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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708123322721.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Technical College instructor Jeremy Skrdlant.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sxb-0ykR8tM?si=PsXv82Ww5P19T9RQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Technical College instructor Jeremy Skrdlant.

🎤Forward Ever: Northwest Kansas Technical College instructor Jeremy Skrdlant

Hays High vs Garden City Friday, Feb. 16 Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/979085">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians return to league play Friday night to take on the Garden City Buffaloes.

The Hays High girls have won six straight and the boys are winners of seven of their last eight.&nbsp;

The girls game is set to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys
game at follow at Hays High School.

Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Garden City Friday, Feb. 16 Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/979085">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians return to league play Friday night to take on the Garden City Buffaloes.The Hays High girls have won six straight and the boys are winners of seven of their last eight.&nbsp;The girls game is set to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys
game at follow at Hays High School.Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

🏀🎥 Hays High hosts Garden City in WAC matchup

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Fort Hays State University has found more mold in its residence halls and plans a 60-day process to clean the affected areas.

Students reported issues inside the&nbsp;McMindes Hall and Victor E. Village beginning this summer. Since then, 67 work orders have been submitted concerning the issue, said David Bollig, assistant vice president for Student Affairs Health and Wellness and Auxiliaries.

About 1,300 FHSU students live on campus.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/82d32673-3622-4377-aa3d-ed198a545918">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU responds to reports of mold in dorms</a>

On Sept. 13, iSi Environmental conducted inspections in 20 rooms within Victor E. Village and McMindes Hall, as well as a common area in McMindes Hall and two adjacent outdoor spaces.

"While on site, the iSi industrial hygienist recommended that we clean several vents and spaces, and our maintenance and custodial staff quickly completed that work," a statement released by the university said.

A final inspection from iSi Environmental on Oct. 24 reported low to moderate levels of two common potential allergen mold types.

In a statement released Friday afternoon, FHSU officials said iSi returned to campus and found more mold.

A team of industrial hygienists from Wichita-based iSi Environmental returned to the FHSU campus on Monday to conduct a follow-up inspection of McMindes Hall and Victor E. Village, two campus residence halls that have been the subject of student concerns regarding the possible presence of mold, the statement said.

iSi conducted a more extensive inspection of a random selection of student rooms and inspections of rooms that were either identified explicitly by students or identified in iSi’s first inspection.

iSi identified possible mold in the interior insulation of two through-the-wall heating and cooling units in McMindes Hall. Surface samples of suspected mold were sent overnight to a testing laboratory, and late Thursday afternoon, iSi confirmed the presence of two forms of allergen-producing mold in those samples.

Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications, said the mold that was found was not black mold, which can cause serious problems for people who are immune compromised.

In response to learning this new information, and based upon the recommendation of our iSi partners, the university has secured the services of Restore and Clean, a bonded, insured, and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certified commercial and residential cleaning and restoration company, the statement said.

As a precautionary measure, beginning Monday, Restore and Clean teams will open every through-the-wall heating and air conditioning unit in McMindes Hall, replace the unit’s interior insulation, and complete a thorough vacuuming and deep cleaning of each unit, whether or not there is visible mold in the unit. They will also clean surface areas and overhead pipes in every room. Each room will be prepped to ensure the containment of airborne particulate, and disposable materials used in the remediation will be carefully bagged and removed, the statement said.

Once this remediation work is complete in McMindes Hall, the Restore and Clean team will move on to Victor E. Village. FHSU expects this process to take about 60 days from start to finish, the statement said.

This work will commence as soon as a schedule is finalized, and students will be informed 24-48 hours in advance of when the Restore and Clean team will be on their floor to complete their work. FHSU estimates that students will be asked to stay out of their rooms for approximately four hours to permit the remediation teams to complete their work and remove any lingering chemical odors, the statement said.

Based upon testing and data received from iSi to date, and Restore and Clean’s assessment of that information and development of a comprehensive remediation effort, FHSU has determined that it is not necessary for all students to immediately vacate the residence halls.

Cason said the FHSU's contractor is unsure what the source of the model might have been. However, it is a common type of mold found in nature and spores could have been tracked in.

Cason said the university will contract with&nbsp;Restore and Clean for regular follow-up inspections every three months.

"I'm confident this approach will address all allergens, not just those that are mold related," Casons said.

He said he did not know at this time how much the cleaning process will cost.

Any students with immediate concerns about their residence hall space are encouraged to submit a work order online at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/reslife/Forms/">https://www.fhsu.edu/reslife/Forms/</a>, and any student with a particular health concern may reach out to Residential Life at 785-628-4245.

Bollig said students who have further medical concerns and need accommodations during the cleaning process should contact Will Burns, FHSU accessibility services adviser, at&nbsp;785-628-4401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578078201076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFort Hays State University has found more mold in its residence halls and plans a 60-day process to clean the affected areas.Students reported issues inside the&nbsp;McMindes Hall and Victor E. Village beginning this summer. Since then, 67 work orders have been submitted concerning the issue, said David Bollig, assistant vice president for Student Affairs Health and Wellness and Auxiliaries.About 1,300 FHSU students live on campus.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/82d32673-3622-4377-aa3d-ed198a545918">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU responds to reports of mold in dorms</a>On Sept. 13, iSi Environmental conducted inspections in 20 rooms within Victor E. Village and McMindes Hall, as well as a common area in McMindes Hall and two adjacent outdoor spaces."While on site, the iSi industrial hygienist recommended that we clean several vents and spaces, and our maintenance and custodial staff quickly completed that work," a statement released by the university said.A final inspection from iSi Environmental on Oct. 24 reported low to moderate levels of two common potential allergen mold types.In a statement released Friday afternoon, FHSU officials said iSi returned to campus and found more mold.A team of industrial hygienists from Wichita-based iSi Environmental returned to the FHSU campus on Monday to conduct a follow-up inspection of McMindes Hall and Victor E. Village, two campus residence halls that have been the subject of student concerns regarding the possible presence of mold, the statement said.iSi conducted a more extensive inspection of a random selection of student rooms and inspections of rooms that were either identified explicitly by students or identified in iSi’s first inspection.iSi identified possible mold in the interior insulation of two through-the-wall heating and cooling units in McMindes Hall. Surface samples of suspected mold were sent overnight to a testing laboratory, and late Thursday afternoon, iSi confirmed the presence of two forms of allergen-producing mold in those samples.Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications, said the mold that was found was not black mold, which can cause serious problems for people who are immune compromised.In response to learning this new information, and based upon the recommendation of our iSi partners, the university has secured the services of Restore and Clean, a bonded, insured, and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certified commercial and residential cleaning and restoration company, the statement said.As a precautionary measure, beginning Monday, Restore and Clean teams will open every through-the-wall heating and air conditioning unit in McMindes Hall, replace the unit’s interior insulation, and complete a thorough vacuuming and deep cleaning of each unit, whether or not there is visible mold in the unit. They will also clean surface areas and overhead pipes in every room. Each room will be prepped to ensure the containment of airborne particulate, and disposable materials used in the remediation will be carefully bagged and removed, the statement said.Once this remediation work is complete in McMindes Hall, the Restore and Clean team will move on to Victor E. Village. FHSU expects this process to take about 60 days from start to finish, the statement said.This work will commence as soon as a schedule is finalized, and students will be informed 24-48 hours in advance of when the Restore and Clean team will be on their floor to complete their work. FHSU estimates that students will be asked to stay out of their rooms for approximately four hours to permit the remediation teams to complete their work and remove any lingering chemical odors, the statement said.Based upon testing and data received from iSi to date, and Restore and Clean’s assessment of that information and development of a comprehensive remediation effort, FHSU has determined that it is not necessary for all students to immediately vacate the residence halls.Cason said the FHSU's contractor is unsure what the source of the model might have been. However, it is a common type of mold found in nature and spores could have been tracked in.Cason said the university will contract with&nbsp;Restore and Clean for regular follow-up inspections every three months."I'm confident this approach will address all allergens, not just those that are mold related," Casons said.He said he did not know at this time how much the cleaning process will cost.Any students with immediate concerns about their residence hall space are encouraged to submit a work order online at <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/reslife/Forms/">https://www.fhsu.edu/reslife/Forms/</a>, and any student with a particular health concern may reach out to Residential Life at 785-628-4245.Bollig said students who have further medical concerns and need accommodations during the cleaning process should contact Will Burns, FHSU accessibility services adviser, at&nbsp;785-628-4401.

FHSU to clean 2 residence halls after more mold found

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

Winning medals at swim meets is old hat for Kendra Clary, who began swimming competitively as a youngster.

These days, Clary – coach of the Hays High School swim teams – is enjoying watching her student-athletes collect the hardware.

But she does admit the most recent medal she was awarded has special meaning.

Clary, who doubles as a Fort Hays State University student, was named coach of the year at the Western Athletic Conference Swimming Championships in Garden City earlier this month.

“I hadn’t even realized they gave out that award,” Clary said. “I was so busy with the meet that when I heard it, I couldn’t believe it.”

Clary’s concentration on her team has paid off in a big way.

The Indians scored in all 12 events at the WAC meet to grab runner-up team honors, the highest conference finish for Hays High in recent years.

“That was really exciting,” Clary said. “The thing I was proudest of was how ever single one of our swimmers contributed to the team score.”

That’s because Clary got her team to buy in to the idea of trying different events this season.

“I can definitely tell a difference with our team this year,” junior Marshall Sook said. “I’m not saying one way of coaching is better than the other. But Kendra coaches in a way to break down our each individual skills and see what we are really good at. This year, we have people doing a different spread of events.”

Even while trying new races, the Indians kept bettering their times this season. That improvement led to a state-qualifying relay team, the first time an HHS relay has qualified for the season finale since 2018.

Sook is the anchor leg on that 200-yard freestyle relay team, whose best time this season was 1 minute, 41 seconds. Leo Hernandez is the only senior on that foursome, so Sook is excited for the future. Other relay members are sophomores Chase Zadina and Karsen Flaska.

Sook said he has personally benefitted from Clary’s philosophy.

For instance, this year, he decided to give the 100-meter butterfly a try and won the first meet he swam it. By the time the WAC meet rolled around, he was convinced that race was one of his new favorite events and placed second at that meet.

“The ’fly is the hardest stroke to do,” Sook said, “but I really like it.”

Clary wasn’t afraid to present her philosophy to the team because she takes this coaching gig seriously – just like she did competing in swimming and track and field in high school.

Clary was born in Wichita and spent her younger years there before moving to the Denver area.

While enjoying success as a freshman and sophomore at George Washington High School in Commerce City, Colo., she started experiencing shoulder problems from overuse.

So she took a break from swimming. Wanting to stay in shape, she decided to go out for track.

Primarily a sprinter in swimming, Clary decided to train for those same kind of events on the track. She had similar success there as she did in the pool.

After graduating from George Washington, she chose to further her education at Fort Hays State. She ran track for two years for the Tigers, helping break the school’s indoor and outdoor 4x400-meter relay records while also winning numerous academic awards.

But she kept being drawn back to the water, so she started coaching the Hays Hurricanes, the local youth swim club.

When Hays High coach Jane Rostrom decided to step aside for this coming season, Clary took over.

“I always stress that the work you do everyday matters,” said Clary, who will also coach the Indian girls’ team this spring.

She will graduate in May with a health and human performance degree, then take a “gap” year from school while applying for occupational therapy programs.

Clary is unsure if she will remain in Hays after graduation.

“If there is an opportunity where I could stay in Hays,” she said, “I’d definitely think about it.”

Until then, Clary is looking forward to a successful girls’ season at Hays High this spring and thinks the Indian boys’ team also has a bright future.

“I think we will have a lot of girls come out this spring,” she said, “and in the future, these guys will bring more with them to the team.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708100384195.jpeg" alt="HHS swim coach Kendra Clary. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>HHS swim coach Kendra Clary. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostWinning medals at swim meets is old hat for Kendra Clary, who began swimming competitively as a youngster.These days, Clary – coach of the Hays High School swim teams – is enjoying watching her student-athletes collect the hardware.But she does admit the most recent medal she was awarded has special meaning.Clary, who doubles as a Fort Hays State University student, was named coach of the year at the Western Athletic Conference Swimming Championships in Garden City earlier this month.“I hadn’t even realized they gave out that award,” Clary said. “I was so busy with the meet that when I heard it, I couldn’t believe it.”Clary’s concentration on her team has paid off in a big way.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708100522148.jpeg" alt="Representing Hays High at the Class 5-1A boys' state swim meet this weekend is the 200-meters freestyle relay team of Marshall Sook, Chase Zadina, Leo Hernandez and Karsen Flaska. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Representing Hays High at the Class 5-1A boys' state swim meet this weekend is the 200-meters freestyle relay team of Marshall Sook, Chase Zadina, Leo Hernandez and Karsen Flaska. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Indians scored in all 12 events at the WAC meet to grab runner-up team honors, the highest conference finish for Hays High in recent years.“That was really exciting,” Clary said. “The thing I was proudest of was how ever single one of our swimmers contributed to the team score.”That’s because Clary got her team to buy in to the idea of trying different events this season.“I can definitely tell a difference with our team this year,” junior Marshall Sook said. “I’m not saying one way of coaching is better than the other. But Kendra coaches in a way to break down our each individual skills and see what we are really good at. This year, we have people doing a different spread of events.”Even while trying new races, the Indians kept bettering their times this season. That improvement led to a state-qualifying relay team, the first time an HHS relay has qualified for the season finale since 2018.Sook is the anchor leg on that 200-yard freestyle relay team, whose best time this season was 1 minute, 41 seconds. Leo Hernandez is the only senior on that foursome, so Sook is excited for the future. Other relay members are sophomores Chase Zadina and Karsen Flaska.Sook said he has personally benefitted from Clary’s philosophy.For instance, this year, he decided to give the 100-meter butterfly a try and won the first meet he swam it. By the time the WAC meet rolled around, he was convinced that race was one of his new favorite events and placed second at that meet.“The ’fly is the hardest stroke to do,” Sook said, “but I really like it.”Clary wasn’t afraid to present her philosophy to the team because she takes this coaching gig seriously – just like she did competing in swimming and track and field in high school.Clary was born in Wichita and spent her younger years there before moving to the Denver area.While enjoying success as a freshman and sophomore at George Washington High School in Commerce City, Colo., she started experiencing shoulder problems from overuse.So she took a break from swimming. Wanting to stay in shape, she decided to go out for track.Primarily a sprinter in swimming, Clary decided to train for those same kind of events on the track. She had similar success there as she did in the pool.After graduating from George Washington, she chose to further her education at Fort Hays State. She ran track for two years for the Tigers, helping break the school’s indoor and outdoor 4x400-meter relay records while also winning numerous academic awards.But she kept being drawn back to the water, so she started coaching the Hays Hurricanes, the local youth swim club.When Hays High coach Jane Rostrom decided to step aside for this coming season, Clary took over.“I always stress that the work you do everyday matters,” said Clary, who will also coach the Indian girls’ team this spring.She will graduate in May with a health and human performance degree, then take a “gap” year from school while applying for occupational therapy programs.Clary is unsure if she will remain in Hays after graduation.“If there is an opportunity where I could stay in Hays,” she said, “I’d definitely think about it.”Until then, Clary is looking forward to a successful girls’ season at Hays High this spring and thinks the Indian boys’ team also has a bright future.“I think we will have a lot of girls come out this spring,” she said, “and in the future, these guys will bring more with them to the team.”

Hays High's Clary named WAC coach of the year, leads Indian relay team to state

Hays received a trace of snow overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

Hays has received 1.28 inches of moisture this month and 2.49 inches of moisture for the year, according to the center.

The average accumulative moisture for Hays by the end of February is 1.19 inches.

The heavy snow in January and additional moisture received this month has greatly eased drought conditions in Ellis County and across the state, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor map that was released Thursday.

Most of Ellis County is being rated as abnormally dry as opposed to the exceptional and extreme drought ratings for the county during the previous two years.

Drought ratings have been entirely lifted in many areas of the state.

Although the high today is forecast to be 35 degrees, temperatures for Hays are forecast to steadily increase during the week with a high of 67 degrees and sunny on Tuesday.

No further precipitation is in the immediate forecast, according to the National Weather Service.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received a trace of snow overnight, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.Hays has received 1.28 inches of moisture this month and 2.49 inches of moisture for the year, according to the center.The average accumulative moisture for Hays by the end of February is 1.19 inches.The heavy snow in January and additional moisture received this month has greatly eased drought conditions in Ellis County and across the state, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor map that was released Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708098201648.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Most of Ellis County is being rated as abnormally dry as opposed to the exceptional and extreme drought ratings for the county during the previous two years.Drought ratings have been entirely lifted in many areas of the state.Although the high today is forecast to be 35 degrees, temperatures for Hays are forecast to steadily increase during the week with a high of 67 degrees and sunny on Tuesday.No further precipitation is in the immediate forecast, according to the National Weather Service.

Ellis County sees snow trace overnight, drought continues to improve

ELLIS COUNTY —The roads are getting better but still slick in spots, according to a social media report just before 10a.m. Friday from Trooper Tod Heilman.

Earlier Friday morning, KHP Trooper McMillan worked an an accident on Highway 183 in the Hays area. Fortunately nobody was hurt, according to Heilman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708098749876.png" alt="photo KHP Trooper Tod Heilman" />
 <figcaption>photo KHP Trooper Tod Heilman</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —The roads are getting better but still slick in spots, according to a social media report just before 10a.m. Friday from Trooper Tod Heilman.Earlier Friday morning, KHP Trooper McMillan worked an an accident on Highway 183 in the Hays area. Fortunately nobody was hurt, according to Heilman.

KHP warns of slick roads in Ellis County

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays city commissioners agreed Thursday to keep moving the process forward for two new developments in the city and are expected to vote on those at their Feb. 22 meeting.

A $152,800 contract with&nbsp;Driggs Design Group, Hays, to engineer the infrastructure for The Grove residential development was presented.&nbsp;The project consists of about 2,600 feet of water line, sanitary sewer and street improvements.

Grow Hays is the developer of the mixed-use housing on about 60 lots north of HaysMed on north Canterbury Drive. A community center will also be built. Construction is anticipated to begin this summer.&nbsp;

Werth Development Group has proposed an agreement with the city to extend water and sanitary sewer mains along Hall Street north of Interstate 70, adjacent to the WDG Addition. The city would pay the cost of upsizing the water and sewer lines from 8 inches to 12 inches, the minimum required to allow for capacity for future development.

The share request for the oversizing costs of city utilities is permitted in Hays' development policy.

Developer Greg Werth also asked the city to extend the reimbursement period from 10 years to 18 years after improvements are made.&nbsp;

The estimated total construction cost is $1,216,781, with the city's share at $359,260.

Commissioners, Werth and Jesse Rohr, public works director, answered questions about the proposed project from adjacent landowner Karen Dreiling.

Rohr also presented a low bid of&nbsp;$124,811 from Reaction Distributing, Ontario, Canada, for a new baler for paper and cardboard recycling material. 

The city replaced its 23-year-old baler in December 2021 with a new baler purchased from&nbsp;Taknek, Gainesville, Texas. The machine is defective, Rohr said. The city stopped payments on the baler and has litigation in process to recover its money. The baler built in 2001 has been used in the meantime.

Also under consideration are requests for a general nuisance and inoperable vehicle abatement at 1111 Centennial Blvd. and an inoperable vehicle abatement at 206 E. 14th St.

Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.

By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners agreed Thursday to keep moving the process forward for two new developments in the city and are expected to vote on those at their Feb. 22 meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708040149807.png" alt="The Grove concept map. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The Grove concept map. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>A $152,800 contract with&nbsp;Driggs Design Group, Hays, to engineer the infrastructure for The Grove residential development was presented.&nbsp;The project consists of about 2,600 feet of water line, sanitary sewer and street improvements.Grow Hays is the developer of the mixed-use housing on about 60 lots north of HaysMed on north Canterbury Drive. A community center will also be built. Construction is anticipated to begin this summer.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699049183035.png" alt="WDG First Addition. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>WDG First Addition. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Werth Development Group has proposed an agreement with the city to extend water and sanitary sewer mains along Hall Street north of Interstate 70, adjacent to the WDG Addition. The city would pay the cost of upsizing the water and sewer lines from 8 inches to 12 inches, the minimum required to allow for capacity for future development.The share request for the oversizing costs of city utilities is permitted in Hays' development policy.Developer Greg Werth also asked the city to extend the reimbursement period from 10 years to 18 years after improvements are made.&nbsp;The estimated total construction cost is $1,216,781, with the city's share at $359,260.Commissioners, Werth and Jesse Rohr, public works director, answered questions about the proposed project from adjacent landowner Karen Dreiling.Rohr also presented a low bid of&nbsp;$124,811 from Reaction Distributing, Ontario, Canada, for a new baler for paper and cardboard recycling material. The city replaced its 23-year-old baler in December 2021 with a new baler purchased from&nbsp;Taknek, Gainesville, Texas. The machine is defective, Rohr said. The city stopped payments on the baler and has litigation in process to recover its money. The baler built in 2001 has been used in the meantime.Also under consideration are requests for a general nuisance and inoperable vehicle abatement at 1111 Centennial Blvd. and an inoperable vehicle abatement at 206 E. 14th St.Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.

Hays City Commission moves process along for 2 new developments 

A Thomas More Prep-Marian senior, in less than a year, has gone from Homecoming court to dancing on the largest stage in the world.

Emma Basgall, 18, of Hays was selected to dance at the Super Bowl halftime show.

Basgall sent in a video audition in January, and, after a series of callbacks, was selected to be one of the dancers in a star-studded halftime show that featured Usher.

She received an email to notify her she had been selected to perform. She said she was shaking as she read the email.

"I was in shock. I thought, 'What the heck, I'll audition.' I was not thinking anything of it at all. I have been trying to audition for things hoping that something would come of it. I was in complete shock."

She auditioned on a Monday, was notified on a Wednesday and left for Vegas on the following Tuesday. She had to sign a confidentiality agreement, so she couldn't let the community know about her big news until after the game.&nbsp;

Basgall has been dancing since she was 2 and involved in dance competitions since she was 5 with Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio. She's now an instructor.

Basgall had to be in Las Vegas for the two weeks leading up to the big game.&nbsp;

The experience was "... insane. It was like nothing I can describe," Basgall said. "The atmosphere when you walk on that field is so crazy. There are so many people in the stands, but you can't really see them all.

"It's a feeling like no other. The music starts, and it goes so fast. You work so hard for two weeks, and it's over in like a second."

Basgall was right next to the stage as Usher,&nbsp;Ludacris and&nbsp;Lil Jon were performing. She was very close to&nbsp;Ludacris as he walked on stage.

"Being so close to them was surreal. To actually be a part of that, it was like a dream. It was crazy," she said.

She said it was like having front-row tickets at a concert, but you're a part of it.

Usher participated in all of the field rehearsals with the cast. Alicia Keys attended the later rehearsals.

"You could tell he was a good person," Basgall said, "because he came to every single rehearsal and ran through everything every single time and put all his effort in every time.&nbsp;Being so close to him was crazy."&nbsp;

Jay-Z and Blue were also present during some rehearsals. Basgall saw&nbsp;Beyoncé on game day.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ab768c0-987a-4631-9bc6-39e1f272420c">The Super Bowl broadcast was seen by 123.4 million people.</a>

"I was definitely nervous when we were lining up and getting ready to go in because I didn't know what to expect with all of those people and what it would feel like and the atmosphere," Basgall said. "Once I was in there, I was with all my friends. (I had met so many people.) I soaked in every moment."

She said the crowd was incredibly loud, but so was the music. The dancers wore earpieces so they could hear the music and cues from the field director.

She said it was almost like an out-of-body experience.

Basgall's family are big Chiefs fans, and their win was icing on the cake, she said. The family has season tickets.&nbsp;

Ironically, despite her performance at the halftime show, she missed most of the game. The dancers were bussed to the stadium during the first quarter and then bused back to their hotel right after the performance. They didn't have seats.

Basgall and her family watched the Chiefs clinch the title on TV from their hotel room.

This is not Basgall's first experience performing on a national stage. She also was selected as a runway model during Fashion Week in September in New York. She modeled for <a href="https://www.kayziecouture.com/">Kazie Couture</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drisha_closet/?hl=en">Drisha's Closet</a>.

"They were smaller designers, but it was still an awesome experience and a privilege to be able to walk," she said. "The hope is that you get into the industry. You start out with small people and you make connections and get seen and go from there."

She said her parents, April and Bradley,  and family were very supportive of her participation in the Super Bowl and her dance aspirations in general.

"I wanted to give a big thank you for all the support and love," she said, "and a thank you to God because I couldn't do it without Him."

Basgall's dream is to work as a full-time dancer. She will be attending the Theater Arts Preparatory School in Las Vegas next year.

"My ultimate goal is to be successful and love what I'm doing in life," she said. "Right now, my plan is to dance. I love dance."

She said she is interested in teaching when she's older and perhaps owning her own studio.&nbsp;

"Right now, my dream is to dance as long as my body allows and live in the moment," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935289285.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall, Thomas More Prep-Marian senior, danced in the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday.&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall, Thomas More Prep-Marian senior, danced in the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday.&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Thomas More Prep-Marian senior, in less than a year, has gone from Homecoming court to dancing on the largest stage in the world.Emma Basgall, 18, of Hays was selected to dance at the Super Bowl halftime show.Basgall sent in a video audition in January, and, after a series of callbacks, was selected to be one of the dancers in a star-studded halftime show that featured Usher.She received an email to notify her she had been selected to perform. She said she was shaking as she read the email."I was in shock. I thought, 'What the heck, I'll audition.' I was not thinking anything of it at all. I have been trying to audition for things hoping that something would come of it. I was in complete shock."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935319751.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall on the field for the half-time show during the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall on the field for the half-time show during the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>She auditioned on a Monday, was notified on a Wednesday and left for Vegas on the following Tuesday. She had to sign a confidentiality agreement, so she couldn't let the community know about her big news until after the game.&nbsp;Basgall has been dancing since she was 2 and involved in dance competitions since she was 5 with Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio. She's now an instructor.Basgall had to be in Las Vegas for the two weeks leading up to the big game.&nbsp;The experience was "... insane. It was like nothing I can describe," Basgall said. "The atmosphere when you walk on that field is so crazy. There are so many people in the stands, but you can't really see them all.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935370548.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's a feeling like no other. The music starts, and it goes so fast. You work so hard for two weeks, and it's over in like a second."Basgall was right next to the stage as Usher,&nbsp;Ludacris and&nbsp;Lil Jon were performing. She was very close to&nbsp;Ludacris as he walked on stage."Being so close to them was surreal. To actually be a part of that, it was like a dream. It was crazy," she said.She said it was like having front-row tickets at a concert, but you're a part of it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935397931.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Usher participated in all of the field rehearsals with the cast. Alicia Keys attended the later rehearsals."You could tell he was a good person," Basgall said, "because he came to every single rehearsal and ran through everything every single time and put all his effort in every time.&nbsp;Being so close to him was crazy."&nbsp;Jay-Z and Blue were also present during some rehearsals. Basgall saw&nbsp;Beyoncé on game day.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ab768c0-987a-4631-9bc6-39e1f272420c">The Super Bowl broadcast was seen by 123.4 million people.</a>"I was definitely nervous when we were lining up and getting ready to go in because I didn't know what to expect with all of those people and what it would feel like and the atmosphere," Basgall said. "Once I was in there, I was with all my friends. (I had met so many people.) I soaked in every moment."She said the crowd was incredibly loud, but so was the music. The dancers wore earpieces so they could hear the music and cues from the field director.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935505382.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall modeling during Fashion Week in September in New York. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall modeling during Fashion Week in September in New York. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>She said it was almost like an out-of-body experience.Basgall's family are big Chiefs fans, and their win was icing on the cake, she said. The family has season tickets.&nbsp;Ironically, despite her performance at the halftime show, she missed most of the game. The dancers were bussed to the stadium during the first quarter and then bused back to their hotel right after the performance. They didn't have seats.Basgall and her family watched the Chiefs clinch the title on TV from their hotel room.This is not Basgall's first experience performing on a national stage. She also was selected as a runway model during Fashion Week in September in New York. She modeled for <a href="https://www.kayziecouture.com/">Kazie Couture</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drisha_closet/?hl=en">Drisha's Closet</a>."They were smaller designers, but it was still an awesome experience and a privilege to be able to walk," she said. "The hope is that you get into the industry. You start out with small people and you make connections and get seen and go from there."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707935535098.jpeg" alt="Emma Basgall, second from the right, as part of the Thomas More Prep-Marian Homecoming court this fall. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Emma Basgall, second from the right, as part of the Thomas More Prep-Marian Homecoming court this fall. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>She said her parents, April and Bradley, and family were very supportive of her participation in the Super Bowl and her dance aspirations in general."I wanted to give a big thank you for all the support and love," she said, "and a thank you to God because I couldn't do it without Him."Basgall's dream is to work as a full-time dancer. She will be attending the Theater Arts Preparatory School in Las Vegas next year."My ultimate goal is to be successful and love what I'm doing in life," she said. "Right now, my plan is to dance. I love dance."She said she is interested in teaching when she's older and perhaps owning her own studio.&nbsp;"Right now, my dream is to dance as long as my body allows and live in the moment," she said.

TMP student dances during Super Bowl half-time show

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Aimee Riegel, PT DPT from FIT PT &amp; Wellness in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, February 20th&nbsp;at 7PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY and NUTRITION &amp; WELLNESS.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655818101437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Aimee Riegel, PT DPT from FIT PT &amp; Wellness in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, February 20th&nbsp;at 7PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY and NUTRITION &amp; WELLNESS.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

Next week’s 'Doctors on Call' to feature Hays doctor

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Thursday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Camry driven by Parker Jean&nbsp;Raile, 24, Wichita, was westbound on Interstate just west of Gove 68.

The driver failed to maintain a lane of travel. The car drifted onto the right shoulder and the driver overcorrected to the left. The Camry entered the median, rolled 5 times and the driver&nbsp; was ejected.

EMS transported Raile to Gove County Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Thursday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Camry driven by Parker Jean&nbsp;Raile, 24, Wichita, was westbound on Interstate just west of Gove 68.The driver failed to maintain a lane of travel. The car drifted onto the right shoulder and the driver overcorrected to the left. The Camry entered the median, rolled 5 times and the driver&nbsp; was ejected.EMS transported Raile to Gove County Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman ejected in I-70 rollover accident

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

HAYS, Kan - Fort Hays State University has transformed the lives of countless individuals and uplifted the rural communities in Western Kansas by focusing on our strengths of affordability, accessibility, and adaptability. One remarkable example of the university’s adaptability is the development of a new Telehealth certification program for Mental Health Providers.

Telehealth allows for the delivery of health-related services and information via electronic and telecommunication technologies. This approach enables healthcare providers to deliver services regardless of the distance between patient and clinician. According to Jessica Albin, FHSU’s interim director of counseling services, utilizing telehealth platforms to facilitate personal counseling services has contributed significantly to the work of Health and Wellness Services.

“Telehealth counseling allows us to support students in various locations across Kansas in ways that would be impossible otherwise,” Albin said. “Whether it’s an FHSU Online student, a student fulfilling their student teaching responsibilities or participating in an internship, or an on-campus student who is unwell and unable to come into the office for their appointment, telehealth allows them to access therapeutic support when and where they need it. Research consistently shows that this approach is as effective as in-person counseling.”

The introduction of telehealth counseling has revolutionized mental health support by reaching individuals in remote areas, particularly in rural communities. This plays a crucial role in addressing healthcare challenges that providers and patients face in these areas, creating a more equitable healthcare system.

By remotely monitoring patients and conducting virtual consultations, providers can optimize their resources and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which is particularly beneficial in areas with scarce healthcare infrastructure.

This shift to telehealth also generates cost savings for healthcare providers by minimizing physical infrastructure and transportation expenses - the streamlined allocation of resources benefits providers and patients. Additionally, remote consultations and monitoring enable healthcare professionals to manage more patients efficiently, leading to increased productivity and better utilization of healthcare staff, ultimately enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.

Patients also experience numerous advantages through telehealth, including improved access to healthcare, time and cost savings, timely intervention, and enhanced continuity of care. Additionally, remote monitoring and telehealth consultations enable timely intervention and management of chronic conditions, even when immediate access to healthcare facilities is limited. The coordination among healthcare providers ensures seamless communication and continuity of care, essential for patients with complex medical conditions who require ongoing

treatment. Telehealth also empowers patients by providing them with tools and information for self-management, increasing their engagement in mental wellness.

Dr. Sarah Lancaster, assistant professor and program coordinator of school counseling, emphasizes the importance of access to care. Even in the community of Salina, Kansas, transportation challenges often hindered people from seeking the mental health care they needed. Sarah recalls a family that had to spend four hours on buses to attend an hour-long mental health appointment. Telehealth eliminates these barriers, allowing individuals to receive services in the comfort of their own homes or even from school if technology is an issue. It is a game-changer for rural areas where mental health services may be scarce or nonexistent.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and the good news is that health insurers are expected to continue covering telehealth visits. The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services and the Department of Health and Human Services have extended various Telehealth flexibilities, allowing patients to access telehealth services in any geographic area. In addition, many commercial health plans and Medicaid programs have expanded coverage for telehealth services.

As telehealth practice for mental health evolves, so does the need for enhanced understanding and new skills. The Fort Hays State University Telehealth certification will enhance practitioners’ technical knowledge, privacy, and ethical codes and protocols. Practitioners must understand limitations, biases, errors, and operational issues to avoid misuse. Training will cover informed consent, securely handling data, and confidentiality. Practitioners need to be well-versed in the ethical codes of their professional organizations as they relate to telehealth.

As telehealth continues to evolve and become a permanent part of mental health counseling services, it promises to bridge the gaps in healthcare access, enhance provider efficiency, and improve patients' overall health outcomes and experiences. By embracing the potential of telehealth, mental health counselors can truly transform the way mental health care is delivered, ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of their location or circumstances.

Our faculty's commitment to developing a new telehealth certification for mental health counselors showcases their forward-thinking approach. It emphasizes the importance of their work in the ever-evolving mental health field. Their dedication to innovation positions them as true pioneers in the industry.

<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 - Fort Hays State University has transformed the lives of countless individuals and uplifted the rural communities in Western Kansas by focusing on our strengths of affordability, accessibility, and adaptability. One remarkable example of the university’s adaptability is the development of a new Telehealth certification program for Mental Health Providers.Telehealth allows for the delivery of health-related services and information via electronic and telecommunication technologies. This approach enables healthcare providers to deliver services regardless of the distance between patient and clinician. According to Jessica Albin, FHSU’s interim director of counseling services, utilizing telehealth platforms to facilitate personal counseling services has contributed significantly to the work of Health and Wellness Services.“Telehealth counseling allows us to support students in various locations across Kansas in ways that would be impossible otherwise,” Albin said. “Whether it’s an FHSU Online student, a student fulfilling their student teaching responsibilities or participating in an internship, or an on-campus student who is unwell and unable to come into the office for their appointment, telehealth allows them to access therapeutic support when and where they need it. Research consistently shows that this approach is as effective as in-person counseling.”The introduction of telehealth counseling has revolutionized mental health support by reaching individuals in remote areas, particularly in rural communities. This plays a crucial role in addressing healthcare challenges that providers and patients face in these areas, creating a more equitable healthcare system.By remotely monitoring patients and conducting virtual consultations, providers can optimize their resources and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which is particularly beneficial in areas with scarce healthcare infrastructure.This shift to telehealth also generates cost savings for healthcare providers by minimizing physical infrastructure and transportation expenses - the streamlined allocation of resources benefits providers and patients. Additionally, remote consultations and monitoring enable healthcare professionals to manage more patients efficiently, leading to increased productivity and better utilization of healthcare staff, ultimately enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.Patients also experience numerous advantages through telehealth, including improved access to healthcare, time and cost savings, timely intervention, and enhanced continuity of care. Additionally, remote monitoring and telehealth consultations enable timely intervention and management of chronic conditions, even when immediate access to healthcare facilities is limited. The coordination among healthcare providers ensures seamless communication and continuity of care, essential for patients with complex medical conditions who require ongoingtreatment. Telehealth also empowers patients by providing them with tools and information for self-management, increasing their engagement in mental wellness.Dr. Sarah Lancaster, assistant professor and program coordinator of school counseling, emphasizes the importance of access to care. Even in the community of Salina, Kansas, transportation challenges often hindered people from seeking the mental health care they needed. Sarah recalls a family that had to spend four hours on buses to attend an hour-long mental health appointment. Telehealth eliminates these barriers, allowing individuals to receive services in the comfort of their own homes or even from school if technology is an issue. It is a game-changer for rural areas where mental health services may be scarce or nonexistent.The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and the good news is that health insurers are expected to continue covering telehealth visits. The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services and the Department of Health and Human Services have extended various Telehealth flexibilities, allowing patients to access telehealth services in any geographic area. In addition, many commercial health plans and Medicaid programs have expanded coverage for telehealth services.As telehealth practice for mental health evolves, so does the need for enhanced understanding and new skills. The Fort Hays State University Telehealth certification will enhance practitioners’ technical knowledge, privacy, and ethical codes and protocols. Practitioners must understand limitations, biases, errors, and operational issues to avoid misuse. Training will cover informed consent, securely handling data, and confidentiality. Practitioners need to be well-versed in the ethical codes of their professional organizations as they relate to telehealth.As telehealth continues to evolve and become a permanent part of mental health counseling services, it promises to bridge the gaps in healthcare access, enhance provider efficiency, and improve patients' overall health outcomes and experiences. By embracing the potential of telehealth, mental health counselors can truly transform the way mental health care is delivered, ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of their location or circumstances.Our faculty's commitment to developing a new telehealth certification for mental health counselors showcases their forward-thinking approach. It emphasizes the importance of their work in the ever-evolving mental health field. Their dedication to innovation positions them as true pioneers in the industry.

Heart of a Tiger: FHSU’s new Telehealth certification

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature State&nbsp;Representative Barb Wasinger&nbsp;(Dist. #111 – Hays), and State Representative Brett Fairchild (Dist. #113 – St. John) on&nbsp;Friday, February 16th at 7 PM.&nbsp;

The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;

Becky Kiser, News Reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2024 season of&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.

Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;

To find a list of legislators that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2024 season schedule.&nbsp;

The 2024 Kansas Legislature is made possible by a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667986617598.jpeg" alt="Rep.&nbsp;Barb Wasinger" />
 <figcaption>Rep.&nbsp;Barb Wasinger</figcaption>
 </figure>BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature State&nbsp;Representative Barb Wasinger&nbsp;(Dist. #111 – Hays), and State Representative Brett Fairchild (Dist. #113 – St. John) on&nbsp;Friday, February 16th at 7 PM.&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;Becky Kiser, News Reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2024 season of&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;To find a list of legislators that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2024 season schedule.&nbsp;The 2024 Kansas Legislature is made possible by a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;Becky Kiser, News Reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2024 season of&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;To find a list of legislators that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2024 season schedule.&nbsp;The 2024 Kansas Legislature is made possible by a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

Rep. Wasinger to be featured on next 'The Kansas Legislature'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708023999579.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>

TMP-Marian at Norton Thursday, Feb. 15 – 6 p.m. Norton, Kan. - Stull Gym

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/976479">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road Thursday night for a pair of huge Mid-Continent League games against the Bluejays.

The TMP girls had their four-game win streak end on Friday
but have won five of their last seven. Norton has won three straight.

The TMP boys have won a season-high four straight. Norton has also won four straight games.&nbsp;

Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Stull Gymnasium on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian at Norton Thursday, Feb. 15 – 6 p.m. Norton, Kan. - Stull GymRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/976479">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road Thursday night for a pair of huge Mid-Continent League games against the Bluejays.The TMP girls had their four-game win streak end on Friday
but have won five of their last seven. Norton has won three straight.The TMP boys have won a season-high four straight. Norton has also won four straight games.&nbsp;Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Stull Gymnasium on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP travels to Norton for MCL showdown

There will be a 30-60 percent chance for light snow tonight west of a Dighton to Meade Line.

Snow accumulations are expected to be less than 1 inch with the better chances for the higher snowfall totals being near the Colorado border.

Hays is forecasted to have less than a half inch of snow.

After the cooldown of Thursday and Friday, next week will warm back up. Tuesdays could see some areas of sothwest Kansas reach 70 degrees. This next week will also be dry, according to the National Weather Service forecast.

Hays PostThere will be a 30-60 percent chance for light snow tonight west of a Dighton to Meade Line.Snow accumulations are expected to be less than 1 inch with the better chances for the higher snowfall totals being near the Colorado border.Hays is forecasted to have less than a half inch of snow.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708026903556.png" alt="National Weather Service-Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service-Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>After the cooldown of Thursday and Friday, next week will warm back up. Tuesdays could see some areas of sothwest Kansas reach 70 degrees. This next week will also be dry, according to the National Weather Service forecast.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708026987686.png" alt="National Weather Service-Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service-Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>

Slight chance of snow tonight in Hays; warm up on Tuesday

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

Cookies are available now through March 17 and are $5 per box. The cookies are available from any Girl Scout within the Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland Council, which covers 80 counties across Kansas, including Ellis County.

To find a cookie booth in the area go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasgirlscouts.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html?fbclid=IwAR3hEPrTgSbTN1sRzBHzvPNYBdRT-XDx_0Mq_1q_C41ICcqIYIN5QR7Yva0" target="_blank">https://www.kansasgirlscouts.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html</a>. You can also purchase online after Feb. 16.

The varieties this year include Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter sandwiches, Carmel Delights, Lemonades, Shortbread, Adventurefuls, Toast-Yah!s and gluten-free Carmel Chocolate Chip.

People can also donate cookies through the Cookie Share program. The donor pays $5 and a box of cookies is donated to a military family, the Kansas Foodbank, Catholic Charities, essential workers or a designation of their choice.

The Girl Scout office in Hays hosted a Chamber in Hays chat on Friday.&nbsp;

Girl Scouts is looking for volunteers to serve on its council boards and volunteers for local troops.

Bobbie Jennings, troop engagement specialist, said a new troop is being created in Hays and volunteers are needed for that troop.

Girls in kindergarten through 12th grade can join Girl Scouts any time during the year. Recruiting for students who will be in kindergarten in the fall will start in April.

Girl Scouts also offers an extended year membership for girls who join late in the year. The Girl Scouts can immediately participate in troop activities as well as summer camps, Jennings said.

Families can sign up their girls through <a href="http://kansasgirlscouts.org">kansasgirlscouts.org</a>&nbsp;by visiting the Hays office,&nbsp;2707 Vine St. Suite 8, or contacting a local Girl Scout leader.

A preview of upcoming activities and camps also is available on the council's website.

There will be a Lost in Space overnight camp at Cedar Bluff, an Insparation day camp in Hays and Nature Navigators at the Wetlands Education Center this spring and summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707500714232.jpeg" alt="Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland staff at a recent Chamber in Hays Chat. Photo courtesy The Chamber in Hays" />
 <figcaption>Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland staff at a recent Chamber in Hays Chat. Photo courtesy The Chamber in Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHaysAreaChamber%2Fvideos%2F1060221405091825%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIt's Girl Scout Cookie time again.Cookies are available now through March 17 and are $5 per box. The cookies are available from any Girl Scout within the Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland Council, which covers 80 counties across Kansas, including Ellis County.To find a cookie booth in the area go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasgirlscouts.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html?fbclid=IwAR3hEPrTgSbTN1sRzBHzvPNYBdRT-XDx_0Mq_1q_C41ICcqIYIN5QR7Yva0" target="_blank">https://www.kansasgirlscouts.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html</a>. You can also purchase online after Feb. 16.The varieties this year include Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter sandwiches, Carmel Delights, Lemonades, Shortbread, Adventurefuls, Toast-Yah!s and gluten-free Carmel Chocolate Chip.People can also donate cookies through the Cookie Share program. The donor pays $5 and a box of cookies is donated to a military family, the Kansas Foodbank, Catholic Charities, essential workers or a designation of their choice.The Girl Scout office in Hays hosted a Chamber in Hays chat on Friday.&nbsp;Girl Scouts is looking for volunteers to serve on its council boards and volunteers for local troops.Bobbie Jennings, troop engagement specialist, said a new troop is being created in Hays and volunteers are needed for that troop.Girls in kindergarten through 12th grade can join Girl Scouts any time during the year. Recruiting for students who will be in kindergarten in the fall will start in April.Girl Scouts also offers an extended year membership for girls who join late in the year. The Girl Scouts can immediately participate in troop activities as well as summer camps, Jennings said.Families can sign up their girls through <a href="http://kansasgirlscouts.org">kansasgirlscouts.org</a>&nbsp;by visiting the Hays office,&nbsp;2707 Vine St. Suite 8, or contacting a local Girl Scout leader.A preview of upcoming activities and camps also is available on the council's website.There will be a Lost in Space overnight camp at Cedar Bluff, an Insparation day camp in Hays and Nature Navigators at the Wetlands Education Center this spring and summer.Girl Scouts are also invited to participate in events sponsored by the local service unit, which includes Ellis, Trego, Russell, Ness and Gove counties. The service unit is planning a Monarch migration event in September. More details will be released at a later date.The council also provides national and international travel opportunities. This year Kansas Girl Scouts are traveling to South Dakota and St. Louis. Next year a group is going to Australia.Troops also take day and overnight trips funded through cookie and fall candy and nut sales.For more information on Girl Scouts, email info@gskh.org.Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a Girl Scout volunteer.

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