The Hays High Indians boys basketball team will take on Olathe West in the second round of the Hays City Shootout Friday evening.

Tipoff is scheduled for approximately 8:15 at Hays High School.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?fbclid=IwAR39ZIVbBIG3ook73NZmtbaBWY7JGQ8VKwsbpLmTFDFu4lXSCjwJz-wLg64">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indians boys basketball team will take on Olathe West in the second round of the Hays City Shootout Friday evening.Tipoff is scheduled for approximately 8:15 at Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?fbclid=IwAR39ZIVbBIG3ook73NZmtbaBWY7JGQ8VKwsbpLmTFDFu4lXSCjwJz-wLg64">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/331515?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High boys vs Olathe West

The TMP-Marian boys basketball team will take on Lawrence Free State and the girls Olathe West on day number two of the Hays City Shootout.

Tipoff of the boys game is set for approximately 4:45 p.m. with the girls to follow at approximately 6:30 p.m. at Hays High School.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/331517">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian boys basketball team will take on Lawrence Free State and the girls Olathe West on day number two of the Hays City Shootout.Tipoff of the boys game is set for approximately 4:45 p.m. with the girls to follow at approximately 6:30 p.m. at Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/331517">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/331517?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Free State/Olathe West

The Hays High Indian girls basketball will take on Fort Smith North Side in the first game of the day Friday&nbsp;at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.

Tipoff is at 3 p.m. from Hays High School.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?fbclid=IwAR39ZIVbBIG3ook73NZmtbaBWY7JGQ8VKwsbpLmTFDFu4lXSCjwJz-wLg64">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indian girls basketball will take on Fort Smith North Side in the first game of the day Friday&nbsp;at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.Tipoff is at 3 p.m. from Hays High School.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?fbclid=IwAR39ZIVbBIG3ook73NZmtbaBWY7JGQ8VKwsbpLmTFDFu4lXSCjwJz-wLg64">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High girls vs Fort Smith North Side

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

——————————————

Patrick Jameson Newman, 43, was arrested at 8:19 a.m. Nov. 29 in the 1000 block of East 17th on suspicion of aggravated battery.

Lance Allen Schmeidler, 41, was arrested at 12:04 a.m. Nov. 30 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of violation of an order of protection and rape.

Tessa Adrianne Koehn, 34, was arrested at 11:42 a.m. Nov. 30 in the 2200 block of Canterbury on suspicion of domestic battery.

Cody Ray Boon, 41, was arrested at 1:26 a.m. Dec. 1 in the 300 block of West Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery.

Clade Alan Anderson, 22, was arrested at 1:26 a.m. Dec. 1 in the 300 block of West Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery.

Rodney L. Marcotte, 65, was arrested at 10:51 p.m. Dec. 1 in the 3700 block of Skyline Drive on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and transporting an open container of alcohol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>——————————————Patrick Jameson Newman, 43, was arrested at 8:19 a.m. Nov. 29 in the 1000 block of East 17th on suspicion of aggravated battery.Lance Allen Schmeidler, 41, was arrested at 12:04 a.m. Nov. 30 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of violation of an order of protection and rape.Tessa Adrianne Koehn, 34, was arrested at 11:42 a.m. Nov. 30 in the 2200 block of Canterbury on suspicion of domestic battery.Cody Ray Boon, 41, was arrested at 1:26 a.m. Dec. 1 in the 300 block of West Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery.Clade Alan Anderson, 22, was arrested at 1:26 a.m. Dec. 1 in the 300 block of West Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery.Rodney L. Marcotte, 65, was arrested at 10:51 p.m. Dec. 1 in the 3700 block of Skyline Drive on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and transporting an open container of alcohol.

HPD arrest log, Nov. 29 to Dec. 1

🎙 Kennedy: 'Ultra-alarmist position isn't where we need to be right now'

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 34 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;

As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,928 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638555595074.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Ellis County COVID-19 update: Dec. 3, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mab5c-1148994-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 34 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients.The KDHE reported Wednesday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,928 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙 KDHE: 34 new COVID cases in Ellis Co.; Kennedy discusses

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A new record high blew right past the previous record by nearly 10 degrees.

According to official statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the temperature soared to 81 degrees. The previous record high for Dec. 2 was 72 degrees set back in 1995.&nbsp;

Cooler weather is on the way, however, with weekend daytime highs <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f0f684ba-251d-44a4-918d-73cd41bf9443">forecasted</a> to be about 20 degrees cooler, and no precipitation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623793306978.jpeg" alt="(Picture by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Picture by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt was hot in Hays on Thursday.A new record high blew right past the previous record by nearly 10 degrees.According to official statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the temperature soared to 81 degrees. The previous record high for Dec. 2 was 72 degrees set back in 1995.&nbsp;Cooler weather is on the way, however, with weekend daytime highs <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f0f684ba-251d-44a4-918d-73cd41bf9443">forecasted</a> to be about 20 degrees cooler, and no precipitation.&nbsp;

Thursday temperature shatters record high for Hays

The Hays Art Council's Winter Art Walk is set to return Saturday with an all-day event spread throughout downtown and beyond, allowing locals and travelers a chance to experience a variety of artistic expression along with the features of downtown Hays.

"It's shaping up to be really wonderful," said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder.

Historically, the art walk was scheduled for Friday evening, but after trying the new format during the pandemic, she said an all-day event has several benefits.

"After the success of the Spring Art Walk, which we did on that Saturday, after what would have been our first opening of the original opening night, we had such a great response. People seem to be more relaxed, when they were out, they were taking their time, and they were really enjoying each experience."

And while the longer format allows participants the opportunity to explore the exhibits at their own pace, Meder said all of downtown Hays would benefit.

"It was wonderful for our downtown merchants, food service, the coffee shops, the restaurants, the wine bars," she said. "It proved to just have such a wonderful benefit for everyone. Plus, it gives everyone more time. And so instead of being congested in a short amount of time, we're diluting our audience over six hours instead of two or two and a half."

With the extra time, she hopes that participants will also take advantage of the services in downtown Hays.

The longer format also allows those hesitant to be in large group settings to partake.

"And you know that first Friday in December, it can be so cold and obviously it gets dark early," Meder said. "I've already left that thing in the 31 years I've been doing this, you leave on that Winter Art Walk night and scrape off a quarter-inch of ice off your windshield. And, and people do drive you in for that show — from three, four, even more than five hours away. Because the photographers are really fans of ... our photography exhibition. So, we thought, let's go on the Saturday and just make it this day of celebration in and around the downtown Hays area."

Kicking off events Saturday is a Winter Craft Fair and Market, scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon in the Fox Theatre, 1202 Main.

Also, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Sternberg Museum, a free lobby exhibition will explore&nbsp;The Dodo&nbsp;as a part of their ongoing exhibit along with 15th Century art reproductions and contemporary paintings.

While the art walk is kicking off at 10 a.m. downtown, Fort Hays State University will also have three exhibitions on display, including selected readings from Fort Hays State University Poet Laureate Jacob Buckman, in the Forsyth Library.

During the core times downtown, 16 stops are planned.

"We've got some music going on at Studio 809," Meder said. "We have the 5-State Photography, we've got two to two or three amazing exhibitions at the library. Got a book signing over at Regeena's is with Mary Kay Schippers and our fabulous family farm series (and we've) got a couple of things in the Chelsy Proehl Agency."

Also joining in this year, the Gamer's Guild and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth.

"It's just that first kind of a long block off a main there, but it's so worth going down there," Meder said. "Brandon Nims has an incredible setup down there. … They've had their game miniatures that are these wonderful terrain and figurative miniatures that the members of their organization create. So they're like original little sculptures.

"Also, the real ancient and respected martial art of Aikido, there are going to be those demonstrations going on. It truly is such an art and a connection and a personal expression. So, it really is a type of performing art in a way."

Demonstrations are planned for 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

"The historical society is coming back into the fold. They're going to be bringing out a bunch of their gorgeous historical quilt collection pieces and putting those on display at the stone church," Meder said.

"The Big Creek Quilt Guild is going to be bringing out their contemporary quilts, and small art quilts and lap quilts, as well as large things, and they're going to be down at Chroma Quilting," she added. "It's a wonderful variety of things. And it's all free that day."

And while there will be a variety of events in which to to partake, the centerpiece will be the 38th annual 5-State Photography Exhibition.

"It's always the anchor of the winter artwork, that's the thing that really gets people excited about coming out for it," Meder said. "And it was another successful year. We had 446 photographs entered by photographers from Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado and truly from all over. Of course, there's always more from Kansas, there's always more from our area, but we got work in from all of the states.

"There will be 150 photographs that will be up in our gallery, 150 8-by-10 photographs, and matted and framed on the walls in there," Meder said. "And the range of those images is incredibly broad. ... There's so much work that goes into it. There is so much exquisite work that's in the show."

She said with the busy holiday season, the exhibition will be up until Feb. 12, allowing ample time for anyone to see the show the ability to do so.

The show features photos of all types, from straightforward images to more abstract, she said, giving the audience a chance to explore the meaning behind each piece.

<a target="_blank" href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">For more information about the Winter Art Walk, visit haysartscouncil.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486723577.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Winter Art Walk scheduled for Saturday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=w37at-11471d7-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hays Art Council's Winter Art Walk is set to return Saturday with an all-day event spread throughout downtown and beyond, allowing locals and travelers a chance to experience a variety of artistic expression along with the features of downtown Hays."It's shaping up to be really wonderful," said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder.Historically, the art walk was scheduled for Friday evening, but after trying the new format during the pandemic, she said an all-day event has several benefits."After the success of the Spring Art Walk, which we did on that Saturday, after what would have been our first opening of the original opening night, we had such a great response. People seem to be more relaxed, when they were out, they were taking their time, and they were really enjoying each experience."And while the longer format allows participants the opportunity to explore the exhibits at their own pace, Meder said all of downtown Hays would benefit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486781857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"It was wonderful for our downtown merchants, food service, the coffee shops, the restaurants, the wine bars," she said. "It proved to just have such a wonderful benefit for everyone. Plus, it gives everyone more time. And so instead of being congested in a short amount of time, we're diluting our audience over six hours instead of two or two and a half."With the extra time, she hopes that participants will also take advantage of the services in downtown Hays.The longer format also allows those hesitant to be in large group settings to partake."And you know that first Friday in December, it can be so cold and obviously it gets dark early," Meder said. "I've already left that thing in the 31 years I've been doing this, you leave on that Winter Art Walk night and scrape off a quarter-inch of ice off your windshield. And, and people do drive you in for that show — from three, four, even more than five hours away. Because the photographers are really fans of ... our photography exhibition. So, we thought, let's go on the Saturday and just make it this day of celebration in and around the downtown Hays area."Kicking off events Saturday is a Winter Craft Fair and Market, scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon in the Fox Theatre, 1202 Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486703873.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Also, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Sternberg Museum, a free lobby exhibition will explore&nbsp;The Dodo&nbsp;as a part of their ongoing exhibit along with 15th Century art reproductions and contemporary paintings.While the art walk is kicking off at 10 a.m. downtown, Fort Hays State University will also have three exhibitions on display, including selected readings from Fort Hays State University Poet Laureate Jacob Buckman, in the Forsyth Library.During the core times downtown, 16 stops are planned."We've got some music going on at Studio 809," Meder said. "We have the 5-State Photography, we've got two to two or three amazing exhibitions at the library. Got a book signing over at Regeena's is with Mary Kay Schippers and our fabulous family farm series (and we've) got a couple of things in the Chelsy Proehl Agency."Also joining in this year, the Gamer's Guild and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486807205.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"It's just that first kind of a long block off a main there, but it's so worth going down there," Meder said. "Brandon Nims has an incredible setup down there. … They've had their game miniatures that are these wonderful terrain and figurative miniatures that the members of their organization create. So they're like original little sculptures."Also, the real ancient and respected martial art of Aikido, there are going to be those demonstrations going on. It truly is such an art and a connection and a personal expression. So, it really is a type of performing art in a way."Demonstrations are planned for 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m."The historical society is coming back into the fold. They're going to be bringing out a bunch of their gorgeous historical quilt collection pieces and putting those on display at the stone church," Meder said."The Big Creek Quilt Guild is going to be bringing out their contemporary quilts, and small art quilts and lap quilts, as well as large things, and they're going to be down at Chroma Quilting," she added. "It's a wonderful variety of things. And it's all free that day."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486822718.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>And while there will be a variety of events in which to to partake, the centerpiece will be the 38th annual 5-State Photography Exhibition."It's always the anchor of the winter artwork, that's the thing that really gets people excited about coming out for it," Meder said. "And it was another successful year. We had 446 photographs entered by photographers from Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado and truly from all over. Of course, there's always more from Kansas, there's always more from our area, but we got work in from all of the states."There will be 150 photographs that will be up in our gallery, 150 8-by-10 photographs, and matted and framed on the walls in there," Meder said. "And the range of those images is incredibly broad. ... There's so much work that goes into it. There is so much exquisite work that's in the show."She said with the busy holiday season, the exhibition will be up until Feb. 12, allowing ample time for anyone to see the show the ability to do so.The show features photos of all types, from straightforward images to more abstract, she said, giving the audience a chance to explore the meaning behind each piece."That's what good art does," Meder said.<a target="_blank" href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">For more information about the Winter Art Walk, visit haysartscouncil.org.</a>

🎙 38th Annual Five State Photography Exhibition to anchor all-day event 

Celebrate Frost Fest with the Hays Public Library on Dec. 18. The library will host a variety of activities throughout the day.

The fun will begin with a come-and-go breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Schmidt Gallery. Registration is not required for the breakfast. Santa will be available for pictures, and he’ll read to the kids at 10 a.m. in the children’s area.&nbsp;

In the afternoon, there will be craft projects and pictures with Chilly the Penguin from 1 to 4 p.m. The group TX3 will perform holiday music from 2 to 3 p.m. The library will close at 5 p.m. and then reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot cocoa in the lobby until the parade begins at 6 p.m.. The library will remain open during the parade.

Find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578606002336.jpeg" alt="Hays Public Library HPL January 2020-2.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Hays Public Library HPL January 2020-2.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLCelebrate Frost Fest with the Hays Public Library on Dec. 18. The library will host a variety of activities throughout the day.The fun will begin with a come-and-go breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Schmidt Gallery. Registration is not required for the breakfast. Santa will be available for pictures, and he’ll read to the kids at 10 a.m. in the children’s area.&nbsp;In the afternoon, there will be craft projects and pictures with Chilly the Penguin from 1 to 4 p.m. The group TX3 will perform holiday music from 2 to 3 p.m. The library will close at 5 p.m. and then reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot cocoa in the lobby until the parade begins at 6 p.m.. The library will remain open during the parade.Find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Frost Fest activities planned at Hays Public Library

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

Recent obituaries and service times

<div> <script src="https://embed-833507.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="64fdcb14-5f07-4584-be5a-9ed29847f8fa" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>Submit your nomination today!

Nations Auction Elite Realty Teacher of the Month

HUTCHINSON — Heartland Credit Union is expanding. The Hutchinson-based financial institution announced Thursday that they have reached an agreement to merge with Farmers Credit Union of Hays, according to a media release from the institution.

The merger would create a credit union with just over $500 million in assets and 33,000 members. One branch in Hays will join the eight HCU branches in Hutchinson, Haven, Newton and Wichita, including the Salthawk Center Branch inside Hutchinson High School. The combined credit unions will operate under the Heartland Credit Union name and leadership team.

Initial discussions regarding a potential merger started after Farmers President Guy Forell announced his intention to leave the credit union later in 2021. All other Farmers Credit Union employees will be retained. Farmers Credit Union will be entering into a management agreement with Heartland to ensure a smooth transition for members and employees.

“Our goal at Farmers Credit Union has always been to do what is right for our members,” Darren Walters, Board Chair of Farmers Credit Union said. “After evaluating several options and having extensive discussions regarding the future of the credit union, the decision to partner with Heartland Credit Union became clear. Their culture and commitment to excellent member service and superior products assures us this is the right move for our members. We are excited for the opportunity to welcome Farmers Credit Union members to Heartland,”

Dan Springer, Heartland Credit Union President/CEO said. “Our wide range of financial products, along with market leading rates, will provide excellent value to their members. It will also provide HCU the opportunity to expand our coverage area, better serving the growing number of Heartland members in central Kansas.”

The merger is contingent on final due diligence, regulatory approval, and a vote of the membership. Once regulatory approval is received, a merger packet and ballot will be made available to all members in good-standing. This should take place in the first quarter of 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638460749236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON — Heartland Credit Union is expanding. The Hutchinson-based financial institution announced Thursday that they have reached an agreement to merge with Farmers Credit Union of Hays, according to a media release from the institution.The merger would create a credit union with just over $500 million in assets and 33,000 members. One branch in Hays will join the eight HCU branches in Hutchinson, Haven, Newton and Wichita, including the Salthawk Center Branch inside Hutchinson High School. The combined credit unions will operate under the Heartland Credit Union name and leadership team.Initial discussions regarding a potential merger started after Farmers President Guy Forell announced his intention to leave the credit union later in 2021. All other Farmers Credit Union employees will be retained. Farmers Credit Union will be entering into a management agreement with Heartland to ensure a smooth transition for members and employees.“Our goal at Farmers Credit Union has always been to do what is right for our members,” Darren Walters, Board Chair of Farmers Credit Union said. “After evaluating several options and having extensive discussions regarding the future of the credit union, the decision to partner with Heartland Credit Union became clear. Their culture and commitment to excellent member service and superior products assures us this is the right move for our members. We are excited for the opportunity to welcome Farmers Credit Union members to Heartland,”Dan Springer, Heartland Credit Union President/CEO said. “Our wide range of financial products, along with market leading rates, will provide excellent value to their members. It will also provide HCU the opportunity to expand our coverage area, better serving the growing number of Heartland members in central Kansas.”The merger is contingent on final due diligence, regulatory approval, and a vote of the membership. Once regulatory approval is received, a merger packet and ballot will be made available to all members in good-standing. This should take place in the first quarter of 2022.

Farmers Credit Union of Hays will merge with Hutch institution

Three-day weather outlook

Staring at the two deer mounts on our living room wall, and the fact that Kansas deer rifles season opens this week, brought back memories of the hunts when we harvested those two deer and also memories of the process of getting them mounted. Both deer came from ground farmed by my wife’s family in southwestern KS. The very nice nine-point whitetail was my wife’s first buck, and the dandy ten-point mule deer was my first big buck, so we decided to spend the money to have them both mounted. Immediately after we got home that year, I took both the heads to a taxidermist, thinking that was the end of our responsibility. Not so, and let me see if I can explain the process.

When a taxidermist receives an animal or fish, the first step is removing the skin so it can be tanned or processed. With deer, the meat processing plant or the hunter removes the head from the animal, along with the hide down past the shoulders; this hide is known as the “cape.” The head and the cape are then taken to the taxidermist. The taxidermist carefully skins out the head, removes the top of the skull with both antlers intact, tags and stores the antlers and sends the cape to be tanned. That tanned cape, with the corresponding antlers, is eventually fitted over a form made from a hard foam material. This form ultimately determines the “pose” of the finished mount. Note; if having you animal processed at a commercial processing plant, MAKE CERTAIN to tell them to cape-out the head so you have enough hide for the mount, otherwise they will cut the skin way too short for the taxidermist.

Next step is choosing how you want you deer head “posed.” I felt like I was at a portrait studio trying to choose final pictures for the church directory. Without thinking, I assumed our only choice was to have both deer looking away from the wall! Not so! There are four basic “poses” or positions, and several variations of each. They all center around the state of alertness you want the animal to replicate, and the direction you want it looking. The first of the four basic positions poses the head extremely low with ears laid back as if the buck were sneaking. The subsequent three each raise the head higher until the final basic view shows the deer on “full alert” and ready to bolt. The look we chose shows our bucks with upright heads, but not startled, and one looking each direction, as if at each other.

Another option to an expensive full-shoulder mount is simply having the antlers mounted on a nice plaque. Few taxidermists will do this anymore, but kits are available for you to do it yourself. In my office hangs a nice heavy set of antlers from a buck I found dead on our Ohio farm when I was a kid. A third option that has become very popular of late is called a “European Mount” which consists of the bare skull with the antlers attached. These can be decorated or painted for a unique look. A couple years ago I gave my sister a nice European Mounted rack from a buck I harvested on her property. Her home décor is western and southwest, so I mounted it on a weathered piece of barnwood and hung some old rusty barbed-wire on its antlers.

Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to have a fish or animal mounted. Trophies do not have to be determined by size alone. Unusual shapes and colors of fish and animals can make them memorable. The situation surrounding the catch or hunt may be worthy also, like a son’s first turkey, or in our case, my wife’s first buck, which was also harvested on her uncle’s land. Good quality pictures are very important too. Who knows, maybe a picture will be your trophy. A classy plaque sporting a good picture makes a very attractive memento.

The mount’s “final resting place” in your home should absolutely be defined and agreed upon by harvester and spouse. This issue has been the source of much conflict between mates over the years. Hopefully your significant other has their priorities right and sees it your way!&nbsp;

Cost is also a factor. While I realize a price cannot be put on everything, think reasonably. Shoulder mounts, which are the most popular are costing above $600 now. I found out many taxidermists no longer do simple antler mounts, but the one that do charge around $150, or you can buy the DYI kit for only a few bucks. There are a few guys around who do European mounts which will cost around $100.&nbsp;

Selecting which wildlife artist to trust with your prize is the final step. Recommendations from other sportsmen are probably the best litmus tests of all. Look at work done by those you’re considering, even visit them at their shops. They will gladly spend time with you, because they are fellow outdoorsmen and understand how important this decision is.

We didn’t choose to have our deer mounted merely to brag about them or our skills (although I could hardly wait for my brother to see them.) Each time we look at these awesome examples of God’s creation, we want to be able to close our eyes and watch again the scenes of the hunt unfold around us; to sense the exhilaration as we wait for each buck to give us just that “right” shot; to feel anew the pride and gratitude for the opportunity we had been given…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Staring at the two deer mounts on our living room wall, and the fact that Kansas deer rifles season opens this week, brought back memories of the hunts when we harvested those two deer and also memories of the process of getting them mounted. Both deer came from ground farmed by my wife’s family in southwestern KS. The very nice nine-point whitetail was my wife’s first buck, and the dandy ten-point mule deer was my first big buck, so we decided to spend the money to have them both mounted. Immediately after we got home that year, I took both the heads to a taxidermist, thinking that was the end of our responsibility. Not so, and let me see if I can explain the process.When a taxidermist receives an animal or fish, the first step is removing the skin so it can be tanned or processed. With deer, the meat processing plant or the hunter removes the head from the animal, along with the hide down past the shoulders; this hide is known as the “cape.” The head and the cape are then taken to the taxidermist. The taxidermist carefully skins out the head, removes the top of the skull with both antlers intact, tags and stores the antlers and sends the cape to be tanned. That tanned cape, with the corresponding antlers, is eventually fitted over a form made from a hard foam material. This form ultimately determines the “pose” of the finished mount. Note; if having you animal processed at a commercial processing plant, MAKE CERTAIN to tell them to cape-out the head so you have enough hide for the mount, otherwise they will cut the skin way too short for the taxidermist.Next step is choosing how you want you deer head “posed.” I felt like I was at a portrait studio trying to choose final pictures for the church directory. Without thinking, I assumed our only choice was to have both deer looking away from the wall! Not so! There are four basic “poses” or positions, and several variations of each. They all center around the state of alertness you want the animal to replicate, and the direction you want it looking. The first of the four basic positions poses the head extremely low with ears laid back as if the buck were sneaking. The subsequent three each raise the head higher until the final basic view shows the deer on “full alert” and ready to bolt. The look we chose shows our bucks with upright heads, but not startled, and one looking each direction, as if at each other.Another option to an expensive full-shoulder mount is simply having the antlers mounted on a nice plaque. Few taxidermists will do this anymore, but kits are available for you to do it yourself. In my office hangs a nice heavy set of antlers from a buck I found dead on our Ohio farm when I was a kid. A third option that has become very popular of late is called a “European Mount” which consists of the bare skull with the antlers attached. These can be decorated or painted for a unique look. A couple years ago I gave my sister a nice European Mounted rack from a buck I harvested on her property. Her home décor is western and southwest, so I mounted it on a weathered piece of barnwood and hung some old rusty barbed-wire on its antlers.Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to have a fish or animal mounted. Trophies do not have to be determined by size alone. Unusual shapes and colors of fish and animals can make them memorable. The situation surrounding the catch or hunt may be worthy also, like a son’s first turkey, or in our case, my wife’s first buck, which was also harvested on her uncle’s land. Good quality pictures are very important too. Who knows, maybe a picture will be your trophy. A classy plaque sporting a good picture makes a very attractive memento.The mount’s “final resting place” in your home should absolutely be defined and agreed upon by harvester and spouse. This issue has been the source of much conflict between mates over the years. Hopefully your significant other has their priorities right and sees it your way!&nbsp;Cost is also a factor. While I realize a price cannot be put on everything, think reasonably. Shoulder mounts, which are the most popular are costing above $600 now. I found out many taxidermists no longer do simple antler mounts, but the one that do charge around $150, or you can buy the DYI kit for only a few bucks. There are a few guys around who do European mounts which will cost around $100.&nbsp;Selecting which wildlife artist to trust with your prize is the final step. Recommendations from other sportsmen are probably the best litmus tests of all. Look at work done by those you’re considering, even visit them at their shops. They will gladly spend time with you, because they are fellow outdoorsmen and understand how important this decision is.We didn’t choose to have our deer mounted merely to brag about them or our skills (although I could hardly wait for my brother to see them.) Each time we look at these awesome examples of God’s creation, we want to be able to close our eyes and watch again the scenes of the hunt unfold around us; to sense the exhilaration as we wait for each buck to give us just that “right” shot; to feel anew the pride and gratitude for the opportunity we had been given…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: A trip to the taxidermist

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the Hays High Indians at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.

The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the Hays High Indians at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Hays High

The Hays High Indian boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the TMP-Marian Monarchs  at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indian boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the TMP-Marian Monarchs at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High vs Thomas More Prep-Marian

The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees voted in September 2021, to retire $1 million in capital credits to eligible cooperative members. This year, eligible active members will see their capital credit in the form of a bill credit, visible either via SmartHub or on their December paper bill.

Electric cooperatives, like ours, operate at a cost. Any revenue above the cost of doing business (called margins) are repaid to the members in later years through capital credits. The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and their duration of membership. The payout years for this capital credit retirement are 1989 and 2020.

Every year, our trustees evaluate the financial condition of the cooperative to determine if we can retire capital credits. One of our seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, and capital credits is just one way we honor the cooperative spirit!

Inactive members or persons not currently purchasing their electricity from Wheatland Electric who were distribution members during the payout years will receive a paper check for any amount over $20. It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members to ensure the delivery of the capital credit checks. To confirm or update your mailing address, please call Wheatland Electric at 800-762-0436.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, Wheatland Electric will not host capital credit Harvest Days events this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638456935506.png" alt="The City of Lakin receives a capital credits payout from Wheatland Electric earlier this year from funds retired in 2020." />
 <figcaption>The City of Lakin receives a capital credits payout from Wheatland Electric earlier this year from funds retired in 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom Wheatland Electric...The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees voted in September 2021, to retire $1 million in capital credits to eligible cooperative members. This year, eligible active members will see their capital credit in the form of a bill credit, visible either via SmartHub or on their December paper bill.Electric cooperatives, like ours, operate at a cost. Any revenue above the cost of doing business (called margins) are repaid to the members in later years through capital credits. The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and their duration of membership. The payout years for this capital credit retirement are 1989 and 2020.Every year, our trustees evaluate the financial condition of the cooperative to determine if we can retire capital credits. One of our seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, and capital credits is just one way we honor the cooperative spirit!Inactive members or persons not currently purchasing their electricity from Wheatland Electric who were distribution members during the payout years will receive a paper check for any amount over $20. It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members to ensure the delivery of the capital credit checks. To confirm or update your mailing address, please call Wheatland Electric at 800-762-0436.Due to the ongoing pandemic, Wheatland Electric will not host capital credit Harvest Days events this year.

Wheatland Electric returns $1M in capital credits to members

Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World. These eight words are the guiding principles of Fort Hays State University alumnus Peter J. Werth. Indeed, I have witnessed over and over again his kindness, the tremendous impact he has had on teaching and learning at FHSU, and how Peter has changed not only our world but the lives of so many.&nbsp;

Starting with a $25 gift in 1981, and steadily expanding for more than 40 years, Peter has given generously to our women’s basketball program, departments of applied technology and chemistry, the entrepreneurship program housed in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, the Honors College, and the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.&nbsp;

Who is Peter J. Werth? If you read his biography, you will know that he has been a transformative visionary leader for more than fifty years. He is the founder, CEO, and president of ChemWerth Inc., Woodbridge, Conn., and a 1959 FHSU graduate with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He also earned a master’s in organic chemistry from Stanford University. Peter began his career with Hewlett-Packard in 1961.

In 1964, he worked as a staff scientist at Spindletop Research before becoming the head chemist for Upjohn Pharmaceuticals (now Pfizer). In 1965, he became manager of Upjohn's R&amp;D department. From 1975 to 1983, Peter served as vice president of sales and marketing for Ganes Chemicals. Peter founded ChemWerth in 1982 to develop active pharmaceutical ingredients to produce generic drugs. Today, Peter serves on several boards and is connected to several startup companies as an Angel investor.&nbsp;

Another scan of his biography reveals the many awards he has received, including the FHSU Alumni Achievement Award. He also has received honorary doctorate degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. The good works of his family foundation, his many charitable contributions, and the impact of his work have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people all over the world. &nbsp;

However, the elements of his story that most resonate with me are his humble beginnings, strong work ethic, kindness, and the direct, personal impact he has had on so many individuals.&nbsp;

Peter grew up in Hays, Kansas. Born into modest beginnings, he was one of eight children. His parents owned The Mecca, a local restaurant at the corner of 27th and Vine, the current location of Walgreens. He learned the value of hard work early in life. Peter and his siblings all helped out at the restaurant, famous for its hamburgers. When not studying or working at the restaurant, Peter could also be found mowing the acres of grass in the cemetery across the street. Hard work was a lesson all the Werth children learned early and often. These lessons not only powered him through college but also helped fuel his success throughout his career.

Having had the honor of spending time with Peter and watching him interact with many people, I have been most inspired by how he selflessly develops and champions opportunities for our students that are extraordinarily impactful. We are deeply indebted to Peter for his generous financial support for our Tiger women’s basketball program. But what differentiates Peter’s impact is his focus on crafting peak experiences for our student-athletes – like flying our team to Connecticut to meet legendary coach Geno Auriemma and practice and play an exhibition game against his UConn Huskies, one of the top women’s basketball teams in NCAA Division I. Our student-athletes will remember that experience for the rest of their lives.

“This definitely was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players,” said FHSU’s Kacey Kennett, who actually was making her second trip to UConn with Peter and the Tiger team – her first time back in 2017 as a player and this year as a graduate assistant coach.&nbsp;

“A lot of Division I teams don’t even get to play UConn,” Kacey added, “so this opportunity – and all the opportunities I have gotten by attending Fort Hays State – I will cherish forever.”

I am also awed by how compassionately he connects with others and his ongoing commitment to helping break down barriers for our students. As a very recent example, Peter is planning to fund the education expenses of a young Nepal woman, Nyima Gyalmu Lama, and send her to FHSU to study nursing. If Nyima can get her Visa by January, she might be able to begin her dream of becoming a nurse as early as the spring 2022 semester!

Recently, a delegation of FHSU faculty and staff had the opportunity to travel to UConn to visit the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. There, we met sophomore Allie Davenport, who, like Peter, has dreams of making our world better.&nbsp;

Allie was a high school athlete who developed a medical condition known as paradoxical vocal fold motion, a breathing disorder where the vocal cords function abnormally, restricting airflow during respiration. Allie learned that one of the underlying causes of this condition is anxiety.

“My mind was powerful enough to trigger my vocal cords to malfunction and restrict airflow,” she explained.

Allie underwent months of speech therapy to help her retrain her body how to breathe and her mind how to resist a panic mode and to relax. Her journey fueled her passion for mental wellness and for helping to make a difference for others on their personal wellness journey.

With the support of the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Allie set out to make a difference in the lives of others through the creation of StarMind – an interactive journal that combines daily self-reflection logs, thought-provoking activities, and a series of QR codes that leads the journalist to digital resources and tools on specific psychology-related concepts.

Allie did not just receive funding for an idea. Focusing on experiences, Peter provided her with an audience of FHSU faculty to hear her story and her pitch. We marveled at her passion and dedication. We expressed our enthusiastic support and encouragement. Several purchased journals on the spot while Peter purchased a book for the entire Tiger team and their parents who were present that day.

Like our basketball players and our Nepali nursing student, I bet Allie will remember that day and the connections she made with FHSU Tigers for a very long time. I will maintain an email relationship with Allie myself – encouraging her heart to continue to inspire the hearts and minds of others.&nbsp;

Some may know Peter Werth as a “rags to riches” story, others as an astute and accomplished businessman. I will always see him as someone who has lived his mantra: Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World. These eight words are the guiding principles of Fort Hays State University alumnus Peter J. Werth. Indeed, I have witnessed over and over again his kindness, the tremendous impact he has had on teaching and learning at FHSU, and how Peter has changed not only our world but the lives of so many.&nbsp;Starting with a $25 gift in 1981, and steadily expanding for more than 40 years, Peter has given generously to our women’s basketball program, departments of applied technology and chemistry, the entrepreneurship program housed in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, the Honors College, and the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.&nbsp;Who is Peter J. Werth? If you read his biography, you will know that he has been a transformative visionary leader for more than fifty years. He is the founder, CEO, and president of ChemWerth Inc., Woodbridge, Conn., and a 1959 FHSU graduate with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He also earned a master’s in organic chemistry from Stanford University. Peter began his career with Hewlett-Packard in 1961.In 1964, he worked as a staff scientist at Spindletop Research before becoming the head chemist for Upjohn Pharmaceuticals (now Pfizer). In 1965, he became manager of Upjohn's R&amp;D department. From 1975 to 1983, Peter served as vice president of sales and marketing for Ganes Chemicals. Peter founded ChemWerth in 1982 to develop active pharmaceutical ingredients to produce generic drugs. Today, Peter serves on several boards and is connected to several startup companies as an Angel investor.&nbsp;Another scan of his biography reveals the many awards he has received, including the FHSU Alumni Achievement Award. He also has received honorary doctorate degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. The good works of his family foundation, his many charitable contributions, and the impact of his work have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people all over the world. &nbsp;However, the elements of his story that most resonate with me are his humble beginnings, strong work ethic, kindness, and the direct, personal impact he has had on so many individuals.&nbsp;Peter grew up in Hays, Kansas. Born into modest beginnings, he was one of eight children. His parents owned The Mecca, a local restaurant at the corner of 27th and Vine, the current location of Walgreens. He learned the value of hard work early in life. Peter and his siblings all helped out at the restaurant, famous for its hamburgers. When not studying or working at the restaurant, Peter could also be found mowing the acres of grass in the cemetery across the street. Hard work was a lesson all the Werth children learned early and often. These lessons not only powered him through college but also helped fuel his success throughout his career.Having had the honor of spending time with Peter and watching him interact with many people, I have been most inspired by how he selflessly develops and champions opportunities for our students that are extraordinarily impactful. We are deeply indebted to Peter for his generous financial support for our Tiger women’s basketball program. But what differentiates Peter’s impact is his focus on crafting peak experiences for our student-athletes – like flying our team to Connecticut to meet legendary coach Geno Auriemma and practice and play an exhibition game against his UConn Huskies, one of the top women’s basketball teams in NCAA Division I. Our student-athletes will remember that experience for the rest of their lives.“This definitely was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players,” said FHSU’s Kacey Kennett, who actually was making her second trip to UConn with Peter and the Tiger team – her first time back in 2017 as a player and this year as a graduate assistant coach.&nbsp;“A lot of Division I teams don’t even get to play UConn,” Kacey added, “so this opportunity – and all the opportunities I have gotten by attending Fort Hays State – I will cherish forever.”I am also awed by how compassionately he connects with others and his ongoing commitment to helping break down barriers for our students. As a very recent example, Peter is planning to fund the education expenses of a young Nepal woman, Nyima Gyalmu Lama, and send her to FHSU to study nursing. If Nyima can get her Visa by January, she might be able to begin her dream of becoming a nurse as early as the spring 2022 semester!Recently, a delegation of FHSU faculty and staff had the opportunity to travel to UConn to visit the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. There, we met sophomore Allie Davenport, who, like Peter, has dreams of making our world better.&nbsp;Allie was a high school athlete who developed a medical condition known as paradoxical vocal fold motion, a breathing disorder where the vocal cords function abnormally, restricting airflow during respiration. Allie learned that one of the underlying causes of this condition is anxiety.“My mind was powerful enough to trigger my vocal cords to malfunction and restrict airflow,” she explained.Allie underwent months of speech therapy to help her retrain her body how to breathe and her mind how to resist a panic mode and to relax. Her journey fueled her passion for mental wellness and for helping to make a difference for others on their personal wellness journey.With the support of the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Allie set out to make a difference in the lives of others through the creation of StarMind – an interactive journal that combines daily self-reflection logs, thought-provoking activities, and a series of QR codes that leads the journalist to digital resources and tools on specific psychology-related concepts.Allie did not just receive funding for an idea. Focusing on experiences, Peter provided her with an audience of FHSU faculty to hear her story and her pitch. We marveled at her passion and dedication. We expressed our enthusiastic support and encouragement. Several purchased journals on the spot while Peter purchased a book for the entire Tiger team and their parents who were present that day.Like our basketball players and our Nepali nursing student, I bet Allie will remember that day and the connections she made with FHSU Tigers for a very long time. I will maintain an email relationship with Allie myself – encouraging her heart to continue to inspire the hearts and minds of others.&nbsp;Some may know Peter Werth as a “rags to riches” story, others as an astute and accomplished businessman. I will always see him as someone who has lived his mantra: Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World.&nbsp;

MASON: FHSU alum changing the world one experience at a time

The Kansas Geological Survey reported an earthquake was detected in Russell County on Wednesday.

The&nbsp;2.9-magnitude quake occurred at 10:22 p.m. in the far northeast corner of the county.

The Kansas Geological Survey reported an earthquake was detected in Russell County on Wednesday.The&nbsp;2.9-magnitude quake occurred at 10:22 p.m. in the far northeast corner of the county.

2.9-magnitude earthquake detected in Russell Co.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school district outlined three options for a bond issue at a meeting of educators, community members and administrators Wednesday night.

Each option includes building a new school. Ninety percent of district's educators and 86 percent of the district's community bond committee have said they favored closing Lincoln Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center, which would require building a new school.

The district has not decided on any specific option, and all options are still open to changes.

All three options would include a new auditorium at the high school. They also would include larger classrooms.

Option one includes building a new high school, moving the middle school into the renovated high school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school.

O'Loughlin and Roosvelt Elementary schools would be renovated. Rockwell and Lincoln would be closed. Administrative offices would be relocated into the Wilson Elementary building, and Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.

Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. 

The median cost of a home in Hays is $169,000.

The district bond counsel also calculated what the cost of each bond would be if a portion of the cost was paid for through a local sales tax. The cost for the new high school option with a sales tax would be $21.92 per month on a $150,000 home.

The district's architect and bond counsel also figured the cost for doing the bond work in two phases. However, each section of the bond would have to pass separately years apart.

All of the people surveyed at the meeting Wednesday night said they thought a single inclusive bond was more likely to pass.

&nbsp;Option two would include renovation of the high school, building a new middle school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school. This option would then follow the same path in option one with the other schools. 

Estimated cost for option two would be $139.1 million. The cost per month on a $150,000 home using property tax only would be $32.34. Cost with property and sales tax would be $20.84 per month.

Option three would be to build a new three-section elementary school, and renovate the middle school, high school, Roosevelt, O'Loughlin and Wilson. Rockwell would be closed and relocated to Lincoln. Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.

Cost of option three would be $123.1 million. Cost per month on a $150,000 home using only property tax would be $28.75. Cost with property tax and sales tax combined would be $17.25 per month.

Seventy-six percent of the attendees surveyed Wednesday night said they thought option one, which included a new high school, would be the mostly likely bond issue to pass. 

Seventy-two percent of the attendees said they thought the district should consider using sales tax to help fund the bond project.

Ron Wilson, superintendent, said the Hays school district is one of the few districts in the state that does not receive state aid for bonds.

Hays has a 1.71 pull factor. That means for every $1 spent in the city, 71 cents is being spent by someone from outside of the city. Using sales tax revenue would mean people from outside Hays would help pay for the bond.

"We have to be creative how we leverage our resources in our community," Wilson said. "This is a way to get people from the outside to pay.

"This is how can we leverage every resource we can and we can be equal to other school districts in the state."

The Hays City Commission would have to approve the use of sales tax for a bond issue. It would also be a separate question on the ballot. 

Shaun Musil, newly re-elected city commissioner, said he thought the school district should use sales tax for the bond.

Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber, said the district tried to pass a bond that included sales tax before and it failed by the largest margin of any of the options offered in that bond vote.

The district is seeking further input on a bond from the community at large through a survey that is now available on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">district's website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysUSD489">social media</a>.

The district will also host a community bond forum at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at the 12th Street Auditorium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638416629800.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school district outlined three options for a bond issue at a meeting of educators, community members and administrators Wednesday night.Each option includes building a new school. Ninety percent of district's educators and 86 percent of the district's community bond committee have said they favored closing Lincoln Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center, which would require building a new school.The district has not decided on any specific option, and all options are still open to changes.All three options would include a new auditorium at the high school. They also would include larger classrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413524691.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 1. Build a new high school " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 1. Build a new high school </figcaption>
 </figure>Option one includes building a new high school, moving the middle school into the renovated high school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school.O'Loughlin and Roosvelt Elementary schools would be renovated. Rockwell and Lincoln would be closed. Administrative offices would be relocated into the Wilson Elementary building, and Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. The median cost of a home in Hays is $169,000.The district bond counsel also calculated what the cost of each bond would be if a portion of the cost was paid for through a local sales tax. The cost for the new high school option with a sales tax would be $21.92 per month on a $150,000 home. The district's architect and bond counsel also figured the cost for doing the bond work in two phases. However, each section of the bond would have to pass separately years apart.All of the people surveyed at the meeting Wednesday night said they thought a single inclusive bond was more likely to pass.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413610697.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 2. Build a new middle school " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 2. Build a new middle school </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Option two would include renovation of the high school, building a new middle school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school. This option would then follow the same path in option one with the other schools. Estimated cost for option two would be $139.1 million. The cost per month on a $150,000 home using property tax only would be $32.34. Cost with property and sales tax would be $20.84 per month.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413689126.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 3. Build a new elementary school. " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 3. Build a new elementary school. </figcaption>
 </figure>Option three would be to build a new three-section elementary school, and renovate the middle school, high school, Roosevelt, O'Loughlin and Wilson. Rockwell would be closed and relocated to Lincoln. Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.Cost of option three would be $123.1 million. Cost per month on a $150,000 home using only property tax would be $28.75. Cost with property tax and sales tax combined would be $17.25 per month.Seventy-six percent of the attendees surveyed Wednesday night said they thought option one, which included a new high school, would be the mostly likely bond issue to pass. Seventy-two percent of the attendees said they thought the district should consider using sales tax to help fund the bond project.Ron Wilson, superintendent, said the Hays school district is one of the few districts in the state that does not receive state aid for bonds.Hays has a 1.71 pull factor. That means for every $1 spent in the city, 71 cents is being spent by someone from outside of the city. Using sales tax revenue would mean people from outside Hays would help pay for the bond. "We have to be creative how we leverage our resources in our community," Wilson said. "This is a way to get people from the outside to pay."This is how can we leverage every resource we can and we can be equal to other school districts in the state."The Hays City Commission would have to approve the use of sales tax for a bond issue. It would also be a separate question on the ballot. Shaun Musil, newly re-elected city commissioner, said he thought the school district should use sales tax for the bond.Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber, said the district tried to pass a bond that included sales tax before and it failed by the largest margin of any of the options offered in that bond vote.The district is seeking further input on a bond from the community at large through a survey that is now available on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">district's website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysUSD489">social media</a>. The district will also host a community bond forum at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at the 12th Street Auditorium.

Hays bond committee discusses building new schools, bond costs

Fort Hays State University is calling back its elves to work for the university’s annual toy-building event.

The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.&nbsp;

The project, started in 1990, took on a new look last year. For more than 30 years, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble about 200 wooden toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive Christmas gifts. The community-participation portion of the event was canceled last year because of Covid-19 concerns. And completion of toys fell on the shoulders of faculty and students in FHSU’s chapter of Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA).

The Department of Applied Technology is happy to announce that TUFT Day is returning to its traditional in-person format this year, and Santa’s helpers of all ages are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.

Students in the Materials, Processes, and Production classes – taught by Assistant Professor Zach Pixler – produce several designs for the toy. Pixler and Kim Stewart, department chair, then choose the design. This year’s toy will be a transforming robot. Pixler’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638302573313.jpeg" alt="FHSU Assistant Professor Zach Pixler explains the design of the wooden toy that will be assembled at Saturday’s annual toy-building event." />
 <figcaption>FHSU Assistant Professor Zach Pixler explains the design of the wooden toy that will be assembled at Saturday’s annual toy-building event.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University is calling back its elves to work for the university’s annual toy-building event.The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.&nbsp;The project, started in 1990, took on a new look last year. For more than 30 years, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble about 200 wooden toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive Christmas gifts. The community-participation portion of the event was canceled last year because of Covid-19 concerns. And completion of toys fell on the shoulders of faculty and students in FHSU’s chapter of Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA).The Department of Applied Technology is happy to announce that TUFT Day is returning to its traditional in-person format this year, and Santa’s helpers of all ages are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.Students in the Materials, Processes, and Production classes – taught by Assistant Professor Zach Pixler – produce several designs for the toy. Pixler and Kim Stewart, department chair, then choose the design. This year’s toy will be a transforming robot. Pixler’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.

FHSU toy-building event returns to traditional format

The Hays Police Department raised $1,200 for Your Voice Through Cancer through its No Shave November.

Participants agreed to not shave in November.

Master Police Officer Ethan Henderson lead the project.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638395051269.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Department at start of No Shave November " />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Department at start of No Shave November </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638395089879.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Department at the end of No Shave November" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Department at the end of No Shave November</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department raised $1,200 for Your Voice Through Cancer through its No Shave November.Participants agreed to not shave in November. Master Police Officer Ethan Henderson lead the project.&nbsp;

Hays PD raises $1,200 for cancer charity in 'No Shave November'

Dustin Michael Braun, 36, was arrested at 2:18 a.m. Nov. 25 in the 500 block of West 12th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Matthew Michael Hook Jr., 21, was arrested at 1:38 a.m. Nov. 26 in the 500 block of West Seventh on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and transporting an open container.

Devin Oliver Spencer, 18, was arrested at 11:03 p.m. Nov. 27 in the 700 block of Main on suspicion of underage purchase/possession/consumption of alcohol.

Shanna Rae Smith, 35, was arrested at 1:15 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 4300 block of Vine on suspicion of theft.

Patrick Jameson Newman, 43, was arrested at 7:58 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 1500 block of Milner on suspicion of drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal trespass and interference with a law enforcement official.

Brooklyn St. Clair, 31, was arrested at 10:40 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 500 block of East Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery, failure to appear and battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>——————————————Dustin Michael Braun, 36, was arrested at 2:18 a.m. Nov. 25 in the 500 block of West 12th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Matthew Michael Hook Jr., 21, was arrested at 1:38 a.m. Nov. 26 in the 500 block of West Seventh on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and transporting an open container.Devin Oliver Spencer, 18, was arrested at 11:03 p.m. Nov. 27 in the 700 block of Main on suspicion of underage purchase/possession/consumption of alcohol.Shanna Rae Smith, 35, was arrested at 1:15 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 4300 block of Vine on suspicion of theft.Patrick Jameson Newman, 43, was arrested at 7:58 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 1500 block of Milner on suspicion of drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal trespass and interference with a law enforcement official.Brooklyn St. Clair, 31, was arrested at 10:40 p.m. Nov. 28 in the 500 block of East Eighth on suspicion of domestic battery, failure to appear and battery.

HPD arrest log, Nov. 25 to 28

Josiah Curtis Grizzle, 18, was arrested at 10:07 a.m. Nov. 23 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Abigail Christine Buchholz, 24, was arrested at 5:07 p.m. Nov. 23 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of aggravated sexual battery, sexual exploitation of a child and breach of privacy.

Ashton Riley Herrman, 18, was arrested at 1:37 p.m. Nov. 22 in the 2400 block of Main Street Terrace on suspicion of aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, aggravated burglary, aggravated endangerment of a child and contributing to the misconduct of a child.

David Lawrence Cox, 57, was arrested at 8:54 p.m. Nov. 23 in the 1500 block of Ash on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>——————————————Josiah Curtis Grizzle, 18, was arrested at 10:07 a.m. Nov. 23 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.Abigail Christine Buchholz, 24, was arrested at 5:07 p.m. Nov. 23 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of aggravated sexual battery, sexual exploitation of a child and breach of privacy.Ashton Riley Herrman, 18, was arrested at 1:37 p.m. Nov. 22 in the 2400 block of Main Street Terrace on suspicion of aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, aggravated burglary, aggravated endangerment of a child and contributing to the misconduct of a child.David Lawrence Cox, 57, was arrested at 8:54 p.m. Nov. 23 in the 1500 block of Ash on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

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