Grow Hays Inc., a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the economic health and
vitality of Ellis County, has announced the acquisition of 17 acres located directly north of the Hays
Medical Center campus. The property was acquired from Hays Medical Center and will be
developed into a housing development that will be known as The Grove.


“The lack of age-appropriate housing continues to
inhibit our opportunities for economic growth," said GHI Executive Director Doug Williams. " We believe that additional housing, particularly
age-appropriate housing, will enhance our ability to maintain and recruit people to our
community and provide housing options for those who live here now.”


Eddie Herrman, CEO of Hays Medical Center, said, “We deal with housing issues for our
associates daily. The Grove will create much-needed housing for our community. The location,
and its proximity to our facilities, will provide easy access for associates, patients, and all who
choose to live there.”


“The location is ideal. With direct access to the facilities at Hays Medical Center, the Center for
Health Improvement, walking trails, and easy access to I-70 and the Vine Street retail corridor, The Grove will be a great place to live,” Williams added.


The Grove will contain apartments, townhomes and patio homes. Annexation, zoning and
platting will begin immediately, with infrastructure construction planned to commence in the fall of
2023.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674856209225.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseGrow Hays Inc., a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the economic health and
vitality of Ellis County, has announced the acquisition of 17 acres located directly north of the Hays
Medical Center campus. The property was acquired from Hays Medical Center and will be
developed into a housing development that will be known as The Grove.
“The lack of age-appropriate housing continues to
inhibit our opportunities for economic growth," said GHI Executive Director Doug Williams. " We believe that additional housing, particularly
age-appropriate housing, will enhance our ability to maintain and recruit people to our
community and provide housing options for those who live here now.”
Eddie Herrman, CEO of Hays Medical Center, said, “We deal with housing issues for our
associates daily. The Grove will create much-needed housing for our community. The location,
and its proximity to our facilities, will provide easy access for associates, patients, and all who
choose to live there.”
“The location is ideal. With direct access to the facilities at Hays Medical Center, the Center for
Health Improvement, walking trails, and easy access to I-70 and the Vine Street retail corridor, The Grove will be a great place to live,” Williams added.
The Grove will contain apartments, townhomes and patio homes. Annexation, zoning and
platting will begin immediately, with infrastructure construction planned to commence in the fall of
2023.

Grow Hays acquires land to develop The Grove housing development

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis County is seeing significant improvement in the number of child care spots available with more spots soon to open.

When the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County launched in 2021, Ellis County needed more than 700 spots to reach full capacity.&nbsp;

However, the latest report has that at 523 spots.

Although the latest census reports accounted for reductions in the needed spots across the region, the community has seen an additional preschool and five child care homes open since the task force was founded.

In addition,<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ca0e062b-da51-4f8e-8fff-5f357095ac7d"> HaysMed plans to open a child care facility as soon as this fall that will add 77 spots</a>, the Hays Area Children's Center hopes to add six preschool slots, and Learning Cross preschool is exploring starting an infant and toddler program that would add 37 spots in Hays.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f041561a-db49-48ac-bb33-6824f7c9bcec">Holy Family Elementary will open a preschool in the fall, which will offer up to 44 half-day 4-year-old spots and 12 full-day 3-year-old spots.</a>&nbsp;A waitlist for that program will open on March 1.

Hays Mayor Mason Ruder told the task force Tuesday Ellis County's task force is seen as a model across the state.

He reported to the task force on Gov. Laura Kelly's efforts to make child care a priority in the state. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ea1aaf5-7ef0-426a-9e7f-1926fe0f2b6e">Kelly signed an executive order on Jan. 10 to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. </a>

State officials have discussed making child-care providers eligible for KPERS and state health plans.

Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services and task force member, said state benefits for child care workers would be a game changer.

"Single people can't take on that job," she said. "They can't not have benefits. That takes out a whole huge audience of people who could be going into that field as a profession."

The average wage for child care workers is $10 per hour with no benefits, Ruder said.

State officials also have discussed using tax revenue from medical marijuana for child care initiatives.

The state also has grant funds available for new construction of child care facilities.&nbsp;

The Kansas Legislature may consider increasing adult-to-child ratios to allow providers to care for more children. However, officials have concerns this could cause problems, including burnout among providers, Ruder said.

The Ellis County task force will be applying for $47,000 in grant funds from ChildCare Aware of Kansas. These funds would be used for two projects.

The grant would fund a salaried preschool teacher at Hays Area Children's Center. This would allow the center to add six more spots to its preschool program.

The grant also would help fund Learning Cross Child Care, which plans to open an infant and toddler program with a capacity of 37 slots.

Infant care is in the highest demand. Many centers do not provide infant care because one adult can only care for a few infants at a time.

Task force members have discussed creating a community food program for child care providers.&nbsp;

"A community kitchen could offer quality meals at good prices for nonprofits," said Brett Schmidt, Learning Cross Child Care owner and task force member.

A subcommittee has been formed to explore this project further.

The Hays Chamber, which has facilitated the task force, is discussing activating a 501(c)3. That nonprofit could apply for specific child-care grants. The chamber will have its first meeting to discuss that application on Feb. 15, said Sarah Wasinger, chamber executive director.

A Child Care Tax Credits Lunch and Learn for employers will be from noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Smoky Hill Country Club. Cost is $14. A meal is included.&nbsp;

A child care provider appreciation event is tentatively planned for May.

A child care professional development conference will be July 31 and Aug. 1 in Hays. The conference participant cap was set at 140 people and more than 160 people already have registered. Dana Stanton,&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center&nbsp;Child Care Program director and task force member, said she hopes the conference can be offered on Zoom to allow more people to participate.

The next child care task force meeting will be at 4 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Hays Welcome Center.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis County is seeing significant improvement in the number of child care spots available with more spots soon to open.When the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County launched in 2021, Ellis County needed more than 700 spots to reach full capacity.&nbsp;However, the latest report has that at 523 spots.Although the latest census reports accounted for reductions in the needed spots across the region, the community has seen an additional preschool and five child care homes open since the task force was founded.In addition,<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ca0e062b-da51-4f8e-8fff-5f357095ac7d"> HaysMed plans to open a child care facility as soon as this fall that will add 77 spots</a>, the Hays Area Children's Center hopes to add six preschool slots, and Learning Cross preschool is exploring starting an infant and toddler program that would add 37 spots in Hays.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f041561a-db49-48ac-bb33-6824f7c9bcec">Holy Family Elementary will open a preschool in the fall, which will offer up to 44 half-day 4-year-old spots and 12 full-day 3-year-old spots.</a>&nbsp;A waitlist for that program will open on March 1.Hays Mayor Mason Ruder told the task force Tuesday Ellis County's task force is seen as a model across the state.He reported to the task force on Gov. Laura Kelly's efforts to make child care a priority in the state. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ea1aaf5-7ef0-426a-9e7f-1926fe0f2b6e">Kelly signed an executive order on Jan. 10 to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. </a>State officials have discussed making child-care providers eligible for KPERS and state health plans.Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services and task force member, said state benefits for child care workers would be a game changer."Single people can't take on that job," she said. "They can't not have benefits. That takes out a whole huge audience of people who could be going into that field as a profession."The average wage for child care workers is $10 per hour with no benefits, Ruder said.State officials also have discussed using tax revenue from medical marijuana for child care initiatives.The state also has grant funds available for new construction of child care facilities.&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature may consider increasing adult-to-child ratios to allow providers to care for more children. However, officials have concerns this could cause problems, including burnout among providers, Ruder said.The Ellis County task force will be applying for $47,000 in grant funds from ChildCare Aware of Kansas. These funds would be used for two projects.The grant would fund a salaried preschool teacher at Hays Area Children's Center. This would allow the center to add six more spots to its preschool program.The grant also would help fund Learning Cross Child Care, which plans to open an infant and toddler program with a capacity of 37 slots.Infant care is in the highest demand. Many centers do not provide infant care because one adult can only care for a few infants at a time.<h2>Food program</h2>Task force members have discussed creating a community food program for child care providers.&nbsp;"A community kitchen could offer quality meals at good prices for nonprofits," said Brett Schmidt, Learning Cross Child Care owner and task force member.A subcommittee has been formed to explore this project further.The Hays Chamber, which has facilitated the task force, is discussing activating a 501(c)3. That nonprofit could apply for specific child-care grants. The chamber will have its first meeting to discuss that application on Feb. 15, said Sarah Wasinger, chamber executive director.<h2>Upcoming events</h2>A Child Care Tax Credits Lunch and Learn for employers will be from noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Smoky Hill Country Club. Cost is $14. A meal is included.&nbsp;A child care provider appreciation event is tentatively planned for May.A child care professional development conference will be July 31 and Aug. 1 in Hays. The conference participant cap was set at 140 people and more than 160 people already have registered. Dana Stanton,&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center&nbsp;Child Care Program director and task force member, said she hopes the conference can be offered on Zoom to allow more people to participate.The next child care task force meeting will be at 4 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Hays Welcome Center.Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Ellis County adding child care spots

One of the simplest ways to define politics is as a struggle for power.

This power struggle has flared up again. The legislature began their 2023 session by introducing a bill that would further disrupt the current power division between state and local and also undermine Kansas voters.

Often, in Topeka, this is a struggle between parties — Republicans versus Democrats — or between branches — the legislature versus the governor. But more and more often over the past few years we have seen the struggle for power play out as state government versus local government.

As you may recall, following the outbreak of COVID-19, the state legislature restricted localities’ ability to respond to the pandemic.

Last year, the state legislature also banned cities from declaring themselves “sanctuary cities” and from restricting single-use items such as bags, cups, and other packaging made of plastic — Governor Kelly signed the former and vetoed the latter.

Now, under current Kansas law, localities cannot regulate abortion services. That power is left to the state alone. This law was originally put in place to prevent certain cities from making access to abortion easier than could be found under state law.&nbsp;

Now however, following the state Supreme Court’s 2019&nbsp;Hodes&nbsp;decision and the failure of the “Value Them Both” amendment last August, it effectively prevents cities from restricting access to abortion services in opposition to the statewide constitutional protection.

Legislation has been introduced that would repeal this law, allowing localities to ban abortion.

On August 2, 2022, Kansans spoke loud and clear about their desire to protect access to abortion services in our state. The “Value Them Both” amendment was a resounding failure.

Not only does this bill show a lack of respect for the large number of voters who made their voices heard last August, but also for Home Rule, which is protected in the state constitution. Should it pass it would further establish a precedent that localities can be used as political pawns at the whims of the legislature.

Any restrictions would still be unconstitutional under the state constitution, but would set the stage for localities to challenge the state and create yet another power tug of war.

Kansans made their position clear twice last election cycle, in both the primary and the general election. They don’t want to increase the legislature’s power.

Across our country and our state, trust in government is at an all time low precisely because of actions such as these.

In the 2022 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey distributed by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, a mere thirty-one percent of Kansans expressed satisfaction with the performance of the state legislature.

And yet, legislators are supposed to be representing our voice in government.

As we celebrate Kansas Day on January 29, let’s not forget the long struggle for home rule and popular sovereignty that led to our statehood.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the simplest ways to define politics is as a struggle for power.This power struggle has flared up again. The legislature began their 2023 session by introducing a bill that would further disrupt the current power division between state and local and also undermine Kansas voters.Often, in Topeka, this is a struggle between parties — Republicans versus Democrats — or between branches — the legislature versus the governor. But more and more often over the past few years we have seen the struggle for power play out as state government versus local government.As you may recall, following the outbreak of COVID-19, the state legislature restricted localities’ ability to respond to the pandemic.Last year, the state legislature also banned cities from declaring themselves “sanctuary cities” and from restricting single-use items such as bags, cups, and other packaging made of plastic — Governor Kelly signed the former and vetoed the latter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Now, under current Kansas law, localities cannot regulate abortion services. That power is left to the state alone. This law was originally put in place to prevent certain cities from making access to abortion easier than could be found under state law.&nbsp;Now however, following the state Supreme Court’s 2019&nbsp;Hodes&nbsp;decision and the failure of the “Value Them Both” amendment last August, it effectively prevents cities from restricting access to abortion services in opposition to the statewide constitutional protection.Legislation has been introduced that would repeal this law, allowing localities to ban abortion.On August 2, 2022, Kansans spoke loud and clear about their desire to protect access to abortion services in our state. The “Value Them Both” amendment was a resounding failure.Not only does this bill show a lack of respect for the large number of voters who made their voices heard last August, but also for Home Rule, which is protected in the state constitution. Should it pass it would further establish a precedent that localities can be used as political pawns at the whims of the legislature.Any restrictions would still be unconstitutional under the state constitution, but would set the stage for localities to challenge the state and create yet another power tug of war.Kansans made their position clear twice last election cycle, in both the primary and the general election. They don’t want to increase the legislature’s power.Across our country and our state, trust in government is at an all time low precisely because of actions such as these.In the 2022 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey distributed by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, a mere thirty-one percent of Kansans expressed satisfaction with the performance of the state legislature.And yet, legislators are supposed to be representing our voice in government.As we celebrate Kansas Day on January 29, let’s not forget the long struggle for home rule and popular sovereignty that led to our statehood.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Let's not forget home rule, popular sovereignty

<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/2023/1/1674848188678.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

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Big Creek Chapter annual banquet is 5 p.m. Feb. 4. in the convention center in the Hays Hilton Garden Inn.

Meet like-minded hunters, plus chances to win top notch firearms and bows, premium hunts, limited edition art and hunting gear.

Make your reservations today at&nbsp;<a href="https://events.rmef.org/shop/bigcreek?utm_source=rmef.org&amp;utm_medium=events_page">RMEF.org</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Dennis&nbsp;Craven at 785-650-7912.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Big Creek Chapter annual banquet is 5 p.m. Feb. 4. in the convention center in the Hays Hilton Garden Inn.Meet like-minded hunters, plus chances to win top notch firearms and bows, premium hunts, limited edition art and hunting gear.Make your reservations today at&nbsp;<a href="https://events.rmef.org/shop/bigcreek?utm_source=rmef.org&amp;utm_medium=events_page">RMEF.org</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Dennis&nbsp;Craven at 785-650-7912.— Submitted

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation banquet set for Feb. 4

Camber Children's Mental Health in Hays to start accepting patients

HAYS, Kan. –&nbsp;Two FHSU online teacher education majors will share 360° videos with science teachers throughout Kansas. The videos were created by Brooklyn Whitcomb, Iola, and Mary Kate Hale, Olathe, during a recent research trip to Colorado led by Dr. Matthew Clay, assistant professor of teacher education. It is hoped that the videos will provide needed lesson plans based on surveys received from elementary school science teachers.

During the two days at Rocky Mountain National Park, Whitcomb and Hale, both seniors who completed Clay’s science methods class in the fall of 2022, recorded between 75 to 100 videos.

Hale said her goal is to create videos that can be used as virtual field trips for special education classes.

“The videos will be for kids who probably won’t be able to experience something like that in their life,” she said. “I plan to use Google Cardboard or some sort of projector system to create an immersive experience for the kids.”

Whitcomb agreed that the videos could be adapted to many uses.

“We can show the kids habitats in a way that makes sense and that they get to experience.”

According to Whitcomb and Hale, the videos can be used in other disciplines, not exclusively for science courses.

“I hope the videos encourage more people to go out and film these beautiful landscapes that we have,” Hale said. “It’s breathtaking to be there. There’s nothing like being there, but this is probably the closest thing you could get to it.”

Interacting face-to-face with a professor brought a new dimension to the online education experience for both students.

“Being able to do this research opportunity and getting a chance to travel and learn with Dr. Clay has been fantastic,” Hale said. “Friendships and relationships are difficult to create online with professors, so it was awesome that Dr. Clay gave us this opportunity.”

For Whitcomb, it was a unique experience.

“It was my first time on a research trip,” she said. “My first time in Colorado. My first time away from my kids. It was a whole bunch of firsts.”

She was grateful for the expertise that Clay brought to the field trip.

“Dr. Clay was knowledgeable about what to expect, which really helped,” she said. “He had the experience, and we had fresh eyes on what to see. So, it was a good collaboration between the two things: knowing what to expect and finding new details.”

The students used an Insta360, 6K camera with two fisheye lenses. Clay said he believed it was the first time that some areas in Rocky Mountain National Park had been captured at 360° in 6K.

“They (Hale and Whitcomb) were very thorough,” Clay said. “They recorded 20 to 30 videos around one particular lake. That’s the first time I’m aware of that spot being documented that thoroughly. So, to me, that’s exciting.”

The students and Clay are working remotely to process the video files. After editing, the videos will be uploaded to YouTube. Based on the needs of teachers surveyed by Hale and Whitcomb before the research trip, the videos will be used to create lesson plans. 360° videos allow viewers to look in all directions and search for evidence of different phenomena.

“It’s a lot like sticking a third grader out in a spot in the wilderness and saying, ‘OK, what do you see? Why do you think that is? What evidence do you see?’” Clay said.

He emphasized that Hale and Whitcomb were adaptable during the field trip and met all challenges with positive attitudes.

“There’s something to me that gets missed with online students. We have extremely talented students online with the skills and the potential for projects like this. I think Brooklyn and Mary Kate are great examples of that,” Clay said.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7ns6mggYv4A"></iframe>
 <figcaption>To see the video at its highest resolution, click the settings icon, select “quality,” and then “highest quality.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsHAYS, Kan. –&nbsp;Two FHSU online teacher education majors will share 360° videos with science teachers throughout Kansas. The videos were created by Brooklyn Whitcomb, Iola, and Mary Kate Hale, Olathe, during a recent research trip to Colorado led by Dr. Matthew Clay, assistant professor of teacher education. It is hoped that the videos will provide needed lesson plans based on surveys received from elementary school science teachers.During the two days at Rocky Mountain National Park, Whitcomb and Hale, both seniors who completed Clay’s science methods class in the fall of 2022, recorded between 75 to 100 videos.Hale said her goal is to create videos that can be used as virtual field trips for special education classes.“The videos will be for kids who probably won’t be able to experience something like that in their life,” she said. “I plan to use Google Cardboard or some sort of projector system to create an immersive experience for the kids.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674758808310.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Whitcomb agreed that the videos could be adapted to many uses.“We can show the kids habitats in a way that makes sense and that they get to experience.”According to Whitcomb and Hale, the videos can be used in other disciplines, not exclusively for science courses.“I hope the videos encourage more people to go out and film these beautiful landscapes that we have,” Hale said. “It’s breathtaking to be there. There’s nothing like being there, but this is probably the closest thing you could get to it.”Interacting face-to-face with a professor brought a new dimension to the online education experience for both students.“Being able to do this research opportunity and getting a chance to travel and learn with Dr. Clay has been fantastic,” Hale said. “Friendships and relationships are difficult to create online with professors, so it was awesome that Dr. Clay gave us this opportunity.”For Whitcomb, it was a unique experience.“It was my first time on a research trip,” she said. “My first time in Colorado. My first time away from my kids. It was a whole bunch of firsts.”She was grateful for the expertise that Clay brought to the field trip.“Dr. Clay was knowledgeable about what to expect, which really helped,” she said. “He had the experience, and we had fresh eyes on what to see. So, it was a good collaboration between the two things: knowing what to expect and finding new details.”The students used an Insta360, 6K camera with two fisheye lenses. Clay said he believed it was the first time that some areas in Rocky Mountain National Park had been captured at 360° in 6K.“They (Hale and Whitcomb) were very thorough,” Clay said. “They recorded 20 to 30 videos around one particular lake. That’s the first time I’m aware of that spot being documented that thoroughly. So, to me, that’s exciting.”The students and Clay are working remotely to process the video files. After editing, the videos will be uploaded to YouTube. Based on the needs of teachers surveyed by Hale and Whitcomb before the research trip, the videos will be used to create lesson plans. 360° videos allow viewers to look in all directions and search for evidence of different phenomena.“It’s a lot like sticking a third grader out in a spot in the wilderness and saying, ‘OK, what do you see? Why do you think that is? What evidence do you see?’” Clay said.He emphasized that Hale and Whitcomb were adaptable during the field trip and met all challenges with positive attitudes.“There’s something to me that gets missed with online students. We have extremely talented students online with the skills and the potential for projects like this. I think Brooklyn and Mary Kate are great examples of that,” Clay said.

🎥 Rocky Mountain research trip nets 360° videos from FHSU

The Ellis County Historical Society will hold its annual meeting at 7 p.m. Monday in the museum basement, 100 W. Seventh.

ECHS members and the public are invited to view the renovated office space
and enjoy refreshments. 

A short program on estate planning will be offered by Sarah Meitner of Heartland Community Foundation.&nbsp; 

Officers/trustees will be elected (must be a member to vote). 

SubmittedThe Ellis County Historical Society will hold its annual meeting at 7 p.m. Monday in the museum basement, 100 W. Seventh.ECHS members and the public are invited to view the renovated office space
and enjoy refreshments. A short program on estate planning will be offered by Sarah Meitner of Heartland Community Foundation.&nbsp; Officers/trustees will be elected (must be a member to vote).

Ellis County Historical Society annual meeting set for Jan. 30

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674848156683.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

The call came while she was sitting with her dad at a pizza place. Essentially, the message was: “Sorry, we’re canceling our entire order from your business.”&nbsp;

Since that was all the product that she had to sell, it seemed like disaster. But this was just a turning point in the development of what has become a remarkable business in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jacquelyne Leffler is the founder of Leffler Prime Performance, a direct-to-consumer beef marketing business that she operates in conjunction with her family’s farm. She lives on the place where she grew up, near the rural community of Americus, population 776 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

“We’re the fourth generation on the farm,” Leffler said. “Our family has been here since 1941.”&nbsp;

The Lefflers produce beef cattle, corn, soybeans and wheat.&nbsp;

“My sister and I grew up in 4-H,” Leffler said. “My grandfather would give us a steer for 4-H each year, but the proceeds from the steer’s sale had to go into a savings account for our college education.”&nbsp;

She noticed that some local people would buy those steers directly after the fair.&nbsp;

Leffler was also involved in sports. She found she especially enjoyed track and field.&nbsp;

“We had a new teacher who had been a collegiate track and field coach, so he really helped develop our talents,” Leffler said. At Northern Heights High School, she became an eight-time state champion in the shotput and discus and was highly recruited nationally.&nbsp;

“I had coaches from Oregon to North Carolina sitting in my living room, but I’m a Kansas kid,” Leffler said. On her birthday in 2008, at her local church, she signed a letter of intent to Kansas State.&nbsp;

She would go on to a successful collegiate career, scoring highly at the Big 12 and NCAA national championships. After graduation, she coached track and field for two years at Emporia State while helping her dad and grandpa on the farm. Then she began coaching track and field athletes on her own. Now she is also working with a nearby sports academy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, she saw an opportunity to add value to her family’s beef sales by doing direct marketing to consumers. She started with five head of cattle and reached a deal with a retail outlet to buy them. Then she got a call while she happened to be sitting at a pizza restaurant with her dad: The retailer was backing out of the deal.&nbsp;

Leffler had her entire inventory of five head ready to go to market, but suddenly there was no buyer. “I thought it was the end,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;She put a post on Facebook and essentially said, “If anybody needs beef, let us know.”&nbsp;

“The community rallied around me,” Leffler said. Friends and neighbors stepped up to buy the beef.&nbsp;

“I saw the power of social media and community,” she said. She grew her direct beef marketing business. Then the COVID pandemic hit and demand for local beef exploded.&nbsp;&nbsp;She started connecting with consumers and other producers in a big way. She also noticed that customers would purchase a half or quarter of beef, but didn’t know how to prepare beef cuts.&nbsp;

“The Kansas Beef Council had boxes of beef recipe books that they couldn’t take to trade shows that were cancelled due to COVID, so they made those available to me,” Leffler said. “The beef checkoff did a lot for us.”&nbsp;

Today, Leffler Prime Performance is marketing retail and custom beef to states throughout the Midwest. “I enjoy putting high quality protein in local people’s freezers at an affordable price,” Leffler said. “God has really provided me with the best support system,” she said.&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lefflerprimeperformance.com/">www.lefflerprimeperformance.com</a>.&nbsp;

The call cancelling her first order came while she was out with her dad, but it was only a curve on her journey to success. We commend Jacquelyne Leffler for making a difference with creatively marketing her family’s products. Her decision to market those products directly was a good call.&nbsp;

What about that local sports academy?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674656374396.png" alt="Jacquelyne Leffler / Courtesy K-State Extension" />
 <figcaption>Jacquelyne Leffler / Courtesy K-State Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;The call came while she was sitting with her dad at a pizza place. Essentially, the message was: “Sorry, we’re canceling our entire order from your business.”&nbsp;Since that was all the product that she had to sell, it seemed like disaster. But this was just a turning point in the development of what has become a remarkable business in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacquelyne Leffler is the founder of Leffler Prime Performance, a direct-to-consumer beef marketing business that she operates in conjunction with her family’s farm. She lives on the place where she grew up, near the rural community of Americus, population 776 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“We’re the fourth generation on the farm,” Leffler said. “Our family has been here since 1941.”&nbsp;The Lefflers produce beef cattle, corn, soybeans and wheat.&nbsp;“My sister and I grew up in 4-H,” Leffler said. “My grandfather would give us a steer for 4-H each year, but the proceeds from the steer’s sale had to go into a savings account for our college education.”&nbsp;She noticed that some local people would buy those steers directly after the fair.&nbsp;Leffler was also involved in sports. She found she especially enjoyed track and field.&nbsp;“We had a new teacher who had been a collegiate track and field coach, so he really helped develop our talents,” Leffler said. At Northern Heights High School, she became an eight-time state champion in the shotput and discus and was highly recruited nationally.&nbsp;“I had coaches from Oregon to North Carolina sitting in my living room, but I’m a Kansas kid,” Leffler said. On her birthday in 2008, at her local church, she signed a letter of intent to Kansas State.&nbsp;She would go on to a successful collegiate career, scoring highly at the Big 12 and NCAA national championships. After graduation, she coached track and field for two years at Emporia State while helping her dad and grandpa on the farm. Then she began coaching track and field athletes on her own. Now she is also working with a nearby sports academy.&nbsp;Meanwhile, she saw an opportunity to add value to her family’s beef sales by doing direct marketing to consumers. She started with five head of cattle and reached a deal with a retail outlet to buy them. Then she got a call while she happened to be sitting at a pizza restaurant with her dad: The retailer was backing out of the deal.&nbsp;Leffler had her entire inventory of five head ready to go to market, but suddenly there was no buyer. “I thought it was the end,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;She put a post on Facebook and essentially said, “If anybody needs beef, let us know.”&nbsp;“The community rallied around me,” Leffler said. Friends and neighbors stepped up to buy the beef.&nbsp;“I saw the power of social media and community,” she said. She grew her direct beef marketing business. Then the COVID pandemic hit and demand for local beef exploded.&nbsp;&nbsp;She started connecting with consumers and other producers in a big way. She also noticed that customers would purchase a half or quarter of beef, but didn’t know how to prepare beef cuts.&nbsp;“The Kansas Beef Council had boxes of beef recipe books that they couldn’t take to trade shows that were cancelled due to COVID, so they made those available to me,” Leffler said. “The beef checkoff did a lot for us.”&nbsp;Today, Leffler Prime Performance is marketing retail and custom beef to states throughout the Midwest. “I enjoy putting high quality protein in local people’s freezers at an affordable price,” Leffler said. “God has really provided me with the best support system,” she said.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lefflerprimeperformance.com/">www.lefflerprimeperformance.com</a>.&nbsp;The call cancelling her first order came while she was out with her dad, but it was only a curve on her journey to success. We commend Jacquelyne Leffler for making a difference with creatively marketing her family’s products. Her decision to market those products directly was a good call.&nbsp;What about that local sports academy?&nbsp;&nbsp;We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Leffler Prime Performance 

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Abilene Cowgirls and Cowboys in non-league action Friday night at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/514536">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Abilene Cowgirls and Cowboys in non-league action Friday night at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow at approximately 7:30 p.m.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/514536">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/514536?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian v Abilene

Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:

* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities: Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens, Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center, Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa, Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center (part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver (part), Cedron, Elkhorn (part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner, Center, Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674766299953.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674766368119.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities: Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens, Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center, Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa, Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center (part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver (part), Cedron, Elkhorn (part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner, Center, Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Jan. 27, 2023

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Northwest Kansas Technical College president Ben Schears.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K_icce1MKAU" 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 Northwest Kansas Technical College president Ben Schears.

🎤 Forward Ever: Northwest Kansas Technical College president Ben Schears

The Smith Center Redmen and Lady Rady travel west for a Mid-Continent League showdown on our 101.9 The Bull Area Game of the Week.

Friday night's girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow from Phillipsburg. Our coverage begins at 5:15 p.m. with GameDay Live on<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KKQY"> 101.9 The Bull.</a>

The Smith Center Redmen and Lady Rady travel west for a Mid-Continent League showdown on our 101.9 The Bull Area Game of the Week.Friday night's girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow from Phillipsburg. Our coverage begins at 5:15 p.m. with GameDay Live on<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KKQY"> 101.9 The Bull.</a>

🏀🎙️ LISTEN LIVE - Smith Center v Phillipsburg

The Hays Police Department responded to 66 calls from Jan. 15-21, 2023 according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 66 calls from Jan. 15-21, 2023 according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
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Hays PD Activity Log, Jan. 15-21

TOPEKA&nbsp;—&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly this week announced that 10 Kansas communities are receiving grants to assist with the creation of Family Resource Centers. These funds, granted by the Kansas Department for Children and Families, are&nbsp;part of its ongoing efforts to decrease the need for families to have formal contact with the agency.&nbsp;

“The centers receiving these grants serve as community hubs with the sole purpose of supporting families in their own neighborhoods," Kelly said.“Providing easier access to programs and services, including job skills training, early childhood programs, and nutritional services, sets Kansas families up for success.”&nbsp;

“We know that if we can help build the skills necessary for families to succeed, we can prevent the need for families to have contact with DCF, especially the child welfare system,”&nbsp;Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;“These centers will focus on parent resilience, social connections and important parent and child development skills which we believe will result in fewer youth in the foster care system.”&nbsp;

Family Resource Centers are designed for all families with services at no or low cost for participants. Examples of services and supports offered at a resource center include:&nbsp;

DCF partners with the Kansas Children’s Service League to administer the Family Resource Center network. KCSL will work with the communities to design and create their center. As the lead operator of the Parent Helpline 1-800-Children, KCSL offers important insights on parenting and caregiver resources that will help ensure the success of each Family Resource Centers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grants run through June 30, 2024, with three one-year options to renew.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592435846825.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;—&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly this week announced that 10 Kansas communities are receiving grants to assist with the creation of Family Resource Centers. These funds, granted by the Kansas Department for Children and Families, are&nbsp;part of its ongoing efforts to decrease the need for families to have formal contact with the agency.&nbsp;“The centers receiving these grants serve as community hubs with the sole purpose of supporting families in their own neighborhoods," Kelly said.“Providing easier access to programs and services, including job skills training, early childhood programs, and nutritional services, sets Kansas families up for success.”&nbsp;DCF awarded grants to:&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674665522861.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We know that if we can help build the skills necessary for families to succeed, we can prevent the need for families to have contact with DCF, especially the child welfare system,”&nbsp;Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;“These centers will focus on parent resilience, social connections and important parent and child development skills which we believe will result in fewer youth in the foster care system.”&nbsp;Family Resource Centers are designed for all families with services at no or low cost for participants. Examples of services and supports offered at a resource center include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Childcare resource and referral&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Counseling&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Early childhood programs&nbsp;</li><li>Food bank, cooking, and nutrition programs&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Health screenings&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Home visiting program&nbsp;</li><li>Job skills training&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Legal services&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Literacy programs&nbsp;</li><li>Parent leadership and peer groups&nbsp;</li><li>Play groups&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Youth leadership and peer groups&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>DCF partners with the Kansas Children’s Service League to administer the Family Resource Center network. KCSL will work with the communities to design and create their center. As the lead operator of the Parent Helpline 1-800-Children, KCSL offers important insights on parenting and caregiver resources that will help ensure the success of each Family Resource Centers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grants run through June 30, 2024, with three one-year options to renew.&nbsp;

Live Well NWKS receives more than $200K in state grants

BUNKER HILL — Another live production from Smoky Hills PBS, "The Kansas Legislature," will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. Streaming will also be available on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/SmokyHillsPBS/videos">YouTube</a>.&nbsp;

The show airs during the legislative session, which gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; For each show, legislators from the Smoky Hills PBS viewing area are invited to participate in the live call-in program, and viewers are encouraged to call in with their legislative questions.

“ 'The Kansas Legislature' is one of the longest running series on Smoky Hills PBS and we are excited to continue this tradition for our viewers,” said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director of Smoky Hills PBS."This is a great opportunity for our viewers to connect with our Kansas legislators and ask questions that are important to Kansans, questions that could impact their jobs or everyday life.”

Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2023 season of "The Kansas Legislature." She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.

FEB 3 – Sen. Rick Billinger (Goodland), Rep. Adam Smith (Weskan) Feb 10 – Rep. Troy Waymaster (Bunker Hill)| FEB 17 – Sen. John Doll (Garden City), Rep. Steven Howe (Concordia)

To find a list of legislatures that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp;

The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL — Another live production from Smoky Hills PBS, "The Kansas Legislature," will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. Streaming will also be available on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/SmokyHillsPBS/videos">YouTube</a>.&nbsp;The show airs during the legislative session, which gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues.&nbsp; For each show, legislators from the Smoky Hills PBS viewing area are invited to participate in the live call-in program, and viewers are encouraged to call in with their legislative questions.“ 'The Kansas Legislature' is one of the longest running series on Smoky Hills PBS and we are excited to continue this tradition for our viewers,” said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director of Smoky Hills PBS."This is a great opportunity for our viewers to connect with our Kansas legislators and ask questions that are important to Kansans, questions that could impact their jobs or everyday life.”Becky Kiser, news reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2023 season of "The Kansas Legislature." She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.Coming in February:FEB 3 – Sen. Rick Billinger (Goodland), Rep. Adam Smith (Weskan) Feb 10 – Rep. Troy Waymaster (Bunker Hill)| FEB 17 – Sen. John Doll (Garden City), Rep. Steven Howe (Concordia)To find a list of legislatures that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2023 season schedule.&nbsp;The 2023 Kansas Legislature is made possible by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-great-plains" target="_blank">ITC Great Plains</a>&nbsp;and through a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/" target="_blank">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

New season of 'The Kansas Legislature' begins Feb. 3

As I clean out my office in preparation for the next&nbsp;Cottonwood Team member,&nbsp;I have found some treasures. Lists of program participants remind me of the many wonderful people in our communities that I have&nbsp;enjoyed meeting.&nbsp;While no two days as an Extension Educator are exactly alike, I hope that you know how important building relationships within the Cottonwood District has been to me. Today I’m going to share a couple of memories from my career that tested my quick thinking and positive attitude.

I found the attendance sheet for an “Interiors Update” program I organized several years ago. I had lined up several vendors and a main speaker and reserved the meeting room at the Great Bend Recreation Center. Excitement was in the air when the 70 participants arrived to learn about trends in&nbsp;home&nbsp;decorating. A few minutes before the program was set to begin, the main speaker had not arrived. A phone call confirmed that the speaker had the wrong date on their calendar and was not coming. Yikes! What was I going to do?&nbsp;

I had a quick huddle with the three ladies who had brought samples of their&nbsp;work&nbsp;to show&nbsp;and asked if each of them could share 10-15 minutes about their businesses&nbsp;related to interior decorating. Debbie Deutsch, Debbie Stevens, and Lisa&nbsp;Libeer, stepped up and did a wonderful job in the spur of the moment. In fact, as everyone was leaving, they commented that it was one of the best presentations they had ever been to. Whew!&nbsp;Everything worked out.

Another memory from 1999 that had a happy ending was related to the 4-H Chicken Barbecue at the Barton County Fair. The barbecue committee had really stepped up that year because we had a brand new 4-H Agent who was learning the ropes. The day of the barbecue, I was assisting with preparations, and I asked which&nbsp;refrigerator the coleslaw was in? We found out that the&nbsp;detail of ordering the&nbsp;coleslaw had not&nbsp;happened.&nbsp;

The next hour&nbsp;or so,&nbsp;I made phone calls to all the places in Great Bend that had coleslaw on their menu to see how much of it we could purchase for our barbecue.&nbsp;The next step was to bring the Extension van to town to pick up the 2500 servings of coleslaw I had tracked down. I don’t think anyone who enjoyed the traditional chicken barbecue&nbsp;later that day&nbsp;had any idea of the stress we had&nbsp;experienced&nbsp;related to the coleslaw. In fact, the next morning the first phone call at the office was from a lady wanting to know where we had gotten the coleslaw, because it was&nbsp;soooo&nbsp;good. I had to be honest and tell her I wasn’t sure which coleslaw she had gotten, because we had gotten it from four places! Again, everything worked out.

Now, as I begin the next chapter of my life, called retirement, I am excited to see&nbsp;what the future holds for K-State Research and Extension and the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;I am happy to announce that Jay Harris has been named as the new Cottonwood District Director/Community Vitality Agent. Jay brings some knowledge about Extension to the table and is excited to begin his duties in early March. His primary office will be in Hays but he looks forward to building relationships within the Barton County communities as well.&nbsp;By mid-February a position announcement will open for a Family and Community Wellness agent in the Great Bend office. I trust that you will show Jay and the rest of the Cottonwood&nbsp;team the same support and active participation that you have shown me during my career. Thanks for the memories!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>As I clean out my office in preparation for the next&nbsp;Cottonwood Team member,&nbsp;I have found some treasures. Lists of program participants remind me of the many wonderful people in our communities that I have&nbsp;enjoyed meeting.&nbsp;While no two days as an Extension Educator are exactly alike, I hope that you know how important building relationships within the Cottonwood District has been to me. Today I’m going to share a couple of memories from my career that tested my quick thinking and positive attitude.I found the attendance sheet for an “Interiors Update” program I organized several years ago. I had lined up several vendors and a main speaker and reserved the meeting room at the Great Bend Recreation Center. Excitement was in the air when the 70 participants arrived to learn about trends in&nbsp;home&nbsp;decorating. A few minutes before the program was set to begin, the main speaker had not arrived. A phone call confirmed that the speaker had the wrong date on their calendar and was not coming. Yikes! What was I going to do?&nbsp;I had a quick huddle with the three ladies who had brought samples of their&nbsp;work&nbsp;to show&nbsp;and asked if each of them could share 10-15 minutes about their businesses&nbsp;related to interior decorating. Debbie Deutsch, Debbie Stevens, and Lisa&nbsp;Libeer, stepped up and did a wonderful job in the spur of the moment. In fact, as everyone was leaving, they commented that it was one of the best presentations they had ever been to. Whew!&nbsp;Everything worked out.Another memory from 1999 that had a happy ending was related to the 4-H Chicken Barbecue at the Barton County Fair. The barbecue committee had really stepped up that year because we had a brand new 4-H Agent who was learning the ropes. The day of the barbecue, I was assisting with preparations, and I asked which&nbsp;refrigerator the coleslaw was in? We found out that the&nbsp;detail of ordering the&nbsp;coleslaw had not&nbsp;happened.&nbsp;The next hour&nbsp;or so,&nbsp;I made phone calls to all the places in Great Bend that had coleslaw on their menu to see how much of it we could purchase for our barbecue.&nbsp;The next step was to bring the Extension van to town to pick up the 2500 servings of coleslaw I had tracked down. I don’t think anyone who enjoyed the traditional chicken barbecue&nbsp;later that day&nbsp;had any idea of the stress we had&nbsp;experienced&nbsp;related to the coleslaw. In fact, the next morning the first phone call at the office was from a lady wanting to know where we had gotten the coleslaw, because it was&nbsp;soooo&nbsp;good. I had to be honest and tell her I wasn’t sure which coleslaw she had gotten, because we had gotten it from four places! Again, everything worked out.Now, as I begin the next chapter of my life, called retirement, I am excited to see&nbsp;what the future holds for K-State Research and Extension and the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;I am happy to announce that Jay Harris has been named as the new Cottonwood District Director/Community Vitality Agent. Jay brings some knowledge about Extension to the table and is excited to begin his duties in early March. His primary office will be in Hays but he looks forward to building relationships within the Barton County communities as well.&nbsp;By mid-February a position announcement will open for a Family and Community Wellness agent in the Great Bend office. I trust that you will show Jay and the rest of the Cottonwood&nbsp;team the same support and active participation that you have shown me during my career. Thanks for the memories!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Thanks for the memories

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674749304804.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>

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) has announced he will hold a town hall in Ellis County, at 3 p.m. on Friday, January 27.

The meeting will be held at BriefSpace, 219 W. 10th, in the basement meeting room.

Area residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback with Sen. Moran on the critical issues facing Kansas and the nation.&nbsp;

Prior to the town hall meeting, Moran will speak at the ribbon cutting at the new location of Camber Hays children's mental health services.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659492643437.png" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Sen. Moran WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) has announced he will hold a town hall in Ellis County, at 3 p.m. on Friday, January 27.The meeting will be held at BriefSpace, 219 W. 10th, in the basement meeting room.Area residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback with Sen. Moran on the critical issues facing Kansas and the nation.&nbsp;Prior to the town hall meeting, Moran will speak at the ribbon cutting at the new location of Camber Hays children's mental health services.&nbsp;

Sen. Moran to host town hall meeting in Hays Friday afternoon

The Kansas Academy of Math and Science at Fort Hays State University has announce that Thomas More Prep-Marian sophomore Jonathan (Junghyuk) Lee has been admitted for the 2023-24 school year. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674660226723.png" alt="Lee" />
 <figcaption>Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThe Kansas Academy of Math and Science at Fort Hays State University has announce that Thomas More Prep-Marian sophomore Jonathan (Junghyuk) Lee has been admitted for the 2023-24 school year. KAMS students live on campus and take college level courses while earning their high school diploma. Jonathan is the eighth TMP-Marian student in the past eight years to be accepted to the prestigious program.

Local