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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709334360991.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>

Three-day weather outlook

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Army Garrison Commander of Fort Riley, Col Michael J. Foote.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pDvY7Nmvjns?si=7A7-z3wmGqrybvW4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Army Garrison Commander of Fort Riley, Col Michael J. Foote.

🎤Forward Ever: Fort Riley Garrison Commander, Col. Michael Foote 

What do you call an alligator in a vest? An Investigator

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

What do you call an alligator in a vest? An InvestigatorJoin fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/01/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709257718768.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 athletes wear on Leap Day? Jumpsuits.

What kind of music do you listen to on Leap Day? Hip Hop.

What do you tell a hitchhiker on Leap Day? Hop In.

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

What do athletes wear on Leap Day? Jumpsuits.What kind of music do you listen to on Leap Day? Hip Hop.What do you tell a hitchhiker on Leap Day? Hop In.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 02/29/24

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Rain and snow last month, after weeks of dry conditions, had a serious effect on Ellis County roads, and now officials are looking into ways to improve the maintenance process going forward.

Following the winter storm early in January, Ellis County
officials say they received several phone calls concerning the condition of
roads in the county's rural area and, even more so, the residential subdivisions
outside the city of Hays.

Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the subdivisions have sprung
up since zoning regulations were altered in the mid-2000’s and updated in 2021.

The regulations aimed to conserve agricultural land in the
county. However, Leiker said subdivisions created more roads maintained by county
public works crews, and the commission has not increased the department’s
budget. 

“While we've changed the way the county has looked at it and promoted growth in these areas,” Leiker said. “We haven't promoted growth
on our public works to handle the influx of residents in these small areas.”

Leiker and the rest of the county commission tasked Public
Works Director Brendan Mackay to come up with ideas for ways to improve conditions.

Mackay said during the storm, the county paid 450 hours of overtime, and that did not include the time he spent working during those days. 

“We have almost 1,400 miles of roadway in this county, and
the guys are traveling seven miles an hour. We can't be everywhere,” Mackay
said. “Expectations exceeded what the county has funded for years past and what
we can do realistically with employees and equipment level.”

Mackey said they have seen staff and equipment
shrink due to budget cuts.

“You always want to do more with less, but we're at the point where there's no more we can do with the less that we have,” Mackey said. “We
have to expand if we want to improve our end product basically and improve our
services because we're stretched the limit right now.”

Leiker said he did not want to be critical of the past commissions who have cut funding for public works and said in recent years, they started to put money aside for bridge replacements and have started a fund to help with road maintenance.

Mackey said over the last three-plus decades, they have lost four graders to maintain the roads, all while adding additional roads that need to be maintained because of the subdivisions.

The commission was presented information on 14 subdivisions along with the unincorporated community of Munjor, where the public works department is tasked with road maintenance.

Mackey said while the subdivisions have not had a dramatic increase
in the number of miles maintained by crews, it does make it more difficult
because roads in the subdivisions have to be maintained differently.

“If there's one of those developments, that's four miles. It'll take us four hours easily to do those four miles because of the amount of
time you have to spend to reopen things and clear off in front of entrances and
driveways,” Mackey said. “So it may be only 20 miles that we maintain out of
all those developments, but it's like maintaining over 100 miles of county
roadways with the time requirement to do it.”

Some subdivisions maintain their roads, and
there is a possibility that future developments may also be required to do that.

But Mackey said part of the problem is that they currently
maintain those roads as they were built and will need to be upgraded. 

As part of the regulations, all roads built in rural Ellis
County must be built to standards set by the public works department.

But Mackey said he thinks some roads are going
to be improved, and that is going to take time and manpower.

He said some roads will need to be reworked with
the materials there, while some will need additional materials brought
in to fix the road.

Mackey will present the commission with his plans at the commission’s
retreat and a future meeting in March.

He said he plans to give them options for the beginning of the
process and then steps along the way.

“I don't want us to overshoot, and then we end up having to
overcorrect,” he added, “and then we want to make it fair and equal for
everyone.”

Among the ideas floated by Mackey and the commission was to hire another person to be in charge of the subdivision maintenance and add another piece of equipment responsible for those areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709158801428.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Rain and snow last month, after weeks of dry conditions, had a serious effect on Ellis County roads, and now officials are looking into ways to improve the maintenance process going forward.Following the winter storm early in January, Ellis County
officials say they received several phone calls concerning the condition of
roads in the county's rural area and, even more so, the residential subdivisions
outside the city of Hays.<div><iframe title="Ellis County searching for ways to improve rural road maintenance" 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=fv9yx-15975af-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>Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the subdivisions have sprung
up since zoning regulations were altered in the mid-2000’s and updated in 2021.The regulations aimed to conserve agricultural land in the
county. However, Leiker said subdivisions created more roads maintained by county
public works crews, and the commission has not increased the department’s
budget. “While we've changed the way the county has looked at it and promoted growth in these areas,” Leiker said. “We haven't promoted growth
on our public works to handle the influx of residents in these small areas.”Leiker and the rest of the county commission tasked Public
Works Director Brendan Mackay to come up with ideas for ways to improve conditions.Mackay said during the storm, the county paid 450 hours of overtime, and that did not include the time he spent working during those days. “We have almost 1,400 miles of roadway in this county, and
the guys are traveling seven miles an hour. We can't be everywhere,” Mackay
said. “Expectations exceeded what the county has funded for years past and what
we can do realistically with employees and equipment level.”Mackey said they have seen staff and equipment
shrink due to budget cuts.“You always want to do more with less, but we're at the point where there's no more we can do with the less that we have,” Mackey said. “We
have to expand if we want to improve our end product basically and improve our
services because we're stretched the limit right now.”Leiker said he did not want to be critical of the past commissions who have cut funding for public works and said in recent years, they started to put money aside for bridge replacements and have started a fund to help with road maintenance.Mackey said over the last three-plus decades, they have lost four graders to maintain the roads, all while adding additional roads that need to be maintained because of the subdivisions.The commission was presented information on 14 subdivisions along with the unincorporated community of Munjor, where the public works department is tasked with road maintenance.Mackey said while the subdivisions have not had a dramatic increase
in the number of miles maintained by crews, it does make it more difficult
because roads in the subdivisions have to be maintained differently.“If there's one of those developments, that's four miles. It'll take us four hours easily to do those four miles because of the amount of
time you have to spend to reopen things and clear off in front of entrances and
driveways,” Mackey said. “So it may be only 20 miles that we maintain out of
all those developments, but it's like maintaining over 100 miles of county
roadways with the time requirement to do it.”Some subdivisions maintain their roads, and
there is a possibility that future developments may also be required to do that.But Mackey said part of the problem is that they currently
maintain those roads as they were built and will need to be upgraded. As part of the regulations, all roads built in rural Ellis
County must be built to standards set by the public works department.But Mackey said he thinks some roads are going
to be improved, and that is going to take time and manpower.He said some roads will need to be reworked with
the materials there, while some will need additional materials brought
in to fix the road.Mackey will present the commission with his plans at the commission’s
retreat and a future meeting in March.He said he plans to give them options for the beginning of the
process and then steps along the way.“I don't want us to overshoot, and then we end up having to
overcorrect,” he added, “and then we want to make it fair and equal for
everyone.”Among the ideas floated by Mackey and the commission was to hire another person to be in charge of the subdivision maintenance and add another piece of equipment responsible for those areas.

🎙  Ellis County searching for ways to improve rural road maintenance 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709145015564.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>

One day, after many questions from her daughter, a mom said, "you mustn't ask so many questions. Don't you know that curiosity once killed a cat?" To which the daughter asked, "what did the cat want to know?"

One day, after many questions from her daughter, a mom said, "you mustn't ask so many questions. Don't you know that curiosity once killed a cat?" To which the daughter asked, "what did the cat want to know?"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 02/28/24

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays,
Kansas</a>, is pleased to announce Stepping
Out Day 2024 is scheduled for March 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This event holds significance as
it not only marks a day of member engagement but also showcases the Chamber's
commitment to fostering strong relationships within the community, said President
and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

“During Stepping Out Day, The
Chamber Ambassadors will embark on a mission to distribute 2024 membership
decals to all members who are up-to-date on their dues,” Wasinger said. “This
initiative not only emphasizes the importance of membership but also serves as
a tangible symbol of unity and support within the Hays business community.”

"Stepping Out Day is a
cornerstone of our annual calendar, offering a unique opportunity for our
Ambassadors to personally connect with our valued members. It's not just about
delivering decals; it's about reinforcing the sense of belonging and
camaraderie that defines our Chamber."

In addition to decal
distribution, Stepping Out Day provides a platform for members to engage with
The Chamber Ambassadors, share feedback, and explore the array of benefits that
come with Chamber membership. 

“The interactive nature of the
event fosters open dialogue, allowing members to voice their ideas, concerns,
and suggestions directly to Chamber representatives,” Wasinger said.

"The Chamber is dedicated to
serving as a catalyst for growth and prosperity in our community. Stepping Out
Day exemplifies our commitment to actively engage with our members, listen to
their needs, and work together to advance our shared goals."

With its strategic timing,
Stepping Out Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining
membership status, Wasinger said. 

“The Chamber encourages all
members to ensure their dues are current to take full advantage of the
resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts offered throughout
the year,” she said.

“Stepping Out Day 2024 promises
to be a dynamic event, filled with meaningful connections, valuable insights,
and a renewed sense of community spirit. Members are encouraged to mark their
calendars and participate in this pivotal day for the Hays business community.”

For more information about
Stepping Out Day 2024 or Chamber membership, please contact The Chamber at (785)
628-8201 or visit <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708976947971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays,
Kansas</a>, is pleased to announce Stepping
Out Day 2024 is scheduled for March 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event holds significance as
it not only marks a day of member engagement but also showcases the Chamber's
commitment to fostering strong relationships within the community, said President
and CEO Sarah Wasinger.<div><iframe title="The Chamber in Hays, Kansas plans Stepping Out event" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=p6phu-1593172-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“During Stepping Out Day, The
Chamber Ambassadors will embark on a mission to distribute 2024 membership
decals to all members who are up-to-date on their dues,” Wasinger said. “This
initiative not only emphasizes the importance of membership but also serves as
a tangible symbol of unity and support within the Hays business community.”"Stepping Out Day is a
cornerstone of our annual calendar, offering a unique opportunity for our
Ambassadors to personally connect with our valued members. It's not just about
delivering decals; it's about reinforcing the sense of belonging and
camaraderie that defines our Chamber."In addition to decal
distribution, Stepping Out Day provides a platform for members to engage with
The Chamber Ambassadors, share feedback, and explore the array of benefits that
come with Chamber membership. “The interactive nature of the
event fosters open dialogue, allowing members to voice their ideas, concerns,
and suggestions directly to Chamber representatives,” Wasinger said."The Chamber is dedicated to
serving as a catalyst for growth and prosperity in our community. Stepping Out
Day exemplifies our commitment to actively engage with our members, listen to
their needs, and work together to advance our shared goals."With its strategic timing,
Stepping Out Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining
membership status, Wasinger said. “The Chamber encourages all
members to ensure their dues are current to take full advantage of the
resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts offered throughout
the year,” she said.“Stepping Out Day 2024 promises
to be a dynamic event, filled with meaningful connections, valuable insights,
and a renewed sense of community spirit. Members are encouraged to mark their
calendars and participate in this pivotal day for the Hays business community.”For more information about
Stepping Out Day 2024 or Chamber membership, please contact The Chamber at (785)
628-8201 or visit <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

Stepping Out Day 2024: The Chamber Ambassadors to distribute membership decals and connect with members

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709063831664.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 is the tallest building in the world?&nbsp; The library! It has the most stories!

What is the tallest building in the world?&nbsp; The library! It has the most stories!Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/27/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708972834954.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>

Q: What did the pencil say to the other pencil? A: You’re looking sharp.

Q: What did the pencil say to the other pencil? A: You’re looking sharp.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/26/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708800339045.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>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708800191502.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>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725486214.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 cross a fish and an elephant? Swimming trunks.

What do you get when you cross a fish and an elephant? Swimming trunks.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 02/23/24

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays Arts Council will open two exhibits of artists with ties to Fort Hays State University — one a former professor and the other his student.

An opening reception will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday for "John C. Thorns Jr.: A Creative Legacy" and "Doloris Pederson: First Chapters in Visual Biography." Admission to the exhibits and reception is free.

Thorns was the chairman of the FHSU art department. The art that will be featured in this exhibit are collage and acrylic works from 2003 to 2013, which was about the last decade of his life.

The Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus is named in part for him. He also designed the stained-glass windows in the First Presbyterian Church on Hall Street in Hays.

"Over the many decades of his creative, his collage elements were more understated, and there were big flows of acrylic used as a water media sort of around it," Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council director, said.&nbsp;

"Later on, he really loved filling the space with the collage elements, but then they were joined together by his creative hand."

You might think of young children doing collage, but Meder said Thorns had incredible precision and craftsmanship in his work.

He would bring together dozens and dozens of pieces of collage to make one large piece of work, Meder said. He would then use acrylics or pastels to meld the components together.

Because of the layering in Thorns' work, it should be viewed in person, so you can look at the whole and then look at it up close and see the nature of the layering in the collage.

Almost three dozen of Thorns' pieces will be displayed, with another 20 in the art center's gift gallery. Thorns willed these art pieces to the FHSU Foundation upon his death and are on loan to the art center.

Select pieces of Thorns' work will be for sale. His work has sold for as much as $1,900, but works associated with this show are selling for $950.

Doloris Pederson is a Hays native and was one of Thorns' students. After studying at FHSU, she moved with her family to California. She has been a professional artist her whole adult life and earned many accolades in her own right, Meder said.

The art in Pederson's exhibit dates back to her early years of art exploration in the 1960s through 2003.

She depicts California imagery, but she has also traveled extensively, including to visit with her daughter, who lives in the Netherlands.

That was all inspiration for her work, Meder said. She has also created many florals, and her artwork is in the Hadley Foundation collection, which is displayed at the hospital.

Pederson is living back in Hays and will be attending the opening reception.

Although not affiliated with the Hays Arts Council, the Moss-Thorns Gallery will have a closing exhibit from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday for"Kansas Clay MFA," which are ceramics created by the master of fine arts students and faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University and FHSU. Admission is also free.

The Hays Arts Council is taking submissions for its youth creative writing contest.&nbsp;Ellis County students in kindergarten through 12th grade, through their teachers or independently, are invited to submit prose and poetry works  to this annual competition.

Members of the FHSU English Department serve as the judging panel, and an award ceremony is in late spring. Find more information on the arts council website at&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">https://haysartscouncil.org/</a>. The deadline for entries is March 6.

The arts council is also accepting submissions for the 55-annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition. Artists will submit works online for this juried exhibit with prizes totaling $3,000. Information on that exhibition can also be found on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">arts council website</a>. The deadline for entries is March 19.

The exhibit will anchor the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk on April 27.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708616951211.jpeg" alt="Artwork by John C. Thorns Jr." />
 <figcaption>Artwork by John C. Thorns Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Arts Council will open two exhibits of artists with ties to Fort Hays State University — one a former professor and the other his student.An opening reception will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday for "John C. Thorns Jr.: A Creative Legacy" and "Doloris Pederson: First Chapters in Visual Biography." Admission to the exhibits and reception is free.Thorns was the chairman of the FHSU art department. The art that will be featured in this exhibit are collage and acrylic works from 2003 to 2013, which was about the last decade of his life.<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council to showcase Thorns, Pederson in dual exhibits" 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=gk2vq-158d7ab-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>The Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus is named in part for him. He also designed the stained-glass windows in the First Presbyterian Church on Hall Street in Hays."Over the many decades of his creative, his collage elements were more understated, and there were big flows of acrylic used as a water media sort of around it," Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council director, said.&nbsp;"Later on, he really loved filling the space with the collage elements, but then they were joined together by his creative hand."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708617008428.jpeg" alt="Artwork by John C. Thorns Jr." />
 <figcaption>Artwork by John C. Thorns Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>You might think of young children doing collage, but Meder said Thorns had incredible precision and craftsmanship in his work.He would bring together dozens and dozens of pieces of collage to make one large piece of work, Meder said. He would then use acrylics or pastels to meld the components together.Because of the layering in Thorns' work, it should be viewed in person, so you can look at the whole and then look at it up close and see the nature of the layering in the collage.Almost three dozen of Thorns' pieces will be displayed, with another 20 in the art center's gift gallery. Thorns willed these art pieces to the FHSU Foundation upon his death and are on loan to the art center.Select pieces of Thorns' work will be for sale. His work has sold for as much as $1,900, but works associated with this show are selling for $950.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708617083474.jpeg" alt="Artwork by&nbsp;Doloris Pederson" />
 <figcaption>Artwork by&nbsp;Doloris Pederson</figcaption>
 </figure>Doloris Pederson is a Hays native and was one of Thorns' students. After studying at FHSU, she moved with her family to California. She has been a professional artist her whole adult life and earned many accolades in her own right, Meder said.The art in Pederson's exhibit dates back to her early years of art exploration in the 1960s through 2003.She depicts California imagery, but she has also traveled extensively, including to visit with her daughter, who lives in the Netherlands.That was all inspiration for her work, Meder said. She has also created many florals, and her artwork is in the Hadley Foundation collection, which is displayed at the hospital.Pederson is living back in Hays and will be attending the opening reception.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708617143806.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Although not affiliated with the Hays Arts Council, the Moss-Thorns Gallery will have a closing exhibit from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday for"Kansas Clay MFA," which are ceramics created by the master of fine arts students and faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University and FHSU. Admission is also free.The Hays Arts Council is taking submissions for its youth creative writing contest.&nbsp;Ellis County students in kindergarten through 12th grade, through their teachers or independently, are invited to submit prose and poetry works to this annual competition.Members of the FHSU English Department serve as the judging panel, and an award ceremony is in late spring. Find more information on the arts council website at&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">https://haysartscouncil.org/</a>. The deadline for entries is March 6.The arts council is also accepting submissions for the 55-annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition. Artists will submit works online for this juried exhibit with prizes totaling $3,000. Information on that exhibition can also be found on the <a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">arts council website</a>. The deadline for entries is March 19.The exhibit will anchor the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk on April 27.

🎙 Hays Arts Council to showcase Thorns, Pederson in dual exhibits

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708626022987.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>

Q: What kind of hair do oceans have? A: Wavy.

Q: What kind of hair do oceans have? A: Wavy.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/22/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708542345954.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>

How many mystery writers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? Two: one to screw it almost all the way in and one to give it a surprising twist at the end.

How many mystery writers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? Two: one to screw it almost all the way in and one to give it a surprising twist at the end.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/21/24

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The word "malnutrition" is usually associated with hunger and underfed people in the developing world.

But the term also applies to those who are overfed and eating too much unhealthy food.

It's a problem in industrialized countries, including the United States, says Jessica Phelan, PhD, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

"When we think of those who are morbidly obese or suffering from those lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease from overconsumption of food, that's also considered malnutrition," said Phelan, "because we're in a state of poor nutrition."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Many times the foods that are overconsumed are of poor nutritional density.

"We would refer to them as ultra-processed foods, meaning that they have a lot of calories but not much good stuff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Ultra-processed foods usually have more sugar, salt and fats versus those nutrients that we really want more of," she said.

There are four levels of household food security — whether people have access to enough healthy food for a healthy, active lifestyle — starting with high and falling to very low.

At any level of food insecurity, households potentially run out of food, or they have to manage the food that they have in their homes by skipping meals, reducing the size of meals or not eating if hungry.

"Food insecurity is linked with poverty, but it's also linked with accessibility," Phelan said.&nbsp;

Food deserts are geographic areas where fresh and affordable healthy foods cannot be easily purchased.&nbsp;

"Think about rural areas where grocery stores are miles and miles away," Phelan said. "You have to drive to another town to access healthy fruits and vegetables."

In urban areas, residents might not have vehicles and must walk or take public transportation to get groceries.&nbsp;

"If there are no grocery stores, farmers markets or fresh food sources near their homes, that's also considered a food desert," she said.

"We have access to food but it's not what is going to be healthful for our lives," she said.

Urban areas and small rural towns often have convenience stores, gas stations and fast-food restaurants, but there is no access to foods that would benefit your health.

"In addition to socioeconomic factors, your geographic location really influences what types of foods you're able to consume," Phalen said.&nbsp;

All food, she said, can be part of a nutritious diet.&nbsp;

"Of course, we want to try to choose those foods that are more healthful but if that's&nbsp;the resource you have, we can still make that part of a healthy diet," she said.

"There are plenty of times when ultra-processed food is something that is going to stay on the shelf longer for you. If that's going to supply you with some kind of energy, that's better than the alternative."

Canned and frozen foods are also healthy alternatives and easy to store.

In Ellis County, there are numerous resources for food assistance, including food pantries, food distribution, and state and federal government assistance programs.

A list of available programs is available through the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-resource-directory">United Way of Ellis County community resource directory app</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708383183081.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe word "malnutrition" is usually associated with hunger and underfed people in the developing world.But the term also applies to those who are overfed and eating too much unhealthy food.It's a problem in industrialized countries, including the United States, says Jessica Phelan, PhD, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="FHSU professor discusses food management in food deserts, swamps" 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=vzr9h-158a109-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>"When we think of those who are morbidly obese or suffering from those lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease from overconsumption of food, that's also considered malnutrition," said Phelan, "because we're in a state of poor nutrition."&nbsp;&nbsp;Many times the foods that are overconsumed are of poor nutritional density."We would refer to them as ultra-processed foods, meaning that they have a lot of calories but not much good stuff.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ultra-processed foods usually have more sugar, salt and fats versus those nutrients that we really want more of," she said.There are four levels of household food security — whether people have access to enough healthy food for a healthy, active lifestyle — starting with high and falling to very low.At any level of food insecurity, households potentially run out of food, or they have to manage the food that they have in their homes by skipping meals, reducing the size of meals or not eating if hungry."Food insecurity is linked with poverty, but it's also linked with accessibility," Phelan said.&nbsp;Food deserts are geographic areas where fresh and affordable healthy foods cannot be easily purchased.&nbsp;"Think about rural areas where grocery stores are miles and miles away," Phelan said. "You have to drive to another town to access healthy fruits and vegetables."In urban areas, residents might not have vehicles and must walk or take public transportation to get groceries.&nbsp;"If there are no grocery stores, farmers markets or fresh food sources near their homes, that's also considered a food desert," she said.There are also food swamps."We have access to food but it's not what is going to be healthful for our lives," she said.Urban areas and small rural towns often have convenience stores, gas stations and fast-food restaurants, but there is no access to foods that would benefit your health."In addition to socioeconomic factors, your geographic location really influences what types of foods you're able to consume," Phalen said.&nbsp;All food, she said, can be part of a nutritious diet.&nbsp;"Of course, we want to try to choose those foods that are more healthful but if that's&nbsp;the resource you have, we can still make that part of a healthy diet," she said."There are plenty of times when ultra-processed food is something that is going to stay on the shelf longer for you. If that's going to supply you with some kind of energy, that's better than the alternative."Canned and frozen foods are also healthy alternatives and easy to store.In Ellis County, there are numerous resources for food assistance, including food pantries, food distribution, and state and federal government assistance programs.A list of available programs is available through the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-resource-directory">United Way of Ellis County community resource directory app</a>.&nbsp;

🎙 FHSU professor discusses food management in food deserts, swamps    

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas</a>, is
pleased to announce the availability of sponsorships for the 15th Annual
Chamber Golf Tournament sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless.

Set to take place at the Smoky
Hill Country Club, 3303 Hall St., at 7:30 a.m. May 3, this year’s event
promises to be another day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community
spirit.

As the foremost fundraiser of the
year and a hallmark event in Hays, the Chamber Golf Tournament has become an annual
tradition. 

This year, golf enthusiasts and
supporters of the Ellis County business community will once again gather to tee
off for a cause and enjoy a day The Chamber plans to be brimming with
excitement both on and off the course, said president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

“The Chamber Golf Tournament is
more than just a day of golf; it's a celebration of our vibrant community and a
testament to the collective commitment of our members to support local
businesses,” Wasinger said. “As the single largest fundraiser for The Chamber
in Hays, Kansas, the golf tournament provides numerous opportunities for
businesses of all sizes to participate in the events throughout the week.
Support of this event powers The Chambers' ability to advocate for community
advancement for all Ellis County residents.”

"We are incredibly grateful
to Nex-Tech Wireless for their steadfast support as our title sponsor,”
Wasinger said. “Their commitment to our community and their dedication to
advancing local businesses exemplify the spirit of partnership and
collaboration that defines The Chamber."

One of the highlights of the day
will be the return of the highly popular Chamber Online Auction sponsored by
First Care Clinic and the Plinko Patio Party sponsored by Stone House Spirit
&amp; Cigar, offering attendees the chance to win exciting prizes and mingle
with fellow participants in a lively atmosphere.

“Sponsorship of the Chamber Golf
Tournament not only provides businesses with valuable exposure and networking
opportunities but also contributes to the ongoing initiatives of The Chamber in
promoting economic growth and prosperity in Ellis County,” Wasinger said. “Businesses
interested in becoming sponsors for the 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament are
encouraged to contact The Chamber at (785) 628-8201.”

For more information and
sponsorship inquiries, please visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634743366242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas</a>, is
pleased to announce the availability of sponsorships for the 15th Annual
Chamber Golf Tournament sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless.Set to take place at the Smoky
Hill Country Club, 3303 Hall St., at 7:30 a.m. May 3, this year’s event
promises to be another day filled with camaraderie, competition, and community
spirit.<div><iframe title="Sponsorships open for 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tourney" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=f49b5-158836c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>As the foremost fundraiser of the
year and a hallmark event in Hays, the Chamber Golf Tournament has become an annual
tradition. This year, golf enthusiasts and
supporters of the Ellis County business community will once again gather to tee
off for a cause and enjoy a day The Chamber plans to be brimming with
excitement both on and off the course, said president and CEO Sarah Wasinger.“The Chamber Golf Tournament is
more than just a day of golf; it's a celebration of our vibrant community and a
testament to the collective commitment of our members to support local
businesses,” Wasinger said. “As the single largest fundraiser for The Chamber
in Hays, Kansas, the golf tournament provides numerous opportunities for
businesses of all sizes to participate in the events throughout the week.
Support of this event powers The Chambers' ability to advocate for community
advancement for all Ellis County residents.”"We are incredibly grateful
to Nex-Tech Wireless for their steadfast support as our title sponsor,”
Wasinger said. “Their commitment to our community and their dedication to
advancing local businesses exemplify the spirit of partnership and
collaboration that defines The Chamber."One of the highlights of the day
will be the return of the highly popular Chamber Online Auction sponsored by
First Care Clinic and the Plinko Patio Party sponsored by Stone House Spirit
&amp; Cigar, offering attendees the chance to win exciting prizes and mingle
with fellow participants in a lively atmosphere.“Sponsorship of the Chamber Golf
Tournament not only provides businesses with valuable exposure and networking
opportunities but also contributes to the ongoing initiatives of The Chamber in
promoting economic growth and prosperity in Ellis County,” Wasinger said. “Businesses
interested in becoming sponsors for the 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament are
encouraged to contact The Chamber at (785) 628-8201.”For more information and
sponsorship inquiries, please visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com.</a>

🎙 Sponsorships open for 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tourney

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708458003592.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>

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