The Habitat for Humanity of&nbsp;Ellis County  ReStore is launching a new fundraiser starting Saturday.

The ReStore, 2707 Broadway, will be raffling an item from the store.

Tickets for the raffle item will be $1 each or six for $5.

The tickets may be purchased at the ReStore during business hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. The winner will be drawn during the afternoon on the last Saturday of the month and will be notified by telephone. You do not need to be present to win.

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is a nonprofit that works with qualified, low-income families to help them realize the dream of owning a home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708641273906.jpeg" alt="March's ReStore drawing prize, an InstantPot" />
 <figcaption>March's ReStore drawing prize, an InstantPot</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Habitat for Humanity of&nbsp;Ellis County ReStore is launching a new fundraiser starting Saturday.The ReStore, 2707 Broadway, will be raffling an item from the store.Tickets for the raffle item will be $1 each or six for $5.The tickets may be purchased at the ReStore during business hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. The winner will be drawn during the afternoon on the last Saturday of the month and will be notified by telephone. You do not need to be present to win.Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is a nonprofit that works with qualified, low-income families to help them realize the dream of owning a home.

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County ReStore sets new fundraiser

The Chamber in Hays is pleased to announce Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, are scheduled to participate in the upcoming session of The Chamber's Legislative Coffee Series.

The second event in the three-part annual series is set to take place starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday inside the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.

The session will run until 10 a.m. The final event in the series is scheduled for April 6.

Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, said she is grateful our area leaders will again participate.

"We are truly honored to have Senator Billinger, Representative Rahjes, and Representative Wasinger join us for this important event,” Sarah Wasinger said. “Their willingness to engage directly with our community underscores their commitment to serving the interests of our region."

The Legislative Coffee Series provides a vital platform for area residents to interact directly with their elected leaders, fostering open dialogue and the exchange of ideas, she said.

"It is imperative that our community members have the chance to voice their concerns and opinions directly to our elected officials,” Sarah Wasinger said. “These sessions serve as a bridge between our residents and the decision-makers, facilitating constructive conversations that contribute to the betterment of our community."

Residents are encouraged to participate by submitting questions in advance via email to hayscc@hayschamber.com. Questions must be received by noon the Friday before each event to be considered for inclusion.

While the Chamber organizes the event, Sarah Wasinger said it would not be possible without support from the community.

“The Chamber extends its gratitude to the premier sponsors of the event, The Hays Daily News and Midwest Energy, whose support makes this important community engagement possible,” Sarah Wasinger said. “We also appreciate the Hays Public Library for graciously hosting the event and to Cathedral Roast for providing coffee for attendees, contributing to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

"We look forward to welcoming members of our community to this session of the Legislative Coffee Series. We hope for a good crowd and productive conversations that will further strengthen our community and advance our shared goals."

For more information about the Chamber's Legislative Coffee Series and upcoming events, please visit <a href="http://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a> or contact the Chamber office at 785-628-8201.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646612912485.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Chamber in Hays is pleased to announce Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, are scheduled to participate in the upcoming session of The Chamber's Legislative Coffee Series.The second event in the three-part annual series is set to take place starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday inside the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.The session will run until 10 a.m. The final event in the series is scheduled for April 6.Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, said she is grateful our area leaders will again participate."We are truly honored to have Senator Billinger, Representative Rahjes, and Representative Wasinger join us for this important event,” Sarah Wasinger said. “Their willingness to engage directly with our community underscores their commitment to serving the interests of our region."The Legislative Coffee Series provides a vital platform for area residents to interact directly with their elected leaders, fostering open dialogue and the exchange of ideas, she said."It is imperative that our community members have the chance to voice their concerns and opinions directly to our elected officials,” Sarah Wasinger said. “These sessions serve as a bridge between our residents and the decision-makers, facilitating constructive conversations that contribute to the betterment of our community."Residents are encouraged to participate by submitting questions in advance via email to hayscc@hayschamber.com. Questions must be received by noon the Friday before each event to be considered for inclusion.While the Chamber organizes the event, Sarah Wasinger said it would not be possible without support from the community.“The Chamber extends its gratitude to the premier sponsors of the event, The Hays Daily News and Midwest Energy, whose support makes this important community engagement possible,” Sarah Wasinger said. “We also appreciate the Hays Public Library for graciously hosting the event and to Cathedral Roast for providing coffee for attendees, contributing to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere."We look forward to welcoming members of our community to this session of the Legislative Coffee Series. We hope for a good crowd and productive conversations that will further strengthen our community and advance our shared goals."For more information about the Chamber's Legislative Coffee Series and upcoming events, please visit <a href="http://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a> or contact the Chamber office at 785-628-8201.

Kansas legislators to engage with community Saturday at Legislative Coffee

RUSSELL – The Kansas Food Bank along with USDA is providing monthly food boxes to low income seniors.&nbsp; The Commodity Supplemental Food Program is available in Russell County at the Otterbein United Methodist Church – Agape Family Center to persons age 60 and above who qualify by meeting income requirements.&nbsp;

Interested seniors must fill out an application and provide the following:&nbsp; proof of ID and proof of address of their current address is not on their ID.&nbsp; Once approved, they will receive a monthly box.&nbsp; Seniors will self-declare if they meet income guidelines just like with the TEFAP program.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Kansas Food Bank will be scheduling appointments in Russell at the Otterbein United Methodist Church – Agape Family Center, 527 N Maple St, on Thursday, March 7th, 10 am to noon, to register seniors for the program.&nbsp; To schedule an appointment, call Debi at the Kansas Food Bank, 316-265-3663.&nbsp; Applicants should bring their ID and proof of address with them. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

SubmittedRUSSELL – The Kansas Food Bank along with USDA is providing monthly food boxes to low income seniors.&nbsp; The Commodity Supplemental Food Program is available in Russell County at the Otterbein United Methodist Church – Agape Family Center to persons age 60 and above who qualify by meeting income requirements.&nbsp;Interested seniors must fill out an application and provide the following:&nbsp; proof of ID and proof of address of their current address is not on their ID.&nbsp; Once approved, they will receive a monthly box.&nbsp; Seniors will self-declare if they meet income guidelines just like with the TEFAP program.&nbsp; &nbsp;Income guidelines are as follows:Household Size / Gross Income1 - $1,6232 - $2,2153 - $2,7984 - $3,380The Kansas Food Bank will be scheduling appointments in Russell at the Otterbein United Methodist Church – Agape Family Center, 527 N Maple St, on Thursday, March 7th, 10 am to noon, to register seniors for the program.&nbsp; To schedule an appointment, call Debi at the Kansas Food Bank, 316-265-3663.&nbsp; Applicants should bring their ID and proof of address with them. &nbsp;&nbsp;Food packages include a variety of foods, such as nonfat dry and ultra-high temperature fluid milk, juice, farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, dry beans, canned meat, poultry or fish, and canned fruits and vegetables.This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Senior Food Box Program serves Russell County

February 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month; therefore, there won't be a Hays City Commission work session that day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysFebruary 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month; therefore, there won't be a Hays City Commission work session that day.

No Hays City Commission work session Feb. 29

A Hays City Commission retreat will be from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Fort Hays State University Memorial Union Stouffer Lounge. 

For more information, call the city manager’s office at 785-628-7320.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708450388717.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners with Toby Dougherty, city manager, at left. Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners with Toby Dougherty, city manager, at left. Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysA Hays City Commission retreat will be from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Fort Hays State University Memorial Union Stouffer Lounge. For more information, call the city manager’s office at 785-628-7320.

Hays City Commission retreat scheduled for Saturday

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

The Kansas State University Department of Agricultural Economics will be hosting three conferences to help farmers and ranchers plan for the transition of their farm to the next generation.

· March 7: Great Bend – Great Bend Convention Center.

· March 8: Manhattan – Manhattan Convention Center.

Each conference begins at 9 a.m. and adjourns by 3 p.m. Lunch and materials will be provided.

Ashlee Westerhold, director of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition at K-State said that “85% of Kansas farms are family owned. A Farm Journal survey indicated that 80% of farmers plan to transfer control of their operation to the next generation, but only 20% were confident that their succession plan would achieve that goal.”

Shannon Ferrell, professor and agricultural law specialist at Oklahoma State University, is the keynote speaker at all three locations. He will give an informative, yet humorous, overview of the importance of transition planning and how a farm family can begin the process.

The conference agenda also includes presentations about Farm Service Agency’s CRP-TIP program for transitioning farms, an overview of K-State resources for farm transition, and presentations by local attorneys and accountants on the nuts and bolts of putting a plan in place.

Registration costs $60 and must be received by March 1. For&nbsp;more information about the conference and to register go to www.agkansitions.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698928362549.jpeg" alt=" File photo" />
 <figcaption> File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Kansas State University Department of Agricultural Economics will be hosting three conferences to help farmers and ranchers plan for the transition of their farm to the next generation.The locations of the conference include:· March 6: Garden City – Clarion Inn.· March 7: Great Bend – Great Bend Convention Center.· March 8: Manhattan – Manhattan Convention Center.Each conference begins at 9 a.m. and adjourns by 3 p.m. Lunch and materials will be provided.Ashlee Westerhold, director of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition at K-State said that “85% of Kansas farms are family owned. A Farm Journal survey indicated that 80% of farmers plan to transfer control of their operation to the next generation, but only 20% were confident that their succession plan would achieve that goal.”Shannon Ferrell, professor and agricultural law specialist at Oklahoma State University, is the keynote speaker at all three locations. He will give an informative, yet humorous, overview of the importance of transition planning and how a farm family can begin the process.The conference agenda also includes presentations about Farm Service Agency’s CRP-TIP program for transitioning farms, an overview of K-State resources for farm transition, and presentations by local attorneys and accountants on the nuts and bolts of putting a plan in place.Registration costs $60 and must be received by March 1. For&nbsp;more information about the conference and to register go to www.agkansitions.org.

CAMPBELL: K-State plans farm transition conferences

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Submissions are open for the annual KSU Watersheds and city of Hays water poster contest. 

"Believe it or not, this is our 10th-annual water poster contest for the city of Hays," said Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist.

"The goal of the contest is to raise awareness of water conservation and water quality issues while gathering really awesome artwork and unique displays from community members at the same time."

 Day cares, pre-schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, Thomas More Prep-Marian and home-school students, ages pre-school through 12th grade, students, faculty, and staff at Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, and adults in the city of Hays are eligible to participate. 

There is also an intellectual/development disabilities division for youth through adults. 

"Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E. coli bacteria, household chemicals, other things that are harmful to water sources," said Dickman.&nbsp;Both water conservation and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.

Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12-by-18-inch white poster paper with the words “Know Your Water” included. 

Posters may be designed with pencils, paints, pens, crayons and markers or may be computer-generated. Name, age and the teacher's name, if applicable, must be included on the back of the poster.

 Poster paper is available for pick-up at the Public Works Department, 1002 Vine St., during regular business hours. 

Prize money will be awarded to first- through third-place winners in each age division. 

Winning posters will be displayed at Tri-Central Office Supply, 1101 Main, during the month of May and at the Ellis County Fair. 

Posters are due by Wednesday, March 6, at school offices, city hall or the Public Works Department. Winners will be announced by March 29, and the awards celebration will be at 6 p.m. on April 4 at the Sternberg Museum.

To learn more about water conservation and stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a>.

For more information, call Holly Dickman, city of Hays Water Conservation Specialist, at 785-628-7350 or Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist, at 785-769-3297.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708461655219.png" alt="Previous winning water posters display. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Previous winning water posters display. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSubmissions are open for the annual KSU Watersheds and city of Hays water poster contest. The 2024 theme is “Know Your Water.”"Believe it or not, this is our 10th-annual water poster contest for the city of Hays," said Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist."The goal of the contest is to raise awareness of water conservation and water quality issues while gathering really awesome artwork and unique displays from community members at the same time." Day cares, pre-schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, Thomas More Prep-Marian and home-school students, ages pre-school through 12th grade, students, faculty, and staff at Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, and adults in the city of Hays are eligible to participate. There is also an intellectual/development disabilities division for youth through adults. "Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E. coli bacteria, household chemicals, other things that are harmful to water sources," said Dickman.&nbsp;Both water conservation and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12-by-18-inch white poster paper with the words “Know Your Water” included. Posters may be designed with pencils, paints, pens, crayons and markers or may be computer-generated. Name, age and the teacher's name, if applicable, must be included on the back of the poster. Poster paper is available for pick-up at the Public Works Department, 1002 Vine St., during regular business hours. Prize money will be awarded to first- through third-place winners in each age division. Winning posters will be displayed at Tri-Central Office Supply, 1101 Main, during the month of May and at the Ellis County Fair. Posters are due by Wednesday, March 6, at school offices, city hall or the Public Works Department. Winners will be announced by March 29, and the awards celebration will be at 6 p.m. on April 4 at the Sternberg Museum.To learn more about water conservation and stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a> or <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/special_events.html">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a>.For more information, call Holly Dickman, city of Hays Water Conservation Specialist, at 785-628-7350 or Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist, at 785-769-3297.

Hays' 10th-annual water poster contest deadline is March 6

Hays Middle School 6th-grade parent meeting set for Tuesday night

A celebration of the biggest hits by the greatest divas in pop music history is coming to Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, March 3 at 3 p.m. Central at the Colby Community College Cultural Arts Center. Three female singers with powerhouse voices sing the biggest hits of the greatest divas in music history.

Spanning four decades of chart topping hits from the 1960's through the 1990's, Divas3 covers hits by Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Cher, Dolly Parton, Donna Summer and many more! Individual members of the group are known best for their starring roles in shows on the Las Vegas Strip, on Broadway and national tours, and the famed television show American Idol. Together as a group, Divas3 has headlined hotels and casinos throughout their hometown of Las Vegas, performing arts centers across the United States, and luxury cruise ships worldwide. Three voices...four decades...all Divas, it's DIVAS3.

An enticing mix of pure class, personality, and “goose bump inducing vocals,” Divas3 successfully finds the balance of honoring the iconic hits of the era of the great divas, without being an impersonation show. Their unique 3 part arrangements are blended with solid, top-notch vocals.

Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door. This program has received generous funding from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation: Dane G. Hansen grant for Thomas County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708377141003.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedA celebration of the biggest hits by the greatest divas in pop music history is coming to Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, March 3 at 3 p.m. Central at the Colby Community College Cultural Arts Center. Three female singers with powerhouse voices sing the biggest hits of the greatest divas in music history.Spanning four decades of chart topping hits from the 1960's through the 1990's, Divas3 covers hits by Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Cher, Dolly Parton, Donna Summer and many more! Individual members of the group are known best for their starring roles in shows on the Las Vegas Strip, on Broadway and national tours, and the famed television show American Idol. Together as a group, Divas3 has headlined hotels and casinos throughout their hometown of Las Vegas, performing arts centers across the United States, and luxury cruise ships worldwide. Three voices...four decades...all Divas, it's DIVAS3.An enticing mix of pure class, personality, and “goose bump inducing vocals,” Divas3 successfully finds the balance of honoring the iconic hits of the era of the great divas, without being an impersonation show. Their unique 3 part arrangements are blended with solid, top-notch vocals.Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door. This program has received generous funding from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation: Dane G. Hansen grant for Thomas County.

Western Plains Arts Association plans Divas3 concert

Boy Scout Troop 133 sets 5K run/walk for March 2

Did you know that deer hunting was enjoyed by 7.9 million people in 2016?

White-tailed deer are widely distributed in North America and for at least 10,000 years have been important to human beings for food, clothing, and tools.

White-tailed deer are a medium-sized cervid that evolved in North America. The species’ range extends from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in Canada, south through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, into South America as far south as Peru and Bolivia.

Deer hunters and wildlife enthusiast come join us on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

Drew Richetts, an Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist with K-State Research &amp; Extension will give about a ninety-minute program on white-tailed deer biology, space use, cover requirements, nutritional requirements, managing white-tailed deer habitat, supplemental feeding and managing white-tailed deer populations. And there will be time for your questions!

All interested people are invited to attend this free program. No RSVP necessary. If you have any questions contact us at the Cottonwood Extension Office 785-628-9430 or email scampbel@ksu.edu

Come learn how to improve the habitat and increase your chances of success when pursuing the most popular game animal in North America.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictDid you know that deer hunting was enjoyed by 7.9 million people in 2016?White-tailed deer are widely distributed in North America and for at least 10,000 years have been important to human beings for food, clothing, and tools.White-tailed deer are a medium-sized cervid that evolved in North America. The species’ range extends from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in Canada, south through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, into South America as far south as Peru and Bolivia.Deer hunters and wildlife enthusiast come join us on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.Drew Richetts, an Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist with K-State Research &amp; Extension will give about a ninety-minute program on white-tailed deer biology, space use, cover requirements, nutritional requirements, managing white-tailed deer habitat, supplemental feeding and managing white-tailed deer populations. And there will be time for your questions!All interested people are invited to attend this free program. No RSVP necessary. If you have any questions contact us at the Cottonwood Extension Office 785-628-9430 or email scampbel@ksu.eduCome learn how to improve the habitat and increase your chances of success when pursuing the most popular game animal in North America.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Cottonwood Extension offers White-tailed deer program

Beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, crews will begin work on the Main Street bridge in south Hays. 

The bridge will remain open during construction, and traffic control will be set in areas of work being completed.

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. &nbsp;If there are any questions, call L&amp;M at 620-793-8137 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, crews will begin work on the Main Street bridge in south Hays. The bridge will remain open during construction, and traffic control will be set in areas of work being completed.The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. &nbsp;If there are any questions, call L&amp;M at 620-793-8137 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Hays Main Street bridge repairs begin Wednesday; bridge to remain open 

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Holy Family pre-school parent night set for March 7

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED.<figure>
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CANCELLED: TMP-M to host 3V3 Basketball Tournament

NC and NW Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 20 through Tuesday, March 12, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays and each session will be held from Noon to 1:00 p.m. CST.

In the NC and NW agronomy focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers.

Our KSU extension team has vast experience in crop production and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.

Planned topics of discussion include Intensive Management Wheat Production; Biologicals and their role in Soil Fertility; Managing areas of fields with High pH; and Fallow Replacement options in Dryland Rotations. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions.

Register ONLINE at https://www.northwest.k-state.edu/events/crop-talk-series/index.html or call your local Extension Office. Once you register, a link to the ONLINE sessions will be emailed to you. CCA credits have been applied for with 1 credit for each session.

For more information about the ONLINE KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension Office. To contact the Cottonwood District Office in Hays 785-628-9430 if you have any questions.

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNC and NW Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 20 through Tuesday, March 12, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays and each session will be held from Noon to 1:00 p.m. CST.In the NC and NW agronomy focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers.Our KSU extension team has vast experience in crop production and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.Planned topics of discussion include Intensive Management Wheat Production; Biologicals and their role in Soil Fertility; Managing areas of fields with High pH; and Fallow Replacement options in Dryland Rotations. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions.Register ONLINE at https://www.northwest.k-state.edu/events/crop-talk-series/index.html or call your local Extension Office. Once you register, a link to the ONLINE sessions will be emailed to you. CCA credits have been applied for with 1 credit for each session.For more information about the ONLINE KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension Office. To contact the Cottonwood District Office in Hays 785-628-9430 if you have any questions.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Crop Talk Webinar Series returns in February

Sunflower Audubon sets meeting Feb. 25, weekly bird walks

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hctks.com/">https://www.hctks.com/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708102623958.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hctks.com/">https://www.hctks.com/</a>.

Hays Community Theatre presents 'Moon Over Buffalo" this weekend

Hays Lions pancake feed set for March 12

Ellis K of C plans Fish Fry

K-State Research and Extension plans local food producers workshop

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Winter may be imposing its lull on some people’s exercise programs, but K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District is gearing up for one their most popular programs.

We have our thoughts squarely fixed on spring’s warmer days and a program that is nearing a quarter century of getting folks moving.

Walk Kansas is a team-based challenged that encourages people to walk, jog, run, bike swim or do whatever they need to live more healthfully. The program routinely draws more than 5,000 participants in Kansas and across the country.

Walk Kansas was founded in 2001 on the principle that if teams of four to six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk across the state of Kansas – or approximately 423 miles.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week – or about 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

When you think about a moderate activity, there’s an easy way to gauge if you’re getting that. It’s called the Talk Test. Whatever activity you’re doing, if you can barely have a conversation, but not sing, then you’re exercising at a moderate level.

The Cottonwood District is encouraging those interested in Walk Kansas to begin forming their teams now. Registration opens on March 4, and the eight-week challenge will run from March 31 through May 25. Walk Kansas is also open to those who want to take on the eight-week program by themselves, rather than forming teams. Cost is $10 per person.

Walk Kansas is open to participants beyond Kansas. In fact, captains can form their team with family members or friends who live in other states or even other countries. Each team member walks when they want, where they want.

The bottom line is to just move, no matter what type of activity you enjoy, to limit those periods of time when you’re sitting. A lot of us have jobs in which we do more sitting and working in front of computers, and that’s exhausting in it’s own way. So, we need to get into the habit of getting up every 30 minutes, which is ideal, but at least once an hour to move around a little bit. That’s a habit that you can get into that is really good.

Obesity and overweight rates have been going up rapidly in our state and country. Any way we can find to move ourselves and our children will be beneficial. Walk Kansas is open to school age children as well. This might be a good incentive to get kids moving!

Another benefit of Walk Kansas, is the weekly newsletter, which includes tips on other healthy habits – such as tips on sleep, diet, strength, balance and more.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictWinter may be imposing its lull on some people’s exercise programs, but K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District is gearing up for one their most popular programs.We have our thoughts squarely fixed on spring’s warmer days and a program that is nearing a quarter century of getting folks moving.Walk Kansas is a team-based challenged that encourages people to walk, jog, run, bike swim or do whatever they need to live more healthfully. The program routinely draws more than 5,000 participants in Kansas and across the country.Walk Kansas was founded in 2001 on the principle that if teams of four to six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk across the state of Kansas – or approximately 423 miles.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week – or about 30 minutes a day, five days a week.When you think about a moderate activity, there’s an easy way to gauge if you’re getting that. It’s called the Talk Test. Whatever activity you’re doing, if you can barely have a conversation, but not sing, then you’re exercising at a moderate level.The Cottonwood District is encouraging those interested in Walk Kansas to begin forming their teams now. Registration opens on March 4, and the eight-week challenge will run from March 31 through May 25. Walk Kansas is also open to those who want to take on the eight-week program by themselves, rather than forming teams. Cost is $10 per person.Walk Kansas is open to participants beyond Kansas. In fact, captains can form their team with family members or friends who live in other states or even other countries. Each team member walks when they want, where they want.The bottom line is to just move, no matter what type of activity you enjoy, to limit those periods of time when you’re sitting. A lot of us have jobs in which we do more sitting and working in front of computers, and that’s exhausting in it’s own way. So, we need to get into the habit of getting up every 30 minutes, which is ideal, but at least once an hour to move around a little bit. That’s a habit that you can get into that is really good.Obesity and overweight rates have been going up rapidly in our state and country. Any way we can find to move ourselves and our children will be beneficial. Walk Kansas is open to school age children as well. This might be a good incentive to get kids moving!Another benefit of Walk Kansas, is the weekly newsletter, which includes tips on other healthy habits – such as tips on sleep, diet, strength, balance and more.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Ready, Set… Walk Kansas registration opens March 4

Specializing in American and European contemporary folk, including Celtic, classical and original music, Acoustic Eidolon will perform for the Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, Feb. 25 at the Goodland High School Auditorium. Acoustic Eidolon has appeared for WPAA numerous times in recent years. The program begins at 2 p.m. Mountain (3 p.m. Central). Goodland is in the Mountain time zone.

Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door. 54th anniversary season programs are made possible through the generous support of area businesses and individuals, including a special season grant by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

A few years after the Boulder, Colo., musicians met, neighbors Joe Scott and Hannah Alkire found themselves between full-time musical engagements. Joe called Hannah, saying he’d always wanted to hear the cello and the double-neck guitjo together. He had a feeling the harp-like sound of the guitjo, combined with the warmth of Hannah’s cello, would be beautiful together. Captivated by the music they created together, Joe and Hannah immediately agreed to clear out their schedules, start rehearsing full-time, and form what would become Acoustic Eidolon.

What started as a musical/business partnership and friendship blossomed into their marriage three years later in fall 2001. Joe and Hannah joke that this was a marriage of convenience since they were already together all the time anyway. But, anyone watching them perform can feel the love that draws them together. Their love for one another, and their passion for life, speaks through their music.

Hannah grew up in Champaign, Ill. She started playing the piano at the age of four, then begged to play the cello at age eight. She took the cello seriously from the start, and played in her school orchestra. Hannah studied with Gabriel Magyar of the Hungarian String Quartet. She decided early on to keep the cello her passion but not go to music school, although she continued to study and play seriously. At the University of Illinois, she got a degree to teach English, French and Spanish at the high school level, and then taught for five years.

After her 1992 arrival in Colorado, Hannah enjoyed performing at area festivals and symphony orchestras. She also played with rock, funk, and alternative groups, performing at various local venues and national events. She was a founding member of the Anasazi String Quartet.

In January 1999, Hannah was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation through August of 1999. During that time, she continued to rehearse with Joe almost daily. Acoustic Eidolon was a source of hope and an anchor during this challenging time. During the last several days of each round of chemo, when Hannah felt the strongest, they would go into the studio and record cello parts. As a result, the debut album, Eidolon, was finished in late April 1999, and their first tour was actually during a brief break from radiation. Each year, Hannah celebrates her cancer-free anniversary, and describes herself as “strangely grateful” for her experience. “A wake-up call of that caliber

leaves you pretty much stuck in permanent appreciation mode,” Hannah said. She believes life is a celebration of all that we do have, and a culmination of all we love and are called to do. She and Joe are committed to bringing joy to as many people as possible through their music, and often add in appearances in schools, hospitals, hospices, and even chemo infusion rooms to inspire and help others.

As a Colorado native who grew up near Boulder, Joe began playing the acoustic guitar at 12. By the time he was 14, his dad suggested he take up the 5-string banjo. He immersed himself in Bill Monroe, Lester Flat and Earl Scruggs. Joe excelled on the banjo, and won many contests at regional bluegrass festivals as a teen. Over the next several years, he was involved in various folk, bluegrass and rock groups based in the Colorado area.

At age 23, he attended the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, Calif. There he studied all styles of acoustic and electric guitar and was fortunate enough to study with many of the world’s finest guitar players. During this time he also started experimenting with different ways of stringing the acoustic guitar. One of the ideas was based on stringing the standard 6-string acoustic like a 5-string banjo. This was an idea that Joe’s father suggested years earlier. With this stringing, he discovered that he could play all his same banjo licks, but on the acoustic guitar it created a whole new sound. This was the beginning of the Guitjo.

After graduating GIT, Joe toured the country extensively playing guitar, banjo, mandolin and vocals with the New Christy Minstrels, a popular folk group based in Los Angeles. In 1985 he returned home to Colorado to start the group Wind Machine with Steve Mesple. Wind Machine toured for the next 14 years, and released 13 critically-acclaimed recordings. It was during those years that Joe along with help from Mesple developed the the 14-string-double-neck guitjo. Wind Machine ended its run in the spring of 1998. At that point Joe thought he would take a long-needed break from performing, but fate had a different plan. Enter Hannah. And as they say, the rest is history. Visit the official website at acousticeidolon.com for videos, pictures and CD information. The couple has produced 13 CDs.

SubmittedSpecializing in American and European contemporary folk, including Celtic, classical and original music, Acoustic Eidolon will perform for the Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, Feb. 25 at the Goodland High School Auditorium. Acoustic Eidolon has appeared for WPAA numerous times in recent years. The program begins at 2 p.m. Mountain (3 p.m. Central). Goodland is in the Mountain time zone.Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door. 54th anniversary season programs are made possible through the generous support of area businesses and individuals, including a special season grant by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.A few years after the Boulder, Colo., musicians met, neighbors Joe Scott and Hannah Alkire found themselves between full-time musical engagements. Joe called Hannah, saying he’d always wanted to hear the cello and the double-neck guitjo together. He had a feeling the harp-like sound of the guitjo, combined with the warmth of Hannah’s cello, would be beautiful together. Captivated by the music they created together, Joe and Hannah immediately agreed to clear out their schedules, start rehearsing full-time, and form what would become Acoustic Eidolon.What started as a musical/business partnership and friendship blossomed into their marriage three years later in fall 2001. Joe and Hannah joke that this was a marriage of convenience since they were already together all the time anyway. But, anyone watching them perform can feel the love that draws them together. Their love for one another, and their passion for life, speaks through their music.Hannah grew up in Champaign, Ill. She started playing the piano at the age of four, then begged to play the cello at age eight. She took the cello seriously from the start, and played in her school orchestra. Hannah studied with Gabriel Magyar of the Hungarian String Quartet. She decided early on to keep the cello her passion but not go to music school, although she continued to study and play seriously. At the University of Illinois, she got a degree to teach English, French and Spanish at the high school level, and then taught for five years.After her 1992 arrival in Colorado, Hannah enjoyed performing at area festivals and symphony orchestras. She also played with rock, funk, and alternative groups, performing at various local venues and national events. She was a founding member of the Anasazi String Quartet.In January 1999, Hannah was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation through August of 1999. During that time, she continued to rehearse with Joe almost daily. Acoustic Eidolon was a source of hope and an anchor during this challenging time. During the last several days of each round of chemo, when Hannah felt the strongest, they would go into the studio and record cello parts. As a result, the debut album, Eidolon, was finished in late April 1999, and their first tour was actually during a brief break from radiation. Each year, Hannah celebrates her cancer-free anniversary, and describes herself as “strangely grateful” for her experience. “A wake-up call of that caliberleaves you pretty much stuck in permanent appreciation mode,” Hannah said. She believes life is a celebration of all that we do have, and a culmination of all we love and are called to do. She and Joe are committed to bringing joy to as many people as possible through their music, and often add in appearances in schools, hospitals, hospices, and even chemo infusion rooms to inspire and help others.As a Colorado native who grew up near Boulder, Joe began playing the acoustic guitar at 12. By the time he was 14, his dad suggested he take up the 5-string banjo. He immersed himself in Bill Monroe, Lester Flat and Earl Scruggs. Joe excelled on the banjo, and won many contests at regional bluegrass festivals as a teen. Over the next several years, he was involved in various folk, bluegrass and rock groups based in the Colorado area.At age 23, he attended the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, Calif. There he studied all styles of acoustic and electric guitar and was fortunate enough to study with many of the world’s finest guitar players. During this time he also started experimenting with different ways of stringing the acoustic guitar. One of the ideas was based on stringing the standard 6-string acoustic like a 5-string banjo. This was an idea that Joe’s father suggested years earlier. With this stringing, he discovered that he could play all his same banjo licks, but on the acoustic guitar it created a whole new sound. This was the beginning of the Guitjo.After graduating GIT, Joe toured the country extensively playing guitar, banjo, mandolin and vocals with the New Christy Minstrels, a popular folk group based in Los Angeles. In 1985 he returned home to Colorado to start the group Wind Machine with Steve Mesple. Wind Machine toured for the next 14 years, and released 13 critically-acclaimed recordings. It was during those years that Joe along with help from Mesple developed the the 14-string-double-neck guitjo. Wind Machine ended its run in the spring of 1998. At that point Joe thought he would take a long-needed break from performing, but fate had a different plan. Enter Hannah. And as they say, the rest is history. Visit the official website at acousticeidolon.com for videos, pictures and CD information. The couple has produced 13 CDs.

Acoustic Eidolon set to perform for Western Plains Arts Association

Hays USD 489 preschool round up set for March 6

A public hearing will be at 4 p.m. on Feb. 19 by the Hays Area Planning Commission to consider amendments to the&nbsp;extraterritorial jurisdiction future land use map.

In November 2021, the city of Hays and Ellis County reduced the extraterritorial jurisdiction by about 60 percent, allowing for logical and orderly development to occur as Hays continues to grow in accordance with the city’s comprehensive plan and future land use map.&nbsp;

Other agenda items include: • Discussion of Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals organization and future board structure&nbsp; • Update on the&nbsp;2024 street maintenance projects &nbsp;

The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02192024-1465">here</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays city hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA public hearing will be at 4 p.m. on Feb. 19 by the Hays Area Planning Commission to consider amendments to the&nbsp;extraterritorial jurisdiction future land use map.In November 2021, the city of Hays and Ellis County reduced the extraterritorial jurisdiction by about 60 percent, allowing for logical and orderly development to occur as Hays continues to grow in accordance with the city’s comprehensive plan and future land use map.&nbsp;Other agenda items include: • Discussion of Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals organization and future board structure&nbsp; • Update on the&nbsp;2024 street maintenance projects &nbsp; The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02192024-1465">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays city hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Public hearing Monday on Hays' extraterritorial jurisdiction future land use map  

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten, the annual kindergarten round up is set for 6:30 p.m. March 4 at Hays High School.

To enter kindergarten in Hays USD 489, children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said in a recent interview on the Morning Blend.

You need to get your child's name on a list for kindergarten. A master list is kept at the district office; you can email jreling@usd489.com to get your child's name on the list.

Hays USD 489 allows family preference when choosing schools, so parents and guardians are asked to list schools in order of preference.&nbsp;

This includes Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Wilson and Roosevelt elementary schools.

Students do not have to attend the school nearest to their home. However, busing restrictions apply.

Families who already have children in an elementary school will be given preference. However, Lacy said most children are placed in their first preference school.

For those parents who don't have any children in the district yet, the district highly recommends parents attend the kindergarten round up.

Parents and guardians will hear from the superintendent, assistant superintendent and all elementary school principals. They will discuss the health paperwork and other documents that the district will need for enrollment, including the child's birth certificate and immunization records.&nbsp;

All kindergarteners also need a physical before they start school.

Spanish translation will be available but no child care. The meeting will last about 20 to 30 minutes.

In the days after the kindergarten roundup meeting, the district will offer tours at the elementary schools during which families can meet principals and teachers.

Those will be on March 5 and 7. See the schedule below.

Lincoln and Wilson elementary schools are set to close after the bond construction is completed. Hays Middle School will be converted into a new elementary school. Lincoln and Wilson will operate as they are now for two complete school years after the completion of this school year, Lacy said.

You can learn more about kindergarten enrollment on the USD 489 website at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten">www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707505824138.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIf you have a child who will be entering kindergarten, the annual kindergarten round up is set for 6:30 p.m. March 4 at Hays High School.To enter kindergarten in Hays USD 489, children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, Kerri Lacy, Lincoln Elementary School principal, said in a recent interview on the Morning Blend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707432430974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You need to get your child's name on a list for kindergarten. A master list is kept at the district office; you can email jreling@usd489.com to get your child's name on the list.Hays USD 489 allows family preference when choosing schools, so parents and guardians are asked to list schools in order of preference.&nbsp;This includes Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Wilson and Roosevelt elementary schools.<div><iframe title="Kindergarten round up set for March 4 at Hays High" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qk2t8-157a920-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Students do not have to attend the school nearest to their home. However, busing restrictions apply.Families who already have children in an elementary school will be given preference. However, Lacy said most children are placed in their first preference school.For those parents who don't have any children in the district yet, the district highly recommends parents attend the kindergarten round up.Parents and guardians will hear from the superintendent, assistant superintendent and all elementary school principals. They will discuss the health paperwork and other documents that the district will need for enrollment, including the child's birth certificate and immunization records.&nbsp;All kindergarteners also need a physical before they start school.Spanish translation will be available but no child care. The meeting will last about 20 to 30 minutes.In the days after the kindergarten roundup meeting, the district will offer tours at the elementary schools during which families can meet principals and teachers.Those will be on March 5 and 7. See the schedule below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707432502321.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln and Wilson elementary schools are set to close after the bond construction is completed. Hays Middle School will be converted into a new elementary school. Lincoln and Wilson will operate as they are now for two complete school years after the completion of this school year, Lacy said.You can learn more about kindergarten enrollment on the USD 489 website at <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten">www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-kindergarten</a>.

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