By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Mayor Mason Ruder likes to point out he was four years old in 1995 when the city of Hays purchased the R9 Ranch in Edwards County as a long-term water supply.

Now, 28 years later, the project is finally picking up speed, especially in the past year.&nbsp;

"Every day is now an R9 Ranch Day," Ruder declared with a smile during last week's city commission meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City Manager Toby Dougherty updated commissioners on the R9 water transfer process. It started in February 2014 when the then-city commission voted to apply to the state to change the water use from agricultural irrigation to municipal, and begin the approval process.

In June 2015, the change applications were filed and three years later a draft master order was issued through the Division of Water Resources in the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;

The master order was issued in March 2019.

&nbsp;The Kansas Water Transfer Act has never been enacted; by statute, the process is purposely slow and meticulous to determine if it's in the best interest of the state for the transfer of water from Edwards County to Ellis County, and then on to Russell County, which owns a small portion of the ranch.

The timeline has been dramatically slowed by several petitions and appeals starting in April 2019 by WaterPACK,&nbsp;Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd42db8897d147ad4bb113a">only active opponent</a> in the project.&nbsp;

On June 29, 2022 Judge Bruce Gatterman, chief district judge of the Edwards County District Court, affirmed the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">chief engineer’s 2019 approval of the cities’ change applications</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The group of irrigators believes Hays and Russell are being allowed to take too much water from the R9 Ranch, southeast of Kinsley, and there is potential harm in that.

"If they want to drag this out, fine," Dougherty said with a shrug of his shoulders. 

"We've received our positive ruling. We're starting the transfer process. We're moving forward. We don't think they're going to be successful."

Commissioner Sandy Jacobs interrupted Dougherty's report to express her anger at the continued delays and resulting increased cost to the city.

According to Dougherty, the deviations have cost the city about $2 million to date "in attorneys, in engineers. That's hard costs. Soft costs, inflation, you're talking $30-$40 million dollars, in what we could have done versus what it's going to cost now."&nbsp;

Converting water rights for one use to another is a widely used practice across Kansas, Dougherty told the commissioners.&nbsp;

"When you convert irrigation water rights to municipal water rights, you don't get 100% of that. You get a formulaic reduction to protect the water rights around you and to protect the aquifer, to make sure the new use does not use more water than the previous use," he explained.

Early on in the process, Hays and Russell voluntarily agreed to reduce their water rights by another 30% "because we want to make sure we don't do anything to potentially harm the aquifer.

Administrative law judge Matt Spurgen was appointed October 21 as hearing officer of the transfer hearing panel.&nbsp;

By the end of February, replies to the WaterPACK appeal are due from the cities and the Division of Water Resources, followed by another reply from WaterPACK.

By statute, oral arguments should be scheduled this summer with a final decision by the water transfer panel anywhere between October 2023 and May 2024.

With the entire state of Kansas currently in a drought - to various degrees - "it's getting serious again," said Jacobs.&nbsp;

"I would think this is to our benefit. We're talking about water for people, for sustainability of life in our area," she said.

Dougherty again emphasized he has "no doubt we will prevail" in the appeal process and decision by the water transfer panel.&nbsp;

"I am finalizing the wellfield and pipeline project design contracts," he told the commission. "I hope to have those in front of you within the next couple of months for your approval so we can get started on the design contract.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As soon as the design contracts are approved, we're gonna send that RFQ (Request For Quote) for a land acquisition services firm ... and then start acquiring the land for the pipeline itself."

The R-9 Ranch is being converted to native grass and walk-in hunting from irrigated cropland.

Dougherty said he's been searching for federal funding to help pay for that conversion and a possible move to more public use of the property.

To see the entire Jan. 12 update on the R-9 Ranch, courtesy of Nex-Tech, click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLAZTzkqtt0&amp;list=PL3Fzb-KBsZZ-V5DLSgW2fa4YLIeCQQ_9A">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Below is a Jan. 13 recap discussion (at about 9:00) with Dougherty and Jacobs on KAYS Radio with Hays Post news reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612809980009.png" alt=" Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty at the R9 Ranch in Edwards County. Photo by Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty at the R9 Ranch in Edwards County. Photo by Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMayor Mason Ruder likes to point out he was four years old in 1995 when the city of Hays purchased the R9 Ranch in Edwards County as a long-term water supply.Now, 28 years later, the project is finally picking up speed, especially in the past year.&nbsp; "Every day is now an R9 Ranch Day," Ruder declared with a smile during last week's city commission meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;City Manager Toby Dougherty updated commissioners on the R9 water transfer process. It started in February 2014 when the then-city commission voted to apply to the state to change the water use from agricultural irrigation to municipal, and begin the approval process.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673827604795.jpeg" alt="City of Hays document" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays document</figcaption>
 </figure>In June 2015, the change applications were filed and three years later a draft master order was issued through the Division of Water Resources in the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;The master order was issued in March 2019.&nbsp;The Kansas Water Transfer Act has never been enacted; by statute, the process is purposely slow and meticulous to determine if it's in the best interest of the state for the transfer of water from Edwards County to Ellis County, and then on to Russell County, which owns a small portion of the ranch.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673829933735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The timeline has been dramatically slowed by several petitions and appeals starting in April 2019 by WaterPACK,&nbsp;Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd42db8897d147ad4bb113a">only active opponent</a> in the project.&nbsp;On June 29, 2022 Judge Bruce Gatterman, chief district judge of the Edwards County District Court, affirmed the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">chief engineer’s 2019 approval of the cities’ change applications</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;WaterPACK appealed. The group of irrigators believes Hays and Russell are being allowed to take too much water from the R9 Ranch, southeast of Kinsley, and there is potential harm in that."If they want to drag this out, fine," Dougherty said with a shrug of his shoulders. "We've received our positive ruling. We're starting the transfer process. We're moving forward. We don't think they're going to be successful."<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/zEJdfJ6s-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Sequence 01" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Commissioner Sandy Jacobs interrupted Dougherty's report to express her anger at the continued delays and resulting increased cost to the city.According to Dougherty, the deviations have cost the city about $2 million to date "in attorneys, in engineers. That's hard costs. Soft costs, inflation, you're talking $30-$40 million dollars, in what we could have done versus what it's going to cost now."&nbsp;Converting water rights for one use to another is a widely used practice across Kansas, Dougherty told the commissioners.&nbsp;"When you convert irrigation water rights to municipal water rights, you don't get 100% of that. You get a formulaic reduction to protect the water rights around you and to protect the aquifer, to make sure the new use does not use more water than the previous use," he explained.Early on in the process, Hays and Russell voluntarily agreed to reduce their water rights by another 30% "because we want to make sure we don't do anything to potentially harm the aquifer."To this group, that's not enough."Administrative law judge Matt Spurgen was appointed October 21 as hearing officer of the transfer hearing panel.&nbsp;By the end of February, replies to the WaterPACK appeal are due from the cities and the Division of Water Resources, followed by another reply from WaterPACK.By statute, oral arguments should be scheduled this summer with a final decision by the water transfer panel anywhere between October 2023 and May 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673832607116.jpeg" alt="City of Hays document" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays document</figcaption>
 </figure>With the entire state of Kansas currently in a drought - to various degrees - "it's getting serious again," said Jacobs.&nbsp;"I would think this is to our benefit. We're talking about water for people, for sustainability of life in our area," she said.Dougherty again emphasized he has "no doubt we will prevail" in the appeal process and decision by the water transfer panel.&nbsp;"I am finalizing the wellfield and pipeline project design contracts," he told the commission. "I hope to have those in front of you within the next couple of months for your approval so we can get started on the design contract.&nbsp;&nbsp;"As soon as the design contracts are approved, we're gonna send that RFQ (Request For Quote) for a land acquisition services firm ... and then start acquiring the land for the pipeline itself."The R-9 Ranch is being converted to native grass and walk-in hunting from irrigated cropland.Dougherty said he's been searching for federal funding to help pay for that conversion and a possible move to more public use of the property.To see the entire Jan. 12 update on the R-9 Ranch, courtesy of Nex-Tech, click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLAZTzkqtt0&amp;list=PL3Fzb-KBsZZ-V5DLSgW2fa4YLIeCQQ_9A">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Below is a Jan. 13 recap discussion (at about 9:00) with Dougherty and Jacobs on KAYS Radio with Hays Post news reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Hays City Commission hears R9 Ranch water project updates" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5s4di-1361d11-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎥🎤 City: R9 Ranch water project delays costing Hays millions of dollars

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new Hays resident is planning to open a new American-style restaurant in the former Mokas building, 1230 E. 27th.

Chester Mayhew will be expanding his family's restaurant business, Cattleman's Cafe, to Hays. Mayhew said he hopes to have the restaurant open by mid-Febraury.

Chester will be the owner and operator of the business, but his parents, Chester and Carolyn, have a combined 60 years of experience in food service.

The family also has restaurants in Liberal and Sublette.

"Hays seems to be a growing community, and it seems to be welcoming to people who want to grow Hays," he said.

The cafe will offer comfort food favorites, such as chicken-fried steaks, meatloaf, pot roast, hamburgers, salads and steaks.

All the steaks and hamburgers will be charbroiled.

The cafes are known for their chicken-fried steaks, which are hand-breaded in-house and fried fresh to order.

"It's going to be good food, good prices and good service," he said.

Everything will be homemade, including mashed potatoes and ranch dressing. Other sides will include carrots, green beans and corn.

The cafe will have kids' meals, as well as half-portion options for light eaters.

"It's a family restaurant, and we are a family operation. We want to serve the customers with good food and good prices and good service," Mayhew said.

He said the at-home atmosphere will set the restaurant apart. He said the food is "like grandma's cooking." 

Mayhew said he is waiting on equipment but could start hiring as soon as next week. He acknowledged the job market in Hays is tight, but he said he intends to offer competitive wages.

Mayhew is in the process of remodeling the former coffee shop. The restaurant will have a capacity of about 90 people.

The restaurant will be open seven days a week. Sundays through Thursdays it will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

"Hays seems to be a growing, moving town," Mayhew said. "The traffic never stops. It's a little different atmosphere than southwest Kansas. I'm excited for the new customer base."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673634772216.jpeg" alt="Cattleman's Cafe is set to open in mid-February at 1230 E. 27th, Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Cattleman's Cafe is set to open in mid-February at 1230 E. 27th, Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new Hays resident is planning to open a new American-style restaurant in the former Mokas building, 1230 E. 27th.Chester Mayhew will be expanding his family's restaurant business, Cattleman's Cafe, to Hays. Mayhew said he hopes to have the restaurant open by mid-Febraury.Chester will be the owner and operator of the business, but his parents, Chester and Carolyn, have a combined 60 years of experience in food service.The family also has restaurants in Liberal and Sublette. "Hays seems to be a growing community, and it seems to be welcoming to people who want to grow Hays," he said. The cafe will offer comfort food favorites, such as chicken-fried steaks, meatloaf, pot roast, hamburgers, salads and steaks.All the steaks and hamburgers will be charbroiled. The cafes are known for their chicken-fried steaks, which are hand-breaded in-house and fried fresh to order. "It's going to be good food, good prices and good service," he said.Everything will be homemade, including mashed potatoes and ranch dressing. Other sides will include carrots, green beans and corn.The cafe will have kids' meals, as well as half-portion options for light eaters."It's a family restaurant, and we are a family operation. We want to serve the customers with good food and good prices and good service," Mayhew said.He said the at-home atmosphere will set the restaurant apart. He said the food is "like grandma's cooking." Mayhew said he is waiting on equipment but could start hiring as soon as next week. He acknowledged the job market in Hays is tight, but he said he intends to offer competitive wages. Mayhew is in the process of remodeling the former coffee shop. The restaurant will have a capacity of about 90 people.The restaurant will be open seven days a week. Sundays through Thursdays it will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m."Hays seems to be a growing, moving town," Mayhew said. "The traffic never stops. It's a little different atmosphere than southwest Kansas. I'm excited for the new customer base."

Cattleman's Cafe to offer 'grandma's cooking' in new Hays location

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

GREAT BEND — The ducks know
 what they want. This year, it was not the dry conditions in and around 
Cheyenne Bottoms. 

That was evidenced during the National Audobon 
Society's Christmas Bird Count centered around the Bottoms. KWEC 
Director Curtis Wolf said around 16 people participated in this year's 
count on Dec. 19.

"It's always a fun event to get people out," he 
said. "I always say it's not a typical time you think about going out to
 see birds and spend some time out in nature, but it's a great 
opportunity to get together with some other bird watchers, go out for a 
day, and try to observe and count all the birds we see within a certain 
area."

The local count is one of about 40 in Kansas scheduled 
between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5. Wolf and volunteers separated into groups to
 cover a 15-mile-in-diameter circle with the Bottoms at its center. The 
count creates a snapshot in time so bird experts can track trends. A dry
 2022 made for a peculiar year.

"It's interesting because of years
 like this," Wolf said. "We typically, during our Christmas bird count, 
have 75 to maybe even 85 species we document. This year, with the 
conditions we have, we only had 61 species we documented."

But the
 count also had its treasures. Wolf's group spotted a black scoter duck 
at Stone Lake in Great Bend, part of the observation area. Scoters are 
found more often at sea, so bird watchers converged on the lake to see 
the bird.

"We had put it out there that there was a black scoter 
there," said Wolf. "There were several people that traveled in from 
surrounding areas to go see it the next day, and it was still there the 
next day."

The Christmas Bird Count is nearing its 50th 
anniversary for the area, and the 123rd count overall. See current and 
historical data compiled from the counts by <a href="https://netapp.audubon.org/cbcobservation/?_gl=1*176bk54*_ga*MTY3Nzc4OTUwOS4xNjcwMjcwNjc4*_ga_X2XNL2MWTT*MTY3MzU0NjI5Mi4yLjAuMTY3MzU0NjI5NC41OC4wLjA.&amp;_gl=1*176bk54*_ga*MTY3Nzc4OTUwOS4xNjcwMjcwNjc4*_ga_X2XNL2MWTT*MTY3MzU0NjI5Mi4yLjAuMTY3MzU0NjI5NC41OC4wLjA.">CLICKING HERE.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673622234130.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGREAT BEND — The ducks know
 what they want. This year, it was not the dry conditions in and around 
Cheyenne Bottoms. That was evidenced during the National Audobon 
Society's Christmas Bird Count centered around the Bottoms. KWEC 
Director Curtis Wolf said around 16 people participated in this year's 
count on Dec. 19."It's always a fun event to get people out," he 
said. "I always say it's not a typical time you think about going out to
 see birds and spend some time out in nature, but it's a great 
opportunity to get together with some other bird watchers, go out for a 
day, and try to observe and count all the birds we see within a certain 
area."The local count is one of about 40 in Kansas scheduled 
between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5. Wolf and volunteers separated into groups to
 cover a 15-mile-in-diameter circle with the Bottoms at its center. The 
count creates a snapshot in time so bird experts can track trends. A dry
 2022 made for a peculiar year."It's interesting because of years
 like this," Wolf said. "We typically, during our Christmas bird count, 
have 75 to maybe even 85 species we document. This year, with the 
conditions we have, we only had 61 species we documented."But the
 count also had its treasures. Wolf's group spotted a black scoter duck 
at Stone Lake in Great Bend, part of the observation area. Scoters are 
found more often at sea, so bird watchers converged on the lake to see 
the bird."We had put it out there that there was a black scoter 
there," said Wolf. "There were several people that traveled in from 
surrounding areas to go see it the next day, and it was still there the 
next day."The Christmas Bird Count is nearing its 50th 
anniversary for the area, and the 123rd count overall. See current and 
historical data compiled from the counts by <a href="https://netapp.audubon.org/cbcobservation/?_gl=1*176bk54*_ga*MTY3Nzc4OTUwOS4xNjcwMjcwNjc4*_ga_X2XNL2MWTT*MTY3MzU0NjI5Mi4yLjAuMTY3MzU0NjI5NC41OC4wLjA.&amp;_gl=1*176bk54*_ga*MTY3Nzc4OTUwOS4xNjcwMjcwNjc4*_ga_X2XNL2MWTT*MTY3MzU0NjI5Mi4yLjAuMTY3MzU0NjI5NC41OC4wLjA.">CLICKING HERE.</a>

Bird species down during 2022 Cheyenne Bottoms count

PLAINVILLE — In conjunction with the Kansas FFA Foundation, Heartland Regional Stockyards Inc. will hold an inaugural FFA Special Sale on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at the sale facility in Plainville.&nbsp;

The auction will feature a weigh-up sale beginning at 10 a.m. and feeder calf and yearling calf sale at noon. A complimentary meal will be served to all farmers and ranchers following the weigh-up sale. The meal is sponsored by Hubbard Feeds and will be served by local FFA members. The yearling and feeder calf sale will follow the meal at approximately noon.

Sellers and buyers can elect to contribute $1 per head to the FFA. Monies will be split between the Kansas FFA Foundation and the local Kansas FFA Chapter of the donors choosing. Heartland Regional Stockyards has committed to matching all per-head contributions for the day.&nbsp;

The sale was inspired by a vision of Brandon Hamel, manager of Heartland Regional Stockyards and Lloyd Schneider, Kansas FFA Foundation Board of Trustee, to support Kansas FFA at the state and local level.&nbsp;

“The FFA is one of the most important youth organizations available to high school students today,” Schneider said. “The organization teaches today’s youth skills that they will need to be successful in their future. Public speaking, leadership development, business skills, and more are taught in agricultural education. And for these reasons our team at HRS believes it's extremely important that we invest in FFA members across Kansas.”

Beth Gaines, executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation, echoed Schneider’s sentiments. 

“We are grateful for the vision of the team at Heartland Regional Stockyards to expand the resources available for the Kansas FFA and local chapters," she said. "The agriculture industry supporting agricultural education and the Kansas FFA is how we make opportunities and resources available to FFA members across the state to continue to grow and develop young people into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Additional sponsorship opportunities are available for the sale. Agriculture businesses, production operations, and individuals can participate in and be recognized as a sponsor for the event. To learn more about sponsorship, please contact Johanna Anderes, Kansas FFA Foundation at&nbsp;johanna@kansasffafoundation.org&nbsp;or 785-410-7313.&nbsp;

For sale information and questions regarding consigning cattle for this sale, contact the Heartland Regional Stockyards at 785-688-4080 or Brandom Hamel at 785-434-6280.

For more information on the Kansas FFA Foundation, visit&nbsp;www.ksffa.org/foundation/

News releasePLAINVILLE — In conjunction with the Kansas FFA Foundation, Heartland Regional Stockyards Inc. will hold an inaugural FFA Special Sale on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at the sale facility in Plainville.&nbsp;The auction will feature a weigh-up sale beginning at 10 a.m. and feeder calf and yearling calf sale at noon. A complimentary meal will be served to all farmers and ranchers following the weigh-up sale. The meal is sponsored by Hubbard Feeds and will be served by local FFA members. The yearling and feeder calf sale will follow the meal at approximately noon.Sellers and buyers can elect to contribute $1 per head to the FFA. Monies will be split between the Kansas FFA Foundation and the local Kansas FFA Chapter of the donors choosing. Heartland Regional Stockyards has committed to matching all per-head contributions for the day.&nbsp;The sale was inspired by a vision of Brandon Hamel, manager of Heartland Regional Stockyards and Lloyd Schneider, Kansas FFA Foundation Board of Trustee, to support Kansas FFA at the state and local level.&nbsp;“The FFA is one of the most important youth organizations available to high school students today,” Schneider said. “The organization teaches today’s youth skills that they will need to be successful in their future. Public speaking, leadership development, business skills, and more are taught in agricultural education. And for these reasons our team at HRS believes it's extremely important that we invest in FFA members across Kansas.”Beth Gaines, executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation, echoed Schneider’s sentiments. “We are grateful for the vision of the team at Heartland Regional Stockyards to expand the resources available for the Kansas FFA and local chapters," she said. "The agriculture industry supporting agricultural education and the Kansas FFA is how we make opportunities and resources available to FFA members across the state to continue to grow and develop young people into the leaders of tomorrow.”Additional sponsorship opportunities are available for the sale. Agriculture businesses, production operations, and individuals can participate in and be recognized as a sponsor for the event. To learn more about sponsorship, please contact Johanna Anderes, Kansas FFA Foundation at&nbsp;johanna@kansasffafoundation.org&nbsp;or 785-410-7313.&nbsp;For sale information and questions regarding consigning cattle for this sale, contact the Heartland Regional Stockyards at 785-688-4080 or Brandom Hamel at 785-434-6280.For more information on the Kansas FFA Foundation, visit&nbsp;www.ksffa.org/foundation/Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Plainville cattle sale to support Kansas FFA members, chapters

<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/2023/1/1673638589680.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about raising property tax rates in Ellis County.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses tax increases in Ellis Co." allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=yiv25-1361cd7-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about raising property tax rates in Ellis County.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses tax increases in Ellis Co.

The city of Hays recently released the top dog names and dog breeds for 2022.

Some dog names may be spelled differently, but below are the top 10 dog names listed in the city of Hays registration database.

The city had 1,600 registered pet tags last year. That includes both dogs and cats.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sadie 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Max 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Buddy 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Daisy 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Maggie 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bailey 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Harley 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Abby 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Duke 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bear

The city also released the top 10 dog breeds for 2022.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mixed breed 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lab 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shih Tzu 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chihuahua 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Yorkie 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Australian shepherd 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Golden retriever 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Boxer 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Husky 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Beagle

All dogs and cats living in the city of Hays are required to have 2023 city tags by March 1. These tags must be renewed every year.

Nikki Hausler, Hays community service officer, said pet tags help officers quickly reunite pets with their owners.

"When we pick up an animal that has a city pet tag on, we call our dispatch and say we have this number and we can call the owner right away," Hausler said. "We have 24-hour access to the database.

"Instead of driving it all the way out to the shelter and the owner calling five minutes later saying they're missing it, this way we can just take it home."

Hausler said rabies tags will not help officers reunite the pet with its owners during evenings or on weekends when vet clinics are closed.

"[A pet tag] is going to save you impound fees. It's going to save you trips out to the shelter to pick up the animal," she said.

Hausler encouraged pet owners to call the police department as soon as they realize their pet is missing.

"It's not like in the movies. We're about getting them home, safely," she said.

If you do have a pet that ends up at the shelter, you have to pay the impound fee at the police department first and then take that receipt to the shelter to claim the pet, Hausler said.

Pet licenses can be purchased for $5 at the city clerk's office, 1507 Main, if the pet is neutered or spayed. The fee is $25 if the pet is not.

The city has a dangerous dog ordinance. Dangerous dogs, which includes pit bulls or dogs deemed dangerous by the court, need to show proof of microchipping and owners need to provide a photo of the dog.  There is an additional fee of $50 for a dangerous dog.

In order to register a pet, you will need to have documentation from a veterinarian showing the rabies expiration date and if the pet is neutered or spayed.

Pets that have been in your possession and are not licensed by March 1 will incur a late fee of $10 for each month or part of a month after March 1, with a late fee not to exceed $50 for each pet. 

Hausler also offered several tips for caring for pets during winter. If a dog can't be brought inside during cold weather, Hausler suggested an insulated dog house and a heated water bowl or replacing frozen water at least three or four times per day. 

Don't put blankets in dog houses or cat shelters; they tend to draw moisture and can freeze. Hay or straw is preferred.

Just as in hot weather, don't leave a pet in a vehicle during cold weather.

"A car is like a refrigerator, and it's going to get awful cold if you are inside a department store or the mall for any length of time," Hausler said.

Hays Post reporters Becky Kiser and James Bell contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673470786504.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe city of Hays recently released the top dog names and dog breeds for 2022.Some dog names may be spelled differently, but below are the top 10 dog names listed in the city of Hays registration database.The city had 1,600 registered pet tags last year. That includes both dogs and cats.<h2>Dog names</h2>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sadie 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Max 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Buddy 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Daisy 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Maggie 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bailey 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Harley 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Abby 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Duke 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; BearThe city also released the top 10 dog breeds for 2022.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673477272517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dog breeds</h2>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mixed breed 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lab 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shih Tzu 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chihuahua 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Yorkie 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Australian shepherd 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Golden retriever 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Boxer 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Husky 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; BeagleAll dogs and cats living in the city of Hays are required to have 2023 city tags by March 1. These tags must be renewed every year. <div><iframe title="Hays pet tags due March 1" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ky6rp-1361d05-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Nikki Hausler, Hays community service officer, said pet tags help officers quickly reunite pets with their owners."When we pick up an animal that has a city pet tag on, we call our dispatch and say we have this number and we can call the owner right away," Hausler said. "We have 24-hour access to the database."Instead of driving it all the way out to the shelter and the owner calling five minutes later saying they're missing it, this way we can just take it home."Hausler said rabies tags will not help officers reunite the pet with its owners during evenings or on weekends when vet clinics are closed."[A pet tag] is going to save you impound fees. It's going to save you trips out to the shelter to pick up the animal," she said.Hausler encouraged pet owners to call the police department as soon as they realize their pet is missing."It's not like in the movies. We're about getting them home, safely," she said. If you do have a pet that ends up at the shelter, you have to pay the impound fee at the police department first and then take that receipt to the shelter to claim the pet, Hausler said. Pet licenses can be purchased for $5 at the city clerk's office, 1507 Main, if the pet is neutered or spayed. The fee is $25 if the pet is not.The city has a dangerous dog ordinance. Dangerous dogs, which includes pit bulls or dogs deemed dangerous by the court, need to show proof of microchipping and owners need to provide a photo of the dog. There is an additional fee of $50 for a dangerous dog.In order to register a pet, you will need to have documentation from a veterinarian showing the rabies expiration date and if the pet is neutered or spayed.Pets that have been in your possession and are not licensed by March 1 will incur a late fee of $10 for each month or part of a month after March 1, with a late fee not to exceed $50 for each pet. <h2>Winter pet tips</h2>Hausler also offered several tips for caring for pets during winter. If a dog can't be brought inside during cold weather, Hausler suggested an insulated dog house and a heated water bowl or replacing frozen water at least three or four times per day. Don't put blankets in dog houses or cat shelters; they tend to draw moisture and can freeze. Hay or straw is preferred.Just as in hot weather, don't leave a pet in a vehicle during cold weather."A car is like a refrigerator, and it's going to get awful cold if you are inside a department store or the mall for any length of time," Hausler said. Hays Post reporters Becky Kiser and James Bell contributed to this story.

🎙 Hays releases top dog names of 2022; pet tags due March 1

ALMENA — The Kansas Department of Transportation will hold an open house on Monday, Jan. 30, for the upcoming reconstruction of 6 miles of Kansas 383 in Norton County.&nbsp;

The event is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Almena Community Center located at 421 Main in Almena.

Attendees will be able to review the project plans and expected traffic impacts. KDOT staff will be also available for questions and comments about the project. No formal presentation will be given; participants are welcome to come and go at any time during the event between 4 and 6 p.m.

The project is the second phase of KDOT’s reconstruction of the 26-mile K-383 corridor in Norton and Phillips counties. Construction activities include reconstructing and widening the highway on existing alignment as well as adding paved shoulders. Work is expected to begin this spring and be completed by the end of 2023, weather permitting.

Anyone who requires language translation, special assistance or accommodation to attend the meeting should contact Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;one week before the meeting date.&nbsp;

KDOTALMENA — The Kansas Department of Transportation will hold an open house on Monday, Jan. 30, for the upcoming reconstruction of 6 miles of Kansas 383 in Norton County.&nbsp;The event is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Almena Community Center located at 421 Main in Almena.Attendees will be able to review the project plans and expected traffic impacts. KDOT staff will be also available for questions and comments about the project. No formal presentation will be given; participants are welcome to come and go at any time during the event between 4 and 6 p.m.The project is the second phase of KDOT’s reconstruction of the 26-mile K-383 corridor in Norton and Phillips counties. Construction activities include reconstructing and widening the highway on existing alignment as well as adding paved shoulders. Work is expected to begin this spring and be completed by the end of 2023, weather permitting.Anyone who requires language translation, special assistance or accommodation to attend the meeting should contact Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;one week before the meeting date.&nbsp;

Open house planned for upcoming K-383 project

This year’s Olliff Family Educational Symposium at Fort Hays State University has been set for Thursday, Feb. 2, in a virtual format. The symposium, sponsored by FHSU’s College of Education, will run from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

The theme of this symposium for area K-12 educators is “The Educator’s Mind Matters Too.”

The featured speaker,&nbsp;Dr. Lori Desautels, will speak on Adult/ Educator Brain and Body States Through the Lens of Applied Educational Neuroscience. In the session, she will explore how trauma and adversity impact students’ developing brains and bodies.

The symposium is free and open to the public. However, registration is required. For information on how to register and a link to the registration page, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMPDwG0eixxE1TLG0OQU-2Bnootqd6rACOD5xDEgpU9VDs8OEtArdbT9FgRJ-2F-2F-2Ffas0oTPb3ZjZZI-2FtEhbIed-2BjuI-3DEhm2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem3oLZJU-2Bi3PfCuJ7CFsPxKgNe-2Bqoe1T9UZnFsU8QJQTyTvakUxr2GpOYcn0-2BAhSZKkI1VgkXLCcy4mYd5kNMU6iNhofxrqp-2FpJ6htCasOqgLJS1cjIwJhBnyIOOurd-2BOwmsHKSTGz5NnXsCoQlTqeQfzNmDj5IRpjCtrra37CczgLrOh7qQWIa-2BmYdOpdGmTYU6764ymdxAD4p8EgukStG-2BrbRKKB-2FtrIJHK1TtpOZlv5Qjj3SsrIMMj6Sh4WbWHxTdqtqlGlxn8dAtzk5DDr-2Fw-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/olliff-family-educational-symposium/</a>.

The symposium began in 2017 and&nbsp;was later named after the Olliff Family in honor of the late Darel Olliff and his wife, Shirley.

As a third-generation funeral director in Phillipsburg, Darel developed a passion for mental health. His son, Dr. Kenton Olliff – a longtime employee of FHSU – had worked with his dad for several years before going into teaching.

To ensure the symposium would be offered every year, Kenton committed in 2019 to financially support this important event along with his mother; his wife, Carol Solko-Olliff; and the Olliff family. Kenton, a licensed clinical professional and addiction counselor, is an associate professor of Advanced Education Programs at FHSU, where Carol is the director of International Student Services.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673630337592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThis year’s Olliff Family Educational Symposium at Fort Hays State University has been set for Thursday, Feb. 2, in a virtual format. The symposium, sponsored by FHSU’s College of Education, will run from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.The theme of this symposium for area K-12 educators is “The Educator’s Mind Matters Too.”The featured speaker,&nbsp;Dr. Lori Desautels, will speak on Adult/ Educator Brain and Body States Through the Lens of Applied Educational Neuroscience. In the session, she will explore how trauma and adversity impact students’ developing brains and bodies.The symposium is free and open to the public. However, registration is required. For information on how to register and a link to the registration page, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMPDwG0eixxE1TLG0OQU-2Bnootqd6rACOD5xDEgpU9VDs8OEtArdbT9FgRJ-2F-2F-2Ffas0oTPb3ZjZZI-2FtEhbIed-2BjuI-3DEhm2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem3oLZJU-2Bi3PfCuJ7CFsPxKgNe-2Bqoe1T9UZnFsU8QJQTyTvakUxr2GpOYcn0-2BAhSZKkI1VgkXLCcy4mYd5kNMU6iNhofxrqp-2FpJ6htCasOqgLJS1cjIwJhBnyIOOurd-2BOwmsHKSTGz5NnXsCoQlTqeQfzNmDj5IRpjCtrra37CczgLrOh7qQWIa-2BmYdOpdGmTYU6764ymdxAD4p8EgukStG-2BrbRKKB-2FtrIJHK1TtpOZlv5Qjj3SsrIMMj6Sh4WbWHxTdqtqlGlxn8dAtzk5DDr-2Fw-3D-3D">https://www.fhsu.edu/olliff-family-educational-symposium/</a>.The symposium began in 2017 and&nbsp;was later named after the Olliff Family in honor of the late Darel Olliff and his wife, Shirley.As a third-generation funeral director in Phillipsburg, Darel developed a passion for mental health. His son, Dr. Kenton Olliff – a longtime employee of FHSU – had worked with his dad for several years before going into teaching.To ensure the symposium would be offered every year, Kenton committed in 2019 to financially support this important event along with his mother; his wife, Carol Solko-Olliff; and the Olliff family. Kenton, a licensed clinical professional and addiction counselor, is an associate professor of Advanced Education Programs at FHSU, where Carol is the director of International Student Services.&nbsp;Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Registration open for FHSU’s annual educational symposium

COLBY — The Colby Community College Endowment Foundation announced a new scholarship after receiving a $50,000 gift from David and Rose Kreller. The fund is in memory of Kathy Kreller, who graduated in the first nursing class at CCC.

The Kathleen A. Kreller Scholarship will provide two $2,500 awards annually, one for a practical nursing student and one for an individual pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

First preference will be given to students from Rooks or Smith counties. Second preference will be given to candidates in Phillips, Norton, Graham, Trego, Ellis, Russell or Osborne counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Colby Community College is honored to be able to recognize and memorialize Kathy's legacy," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "The college is incredibly thankful for David and Rose Kreller's generosity and their investment in the nursing programs and our students."

Kathy was the daughter of A.J. "Tony" and Wanda Kreller, and sister to Mike, Mark, Dennis, and David Kreller. Kathy passed away in 2000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673365135626.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The Colby Community College Endowment Foundation announced a new scholarship after receiving a $50,000 gift from David and Rose Kreller. The fund is in memory of Kathy Kreller, who graduated in the first nursing class at CCC.The Kathleen A. Kreller Scholarship will provide two $2,500 awards annually, one for a practical nursing student and one for an individual pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;First preference will be given to students from Rooks or Smith counties. Second preference will be given to candidates in Phillips, Norton, Graham, Trego, Ellis, Russell or Osborne counties.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Colby Community College is honored to be able to recognize and memorialize Kathy's legacy," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "The college is incredibly thankful for David and Rose Kreller's generosity and their investment in the nursing programs and our students."Kathy was the daughter of A.J. "Tony" and Wanda Kreller, and sister to Mike, Mark, Dennis, and David Kreller. Kathy passed away in 2000.

Colby CC receives endowed gift for nursing

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673638442160.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>

🏀🎙️ LISTEN - Thomas More Prep-Marian v Stockton

On this episode of the Post Podcast, USD 489 Early Childhood Connections director Donna Hudson-Hamilton shares updates from the program.

<div><iframe title="USD 489 Early Childhood Connections continues helping educate Hays pre-K children" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m5gjh-1361cca-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, USD 489 Early Childhood Connections director Donna Hudson-Hamilton shares updates from the program.

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 Early Childhood Connections continues helping educate Hays pre-K children

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The two newest members of the Ellis County Commission
took their seats on the commission this week. 

Commissioners Michael Berges and Nathan Leiker each won
contested races in the Republican primaries in August then ran unopposed for
their respective seats in the November general election. 

They were sworn in before Tuesday’s commission meeting. 

Berges said he looks forward to working with Leiker and
Commissioner Neal Younger.

“I do want to thank (former commissioner) Butch (Schlyer)
for his service that last four years. As I told him, (I’ll) try to follow in
his footsteps with the county,” Berges said.

Leiker added, “I look forward to serving with these
gentlemen with the county.” 

Younger was named the commission chair and Leiker the vice
chair at Tuesday’s meeting.

• Approved the annual noxious
weed agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation. • Approved a design
agreement with Penco Engineering for a work on a bridge south of Walker and 370th
Avenue. • Adopted a resolution designating Ellis County a Rural Opportunity
Zone.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe two newest members of the Ellis County Commission
took their seats on the commission this week. Commissioners Michael Berges and Nathan Leiker each won
contested races in the Republican primaries in August then ran unopposed for
their respective seats in the November general election. They were sworn in before Tuesday’s commission meeting. Berges said he looks forward to working with Leiker and
Commissioner Neal Younger.“I do want to thank (former commissioner) Butch (Schlyer)
for his service that last four years. As I told him, (I’ll) try to follow in
his footsteps with the county,” Berges said.Leiker added, “I look forward to serving with these
gentlemen with the county.” Younger was named the commission chair and Leiker the vice
chair at Tuesday’s meeting.In other business, the commission:• Approved the annual noxious
weed agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation. • Approved a design
agreement with Penco Engineering for a work on a bridge south of Walker and 370th
Avenue. • Adopted a resolution designating Ellis County a Rural Opportunity
Zone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

New Ellis Co. commissioners take part in first meeting

Partly this is because it’s not entirely accurate. The state’s population of 2.9 million is concentrated in the cities and suburbs of the Topeka-Lawrence-Kansas City nexus, with nearly 1.2 million Kansans spread across only five counties. Add to that the city of Wichita’s nearly 400K residents, and you have over half the population of the entire state accounted for. Meanwhile the 2020 census shows that 80 of Kansas’s 105 countries, nearly all of them rural, are losing population. Despite the images, stories, and songs invoked by our farms, pastures, and rural highways, the great majority of Kansans today are urbanites, and that likely won’t change.

This reality mostly isn’t reflected in our legislature, of course. Though Kansas’s urban areas have become more Democratic in their voting habits—three Johnson County state house seats held by Republicans flipped last November—the state’s long-standing district-based election patterns have long helped Republicans maintain dominance in most areas lacking in population density or demographic diversity, which describes those dozens of shrinking counties quite well. So even as Kansas’s population moves to the cities—and those city votes definitely add up when counted state-wide; remember Governor Kelly came out ahead in only 8 counties, but still won—its representative bodies remain heavily tilted towards mostly rural Republican voices.

One might assume that would mean rural concerns are the Republicans’ major focus. But that’s the other part of the reason: the Kansas GOP’s support for rural interests, despite the huge support they receive from those small and distant communities, is mixed at best.

There is some support there, to be sure. But addressing the problems of long-term population and economic decline are difficult, while following the culture war agenda of the national Republican party and its donors, and filing the bills which their interest groups write, is easy.

Leave aside the benefits Medicaid expansion would bring to rural Kansas; that the Republican leadership refuses to move forward with something supported by 70% of Kansans is by now an old story. Consider instead other issues: a water crisis driving ever more of the already shrinking number of farmers to sell out to bigger corporate actors; a housing crisis making it difficult for those trying to start a business or get by on a fixed income to stay in their hometowns; a lack of broad-band access, child-care resources, or support for school maintenance; and more.

These are complicated problems, requiring patient investment and difficult compromises. The decade-plus of effort the legislature has put into establishing “local enhanced management areas” in western Kansas, supporting farmers in cutting back on irrigation, is a good example, one that has shown some real success in protecting the High Plains Aquifer. By contrast, there are those who present, say, ideologically charged promises of school choice—which is irrelevant to a farm town just trying to save its high school—or legislation designed to lure financial interests to rural Kansas—which shows more hope in fees from global high-rollers than in the state budget--as their preferred solutions, rather than taking on this complicated, usually unsexy work.

So long as the minority of rural voters in Kansas can dominate the legislature, they should at least expect their concerns to be addressed seriously. This year, hopefully rural Republicans will see less of their representatives’ time consumed less by imagined threats like the occasional transgender athlete or non-existent Marxist schoolbooks, and more by the hard task of helping their patient rural supporters out.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583339056495.jpeg" alt="Russell Fox" />
 <figcaption>Russell Fox</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas’s rural identity is struggling.Partly this is because it’s not entirely accurate. The state’s population of 2.9 million is concentrated in the cities and suburbs of the Topeka-Lawrence-Kansas City nexus, with nearly 1.2 million Kansans spread across only five counties. Add to that the city of Wichita’s nearly 400K residents, and you have over half the population of the entire state accounted for. Meanwhile the 2020 census shows that 80 of Kansas’s 105 countries, nearly all of them rural, are losing population. Despite the images, stories, and songs invoked by our farms, pastures, and rural highways, the great majority of Kansans today are urbanites, and that likely won’t change.This reality mostly isn’t reflected in our legislature, of course. Though Kansas’s urban areas have become more Democratic in their voting habits—three Johnson County state house seats held by Republicans flipped last November—the state’s long-standing district-based election patterns have long helped Republicans maintain dominance in most areas lacking in population density or demographic diversity, which describes those dozens of shrinking counties quite well. So even as Kansas’s population moves to the cities—and those city votes definitely add up when counted state-wide; remember Governor Kelly came out ahead in only 8 counties, but still won—its representative bodies remain heavily tilted towards mostly rural Republican voices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One might assume that would mean rural concerns are the Republicans’ major focus. But that’s the other part of the reason: the Kansas GOP’s support for rural interests, despite the huge support they receive from those small and distant communities, is mixed at best.There is some support there, to be sure. But addressing the problems of long-term population and economic decline are difficult, while following the culture war agenda of the national Republican party and its donors, and filing the bills which their interest groups write, is easy.Leave aside the benefits Medicaid expansion would bring to rural Kansas; that the Republican leadership refuses to move forward with something supported by 70% of Kansans is by now an old story. Consider instead other issues: a water crisis driving ever more of the already shrinking number of farmers to sell out to bigger corporate actors; a housing crisis making it difficult for those trying to start a business or get by on a fixed income to stay in their hometowns; a lack of broad-band access, child-care resources, or support for school maintenance; and more.These are complicated problems, requiring patient investment and difficult compromises. The decade-plus of effort the legislature has put into establishing “local enhanced management areas” in western Kansas, supporting farmers in cutting back on irrigation, is a good example, one that has shown some real success in protecting the High Plains Aquifer. By contrast, there are those who present, say, ideologically charged promises of school choice—which is irrelevant to a farm town just trying to save its high school—or legislation designed to lure financial interests to rural Kansas—which shows more hope in fees from global high-rollers than in the state budget--as their preferred solutions, rather than taking on this complicated, usually unsexy work.So long as the minority of rural voters in Kansas can dominate the legislature, they should at least expect their concerns to be addressed seriously. This year, hopefully rural Republicans will see less of their representatives’ time consumed less by imagined threats like the occasional transgender athlete or non-existent Marxist schoolbooks, and more by the hard task of helping their patient rural supporters out.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Being realistic about helping the rural minority

The
 WaKeeney Police Department will conduct a full-scale active shooter training on 
Monday. 

 There will be a number of law enforcement from local police, 
sheriff's office, Kansas Highway Patrol and K Department of Wildlife and Parks participating in the the exercise. There will also be a number of fire trucks and 
firefighters from the city and rural fire departments and also EMTs participating.


"If you see or hear about an active shooter, please do not be alarmed," the police department said in a social media release. "We are only conducting a training exercise. We would like to thank 
everyone who is involved and we would like to thank everyone who is 
allowing this training to happen."

The
 WaKeeney Police Department will conduct a full-scale active shooter training on 
Monday. There will be a number of law enforcement from local police, 
sheriff's office, Kansas Highway Patrol and K Department of Wildlife and Parks participating in the the exercise. There will also be a number of fire trucks and 
firefighters from the city and rural fire departments and also EMTs participating.
"If you see or hear about an active shooter, please do not be alarmed," the police department said in a social media release. "We are only conducting a training exercise. We would like to thank 
everyone who is involved and we would like to thank everyone who is 
allowing this training to happen."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid029DM62xL4PqJ9KYNuH3sagBxgE2WKicDf8g7gwyxLmZSSpLp3DFHnErYPEyScki4Ll%26id%3D100066785221663&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="351" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

WaKeeney schedules full-scale active shooting training 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673638313934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are at home for the first this season as they play host to the Ellis Railroaders.

The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/503356">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are at home for the first this season as they play host to the Ellis Railroaders.The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/503356">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/503356?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian v Ellis

The Hays High Indians host Garden City Friday night in a Western Athletic Conference matchup.

The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:00 with the boys to follow from Hays High School.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/480618">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indians host Garden City Friday night in a Western Athletic Conference matchup.The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:00 with the boys to follow from Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/480618">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/480618?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High vs Garden City

This week, Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College, and Northwest Kansas Technical College announced a new affiliation initiative to address demographic and economic challenges in rural Kansas.&nbsp;This affiliation initiative will focus on developing solutions in three key areas:

FHSU President Tisa Mason, NCK Tech President Eric Burks and Northwest Tech President Ben Schears released this statement regarding the affiliation initiative:

Our institutions exist to serve students and communities. This is the true north that will guide our focus in this endeavor. Higher education institutions have long been beacons of opportunity and drivers of economic prosperity. For our communities to thrive, every individual needs a chance to fully develop their talents, skills, and interests. We look forward to working together and aligning our efforts and resources to deliver enhanced opportunities for rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Kansas Board of Regents Chair Jon Rolph released this statement in support of the initiative:

Fort Hays State, NCK Tech and Northwest Tech are working diligently to serve families and businesses in their communities and increase prosperity for rural Kansas and our entire state. The Board appreciates the leadership of Presidents Mason, Burks, and Schears in proposing this affiliation to help meet Kansas’ workforce needs. The Regents are eager to review the proposal during our meeting next week, and we look forward to working alongside the boards of NCK Tech and Northwest Tech throughout this process.

The Area of Board Control, the governing body for Northwest Tech, will considered the plan Wednesday. The NCK Tech Board of Trustees will do the same on January 16. Fort Hays State University’s governing body, the Kansas Board of Regents, will consider the plan on January 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673645884425.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThis week, Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College, and Northwest Kansas Technical College announced a new affiliation initiative to address demographic and economic challenges in rural Kansas.&nbsp;This affiliation initiative will focus on developing solutions in three key areas:<ul>
 <li>Developing academic programs and integrated student services that meet the educational and professional needs of today’s and tomorrow’s students</li><li>Aligning and optimizing inter-institutional operations to remove unnecessary bureaucratic barriers to student success</li><li>Creating a coalition with regional&nbsp;businesses, industries and communities focused on increasing opportunities for students, expanding entrepreneurship, and meeting workforce development needs in rural Kansas</li>
 </ul>FHSU President Tisa Mason, NCK Tech President Eric Burks and Northwest Tech President Ben Schears released this statement regarding the affiliation initiative:Our institutions exist to serve students and communities. This is the true north that will guide our focus in this endeavor. Higher education institutions have long been beacons of opportunity and drivers of economic prosperity. For our communities to thrive, every individual needs a chance to fully develop their talents, skills, and interests. We look forward to working together and aligning our efforts and resources to deliver enhanced opportunities for rural Kansas.&nbsp;Kansas Board of Regents Chair Jon Rolph released this statement in support of the initiative:Fort Hays State, NCK Tech and Northwest Tech are working diligently to serve families and businesses in their communities and increase prosperity for rural Kansas and our entire state. The Board appreciates the leadership of Presidents Mason, Burks, and Schears in proposing this affiliation to help meet Kansas’ workforce needs. The Regents are eager to review the proposal during our meeting next week, and we look forward to working alongside the boards of NCK Tech and Northwest Tech throughout this process.The Area of Board Control, the governing body for Northwest Tech, will considered the plan Wednesday. The NCK Tech Board of Trustees will do the same on January 16. Fort Hays State University’s governing body, the Kansas Board of Regents, will consider the plan on January 18.

FHSU, NCK Tech, Northwest Tech announce affiliation

Get the grills out — but have your snow shovels ready.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting high temperatures near 60 on Saturday and Sunday — 10 to 20 degrees above the average high for mid-January.

Saturday will bring gusty south winds, which are expected to calm by Sunday.

The high Monday and Tuesday is still expected to to the mid-40s to low-50s. But on Wednesday, wintry weather is expected to return.

A strong winter storm is expected to impact the Great Plains on Wednesday, bringing the potential for heavy snow and travel impacts, the NWS warned, noting the track of the storm has yet to be determined.

As of Friday afternoon, there was a 40 percent chance of rain or snow in the Hays area Wednesday.

Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather and cancellations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673645239604.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Get the grills out — but have your snow shovels ready.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting high temperatures near 60 on Saturday and Sunday — 10 to 20 degrees above the average high for mid-January.Saturday will bring gusty south winds, which are expected to calm by Sunday.The high Monday and Tuesday is still expected to to the mid-40s to low-50s. But on Wednesday, wintry weather is expected to return.A strong winter storm is expected to impact the Great Plains on Wednesday, bringing the potential for heavy snow and travel impacts, the NWS warned, noting the track of the storm has yet to be determined.As of Friday afternoon, there was a 40 percent chance of rain or snow in the Hays area Wednesday.Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather and cancellations.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dry conditions can be expected this weekend and afternoon temperatures both days will be between 10 to 20 degrees above the seasonal normal for this time of year. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/6b6K7wIYU1">pic.twitter.com/6b6K7wIYU1</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1613898434104422400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Unseasonably warm weekend — with winter front right behind

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran from the U.S. Mexico border.

<div><iframe title="🎤 Forward Ever: From the U.S. Mexico border, Sen. Jerry Moran" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=uzfby-1361cb8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran from the U.S. Mexico border.

🎤 Forward Ever: From the U.S. Mexico border, Sen. Jerry Moran

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Last August, United Way of Central Kansas introduced Laundry Love to the
Great Bend community where the organization provides free laundry services for
low- or no-income families and individuals. Hosting the event at a laundromat
once a month, United Way helped more than 50 families and provided nearly 240
loads of free laundry in the first three months. 
Serving both Barton and Pawnee counties, United Way of Central Kansas is now
expanding the laundry initiative to Larned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660851426358.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast August, United Way of Central Kansas introduced Laundry Love to the
Great Bend community where the organization provides free laundry services for
low- or no-income families and individuals. Hosting the event at a laundromat
once a month, United Way helped more than 50 families and provided nearly 240
loads of free laundry in the first three months. 
Serving both Barton and Pawnee counties, United Way of Central Kansas is now
expanding the laundry initiative to Larned. At Thursday's Larned Area Chamber of Commerce coffee hour, United Way Executive Director
Charell Owings said the effort is to help prevent physical and emotional strain
that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in the community. "It's a way for us to come to where the people in need are instead of asking them to come to us," said Owings. "It puts us on their turf where they're comfortable. It's not just about the laundry. It's about making those connections, and telling them about the services that are available in their area." 
Funds for up to five loads of laundry per family as well as all the supplies
needed are provided. Laundry Love in Larned will take place once a month on the final Wednesday. The first event will be Feb. 22 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Santa Fe Laundry on Broadway Street. "A few of the people that we've seen are duplicates each month," said Owings. "A lot of them though we'll see maybe two of the six months. It's not always the same people. We've had people come in that have four kids at home, their washer and dryer are broken and haven't been able to get anyone to get it fixed. They just need help that one month." 
Owings said United Way is always looking for sponsors each month to cover the laundry
expenses. A sponsorship is $200.&nbsp; &nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flarnedchamber%2Fvideos%2F540540224795304%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" 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>

Local