Imagine Ellis County: Show us your Best of 2023

The City of Hays will be making one, and only one trip, through alleys to pick up real Christmas trees beginning January 15, 2024. This will be a special pick up, and the trees will not be collected with regular trash or recycling. 

Please remove all plastic, ornaments, and lights. 

City crews are anticipated to be completed with the collection in two days.

Citizens are encouraged to bring their real Christmas trees to the free disposal site just north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine Street. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area. Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove&nbsp;all&nbsp;plastic, ornaments, and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site will be open through January 18.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pick up free of charge.

If you have questions, please call the Solid Waste Division at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578333373066.jpeg" alt="File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe City of Hays will be making one, and only one trip, through alleys to pick up real Christmas trees beginning January 15, 2024. This will be a special pick up, and the trees will not be collected with regular trash or recycling. Please remove all plastic, ornaments, and lights. City crews are anticipated to be completed with the collection in two days.Citizens are encouraged to bring their real Christmas trees to the free disposal site just north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine Street. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area. Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove&nbsp;all&nbsp;plastic, ornaments, and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site will be open through January 18.&nbsp; &nbsp;Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pick up free of charge.If you have questions, please call the Solid Waste Division at 785-628-7350.

City to pick up Christmas trees Jan. 15; disposal site now open 

Due to the observance of the New Year’s holiday on Monday, January 1, 2024, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:

Monday, January 1 and Tuesday, January 2 will both be picked up on Tuesday.&nbsp; Routes collected Wednesday, January 3&nbsp; through Friday, January 5, 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the New Year’s holiday on Monday, January 1, 2024, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:Monday, January 1 and Tuesday, January 2 will both be picked up on Tuesday.&nbsp; Routes collected Wednesday, January 3&nbsp; through Friday, January 5, 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.

Hays refuse/recycling schedule changes for New Year's holiday

City of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, January 1, 2024, in observance of the New Year's Day holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, January 1, 2024, in observance of the New Year's Day holiday.

City of Hays offices closed Monday in observance of New Year's Day holiday  

Stay Strong Stay Healthy returns for 2024

The 14th Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Christmas Day, Dec. 25 at the VFW in&nbsp;Hays, located at 22nd and Vine. The dinner is sponsored by New Life Center and the VFW. 

The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll.&nbsp; Christmas dinner is donated and cooked by the men of the VFW, who generously give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare.

 The meal is free of charge. Donations are accepted. 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. 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;

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 acknowledged 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 the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the volunteers who graciously give their time

.For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after, in decorating, serving and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.

Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.&nbsp;For anyone who is homebound and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, please contact using the information below.

If you wish to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please also use the following contact information:785-675-1344 email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703093318248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 14th Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Christmas Day, Dec. 25 at the VFW in&nbsp;Hays, located at 22nd and Vine. The dinner is sponsored by New Life Center and the VFW. The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll.&nbsp; Christmas dinner is donated and cooked by the men of the VFW, who generously give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare. The meal is free of charge. Donations are accepted. 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. 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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703093265296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>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 acknowledged 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 the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the volunteers who graciously give their time.For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after, in decorating, serving and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.&nbsp;For anyone who is homebound and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, please contact using the information below. If you wish to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please also use the following contact information:785-675-1344 email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

Hays VFW plans annual Community Christmas Dinner

Hays Medical Center will be partnering&nbsp;with other community health providers to update our 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment.&nbsp;The goal of this assessment update is to understand progress in addressing health needs cited in the 2015, 2018, and 2021 needs assessment reports and to collect up-to-date community health perceptions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Your&nbsp;feedback and suggestions regarding community health delivery are especially important to collect to be able to complete the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment and implementation plan updates. Our facility has again contracted VVV Consultants for the fifth&nbsp;round since 2012 to diligently and efficiently complete this work over the next few months. &nbsp;

Important community health information is being gathered and your help is needed. Below is an online survey link for you to access as your feedback will help the hospital identify the most critical needs in our communities.

LINK:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2024_HaysMed_EllisCoOnlineSurvey" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2024_HaysMed_EllisCoOnlineSurvey</a>

All responses will be confidential if you choose to participate in this online survey.

All community residents and business leaders are encouraged to complete the 2024 CHNA online survey by&nbsp;Jan. 19.&nbsp;In addition, please hold the date&nbsp;for the Town Hall meeting scheduled&nbsp;Friday, Feb. 23&nbsp;for lunch from&nbsp;11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Please stay on the lookout for more information to come soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592337955905.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays Medical Center will be partnering&nbsp;with other community health providers to update our 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment.&nbsp;The goal of this assessment update is to understand progress in addressing health needs cited in the 2015, 2018, and 2021 needs assessment reports and to collect up-to-date community health perceptions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Your&nbsp;feedback and suggestions regarding community health delivery are especially important to collect to be able to complete the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment and implementation plan updates. Our facility has again contracted VVV Consultants for the fifth&nbsp;round since 2012 to diligently and efficiently complete this work over the next few months. &nbsp;Important community health information is being gathered and your help is needed. Below is an online survey link for you to access as your feedback will help the hospital identify the most critical needs in our communities.LINK:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2024_HaysMed_EllisCoOnlineSurvey" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2024_HaysMed_EllisCoOnlineSurvey</a>All responses will be confidential if you choose to participate in this online survey.All community residents and business leaders are encouraged to complete the 2024 CHNA online survey by&nbsp;Jan. 19.&nbsp;In addition, please hold the date&nbsp;for the Town Hall meeting scheduled&nbsp;Friday, Feb. 23&nbsp;for lunch from&nbsp;11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Please stay on the lookout for more information to come soon.

HaysMed updating Community Health Needs Assessment; take survey

The Hays city commission meeting for Dec. 28 has been canceled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays city commission meeting for Dec. 28 has been canceled.

Hays City Commission meeting for Dec. 28 canceled

The December 21 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe December 21 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

Hays city commission Thursday work session canceled 

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a rock overlay project will be taking place in the 900, 1000
and 1100 blocks of Yocemento Avenue, effective immediately. 

This area will be
down to one-lane traffic. The expected completion date will be Friday, December
29th, pending weather conditions.

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works
Road &amp; Bridge division at (785)-628-9455. Your cooperation during this
project is appreciated.

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a rock overlay project will be taking place in the 900, 1000
and 1100 blocks of Yocemento Avenue, effective immediately. This area will be
down to one-lane traffic. The expected completion date will be Friday, December
29th, pending weather conditions.Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works
Road &amp; Bridge division at (785)-628-9455. Your cooperation during this
project is appreciated.

Rock overlay work on Yocemento Avenue underway

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a culvert repair project will be taking place in the 2400 block
of 200th Avenue. This area will be closed to traffic beginning at 12:00 p.m. on
Monday, December 18th, and will remain closed until the project is completed.
The expected completion date will be Wednesday, December 20th, pending weather
conditions.

A second culvert repair project will take place in the 2800
block of 110th Avenue. This area will be closed to traffic beginning on
Wednesday, December 20th, and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The expected completion date is Friday, December 22nd.

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a culvert repair project will be taking place in the 2400 block
of 200th Avenue. This area will be closed to traffic beginning at 12:00 p.m. on
Monday, December 18th, and will remain closed until the project is completed.
The expected completion date will be Wednesday, December 20th, pending weather
conditions.A second culvert repair project will take place in the 2800
block of 110th Avenue. This area will be closed to traffic beginning on
Wednesday, December 20th, and will remain closed until the project is
completed. The expected completion date is Friday, December 22nd.

Culvert repair project set for 200th and 110th Ave. this week

City of Hays offices will be closed on Friday, December 22 in celebration of the Christmas Eve holiday and on Monday, December 25 in celebration of the Christmas Day holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Friday, December 22 in celebration of the Christmas Eve holiday and on Monday, December 25 in celebration of the Christmas Day holiday.

City of Hays offices closed Friday, Monday for Christmas

Due to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Monday, December 25, the refuse/recycling collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday and Tuesday routes will both be collected on Wednesday, December 27. Wednesday and Thursday routes will both be collected on Thursday, December 28. There are no anticipated changes to Friday's route.&nbsp;

This is altered from what was published earlier this year.

This&nbsp;Solid Waste Division&nbsp;holiday&nbsp;schedule is different from the other city offices. 

&nbsp;Solid Waste will be&nbsp;closed on Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26,&nbsp;while the rest of the city offices will be closed&nbsp;Friday, December 22 and Monday, December 25.&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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="The Christmas week refuse/recycling schedule in Hays has been changed from what was earlier announced. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Christmas week refuse/recycling schedule in Hays has been changed from what was earlier announced. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Monday, December 25, the refuse/recycling collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday and Tuesday routes will both be collected on Wednesday, December 27. Wednesday and Thursday routes will both be collected on Thursday, December 28. There are no anticipated changes to Friday's route.&nbsp;This is altered from what was published earlier this year.This&nbsp;Solid Waste Division&nbsp;holiday&nbsp;schedule is different from the other city offices. &nbsp;Solid Waste will be&nbsp;closed on Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26,&nbsp;while the rest of the city offices will be closed&nbsp;Friday, December 22 and Monday, December 25.&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.

Christmas alters refuse/recycling schedule in Hays    

The Hays Area Planning Commission will meet Monday at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall.

Agenda items include an update of activities by Grow Hays and a review of the extraterritorial jurisdiction future land use map.

The complete <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12182023-1455">Dec. 18 agenda</a> is available here.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Area Planning Commission will meet Monday at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall.Agenda items include an update of activities by Grow Hays and a review of the extraterritorial jurisdiction future land use map.The complete <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12182023-1455">Dec. 18 agenda</a> is available here.&nbsp;

Hays Area Planning Commission to review future land use maps on Monday

Public Notice - FHSU Forsyth Library

<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xPu74NUWTeS8GdBfnCNQyCHgha96NXZi/view">Students currently in 5th-8th grades are invited to Monarch For a Day at Thomas More Prep-Marian, Jan. 5, 2024.</a>&nbsp;Students in area elementary schools can attend Monarch For a Day without missing any classes at their current school. USD 489 is out of session on Jan. 5 and Holy Family Elementary school 5th graders will attend as a school. HFE 5th grade families are already registered.

<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_XfLragC6t7u9A2ZV55dA-SAAz9_3ZN_7ySEwet9mdcNjmw/viewform?usp=sf_link" target="_blank">Register Here for Monarch For a Day</a>

The future Monarchs will attend Mass, a welcome, and six sessions that show the variety and style of learning at TMP-Marian Junior High. Experience small class sizes and individual attention. The students will interact with current and future classmates and teachers, capping the day with lunch specially prepared by the legendary TMP-Marian kitchen. After lunch, students will attend a short closing, receive a special gift, and be released.

Parents can drop their students off at the northeast entrance of the main building as early as 7:15 a.m. Pick-up will be at noon in the same location.

Families interested in transportation due to work or some other conflict, can reach out to Mrs. Melissa Schoepf to arrange transportation - schoepfm@tmpmarian.org

TMP-Marian is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation, and it's more affordable than you may think! For example, a non-Catholic family with two children and makes $80,000 a year, would pay less than $3,000 per student. Cost can be spread out over a 9-month payment plan. If you make less money, the less you pay for a life-changing education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702406146863.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xPu74NUWTeS8GdBfnCNQyCHgha96NXZi/view">Students currently in 5th-8th grades are invited to Monarch For a Day at Thomas More Prep-Marian, Jan. 5, 2024.</a>&nbsp;Students in area elementary schools can attend Monarch For a Day without missing any classes at their current school. USD 489 is out of session on Jan. 5 and Holy Family Elementary school 5th graders will attend as a school. HFE 5th grade families are already registered.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ithIfjNq_eo?si=kSmOZAt5HaAzKkO2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_XfLragC6t7u9A2ZV55dA-SAAz9_3ZN_7ySEwet9mdcNjmw/viewform?usp=sf_link" target="_blank">Register Here for Monarch For a Day</a>The future Monarchs will attend Mass, a welcome, and six sessions that show the variety and style of learning at TMP-Marian Junior High. Experience small class sizes and individual attention. The students will interact with current and future classmates and teachers, capping the day with lunch specially prepared by the legendary TMP-Marian kitchen. After lunch, students will attend a short closing, receive a special gift, and be released.Parents can drop their students off at the northeast entrance of the main building as early as 7:15 a.m. Pick-up will be at noon in the same location.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ithIfjNq_eo?si=kSmOZAt5HaAzKkO2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Families interested in transportation due to work or some other conflict, can reach out to Mrs. Melissa Schoepf to arrange transportation - schoepfm@tmpmarian.orgTMP-Marian is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation, and it's more affordable than you may think! For example, a non-Catholic family with two children and makes $80,000 a year, would pay less than $3,000 per student. Cost can be spread out over a 9-month payment plan. If you make less money, the less you pay for a life-changing education.

Boor: K-State Research and Extension plans operational programs

Play Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio

The “Little Town of Bethlehem” nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors Sunday Dec. 17th,  as well as Saturday Dec. 23, Sunday Dec. 24 and Christmas Day.  All times are 1-5pm.  Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling Carol at 735-9282.

This is the 97th year of the nativity, begun by the parish priest Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927.  Over the years, the nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas.  Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee.  Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. A special section of the nativity is dedicated to our veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few. The nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background.  Four trickling waterfalls,  animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927.

St. Boniface Catholic Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and two miles east.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702321617784.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe “Little Town of Bethlehem” nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors Sunday Dec. 17th, as well as Saturday Dec. 23, Sunday Dec. 24 and Christmas Day. All times are 1-5pm. Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling Carol at 735-9282.This is the 97th year of the nativity, begun by the parish priest Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927. Over the years, the nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas. Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee. Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. A special section of the nativity is dedicated to our veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few. The nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background. Four trickling waterfalls, animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927.St. Boniface Catholic Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and two miles east.

'Little Town of Bethlehem' nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church opens to visitators

Are you interested in being a judge for county fair? 

The Northwest 4-H Advisory is excited to offer a 4-H Judges' Training on Monday, January 15 at the Western Kansas Research and Extension Center Auditorium in Hays. 

Please register here by January 3 - <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5d8cZPUfrrxhYoK?fbclid=IwAR3Bfc187F_-CZem7T-mWDn916jG9tYLmuVxb67soMNt0Php0i-7ZTgs5FU" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5d8cZPUfrrxhYoK</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702316052564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SUBMITTEDAre you interested in being a judge for county fair? The Northwest 4-H Advisory is excited to offer a 4-H Judges' Training on Monday, January 15 at the Western Kansas Research and Extension Center Auditorium in Hays. Please register here by January 3 - <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5d8cZPUfrrxhYoK?fbclid=IwAR3Bfc187F_-CZem7T-mWDn916jG9tYLmuVxb67soMNt0Php0i-7ZTgs5FU" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5d8cZPUfrrxhYoK</a>

NW Kansas 4-H county fair judges sought; training Jan. 15 in Hays

The United Way of Ellis County and local partners will once again provide an opportunity to get into the holiday spirit for a good cause. The Strand Event Center will host a Holiday Pop Up Bar on Friday, December 15 from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. at its location at 1102 Main Street.

The occasion will be a special one-night-only event with food, holiday-themed cocktails, special guests, white elephant gifts, and plenty of decorations and lights. Attendees will also enjoy holiday trivia provided by Hays Public Library.

Only 200 advance tickets will be for sale for $20 each. Tickets are available online in the United Way’s Facebook event “Holiday Pop Up Bar” or at the link&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3RxpJB7">https://bit.ly/3RxpJB7</a>.&nbsp;Tickets will be available for purchase at the door for $25.

“We are excited to partner again with the Hays CVB, The Strand, and Union Catering Company for this special event.&nbsp; This is a great way to get in the spirit of giving and celebrating,” said United Way of Ellis County director Erica Berges.

Dustin Roths, owner of The Fox Theatre, The Strand Event Center, and Diamond R Jewelry, is using his connections to help provide the venue, bartenders, and online ticket sales for the event.

United Way’s “Dine Out Days” raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the event. Prizes include three restaurant gift card baskets, valued at over $300 each. Winners will be drawn on December 18.

As an additional fundraiser, Diamond R Jewelry has donated an item to raffle off during the event.

“We are thankful for all the help the United Way Board of Directors provides for our organization,” said Berges.

United Way board members will serve as hosts, checking tickets at the door, and decorating the venue prior to the event.

This is a 21 and over event, but non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.

The United Way of Ellis County is celebrating 70 years in the community.&nbsp; Their mission is to positively impact lives by strategically channeling community resources. Its focus is on education, health, and financial stability ­– the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Fundraising efforts benefit 14 different organizations in Ellis County. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?b8Y964CSmEt9-Aj6Ry5O3r_8DzhJeMZIN9KEo9tW81C-VmrrngwsecISGf1qLK7bRgHXXv80tM226YaoAubgnjQ~~">www.liveunited.us</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976834535.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>SubmittedThe United Way of Ellis County and local partners will once again provide an opportunity to get into the holiday spirit for a good cause. The Strand Event Center will host a Holiday Pop Up Bar on Friday, December 15 from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. at its location at 1102 Main Street.The occasion will be a special one-night-only event with food, holiday-themed cocktails, special guests, white elephant gifts, and plenty of decorations and lights. Attendees will also enjoy holiday trivia provided by Hays Public Library.Only 200 advance tickets will be for sale for $20 each. Tickets are available online in the United Way’s Facebook event “Holiday Pop Up Bar” or at the link&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3RxpJB7">https://bit.ly/3RxpJB7</a>.&nbsp;Tickets will be available for purchase at the door for $25.“We are excited to partner again with the Hays CVB, The Strand, and Union Catering Company for this special event.&nbsp; This is a great way to get in the spirit of giving and celebrating,” said United Way of Ellis County director Erica Berges.Dustin Roths, owner of The Fox Theatre, The Strand Event Center, and Diamond R Jewelry, is using his connections to help provide the venue, bartenders, and online ticket sales for the event.United Way’s “Dine Out Days” raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the event. Prizes include three restaurant gift card baskets, valued at over $300 each. Winners will be drawn on December 18.As an additional fundraiser, Diamond R Jewelry has donated an item to raffle off during the event.“We are thankful for all the help the United Way Board of Directors provides for our organization,” said Berges.United Way board members will serve as hosts, checking tickets at the door, and decorating the venue prior to the event.This is a 21 and over event, but non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.The United Way of Ellis County is celebrating 70 years in the community.&nbsp; Their mission is to positively impact lives by strategically channeling community resources. Its focus is on education, health, and financial stability ­– the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Fundraising efforts benefit 14 different organizations in Ellis County. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?b8Y964CSmEt9-Aj6Ry5O3r_8DzhJeMZIN9KEo9tW81C-VmrrngwsecISGf1qLK7bRgHXXv80tM226YaoAubgnjQ~~">www.liveunited.us</a>.

Holiday 'Pop Up' event returns to benefit United Way of Ellis County

Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio going on now

Come to Fort Larned for the annual Christmas Past celebration on December 9 from 11:00 to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; 

Get a picture with Santa then take a ride in his horse-drawn carriage, complete with sleigh bells and Christmas wreaths. 

Other activities include living history in the Barracks and Officers’ quarters, hot apple cider and popcorn in the Visitor Center, crafts and games for the kids, and demonstrations by the Fort’s blacksmith.&nbsp;

Please keep in mind that the event may be cancelled in the case of inclement weather.&nbsp;

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp; 

Find information on visiting at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_internet@nps.gov">fols_internet@nps.gov</a>.&nbsp;

For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call 620-285-6916.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701802482900.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo/Janet Fleske" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo/Janet Fleske</figcaption>
 </figure>Come to Fort Larned for the annual Christmas Past celebration on December 9 from 11:00 to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; Get a picture with Santa then take a ride in his horse-drawn carriage, complete with sleigh bells and Christmas wreaths. Other activities include living history in the Barracks and Officers’ quarters, hot apple cider and popcorn in the Visitor Center, crafts and games for the kids, and demonstrations by the Fort’s blacksmith.&nbsp;Please keep in mind that the event may be cancelled in the case of inclement weather.&nbsp;Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp; Find information on visiting at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_internet@nps.gov">fols_internet@nps.gov</a>.&nbsp; For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call 620-285-6916.&nbsp;

It’s time for Sleigh Bells and Santa at Fort Larned   

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

December is full of fun festivities in Hays.

Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, talks about just a few of the highlights.

An up-to-the-minute calendar of events is available on the <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">Hays CVB website</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643752861736.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostDecember is full of fun festivities in Hays.Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, talks about just a few of the highlights.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MdC-tKrqYAI" title="December 2023 CVB events" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701820731165.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An up-to-the-minute calendar of events is available on the <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">Hays CVB website</a>.&nbsp;

🎥 CVB: December is jam-packed with holiday activities in Hays 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701797653636.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

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