By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A new opportunity is coming to Hays with the debut of the Miss Fort Hays competition, inviting young women to showcase their talent and service on the path to becoming Miss Kansas.

The competition is a local pageant within the Miss America Organization, offering participants the opportunity to earn scholarships and potentially compete for the title of Miss America.

Director Sherelle Peterson brought the pageant to Hays after seeing her daughter’s rewarding experience competing in Miss Dodge City.

“I just absolutely loved how they were lifting girls up, building their self-esteem and helping them with their future endeavors.”

Contestants must be between 18 and 28 years old and have lived, worked or studied full-time in Kansas for at least 120 days. The registration deadline is Sunday, Nov. 2. You can find more information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.misskansas.org/become-a-miss-delegate">here</a>.

The pageant is set for 5 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Beach Schmidt Performing Arts Center,&nbsp;600 Park St., on the Fort Hays State University campus.

Peterson said the pageant focuses on education, community service and personal growth rather than appearance, with contestants evaluated across several categories by a panel of judges.

“We’re looking for girls who are committed to advancing their education and who want to give back to their communities," she said.

Categories include a personal interview with judges, on-stage questions, a talent or "her story" segment, an evening gown segment, and a health and fitness segment, replacing the traditional swimsuit competition.

This marks the first time a Miss America Organization competition has been conducted in Hays, offering contestants the chance to earn the titles of Miss Fort Hays and Miss Smoky Hills, who will both advance to compete for the title of Miss Kansas.

Peterson will handpick judges with expertise in the categories being evaluated. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $20 general admission, $10 for students and $30 for limited VIP seating.

You can also reach Peterson at sherelle81@gmail.com to purchase tickets in advance.

Miss Fort Hays to be crowned Nov. 8 at Beach Schmidt

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

Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas

Salina, Kan.&nbsp;— In this time of uncertainty for those impacted by the effects of the federal government shutdown, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas is reminding the community that help is available. Whether families are affected by the suspension of SNAP (food stamp) benefits or missing paychecks due to the ongoing shutdown, Catholic Charities remains a trusted and steady resource of hope across the region.

Serving 31 counties across north central and northwest Kansas, Catholic Charities provides compassionate assistance to anyone in need, regardless of faith or background.

“Our doors are open, our shelves are stocked, and our hearts are ready to serve,” said Megan Robl, Executive Director. “We are here to do what we’ve always done, which is help people in need. We never know what the future holds, but we know we serve an amazing region filled with compassionate people who step up time and time again to help their neighbors. As needs change, we’re confident our communities will respond with generosity as they always do. We anticipate an increased need, and we’re ready to do what it takes to ease the burden for those who are struggling.”

Catholic Charities offers a range of services to help income-eligible families meet basic needs, with eligibility based on income and current circumstances:

Eligibility has been temporarily extended to include federal employees who are not currently receiving pay. To ensure support reaches those most affected, staff will work with each individual to verify loss of income through documentation such as a pay stub showing $0 pay or an agency letter noting furlough or non-pay status.

In addition to its offices in Salina, Hays, and Manhattan, Catholic Charities’ three outreach vans travel to 29 rural communities each month to ensure resources reach families where they are. The November outreach schedule is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ccnks.org/outreach">www.ccnks.org/outreach</a>.

With the holidays approaching, Catholic Charities is enrolling families in its Christmas Assistance Program (Adopt-a-Family), which provides clothing, household items, and other essentials to families in need. More information is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ccnks.org/christmas-assistance">www.ccnks.org/christmas-assistance</a>.

For those experiencing emotional stress, licensed counselors at Catholic Charities are available to provide low-cost or no-cost mental health support. The agency also offers HOPE, a free, confidential emotional support chatbot, available 24/7 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ccnks.org/chatwithhope">www.ccnks.org/chatwithhope</a>.

Catholic Charities also operates thrift stores in Hays and Salina, which are open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds from thrift sales support local assistance programs and help sustain ongoing services.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ccnks.org/thriftstore">www.ccnks.org/thriftstore</a>

Community members wishing to help are encouraged to donate food and hygiene items at any Catholic Charities office. A list of most-needed items can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ccnks.org/inkind">www.ccnks.org/inkind</a>.

All three offices are equipped with freezers and refrigerators, allowing the organization to accept and distribute fresh and frozen food donations. “If you have fresh food you’d like to share, we’ll make sure it reaches those who need it most,” Robl added.

Financial donations are always welcome, too. Donate online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ccnks.org/donate">www.ccnks.org/donate</a>.

In uncertain times, Catholic Charities continues its mission of serving with compassion and hope. “Together,” Robl said, “we can ensure that no one faces hunger or hardship alone.”

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ccnks.org/">www.ccnks.org</a>&nbsp;or contact the nearest Catholic Charities office:

Catholic Charities: Standing ready to help families during times of uncertainty

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A committee has been formed to consider a policy for naming rights or sponsorships of Hays USD 489 facilities and events.

However, any recommendations from the committee will be put on hold until spring, after the winter sports season.

The school board heard a report on the committee's work at its work session on Monday.

The district formed the committee after Golden Belt Bank offered $200,000 for the naming rights for the new Hays High School football stadium.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/aefb9f40-2e86-4bb2-976e-2f731e7ce14f">The board voted to allow that offer to expire.</a>

The committee is made up of school board members, USD 489 staff and community members.

School board member Ruth Ruder said the committee is not in a rush, but she believes community members are interested in contributing money to the district for sponsorship opportunities.

At a previous school board meeting, board members discussed designating sponsorship funds to cover capital purchases, including the replacement of turf, which will be needed within the next eight years.

Although much of the initial focus was on athletic events and facilities, the board has also discussed sponsorships related to the arts, including a sponsorship of Hays High's new performing arts center.

The district has even been approached about sponsorships of individual classrooms, Ruder said.

School Board President Curt Vajnar said the committee members suggested contracts in the three- to five-year range and were not considering lifetime contracts.

School board member Derek Yarmer asked if the board would have the authority to refuse sponsors that members believed did not align with the district's mission.

Bill Jeter, the district's attorney, said accepting sponsorship contracts would be up to the discretion of the board.

Yarmer said, "I think it's good that we slowed it down. It might turn into something better."

Hays USD 489 school board to delay decision on facility sponsorships until spring

<a href="https://nwkeici.org/programs/housing/?utm_medium=email&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8O_Jy8Wdq8V24XPLIaw6PwWDd01g1h03i_LNtXO2hyuw4A1S6kEI7DfBm-oNVYM3kQZlMEg7S1WsyC8I10SayIPwgb0g&amp;_hsmi=16623429&amp;utm_content=16623429&amp;utm_source=hs_email">The Innovation Center is inviting communities across Northwest Kansas to take advantage of the Kansas Housing Cooperative Program, which offers thousands of dollars in forgivable loans to support the construction of new homes in eligible communities.&nbsp;</a>

The Kansas Housing Cooperative Program aims to increase new home construction in communities with 10,000 or fewer residents. By partnering with local lenders, state agencies, and community organizations, the program helps address housing shortages, support workforce retention, and strengthen rural communities across Northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

To qualify for the forgivable loan program:

Funding partners: State of Kansas, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, and local match contributions.&nbsp;

This program is open to all 26 counties in Northwest Kansas.

While 21 families have already benefited since the program’s launch in 2024, there is still funding available. The Innovation Center is encouraging families, communities, and developers from counties that have not yet submitted a funding request to apply.

Counties encouraged to apply include: Cheyenne, Cloud, Ellsworth, Graham, Lincoln, Logan, Ottawa, Rawlins, Republic, Russell, Saline, Sherman, Smith, and Thomas.&nbsp;

Whether you're a&nbsp;community member, developer, or local leader in our 26-county service area, now is the time to create new housing opportunities where they’re needed most.

Get in touch with our housing team or click below to explore program details:

Funding available for new housing in Northwest Kansas

<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

🏈🎥 Monarchs host Valley Heights in 1A playoff opener

#5 (5) Hays High (6-2) vs (12) Eisenhower (2-6) Thursday, Oct. 30 - 7 p.m. Hays, 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/2975275">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a>

Hays High opens postseason play as the five seed in 5A West. The Indians host the twelve seed, Eisenhower Tigers. The game will be the first postseason game that Hays High has ever hosted at their own facility which opened in August.

This the sixth all-time meeting between the two. All but one of the previous five games have been in an elimination format.

Kickoff is at 7
p.m. with the Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show at 6:30 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX. Video is available at the above link.

🏈🎥 Hays High opens postseason with Eisenhower

An analysis of court records has revealed Hays City Commission candidate David Koshiol has a past criminal record and an eviction.

Most of Koshiol's charges stem from incidents at least 10 years ago.

The most serious charge was an arrest for aggravated assault in 2012 involving a knife. That case was dismissed with prejudice, according to court records.

Koshiol pleaded guilty to felony theft in 2008 based on an incident in 2005.&nbsp;

Koshiol, 39, would have been about 19 at the time. Koshiol explained in his interview with the Hays Post on his candidacy that he had a difficult childhood, having been raised in the foster care system.

He said in that interview, "I was nudged by others into running for city commission because of my background, my connections to the blue-collar community in Hays and how outspoken I am on issues I feel passionately about."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4def5769-8a0a-4860-ab53-557afac250b3">You can read the full interview here.</a>

However,&nbsp;Koshiol did not disclose his criminal record in that interview or publicly during his campaign.

In 2008,&nbsp;Koshiol pleaded guilty to use or possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of stolen property, both misdemeanors. A charge of misdemeanor possession of drugs was dismissed, according to court records.

Koshiol has an eviction on his record from the same time period.

The Hays Post contacted&nbsp;Koshiol about the criminal convictions and eviction.

The Post asked him if, based on his criminal and court record, he would be able to&nbsp; • Fairly handle the Hays Police Department budget, and hiring and firing of the police chief&nbsp; • Manage city funds and budgets • Fairly address landlord/tenant regulations, as well as decisions involving housing developments

Although Koshiol initially began to answer these questions, he then said he wanted to retract all of his statements and refused to comment.

He said he did not want to be part of a smear campaign of a "liberal rag."

Felony convictions would not prevent Koshiol from winning and taking a seat on the city commission.

He is not the only one on the ballot who has had legal issues.

Candidate Samuel Allen was&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e91cd79-cb0f-4efc-a6f1-2dc8ddbbe8d9">arrested on a charge of alleged blackmail</a>&nbsp;in July. His name remains on the ballot.

The Hays Post performed a records search of all other Hays City Commission and USD 489 school board candidates. No other candidates had felony convictions or any pending criminal charges based on a search of Kansas District Court records.

Early voting is ongoing. The deadline to vote early at the Ellis County Administration Center is noon on Monday.&nbsp; For voter convenience, early voting will also be available from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday at the administration center.

Election Day is Tuesday, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">Click here to find your polling location.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c8c70bac-418f-48da-b782-1227df9845ef">You can find links to interviews with all the candidates running in the Hays City Commission and Hays USD 489 school board races here.</a>

Records show Hays City Commission candidate Koshiol has criminal record

&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

TOPEKA –&nbsp;With just a few safety steps, you can&nbsp;prevent children from going bump in the night&nbsp;to ensure a happy Halloween. Injuries can be scary, but the good news is they are preventable. Safe Kids Kansas, the Kansas Poison Center and the Kansas State Fire Marshal remind families to make safety part of your fall festivity planning.

Child pedestrian injuries are more likely on Halloween than on any other night of the year. Drivers need to slow down and be extra alert, especially in neighborhoods, as more children will be on the streets and sidewalks. Kids may be focused on gathering candy and the excitement of the holiday rather than being careful while crossing streets.

Review safety rules with your kids before they leave the house. Children younger than age 12 should not cross streets on Halloween without an adult or responsible teenager. If your children are mature enough to be out without supervision, make sure they keep to familiar areas that are well-lit, stick to a pre-planned route and trick-or-treat in groups. Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency but pay attention to your surroundings and don’t be distracted by texting or talking on the phone.

“On Halloween night, it’s important to see and be seen,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, Safe Kids Kansas, said.&nbsp;“Carry a flashlight and have your trick-or-treaters wear reflective tape or stickers on costumes and treat bags.”

Remind children to be careful with candy. It’s hard to resist the temptation to dive right into treats, but it is best to check sweets before children are allowed to eat them. Only eat treats in original and unopened wrappers. Also, be aware that kids are in a candy-seeking mode, so keep medicine locked up and away and keep the Poison Help number programmed into your phone: 1-800-222-1222.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of home structure fires happened because decorations were too close to a heat source. Most of these incidents were started by candles. Play it safe and use battery-powered candles or lights. Remember to ensure your family has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, both inside and outside of every sleeping area.

“Our goal is to keep every trick-or-treater safe this Halloween,”&nbsp;Mark Engholm, Kansas Fire Marshal, said. “Use battery-powered candles, watch for trip hazards and remind kids to stay alert and visible while out collecting treats.”

With Halloween just a week away, follow these tips to ensure everyone has a fun and safe holiday:

For more tips on how to keep kids safe on Halloween and throughout the year, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.safekids.org%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019a1282ee89-37c20cce-3f1b-48a1-8db9-6e012cb0211e-000000/XRNeYfj3imV-Ta3PK4YZGZsTBCVC6a70L_ogDO_R1ss=428">safekids.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Protect your children from scary boo-boos this holiday

Donation accepted through Friday for annual Hays Coat Drive 

Catholic Charities: Fill the freezer, shopping list to stock pantry

Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 2, and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they&nbsp;turn their clocks back to make sure the devices are working.

“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”

This year, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help over 500 people in Greater Kansas affected by 150 home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.

SMOKE ALARMS&nbsp;When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy01uwyAQxfHTwA6Lj2FgFiyyyTUiDOMExa5TsGr19lWibn_v_WvSniEXyckENNEZi1E-EluKAdgCksvgWZvqiZwHjORCqLIlJO2QvPcFEW8GLPKiPXhycRagR6v8bN9qy23lPhTWuMwVAoGK6-vrOb0HuabHcbyEuwh7FfZ6nufUuZa-jzHt_S7sdWmd5ca1ZdV55TxYtZo-cPsH4S4mQLBG9vTIv-O1j0OA5nxf-XOcyr7JcXTm7R3XOersi1PMpBUQZjXTgsrPBawl0nrR8ifZvwAAAP__F2xV-w">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyzuu6yAUheHRQIfF-1FQpMk0og1sYhQc-4LviTL7o0Sn_db6S-QGNWSKUTgrvBLSerpGHaAIUBoVcuuAO2Or4U5gwpR9qrRFG7iywRiTrbU3oaXFyo02QflENJ-t4KP9Yxu0jmMyW3xNRbugme_H87F8Btrjep7HJOpC5JXI6-v1WgaWPPY5l33cibzW9izsvf8frO8ZOssrHCeOZT23TjcsDdjAjjCRtRK_cPsDoi7CaScFHXGF9zz2eRLNEe4dv8cl7xud50DcPnFJnoPJiiEGznSwwFKolpmUtZQhcF45_YnyNwAA__8chmDt">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES&nbsp;Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners,&nbsp;has saved at least&nbsp;2,284&nbsp;lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0uO6yAQheHVwAyLVxXUgEEm1t1FhKGcoNjXabA66t23EvX0O-evSQP7XCQnE9BEZyxGeU-oIazksiuwkIm5Og7oNcOKgSmDbAlJOyQAKIh4Nd4irxo8kIuL8Hq0yo_2pfbcNu5DYY3rUn0gr-L2_P-Y3oPc0v08n8JdhJ2FnV-v19S5ln6MMR39Juz879h5bp2H3Lm2rDpvnAerVtMHrn8g3MUEH6yRPd3zz3ge4xRec75t_DlO5djlODvz_o7rEnWG4hQzaeUJs1poRQVL8dYSab1q-Z3sbwAAAP__vqlYtw">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS PARTNER&nbsp;State Farm®&nbsp;is the National Sound the Alarm Sponsor. Their funding helps our efforts to build safer, stronger, better-educated communities. For decades, State Farm has teamed up with the Red Cross in support of home safety, disaster preparedness and relief efforts. State Farm is committed to helping individuals and families manage everyday risks like home fires by sponsoring Sound the Alarm.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8tuwyAQheGngR0Wl2HMLFhkk9eIuIwTFLtOwarVt68Sdfud89eoPUMqkqOZ0QRnLAb5iESccwnJ-GCqReJQasrsZwcZTM6yRSTtkLz3BRFvBizyoj14ciEL0KNVfrZvtaW2ch8Ka1hyhZlAhfX19Zzeg1zj4zhewl2EvQp7Pc9z6lxL38eY9n6XG9eWVOeV02DVavzA7R-Eu5gZZmtkj4_0O177OARoTveVP8ep7JscR2fe3nHNQSdfnGImrYAwqUwLKp8LWEuk9aLlT7R_AQAA__84iFVK">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy7Fy6yAQheGngQ7NAssCBYUbv4YHwcrmWrpyQIknefqMPWm_c_6awDHmIjlpTzpYbSjIWwIC69zMOhiwuFR0uWhvPPjijdVetkQRLEXnXCGii0ZDvIBDF22YBcJole_tQ225rdyHohqWuaKPqML6-H-fXoNc0-04HsKehDkLc34-n1PnWvo-xrT3qzDn0j9_VN__ZblxbVl1XjkPVq2mN1z-QNiT9uiNlj3d8vd47OMQCJyvK7-PU9k3OY7OvL3iOgfIrljFHEFhpKzmuJByc0FjYgRYQH4l8xsAAP__88tX8Q">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

Red Cross asks you to test smoke alarms as clocks turn back this weekend

Looking for a fun, safe, and family-friendly place to trick or treat? Join us at North Oak Community Church from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 31.&nbsp;

Bring your family for an evening full of decorated trunks, carnival games, a free meal, and LOTS of candy! 

We’re also collecting non-perishable food items for our North Oak Food Pantry. If you’re able, bring a few items to donate and help us bless families in our community this season.

It’s a great way to celebrate together in a safe and encouraging environment — we’d love to see you there!

Trunk or Treat at North Oak Community Church on Halloween

GRAINFIELD — Grainfield Supply Inc. is celebrating 80 years of business on November 7, 2025! We invite the public to come celebrate with us in appreciation for your patronage.

Factory rep presentations and prize drawings throughout the day. Serving lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 4649 Old Hwy 40, Grainfield.

Grainfield Supply to celebrate 80 years of business 

MANHATTAN — Halloween's tricks and treats can be frighteningly risky for pets, but a few simple precautions can keep them safe during the holiday festivities.

"There are many hazards associated with Halloween," said Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian in the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center</a>. "From candy and costumes to spooky decorations, these things can pose real dangers to our pets. By planning ahead, we can help them stay safe and stress-free."

Keep candy and other spooky treats out of reach

Nelson encourages pet owners to keep all candy out of reach. Chocolate, xylitol and other artificial sweeteners, raisins, and certain nuts can be toxic to pets or cause gastrointestinal blockages and injuries.

Moldy pumpkins should be discarded promptly to prevent pets from eating them and becoming ill.

Keep pets away from electrical cords,&nbsp;<a>candles</a>&nbsp;and decorations — like glow sticks — to prevent injuries or accidental ingestion.

Costumes can also pose hazards. Nelson suggests choosing pet-friendly outfits that avoid small or loose decorations that could be swallowed and cause obstructions."

Owners should try costumes on their pets in advance," she said. "If a costume makes them stressed or restricts their ability to see, hear, smell or breathe, it should be skipped altogether. Consider opting for a simple Halloween-themed bandana instead. This is a fun and safe alternative."

Pets may become frightened by even their own family members in costume. To help them feel at ease, consider letting the pets see and smell the costume in advance.

Consider your pet's needs during trick-or-treating time

Keeping pets calm during trick-or-treating is also important. If your pet becomes anxious with strangers, children in costumes or frequent doorbell sounds, secure them in a quiet room.

Consider greeting trick-or-treaters at the end of the driveway — weather permitting — or temporarily disconnecting the doorbell to avoid constant ringing. Keep pets indoors on Halloween night, especially black cats, which can be targeted for pranks.

Owners should also ensure that pets wear ID tags or have a microchip, ideally with a reflective collar, Nelson said."

Halloween should be fun for the whole family — including pets," Nelson said. "A little extra caution can help prevent an emergency and make the holiday more enjoyable for everyone."

If you suspect your pet has ingested something dangerous, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for guidance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prevent Halloween pet scares with these tips from a K-State veterinarian

LENORA —&nbsp;Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Janette Meis as its new Executive Director. Meis brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and youth programming, with a career dedicated to advancing opportunities for young people and strengthening Kansas communities.

Prior to joining Nex-Generation, Meis spent 10 years at Fort Hays State University, including two and a half years with the FHSU Alumni Association and the remainder as Communications Specialist in the Office of the President. Before her time at the university, she served 15 years as the State Director for Kansas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), where she led statewide efforts supporting volunteers who advocate for children in the foster care system.

“I’m thrilled to join an organization that’s making such a tangible difference in the lives of rural youth,” said Meis. “Nex-Generation’s programs open doors for young people to explore careers, build real-world skills, and envision a future right here in Northwest and North Central Kansas. I’m excited to help strengthen and grow those opportunities.”

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth continues to invest in the region’s future leaders through a variety of educational and career-based programs:

· Internship/Work Study Programs: Connecting high school and college students with local businesses to gain hands-on career experience. Business applications to host interns are currently open until December 1.

· Life$kills: In-person Interactive classroom sessions that teach students essential financial literacy and personal development skills. The deadline to apply is November 21.

· Virtual Career Fairs: Engaging online events that introduce students to regional employers and career pathways. Deadline for participating is October 30.

· Young AmeriTowne of Kansas: A hands-on learning experience designed for 4th – 8th grades, where students operate a simulated town, learning about entrepreneurship, civics, and economics. School enrollment deadline for Young AmeriTowne is October 31. To enroll go to: <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne">www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne</a>

Starting in 2013, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing and retaining youth for future careers in the 28 counties of Northwest and North Central. Through career exploration, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs, the organization helps young people envision their future close to home.

For more information about Nex-Generation’s programs or to apply/enroll in one of our programs, visit <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/">www.nex-generation.org</a> or contact Janette Meis at jmeis@nex-generation.org.

Nex-Generation round up for youth welcomes new executive director

Wednesday, Oct. 29 Annual Fort Hays State University Agriculture Department Halloween Hoedown Trunk or Treat, 4 to 6 p.m., University Farm, Andrew D. Riegel Building. Free.

Trunk or Treat, 5:30 to 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 305 W. Seventh St. Free.

Thursday, Oct. 30 Sternberg Museum: Monster Mash, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.,&nbsp;3000 Sternberg Drive. $10 general admission, $8 for members, and children 2 and younger are free.

Friday, Oct. 31 Trick or Treat on the Bricks, 3 to 5 p.m., Main Street. Free.

Trick or Treating at The Northridge Plaza, 3 to 5 p.m., North Ridge Plaza.

Trick or Treat on the Bricks at Hays Public Library, 3 to 5 p.m.,&nbsp;1205 Main St.

Trick-R-Treating at Big Creek Crossing, 3 to 5 p.m., 2918 Vine St.&nbsp;

Trick or Treat at Centennial Towers, 3 to 7 p.m., 2502 Sherman Ave.

Trunk or Treat at North Oak Community Church, 5:30 to 7 p.m., 3000 Oak St.

Paisley Pear hosts: Dancin' Stew, 8 to 10 p.m.,&nbsp;1100 Main St.

Halloween events in Hays, starting tonight

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 44-year-old&nbsp;Terrell Bullock, according to KCPD&nbsp;Captain Jake Becchina.

Just before 12:30p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a shooting at a residence in the 3000 block of Bellefontaine in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Becchina.

Officers were led inside the residence where they located Bullock unresponsive. Officers called for EMS who responded to the scene and transported him to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information indicates the shooting appears to have taken place inside or near the front of the residence there. There is no known suspect information at this time, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

Police ID 44-year-old homicide victim found near front of KC home

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/lisa-mascaro">LISA MASCARO</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is calling on the Senate to scrap the filibuster, so that the Republican majority can bypass Democrats and reopen the federal government.

“THE CHOICE IS CLEAR — INITIATE THE ‘NUCLEAR OPTION,’ GET RID OF THE FILIBUSTER,” Trump posted Thursday night on his social media site, Truth Social.

The filibuster is a long-standing tactic in the Senate to delay or block votes on legislation by keeping the debate running. It requires 60 votes in a full Senate to overcome a filibuster, giving Democrats a check on the 53-seat Republican majority that led to the start of the Oct. 1 shutdown when the new fiscal year began.

Trump's call to terminate the filibuster could alter the ways the Senate and congressional dealmaking operate, with the president saying in his post that he gave a “great deal” of thought to the choice on his flight back from Asia on Thursday.

Trump spent the past week with foreign leaders in Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, finishing his tour by meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The president declared the trip a success because of a trade truce with China and foreign investment planned for American industries, but he said one question kept coming up during his time there about why did “powerful Republicans allow” the Democrats to shut down parts of the government.

His call to end the filibuster came at a moment when certain senators and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;believed it was time for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;to come to an end. It's unclear if lawmakers will follow Trump's lead, rather than finding ways to negotiate with Democrats.

From coast to coast,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/troop-pay-shutdown-military-congress-trump-961b81b2990ac1bd03041e5586028764">fallout</a>&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/telehealth-virtual-medicare-government-shutdown-congress-37a4aaa97ed4ed2e81330eda0d8eb908">dysfunction of a shuttered federal government</a>&nbsp;is hitting home: Alaskans are stockpiling moose, caribou and fish for winter, even before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-aid-ruling-shutdown-trump-09f9807264385f0beab61a68dcbbdd66">SNAP food aid is scheduled to shut off</a>. Mainers are filling up their home-heating oil tanks, but waiting on the federal subsidies that are nowhere in sight.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-delays-shutdown-air-traffic-controllers-9e1c68b03060c6a694e193d272632fef">Flights are being delayed</a>&nbsp;with holiday travel around the corner. Workers are going without paychecks. And Americans are getting a first glimpse of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-shutdown-health-care-insurance-costs-trump-f0282a0f5bedf3f01172ed3fa0ba4fd2">skyrocketing health care insurance costs</a>&nbsp;that are at the center of the stalemate on Capitol Hill.

“People are stressing,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, as food options in her state grow scarce.

“We are well past time to have this behind us.”

While quiet talks are underway, particularly among bipartisan senators, the shutdown is not expected to end before Saturday's deadline when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-states-help-a5ab631a93a6d8087a4448117f026fb7">Americans' deep food insecurity</a>&nbsp;— one in eight people depend on the government to have enough to eat — could become starkly apparent if federal SNAP funds run dry.

The White House has moved money around to ensure the military is paid, but refuses to tap funds for food aid. In fact, Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-republican-trump-tax-bill-f65be44e1050431a601320197322551b">“big, beautiful bill”</a>&nbsp;signed into law this summer, delivered the most substantial cut ever to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-stamps-snap-states-trump-2c604216d26a9edf84fe502136be6d6f">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, known as SNAP, projected to result in some 2.4 million people off the program.

At the same time, many Americans who purchase their own health insurance through the federal and state marketplaces, with open enrollment also beginning Saturday, are experiencing sticker shock as premium prices jump.

“We are holding food over the heads of poor people so that we can take away their health care,” said Rev. Ryan Stoess, during a prayer with religious leaders at the U.S. Capitol.

“God help us,” he said, “when the cruelty is the point.”

The House remains closed down under Johnson for the past month. Senators are preparing to depart Thursday for the long weekend. Trump returns late Thursday after a whirlwind tour of Asia.

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