What did the teacher say to the bad spud? You’ll never sprout to anything.

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

What did the teacher say to the bad spud? You’ll never sprout to anything.
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/26/24

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. 

Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.

Hays Post The annual Dog Swim was hosted over the weekend at the Hays Aquatic Park. Take a look at this annual tradition that wraps up the summer swimming season in Hays below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523620057.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523875527.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523817323.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523901502.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523910549.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724523920177.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Stop, Sit, Swim: A look at Hays Aquatic Park's annual dog swim

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724525678850.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions were all approved at Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.

The city’s first-ever Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was established in the Tallgrass Addition in 2020 and is nearly fully occupied. 

Local economic development interest group, Heart of America (HOA), was the developer.

Realizing the continued need for new housing, HOA asked Hays to cash-out its position by assigning future RHID revenues to the city in exchange for a $2.5 million economic grant. The trade will allow HOA to continue developing additional housing of Tallgrass Phase 4 just north of the current project.&nbsp;

Bonds will be issued to finance the economic development grant as well as the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">advanced water metering infrastructure.&nbsp;</a>

The city signed intents to issue industrial revenue bonds for rehabilitation of a vacant building at 11th and Main by local developer Adam Pray and expansion of Gella's Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company, LLC on East 11th.

Pray is developing a former bank building into Chestnut Suites, high-end hotel housing for short and long-term visitors to downtown Hays. Gella's will be adding an event space and an area for Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.

Also approved was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.

Fees will be going up for most admissions to the golf course, resulting in an estimated $24,000 in additional annual revenue.&nbsp; The card shed fee will remain the same.

"This should close our revenue gap about half way," said Jeff Boyle, director of parks.

Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend/Holiday — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740 Trail Fee&nbsp;— $220

Hays Aquatic Park Daily Fee&nbsp;— $5 Season Pass — $53

Commissioners also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the Hays Aquatic Park and for a season pass. The daily entrance fee to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.

Additional estimated revenue is $15,000 a year, also narrowing the operating gap.&nbsp;

Both the aquatic park and golf course are considered quality-of-life amenities and not necessarily money-makers for the city. The commission will assess the fees again in 2027.

The low bid from T&amp;T Builders, Hays,&nbsp; of $16,500 for Hays Aquatic Park concrete repairs was also approved.&nbsp;

Monthly updates about city department projects and upcoming events were also presented.&nbsp;

Toby Dougherty, city manager, was absent from the meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> By BECKY KISER Hays Post<div><iframe title="New Hays housing, business developments okayed for economic development incentives" 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=k242m-16af48f-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>Various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions were all approved at Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724445286908.png" alt="Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The city’s first-ever Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was established in the Tallgrass Addition in 2020 and is nearly fully occupied. Local economic development interest group, Heart of America (HOA), was the developer.Realizing the continued need for new housing, HOA asked Hays to cash-out its position by assigning future RHID revenues to the city in exchange for a $2.5 million economic grant. The trade will allow HOA to continue developing additional housing of Tallgrass Phase 4 just north of the current project.&nbsp;Bonds will be issued to finance the economic development grant as well as the new&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">advanced water metering infrastructure.&nbsp;</a>The city signed intents to issue industrial revenue bonds for rehabilitation of a vacant building at 11th and Main by local developer Adam Pray and expansion of Gella's Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company, LLC on East 11th.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724445387367.jpeg" alt="Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723839401844.png" alt="Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Pray is developing a former bank building into Chestnut Suites, high-end hotel housing for short and long-term visitors to downtown Hays. Gella's will be adding an event space and an area for Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723838456647.png" alt="Artist's concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut." />
 <figcaption>Artist's concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut.</figcaption>
 </figure>Also approved was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.Fees will be going up for most admissions to the golf course, resulting in an estimated $24,000 in additional annual revenue.&nbsp; The card shed fee will remain the same."This should close our revenue gap about half way," said Jeff Boyle, director of parks.Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend/Holiday — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740 Trail Fee&nbsp;— $220Hays Aquatic Park Daily Fee&nbsp;— $5 Season Pass — $53Commissioners also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the Hays Aquatic Park and for a season pass. The daily entrance fee to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.Additional estimated revenue is $15,000 a year, also narrowing the operating gap.&nbsp;Both the aquatic park and golf course are considered quality-of-life amenities and not necessarily money-makers for the city. The commission will assess the fees again in 2027.The low bid from T&amp;T Builders, Hays,&nbsp; of $16,500 for Hays Aquatic Park concrete repairs was also approved.&nbsp;Monthly updates about city department projects and upcoming events were also presented.&nbsp;Toby Dougherty, city manager, was absent from the meeting.

🎤New Hays housing, business developments okayed for economic development incentives

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724433237866.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/omYhIikaKGw?si=whYVGc_QQkq7COcY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson about the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting at K-State.

🎤Forward Ever: Former 'Agriculture today' host Eric Atkinson

Did you hear about the group of cows NASA launched into orbit? It was the herd shot around the world.

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

Did you hear about the group of cows NASA launched into orbit? It was the herd shot around the world.Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/23/24

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Savannah Downing, rural Trego County, has been hired as the new Trego County Development Director for the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a>.&nbsp;

Downing has spent the past 12 years as an English teacher in Hays USD 489 and most recently in Ellis USD 388.&nbsp;

During that time, she cultivated a strong interest in grant writing.&nbsp;

Downing learned about the grant process from Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation, which serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;

"I reached out to Sarah to learn the grant writing process and then I taught my students how to write grants," Downing said.

There were a number of people involved in Trego County non-profit groups who wanted to apply to HCF for various project grants but had no idea how to get started.

Downing got her newly-trained senior students involved.&nbsp;

"I had my students work with community partners that wanted a grant written but didn't know how to do it, or how to use the online portal. We paired them up with students to help them do that and walked them through the process."

The first year Downing's students helped with seven grant applications and five were funded. 

"I remember talking with the director at the Ellis Nutrition Site and he said he would not have applied without the teens doing the tech side of it and writing it," Meitner said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A grant application during the just-completed spring cycle, which was much more competitive, Meitner said, funded instruments for a new guitar program at Ellis High School.&nbsp;

As Downing worked with her students, classroom conversations turned towards community engagement and development planning by younger residents.

Then, the Trego County position opened up with Heartland and "it was a perfect fit," Downing said.

She plans to find people to help with community projects and planning throughout Trego County.

"My hope is that through philanthropy, strategic planning and community engagement, future generations will find ample opportunities within their local communities," Downing said. "My goal is to ensure that everything they want and need is available right here."&nbsp;

Meitner said Downing will be focusing on cultivating donor relationships, supporting grantees, leading community discussions and working collaboratively with stakeholders to identify and address local needs.&nbsp;

"We're thrilled to welcome Savannah to our team," said Meitner.&nbsp;

"Her background in education and community projects, combined with her passion for rural development, makes her a perfect fit for this role."

Downing and her husband Marc have five children.&nbsp;

The community foundation plans to open a WaKeeney office soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724254298177.png" alt="Heartland Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Heartland Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="🎤Heartland Community Foundation welcomes new Trego County Development Director" 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=tq2ku-16ad3ae-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>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSavannah Downing, rural Trego County, has been hired as the new Trego County Development Director for the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a>.&nbsp;Downing has spent the past 12 years as an English teacher in Hays USD 489 and most recently in Ellis USD 388.&nbsp;During that time, she cultivated a strong interest in grant writing.&nbsp;Downing learned about the grant process from Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation, which serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;"I reached out to Sarah to learn the grant writing process and then I taught my students how to write grants," Downing said.There were a number of people involved in Trego County non-profit groups who wanted to apply to HCF for various project grants but had no idea how to get started.Downing got her newly-trained senior students involved.&nbsp;"I had my students work with community partners that wanted a grant written but didn't know how to do it, or how to use the online portal. We paired them up with students to help them do that and walked them through the process."The first year Downing's students helped with seven grant applications and five were funded. "I remember talking with the director at the Ellis Nutrition Site and he said he would not have applied without the teens doing the tech side of it and writing it," Meitner said.&nbsp; &nbsp;A grant application during the just-completed spring cycle, which was much more competitive, Meitner said, funded instruments for a new guitar program at Ellis High School.&nbsp;As Downing worked with her students, classroom conversations turned towards community engagement and development planning by younger residents.Then, the Trego County position opened up with Heartland and "it was a perfect fit," Downing said.She plans to find people to help with community projects and planning throughout Trego County."My hope is that through philanthropy, strategic planning and community engagement, future generations will find ample opportunities within their local communities," Downing said. "My goal is to ensure that everything they want and need is available right here."&nbsp;Meitner said Downing will be focusing on cultivating donor relationships, supporting grantees, leading community discussions and working collaboratively with stakeholders to identify and address local needs.&nbsp;"We're thrilled to welcome Savannah to our team," said Meitner.&nbsp;"Her background in education and community projects, combined with her passion for rural development, makes her a perfect fit for this role."Downing and her husband Marc have five children.&nbsp;The community foundation plans to open a WaKeeney office soon.

🎤Heartland Community Foundation welcomes new Trego County Development Director 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724364962472.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Where were the first French Fries made? In Greece!

Where were the first French Fries made? In Greece!
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/22/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724265877059.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Why is a baseball team similar to a muffin? They both depend on the batter.

Why is a baseball team similar to a muffin? They both depend on the batter.Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/21/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724186472491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

What do you get when you put a radio in the refrigerator? Cool music!

What do you get when you put a radio in the refrigerator? Cool music!
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/20/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724091731857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Moving forward with various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions was the focus of Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.

The east Hays Tallgrass Housing Development Phases 1-3 was financed with a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District.

The Heart of America Development Corporation footed the development cost upfront and is receiving the revenues from the RHID to recoup part of its cost. Heart of America has requested to be “cashed out” of the development to pursue more Phase 4 housing to the north.

 Commissioners discussed issuing general obligation bonds and utilizing the RHID revenue to pay those bonds. The money generated by the bonds would be given to Heart of America as reimbursement for its previously incurred costs in the Tallgrass Development. Heart of America would then agree to use those revenues to create water, sewer and street infrastructure on the remainder of the property it owns.

The bonds would also be used to finance the new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">automated meter infrastructure for the water and wastewater system</a>.

The city must enact its first-ever home-rule ordinance to execute the process.

Also discussed was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.

The commission moved forward with two more resolutions to issue industrial revenue bonds for other downtown projects.

Local developer Adam Pray plans to rehabilitate the former bank building at 1108 Main Street. The Chestnut Suites project would consist of 24 to 26 short- and long-term rentable luxury rooms, targeting out-of-town visitors who want to stay downtown.

The second resolution would be for IRBs for&nbsp;Gella’s Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company.

 It wants to expand into the adjacent building to the east, which would be used for event space and Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.&nbsp;

An IRB issuance does not count against the city’s debt limit or affect its debt rating and does not require taxpayer commitment.

Commissioners spent considerable time discussing proposed fee increases at Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool, along with hikes at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course.

All three are considered quality-of-life&nbsp;amenities and are not expected to generate a profit for the city.

Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, however, wanted to raise prices higher than Jeff Boyle, parks director, recommended.

"From a businessman's perspective, you wouldn't let the gap between revenues and expenses be that wide," Musil said.

Ultimately, commissioners agreed to fee hikes at the golf course for 9-holes, 18-holes, single, couple and family memberships, with no changes in the junior membership, card shed rental or trails fee.

Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740

Hays Aquatic Park Season Pass — $53

They also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the aquatic park and for a season pass. Daily admission to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.

All agenda items will be voted on at the Sept. 22 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723836380228.jpeg" alt="Hays City Commission Aug. 15 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays City Commission Aug. 15 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="As Hays city leaders discuss expansion, Grow Hays director explains the role incentive districts" 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=35wu9-16a3b33-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>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMoving forward with various funding mechanisms for proposed new housing developments and business expansions was the focus of Thursday's Hay City Commission meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723839981091.png" alt="Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Phase 4 of Tallgrass Housing Development 2nd Addition. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>The east Hays Tallgrass Housing Development Phases 1-3 was financed with a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District.The Heart of America Development Corporation footed the development cost upfront and is receiving the revenues from the RHID to recoup part of its cost. Heart of America has requested to be “cashed out” of the development to pursue more Phase 4 housing to the north. Commissioners discussed issuing general obligation bonds and utilizing the RHID revenue to pay those bonds. The money generated by the bonds would be given to Heart of America as reimbursement for its previously incurred costs in the Tallgrass Development. Heart of America would then agree to use those revenues to create water, sewer and street infrastructure on the remainder of the property it owns.The bonds would also be used to finance the new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/292e6398-09de-4575-8f00-59772bbb0c0c">automated meter infrastructure for the water and wastewater system</a>.The city must enact its first-ever home-rule ordinance to execute the process.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723838456647.png" alt="Artist concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut." />
 <figcaption>Artist concept of Depot Addition, 10th and Walnut.</figcaption>
 </figure>Also discussed was a resolution to set a Sept. 26 public hearing for establishing an RHID for the Depot Addition housing at 10th and Walnut in downtown Hays. The private developer is Hays resident Michael Graham.The commission moved forward with two more resolutions to issue industrial revenue bonds for other downtown projects.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723737848750.jpeg" alt="Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Chestnut Suites LLC is planned for 1108 N. Main. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Local developer Adam Pray plans to rehabilitate the former bank building at 1108 Main Street. The Chestnut Suites project would consist of 24 to 26 short- and long-term rentable luxury rooms, targeting out-of-town visitors who want to stay downtown.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723839401844.png" alt="Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Proposed expansion of Gella's Diner at 121 E. 11th, immediately east of the restaurant and brewery. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The second resolution would be for IRBs for&nbsp;Gella’s Diner and Liquid Bread Brewing Company. It wants to expand into the adjacent building to the east, which would be used for event space and Fort Hays Tech-North Central culinary classes.&nbsp;An IRB issuance does not count against the city’s debt limit or affect its debt rating and does not require taxpayer commitment.Commissioners spent considerable time discussing proposed fee increases at Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool, along with hikes at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course.All three are considered quality-of-life&nbsp;amenities and are not expected to generate a profit for the city.Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, however, wanted to raise prices higher than Jeff Boyle, parks director, recommended."From a businessman's perspective, you wouldn't let the gap between revenues and expenses be that wide," Musil said.Ultimately, commissioners agreed to fee hikes at the golf course for 9-holes, 18-holes, single, couple and family memberships, with no changes in the junior membership, card shed rental or trails fee.The recommended new fees would be:Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course 9-Hole — $17 18-Hole Weekday — $23 18-Hole Weekend — $26 Annual Single Membership — $575 Annual Couple Membership — $720 Annual Family Membership — $740Hays Aquatic Park Season Pass — $53They also agreed to an increase in daily admission to the aquatic park and for a season pass. Daily admission to the neighborhood Wilson Pool will remain the same.All agenda items will be voted on at the Sept. 22 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

🎤 Hays City Commission discusses housing, business expansion financing

Why did the potato cross the road? He saw a fork up ahead!!

Why did the potato cross the road? He saw a fork up ahead!!
Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/19/24

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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Graham County resident, Dani Roeder is looking forward to the Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour scheduled for October 12, 2024.&nbsp; Dani will be serving as a volunteer at the second SAG (Support and Gear) station.

No stranger to volunteering, Dani served as a volunteer First Responder on the Graham County Fire Department for over 15 years.&nbsp; Similar to many western Kansas residents, Dani is an avid outdoor enthusiast and knows the importance of proper nutrition and hydration while participating in outdoor activities.&nbsp; Dani will bring this knowledge while staffing one of four SAG stops providing plenty of high caloric snacks and electrolyte replacement fluids. Dani is also aware of the need to practice good hygiene and will be encouraging hand sanitizing prior to allriders eating or drinking at the rest stops.

Ms. Roeder shared that she is very excited to be a part of this inaugural event showcasing the various historical signs of these early residents of western Kansas. The historical signs will describe and provide information as to the development and what happened in the Nicodemus Township and surrounding areas.&nbsp; Topics of the signs include numerous schools, churches, mercantile business, sporting events and multiple cemeteries.&nbsp; Aside from the historical significance of the ride, Dani would like to encourage others to participate by listing the amenities included:&nbsp; the option of a short (21 mile) which will hit 11 historical signs or the long (33 mile) ride which will include all 14 signs.&nbsp; Participants will receive a cool T-Shirt, meal, live music and a viewing of the documentary “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus”.&nbsp; Other benefits include the beautiful Nicodemus historic scenery, exercise and of course, the companionship of other participants.&nbsp;&nbsp; Dani said, stop to take a break and she will be happy to hang out with you.

To learn more about the ride and our history follow us on Facebook.&nbsp; Interested riders should register via the Nicodemus Historical Society’s website at:&nbsp; nicodemushistoricalsociety.org .&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723742940224.png" alt="(Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROBIN HARDMANGraham County resident, Dani Roeder is looking forward to the Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour scheduled for October 12, 2024.&nbsp; Dani will be serving as a volunteer at the second SAG (Support and Gear) station.No stranger to volunteering, Dani served as a volunteer First Responder on the Graham County Fire Department for over 15 years.&nbsp; Similar to many western Kansas residents, Dani is an avid outdoor enthusiast and knows the importance of proper nutrition and hydration while participating in outdoor activities.&nbsp; Dani will bring this knowledge while staffing one of four SAG stops providing plenty of high caloric snacks and electrolyte replacement fluids. Dani is also aware of the need to practice good hygiene and will be encouraging hand sanitizing prior to allriders eating or drinking at the rest stops.Ms. Roeder shared that she is very excited to be a part of this inaugural event showcasing the various historical signs of these early residents of western Kansas. The historical signs will describe and provide information as to the development and what happened in the Nicodemus Township and surrounding areas.&nbsp; Topics of the signs include numerous schools, churches, mercantile business, sporting events and multiple cemeteries.&nbsp; Aside from the historical significance of the ride, Dani would like to encourage others to participate by listing the amenities included:&nbsp; the option of a short (21 mile) which will hit 11 historical signs or the long (33 mile) ride which will include all 14 signs.&nbsp; Participants will receive a cool T-Shirt, meal, live music and a viewing of the documentary “Ellis Trail To Nicodemus”.&nbsp; Other benefits include the beautiful Nicodemus historic scenery, exercise and of course, the companionship of other participants.&nbsp;&nbsp; Dani said, stop to take a break and she will be happy to hang out with you.To learn more about the ride and our history follow us on Facebook.&nbsp; Interested riders should register via the Nicodemus Historical Society’s website at:&nbsp; nicodemushistoricalsociety.org .&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nicodemus Township History Trail Bike Tour Interview Series: Dani Roeder

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Head Football Coach Chris Brown.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8I8bLNFUsJ0?si=KiXW7XsN_QGroZK6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Head Football Coach Chris Brown.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU Football Coach Chris Brown

A police officer sees a man driving around with a pickup truck full of penguins. He pulls the guy over and says, “You can’t drive around with penguins in this town! Take them to the zoo immediately.” The guy agrees to do so and drives away. The next day, the officer sees the guy still driving around with the truck full of penguins — and they’re all wearing sunglasses! He pulls the guy over and says, “I thought I told you to take these penguins to the zoo yesterday!” The guy replies, “I did – they loved it, thanks. Today I’m taking them to the beach!”

A police officer sees a man driving around with a pickup truck full of penguins. He pulls the guy over and says, “You can’t drive around with penguins in this town! Take them to the zoo immediately.” The guy agrees to do so and drives away. The next day, the officer sees the guy still driving around with the truck full of penguins — and they’re all wearing sunglasses! He pulls the guy over and says, “I thought I told you to take these penguins to the zoo yesterday!” The guy replies, “I did – they loved it, thanks. Today I’m taking them to the beach!”Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 08/16/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723743286779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Having arrived at the edge of the river, the fisherman soon realized he had forgotten to bring any bait. Just then he happened to see a little snake passing by who had caught a worm. The fisherman snatched up the snake and robbed him of his worm. Feeling sorry for the little snake with no lunch, he snatched him up again and poured a little beer down his throat. Then he went about his fishing. An hour or so later the fisherman felt a tug at his pant leg. Looking down, he saw the same snake with three more worms in his mouth.

Having arrived at the edge of the river, the fisherman soon realized he had forgotten to bring any bait. Just then he happened to see a little snake passing by who had caught a worm. The fisherman snatched up the snake and robbed him of his worm. Feeling sorry for the little snake with no lunch, he snatched him up again and poured a little beer down his throat. Then he went about his fishing. An hour or so later the fisherman felt a tug at his pant leg. Looking down, he saw the same snake with three more worms in his mouth.Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

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