fight was a “horrific mistake.”

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., agreed, saying that in last week's elections people voted overwhelmingly Democratic “to urge Democrats to hold firm.”

Democrats had voted 14 times not to reopen the government as they demanded the extension of tax credits that make coverage more affordable under the Affordable Care Act. Republicans said they would not negotiate on health care, but GOP leaders have been quietly working with the group of moderates as the contours of an agreement began to emerge.

The agreement includes bipartisan bills worked out by the Senate Appropriations Committee to fund parts of government — food aid, veterans programs and the legislative branch, among other things. All other funding would be extended until the end of January, giving lawmakers more than two months to finish additional spending bills.

The deal would reinstate federal workers who had received reduction in force, or layoff, notices and reimburse states that spent their own funds to keep federal programs running during the shutdown. It would also protect against future reductions in force through January and guarantee federal workers would be paid once the shutdown is over.

House Democrats swiftly criticized the Senate.

Texas Rep. Greg Casar, the chairman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said a deal that doesn't reduce health care costs is a “betrayal” of millions of Americans who are counting on Democrats to fight.

“Accepting nothing but a pinky promise from Republicans isn’t a compromise — it’s capitulation,” Casar said in a post on X. "Millions of families would pay the price.”

Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota posted that “if people believe this is a ‘deal,’ I have a bridge to sell you.”

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries blamed Republicans and said Democrats will continue to fight.

“Donald Trump and the Republican Party own the toxic mess they have created in our country and the American people know it,” Jeffries said.

It's unclear whether the two parties would be able to find any common ground on the health care subsidies before a promised December vote in the Senate. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has said he will not commit to bring it up in his chamber.

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 also want new limits on who can receive the subsidies and argue that the tax dollars for the plans should be routed through individuals.

Other Republicans, including Trump, have used the debate to renew their yearslong criticism of the law and called for it to be scrapped or overhauled.

Meanwhile, the consequences of the shutdown have been compounding. U.S. airlines&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/thanksgiving-air-traffic-shutdown-delays-ae216380cdf694c518bd2a4b0830eaea">canceled more than 2,000 flights</a>&nbsp;on Sunday for the first time since the shutdown began, and there were more than 7,000 flight delays, according to FlightAware, a website that tracks air travel disruptions.

Treasury Secretary Sean Duffy said on CNN’s “State of the Union" that air travel ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday will be “reduced to a trickle” if the government doesn't reopen.

At the same time, food aid was delayed for tens of millions of people as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-how-it-works-cards-e061c2af0f3cc997b69a24296238783c">benefits</a>&nbsp;were caught up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-benefits-trump-administration-demands-undo-states-d433f20df4d461db506e0d327a58d3c1">legal battles</a>&nbsp;related to the shutdown.

And in Washington, home to tens of thousands of federal workers who have gone unpaid, the Capital Area Food Bank said it is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-washington-economy-trump-food-bank-0f54be181fcaca70161a12b869cb619b">providing 8 million more meals</a>&nbsp;ahead of the holidays than it had prepared for this budget year — a nearly 20% increase.

Associated Press writers Stephen Groves and Kevin Freking contributed to this report.

Moran, Marshall help Senate take first step to end gov't shutdown

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal hit-and-run that killed a KU student have&nbsp;

After an extensive investigation, which included examining evidence and responding to numerous tips from the public, on Sunday, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies located the suspected vehicle and driver involved in Thursday’s hit-and-run crash outside of Lawrence that killed 20-year-old University of Kansas student Elsa McGrain, according to sheriff's department spokesman Officer&nbsp;George Diepenbrock.

Elsa was struck and killed while running in the 1700 block of E 1500 Road, on November 6.&nbsp; After striking Elsa, the suspected driver left the scene. The Sheriff’s Office worked diligently on this case and has made an arrest, according to Diepenbrock.

Detectives are working with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office on charges in the case.

The Sheriff’s Office thanked area law enforcement agencies for their assistance in this investigation, as well as members of the community who responded with possible tips and shared information.

Sheriff: Driver arrested for hit-and-run that killed KU student

NEW YORK (AP) — Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz have been indicted on charges they took bribes from sports bettors to throw certain types of pitches, including tossing balls in the dirt instead of strikes, to ensure successful bets.

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