By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Many factors play into a national retailer deciding to open a location in a new community.

In a recent interview on the Morning Blend, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, discussed some of the challenges of recruiting national retailers to Hays.

"Everybody would like to see more retail — more choices," Williams said. "We are in a very challenging environment for retail recruitment, but it is something we are working on all of the time."

Both Ellis County and the city of Hays rely on sales tax collection for a significant portion of their budgets, which means retail recruitment is even more important, Williams said.

The general thinking in the past has been if a community recruits manufacturing and reaches a certain population threshold, then retail development will naturally follow. Williams said this is not necessarily the case.

"It's a difficult time to recruit retail like big box stores to a community our size just based on all of the online things that are going on and the challenges that retailers have right now," he said.

Other challenges are land and building costs, which have consistently been high in Hays.

If a big box retailer were to locate in Hays and need a 20,000-square-foot building, they could expect to spend about $5 million or $250 per foot to construct that building. They would pay $10 per square foot for a lease. That's $200,000 per year, Williams said.

Most of the large retailers don't own their buildings, they lease them from investors.

That represents a 4 percent return for someone who owns that building, he said.

"Four percent does not work," Williams said. "No one in today's environment is going to make an investment in a commercial building and get a 4 percent annual return."

In cities the size of Hays, retailers often move into second or third-generation buildings. Williams gave the example of Hobby Lobby, which moved into a former Wal-Mart location.

Williams said Hays does not have a lot of this existing building space.

Demographics play a significant role in retailers' decisions to locate in a new city.

"They'll not only look at the demographics in our area of Ellis County but a 60-mile radius and the population that lives in that kind of geography," he said.

Product distribution can also be a factor in retail development.

Williams said Grow Hays has spoken to Aldi about locating in Hays. The community has the demographics to support a store, but Hays is outside of the company's distribution system.

Logistically, for them, it's a challenge, he said.

Workforce also continues to be a challenge. Ellis County had a 1.3 percent unemployment rate in December.

Ellis County does not have enough regional population to attract a Target, but if they were to locate here they would need 200 to 300 employees, which would not be available in Ellis County at this time.

Williams said Grow Hays is consistently working on recruiting new retailers. That could include another clothing or department store such as Kohl's, Marshalls or T.J. Maxx.&nbsp;

Chick-fil-A has had a huge response to its recent food truck visits to Hays.

However, the chain has very specific requirements for locations. They want to be located close to the interstate and would need easy ingress and egress, Williams said.

That kind of property is hard to find right now in Hays, he said.

"If you drive up and down Vine, it's not like we have a lot of space," he said.

Williams said he thinks enough people live on the east side of Hays to support an additional grocery store.&nbsp;

"Competition helps keep prices in line and gives people variety," Williams said.

On March 5, Grow Hays will have its quarterly luncheon. The topic will be housing. You can call Brief Space at 785-628-3102&nbsp;for reservations.

Grow Hays has tentatively set March 13 as the grand opening for the microfactory. More details will be announced at a later date.

<div><iframe title="Hays constantly recruiting retail but faces challenges" 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=mke79-1579cbb-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 CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMany factors play into a national retailer deciding to open a location in a new community.In a recent interview on the Morning Blend, Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, discussed some of the challenges of recruiting national retailers to Hays."Everybody would like to see more retail — more choices," Williams said. "We are in a very challenging environment for retail recruitment, but it is something we are working on all of the time."Both Ellis County and the city of Hays rely on sales tax collection for a significant portion of their budgets, which means retail recruitment is even more important, Williams said.The general thinking in the past has been if a community recruits manufacturing and reaches a certain population threshold, then retail development will naturally follow. Williams said this is not necessarily the case."It's a difficult time to recruit retail like big box stores to a community our size just based on all of the online things that are going on and the challenges that retailers have right now," he said.Other challenges are land and building costs, which have consistently been high in Hays.If a big box retailer were to locate in Hays and need a 20,000-square-foot building, they could expect to spend about $5 million or $250 per foot to construct that building. They would pay $10 per square foot for a lease. That's $200,000 per year, Williams said.Most of the large retailers don't own their buildings, they lease them from investors.That represents a 4 percent return for someone who owns that building, he said."Four percent does not work," Williams said. "No one in today's environment is going to make an investment in a commercial building and get a 4 percent annual return."In cities the size of Hays, retailers often move into second or third-generation buildings. Williams gave the example of Hobby Lobby, which moved into a former Wal-Mart location.Williams said Hays does not have a lot of this existing building space.Demographics play a significant role in retailers' decisions to locate in a new city."They'll not only look at the demographics in our area of Ellis County but a 60-mile radius and the population that lives in that kind of geography," he said.Product distribution can also be a factor in retail development.Williams said Grow Hays has spoken to Aldi about locating in Hays. The community has the demographics to support a store, but Hays is outside of the company's distribution system.Logistically, for them, it's a challenge, he said.Workforce also continues to be a challenge. Ellis County had a 1.3 percent unemployment rate in December.Ellis County does not have enough regional population to attract a Target, but if they were to locate here they would need 200 to 300 employees, which would not be available in Ellis County at this time.Williams said Grow Hays is consistently working on recruiting new retailers. That could include another clothing or department store such as Kohl's, Marshalls or T.J. Maxx.&nbsp;Chick-fil-A has had a huge response to its recent food truck visits to Hays.However, the chain has very specific requirements for locations. They want to be located close to the interstate and would need easy ingress and egress, Williams said.That kind of property is hard to find right now in Hays, he said."If you drive up and down Vine, it's not like we have a lot of space," he said.Williams said he thinks enough people live on the east side of Hays to support an additional grocery store.&nbsp;"Competition helps keep prices in line and gives people variety," Williams said.On March 5, Grow Hays will have its quarterly luncheon. The topic will be housing. You can call Brief Space at 785-628-3102&nbsp;for reservations.Grow Hays has tentatively set March 13 as the grand opening for the microfactory. More details will be announced at a later date.

🎙 Hays constantly recruiting retail but faces challenges

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>.

🎙Kindergarten round up set for March 4 at Hays High

<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/2024/2/1707525279176.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 the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast,</a>&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason and Chair and Professor Center For Applied Technology Kim Stewart about the strategic affiliation with NCK Tech and Northwest Kansas Tech.

<div><iframe title="FHSU shares updates on strategic affiliation with area technical colleges" 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=gr9ad-157a962-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>On this episode of the <a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">Post Podcast,</a>&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason and Chair and Professor Center For Applied Technology Kim Stewart about the strategic affiliation with NCK Tech and Northwest Kansas Tech.

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU shares updates on strategic affiliation with area technical colleges

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707525141153.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 the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discusses a jail assessment with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.

<div><iframe title="Sheriff Bruan discusses jail expansion" 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=mg4fb-1579ccd-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>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun discusses a jail assessment with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.

🎙 Post Podcast: Sheriff Braun discuses jail expansion survey

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707524955019.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 Hays superintendent Ron Wilson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gC89geLkiYw?si=j2XpFKUN20ehxGKJ" 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 Hays superintendent Ron Wilson.

🎤Forward Ever: USD 489 superintendent Ron Wilson

John, who is noted for his gracious manners, was awakened one morning at&nbsp;4:00 A.M. by his ringing telephone.

“Your dog’s barking, and it’s keeping me awake,” said an angry voice.

John thanked the caller and politely asked his name and number before hanging up.

The next morning at precisely 4:00 A.M., John called his neighbor back.

“Good morning, Mr. Williams. I just called to say that I don’t have a dog.”

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

John, who is noted for his gracious manners, was awakened one morning at&nbsp;4:00 A.M. by his ringing telephone.“Your dog’s barking, and it’s keeping me awake,” said an angry voice.John thanked the caller and politely asked his name and number before hanging up.The next morning at precisely 4:00 A.M., John called his neighbor back.“Good morning, Mr. Williams. I just called to say that I don’t have a dog.”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 02/09/24

Science Café presents 'Ozempic and Wegovy; How Do the New Diabetes and Weight-loss Drugs Work'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707420317138.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 did the chicken cross the playground? To get to the other slide.

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

Why did the chicken cross the playground? To get to the other slide.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 02/08/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707330249072.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 the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about upcoming events.

<div><iframe title="DHDC plans spring events" 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=aayze-157432e-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>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Downtown Hays Development Corp. executive director Julie Rider about upcoming events.

🎙 DHDC plans spring events

My brother-in-law was puzzled by the odd messages left on his answering machine. Day after day, friends and family would talk and then say, "Beep." He discovered the reason for the joke when he decided to listen to his greeting.

"Hi," it said, "I'm not in right now, so please leave a beep after the message."

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

My brother-in-law was puzzled by the odd messages left on his answering machine. Day after day, friends and family would talk and then say, "Beep." He discovered the reason for the joke when he decided to listen to his greeting."Hi," it said, "I'm not in right now, so please leave a beep after the message."
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 02/07/24

The Hays Symphony is gearing up for another evening of musical excellence with its annual Arias and Concertos Concert, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

This event, celebrating the accomplished music students of Fort Hays State University, will showcase the winners of the Concerto/Aria Competition, an auditioned event held in December 2023.

Under the direction of Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU, the Hays Symphony will feature five exceptional soloists: Jiangzi "Deacon" Guo (cello), Mackenzie Bowers (mezzo soprano), Jackson Scott (marimba), Laurinda Lan (flute), and Xingyi "Jerry" Long (alto saxophone).

Board Chairwoman Sandy Jacobs said she is excited for the upcoming concert.

"Join the Hays Symphony for a special night celebrating the incredible talent of FHSU's music students,” Jacobs said. “The Arias and Concertos Concert promises an unforgettable showcase of skill and dedication from these outstanding performers."

Guo, a cello virtuoso from China, will perform the third movement of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major.

Bowers, a senior pursuing a music education degree with a focus on voice, will enchant the audience with pieces from Dvořák and Verdi.

Scott, a percussion performance major, will showcase his marimba prowess with the second movement of Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and String Orchestra.

Lan, a flautist and cellist in the KAMS/AMS program, will perform Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute and Orchestra, Op. 107.

Long, a saxophonist from Huaihua City, will captivate the audience with Darius Milhaud’s Scaramouche.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>.

Additionally, a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning, provides an opportunity to meet the musicians.

While the board is excited for the upcoming event, unfortunately, a second February concert has been cancelled.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances preventing the special conductor from China from attending the concert originally scheduled for Feb. 17, we had to call off the event,” Jacobs said. “However, the remainder of this year’s Hays Symphony events are still planned.”

For more information about the Hays Symphony, visit their website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>. The organization also maintains a presence on social media, including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysSymphony">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707176270933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Symphony is gearing up for another evening of musical excellence with its annual Arias and Concertos Concert, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.This event, celebrating the accomplished music students of Fort Hays State University, will showcase the winners of the Concerto/Aria Competition, an auditioned event held in December 2023.Under the direction of Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU, the Hays Symphony will feature five exceptional soloists: Jiangzi "Deacon" Guo (cello), Mackenzie Bowers (mezzo soprano), Jackson Scott (marimba), Laurinda Lan (flute), and Xingyi "Jerry" Long (alto saxophone).Board Chairwoman Sandy Jacobs said she is excited for the upcoming concert."Join the Hays Symphony for a special night celebrating the incredible talent of FHSU's music students,” Jacobs said. “The Arias and Concertos Concert promises an unforgettable showcase of skill and dedication from these outstanding performers."Guo, a cello virtuoso from China, will perform the third movement of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major.Bowers, a senior pursuing a music education degree with a focus on voice, will enchant the audience with pieces from Dvořák and Verdi.Scott, a percussion performance major, will showcase his marimba prowess with the second movement of Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and String Orchestra.Lan, a flautist and cellist in the KAMS/AMS program, will perform Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute and Orchestra, Op. 107.Long, a saxophonist from Huaihua City, will captivate the audience with Darius Milhaud’s Scaramouche.The concert is free and open to the public.Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>.Additionally, a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning, provides an opportunity to meet the musicians.While the board is excited for the upcoming event, unfortunately, a second February concert has been cancelled.“Due to unforeseen circumstances preventing the special conductor from China from attending the concert originally scheduled for Feb. 17, we had to call off the event,” Jacobs said. “However, the remainder of this year’s Hays Symphony events are still planned.”For more information about the Hays Symphony, visit their website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>. The organization also maintains a presence on social media, including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysSymphony">Facebook</a>.

Hays Symphony annual Arias, Concertos concert Saturday; Feb. 17 concert cancelled

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707270173178.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 do clams call their friends? On their shell phones.

How do clams call their friends? On their shell phones.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 02/06/24

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.

During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;

The matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.

Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;

"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;

"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."

This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.

Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;

"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.

Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.

Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631910392.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February" 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=jipfe-1570d21-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 matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

🎙  Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February 

<figure>
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A man goes to the doctor and tells him that he hasn’t been feeling well. The doctor examines him, leaves the room and comes back with&nbsp;three different bottles of pills.

The doctor says, “Take the green pill with a big glass of water when you get up. Take the blue pill with a big glass of water after lunch. Then just before going to bed, take the red pill with another big glass of water.”

Startled to be put on so much medicine the man stammers, “Jeez doc, exactly what’s my problem?”

Doctor says, “You’re not drinking enough water.”

A man goes to the doctor and tells him that he hasn’t been feeling well. The doctor examines him, leaves the room and comes back with&nbsp;three different bottles of pills.The doctor says, “Take the green pill with a big glass of water when you get up. Take the blue pill with a big glass of water after lunch. Then just before going to bed, take the red pill with another big glass of water.”Startled to be put on so much medicine the man stammers, “Jeez doc, exactly what’s my problem?”Doctor says, “You’re not drinking enough water.”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 02/05/24

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

When you envision retirement, positive thoughts likely bubble to the surface. You may be excited to relax, enjoy your freedom, and spend time with loved ones. However, retirement may not be exactly as it is imagined. What do I mean by this?

Erin Martinez, K-State Research and Extension specialist and associate professor of Adult Development and Aging shares her expertise:

“When you have your eyes set on retirement without a plan about how you are going to spend the time, it can be a bit of a shock and can disrupt your life by bringing about emotions about a lack of purpose.” She advises folks to not only have a financial retirement plan but also to think about what they want to accomplish in retirement.

“You don’t have to know exactly what you are going to do day-to-day, but spend time reflecting on what you value and what you want your big priorities in retirement to be,” Martinez said.

Knowing your purpose will help you move through the stages of retirement: honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation, retirement route, and termination.

While honeymoon refers to newfound freedom, Martinez said feelings of disenchantment can follow if you haven’t found a new purpose. During the reorientation phase, folks find new activities and form a plan for their retirement years along with settling into a new routine.

Termination can refer to ending the retirement plan by going back to work, but more commonly it means that the retiree needs to reduce their involvement due to declining health.

For some, shifting from full-time work to part-time work is a fantastic strategy that allows a person to slowly transition into retirement.

Martinez advises, “Talk with your employer to see if you can step into a part-time role or see what other options there might be even if it has never been done before.”

Looking for volunteer opportunities is another excellent way to find a purpose in retirement. “Volunteer Kansas is a great website to explore when looking for ideas,” Martinez suggests.

Serving others is one way that older adults can keep themselves physically and mentally healthy while maintaining social connections.

“As you shift in retirement, you can go from volunteering at school events to helping out at the senior center. This allows you to make different friends in new spaces,” Martinez said. “Socialization is incredibly important to healthy aging.”

As part of the retirement plan, it is important to communicate with family about your plan so that children and spouses don’t make assumptions about how you are going to spend time.

Sometimes family dynamics struggle in retirement because of uncommunicated plans. If ideas don’t align, friction can occur. Martinez advises couples to talk through their retirement goals and have a clear plan of what they hope to accomplish.

She added: “Mentally preparing for retirement involves a lot of internal processing about what is most meaningful to you and what you want your retirement legacy to be.”

Taking time now to understand your goals and purpose for retirement puts you on a rewarding path that allows you to get the most out of this stage of life.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWhen you envision retirement, positive thoughts likely bubble to the surface. You may be excited to relax, enjoy your freedom, and spend time with loved ones. However, retirement may not be exactly as it is imagined. What do I mean by this?Erin Martinez, K-State Research and Extension specialist and associate professor of Adult Development and Aging shares her expertise:“When you have your eyes set on retirement without a plan about how you are going to spend the time, it can be a bit of a shock and can disrupt your life by bringing about emotions about a lack of purpose.” She advises folks to not only have a financial retirement plan but also to think about what they want to accomplish in retirement.“You don’t have to know exactly what you are going to do day-to-day, but spend time reflecting on what you value and what you want your big priorities in retirement to be,” Martinez said.Knowing your purpose will help you move through the stages of retirement: honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation, retirement route, and termination.While honeymoon refers to newfound freedom, Martinez said feelings of disenchantment can follow if you haven’t found a new purpose. During the reorientation phase, folks find new activities and form a plan for their retirement years along with settling into a new routine.Termination can refer to ending the retirement plan by going back to work, but more commonly it means that the retiree needs to reduce their involvement due to declining health.For some, shifting from full-time work to part-time work is a fantastic strategy that allows a person to slowly transition into retirement.Martinez advises, “Talk with your employer to see if you can step into a part-time role or see what other options there might be even if it has never been done before.”Looking for volunteer opportunities is another excellent way to find a purpose in retirement. “Volunteer Kansas is a great website to explore when looking for ideas,” Martinez suggests.Serving others is one way that older adults can keep themselves physically and mentally healthy while maintaining social connections.“As you shift in retirement, you can go from volunteering at school events to helping out at the senior center. This allows you to make different friends in new spaces,” Martinez said. “Socialization is incredibly important to healthy aging.”As part of the retirement plan, it is important to communicate with family about your plan so that children and spouses don’t make assumptions about how you are going to spend time.Sometimes family dynamics struggle in retirement because of uncommunicated plans. If ideas don’t align, friction can occur. Martinez advises couples to talk through their retirement goals and have a clear plan of what they hope to accomplish.She added: “Mentally preparing for retirement involves a lot of internal processing about what is most meaningful to you and what you want your retirement legacy to be.”Taking time now to understand your goals and purpose for retirement puts you on a rewarding path that allows you to get the most out of this stage of life.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Plan for retirement today

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706906908083.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>

Rehearsals began recently for the latest performance on the Hays Community Theatre stage for Ken Ludwig’s&nbsp;Moon Over Buffalo, a play that takes place backstage of a Buffalo, New York theatre in 1953.&nbsp;

The play highlights events of a small repertory company that features a pair of middle-aged married actors who are no longer in the limelight.&nbsp; When events transpire to provide a chance to get back in the public eye, hilarious misunderstandings pile on madcap misadventures, in this valentine to theatre hams everywhere.

Paul English, the show director said, “This has been one of the funniest shows I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of.&nbsp; The physical comedy and the pacing has been one of the challenges that this amazing ensemble of actors has taken on and embraced with such determination and effort.&nbsp; After weeks of rehearsal, we are all still laughing and having such fun.&nbsp; It’s a show that people will really have a great time watching and will laugh all night long!”

The show will be performed on February 14, 16, 17, and 18, 2024 at the HCT venue at 121 E. 8th Street in Hays. A special Valentine’s Day performance on February 14 will include appetizers and desserts for the audience. Tickets for the Valentine show are $25 each. Tickets for the performances on February 16-18 are $10 each. All are available to purchase at HCT’s website -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hctks.com/">www.hctks.com</a>

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - Ticket price - $25 each Includes variety of appetizers and desserts for audience

Friday, February 16, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - $10 each

Saturday, February 17, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - $10 each

Sunday, February 18, 2024 - 2 p.m. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. - $10 each

George Hay………………………Jerrett Leiker Charlotte Hay…………………….Dana Stanton Ethel……………………………….Michele English Rosalind Hay&nbsp;……………………..Claire Nickerson Howard……………………………Russell Heitmann Eileen……………………………..Vivian Leiker Paul……………………………….Adam Conkey Richard Maynard………………..Raymond Brent Director…………………………...Paul English Asst Director……………………..Everett Robert

SubmittedRehearsals began recently for the latest performance on the Hays Community Theatre stage for Ken Ludwig’s&nbsp;Moon Over Buffalo, a play that takes place backstage of a Buffalo, New York theatre in 1953.&nbsp;The play highlights events of a small repertory company that features a pair of middle-aged married actors who are no longer in the limelight.&nbsp; When events transpire to provide a chance to get back in the public eye, hilarious misunderstandings pile on madcap misadventures, in this valentine to theatre hams everywhere.Paul English, the show director said, “This has been one of the funniest shows I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of.&nbsp; The physical comedy and the pacing has been one of the challenges that this amazing ensemble of actors has taken on and embraced with such determination and effort.&nbsp; After weeks of rehearsal, we are all still laughing and having such fun.&nbsp; It’s a show that people will really have a great time watching and will laugh all night long!”The show will be performed on February 14, 16, 17, and 18, 2024 at the HCT venue at 121 E. 8th Street in Hays. A special Valentine’s Day performance on February 14 will include appetizers and desserts for the audience. Tickets for the Valentine show are $25 each. Tickets for the performances on February 16-18 are $10 each. All are available to purchase at HCT’s website -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hctks.com/">www.hctks.com</a><h2>Performance Dates and Times</h2>Valentine ShowWednesday, February 14, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - Ticket price - $25 each Includes variety of appetizers and desserts for audienceRegular PerformancesFriday, February 16, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - $10 eachSaturday, February 17, 2024 - 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - $10 eachSunday, February 18, 2024 - 2 p.m. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. - $10 each<h2>Cast List</h2>George Hay………………………Jerrett Leiker Charlotte Hay…………………….Dana Stanton Ethel……………………………….Michele English Rosalind Hay&nbsp;……………………..Claire Nickerson Howard……………………………Russell Heitmann Eileen……………………………..Vivian Leiker Paul……………………………….Adam Conkey Richard Maynard………………..Raymond Brent Director…………………………...Paul English Asst Director……………………..Everett Robert

Hays Community Theatre presents 'Moon Over Buffalo'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706906731384.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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