By JOE NEWLAND Kansas Farm Bureau president When I was elected president of Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) earlier this month, it was an incredible honor and a very humbling experience. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to adequately express my gratitude for those who supported my candidacy, but I’m excited to work with our members to advance KFB’s mission to strengthen agriculture through advocacy, education and service. I have considered myself a farmer ever since my first ride on the combine, which was long before I was able to operate one by myself. From that formative experience, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life caring for the land, tending crops and livestock and raising my family. About the time I was able to safely operate equipment on my own, I discovered FFA. It helped me better understand the world of agriculture extends far beyond the farm gate. My FFA adviser helped me discover my lifelong passion of promoting agriculture, both as a business and as a way of life. After marrying my wife, Dana, I became a Farm Bureau member for the first time because I had to have insurance. I quickly learned the value of a membership went well beyond protecting our home, cars and farm. We thought we were buying protection from financial loss, but we had actually purchased comprehensive coverage securing our way of life. As I began seeking out ways to advocate for agriculture, the Wilson County Farm Bureau stood out as a place where I could really make an impact for the industry and my community. My work there gave me the confidence to expand my leadership through civic groups, the local school board, a bank board, Kansas Farm Bureau committees and eventually representing southeast Kansas on KFB’s board of directors before serving in the Kansas House. The support of my wife and our four children has been instrumental in allowing me to spend time away from the farm pursuing these opportunities. I have no doubt they will continue to support and counsel me as I take on this new endeavor. I use “we” to acknowledge all the help I’ve received from friends and family that’s helped me succeed over the years. A big difference now is “we” extends to every border of Kansas. I am no longer a member of a local board, a district board or the Kansas House, all of which represented a part of the whole. I’m now tasked with helping ensure farms and ranches across the state – from Lenexa to Liberal and Bird City to Baxter Springs – prosper. The challenges you face on the farm, the issues you see in your schools and the obstacles you notice in your community aren’t just yours, they’re mine too. We must view these as opportunities rather than barriers. I have no doubt Kansas Farm Bureau can solve the most vexing matters facing agriculture today because I’ve experienced firsthand how the organization’s grassroots structure keeps us at the forefront of what matters. Of all the titles I’ve held, farmer is still the one I’m most proud of. I’ve come a long way from that first combine ride, but I’ve had plenty of help along the way. I’ll continue to rely on farmers and ranchers across the state to make sure KFB is successful as we tackle issues like water, taxes, regulation and more. Together we will represent all of agriculture.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671467390814.jpeg" alt="Newland " />
 <figcaption>Newland </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE NEWLAND Kansas Farm Bureau president When I was elected president of Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) earlier this month, it was an incredible honor and a very humbling experience. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to adequately express my gratitude for those who supported my candidacy, but I’m excited to work with our members to advance KFB’s mission to strengthen agriculture through advocacy, education and service. I have considered myself a farmer ever since my first ride on the combine, which was long before I was able to operate one by myself. From that formative experience, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life caring for the land, tending crops and livestock and raising my family. About the time I was able to safely operate equipment on my own, I discovered FFA. It helped me better understand the world of agriculture extends far beyond the farm gate. My FFA adviser helped me discover my lifelong passion of promoting agriculture, both as a business and as a way of life. After marrying my wife, Dana, I became a Farm Bureau member for the first time because I had to have insurance. I quickly learned the value of a membership went well beyond protecting our home, cars and farm. We thought we were buying protection from financial loss, but we had actually purchased comprehensive coverage securing our way of life. As I began seeking out ways to advocate for agriculture, the Wilson County Farm Bureau stood out as a place where I could really make an impact for the industry and my community. My work there gave me the confidence to expand my leadership through civic groups, the local school board, a bank board, Kansas Farm Bureau committees and eventually representing southeast Kansas on KFB’s board of directors before serving in the Kansas House. The support of my wife and our four children has been instrumental in allowing me to spend time away from the farm pursuing these opportunities. I have no doubt they will continue to support and counsel me as I take on this new endeavor. I use “we” to acknowledge all the help I’ve received from friends and family that’s helped me succeed over the years. A big difference now is “we” extends to every border of Kansas. I am no longer a member of a local board, a district board or the Kansas House, all of which represented a part of the whole. I’m now tasked with helping ensure farms and ranches across the state – from Lenexa to Liberal and Bird City to Baxter Springs – prosper. The challenges you face on the farm, the issues you see in your schools and the obstacles you notice in your community aren’t just yours, they’re mine too. We must view these as opportunities rather than barriers. I have no doubt Kansas Farm Bureau can solve the most vexing matters facing agriculture today because I’ve experienced firsthand how the organization’s grassroots structure keeps us at the forefront of what matters. Of all the titles I’ve held, farmer is still the one I’m most proud of. I’ve come a long way from that first combine ride, but I’ve had plenty of help along the way. I’ll continue to rely on farmers and ranchers across the state to make sure KFB is successful as we tackle issues like water, taxes, regulation and more. Together we will represent all of agriculture."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Representing all of agriculture

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

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 </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

Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!

Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WhDIRNs40_E" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576701305695.jpeg" alt="" />
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Warm and cozy with the Hays Post virtual fireplace!

The Eagle Media Center business office will be closed from noon Friday until Tuesday, Dec. 27, for the Christmas holiday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Eagle Media Center business office will be closed from noon Friday until Tuesday, Dec. 27, for the Christmas holiday.

Eagle Media Center will be closed for Christmas holiday

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">LATEST CANCELLATIONS AND DELAYS</a>

There is a 90 percent chance of snow after midnight Wednesday, as much of western Kansas remains in a winter weather weather watch and wind chill advisory with Winter Storm Elliott bearing down. There is also a chance of freezing fog after 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Weather is now expected to shift dramatically after 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Less than an inch of snow is expected in Hays and Ellis County. Accumulation is expected to be greater in counties to the north, with 2 inches of snow possible.

There is a 50 percent chance of additional flurries continuing into Thursday evening.

The low temperature overnight is expected to plunge to 11 below zero heading into Thursday, when the high is now expected to be 2 degrees. North winds will blow steady between 27 and 37 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.

Wind chills could be as low as 45 below zero, the NWS warned, creating dangerous conditions for people, pets and livestock.

Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations in the case of severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671662059699.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED 4:30 p.m. Wednesday<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">LATEST CANCELLATIONS AND DELAYS</a>There is a 90 percent chance of snow after midnight Wednesday, as much of western Kansas remains in a winter weather weather watch and wind chill advisory with Winter Storm Elliott bearing down. There is also a chance of freezing fog after 7 p.m. Wednesday.Weather is now expected to shift dramatically after 8 p.m. Wednesday.Less than an inch of snow is expected in Hays and Ellis County. Accumulation is expected to be greater in counties to the north, with 2 inches of snow possible.There is a 50 percent chance of additional flurries continuing into Thursday evening.The low temperature overnight is expected to plunge to 11 below zero heading into Thursday, when the high is now expected to be 2 degrees. North winds will blow steady between 27 and 37 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported.Wind chills could be as low as 45 below zero, the NWS warned, creating dangerous conditions for people, pets and livestock.Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations in the case of severe weather.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mostly cloudy tonight with low temperatures falling below zero across much of the area. <a href="https://t.co/su2W5vJTdo">pic.twitter.com/su2W5vJTdo</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1605524020895440896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Snowfall is still in the forecast for this evening (Wednesday). Most of the area will see a trace to two inches though some locally higher amounts are possible. Blizzard or squall like conditions are also possible, be prepared for sudden changes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/newx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#newx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cowx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cowx</a> <a href="https://t.co/5OUrgfxTQD">pic.twitter.com/5OUrgfxTQD</a>&mdash; NWS Goodland (@NWSGoodland) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGoodland/status/1605545370829758465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

UPDATE: Elliott bringing dangerous cold, snow to NW Kan.

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-In a year that has seen three people killed in hunting accidents in Nebraska, the light is shining even brighter on the importance of educating young hunters.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will offer the Nebraska Firearm Hunter Safety Education Course on Jan. 3-5, with the class meeting from 5:00-9:00 each evening.

Any child attending the course under 11 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at every session, and, at the first session, everyone under 18 years of age must give the instructor a signed, completed parental consent form.

All registrants for this event must be 11 years of age by January 5, 2023.

Firearm Hunter Education Courses will provide instruction in safe firearm use, shooting and sighting techniques, hunter ethics, game identification, and conservation management. Hunters ages 12 through 29 must have completed Firearm Hunter Education and carry proof on their person when hunting anything with a firearm or air gun.

The class is organized by Gregg Fear who can be reached at 308-530-9060.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671662501652.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-In a year that has seen three people killed in hunting accidents in Nebraska, the light is shining even brighter on the importance of educating young hunters.The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will offer the Nebraska Firearm Hunter Safety Education Course on Jan. 3-5, with the class meeting from 5:00-9:00 each evening.Any child attending the course under 11 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at every session, and, at the first session, everyone under 18 years of age must give the instructor a signed, completed parental consent form.All registrants for this event must be 11 years of age by January 5, 2023.Firearm Hunter Education Courses will provide instruction in safe firearm use, shooting and sighting techniques, hunter ethics, game identification, and conservation management. Hunters ages 12 through 29 must have completed Firearm Hunter Education and carry proof on their person when hunting anything with a firearm or air gun.The class is organized by Gregg Fear who can be reached at 308-530-9060.

Firearm Hunter Safety course being held at North Platte Comm. College

Not a redux of February 2021, utility says

Winter Storm Elliott&nbsp;is bringing a nasty Christmas gift to&nbsp;western&nbsp;Kansas this year,&nbsp;with&nbsp;life-threatening cold temperatures&nbsp;and wind chills&nbsp;of -50&nbsp;degrees&nbsp;and 1 to 3 inches of&nbsp;wind-blown snow.&nbsp;Under those conditions, electric and gas consumption will be higher than normal.

Midwest&nbsp;Energy is advising customers that while&nbsp;it doesn’t anticipate&nbsp;any&nbsp;critical&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;of electricity or&nbsp;natural&nbsp;gas,&nbsp;supplies will be tight.&nbsp;The price of natural&nbsp;gas&nbsp;has increased&nbsp;significantly over the last few days, with&nbsp;anticipated&nbsp;gas prices&nbsp;on the spot market&nbsp;to rise from&nbsp;under&nbsp;$7 per dekatherm to&nbsp;$45&nbsp;or more&nbsp;by Saturday, Dec. 24.&nbsp;However, the situation&nbsp;today&nbsp;is different than&nbsp;that of&nbsp;February 2021’s&nbsp;Winter&nbsp;Storm Uri, which saw gas prices&nbsp;pass&nbsp;$620 per&nbsp;dekatherm.

“This is a very different event&nbsp;than February 2021,”&nbsp;said Bill&nbsp;Dowling, Midwest Energy’s&nbsp;Vice President of Engineering and&nbsp;Energy Supply.&nbsp; “First, this&nbsp;storm&nbsp;event&nbsp;is forecast to last&nbsp;two days,&nbsp;much shorter than Uri&nbsp;which&nbsp;lasted&nbsp;more than five&nbsp;days.&nbsp;Second,&nbsp;it doesn’t seem as likely that&nbsp;the severe cold will impact the gas producing areas of west Texas as hard as it did in 2021.&nbsp;Lastly,&nbsp;the&nbsp;gas storage&nbsp;picture is generally favorable, and&nbsp;better than the storage position was in February 2021.”

To&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for this event, Midwest has scheduled&nbsp;additional gas&nbsp;supplies&nbsp;for&nbsp;its&nbsp;generating facility, and&nbsp;has&nbsp;increased its nomination for gas on all the interstate pipelines serving&nbsp;its&nbsp;retail customers through&nbsp;Saturday, Dec. 24.&nbsp;By scheduling additional&nbsp;spot&nbsp;gas&nbsp;in advance of&nbsp;the winter storm period, the company&nbsp;expects to reduce the likelihood of interstate pipelines applying penalties for scheduling insufficient&nbsp;gas&nbsp;supplies. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660889198.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Not a redux of February 2021, utility says</h2>Midwest EnergyWinter Storm Elliott&nbsp;is bringing a nasty Christmas gift to&nbsp;western&nbsp;Kansas this year,&nbsp;with&nbsp;life-threatening cold temperatures&nbsp;and wind chills&nbsp;of -50&nbsp;degrees&nbsp;and 1 to 3 inches of&nbsp;wind-blown snow.&nbsp;Under those conditions, electric and gas consumption will be higher than normal.Midwest&nbsp;Energy is advising customers that while&nbsp;it doesn’t anticipate&nbsp;any&nbsp;critical&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;of electricity or&nbsp;natural&nbsp;gas,&nbsp;supplies will be tight.&nbsp;The price of natural&nbsp;gas&nbsp;has increased&nbsp;significantly over the last few days, with&nbsp;anticipated&nbsp;gas prices&nbsp;on the spot market&nbsp;to rise from&nbsp;under&nbsp;$7 per dekatherm to&nbsp;$45&nbsp;or more&nbsp;by Saturday, Dec. 24.&nbsp;However, the situation&nbsp;today&nbsp;is different than&nbsp;that of&nbsp;February 2021’s&nbsp;Winter&nbsp;Storm Uri, which saw gas prices&nbsp;pass&nbsp;$620 per&nbsp;dekatherm.“This is a very different event&nbsp;than February 2021,”&nbsp;said Bill&nbsp;Dowling, Midwest Energy’s&nbsp;Vice President of Engineering and&nbsp;Energy Supply.&nbsp; “First, this&nbsp;storm&nbsp;event&nbsp;is forecast to last&nbsp;two days,&nbsp;much shorter than Uri&nbsp;which&nbsp;lasted&nbsp;more than five&nbsp;days.&nbsp;Second,&nbsp;it doesn’t seem as likely that&nbsp;the severe cold will impact the gas producing areas of west Texas as hard as it did in 2021.&nbsp;Lastly,&nbsp;the&nbsp;gas storage&nbsp;picture is generally favorable, and&nbsp;better than the storage position was in February 2021.”To&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for this event, Midwest has scheduled&nbsp;additional gas&nbsp;supplies&nbsp;for&nbsp;its&nbsp;generating facility, and&nbsp;has&nbsp;increased its nomination for gas on all the interstate pipelines serving&nbsp;its&nbsp;retail customers through&nbsp;Saturday, Dec. 24.&nbsp;By scheduling additional&nbsp;spot&nbsp;gas&nbsp;in advance of&nbsp;the winter storm period, the company&nbsp;expects to reduce the likelihood of interstate pipelines applying penalties for scheduling insufficient&nbsp;gas&nbsp;supplies. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy: Winter storm will elevate natural gas prices

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This Arctic front means business. Watching about a 35 degree temperature crash in 10 to 15 minutes across Wyoming. Expect the same here tonight.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1605616241732767744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dangerous and life-threatening wind chills of 25 to 45 below are expected Thursday and Friday morning. Frostbite can occur quickly in 10 minutes under these conditions. <a href="https://t.co/LSjznBbTJG">pic.twitter.com/LSjznBbTJG</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1605594505394036736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just in case you were wondering how strong the cold front is... <a href="https://t.co/bEoGHxq1qd">https://t.co/bEoGHxq1qd</a>&mdash; NWS Goodland (@NWSGoodland) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGoodland/status/1605586064508260354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

35-degree temperature crash: 'This Arctic front means business'

Courtesy Sheridan County Sheriff's Department

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSheridanCountySO%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0Zv4bTvQXvF8FSUmXankAnbLtu8Wt5N36fMFeq5vxM1GfGFFrCZbrRbDPkxBtSnrNl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="788" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Courtesy Sheridan County Sheriff's DepartmentMerry Christmas!

🎄 Grinch will spend Christmas in Sheridan County lockup

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b91fed16-acde-4a95-aced-9cf4f219669a">RELATED: Flu on the rise in northwest Kansas</a>

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 41 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 10 and 16.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Much of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County, remains in the high-incidence category, the KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,275 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671646559300.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b91fed16-acde-4a95-aced-9cf4f219669a">RELATED: Flu on the rise in northwest Kansas</a>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 41 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 10 and 16.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Much of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County, remains in the high-incidence category, the KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,275 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671646524526.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 41 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

RUSSELL — During the winter months, it is important to keep your pets healthy and comfortable. Temperatures are already cold and are forecasted to be even colder this week. These temperatures are well below average for this time of year. Forecasted highs are in the teens and 20s with forecasted lows in the single digits or below zero.

The best thing you can do for your pet is bring it inside, but if you’re unable to, here are some helpful cold weather reminders for your outdoor pets:

•Pets need to have access to shelter at all times. The shelter should keep the animal out of the elements.

•Pets need to have access to clean drinking water at all times. Ice is not considered clean drinking water, per city ordinance.

•Check your pets’ bedding for dampness. A damp blanket will not keep your pet warm. 

A good Samaritan has donated straw for Animal Control to deliver to Russell residents who need bedding for their outdoor dogs. If you’re interested, please contact us to make arrangements. This straw is available until we run out.

These reminders aren’t all inclusive, please consult with your veterinarian for further information about your pet’s care. 

We must all do our part in protecting the health of our animals and our community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671642370698.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Russell Police DepartmentRUSSELL — During the winter months, it is important to keep your pets healthy and comfortable. Temperatures are already cold and are forecasted to be even colder this week. These temperatures are well below average for this time of year. Forecasted highs are in the teens and 20s with forecasted lows in the single digits or below zero.The best thing you can do for your pet is bring it inside, but if you’re unable to, here are some helpful cold weather reminders for your outdoor pets:•Pets need to have access to shelter at all times. The shelter should keep the animal out of the elements.•Pets need to have access to clean drinking water at all times. Ice is not considered clean drinking water, per city ordinance.•Check your pets’ bedding for dampness. A damp blanket will not keep your pet warm. A good Samaritan has donated straw for Animal Control to deliver to Russell residents who need bedding for their outdoor dogs. If you’re interested, please contact us to make arrangements. This straw is available until we run out.These reminders aren’t all inclusive, please consult with your veterinarian for further information about your pet’s care. We must all do our part in protecting the health of our animals and our community.

Russell PD: Cold weather reminders for pets

A mascot is defined by Webster as "A person, animal or object adopted by a group as a symbolic figure, especially to bring them good luck."

In my opinion, the first step&nbsp;for the Hays High mascot committee&nbsp;would be to determine whether or not the current mascot meets this&nbsp;definition or if we need to start over.&nbsp;

I don’t believe&nbsp;Native Americans&nbsp;would fit this definition.&nbsp;Schools were one of the most negative places for&nbsp;Native Americans. The children were forced to give up their language and culture. They suffered all forms of abuse and were often beaten to death. We still haven’t recovered all of their bodies.

Native Americans&nbsp;were slaughtered, displaced, betrayed and placed on some of the most desolate land available. When some of the land turned out to be very valuable, the U S government tried to take it back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reservations are under the Department of the Interior which, until recently was run by a white male. The history of broken treaties is extensive and unique to the&nbsp;Native Americans.&nbsp;It is difficult to see how this group of people would bring good luck.

If we look at the definition of mascot from a fresh historical perspective, several ideas come to mind. (No,&nbsp;it doesn’t have to be a historical perspective.)&nbsp;

Eagle- any of various large diurnal birds of prey (family Accipitridae) noted for their strength, size, keenness of vision, and powers of flight

Bison – a strong animal that survived near extinction. Any of several large bovine mammals that have a long, broad head, short, hollow horns, heavy forequarters, a large muscular hump across the shoulders, and a shaggy mane on the head and lower neck and that typically live and migrate in herds

Settlers-&nbsp;One who settles in a new region-especially a region that has few occupants or that is occupied by a different ethnic or religious group

Trailblazer- A person who is paving the way in their field.&nbsp;

If the Eagle was chosen&nbsp;as a mascot, the logo could be&nbsp;a feather which would represent Eagles and&nbsp;Native Americans. A mural could be incorporated at the school- a composite of a&nbsp;Native American, an Eagle, a&nbsp;Settler,&nbsp;a&nbsp;Bison,&nbsp;with&nbsp;selected&nbsp;Trailblazers. There are endless options. Many creative students and members of the public&nbsp;could&nbsp;contribute&nbsp;ideas&nbsp;if the decision is made to start fresh.

DO WHAT NEEDS&nbsp;TO BE DONE FOR THE GOOD OF ALL — Native American Ten Commandments

A mascot is defined by Webster as "A person, animal or object adopted by a group as a symbolic figure, especially to bring them good luck."In my opinion, the first step&nbsp;for the Hays High mascot committee&nbsp;would be to determine whether or not the current mascot meets this&nbsp;definition or if we need to start over.&nbsp;I don’t believe&nbsp;Native Americans&nbsp;would fit this definition.&nbsp;Schools were one of the most negative places for&nbsp;Native Americans. The children were forced to give up their language and culture. They suffered all forms of abuse and were often beaten to death. We still haven’t recovered all of their bodies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Native Americans&nbsp;were slaughtered, displaced, betrayed and placed on some of the most desolate land available. When some of the land turned out to be very valuable, the U S government tried to take it back.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reservations are under the Department of the Interior which, until recently was run by a white male. The history of broken treaties is extensive and unique to the&nbsp;Native Americans.&nbsp;It is difficult to see how this group of people would bring good luck.If we look at the definition of mascot from a fresh historical perspective, several ideas come to mind. (No,&nbsp;it doesn’t have to be a historical perspective.)&nbsp;Eagle- any of various large diurnal birds of prey (family Accipitridae) noted for their strength, size, keenness of vision, and powers of flightBison – a strong animal that survived near extinction. Any of several large bovine mammals that have a long, broad head, short, hollow horns, heavy forequarters, a large muscular hump across the shoulders, and a shaggy mane on the head and lower neck and that typically live and migrate in herdsSettlers-&nbsp;One who settles in a new region-especially a region that has few occupants or that is occupied by a different ethnic or religious groupTrailblazer- A person who is paving the way in their field.&nbsp;If the Eagle was chosen&nbsp;as a mascot, the logo could be&nbsp;a feather which would represent Eagles and&nbsp;Native Americans. A mural could be incorporated at the school- a composite of a&nbsp;Native American, an Eagle, a&nbsp;Settler,&nbsp;a&nbsp;Bison,&nbsp;with&nbsp;selected&nbsp;Trailblazers. There are endless options. Many creative students and members of the public&nbsp;could&nbsp;contribute&nbsp;ideas&nbsp;if the decision is made to start fresh.DO WHAT NEEDS&nbsp;TO BE DONE FOR THE GOOD OF ALL — Native American Ten CommandmentsSandra Watchous, Hays

LETTER: On mascot issue, blaze the right trail

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis County received a $1.2 million state grant to replace the Hoosier bridge 6 miles south of Walker over Big Creek.

Brendan Mackay, Public Works director, gave a report on the grant to the Ellis County Commission at its meeting Tuesday.

The grant is part of the Off-System Bridge Program. The county's share of the project will be about $56,000.

The project will replace the timber-beam bridge, which is 62 years old.

Mackay said the bridge's approaches have repeatedly washed out during flooding, making the bridge impassible. The bridge also has weight restrictions.

The replacement bridge will eliminate the dips in the road at the approaches and make those approaches straighter.

Mackay said the bridge is not highly trafficked, but that is likely in part due to its weight restrictions.

"We think it will be a good thing for the area," he said. "It will allow the industry out there to go across it again."

The county applied for but was not approved for a Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program grant for a bridge 12.5 miles north of Ellis over the Saline River.

"We have a lot of structures that need work. Unfortunately with their current ratings, they're not ranked low enough to be eligible for some of these grants," Mackay said. "We apply for every grant we can with what's eligible."

Mackay said staff was preparing trucks for Wednesday's forecast storm. They also have been trimming trees from the right-of-way and preparing rock for roadways.

The commission also • Approved an agreement with HaysMed for legal blood draw services, which are used in driving under the influence cases. The fee was increased from $100 to $200 per blood draw. • Approved the purchase of a remanufactured engine and rebuild kit from Carrico Implement at a cost of $27,700. A new tractor would have cost the county about $150,000. • Approved converting non-public bathrooms in the county administration building into IT offices. This still leaves public bathrooms available in the basement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671562646019.png" alt="Brendan Mackay, Ellis County Public Works director (Courtesy Ellis County)" />
 <figcaption>Brendan Mackay, Ellis County Public Works director (Courtesy Ellis County)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis County received a $1.2 million state grant to replace the Hoosier bridge 6 miles south of Walker over Big Creek.Brendan Mackay, Public Works director, gave a report on the grant to the Ellis County Commission at its meeting Tuesday.The grant is part of the Off-System Bridge Program. The county's share of the project will be about $56,000.The project will replace the timber-beam bridge, which is 62 years old.Mackay said the bridge's approaches have repeatedly washed out during flooding, making the bridge impassible. The bridge also has weight restrictions.The replacement bridge will eliminate the dips in the road at the approaches and make those approaches straighter.Mackay said the bridge is not highly trafficked, but that is likely in part due to its weight restrictions."We think it will be a good thing for the area," he said. "It will allow the industry out there to go across it again." The county applied for but was not approved for a Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program grant for a bridge 12.5 miles north of Ellis over the Saline River."We have a lot of structures that need work. Unfortunately with their current ratings, they're not ranked low enough to be eligible for some of these grants," Mackay said. "We apply for every grant we can with what's eligible." Mackay said staff was preparing trucks for Wednesday's forecast storm. They also have been trimming trees from the right-of-way and preparing rock for roadways.The commission also • Approved an agreement with HaysMed for legal blood draw services, which are used in driving under the influence cases. The fee was increased from $100 to $200 per blood draw. • Approved the purchase of a remanufactured engine and rebuild kit from Carrico Implement at a cost of $27,700. A new tractor would have cost the county about $150,000. • Approved converting non-public bathrooms in the county administration building into IT offices. This still leaves public bathrooms available in the basement.

Ellis County receives $1.2M grant for Hoosier bridge replacement

The 13th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Day at the VFW in&nbsp;Hays, 22nd and Vine.&nbsp; 

The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll. Christmas dinner is donated and cooked by the men of the VFW, who generously give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare. The meal is free of charge, but donations are accepted. Donations that are received will be given to organizations that serve and assist area residents in an effort to "give back" all that has been given.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community together for a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season — the remembrance and celebration of&nbsp;the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas can quickly become overshadowed by the busyness that tends to arise with the holiday season, and focus loss regarding the true meaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served, and simply enjoy each other's company.&nbsp; Though Jesus is acknowledged, all are&nbsp;welcome regardless of personal beliefs. &nbsp;Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are homebound.&nbsp; The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the volunteers who graciously give their time. For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after, in decorating, serving and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp; Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time. For anyone who is homebound and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, contact using the information below. If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation, use the following contact information:&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-259-9735" target="_blank">785-259-9735</a>&nbsp;(through 12/24) email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com" target="_blank">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670507281058.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 13th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Day at the VFW in&nbsp;Hays, 22nd and Vine.&nbsp; The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, and a dinner roll. Christmas dinner is donated and cooked by the men of the VFW, who generously give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare. The meal is free of charge, but donations are accepted. Donations that are received will be given to organizations that serve and assist area residents in an effort to "give back" all that has been given.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670507300391.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure> The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community together for a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season — the remembrance and celebration of&nbsp;the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas can quickly become overshadowed by the busyness that tends to arise with the holiday season, and focus loss regarding the true meaning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served, and simply enjoy each other's company.&nbsp; Though Jesus is acknowledged, all are&nbsp;welcome regardless of personal beliefs. &nbsp;Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are homebound.&nbsp; The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the volunteers who graciously give their time. For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and&nbsp;after, in decorating, serving and cleaning the VFW Hall. Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning&nbsp;after&nbsp;the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp; Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time. For anyone who is homebound and would like a meal&nbsp;delivered, contact using the information below. If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation, use the following contact information:&nbsp;<a href="tel:785-259-9735" target="_blank">785-259-9735</a>&nbsp;(through 12/24) email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com" target="_blank">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

13th annual Community Christmas Dinner scheduled

ACCESS would like to make the public aware they will be closing at 2 p.m. Frida and will reopen to serve the community at 6 a.m. Dec. 27. ACCESS also will be closed for New Years Day, Jan. 1.&nbsp;

Also, ACCESS would like to remind clients that during extreme inclement weather (snow or cold temperatures), to check either Hays Post or KWCH on the TV for notices of ACCESS Public Transportation being closed.&nbsp;

ACCESS would like to make the public aware they will be closing at 2 p.m. Frida and will reopen to serve the community at 6 a.m. Dec. 27. ACCESS also will be closed for New Years Day, Jan. 1.&nbsp;Also, ACCESS would like to remind clients that during extreme inclement weather (snow or cold temperatures), to check either Hays Post or KWCH on the TV for notices of ACCESS Public Transportation being closed.&nbsp;

ACCESS public transportation announces holiday schedule

Due
 to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Friday and 
Monday, the refuse/recycling collection schedules will be 
altered as follows: 

There are no anticipated changes to Wednesday and 
Thursday, although the Friday collection will
 be collected on Thursday. The Monday collection will be collected on Tuesday.

Due
 to the observance of the Christmas holiday on Friday and 
Monday, the refuse/recycling collection schedules will be 
altered as follows: There are no anticipated changes to Wednesday and 
Thursday, although the Friday collection will
 be collected on Thursday. The Monday collection will be collected on Tuesday.— City of Hays

City of Hays alters trash routes for Christmas holiday

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened Kansas 383 to traffic in Phillips County between Long Island and the U.S. 183 junction. The 6-mile section has been closed since March for reconstruction.

A final asphalt overlay on the road is planned for spring 2023.&nbsp;

The reconstruction is part of the T-WORKS project to reconstruct the 26-mile corridor between the east U.S. 36 junction in Norton County to U.S. 183 in Phillips County. Venture Corporation of Great Bend served as primary contractor for the $11.8 million project.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened Kansas 383 to traffic in Phillips County between Long Island and the U.S. 183 junction. The 6-mile section has been closed since March for reconstruction.A final asphalt overlay on the road is planned for spring 2023.&nbsp;The reconstruction is part of the T-WORKS project to reconstruct the 26-mile corridor between the east U.S. 36 junction in Norton County to U.S. 183 in Phillips County. Venture Corporation of Great Bend served as primary contractor for the $11.8 million project.

Kansas 383 reopened in Phillips County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671553126802.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>

2022 has been a showcase of the evolving world of fraud for regulators at the Kansas Insurance Department. Throughout the year, our Securities division has been busy investigating new types of scams on various digital platforms. This holiday season, as Christmas movies fill the airwaves, viewers can often draw parallels between the actions of today’s fraudsters and the villains of many cherished Christmas stories. In observing the villainy of Christmas antiheroes, helpful fraud prevention lessons can be derived.

Gift Card Scams: Like Scut Farkus’s persistent bullying of poor Ralphie in A Christmas Story, intimidation is a predominant tactic used during most gift card scams. Gift card scammers typically try to frighten victims with a sense of urgency. Most reputable entities will not use high-pressure tactics when requesting payment and none of them will ever request payment via gift cards.

Caller ID Spoofing: Comparable to the Wet Bandits’ impersonation of law enforcement in Home Alone, spoofing is a deceitful ploy often used by phone scammers. Spoofers use technology to falsify the information that appears on caller ID. This information usually appears as a government agency or reputable company. Avoid spoofing by not answering the phone for unknown numbers.

Phishing: Rivaling the thievery of the Grinch, cyber criminals who go phishing look to score big by stealing your personal information. Cyber phishing typically involves using hyperlinks to direct victims to sites designed to steal their private information. It’s good practice to always hover over hyperlinks to verify the authenticity of the link. Also, look for the “https:” when examining URLs. The “s” stands for “secure” and signifies that encryption is enabled to protect personal information.

“It’s our goal to stop fraud before it happens,” said Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “Which is why it is so important that Kansans be on the lookout for tactics used most often by fraudsters.”

Visit SmartInvestKS.com and/or check out our Department’s “12 Days of Fraud” campaign on social media for guidance on stopping scammers. Visit insurance.kansas.gov or call 785-296-3071 if you believe that you or a loved one may have been the target of investment or insurance fraud.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671511521141.jpeg" alt="Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>2022 has been a showcase of the evolving world of fraud for regulators at the Kansas Insurance Department. Throughout the year, our Securities division has been busy investigating new types of scams on various digital platforms. This holiday season, as Christmas movies fill the airwaves, viewers can often draw parallels between the actions of today’s fraudsters and the villains of many cherished Christmas stories. In observing the villainy of Christmas antiheroes, helpful fraud prevention lessons can be derived.Gift Card Scams: Like Scut Farkus’s persistent bullying of poor Ralphie in A Christmas Story, intimidation is a predominant tactic used during most gift card scams. Gift card scammers typically try to frighten victims with a sense of urgency. Most reputable entities will not use high-pressure tactics when requesting payment and none of them will ever request payment via gift cards.Caller ID Spoofing: Comparable to the Wet Bandits’ impersonation of law enforcement in Home Alone, spoofing is a deceitful ploy often used by phone scammers. Spoofers use technology to falsify the information that appears on caller ID. This information usually appears as a government agency or reputable company. Avoid spoofing by not answering the phone for unknown numbers.Phishing: Rivaling the thievery of the Grinch, cyber criminals who go phishing look to score big by stealing your personal information. Cyber phishing typically involves using hyperlinks to direct victims to sites designed to steal their private information. It’s good practice to always hover over hyperlinks to verify the authenticity of the link. Also, look for the “https:” when examining URLs. The “s” stands for “secure” and signifies that encryption is enabled to protect personal information.“It’s our goal to stop fraud before it happens,” said Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “Which is why it is so important that Kansans be on the lookout for tactics used most often by fraudsters.”Visit SmartInvestKS.com and/or check out our Department’s “12 Days of Fraud” campaign on social media for guidance on stopping scammers. Visit insurance.kansas.gov or call 785-296-3071 if you believe that you or a loved one may have been the target of investment or insurance fraud.

Kansas Insurance Dept.: Ho, Ho, Hoax!

Hays and Ellis County remain in a winter storm watch Wednesday night and Thursday morning, as well as a wind chill warning from Wednesday through Friday morning.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting 1 to 2 inches of snow to arrive with the bitter cold.

After a high in the mid-30s on Wednesday, the mercury will dive to nearly 10 below zero overnight, with wind chill values near 40 below zero. Winds could gust up to 55 mph Wednesday and Thursday. A high of just 2 below zero is predicted Thursday, with a high of 11 expected Friday.

There will be a slight warmup on Christmas Day, the the mercury will rise to the low-40s and an overnight low in the low-20s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671557884022.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays and Ellis County remain in a winter storm watch Wednesday night and Thursday morning, as well as a wind chill warning from Wednesday through Friday morning.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting 1 to 2 inches of snow to arrive with the bitter cold.After a high in the mid-30s on Wednesday, the mercury will dive to nearly 10 below zero overnight, with wind chill values near 40 below zero. Winds could gust up to 55 mph Wednesday and Thursday. A high of just 2 below zero is predicted Thursday, with a high of 11 expected Friday.There will be a slight warmup on Christmas Day, the the mercury will rise to the low-40s and an overnight low in the low-20s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dangerous and life-threatening wind chills of 25 to 45 below are expected Thursday and Friday morning. Frostbite can occur quickly in a matter of several minutes with these treacherous conditions. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wxtwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wxtwitter</a> <a href="https://t.co/zNRH6olF6a">pic.twitter.com/zNRH6olF6a</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1605237671588032516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

UPDATE: NWS upgrades wind chill threat in NW Kansas

K-State News and Communications Services

MANHATTAN — The winter solstice begins this week, plus a weather forecast including snow and dangerous wind chills means winter is officially here. A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside.&nbsp;

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/48b53a7f-7516-4d98-80a3-ead1f016bd3b">Dangerous wind chills and hazardous travel expected</a>

"It is time to consider bringing your cat or dog inside for warmth," said Susan Nelson,&nbsp;clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>.&nbsp;"Pets that are very young or old, and those not acclimated to the colder weather, should be brought in during the colder temperatures."&nbsp;

Nelson advises dogs with heavy coats could get too warm in the house, so keeping them in a slightly cooler room or the garage can prevent them from getting too uncomfortable. Short trips inside the house before a long period of cold can give pets a chance to become accustomed to indoor temperatures.&nbsp;

If your pet gets nervous or panics while inside, Nelson said a carrier or crate may help to ease the transition. Speak to your veterinarian about calming medication if the pet's anxiety is severe.&nbsp;

Ensure pets have easy access to food and water bowls and that they know where the bowls are located.&nbsp;If your pet is not housebroken, Nelson recommends keeping them on floors that are easily cleaned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Homes do have their own environmental threats to pets that are different from those found outdoors.&nbsp;

Indoor plants, such as lilies, dieffenbachia and philodendron, can be toxic to pets," Nelson said. "Before bringing pets inside, take an inventory of what plants you have and find out if they are poisonous, then move them to an inaccessible place."&nbsp;

Nelson listed some additional common items found in the home that can also be harmful to our furry friends:&nbsp;

With proper care and preparation, pets can be comfortable outside during cold weather, Nelson said.&nbsp;

"Outdoor shelters should not be too big in order to prevent loss of heat to dead space," Nelson said. "The door should face the south or west to reduce wind gusts. Use clean straw or hay for bedding, as blankets tend to get trampled easily and lose their insulating effect. If your pet will allow it, hanging a blanket over the door or using a pet flap will keep the wind out."&nbsp;

According to Nelson, cats also benefit from a cozy box in a sheltered area. Straw or hay bedding also works well for them.&nbsp;

"Outside water bowls should be checked at least twice a day for ice, and more often during particularly frigid weather like we will experience this week, to prevent dehydration," Nelson said. "A heated water bowl is a better option."&nbsp;

Nelson advises that some outside-dwelling pets may need an increase in food during cold weather to help pets maintain body heat.&nbsp;

The age of the pet can make it more susceptible to cold weather. Young and senior pets are more prone to hypothermia, so they should be kept in a warm environment. &nbsp;

"Pets with osteoarthritis should be treated with extra care," Nelson added. "Keep them indoors in a warm and well-cushioned area. You can speak with your veterinarian about pain medication options and therapeutic diets that can help ease the pain of arthritic joints."&nbsp;

Nelson's additional winter weather safety tips for pets include:&nbsp;

●If you have a short-haired dog, sweaters are a good idea. Sweaters made out of cotton, fleece or natural fibers are preferred. Make sure the sweater fits well, does not catch the dog's feet and cannot be easily pulled off. Avoid sweaters with decorations that could be torn off and ingested.

●Outdoor cats will seek warmth, including near or on a car engine. Honk the horn on your vehicle or bang on the hood before starting the engine in order to scare off any cats that may be warming themselves.

●Rinse off your pet's feet if they have been walking on treated surfaces, and do not let them lick it off. It is best to avoid treated walkways, but if your pet must frequently walk on these surfaces, consider having them wear booties to protect their feet. The booties can also help protect their feet from painful ice balls that can form on the bottom of the paws.

 ●Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Immediately and thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is more pet friendly — but still not entirely harmless.&nbsp;

Frostbite can affect the ears, feet and noses of pets just as it does in people. To avoid frostbite, do not let your pet out in the extreme cold for a long period of time. Chances are that if you get too cold to be outside, it's probably too cold for your pet as well.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671545993349.jpeg" alt="A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside. Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside. Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News and Communications ServicesMANHATTAN — The winter solstice begins this week, plus a weather forecast including snow and dangerous wind chills means winter is officially here. A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside.&nbsp;READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/48b53a7f-7516-4d98-80a3-ead1f016bd3b">Dangerous wind chills and hazardous travel expected</a>"It is time to consider bringing your cat or dog inside for warmth," said Susan Nelson,&nbsp;clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>.&nbsp;"Pets that are very young or old, and those not acclimated to the colder weather, should be brought in during the colder temperatures."&nbsp;Nelson advises dogs with heavy coats could get too warm in the house, so keeping them in a slightly cooler room or the garage can prevent them from getting too uncomfortable. Short trips inside the house before a long period of cold can give pets a chance to become accustomed to indoor temperatures.&nbsp;If your pet gets nervous or panics while inside, Nelson said a carrier or crate may help to ease the transition. Speak to your veterinarian about calming medication if the pet's anxiety is severe.&nbsp;Ensure pets have easy access to food and water bowls and that they know where the bowls are located.&nbsp;If your pet is not housebroken, Nelson recommends keeping them on floors that are easily cleaned.&nbsp;&nbsp;Homes do have their own environmental threats to pets that are different from those found outdoors.&nbsp;Indoor plants, such as lilies, dieffenbachia and philodendron, can be toxic to pets," Nelson said. "Before bringing pets inside, take an inventory of what plants you have and find out if they are poisonous, then move them to an inaccessible place."&nbsp;Nelson listed some additional common items found in the home that can also be harmful to our furry friends:&nbsp;●Chocolate●Raisins●Onions●Electrical cords●Candles●PotpourriWith proper care and preparation, pets can be comfortable outside during cold weather, Nelson said.&nbsp;"Outdoor shelters should not be too big in order to prevent loss of heat to dead space," Nelson said. "The door should face the south or west to reduce wind gusts. Use clean straw or hay for bedding, as blankets tend to get trampled easily and lose their insulating effect. If your pet will allow it, hanging a blanket over the door or using a pet flap will keep the wind out."&nbsp;According to Nelson, cats also benefit from a cozy box in a sheltered area. Straw or hay bedding also works well for them.&nbsp;"Outside water bowls should be checked at least twice a day for ice, and more often during particularly frigid weather like we will experience this week, to prevent dehydration," Nelson said. "A heated water bowl is a better option."&nbsp;Nelson advises that some outside-dwelling pets may need an increase in food during cold weather to help pets maintain body heat.&nbsp;The age of the pet can make it more susceptible to cold weather. Young and senior pets are more prone to hypothermia, so they should be kept in a warm environment. &nbsp;"Pets with osteoarthritis should be treated with extra care," Nelson added. "Keep them indoors in a warm and well-cushioned area. You can speak with your veterinarian about pain medication options and therapeutic diets that can help ease the pain of arthritic joints."&nbsp;Nelson's additional winter weather safety tips for pets include:&nbsp;●If you have a short-haired dog, sweaters are a good idea. Sweaters made out of cotton, fleece or natural fibers are preferred. Make sure the sweater fits well, does not catch the dog's feet and cannot be easily pulled off. Avoid sweaters with decorations that could be torn off and ingested.●Outdoor cats will seek warmth, including near or on a car engine. Honk the horn on your vehicle or bang on the hood before starting the engine in order to scare off any cats that may be warming themselves.●Rinse off your pet's feet if they have been walking on treated surfaces, and do not let them lick it off. It is best to avoid treated walkways, but if your pet must frequently walk on these surfaces, consider having them wear booties to protect their feet. The booties can also help protect their feet from painful ice balls that can form on the bottom of the paws. ●Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Immediately and thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is more pet friendly — but still not entirely harmless.&nbsp;Frostbite can affect the ears, feet and noses of pets just as it does in people. To avoid frostbite, do not let your pet out in the extreme cold for a long period of time. Chances are that if you get too cold to be outside, it's probably too cold for your pet as well.

K-State veterinarian offers cold weather pet care tips

Government Surplus Commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th Street, Hays, on Wednesday, Dec. 21 from 7:30 a.m. 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below:

$1,473 Household of one $1,984 Household of two $2,495 Household of three $3,007 Household of four $3,518 Household of five $4,029 Household of six $4,541 Household of seven $5,052 Household of eight *Add $512 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: beef stew, peaches, dehydrated potatoes, macaroni in cheese, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, split chicken breast, rolled oats, asparagus, and frozen peaches. 

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader, with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

Future commodity distribution times will be posted at: (https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGovernment Surplus Commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th Street, Hays, on Wednesday, Dec. 21 from 7:30 a.m. 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below:$1,473 Household of one $1,984 Household of two $2,495 Household of three $3,007 Household of four $3,518 Household of five $4,029 Household of six $4,541 Household of seven $5,052 Household of eight *Add $512 for each additional family member after eight Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: beef stew, peaches, dehydrated potatoes, macaroni in cheese, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, split chicken breast, rolled oats, asparagus, and frozen peaches. Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader, with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;Future commodity distribution times will be posted at: (https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/)

Food commodity distribution is Wednesday in Hays

A third-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School had a lesson last week that just kept giving.

Amy Mayo, Roosevelt third-grade teacher, was gearing up for a lesson on economics.

As part of the students' social studies unit, they were set to learn about being producers and consumers, having wants and needs, and supply and demand. 

She also wanted to intertwine the school's social and emotional curriculum into the lesson. The school's word for the month is "compassion," so Mayo lead a discussion on differences in children and accepting others.

Mayo had her 21 students make craft items. This included magnets, gift bags, cards, Christmas countdowns, reindeer doughnuts and snowmen.

 The children sold the items in a store to family, friends and teachers. They used their math skills to tally the sales and make change.

"When the parents came in, they were just little businessmen walking around selling things," Mayo said.

She said she was impressed by the support the children received for their project. The store was only open a total of two hours, and they raised more than $200.

The children calculated their startup fees and subtracted that from their proceeds.

They took the majority of the remaining money they made — $210 — and used it to buy Christmas presents for Toys for Tots at Walmart to benefit needy children. 

The children were divided into three groups and paired with adults. They had to budget their money and even learned about the necessity of leaving enough money to pay for sales tax.

Mayo took the children to Thirsty's after their shopping field trip for fries and beverages. Thirsty's owner, Brent, offered to donate the fries and drinks, but Mayo wanted the children to pay something for their treats. He settled on a charge of a $1 for each child.

"I wanted this to be a lesson where children purchase an item and have to work for something and pay for it," Mayo said.

Brent was so taken by the children's efforts that he donated all the proceeds from their purchases to Bikes for Tikes.

"This was just the gift that kept on giving," Mayo said. "It was such an amazing lesson. The children were so well-behaved at Thirsty's. I could not have been more proud of them.

"Through this whole thing, they were diligent and they were well-behaved and so thrilled with the lesson."

Brent was not the only one impressed with the children's generosity and work. A group of people was watching a World Cup game at a table near the children. 

Mayo was going to pay the waitress' tip, but she was told the other guests had already tipped her.

The fundraiser was so successful the children will each be receiving $1 to take home and spend as they wish for their efforts.

"I can't tell you how many times throughout this field trip the kids were 'This is the best field trip ever. When do we get to do something else like this?' 'We really hope the kids love these gifts,' and 'This was so much fun,' " Mayo said.

"I feel they learned so much, because it was so hands on, and it tied so cross curricular. It covered everything that we were working on from math to social studies to social/emotional. It was really a fun lesson."

The children agreed, but what stuck out was how much the students valued helping other children.

Jeremaih Bartley said, "It made my heart feel really good. I like giving stuff."

Addelyn VanderGiesen said, "It made me feel happy about myself."

Camden Staab said, "I was happy to help someone's life."

And Vincent VanEyk said "I like helping other people."

The lesson was such a success Mayo plans to replicate the lesson next year and has invited the other third-grade classes at Roosevelt to join in.

"I've taught for 24 years, and this was absolutely, by far, the most rewarding lesson I've ever taught," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671502553376.jpeg" alt="Students in Amy Mayo's third-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School hold up toys they bought for the Toys for Tots program with proceeds from a fundraiser. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Students in Amy Mayo's third-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School hold up toys they bought for the Toys for Tots program with proceeds from a fundraiser. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'It made my heart feel really good'</h2>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA third-grade class at Roosevelt Elementary School had a lesson last week that just kept giving.Amy Mayo, Roosevelt third-grade teacher, was gearing up for a lesson on economics.As part of the students' social studies unit, they were set to learn about being producers and consumers, having wants and needs, and supply and demand. She also wanted to intertwine the school's social and emotional curriculum into the lesson. The school's word for the month is "compassion," so Mayo lead a discussion on differences in children and accepting others.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/3YZt2e9l-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Roadrunners Giving Back" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Video courtesy of USD 489 Mayo had her 21 students make craft items. This included magnets, gift bags, cards, Christmas countdowns, reindeer doughnuts and snowmen. The children sold the items in a store to family, friends and teachers. They used their math skills to tally the sales and make change."When the parents came in, they were just little businessmen walking around selling things," Mayo said.She said she was impressed by the support the children received for their project. The store was only open a total of two hours, and they raised more than $200. The children calculated their startup fees and subtracted that from their proceeds. They took the majority of the remaining money they made — $210 — and used it to buy Christmas presents for Toys for Tots at Walmart to benefit needy children. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671477723515.jpeg" alt="Amy Mayo's third-grade class. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Amy Mayo's third-grade class. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The children were divided into three groups and paired with adults. They had to budget their money and even learned about the necessity of leaving enough money to pay for sales tax.Mayo took the children to Thirsty's after their shopping field trip for fries and beverages. Thirsty's owner, Brent, offered to donate the fries and drinks, but Mayo wanted the children to pay something for their treats. He settled on a charge of a $1 for each child. "I wanted this to be a lesson where children purchase an item and have to work for something and pay for it," Mayo said. Brent was so taken by the children's efforts that he donated all the proceeds from their purchases to Bikes for Tikes."This was just the gift that kept on giving," Mayo said. "It was such an amazing lesson. The children were so well-behaved at Thirsty's. I could not have been more proud of them."Through this whole thing, they were diligent and they were well-behaved and so thrilled with the lesson." Brent was not the only one impressed with the children's generosity and work. A group of people was watching a World Cup game at a table near the children. Mayo was going to pay the waitress' tip, but she was told the other guests had already tipped her.The fundraiser was so successful the children will each be receiving $1 to take home and spend as they wish for their efforts."I can't tell you how many times throughout this field trip the kids were 'This is the best field trip ever. When do we get to do something else like this?' 'We really hope the kids love these gifts,' and 'This was so much fun,' " Mayo said. "I feel they learned so much, because it was so hands on, and it tied so cross curricular. It covered everything that we were working on from math to social studies to social/emotional. It was really a fun lesson."The children agreed, but what stuck out was how much the students valued helping other children.Jeremaih Bartley said, "It made my heart feel really good. I like giving stuff."Addelyn VanderGiesen said, "It made me feel happy about myself."Camden Staab said, "I was happy to help someone's life."And Vincent VanEyk said "I like helping other people." The lesson was such a success Mayo plans to replicate the lesson next year and has invited the other third-grade classes at Roosevelt to join in. "I've taught for 24 years, and this was absolutely, by far, the most rewarding lesson I've ever taught," she said.

Roosevelt students learn economics through giving lesson

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671474564518.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Brookdale Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Brookdale Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671474842326.jpeg" alt="Cub Scouts deliver comfort gift bags to residents at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cub Scouts deliver comfort gift bags to residents at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671475402038.jpeg" alt="Cub Scouts and a Girl Scout wait to deliver care packages at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Cub Scouts and a Girl Scout wait to deliver care packages at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671476510162.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671476529904.jpeg" alt="Two Daisy Girl Scouts leave a gift bag for a resident of Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday as part of the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Two Daisy Girl Scouts leave a gift bag for a resident of Good Samaritan Senior Living Saturday as part of the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671476548546.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Good Samaritan Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Good Samaritan Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671476566285.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Brookdale Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Brookdale Senior Living in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671476586717.jpeg" alt="Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Ascension Living Via Christi Village in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts delivered gift bags to veterans at Ascension Living Via Christi Village in Hays on Saturday through the Christmas Magic program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 Scouts deliver treats to veterans through Christmas Magic program

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Donna Krug grew up on a farm, northeast of Washington, Kansas, just a
few miles away from Mill Creek. Following high school, Krug stayed close to
home and attended Kansas State University. Although just an hour away from
home, K-State appeared intimidating at first to Krug. 
“K-State was a pretty big place for this farm girl,” said Krug. “I remember
going into my sociology class. There were more people in that class than I had
in my entire school.” 
Krug majored in Home Economics Education. Assuming that she would teach home
economics, her career changed with a move to Houston, Texas with her husband. 
“When I moved to Houston, the best opportunity was an Extension 4-H Agent,”
said Krug. “My husband grew in Hoisington, so when he graduated chiropractic
school, we were looking to move closer to family. We moved to Great Bend in
1981.”

The Krugs moved to central Kansas about the same as the great flood 
arrived in Great Bend in 1981. At the time, there were no openings 
teaching or with the
extension office, so Krug worked in her husband’s office until 1989 when
 a
position opened with the K-State Research and Extension branch in Great 
Bend. 
“I grew up as a 4-H member in a farming community,” said Krug. “I always knew
about Extension. I’m a life-long learner, and I think that’s what we try to
promote as Extension educators. We like to have people that come to our programming
that want to keep learning.” 
Krug has spent time over the decades writing articles that are designed to
address the state’s challenges and make everyday life more enjoyable and
healthier. Krug started her position in Barton County with a typewriter and
used to walk her article down to the newspaper to have it printed. 
“So many things have changed over the years,” said Krug. “There’s a lot of
things going on in people’s lives now. When I started, we had 36 units
(Extension Homemaker Units) of women that would meet. Thirty-three years later,
we have three groups that meet and it’s more of a social group.”

After more than 33 years with the Barton County Extension, now known as the
Cottonwood Extension, Krug will retire in early 2023. With more than three
decades of trying to better the lives of citizens, Krug was able to make her
mark on many lives. 
“Two years ago I wrote a column on taking a new look at fermented foods,” said
Krug. “People were really interested in that…how to make sauerkraut, how to
make kimchi. I taught some workshops. What I found was, I would attract people
who really hadn’t used Extension. They were new to our program. That was kind
of fun to raise their awareness.” 
Feb. 3, 2023 will be the final day for Krug as the District
Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension
District in Great Bend. 
“I think a lot of people know I really like bicycling,” said Krug. “My husband
I are on that tandem bicycle a lot. We’ll do some more of that. I enjoy
quilting, music and playing the piano. We have four grandchildren that are
growing up way too fast. I want to catch some of their activities more.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671460282966.jpeg" alt="Donna Krug, Cottonwood Extension District Director in Great Bend, will retire Feb. 3 after 33 years with K-State Extension. The Cottonwood district includes Ellis County." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug, Cottonwood Extension District Director in Great Bend, will retire Feb. 3 after 33 years with K-State Extension. The Cottonwood district includes Ellis County.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostDonna Krug grew up on a farm, northeast of Washington, Kansas, just a
few miles away from Mill Creek. Following high school, Krug stayed close to
home and attended Kansas State University. Although just an hour away from
home, K-State appeared intimidating at first to Krug. 
“K-State was a pretty big place for this farm girl,” said Krug. “I remember
going into my sociology class. There were more people in that class than I had
in my entire school.” 
Krug majored in Home Economics Education. Assuming that she would teach home
economics, her career changed with a move to Houston, Texas with her husband. 
“When I moved to Houston, the best opportunity was an Extension 4-H Agent,”
said Krug. “My husband grew in Hoisington, so when he graduated chiropractic
school, we were looking to move closer to family. We moved to Great Bend in
1981.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671460335584.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Krugs moved to central Kansas about the same as the great flood 
arrived in Great Bend in 1981. At the time, there were no openings 
teaching or with the
extension office, so Krug worked in her husband’s office until 1989 when
 a
position opened with the K-State Research and Extension branch in Great 
Bend. 
“I grew up as a 4-H member in a farming community,” said Krug. “I always knew
about Extension. I’m a life-long learner, and I think that’s what we try to
promote as Extension educators. We like to have people that come to our programming
that want to keep learning.” 
Krug has spent time over the decades writing articles that are designed to
address the state’s challenges and make everyday life more enjoyable and
healthier. Krug started her position in Barton County with a typewriter and
used to walk her article down to the newspaper to have it printed. 
“So many things have changed over the years,” said Krug. “There’s a lot of
things going on in people’s lives now. When I started, we had 36 units
(Extension Homemaker Units) of women that would meet. Thirty-three years later,
we have three groups that meet and it’s more of a social group.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645020900026.png" alt="Donna with her husband, John" />
 <figcaption>Donna with her husband, John</figcaption>
 </figure>After more than 33 years with the Barton County Extension, now known as the
Cottonwood Extension, Krug will retire in early 2023. With more than three
decades of trying to better the lives of citizens, Krug was able to make her
mark on many lives. 
“Two years ago I wrote a column on taking a new look at fermented foods,” said
Krug. “People were really interested in that…how to make sauerkraut, how to
make kimchi. I taught some workshops. What I found was, I would attract people
who really hadn’t used Extension. They were new to our program. That was kind
of fun to raise their awareness.” 
Feb. 3, 2023 will be the final day for Krug as the District
Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension
District in Great Bend. 
“I think a lot of people know I really like bicycling,” said Krug. “My husband
I are on that tandem bicycle a lot. We’ll do some more of that. I enjoy
quilting, music and playing the piano. We have four grandchildren that are
growing up way too fast. I want to catch some of their activities more.”&nbsp; &nbsp;