Northwest Kansas is in for a cold spell heading to the weekend.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for high temperatures Thursday through Sunday ranging from the low-30s to the mid-40s, with blustery conditions continuing Thursday and Friday.

Wind chill values are expected to drop into the single-digits in the early morning hours, and northwest winds are expected to gust up to 45 mph.

The wind is expected to calm Friday night.

The high Monday is only expected to reach 26 degrees, the NWS predicted.

No precipitation is in the forecast in Hays and Ellis County for at least the next week, forecasters said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671046343924.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest Kansas is in for a cold spell heading to the weekend.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for high temperatures Thursday through Sunday ranging from the low-30s to the mid-40s, with blustery conditions continuing Thursday and Friday.Wind chill values are expected to drop into the single-digits in the early morning hours, and northwest winds are expected to gust up to 45 mph.The wind is expected to calm Friday night.The high Monday is only expected to reach 26 degrees, the NWS predicted.No precipitation is in the forecast in Hays and Ellis County for at least the next week, forecasters said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Strong northwest winds will continue through Friday. This graph represents the hourly wind gust forecast across the NWS Dodge City forecast area. Around 50 mph gusts Thursday afternoon across far west central KS (Scott City area). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/mEdNkuaYwy">pic.twitter.com/mEdNkuaYwy</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1603115662154481664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Cold mornings are ahead, as each morning Thursday through at least mid next week will see lowest Wind Chill Index readings well down into the single digits. The exception will be down in the typically warmer Red Hills region. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/yon007cuIc">pic.twitter.com/yon007cuIc</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1603102066460700678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Bundle up: Cold snap bringing bitter weather to NW Kansas

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board heard a report on the district's revised five-year capital improvement plan, including new sports fields for the Hays High and Middle schools.

District officials hope to have all USD 489 sports events at the high school/middle school campus by August 2025. The district has been renting Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field for varsity football.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the district was basically able to scrub everything off of its five-year capital improvement plan thanks to the passage of a bond issue in May.

"We're starting fresh," he said. "You would think that we have everything taken care of. Not so much. We've had to lay out what we feel is the plan of things we need to address and take care of things that were not covered by the bond."

In the coming year, district officials would like to turf the football field at Hays High.

The construction of the new high school, which is set to begin this summer, will eliminate the current football practice field and competition soccer field.

During construction, both football and soccer will have to share the turfed field for practice and some sub-varsity competitions. Wilson said he anticipated the teams will have to use the field for both early morning and evening practices, so officials also hope to add lights to that field.

"We are one of the few districts that doesn't have a lighted football field, which is unbelievable," Wilson said.

&nbsp;Officials are also hoping to tackle phase one of HVAC upgrades at O'Loughlin Elementary School at a cost of about $1.2 million and replace the HVAC at Wilson Elementary at a cost of about $2.4 million in the 2022-23 fiscal year.

If the district does both the HVAC projects and lighting for the football/soccer field, the district would spend about $8.2 million for the 2022-23 fiscal year. The district has about $6.4 million available in its capital outlay fund.

If the district borrowed for the projects, it could complete the projects and maintain a healthy reserve balance in its capital outlay fund.

The debt would be repaid from the existing 8-mill capital outlay budget. The district will have some debt payments ending soon. The expenditure would not result in a tax increase.

The school board approved a resolution on its intent to issue a lease-purchase agreement for the projects. The projects will come back to the school board for final approval.

"When you build a new house, there are a lot of new things that you might want to do," Wilson said. "You might want to buy new furniture. Our costs are upfront."

During the 2023-24 fiscal year, officials would like to start finishing the football field for varsity competition by adding grandstands for both football and soccer and a press box. The estimated cost for these projects would be about $2.9 million. These would also come from the capital outlay budget and not result in a tax increase.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year, more upgrades would be made to the sports fields, including field lighting for the soccer fields; a scoreboard, video and sound for the football stadium; a soccer scoreboard; and football and soccer stand utility connections.

The plan budgets money for new classroom furniture for the elementary schools and the second phase of HVAC improvements at O'Loughlin.

In 2025-26, district officials hope to add football visitor concession, restrooms and locker rooms, and sub-varsity fields for baseball and softball. Officials also have budgeted funds for upgrades for the elementary school playgrounds.

The last year of the five-year plan calls for funds to replace the gym floor at what is now HHS as well as $75,000 to move the administrative offices to the former Wilson Elementary School. 

Under the bond plan, Wilson will be closed as an elementary school, and Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and likely put up for sale.

"This is your planning document. Of course, I always say that everything is fluid on this document," Wilson said.

"Things change and come up. It might be necessary to make some adjustments, but I feel really good about what we've done to line out and provide a plan for the board in terms of projects that we feel are necessary."

All projects on the list will come back to the board for approval before they move forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668487418072.jpeg" alt="Hays High School and Hays Middle School campus site plan under the bond plan, including new sports fields. Image courtesy of Hays USD 489 " />
 <figcaption>Hays High School and Hays Middle School campus site plan under the bond plan, including new sports fields. Image courtesy of Hays USD 489 </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board heard a report on the district's revised five-year capital improvement plan, including new sports fields for the Hays High and Middle schools.District officials hope to have all USD 489 sports events at the high school/middle school campus by August 2025. The district has been renting Fort Hays State University's Lewis Field for varsity football. Superintendent Ron Wilson said the district was basically able to scrub everything off of its five-year capital improvement plan thanks to the passage of a bond issue in May."We're starting fresh," he said. "You would think that we have everything taken care of. Not so much. We've had to lay out what we feel is the plan of things we need to address and take care of things that were not covered by the bond."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670948568197.png" alt="USD 489 capital outlay budget for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24. Image courtesy of USD 489. " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 capital outlay budget for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24. Image courtesy of USD 489. </figcaption>
 </figure>In the coming year, district officials would like to turf the football field at Hays High. The construction of the new high school, which is set to begin this summer, will eliminate the current football practice field and competition soccer field.During construction, both football and soccer will have to share the turfed field for practice and some sub-varsity competitions. Wilson said he anticipated the teams will have to use the field for both early morning and evening practices, so officials also hope to add lights to that field."We are one of the few districts that doesn't have a lighted football field, which is unbelievable," Wilson said.<div><iframe title="Five-year Hays USD 489 capital budget includes sports fields" 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=6az45-13395e5-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>&nbsp;Officials are also hoping to tackle phase one of HVAC upgrades at O'Loughlin Elementary School at a cost of about $1.2 million and replace the HVAC at Wilson Elementary at a cost of about $2.4 million in the 2022-23 fiscal year.If the district does both the HVAC projects and lighting for the football/soccer field, the district would spend about $8.2 million for the 2022-23 fiscal year. The district has about $6.4 million available in its capital outlay fund.If the district borrowed for the projects, it could complete the projects and maintain a healthy reserve balance in its capital outlay fund.The debt would be repaid from the existing 8-mill capital outlay budget. The district will have some debt payments ending soon. The expenditure would not result in a tax increase.The school board approved a resolution on its intent to issue a lease-purchase agreement for the projects. The projects will come back to the school board for final approval."When you build a new house, there are a lot of new things that you might want to do," Wilson said. "You might want to buy new furniture. Our costs are upfront."During the 2023-24 fiscal year, officials would like to start finishing the football field for varsity competition by adding grandstands for both football and soccer and a press box. The estimated cost for these projects would be about $2.9 million. These would also come from the capital outlay budget and not result in a tax increase. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, more upgrades would be made to the sports fields, including field lighting for the soccer fields; a scoreboard, video and sound for the football stadium; a soccer scoreboard; and football and soccer stand utility connections. The plan budgets money for new classroom furniture for the elementary schools and the second phase of HVAC improvements at O'Loughlin.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670948719104.png" alt="USD 489 capital outlay budget for fiscal years 2024-25 through 2026-27. Image courtesy of USD 489." />
 <figcaption>USD 489 capital outlay budget for fiscal years 2024-25 through 2026-27. Image courtesy of USD 489.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2025-26, district officials hope to add football visitor concession, restrooms and locker rooms, and sub-varsity fields for baseball and softball. Officials also have budgeted funds for upgrades for the elementary school playgrounds.The last year of the five-year plan calls for funds to replace the gym floor at what is now HHS as well as $75,000 to move the administrative offices to the former Wilson Elementary School. Under the bond plan, Wilson will be closed as an elementary school, and Rockwell Administration Center will be closed and likely put up for sale. "This is your planning document. Of course, I always say that everything is fluid on this document," Wilson said."Things change and come up. It might be necessary to make some adjustments, but I feel really good about what we've done to line out and provide a plan for the board in terms of projects that we feel are necessary." All projects on the list will come back to the board for approval before they move forward.

🎙 Five-year Hays USD 489 capital budget includes sports fields

<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 31 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 3 and 9.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Nearly all of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County, is in the high-incidence category, the KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp; Only Rooks and Cheyenne counties were in the moderate-incidence category.

<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 8,234 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671042444339.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 31 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 3 and 9.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Nearly all of northwest Kansas, including Ellis County, is in the high-incidence category, the KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp; Only Rooks and Cheyenne counties were in the moderate-incidence category.<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 8,234 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671042567846.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 31 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Public Library Communications Coordinator, Callie Kolacny shares information about upcoming library activities and events.

<div><iframe title="Hays Public Library wraps year with family friendly events" 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=un3kf-133965b-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Public Library Communications Coordinator, Callie Kolacny shares information about upcoming library activities and events.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Public Library wraps year with family friendly events

A year after the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/24e11ab6-f29c-4355-91e5-47e7511a74ce">Four County Fire</a>, northwest Kansas ranchers are still trying to recover.

Drought has slowed the regrowth of area pastures, resulting in ranchers being forced to cull their herds. 

Pasture recovery could take three to five years, but the economic and emotional recovery may take longer.

Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney reports on those impacted by the tragic blaze Thursday and Friday at <a href="https://hayspost.com/">HaysPost.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670965616481.jpeg" alt="Logan Glaze's home that is the process of being rebuilt near the corner of U.S. 183 and Homestead Road. It was burned to the ground on Dec. 15, 2021." />
 <figcaption>Logan Glaze's home that is the process of being rebuilt near the corner of U.S. 183 and Homestead Road. It was burned to the ground on Dec. 15, 2021.</figcaption>
 </figure>A year after the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/24e11ab6-f29c-4355-91e5-47e7511a74ce">Four County Fire</a>, northwest Kansas ranchers are still trying to recover. Drought has slowed the regrowth of area pastures, resulting in ranchers being forced to cull their herds. Pasture recovery could take three to five years, but the economic and emotional recovery may take longer.Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney reports on those impacted by the tragic blaze Thursday and Friday at <a href="https://hayspost.com/">HaysPost.com</a>.&nbsp;

UPCOMING: Year after Four County Fire, ranchers still recovering

Imagine Ellis County: Show us your Best of 2023

The annual Battle of the Badges blood drive will be held in Hays December 22nd and 23rd at the Big Creek Crossing Mall. 

Participants will make blood donations in support of Ellis County law enforcement, emergency medical services, or firefighters. Donors will receive a long-sleeve t-shirt. 

“Battle of the Badges” is sponsored by Hays High School JAG-K and the Hays Optimist Club. 

Appointments can be made online and walk-ins are always welcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671020799899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe annual Battle of the Badges blood drive will be held in Hays December 22nd and 23rd at the Big Creek Crossing Mall. Participants will make blood donations in support of Ellis County law enforcement, emergency medical services, or firefighters. Donors will receive a long-sleeve t-shirt. “Battle of the Badges” is sponsored by Hays High School JAG-K and the Hays Optimist Club. Appointments can be made online and walk-ins are always welcome.

Ellis County first responders are 'out for blood' during Battle of the Badges

This weekend, Fort Hays State University is set to celebrate
the accomplishments of more than 1,100 fall graduates through in-person and online ceremonies
over two days.

“It's the culmination of a lot
of blood, sweat and tears and the joy you see on the faces of those folks as
they walk across the stage and shake President (Tisa) Mason's hand, and then they
embrace their families,” said Scott Cason, chief communications officer. “There's
nothing quite like it. It really reinforces the good work we do at Fort Hays
State University.”

At
9 a.m. Friday in Gross Memorial Coliseum, the ceremony for undergraduate,
master’s and Ed.S. candidates from the Robbins College of Business and
Entrepreneurship, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Werth
College of Science, Technology and Mathematics is set to take place.

At 11 a.m., graduates from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
and College of Education undergraduate, master’s and Ed.S. candidates will
take the stage.

On
Saturday, the university is set to honor graduate students in a virtual
ceremony at 9 a.m. and undergraduates at 11 a.m.

“One of the things we learned really from the COVID experience was, we had to break our one major
ceremony into several smaller ones, just to make it, we thought safer and
things like that, so there was a model that really worked for us,” Cason said.
“And so we're going to do it again.”

This year’s fall commencement
marks only the second time FHSU has had a December graduation ceremony.

“We're doing it again, it was
so successful last year,” Cason said. “We break into several ceremonies that
are smaller, more intimate, and they're quicker. It's not quite the huge event
that it once was.”

“This enables us to pretty
much get folks in and out of a ceremony within an hour,” he said. “So,
it's been really well received. We're going to keep with that model again, here
in the fall, and then again in the spring.”

And adding the virtual event allows the thousands of
students that attend FHSU online to be celebrated as well.

“Adding virtual ceremonies, as
we've done recently, helps for those folks who can't make it,” Cason said. “But
there's always a great story about somebody. Often it's somebody who's a member
of the military service who finds a way to get back and participate in the
ceremonies. But we try to offer as many options as we can ... to
give everybody we can as much of a commencement celebration as we can.”

The graduation ceremonies
will be broadcast on FHSU’s Tiger Media Network, <a href="http://tmn.fhsu.edu/">tmn.fhsu.edu.</a>

“With the way we’ve broken up our ceremonies, it’s a lot easier to watch,” Cason said.
“You can go right to your ceremony and watch it right there, get in and out. It
really lends itself to folks who don't have all the time in the world to sit on
their YouTube channel.”

For those attending in person, he said it is easier than ever to find parking near the coliseum, but shuttles will again run from other campus parking areas.

“Faculty
and staff are encouraged to park on campus and make the trip to cross Big
Creek over to Gross Memorial from campus parking,” Cason said. “The biggest
challenge I think we have is that transition space between the ceremonies when
folks get out of the parking lot and open up the spaces for the next group
coming in. We really encourage folks not to linger too long.”

For
more information about the commencement ceremonies, visit <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/commencement/">fhsu.edu/commencement</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639768586894.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="FHSU to celebrate Fall graduates this weekend" 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=w9mkx-133966f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThis weekend, Fort Hays State University is set to celebrate
the accomplishments of more than 1,100 fall graduates through in-person and online ceremonies
over two days.“It's the culmination of a lot
of blood, sweat and tears and the joy you see on the faces of those folks as
they walk across the stage and shake President (Tisa) Mason's hand, and then they
embrace their families,” said Scott Cason, chief communications officer. “There's
nothing quite like it. It really reinforces the good work we do at Fort Hays
State University.”At
9 a.m. Friday in Gross Memorial Coliseum, the ceremony for undergraduate,
master’s and Ed.S. candidates from the Robbins College of Business and
Entrepreneurship, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Werth
College of Science, Technology and Mathematics is set to take place.At 11 a.m., graduates from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
and College of Education undergraduate, master’s and Ed.S. candidates will
take the stage.On
Saturday, the university is set to honor graduate students in a virtual
ceremony at 9 a.m. and undergraduates at 11 a.m.“One of the things we learned really from the COVID experience was, we had to break our one major
ceremony into several smaller ones, just to make it, we thought safer and
things like that, so there was a model that really worked for us,” Cason said.
“And so we're going to do it again.”This year’s fall commencement
marks only the second time FHSU has had a December graduation ceremony.“We're doing it again, it was
so successful last year,” Cason said. “We break into several ceremonies that
are smaller, more intimate, and they're quicker. It's not quite the huge event
that it once was.”“This enables us to pretty
much get folks in and out of a ceremony within an hour,” he said. “So,
it's been really well received. We're going to keep with that model again, here
in the fall, and then again in the spring.”And adding the virtual event allows the thousands of
students that attend FHSU online to be celebrated as well.“Adding virtual ceremonies, as
we've done recently, helps for those folks who can't make it,” Cason said. “But
there's always a great story about somebody. Often it's somebody who's a member
of the military service who finds a way to get back and participate in the
ceremonies. But we try to offer as many options as we can ... to
give everybody we can as much of a commencement celebration as we can.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639774136591.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The graduation ceremonies
will be broadcast on FHSU’s Tiger Media Network, <a href="http://tmn.fhsu.edu/">tmn.fhsu.edu.</a>“With the way we’ve broken up our ceremonies, it’s a lot easier to watch,” Cason said.
“You can go right to your ceremony and watch it right there, get in and out. It
really lends itself to folks who don't have all the time in the world to sit on
their YouTube channel.”For those attending in person, he said it is easier than ever to find parking near the coliseum, but shuttles will again run from other campus parking areas.“Faculty
and staff are encouraged to park on campus and make the trip to cross Big
Creek over to Gross Memorial from campus parking,” Cason said. “The biggest
challenge I think we have is that transition space between the ceremonies when
folks get out of the parking lot and open up the spaces for the next group
coming in. We really encourage folks not to linger too long.”For
more information about the commencement ceremonies, visit <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/commencement/">fhsu.edu/commencement</a>. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575759417336.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Fort Hays State to celebrate fall graduates this weekend

When residents of Hays, Kan., order a Domino’s pizza for delivery, it will arrive on their doorstep in a brightly colored, all-electric 2023 Chevy Bolt.&nbsp; That’s because the Domino’s franchise owner in Hays converted his entire delivery fleet to six Bolts in December, becoming the first Domino’s in Kansas to have an electric vehicle, and one of a few stores&nbsp;nationwide to transition its entire delivery fleet to electric vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shawn Friedman, who along with his wife Cynthia, are the owner/operators of Domino’s in Hays and Great Bend and have decades of experience in the pizza business.&nbsp; Shawn worked every aspect of the pizza business in his 20 years at Domino’s, starting as a pizza maker and delivery driver, working his way up eventually managing eight stores in the Albuquerque area.&nbsp; Cynthia worked in human resources for the same company.&nbsp; The opportunity to own their own store came in late 2019 when they bought the Hays franchise.&nbsp; The duo saw another opportunity as nearby Great Bend had no Domino’s, so they opened a new store there in December 2021.

Shawn has seen trends in the industry come and go, but when Domino’s corporate began promoting delivery of pizzas in electric vehicles, he knew they were on to something.&nbsp;

“Our delivery drivers typically run about 150 miles each night, but our delivery area is relatively small,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “Considering the Bolt’s range of about 259 miles per charge, they are perfect for our business model.&nbsp; Our delivery radius is three miles, so our drivers are doing a lot of short back-and-forth trips, which normally burns a lot of gas.&nbsp; We can get a full day’s work out of each car, charging those that need it at the store each night when we’re closed.”

However, it’s unlikely that each car will need to be charged nightly.&nbsp; That’s because electric vehicles have regenerative braking, which recharges the battery whenever the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting.

“Regenerative braking is why electric vehicles are well-suited for city driving,” said Jake VonLintel, Midwest Energy’s Energy Technology Specialist, who consulted with the Friedman’s as they made their decision to transition their fleet. &nbsp;“Stop-and-go driving in town recharges the battery efficiently, improving battery range and decreasing the need to plug into a charger as often.”

The vehicles are leased through an agreement with Enterprise Rent-A-Car®, which standardizes the appearance of all Domino’s Bolts nationwide.&nbsp; Shawn sees value in the brightly marked vehicles always on the road, with reflective wraps advertising the Domino’s brand.&nbsp; Financially, he expects the arrangement will “break even, maybe better” than the current model of paying mileage to drivers to use their personal vehicles.&nbsp; But there are even stronger motivators than money for encouraging them to take the leap into electric vehicles. “We think it will help us in hiring and retaining drivers,” Cynthia said, a challenge in Hays, where the unemployment rate rarely tops two percent.&nbsp;

"We have lost candidates who don’t have access to a reliable vehicle, or perhaps only have one family vehicle that can’t be tied up for pizza delivery,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “Delivery is a huge part of our business in Hays, and we can’t operate without drivers, so company-owned Bolts are a perfect fit for our situation.”&nbsp;

Shawn added&nbsp;there’s also a “cool factor” with the Bolts, which have fewer levers and knobs than a conventional car, instead relying on push-buttons and glass display screens.&nbsp;

“Our drivers were competing over who got to drive the Bolts when they entered service in early December, but first we had to teach them about all of the features of the car, because they’re a little different than a regular car,” Shawn said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shawn added that electric vehicles aren’t a perfect solution for every business, especially those that drive long distances each day in remote areas, or those which haul heavy loads.&nbsp; For long trips, his family car remains a Toyota Camry Hybrid (with Domino’s markings, of course).&nbsp; And the carryout business is stronger at his Great Bend store, so he has not ordered Bolts for that location…. Yet.

“We’re kind of pioneers in this regard, and a lot of people will be looking at us to see how this works,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “We’ve done the research, and we think there a lot of positives using electric vehicles for deliveries.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670957498353.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Midwest Energy" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Midwest Energy</figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest EnergyWhen residents of Hays, Kan., order a Domino’s pizza for delivery, it will arrive on their doorstep in a brightly colored, all-electric 2023 Chevy Bolt.&nbsp; That’s because the Domino’s franchise owner in Hays converted his entire delivery fleet to six Bolts in December, becoming the first Domino’s in Kansas to have an electric vehicle, and one of a few stores&nbsp;nationwide to transition its entire delivery fleet to electric vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn Friedman, who along with his wife Cynthia, are the owner/operators of Domino’s in Hays and Great Bend and have decades of experience in the pizza business.&nbsp; Shawn worked every aspect of the pizza business in his 20 years at Domino’s, starting as a pizza maker and delivery driver, working his way up eventually managing eight stores in the Albuquerque area.&nbsp; Cynthia worked in human resources for the same company.&nbsp; The opportunity to own their own store came in late 2019 when they bought the Hays franchise.&nbsp; The duo saw another opportunity as nearby Great Bend had no Domino’s, so they opened a new store there in December 2021.Shawn has seen trends in the industry come and go, but when Domino’s corporate began promoting delivery of pizzas in electric vehicles, he knew they were on to something.&nbsp;“Our delivery drivers typically run about 150 miles each night, but our delivery area is relatively small,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “Considering the Bolt’s range of about 259 miles per charge, they are perfect for our business model.&nbsp; Our delivery radius is three miles, so our drivers are doing a lot of short back-and-forth trips, which normally burns a lot of gas.&nbsp; We can get a full day’s work out of each car, charging those that need it at the store each night when we’re closed.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670957553080.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Midwest Energy" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Midwest Energy</figcaption>
 </figure>However, it’s unlikely that each car will need to be charged nightly.&nbsp; That’s because electric vehicles have regenerative braking, which recharges the battery whenever the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting.“Regenerative braking is why electric vehicles are well-suited for city driving,” said Jake VonLintel, Midwest Energy’s Energy Technology Specialist, who consulted with the Friedman’s as they made their decision to transition their fleet. &nbsp;“Stop-and-go driving in town recharges the battery efficiently, improving battery range and decreasing the need to plug into a charger as often.”The vehicles are leased through an agreement with Enterprise Rent-A-Car®, which standardizes the appearance of all Domino’s Bolts nationwide.&nbsp; Shawn sees value in the brightly marked vehicles always on the road, with reflective wraps advertising the Domino’s brand.&nbsp; Financially, he expects the arrangement will “break even, maybe better” than the current model of paying mileage to drivers to use their personal vehicles.&nbsp; But there are even stronger motivators than money for encouraging them to take the leap into electric vehicles. “We think it will help us in hiring and retaining drivers,” Cynthia said, a challenge in Hays, where the unemployment rate rarely tops two percent.&nbsp;"We have lost candidates who don’t have access to a reliable vehicle, or perhaps only have one family vehicle that can’t be tied up for pizza delivery,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “Delivery is a huge part of our business in Hays, and we can’t operate without drivers, so company-owned Bolts are a perfect fit for our situation.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670957587254.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Shawn added&nbsp;there’s also a “cool factor” with the Bolts, which have fewer levers and knobs than a conventional car, instead relying on push-buttons and glass display screens.&nbsp;“Our drivers were competing over who got to drive the Bolts when they entered service in early December, but first we had to teach them about all of the features of the car, because they’re a little different than a regular car,” Shawn said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shawn added that electric vehicles aren’t a perfect solution for every business, especially those that drive long distances each day in remote areas, or those which haul heavy loads.&nbsp; For long trips, his family car remains a Toyota Camry Hybrid (with Domino’s markings, of course).&nbsp; And the carryout business is stronger at his Great Bend store, so he has not ordered Bolts for that location…. Yet.“We’re kind of pioneers in this regard, and a lot of people will be looking at us to see how this works,” Shawn said.&nbsp; “We’ve done the research, and we think there a lot of positives using electric vehicles for deliveries.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays Domino’s first in Kansas with all-electric delivery fleet

The “Little Town of Bethlehem” Nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors from 1 t 5 p.m. Dec. 18 and 25 from 1-5pm. Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling (785) 735-9282. This is the 96th year of the Nativity, begun by Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927. Over the years, the Nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas. Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee.&nbsp; Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. A special section of the Nativity is dedicated to veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few.&nbsp;

The Nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background.&nbsp; Four trickling waterfalls,&nbsp; animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927. St. Boniface Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and 2 miles east.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670336389490.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe “Little Town of Bethlehem” Nativity at St. Boniface Catholic Church, Vincent will be open for visitors from 1 t 5 p.m. Dec. 18 and 25 from 1-5pm. Appointments can also be made at any other time by calling (785) 735-9282. This is the 96th year of the Nativity, begun by Fr. Callistus Rectenwald in 1927. Over the years, the Nativity has become a worldwide representation of Christmas. Rocks from all 50 states and 105 countries surround the scene, in particular rocks from the Cave of Lourdes and the Sea of Galilee.&nbsp; Infant Jesus is from Spain, and Mary, Joseph and the Three Kings are from Germany. A special section of the Nativity is dedicated to veterans who could not be home for Christmas over the years, featuring rocks from Germany, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Wake Island and Christmas Island to name a few.&nbsp; The Nativity has had special lighting effects added the last few years - a color changing rock show and a neon blue-lit sky in the background.&nbsp; Four trickling waterfalls,&nbsp; animals and shepherds dot the scene surrounding the Bethlehem Inn, and the stable made from a nearby pear tree in 1927. St. Boniface Church is located 5.5 miles south of Victoria and 2 miles east.

Little Town of Bethlehem Nativity open two more Sundays

Studies show people spend almost 40 percent of their life at work. Why not spend that time enjoying your work while becoming an owner? 

Eagle Communications is growing and we are looking for motivated individuals. Jobs include marketing consultants, radio announcers, traffic and business office, and IT support. 

To learn more, attend our job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall St., Hays. 

Eagle is an employee-owned company and an EEO employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Studies show people spend almost 40 percent of their life at work. Why not spend that time enjoying your work while becoming an owner? Eagle Communications is growing and we are looking for motivated individuals. Jobs include marketing consultants, radio announcers, traffic and business office, and IT support. To learn more, attend our job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall St., Hays. Eagle is an employee-owned company and an EEO employer.

Job fair scheduled Thursday at Eagle Media Center

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher The Christmas season is a time of joy and anticipation. For weeks the Christmas Spirit grows with every decoration hung, carol sung and sweet treat consumed. The ultimate height of anticipation, especially for children is drafting a wish list for Santa. I vividly remember the anticipation that came each year of my childhood with the arrival of the JC Penny “Wish Book.” My brother and I spent hours examining every page and letting our imaginations run wild with just how cool and glamourous our lives would be with each toy. By the time we were done that poor book was marked and highlighted with so many circles even Santa couldn’t figure out what we wanted. There is a sad nostalgia for me in knowing “Wish Books” have faded away. Children today really don’t understand what they are missing. That is one of the beautiful things about children, they can manifest anticipation, imagination and joy just about everywhere they look. It rarely matters the cost of quality of the gift, in their mind the cheapest items can be great treasures and expensive gifts may not be any better at holding attention any longer. Children are quick to joy, imagination and seeing the possibility in all things.&nbsp; At some point though our ideas about gifts change. Teenage desires are fueled by the coolest brands and newest electronics, but as most of the world can’t really understand them you are almost better giving them a gift card. In our early adult years, our desires move to more practical things motivated by the gaps in our lives left by the new world of adulting. I remember when I was first out of college asking for exciting things like new tires for my car, a vacuum cleaner and a whole list of kitchen appliances. At some point in the last decade, I reached the point where I have everything I need to be happy. Gifts stopped being a source of anticipation, and a wish list became more a chore than a dream. My anticipation at the holidays has shifted from dreaming about what I want to give. Giving has become a source of great joy for me. My anticipation builds each year while I search and puzzle over gifts that will make my loved ones light up with joy. It isn’t always easy, we all have that one person who wants things that are completely unrealistic like a time-travel machine, world peace or a new sports car. The best gifts are rarely expensive or trendy, they are usually practical and may seem a bit strange to anyone but the recipient. However, they show your loved ones how much you listen to them and want them to be happy. Great gifts feel so good because it is like being told, “I like you exactly as you are.” None of the items on my Christmas list will make or break my holiday season. I make my list so my loved ones can have the joy of getting me something that shows their love, even though I really only care about spending time together. As you finish your holiday shopping this year don’t stress over the perfect gift, remember it really doesn’t matter if you buy them a smart phone, muck boots or a nice dinner together. The true joy of the season will come from participating in traditions, making memories and knowing how blessed we are to be together with people we love.

"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/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher The Christmas season is a time of joy and anticipation. For weeks the Christmas Spirit grows with every decoration hung, carol sung and sweet treat consumed. The ultimate height of anticipation, especially for children is drafting a wish list for Santa. I vividly remember the anticipation that came each year of my childhood with the arrival of the JC Penny “Wish Book.” My brother and I spent hours examining every page and letting our imaginations run wild with just how cool and glamourous our lives would be with each toy. By the time we were done that poor book was marked and highlighted with so many circles even Santa couldn’t figure out what we wanted. There is a sad nostalgia for me in knowing “Wish Books” have faded away. Children today really don’t understand what they are missing. That is one of the beautiful things about children, they can manifest anticipation, imagination and joy just about everywhere they look. It rarely matters the cost of quality of the gift, in their mind the cheapest items can be great treasures and expensive gifts may not be any better at holding attention any longer. Children are quick to joy, imagination and seeing the possibility in all things.&nbsp; At some point though our ideas about gifts change. Teenage desires are fueled by the coolest brands and newest electronics, but as most of the world can’t really understand them you are almost better giving them a gift card. In our early adult years, our desires move to more practical things motivated by the gaps in our lives left by the new world of adulting. I remember when I was first out of college asking for exciting things like new tires for my car, a vacuum cleaner and a whole list of kitchen appliances. At some point in the last decade, I reached the point where I have everything I need to be happy. Gifts stopped being a source of anticipation, and a wish list became more a chore than a dream. My anticipation at the holidays has shifted from dreaming about what I want to give. Giving has become a source of great joy for me. My anticipation builds each year while I search and puzzle over gifts that will make my loved ones light up with joy. It isn’t always easy, we all have that one person who wants things that are completely unrealistic like a time-travel machine, world peace or a new sports car. The best gifts are rarely expensive or trendy, they are usually practical and may seem a bit strange to anyone but the recipient. However, they show your loved ones how much you listen to them and want them to be happy. Great gifts feel so good because it is like being told, “I like you exactly as you are.” None of the items on my Christmas list will make or break my holiday season. I make my list so my loved ones can have the joy of getting me something that shows their love, even though I really only care about spending time together. As you finish your holiday shopping this year don’t stress over the perfect gift, remember it really doesn’t matter if you buy them a smart phone, muck boots or a nice dinner together. The true joy of the season will come from participating in traditions, making memories and knowing how blessed we are to be together with people we love."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: The greatest gifts

<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/2022/12/1670952610816.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

Last Tuesday morning, I harvested this year’s deer, a 2 ½ year old buck just right for the freezer. The morning hunts were not without there setbacks, however. Opening morning as I left town, the steering on my pickup seemed a little “spongy,” and a quick stop revealed a low tire, causing me to head back home for air. I had gotten up late to begin with, so the sun was up when I got to the field, and 2 deer were already grazing just below our blind. Another morning as I left town, I realized my hearing aids&nbsp;weren’t&nbsp;in, meaning another quick trip&nbsp;back&nbsp;to the house.&nbsp;These little inconveniences reminded me of a&nbsp;much worse morning&nbsp;deer hunt 10 years ago that could have been called “Doomed from the Start.”

One&nbsp;cold, frosty December morning&nbsp;several&nbsp;winters ago,&nbsp;I slowly steered my pickup into the midst of several weathered old hay bales, and stepped out into the crisp, pre-dawn air. With the full moon illuminating the landscape like a spotlight and the frost making everything underfoot crunch like cornflakes, slipping in to our deer blind unnoticed that&nbsp;morning would&nbsp;have been&nbsp;like trying to slip into the house past mom when I was a kid and had stayed out past curfew. I crossed&nbsp;a&nbsp;stubble field and as I entered&nbsp;an adjoining&nbsp;meadow, I began hearing a strange quiet sort of popping sound; kind of like one of those kids push toys that pops a ping pong ball around inside as its pushed across the floor.&nbsp;Maybe it was just my old arthritic joints cracking and popping like Jiffy Pop popcorn with every step, but I stood still for&nbsp;a while&nbsp;and the sound still continued. Baffled at what I heard, I strode onward.

I’d taken just a couple more steps when an enormous eruption somewhere in front of me stopped me cold. &nbsp;I instinctively reeled backwards, and starring skyward, found the bright moonlit sky filled with the huge black shapes of wild turkeys, looking for all the world like beach balls with wings as they scattered to the four winds. Then it hit me that many times I had heard hen turkeys make that familiar quiet popping sound as they milled around me during turkey hunts. For anyone who has never seen or heard wild turkeys come down from a roost in the morning, it’s about the loudest, most awkward and unscripted event you’ll ever witness, and that’s when&nbsp;it’s planned by the turkeys themselves and not because of some intruder like me. When the dust settled, the moonlight revealed numerous more roosted in the trees all around me. I remember starring at all those black shapes in the trees and thinking “This aint’ gonna’ end well,” when, like shots from a roman candle, every few seconds another group would leave their perches and scatter in a different direction. And finally, as if any deer were still left in this part of the township, the last group set sail and glided right through the middle of the very woodlot I’d hoped would produce a deer for me this morning! Every fiber of my being told me “Just go back home to bed; you tried but your hunt is surely ruined for the morning,” but I regained my composure, readjusted my now warm wet shorts, and continued on anyway.&nbsp;

Next&nbsp;came a shortcut across a creek to our blind.&nbsp;We&nbsp;had pruned limbs to clear a path and formed steps into the creek bank, all in the name of getting to the blind quietly in the dark, even though that was obviously not a consideration any more this morning. I shone the flashlight down into the creek, and what had been a dry creek bed before a recent rain was now a frozen moat&nbsp;of paper-thin ice.&nbsp;It was already going to be a little uncomfortable sitting in the blind in warm wet drawers, so the last thing I needed now was to add two wet muddy boots to my outfit,so I opted to go around. That meant crossing the meadow again, crossing the creek at a nearby culvert and taking the long way around, all in the bright moonlight. The upside was that there were probably no more turkeys left to spook. The&nbsp;downside was that there were probably no more deer left to spook either! To any deer that might have stopped for a look back as they left the territory, the bright moonlight probably made me look like I was wrapped from head-to-toe in blinking white Christmas lights.&nbsp;

Our blind&nbsp;was&nbsp;a trailer with a camper shell on top that had&nbsp;two sliding windows in front. The insides of all the windows were frosted over, which we are used to, but as I tried to slide open the two front windows, I found them frozen shut (well of course they were.) I found an ice scraper and placing it sideways against one of the windows, I preceded to rap on it with my fist until one-at-a-time both windows broke free and slid open. As things stood now, any living thing not spooked from the property by the turkey explosion or rousted from the area by the eerie hulking figure wrapped in white Christmas lights was surely driven from the territory by the sound of a jack-hammer being run from inside our hunting blind.

At this point, I might as well have stood on top of the trailer and sung the&nbsp;Star Spangled Banner at the top of my lungs as the sun came up, or built a roaring fire in the middle of the stubble field; it would have made little difference in the outcome of my Saturday morning deer hunt. Sometimes all the preparation in the world just can’t outwit&nbsp;Mother&nbsp;Nature.&nbsp;Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Last Tuesday morning, I harvested this year’s deer, a 2 ½ year old buck just right for the freezer. The morning hunts were not without there setbacks, however. Opening morning as I left town, the steering on my pickup seemed a little “spongy,” and a quick stop revealed a low tire, causing me to head back home for air. I had gotten up late to begin with, so the sun was up when I got to the field, and 2 deer were already grazing just below our blind. Another morning as I left town, I realized my hearing aids&nbsp;weren’t&nbsp;in, meaning another quick trip&nbsp;back&nbsp;to the house.&nbsp;These little inconveniences reminded me of a&nbsp;much worse morning&nbsp;deer hunt 10 years ago that could have been called “Doomed from the Start.”One&nbsp;cold, frosty December morning&nbsp;several&nbsp;winters ago,&nbsp;I slowly steered my pickup into the midst of several weathered old hay bales, and stepped out into the crisp, pre-dawn air. With the full moon illuminating the landscape like a spotlight and the frost making everything underfoot crunch like cornflakes, slipping in to our deer blind unnoticed that&nbsp;morning would&nbsp;have been&nbsp;like trying to slip into the house past mom when I was a kid and had stayed out past curfew. I crossed&nbsp;a&nbsp;stubble field and as I entered&nbsp;an adjoining&nbsp;meadow, I began hearing a strange quiet sort of popping sound; kind of like one of those kids push toys that pops a ping pong ball around inside as its pushed across the floor.&nbsp;Maybe it was just my old arthritic joints cracking and popping like Jiffy Pop popcorn with every step, but I stood still for&nbsp;a while&nbsp;and the sound still continued. Baffled at what I heard, I strode onward.I’d taken just a couple more steps when an enormous eruption somewhere in front of me stopped me cold. &nbsp;I instinctively reeled backwards, and starring skyward, found the bright moonlit sky filled with the huge black shapes of wild turkeys, looking for all the world like beach balls with wings as they scattered to the four winds. Then it hit me that many times I had heard hen turkeys make that familiar quiet popping sound as they milled around me during turkey hunts. For anyone who has never seen or heard wild turkeys come down from a roost in the morning, it’s about the loudest, most awkward and unscripted event you’ll ever witness, and that’s when&nbsp;it’s planned by the turkeys themselves and not because of some intruder like me. When the dust settled, the moonlight revealed numerous more roosted in the trees all around me. I remember starring at all those black shapes in the trees and thinking “This aint’ gonna’ end well,” when, like shots from a roman candle, every few seconds another group would leave their perches and scatter in a different direction. And finally, as if any deer were still left in this part of the township, the last group set sail and glided right through the middle of the very woodlot I’d hoped would produce a deer for me this morning! Every fiber of my being told me “Just go back home to bed; you tried but your hunt is surely ruined for the morning,” but I regained my composure, readjusted my now warm wet shorts, and continued on anyway.&nbsp;Next&nbsp;came a shortcut across a creek to our blind.&nbsp;We&nbsp;had pruned limbs to clear a path and formed steps into the creek bank, all in the name of getting to the blind quietly in the dark, even though that was obviously not a consideration any more this morning. I shone the flashlight down into the creek, and what had been a dry creek bed before a recent rain was now a frozen moat&nbsp;of paper-thin ice.&nbsp;It was already going to be a little uncomfortable sitting in the blind in warm wet drawers, so the last thing I needed now was to add two wet muddy boots to my outfit,so I opted to go around. That meant crossing the meadow again, crossing the creek at a nearby culvert and taking the long way around, all in the bright moonlight. The upside was that there were probably no more turkeys left to spook. The&nbsp;downside was that there were probably no more deer left to spook either! To any deer that might have stopped for a look back as they left the territory, the bright moonlight probably made me look like I was wrapped from head-to-toe in blinking white Christmas lights.&nbsp;Our blind&nbsp;was&nbsp;a trailer with a camper shell on top that had&nbsp;two sliding windows in front. The insides of all the windows were frosted over, which we are used to, but as I tried to slide open the two front windows, I found them frozen shut (well of course they were.) I found an ice scraper and placing it sideways against one of the windows, I preceded to rap on it with my fist until one-at-a-time both windows broke free and slid open. As things stood now, any living thing not spooked from the property by the turkey explosion or rousted from the area by the eerie hulking figure wrapped in white Christmas lights was surely driven from the territory by the sound of a jack-hammer being run from inside our hunting blind.At this point, I might as well have stood on top of the trailer and sung the&nbsp;Star Spangled Banner at the top of my lungs as the sun came up, or built a roaring fire in the middle of the stubble field; it would have made little difference in the outcome of my Saturday morning deer hunt. Sometimes all the preparation in the world just can’t outwit&nbsp;Mother&nbsp;Nature.&nbsp;Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: What next?

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound Interstate 70 at WaKeeney.

KDOT encourages motorists to buckle up and stay alert for changing road and weather conditions.

For the latest information on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2F0.0.7.228%2F2019%2FTemplates%2Fwww.kandrive.org&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLisa.Mussman%40ks.gov%7Cde324bb4f6a94695a02608dadd441413%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C638065581921064704%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hWsQmRhubkvOTBgtew3S63maCTixekQeM%2B5H0OoiEz8%3D&amp;reserved=0">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597694281633.jpeg" alt="KDOT logo sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KDOT logo sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound Interstate 70 at WaKeeney.KDOT encourages motorists to buckle up and stay alert for changing road and weather conditions.For the latest information on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2F0.0.7.228%2F2019%2FTemplates%2Fwww.kandrive.org&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLisa.Mussman%40ks.gov%7Cde324bb4f6a94695a02608dadd441413%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C638065581921064704%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hWsQmRhubkvOTBgtew3S63maCTixekQeM%2B5H0OoiEz8%3D&amp;reserved=0">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

Interstate 70 westbound traffic reopened in Kansas 

The TMP-Marian basketball games schedule for Tuesday against
Oakley have been postponed.

The TMP-Marian basketball games schedule for Tuesday against
Oakley have been postponed.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ftmpmarian%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02rDpLjT7dmkFh1xCMzV9dJrESZ6sZfrbRhYfg2Svtk9VnXf69vRKxZQkbK6sZxKYEl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="486" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>No makeup date has been announced.TMP will travel to Stockon on Friday.

🏀TMP basketball vs Oakley postponed

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff share the importance of shopping local during the holiday season.

<div><iframe title="As area shoppers search for Christmas gifts Hays Chamber promotes shopping locally" 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=5yq34-133961c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff share the importance of shopping local during the holiday season.

🎙 Post Podcast: As area shoppers search for Christmas gifts Hays Chamber promotes shopping locally

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It was a misty Monday in Hays that culminated in a noisy thunderstorm about 9 p.m.

The thunder and lightning brought 0.68 of rain, according to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town.&nbsp;

It was the first recorded precipitation this month for the city.

Hays is more than six inches below average moisture for the year, according to the 153-year cumulative record.

As of Tuesday, Hays has received 16.25 inches of precipitation in 2022. The average amount is 22.78 inches by the end of December.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591720292597.jpeg" alt="(File photo by James Bell/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>(File photo by James Bell/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt was a misty Monday in Hays that culminated in a noisy thunderstorm about 9 p.m.The thunder and lightning brought 0.68 of rain, according to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town.&nbsp;It was the first recorded precipitation this month for the city.Hays is more than six inches below average moisture for the year, according to the 153-year cumulative record.As of Tuesday, Hays has received 16.25 inches of precipitation in 2022. The average amount is 22.78 inches by the end of December.&nbsp;

Monday rain helps, but Hays still 6" behind average moisture

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Two men accused in the armed robbery of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d523281-0396-4e58-8408-b55867c02a0b">Hays Dollar
General this summer</a> both pleaded not guilty to several charges this month in
Ellis County District Court.

On Monday, Batalova Olatide Senuoke, 38, Columbus, Ohio, pleaded
not guilty to four felony counts in connection with the July 24 <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d523281-0396-4e58-8408-b55867c02a0b">armed robbery
</a>of the Dollar General Store at 1208 E. 27th, Hays.

Senuoke was charged with aggravated robbery, conspiracy to commit
aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and criminal possession of a weapon by a
felon.

According to the Hays Police Department, Senuoke entered the
Dollar General at approximately 10:30 a.m. July 24 and threatened the
cashier with a gun. He left the store with the money and then Senuoke and two
other suspects fled the area. 

Their vehicle was located in Oakley and, after a brief chase
involving the Kansas Highway Patrol, all three suspects were taken into custody just 12:30
p.m. July 24.

In Kansas, if convicted for aggravated robbery, Senuoke
faces between 55 and 247 months in prison. 

The conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery charge carries a
sentence of 31 to 136 months. The potential sentence for aggravated battery is
11 to 34 months and for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon the sentence
is seven to 33 months. All four felony charges also carry a fine.

The state anticipates Senuoke’s criminal history will be the
highest of the sentencing grid and he could face the maximum penalty on all
four charges.

Bryan Anthony Parsley, 42, Columbus, Ohio, was identified as
the second suspect allegedly involved in the robbery.

On Friday, Parsley pleaded not guilty to one felony count of conspiracy
to commit aggravated robbery and a misdemeanor charge of theft.

A third person — an unidentified female — was also taken into
custody following the incident in July but has not been charged.

The court has scheduled a status hearing for later this
month to determine if they will join the cases and try them together or separate.

If there is a jury trial or trials, they would be held sometime
next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670891099222.png" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostTwo men accused in the armed robbery of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d523281-0396-4e58-8408-b55867c02a0b">Hays Dollar
General this summer</a> both pleaded not guilty to several charges this month in
Ellis County District Court.On Monday, Batalova Olatide Senuoke, 38, Columbus, Ohio, pleaded
not guilty to four felony counts in connection with the July 24 <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8d523281-0396-4e58-8408-b55867c02a0b">armed robbery
</a>of the Dollar General Store at 1208 E. 27th, Hays.Senuoke was charged with aggravated robbery, conspiracy to commit
aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and criminal possession of a weapon by a
felon.According to the Hays Police Department, Senuoke entered the
Dollar General at approximately 10:30 a.m. July 24 and threatened the
cashier with a gun. He left the store with the money and then Senuoke and two
other suspects fled the area. Their vehicle was located in Oakley and, after a brief chase
involving the Kansas Highway Patrol, all three suspects were taken into custody just 12:30
p.m. July 24.In Kansas, if convicted for aggravated robbery, Senuoke
faces between 55 and 247 months in prison. The conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery charge carries a
sentence of 31 to 136 months. The potential sentence for aggravated battery is
11 to 34 months and for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon the sentence
is seven to 33 months. All four felony charges also carry a fine.The state anticipates Senuoke’s criminal history will be the
highest of the sentencing grid and he could face the maximum penalty on all
four charges.Bryan Anthony Parsley, 42, Columbus, Ohio, was identified as
the second suspect allegedly involved in the robbery.On Friday, Parsley pleaded not guilty to one felony count of conspiracy
to commit aggravated robbery and a misdemeanor charge of theft.A third person — an unidentified female — was also taken into
custody following the incident in July but has not been charged.The court has scheduled a status hearing for later this
month to determine if they will join the cases and try them together or separate.If there is a jury trial or trials, they would be held sometime
next year.

Two Ohio men charged in Hays Dollar General robbery

OSBORNE COUNTY — A Kansas man died in a house fire early Monday in Osborne.

Just after 5 a.m. Monday, crews responded to a house fire at 335 South 3rd Street in Osborne, according to Police Chief&nbsp;Matt Pasilas.

As crew arrived, they found the home fully engulfed in flames. 

 During the investigation it was determined that a 32-year-old&nbsp; David Dean, who resides at the residence did not make it out of the structure.&nbsp; He was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was recovered in the north east corner of the residence. 

The State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire.

OSBORNE COUNTY — A Kansas man died in a house fire early Monday in Osborne.Just after 5 a.m. Monday, crews responded to a house fire at 335 South 3rd Street in Osborne, according to Police Chief&nbsp;Matt Pasilas. As crew arrived, they found the home fully engulfed in flames. During the investigation it was determined that a 32-year-old&nbsp; David Dean, who resides at the residence did not make it out of the structure.&nbsp; He was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was recovered in the north east corner of the residence. The State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Police ID NW Kansas man who died in house fire

Donors can participate in several fundraisers during the next couple of weeks to help the United Way reach its annual fundraising goal.

The United Way has brought back its Dine Out Days Raffle. Three buckets of gift cards will be given away with each bucket containing at least $400 of gift cards to area eateries. In all, $1,600 in gift cards were donated for the project.

"Those are donated by businesses and individuals," said Erica Berges, United Way director. "We are very appreciative of how the restaurants really get behind this all the years we have had it."

Tickets are $5 each or five for $20. Tickets can be purchased online by <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/civicrm/event/register?cid=0&amp;reset=1&amp;id=40&amp;fbclid=IwAR1qg_BmjqxalQ-JuAMKrDeJNdwQRk3AKs-93LTWbdwrpO6FDrNj88E0v_s">CLICKING HERE</a>. They also can be purchased at the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, or from a United Way board member.

The drawing will be Monday, Dec. 19, which has been moved back from the original drawing date.

In addition, the United Way will have a pop-up bar from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Dec. 17, at The Strand in Hays. The Strand will be decorated to the nines for Christmas. The Press will serve holiday appetizers and finger foods, and a cash bar will be available with special cocktails for the evening.

Entertainment will include karaoke, live music, trivia and a photo booth.

Tickets for the come-and-go event will be $20. Only 200 tickets will be sold. <a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-pop-up-bar-at-the-strand-benefiting-united-way-of-ellis-county-tickets-478183909947">Tickets can be purchased online.</a> If tickets don't sell out in advance, there might be an opportunity to purchase tickets at the door.

United Way is one of the nonprofits that will benefit from visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus at Simply Charmed, 1011 Main, Hays, this holiday season. Families must reserve time slots. Dates still available include:

• 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 • 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18

Cost is $5 per child, cash or check only. <a href="https://calendly.com/bellalunahays/2022santaphotos">Reservations are required and can be made online</a>.

Proceeds also will benefit the Hays Area Children's Center and Western Plains Animal Refuge/Humane Society of the High Plains.

This year's United Way campaign goal is $370,000, up from last year's goal of $350,000.

<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/Partner-Agencies">The United Way supported 15 local nonprofits in 2022.</a> The deadline for 2023 funding requests was Friday. The Care Council will begin reviewing those requests in January.

Berges said the local campaign is about 50 percent to its goal, but many businesses have yet to turn in their pledges.

Donors have until the end of January to make their donations and pledges.

"We need everyone's help to reach that goal," Berges said. "Any amount, it doesn't matter. Nothing is too small."

Donors have multiple ways they can give. They can go to the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way website</a> and click on the donate button. One-time donations, monthly donations or purchase round-up options are available.

The round-up option automatically rounds up your purchases to the next dollar and transfers the change to United Way as a donation. Donors can set a maximum amount they wish to donate in this manner.

United Way also accepts donations through Venmo at @United-Way-of-Ellis-County.

You can bring a check in person to the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, Hays. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 367, Hays, KS 67601.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/unitedwayofelliscounty">You can follow the United Way events and campaign on Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670453670083.jpeg" alt="The three buckets of gift cards up for grabs in the United Way of Ellis County Dine Out Days fundraiser. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>The three buckets of gift cards up for grabs in the United Way of Ellis County Dine Out Days fundraiser. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDonors can participate in several fundraisers during the next couple of weeks to help the United Way reach its annual fundraising goal.The United Way has brought back its Dine Out Days Raffle. Three buckets of gift cards will be given away with each bucket containing at least $400 of gift cards to area eateries. In all, $1,600 in gift cards were donated for the project."Those are donated by businesses and individuals," said Erica Berges, United Way director. "We are very appreciative of how the restaurants really get behind this all the years we have had it." Tickets are $5 each or five for $20. Tickets can be purchased online by <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/civicrm/event/register?cid=0&amp;reset=1&amp;id=40&amp;fbclid=IwAR1qg_BmjqxalQ-JuAMKrDeJNdwQRk3AKs-93LTWbdwrpO6FDrNj88E0v_s">CLICKING HERE</a>. They also can be purchased at the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, or from a United Way board member.The drawing will be Monday, Dec. 19, which has been moved back from the original drawing date.In addition, the United Way will have a pop-up bar from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Dec. 17, at The Strand in Hays. The Strand will be decorated to the nines for Christmas. The Press will serve holiday appetizers and finger foods, and a cash bar will be available with special cocktails for the evening.Entertainment will include karaoke, live music, trivia and a photo booth. Tickets for the come-and-go event will be $20. Only 200 tickets will be sold. <a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-pop-up-bar-at-the-strand-benefiting-united-way-of-ellis-county-tickets-478183909947">Tickets can be purchased online.</a> If tickets don't sell out in advance, there might be an opportunity to purchase tickets at the door.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670453737908.jpeg" alt="Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Simply Charmed this holiday season. Proceeds from the event will benefit several nonprofits, including the United Way of Ellis County. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Simply Charmed this holiday season. Proceeds from the event will benefit several nonprofits, including the United Way of Ellis County. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>United Way is one of the nonprofits that will benefit from visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus at Simply Charmed, 1011 Main, Hays, this holiday season. Families must reserve time slots. Dates still available include:• 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 • 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18Cost is $5 per child, cash or check only. <a href="https://calendly.com/bellalunahays/2022santaphotos">Reservations are required and can be made online</a>. Proceeds also will benefit the Hays Area Children's Center and Western Plains Animal Refuge/Humane Society of the High Plains.This year's United Way campaign goal is $370,000, up from last year's goal of $350,000.<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/Partner-Agencies">The United Way supported 15 local nonprofits in 2022.</a> The deadline for 2023 funding requests was Friday. The Care Council will begin reviewing those requests in January.Berges said the local campaign is about 50 percent to its goal, but many businesses have yet to turn in their pledges.Donors have until the end of January to make their donations and pledges."We need everyone's help to reach that goal," Berges said. "Any amount, it doesn't matter. Nothing is too small." Donors have multiple ways they can give. They can go to the <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way website</a> and click on the donate button. One-time donations, monthly donations or purchase round-up options are available.The round-up option automatically rounds up your purchases to the next dollar and transfers the change to United Way as a donation. Donors can set a maximum amount they wish to donate in this manner. United Way also accepts donations through Venmo at @United-Way-of-Ellis-County.You can bring a check in person to the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, Hays. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 367, Hays, KS 67601.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/unitedwayofelliscounty">You can follow the United Way events and campaign on Facebook.</a>

United Way sets holiday fundraisers, halfway to campaign goal

Operators of the Keystone Pipeline continue cleanup and recovery efforts after a huge oil spill along Mill Creek in Washington County. TC Energy says they have contained an estimated 14,000 barrels spilled from the pipeline Wednesday. No cause for the spill has been announced, nor has the company announced any plans to restart the pipeline, which was shut down on Wednesday. 

The company said Sunday the oil remained contained, with 250 people working on recovery and repairs over the weekend with vacuum trucks, booms and berms. The spill is upstream from the Tuttle Creek Reservoir and Kansas River, the drinking water source for over 800,000 Kansans. 

A Kansas River conservation group called Friends of the Kaw said Friday that no public water systems had then been impacted by the spill. TC Energy announced that continuous air quality monitoring has been deployed and said there's no indication of adverse health or public concerns. Crude oil prices have dropped about ten dollars since the first of the month, but recovered some of that on Monday. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude on Friday settled a few pennies above seventy-one dollars a barrel after nearly dropping below seventy dollars earlier in the day. Lunchtime prices Monday were up more than three percent, topping $73 a barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $61.25 per barrel after dropping half a dollar on Friday. That's down more than ten dollars from the first of the month. Regular gasoline prices dropped another 14 cents last week to a national average of $3.32 per gallon by Thursday. The auto club Triple-A says average prices were below $3 in 12 states, including Kansas at $2.96 per gallon. Diesel pump prices average $5 per gallon coast-to-coast, and $4.43 per gallon in Kansas. The Energy Information Administration reports US diesel inventories increased by 6.2 million barrels last week, but remain about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Deliveries were off nearly ten percent from a year earlier.&nbsp; Kansas regulators last week OK'd 34 new drilling permits, with 16 in eastern Kansas and 18 west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The 261 active operators in Kansas have, so far this year, spudded 1,506 new wells, up 455 wells from last year. Total footage drilled grew 33% year over year to 4.2 million feet. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 46 newly completed wells for the week through December 8th, with one in Barton County, two in Ellis County, two in Russell county and one in Stafford County. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged last week at 21 rigs east of Wichita and 28 in Western Kansas. Operators were about to spud a new well in Ellis County. Drilling was underway on a new well in Stafford County. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 780 active rigs, down two oil rigs and two seeking natural gas. The count in New Mexico was up two, Oklahoma was down two and Texas was down one. The Energy Information Administration's tally shows a fourth consecutive weekly drop in US inventories. Stockpiles as of December 2nd were down more than five million barrels from a week earlier to 413.9 million barrels. Crude inventories are currently about nine percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said weekly crude imports averaged six million barrels per day, down 24,000 barrels per day from a week earlier and more than four percent lower than a year ago. The government reported a slight&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in US crude-oil production last week. EIA reported output of 12,150,000 barrels per day,&nbsp;up&nbsp;about 6,000 barrels per day from the week before and 610,000 barrels per day higher than a year ago.

Corrected 1:15 p.m. Dec. 14 to clarify production increase. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US rebounded last week, after dropping during the Thanksgiving lull the week before. Operators originated 10,595 tanker carloads, a little over one percent higher than the same week last year, and an increase of of nearly 2,000 carloads week over week. Canadian traffic increased 288 carloads for the week and 4.1% over a year ago. The OPEC-Plus crude exporters on Sunday decided not to add further cuts to world supplies, despite drooping oil prices. The group announced dramatic output cuts at their last meeting in October. They now say those cuts were vindicated by current prices.

By JOHN P. TRETBAROperators of the Keystone Pipeline continue cleanup and recovery efforts after a huge oil spill along Mill Creek in Washington County. TC Energy says they have contained an estimated 14,000 barrels spilled from the pipeline Wednesday. No cause for the spill has been announced, nor has the company announced any plans to restart the pipeline, which was shut down on Wednesday. The company said Sunday the oil remained contained, with 250 people working on recovery and repairs over the weekend with vacuum trucks, booms and berms. The spill is upstream from the Tuttle Creek Reservoir and Kansas River, the drinking water source for over 800,000 Kansans. A Kansas River conservation group called Friends of the Kaw said Friday that no public water systems had then been impacted by the spill. TC Energy announced that continuous air quality monitoring has been deployed and said there's no indication of adverse health or public concerns. Crude oil prices have dropped about ten dollars since the first of the month, but recovered some of that on Monday. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude on Friday settled a few pennies above seventy-one dollars a barrel after nearly dropping below seventy dollars earlier in the day. Lunchtime prices Monday were up more than three percent, topping $73 a barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $61.25 per barrel after dropping half a dollar on Friday. That's down more than ten dollars from the first of the month. Regular gasoline prices dropped another 14 cents last week to a national average of $3.32 per gallon by Thursday. The auto club Triple-A says average prices were below $3 in 12 states, including Kansas at $2.96 per gallon. Diesel pump prices average $5 per gallon coast-to-coast, and $4.43 per gallon in Kansas. The Energy Information Administration reports US diesel inventories increased by 6.2 million barrels last week, but remain about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Deliveries were off nearly ten percent from a year earlier.&nbsp; Kansas regulators last week OK'd 34 new drilling permits, with 16 in eastern Kansas and 18 west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. The 261 active operators in Kansas have, so far this year, spudded 1,506 new wells, up 455 wells from last year. Total footage drilled grew 33% year over year to 4.2 million feet. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 46 newly completed wells for the week through December 8th, with one in Barton County, two in Ellis County, two in Russell county and one in Stafford County. The Rig Count in Kansas was unchanged last week at 21 rigs east of Wichita and 28 in Western Kansas. Operators were about to spud a new well in Ellis County. Drilling was underway on a new well in Stafford County. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 780 active rigs, down two oil rigs and two seeking natural gas. The count in New Mexico was up two, Oklahoma was down two and Texas was down one. The Energy Information Administration's tally shows a fourth consecutive weekly drop in US inventories. Stockpiles as of December 2nd were down more than five million barrels from a week earlier to 413.9 million barrels. Crude inventories are currently about nine percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said weekly crude imports averaged six million barrels per day, down 24,000 barrels per day from a week earlier and more than four percent lower than a year ago. The government reported a slight&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in US crude-oil production last week. EIA reported output of 12,150,000 barrels per day,&nbsp;up&nbsp;about 6,000 barrels per day from the week before and 610,000 barrels per day higher than a year ago.Corrected 1:15 p.m. Dec. 14 to clarify production increase. Oil-by-rail traffic in the US rebounded last week, after dropping during the Thanksgiving lull the week before. Operators originated 10,595 tanker carloads, a little over one percent higher than the same week last year, and an increase of of nearly 2,000 carloads week over week. Canadian traffic increased 288 carloads for the week and 4.1% over a year ago. The OPEC-Plus crude exporters on Sunday decided not to add further cuts to world supplies, despite drooping oil prices. The group announced dramatic output cuts at their last meeting in October. They now say those cuts were vindicated by current prices.

News From the Oil Patch: Spill recovery and price fluctuations

MANHATTAN — The Johnson Cancer Research Center has selected 28 students to participate in its undergraduate Cancer Research Award program.&nbsp;

This competitive Cancer Research Award program offers students hands-on laboratory research experience and the opportunity to present their work. In addition, the students learn about research ethics and interacting with the general public.

"The Cancer Research Awards provide students with opportunities that apply not only to their academics and future careers but also to real-life situations," said Sherry Fleming, director of the Johnson Cancer Research Center. "As some of the university's—and the state’s – top students, they will undoubtedly go far in their chosen fields." This award grants each student $2,000, plus an additional $1,000 for supplies. These funds allow students the opportunity and time to spend on their research and laboratory work rather than working a non-academic job.&nbsp; "Having the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research has been a very educational experience for me thus far," said Cole Hayden, sophomore in biology and undergraduate awardee. "Aside from learning about the level of complexity and specificity that research requires, I have also learned more practical skills relating to assertiveness, productivity, time management and teamwork." The cancer research student awardees will be recognized at a banquet on Friday, April 21, 2022. The banquet will be attended by the families of the student awardees, donors who make the awards possible and university administrators and faculty who have supported student awardee efforts through their research.&nbsp; The Johnson Cancer Research Center, a center of excellence in K-State’s College of Arts and Sciences, supports the cancer research and training of its faculty members, undergraduates and graduate students. All programs are funded through private gifts. The following student awardees are receiving Cancer Research Awards; included is each student's faculty mentor. A list that includes their research project titles can be found on the center’s&nbsp;<a href="https://cancer.k-state.edu/awards/studentawardees.html">website</a>. Maddison File, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Beloit, mentored by Sherry Fleming, professor of biology; Karrin Larson, senior in chemistry,&nbsp;Clay Center, mentored by Tendai Gadzikwa, assistant professor of chemistry; Mikaela Garcia-Escamilla, senior in biology, mentored by Thomas Mueller, research assistant professor of biology, and Kameron Wildeman, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ryan Rafferty, associate professor of chemistry, both from&nbsp;Garden City. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Avanelle Stoltz, junior in biology,&nbsp;Leawood, mentored by Nick Wallace, associate professor of biology; Michael Bartkoski, junior in biology, mentored by Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, Dylan Feist, junior in biochemistry and molecular biophysics, mentored by Erika Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics, Olivia Waren, sophomore in psychological sciences, mentored by Charles Pickens, associate professor of psychological sciences, and Tyler McCoach, senior in anatomy and physiology, mentored by David Poole, university distinguished professor of kinesiology&nbsp;and anatomy and physiology, all from&nbsp;Lenexa; Kaden Creamer, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ping Li, associate professor of chemistry, and Mary Janzen, sophomore in chemistry, mentored by Chris Culbertson, professor of chemistry, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Caleb Kutz, senior in biology, mentored by Jocelyn McDonald, associate professor of biology, Kathleen McDaniel, senior in psychological sciences, mentored by Charles Pickens, associate professor of psychological sciences, and Rachel Pang, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ping Li, associate professor of chemistry, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Brandon Rider, senior in biology,&nbsp;Shawnee, mentored by Katsura Asano, professor of biology. Marrissa Raynesford, sophomore in chemistry,&nbsp;Hays, mentored by Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor of chemistry; Ruth Mekuria, senior in biochemistry and molecular biophysics,&nbsp;Junction City, mentored by Erika Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics; Samira Laytimi, junior in biology,&nbsp;Lawrence, mentored by Kathrin Schrick, associate professor of biology. From&nbsp;Manhattan: Cole Hayden, sophomore in biology, mentored by Ruth Welti, university distinguished professor of biology; Mia Thompson, sophomore in biology, mentored by Sherry Fleming, professor of biology; Emily Tolbert, sophomore in biology, mentored by Nick Wallace, associate professor of biology; and Louie Cabrera, senior in history, mentored by Heather McCrea, associate professor of history. From&nbsp;Wichita: Summer Adamson, freshman in biology, mentored by Ruth Welti, university distinguished professor of biology, and Kinsley Ochsner, senior in biology, mentored by Katsura Asano, professor of biology. From out of state: Annabelle Hall, freshman in anatomy and physiology,&nbsp;Monument, Colorado,&nbsp;mentored by Masaaki Tamura, professor of anatomy and physiology; Aidan Ozga, junior in biology,&nbsp;Naperville, Illinois, mentored by Anna Zinovyeva, assistant professor in biology; Lauren Apprill, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;West Des Moines, Iowa, mentored by Kathrin Schrick, associate professor of biology; and Jane Eilers, junior in chemistry,&nbsp;St. Charles, Missouri, mentored by Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor of chemistry.

K-State NewsMANHATTAN — The Johnson Cancer Research Center has selected 28 students to participate in its undergraduate Cancer Research Award program.&nbsp;This competitive Cancer Research Award program offers students hands-on laboratory research experience and the opportunity to present their work. In addition, the students learn about research ethics and interacting with the general public.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653482564399.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"The Cancer Research Awards provide students with opportunities that apply not only to their academics and future careers but also to real-life situations," said Sherry Fleming, director of the Johnson Cancer Research Center. "As some of the university's—and the state’s – top students, they will undoubtedly go far in their chosen fields." This award grants each student $2,000, plus an additional $1,000 for supplies. These funds allow students the opportunity and time to spend on their research and laboratory work rather than working a non-academic job.&nbsp; "Having the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research has been a very educational experience for me thus far," said Cole Hayden, sophomore in biology and undergraduate awardee. "Aside from learning about the level of complexity and specificity that research requires, I have also learned more practical skills relating to assertiveness, productivity, time management and teamwork." The cancer research student awardees will be recognized at a banquet on Friday, April 21, 2022. The banquet will be attended by the families of the student awardees, donors who make the awards possible and university administrators and faculty who have supported student awardee efforts through their research.&nbsp; The Johnson Cancer Research Center, a center of excellence in K-State’s College of Arts and Sciences, supports the cancer research and training of its faculty members, undergraduates and graduate students. All programs are funded through private gifts. The following student awardees are receiving Cancer Research Awards; included is each student's faculty mentor. A list that includes their research project titles can be found on the center’s&nbsp;<a href="https://cancer.k-state.edu/awards/studentawardees.html">website</a>. Maddison File, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;Beloit, mentored by Sherry Fleming, professor of biology; Karrin Larson, senior in chemistry,&nbsp;Clay Center, mentored by Tendai Gadzikwa, assistant professor of chemistry; Mikaela Garcia-Escamilla, senior in biology, mentored by Thomas Mueller, research assistant professor of biology, and Kameron Wildeman, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ryan Rafferty, associate professor of chemistry, both from&nbsp;Garden City. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Avanelle Stoltz, junior in biology,&nbsp;Leawood, mentored by Nick Wallace, associate professor of biology; Michael Bartkoski, junior in biology, mentored by Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, Dylan Feist, junior in biochemistry and molecular biophysics, mentored by Erika Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics, Olivia Waren, sophomore in psychological sciences, mentored by Charles Pickens, associate professor of psychological sciences, and Tyler McCoach, senior in anatomy and physiology, mentored by David Poole, university distinguished professor of kinesiology&nbsp;and anatomy and physiology, all from&nbsp;Lenexa; Kaden Creamer, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ping Li, associate professor of chemistry, and Mary Janzen, sophomore in chemistry, mentored by Chris Culbertson, professor of chemistry, both from&nbsp;Olathe; Caleb Kutz, senior in biology, mentored by Jocelyn McDonald, associate professor of biology, Kathleen McDaniel, senior in psychological sciences, mentored by Charles Pickens, associate professor of psychological sciences, and Rachel Pang, senior in chemistry, mentored by Ping Li, associate professor of chemistry, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Brandon Rider, senior in biology,&nbsp;Shawnee, mentored by Katsura Asano, professor of biology. Marrissa Raynesford, sophomore in chemistry,&nbsp;Hays, mentored by Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor of chemistry; Ruth Mekuria, senior in biochemistry and molecular biophysics,&nbsp;Junction City, mentored by Erika Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics; Samira Laytimi, junior in biology,&nbsp;Lawrence, mentored by Kathrin Schrick, associate professor of biology. From&nbsp;Manhattan: Cole Hayden, sophomore in biology, mentored by Ruth Welti, university distinguished professor of biology; Mia Thompson, sophomore in biology, mentored by Sherry Fleming, professor of biology; Emily Tolbert, sophomore in biology, mentored by Nick Wallace, associate professor of biology; and Louie Cabrera, senior in history, mentored by Heather McCrea, associate professor of history. From&nbsp;Wichita: Summer Adamson, freshman in biology, mentored by Ruth Welti, university distinguished professor of biology, and Kinsley Ochsner, senior in biology, mentored by Katsura Asano, professor of biology. From out of state: Annabelle Hall, freshman in anatomy and physiology,&nbsp;Monument, Colorado,&nbsp;mentored by Masaaki Tamura, professor of anatomy and physiology; Aidan Ozga, junior in biology,&nbsp;Naperville, Illinois, mentored by Anna Zinovyeva, assistant professor in biology; Lauren Apprill, sophomore in biology,&nbsp;West Des Moines, Iowa, mentored by Kathrin Schrick, associate professor of biology; and Jane Eilers, junior in chemistry,&nbsp;St. Charles, Missouri, mentored by Christer Aakeröy, university distinguished professor of chemistry.

Hays student named to K-State cancer research program

R5 Roofing of Hays has announced its first Christmas-time Residential Roof Giveaway.

“We like to be involved&nbsp;in our communities in various way,&nbsp;and&nbsp;we saw this&nbsp;as&nbsp;an opportunity to give back this holiday season, especially after many&nbsp;towns in the areas we serve experienced severe weather this summer and last,” said Jeff Rupp, R5 Roofing Owner.

R5 Roofing understands that a roof not only protects your biggest investment, but also provides a secure place for your family. Owner Deanna Rupp added, “Being able to ensure a&nbsp;safe roof forsomeone who needs it is always something we’ve wanted to&nbsp;do,&nbsp;and we are excited to&nbsp;be able to do that this year!”&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you are interested in nominating a deserving individual to receive a new roof on their home, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:R5RoofGiveaway@gmail.com">R5RoofGiveaway@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;with the following information:

•Name, address, and phone number of person you are nominating •Brief summary of why you are nominating them •Your contact name and phone number

All nominations are due by December 16th, 2022. The winner of the roof will be announced on Christmas Day. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/R5Roofing/">For more information, visit the R5 Roofing Facebook page.</a>

About R5 Roofing R5 Roofing, LLC is a residential, commercial, and agricultural roofing company located in Hays, Kansas. Serving Central, Western, and North Central Kansas since 2019, R5 Roofing offers quality products such as&nbsp;Tamko&nbsp;and Malarkey&nbsp;shingles, and&nbsp;specializes in re-facing agricultural&nbsp;buildings&nbsp;with metal.&nbsp;R5 Roofing believes in quality&nbsp;workmanship and&nbsp;unbeatable service – the proof is in the roof!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670859953974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>R5 Roofing of Hays has announced its first Christmas-time Residential Roof Giveaway.“We like to be involved&nbsp;in our communities in various way,&nbsp;and&nbsp;we saw this&nbsp;as&nbsp;an opportunity to give back this holiday season, especially after many&nbsp;towns in the areas we serve experienced severe weather this summer and last,” said Jeff Rupp, R5 Roofing Owner.R5 Roofing understands that a roof not only protects your biggest investment, but also provides a secure place for your family. Owner Deanna Rupp added, “Being able to ensure a&nbsp;safe roof forsomeone who needs it is always something we’ve wanted to&nbsp;do,&nbsp;and we are excited to&nbsp;be able to do that this year!”&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are interested in nominating a deserving individual to receive a new roof on their home, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:R5RoofGiveaway@gmail.com">R5RoofGiveaway@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;with the following information:•Name, address, and phone number of person you are nominating •Brief summary of why you are nominating them •Your contact name and phone numberAll nominations are due by December 16th, 2022. The winner of the roof will be announced on Christmas Day. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/R5Roofing/">For more information, visit the R5 Roofing Facebook page.</a>About R5 Roofing R5 Roofing, LLC is a residential, commercial, and agricultural roofing company located in Hays, Kansas. Serving Central, Western, and North Central Kansas since 2019, R5 Roofing offers quality products such as&nbsp;Tamko&nbsp;and Malarkey&nbsp;shingles, and&nbsp;specializes in re-facing agricultural&nbsp;buildings&nbsp;with metal.&nbsp;R5 Roofing believes in quality&nbsp;workmanship and&nbsp;unbeatable service – the proof is in the roof!

Local