As the 2024 holiday season commences, Fort Hays State University’s annual toy-building event is approaching quickly.

The 35th Annual Fred Ruda’s Teaming up for Tots event is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Center for Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. This year, volunteers from the community will build over 180 wooden helicopter toys that will be distributed to children in need in our community.

Students in the Department of Applied Technology have designed the toy and all the processes, jigs, and fixtures needed to produce the toys on a mass scale. Community members are asked to volunteer to run a station. Jobs include but aren’t limited to running machinery, moving pieces from one part of the assembly line to another, gluing and assembling parts, sanding, and applying oil finish to the production toys.

“This is one of the best opportunities for our students to give back to the community,” said Zach Pixler, Assistant Professor of Applied Technology. “Not only do they learn more about the manufacturing process, they get to flex their creative muscles a bit, practice critical thinking skills, and see the positive impact that their hard work has on those around them. This year’s helicopter toy incorporates some different materials, so it’s a challenge for our students. I’m excited to see them all come together on our line!”

Building will commence at 9 a.m. and will be completed by lunchtime. Join us for coffee and donuts before the event and pizza after the build. All ages are welcome. No sign-up is necessary; just bring safety glasses and be ready to build.

For answers to any questions, contact the Department of Applied Technology at 785-628-4211.

<div><iframe title="FHSU’s annual toy building event set for Saturday, Dec. 7" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=f7nu5-175f34c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By FHSU University CommunicationsAs the 2024 holiday season commences, Fort Hays State University’s annual toy-building event is approaching quickly.The 35th Annual Fred Ruda’s Teaming up for Tots event is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Center for Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. This year, volunteers from the community will build over 180 wooden helicopter toys that will be distributed to children in need in our community.Students in the Department of Applied Technology have designed the toy and all the processes, jigs, and fixtures needed to produce the toys on a mass scale. Community members are asked to volunteer to run a station. Jobs include but aren’t limited to running machinery, moving pieces from one part of the assembly line to another, gluing and assembling parts, sanding, and applying oil finish to the production toys.“This is one of the best opportunities for our students to give back to the community,” said Zach Pixler, Assistant Professor of Applied Technology. “Not only do they learn more about the manufacturing process, they get to flex their creative muscles a bit, practice critical thinking skills, and see the positive impact that their hard work has on those around them. This year’s helicopter toy incorporates some different materials, so it’s a challenge for our students. I’m excited to see them all come together on our line!”Building will commence at 9 a.m. and will be completed by lunchtime. Join us for coffee and donuts before the event and pizza after the build. All ages are welcome. No sign-up is necessary; just bring safety glasses and be ready to build.For answers to any questions, contact the Department of Applied Technology at 785-628-4211.

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU’s annual toy building event set for Dec. 7

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2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.

In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.

The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.

Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.

Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618601684951.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

WaKeeney's Wreaths Across America ceremony Dec. 14

By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to the Hays Post

With the holiday season in full swing, children across Northwest Kansas are looking forward to Christmas and the gifts they know will soon arrive.

However, for many foster children, Christmas is different. Many of the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas have never received a Christmas gift.

Michele Eiland, a volunteer with St. Francis, acknowledges this fact is hard for most adults in this area to wrap their minds around.

That is why Eiland each year volunteers to help with St. Francis Ministries’ “Hope Tree Project.” From now until Friday, Dec. 6, St. Francis will collect gifts for these foster children in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas. Their ages range from infant to age 17.

Four Hope Trees have been erected at Hays businesses. Each tree contains cards containing a “wish list” compiled by each child, their caseworkers, and their foster parents. Eiland said most of those “wish lists” include both toys and clothing.

Each card lists the child’s age, gender and, if clothing is needed, what kind(s) and size(s). Individuals are asked to take a card (or more than one) and purchase items from the list for that child. The ministry suggests a spending limit of $125 per child.

The four tree locations are KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St.; Thomsen Customs engravers, inside the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., No. 111; The Gamers Guild, 200 E. Eighth St.; and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth St., No. 1.

Gifts should be returned unwrapped by Friday, Dec. 6, to the same location or to KPRD Praise Radio (see address above).

Eiland said, “Through no actions or decisions of their own, these children are not living with their parents. Many have never received any kind of gift, let alone a Christmas gift. When people purchase gifts that are on the wish list card, these children feel heard and important.”

The “Wrapping Extravaganza” to wrap the gifts for these 200 children will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. The community is invited to participate, but registration is requested to make sure there are enough wrapping supplies for everyone, Eiland said.

All wrapping supplies and gift tags will be provided. Eiland asked that people register by Friday, Dec. 6, by calling or texting her at 214-546-1974 and specifying the day and time they will help.

“The Wrapping Extravaganza is an opportunity to get your family, friends or social groups together and help out in the wrapping of these gifts,” Eiland said. “It is a great way for all ages to give back to others in the community with no monetary costs, only a few hours of your time.

“Both of these simple acts—the shopping and the wrapping—can and will make this Christmas holiday special for these special kids,” she added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733156937913.jpeg" alt="This St. Francis Ministries Hope Tree at KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St., is just one of four Hope Trees on display in Hays. Each tree contains cards with Christmas “wish lists” for foster children served by St. Francis Ministries. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)" />
 <figcaption>This St. Francis Ministries Hope Tree at KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St., is just one of four Hope Trees on display in Hays. Each tree contains cards with Christmas “wish lists” for foster children served by St. Francis Ministries. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)</figcaption>
 </figure>By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to the Hays PostWith the holiday season in full swing, children across Northwest Kansas are looking forward to Christmas and the gifts they know will soon arrive.However, for many foster children, Christmas is different. Many of the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas have never received a Christmas gift.Michele Eiland, a volunteer with St. Francis, acknowledges this fact is hard for most adults in this area to wrap their minds around.But it is true.That is why Eiland each year volunteers to help with St. Francis Ministries’ “Hope Tree Project.” From now until Friday, Dec. 6, St. Francis will collect gifts for these foster children in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas. Their ages range from infant to age 17.Four Hope Trees have been erected at Hays businesses. Each tree contains cards containing a “wish list” compiled by each child, their caseworkers, and their foster parents. Eiland said most of those “wish lists” include both toys and clothing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733156955963.jpeg" alt="“Hope Begins Here” for the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and counties throughout Northwest Kansas. Individuals are asked to remove a card from one of the Hope Trees on display in Hays, purchase gift items for the foster child, and return the gifts by Dec. 6. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>“Hope Begins Here” for the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and counties throughout Northwest Kansas. Individuals are asked to remove a card from one of the Hope Trees on display in Hays, purchase gift items for the foster child, and return the gifts by Dec. 6. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Each card lists the child’s age, gender and, if clothing is needed, what kind(s) and size(s). Individuals are asked to take a card (or more than one) and purchase items from the list for that child. The ministry suggests a spending limit of $125 per child.The four tree locations are KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St.; Thomsen Customs engravers, inside the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., No. 111; The Gamers Guild, 200 E. Eighth St.; and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth St., No. 1.Gifts should be returned unwrapped by Friday, Dec. 6, to the same location or to KPRD Praise Radio (see address above).Eiland said, “Through no actions or decisions of their own, these children are not living with their parents. Many have never received any kind of gift, let alone a Christmas gift. When people purchase gifts that are on the wish list card, these children feel heard and important.”The “Wrapping Extravaganza” to wrap the gifts for these 200 children will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. The community is invited to participate, but registration is requested to make sure there are enough wrapping supplies for everyone, Eiland said.All wrapping supplies and gift tags will be provided. Eiland asked that people register by Friday, Dec. 6, by calling or texting her at 214-546-1974 and specifying the day and time they will help.“The Wrapping Extravaganza is an opportunity to get your family, friends or social groups together and help out in the wrapping of these gifts,” Eiland said. “It is a great way for all ages to give back to others in the community with no monetary costs, only a few hours of your time.“Both of these simple acts—the shopping and the wrapping—can and will make this Christmas holiday special for these special kids,” she added.

‘Hope Tree Project’ collecting gifts for foster children

Celebrate the season at the Hays Public Library! With themed programs and Frost Fest, the library has something coming up for all ages.

The first weekend of December will include both the Winter Art Walk and Frost Fest. The Winter Art Walk on Dec. 7 will feature a poetry reading put on by the FHSU Poet Laureate, Eileen Veatch. Also, the library will exhibit landscapes by Jan Williams.

On the same Saturday, join Santa for a come-and-go breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., with a story at 10. Following the story, you can take a picture with Santa. Then get creative with seasonal crafts in the afternoon from 1 to 4. For the Frost Fest lighted parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, the library will reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot chocolate. Community members are welcome to view the parade, which begins at 6 p.m., from inside the library.

Seasonal programs for adults will include a snowman craft on Dec. 5, How-To Series: Gift Wrapping on December 10th, and Holiday Cookie and Recipe Swap on December 16th.

A complete list of activities for all ages is available on the event calendar at hayslibrary.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732724539667.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCelebrate the season at the Hays Public Library! With themed programs and Frost Fest, the library has something coming up for all ages.The first weekend of December will include both the Winter Art Walk and Frost Fest. The Winter Art Walk on Dec. 7 will feature a poetry reading put on by the FHSU Poet Laureate, Eileen Veatch. Also, the library will exhibit landscapes by Jan Williams.On the same Saturday, join Santa for a come-and-go breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., with a story at 10. Following the story, you can take a picture with Santa. Then get creative with seasonal crafts in the afternoon from 1 to 4. For the Frost Fest lighted parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, the library will reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot chocolate. Community members are welcome to view the parade, which begins at 6 p.m., from inside the library.Seasonal programs for adults will include a snowman craft on Dec. 5, How-To Series: Gift Wrapping on December 10th, and Holiday Cookie and Recipe Swap on December 16th.A complete list of activities for all ages is available on the event calendar at hayslibrary.org.

Frost Fest and holiday activities planned at the Hays Public Library

Our 52nd Annual Christmas Past event commences at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7. 

Old fashioned and traditional, our longstanding start to the Christmas season invites all to enjoy carriage rides and live music. 

As ever enough for everyone, candied apples and hot cider will warm spirits for the upcoming season. 

Many volunteers and reenactors devote their time, once a year, to help orchestrate our popular event. 

We cordially invite all to attend and make it one more great season for everyone!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732725192101.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOur 52nd Annual Christmas Past event commences at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7. Old fashioned and traditional, our longstanding start to the Christmas season invites all to enjoy carriage rides and live music. As ever enough for everyone, candied apples and hot cider will warm spirits for the upcoming season. Many volunteers and reenactors devote their time, once a year, to help orchestrate our popular event. We cordially invite all to attend and make it one more great season for everyone!

52nd annual Christmas Past scheduled

The Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University is once again looking for “elves” to help make toys.

The annual Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up For Tots event will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the wood shop of the Center for Applied Technology. 

Community volunteers are invited to come and go as their schedules permit. No reservations are required.

This year’s toy is a wooden helicopter. Approximately 200 will be made for children in the area, ages 2 through 6.

According to the department’s website, “The program is designed to spread holiday cheer to local children who may not otherwise receive Christmas presents. All ages are welcome to volunteer for toy production, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”

Jobs include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching parts, finishing and, for those who have experience, running some machine operations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732725697643.jpeg" alt="The Department of Applied Technology at FHSU is seeking community volunteer “elves” to make 200 of these wooden toy helicopters for children on Saturday, Dec. 7. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>The Department of Applied Technology at FHSU is seeking community volunteer “elves” to make 200 of these wooden toy helicopters for children on Saturday, Dec. 7. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University is once again looking for “elves” to help make toys.The annual Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up For Tots event will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the wood shop of the Center for Applied Technology. Community volunteers are invited to come and go as their schedules permit. No reservations are required.This year’s toy is a wooden helicopter. Approximately 200 will be made for children in the area, ages 2 through 6.According to the department’s website, “The program is designed to spread holiday cheer to local children who may not otherwise receive Christmas presents. All ages are welcome to volunteer for toy production, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”Jobs include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching parts, finishing and, for those who have experience, running some machine operations.

‘Elves’ needed to help make 200 toys at FHSU

LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will be hosting the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 29, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live music while visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, and enjoy Kansas-grown popcorn.

Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. Kids of all ages will be treated to hot dogs, hot chocolate, chocolate milk and water “served right off the truck.”

There is a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. There will also be a special make and take craft project for the kids in the one-room school.

Events begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, November 29 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at www.rushcounty.org/RCHS or call 785-222-2808.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700066551294.png" alt="Courtesy Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will be hosting the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 29, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live music while visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, and enjoy Kansas-grown popcorn.Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. Kids of all ages will be treated to hot dogs, hot chocolate, chocolate milk and water “served right off the truck.”There is a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. There will also be a special make and take craft project for the kids in the one-room school.Events begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, November 29 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at www.rushcounty.org/RCHS or call 785-222-2808.

La Crosse hosts annual old-fashioned Christmas

The Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the Construction &amp; Demolition pit, the tree pile, and the dirt pile at the landfill are closed for dumping Wednesday due to muddy conditions. 

We will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. 

Please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460 if you have any questions.  We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the Construction &amp; Demolition pit, the tree pile, and the dirt pile at the landfill are closed for dumping Wednesday due to muddy conditions. We will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460 if you have any questions. We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rainy conditions close much of Ellis County landfill Wednesday

STOCKTON — The 12th annual Holiday Mall at City Hall will be held in Stockton, on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Check out the many vendors with a nice selection of holiday crafts, homemade candy, clothing and holiday gift idea.s

Finish up or start your Christmas shopping!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732723189992.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSTOCKTON — The 12th annual Holiday Mall at City Hall will be held in Stockton, on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Check out the many vendors with a nice selection of holiday crafts, homemade candy, clothing and holiday gift idea.sRegister to win prizes!Finish up or start your Christmas shopping!

Holiday Mall at City Hall in Stockton is Dec. 7

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.•

• Monday, November 25, pick up will not change. • Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26. • Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable 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 Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.•• Monday, November 25, pick up will not change. • Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26. • Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable 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.

Schedule change in refuse/recycling pick up in Hays for Thanksgiving holiday

City of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and Friday, November 29, 2024, in celebration of the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and Friday, November 29, 2024, in celebration of the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Hays city offices to close for Thanksgiving holiday

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.

Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26, and Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.

Monday, November 25, pick up will not change.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26, and Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.Monday, November 25, pick up will not change.&nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable 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.

Hays' refuse/recycling schedule changes for Thanksgiving holiday

Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;

Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

<div><div data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="bd7a5da3-c5ef-4232-b5d0-42bd8f241519" data-routing="hash" data-script="haple7"></div>
<script defer src="
https://embed-1069960.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js"
data-ss-script="haple7">/**/</script></div>Veterans Day is a time for us to pay respect to all who have served our country.&nbsp;Eagle Radio, Hays Post and these sponsors have created a place where our community can honor those who have served and are still serving.&nbsp;Submit a photo of your military loved one above.

📷 HONOR OUR VETERANS: 2024 Veterans photo gallery

The 2024 Kansas Rural Preservation grant committee&nbsp;reviewed 24 grant requests totaling over $2.2 million. On August 9, 2024, the committee recommended and the Historic Sites Board of Review approved funding for 8 projects totalling $750,000.The historic Safeway Building located at 121 E 11th Street in Downtown Hays was awarded a grant for the historic preservation and the expansion of Gella's Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. culinary classroom and event space. To comply with the grant requirements, we are publicly posting this notice to contractors to submit bids.

Property Owner: Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co., LLC

Property Address: 121 East 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays Kansas

Detailed building condition and scope of work detailed below.

1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Install new storefront windows and doors.

2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sheetrock and finish interior partition walls and repair perimeter plaster walls and paint walls. Trim and molding per specifications.

3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repair and refinish original hardwood floors. Install flooring in kitchen, bathrooms and storerooms.

Bids will be received by Adam Pray, 116 E 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601 until 12:00 PM on November 30, 2024, for the work noted above according to plans approved by the Kansas State Historic Preservation Office. This structure is determined eligible for listing as a contributing property in the Historic Chestnut Street District on the National Register of Historic Places. All work must comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s&nbsp;Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

Sealed bids will be publicly opened at 12:00 PM on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Platinum Group Office, 116 E 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays KS 67601. Two copies of the bid should be provided.

All inquiries about this Invitation to Bid and requests for copies of the full scope of work / plans may be directed to Adam Pray, phone (785) 650-4029. Bids will be received on a total bid price basis and will include a sum to cover the cost of all items of the contract, including insurance, materials, and performance bonds. Proposals received after the date and time indicated above for opening will be considered late, and therefore will not be considered for award.

The Bid will be awarded on the basis of cost and performance; to the Bidder who, in the Owner’s judgment, is the lowest, most qualified, responsible and responsive Bidder. Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to reject the Bid of any Bidder if the Owner believes it would not be in the best interest of the Owner to make an award to that Bidder. The successful Bidder must deliver to the Owner certificates of insurance, performance and materials payment bonds as security for faithful performance and the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the contract. The successful firm will be required to comply with all applicable laws and statutory regulations. No Bidder will in any way, directly or indirectly, discriminate against any person because of age, race, color, handicap, sex, national origin or religious creed.

This project has been financed in part with federal funds from the National Park Service, a division of the United States Department of the Interior and administered by the Kansas Historical Society. The contents and opinions, however, do not necessarily reflect the view or policies of the United States Department of the Interior or the Kansas Historical Society. Regulations of the US&nbsp;Department of the Interior strictly prohibits unlawful discrimination in departmental Federally Assisted Programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility operated by a recipient of Federal assistance should write to: Director, Equal Opportunity Program, U. S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1849 C Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20240.

Historic Safeway Building/Gella’s Expansion

Building Description: The one-story red brick building at 121 E Eleventh was built ca. 1937 as home to the Safeway Grocery Store. The building is the easternmost structure in a string of one-and two-story buildings with a consistent setback on the north side of E. Eleventh Street, one block off Main Street. The building will be occupied as an expansion of Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. in the one-story buildings at 111-119 East Eleventh Street. An alley runs along the north/rear façade and the storefront fronts Eleventh Street on the south with a public sidewalk along the south façade and brick street with parallel parking along E. Eleventh Street.

The storefront is currently boarded with the glass windows missing (wood is visible on the interior). An area above the storefront is also boarded corresponding to the large steel I-beam that spans the storefront opening, supported by one central column). An alternating band of concrete and glass black panels is located on the upper façade framed by buff brick. The recessed entry, extant at the east end, is framed by the brick wall on the west and an angled section of the boarded storefront on the east. A pair of single-light wood doors (one replaced with slab door) serve as the original entrance with a narrow sidelight on the west and a transom panel composed of two horizontal lights about each door. On the interior, no glass is present in the display windows but a short plastered bulkhead is extant. Temporary removal of the wood covering revealed damaged brick tile on the narrow bulkhead.

There are four openings on the rear façade – three windows and a single door. All are punched openings with hidden lintels and windows have header-course brick sills. The original windows were multi-light steel windows, two of which are in place. One window has formerly been removed and a ventilation fan installed in the window opening. From the interior, the rear door is a five-horizontal panel wood door, with a metal covering on the exterior that is visible on the rear façade.

The interior of the building is currently an open space with framed partition walls. The metal barrel trusses and interim wood framing is extant and exposed throughout the interior of the building. The perimeter walls have a plaster finish and remnants of wood baseboards are in place in isolated locations. At existing openings, plaster has a curved return. There is significant deterioration of plaster in some of the areas and peeling paint throughout. The front two-thirds of the space has a hardwood floor exposed. There are some areas of damaged or missing wood flooring but generally the floor appears to be in sound condition. The rear of the space has a concrete slab that is in fair to poor condition.

Project Description for KSHS Rural Preservation Grant: &nbsp;

Detailed floor plans and drawings available upon request for bidding purposes.

● Install new storefront system on the existing concrete curb with new black tile installed at the bulkhead. The configuration will be retained with a recessed entrance on the west end. The existing wood doors will be removed and a pair of two-light aluminum doors, with sidelight, will be installed to meet accessibility requirements. The storefront system will be aluminum with a factory silver aluminum finish with 2-1/2” mullions and clear, low e glass. Display windows will be full height in the original opening; the existing glass block band will be retained above the storefront. Aluminum sheet metal to match the storefront will be used as sheathing at center column and horizontal I-beam/lintel above storefront opening. The lintel band will be used for business signage.

● The new floor plan will have limited walls with bathrooms along the west wall and a kitchen at the rear, maintaining a large open dining room at the storefront. The existing front and rear door openings will be maintained with a vestibule at the front entrance and a corridor against the west wall at the rear. Men’s and women’s accessible restrooms will be partitions on the west wall and a storage room between the restroom and entry vestibule. The kitchen will span the north wall west of the west corridor with a bar/service area in the northeast corner of the open dining room. A mezzanine will be created over the rear kitchen and west restrooms to be used for mechanical equipment and supply storage.

● Plaster will be retained and repaired at perimeter walls, maintaining curved return at the storefront. Wall at the rear opening will be furred for kitchen equipment. Sheetrock may be used at large areas of deteriorated plaster and skim-coated to match adjacent plaster surfaces – this is primarily at areas of former water infiltration on the rear wall where plaster is severely damaged and missing. Plaster walls will have exposed conduit for outlets and switches (painted to match adjacent surface). New partition walls will primarily be sheetrocked on wood studs. Kitchen walls will have stainless/FRP paneled walls for ease of cleaning. Bathrooms will receive porcelain wall and floor tile. New 6” wood baseboards with simple squared profile with eased edge, will be installed at perimeter walls in the dining room. Kitchen will have a rubber/tile base and bathrooms will have tile base/transition at wall/floor tile.

● Any remaining tile or adhesive on the wood floor in the dining room will be removed and the original wood floor will be retained, repaired and refinished with satin finish. Damaged wood will be replaced with wood salvaged from bathrooms and store room on the west wall. Kitchen area will receive an epoxy finish on the concrete floor, as will the west storeroom.

Detailed floor plans available upon request by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:chris@tumbleweedks.com">chris@tumbleweedks.com</a>

● Repair work to be in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standards/rehabilitation.htm">http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standards/rehabilitation.htm</a>

● Certificates of insurance, performance and material payment bonds required as security for faithful performance and the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the contract.

● Storage and handling of all materials must be in a manner which prevents additional loss, deterioration, and damage; storage area to be designated by project administrator.

● Construction schedule to be itemized with headings related to the breakdown in payment requests.

● All work subject to review by the Kansas State Historical Society throughout the duration of the project.

● Compliance with all applicable laws and statutory regulations required.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705521337334.jpg" alt="Courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 2024 Kansas Rural Preservation grant committee&nbsp;reviewed 24 grant requests totaling over $2.2 million. On August 9, 2024, the committee recommended and the Historic Sites Board of Review approved funding for 8 projects totalling $750,000.The historic Safeway Building located at 121 E 11th Street in Downtown Hays was awarded a grant for the historic preservation and the expansion of Gella's Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. culinary classroom and event space. To comply with the grant requirements, we are publicly posting this notice to contractors to submit bids.NOTICE TO CONTRACTORSINVITATION TO BIDProperty Owner: Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co., LLCProperty Address: 121 East 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays KansasDetailed building condition and scope of work detailed below.In general, work to be performed:1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Install new storefront windows and doors.2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sheetrock and finish interior partition walls and repair perimeter plaster walls and paint walls. Trim and molding per specifications.3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Repair and refinish original hardwood floors. Install flooring in kitchen, bathrooms and storerooms.Bids will be received by Adam Pray, 116 E 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601 until 12:00 PM on November 30, 2024, for the work noted above according to plans approved by the Kansas State Historic Preservation Office. This structure is determined eligible for listing as a contributing property in the Historic Chestnut Street District on the National Register of Historic Places. All work must comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s&nbsp;Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.Sealed bids will be publicly opened at 12:00 PM on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Platinum Group Office, 116 E 11th&nbsp;Street, Hays KS 67601. Two copies of the bid should be provided.All inquiries about this Invitation to Bid and requests for copies of the full scope of work / plans may be directed to Adam Pray, phone (785) 650-4029. Bids will be received on a total bid price basis and will include a sum to cover the cost of all items of the contract, including insurance, materials, and performance bonds. Proposals received after the date and time indicated above for opening will be considered late, and therefore will not be considered for award.The Bid will be awarded on the basis of cost and performance; to the Bidder who, in the Owner’s judgment, is the lowest, most qualified, responsible and responsive Bidder. Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to reject the Bid of any Bidder if the Owner believes it would not be in the best interest of the Owner to make an award to that Bidder. The successful Bidder must deliver to the Owner certificates of insurance, performance and materials payment bonds as security for faithful performance and the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the contract. The successful firm will be required to comply with all applicable laws and statutory regulations. No Bidder will in any way, directly or indirectly, discriminate against any person because of age, race, color, handicap, sex, national origin or religious creed.This project has been financed in part with federal funds from the National Park Service, a division of the United States Department of the Interior and administered by the Kansas Historical Society. The contents and opinions, however, do not necessarily reflect the view or policies of the United States Department of the Interior or the Kansas Historical Society. Regulations of the US&nbsp;Department of the Interior strictly prohibits unlawful discrimination in departmental Federally Assisted Programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility operated by a recipient of Federal assistance should write to: Director, Equal Opportunity Program, U. S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1849 C Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20240.Historic Safeway Building/Gella’s ExpansionBuilding Description: The one-story red brick building at 121 E Eleventh was built ca. 1937 as home to the Safeway Grocery Store. The building is the easternmost structure in a string of one-and two-story buildings with a consistent setback on the north side of E. Eleventh Street, one block off Main Street. The building will be occupied as an expansion of Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. in the one-story buildings at 111-119 East Eleventh Street. An alley runs along the north/rear façade and the storefront fronts Eleventh Street on the south with a public sidewalk along the south façade and brick street with parallel parking along E. Eleventh Street.The storefront is currently boarded with the glass windows missing (wood is visible on the interior). An area above the storefront is also boarded corresponding to the large steel I-beam that spans the storefront opening, supported by one central column). An alternating band of concrete and glass black panels is located on the upper façade framed by buff brick. The recessed entry, extant at the east end, is framed by the brick wall on the west and an angled section of the boarded storefront on the east. A pair of single-light wood doors (one replaced with slab door) serve as the original entrance with a narrow sidelight on the west and a transom panel composed of two horizontal lights about each door. On the interior, no glass is present in the display windows but a short plastered bulkhead is extant. Temporary removal of the wood covering revealed damaged brick tile on the narrow bulkhead.There are four openings on the rear façade – three windows and a single door. All are punched openings with hidden lintels and windows have header-course brick sills. The original windows were multi-light steel windows, two of which are in place. One window has formerly been removed and a ventilation fan installed in the window opening. From the interior, the rear door is a five-horizontal panel wood door, with a metal covering on the exterior that is visible on the rear façade.The interior of the building is currently an open space with framed partition walls. The metal barrel trusses and interim wood framing is extant and exposed throughout the interior of the building. The perimeter walls have a plaster finish and remnants of wood baseboards are in place in isolated locations. At existing openings, plaster has a curved return. There is significant deterioration of plaster in some of the areas and peeling paint throughout. The front two-thirds of the space has a hardwood floor exposed. There are some areas of damaged or missing wood flooring but generally the floor appears to be in sound condition. The rear of the space has a concrete slab that is in fair to poor condition.SCOPE OF WORKProject Description for KSHS Rural Preservation Grant: &nbsp;Detailed floor plans and drawings available upon request for bidding purposes.Detail of Work to include in bid:● Install new storefront system on the existing concrete curb with new black tile installed at the bulkhead. The configuration will be retained with a recessed entrance on the west end. The existing wood doors will be removed and a pair of two-light aluminum doors, with sidelight, will be installed to meet accessibility requirements. The storefront system will be aluminum with a factory silver aluminum finish with 2-1/2” mullions and clear, low e glass. Display windows will be full height in the original opening; the existing glass block band will be retained above the storefront. Aluminum sheet metal to match the storefront will be used as sheathing at center column and horizontal I-beam/lintel above storefront opening. The lintel band will be used for business signage.● The new floor plan will have limited walls with bathrooms along the west wall and a kitchen at the rear, maintaining a large open dining room at the storefront. The existing front and rear door openings will be maintained with a vestibule at the front entrance and a corridor against the west wall at the rear. Men’s and women’s accessible restrooms will be partitions on the west wall and a storage room between the restroom and entry vestibule. The kitchen will span the north wall west of the west corridor with a bar/service area in the northeast corner of the open dining room. A mezzanine will be created over the rear kitchen and west restrooms to be used for mechanical equipment and supply storage.● Plaster will be retained and repaired at perimeter walls, maintaining curved return at the storefront. Wall at the rear opening will be furred for kitchen equipment. Sheetrock may be used at large areas of deteriorated plaster and skim-coated to match adjacent plaster surfaces – this is primarily at areas of former water infiltration on the rear wall where plaster is severely damaged and missing. Plaster walls will have exposed conduit for outlets and switches (painted to match adjacent surface). New partition walls will primarily be sheetrocked on wood studs. Kitchen walls will have stainless/FRP paneled walls for ease of cleaning. Bathrooms will receive porcelain wall and floor tile. New 6” wood baseboards with simple squared profile with eased edge, will be installed at perimeter walls in the dining room. Kitchen will have a rubber/tile base and bathrooms will have tile base/transition at wall/floor tile.● Any remaining tile or adhesive on the wood floor in the dining room will be removed and the original wood floor will be retained, repaired and refinished with satin finish. Damaged wood will be replaced with wood salvaged from bathrooms and store room on the west wall. Kitchen area will receive an epoxy finish on the concrete floor, as will the west storeroom.Detailed floor plans available upon request by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:chris@tumbleweedks.com">chris@tumbleweedks.com</a>General Conditions:● Repair work to be in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Viewable at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standards/rehabilitation.htm">http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standards/rehabilitation.htm</a>● Certificates of insurance, performance and material payment bonds required as security for faithful performance and the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the contract.● Storage and handling of all materials must be in a manner which prevents additional loss, deterioration, and damage; storage area to be designated by project administrator.● Construction schedule to be itemized with headings related to the breakdown in payment requests.● All work subject to review by the Kansas State Historical Society throughout the duration of the project.● Compliance with all applicable laws and statutory regulations required.

United Way fundraiser this evening by Gambino's Pizza of Hays 

Submitted The Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the dirt pile at the landfill will be closed today due to muddy conditions. This material will not be accepted in the transfer station.

Municipal Waste will remain open, and the gates will be closed at 4:45 p.m. No dumping will be allowed after that time.

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Landfill at 785-628-9460.&nbsp;

Submitted The Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the dirt pile at the landfill will be closed today due to muddy conditions. This material will not be accepted in the transfer station.Municipal Waste will remain open, and the gates will be closed at 4:45 p.m. No dumping will be allowed after that time.Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Landfill at 785-628-9460.&nbsp;

Ellis County dirt pile closed today

"Surviving the Holidays" will be hosted at North Oak Community Church from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 21.

The program is for those who have lost a loved one in death. It reassures people grieving the loss that they are not alone—that help is available.

This two-hour event can offer encouragement and practical advice for navigating the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. It gives insight into what to expect and the strength to go on.

For information or to attend, register by calling Rich Matzke at 785)-650-2946 or text&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="mailto:richardmatzke48@gmail.com">richardmatzke48@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731964756888.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted"Surviving the Holidays" will be hosted at North Oak Community Church from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 21.The program is for those who have lost a loved one in death. It reassures people grieving the loss that they are not alone—that help is available.This two-hour event can offer encouragement and practical advice for navigating the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. It gives insight into what to expect and the strength to go on.For information or to attend, register by calling Rich Matzke at 785)-650-2946 or text&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="mailto:richardmatzke48@gmail.com">richardmatzke48@gmail.com</a>.

North Oak Community Church to host 'Surviving the Holidays'

Imagine Ellis County is a product of Strategic Doing with Heartland Community Foundation and facilitated by Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

Their mission is to create community growth through an engaged group of Ellis County residents who collaborate on strategic vision for the community and the region.

The vision is to create a vibrant hub of innovation and opportunity, that empowers residents, attracts projects and ensures sustainable development for a thriving future.

The Downtown Stage project is open to the community and any resident who wants to learn more or help create a permanent stage structure at Hays Municipal Park.

This space could be utilized for large concerts, community arts, traveling artists and community events.

To find out more or to help out with this project, come to a meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, in the basement meeting space of Brief Space.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731962735155.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Imagine Ellis County is a product of Strategic Doing with Heartland Community Foundation and facilitated by Dane G. Hansen Foundation.Their mission is to create community growth through an engaged group of Ellis County residents who collaborate on strategic vision for the community and the region.The vision is to create a vibrant hub of innovation and opportunity, that empowers residents, attracts projects and ensures sustainable development for a thriving future.The Downtown Stage project is open to the community and any resident who wants to learn more or help create a permanent stage structure at Hays Municipal Park.This space could be utilized for large concerts, community arts, traveling artists and community events.To find out more or to help out with this project, come to a meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, in the basement meeting space of Brief Space.

Meeting set to discuss downtown stage project

There will be a volunteer training for all Cold Weather Shelter interested volunteers from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at the First Baptist Church Hays, 1111 Fort St.

If you are interested in volunteering you must attend a training. To sign up please go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ourecma.com/hayscoldshelter">Cold Weather Shelter | ECMA</a>

SubmittedThere will be a volunteer training for all Cold Weather Shelter interested volunteers from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at the First Baptist Church Hays, 1111 Fort St.If you are interested in volunteering you must attend a training. To sign up please go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ourecma.com/hayscoldshelter">Cold Weather Shelter | ECMA</a>

Cold weather Shelter training set for Nov. 19

The Optimist Club of Hays presents its annual live Christmas tree sale. Starts on Nov. 29, black Friday weekend 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Then, weekdays starting Monday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Until trees sold out, find us in the Walmart parking lot in Hays, 4301 Vine.

Since 1965 the Optimist Club of Hays has been supporting the Ellis County youth programs. 

Your purchase directly benefits these projects. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731790693277.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Optimist Club of Hays presents its annual live Christmas tree sale. Starts on Nov. 29, black Friday weekend 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Then, weekdays starting Monday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Until trees sold out, find us in the Walmart parking lot in Hays, 4301 Vine.Since 1965 the Optimist Club of Hays has been supporting the Ellis County youth programs. Your purchase directly benefits these projects.

Optimist Club of Hays' annual Christmas tree sale begins Nov. 29

Start the advent/holiday season on a glorious note with the FHSU choirs: Fort Hays Singers, Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale at the annual Cathedral Christmas Concert in Victoria.

Hays HS Chamber Singers and the St. Fidelis Church choir are the guest choirs. Also appearing: Tom Meagher, organ; FHSU Horn Ensemble; FHSU Flute Ensemble; several FHSU Music Faculty will perform, plus other members of the Music &amp; Theatre Dept.

This concert is free and open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670010791180.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCathedral Christmas ConcertSunday, December 8, 2024, 3:30pmBasilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, KSStart the advent/holiday season on a glorious note with the FHSU choirs: Fort Hays Singers, Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale at the annual Cathedral Christmas Concert in Victoria.Hays HS Chamber Singers and the St. Fidelis Church choir are the guest choirs. Also appearing: Tom Meagher, organ; FHSU Horn Ensemble; FHSU Flute Ensemble; several FHSU Music Faculty will perform, plus other members of the Music &amp; Theatre Dept.This concert is free and open to the public.

Cathedral Christmas Concert set for Dec. 8

Kansas State University is continuing community visits across the state and invites residents of Ellis County for a special afternoon focused on water education and conservation.

The “Know Your Water” event will take place on November 18, starting at 2 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays. Organizers say that participants will have the chance to learn about water systems, efficient irrigation techniques, and non-point source pollution.

“We want our residents to see these demonstrations first-hand and to hear about science-based water management strategies. K-State will use this visit to help everyone dive deeper into the important topic of water,” said Stacie Minson, an extension watershed specialist with K-State Research and Extension.

This community visit will feature experts from the university and Extension who will lead the hands-on showcases and demonstrations. Participants will also have a tour of Pleasant View Farms, where water quality improvements have been put into action.

The continuation of K-State’s community visits shows the university’s commitment to prioritizing engagement and driving partnerships that address real-world challenges — whether through educational outreach, innovative research or service programs that benefit the people and industries of Kansas.

Community visit events are free and open to all Kansans, including community members, leaders and industry partners. Those interested can go to bit.ly/KWY-visit to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719872287576.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas State University is continuing community visits across the state and invites residents of Ellis County for a special afternoon focused on water education and conservation.The “Know Your Water” event will take place on November 18, starting at 2 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays. Organizers say that participants will have the chance to learn about water systems, efficient irrigation techniques, and non-point source pollution.“We want our residents to see these demonstrations first-hand and to hear about science-based water management strategies. K-State will use this visit to help everyone dive deeper into the important topic of water,” said Stacie Minson, an extension watershed specialist with K-State Research and Extension.This community visit will feature experts from the university and Extension who will lead the hands-on showcases and demonstrations. Participants will also have a tour of Pleasant View Farms, where water quality improvements have been put into action.The continuation of K-State’s community visits shows the university’s commitment to prioritizing engagement and driving partnerships that address real-world challenges — whether through educational outreach, innovative research or service programs that benefit the people and industries of Kansas.Community visit events are free and open to all Kansans, including community members, leaders and industry partners. Those interested can go to bit.ly/KWY-visit to register.

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