By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

HAYS, Kan. - Since its early days as a “normal school,” or teacher’s college, FHSU has gone by several names: Western Branch of the Kansas Normal School, Fort Hays State Kansas State Normal School, Kansas State Teachers College of Hays, and Fort Hays State College. One central fact that has been at the core of all these changes is that Fort Hays State has been training teachers for more than 120 years. Our Department of Teacher Education signs nearly 1,000 teaching license applications annually.

Rising senior Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher, is from Maple City in Cowley County, Kansas. She knew at an early age that she learned best and thoroughly enjoyed hands-on learning, especially building things out of wood in shop class.

“I made all sorts of furniture in high school shop class,” Josie said. “I made a nightstand, a dresser, and bookshelves. For my senior project, I designed and built my own desk.”

Initially, Josie wanted to be an architecture major and began her college career with this in mind. She quickly realized the program would not be as hands-on or give her the opportunity to make the impact she wanted.

“The first year in the program mostly involved manual drafting and learning the basic principles of architecture,” Josie said.

Her desire to make an impact on others was a big factor in her decision to transfer. She thought she might be able to make that impact as a teacher. Josie shared her frustration with her boss in the Architecture Department’s construction shop, where she worked as a student employee. Like her high school shop teacher, her boss happened to be a graduate of FHSU’s Applied Technology program.

Josie decided that she wanted to be a shop teacher because she’d seen through her own experiences that it can be a daunting subject for most students. “My goal is to change that for my students, no matter how long they are in my classroom,” Josie said.

She had heard about the FHSU program from her high school shop teacher. When Josie visited FHSU with her dad and brother, she loved what she found.

I call Josie a pathfinder for several reasons. She is currently the only female enrolled in the technology and engineering program and in a degree track that will lead to becoming a teacher.

She is also a pathfinder in how she dove into a student leadership role in the Applied Technology Department.

Since transferring to FHSU in 2022, she has served as an officer in the university’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) chapter. Josie then successfully applied to join TEECA’s National Student Officer Team and served as the President-Elect for the 2023-2024 school year, where she helped organize TEECA events for the annual International

Technology and Engineering Educators (ITEEA) conference in Memphis, Tennessee. She will serve as president for the 2024-2025 academic year and will be leading the team to prepare for the 2025 ITEEA conference in St. Louis, Missouri.

Zach Pixler, an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Technology, said this of Josie: “She has become an integral part of our organization. Her work ethic, attention to detail, and organization skills, along with her ability to foster positive relationships with her peers, make her a very strong leader.”

This remarkable young woman is also a pathfinder in the way she has represented FHSU in typically male-dominated national competitions in her chosen discipline. At the most recent ITEEA conference in March, she was awarded the ITEEA Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship and earned National Champion honors in the Teaching Lesson competition. Her winning lesson involved amplifying the soundwaves from a cell phone playing Elvis Presley's music by placing the phone in a laser-cut all-wood box amplifier.

Josie looks forward to the opportunity to make a difference in her classroom, community, and professional field. This fall, she will complete a 40-hour internship observing a shop teacher in a secondary school. Next spring, Josie will complete her capstone student teaching experience. She wants to do that close to Hays so she can remain involved in TEECA and her Applied Technology community at FHSU.

Josie will graduate in May 2025. She is very well-prepared for her career and ready to serve where she is most needed. And thanks to FHSU’s commitment to affordability and several scholarships Josie earned, including the Kansas Board of Regents funded Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, she will graduate debt-free.

“I really want to get through college debt-free. And as it stands now, I'm gonna make it,” Josie said.

Originally, Josie didn’t see herself as a pathfinder. She picked this academic degree and career path because she just wanted to be happy. Since then, she’s realized the great need for role models like her in technology education, especially for women.

“I want to show my students that a career involving building cool stuff is a great choice, but one that involves teaching students to become builders themselves is an even better one.”

Simply put, Josie wants to serve as a champion for promoting teaching technology and engineering education as a rewarding career choice.

“Even if I never find someone like me in this field, I still want to be that example for others,” Josie said. “I know that as a teacher, I will have the power to change the lives of my students, and with my experiences at FHSU, I will be ready for that challenge.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentHAYS, Kan. - Since its early days as a “normal school,” or teacher’s college, FHSU has gone by several names: Western Branch of the Kansas Normal School, Fort Hays State Kansas State Normal School, Kansas State Teachers College of Hays, and Fort Hays State College. One central fact that has been at the core of all these changes is that Fort Hays State has been training teachers for more than 120 years. Our Department of Teacher Education signs nearly 1,000 teaching license applications annually.Rising senior Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher, is from Maple City in Cowley County, Kansas. She knew at an early age that she learned best and thoroughly enjoyed hands-on learning, especially building things out of wood in shop class.“I made all sorts of furniture in high school shop class,” Josie said. “I made a nightstand, a dresser, and bookshelves. For my senior project, I designed and built my own desk.”Initially, Josie wanted to be an architecture major and began her college career with this in mind. She quickly realized the program would not be as hands-on or give her the opportunity to make the impact she wanted.“The first year in the program mostly involved manual drafting and learning the basic principles of architecture,” Josie said.Her desire to make an impact on others was a big factor in her decision to transfer. She thought she might be able to make that impact as a teacher. Josie shared her frustration with her boss in the Architecture Department’s construction shop, where she worked as a student employee. Like her high school shop teacher, her boss happened to be a graduate of FHSU’s Applied Technology program.Josie decided that she wanted to be a shop teacher because she’d seen through her own experiences that it can be a daunting subject for most students. “My goal is to change that for my students, no matter how long they are in my classroom,” Josie said.She had heard about the FHSU program from her high school shop teacher. When Josie visited FHSU with her dad and brother, she loved what she found.I call Josie a pathfinder for several reasons. She is currently the only female enrolled in the technology and engineering program and in a degree track that will lead to becoming a teacher.She is also a pathfinder in how she dove into a student leadership role in the Applied Technology Department.Since transferring to FHSU in 2022, she has served as an officer in the university’s Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) chapter. Josie then successfully applied to join TEECA’s National Student Officer Team and served as the President-Elect for the 2023-2024 school year, where she helped organize TEECA events for the annual InternationalTechnology and Engineering Educators (ITEEA) conference in Memphis, Tennessee. She will serve as president for the 2024-2025 academic year and will be leading the team to prepare for the 2025 ITEEA conference in St. Louis, Missouri.Zach Pixler, an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Technology, said this of Josie: “She has become an integral part of our organization. Her work ethic, attention to detail, and organization skills, along with her ability to foster positive relationships with her peers, make her a very strong leader.”This remarkable young woman is also a pathfinder in the way she has represented FHSU in typically male-dominated national competitions in her chosen discipline. At the most recent ITEEA conference in March, she was awarded the ITEEA Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship and earned National Champion honors in the Teaching Lesson competition. Her winning lesson involved amplifying the soundwaves from a cell phone playing Elvis Presley's music by placing the phone in a laser-cut all-wood box amplifier.Josie looks forward to the opportunity to make a difference in her classroom, community, and professional field. This fall, she will complete a 40-hour internship observing a shop teacher in a secondary school. Next spring, Josie will complete her capstone student teaching experience. She wants to do that close to Hays so she can remain involved in TEECA and her Applied Technology community at FHSU.Josie will graduate in May 2025. She is very well-prepared for her career and ready to serve where she is most needed. And thanks to FHSU’s commitment to affordability and several scholarships Josie earned, including the Kansas Board of Regents funded Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship, she will graduate debt-free.“I really want to get through college debt-free. And as it stands now, I'm gonna make it,” Josie said.Originally, Josie didn’t see herself as a pathfinder. She picked this academic degree and career path because she just wanted to be happy. Since then, she’s realized the great need for role models like her in technology education, especially for women.“I want to show my students that a career involving building cool stuff is a great choice, but one that involves teaching students to become builders themselves is an even better one.”Simply put, Josie wants to serve as a champion for promoting teaching technology and engineering education as a rewarding career choice.“Even if I never find someone like me in this field, I still want to be that example for others,” Josie said. “I know that as a teacher, I will have the power to change the lives of my students, and with my experiences at FHSU, I will be ready for that challenge.”

Heart of a Tiger: Meet Josie Gage, a pathfinding future teacher

<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/2024/6/1717698926759.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 Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about development projects in Hays.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses Hays development projects" 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=2jgf4-1635325-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 Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about development projects in Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses Hays development projects

FHSU crime log May 31-June 6, 2024

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's the nonprofit Downtown Hays Development Corporation's biggest fundraising event of the year, and in 2024, it will undergo some changes.

The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks is set for Saturday, June 15.

For the first time, the 21-and-older event will be in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main. The pavilion will serve as the main sampling tent.

The VIP Lounge is also new this year. From 3:30 to 5 p.m., VIP ticket holders can enjoy brews and bites.

The general admission tasting session for all attendees is from 5 to 8 p.m.

VIP tickets are almost sold out, said Julie Ryder, executive director of DHDC.&nbsp;

"All ticketing is online this year, but we will sell admission at the gate. It's $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP.

"In addition to the food and swag bag full of goodies, the VIP experience includes an exclusive tasting from Boot Hill Distillery of Dodge City in an air-conditioned tent, and you'll have transportation home, courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos," Ryder said.

Music and games will entertain the general admission crowd, and food vendors will be on site.

"The forecast is showing a warm, sunny day, and it'll be a great day to come down and enjoy this fun event," she said. "Moving under the pavilion will offer shade for the first time and be cooler than when we were on the streets."

More than 100 craft beers from most Kansas craft breweries and brewpubs, as well as beers from many other regional and national craft breweries, will be featured.

For the first time, a stout beer will be available for sampling, along with ale, amber, fruit, Gose, IPA,&nbsp;Kölsch, lager, pilsner, porter, shandy, spiced, sour, and wheat beers, as well as&nbsp;canned cocktails, flavored malt beverages, and seltzers.&nbsp;

Defiance Brewing and Liquid Bread Brewing Company of Hays are among the presenting breweries.

"This is our biggest fundraiser, and we certainly appreciate the community support from our <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/sponsors">sponsors</a> and those who purchase tickets to attend. It helps us keep doing what we do for downtown Hays," Ryder said.

Volunteers are still being accepted and will be furnished with a T-shirt and free lunch.&nbsp;

Tickets and volunteer information are available on the DHDC website at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a> under the events tab.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717584201051.png" alt="The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks, the biggest fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, is June 15. Photo courtesy of DHDC" />
 <figcaption>The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks, the biggest fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, is June 15. Photo courtesy of DHDC</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's the nonprofit Downtown Hays Development Corporation's biggest fundraising event of the year, and in 2024, it will undergo some changes.The eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks is set for Saturday, June 15.For the first time, the 21-and-older event will be in Union Pacific Park, 10th and Main. The pavilion will serve as the main sampling tent.The VIP Lounge is also new this year. From 3:30 to 5 p.m., VIP ticket holders can enjoy brews and bites.The general admission tasting session for all attendees is from 5 to 8 p.m.VIP tickets are almost sold out, said Julie Ryder, executive director of DHDC.&nbsp;"All ticketing is online this year, but we will sell admission at the gate. It's $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP."In addition to the food and swag bag full of goodies, the VIP experience includes an exclusive tasting from Boot Hill Distillery of Dodge City in an air-conditioned tent, and you'll have transportation home, courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos," Ryder said.Music and games will entertain the general admission crowd, and food vendors will be on site."The forecast is showing a warm, sunny day, and it'll be a great day to come down and enjoy this fun event," she said. "Moving under the pavilion will offer shade for the first time and be cooler than when we were on the streets."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717609822954.png" alt="Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 100 craft beers from most Kansas craft breweries and brewpubs, as well as beers from many other regional and national craft breweries, will be featured.For the first time, a stout beer will be available for sampling, along with ale, amber, fruit, Gose, IPA,&nbsp;Kölsch, lager, pilsner, porter, shandy, spiced, sour, and wheat beers, as well as&nbsp;canned cocktails, flavored malt beverages, and seltzers.&nbsp;Defiance Brewing and Liquid Bread Brewing Company of Hays are among the presenting breweries."This is our biggest fundraiser, and we certainly appreciate the community support from our <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/sponsors">sponsors</a> and those who purchase tickets to attend. It helps us keep doing what we do for downtown Hays," Ryder said.Volunteers are still being accepted and will be furnished with a T-shirt and free lunch.&nbsp;Tickets and volunteer information are available on the DHDC website at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a> under the events tab.&nbsp;

Brews on Bricks brings 100+ beers to Downtown Hays Development Corp. fundraiser

The Heartland Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Give Fest 2024, a 24-hour giving event that unites Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties in a shared mission to support local nonprofit organizations.

Save the date for Oct. 10. This exciting day is designed to increase philanthropy, energize community spirit and spotlight the life-changing work of our local nonprofits.

Give Fest was created to galvanize the community to “give back” in a big way. This event not only raises crucial funds for nonprofits but also brings a fun, playful Oktoberfest twist to the giving season, reflecting the cultural heritage of our region.

Mid-October is an ideal time to solicit donations, ensuring that nonprofits have the resources they need to continue their impactful work. We believe that community members, donors and all those involved will enjoy the day-of Oktoberfest giving celebration.

This Oct. 10, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., all donations made to participating organizations will be matched 1:1 or proportionate to the total money raised from a match pool of $150,000 — or $50,000 allocated for each county.

These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation. Subsequently, the community foundation will match these gifts with grants that the nonprofits can use for immediate needs, thus providing both a stable financial future and immediate support.

The match pool was established and strengthened with grant dollars from the Patterson Family Foundation.

The benefits of this community giving day extend beyond the immediate financial boost. For the community, Give Fest fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, highlighting the collective impact of local generosity.

It creates an opportunity for residents to learn more about the vital work being done by nonprofits in their area and to feel more connected and invested in their community’s well-being.

For nonprofits, participating in Give Fest offers several significant advantages, including increased visibility, financial growth through access to matching funds, and deeper community engagement. 

Contributions go to endowed funds, ensuring long-term stability and growth for the organizations. If Give Fest 2024 goes well, HCF hopes to make it an annual event.

Nonprofit organizations, schools and religious institutions serving Ellis, Rooks or Trego counties are invited to participate in Give Fest at no cost. Registration opens July 1.

To be eligible, nonprofits must have an organization, designated or field-of-interest fund at the community foundation and complete the registration process by Aug. 31.

Participating organizations will receive a marketing toolkit from HCF starting July 15 to help them promote their involvement and maximize their outreach.

Two Zoom training sessions are planned for participating agencies on Aug. 5 and Sept. 5. If you work with a nonprofit and have questions, please reach out to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>. We can be available to visit with your agency or board to tell you more about the community foundation and Give Fest.

Donors can participate in several ways: donate online at <a href="http://www.HeartlandGiveFest.org">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a> between Oct. 4 and 10. Our special event website will go live on July 15 and will eventually house profile information for each participating nonprofit.

Supporters will also be able to attend and donate in person at special events on Oct. 10, with additional details coming soon; by mailing donations to Heartland Community Foundation (received by Oct. 10), or by dropping off donations at the HCF office at 1200 Main St., Hays, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10.

Because Oct. 10 is still several months away, HCF is encouraging supporters to urge their favorite charities to register as Give Fest participants. If you want to volunteer to help at the day-of events, please send an email to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

New fundholders in Rooks and Trego counties are eligible to receive a $2,000 matching incentive, available for the first five new funds in each county. This initiative encourages the establishment of new funds and supports long-term community development.

The Heartland Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in Give Fest 2024. Whether you're a donor looking to make an impact or a nonprofit seeking support, this event is a powerful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of giving. For more information and to get involved, email <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.

Since 2007, the Heartland Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties through philanthropy.

As an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, HCF connects donors with the philanthropic causes they love, supporting initiatives in various areas, including education, health care, youth and community development.

By fostering a spirit of generosity and engaging local donors, nonprofits, and community members, HCF aims to create a vibrant, supportive community for all. The Heartland Community Foundation is committed to promoting generosity, building endowment funds, and empowering communities to thrive.

For more information, visit <a href="http://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.

Heartland Community FoundationThe Heartland Community Foundation is thrilled to announce Give Fest 2024, a 24-hour giving event that unites Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties in a shared mission to support local nonprofit organizations.Save the date for Oct. 10. This exciting day is designed to increase philanthropy, energize community spirit and spotlight the life-changing work of our local nonprofits.Give Fest was created to galvanize the community to “give back” in a big way. This event not only raises crucial funds for nonprofits but also brings a fun, playful Oktoberfest twist to the giving season, reflecting the cultural heritage of our region.Mid-October is an ideal time to solicit donations, ensuring that nonprofits have the resources they need to continue their impactful work. We believe that community members, donors and all those involved will enjoy the day-of Oktoberfest giving celebration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717615565087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Oct. 10, from midnight to 11:59 p.m., all donations made to participating organizations will be matched 1:1 or proportionate to the total money raised from a match pool of $150,000 — or $50,000 allocated for each county.These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation. Subsequently, the community foundation will match these gifts with grants that the nonprofits can use for immediate needs, thus providing both a stable financial future and immediate support.The match pool was established and strengthened with grant dollars from the Patterson Family Foundation.The benefits of this community giving day extend beyond the immediate financial boost. For the community, Give Fest fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, highlighting the collective impact of local generosity.It creates an opportunity for residents to learn more about the vital work being done by nonprofits in their area and to feel more connected and invested in their community’s well-being.For nonprofits, participating in Give Fest offers several significant advantages, including increased visibility, financial growth through access to matching funds, and deeper community engagement. Contributions go to endowed funds, ensuring long-term stability and growth for the organizations. If Give Fest 2024 goes well, HCF hopes to make it an annual event.Nonprofit organizations, schools and religious institutions serving Ellis, Rooks or Trego counties are invited to participate in Give Fest at no cost. Registration opens July 1.To be eligible, nonprofits must have an organization, designated or field-of-interest fund at the community foundation and complete the registration process by Aug. 31.Participating organizations will receive a marketing toolkit from HCF starting July 15 to help them promote their involvement and maximize their outreach.Two Zoom training sessions are planned for participating agencies on Aug. 5 and Sept. 5. If you work with a nonprofit and have questions, please reach out to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>. We can be available to visit with your agency or board to tell you more about the community foundation and Give Fest.Donors can participate in several ways: donate online at <a href="http://www.HeartlandGiveFest.org">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a> between Oct. 4 and 10. Our special event website will go live on July 15 and will eventually house profile information for each participating nonprofit.Supporters will also be able to attend and donate in person at special events on Oct. 10, with additional details coming soon; by mailing donations to Heartland Community Foundation (received by Oct. 10), or by dropping off donations at the HCF office at 1200 Main St., Hays, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10.Because Oct. 10 is still several months away, HCF is encouraging supporters to urge their favorite charities to register as Give Fest participants. If you want to volunteer to help at the day-of events, please send an email to <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.New fundholders in Rooks and Trego counties are eligible to receive a $2,000 matching incentive, available for the first five new funds in each county. This initiative encourages the establishment of new funds and supports long-term community development.The Heartland Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in Give Fest 2024. Whether you're a donor looking to make an impact or a nonprofit seeking support, this event is a powerful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of giving. For more information and to get involved, email <a href="http://heartland@gscf.org">heartland@gscf.org</a>.<h2>About Heartland Community Foundation</h2>Since 2007, the Heartland Community Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties through philanthropy.As an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, HCF connects donors with the philanthropic causes they love, supporting initiatives in various areas, including education, health care, youth and community development.By fostering a spirit of generosity and engaging local donors, nonprofits, and community members, HCF aims to create a vibrant, supportive community for all. The Heartland Community Foundation is committed to promoting generosity, building endowment funds, and empowering communities to thrive.For more information, visit <a href="http://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.

Heartland Community Foundation announces Give Fest 2024: Day of generosity, community spirit

First Call for Help is seeking food donations for its pantry.

You have from today until June 14 to help out your favorite business listed above.

 The business that donates the most items will be named the Top Pantry Contributor for 2024. They will also be the new owner of the traveling trophy.

Suggested items to donate&nbsp;(but not limited to):

• Pancake/waffle mix and syrup • Granola/fruit breakfast bars • Oatmeal • Cereal • Individual Coffee/tea /juice packets • Dry milk • Pop-tarts • Ramen • Mac and cheese / hamburger and tuna helper • Spaghetti-o’s / Chef Boyardee products • Dried pasta and canned/jarred sauces • Canned fruit • Peanut butter / jelly • Canned meats (chicken/tuna/roast beef/Vienna sausage etc.) • Canned vegetables • Canned beans • Rice • Crackers (saltines/cracker rounds) • Instant potatoes/ gravy • Applesauce (individual or containers) • Pudding snack packs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717614495237.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First Call for Help is seeking food donations for its pantry.You have from today until June 14 to help out your favorite business listed above. The business that donates the most items will be named the Top Pantry Contributor for 2024. They will also be the new owner of the traveling trophy.<h2>Suggested items to donate&nbsp;(but not limited to):</h2>• Pancake/waffle mix and syrup • Granola/fruit breakfast bars • Oatmeal • Cereal • Individual Coffee/tea /juice packets • Dry milk • Pop-tarts • Ramen • Mac and cheese / hamburger and tuna helper • Spaghetti-o’s / Chef Boyardee products • Dried pasta and canned/jarred sauces • Canned fruit • Peanut butter / jelly • Canned meats (chicken/tuna/roast beef/Vienna sausage etc.) • Canned vegetables • Canned beans • Rice • Crackers (saltines/cracker rounds) • Instant potatoes/ gravy • Applesauce (individual or containers) • Pudding snack packs

Battle of Businesses seeks to gather food for First Call for Help

One branch of Mom’s family settled in Ford, Kansas, soon after it became a town in 1885. That group migrated to Kansas from Greene County, Indiana, and one family established a boarding house and livery stable. My great-grandmother was one of the first babies born in Ford in 1887.

Growing up, I discovered Ford because I visited the cemetery each year with my grandparents to put out Memorial Day flowers for my grandfather’s maternal and paternal families. Traveling to Ford, our grandparents enchanted us with tales about our ancestors and their struggles to survive in Southwest Kansas.

After we placed flowers on numerous plots, Grandpa drove around town recollecting locations of the schools, church, and homes where he and his many relatives once lived. To finish our journey, he’d cruise north toward the Ark River to check out the condition of the old Hatfield Livery Stable and Boarding House site where his mom grew up. During my lifetime, only the boarding house remained, but grandpa pointed out where the outbuildings and livery once stood. He’d embellish stories about ornery uncles and his grandma who kept them in line.

At that time, I thought I’d forever remember those stories and later on my mother’s so who needed to write stuff down? Now that I’ve joined the oldest generation, I wished I’d recorded those tales in indelible ink. Details once engraved in my brain have dwindled to knowing the location of the boarding house and finding family graves so I can decorate them.

Over the last ten years, something occurring all over rural Kansas has also happened in Ford. Original buildings dwindle away one broken window, fallen brick, and leaky roof at a time. Until recently, a sequence of families continued occupying that aging boarding house. Despite its decline, I loved spying evidence that kids still played in the yard.

Just south of the old house, Grandma pointed out the red brick Hatfield Mercantile building. In one rendition, this building played a role in our Canadian immigrant family connecting with Hatfields who came from Indiana. Somehow—details fade--a shopping trip led to a marriage and later on births of my grandfather and his brother.

Many Memorial Day visits ago, I can’t even recollect which era, I arrived to decorate and make the pilgrimage to the big white house, where I discovered that old store had tumbled into a pile of brick and dust. Only a foundation positioned just north of an insurance office that also functions as the city office remains.

For the past few years, no one has occupied the old Hatfield house, deteriorated to the point I wondered if this was the year I’d find only a foundation when I showed up Memorial Weekend. Though trees grow very near the base, hope prevailed. I spied a blue scaffold on the north side of the house and two replaced upper story windows.

While that old home once so full of busy lives needs considerable work, I hope new windows indicate its salvageability. I like to imagine a family resuscitating this building full of fascinating stories. What tales those walls could tell! If they start talking, I hope listeners write those stories down.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717291484349.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINOne branch of Mom’s family settled in Ford, Kansas, soon after it became a town in 1885. That group migrated to Kansas from Greene County, Indiana, and one family established a boarding house and livery stable. My great-grandmother was one of the first babies born in Ford in 1887.Growing up, I discovered Ford because I visited the cemetery each year with my grandparents to put out Memorial Day flowers for my grandfather’s maternal and paternal families. Traveling to Ford, our grandparents enchanted us with tales about our ancestors and their struggles to survive in Southwest Kansas.After we placed flowers on numerous plots, Grandpa drove around town recollecting locations of the schools, church, and homes where he and his many relatives once lived. To finish our journey, he’d cruise north toward the Ark River to check out the condition of the old Hatfield Livery Stable and Boarding House site where his mom grew up. During my lifetime, only the boarding house remained, but grandpa pointed out where the outbuildings and livery once stood. He’d embellish stories about ornery uncles and his grandma who kept them in line.At that time, I thought I’d forever remember those stories and later on my mother’s so who needed to write stuff down? Now that I’ve joined the oldest generation, I wished I’d recorded those tales in indelible ink. Details once engraved in my brain have dwindled to knowing the location of the boarding house and finding family graves so I can decorate them.Over the last ten years, something occurring all over rural Kansas has also happened in Ford. Original buildings dwindle away one broken window, fallen brick, and leaky roof at a time. Until recently, a sequence of families continued occupying that aging boarding house. Despite its decline, I loved spying evidence that kids still played in the yard.Just south of the old house, Grandma pointed out the red brick Hatfield Mercantile building. In one rendition, this building played a role in our Canadian immigrant family connecting with Hatfields who came from Indiana. Somehow—details fade--a shopping trip led to a marriage and later on births of my grandfather and his brother.Many Memorial Day visits ago, I can’t even recollect which era, I arrived to decorate and make the pilgrimage to the big white house, where I discovered that old store had tumbled into a pile of brick and dust. Only a foundation positioned just north of an insurance office that also functions as the city office remains.For the past few years, no one has occupied the old Hatfield house, deteriorated to the point I wondered if this was the year I’d find only a foundation when I showed up Memorial Weekend. Though trees grow very near the base, hope prevailed. I spied a blue scaffold on the north side of the house and two replaced upper story windows.While that old home once so full of busy lives needs considerable work, I hope new windows indicate its salvageability. I like to imagine a family resuscitating this building full of fascinating stories. What tales those walls could tell! If they start talking, I hope listeners write those stories down.

MADORIN: Memorial Day memories, more

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717616607380.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

On May 31st the Kansas Supreme Court ruled on a case challenging the state’s 2021 election laws that made it more difficult for Kansas citizens to vote.

In its majority decision, the Court states that there is no right to vote enshrined in the Kansas Bill of Rights, but that voting rights are explicitly given in Articles 4 and 5 of the Constitution.

As I was reading the news on the Court’s decision, I found myself recalling a book I recently read (via audiobook), Tyranny of the Minority, by prominent political scientists Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt.

In the book, Levitsky and Ziblatt state that the whole point of a democratic constitution is to establish a set of rights that are protected from the fleeting whims of present day policymakers. (They were of course discussing the US Constitution, but the same idea applies to state constitutions.)

They also argue that it is imperative we not forget that even the most well-intentioned constitutions are fallible. Even the most brilliant constitutional framers are not perfect, they cannot foresee what undemocratic challenges their document may face in a distant future.

The protection of voting rights is one such example.

Our state constitution was adopted six short years before voting rights were added to the US Constitution via the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments, which allowed Kansas to build upon some of the US Constitution’s shortcomings by including voting rights.

As Levitsky and Ziblatt discuss in more detail, the Founders’ ideas regarding democracy were certainly novel and also quite radical for the time, but their goal was not to build what we would today consider to be a modern democracy.

Many Americans revere the Constitution as a virtually infallible document. But this is not reality. The Constitution was not a well-thought-out master plan for democracy. It was built on improvisation and compromise.

We should take care to view our constitutions for exactly what they are, imperfect governing documents that are meant to evolve with the changing societal and political needs of a democracy and its citizenry.

The Kansas Supreme Court’s decision furthers the need for this approach.

The decision can be interpreted in such a way that the state constitution only protects procedural representation — the right of citizens to vote for government representatives. As the Court’s dissenting opinion points out, there is a question of whether the Constitution protects substantive representation — the representation of citizens’ interests in the policymaking process.

The dissenting justices argued that substantive representation is protected by the state’s constitution, but the majority opinion disregarded this interpretation.

In other words, the Court ruled that citizens do indeed have a right to vote, but their elected representatives are not required to act in accordance with citizens’ wishes and interests.

A modern democracy is not simply a system of majority rule; it combines majority rule and minority rights.

To once again borrow from Levitsky and Ziblatt: democracies must create mechanisms that protect the democratic process from forces that would undermine it.

Democracy cannot exist without free and fair elections. But not everything can or should be up for grabs by officials who are elected, or appointed, to represent us, especially voting rights.

It is exceedingly concerning that the state’s highest court would exclude substantive representation as an important aspect of protecting voting rights.

The ruling exposes a significant oversight in the interpretation of voting rights within the state constitution.

It is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and advocate for policies that protect and expand voting rights for all citizens, ensuring that our state democracy reflects its core values of inclusivity and participation.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasOn May 31st the Kansas Supreme Court ruled on a case challenging the state’s 2021 election laws that made it more difficult for Kansas citizens to vote.In its majority decision, the Court states that there is no right to vote enshrined in the Kansas Bill of Rights, but that voting rights are explicitly given in Articles 4 and 5 of the Constitution.As I was reading the news on the Court’s decision, I found myself recalling a book I recently read (via audiobook), Tyranny of the Minority, by prominent political scientists Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt.In the book, Levitsky and Ziblatt state that the whole point of a democratic constitution is to establish a set of rights that are protected from the fleeting whims of present day policymakers. (They were of course discussing the US Constitution, but the same idea applies to state constitutions.)They also argue that it is imperative we not forget that even the most well-intentioned constitutions are fallible. Even the most brilliant constitutional framers are not perfect, they cannot foresee what undemocratic challenges their document may face in a distant future.The protection of voting rights is one such example.Our state constitution was adopted six short years before voting rights were added to the US Constitution via the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments, which allowed Kansas to build upon some of the US Constitution’s shortcomings by including voting rights.As Levitsky and Ziblatt discuss in more detail, the Founders’ ideas regarding democracy were certainly novel and also quite radical for the time, but their goal was not to build what we would today consider to be a modern democracy.Many Americans revere the Constitution as a virtually infallible document. But this is not reality. The Constitution was not a well-thought-out master plan for democracy. It was built on improvisation and compromise.We should take care to view our constitutions for exactly what they are, imperfect governing documents that are meant to evolve with the changing societal and political needs of a democracy and its citizenry.The Kansas Supreme Court’s decision furthers the need for this approach.The decision can be interpreted in such a way that the state constitution only protects procedural representation — the right of citizens to vote for government representatives. As the Court’s dissenting opinion points out, there is a question of whether the Constitution protects substantive representation — the representation of citizens’ interests in the policymaking process.The dissenting justices argued that substantive representation is protected by the state’s constitution, but the majority opinion disregarded this interpretation.In other words, the Court ruled that citizens do indeed have a right to vote, but their elected representatives are not required to act in accordance with citizens’ wishes and interests.This is concerning.A modern democracy is not simply a system of majority rule; it combines majority rule and minority rights.To once again borrow from Levitsky and Ziblatt: democracies must create mechanisms that protect the democratic process from forces that would undermine it.Democracy cannot exist without free and fair elections. But not everything can or should be up for grabs by officials who are elected, or appointed, to represent us, especially voting rights.It is exceedingly concerning that the state’s highest court would exclude substantive representation as an important aspect of protecting voting rights.The ruling exposes a significant oversight in the interpretation of voting rights within the state constitution.It is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and advocate for policies that protect and expand voting rights for all citizens, ensuring that our state democracy reflects its core values of inclusivity and participation.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: KS Supreme Court ruling highlights the fragility of voting rights

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays received .46 inches of rain Tuesday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

That brings Hays to 1.21 inches of rain for the month and 7.16 inches of precipitation for the year.

Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain for June and 11.31 inches of rain by the end of June.

The Kansas Drought Monitor map will be released Thursday. It will include rain through Tuesday.

The forecast for Hays for today and Thursday is sunny, with a high of 93 degrees today and 86 degrees tomorrow.

Chances for rain return Friday afternoon and persist through the weekend, with the highest chances for evening storms.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received .46 inches of rain Tuesday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.That brings Hays to 1.21 inches of rain for the month and 7.16 inches of precipitation for the year.Hays averages 3.38 inches of rain for June and 11.31 inches of rain by the end of June.The Kansas Drought Monitor map will be released Thursday. It will include rain through Tuesday.The forecast for Hays for today and Thursday is sunny, with a high of 93 degrees today and 86 degrees tomorrow.Chances for rain return Friday afternoon and persist through the weekend, with the highest chances for evening storms.

Hays rain report for Tuesday; more chances for storms over weekend

For the month of May 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 172 calls for service, conducted 64 traffic stops, and issued one traffic citation. The citation was for speeding, with the alleged speed being 50 mph in a 30 mph zone.

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in two adult arrests. The following adults were arrested in March by the Ellis Police Department: 

On May 26, Lukas Hale was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, and possession of marijuana. He was cited and released. 

On May 26, Justin Potter was arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was cited and released. These suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

As an update to April’s dangerous dog hearings, both dogs in question were determined to be dangerous in Municipal Court.

With the summer season beginning in June, snakes will inevitably be moving about in your neighborhood. 

On May 21, the Ellis Police Department was notified of a medium-sized bullsnake that was trespassing in one of our community member’s yards. 

The Ellis Police Department is equipped to evict our slippery serpent sidekicks and move them to a more suitable area. Please call the non-emergency dispatch number at 785-625-1011 to have an officer respond. 

On the off chance that someone is bitten by a snake, dial 911 immediately and attempt to keep calm until one of us can respond to identify the snake and remove it. 

If you can take a picture, it can aid us in identifying the snake as well. 

Western Kansas has two primary venomous snakes—the prairie rattlesnake and the western massasauga. Rattlesnakes are adept swimmers but are rarely encountered in water.

Although cottonmouths or “water moccasins” do live in Kansas, they have only been identified in Cherokee County, which borders Missouri and Oklahoma.

Most often, snakes that you will encounter in or along our creek are common watersnakes, which are harmless. 

You can find an informational handbook on snakes in Kansas here: <a href="https://gpnc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2018/02/KS-Snakes.pdf">https://gpnc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2018/02/KS-Snakes.pdf</a>

The Ellis Police Department was excited to lead the annual EHS Alumni Association Parade on May 25 and assist with the Ellis VFW’s Memorial Day Ceremonies. 

We look forward to assisting with next year’s events! As always, we are seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports. Please email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them to us via our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment">https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment</a> Thank you all for your support!

For the month of May 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 172 calls for service, conducted 64 traffic stops, and issued one traffic citation. The citation was for speeding, with the alleged speed being 50 mph in a 30 mph zone.The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in two adult arrests. The following adults were arrested in March by the Ellis Police Department: On May 26, Lukas Hale was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, and possession of marijuana. He was cited and released. On May 26, Justin Potter was arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was cited and released. These suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.As an update to April’s dangerous dog hearings, both dogs in question were determined to be dangerous in Municipal Court.With the summer season beginning in June, snakes will inevitably be moving about in your neighborhood. On May 21, the Ellis Police Department was notified of a medium-sized bullsnake that was trespassing in one of our community member’s yards. The Ellis Police Department is equipped to evict our slippery serpent sidekicks and move them to a more suitable area. Please call the non-emergency dispatch number at 785-625-1011 to have an officer respond. On the off chance that someone is bitten by a snake, dial 911 immediately and attempt to keep calm until one of us can respond to identify the snake and remove it. If you can take a picture, it can aid us in identifying the snake as well. Western Kansas has two primary venomous snakes—the prairie rattlesnake and the western massasauga. Rattlesnakes are adept swimmers but are rarely encountered in water.Although cottonmouths or “water moccasins” do live in Kansas, they have only been identified in Cherokee County, which borders Missouri and Oklahoma.Most often, snakes that you will encounter in or along our creek are common watersnakes, which are harmless. You can find an informational handbook on snakes in Kansas here: <a href="https://gpnc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2018/02/KS-Snakes.pdf">https://gpnc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2018/02/KS-Snakes.pdf</a> The Ellis Police Department was excited to lead the annual EHS Alumni Association Parade on May 25 and assist with the Ellis VFW’s Memorial Day Ceremonies. We look forward to assisting with next year’s events! As always, we are seeking photos to be used for these monthly reports. Please email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or message them to us via our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment">https://www.facebook.com/EllisPoliceDepartment</a> Thank you all for your support! —Chief Smith

Ellis May 2024 police report

Grow Hays has contracted to purchase 9.1 acres of land north of Home Depot in Hays. They hope to construct a new shopping center on the land.

The land is north of Interstate 70 on East 41st Street.

Williams said Grow Hays looked at three properties north of Interstate 70 near Vine, but the owner of this property was the only one who was interested in selling.

"We have too many real estate speculators in our community and not enough real estate developers who are really sincere about doing something," Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said. "They just want to ride out the highest prices. It's their land. It's their life, but it's not necessarily positive for the community."

Williams told an audience gathered for Grow Hays' quarterly luncheon on Tuesday another developer had been in talks to bring a new shopping center to Hays.

The developer had multiple big-box retailers interested in Hays.

However, the finances did not work out for a private developer to build a new space in Hays at this time.

The average rent for new space in a community such as Hays is $16 per square foot. Construction costs would be $190 per square foot and the land would cost $15 per square foot.

The investment in a 70,000-square-foot retail space would be $15.3 million.&nbsp;

Based on the rent a developer could hope to collect, the developer would lose about $471,000 per year or more than $7 million over a 15-year leasing period.

Kanas has appropriated $4.447 million to Hays for retail development. This money can be used for land acquisition, building construction, covering rent shortfalls, or infrastructure improvements to foster retail development.

Grow Hays hopes to use all or part of the state funds for the new shopping center. A portion of the $15 million would have to be borrowed from a lender. 

Another portion could be funded through a Community Improvement District. This would impose an additional sales tax on shopping center purchases, but the funds could be used to reimburse infrastructure costs.

"To do development today like this or even residential development, you've got to have multiple streams of revenue you can use to try to cover the cost because it's so expensive," Williams said.&nbsp;

Williams estimated the new shopping center would generate $20 million in annual sales, which would generate $600,000 combined annually in additional sales tax for the city of Hays, Ellis County and the Hays USD 489 bond issue.

The city of Hays has a 9.25 percent sales tax. However, a portion of that sales tax goes toward property tax reduction. This results in the lowest city mill levy and the lowest total mill levy compared to peer cities in the state.

Wiliams said he hopes Grow Hays can finalize the sale of the property by the end of July. The project would take about 18 months to complete.

He said the shopping center could accommodate five to six new retailers and the sizes of the spaces would likely vary.

He said he envisioned the building and parking mirroring the footprint on the Home Depot lot. However, Home Depot has line-of-sight restrictions and the shopping center designers must address that issue.

Although Grow Hays will likely be the shopping center's owner initially, Williams said he thought the property would eventually be sold to a private owner.

Williams said Grow Hays continues to work with Big Creek Crossing to try to keep its space full. The mall's owners are struggling with retailers who want outside entrances.

"We do think a rising tide raises all ships, so the more retail we have, the more people will come," he said. "I think there will be residual benefit throughout the retail sector."

Williams said retailers across the region continue to face other common challenges, including competition with e-commerce, construction costs, interest rates and declining population.

Williams said Big Creek Crossing still has opportunities to lure new businesses who want to pay less per square foot than the going rate for new construction.

Williams said residents often point to growth in Garden City and question why Hays has not seen similar growth.

Within a 60-mile radius of Hays, there are about 87,000 people. Within a 60-mile radius of Garden City, there are 123,000 people.

The Garden City area has also seen a slower population decline, 2.9%, in its market area. Although Hays' population did not decrease according to the last census. The surrounding population shrank by almost 6% in a 10-year period.

Williams said Grow Hays has also been working with developers on the area to the north of 24/7 on Vine. He said he sees the Rodeway Inn as another location in need of urban renewal.

"I think these retailers are ready to make moves, and we need to strike while the iron is hot," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717532003060.jpeg" alt="Proposed location of a new shopping center in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Proposed location of a new shopping center in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostGrow Hays has contracted to purchase 9.1 acres of land north of Home Depot in Hays. They hope to construct a new shopping center on the land.The land is north of Interstate 70 on East 41st Street.Williams said Grow Hays looked at three properties north of Interstate 70 near Vine, but the owner of this property was the only one who was interested in selling."We have too many real estate speculators in our community and not enough real estate developers who are really sincere about doing something," Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, said. "They just want to ride out the highest prices. It's their land. It's their life, but it's not necessarily positive for the community."Williams told an audience gathered for Grow Hays' quarterly luncheon on Tuesday another developer had been in talks to bring a new shopping center to Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717529415201.jpeg" alt="Proposed location of the new shopping center north of the Home Depot in Hays. Courtesy image." />
 <figcaption>Proposed location of the new shopping center north of the Home Depot in Hays. Courtesy image.</figcaption>
 </figure>The developer had multiple big-box retailers interested in Hays.However, the finances did not work out for a private developer to build a new space in Hays at this time.The average rent for new space in a community such as Hays is $16 per square foot. Construction costs would be $190 per square foot and the land would cost $15 per square foot.The investment in a 70,000-square-foot retail space would be $15.3 million.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717529313304.jpeg" alt="Projected shopping center cost. Source: Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Projected shopping center cost. Source: Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717529352884.jpeg" alt="Projected loss for shopping center for a private investor.&nbsp;Source: Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Projected loss for shopping center for a private investor.&nbsp;Source: Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Based on the rent a developer could hope to collect, the developer would lose about $471,000 per year or more than $7 million over a 15-year leasing period.Kanas has appropriated $4.447 million to Hays for retail development. This money can be used for land acquisition, building construction, covering rent shortfalls, or infrastructure improvements to foster retail development.Grow Hays hopes to use all or part of the state funds for the new shopping center. A portion of the $15 million would have to be borrowed from a lender. Another portion could be funded through a Community Improvement District. This would impose an additional sales tax on shopping center purchases, but the funds could be used to reimburse infrastructure costs."To do development today like this or even residential development, you've got to have multiple streams of revenue you can use to try to cover the cost because it's so expensive," Williams said.&nbsp;Williams estimated the new shopping center would generate $20 million in annual sales, which would generate $600,000 combined annually in additional sales tax for the city of Hays, Ellis County and the Hays USD 489 bond issue.The city of Hays has a 9.25 percent sales tax. However, a portion of that sales tax goes toward property tax reduction. This results in the lowest city mill levy and the lowest total mill levy compared to peer cities in the state.See chart below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717529495235.jpeg" alt="Hays and peer cities' mill levies and sales taxes. Source: Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Hays and peer cities' mill levies and sales taxes. Source: Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717529626251.jpeg" alt="Sales tax for city of Hays. Source: Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Sales tax for city of Hays. Source: Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Wiliams said he hopes Grow Hays can finalize the sale of the property by the end of July. The project would take about 18 months to complete.He said the shopping center could accommodate five to six new retailers and the sizes of the spaces would likely vary.He said he envisioned the building and parking mirroring the footprint on the Home Depot lot. However, Home Depot has line-of-sight restrictions and the shopping center designers must address that issue.Although Grow Hays will likely be the shopping center's owner initially, Williams said he thought the property would eventually be sold to a private owner.Williams said Grow Hays continues to work with Big Creek Crossing to try to keep its space full. The mall's owners are struggling with retailers who want outside entrances."We do think a rising tide raises all ships, so the more retail we have, the more people will come," he said. "I think there will be residual benefit throughout the retail sector."Williams said retailers across the region continue to face other common challenges, including competition with e-commerce, construction costs, interest rates and declining population.Williams said Big Creek Crossing still has opportunities to lure new businesses who want to pay less per square foot than the going rate for new construction.Williams said residents often point to growth in Garden City and question why Hays has not seen similar growth.Within a 60-mile radius of Hays, there are about 87,000 people. Within a 60-mile radius of Garden City, there are 123,000 people.The Garden City area has also seen a slower population decline, 2.9%, in its market area. Although Hays' population did not decrease according to the last census. The surrounding population shrank by almost 6% in a 10-year period.Williams said Grow Hays has also been working with developers on the area to the north of 24/7 on Vine. He said he sees the Rodeway Inn as another location in need of urban renewal."I think these retailers are ready to make moves, and we need to strike while the iron is hot," he said.

Grow Hays announces new shopping center project north of I-70

Get ready for some Moo’in &amp; Groovin’ July 12-20, 2024, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. The Ellis County Fair wouldn’t be possible without the exhibitors and volunteers who donate their time, along with 4-H members, Extension agents, County Commissioners, superintendents, and countless others that step up and answer our call for help.

The Ellis County Fair Association is reaching out to the community for help this year for our inflatable carnival workers and car parkers. This is a paid volunteer opportunity for individuals or groups. Carnival workers get paid $10 per hour with a potential $50 bonus if they work all five days (Tuesday through Saturday). Hours of work will be 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. To register for carnival workers, use this link - <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival</a>

Car parkers get paid $10 per hour with a potential $40.00 bonus if they work all five days. Hours will vary for car parkers per event. To register for car parkers, use this link - <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-48865797-ellis</a>

Ellis County 4-Her’s will be busy entering and competing in different project areas and you are invited to come see what they can do! Visit the barns and check out all the animals or stroll through the Schenk building to see the indoor exhibits. This year our grandstand lineup will include two nights of races, two nights of rodeo, barrel racing, and two nights of Monster Trucks! Purchase your all week pass for only $35 in advance. We will continue with the inflatable carnival, laser tag, virtual reality roller coaster, and games. Mutton busting, face painting, and a Little Kids and Big Rigs event are just a few of the fun things planned for the family! We will have a petting zoo on the midway along with free concerts and plenty of seating and food vendors to satisfy your appetite. This year we are moving indoor commercial exhibits to our building on the midway so be sure to stop by those booths. We also couldn’t do it without all our wonderful and supporting sponsors. Their sponsorship of the fair keeps the week pass at a low cost to everyone.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Ellis-County-Fair-100063657276403/">Please visit our Facebook page – Ellis County Fair for additional information.</a>

SubmittedGet ready for some Moo’in &amp; Groovin’ July 12-20, 2024, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. The Ellis County Fair wouldn’t be possible without the exhibitors and volunteers who donate their time, along with 4-H members, Extension agents, County Commissioners, superintendents, and countless others that step up and answer our call for help.The Ellis County Fair Association is reaching out to the community for help this year for our inflatable carnival workers and car parkers. This is a paid volunteer opportunity for individuals or groups. Carnival workers get paid $10 per hour with a potential $50 bonus if they work all five days (Tuesday through Saturday). Hours of work will be 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. To register for carnival workers, use this link - <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival</a>Car parkers get paid $10 per hour with a potential $40.00 bonus if they work all five days. Hours will vary for car parkers per event. To register for car parkers, use this link - <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-47664873-carnival">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084CA8AC2AA5F49-48865797-ellis</a>Ellis County 4-Her’s will be busy entering and competing in different project areas and you are invited to come see what they can do! Visit the barns and check out all the animals or stroll through the Schenk building to see the indoor exhibits. This year our grandstand lineup will include two nights of races, two nights of rodeo, barrel racing, and two nights of Monster Trucks! Purchase your all week pass for only $35 in advance. We will continue with the inflatable carnival, laser tag, virtual reality roller coaster, and games. Mutton busting, face painting, and a Little Kids and Big Rigs event are just a few of the fun things planned for the family! We will have a petting zoo on the midway along with free concerts and plenty of seating and food vendors to satisfy your appetite. This year we are moving indoor commercial exhibits to our building on the midway so be sure to stop by those booths. We also couldn’t do it without all our wonderful and supporting sponsors. Their sponsorship of the fair keeps the week pass at a low cost to everyone.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Ellis-County-Fair-100063657276403/">Please visit our Facebook page – Ellis County Fair for additional information.</a>

Ellis County Fair seeks community support

Sunflower Audubon sets June, July programs

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Have you ever considered yourself a caregiver? Have you looked after someone suffering a disability, illness, or injury? Have you raised children? If the answer is ‘yes,’ to any of these, you have played an invaluable role as a caregiver.

As you probably know, caregivers help with daily activities such as dressing, cooking, managing health concerns, and providing priceless emotional support.

With aging populations, an increase in chronic disease, and rising dementia rates, the need for caregivers is growing rapidly. In today’s world, many caregivers go unnoticed while balancing multiple responsibilities. For example, caregivers often fulfill various roles as employees, parents, and spouses. While responding to demands in other areas of life, taking on the title of “caregiver” can be another full-time commitment. This can lead to exhaustion and burnout. However, a person can’t effectively pour into others until they fill their own cup.

This is why caregivers must practice self-care, and for this same reason, A Different Mindset Association was formed in Hays, Kansas. This group came together as individual caregivers, seeking ways to support others facing similar challenges. Specifically, the association recognizes the need for respite care among those with dementia-related diseases and aims to provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. Currently, the group hosts caregiver support group meetings via Zoom and provides an in-person option at The Center for Health Improvement in Hays, Ks.

As a former caregiver, Co-founder, Micki Armstrong, shares her advice, “Self-care is a very important aspect of caregiving. Make sure that you’re taking care of yourself because statistics show that sometimes the caregiver falls ill or even dies before the person that they’re caring for does. So, it’s important that you have a support system that you exercise and that you give yourself a break. Find some respite care, because if you don’t, it will affect your health.”

A Different Mindset Association plans to launch respite services for caregivers soon. In the meantime, they will host an event, “A Polka Night to Remember,” that the whole family can enjoy. The group hopes to alleviate stress for caregivers and provide entertainment for all generations. It will take place on Saturday, June 8th from 6:00-10:30 pm at the VFW in Victoria, KS. All money raised will stay local to fund Dementia and Alzheimer’s Programs along with Caregiver Support in Ellis County and surrounding areas. Enjoy Polka music by Karl Meis, a dinner buffet by Brenton Hoffman Catering, a cash bar, door prizes, and a raffle for a quarter-side processed beef donated by VJS Polled Herefords and the Brian Staab family. Tickets are available at A Different Mindset Association’s website or call 785-269-1928.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for a family member or friend with dementia, a contribution to the nation valued at nearly $340 billion.”

The role of a caregiver is significant. It is explained by some as “the most rewarding job,” yet it is highly demanding. Support A Different Mindset Association and our invaluable caregivers by joining them for “A Polka Night to Remember” on Saturday, June 8th.

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 DistrictHave you ever considered yourself a caregiver? Have you looked after someone suffering a disability, illness, or injury? Have you raised children? If the answer is ‘yes,’ to any of these, you have played an invaluable role as a caregiver.As you probably know, caregivers help with daily activities such as dressing, cooking, managing health concerns, and providing priceless emotional support.With aging populations, an increase in chronic disease, and rising dementia rates, the need for caregivers is growing rapidly. In today’s world, many caregivers go unnoticed while balancing multiple responsibilities. For example, caregivers often fulfill various roles as employees, parents, and spouses. While responding to demands in other areas of life, taking on the title of “caregiver” can be another full-time commitment. This can lead to exhaustion and burnout. However, a person can’t effectively pour into others until they fill their own cup.This is why caregivers must practice self-care, and for this same reason, A Different Mindset Association was formed in Hays, Kansas. This group came together as individual caregivers, seeking ways to support others facing similar challenges. Specifically, the association recognizes the need for respite care among those with dementia-related diseases and aims to provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. Currently, the group hosts caregiver support group meetings via Zoom and provides an in-person option at The Center for Health Improvement in Hays, Ks.As a former caregiver, Co-founder, Micki Armstrong, shares her advice, “Self-care is a very important aspect of caregiving. Make sure that you’re taking care of yourself because statistics show that sometimes the caregiver falls ill or even dies before the person that they’re caring for does. So, it’s important that you have a support system that you exercise and that you give yourself a break. Find some respite care, because if you don’t, it will affect your health.”A Different Mindset Association plans to launch respite services for caregivers soon. In the meantime, they will host an event, “A Polka Night to Remember,” that the whole family can enjoy. The group hopes to alleviate stress for caregivers and provide entertainment for all generations. It will take place on Saturday, June 8th from 6:00-10:30 pm at the VFW in Victoria, KS. All money raised will stay local to fund Dementia and Alzheimer’s Programs along with Caregiver Support in Ellis County and surrounding areas. Enjoy Polka music by Karl Meis, a dinner buffet by Brenton Hoffman Catering, a cash bar, door prizes, and a raffle for a quarter-side processed beef donated by VJS Polled Herefords and the Brian Staab family. Tickets are available at A Different Mindset Association’s website or call 785-269-1928.According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for a family member or friend with dementia, a contribution to the nation valued at nearly $340 billion.”The role of a caregiver is significant. It is explained by some as “the most rewarding job,” yet it is highly demanding. Support A Different Mindset Association and our invaluable caregivers by joining them for “A Polka Night to Remember” on Saturday, June 8th.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: Self-care for the caregiver

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DECATUR COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a report of kidnapping and sexual assault in Oberlin, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

On June 1, the KBI was asked by the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office to assist with an investigation into the report of a man’s kidnapping and sexual assault. After further investigation, KBI agents determined that several inconsistencies existed in the statements made by the reporting party.

DECATUR COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a report of kidnapping and sexual assault in Oberlin, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.On June 1, the KBI was asked by the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office to assist with an investigation into the report of a man’s kidnapping and sexual assault. After further investigation, KBI agents determined that several inconsistencies existed in the statements made by the reporting party.The community can be assured that no threat exists related to this incident.

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