BUNKER HILL – The PBS KIDS Writers Contest is back, and the 2025 contest is officially underway! Smoky Hills PBS invites young writers from grades 1 through 5 to unleash their creativity, craft an original story, and submit it for a chance to win exciting prizes and recognition.

The PBS KIDS Writers Contest provides a platform for young storytellers to express their ideas, develop their writing skills, and bring their imaginations to life. Stories can take any form – adventurous, funny, magical, or heartfelt. 

Completed stories can be submitted by teachers, parents, grandparents, or even aunts and uncles. 

Submissions are accepted electronically or by mail, making it easy for everyone to participate.

· Who Can Participate: Students in grades 1-5

· Submission Deadline: February 24, 2025 &nbsp;· How to Enter: Visit SmokyHillsPBS.org for contest rules and a printable entry form

“We are thrilled to encourage creativity and celebrate the talents of our young writers,” said Haley Gagnon, special events coordinator of Smoky Hills PBS. “Each story is a unique glimpse into the imagination of our future authors, and we can’t wait to see what they create this year.”

Winning stories in each grade level will receive prizes, celebrated on our website and social media, and be showcased on the Smoky Hills PBS Young Writers &amp; Illustrators Contest award show in May 2025.

For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or contact Haley Gagnon at hgagnon@shptv.org.

Smoky Hills PBS is dedicated to inspiring, informing, and engaging our community through educational programming and outreach. We proudly support initiatives like the PBS KIDS Writers Contest to foster creativity and learning in children across our region.

Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS is available over the air, on many cable systems, DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and Dish Network, HULU + LIVE TV, and YouTube TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices and is also available to stream by clicking here: video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream.

More information on Smoky Hills PBS and its programs and projects are available at SmokyHillsPBS.org or by calling 1-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735305601793.png" alt="SHPBS" />
 <figcaption>SHPBS</figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL – The PBS KIDS Writers Contest is back, and the 2025 contest is officially underway! Smoky Hills PBS invites young writers from grades 1 through 5 to unleash their creativity, craft an original story, and submit it for a chance to win exciting prizes and recognition.The PBS KIDS Writers Contest provides a platform for young storytellers to express their ideas, develop their writing skills, and bring their imaginations to life. Stories can take any form – adventurous, funny, magical, or heartfelt. Completed stories can be submitted by teachers, parents, grandparents, or even aunts and uncles. Submissions are accepted electronically or by mail, making it easy for everyone to participate.Key Details:· Who Can Participate: Students in grades 1-5· Submission Deadline: February 24, 2025 &nbsp;· How to Enter: Visit SmokyHillsPBS.org for contest rules and a printable entry form“We are thrilled to encourage creativity and celebrate the talents of our young writers,” said Haley Gagnon, special events coordinator of Smoky Hills PBS. “Each story is a unique glimpse into the imagination of our future authors, and we can’t wait to see what they create this year.”Winning stories in each grade level will receive prizes, celebrated on our website and social media, and be showcased on the Smoky Hills PBS Young Writers &amp; Illustrators Contest award show in May 2025.For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or contact Haley Gagnon at hgagnon@shptv.org.Smoky Hills PBS is dedicated to inspiring, informing, and engaging our community through educational programming and outreach. We proudly support initiatives like the PBS KIDS Writers Contest to foster creativity and learning in children across our region.Smoky Hills PBS serves 71 counties in Central and Western Kansas. Smoky Hills PBS is available over the air, on many cable systems, DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and Dish Network, HULU + LIVE TV, and YouTube TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices and is also available to stream by clicking here: video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream. More information on Smoky Hills PBS and its programs and projects are available at SmokyHillsPBS.org or by calling 1-800-337-4788.

Smoky Hills PBS announces annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest

Explore different cheeses from around the world on January 7 at 6 p.m. at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main. This program is for adults.

HPLExplore different cheeses from around the world on January 7 at 6 p.m. at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main. This program is for adults.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735430126954.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Cheese tour Jan. 7 at Hays Public Library 

Due to the observance of the New Year’s holiday on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, refuse/recycling route collection schedules in Hays will be altered as follows:

Tuesday, December 31, 2024 and Wednesday, January 1, 2025 will both be picked up on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. 

Routes collected Monday, December 30, 2024, Thursday, January 2, &nbsp;2025, and Friday, January 3, 2025 will have no change.

Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734690570482.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the New Year’s holiday on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, refuse/recycling route collection schedules in Hays will be altered as follows:Tuesday, December 31, 2024 and Wednesday, January 1, 2025 will both be picked up on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Routes collected Monday, December 30, 2024, Thursday, January 2, &nbsp;2025, and Friday, January 3, 2025 will have no change.Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.&nbsp;

Refuse/recycling schedules to change for New Year's holiday in Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735035751081.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Conservation District" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Conservation District</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted

Healthy soil challenges to be discussed by Ellis Co. Conservation District on Jan. 15

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the Smith Co. Rural Water District No. 1 public water supply system located Smith County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on December 23, 2024 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-0190 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000193f5fa18cd-cf4679b3-c852-4020-81f6-ae109d2db323-000000/K7Q01mxg83cABnKqYnfZvEJDdNJJWlc7fqMsiZtUfXI=384">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

KDHEThe Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the Smith Co. Rural Water District No. 1 public water supply system located Smith County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on December 23, 2024 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-282-0190 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000193f5fa18cd-cf4679b3-c852-4020-81f6-ae109d2db323-000000/K7Q01mxg83cABnKqYnfZvEJDdNJJWlc7fqMsiZtUfXI=384">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil Water Advisory for Smith Co. Rural Water District No. 1 issued by KDHE

Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center will host several drop-in events on Thursday, Dec. 26, and Friday, Dec. 27.

The December WILD program will take place on Thursday at 10 a.m.&nbsp;in the KWEC Classroom. Participants will learn more about the animals behind common tracks and will have the opportunity to make a plaster track ornament to take home.

Weather permitting, participants will look for tracks and evidence of Cheyenne Bottom's winter residents along the nature trail. WILD is a monthly series for school-age kids and their families. The mission is to get kids outside exploring and off their devices. No registration is required for this free activity.&nbsp;

Then, on Friday from 1-3:30 p.m., participants can experience the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math of winter trees through a variety of hands-on interactive activities.&nbsp;Come out for an afternoon of adventure, a come-and-go event.

Get your winter break wiggles out and join us for a fun and educational Drop-in STEM day with a winter trees theme. This event is perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Science - Mistletoe - Decoration or Parasite? - Discover the fascinating world of mistletoe. Why do people kiss under it? Sometimes shotguns are used for harvesting mistletoe, and their berries can explode, ejecting seeds up to 60 mph.

Technology - Create your own spinning Christmas tree to take home. The simple electronics of this project will wow your kids until they go back to school. In a bonus technology station, we'll explore our Cheyenne Bottoms Chronolog, following a time-lapse of one particular tree in the marsh.

Engineering - Use a hammer, wood, nails, wheels, and axles to construct the classic truck carrying a tree.

Math - Learn how to measure the height and diameter of a tree and understand how much lumber can be harvested.

Take home STEM kit - Continue the learning fun at home. Get a special STEM kit to grow your own crystal tree over your winter break.

No registration is required for the free events. 

For more information, call the KWEC at 1-877-243-9268.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. More information can be found at <a href="https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734019075454.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Kansas Wetlands Education Center will offer winter break activities for family friendly fun. December 26 make a track ornament and December 27 explore winter trees through STEM stations. Photo courtesy KWEC." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Kansas Wetlands Education Center will offer winter break activities for family friendly fun. December 26 make a track ornament and December 27 explore winter trees through STEM stations. Photo courtesy KWEC.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center will host several drop-in events on Thursday, Dec. 26, and Friday, Dec. 27.The December WILD program will take place on Thursday at 10 a.m.&nbsp;in the KWEC Classroom. Participants will learn more about the animals behind common tracks and will have the opportunity to make a plaster track ornament to take home.Weather permitting, participants will look for tracks and evidence of Cheyenne Bottom's winter residents along the nature trail. WILD is a monthly series for school-age kids and their families. The mission is to get kids outside exploring and off their devices. No registration is required for this free activity.&nbsp;Then, on Friday from 1-3:30 p.m., participants can experience the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math of winter trees through a variety of hands-on interactive activities.&nbsp;Come out for an afternoon of adventure, a come-and-go event.Get your winter break wiggles out and join us for a fun and educational Drop-in STEM day with a winter trees theme. This event is perfect for curious minds of all ages.Science - Mistletoe - Decoration or Parasite? - Discover the fascinating world of mistletoe. Why do people kiss under it? Sometimes shotguns are used for harvesting mistletoe, and their berries can explode, ejecting seeds up to 60 mph.Technology - Create your own spinning Christmas tree to take home. The simple electronics of this project will wow your kids until they go back to school. In a bonus technology station, we'll explore our Cheyenne Bottoms Chronolog, following a time-lapse of one particular tree in the marsh.Engineering - Use a hammer, wood, nails, wheels, and axles to construct the classic truck carrying a tree.Math - Learn how to measure the height and diameter of a tree and understand how much lumber can be harvested.Take home STEM kit - Continue the learning fun at home. Get a special STEM kit to grow your own crystal tree over your winter break.No registration is required for the free events. For more information, call the KWEC at 1-877-243-9268.Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. More information can be found at <a href="https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

KWEC to host winter break activities

The Hansen Museum is pleased to offer dance lessons for beginning, intermediate, and advanced learners by instructors Kerry &amp; Dezi Ferguson of Kensington, Kansas. Six weekly sessions will be held on Sunday afternoons, starting January 5, 2025. Beginners will meet from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., intermediate from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. and the advanced class will run from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Classes will be held at the City Building, located at 109 N. Mill Street in Logan, KS. Participants must be at least 13 years of age. Instruction may include, but is not limited to waltz, two-step, swing, polka, and cha cha.

This fun learning opportunity is offered to the public through the Hansen Museum’s Continuing Education Program with funding from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Register online at hansenmuseum.org under Classes &amp; Workshops. Registration fees are as follows: couples $100.00 and singles $60.00. Discounts are available to Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members. For more information, please contact at 785-689-4846.

The Museum is open weekdays 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 &amp; 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Museum is handicapped accessible and thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, there is never an admission fee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734814345686.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hansen Museum is pleased to offer dance lessons for beginning, intermediate, and advanced learners by instructors Kerry &amp; Dezi Ferguson of Kensington, Kansas. Six weekly sessions will be held on Sunday afternoons, starting January 5, 2025. Beginners will meet from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., intermediate from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. and the advanced class will run from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Classes will be held at the City Building, located at 109 N. Mill Street in Logan, KS. Participants must be at least 13 years of age. Instruction may include, but is not limited to waltz, two-step, swing, polka, and cha cha.This fun learning opportunity is offered to the public through the Hansen Museum’s Continuing Education Program with funding from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Register online at hansenmuseum.org under Classes &amp; Workshops. Registration fees are as follows: couples $100.00 and singles $60.00. Discounts are available to Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members. For more information, please contact at 785-689-4846.The Museum is open weekdays 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 &amp; 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Museum is handicapped accessible and thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, there is never an admission fee.

Hansen Museum plans dance lessons for all levels of ability

Cottonwood District plans Babysitting 101 class

The 15th Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW, 2106 Vine St.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The dinner is sponsored by New Life Center Church and the VFW.&nbsp;&nbsp;The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, a dinner roll and dessert.&nbsp;

The meal is free of charge; donations are accepted.&nbsp; Donations that are received will be given to organizations that serve and assist area residents in an effort to 'give back' all that has been given.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community together for a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season - the remembrance and celebration of&nbsp;the birth of Jesus Christ.

 Christmas can quickly become overshadowed by the busyness that tends to arise with the holiday season, and focus loss regarding the true meaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served, and simply enjoy each other's company.&nbsp; 

Though Jesus is celebrated all are&nbsp;welcome regardless of personal beliefs.&nbsp;

Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are homebound.&nbsp;

The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and has continued to be an example of this kind of love throughout the years.

Volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after.&nbsp; 

Some of the opportunities include decorating, directing traffic, preparing to-go boxes for delivery, filling drinks, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;

Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.&nbsp;

Desserts can be dropped off at the VFW Christmas morning before 10:00 or call (785) 675-1344 for other arrangements.&nbsp;

For anyone who is&nbsp;homebound&nbsp;and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, or if wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, provide&nbsp;desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please use the following contact information: (785) 625-5528&nbsp;thru Dec. 19th and (785) 675-1344&nbsp;Dec. 20 - Dec. 24, or&nbsp; email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734719353064.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 15th Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW, 2106 Vine St.&nbsp;&nbsp;The dinner is sponsored by New Life Center Church and the VFW.&nbsp;&nbsp;The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, a dinner roll and dessert.&nbsp;The meal is free of charge; donations are accepted.&nbsp; Donations that are received will be given to organizations that serve and assist area residents in an effort to 'give back' all that has been given.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community together for a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season - the remembrance and celebration of&nbsp;the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas can quickly become overshadowed by the busyness that tends to arise with the holiday season, and focus loss regarding the true meaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served, and simply enjoy each other's company.&nbsp; Though Jesus is celebrated all are&nbsp;welcome regardless of personal beliefs.&nbsp;Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are homebound.&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and has continued to be an example of this kind of love throughout the years.Volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after.&nbsp; Some of the opportunities include decorating, directing traffic, preparing to-go boxes for delivery, filling drinks, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.&nbsp;Desserts can be dropped off at the VFW Christmas morning before 10:00 or call (785) 675-1344 for other arrangements.&nbsp;For anyone who is&nbsp;homebound&nbsp;and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, or if wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, provide&nbsp;desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please use the following contact information: (785) 625-5528&nbsp;thru Dec. 19th and (785) 675-1344&nbsp;Dec. 20 - Dec. 24, or&nbsp; email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

Christmas community dinner planned

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650310171036.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="The Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="240" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mfxwd-513918-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&order=episodic&limit=40&filter=tags&tag=all&ss=079545fa78cbd214d90f518dd160ff1e&btn-skin=f6f6f6&size=240" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 The latest from the Post Podcast

Due to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Wednesday, December 25, the refuse/recycling collection schedules in Hays will be altered as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Monday and Tuesday routes will both be collected on Monday, December 23. • Wednesday and Thursday routes will both be collected on Thursday, December 26. • There are no anticipated changes to Friday's route.&nbsp;

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclables&nbsp;will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732287931438.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Wednesday, December 25, the refuse/recycling collection schedules in Hays will be altered as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;• Monday and Tuesday routes will both be collected on Monday, December 23. • Wednesday and Thursday routes will both be collected on Thursday, December 26. • There are no anticipated changes to Friday's route.&nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclables&nbsp;will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Refuse, recycling route changes in Hays for Christmas holiday

Battle of the Badges blood drive set for Thursday, Friday in Hays

City of Hays offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 in celebration of the Christmas Eve holiday, and on Wednesday, December 25 in celebration of the Christmas Day holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 in celebration of the Christmas Eve holiday, and on Wednesday, December 25 in celebration of the Christmas Day holiday.

Hays city offices closed Dec. 24, 25 for Christmas holiday

On Wednesday, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance on Vine Street at 17th&nbsp;Street in Hays between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

The northbound and southbound lanes of Vine St. will remain open.

 Those traveling eastbound on 17th&nbsp;St., will only be able to turn right going southbound onto Vine St.

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286 or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699897178724.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Wednesday, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance on Vine Street at 17th&nbsp;Street in Hays between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The northbound and southbound lanes of Vine St. will remain open. Those traveling eastbound on 17th&nbsp;St., will only be able to turn right going southbound onto Vine St.The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286 or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

Sewer line maintenance Wednesday on Vine Street at 17th in Hays 

Auditions for the Hays Community Theatre production of “Leaving Iowa” have been set for 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19.

“Leaving Iowa is a comic and heartwarming tribute to the family vacation,” said Bill Gasper, who is taking on director responsibilities at HCT for the first time. “It is told through flashbacks as a son travels to Mount Union, Iowa, to bury his father’s ashes. During this journey, the son reflects on his life while revisiting the humor and disappointments of family road trips.”

The play features a cast ranging in size from as few as six people to as many as 28. All the characters are adults, so Gasper is looking for actors who are high school age and older.

“The casting is flexible as actors can assume one of the principal characters that appear throughout the play or take on one or more of the multi-character roles who appear during the production,” Gasper said. “Actors and audience members alike will enjoy the humorous ‘over-the-top’ scenes as well as the sentimental aspects of the play.”

Actors need only attend one evening of auditions, which will consist of each person reading a monologue specific to their gender. Several reads from the script will follow monologues. Selected reads will be dependent upon the number of people present at the audition. Audition monologues and reads can be found at <a href="https://www.hctks.com/auditions">https://www.hctks.com/auditions</a>. Interested actors should also download and fill out the audition form before their audition. All audition materials will also be available at the audition.

Rehearsals for “Leaving Iowa” will begin on Jan. 5 with performances set for Feb. 21-23 at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.

Questions can be directed to Gasper at bgasper56@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734386068325.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAuditions for the Hays Community Theatre production of “Leaving Iowa” have been set for 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19.“Leaving Iowa is a comic and heartwarming tribute to the family vacation,” said Bill Gasper, who is taking on director responsibilities at HCT for the first time. “It is told through flashbacks as a son travels to Mount Union, Iowa, to bury his father’s ashes. During this journey, the son reflects on his life while revisiting the humor and disappointments of family road trips.”The play features a cast ranging in size from as few as six people to as many as 28. All the characters are adults, so Gasper is looking for actors who are high school age and older.“The casting is flexible as actors can assume one of the principal characters that appear throughout the play or take on one or more of the multi-character roles who appear during the production,” Gasper said. “Actors and audience members alike will enjoy the humorous ‘over-the-top’ scenes as well as the sentimental aspects of the play.”Actors need only attend one evening of auditions, which will consist of each person reading a monologue specific to their gender. Several reads from the script will follow monologues. Selected reads will be dependent upon the number of people present at the audition. Audition monologues and reads can be found at <a href="https://www.hctks.com/auditions">https://www.hctks.com/auditions</a>. Interested actors should also download and fill out the audition form before their audition. All audition materials will also be available at the audition.Rehearsals for “Leaving Iowa” will begin on Jan. 5 with performances set for Feb. 21-23 at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.Questions can be directed to Gasper at bgasper56@gmail.com.

UPDATE: Auditions for 'Leaving Iowa' set for this week

The Hays Lions Club is sponsoring a Visit with Santa , Wednesday afternoon December 18th, from 2 to 4 in the lobby, B entrance, Hays Medical Center. 

SubmittedThe Hays Lions Club is sponsoring a Visit with Santa , Wednesday afternoon December 18th, from 2 to 4 in the lobby, B entrance, Hays Medical Center. Bring your children and your camera.

Lions Club sponsors Santa visit Wednesday

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.

Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;

Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.

The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents.

"During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.

To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.

Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.

Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593633275710.jpeg" alt="Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home" />
 <figcaption>Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home</figcaption>
 </figure>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents."During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County seek donations to house local families

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Submitted<h2>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY NEWS</h2>THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!Monday<ol>
 <li>1B Polar Express Day.&nbsp;</li><li>Reconciliation for students in 3rd-5th grade at 2:00 p.m. at IHM.</li>
 </ol>Tuesday<ol>
 <li>PK3-4 Christmas Celebrations.</li>
 </ol>Wednesday<ol>
 <li>Last Day of Half-Day Preschool for PK 3-4.</li>
 </ol>Friday<ol>
 <li>Hourly Staff timesheets are due to Ms. Karla in the office this morning.&nbsp;</li><li>End of Qtr. 2 and 1st Semester.&nbsp;</li><li>Last Day before Break! Half Day of School – Students will dismiss at 1!:00 a.m. today so there will not be any lunch! There is no bus services or After School Care today.</li><li>Students could wear a Christmas, red or green shirt with jeans/uniform bottoms today!</li><li>1A will have Polar Express Day and party this morning!&nbsp;</li><li>Staff Christmas Luncheon at 12:00 in the L.T.&nbsp;</li><li>Have a WONDERFUL Christmas Break and a Happy New Year!! We will see you back in 2025!!</li>
 </ol>

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

On Sunday, December 15, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance in Hays on Main Street between 11th and 12th Streets between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

The street will remain open to traffic with parking blocked off. 

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286&nbsp;or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734102024693.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Sunday, December 15, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance in Hays on Main Street between 11th and 12th Streets between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The street will remain open to traffic with parking blocked off. The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286&nbsp;or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

Hays sewer line maintenance Sunday on Main between 11th and 12th Streets 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734131860675.png" alt="TMP-Marian" />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian</figcaption>
 </figure>

TMP-Marian Christmas grotto lighting and blessing is Thursday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's the season for holiday events in Hays.&nbsp;

Janet Kuhn,&nbsp;convention sales manager at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, reviews some of the December activities.

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733246730247.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's the season for holiday events in Hays.&nbsp;Janet Kuhn,&nbsp;convention sales manager at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, reviews some of the December activities.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DbEz9LZ7JOY" title="CVB dec" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733246976006.jpeg" alt="Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: It's holiday time in Hays

Hays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.

The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.

For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734024830454.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.All are welcome! For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

Hays Pride community potluck set for Saturday

City of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. 

The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.

As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.

City of HaysCity of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.Thank you for your cooperation!

Hays water conservation request lifted

A Red Cross blood drive will be from noon to 6 p.m. Friday at St. Michael's Parish Center in LaCrosse.

A Red Cross blood drive will be from noon to 6 p.m. Friday at St. Michael's Parish Center in LaCrosse.Walk-ins are welcome.

Announcements