By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Children watch you, so compassion is important, said Hays Area Children's Center teacher Karen Thomason.

"If you don't show compassion to another person, how can you teach [compassion]?" she said. "Kids watch you. You can't say we're teaching you compassion or sharing or giving or turn taking if they don't see it come from you."

She said it helps build children who grow up to be giving and become involved in organizations and their community. It starts as young as the 2-1/2 years olds she has in her class.&nbsp;

"They watch every move you make," she said, "They can tell by your voice if you're happy. ... I will stand behind that 100 percent. You can't fake with little kids. ... They can sense it on you."

Thomason was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by her lead para.

"Karen is the most positive person I know, and she is like a grandma to everybody at the center," said Audrey Bieker, Thomason's lead para. "The kids adore her, and she is always coming up with new ways and strategies to help the children learn and grow in all aspects.

"She is so full of life. She loves the kids and her job, and she does it so well."

Bieker said she and the other paras look up to Thomason and seek her advice.

"She is the most kind-hearted and compassionate person I know, and there's nobody I could think of who would better deserve this than her," she said.

Thomason didn't set out to be a teacher. When it came time to send her children to school, she wanted to make sure they were with people who would care for them and love them, she said.

She was applying for another job, and during a break, someone noticed how well she did with some children who were acting up. She ended up landing a job in early childhood education and went on to receive her child development associate's degree.

 Thomason, who now teachers 2-1/2- through 4-year-olds, has been with the Hays Area Children's Center since the Community Child Care Center merged with Early Childhood Development Center to form the HACC in the 1980s.&nbsp;

"We went through a lot of growth and good changes," she said. "We are always still changing and developing for early childhood."

Within the last several years, the Kansas Department of Education has put a new emphasis on early childhood education and kindergarten readiness.

"In the child's development, so much is achieved in the first three years," Thomason said, "anything from empathy to their physical development, their social development, how they interact with other people when they build those bonds and securities."

From where Thomason started 30 years ago, early childhood specialists have learned the importance of nutrition, and the children are learning more academically.

"Socialization is so important," Thomason said. "Even kindergarten teachers will tell you, the academics — they have to have certain requirements obviously — but that social, those self-help skills that we teach them in those early years are very important when they start school."

Having a nurturing learning environment builds confidence, she said.&nbsp;

"My philosophy is that I care and love them all," she said.&nbsp;"I want to do what is best for each one as an individual."

The children are in a classroom setting, but the focus is on individual needs, Thomason said.

Instead of learning colors or shapes through a lecture or worksheet, the children learn through play. They might go on a color hunt, or they might learn animal sounds by playing with a toy barn.

You have to stay positive and upbeat, Thomason said, because the kids can tell if you're not.

Her favorite teacher when she was attending Catholic school in Munjor was her second-grade teacher, Sister Frances Rose — a strict, but a good nun, Thomason said, who also cared deeply for her students.

"She knew everyone had their strengths and weaknesses," Thomason said. "I kind of still have that philosophy today. They all have their strengths. We all have our strengths. I am here to help you get stronger&nbsp; in one area."

She said she loves seeing a child learn something new.

"Just when they master something or something joyful has happened to them. When they light up, I think, 'Yes!' I have helped them, and we have mastered something.&nbsp; ... The little light bulb goes off and 'I got it.' "

Thomason said one of her greatest rewards is giving to other parents the same comfort she sought as a mother who was returning to work.

"I have had parents tell me that they think about their children, but they know their children are safe and being well taken care of," she said, "and they don't have that extra worry in the back of their minds."

Having taught for three decades, Thomason, 61, has taught children of the children she had in class and many of those parents still remember her.

"It makes me want to tear up," she said. ... "I think they are always a part of your life."

She keeps track of her students after they leave the HACC — through elementary school and high school.

"I look at the high school graduation and there is Susie or Bobby still looks like he did when he was little," she said. ... "You never really forget your kids."

<figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605826575818.jpeg" alt="Karen Thomason, Hays Area Children's Center teacher, was named Hays Post Teacher of the Month after 31 years of teaching." />
 <figcaption>Karen Thomason, Hays Area Children's Center teacher, was named Hays Post Teacher of the Month after 31 years of teaching.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostChildren watch you, so compassion is important, said Hays Area Children's Center teacher Karen Thomason."If you don't show compassion to another person, how can you teach [compassion]?" she said. "Kids watch you. You can't say we're teaching you compassion or sharing or giving or turn taking if they don't see it come from you."She said it helps build children who grow up to be giving and become involved in organizations and their community. It starts as young as the 2-1/2 years olds she has in her class.&nbsp;"They watch every move you make," she said, "They can tell by your voice if you're happy. ... I will stand behind that 100 percent. You can't fake with little kids. ... They can sense it on you."Thomason was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by her lead para."Karen is the most positive person I know, and she is like a grandma to everybody at the center," said Audrey Bieker, Thomason's lead para. "The kids adore her, and she is always coming up with new ways and strategies to help the children learn and grow in all aspects."She is so full of life. She loves the kids and her job, and she does it so well."Bieker said she and the other paras look up to Thomason and seek her advice."She is the most kind-hearted and compassionate person I know, and there's nobody I could think of who would better deserve this than her," she said.Thomason didn't set out to be a teacher. When it came time to send her children to school, she wanted to make sure they were with people who would care for them and love them, she said.She was applying for another job, and during a break, someone noticed how well she did with some children who were acting up. She ended up landing a job in early childhood education and went on to receive her child development associate's degree. Thomason, who now teachers 2-1/2- through 4-year-olds, has been with the Hays Area Children's Center since the Community Child Care Center merged with Early Childhood Development Center to form the HACC in the 1980s.&nbsp;"We went through a lot of growth and good changes," she said. "We are always still changing and developing for early childhood."Within the last several years, the Kansas Department of Education has put a new emphasis on early childhood education and kindergarten readiness."In the child's development, so much is achieved in the first three years," Thomason said, "anything from empathy to their physical development, their social development, how they interact with other people when they build those bonds and securities."From where Thomason started 30 years ago, early childhood specialists have learned the importance of nutrition, and the children are learning more academically."Socialization is so important," Thomason said. "Even kindergarten teachers will tell you, the academics — they have to have certain requirements obviously — but that social, those self-help skills that we teach them in those early years are very important when they start school."Having a nurturing learning environment builds confidence, she said.&nbsp;"My philosophy is that I care and love them all," she said.&nbsp;"I want to do what is best for each one as an individual."The children are in a classroom setting, but the focus is on individual needs, Thomason said.Instead of learning colors or shapes through a lecture or worksheet, the children learn through play. They might go on a color hunt, or they might learn animal sounds by playing with a toy barn.You have to stay positive and upbeat, Thomason said, because the kids can tell if you're not.Her favorite teacher when she was attending Catholic school in Munjor was her second-grade teacher, Sister Frances Rose — a strict, but a good nun, Thomason said, who also cared deeply for her students."She knew everyone had their strengths and weaknesses," Thomason said. "I kind of still have that philosophy today. They all have their strengths. We all have our strengths. I am here to help you get stronger&nbsp; in one area."She said she loves seeing a child learn something new."Just when they master something or something joyful has happened to them. When they light up, I think, 'Yes!' I have helped them, and we have mastered something.&nbsp; ... The little light bulb goes off and 'I got it.' "Thomason said one of her greatest rewards is giving to other parents the same comfort she sought as a mother who was returning to work."I have had parents tell me that they think about their children, but they know their children are safe and being well taken care of," she said, "and they don't have that extra worry in the back of their minds."Having taught for three decades, Thomason, 61, has taught children of the children she had in class and many of those parents still remember her."It makes me want to tear up," she said. ... "I think they are always a part of your life."She keeps track of her students after they leave the HACC — through elementary school and high school."I look at the high school graduation and there is Susie or Bobby still looks like he did when he was little," she said. ... "You never really forget your kids."<figure>
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Teacher of the Month: Karen Thomason 'grandma' to HACC kids

PRATT – Swap the shopping centers for scenic views this Black Friday, as Kansas state parks will once again waive entrance fees as part of the nationwide #OptOutside initiative. 

All 28 of Kansas’ state parks are participating in an effort to get families and friends outdoors and enjoying nature.&nbsp;

On Friday, Nov. 27, state park visitors will have a chance to win a free night’s stay in a Kansas state park cabin of their choice. To enter, visitors must simply take a selfie within the park and share it on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with the tags #OptOutside and #MyKsStatePark.&nbsp;

#OptOutside is the brainchild of outdoor retail giant REI, who in 2015 decided to close all 150-plus stores for<a></a>&nbsp;a day and pay more than 13,000 employees to spend the day outside. It’s become a valued annual event for REI, state parks across America and the millions of people who’ve taken the day to grab some fresh air.&nbsp;

And this year’s event couldn’t have come at a better time.&nbsp;

“In the middle of everything, we have watched as people all over the world, some for the first time, looked to time outdoors to reflect, restore and connect with one another,” said Eric Artz, REI president and CEO. “We are focusing on what matters most.”&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Governor Laura Kelly encouraged Kansans to head to state parks for healthy recreation and relaxation – and thankfully, many have. As a result, Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman said attendance has been exceptionally high.&nbsp;

“We’re really proud that people could turn to Kansas state parks for hiking, cycling, camping, fishing and safely relaxing with loved ones out-of-doors,” said Lanterman. “Hopefully, #OptOutside will be a continuation of all of that with thousands taking advantage of what we have to offer, and at no cost.”&nbsp;

For more information on Kansas state parks, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7Ca7c6f73fa83048bd641308d89157171b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637419150511932976%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Iw8aO6%2BtWMjLm6BBUZHv%2B3XvwluD649jtngRt%2FiUjH8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>KDWPTPRATT – Swap the shopping centers for scenic views this Black Friday, as Kansas state parks will once again waive entrance fees as part of the nationwide #OptOutside initiative. All 28 of Kansas’ state parks are participating in an effort to get families and friends outdoors and enjoying nature.&nbsp;On Friday, Nov. 27, state park visitors will have a chance to win a free night’s stay in a Kansas state park cabin of their choice. To enter, visitors must simply take a selfie within the park and share it on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with the tags #OptOutside and #MyKsStatePark.&nbsp;#OptOutside is the brainchild of outdoor retail giant REI, who in 2015 decided to close all 150-plus stores for<a></a>&nbsp;a day and pay more than 13,000 employees to spend the day outside. It’s become a valued annual event for REI, state parks across America and the millions of people who’ve taken the day to grab some fresh air.&nbsp;And this year’s event couldn’t have come at a better time.&nbsp;“In the middle of everything, we have watched as people all over the world, some for the first time, looked to time outdoors to reflect, restore and connect with one another,” said Eric Artz, REI president and CEO. “We are focusing on what matters most.”&nbsp;Earlier this year, Governor Laura Kelly encouraged Kansans to head to state parks for healthy recreation and relaxation – and thankfully, many have. As a result, Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman said attendance has been exceptionally high.&nbsp;“We’re really proud that people could turn to Kansas state parks for hiking, cycling, camping, fishing and safely relaxing with loved ones out-of-doors,” said Lanterman. “Hopefully, #OptOutside will be a continuation of all of that with thousands taking advantage of what we have to offer, and at no cost.”&nbsp;For more information on Kansas state parks, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ksoutdoors.com%2FState-Parks&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7Ca7c6f73fa83048bd641308d89157171b%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637419150511932976%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=Iw8aO6%2BtWMjLm6BBUZHv%2B3XvwluD649jtngRt%2FiUjH8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks</a>.&nbsp;

Free entrance to Kansas state parks on Black Friday 

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

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> for the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.<figure>
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Recent obituaries

City of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26, 2020 and Friday, November 27, 2020 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

<figure>
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 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26, 2020 and Friday, November 27, 2020 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

City of Hays offices closed Thursday, Friday

Learn how reindeer fly at FHSU STEM-ED annual Christmas show

The 70th annual Christmas lighting ceremony in WaKeeney will take place on Saturday, November 28.

  Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue throughout the day with the lighting ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. 

 Santa will arrive and light the 35 ft. tree and then proceed down the street to his new house in the North Pole. 

 Throughout the day there will be many free activities, such as a Christmas Bazaar, “Timeless Holiday Tradition” display at the local museum, “A Christmas Carol” puppet show, Nex-Tech Express train rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, live reindeer to view, and a soup supper.

Plans are to continue with the lighting ceremony with safety precautions.  Many of the activities are outside.  We are asking that everyone follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks, if required.

The tree and decorations will remain through January 1, 2021, so visitors can view our traditional Christmas scene any evening until then.  The holiday tradition display will also remain at the Trego County Historical Museum until 2021.

<figure>
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 </figure>The 70th annual Christmas lighting ceremony in WaKeeney will take place on Saturday, November 28. Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue throughout the day with the lighting ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. Santa will arrive and light the 35 ft. tree and then proceed down the street to his new house in the North Pole. Throughout the day there will be many free activities, such as a Christmas Bazaar, “Timeless Holiday Tradition” display at the local museum, “A Christmas Carol” puppet show, Nex-Tech Express train rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, live reindeer to view, and a soup supper.Plans are to continue with the lighting ceremony with safety precautions. Many of the activities are outside. We are asking that everyone follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks, if required.The tree and decorations will remain through January 1, 2021, so visitors can view our traditional Christmas scene any evening until then. The holiday tradition display will also remain at the Trego County Historical Museum until 2021.

Christmas comes to WaKeeney Saturday

Due to COVID-19,&nbsp; the Humane Society of the High Plains,&nbsp; 2050 E.&nbsp; Highway 40, Hays,&nbsp; will be closed until further notice, according to a notice on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HumaneSociety.of.the.HighPlains">social media</a>.

If you have found a stray in Ellis County call 785-625-5252 and leave a message. If you have found a stray in the city of Hays call 785-625-1011. 

HSHP is currently searching for temporary short term foster homes for our adoptable animals. 

If you are interested in becoming a foster, fill out our application and email it to hshp_hays@hotmail.com. 

Applications can be found at <a href="https://hshponline.org/ways-to-contribute?fbclid=IwAR0C--NxOihxov4bZZMgGZd6ULbzxQu2mutoprZRNZDkWv5d7QJIR-YfL0k" target="_blank">https://hshponline.org/ways-to-contribute</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>Hays PostDue to COVID-19,&nbsp; the Humane Society of the High Plains,&nbsp; 2050 E.&nbsp; Highway 40, Hays,&nbsp; will be closed until further notice, according to a notice on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HumaneSociety.of.the.HighPlains">social media</a>. If you have found a stray in Ellis County call 785-625-5252 and leave a message. If you have found a stray in the city of Hays call 785-625-1011. HSHP is currently searching for temporary short term foster homes for our adoptable animals. If you are interested in becoming a foster, fill out our application and email it to hshp_hays@hotmail.com. Applications can be found at <a href="https://hshponline.org/ways-to-contribute?fbclid=IwAR0C--NxOihxov4bZZMgGZd6ULbzxQu2mutoprZRNZDkWv5d7QJIR-YfL0k" target="_blank">https://hshponline.org/ways-to-contribute</a>.

COVID closes Humane Society of High Plains; animal foster homes needed



Giving Tuesday may be December 1, but it starts Wednesday in Hays, America!&nbsp;

&nbsp;Big shout out to our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/givingtuesday?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#GivingTuesday</a>partner --Cerv's! Look for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/haysarcpark?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#HaysARCPark</a>&nbsp;donation jars Nov. 25-Dec. 1 at any Hays Cerv’s location. Donations collected will be added to our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/givingtuesday2020?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#GivingTuesday2020</a>&nbsp;tally. This week -- give thanks, kick off the Christmas season, AND give back to your community!&nbsp;

&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://haysarcpark.org/?fbclid=IwAR36_ABu3ZBwzFMrbz6dhZeForLQ8MVKH9yUzEIt5Z9zHRj3OA0wTsRU1UY" target="_blank">HaysARCPark.org</a>&nbsp;to make an online donation.

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Giving Tuesday may be December 1, but it starts Wednesday in Hays, America!&nbsp;&nbsp;Big shout out to our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/givingtuesday?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#GivingTuesday</a>partner --Cerv's! Look for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/haysarcpark?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#HaysARCPark</a>&nbsp;donation jars Nov. 25-Dec. 1 at any Hays Cerv’s location. Donations collected will be added to our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/givingtuesday2020?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWqn8V84FcPHj2Pi-ApVuNlaosXG3sXdsoXfx6uf5ykj-pPaAMhvI9sMN1vVePNc2XrFVtuByYKB6uodCqP3DrVQ6L1I-D5zUJIjIiJybUGr0J-tjjJa-3HHk4815ANCFZC7Kc-NZeHtOiCb_K954u3005_2ZQm1MgsQZ3GNlNabm3SmAJVD8ekem1fLMecK5Y&amp;__tn__=*NK*F">#GivingTuesday2020</a>&nbsp;tally. This week -- give thanks, kick off the Christmas season, AND give back to your community!&nbsp;&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://haysarcpark.org/?fbclid=IwAR36_ABu3ZBwzFMrbz6dhZeForLQ8MVKH9yUzEIt5Z9zHRj3OA0wTsRU1UY" target="_blank">HaysARCPark.org</a>&nbsp;to make an online donation.

ARC Park Giving Week fundraiser at Hays Cervs stores and online

HAVE YOU SIGNED UP FOR THE HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST YET?

Businesses "Deck the Halls" for your chance to win a complimentary one-year membership to the Hoxie Area Chamber of Commerce PLUS bragging rights on your level of holiday spirit and the distinct honor of displaying the traveling trophy in your business for the entire 2021 year!

Residential Think you can out decorate Clark Griswold from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?!? Then, sign up to participate in the residential decorating contest for your chance to win Chamber Scrip (1st Place, $50; 2nd Place, $25; 3rd Place, $10)!

Judging will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 16, with winners announced via the Chamber Facebook page on Friday, Dec. 18.

SIGN UP online at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hoxieareachamber.com%2Fwinterfest&amp;h=AT2QQ2-zclUGuiwFvnguEhtlLWIj_8e9IO8LIEq4Xzk0no4YmWkwRrBnDz-GREFOsxoieFL-HnfcXoSkFRF2UBKxQyFugURRBFfTaharZyLcqhGAE994pLohlIXFj2WecTZRI84sfXDzOUTyPAh6HtWbAnYs8CytwNm1jLBfOsEHTN3aNHh7ejrhWTvk-7CxxYItdc8tKHhUxVnp5QUeKfQJSlBWo4Q32euncE9O-bEfsdPy601JwBIVnA_49cV8Gq4cl9xUftAC3uLUngpw5gxOvKvjyAGBAXeQ2XnYco7KC__EeC7cIPJaOpOSSlVW6-c2Yhxoj1aFgaosbQWoj-5XRxel1uMu2HdGh7n1H5W-Qnie9I7NjqB5CKLcrpCmx8WK4forW1YDyOTFQpkYUI6WaMOpbLnX_pAN2kxPag3OGGuKcmTFrUOuNOnuIa3_fHioR3ew4gqQPxWjm0Fk78z3KIwWtbYL0hScpcXqy-fGOy9y7oKL8mQ_fYyBgqAXFAAoktoUyHlwFTqCk31q3jugsc1D6YgiI9U1MNHZdBp4dQ6vsBBuLBha9esmt7EaSSs2Nx4OTjWBTu7PGO5lzd7_LhGUY8R7bZXixpqokkFX6z6u_6Qne2sK85U9HHzJhijs-q42dVFiN0roD9Rqbg" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.hoxieareachamber.com/winterfest</a>&nbsp;by Friday, Nov. 27 to participate.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606255023755.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HAVE YOU SIGNED UP FOR THE HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST YET?Businesses "Deck the Halls" for your chance to win a complimentary one-year membership to the Hoxie Area Chamber of Commerce PLUS bragging rights on your level of holiday spirit and the distinct honor of displaying the traveling trophy in your business for the entire 2021 year!Residential Think you can out decorate Clark Griswold from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?!? Then, sign up to participate in the residential decorating contest for your chance to win Chamber Scrip (1st Place, $50; 2nd Place, $25; 3rd Place, $10)!Judging will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 16, with winners announced via the Chamber Facebook page on Friday, Dec. 18.SIGN UP online at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hoxieareachamber.com%2Fwinterfest&amp;h=AT2QQ2-zclUGuiwFvnguEhtlLWIj_8e9IO8LIEq4Xzk0no4YmWkwRrBnDz-GREFOsxoieFL-HnfcXoSkFRF2UBKxQyFugURRBFfTaharZyLcqhGAE994pLohlIXFj2WecTZRI84sfXDzOUTyPAh6HtWbAnYs8CytwNm1jLBfOsEHTN3aNHh7ejrhWTvk-7CxxYItdc8tKHhUxVnp5QUeKfQJSlBWo4Q32euncE9O-bEfsdPy601JwBIVnA_49cV8Gq4cl9xUftAC3uLUngpw5gxOvKvjyAGBAXeQ2XnYco7KC__EeC7cIPJaOpOSSlVW6-c2Yhxoj1aFgaosbQWoj-5XRxel1uMu2HdGh7n1H5W-Qnie9I7NjqB5CKLcrpCmx8WK4forW1YDyOTFQpkYUI6WaMOpbLnX_pAN2kxPag3OGGuKcmTFrUOuNOnuIa3_fHioR3ew4gqQPxWjm0Fk78z3KIwWtbYL0hScpcXqy-fGOy9y7oKL8mQ_fYyBgqAXFAAoktoUyHlwFTqCk31q3jugsc1D6YgiI9U1MNHZdBp4dQ6vsBBuLBha9esmt7EaSSs2Nx4OTjWBTu7PGO5lzd7_LhGUY8R7bZXixpqokkFX6z6u_6Qne2sK85U9HHzJhijs-q42dVFiN0roD9Rqbg" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.hoxieareachamber.com/winterfest</a>&nbsp;by Friday, Nov. 27 to participate.

Sign up now for the Hoxie Holiday Decorating Contest

Hoxie Winterfest 2020 COVID Edition is Friday

The Hays Optimist Club annual Christmas Tree Sale returns to the Walmart parking lot on the day after Thanksgiving, November 27. 

There's nothing quite like a real tree for the holidays, and your purchase supports the Optimists' work for the youth of Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606245368692.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Optimist Club annual Christmas Tree Sale returns to the Walmart parking lot on the day after Thanksgiving, November 27. There's nothing quite like a real tree for the holidays, and your purchase supports the Optimists' work for the youth of Hays.

Hays Optimist Club Christmas tree sales start Friday in Walmart parking lot

BUNKER HILL – The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $5,000.

The Foundation’s grant will support a variety of programs and initiatives at Smoky Hills PBS.

“The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation has been a trusted partner of ours for many years,” said Kelli King, Smoky Hills PBS Director of Finance and Administration. “These funds help ensure the future of Smoky Hills PBS now and for years to come.”

The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation was founded in Ellis County to support projects that include arts, culture and education.

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in central and western Kansas and has been named the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Non-Metro Station of the Year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589894008864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBS&nbsp;BUNKER HILL – The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $5,000.The Foundation’s grant will support a variety of programs and initiatives at Smoky Hills PBS.“The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation has been a trusted partner of ours for many years,” said Kelli King, Smoky Hills PBS Director of Finance and Administration. “These funds help ensure the future of Smoky Hills PBS now and for years to come.”The Robert E. and Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation was founded in Ellis County to support projects that include arts, culture and education.Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in central and western Kansas and has been named the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Non-Metro Station of the Year.

Smoky Hills PBS receives grant from Schmidt Foundation

WAKEENEY - WaKeeney, Kansas, known as the "The Christmas City of the High Plains” for the past seven decades, kicks off the Christmas season on Saturday, November 28.

&nbsp;Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue throughout the day with the lighting ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. 

 Every year for the past 70 years, the downtown area is turned into a magical holiday wonderland. 

Highlighting this annual tradition is a magnificent handmade 35-foot tree of fresh pine greenery with over 2,000 lights. 

The tree rests under a canopy of heavenly blue lights in the middle of the main intersection of Main and Russell Ave. 

It is topped with four ivory stars, each five ft. in diameter. A four-square block area around the tree is draped with greenery garlands, handcrafted wreaths, bells, stars, and trees, and, of course, more lights. In all, there are over 6,300 lights, three miles of electrical wiring, 600 lbs. of fresh pine greenery, and 1,100 yards of greenery roping in the display. 

These one-of-a-kind decorations are still used today.

The idea was born in 1948 by two local businessmen. 

Art Keraus, the owner of Keraus Hardware, was “a man who could build anything”. His fellow businessman, J.H. “Jake” Heckman, was the local banker and a talented artist. Together these two men masterminded the holiday display, which was designed and built in the basement of Keraus Hardware. The two men spent hours in the basement of the hardware store making sure that the decorations were just right. Many local businessmen and the entire community helped build and erect the holiday decorations.

The display was first lit in 1950, and more decorations were added each year until 1956, when they announced that the project “had reached its peak.” They felt that the display was “nearing perfection.” 

Through the years there has only been one addition. During the 1990s all the downtown buildings were outlined with over 2,000 perimeter lights, which remain lit year-round. These lights were replaced with LED color-changing perimeter lights in 2018.

The annual Christmas Tree Lighting is always held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and remains lit until after New Year's Day. 

This annual tradition is considered one of the largest Christmas displays between Kansas City and Denver.&nbsp;

For more information, contact WaKeeney Travel &amp; Tourism at WaKeeney.org, getwakeeney@gmail.com, Facebook @ Get WaKeeney, or 785-743-8325.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2iRLykCjNiQ"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseWAKEENEY - WaKeeney, Kansas, known as the "The Christmas City of the High Plains” for the past seven decades, kicks off the Christmas season on Saturday, November 28.&nbsp;Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue throughout the day with the lighting ceremony beginning at 6:00 p.m. Santa will arrive and light the 35 ft. tree and then proceed down the street to his new house in the North Pole. Throughout the day there will be many free activities, such as a Christmas Bazaar, “Timeless Holiday Tradition” display at the local museum, “A Christmas Carol” puppet show, Nex-Tech Express train rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, live reindeer to view, and a soup supper.Plans are to continue with the lighting ceremony with safety precautions. Many of the activities are outside. We are asking that everyone follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks, if required.The tree and decorations will remain through January 1, 2021, so visitors can view our traditional Christmas scene any evening until then. The holiday tradition display will also remain at the Trego County Historical Museum until 2021. Every year for the past 70 years, the downtown area is turned into a magical holiday wonderland. Highlighting this annual tradition is a magnificent handmade 35-foot tree of fresh pine greenery with over 2,000 lights. The tree rests under a canopy of heavenly blue lights in the middle of the main intersection of Main and Russell Ave. It is topped with four ivory stars, each five ft. in diameter. A four-square block area around the tree is draped with greenery garlands, handcrafted wreaths, bells, stars, and trees, and, of course, more lights. In all, there are over 6,300 lights, three miles of electrical wiring, 600 lbs. of fresh pine greenery, and 1,100 yards of greenery roping in the display. These one-of-a-kind decorations are still used today.The idea was born in 1948 by two local businessmen. Art Keraus, the owner of Keraus Hardware, was “a man who could build anything”. His fellow businessman, J.H. “Jake” Heckman, was the local banker and a talented artist. Together these two men masterminded the holiday display, which was designed and built in the basement of Keraus Hardware. The two men spent hours in the basement of the hardware store making sure that the decorations were just right. Many local businessmen and the entire community helped build and erect the holiday decorations.The display was first lit in 1950, and more decorations were added each year until 1956, when they announced that the project “had reached its peak.” They felt that the display was “nearing perfection.” Through the years there has only been one addition. During the 1990s all the downtown buildings were outlined with over 2,000 perimeter lights, which remain lit year-round. These lights were replaced with LED color-changing perimeter lights in 2018.The annual Christmas Tree Lighting is always held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and remains lit until after New Year's Day. This annual tradition is considered one of the largest Christmas displays between Kansas City and Denver.&nbsp;For more information, contact WaKeeney Travel &amp; Tourism at WaKeeney.org, getwakeeney@gmail.com, Facebook @ Get WaKeeney, or 785-743-8325.

🎥 WaKeeney's Christmas City on the High Plains celebrates 70 years

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Thirty-two projects have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for the purpose of planning, constructing or rehabilitating public use general aviation airports.

KAIP receives $5 million annually through the IKE transportation program and requires airport sponsors to share in the project costs by paying a minimum of 5% of the total project.

“Aviation currently represents $20.6 billion in total economic impact for the State of Kansas,” said Gov. Laura Kelly. “Working together, the Kansas Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration and local communities are enhancing the safety of our transportation infrastructure and expanding this economic impact.”&nbsp;

The selection board prioritized airport improvements that deliver the most significant impact across the entire state.&nbsp; Most of these projects contribute to flight safety and/or positive economic impact for their region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Aviation is a particularly important mode of transportation for Kansas industry and the delivery of healthcare services and disaster relief,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “These airport improvements are a few of many important efforts to empower aviation economic growth across our entire state.”

“KDOT’s Division of Aviation reviewed 93 project applications this year with a combined total project value of over $27 million,” said Bob Brock, Director of Aviation. “The 32 projects we’ve selected will have positive impacts on the health, safety and economy of our state.”

Communities selected for funding and amount awarded include:

ATCHISON&nbsp;– Replace 12,800 square feet of apron and taxiway in front of north hangar - $144,000

CHANUTE&nbsp;– Reconstruct pavement in front of community hangar - $72,000

DODGE CITY&nbsp;– Crack seal runway - $25,461

ELKHART / MORTON COUNTY&nbsp;– 5% match to FAA grant for runway rehabilitation - $36,750

ELKHART / MORTON COUNTY&nbsp;– Replace runway lighting system - $12,733

EMPORIA&nbsp;– Design runway extension - $154,850

FORT SCOTT&nbsp;– Upgrade fueling system - $17,0005

GOODLAND&nbsp;– Continue Taxiway B replacement - $342,000

GREAT BEND&nbsp;– Mill and overlay 2,000 feet of Taxiway A - $148,950

HIAWATHA&nbsp;– Install edge lighting on Runway 10/28 - $136,000

KINSLEY&nbsp;– Crack and slurry seal and replace markings on taxiway and Runway 18/36 - $235,000

LAKIN / KEARNY COUNTY&nbsp;– Asphalt overlay/crack sealing/replace runway markings - $96,840

LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Repair hangar-adjacent pavements - $184,435

LEAVENWORTH&nbsp;– Replace fuel dispenser damaged in flooding - $35,550

NESS CITY&nbsp;– Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) - $214,500

OLATHE / JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Security gates - $140,250

OLATHE / JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Crack sealing materials - $14,400

OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Replace air traffic control recorders - $51,000

OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Security gates - $140,250

OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Crack sealing materials - $14,400

PARSONS / TRI CITY&nbsp;– Taxiway A rehabilitation - $135,000

PRATT&nbsp;– Rehabilitate fueling/tiedown apron - $180,000

ROSE HILL&nbsp;– Add security gates - $51,000

ROSE HILL&nbsp;– Crack seal taxiways and runways - $13,500

SABETHA&nbsp;– Survey, Airport Layout Plan and obstacle evaluation - $285,000

SCOTT CITY&nbsp;– Construct new taxiway connections - $142,080

SMITH CENTER&nbsp;– Resealing concrete joints and remarking Runway 14/32 - $235,155

ST. FRANCIS / CHEYENNE COUNTY&nbsp;– Extend taxiway for new business - $157,500

ST. FRANCIS / CHEYENNE COUNTY&nbsp;– Install light pole with LEDs - $15,750

SYRACUSE&nbsp;– Crack seal asphalt damaged by snow plowing - $18,000

ULYSSES&nbsp;– Rehabilitate Runway 17/35 - $570,000

ULYSSES&nbsp;– Replace runway edge lights - $381,000

WINFIELD&nbsp;– Construct new taxi lanes to new hangars - $288,000

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606231957192.jpeg" alt="Goodland Municipal Airport Renner Field" />
 <figcaption>Goodland Municipal Airport Renner Field</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOT&nbsp;TOPEKA&nbsp;– Thirty-two projects have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for the purpose of planning, constructing or rehabilitating public use general aviation airports.KAIP receives $5 million annually through the IKE transportation program and requires airport sponsors to share in the project costs by paying a minimum of 5% of the total project.“Aviation currently represents $20.6 billion in total economic impact for the State of Kansas,” said Gov. Laura Kelly. “Working together, the Kansas Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration and local communities are enhancing the safety of our transportation infrastructure and expanding this economic impact.”&nbsp;The selection board prioritized airport improvements that deliver the most significant impact across the entire state.&nbsp; Most of these projects contribute to flight safety and/or positive economic impact for their region.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Aviation is a particularly important mode of transportation for Kansas industry and the delivery of healthcare services and disaster relief,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “These airport improvements are a few of many important efforts to empower aviation economic growth across our entire state.”“KDOT’s Division of Aviation reviewed 93 project applications this year with a combined total project value of over $27 million,” said Bob Brock, Director of Aviation. “The 32 projects we’ve selected will have positive impacts on the health, safety and economy of our state.”Communities selected for funding and amount awarded include:ATCHISON&nbsp;– Replace 12,800 square feet of apron and taxiway in front of north hangar - $144,000CHANUTE&nbsp;– Reconstruct pavement in front of community hangar - $72,000DODGE CITY&nbsp;– Crack seal runway - $25,461ELKHART / MORTON COUNTY&nbsp;– 5% match to FAA grant for runway rehabilitation - $36,750ELKHART / MORTON COUNTY&nbsp;– Replace runway lighting system - $12,733EMPORIA&nbsp;– Design runway extension - $154,850FORT SCOTT&nbsp;– Upgrade fueling system - $17,0005GOODLAND&nbsp;– Continue Taxiway B replacement - $342,000GREAT BEND&nbsp;– Mill and overlay 2,000 feet of Taxiway A - $148,950HIAWATHA&nbsp;– Install edge lighting on Runway 10/28 - $136,000KINSLEY&nbsp;– Crack and slurry seal and replace markings on taxiway and Runway 18/36 - $235,000LAKIN / KEARNY COUNTY&nbsp;– Asphalt overlay/crack sealing/replace runway markings - $96,840LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Repair hangar-adjacent pavements - $184,435LEAVENWORTH&nbsp;– Replace fuel dispenser damaged in flooding - $35,550NESS CITY&nbsp;– Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) - $214,500OLATHE / JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Security gates - $140,250OLATHE / JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Crack sealing materials - $14,400OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Replace air traffic control recorders - $51,000OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Security gates - $140,250OLATHE / NEW CENTURY&nbsp;– Crack sealing materials - $14,400PARSONS / TRI CITY&nbsp;– Taxiway A rehabilitation - $135,000PRATT&nbsp;– Rehabilitate fueling/tiedown apron - $180,000ROSE HILL&nbsp;– Add security gates - $51,000ROSE HILL&nbsp;– Crack seal taxiways and runways - $13,500SABETHA&nbsp;– Survey, Airport Layout Plan and obstacle evaluation - $285,000SCOTT CITY&nbsp;– Construct new taxiway connections - $142,080SMITH CENTER&nbsp;– Resealing concrete joints and remarking Runway 14/32 - $235,155ST. FRANCIS / CHEYENNE COUNTY&nbsp;– Extend taxiway for new business - $157,500ST. FRANCIS / CHEYENNE COUNTY&nbsp;– Install light pole with LEDs - $15,750SYRACUSE&nbsp;– Crack seal asphalt damaged by snow plowing - $18,000ULYSSES&nbsp;– Rehabilitate Runway 17/35 - $570,000ULYSSES&nbsp;– Replace runway edge lights - $381,000WINFIELD&nbsp;– Construct new taxi lanes to new hangars - $288,000

NW Kansas airports receive KAIP funding for improvements

Three-day weather outlook

TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly recently announced more than $2.1 million in grant funding to fuel 59 ‘All in for Kansas Kids’ Quality Subgrants. The grants will help communities, service and child care providers, and other early childhood champions address needs and gaps in the early childhood care and education system through locally-driven ideas and approaches.

Grantees from organizations and child care providers large and small from across the state will use their awards to develop and implement new approaches that help children and families in their communities thrive. 

More than 140 applications were submitted, each focusing on addressing gaps in access, availability, and quality of child care, as well as community-level supports for families.

“Investing in early childhood care and education system is the one of the best ways we can improve outcomes for Kansas families and communities,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“As we continue to rebuild our state’s foundation, supporting our kids’ development from Day One will boost our communities, help recruit businesses, and encourage those in our current and future workforces to stay in the places they grew up.”

Funding for the subgrants was made possible by the federal Preschool Development Birth Through Five Renewal Grant, a 3-year grant awarded to Kansas in April 2020. Many funded projects will receive multi-year support in alignment with the federal grant to create long-term, sustainable changes.

The work is being guided by the All in for Kansas Kids Strategic Plan, which maps the state’s future direction for early childhood. Grantees directly responded to findings from the statewide needs assessment conducted in 2019. More than 6,100 Kansans elevated a range of challenges that became the focus of the grant award categories: child care access, rural child care, connecting families to services, kindergarten readiness, and quality of care.

Grantees were awarded from all regions of the state and include targeted supports to help expand access to high quality child care in communities such as Leoti, Washington, Independence, St. Francis, Valley Falls, Ness City, and Ellsworth, and in Thomas, Finney, Sumner, and Allen Counties.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDExMjQuMzEwNTAzODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAxLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZnb3Zlcm5vci5rYW5zYXMuZ292JTJGd3AtY29udGVudCUyRnVwbG9hZHMlMkYyMDIwJTJGMTElMkZQREctU3ViZ3JhbnQtRnVuZGVkLUxpc3QtYXMtb2YtMTEuMjMuMjAyMC5wZGYmZGF0YT0wNCU3QzAxJTdDS3lsZS5GcmVlc2UlNDBrcy5nb3YlN0MzZjQyMGI3Y2QxYmU0ZDc0MWQxMjA4ZDg5MDlhMzQ2ZSU3Q2RjYWU4MTAxYzkyZDQ4MGNiYzQzYzY3NjFjY2NjYzVhJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2Mzc0MTgzMzkyNTk3NjI0ODMlN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT1rdFZKbWF4QW5VdHFBaiUyRjdpNnBxWWNKTFlLdXpkWTF6MnR5NDU4NnlSSU0lM0QmcmVzZXJ2ZWQ9MCJ9.TiAxHjC0Nic9aCgxtNeXkeOly1hX6DEug0aFVUel4Y0/s/1303161001/br/90368385817-l" target="_blank">View the list of programs funded by the grants.</a>

Grants will also support regional efforts to bridge gaps for families in counties surrounding sprawling Kansas communities like Lawrence, Wichita, Kansas City, and Emporia.

“Kansans across the state recognize the importance of providing their children with the best start in life possible,”&nbsp;Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, said. “We are pleased to support local early childhood care and education experts and provide financial resources to allow them to implement community-driven strategies.”

To learn more about specific funded programs and activities and connect with the All in for Kansas Kids Strategic Planning efforts to strengthen the Kansas early childhood care and education system, please visit the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund website&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.A139GPIrXMdjd7NftQRs525rja1AKwUX8-LbLGruWF4/s/1303161001/br/90368385817-l" target="_blank">http://AllinforKansasKids.org</a>.&nbsp;

Funds for&nbsp;All in For Kansas Kids&nbsp;activities are partially provided through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). 

The&nbsp;Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Renewal&nbsp;90TP0078-01-00 ($8,943,000) was awarded to the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.&nbsp; The Kansas State Department of Education, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are leading this work with the Children’s Cabinet.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606246293511.jpeg" alt="(Photo by&nbsp; Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by&nbsp; Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov.TOPEKA&nbsp;–Governor Laura Kelly recently announced more than $2.1 million in grant funding to fuel 59 ‘All in for Kansas Kids’ Quality Subgrants. The grants will help communities, service and child care providers, and other early childhood champions address needs and gaps in the early childhood care and education system through locally-driven ideas and approaches.Grantees from organizations and child care providers large and small from across the state will use their awards to develop and implement new approaches that help children and families in their communities thrive. More than 140 applications were submitted, each focusing on addressing gaps in access, availability, and quality of child care, as well as community-level supports for families.“Investing in early childhood care and education system is the one of the best ways we can improve outcomes for Kansas families and communities,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“As we continue to rebuild our state’s foundation, supporting our kids’ development from Day One will boost our communities, help recruit businesses, and encourage those in our current and future workforces to stay in the places they grew up.”Funding for the subgrants was made possible by the federal Preschool Development Birth Through Five Renewal Grant, a 3-year grant awarded to Kansas in April 2020. Many funded projects will receive multi-year support in alignment with the federal grant to create long-term, sustainable changes.The work is being guided by the All in for Kansas Kids Strategic Plan, which maps the state’s future direction for early childhood. Grantees directly responded to findings from the statewide needs assessment conducted in 2019. More than 6,100 Kansans elevated a range of challenges that became the focus of the grant award categories: child care access, rural child care, connecting families to services, kindergarten readiness, and quality of care.Grantees were awarded from all regions of the state and include targeted supports to help expand access to high quality child care in communities such as Leoti, Washington, Independence, St. Francis, Valley Falls, Ness City, and Ellsworth, and in Thomas, Finney, Sumner, and Allen Counties. <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.TiAxHjC0Nic9aCgxtNeXkeOly1hX6DEug0aFVUel4Y0/s/1303161001/br/90368385817-l" target="_blank">View the list of programs funded by the grants.</a>Grants will also support regional efforts to bridge gaps for families in counties surrounding sprawling Kansas communities like Lawrence, Wichita, Kansas City, and Emporia.“Kansans across the state recognize the importance of providing their children with the best start in life possible,”&nbsp;Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, said. “We are pleased to support local early childhood care and education experts and provide financial resources to allow them to implement community-driven strategies.”To learn more about specific funded programs and activities and connect with the All in for Kansas Kids Strategic Planning efforts to strengthen the Kansas early childhood care and education system, please visit the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund website&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.A139GPIrXMdjd7NftQRs525rja1AKwUX8-LbLGruWF4/s/1303161001/br/90368385817-l" target="_blank">http://AllinforKansasKids.org</a>.&nbsp;Funds for&nbsp;All in For Kansas Kids&nbsp;activities are partially provided through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The&nbsp;Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Renewal&nbsp;90TP0078-01-00 ($8,943,000) was awarded to the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.&nbsp; The Kansas State Department of Education, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are leading this work with the Children’s Cabinet.&nbsp;

Grants address gaps in NW Kan. early childhood care, education

At the Freedom Forum, we’ve thought about creating T-shirts that 
read: “Free speech: Complicating Thanksgiving Dinner since 1791.”

But this pandemic-era Thanksgiving, as families and friends assemble 
around a Zoom screen or an actual dining room table to celebrate, all of
 the freedoms of the First Amendment should be high on the list as we 
count our blessings.

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution set a standard for the 
world. Our founding fathers said that Americans should have the right — 
without government interference — to speak their minds, practice a faith
 or choose not to, publish their ideas, assemble to protest or support a
 cause and petition the government for change.

“This is what is so great about America,” says social strategist Philippa Hughes.
 “We should be giving thanks that we can all have these amazing 
divergent views and nobody’s going to get killed for having these 
conversations.”

Shocked by the divisions revealed during the 2016 presidential election, Hughes launched a dinner club called <a href="https://www.blueberriesandcherries.com/" target="_blank">Blueberries &amp; Cherries</a>,
 bringing into her Washington, D.C., dining room die-hard Democrats and 
righteous Republicans, armed with forks and knives, to discuss their 
beliefs in hopes of better understanding each other. Each meal ended 
with a blueberry cherry crisp, deliciously bridging the blue and red 
divide.

Later, supported by a grant, Hughes expanded her events across the country into <a href="https://www.lookingforamerica.us/" target="_blank">Looking for America</a>, which hosts art events and conversations in which people discuss what it means to be American.

Hughes’s goal is to break down the “polarization industrial complex” 
that’s often fed by social media. “That is a construct we have created,”
 she says. “There is profit and power to be had from keeping us 
polarized. I don’t profit from that, so why do we let others profit from
 that?”

Thanksgiving 2020 brings families together after a wrenching year of 
political upheaval and a deadly pandemic, when Americans exercised their
 First Amendment freedoms with newfound vigor:

On Thanksgiving, <a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/speech/" target="_blank">free speech</a>
 will be at the forefront of your dinner table. Can you, with your Trump
 2024 bumper sticker, keep things civil with your niece in the Black 
Lives Matter T-shirt? Hughes has some advice for how to keep this from 
being a dinner sponsored by Tums.

“A great way to begin your meal is just to be grateful we can do this
 and have this conversation at all,” Hughes says. “That’s the beauty of 
America … You can have deeply held views and express them and we don’t 
have to hate each other.”

Tip No. 1: Pretend you’re an anthropologist. Be curious and ask questions, but don’t interrogate. 
Ask the kind of questions that show you’re listening, Hughes says. “Say,
 ‘Oh, tell me more about that …’ Try to have a sense of delight and joy 
about it. It’s fun to hear stories, especially when it’s your family. 
You had fun with them before; you can continue to have fun.”

Tip No. 2: Share your experiences in a nonthreatening way. 
It can be frustrating if the other side does not seem to be curious 
about you. “Find ways to share yourself — real stories beyond the data 
and the talking points,” Hughes says.

Tip No. 3: Don’t pepper folks with facts. 
When it comes to forming opinions, <a href="https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128490874" target="_blank">facts don’t always matter</a>. 
Studies have shown that our perceptions are formed more by our 
experiences — however limited — than anything else, Hughes says. People 
who are confronted with challenging information tend to dig in their 
heels rather than open their minds to other possibilities. “People don’t
 want to feel dumb.”

Tip No. 4: No name-calling. If things get too heated, step away. 
Hughes says conservatives may avoid conversations for good reason. 
“They’ll say … ‘I don’t want to get yelled at or called stupid by the 
liberals.’” That’s a very valid concern. The left does spend a lot of 
time calling the other side idiots.” 
A liberal in a family of conservatives, Hughes says, “We’ve gotten close
 to not speaking. If you are close to that, step away, leave the room, 
get some fresh air. Take a walk together.”

Tip No. 5: Empathy does not equal endorsement. 
“We may never reach common ground, but at least we’ll come to an 
understanding of why the person believes what they … believe,” says 
Hughes. “The only thing we can agree on is our humanity. We don’t have 
to agree on policy and how to fix problems.”

Final tip: Always pass the dishes to the right. That’s not a political statement, it’s <a href="https://emilypost.com/advice/passing-food-at-the-table/" target="_blank">just etiquette</a>.

Patty Rhule is vice president of content innovation at the Freedom Forum. She can be reached at <a href="mailto:prhule@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">prhule@freedomforum.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606237069718.png" alt="Patty Rhule is vice president of content innovation at the Freedom Forum. " />
 <figcaption>Patty Rhule is vice president of content innovation at the Freedom Forum. </figcaption>
 </figure>At the Freedom Forum, we’ve thought about creating T-shirts that 
read: “Free speech: Complicating Thanksgiving Dinner since 1791.”But this pandemic-era Thanksgiving, as families and friends assemble 
around a Zoom screen or an actual dining room table to celebrate, all of
 the freedoms of the First Amendment should be high on the list as we 
count our blessings.The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution set a standard for the 
world. Our founding fathers said that Americans should have the right — 
without government interference — to speak their minds, practice a faith
 or choose not to, publish their ideas, assemble to protest or support a
 cause and petition the government for change.“This is what is so great about America,” says social strategist Philippa Hughes.
 “We should be giving thanks that we can all have these amazing 
divergent views and nobody’s going to get killed for having these 
conversations.”Shocked by the divisions revealed during the 2016 presidential election, Hughes launched a dinner club called <a href="https://www.blueberriesandcherries.com/" target="_blank">Blueberries &amp; Cherries</a>,
 bringing into her Washington, D.C., dining room die-hard Democrats and 
righteous Republicans, armed with forks and knives, to discuss their 
beliefs in hopes of better understanding each other. Each meal ended 
with a blueberry cherry crisp, deliciously bridging the blue and red 
divide.Later, supported by a grant, Hughes expanded her events across the country into <a href="https://www.lookingforamerica.us/" target="_blank">Looking for America</a>, which hosts art events and conversations in which people discuss what it means to be American.Hughes’s goal is to break down the “polarization industrial complex” 
that’s often fed by social media. “That is a construct we have created,”
 she says. “There is profit and power to be had from keeping us 
polarized. I don’t profit from that, so why do we let others profit from
 that?”Thanksgiving 2020 brings families together after a wrenching year of 
political upheaval and a deadly pandemic, when Americans exercised their
 First Amendment freedoms with newfound vigor:<ul>
 <li>People in every state <a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/assembly/" target="_blank">assembled</a> to protest police violence against Black Americans. Citizens also marched in support of the police;</li><li>In the 100th year since women <a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/petition/" target="_blank">petitioned</a> successfully for the right to vote, voters turned out in record numbers to make California’s Sen. Kamala Harris the first woman and woman of color elected vice president;</li><li>The free press kept people informed of campaign news, social unrest and the latest scientific advice about COVID-19;</li><li>Faith congregations, which refrained from gathering in person, 
worshipped through Zoom and Facebook or held drive-in services. Some 
filed suit, saying government rules restricting attendance <a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/2020/11/18/buckle-up-america-were-in-for-a-wild-first-amendment-ride/" target="_blank">violated their religious freedom.</a></li>
 </ul>On Thanksgiving, <a href="https://www.freedomforum.org/speech/" target="_blank">free speech</a>
 will be at the forefront of your dinner table. Can you, with your Trump
 2024 bumper sticker, keep things civil with your niece in the Black 
Lives Matter T-shirt? Hughes has some advice for how to keep this from 
being a dinner sponsored by Tums.“A great way to begin your meal is just to be grateful we can do this
 and have this conversation at all,” Hughes says. “That’s the beauty of 
America … You can have deeply held views and express them and we don’t 
have to hate each other.”Tip No. 1: Pretend you’re an anthropologist. Be curious and ask questions, but don’t interrogate. 
Ask the kind of questions that show you’re listening, Hughes says. “Say,
 ‘Oh, tell me more about that …’ Try to have a sense of delight and joy 
about it. It’s fun to hear stories, especially when it’s your family. 
You had fun with them before; you can continue to have fun.”Tip No. 2: Share your experiences in a nonthreatening way. 
It can be frustrating if the other side does not seem to be curious 
about you. “Find ways to share yourself — real stories beyond the data 
and the talking points,” Hughes says.Tip No. 3: Don’t pepper folks with facts. 
When it comes to forming opinions, <a href="https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128490874" target="_blank">facts don’t always matter</a>. 
Studies have shown that our perceptions are formed more by our 
experiences — however limited — than anything else, Hughes says. People 
who are confronted with challenging information tend to dig in their 
heels rather than open their minds to other possibilities. “People don’t
 want to feel dumb.”Tip No. 4: No name-calling. If things get too heated, step away. 
Hughes says conservatives may avoid conversations for good reason. 
“They’ll say … ‘I don’t want to get yelled at or called stupid by the 
liberals.’” That’s a very valid concern. The left does spend a lot of 
time calling the other side idiots.” 
A liberal in a family of conservatives, Hughes says, “We’ve gotten close
 to not speaking. If you are close to that, step away, leave the room, 
get some fresh air. Take a walk together.”Tip No. 5: Empathy does not equal endorsement. 
“We may never reach common ground, but at least we’ll come to an 
understanding of why the person believes what they … believe,” says 
Hughes. “The only thing we can agree on is our humanity. We don’t have 
to agree on policy and how to fix problems.”Final tip: Always pass the dishes to the right. That’s not a political statement, it’s <a href="https://emilypost.com/advice/passing-food-at-the-table/" target="_blank">just etiquette</a>.Patty Rhule is vice president of content innovation at the Freedom Forum. She can be reached at <a href="mailto:prhule@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">prhule@freedomforum.org</a>.

FIRST FIVE: Thankful we can speak our minds this Thanksgiving

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🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 BOE gets COVID update from superintendent Wilson

Friday afternoon, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, spent time with scientists at the K-State Agriculture Research Station in Hays, hearing some of the latest results of research from the station.

“What happens here is hugely important,” Moran told the group of researchers before heading to get a first-hand look at crops and livestock that function as a proving ground for primary research on land just south of Hays, along with centers spread across western Kansas.

Moran told the scientists the ability of Kansas agriculture to continue to compete in the global market relies directly on research completed by the research stations.

He also said often when looking at hunger the automatic move is
to look at programs such as SNAP, but he told the group he sees another factor
at play.

“I have always thought as a Kansan — and I have had the
opportunity to bring the point of view — what we put into research and the efficiency
of farming, the productivity of farming we can help end world hunger by
increasing the supply and keeping agriculture profitable,” Moran said. 

Further, he said, the work completed at research stations, such as the Hays location, is not missed at the federal level.

“We have a lot of interest in what you do here,” Moran said. “We know how important it is to Kansas and the county."

During the visit, Moran heard from beef cattle scientist John Jaeger, who shared his work into cattle yields and weaning.

Soil scientist Augustine Obour, shared his work with limited tillage and the benefits of cover crops.

And wheat breeder, Zhang Guorong shared his work with developing wheat varieties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606168998357.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., visits with K-State Agriculture Research Center scientists Friday about recent research into cover crop use." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., visits with K-State Agriculture Research Center scientists Friday about recent research into cover crop use.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostFriday afternoon, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, spent time with scientists at the K-State Agriculture Research Station in Hays, hearing some of the latest results of research from the station.“What happens here is hugely important,” Moran told the group of researchers before heading to get a first-hand look at crops and livestock that function as a proving ground for primary research on land just south of Hays, along with centers spread across western Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606169020350.jpeg" alt="Before leaving for an impromptu tour of some of the K-State Agriculture Research Center operations, Moran speaks with business manager Spencer Casey and staff at the main office of the research station in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Before leaving for an impromptu tour of some of the K-State Agriculture Research Center operations, Moran speaks with business manager Spencer Casey and staff at the main office of the research station in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>Moran told the scientists the ability of Kansas agriculture to continue to compete in the global market relies directly on research completed by the research stations.He also said often when looking at hunger the automatic move is
to look at programs such as SNAP, but he told the group he sees another factor
at play.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606169036774.jpeg" alt="Moran speaks with K-State Agriculture Research Center wheat breeder Zhang Guorong as soil scientist&nbsp;Augustine Obour looks on." />
 <figcaption>Moran speaks with K-State Agriculture Research Center wheat breeder Zhang Guorong as soil scientist&nbsp;Augustine Obour looks on.</figcaption>
 </figure>“I have always thought as a Kansan — and I have had the
opportunity to bring the point of view — what we put into research and the efficiency
of farming, the productivity of farming we can help end world hunger by
increasing the supply and keeping agriculture profitable,” Moran said. Further, he said, the work completed at research stations, such as the Hays location, is not missed at the federal level.“We have a lot of interest in what you do here,” Moran said. “We know how important it is to Kansas and the county."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606169075676.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., visits with K-State Agriculture Research Center beef cattle scientist John Jaeger about weening and cattle yield research with entomologist J.P. Michaud and soil scientist Augustine Obour." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., visits with K-State Agriculture Research Center beef cattle scientist John Jaeger about weening and cattle yield research with entomologist J.P. Michaud and soil scientist Augustine Obour.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the visit, Moran heard from beef cattle scientist John Jaeger, who shared his work into cattle yields and weaning.Soil scientist Augustine Obour, shared his work with limited tillage and the benefits of cover crops.And wheat breeder, Zhang Guorong shared his work with developing wheat varieties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606169142582.jpeg" alt="K-State Agreciculutre Research center wheat breeder&nbsp;Zhang Guorong speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., with other scientists gathered around near a wheat field at the station." />
 <figcaption>K-State Agreciculutre Research center wheat breeder&nbsp;Zhang Guorong speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., with other scientists gathered around near a wheat field at the station.</figcaption>
 </figure>

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