Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about healthy and unhealthy relationships, warning signs and prevention. Adolescents and adults are often unaware that teens experience dating violence. Unfortunately, it affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year. In 2010, to help raise awareness, the U.S. Congress enhanced what had been Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, based on the rising number of incidents in teens ages 11-17 across the country.&nbsp;

According to the 2017 Youth Behavior Surveillance Study report, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence. In addition, about 1 in 9 female and 1 in 36 male high school students report having experienced sexual dating violence. According to the Center of Disease Control, during the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning the skills needed to create and maintain healthy relationships (Preventing teen dating violence, 2020).

Unhealthy or violent relationships can have severe short and long-term effects on a developing teen. Studies show teens who experience relationship violence face additional risk for developing a violent relationship later in life. In addition, they are likely to develop depression, abuse substances, or think about suicide. As a community, we have a responsibility to make dating and domestic violence an intolerable act – anytime, anywhere. Jana’s Campaign is encouraged people of Hays and surrounding communities recognize this as a social issue that can be eradicated. We are extremely grateful for the hundreds of people who believe in the #PowerOfPrevention and help support and fund our work.&nbsp;

To do our part for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Jana’s Campaign has developed a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit to help communities understand, prevent and better respond to teen dating violence. The toolkit is free and can be found on the Jana’s Campaign website, <a href="http://www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html">www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html</a>. Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about Teen Dating Violence on our social media accounts throughout the month of February.

We believe through education we can change and improve attitudes, behaviors, customs, interactions, relations and social norms. Since 2013, Jana’s Campaign has worked with over 600 middle and high schools impacting over 73,000 students, including 6,065 K-12 students in Ellis County to educate about and prevent against gender and relationship violence. We commend these schools for understanding the importance of talking to their students about healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Throughout February and beyond, please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the hidden social disease of gender and relationship violence, dating and domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking. Learn more about Teen Dating Violence, our Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit and Jana’s Campaign at www.janascampaign.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested in inviting Jana’s Campaign&nbsp; to your school or community, please contact us at <a href="mailto:janascampaign@gmail.com">janascampaign@gmail.com</a> or call us at 785-656-0324.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578075822734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jana's CampaignTeen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about healthy and unhealthy relationships, warning signs and prevention. Adolescents and adults are often unaware that teens experience dating violence. Unfortunately, it affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year. In 2010, to help raise awareness, the U.S. Congress enhanced what had been Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, based on the rising number of incidents in teens ages 11-17 across the country.&nbsp;According to the 2017 Youth Behavior Surveillance Study report, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence. In addition, about 1 in 9 female and 1 in 36 male high school students report having experienced sexual dating violence. According to the Center of Disease Control, during the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning the skills needed to create and maintain healthy relationships (Preventing teen dating violence, 2020).Unhealthy or violent relationships can have severe short and long-term effects on a developing teen. Studies show teens who experience relationship violence face additional risk for developing a violent relationship later in life. In addition, they are likely to develop depression, abuse substances, or think about suicide. As a community, we have a responsibility to make dating and domestic violence an intolerable act – anytime, anywhere. Jana’s Campaign is encouraged people of Hays and surrounding communities recognize this as a social issue that can be eradicated. We are extremely grateful for the hundreds of people who believe in the #PowerOfPrevention and help support and fund our work.&nbsp;To do our part for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Jana’s Campaign has developed a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit to help communities understand, prevent and better respond to teen dating violence. The toolkit is free and can be found on the Jana’s Campaign website, <a href="http://www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html">www.janascampaign.org/awareness-toolkits.html</a>. Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about Teen Dating Violence on our social media accounts throughout the month of February.We believe through education we can change and improve attitudes, behaviors, customs, interactions, relations and social norms. Since 2013, Jana’s Campaign has worked with over 600 middle and high schools impacting over 73,000 students, including 6,065 K-12 students in Ellis County to educate about and prevent against gender and relationship violence. We commend these schools for understanding the importance of talking to their students about healthy and unhealthy relationships.Throughout February and beyond, please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the hidden social disease of gender and relationship violence, dating and domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking. Learn more about Teen Dating Violence, our Teen Dating Violence Awareness Toolkit and Jana’s Campaign at www.janascampaign.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested in inviting Jana’s Campaign&nbsp; to your school or community, please contact us at <a href="mailto:janascampaign@gmail.com">janascampaign@gmail.com</a> or call us at 785-656-0324.

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

The annual meeting of members/partners of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) will take place virtually on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, 11:00 – 11:30 a.m., to take action on the following matters:

1. The report of officers. 2. 2020 Year in Review. 3. All other business which shall come before the meeting.

The 2021 Board of Directors consists of Megan Ball, Sarah Cearley, Alaina Cunningham, Karen Dreiling, David Herl, Mike Holliday, Sandy Keller, Patrick McGinnis, Kristiana Molina, Brett Ottley, Julie Rider, Andrew Taylor, and Shae Veach.

President: Mike Holliday Past President: Sarah Cearley Vice President: Julie Rider Secretary: Megan Ball Treasurer: David Herl

The regularly scheduled February Board of Directors meeting will immediately follow the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.

To request a Zoom link to the annual meeting, please send an email to Sara Bloom at dhdc@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612307430707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCThe annual meeting of members/partners of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) will take place virtually on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, 11:00 – 11:30 a.m., to take action on the following matters:1. The report of officers. 2. 2020 Year in Review. 3. All other business which shall come before the meeting.The 2021 Board of Directors consists of Megan Ball, Sarah Cearley, Alaina Cunningham, Karen Dreiling, David Herl, Mike Holliday, Sandy Keller, Patrick McGinnis, Kristiana Molina, Brett Ottley, Julie Rider, Andrew Taylor, and Shae Veach.The 2021 slate of officers:President: Mike Holliday Past President: Sarah Cearley Vice President: Julie Rider Secretary: Megan Ball Treasurer: David HerlThe regularly scheduled February Board of Directors meeting will immediately follow the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.To request a Zoom link to the annual meeting, please send an email to Sara Bloom at dhdc@downtownhays.com or call 785-621-4171.

DHDC to hold virtual annual meeting February 10

What: Incoming sixth-grade parent information night 

Due to COVID and the need to socially distance, we are asking that each student have no more than two parents/guardians attend. 

This night is only for parents. All students will visit in April or May with their fifth-grade classes.

What: Incoming sixth-grade parent information night When: 6:30–7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 2Location: Hays Middle School gymDue to COVID and the need to socially distance, we are asking that each student have no more than two parents/guardians attend. This night is only for parents. All students will visit in April or May with their fifth-grade classes.

6th-grade parent night set for March 2

Area blood drives through Feb. 15

COLBY - The Colby Community College Athletic Department announced ticketing policies for home basketball, volleyball and wrestling events after Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference presidents voted this week to allow 25 percent seating capacity at each league venue.

At the Colby Community Building, 270 seats will be available. Team benches have been moved to the north side of the gym, and fans will sit on the south side.

No tickets will be sold at the door on the day of a game.

Beginning Monday, Feb. 8, single-game tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets</a>. Current CCC students and employees will be issued a code to claim tickets for upcoming games. Students may redeem their code for one ticket, and CCC employees may redeem their code for up to four tickets.

After Feb. 10, tickets will become available for upcoming games one week in advance. All tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Admission for the season will be $5 for adults and $3 for children. All tickets will be general admission until at least Feb. 16. At a later date, reserved seating will be available. Tickets should be printed at home or presented on a mobile device to be scanned prior to entry.

The first opportunity to see the Trojans comes on Feb. 10 when the women’s and men’s basketball teams host Cowley County. CCC volleyball plays Pratt on Feb. 15, and wrestling takes on Cloud County and Barton Feb. 16.

Under KJCCC and Colby Community College policies, masks must be worn properly at all times while in attendance, and social distancing is required. In addition, there will be no concessions sold, and outside food or drink is prohibited. 

Fans will not be screened before entry, but anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or has recently been exposed is asked to stay home and watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming</a>.

The KJCCC will re-evaluate the current policy on March 1.

For more information, contact CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mike.saddler@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">mike.saddler@colbycc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (785) 460-5548.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY - The Colby Community College Athletic Department announced ticketing policies for home basketball, volleyball and wrestling events after Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference presidents voted this week to allow 25 percent seating capacity at each league venue.At the Colby Community Building, 270 seats will be available. Team benches have been moved to the north side of the gym, and fans will sit on the south side.No tickets will be sold at the door on the day of a game. Beginning Monday, Feb. 8, single-game tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/information/tickets</a>. Current CCC students and employees will be issued a code to claim tickets for upcoming games. Students may redeem their code for one ticket, and CCC employees may redeem their code for up to four tickets.After Feb. 10, tickets will become available for upcoming games one week in advance. All tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis.Admission for the season will be $5 for adults and $3 for children. All tickets will be general admission until at least Feb. 16. At a later date, reserved seating will be available. Tickets should be printed at home or presented on a mobile device to be scanned prior to entry.The first opportunity to see the Trojans comes on Feb. 10 when the women’s and men’s basketball teams host Cowley County. CCC volleyball plays Pratt on Feb. 15, and wrestling takes on Cloud County and Barton Feb. 16.Under KJCCC and Colby Community College policies, masks must be worn properly at all times while in attendance, and social distancing is required. In addition, there will be no concessions sold, and outside food or drink is prohibited. Fans will not be screened before entry, but anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or has recently been exposed is asked to stay home and watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming" target="_blank">www.colbytrojans.com/livestreaming</a>.The KJCCC will re-evaluate the current policy on March 1.For more information, contact CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mike.saddler@colbycc.edu" target="_blank">mike.saddler@colbycc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (785) 460-5548.

Fans can return to Colby CC games next week in limited capacity

A public hearing will be held Wed., Feb. 10 by the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals at 8:15 a.m. in the commission chambers at Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

The requests for a public hearing comes from Jesse Zimmerman for a five-foot variance in height of an accessory structure, an increase from the allowable 21 feet to 26 feet, at 2901 Cottonwood Lane.

The complete meeting agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02102021-1251">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysA public hearing will be held Wed., Feb. 10 by the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals at 8:15 a.m. in the commission chambers at Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.The requests for a public hearing comes from Jesse Zimmerman for a five-foot variance in height of an accessory structure, an increase from the allowable 21 feet to 26 feet, at 2901 Cottonwood Lane.The complete meeting agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02102021-1251">here</a>.&nbsp;

Public hearing Feb. 10 set by Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals

ELLIS - The Kansas Food Bank and Ellis Food Boxes Pantry have openings for the USDA program to help provide monthly food boxes to low income seniors.&nbsp; The Commodity Supplemental Food Program is available in Ellis County to persons age 60 and above who qualify by meeting income requirements.

Interested seniors must fill out an application and provide the following:&nbsp; proof of ID, proof of income (Social Security statement) and proof of address.&nbsp; Once approved, they will receive a monthly food box.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight *&nbsp;Add $486 for each additional family member after eight&nbsp;&nbsp;

Applications are available by calling Debi at the Kansas Food Bank 316-265-3663.

Food packages include a variety of foods, such as nonfat dry and ultra-high temperature fluid milk, juice, farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, dry beans, canned meat, poultry or fish, and canned fruits and vegetables.

About the Kansas Food Bank The Kansas Food Bank collects and distributes donated and low-cost nutritious food to more than 500 hunger relief partners in its 85-county service area. In 2020 more than 14 million meals were provided, helping to feed nearly 215,300 different Kansans. Hunger-relief partners include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, schools in the Food4Kids backpack program, and Bob Box senior box programs. In addition, the Food Bank takes a leadership role in identifying and addressing hunger needs affecting Kansans.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasfoodbank.org/" target="_blank">www.kansasfoodbank.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS - The Kansas Food Bank and Ellis Food Boxes Pantry have openings for the USDA program to help provide monthly food boxes to low income seniors.&nbsp; The Commodity Supplemental Food Program is available in Ellis County to persons age 60 and above who qualify by meeting income requirements.Interested seniors must fill out an application and provide the following:&nbsp; proof of ID, proof of income (Social Security statement) and proof of address.&nbsp; Once approved, they will receive a monthly food box.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Income guidelines are as follows.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight *&nbsp;Add $486 for each additional family member after eight&nbsp;&nbsp; Applications are available by calling Debi at the Kansas Food Bank 316-265-3663.Food packages include a variety of foods, such as nonfat dry and ultra-high temperature fluid milk, juice, farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, dry beans, canned meat, poultry or fish, and canned fruits and vegetables.About the Kansas Food Bank The Kansas Food Bank collects and distributes donated and low-cost nutritious food to more than 500 hunger relief partners in its 85-county service area. In 2020 more than 14 million meals were provided, helping to feed nearly 215,300 different Kansans. Hunger-relief partners include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, schools in the Food4Kids backpack program, and Bob Box senior box programs. In addition, the Food Bank takes a leadership role in identifying and addressing hunger needs affecting Kansans. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasfoodbank.org/" target="_blank">www.kansasfoodbank.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellis Senior Food Box program has openings for USDA Supplemental Food program

The Victoria Knights of Columbus will hold a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, February 19 at the Victoria VFW Hall from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Due to COVID-19 precautions, the fish fry will be pick-up/drive-thru only. There will be no indoor dining.

Orders must be placed in advance by Wed., February 10.

Cost of the meal is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Those wishing to purchase meal tickets should call John Braun, 735-2622, Harland Rupp, 623-1368, or Leroy Schmidtberger, 639-3570 before Feb. 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582047194813.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Victoria Knights of Columbus will hold a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, February 19 at the Victoria VFW Hall from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.Due to COVID-19 precautions, the fish fry will be pick-up/drive-thru only. There will be no indoor dining.Orders must be placed in advance by Wed., February 10.Cost of the meal is $10 for adults and $5 for children.Those wishing to purchase meal tickets should call John Braun, 735-2622, Harland Rupp, 623-1368, or Leroy Schmidtberger, 639-3570 before Feb. 10.

Order ahead for Victoria K of C Lenten Fish Fry Feb. 19 drive-thru 

NORTON&nbsp;-&nbsp;Norton County Community Foundation recently announced a new art exhibit in the Gloria A. Nelson Cultural Arts Center. “Watercolor Paintings” by Donna Eastman will be on display in the Heaton Building until April 9.

Eastman began painting in 1996, taking classes weekly for four years with Brumley Gallery Owner, Joan Brumley, in Bass Lake, Calif. Over the years, she has participated in professional art workshops from internationally-renowned artists and has been accepted into many juried exhibitions and critique groups. She served on the executive board for the Arizona Watercolor Association, Arizona Alliance for the Arts, and the Flagstaff Arts Council. 

Today, Eastman serves as the president and CEO of Norton Area Chamber of Commerce and Travel &amp; Tourism in Norton.

“I love the way visual art can speak without words,” Eastman said. “I am intrigued with watercolor because of its free-flowing nature. My inspiration comes from all things vintage, nature, and water, reflecting everyday moments or destinations that impact thoughtful images.” Eastman’s technical influences are Winslow Homer and Edgar Whitney, and her creative influences are Tony Couch and Marilyn Simandle.

There are nearly 20 paintings on display as part of Eastman’s exhibit. The pieces are upbeat, colorful, and expressive. Exhibited paintings are available to purchase, and 10% of sales benefit Norton County Arts County. Additionally, prints and notecards are available locally at Garden Gate, Etc.

“We are thrilled to have Donna’s paintings available for the community to see,” said Tara Vance, NCCF executive director. “The walls of the gallery have been empty for a couple months due to COVID, and it’s so nice to see life on them again. We invite everyone down to the Heaton Building to enjoy this cultural experience!”

For more information about the Gloria A. Nelson Cultural Arts Center or this current exhibit, please contact Tara Vance at (785) 874-5106&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org" target="_blank">tara@nortonccf.org</a>,&nbsp;or visit the NCCF office at the Heaton Building in downtown Norton, located at 112 S. Kansas in Norton, Kansas.&nbsp;

About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation.&nbsp;Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live.&nbsp;Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589134981343.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;NORTON&nbsp;-&nbsp;Norton County Community Foundation recently announced a new art exhibit in the Gloria A. Nelson Cultural Arts Center. “Watercolor Paintings” by Donna Eastman will be on display in the Heaton Building until April 9.Eastman began painting in 1996, taking classes weekly for four years with Brumley Gallery Owner, Joan Brumley, in Bass Lake, Calif. Over the years, she has participated in professional art workshops from internationally-renowned artists and has been accepted into many juried exhibitions and critique groups. She served on the executive board for the Arizona Watercolor Association, Arizona Alliance for the Arts, and the Flagstaff Arts Council. Today, Eastman serves as the president and CEO of Norton Area Chamber of Commerce and Travel &amp; Tourism in Norton.“I love the way visual art can speak without words,” Eastman said. “I am intrigued with watercolor because of its free-flowing nature. My inspiration comes from all things vintage, nature, and water, reflecting everyday moments or destinations that impact thoughtful images.” Eastman’s technical influences are Winslow Homer and Edgar Whitney, and her creative influences are Tony Couch and Marilyn Simandle.There are nearly 20 paintings on display as part of Eastman’s exhibit. The pieces are upbeat, colorful, and expressive. Exhibited paintings are available to purchase, and 10% of sales benefit Norton County Arts County. Additionally, prints and notecards are available locally at Garden Gate, Etc.“We are thrilled to have Donna’s paintings available for the community to see,” said Tara Vance, NCCF executive director. “The walls of the gallery have been empty for a couple months due to COVID, and it’s so nice to see life on them again. We invite everyone down to the Heaton Building to enjoy this cultural experience!”For more information about the Gloria A. Nelson Cultural Arts Center or this current exhibit, please contact Tara Vance at (785) 874-5106&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org" target="_blank">tara@nortonccf.org</a>,&nbsp;or visit the NCCF office at the Heaton Building in downtown Norton, located at 112 S. Kansas in Norton, Kansas.&nbsp;About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation.&nbsp;Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live.&nbsp;Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/" target="_blank">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

Norton chamber director featured in new winter art exhibition

The Ellis County Historical Society will hold its rescheduled annual meeting on Monday, Feb. 15, at 7:00 p.m. 

The meeting will be held at Celebration Community Church at 5790 230th Ave., Hays. Please use the office door on the east side of the building. The meeting will be held in the Purple Room.

Members and the public are invited to take part in the ECHS Present and Future Discussion to follow the meeting. Bottled water and individual snacks will be provided in a socially distanced and masked setting.

There are three officer positions open, and five trustee member seats open. Only ECHS members may vote.

You can renew or become a member at the meeting. Single memberships are $15 and Family is $25. Donations also are accepted.

Ellis County Historical Society, founded in 1972, collects, preserves, and exhibits items and documents that illustrate the history of Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579977023103.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Ellis County Historical Society will hold its rescheduled annual meeting on Monday, Feb. 15, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Celebration Community Church at 5790 230th Ave., Hays. Please use the office door on the east side of the building. The meeting will be held in the Purple Room.Members and the public are invited to take part in the ECHS Present and Future Discussion to follow the meeting. Bottled water and individual snacks will be provided in a socially distanced and masked setting.There are three officer positions open, and five trustee member seats open. Only ECHS members may vote.You can renew or become a member at the meeting. Single memberships are $15 and Family is $25. Donations also are accepted.Ellis County Historical Society, founded in 1972, collects, preserves, and exhibits items and documents that illustrate the history of Ellis County.

Ellis Co. Historical Society annual meeting rescheduled to Feb. 15

Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 5 and again Friday, February 12 (if food remains) from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: grape juice, apples, pork patties, instant milk, orange juice, chicken fillets, chicken strips, chicken legs, split peas, brown rice, and cheese. 

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

Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 5 and again Friday, February 12 (if food remains) from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eightCommodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: grape juice, apples, pork patties, instant milk, orange juice, chicken fillets, chicken strips, chicken legs, split peas, brown rice, and cheese. Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

Surplus food commodities to be distributed Friday

BUNKER HILL — Another live production from Smoky Hills PBS, "The Kansas Legislature," will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday p.m. and streaming will also be available <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">HERE</a>.

The show airs during the legislative session, which gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; For each show, legislators from the Smoky Hills PBS viewing area are invited to participate in the live call-in program.

“Smoky Hills PBS is excited to bring another season of The Kansas Legislature to the people of central and western Kansas,” said Les Kinderknecht, Senior Producer/Director of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;&nbsp;“ 'The Kansas Legislature' is a great way for our viewers to ask their local leaders questions about the latest issues in Kansas and a great opportunity for viewers to hear about the issues being discussed during the legislative session.”

Jay Steinmetz, "The Kansas Legislature" moderator, and two legislators will take part in each show.&nbsp; Steinmetz is an assistant professor of political science at Fort Hays State University.

To find a list of legislators who might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2021 season schedule.&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611934281695.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612279604009.jpeg" alt="Steinmetz" />
 <figcaption>Steinmetz</figcaption>
 </figure>BUNKER HILL — Another live production from Smoky Hills PBS, "The Kansas Legislature," will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday p.m. and streaming will also be available <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">HERE</a>.The show airs during the legislative session, which gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; For each show, legislators from the Smoky Hills PBS viewing area are invited to participate in the live call-in program.“Smoky Hills PBS is excited to bring another season of The Kansas Legislature to the people of central and western Kansas,” said Les Kinderknecht, Senior Producer/Director of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;&nbsp;“ 'The Kansas Legislature' is a great way for our viewers to ask their local leaders questions about the latest issues in Kansas and a great opportunity for viewers to hear about the issues being discussed during the legislative session.”Jay Steinmetz, "The Kansas Legislature" moderator, and two legislators will take part in each show.&nbsp; Steinmetz is an assistant professor of political science at Fort Hays State University.To find a list of legislators who might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2021 season schedule.&nbsp;

FHSU professor will host new season of 'The Kansas Legislature'

The Barton Dance Theatre, Great Bend, will host “We Love Animals” Creative Virtual Camp for Kids fundraiser from 2-3:30 p.m. Feb. 14 and tickets will be available through <a href="https://bartonccc.booktix.com/">bartonccc.booktix.com</a> for $10 per child and $5 for additional siblings.

Kids aged 4-12 years will learn a dance, have an acting class, join in an interactive storytelling session, do animal science activities and more! Activities will be age-appropriate and the children will virtually attend in groups defined by their ages, with some parental assistance needed for young children. All proceeds raised from the event will help fund the dance students’ expenses for working with professional choreographers and a modern dance company this spring.&nbsp; This exposure to the broader world of dance helps our students network with others in the field and gain more understanding of what it’s like to work as a professional dancer.

For more information, contact Director of Barton Dance Theatre Danika Bielek bielekd@bartonccc.ed or (620) 792-9253.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612390196662.jpeg" alt="Barton Dance Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Barton Dance Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Dance Theatre, Great Bend, will host “We Love Animals” Creative Virtual Camp for Kids fundraiser from 2-3:30 p.m. Feb. 14 and tickets will be available through <a href="https://bartonccc.booktix.com/">bartonccc.booktix.com</a> for $10 per child and $5 for additional siblings.Kids aged 4-12 years will learn a dance, have an acting class, join in an interactive storytelling session, do animal science activities and more! Activities will be age-appropriate and the children will virtually attend in groups defined by their ages, with some parental assistance needed for young children. All proceeds raised from the event will help fund the dance students’ expenses for working with professional choreographers and a modern dance company this spring.&nbsp; This exposure to the broader world of dance helps our students network with others in the field and gain more understanding of what it’s like to work as a professional dancer.For more information, contact Director of Barton Dance Theatre Danika Bielek bielekd@bartonccc.ed or (620) 792-9253.

Barton Dance Theatre to host 'We Love Animals'  virtual camp for kids fundraiser

A virtual Valentine's Day party for everyone, complete with a kit featuring a craft and sweets!

WHO: Everyone is invited! Enjoy as a fun family activity, date night with your loved one, or come alone to meet some new WPAR friends. Each $30 kit includes supplies for two people and shipping/delivery.

WHAT: A virtual party featuring follow-along instructions for making the signature drink, “Sweetheart Punch” and DIY Sock Bunnies. We’ll send you a complete kit with everything needed to participate and also a box of chocolates to share.

WHERE: Zoom! Enjoy from the comfort and safety of your own home.

HOW: Sign up online by February 5th to get your box in time. We will deliver boxes in the Hays area and ship others as needed.

WHY: Our work would not be possible without our supporters. Each $30 donation will be used to aid WPAR in helping animals in need.

Optional: Rainbow Sherbet, Coconut Rum, or Vodka

Required: Tall Glass, Scissors, Permanent Marker

<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-day-virtual-party-tickets-137719810661">Valentine’s Day Virtual Party Tickets, Sun, Feb 14, 2021 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612389716115.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A virtual Valentine's Day party for everyone, complete with a kit featuring a craft and sweets!<h2>About this Event</h2>WHO: Everyone is invited! Enjoy as a fun family activity, date night with your loved one, or come alone to meet some new WPAR friends. Each $30 kit includes supplies for two people and shipping/delivery.WHAT: A virtual party featuring follow-along instructions for making the signature drink, “Sweetheart Punch” and DIY Sock Bunnies. We’ll send you a complete kit with everything needed to participate and also a box of chocolates to share.WHEN: Sunday, February 14th at 7:00 p.m.WHERE: Zoom! Enjoy from the comfort and safety of your own home.HOW: Sign up online by February 5th to get your box in time. We will deliver boxes in the Hays area and ship others as needed.WHY: Our work would not be possible without our supporters. Each $30 donation will be used to aid WPAR in helping animals in need.OTHER SUPPLIES:For Sweetheart Punch:Required: 2 Glasses, Spoon, and IceOptional: Rainbow Sherbet, Coconut Rum, or VodkaFor Sock Bunnies:Required: Tall Glass, Scissors, Permanent Marker<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-day-virtual-party-tickets-137719810661">Valentine’s Day Virtual Party Tickets, Sun, Feb 14, 2021 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite</a>

Western Plains Animal Refuge Valentine's Day fundraiser

Want to learn something new? Feeling isolated and need to hear a friendly voice? Curious about new ideas rooted in history and literature? 

Call the Kansas Humanities Hotline at 1-888-416-2018, a toll-free telephone hotline delivering interesting humanities short stories anytime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612369832832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Want to learn something new? Feeling isolated and need to hear a friendly voice? Curious about new ideas rooted in history and literature? Call the Kansas Humanities Hotline at 1-888-416-2018, a toll-free telephone hotline delivering interesting humanities short stories anytime.

Kansas Humanities Hotline offers free short stories 

The Feb. 4 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Feb. 4 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

Thursday's city commission work session canceled

The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is pleased to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Sandy Seamone to teach two Joy of Painting classes on February 20th and 21st.&nbsp; On Saturday, February 20th, the class will paint “Witch’s House,” and on Sunday, February 21st, “Storm Coming”.&nbsp; Class will be held in the Logan City Building at 108 Mill Street, Logan, KS, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with an hour-long lunch break each day.

The Bob Ross method is designed to be a fun and simple way to paint.&nbsp; Sandy learned from the happy tree guy himself.&nbsp; Implementing the soft-spoken, supportive ways of her mentor, Sandy creates a classroom with a relaxing and light-hearted atmosphere.&nbsp; All painting supplies are provided, and no previous experience is necessary.&nbsp; Young and old alike will enjoy the camaraderie of these classes.&nbsp; Students need only bring a roll of paper towels.&nbsp;

Call the Museum to register or find the registration form on our website (hansenmuseum.org) under Classes &amp; Workshops.&nbsp; Register by February 12th and pay $70.00 per day; after February 12th, pay $75.00 per day.&nbsp; Discounts are available for Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members.&nbsp;

This enjoyable learning opportunity is brought to you through the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program, underwritten by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.&nbsp; For more information, please call 785-689-4846.

Currently, the Museum is closed to the public while under renovation.&nbsp; The Museum office staff will be available by phone (785-689-4846) or email (director@hansenmuseum.org) during our usual weekday office hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for the noon hour).

The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is pleased to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Sandy Seamone to teach two Joy of Painting classes on February 20th and 21st.&nbsp; On Saturday, February 20th, the class will paint “Witch’s House,” and on Sunday, February 21st, “Storm Coming”.&nbsp; Class will be held in the Logan City Building at 108 Mill Street, Logan, KS, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with an hour-long lunch break each day.The Bob Ross method is designed to be a fun and simple way to paint.&nbsp; Sandy learned from the happy tree guy himself.&nbsp; Implementing the soft-spoken, supportive ways of her mentor, Sandy creates a classroom with a relaxing and light-hearted atmosphere.&nbsp; All painting supplies are provided, and no previous experience is necessary.&nbsp; Young and old alike will enjoy the camaraderie of these classes.&nbsp; Students need only bring a roll of paper towels.&nbsp;Call the Museum to register or find the registration form on our website (hansenmuseum.org) under Classes &amp; Workshops.&nbsp; Register by February 12th and pay $70.00 per day; after February 12th, pay $75.00 per day.&nbsp; Discounts are available for Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members.&nbsp;This enjoyable learning opportunity is brought to you through the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program, underwritten by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.&nbsp; For more information, please call 785-689-4846.Currently, the Museum is closed to the public while under renovation.&nbsp; The Museum office staff will be available by phone (785-689-4846) or email (director@hansenmuseum.org) during our usual weekday office hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for the noon hour).

Beginner-friendly painting class offered at Hansen Museum

Hays United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th,&nbsp; will have a drive-thru Valentine's Dinner Sat., Feb. 13, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Meals will be picked up in the drive-thru in the church's back parking lot off 8th Street.&nbsp;

Proceeds will help fund a mission trip for the UMYF youth group.

Reservations are due by Feb. 9 by calling the church at 785-625-3408.

For $10, adults will receive a homemade roast beef meal with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, roll and cheesecake.

The children's meal for $5 consists of a hot dog, chips, green beans and dessert.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612306480493.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays United Methodist Church, 305 W. 7th,&nbsp; will have a drive-thru Valentine's Dinner Sat., Feb. 13, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.Meals will be picked up in the drive-thru in the church's back parking lot off 8th Street.&nbsp;Proceeds will help fund a mission trip for the UMYF youth group.Reservations are due by Feb. 9 by calling the church at 785-625-3408.For $10, adults will receive a homemade roast beef meal with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, roll and cheesecake.The children's meal for $5 consists of a hot dog, chips, green beans and dessert.&nbsp;

Hays United Methodist Church drive-thru Valentine's dinner on Feb. 13

GREAT BEND - Barton Community College’s annual literary publication, Prairie Ink, has begun accepting entries for its 12th edition.&nbsp;

Editor Scott McDonald said the aim of the publication is to provide a venue for local authors to showcase their creative writing talents.

The editors are looking for the following types of original work to be considered for publication: fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, drama, and graphic short stories. They will be accepting submissions until April 1, 2021.

Barton students, alumni and all residents of the seven counties in Barton’s service region: Barton, Pawnee, Rush, Russell, Rice, Stafford and Ellsworth counties, as well as Barton’s Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth and Grandview Plaza campuses are encouraged to submit entries.

Submission guidelines and other information about the magazine can be found at prairieink.bartonccc.edu or by sending an email to McDonald at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mcdonalds@bartonccc.edu">mcdonalds@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612301608484.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND - Barton Community College’s annual literary publication, Prairie Ink, has begun accepting entries for its 12th edition.&nbsp;Editor Scott McDonald said the aim of the publication is to provide a venue for local authors to showcase their creative writing talents.The editors are looking for the following types of original work to be considered for publication: fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, drama, and graphic short stories. They will be accepting submissions until April 1, 2021.Barton students, alumni and all residents of the seven counties in Barton’s service region: Barton, Pawnee, Rush, Russell, Rice, Stafford and Ellsworth counties, as well as Barton’s Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth and Grandview Plaza campuses are encouraged to submit entries.Submission guidelines and other information about the magazine can be found at prairieink.bartonccc.edu or by sending an email to McDonald at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mcdonalds@bartonccc.edu">mcdonalds@bartonccc.edu</a>.

Entries accepted now for BCC literary publication 'Prairie Ink'

Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Downtown Ice Rink at the Downtown Pavilion is open through February. Bring a friend and enjoy skating on this all-weather synthetic surface. A $7 ticket purchase includes skate rental. Hot cocoa and snacks are available for purchase.

The FHSU Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art presents: Cartulary. Selected works from Joel Moss &amp; John C. Thorns will be on display through Friday, Feb. 19. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design.

United Methodist Church will host a Drive-Thru Valentines Dinner Friday, Feb. 13, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Call in to reserve your meal by Feb. 9.

Send your Valentine’s message in style through the Hays Community Theatre Video Valentines Fundraiser. The talented crew will create a dramatic personalized message for you for only $10. Place your order online by noon on Feb. 11.

Western Plains Animal Refuge will host a Valentine’s Day Virtual Party fundraiser Sunday, Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Sign up online at wparks.org by Feb. 5. Your $30 donation gets you a kit that includes activities for the virtual event, ingredients for Sweetheart Punch, and chocolates to share.

The Kansas Disc Golf Association and Flying Bison Disc Golf Club will host a Food Drive Disc Golf Tournament Sunday, Feb. 14 at Frontier Park East. $25 entry fee includes lunch, with all proceeds benefiting the Hays Community Assistance Center. A $1 donation or canned food item gets you one Mulligan during play.

The Hilton Garden Inn and Convention Center will host a Bridal Expo Saturday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free if you pre-register at the link in their Facebook event or $3 at the door.

Science Café presents: “So, Kid, Now That You Are on Mars…” on Sunday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. in anticipation of a successful landing of NASA’s Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover. Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the FHSU College of Education, will present virtually. Join in on the FHSU Science Café’s Facebook page.

Visit the Sternberg Museum of Natural History to see its first ever traveling exhibit, “A Look Inside.” Visitors will experience an unexpected view of specimens from the inside out, through means of medical diagnostic imaging. This exhibit has been extended through March 1.

Gross Memorial Coliseum will host KSHSAA State Wrestling on Saturday, Feb. 27. This modified event will be one day only and will start at noon.

Fort Hays State Basketball: - Thursday, February 4: FHSU vs. Newman at 5:30/7:30 p.m.

- Saturday, February 6: FHSU vs. Central Oklahoma at 2:00/4:00 p.m.

- Thursday, February 18: FHSU vs. Lincoln 5:30/7:30 p.m.

- Saturday, February 20: FHSU vs. Central Missouri 2:00/4:00 p.m.*

*The Feb. 20 game is sponsored by Hays Regional Airport. Halftime activities will include giveaways of 2 vouchers for 2 round-trip flights to Denver.

Hays has many special events for the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day. Check with your favorite restaurant or check <a href="http://www.visithays.com/">VisitHays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Convention and Visitors BureauThe Downtown Ice Rink at the Downtown Pavilion is open through February. Bring a friend and enjoy skating on this all-weather synthetic surface. A $7 ticket purchase includes skate rental. Hot cocoa and snacks are available for purchase.The FHSU Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art presents: Cartulary. Selected works from Joel Moss &amp; John C. Thorns will be on display through Friday, Feb. 19. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design.United Methodist Church will host a Drive-Thru Valentines Dinner Friday, Feb. 13, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Call in to reserve your meal by Feb. 9.Send your Valentine’s message in style through the Hays Community Theatre Video Valentines Fundraiser. The talented crew will create a dramatic personalized message for you for only $10. Place your order online by noon on Feb. 11.Western Plains Animal Refuge will host a Valentine’s Day Virtual Party fundraiser Sunday, Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Sign up online at wparks.org by Feb. 5. Your $30 donation gets you a kit that includes activities for the virtual event, ingredients for Sweetheart Punch, and chocolates to share.The Kansas Disc Golf Association and Flying Bison Disc Golf Club will host a Food Drive Disc Golf Tournament Sunday, Feb. 14 at Frontier Park East. $25 entry fee includes lunch, with all proceeds benefiting the Hays Community Assistance Center. A $1 donation or canned food item gets you one Mulligan during play.The Hilton Garden Inn and Convention Center will host a Bridal Expo Saturday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free if you pre-register at the link in their Facebook event or $3 at the door.Science Café presents: “So, Kid, Now That You Are on Mars…” on Sunday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. in anticipation of a successful landing of NASA’s Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover. Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the FHSU College of Education, will present virtually. Join in on the FHSU Science Café’s Facebook page.Visit the Sternberg Museum of Natural History to see its first ever traveling exhibit, “A Look Inside.” Visitors will experience an unexpected view of specimens from the inside out, through means of medical diagnostic imaging. This exhibit has been extended through March 1.Gross Memorial Coliseum will host KSHSAA State Wrestling on Saturday, Feb. 27. This modified event will be one day only and will start at noon.Fort Hays State Basketball: - Thursday, February 4: FHSU vs. Newman at 5:30/7:30 p.m.- Saturday, February 6: FHSU vs. Central Oklahoma at 2:00/4:00 p.m.- Thursday, February 18: FHSU vs. Lincoln 5:30/7:30 p.m.- Saturday, February 20: FHSU vs. Central Missouri 2:00/4:00 p.m.**The Feb. 20 game is sponsored by Hays Regional Airport. Halftime activities will include giveaways of 2 vouchers for 2 round-trip flights to Denver.Hays has many special events for the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day. Check with your favorite restaurant or check <a href="http://www.visithays.com/">VisitHays.com</a>.

Hays community events in February 

The St. Joseph Food Pantry has been awarded a DAR Community Service.

The pantry, located in the former Kennedy Middle School, 215 W. 13th, is open from 9 a.m. to noon, on the first and third Saturday of the month.

Renee Michaud has been the pantry coordinator since it opened in 2001.

Much of the food comes from the Kansas Food Bank, some is donated and collected through service projects spearheaded by area groups. Other items are purchased with monetary donations.

As coordinator, Michaud prepares the Food Bank orders and coordinates the volunteers which includes students, 4-H groups and scout troops, as well as church volunteers. Volunteers conduct food drives and help on distribution days.

Usually there’s a way people can volunteer, and some are families of all ages, Michaud said.

Families can come to the pantry once a month, and don’t have to be affiliated with the Church.

“If you have a need, you can come,” she said.

They are asked to give their name, address, number in family and their ages. One box is allowed for every four people.&nbsp;

Boxes include nonperishable items, frozen meat and bakery items.

Groups also donate produce items based on the growing season.

“I’m proud of the (Hays) community for the many ways there are to help those in need,” Michaud said.

The award was presented by Bunnie Bowen, who nominated the Pantry for the Award, to father and daughter volunteers Jan Martin and Kayla Honnon.

A Community Service Award is given to an individual or group who has contributed to their community in an outstanding voluntary, heroic, civil or benevolent manner, or who has participated in or organized community activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612191249413.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The St. Joseph Food Pantry has been awarded a DAR Community Service.The pantry, located in the former Kennedy Middle School, 215 W. 13th, is open from 9 a.m. to noon, on the first and third Saturday of the month.Renee Michaud has been the pantry coordinator since it opened in 2001.Much of the food comes from the Kansas Food Bank, some is donated and collected through service projects spearheaded by area groups. Other items are purchased with monetary donations.As coordinator, Michaud prepares the Food Bank orders and coordinates the volunteers which includes students, 4-H groups and scout troops, as well as church volunteers. Volunteers conduct food drives and help on distribution days.Usually there’s a way people can volunteer, and some are families of all ages, Michaud said.Families can come to the pantry once a month, and don’t have to be affiliated with the Church.“If you have a need, you can come,” she said.They are asked to give their name, address, number in family and their ages. One box is allowed for every four people.&nbsp;Boxes include nonperishable items, frozen meat and bakery items.Groups also donate produce items based on the growing season.“I’m proud of the (Hays) community for the many ways there are to help those in need,” Michaud said.The award was presented by Bunnie Bowen, who nominated the Pantry for the Award, to father and daughter volunteers Jan Martin and Kayla Honnon.A Community Service Award is given to an individual or group who has contributed to their community in an outstanding voluntary, heroic, civil or benevolent manner, or who has participated in or organized community activities.— Submitted

St. Joseph Food Pantry earns award from DAR

The Hays Arts Council's 37th annual <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">Five State Photography Exhibition&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;is entering its final two weeks.

 We invite you to come by the Hays Arts Center to check out this year's great exhibition now through the closing on February 12. 

We're open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.&nbsp; and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.&nbsp; 

If you can't make it in person, be sure to check out the entire collection of 150 photographs, including the 24 award-winning works, on our <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;

A special "thank you" to our 5-State sponsors for supporting our project - Eagle Communications, Bank of Hays, and Midwest Energy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612221728007.jpeg" alt="'Vintage Big Creek' by Dawn Berry, Hays" />
 <figcaption>'Vintage Big Creek' by Dawn Berry, Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Arts Council's 37th annual <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">Five State Photography Exhibition&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;is entering its final two weeks. We invite you to come by the Hays Arts Center to check out this year's great exhibition now through the closing on February 12. We're open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.&nbsp; and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.&nbsp; If you can't make it in person, be sure to check out the entire collection of 150 photographs, including the 24 award-winning works, on our <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;A special "thank you" to our 5-State sponsors for supporting our project - Eagle Communications, Bank of Hays, and Midwest Energy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Annual HAC 5-State Photography Exhibition enters final two weeks

WICHITA – The Kansas Rural Center (KRC) is excited to announce our Pollinators on the Plains conference to be held online on Friday, February 5, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST. The virtual event will cover a range of pollinator topics, including beekeeping methods and strategies, innovative regional pollinator-based community initiatives, the intersection of pollinators with farming and ranching, and information on the impacts of pesticides on pollinators. 

For a complete agenda and to register, please visit - <a href="https://kansasruralcenter.org/pollinators-on-the-plains/">https://kansasruralcenter.org/pollinators-on-the-plains/</a>.

To help offset the negative impacts of the pandemic, we are offering a 25% discount to attend the event. $15 will get you a virtual seat at the conference, access to some presentations after the event, and a paper copy of KRC’s soon-to-be-published Plains’ Pollinator Resources: Keeping Bees and Protecting Pollinators in Kansas, which will be mailed to you in February. To register, please visit http://bit.ly/KRCbees2021.

For students, beginning farmers or beekeepers, and anyone for whom the registration fee is an obstacle, scholarships are available. Please fill out this scholarship form at http://bit.ly/KRCbeesapplication, or contact us at info@kansasruralcenter.org. 

A keynote presentation will be given by Sarah Red-Laird, Executive Director of Bee Girl, a nonprofit organization whose mission is “to educate and inspire communities to conserve bees, their flowers, and our countryside,” Red-Laird is also Northwest Farmers Union president. Red-Laird will talk about utilizing regenerative practices in her beekeeping operation, and the intersection between bees and grazing lands. Dr. Leo Sharashkin, editor of “Keeping Bees with a Smile” and founder of Horizontal Hive, will talk about natural beekeeping and his unique hive design and method for capturing swarms to populate his hives.

Breakout sessions will include beginning beekeeping basics with Becky and Steve Tipton, Master Beekeepers and longtime leaders in both Northeastern Kansas Beekeepers Association and Kansas Honey Producers Association. The Center for Rural Affairs will discuss their project involving a variety of alternate hive types, and North American Pollinator Alliance founder, Jorge Garibay, will discuss his unique hive system and vision for repopulating Kansas ag lands with honeybees.

Daniel Raichel, NRDC Staff Attorney, Pollinator Initiative, Wildlife Division, will talk about the impacts of pesticides on pollinators and how some Midwestern communities are being impacted by pesticide-treated seeds.

Candy Thomas, USDA-NRCS Soil Health Specialist for Kansas and Nebraska, will talk about agricultural practices that are beneficial for pollinators, and a panel of farmers and native plant specialists will discuss pollinator habitat at different scales. Alfonso Leyva, who works for the city of Manhattan, Kansas, will discuss the city’s Pollinator Pockets project, which aims to increase pollinator habitat within the city by adding or increasing pollinator plants throughout the park system in Manhattan. Dr. Marion Pierson and Brian Reeves, from the MO Hives KC project, will give an overview of their project which turns vacant lots into apiaries.

Pollinators on the Plains is the kick-off event for KRC’s 2021 Farm &amp; Food Conference series. Our annual in-person Farm &amp; Food Conference was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic. 

In order to provide as much in-depth information and interaction as possible during this continued time of limited contact, we are choosing to host a series of online events, each focusing on a particular topic. This will allow us to get together and to dive deeper on a number of topics. We hope that it might be possible to meet in person by November 2021 and are keeping all options open.

In the meantime, please plan to join us for:

* Pollinators in the Heartland - February 5, 2021 * Local Food Systems &amp; Farm to School – May 2021 * Soil Health to Human Health – July/August 2021

An NCR-SARE project track will be included in the later events. For more information as we have it, please visit <a href="https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference/">https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference/</a>.

If you would like to sponsor our 2021 conference series, please visit - https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference-sponsorship/. The Pollinators on the Plains conference is made possible with funding from the Ceres Trust. KRC would also like to thank Julie Elfving for her support for our pollinator programming.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612220432721.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>WICHITA – The Kansas Rural Center (KRC) is excited to announce our Pollinators on the Plains conference to be held online on Friday, February 5, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. CST. The virtual event will cover a range of pollinator topics, including beekeeping methods and strategies, innovative regional pollinator-based community initiatives, the intersection of pollinators with farming and ranching, and information on the impacts of pesticides on pollinators. For a complete agenda and to register, please visit - <a href="https://kansasruralcenter.org/pollinators-on-the-plains/">https://kansasruralcenter.org/pollinators-on-the-plains/</a>.To help offset the negative impacts of the pandemic, we are offering a 25% discount to attend the event. $15 will get you a virtual seat at the conference, access to some presentations after the event, and a paper copy of KRC’s soon-to-be-published Plains’ Pollinator Resources: Keeping Bees and Protecting Pollinators in Kansas, which will be mailed to you in February. To register, please visit http://bit.ly/KRCbees2021.For students, beginning farmers or beekeepers, and anyone for whom the registration fee is an obstacle, scholarships are available. Please fill out this scholarship form at http://bit.ly/KRCbeesapplication, or contact us at info@kansasruralcenter.org. A keynote presentation will be given by Sarah Red-Laird, Executive Director of Bee Girl, a nonprofit organization whose mission is “to educate and inspire communities to conserve bees, their flowers, and our countryside,” Red-Laird is also Northwest Farmers Union president. Red-Laird will talk about utilizing regenerative practices in her beekeeping operation, and the intersection between bees and grazing lands. Dr. Leo Sharashkin, editor of “Keeping Bees with a Smile” and founder of Horizontal Hive, will talk about natural beekeeping and his unique hive design and method for capturing swarms to populate his hives.Breakout sessions will include beginning beekeeping basics with Becky and Steve Tipton, Master Beekeepers and longtime leaders in both Northeastern Kansas Beekeepers Association and Kansas Honey Producers Association. The Center for Rural Affairs will discuss their project involving a variety of alternate hive types, and North American Pollinator Alliance founder, Jorge Garibay, will discuss his unique hive system and vision for repopulating Kansas ag lands with honeybees.Daniel Raichel, NRDC Staff Attorney, Pollinator Initiative, Wildlife Division, will talk about the impacts of pesticides on pollinators and how some Midwestern communities are being impacted by pesticide-treated seeds.Candy Thomas, USDA-NRCS Soil Health Specialist for Kansas and Nebraska, will talk about agricultural practices that are beneficial for pollinators, and a panel of farmers and native plant specialists will discuss pollinator habitat at different scales. Alfonso Leyva, who works for the city of Manhattan, Kansas, will discuss the city’s Pollinator Pockets project, which aims to increase pollinator habitat within the city by adding or increasing pollinator plants throughout the park system in Manhattan. Dr. Marion Pierson and Brian Reeves, from the MO Hives KC project, will give an overview of their project which turns vacant lots into apiaries.Pollinators on the Plains is the kick-off event for KRC’s 2021 Farm &amp; Food Conference series. Our annual in-person Farm &amp; Food Conference was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic. In order to provide as much in-depth information and interaction as possible during this continued time of limited contact, we are choosing to host a series of online events, each focusing on a particular topic. This will allow us to get together and to dive deeper on a number of topics. We hope that it might be possible to meet in person by November 2021 and are keeping all options open.In the meantime, please plan to join us for:* Pollinators in the Heartland - February 5, 2021 * Local Food Systems &amp; Farm to School – May 2021 * Soil Health to Human Health – July/August 2021An NCR-SARE project track will be included in the later events. For more information as we have it, please visit <a href="https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference/">https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference/</a>.If you would like to sponsor our 2021 conference series, please visit - https://kansasruralcenter.org/2021-conference-sponsorship/. The Pollinators on the Plains conference is made possible with funding from the Ceres Trust. KRC would also like to thank Julie Elfving for her support for our pollinator programming.

'Pollinators on the Plains' virtual event Friday with Kansas Rural Center

Healing After Loss meeting set for Tuesday

If you want to register to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, the Hays Public Library is here to help. The library is partnering with the Ellis County Health Department to be a registration resource.

An online form is available to sign up to receive the vaccination when it is available. The library has public computers, wifi, and staff available to assist anyone who needs help accessing the form. Patrons also are welcome to call the library, 785-625-9014, for help with this process. For those in Hays without computer access who are not able to go to the library, accommodations may be made through the HPL delivery service. Call for more information.

The link to the form is <a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051</a>.

For specific information about the vaccine and its availability, please contact the Ellis County Health Department at 785-628-9440.

Library staff also will assist residents outside Ellis County navigate their county’s process.

Hays Public Library is currently closed Monday through Wednesday and open Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Delivery is available Monday through Friday.

You can find out more about this and other library programs at hayslibrary.org or by calling 785-625-9014

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612189430398.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you want to register to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, the Hays Public Library is here to help. The library is partnering with the Ellis County Health Department to be a registration resource.An online form is available to sign up to receive the vaccination when it is available. The library has public computers, wifi, and staff available to assist anyone who needs help accessing the form. Patrons also are welcome to call the library, 785-625-9014, for help with this process. For those in Hays without computer access who are not able to go to the library, accommodations may be made through the HPL delivery service. Call for more information.The link to the form is <a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051</a>.For specific information about the vaccine and its availability, please contact the Ellis County Health Department at 785-628-9440.Library staff also will assist residents outside Ellis County navigate their county’s process.Hays Public Library is currently closed Monday through Wednesday and open Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Delivery is available Monday through Friday.You can find out more about this and other library programs at hayslibrary.org or by calling 785-625-9014

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