By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Thomas More Prep-Marian outperformed statewide averages in graduation rates and state assessments for the 2024-25 school year.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16dJMkcHHA/">TMP-Marian highlighted its strong academic achievement</a>, with students scoring above Kansas state averages in the top two performance levels for the following subjects:

• Math: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 38% (state average) • English Language Arts: 58% (TMP-Marian) vs. 42% (state average) • Science: 59% (TMP-Marian) vs. 39% (state average)

TMP-Marian Principal Chad Meitner said teachers are intentional about aligning lessons with state standards and about teaching the material they will be tested on.

"We've got some small class sizes, so we're able to really work with kids individually. I think that definitely goes into one of the secrets of our success," he said.

The Kansas State Department of Education recognized the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Salina through the Kansans Can STAR Recognition Program for their outstanding student achievement.

TMP-Marian and Holy Family Elementary operate under the auspices of the Diocese of Salina.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17EqxyzwN7/" target="_blank">According to Salina Diocese Catholic Schools</a>, they received a gold star for their high school graduation rate, a gold star for their postsecondary success rate, and a silver star for the number of students they academically prepared for college or other postsecondary pathways.

The latest report on postsecondary success for the Salina Catholic Diocese is from 2019 to 2023. In 2023, the graduation rate was 90.5%, the success rate was 79.1% and the effective rate was 71.6%.

The state department of education considers post-secondary success based on a student meeting one of the following criteria:

1.&nbsp;Earned an approved certification during high school 2.&nbsp;Attained a postsecondary certificate 3.&nbsp;Obtained a postsecondary degree 4.&nbsp;Enrolled in postsecondary education in both the first and second years after high school graduation 5.&nbsp;Student with disabilities who met the district graduation requirements for a diploma but remained in school to receive transitional services

The 2024 graduation rate for TMP-Marian is 97.2%, above the state's average of 89.5% for the same year.

The state department of education also issued its 2024-2025 school-year performance report card for students at TMP-Marian and statewide. The report shows test scores for math, English language arts and science.

The Kansas assessment results are reported across four levels.

Level one indicates a student shows a limited ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skills of the grade-level subject standards. Level two shows a basic ability to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject, level three shows a proficient ability, and level four shows an advanced ability, according to the state department of education.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/be1ecb7f-dc52-4c44-aff4-c1ad39716611">The Kansas Department of Education has announced these levels will be changed in the coming years to reflect student achievement better.</a>

In math, 11.32% of TMP-Marian students in sixth through 12th grades have a limited ability to understand. According to the test scores, 31.44% of students have a basic understanding, 50.94% show an effective ability to understand and 6.28% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.

The statewide performance for math in the same grade levels consists of 28.71% of students showing limited ability, 32.54% having a basic understanding, 27.82% having an effective ability to understand and 10.91% having an excellent understanding.

7.54% of students show limited ability to understand English, 34.59% have a basic understanding, 45.28% show an effective ability to understand and 12.57% demonstrated an excellent understanding of English.

The statewide performance for English in the same grade levels consists of 28.36% of students showing limited ability, 27.15% having a basic understanding, 34.79% having an effective ability to understand and 9.68% having an excellent understanding.

15.9% of students show limited ability to understand science, 25% having a basic understanding, 27.27% show an effective ability to understand and 31.81% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of science.

The statewide performance for science in the same grade levels consists of 29.52% of students showing limited ability, 29.02% having a basic understanding, 25.98% having an effective ability to understand and 15.46% having an excellent understanding.

Meitner said the school’s Catholic faith helps shape a culture of discipline, respect and resilience,&nbsp;which he attributes to student performance.

"It starts with the early grades. A lot of our students come from Holy Family Elementary. ... I think there's some consistency in that curriculum," he said.

Holy Family Elementary’s academic performance also ranks above the state average in math, English language arts and science. Holy Family Principal Megan Meagher said teachers and curriculum are credited for meeting students' needs.

"We help prepare our students all the way from the time they're at Holy Family through TMP to be academically successful in postsecondary education," Meagher said.

1.72% of students between pre-kingergarten to fifth grade fall under having limited ability to understand, 23.27% of students have a basic understanding, 48.27% show an effective ability to understand and 26.72% have demonstrated an excellent understanding of math.

6.89% of students in the same grade fall under having limited ability to understand English language arts, 13.79% of students have a basic understanding, 60.34% show an effective ability to understand and 18.96% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.

4.76% of students fall under having limited ability to understand science, 28.57% of students have a basic understanding, 40.47% show an effective ability to understand and 26.19% have demonstrated an excellent understanding.

Despite the strong performance, Meagher said the school continues to look for ways to improve student education through academics and faith.

"There's always room for growth. We always hope to continue to strengthen those scores," she said.

TMP-Marian, Holy Family Elementary exceeds state test score averages 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations.

Just before 3p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for violating a protection order and stalking in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 26-year-old woman was listed as the victim. 

Just after 4p.m. , police arrested Alfred Walls, 29, of Ellis, in Manhattan. Walls is being held on a $6,000 bond on requested charges of&nbsp; violating a protection order and stalking. Walls has two previous drug related convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Ellis man with history of crime jailed on new allegations 

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

US crude-oil production exceeded 13.6 million barrels a day in each of the four weekly government reports this month including a new all-time high this week.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reports average crude production of 13,644,000 barrels per day, up 15,000 from a week ago, and 8,000 barrels a day higher than the previous record high set just two weeks ago.

Crude oil imports fell last week by nearly a million barrels a day to just over five million. The four-week average is down more than five percent from a year ago. Crude exports rose slightly from last week to top four-thousand barrels a day for the third straight week.

Strategic crude inventories now trail commercial inventories by just under seven million barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports the Strategic Petroleum Reserves rose half a million barrels to just over 409 million.

Commercial stockpiles are down 6.9 million barrels this week. EIA says commercial inventories are about six percent below the five year average for this time of year.

Crude prices cap off four straight daily gains with a cumulative weekly loss of nearly a dollar. Near-month NYMEX crude ends the week Friday two pennies shy of $61 a barrel, then shied away even further on Monday. Brent crude in London drops under $65 a barrel as of Monday midday.

Kansas prices end the month of October a few cents higher. Kansas Common starts the month of November at fifty-one twenty-five ($51.25) per barrel. The average price for October is a dollar less than that. Prices at CHS in McPherson are down from $52 at the first of the month and $62 at the first of the year.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down four at 546 active rigs. Louisiana, New Mexico and North Dakota were each up one, while the tallies in Texas, Wyoming and Colorado were each down one. The breakout for oil rigs is down six, and the count for horizontal rigs is down seven rigs.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down four active rigs in eastern Kansas and down three more West of Wichita for a total of 12 active rigs. The report shows an increase of five "cold-stacked rigs" from a week ago, a total that has held steady since March. Total active rigs are down 20 percent from a month ago and nearly 65 percent from a year ago. The number of active, licensed operators who have drilled a well in Kansas is now 169, down from 230 a year ago.

Kansas regulators okay eleven new drilling locations statewide, 563 so far this year, compared to 918 a year ago. Eight are west of Wichita including one in Finney County.

Operators completed 17 wells this week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 952 well-completions so far this year, compared to nearly 11-hundred a year ago.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 51 new intent-to-drill notices in October, That's 647 so far this year, compared to over a thousand through October last year, and more than 11-hundred through the first ten months of 2023. A search of the KCC Web site returns two new intents in Ellis County, two in Finney County, and one in Russell County.New US sanctions are having a Big impact on Big Russian oil.&nbsp; Russia's second-largest crude-oil producer announced it would sell its international assets in response to sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump. Lukoil accounts for around two percent of global oil output, and has stakes in oil and gas projects in 11 countries. It has refineries in Bulgaria and Romania and a 45 percent stake in a refinery in the Netherlands. The company said in a statement that it was already talking with potential buyers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. sanctions prompt Russian asset sales

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/449cf648-9979-4a89-afa4-5de716b9cce5">Reese Barrick</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2d626291-1371-4f36-941e-3895a7fe078e">Candace (CJ) Hathaway</a>

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<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4def5769-8a0a-4860-ab53-557afac250b3">David Koshiol</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"></a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/49060a66-e8fc-4755-a296-382a14c00a3d"> Shaun Musil</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e243ec1-847a-40f8-a7dd-665ffe2f85de">David Vilaysing</a>

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<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8ce0d386-aba6-4c42-b880-1307752c8220">Ken Brooks</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/66f0b3ef-9525-40e2-a3f2-f74e9deebb43">Craig Pallister</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/199257e6-fc97-4089-8a4c-67a87d3422f8">Curt Vajnar</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2ee48f5-7f38-411d-9ce5-39114ebdf54b">Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp</a>

Q&A's for Hays City Commission, Hays USD 489 candidates; Election Day Tuesday

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

Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau received a first place Marketing Award for Digital/Online Media at last week’s Kansas Tourism Conference in Manhattan, KS.

The Marketing Awards are presented at the Kansas Tourism Conference each year by the Travel Industry Association of Kansas (TIAK) to honor the most creative and effective tourism marketing efforts across the state. Open exclusively to TIAK members, the awards recognize outstanding campaigns that promote destinations, events, and attractions in impactful ways.

The Hays CVB won for its dynamic e-newsletter, designed by Marketing Manager, Kyrsten Feik. The e-newsletter is sent out via email to over 4,450 recipients that include both locals and visitors.

The monthly communication focuses on upcoming events and activities happening in Hays, presented with eye-catching graphics and colorful photos. Anyone may sign up for the e-newsletter by going to the CVB’s website <a href="http://VisitHays.com">VisitHays.com</a>, clicking on “About Us,” then “E-newsletter Sign Up.”

The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau is located in the Hays Welcome Center at 2700 Vine St. For additional information on CVB efforts or community events, call 785-628-8202 or go to <a href="http://VisitHays.com">VisitHays.com</a>.

Hays CVB receives marketing award at state conference

WAKEENEY–Western Cooperative Electric is pleased to announce the appointment of Hale Sloan as the newest member of its Board of Trustees representing District 2.

A native of western Kansas, Sloan grew up in Sharon Springs in Wallace County and brings a deep appreciation for rural values, community service, and the cooperative spirit. He earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Biological Systems Engineering from Kansas State University, where he also minored in economics and completed part of his graduate studies in France at E.I. Purpan.

Sloan is a licensed professional civil engineer and the owner of a civil engineering firm in Hays, Kansas. Alongside his professional work, he is an active community volunteer and leader. His service includes the Hays Noon Rotary Club—where he was past president and received the Outstanding Club Service Award—board service with the Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C, and leadership in the Methodist Church in Hays. He also co-founded and currently serves as president of a 501(c)(3) foundation supporting the Kansas State University Rugby Club.

Sloan and his wife, Jenna, are raising their three children in Hays. When he’s not at his firm or volunteering, he enjoys farming and ranching with his family.

“We are excited to welcome Hale to the board,” said Nolan Numrich, CEO/General Manager of Western Cooperative Electric. “His engineering expertise, business experience, and strong sense of service make him an outstanding addition to our cooperative board.”

Western Cooperative Electric looks forward to the insight, innovation, and commitment Hale will bring as he helps guide the cooperative into the future. For additional information regarding opportunities to serve on Western’s Board, contact Nolan Numrich at 785-743-5561 or via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nolann@westerncooperative.com">nolann@westerncooperative.com</a>.

Western Electric welcomes new District 2 trustee, Hale Sloan

The Bricks in Downtown Hays is now accepting applications for its Board of Directors, with terms beginning in January 2026.

The Bricks Board provides strategic leadership, oversight, and governance to ensure the organization continues advancing its mission: to enhance the economic and cultural vibrancy of Downtown Hays as the heart of our community. Board members play a key role in shaping policy, guiding initiatives, and supporting the long-term vision for Downtown Hays

Prospective candidates must be residents of Hays and willing to serve a three-year term. While downtown business and property owners are encouraged to apply, it is not a requirement. Board members meet at least once a month, typically on the third Wednesday at 11:45 a.m., and are also asked to serve on committees that meet as needed.

Ideal candidates are individuals who value community development, collaboration, and creative problem solving, and who are willing to contribute their time, expertise, and resources to the success of The Bricks.

Applications are available online at <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/staff-and-board">www.downtownhays.com/staff-and-board</a>,&nbsp;at The Bricks office located at 1200 Main Street, Suite 102, or by calling 785-621-4171 to request a copy via email. The deadline to apply is November 18, 2025.

For more information or questions about board service, please contact The Bricks at 785-621-4171.

Bricks in Downtown Hays accepting applications for Board of Directors 

<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

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Over the past several decades, researchers across the country have recognized the strong correlation between parents’ and caregivers’ educational attainment and children’s educational outcomes. We know that families thrive when they learn together

Back in 1994, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) worked with Congress to designate November 1 as National Family Literacy Day®. Each year for the past 29 years, we have joined libraries, schools, and educational programs across the country to celebrate National Family Literacy Month throughout each November

Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success in school. Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bedtime. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important.

Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. Exposing children to books from birth or even prenatally is a great way to aid their development. Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills. Fine motor skills are important to develop now so when they get to school they can hold pencils, crayons, and scissors

While libraries are great and offer many programs to get children involved with books and reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building a library at home as well. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents. Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child every month from birth to age five. They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are age appropriate also. The program is available both in Ellis and Barton County. Contact information is below.

Contact: Ken Marston Phone: 620-792-2409 Fax: Email: kmarston@greatbendpl.info

Contact: Brenda Urban Phone: 785-623-2430 Fax: 785-623-2432 Email: burban@usd489.com

And if you are looking for other literacy activities check out our 2026 Annual Lesson, <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/early-literacy-building-the-foundation-for-lifelong-learning-fact-sheet_MF3691">Early Literacy: Building the Foundation of Life Long Learning.</a>

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: November-National Family Literacy Month

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Sometimes as I conjure up “OK Google” or check Fox News or the 7-day weather forecast on my smart phone, all while sitting in the Walmart parking lot, I wonder how we ever survived with phones that were only made to talk on. Then it hits me; we survived quite well, thank you very much.

I remember a few years back, as I rounded the corner on the gravel road on my way to refill the deer feeder in the draw below our high-rise deer blind, there were several hundred thousand dollars of excavating equipment rebuilding the terraces and forming new waterways in the fields that surround our blind. It looked as though our deer hunting could be permanently interrupted there that year, so I scouted out another property on which we have deer hunting permission. In front of that property was a wheat field that was traveled frequently by deer heading for the pond and trees on the property. I found a spot in a sharp corner of the field where it appeared deer were jumping the fence and entering the small woodlot. There was no blind built there and no good spot to set up a temporary blind to overlook that corner. The best option appeared to be the overhanging limbs of a cedar tree seventy yards away. I remember wondering aloud how I would ever survive not having a blind to hunt from, when it suddenly hit me; I had harvested more deer from a folding camp chair tucked beneath a cedar tree than from any other way, and again, I had survived quite well, thank you very much.

For those of you new to deer hunting that don’t have a blind from which to hunt, or for those of you wanting to try hunting deer for the first time but are not sure how to proceed without a blind, let me give you some tips from my experience.

Mr. Webster defines the word camouflage as “a disguise or deception; to disguise in order to conceal.” Camouflage does not have to make something or someone entirely disappear, it just has to make them blend in, and it does that by breaking up their outline. Examples of that would be sitting against a tree or sitting behind or under some broken overhanging limbs. Both choices camouflage you by breaking up the outline of your body. Joyce harvested her first deer ever as she sat on a camp chair behind a log in a big thick tree row. My point is that in the absence of a blind of some description, nature will provide you everything you need if you just learn to see it.

Not to sound over-simplistic here, but the most important element of hunting is to position yourself where there is game. So, when deciding upon a deer hunting location, choose a spot near a well used deer trail, where deer enter and exit a woodlot, etc. If you’re bow hunting, you want to be as close to the trail as possible, but if rifle hunting, choose a spot away from the trail seventy-five to a hundred yards or so. Then pay attention to where the sun will be in relation to you. You do not want the sun shining directly on you or in your eyes when it rises or sets, making it hard to see ahead of you as it shines into your eyes or lighting you up like a Christmas tree as it shines on you. Then check the wind direction, and try to position yourself where the prevailing north and west wind will blow your scent away from the trail. Next, look around you for anything that will conceal your form, like a broken-over or uprooted tree, a tree with large broken limbs that hang to the ground or a big cedar tree with long outstretched branches. Once you have found a natural blind, figure out how best to use it. Prune and remove limbs and branches until you can tuck yourself into whatever concealment you’ve chosen. Prune

away only enough to allow you entrance and to give yourself an open shooting lane. Use your imagination and move limbs and branches around if necessary to accomplish what you need. If you are firearm hunting, find a way to support your firearm. If none exists naturally, a couple 1x2’s bolted together near one end opens up into an “x” to make a cheap and dandy shooting stick to cradle your gun. Your seat can be whatever you want. If you’re young you can probably get away with sitting on a log or a bucket, but my choice is a cheap folding camp chair that gives me a back to lean against. It’s not always possible, but choosing to tuck yourself in amongst the branches of a big cedar tree will often help protect you from the north and west wind also.

There are still plenty of ways to conceal yourself to harvest a Kansas deer without a hunting blind or tree stand. Be creative; tree limbs stacked against a fence, a piece of camouflage fabric stretched around some fence posts, even digging yourself down into an old round hay bale at the edge of a field will all fill the bill. And by the way, sitting amongst the cradling limbs of a cedar tree, or in a spot carved out of an old round hay bale will offer great scent concealment also. The end result might even be more fulfilling knowing you used what God provided to fill your freezer. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Deer hunting the old-fashioned way

Hays Coat Drive giveaway set for Saturday

DORRANCE — The Dorrance American Legion Post 334 will host a steak feed Saturday, Nov. 8.

Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with the meal at 6 :30 p.m.

12 or 6-ounce ribeye steak with baked potato, corn, green beans, tea or water and a big selection of desserts will be served.&nbsp;

Cold beer and mixed drinks will be available.

Proceeds benefit the Dorrance American Legion Post 334.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Dorrance American Legion steak feed Nov. 8

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will consider appointing a delegate to represent the county at the Kansas County Association Multiline Pool during its meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

County officials from across Kansas will gather Dec. 9-11 in Wichita for a series of educational sessions and workshops.

Because the Kansas Association of Counties Conference overlaps with the regularly scheduled county commission meeting, a cancellation notice will be issued since all three commissioners plan to attend the event.

The commission will also hear the introduction of new and promoted employees at its meeting.

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11042025-708">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission to attend state association of counties conference

&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

Nov. 1 Osborne Gift Fair, Sims Event Center, 109 W. Main St., Osborne. Join us for all your Christmas needs!

The Craft Basket, Alton Community Room, 618 Mill St., Alton Unique, handmade gifts for everyone. Dates: Nov. 1-Dec. 21 Fridays &amp; Saturdays 9-5 Sundays 1-5. After Christmas Clearance Sale Dec. 27 9-5

Nov. 8 Hunters Feed at the Front Porch Event Center &amp; Bakery, 602 Mill St., Alton. After a day of hunting and/or shopping at the Mill Street Market, join us at the Front Porch Event Center for a delicious meal! The menu is Brisket, Au Gratin Potatoes, Dinner Roll, Coleslaw, Corn on the Cob, and Pumpkin Pie!

Mill Street Market in Alton. A unique craft show located all over downtown Alton! Join us from 9-2 for all your Christmas shopping!

Nov. 11 Mommy &amp; Me Tea, 715 N. Second St., Natoma. Come on in for an elegant, fun and fanciful Tea Party! Every Second Tuesday at 6 P.M. Call 785-346-4772 for more information.

Veterans Day Salute, Natoma Elementary School, 610 3rd St., Natoma. Join us at 10:15 for a beautiful tribute to our veterans!

Nov. 15 Alice in Wonderland Tea Party and Play, Osborne High School, 219 N. 2nd St., Osborne. Visit Wonderland for a day! Join us for a tea party in the Old Gym at 6 PM on November 15th before our rendition of Alice in Wonderland at 7! Ticket (with VIP seating and tea party) $20* *RSVP to the high school office ( 785-346-2143) before November 1st! or Ticket at the gate $8 per adult and $5 per student. We hope to see you there!

Nov. 19 Dinner Club at the Second St. Café, 715 N. 2nd St., Natoma. Enjoy a 7-course meal every 3rd Wednesday at 7:00 at the Second Street Cafe Dinner Club! For more information call 785-346-4772.

Nov. 29 Downs Holiday Gift Fair, Lakeside Gym, 1306 N. Morgan, Downs. Join us at the Lakeside Gym from 9:00 AM-2:00 PM!

November events in Osborne County

November 2025 community events in Hays

By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to Hays Post

First Call for Help of Ellis County is planning its annual “Homes 4 The Holidays Carnival Night” for children.

 While the event is especially geared for ages 2 to 12, “any ages are welcome as we will have games and concessions, too,” said Macey Pfeifer, First Call’s executive director.

The fundraising event will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at the Hays Recreation Commission, 1105 Canterbury Dr. The night will also include inflatables and raffle prizes, Pfeifer said.

The cost is $10 per wristband or a maximum cost of $25 for families with three or more children. Only cash and Venmo will be accepted for payment. Concessions will be available for purchase.

 All participants must wear socks, Pfeifer said. Socks will be available for purchase for those who forget to wear them.

“Proceeds from this event will directly support individuals and families in securing safe, stable housing by covering the first month’s rent and/or deposit costs.&nbsp;Many people are currently living in unsafe or unhealthy conditions but are unable to move simply because they can’t afford the upfront costs required,” Pfeifer said.

“Our goal is to be a helping hand—removing that financial barrier and ensuring those in need have the opportunity to transition into a safer, more livable home where they can begin to rebuild and thrive.”

Helping with the event is a team of Leadership 310 students from Fort Hays State University. They are Mika Zimmerman, Hays junior; Matthew Berner, Hays junior; Thomas Pendergast, Hays sophomore; Anthony Arial, Hays junior; and Sabrina Adkins, Hays junior.

Pfeifer said, “Home 4 The Holidays Carnival Night is the perfect family-friendly event that won’t break the bank—especially for those with multiple children. But it’s more than just games, prizes, and memories—it’s a night that gives back.

“Your attendance helps support families in need by providing safe, livable housing and covering first month’s rent and deposit, giving them the stability they need to focus on building a better future. Come for the fun--stay for the impact.”

First Call schedules annual carnival night for children

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

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 

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9a.m. Sunday in Wyandotte County.

According to Kansas City, Kansas Police, a truck was southbound on College Parkway when it collided with a car, with three occupants that was crossing College Parkway from Delaware Drive. 

The driver and one passenger from the car were taken to a nearby hospital, where the passenger, an adult female, died from her injuries.

The driver of the truck was treated at an area hospital for minor injuries, and is cooperating with the investigation. This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division.&nbsp;

Woman killed, 2 injured after 2-vehicle Kansas crash

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matthew-perrone">MATTHEW PERRONE</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-food-and-drug-administration">The Food and Drug Administration</a>&nbsp;on Friday moved to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fluoride-fda-kennedy-cavities-teeth-water-22c5aefeb97c411e2fda0c4754b78cf2">limit the use of fluoride</a>&nbsp;supplements used to strengthen children’s teeth, the latest action by Health Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fluoride-cdc-epa-6f4dbc64b5dc511f712a82cd2d252d76">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;and his deputies against a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fluoride-water-cdc-kennedy-02d931af8f025877a9e3d332bf215c69">chemical</a>&nbsp;that is a mainstay of dental care.

The FDA said that the products are no longer recommended for children younger than 3 and those who are older but don’t face serious risks of tooth decay. Previously, the products have been prescribed for children as young as six months.

The action stopped short of FDA statements in May suggesting regulators would seek the removal of the products from the market. Instead, the agency sent letters to four companies warning them not to market their products outside the new limits.

Fluoride tablets and lozenges are sometimes recommended for children and teens at increased risk of tooth decay or cavities because of low fluoride in their local drinking water. Companies also sell drops for babies.

The FDA released a new scientific analysis Friday, concluding that fluoride supplements have limited benefits for children’s teeth and may be linked to emerging safety concerns, including gut issues, weight gain and cognition.

“For the same reason fluoride may work to kill bacteria on teeth, it may also alter the gut microbiome, which may have broader health implications,” the agency said in a statement.

The agency also sent a form letter to dentists and other health providers warning about the risks of the products.

Those claims have been disputed by the American Dental Association, which has said there are no significant health problems associated with fluoride when used at the levels prescribed by dentists. The supplements can cause spotting or discoloration of teeth due to the extra fluoride, a downside the FDA also noted.

Dentists have warned that restricting fluoride supplements may result in more cavities and dental problems in rural communities, which are less likely to have fluoridated water. Kennedy is also seeking to end the practice of adding fluoride to drinking water throughout the U.S.

Fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces cavities by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 1962, the agency set guidelines for how much should be added to water.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">Kennedy</a>, a former environmental lawyer,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fluoride-ruling-drinking-water-ccdfa11138600ab0838ebf979cbaead2">has called fluoride</a>&nbsp;a “dangerous neurotoxin” tied to a range of health dangers.

The FDA regulates most dental products, including fluoride-containing toothpastes, supplements, mouthwashes and rinses. The agency’s actions don’t affect toothpastes, mouthwash or fluoride treatments used by adults or those offered in dentists’ offices.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

FDA restricts use of kids' fluoride supplements citing emerging health risks

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man charged with shooting a teen in a Walmart parking lot is due to face a trial on Monday. Ruben Contreras, 47 of Wichita, is charged with attempted 1st&nbsp;degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

&nbsp; He is scheduled to appear in Judge Quinton Pittman's courtroom for the trial. In July Contreras plead not guilty to the charges.

Just before 5p.m. May 11, 2024 officers were dispatched to a call involving a weapon at Walmart, 18631 W. Kellogg in Goddard, according to a statement from the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office. First responders located an 18-year-old, later identified as Anakin Zehring, in a vehicle&nbsp;suffering from a gunshot wound, in the Walmart parking lot.

Zehring and some friends were firing a&nbsp;toy gel blaster in the parking lot&nbsp;when they hit a girl, according to a court document. Investigators say she called her father, Contreras, who came to the scene and shot Zehring. EMS transported Zehring to the hospital in serious condition.&nbsp; He continues to recover at a hospital in Nebraska, according to an<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-support-my-sons-recovery-journey?lang=en_US&amp;utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&amp;utm_medium=customer&amp;utm_source=copy_link&amp;mibextid=xfxF2i"> online fundraiser.</a>

A suspect identified as&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=748186">Contreras,</a>&nbsp;remained on the scene when law enforcement arrived and was taken into custody.

Contreras was transported to Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigation to be interviewed. He was later booked into Sedgwick County Detention Facility and later met the condition of a $300-thousand bond and is out of jail, according to online records.

Trial to begin in shooting of Kan. teen over gel blaster incident

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Jacqueline Chapman is a retired school aide who relies on a $630 monthly Social Security check to get by. She was navigating the loss of her federal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-wic-head-start-ddc8a5f6bb6b49150ff478eae9d454d5">food aid benefits</a>&nbsp;when she learned the assistance she receives for heating her Philadelphia apartment may also be at risk.

“I feel like I’m living in scary times. It’s not easy to rest when you know you have things to do with limited accounts, limited funds. There isn’t too much you can do,” said Chapman, 74.

Chapman relies on the $4.1 billion Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps millions of low-income households pay to heat and cool their homes.

With temperatures beginning to drop in areas across the United States, some states are warning that funding for the program is being delayed because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">federal government shutdown</a>, now in its fifth week.

The anticipated delay comes as a majority of the 5.9 million households served by the federally funded heating and cooling assistance program are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-food-lines-snap-6b55e2c21c0198f3309f3a45a55f33b6">grappling with the sudden postponement</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-wic-head-start-ddc8a5f6bb6b49150ff478eae9d454d5">benefits</a>&nbsp;through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which helps about 1 in 8 Americans buy groceries.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-wic-head-start-e6176d2683f74b7011d861b48a47d3f1">Money is running out</a>&nbsp;for other safety net programs as well and energy prices are soaring.

“The impact, even if it’s temporary, on many of the nation’s poor families is going to be profound if we don’t solve this problem,” said Mark Wolfe, executive director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://neada.org/#:~:text=The%20National%20Energy%20Assistance%20Directors,their%20heating%20and%20cooling%20bills.">National Energy Assistance Directors Association</a>, which represents state directors of the program. Commonly called LIHEAP, it serves all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories and federally recognized tribes.

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