The City of Hays continues its response to the&nbsp;Kansas Department of Health and Environment  Boil Water Advisory issued earlier today. 

City staff has been working closely with KDHE staff in following requirements of the advisory.

The City of Hays continues its response to the (KDHE) Boil Water Advisory issued earlier today that was a result of a loss of system pressure due to a water main break. 

Today, teams collected water samples in 20 zones throughout the City of Hays.&nbsp; Samples were delivered to the State lab in Topeka by 5 p.m. 

The city expects the results from those tests to be returned mid-day Wednesday.

The city staff appreciates everyone’s patience with this Boil Water Advisory.

Boil Water Advisories are issued out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety of those who use and consume our most precious resource.

𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐃𝐇𝐄 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 is extremely important and can take 2-3 days in some instances.&nbsp; 

The city will continue to communicate its progress.

For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-628-7380 or KDHE at 785-296-5514.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.haysusa.com//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1514">https://www.haysusa.com//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1514</a>

City of HaysThe City of Hays continues its response to the&nbsp;Kansas Department of Health and Environment Boil Water Advisory issued earlier today. City staff has been working closely with KDHE staff in following requirements of the advisory.The City of Hays continues its response to the (KDHE) Boil Water Advisory issued earlier today that was a result of a loss of system pressure due to a water main break. City staff has been working closely with KDHE staff in following requirements of the advisory.Today, teams collected water samples in 20 zones throughout the City of Hays.&nbsp; Samples were delivered to the State lab in Topeka by 5 p.m. The city expects the results from those tests to be returned mid-day Wednesday.The city staff appreciates everyone’s patience with this Boil Water Advisory.Boil Water Advisories are issued out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety of those who use and consume our most precious resource.𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐃𝐇𝐄 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 is extremely important and can take 2-3 days in some instances.&nbsp; The city will continue to communicate its progress.For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-628-7380 or KDHE at 785-296-5514.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.haysusa.com//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1514">https://www.haysusa.com//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1514</a>

Update: City of Hays continues to respond to water issue

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Kansas Common crude at CHS starts the week at $68.25 per barrel after dropping 75 cents on Friday. Prices in McPherson are up more than six dollars since the first of the year. Prices in New York on Monday drop another two percent from Friday's close. Near month WTI drops below $77. London Brent was fetching $80 per barrel.

Kansas regulators okayed 13 new drilling locations statewide. Of those, 12 are in western Kansas including one in Stafford County. 

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 45 new well completions last week, including 22 east of Wichita, and 23 in the western half of the state. Barton County reports six new well completions.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is 17, with seven rigs east of Wichita, down one, and ten in western Kansas, which is unchanged from a week earlier. The tally is down more than 48% from a month ago and down more than 51% from a year ago. 

Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis and Stafford counties.

Baker Hughes reports a U.S. rig count of 580, down two oil rigs and two gas rigs. The breakout for horizontal rigs was down seven rigs. The tally in North Dakota is down by four rigs.

Cold, consolidation, and wildfires are skewing production statistics in North Dakota. 

The number three crude-producing state last week reported output over 1.2 million barrels a day for the month of November, up eleven percent from the month before. The spike comes on the heels of a lull in October brought on by raging wildfires, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. 

Natural gas production rose 1.4% and the gas-capture rate returned to 95% after a brief downturn the month before. But current operations and output are taking a pounding from frigid temperatures. Reuters reports the state's production today is down more than 12 percent due to extreme cold weather and related operational challenges.

The oil patch in The Lone Star State boasts record production totals, pumping nearly half of the national crude-oil tally. They also set records for taxes and royalties, paving a lot of roads, and paying for a lot of tuition. The industry shelled out a record over $27 billion in taxes and royalties last year. 

The state's biggest trade group, the Texas Oil and Gas Association, says they beat the previous record by over a billion dollars. TXOGA president Todd Staples calls it the direct result of "...policy, partnerships and perseverance.”

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says crude production dropped below 13.5 million barrels a day last week for the first time since late November. Current output is 13,481,000 barrels per day. Four-week average output remains above 13.5 million.&nbsp; 

In a new forecast, EIA expects output to top 13.5 million for the entire year this year, &nbsp;and surpass13.6 million barrels per day next year.

The Energy Department adds half a million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. That's nearly 39 million barrels in the last year at refill prices $15 cheaper that what we sold it for. The government says commercial crude inventories dropped by two million barrels to 412.7 million. EIA reports stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average.

We import more crude-oil than we export by more than two million barrels a day. 

The Energy Information Administration reports domestic crude imports dropped by 304-thousand barrels a day to 6.1 million.&nbsp; The four-week average is down 3.3% from a year ago.&nbsp; EIA reports crude imports are down 1.3 million daily barrels from a year ago, and 700,ooo less than two years ago. 

Exports average four million barrels a day, down a million from a year ago, but up 200,000 barrels a day from the same week two years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media Kansas Common crude at CHS starts the week at $68.25 per barrel after dropping 75 cents on Friday. Prices in McPherson are up more than six dollars since the first of the year. Prices in New York on Monday drop another two percent from Friday's close. Near month WTI drops below $77. London Brent was fetching $80 per barrel.Kansas regulators okayed 13 new drilling locations statewide. Of those, 12 are in western Kansas including one in Stafford County. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 45 new well completions last week, including 22 east of Wichita, and 23 in the western half of the state. Barton County reports six new well completions.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is 17, with seven rigs east of Wichita, down one, and ten in western Kansas, which is unchanged from a week earlier. The tally is down more than 48% from a month ago and down more than 51% from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Ellis and Stafford counties.Baker Hughes reports a U.S. rig count of 580, down two oil rigs and two gas rigs. The breakout for horizontal rigs was down seven rigs. The tally in North Dakota is down by four rigs.Cold, consolidation, and wildfires are skewing production statistics in North Dakota. The number three crude-producing state last week reported output over 1.2 million barrels a day for the month of November, up eleven percent from the month before. The spike comes on the heels of a lull in October brought on by raging wildfires, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. Natural gas production rose 1.4% and the gas-capture rate returned to 95% after a brief downturn the month before. But current operations and output are taking a pounding from frigid temperatures. Reuters reports the state's production today is down more than 12 percent due to extreme cold weather and related operational challenges.The oil patch in The Lone Star State boasts record production totals, pumping nearly half of the national crude-oil tally. They also set records for taxes and royalties, paving a lot of roads, and paying for a lot of tuition. The industry shelled out a record over $27 billion in taxes and royalties last year. The state's biggest trade group, the Texas Oil and Gas Association, says they beat the previous record by over a billion dollars. TXOGA president Todd Staples calls it the direct result of "...policy, partnerships and perseverance.”The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says crude production dropped below 13.5 million barrels a day last week for the first time since late November. Current output is 13,481,000 barrels per day. Four-week average output remains above 13.5 million.&nbsp; In a new forecast, EIA expects output to top 13.5 million for the entire year this year, &nbsp;and surpass13.6 million barrels per day next year.The Energy Department adds half a million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. That's nearly 39 million barrels in the last year at refill prices $15 cheaper that what we sold it for. The government says commercial crude inventories dropped by two million barrels to 412.7 million. EIA reports stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average.We import more crude-oil than we export by more than two million barrels a day. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic crude imports dropped by 304-thousand barrels a day to 6.1 million.&nbsp; The four-week average is down 3.3% from a year ago.&nbsp; EIA reports crude imports are down 1.3 million daily barrels from a year ago, and 700,ooo less than two years ago. Exports average four million barrels a day, down a million from a year ago, but up 200,000 barrels a day from the same week two years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Cold, consolidation, wildfires skew ND stats

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved a contract for the sale of Lincoln Elementary School at its meeting Monday night.

The sale is contingent on the Kansas Legislature's approval. State law stipulates the Legislature has the first right of refusal in the sale of public school buildings.

The 100-year-old school will close at the end of this school year.

Hays developer Michael Graham plans to purchase the building for $850,000 and renovate it into apartments.

Graham plans to renovate the school into 26 to 28 one—and two-bedroom apartments, which will be moderate-income housing. He also plans to build on the property surrounding the school.

Closing on the property is set for Oct. 1, according to the contract.

Bill Jeter, board attorney, said this time frame will allow the district to remove any furniture, equipment or fixtures after the end of the school year.

The Lincoln closure is part of a series of bond-funded projects, including renovations and the expansion of Roosevelt Elementary School and O'Loughlin Elementary School. The current middle school will also be renovated into a new elementary school.

Wilson Elementary School also is set to close as an elementary school. Administrative offices will likely be moved to that building.

Roosevelt's grand opening was in December. A groundbreaking for the O'Loughlin project is set for March 6.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays developer to purchase Lincoln school for apartment project</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/551a9176-6517-460f-83bf-7bd35b8f51ac">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board votes to sell Lincoln school</a>

The board also approved the district's audit, district-level administrator contracts and policy changes.

The district-level contracts included Superintendent Ron Wilson, Assistant Superintendents Shanna Dinkel and Chris Hipp, and Kyle Carlin, director of the special education cooperative.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726087259727.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Elementary School. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Elementary School. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved a contract for the sale of Lincoln Elementary School at its meeting Monday night.The sale is contingent on the Kansas Legislature's approval. State law stipulates the Legislature has the first right of refusal in the sale of public school buildings.The 100-year-old school will close at the end of this school year.Hays developer Michael Graham plans to purchase the building for $850,000 and renovate it into apartments.Graham plans to renovate the school into 26 to 28 one—and two-bedroom apartments, which will be moderate-income housing. He also plans to build on the property surrounding the school.Closing on the property is set for Oct. 1, according to the contract.Bill Jeter, board attorney, said this time frame will allow the district to remove any furniture, equipment or fixtures after the end of the school year.The Lincoln closure is part of a series of bond-funded projects, including renovations and the expansion of Roosevelt Elementary School and O'Loughlin Elementary School. The current middle school will also be renovated into a new elementary school.Wilson Elementary School also is set to close as an elementary school. Administrative offices will likely be moved to that building.Roosevelt's grand opening was in December. A groundbreaking for the O'Loughlin project is set for March 6.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays developer to purchase Lincoln school for apartment project</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae"></a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/551a9176-6517-460f-83bf-7bd35b8f51ac">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board votes to sell Lincoln school</a>The board also approved the district's audit, district-level administrator contracts and policy changes.The district-level contracts included Superintendent Ron Wilson, Assistant Superintendents Shanna Dinkel and Chris Hipp, and Kyle Carlin, director of the special education cooperative.

Hays USD 489 approves contract for sale of Lincoln Elementary School

HaysMed announced Linda Lukens as the 2024 Respiratory Therapist of the Year.

"Linda has proven herself to be an invaluable asset here at HaysMed. Her knowledge base, compassionate care, and willingness to go above and beyond for her patients and coworkers have earned her the honor of being named the 2024&nbsp;Respiratory Therapist of the Year," Hunter Bell, HaysMed cardiopulmonary manager, said.

When asked why she chose HaysMed, Linda said, "HaysMed is the perfect size hospital for me. We get to further our skills as respiratory therapists, but we don't become just a number on a piece of paper. I've really enjoyed working here over the past 20 years."

Respiratory therapists specialize in caring for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders, helping people of all ages, from premature infants to elderly patients with conditions like COPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737135120901.jpeg" alt="Linda Lukens" />
 <figcaption>Linda Lukens</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed announced Linda Lukens as the 2024 Respiratory Therapist of the Year."Linda has proven herself to be an invaluable asset here at HaysMed. Her knowledge base, compassionate care, and willingness to go above and beyond for her patients and coworkers have earned her the honor of being named the 2024&nbsp;Respiratory Therapist of the Year," Hunter Bell, HaysMed cardiopulmonary manager, said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737135162201.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>When asked why she chose HaysMed, Linda said, "HaysMed is the perfect size hospital for me. We get to further our skills as respiratory therapists, but we don't become just a number on a piece of paper. I've really enjoyed working here over the past 20 years."Respiratory therapists specialize in caring for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders, helping people of all ages, from premature infants to elderly patients with conditions like COPD.

HaysMed honors Respiratory Therapist of Year

ELLIS — St. Mary’s School in Ellis is hosting their annual School Carnival on Sunday, January 26 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the school gym! 

There will be a soup luncheon with three types of soup to choose from and carnival games for all ages! 

We will also have a raffle to buy chances for awesome prizes!&nbsp; Game tickets are 25 cents each. Raffle tickets are $1.00 each or six for $5.00. 

Tickets may be purchased in advance at the school office now through Friday, Jan. 24. Watch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086923493975">St. Mary’s School-Ellis Facebook page</a> for more details on this fun event!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737129580828.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — St. Mary’s School in Ellis is hosting their annual School Carnival on Sunday, January 26 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the school gym! There will be a soup luncheon with three types of soup to choose from and carnival games for all ages! We will also have a raffle to buy chances for awesome prizes!&nbsp; Game tickets are 25 cents each. Raffle tickets are $1.00 each or six for $5.00. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the school office now through Friday, Jan. 24. Watch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086923493975">St. Mary’s School-Ellis Facebook page</a> for more details on this fun event!

Ellis St. Mary's School Carnival is Jan. 26; tickets available now

<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/communication-studies-expert-attacks-myths-about-harms-of-social-media">KU News Service</a>

LAWRENCE — Australia just&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/australia-passes-social-media-ban-children-under-16-2024-11-28/">banned</a>&nbsp;social media for those under 16.

Before U.S. or any other lawmakers try to ban social media for any group of people, a University of Kansas professor of communication studies who has studied the issue deeply has busted some of the most egregious myths about the supposed harms of its use.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://jmir.org/2024/1/e59585">“Ten Myths About the Effect of Social Media Use on Well-Being,”</a>&nbsp;published in the 25th&nbsp;anniversary edition of the Journal of Medical Internet Research, Jeffrey Hall sets out 10 of the most commonly heard claims about the harms of social media — including its supposed toxicity and trigger for depression — then reviews the latest social scientific research to knock them down.

He likens social media use less to tobacco use and more to eating a doughnut: not alone a healthy diet, but not inherently harmful and with some nutritional value.

Hall spent a yearlong fellowship&nbsp;at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet &amp; Society at Harvard University Law School combing through the latest research on the association between well-being and social media use. Hall writes that he approaches the subject of well-being from a broad perspective, considering both its deepest level — “meaning, connection and life purpose” — as well as transitory states like “pleasure, enjoyment and entertainment.”

In recent years, Hall has gained acclaim for his&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/2022/05/05/person-socialization-down-social-media-isnt-to-blame">research on social media</a>&nbsp;and directs&nbsp;<a href="https://randtlab.ku.edu/">KU’s Relationships and Technology Lab</a>.

In the new paper, he points to studies showing no harm, or, in some cases, mixed effects from social media use, and he examines problems with measurement and methodology in other studies — for example, on so-called social media addiction.

“Internet addiction is a great example where the methods are flawed,” Hall said. “There is no conclusion among researchers that existing measures are meaningful indicators of addiction. It is very difficult to say that harms are caused by media use. Instead, social media use is probably either a coping mechanism or a manifestation of underlying issues that are leading to the compulsive use.”

Nor, Hall writes, is there evidence that bans do any good in ameliorating the supposed harms: “Studies that require participants to abstain from social media for a week or more report no changes in daily loneliness, affective well-being and positive or negative affect,” he writes.

He cautions against social media bans, noting that many people get their real-life needs met online.

“There are many positive attributes about social media use, but the claims and the discussion that we are having, broadly speaking, are almost all about its most negative effects,” Hall said. 

“Social media are used in a range of ways. You see some stuff that makes you feel sad and upset and stressed and frustrated, and then you also see things that make you feel uplifted and more connected to humanity. Social media are used to keep in touch with friends and family and to share experiences. So to say that it's undeniably toxic or that it absolutely will cause depression or harm, it's just not consistent with the literature.”

Yet the goal of the paper is not to let social media off the hook, Hall said. In the place of each myth, he offers a research-warranted claim.

“It’s not to deny that, for some users, social media use is associated with negative outcomes,” he said. “It’s not to say that social media is an effective way to cope with a preexisting problem. What I'm saying is that the claims about social media tend to be more exaggerated and less based on research than they should be in order to have a quality public debate about their effects.”

Rather than likening social media to tobacco use, Hall said, “Perhaps social media functions like a social snack, temporarily redirecting or distracting users from negative effect or loneliness, but failing to fully satisfy their needs.”

“In the big picture, consuming a doughnut is not going to really change the direction of your life. But eating doughnuts to try to solve life’s problems is going to create new problems."

The last myth Hall busts is that no more research is needed on social media, that proof of their alleged harms is definitive and certain. On the contrary, he writes, social media is ever-changing, and so should be the research that seeks to understand the effects of its use.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736876905614.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/communication-studies-expert-attacks-myths-about-harms-of-social-media">KU News Service</a>LAWRENCE — Australia just&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/australia-passes-social-media-ban-children-under-16-2024-11-28/">banned</a>&nbsp;social media for those under 16.Before U.S. or any other lawmakers try to ban social media for any group of people, a University of Kansas professor of communication studies who has studied the issue deeply has busted some of the most egregious myths about the supposed harms of its use.In&nbsp;<a href="https://jmir.org/2024/1/e59585">“Ten Myths About the Effect of Social Media Use on Well-Being,”</a>&nbsp;published in the 25th&nbsp;anniversary edition of the Journal of Medical Internet Research, Jeffrey Hall sets out 10 of the most commonly heard claims about the harms of social media — including its supposed toxicity and trigger for depression — then reviews the latest social scientific research to knock them down.He likens social media use less to tobacco use and more to eating a doughnut: not alone a healthy diet, but not inherently harmful and with some nutritional value.Hall spent a yearlong fellowship&nbsp;at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet &amp; Society at Harvard University Law School combing through the latest research on the association between well-being and social media use. Hall writes that he approaches the subject of well-being from a broad perspective, considering both its deepest level — “meaning, connection and life purpose” — as well as transitory states like “pleasure, enjoyment and entertainment.”In recent years, Hall has gained acclaim for his&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/news/article/2022/05/05/person-socialization-down-social-media-isnt-to-blame">research on social media</a>&nbsp;and directs&nbsp;<a href="https://randtlab.ku.edu/">KU’s Relationships and Technology Lab</a>.In the new paper, he points to studies showing no harm, or, in some cases, mixed effects from social media use, and he examines problems with measurement and methodology in other studies — for example, on so-called social media addiction.“Internet addiction is a great example where the methods are flawed,” Hall said. “There is no conclusion among researchers that existing measures are meaningful indicators of addiction. It is very difficult to say that harms are caused by media use. Instead, social media use is probably either a coping mechanism or a manifestation of underlying issues that are leading to the compulsive use.”Nor, Hall writes, is there evidence that bans do any good in ameliorating the supposed harms: “Studies that require participants to abstain from social media for a week or more report no changes in daily loneliness, affective well-being and positive or negative affect,” he writes.He cautions against social media bans, noting that many people get their real-life needs met online.“There are many positive attributes about social media use, but the claims and the discussion that we are having, broadly speaking, are almost all about its most negative effects,” Hall said. “Social media are used in a range of ways. You see some stuff that makes you feel sad and upset and stressed and frustrated, and then you also see things that make you feel uplifted and more connected to humanity. Social media are used to keep in touch with friends and family and to share experiences. So to say that it's undeniably toxic or that it absolutely will cause depression or harm, it's just not consistent with the literature.”Yet the goal of the paper is not to let social media off the hook, Hall said. In the place of each myth, he offers a research-warranted claim.“It’s not to deny that, for some users, social media use is associated with negative outcomes,” he said. “It’s not to say that social media is an effective way to cope with a preexisting problem. What I'm saying is that the claims about social media tend to be more exaggerated and less based on research than they should be in order to have a quality public debate about their effects.”Rather than likening social media to tobacco use, Hall said, “Perhaps social media functions like a social snack, temporarily redirecting or distracting users from negative effect or loneliness, but failing to fully satisfy their needs.”“In the big picture, consuming a doughnut is not going to really change the direction of your life. But eating doughnuts to try to solve life’s problems is going to create new problems."The last myth Hall busts is that no more research is needed on social media, that proof of their alleged harms is definitive and certain. On the contrary, he writes, social media is ever-changing, and so should be the research that seeks to understand the effects of its use.

KU prof's study cautions against social media bans; 'not inherently harmful'

<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/2025/1/1737459479091.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

BROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays has been named to the dean's list for the fall 2024 semester.

Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

To earn dean's list distinctions in SDSU's colleges, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credits and must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Overall, 3,901 students from 40 states and 32 foreign nations are on the list. More than 1,600 students received a 4.0 GPA.

About South Dakota State University

Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state's Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643818892515.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SDSUBROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays has been named to the dean's list for the fall 2024 semester.Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.To earn dean's list distinctions in SDSU's colleges, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credits and must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Overall, 3,901 students from 40 states and 32 foreign nations are on the list. More than 1,600 students received a 4.0 GPA.About South Dakota State UniversityFounded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state's Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education.&nbsp;

Hays student named to South Dakota State Dean's List for fall semester

A few years back we embarked on an adventure to build a simple and inexpensive deer feeder. A friend had an old unused fuel tank stand made from angle iron – the kind that once held a three-hundred-gallon drum on its side.&nbsp; I bought it for a song, and then came the challenge of what to use for a hopper to hold the corn. I’m not sure my wife has ever thought INSIDE the box, and she came up with the idea of using a poly cart like the ones that hold our weekly trash. I called the local solid waste utility company, found an old one with a broken axle and bought it for another song. We wanted to use a “flinger” style mechanism to dispense the corn, and since the bottom of poly carts are flat, that required somehow making the inside of the poly cart funnel shaped to funnel the corn down to the mechanism. That problem was solved by cutting two pieces of scrap plywood to fit inside the hopper, making the inside wedge-shaped.&nbsp;

We purchased the dispensing mechanism which consists of a small wheel mounted above a motor that’s driven by a square six-volt battery. It’s all controlled by a timer which turns the dispenser on and off at programed times, spinning the wheel and flinging corn around onto the ground.&nbsp; A thick plastic funnel comes with the dispenser and bolts around a hole cut into the bottom of the hopper. That funnel is specially designed so that when it’s positioned the right height above the flinger, it allows corn to run out of the hopper onto the flinger wheel, but causes it to “bridge-up” and stop until the wheel spins. In other words, if the funnel was wider or placed too far above the wheel, the corn would not “bridge-up” and stop running when it hit the motionless wheel, but instead would just pour constantly onto the ground until it had all run out.&nbsp;

Fast forward to spring a couple years later, when we were using the feeder to feed corn to turkeys prior to spring turkey season. I remember going there one evening to check the amount of corn in the hopper and was surprised to find it empty with lots of corn on the ground. I backed the pickup up to the feeder and climbed up onto it with a bucket of corn like I had done numerous times before, but when I dumped the bucket into the hopper, the corn all ran straight through onto the ground. Upon inspection, I found that the plastic funnel had been chewed off by some critter making it much shorter and allowing the corn to just pour through the hole. The feeder was now useless until a new funnel of some sort was put onto the bottom of the hopper.&nbsp;

A couple weeks later we headed out to pick up our then-useless deer feeder for repairs. It dawned on me that the hopper was made to be easily removed and that’s all we needed anyway, so we began removing the bolts that held it to the frame. As we worked, it seemed like I could hear an occasional rustling sound inside the hopper. I felt like Clark Griswald from the movie “Christmas Vacation,” trying to find the squeaking noise coming from the Christmas tree. But each time I stopped to listen, the rustling noise stopped too, so I dismissed it to my imagination. When the hopper was finally loose, we toppled it over into the bed of the pickup, and Joyce began hearing my “imaginary” rustling noise also. Supposing a no-good packrat was inside, I pulled the hopper to the back of the pickup and started to open the lid. My plan was to stand to the side and let the open lid dangle over the back of the tailgate in hopes that our freeloader would jump out the back and be gone without incident. While rolling the hopper around, the rustling inside turned to scratching and clawing and with the hole in the hopper facing away from us, I prepared to open the lid and confront the intruder.&nbsp; I unsnapped the tarp strap that held the lid closed, but before I could fling it open, a squirrel bailed out the hole in front, clearing the side of the pickup in one bound like Rocky the Flying Squirrel. Joyce and I starred at each other in disbelief; I think her only words were” I didn’t see that comin’!” The critter had actually chewed a hole through the half-inch plywood inside and had quite the cozy little nest built within; we pulled grass and leaves out of there for ten minutes.

The most amazing thing about the whole squirrel-nest-inside-the-deer-feeder-hopper thing is that the only way into it was up through the hole in the plastic funnel on the bottom. I know squirrels can squeeze their bodies into some impossible places, but I’d loved to have watched it leap from the frame of the feeder onto the motor, then stuff itself up through the gnawed-out plastic funnel and into the poly cart. This gives a whole new meaning to the term “squirrel corn.” So, as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors, if something seems squirrely, it probably is!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>A few years back we embarked on an adventure to build a simple and inexpensive deer feeder. A friend had an old unused fuel tank stand made from angle iron – the kind that once held a three-hundred-gallon drum on its side.&nbsp; I bought it for a song, and then came the challenge of what to use for a hopper to hold the corn. I’m not sure my wife has ever thought INSIDE the box, and she came up with the idea of using a poly cart like the ones that hold our weekly trash. I called the local solid waste utility company, found an old one with a broken axle and bought it for another song. We wanted to use a “flinger” style mechanism to dispense the corn, and since the bottom of poly carts are flat, that required somehow making the inside of the poly cart funnel shaped to funnel the corn down to the mechanism. That problem was solved by cutting two pieces of scrap plywood to fit inside the hopper, making the inside wedge-shaped.&nbsp;We purchased the dispensing mechanism which consists of a small wheel mounted above a motor that’s driven by a square six-volt battery. It’s all controlled by a timer which turns the dispenser on and off at programed times, spinning the wheel and flinging corn around onto the ground.&nbsp; A thick plastic funnel comes with the dispenser and bolts around a hole cut into the bottom of the hopper. That funnel is specially designed so that when it’s positioned the right height above the flinger, it allows corn to run out of the hopper onto the flinger wheel, but causes it to “bridge-up” and stop until the wheel spins. In other words, if the funnel was wider or placed too far above the wheel, the corn would not “bridge-up” and stop running when it hit the motionless wheel, but instead would just pour constantly onto the ground until it had all run out.&nbsp;Fast forward to spring a couple years later, when we were using the feeder to feed corn to turkeys prior to spring turkey season. I remember going there one evening to check the amount of corn in the hopper and was surprised to find it empty with lots of corn on the ground. I backed the pickup up to the feeder and climbed up onto it with a bucket of corn like I had done numerous times before, but when I dumped the bucket into the hopper, the corn all ran straight through onto the ground. Upon inspection, I found that the plastic funnel had been chewed off by some critter making it much shorter and allowing the corn to just pour through the hole. The feeder was now useless until a new funnel of some sort was put onto the bottom of the hopper.&nbsp;A couple weeks later we headed out to pick up our then-useless deer feeder for repairs. It dawned on me that the hopper was made to be easily removed and that’s all we needed anyway, so we began removing the bolts that held it to the frame. As we worked, it seemed like I could hear an occasional rustling sound inside the hopper. I felt like Clark Griswald from the movie “Christmas Vacation,” trying to find the squeaking noise coming from the Christmas tree. But each time I stopped to listen, the rustling noise stopped too, so I dismissed it to my imagination. When the hopper was finally loose, we toppled it over into the bed of the pickup, and Joyce began hearing my “imaginary” rustling noise also. Supposing a no-good packrat was inside, I pulled the hopper to the back of the pickup and started to open the lid. My plan was to stand to the side and let the open lid dangle over the back of the tailgate in hopes that our freeloader would jump out the back and be gone without incident. While rolling the hopper around, the rustling inside turned to scratching and clawing and with the hole in the hopper facing away from us, I prepared to open the lid and confront the intruder.&nbsp; I unsnapped the tarp strap that held the lid closed, but before I could fling it open, a squirrel bailed out the hole in front, clearing the side of the pickup in one bound like Rocky the Flying Squirrel. Joyce and I starred at each other in disbelief; I think her only words were” I didn’t see that comin’!” The critter had actually chewed a hole through the half-inch plywood inside and had quite the cozy little nest built within; we pulled grass and leaves out of there for ten minutes.The most amazing thing about the whole squirrel-nest-inside-the-deer-feeder-hopper thing is that the only way into it was up through the hole in the plastic funnel on the bottom. I know squirrels can squeeze their bodies into some impossible places, but I’d loved to have watched it leap from the frame of the feeder onto the motor, then stuff itself up through the gnawed-out plastic funnel and into the poly cart. This gives a whole new meaning to the term “squirrel corn.” So, as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors, if something seems squirrely, it probably is!Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Gilliland: What’s in your hopper?

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 21, the section of 13th Street between Harvest Road and Tallgrass Drive will be restricted to one-way westbound traffic. 

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. 

For more information, contact the Office of Project Management at 785 -628-7350 or APAC at 785-625-3459.

City of HaysBeginning Tuesday, Jan. 21, the section of 13th Street between Harvest Road and Tallgrass Drive will be restricted to one-way westbound traffic. The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. For more information, contact the Office of Project Management at 785 -628-7350 or APAC at 785-625-3459.

13th Street to be restricted to 1 lane

For the month of December 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 138 calls for service, conducted 63 traffic stops, and issued 10 traffic citations. 7 out of the 10 citations were due to speeding. The highest alleged speed was 17 miles per hour over the limit.

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 1 adult arrest.

The following adult was arrested in November by the Ellis Police Department:

On 12/31/2024, Russell Ellis was arrested on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (1st Offense), Driving while Suspended (1st Offense), and Endangering a Child. He was cited and released after testing.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

In 2024, our Facebook page garnered over 421,000 views and reached over 69,000 unique individual accounts. Thank you all for making this our best year on social media yet! We are very pleased that we are able to use our social media presence as a tool to keep our Community Members well-equipped and well-informed as to what their police department is doing. We have great things planned for 2025 and will continue providing these releases to our Facebook page as well as local media outlets.

With Winter gripping Kansas with its icy-cold hands. Please take a few extra minutes each morning to either defrost your windshield or scrape it clean of ice or snow. America’s favorite contact sport is without a doubt Football or Hockey (GO AVALANCHE), there’s no need to make our second favorite contact sport “operating a motor vehicle with an obstructed view.”

Section 177 of the Kansas Standard Traffic Ordinance states in section (a) that:

“(a) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side wings, side or rear windows of such vehicle which substantially obstructs, obscures or impairs the driver’s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway.”

In summation- YOUR WINDOWS NEED TO BE CLEARED! In my time with the Ellis Police Department, I have stopped numerous drivers with a 3”x5” notecard sized area cleared, and the rest of the window completely coated in ice. I have personally scraped windows for drivers, but never issued a citation for it. The embarrassment of getting pulled over and stopped for what may seem like such a trivial matter is typically enough to convince even the most seasoned Winter drivers to take an extra 5 minutes and prepare their automobiles for travel in the morning. America is a very hustled society, where we are encouraged to be on time for everything. There is no timeline for your own personal safety. Take the time that you need to ensure the safety of you and those around you!!

Finally, I have had several concerned Community Members reach out to the Ellis Police Department about juveniles on the ice that is present on Big Creek. The City of Ellis does not currently have any ordinance on the books that prohibits accessing Big Creek while it is frozen. Most experts agree that an ice thickness of 4” or more is generally safe to support weights of approximately 200 lbs. It is also generally accepted that ice that appears white in color is either covered in snow or has air pockets. White ice typically cracks easier and should be at least TWICE the typical thickness of clear or “blue” looking ice to support the same weight! When thawing occurs, Ice may present as “mottled” or slushy. Slushy ice should be avoided at all costs! If you venture out on the ice, please let another person know what you are doing and check in with family and friends often so that they can verify your safety. Remember; there is safety in numbers, don’t go out alone. Ice rescues are very dangerous; our local firefighters will thank you for being cautious!

Thank you all for a great 2024! We look forward to what 2025 has to bring!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737401501218.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>For the month of December 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 138 calls for service, conducted 63 traffic stops, and issued 10 traffic citations. 7 out of the 10 citations were due to speeding. The highest alleged speed was 17 miles per hour over the limit.The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 1 adult arrest.The following adult was arrested in November by the Ellis Police Department:On 12/31/2024, Russell Ellis was arrested on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (1st Offense), Driving while Suspended (1st Offense), and Endangering a Child. He was cited and released after testing.All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.In 2024, our Facebook page garnered over 421,000 views and reached over 69,000 unique individual accounts. Thank you all for making this our best year on social media yet! We are very pleased that we are able to use our social media presence as a tool to keep our Community Members well-equipped and well-informed as to what their police department is doing. We have great things planned for 2025 and will continue providing these releases to our Facebook page as well as local media outlets.With Winter gripping Kansas with its icy-cold hands. Please take a few extra minutes each morning to either defrost your windshield or scrape it clean of ice or snow. America’s favorite contact sport is without a doubt Football or Hockey (GO AVALANCHE), there’s no need to make our second favorite contact sport “operating a motor vehicle with an obstructed view.”Section 177 of the Kansas Standard Traffic Ordinance states in section (a) that:“(a) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side wings, side or rear windows of such vehicle which substantially obstructs, obscures or impairs the driver’s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway.”In summation- YOUR WINDOWS NEED TO BE CLEARED! In my time with the Ellis Police Department, I have stopped numerous drivers with a 3”x5” notecard sized area cleared, and the rest of the window completely coated in ice. I have personally scraped windows for drivers, but never issued a citation for it. The embarrassment of getting pulled over and stopped for what may seem like such a trivial matter is typically enough to convince even the most seasoned Winter drivers to take an extra 5 minutes and prepare their automobiles for travel in the morning. America is a very hustled society, where we are encouraged to be on time for everything. There is no timeline for your own personal safety. Take the time that you need to ensure the safety of you and those around you!!Finally, I have had several concerned Community Members reach out to the Ellis Police Department about juveniles on the ice that is present on Big Creek. The City of Ellis does not currently have any ordinance on the books that prohibits accessing Big Creek while it is frozen. Most experts agree that an ice thickness of 4” or more is generally safe to support weights of approximately 200 lbs. It is also generally accepted that ice that appears white in color is either covered in snow or has air pockets. White ice typically cracks easier and should be at least TWICE the typical thickness of clear or “blue” looking ice to support the same weight! When thawing occurs, Ice may present as “mottled” or slushy. Slushy ice should be avoided at all costs! If you venture out on the ice, please let another person know what you are doing and check in with family and friends often so that they can verify your safety. Remember; there is safety in numbers, don’t go out alone. Ice rescues are very dangerous; our local firefighters will thank you for being cautious!Thank you all for a great 2024! We look forward to what 2025 has to bring!-Chief Smith

Ellis Police Department December 2024 Activity Report

Ellis County Jail bookings: Jan. 14-20, 2025

Ellis County Sheriff's activity log: Jan. 14-20, 2025

The following businesses have closed or limited services due to the boil water advisory in Hays.&nbsp;

• Chestnut Street Floral, closed • Starbucks, closed&nbsp; • Golden Q, kitchen is open, but only serving beer and straight liquor to drink

The following businesses have closed or limited services due to the boil water advisory in Hays.&nbsp;• Chestnut Street Floral, closed • Starbucks, closed&nbsp; • Golden Q, kitchen is open, but only serving beer and straight liquor to drink

Closures, changes due to water issues

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the 5-State Photography Exhibition still on display and looks ahead to the Creative Writing and Famous Figures contests for Ellis County students.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Spring events planned at Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bn73q-17b20c8-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the 5-State Photography Exhibition still on display and looks ahead to the Creative Writing and Famous Figures contests for Ellis County students.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Spring events planned at Hays Arts Council

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Italian Cafe brings a taste of Italy to Hays. It offers a welcoming atmosphere and fresh, authentic Italian cuisine.

The cafe, 700 Vine St., opened on Jan. 2 and is owned by Nick Gjocaj, an Albanian native who manages multiple restaurants across several states with support from others.

"The main thing is family. The kitchen is always run by a family member," he said.

Gjocaj said that despite having no Italian background, he learned to cook from his uncle in New York, who worked for Italians. In 1990, his uncle moved to Texas and started his own businesses, inspiring Gjocaj to follow in his footsteps.

Gjocaj embraced Italian cuisine and restaurant management, opening his first restaurant in Texas in 2008. Since then, he has opened additional locations in Texas, Mississippi and now Kansas.

"I didn't even know where Hays was," he said. "It's a small town, smaller than I'm used to, but it's quiet for sure. I like it so far."

Gjocaj's cafe offers linguini white clam sauce, chicken fettuccine alfredo, eggplant parmesan, Cajun seafood, various salads and a kids' menu.

Gjocaj recommends his signature pink sauce, which pairs perfectly with lobster ravioli, shrimp tortellini and several chicken options.

"Everything is fresh and from scratch. We have no processed food whatsoever," he said. "I have the best lasagna in Kansas. I can guarantee you that."

Gjocaj relocated to Hays about two months ago and was introduced to the restaurant building, formerly Al's Kitchen, by his cousin.

Gjocaj and his cousin work in the kitchen and, supported by additional staff, take on other roles as needed.

This approach is consistent with his other establishment, where he relies on family members such as cousins, uncles and nephews to serve the best Italy has to offer.

"It takes a while until I find someone to run it, but that's how I maintain is with family. Most of the restaurants I own have someone from my family in the kitchen," Gjocaj said.

After Gjocaj took over, the building underwent interior renovations. He transformed the space into a sit-down restaurant by adding walls to separate the kitchen from the dining area and creating a dedicated waitress section.

Gjocaj said his dream has always been to be a community-focused business rather than growing into a large-scale operation.

In the short time since the Italian cafe opened, it has already begun building relationships with Hays families who can not get enough of Gjocaj's cooking.

"That means a lot to me because those families know me by name," he said. "I never dreamed of being one of the big guys. I always wanted to be the small business owner where everybody feels comfortable and at home."

The Italian Cafe is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays.

You can follow the Italian Cafe on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571168207032">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737045498802.jpeg" alt="The front entrance of the Italian Cafe with a now open sign in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The front entrance of the Italian Cafe with a now open sign in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostItalian Cafe brings a taste of Italy to Hays. It offers a welcoming atmosphere and fresh, authentic Italian cuisine.The cafe, 700 Vine St., opened on Jan. 2 and is owned by Nick Gjocaj, an Albanian native who manages multiple restaurants across several states with support from others."The main thing is family. The kitchen is always run by a family member," he said.Gjocaj said that despite having no Italian background, he learned to cook from his uncle in New York, who worked for Italians. In 1990, his uncle moved to Texas and started his own businesses, inspiring Gjocaj to follow in his footsteps.Gjocaj embraced Italian cuisine and restaurant management, opening his first restaurant in Texas in 2008. Since then, he has opened additional locations in Texas, Mississippi and now Kansas."I didn't even know where Hays was," he said. "It's a small town, smaller than I'm used to, but it's quiet for sure. I like it so far."Gjocaj's cafe offers linguini white clam sauce, chicken fettuccine alfredo, eggplant parmesan, Cajun seafood, various salads and a kids' menu.Gjocaj recommends his signature pink sauce, which pairs perfectly with lobster ravioli, shrimp tortellini and several chicken options."Everything is fresh and from scratch. We have no processed food whatsoever," he said. "I have the best lasagna in Kansas. I can guarantee you that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737045693864.jpeg" alt="A dining area of the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A dining area of the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737045588391.jpeg" alt="A dining area of the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A dining area of the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gjocaj relocated to Hays about two months ago and was introduced to the restaurant building, formerly Al's Kitchen, by his cousin.Gjocaj and his cousin work in the kitchen and, supported by additional staff, take on other roles as needed.This approach is consistent with his other establishment, where he relies on family members such as cousins, uncles and nephews to serve the best Italy has to offer."It takes a while until I find someone to run it, but that's how I maintain is with family. Most of the restaurants I own have someone from my family in the kitchen," Gjocaj said.After Gjocaj took over, the building underwent interior renovations. He transformed the space into a sit-down restaurant by adding walls to separate the kitchen from the dining area and creating a dedicated waitress section.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737045775504.jpeg" alt="A newly added wall to the left of the dining area separates it from the bathrooms. Photo By Tony Guerero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A newly added wall to the left of the dining area separates it from the bathrooms. Photo By Tony Guerero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737045946167.jpeg" alt="A dining area with booths and tables at the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A dining area with booths and tables at the Italian Cafe in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Gjocaj said his dream has always been to be a community-focused business rather than growing into a large-scale operation.In the short time since the Italian cafe opened, it has already begun building relationships with Hays families who can not get enough of Gjocaj's cooking."That means a lot to me because those families know me by name," he said. "I never dreamed of being one of the big guys. I always wanted to be the small business owner where everybody feels comfortable and at home."The Italian Cafe is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays.You can follow the Italian Cafe on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571168207032">Facebook</a>.

New Italian Cafe opens, fills Hays with aromas of homemade cooking

Submitted The Kansas Suffragist Memorial Committee, in collaboration with the Kansas Historical Society, is excited to announce the dedication of a memorial honoring Kansas women who fought for the right to vote.

Honorees include women from WaKeeney and Larned.

The dedication ceremony will take place at noon on January 29, 2025 (Kansas Day), in the first-floor rotunda of the Kansas Capitol.

The Kansas Suffragist Memorial Committee was formed through the combined efforts of the League of Women Voters of Kansas (LWVK) and the Kansas American Association of University Women (AAUW), which united to celebrate the centennial of the 19th Amendment.

The committee's mission is to honor Kansas women who played a significant role in the statewide and national struggle for women's voting rights. This public art piece aims to inspire reflection on Kansas's history, educate people about important Kansas figures, and instill these values in future generations.

The committee worked closely with the Capitol Preservation Committee to bring the mural to life.

Created by artist Phyllis Garibay-Coon, the mural depicts thirteen Kansas suffragists from across the state, arranged in a V formation. 

The mural spans 60 years, from 1859 to 1919, showcasing figures such as Clarina Nichols from Quindaro, who achieved voting rights for women in school elections in 1859, and Jane Brooks of Wichita, who served as the president of the Kansas Equal Suffrage Association in 1919. The artist aims to tell a story through her artwork.

The upper part of the mural is adorned with numerous suffragists dressed in white, while various symbols representing Kansas and women's actions fill this emotionally impactful piece. A banner at the top displays the wording of the 1912 Kansas Constitutional amendment that granted women full suffrage.

1. Anna O. Anthony (1844-1930) (Leavenworth), sister-in-law of Susan B. Anthony, hosted national suffragists at her Leavenworth home during the 1887 campaign. 2. Lutie A. Lytle (1875-1955) (Tennessee/Topeka), the first African American woman admitted to the Kansas Bar Association (1897), lectured on marriage and divorce laws in Kansas. 3. Anna C. Wait (1837-1916) (Lincoln), owner and editor of the Lincoln Beacon, co-founded the Kansas Equal Suffrage Association (KESA) in 1884 and spread suffrage news for twenty years. 4. Lilla D. Monroe (1858-1929) (WaKeeney/Topeka), the first woman to practice law before the Kansas Supreme Court (1895), published the Kansas Woman’s Journal in Topeka and gathered stories from 800 pioneer women.&nbsp; 5. Annie L. Diggs (1853-1916) (Lawrence/Topeka), a Populist suffragist and KESA president (1899), helped to design the state library in the Capitol as State Librarian (1898-1902). 6. Laura M. Johns (1849-1935) (Salina), president of KESA (1887-1895) and the Kansas Republican Woman’s Association (1892), helped to coordinate thirty suffrage conventions across Kansas beginning in 1892. 7. Clarina I. H. Nichols (1810-1885) (Wyandotte), a lecturer, editor, and Underground Railroad conductor in Quindaro, sparked and led the woman suffrage movement in Kansas beginning in 1859. 8. Lizzie S. Sheldon (1851-1942) (Lawrence), a KU law graduate (1900), wrote the resolution for full woman suffrage (on banner) in 1911 and ran for a seat on the Kansas Supreme Court (1914).&nbsp; 9. Carolyn (Langston) Hughes Clark (1873-1938) (Lawrence), a civil rights advocate, urged African American women to enter politics as journalists (1892) and encouraged the literary education of her son Langston Hughes. &nbsp; 10. Mary Jane “Mamie” Dillard (1874-1954) (Lawrence), a prominent educator, promoted civil rights in education and taught Langston Hughes. &nbsp; 11. Jane L. Brooks (1867-1945) (Wichita), a KESA president (1917-18), founded the first state chapter of the national League of Women Voters (1919) in Wichita. 12. Lucy B. Johnston (1846-1937) (Topeka), a lawyer, expanded the Kansas Traveling Library collection and led the 1912 campaign for the ratification of the Kansas Equal Suffrage Amendment as KESA president. 13. Minnie J. Grinstead (1869-1925) (Larned/Liberal), the first woman elected to the Kansas House of Representatives (1918), presented the joint resolution to ratify the Nineteenth Amendment (1919). &nbsp;

Garibay-Coon, the daughter of a third-generation farmer from Kingman County, hopes that this mural will serve as a platform for sharing truth and knowledge with all visitors to the Capitol building. The artist invites everyone to attend the dedication on Wednesday, January 29.

If you with to donate to the memorial fund, click on the following:&nbsp;<a href="https://kssuffragist.org/KS-suffragist-memorial-contribution-form.pdf" target="_blank">https://kssuffragist.org/KS-suffragist-memorial-contribution-form.pdf</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737046678305.jpeg" alt="A mockup of the mural by Phyllis Garibay-Coon to be installed in the Kansas State Capitol on Kansas Day.&nbsp;

Honorees include suffragists from&nbsp;WaKeeney&nbsp;and&nbsp;Larned.&nbsp; Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>A mockup of the mural by Phyllis Garibay-Coon to be installed in the Kansas State Capitol on Kansas Day.&nbsp;

Honorees include suffragists from&nbsp;WaKeeney&nbsp;and&nbsp;Larned.&nbsp; Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The Kansas Suffragist Memorial Committee, in collaboration with the Kansas Historical Society, is excited to announce the dedication of a memorial honoring Kansas women who fought for the right to vote. Honorees include women from WaKeeney and Larned.The dedication ceremony will take place at noon on January 29, 2025 (Kansas Day), in the first-floor rotunda of the Kansas Capitol.The Kansas Suffragist Memorial Committee was formed through the combined efforts of the League of Women Voters of Kansas (LWVK) and the Kansas American Association of University Women (AAUW), which united to celebrate the centennial of the 19th Amendment.The committee's mission is to honor Kansas women who played a significant role in the statewide and national struggle for women's voting rights. This public art piece aims to inspire reflection on Kansas's history, educate people about important Kansas figures, and instill these values in future generations.The committee worked closely with the Capitol Preservation Committee to bring the mural to life.Created by artist Phyllis Garibay-Coon, the mural depicts thirteen Kansas suffragists from across the state, arranged in a V formation. The mural spans 60 years, from 1859 to 1919, showcasing figures such as Clarina Nichols from Quindaro, who achieved voting rights for women in school elections in 1859, and Jane Brooks of Wichita, who served as the president of the Kansas Equal Suffrage Association in 1919. The artist aims to tell a story through her artwork.The upper part of the mural is adorned with numerous suffragists dressed in white, while various symbols representing Kansas and women's actions fill this emotionally impactful piece. A banner at the top displays the wording of the 1912 Kansas Constitutional amendment that granted women full suffrage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737046180230.png" alt="The mural represents 13 major Kansas suffragists from across Kansas. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The mural represents 13 major Kansas suffragists from across Kansas. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>1. Anna O. Anthony (1844-1930) (Leavenworth), sister-in-law of Susan B. Anthony, hosted national suffragists at her Leavenworth home during the 1887 campaign. 2. Lutie A. Lytle (1875-1955) (Tennessee/Topeka), the first African American woman admitted to the Kansas Bar Association (1897), lectured on marriage and divorce laws in Kansas. 3. Anna C. Wait (1837-1916) (Lincoln), owner and editor of the Lincoln Beacon, co-founded the Kansas Equal Suffrage Association (KESA) in 1884 and spread suffrage news for twenty years. 4. Lilla D. Monroe (1858-1929) (WaKeeney/Topeka), the first woman to practice law before the Kansas Supreme Court (1895), published the Kansas Woman’s Journal in Topeka and gathered stories from 800 pioneer women.&nbsp; 5. Annie L. Diggs (1853-1916) (Lawrence/Topeka), a Populist suffragist and KESA president (1899), helped to design the state library in the Capitol as State Librarian (1898-1902). 6. Laura M. Johns (1849-1935) (Salina), president of KESA (1887-1895) and the Kansas Republican Woman’s Association (1892), helped to coordinate thirty suffrage conventions across Kansas beginning in 1892. 7. Clarina I. H. Nichols (1810-1885) (Wyandotte), a lecturer, editor, and Underground Railroad conductor in Quindaro, sparked and led the woman suffrage movement in Kansas beginning in 1859. 8. Lizzie S. Sheldon (1851-1942) (Lawrence), a KU law graduate (1900), wrote the resolution for full woman suffrage (on banner) in 1911 and ran for a seat on the Kansas Supreme Court (1914).&nbsp; 9. Carolyn (Langston) Hughes Clark (1873-1938) (Lawrence), a civil rights advocate, urged African American women to enter politics as journalists (1892) and encouraged the literary education of her son Langston Hughes. &nbsp; 10. Mary Jane “Mamie” Dillard (1874-1954) (Lawrence), a prominent educator, promoted civil rights in education and taught Langston Hughes. &nbsp; 11. Jane L. Brooks (1867-1945) (Wichita), a KESA president (1917-18), founded the first state chapter of the national League of Women Voters (1919) in Wichita. 12. Lucy B. Johnston (1846-1937) (Topeka), a lawyer, expanded the Kansas Traveling Library collection and led the 1912 campaign for the ratification of the Kansas Equal Suffrage Amendment as KESA president. 13. Minnie J. Grinstead (1869-1925) (Larned/Liberal), the first woman elected to the Kansas House of Representatives (1918), presented the joint resolution to ratify the Nineteenth Amendment (1919). &nbsp;Garibay-Coon, the daughter of a third-generation farmer from Kingman County, hopes that this mural will serve as a platform for sharing truth and knowledge with all visitors to the Capitol building. The artist invites everyone to attend the dedication on Wednesday, January 29.If you with to donate to the memorial fund, click on the following:&nbsp;<a href="https://kssuffragist.org/KS-suffragist-memorial-contribution-form.pdf" target="_blank">https://kssuffragist.org/KS-suffragist-memorial-contribution-form.pdf</a>&nbsp;

WaKeeney, Larned suffragists included in new Kansas memorial 

The Hays Arts Council is pleased to announce the newest members to its Board of Directors. Established in 1967, the Hays Arts Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Hays, Kansas. Through its wide range of programs, events, and exhibitions, the Hays Arts Council enriches the cultural vibrancy of the region.

The newly appointed members joining the Board of Directors are:

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kaiti Blackburn, Jana’s Campaign

●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sherrida Johnson, first-year art education student at Fort Hays State University, serving as the student representative

"We are excited to welcome these individuals and their ideas to the Hays Arts Council," said Brittney Squire, current president of the board of directors. "While this marks a new chapter, it is also bittersweet. 

"After 16 years (non-consecutively) on the board, we bid farewell to longtime board member Jennifer Sauer and Ben Dome, our youth representative of two years. Their contributions and presence will continue to be part of the fabric of our organization.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Arts Council also expresses its gratitude to the existing board members for their dedication. 

●Brittney Squire, president ●JoAnn Jennings, vice president ●Sharon Dreher, treasurer ●Amy Normandin, secretary ●Adam Conkey ●Sherry Dibble ●Nicole Frank ●Margie Hammerschmidt ●Norman Keller ●Alan Stecklein ●Cathy Van Doren

This is an exciting time for the Hays Arts Council as the organization is engaged in the&nbsp;For the Heart of Hays&nbsp;campaign to renovate its facilities in Downtown Hays.

More information about the Hays Arts Council and the ongoing campaign can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.haysartscouncil.org/">www.haysartscouncil.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737043636445.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HACThe Hays Arts Council is pleased to announce the newest members to its Board of Directors. Established in 1967, the Hays Arts Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Hays, Kansas. Through its wide range of programs, events, and exhibitions, the Hays Arts Council enriches the cultural vibrancy of the region.The newly appointed members joining the Board of Directors are:●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kaiti Blackburn, Jana’s Campaign●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sherrida Johnson, first-year art education student at Fort Hays State University, serving as the student representative"We are excited to welcome these individuals and their ideas to the Hays Arts Council," said Brittney Squire, current president of the board of directors. "While this marks a new chapter, it is also bittersweet. "After 16 years (non-consecutively) on the board, we bid farewell to longtime board member Jennifer Sauer and Ben Dome, our youth representative of two years. Their contributions and presence will continue to be part of the fabric of our organization.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hays Arts Council also expresses its gratitude to the existing board members for their dedication. Board members include:&nbsp;●Brittney Squire, president ●JoAnn Jennings, vice president ●Sharon Dreher, treasurer ●Amy Normandin, secretary ●Adam Conkey ●Sherry Dibble ●Nicole Frank ●Margie Hammerschmidt ●Norman Keller ●Alan Stecklein ●Cathy Van DorenThis is an exciting time for the Hays Arts Council as the organization is engaged in the&nbsp;For the Heart of Hays&nbsp;campaign to renovate its facilities in Downtown Hays.More information about the Hays Arts Council and the ongoing campaign can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.haysartscouncil.org/">www.haysartscouncil.org</a>.

Hays Arts Council welcomes new members to board of directors

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. 

Therefore, there are many different lease arrangements, factors to consider, and places where misunderstandings can happen. Additionally, many leases are still oral leases that are “signed” with a handshake.

One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease.&nbsp; Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. 

They would include but are not limited to:

Hunting/fishing rights Recreation access Payment due dates Termination procedures

In addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to:

Care of fences Noxious weed control Water supply maintenance Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing season

A bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.

Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings. 

There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.

Local county and district extension offices have several resources concerning leases, written leasing arrangement forms, cash rental rate averages, Kansas Agricultural Lease Law Publication C-668, etc. Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;and click onto the Farm Management tab.

If you have questions contact your local county or district extension office. I can be contacted in the Cottonwood District, Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 and Stacy Campbell can be contacted in the Hays office at 785-628-9430.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor ,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor ,&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictOver half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. Therefore, there are many different lease arrangements, factors to consider, and places where misunderstandings can happen. Additionally, many leases are still oral leases that are “signed” with a handshake.One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease.&nbsp; Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. They would include but are not limited to: Hunting/fishing rights Recreation access Payment due dates Termination proceduresIn addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to: Care of fences Noxious weed control Water supply maintenance Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing seasonA bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings. There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.Local county and district extension offices have several resources concerning leases, written leasing arrangement forms, cash rental rate averages, Kansas Agricultural Lease Law Publication C-668, etc. Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;and click onto the Farm Management tab. If you have questions contact your local county or district extension office. I can be contacted in the Cottonwood District, Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 and Stacy Campbell can be contacted in the Hays office at 785-628-9430.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Getting it in writing – Agriculture land leases

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737125395079.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>

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider a contract for the sale of Lincoln Elementary School at its meeting at 6:30 tonight at Rockwell Administration Center.

Closing on the property is set for Oct. 1, according to the contract the school board will vote on tonight.

Graham said he plans to renovate the school into about 26 to 28 one- and two-bedroom apartments. He said the apartments will be moderate-income housing. He also plans to build on the property surrounding the school.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays developer to purchase Lincoln school for apartment project</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae"></a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/551a9176-6517-460f-83bf-7bd35b8f51ac">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board votes to sell Lincoln school</a>

The Lincoln closure is part of a series of bond-funded projects, including renovations and the expansion of Roosevelt Elementary School and O'Loughlin Elementary School.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will consider a contract for the sale of Lincoln Elementary School at its meeting at 6:30 tonight at Rockwell Administration Center.The 100-year-old school will close at the end of this school year.Hays developer Michael Graham plans to purchase the building for $850,000 and renovate it into apartments.Closing on the property is set for Oct. 1, according to the contract the school board will vote on tonight.Graham said he plans to renovate the school into about 26 to 28 one- and two-bedroom apartments. He said the apartments will be moderate-income housing. He also plans to build on the property surrounding the school.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays developer to purchase Lincoln school for apartment project</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cf1f167-3d2b-4a78-9fe7-240b64b595ae"></a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/551a9176-6517-460f-83bf-7bd35b8f51ac">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board votes to sell Lincoln school</a>The Lincoln closure is part of a series of bond-funded projects, including renovations and the expansion of Roosevelt Elementary School and O'Loughlin Elementary School.The Roosevelt's grand opening was in December.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9c9d8521-815b-4f1d-8bf6-ddea11091306">Work on O'Loughlin will begin this month, weather permitting.&nbsp;</a><h2>Hays Middle School schedule</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737404084563.png" alt="Sample Hays Middle School schedule for the next school year." />
 <figcaption>Sample Hays Middle School schedule for the next school year.</figcaption>
 </figure>Staff at Hays Middle School will present a change in the school's schedule, which includes an earlier start time and five class periods per day.The new schedule will include science and math classes every day.Students would have seminar and non-English and math classes every other day.<h2>Other business</h2>The board will also hear a report on the district's audit, approve district-level administrative contracts, approve policy changes and hear a bond project construction update.