By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Designs for Hays' and Russell's R9 water pipeline and the wellfield are complete.

Project manager John Braun made the report to the Hays City Commission on Thursday.

Braun also said 115 of 130 easements needed to build the 70-mile pipeline have been acquired.

Assuming Hays and Russell receive final water transfer approval by mid-year, Braun said bid documents would be finalized by year's end, and the project would be advertised. Early in 2027, contracts would be awarded, and construction would start in April 2027, with completion of the project in the summer 2029. "City staff is pleased with the progress and ready to proceed when we get the green light," Braun said.

The city is awaiting the ruling of the Kansas Supreme Court, which heard arguments Dec. 15, in the latest round of legal wrangling between Hays and Russell and WaterPACK, a group of central Kansas irrigators who oppose the water transfer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The arguments went very well," said Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager. "We hope the Supreme Court will give us a positive ruling, and when they do, this will put an end to that challenge."

"I think it was made clear in the testimony," said Sandy Jacobs, commissioner, "how long this has taken and what we have done to get here."

The water transfer panel has indicated it will have its hearing as soon as the Supreme Court issues its ruling.&nbsp;

Mason Ruder, mayor, said he received a phone call from Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, last week. Moran said the city's request for funds for the water project was included in the most recent federal funding bill.

"That means the city of Hays will be getting about $11 million toward this project to help offset some of these costs, which is a huge deal. Russell will be getting $1 million for their share. ... We really appreciate Sen. Moran's support in securing those funds," Ruder said.&nbsp;

Chris Smith, property manager, said the walk-in hunting access on the R9 has been very successful, with hunters coming from as far away as Vermont.

"We will continue to be good stewards of the land," he said.&nbsp;

Financial management policy revisions

In other business, commissioners voted to approve recommended revisions to the comprehensive financial management policy.

Kim Rupp, finance director, presented the updates, including setting a $3 million cap on the balance of the budget&nbsp;stabilization reserve fund.

"History has proven the city’s budgeted unreserved fund balance, commission capital reserve and budget stabilization reserve have been sufficient to fund unforeseen emergency needs," Rupp said.

Other minor changes included some clarifying terminology, deleting obsolete sections, providing language for the earlier switch to a Kansas municipal audit and accounting guide audit, minor formatting and edits.

Hays named Community of the Year by Community Playmaker

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, announced Hays won the national 2025 Community of the Year award from Community Playmaker. Hays competed against 100 towns across the country.

Community Playmaker is a media platform dedicated to empowering civic leaders and providing ideas to make their communities even better.&nbsp; 

"They were looking for impactful initiatives in areas of economic development, community engagement, public safety, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, and creation of inclusive, high-quality environments," Dixon said. "Hays is doing all those things."&nbsp;

🎙Hays water project manager: R9 pipeline, wellfield designs complete

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Businesses Las Hefas, closed Arc Thrift Store, closed The Social Tavern, closed Brant's Meat Market, closed Ellis Public Library closed.

No Mass at Antonino or Schoenchen today per Fr. Job.&nbsp;

No Mass at St Fidelis at 5 p.m. in Victoria 

No Mass at St Ann at 6:30 p.m. in Walker 

First Call for Help - Meals on Wheels program (Hays) canceled for Saturday.

Russell public transportation closed. The Hays Public Library closed. HaysMed:&nbsp;The Center for Health Improvement will operate on a&nbsp;delayed schedule&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday, January 24. The facility will&nbsp;open at 8 a.m.&nbsp; The following events and services are&nbsp;cancelled for Saturday, January 24: • Play Center-closed • 9 a.m. Group fitness class-canceled • 9:30 a.m. water aerobics class-canceled • Family gym/swim-canceled for Saturday and Sunday The Arc Thrift store will not be accepting donations on Saturday due to the weather.&nbsp; Ellis Public Library, closed. Heartland Gymnastics events are canceled for Saturday.

FHSU basketball in Hays games&nbsp;moved up two hours.&nbsp;The women's game will now be at noon, with the men's game to follow at 2 p.m.

Ellis Junior High wrestling at Larned is canceled. The TMP chess tournament scheduled for tomorrow at Kennedy Middle School in Hays has been canceled.

Hays Lions Club Lensmeter processing and training for Saturday has been postponed. A rescheduled date will be announced.&nbsp;

JoAnn Fleharty’s funeral has been postponed. A future date for the service has yet to be determined.

The Hays Adoration Chapel will be closed until Monday at noon. Society of Friends of Historic Fort Hays annual meeting canceled.

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County ReStore closed.

Shiloh Vineyard is moving their Puzzle exchange event to Saturday January 31.

Churches • All Sunday activities are canceled at New Life Church in Hays. • No Sunday morning church service for Westview Church in Hays. •&nbsp;Due to the weather and road conditions on some of the residential streets, there will be NO homebound ministry from St. Joseph Parish tomorrow, Sunday, January 25. • Hays First United Methodist Church, all services canceled. • CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH IN ELLIS service canceled. •&nbsp;Liberty Foursquare Church in Hays. Sunday service canceled. • No mass at&nbsp;St Boniface at 8:30 a.m. in Vincent&nbsp;Sunday 10 a.m. Mass at St Fidelis will still be held. •&nbsp;There will be Mass at Schoenchen only on Sunday at 3 p.m.&nbsp; • 9 a.m. Mass at St. Catharine Church in Catherine, canceled. • Gorham Community Church will not hold services this Sunday. • Canceled services for St. Michael's Episcopal Church, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church in Hays. • The Hays Adoration Chapel will be closed until Monday at noon.

Trinity Lutheran Church at 2700 Fort St., Hays, has canceled its Sunday services this week. ------ Tebo Library closed. St John's Place Community meeting set for this Sunday, January 25, canceled. New date TBD.

Beef and noodle dinner in Boque has been postponed to Sunday, Feb. 1.

St. Mary’s School in Ellis has POSTPONED its Annual School Carnival and Soup Lunch set for Sunday, Jan. 25 to Sunday, Feb. 1st. Please watch their School Facebook page for updates.

The Hays Adoration Chapel will be closed until Monday at noon.

For Kansas road conditions, visit <a href="https://www.kandrive.gov/">https://www.kandrive.gov/</a>

Latest cancellations and delays

Hays High vs Standley Lake (CO)/Beloit (Orange &amp; Black Classic) Saturday, Jan. 24 - 4:00 Colby, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network &nbsp; WATCH HERE - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3559060">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;

Hays High takes center court at the Colby Orange &amp; Black Classic as each the girls' and boys' team looks to take home a title.

The #3-5A Hays (12-1) girls face one of the top teams out of Colorado, #3-5A Standley Lake Gators (11-1)

The #8-5A Hays boys (10-3) also have a state ranked opponent in the championship. The Indians face the #5-3A Beloit Trojans (11-1) who haven't lost since the first game of the season.

Hertz pregame will begin at 3:40 on 96.9 KFIX. However, the games are running behind in Colby.

🏀📺 Championship Saturday for Hays High basketball

ATTENTION: Downtown Snow Removal Tonight! (Jan. 24). Help us clear the way, Hays! City crews will be out tonight, Saturday, January 24, starting at about 10 p.m. to remove snow from the following areas:

 Oak to Fort Streets (7th to 13th Streets) 

 West 9th &amp; 10th Streets (100 and 200 blocks)

 A Quick Favor: Please move all vehicles from these streets and on-street parking areas by 10 p.m.

This allows our crews to plow the entire street safely and efficiently! Questions? Give the Public Works Service Division a call at 785-628-7350. Stay warm and drive safe!

Downtown snow removal Saturday night in Hays

City of Hays Water Resources crews have identified and addressed a water system issue that affected service on the north side of town earlier today.

While service has been maintained, residents may have experienced disruptions as crews worked to secure the infrastructure.

System pressure is expected to stabilize over the next few hours.

Residents and businesses may notice minor fluctuations or air in the lines as the system returns to its normal operating state.

“Our teams successfully identified the cause of the pressure drop and have implemented the necessary resolution,” said Water Resources Director Jeff Crispin. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we worked to ensure the integrity of our water system.”

With extreme cold weather currently affecting the region, the city of Hays reminds residents to remain vigilant.

While this specific issue was not related to a pipe failure, the risk of water main breaks increases during sub-freezing temperatures.

“We encourage anyone who sees evidence of a potential water main break, such as water surfacing in the street or unusual pooling, to contact the Water Resources Department immediately at 785-628-7380,” Crispin said.

Residents are also encouraged to monitor the city of Hays social media accounts, Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky, Nextdoor, and LinkedIn, or visit HaysUSA.com for real-time updates and notifications regarding future service issues.

City of Hays resolves water system issue in north Hays; normal pressure returning

As of about 11:15 a.m. today, the city of Hays was reporting a possible water main break north of the city.

The City of Hays Water Resources Department is currently investigating a water leak north of town. Our crews are on-site and working to locate the exact source as quickly as possible.

We need your eyes! If you live north of town or are traveling through the area and spot unusual standing water, bubbling ground, or running water where it shouldn't be, please let us know immediately.

Thank you for your patience and for helping us keep our water system running smoothly!

WATER LEAK INVESTIGATION – NORTH HAYS

TOPEKA — Washburn University has announced its fall 2025 Dean's List honorees. To qualify for the Dean's List, a student must be enrolled in 12 hours of graded credits and earn a semester grade point average of 3.4 to 3.99.

More than 1,050 students qualified for the Dean's List. Congratulations to all these students, Washburn University is proud of their hard work and commitment to their education.

Hays residents qualify for Dean's List at Washburn University 

Join the United Way of Ellis County for a special Dueling Pianos fundraiser and party with a purpose!

Enjoy&nbsp;a request-driven show where two&nbsp;talented&nbsp;pianists battle it out, playing&nbsp;all your&nbsp;favorites&nbsp;from classic rock to modern hits, ensuring a night of non-stop singing, laughing and fun!&nbsp;

Best of all, every ticket&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;goes directly to supporting vital community programs offered by our 15 non-profit partner agencies here in Ellis County.&nbsp;A&nbsp;great night out for an even greater cause!&nbsp;

This benefit event will take place on Saturday, February 7 at the Ellis County Fairgrounds,&nbsp;Unrein Building, 1344 Fairground Road, Hays.&nbsp;Doors open at&nbsp;6:00&nbsp;p.m.;&nbsp;dinner&nbsp;catered by&nbsp;Thirsty’s&nbsp;at 6:30 p.m.; pianos at 8 p.m.&nbsp;Those enjoying the pianos only may enter at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Purchase your tickets&nbsp;now online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dueling-pianos-12?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExV2J4WmRrQVJVRXR6OHVSeXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5VT-DQtW63JqEFEafPNPRLn8dmOqyJAiyJ6xScOwneh9S2EuW5jQrpmZQOpQ_aem_8l26WJoc12s-o3VElCMdAw">https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dueling-pianos-12 </a>or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">www.liveunited.us</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

For more information, contact Janelle VanKooten, United Way of Ellis County executive director, at 785-628-8281 or director@liveunited.us.

A big thanks to our sponsors including&nbsp;

PREMIERE SPONSORS &nbsp;M &amp; D Excavating&nbsp;&nbsp; Commerce Bank&nbsp; Nex-Tech &nbsp; EVENT SUPPORTERS Golden Belt Bank Midwest Energy Car Zone Doghouse Liquor Emprise Bank Northwestern Printers Astra Bank PoPt! SILENT AUCTION DONOR Genuine Appliance&nbsp; Auto World Creekside Resort The Niche Chris Schmidt Ashley Furniture&nbsp; Nex-Tech Wireless Second Wind IV&nbsp; Jaren Kanak Dylan Dreiling

UNITED WAY OF ELLIS COUNTY PARTNER AGENCIES&nbsp; Big Brothers Big Sisters Ellis County&nbsp; Cancer Council of Ellis County CASA Court-Appointed Special Advocates CPRF Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas First Call for Help Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County Hays Senior Center High Plains Mental Health Center Options Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Services PACT&nbsp;Parents and Teachers Together Salvation Army St. Michael's Episcopal Church Western Kansas Association on Concerns of the Disabled Western KS Child Advocacy Center

🎙 Dueling Pianos fundraiser February 7 for United Way of Ellis County  

BELOIT – Each semester Fort Hays Tech | North Central awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree.

212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point.

 Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.

The recipient of 2025 Fall 212° Award is Emma Carlin. Carlin is the student account specialist for the college and works on the Beloit campus.

Carlin exemplifies the spirit of the 212° Award. She has been with the college for over four years and during that time she has provided steadfast support in helping both students and staff. Carlin is selfless, dedicated, and dependable and always willing to go above and beyond in order to help others.

"We are blessed to have Emma Carlin on our team, and I am very pleased that she was selected by her peers for this recognition," said Fort Hays Tech | North Central's President Eric Burks.

 "Emma is an amazing person and does a fantastic job of thinking of ways to make things work better for our students and our staff. Emma's kind and caring demeanor and her outstanding work ethic are very much appreciated by students and staff. Emma is very deserving of the 212 Award as she consistently goes above and beyond to help people and fulfill the college's mission," Burks said.

Fort Hays Tech | North Central honors staff member with Fall 2025 212° Award

<a target="_blank" href="https://communityplaymaker.com/">Community Playmaker</a>, a media platform dedicated to celebrating and empowering civic leaders, has named&nbsp;Hays, Kansas, as its 2025 Community of the Year. The annual honor recognizes cities, towns, parishes, and counties across the United States for their outstanding commitment to enhancing quality of life through innovative programs, visionary leadership, and community-driven solutions.

The&nbsp;Community of the Year Award&nbsp;highlights impactful initiatives in areas such as economic development, community engagement, public safety, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, and the creation of inclusive, high-quality environments. Finalists are selected for their measurable progress, strong civic partnerships, and clear vision for the future. Hays rose to the top from a competitive field of communities nationwide, including fellow 2025 finalists: Port St. Lucie, Florida and Monessen, Pennsylvania.

“Hays is a powerful example of what happens when a community commits to long-term, balanced growth,” said Ashley Whittaker, editor-in-chief of Community Playmaker. “From protecting scarce water resources to investing in inclusive recreation, education, and public art, Hays shows how thoughtful planning and collaboration can create a place where people of all ages truly want to live, learn, work, and retire.”

Hays, Kansas, demonstrates how Midwestern hospitality can be paired with modern innovation and environmental responsibility. The city has carefully balanced infrastructure growth with a focus on sustainability, ensuring that progress never comes at the expense of its natural resources or quality of life. Its long-standing leadership in water conservation has yielded groundbreaking initiatives that protect limited water supplies while still supporting new development and community amenities.

Hays distinguished itself through several key initiatives and investments, including:

“Hays shows what it looks like when a community invests in every stage of life—from early childhood to retirement—while still protecting the environment and celebrating its culture,” added Whittaker. “Their story is a roadmap for communities that want to grow without losing their sense of place.”

Hays will be featured in upcoming Community Playmaker content highlighting its innovative strategies, partnerships, and long-term impact on residents.

Subscribe to Community Playmaker’s weekly newsletter to learn more about Hays, for updates on the 2026 Community of the Year, and for stories from communities across the United States.

Community playmaker awards Hays 2025 community of the year

Coming up on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks with Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District crop production specialist, about upcoming soil fertility programs and how agriculture producers deal with winter weather.

🎙 Post Podcast: Campbell: Soil fertility; ag producers deal with winter weather

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS has received a&nbsp;stabilization grant&nbsp;from the&nbsp;Public Media Bridge Fund, providing critical financial support following the loss of federal funding last year, which&nbsp;resulted in a nearly 52% reduction in its operating budget.&nbsp; This grant will help ensure continued service to rural communities in central and western Kansas.

Smoky Hills PBS is one of 115 public media stations nationwide to receive funding through this initiative. The grants were awarded to stations facing the greatest financial challenges, particularly those serving&nbsp;rural and underserved areas. For many of these communities, local public media stations are the&nbsp;only source of local news, educational programming, and community storytelling.

“For many of the communities we serve, Smoky Hills PBS is more than a television station - we’re a connection point,” said Betsy Schwien, general manager of Smoky Hills PBS. “This funding helps us continue showing up for our viewers with reliable service, local stories, and educational programming that reflects and supports rural Kansas.”

·&nbsp; Expenses related to Transmitter repairs and maintenance to ensure reliable access to Smoky Hills PBS across a large rural coverage area.

·&nbsp; Programming costs that allow the station to continue offering trusted PBS content and locally relevant programs.

·&nbsp; Equipment upgrades of productions, helping maintain a high-quality coverage of local events, public affairs, and community-focused programming.

These investments will help stabilize operations and strengthen the station’s ability to serve viewers today while preparing for the future.

“We are deeply grateful for the support of the Public Media Bridge Fund,” said Helen Hands, Smoky Hills PBS board member. “This grant is a significant step forward for Smoky Hills PBS, but our work isn’t finished here. The continued support of our viewers is what will help keep Smoky Hills PBS strong for generations to come.”

The Public Media Bridge Fund is a strategic philanthropic initiative of Public Media Company (PMC), a nonpartisan nonprofit organization. For more than 20 years, PMC has helped local public and independent media organizations expand their service and impact, strengthen their communities, and secure their long-term sustainability.

Funds from the Public Media Bridge Fund are intended to stabilize operations and preserve essential services for stations navigating unprecedented financial disruption, allowing them to remain a trusted, local presence for the communities they serve.

For more information about Smoky Hills PBS and how you can support its mission, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>, call 1-800-337-4788, or follow the station on social media (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillsPBS">@SmokyHillsPBS</a>).

Smoky Hills PBS receives essential grant from Public Media Bridge Fund

BUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is proud to announce the award of a generous grant from the Beach Family Foundation, providing vital support for educational initiatives, local storytelling, and expanded digital access across central and western Kansas.

The grant will directly support several key Smoky Hills PBS programs and services, including the PBS KIDS Writers Contest, the Share A Story early literacy summer program, locally produced content, and the Smoky Hills PBS mobile app.

“These funds will have a meaningful and immediate impact on the families and communities we serve,” said Betsy Schwien, Smoky Hills PBS general manager. “Support from the Beach Family Foundation helps ensure that children have access to educational opportunities, local stories continue to be told, and viewers across our large coverage area can connect with Smoky Hills PBS wherever they are.”

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in central and western Kansas, providing free, accessible programming that educates, informs, and inspires viewers of all ages. Educational outreach programs like the PBS KIDS Writers Contest and Share A Story encourage creativity, literacy, and a lifelong love of learning, while local productions highlight the people, history, and culture of the region.

The Beach Family Foundation’s investment also supports Smoky Hills PBS’s digital platforms, including its mobile app, helping ensure audiences can access trusted public media content on their preferred devices.

Beach Family Foundation awards grant to support Smoky Hills PBS

Phillipsburg Chamber and Main Street

PHILLIPSBURG — Phillipsburg Chamber and Main Street invites you to the Winter Bluegrass Bash Saturday, Feb. 14 at the Huck Boyd Center in Phillipsburg.

It's a perfect Valentine's date night. Enjoy appetizers and a cash bar at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., the bluegrass concert starts with Breanne Stone and 80 Proof Alice.&nbsp;

Tickets: • $30 per person or $50 per couple • After Feb. 1: $40 per person or $60 per couple

Visit the Phillipsburg Chamber and Main Street <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/748250354445972">Facebook page</a> for more info or call Phillips County CVB at 785-543-2321.

Phillipsburg Winter Bluegrass Bash tickets available now

&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

In its commitment to supporting the mental well-being of students from pre-kindergarten through college, the FHSU Department of Advanced Education Program will present the Olliff Family Educational Symposium on Thursday, Feb. 5. This virtual event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

The symposium will feature a keynote address by Will Stutterheim, M.S., LCP, from the Department of Psychology at FHSU. 

Titled “Fields of Stress: The Hidden Mental Health Burden on America’s Agricultural Heartland,” the presentation will focus on a critical, yet often overlooked challenge – the mental well-being of those within the agricultural community. Given the vital role agriculture plays in western Kansas, this session will provide essential insights for educators and mental health professionals supporting individuals from farming and ranching backgrounds.

Will Stutterheim is an instructor at FHSU with more than 20 years of experience in mental health therapy and education. Having grown up on a multi-generational farm in northwest Kansas, Stutterheim brings a deeply personal perspective to his clinical expertise. After 13 years as a therapist in the rural farming community of Phillipsburg, he specializes in helping families navigate the unique stressors of agricultural life.

His presentation will focus on agriculture, stress, and mental health, as well as skills and strategies to support individuals struggling with their mental health.

Registration is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0ZpfNdjkVHLvPZyvGz2cNpY3nlYvkJIBR07h8FDQEdTmZnWy_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOqq9UCDR9oz8qLOLS-2Fr-2Bz5dQeVrtHtUaiHUIafhjAdlgkG-2FGXK0oOIJHxe8IFkbvimXlSLYAoBdl-2FnCjh-2BVWk-2BvDr5dkcHT7BoXDe-2BlKWvw1BTZdZ5LYkBbCXrqJBLyMaMGE-2FkkacNZhi4YPmCF6lnM4vfWeZ23CbEqvCQBWDbEFf9SrfFwJ2gpnTt8xBAJGEYY3k7ECF0QNHLTxwm25iFzCGz-2Bgkgfrx4qLhdoJV31wXIO2clW5Pp0ylTwHqroDl">https://forms.gle/Qe6p7egzEmfbYtxj7</a>

The Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants two days prior to the symposium.

Hidden mental health burden on America’s agricultural heartland topic at FHSU Feb. 5

Cold weather won’t cool the savings in Downtown Hays this week. The Winter Indoor Sidewalk Sale returns Thursday through Saturday,&nbsp;January 22–24, inviting shoppers to explore warm, welcoming storefronts filled with special discounts and end-of-season deals.

Downtown retailers will offer sidewalk-sale-style pricing inside their shops, featuring seasonal markdowns on winter apparel, home décor, books, gifts, and unique one-of-a-kind items. The sale provides an opportunity to shop local while discovering new favorites throughout the district.

“This event is a fun way for businesses to beat the winter blues and welcome the community in with deals that are as cool as the temps,” said&nbsp;Lee Ann June, executive director of The Bricks in Downtown Hays.

The Winter Indoor Sidewalk Sale supports local retailers during the winter season and encourages residents to shop small while enjoying the charm of Downtown Hays. Hours vary by business, and shoppers are encouraged to check with individual stores for details.

For a list of participating businesses and updates throughout the sale, follow&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays">@DowntownHays</a>&nbsp;on social media.

Winter Indoor Sidewalk Sale brings hot deals to Downtown Hays

Government surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at&nbsp;

Unite Free Shelves (iInside The Gamers Guild) 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street, Hays, on Tue., Jan. 27 from&nbsp;7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until we run out.

Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.&nbsp;

To be eligible for commodities, your household’s total monthly income must be below:

$2,413&nbsp; &nbsp;Household of one $3,261&nbsp; &nbsp;Household of two $4,109&nbsp; Household of three $4,957&nbsp;Household of four $5,805&nbsp;&nbsp;Household of five $6,653&nbsp; Household of six $7,501&nbsp; &nbsp;Household of seven $8,349&nbsp;Household of eight *Add&nbsp;$848&nbsp;for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be applesauce, black beans, tomato soup, vegetable soup, frozen strawberries, garbanzo beans, dehydrated potatoes, raisins, peanut butter, pasta, and Great Northern beans.

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader, with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Government surplus commodities distribution in Hays Jan. 27

USD 489 Kindergarten info meeting set for February 

HARVEY COUNTY —Emergency crews responded to a child stuck in a hole at Sand Creek Station on Saturday, according to a social media report from Newton Fire and EMS.

On arrival, just the fingertips of a 15-year-old boy were visible at ground level. The child was rescued from the hole and transported to the local hospital in stable condition for evaluation. 

He had been sledding with a friend, who notified a neighbor to call 911. Thanks to his quick thinking, this event had a positive outcome.

Newton emergency crews reported they did not measure the hole, but it was about 12 inches. The 15-year-old was released from the hospital, is home and was doing well.

New Fire and EMS reminded, "it is important to always have someone with you while sledding to call for help in the event of an emergency."

Kan. boy rescued from hole after sledding accident

BROWN COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 6:30p.m. on Jan. 19, Brown County dispatch received several reckless driving 911 calls on a white Cadillac Escalade on US 75 Highway, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

&nbsp; A Brown County deputy was near the location and was able to observe the vehicle cross the center line at least twice.&nbsp;&nbsp; The deputy then initiated a traffic stop on the SUV and spoke with the driver identified as 32-year-old Cassondra Smith of Falls City, Nebraska.

The deputy immediately detected the odor of burnt marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.&nbsp; At the conclusion of the traffic stop,&nbsp; Smith was arrested on charges of DUI and Child Endangerment.

Sheriff: Driver was smoking pot with child in the SUV

NEW YORK (AP) — Toyota announced Friday it would recall about 162,000 pickup trucks in the United States after it was discovered that the vehicles' multimedia displays could compromise driver safety.

The recall affects the company's model year 2024-2025 Tundra and Tundra Hybrid line of trucks. Affected customers are currently being notified, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-recalls-certain-toyota-tundra-and-tundra-hybrid-vehicles/">statement</a>&nbsp;from Toyota.

The Japanese automaker warns that the screens may “become stuck on a camera view” or go completely dark under certain circumstances, creating situations where drivers aren't able to see their backup camera feed when reversing. Toyota says this malfunction potentially violates federal safety standards.

Toyota recalls trucks over faulty multimedia screens

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating the death of two people at a Kansas City home have identified the victims as&nbsp;as 41-year-old Anna Davis and 41-year-old Darren Davis, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

The case is now being investigated as an apparent double suicide., according to Becchina.

Just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to the 1200 block of NE 83rd Terrace, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. As officers arrived they were directed inside a residence where hey located Darren Davis and Anna Davis both suffering from gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers also located a juvenile boy with an unknown injury. 

The child was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Both the Darren and Anna Davis were pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp; Detectives are working to determine what led up to the incident.&nbsp; Police have not provided an update on the condition of the boy.

Police ID couple found dead, infant injured at KC home

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —A federal immigration officer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-4d1499fc5962ab880f3816259e04bdbf">shot and killed a man in Minneapolis</a>&nbsp;on Saturday, drawing hundreds of protesters onto the frigidly cold streets in a city already shaken by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">another fatal shooting&nbsp;</a>weeks earlier.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said a 37-year-old man was killed but declined to identify him. He added that information about what led up to the shooting was limited. The man was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc" target="_blank">identified by his parents as Alex Jeffrey Pretti</a>, an intensive care unit nurse. The officer who shot Pretti is an eight-year Border Patrol veteran, federal officials said.

The Minnesota National Guard has been activated by Gov. Tim Walz and is assisting local police amid growing protests. Guard troops are going to both to the shooting site and to a federal building where officials have squared off with protesters daily.

The shooting happened amid widespread daily protests in the Twin Cities since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-immigration-enforcement-shooting-crackdown-surge-173e00fa7388054e98c3b5b9417c1e5a">Jan. 7 shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good</a>, who was killed when an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fired into her vehicle. Pretti was killed just over a mile away from where Good was shot.

Bystander video obtained by AP shows details of confrontation

By&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hannah-fingerhut">HANNAH FINGERHUT</a>

In a bystander video obtained by the AP, protesters can be heard blowing whistles and shouting profanities at agents on Nicollet Avenue.

The video shows an officer shoving a person who is wearing a brown jacket, green skirt and black tights and carrying a water bottle. That person reaches out for a man and the two link up, embracing.

The man, wearing a brown jacket and black hat, seems to be holding his phone up toward the officer.

The same officer shoves the man in his chest and the two, still embracing, fall back.

The video then shifts to a different part of the street and then comes back to the two individuals unlinking from each other. The video shifts focus again and then shows three officers surrounding the man.

Soon at least seven officers surround the man. One is on the man’s back and another who appears to have a cannister in his hand strikes a blow to the man’s chest. Several officers try to bring the man’s arms behind his back as he appears to resist. As they pull his arms, his face is briefly visible on camera. The officer with the cannister strikes the man near his head several times.

A shot rings out, but with officers surrounding the man, it’s not clear from where the shot came. Multiple officers back off of the man after the shot. More shots are heard. Officers back away and the man lies motionless on the street.

Defense Secretary says ICE is greater than Minnesota

By<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-l-price">MICHELLE L. PRICE</a>

Pete Hegseth posted on the social platform X to thank God for the “patriots” who work for ICE and said, “we have your back 100%.”

The Pentagon chief added: “Shame on the leadership of Minnesota — and the lunatics in the street. ICE &gt; MN.”

Hegseth was born and raised in Minnesota.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —The man who was shot and killed by a federal officer during an immigration operation has been identified as 37-year-old Alex Pretti. His parents told The Associated Press that Pretti was an intensive care unit nurse.

Trump weighs in on the shooting in Minneapolis

Trump posted to his Truth Social account after a man was killed by federal officers during an immigration enforcement action in Minneapolis. Trump's statement said:

“This is the gunman’s gun, loaded (with two additional full magazines!), and ready to go – What is that all about? Where are the local Police? Why weren’t they allowed to protect ICE Officers? The Mayor and the Governor called them off? It is stated that many of these Police were not allowed to do their job, that ICE had to protect themselves — Not an easy thing to do! Why does Ilhan Omar have $34 Million Dollars in her account? And where are the Tens of Billions of Dollars that have been stolen from the once Great State of Minnesota? 

We are there because of massive Monetary Fraud, with Billions of Dollars missing, and Illegal Criminals that were allowed to infiltrate the State through the Democrats’ Open Border Policy. We want the money back, and we want it back, NOW. Those Fraudsters who stole the money are going to jail, where they belong! This is no different than a really big Bank Robbery. Much of what you’re witnessing is a COVER UP for this Theft and Fraud.

"The Mayor and the Governor are inciting Insurrection, with their pompous, dangerous, and arrogant rhetoric! Instead, these sanctimonious political fools should be looking for the Billions of Dollars that has been stolen from the people of Minnesota, and the United States of America. LET OUR ICE PATRIOTS DO THEIR JOB! 12,000 Illegal Alien Criminals, many of them violent, have been arrested and taken out of Minnesota. If they were still there, you would see something far worse than you are witnessing today!””

DHS says officers fired “defensive shots”

Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that federal officers were conducting an operation as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-renee-good-immigration-sweeps-6ae64be5a0d6a718b658a938fb56e567">Trump administration’s immigration crackdown</a>.

She said officers fired “defensive shots” after a man with a handgun approached them and “violently resisted” when officers tried to disarm him. O’Hara said police believe the man was a “lawful gun owner with a permit to carry.”

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