Come see us in the Hays Walmart parking lot, 4301 Vine, to get your fresh holiday tree! 

We'll be open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. on all Saturdays and Sundays, and 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, until we run out of trees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669638333116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCome see us in the Hays Walmart parking lot, 4301 Vine, to get your fresh holiday tree! We'll be open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. on all Saturdays and Sundays, and 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, until we run out of trees.

Local organizations benefit from Hays Optimists annual Christmas tree sale

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Big Creek Crossing mall will be a little bit busier this holiday season with five pop-up stores and the opening of a new permanent store.

New this year will be Kansas Christmas Wonderland owned by Lori Nuss of Russell. Nuss' family has operated the store in Russell since 2012 but decided to move the store to Hays this Christmas.

Christmas Wonderland, which will be in the former Hallmark location,&nbsp; will carry a wide selection of Christmas decor, including Christmas ornaments, signs, tabletop decor and snowmen.

Prices will range from a few dollars for an ornament to a $300 rocking horse. The store has about 20 to 25 trees with all types of ornaments and decorations.

The store has ornaments customers can customize and use as gift tags.

"Bells are really big this year. I have gold bells, black bells, navy bells cream bells," she said.

Cardinals and gnomes are also popular this year, she said.

Nuss, who said she has always loved Christmas, said the store has been a labor of love for her whole family. She said a daughter, who's a senior in high school, has been especially helpful in putting the store together this year.

Christmas Wonderland had a soft opening last week. It will be open mall hours Saturdays and Sundays until Christmas and evenings by appointment. Nuss can be contacted through the store's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasChristmasWonderland">Facebook page</a>.

Other pop-up stores at Big Creek Crossing this year include Western Sunset Creations, Haus of Vanity, GoCalendar,&nbsp; and Ponderosa Pines trees of Ogallah in the parking lot. 

Western Sunset Creations, which is run by the Dorzweiler family, is back again this year in the former Payless Shoes store. It will offer roasted nuts, homemade fudge, homemade sausage and bierocks.

Haus of Vanity of Colorado specializes in hair irons and hair accessories. That kiosk, which will be in the north hall, has been at Big Creek Crossing before and will be back this year for the holiday season.

Go Calendar has had a kiosk at Big Creek Crossing for years. It is back in the north hall of the mall, selling calendars, games and plush toys.

Pro Image, a new permanent resident on the north end of the mall, is set to open this holiday season.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de9c9741-b18c-45c7-a7c3-1cf50084e7af"> The store, owned by Hays resident Robert Alvarez, will carry licensed sports merchandise, including hats, jerseys and collectibles.</a>

Toys for Tots will have a give-and-take store for needy families in the south hall next to Maurices. There also will be a box next to the mall office in the north hall in which customers can leave gifts of new toys. 

The Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center also has a giving tree in the north hall of the mall next o the mall office. Shoppers can take ornaments off the tree, which have the age, gender and preferred presents for children, buy a gift and place it in a box next to the tree.

The Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center provides therapy and forensics services for children who have been abused. Its service area includes Ellis County.

Photos with Santa will be offered again this year, including a couple of pet nights for dogs and cats. You can find a calendar with Santa's hours on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigCreekCrossing">Big Creek Crossing Facebook page</a>.

"I am anticipating a pretty decent year, a pretty typical year from what I'm seeing," said Branson Hoffman, Big Creek Crossing marketing manager.

The mall will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Christmas Eve, closed Christmas Day, noon to 6 p.m. the day after Christmas, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New Year's Eve and noon to 6 p.m. New Year's Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669154492128.jpeg" alt="Kansas Christmas Wonderland will be open in Big Creek Crossing on Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Kansas Christmas Wonderland will be open in Big Creek Crossing on Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostBig Creek Crossing mall will be a little bit busier this holiday season with five pop-up stores and the opening of a new permanent store.New this year will be Kansas Christmas Wonderland owned by Lori Nuss of Russell. Nuss' family has operated the store in Russell since 2012 but decided to move the store to Hays this Christmas.Christmas Wonderland, which will be in the former Hallmark location,&nbsp; will carry a wide selection of Christmas decor, including Christmas ornaments, signs, tabletop decor and snowmen.Prices will range from a few dollars for an ornament to a $300 rocking horse. The store has about 20 to 25 trees with all types of ornaments and decorations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669154674412.jpeg" alt="A Christmas tree and decor for sale in Christmas Wonderland. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>A Christmas tree and decor for sale in Christmas Wonderland. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>The store has ornaments customers can customize and use as gift tags. "Bells are really big this year. I have gold bells, black bells, navy bells cream bells," she said.Cardinals and gnomes are also popular this year, she said.Nuss, who said she has always loved Christmas, said the store has been a labor of love for her whole family. She said a daughter, who's a senior in high school, has been especially helpful in putting the store together this year. Christmas Wonderland had a soft opening last week. It will be open mall hours Saturdays and Sundays until Christmas and evenings by appointment. Nuss can be contacted through the store's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasChristmasWonderland">Facebook page</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669154761832.jpeg" alt="Go Calendar has a kiosk at Big Creek Crossing again this year. The store sells calendars, games and plush toys. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Go Calendar has a kiosk at Big Creek Crossing again this year. The store sells calendars, games and plush toys. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Other pop-up stores at Big Creek Crossing this year include Western Sunset Creations, Haus of Vanity, GoCalendar,&nbsp; and Ponderosa Pines trees of Ogallah in the parking lot. Western Sunset Creations, which is run by the Dorzweiler family, is back again this year in the former Payless Shoes store. It will offer roasted nuts, homemade fudge, homemade sausage and bierocks.Haus of Vanity of Colorado specializes in hair irons and hair accessories. That kiosk, which will be in the north hall, has been at Big Creek Crossing before and will be back this year for the holiday season. Go Calendar has had a kiosk at Big Creek Crossing for years. It is back in the north hall of the mall, selling calendars, games and plush toys.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669154946451.jpeg" alt="Santa will be available for photos at Big Creek Crossing this holiday season. See the mall's Facebook page for a schedule. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Santa will be available for photos at Big Creek Crossing this holiday season. See the mall's Facebook page for a schedule. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Pro Image, a new permanent resident on the north end of the mall, is set to open this holiday season.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de9c9741-b18c-45c7-a7c3-1cf50084e7af"> The store, owned by Hays resident Robert Alvarez, will carry licensed sports merchandise, including hats, jerseys and collectibles.</a> Toys for Tots will have a give-and-take store for needy families in the south hall next to Maurices. There also will be a box next to the mall office in the north hall in which customers can leave gifts of new toys. The Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center also has a giving tree in the north hall of the mall next o the mall office. Shoppers can take ornaments off the tree, which have the age, gender and preferred presents for children, buy a gift and place it in a box next to the tree.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669155157164.jpeg" alt="Toys for Tots and Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center have collection boxes at the north end of Big Creek Crossing next to the mall office. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Toys for Tots and Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center have collection boxes at the north end of Big Creek Crossing next to the mall office. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center provides therapy and forensics services for children who have been abused. Its service area includes Ellis County. Photos with Santa will be offered again this year, including a couple of pet nights for dogs and cats. You can find a calendar with Santa's hours on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BigCreekCrossing">Big Creek Crossing Facebook page</a>. "I am anticipating a pretty decent year, a pretty typical year from what I'm seeing," said Branson Hoffman, Big Creek Crossing marketing manager. The mall will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Christmas Eve, closed Christmas Day, noon to 6 p.m. the day after Christmas, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New Year's Eve and noon to 6 p.m. New Year's Day.

Christmas Wonderland among pop-up stores at Big Creek Crossing

Three grief support groups from the Center for Life Experience will have their annual Holiday Memorial Tree Dedications at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Jackie Creamer’s Dance Studio, 1003 Main.

The trees will be on display in the studio’s large windows until after Jan. 1, said Darian Schulte, the center’s executive director.

Each year the “Healing Hearts” support group, for individuals who have lost a child, decorates a Christmas tree with special ornaments, each commemorating the life of a precious child.

The other two groups are Healing After Loss, for those who have suffered the loss of a special adult, and Healing After Loss of Suicide, for those who have lost someone to suicide. Those two groups will also be decorating a tree, Schulte said.

The event is open to the public. Individuals are welcome to bring their own special ornaments, or ornaments with tags will be available for a donation to the center., Schulte said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Refreshments will be served.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

More information is available by contacting the center at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@cflehope.org">info@cflehope.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 259-6859.

News releaseThree grief support groups from the Center for Life Experience will have their annual Holiday Memorial Tree Dedications at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Jackie Creamer’s Dance Studio, 1003 Main.The trees will be on display in the studio’s large windows until after Jan. 1, said Darian Schulte, the center’s executive director.Each year the “Healing Hearts” support group, for individuals who have lost a child, decorates a Christmas tree with special ornaments, each commemorating the life of a precious child.The other two groups are Healing After Loss, for those who have suffered the loss of a special adult, and Healing After Loss of Suicide, for those who have lost someone to suicide. Those two groups will also be decorating a tree, Schulte said.The event is open to the public. Individuals are welcome to bring their own special ornaments, or ornaments with tags will be available for a donation to the center., Schulte said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Refreshments will be served.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More information is available by contacting the center at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@cflehope.org">info@cflehope.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 259-6859.

Grief support groups plan Memorial Tree event in Hays

Thanksgiving’s&nbsp;turkey, dressing, casseroles, and pie are now leftovers, and I’ll&nbsp;soon&nbsp;traipse downstairs&nbsp;to&nbsp;decide&nbsp;what Christmas&nbsp;baubles&nbsp;make&nbsp;this year’s decorating cut. Thinking about the tree, boxes of ornaments and lights,&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;snowmen and Santas that&nbsp;create&nbsp;December’s festive mood&nbsp;triggered&nbsp;memories of&nbsp;pouring through the&nbsp;Christmas&nbsp;Catalogue. It would surprise our grandkids to learn I recollect the hours spent exploring that Sear’s Wish Book&nbsp;more than I remember&nbsp;actual gifts.&nbsp;

Our grands scope out the internet&nbsp;and&nbsp;TV&nbsp;to see what they want to add to their Christmas lists. While exciting,&nbsp;electronic devices&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;possibly&nbsp;offer&nbsp;the&nbsp;anticipation&nbsp;we felt&nbsp;racing to finish chores and&nbsp;homework&nbsp;so&nbsp;we could&nbsp;bury our noses in that&nbsp;magical&nbsp;book of dreams. It’s a good thing my family didn’t have an outhouse that&nbsp;required&nbsp;a catalogue to provide wiping paper because&nbsp;my brother and I&nbsp;wore&nbsp;our annual wish&nbsp;book’s pages&nbsp;thin. We spent&nbsp;the month before Christmas salivating over&nbsp;toy guns, Roy Rogers’&nbsp;accessories, GI Joes, Barbies, Chatty Cathys, Easy Bake ovens, and art supply boxes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our fingers wore trails down pages&nbsp;filled with&nbsp;our&nbsp;desires.&nbsp;We looked&nbsp;so often&nbsp;that&nbsp;the catalogue fell open to our favorites. If Santa&nbsp;doubted&nbsp;what to deliver on Christmas Eve, the catalogue cleared&nbsp;up&nbsp;any&nbsp;confusion.

Simpler&nbsp;Christmases reigned&nbsp;in the 50s and 60s. First&nbsp;of all, whether&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;store or catalogue, fewer choices&nbsp;existed to confuse us.&nbsp;Our TVs&nbsp;got one or two&nbsp;channels with advertisements to reveal the&nbsp;possibilities.&nbsp;Those&nbsp;turned off at midnight and didn’t restart til 8 the next morning.&nbsp;Our parents&nbsp;had&nbsp;no&nbsp;credit cards&nbsp;so they&nbsp;bought&nbsp;one toy that Santa delivered.&nbsp;

My family’s&nbsp;Christmas Eve custom required a drive around town to&nbsp;oooh and ahhh over&nbsp;other people’s&nbsp;lights and periodically&nbsp;open a&nbsp;window to listen for Santa’s sleigh bells.&nbsp;My dad always&nbsp;required&nbsp;an emergency bathroom run right after we&nbsp;loaded&nbsp;the car so&nbsp;waiting for his return offered&nbsp;time to imagine hearing&nbsp;tinkling&nbsp;bells.&nbsp;We&nbsp;loved that&nbsp;dark drive filled with twinkling lights, but&nbsp;because of&nbsp;Dad’s long potty stop,&nbsp;we knew we’d missed catching Santa. Sure enough, we&nbsp;did every single year.&nbsp;We’d creep&nbsp;into the house&nbsp;to&nbsp;see he’d delivered our&nbsp;gifts&nbsp;and&nbsp;sampled cookies and milk left for him.&nbsp;

After&nbsp;that&nbsp;sensational build up, we opened&nbsp;our&nbsp;packages. Usually,&nbsp;I got&nbsp;a doll&nbsp;and my brother a cap&nbsp;pistol or rifle.&nbsp;Afterwards, we&nbsp;dug a&nbsp;brown paper bag filled with the prettiest hard Christmas candies,&nbsp;candy orange slices, an apple, and a handful of peanuts&nbsp;from our stockings.&nbsp;We gave our dad our peanuts,&nbsp;and we&nbsp;gobbled&nbsp;the candy.&nbsp;To this day, I&nbsp;love&nbsp;old-fashion Christmas&nbsp;sweets.

A big present&nbsp;showed up&nbsp;the years&nbsp;we each turned eight. For Christmas during third grade, Santa delivered a new bike. I learned as an adult this meant dad had sold&nbsp;a&nbsp;gun so he could buy&nbsp;those shiny Schwinns. &nbsp;

I’ve seen pictures of living rooms stacked with so many presents for each family member that gift opening takes&nbsp;hours. Looking back, I’m glad our drive around town looking at other families’&nbsp;lights and listening for&nbsp;sleigh&nbsp;bells occupied our time.&nbsp;Recollecting the&nbsp;anticipation as we&nbsp;wore out&nbsp;the&nbsp;Wish&nbsp;Book and&nbsp;tried to catch Santa delivering that&nbsp;simple gift leaves&nbsp;me&nbsp;nostalgic&nbsp;for&nbsp;that time&nbsp;when less was more.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINThanksgiving’s&nbsp;turkey, dressing, casseroles, and pie are now leftovers, and I’ll&nbsp;soon&nbsp;traipse downstairs&nbsp;to&nbsp;decide&nbsp;what Christmas&nbsp;baubles&nbsp;make&nbsp;this year’s decorating cut. Thinking about the tree, boxes of ornaments and lights,&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;snowmen and Santas that&nbsp;create&nbsp;December’s festive mood&nbsp;triggered&nbsp;memories of&nbsp;pouring through the&nbsp;Christmas&nbsp;Catalogue. It would surprise our grandkids to learn I recollect the hours spent exploring that Sear’s Wish Book&nbsp;more than I remember&nbsp;actual gifts.&nbsp;Our grands scope out the internet&nbsp;and&nbsp;TV&nbsp;to see what they want to add to their Christmas lists. While exciting,&nbsp;electronic devices&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;possibly&nbsp;offer&nbsp;the&nbsp;anticipation&nbsp;we felt&nbsp;racing to finish chores and&nbsp;homework&nbsp;so&nbsp;we could&nbsp;bury our noses in that&nbsp;magical&nbsp;book of dreams. It’s a good thing my family didn’t have an outhouse that&nbsp;required&nbsp;a catalogue to provide wiping paper because&nbsp;my brother and I&nbsp;wore&nbsp;our annual wish&nbsp;book’s pages&nbsp;thin. We spent&nbsp;the month before Christmas salivating over&nbsp;toy guns, Roy Rogers’&nbsp;accessories, GI Joes, Barbies, Chatty Cathys, Easy Bake ovens, and art supply boxes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our fingers wore trails down pages&nbsp;filled with&nbsp;our&nbsp;desires.&nbsp;We looked&nbsp;so often&nbsp;that&nbsp;the catalogue fell open to our favorites. If Santa&nbsp;doubted&nbsp;what to deliver on Christmas Eve, the catalogue cleared&nbsp;up&nbsp;any&nbsp;confusion.Simpler&nbsp;Christmases reigned&nbsp;in the 50s and 60s. First&nbsp;of all, whether&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;store or catalogue, fewer choices&nbsp;existed to confuse us.&nbsp;Our TVs&nbsp;got one or two&nbsp;channels with advertisements to reveal the&nbsp;possibilities.&nbsp;Those&nbsp;turned off at midnight and didn’t restart til 8 the next morning.&nbsp;Our parents&nbsp;had&nbsp;no&nbsp;credit cards&nbsp;so they&nbsp;bought&nbsp;one toy that Santa delivered.&nbsp;My family’s&nbsp;Christmas Eve custom required a drive around town to&nbsp;oooh and ahhh over&nbsp;other people’s&nbsp;lights and periodically&nbsp;open a&nbsp;window to listen for Santa’s sleigh bells.&nbsp;My dad always&nbsp;required&nbsp;an emergency bathroom run right after we&nbsp;loaded&nbsp;the car so&nbsp;waiting for his return offered&nbsp;time to imagine hearing&nbsp;tinkling&nbsp;bells.&nbsp;We&nbsp;loved that&nbsp;dark drive filled with twinkling lights, but&nbsp;because of&nbsp;Dad’s long potty stop,&nbsp;we knew we’d missed catching Santa. Sure enough, we&nbsp;did every single year.&nbsp;We’d creep&nbsp;into the house&nbsp;to&nbsp;see he’d delivered our&nbsp;gifts&nbsp;and&nbsp;sampled cookies and milk left for him.&nbsp;After&nbsp;that&nbsp;sensational build up, we opened&nbsp;our&nbsp;packages. Usually,&nbsp;I got&nbsp;a doll&nbsp;and my brother a cap&nbsp;pistol or rifle.&nbsp;Afterwards, we&nbsp;dug a&nbsp;brown paper bag filled with the prettiest hard Christmas candies,&nbsp;candy orange slices, an apple, and a handful of peanuts&nbsp;from our stockings.&nbsp;We gave our dad our peanuts,&nbsp;and we&nbsp;gobbled&nbsp;the candy.&nbsp;To this day, I&nbsp;love&nbsp;old-fashion Christmas&nbsp;sweets.A big present&nbsp;showed up&nbsp;the years&nbsp;we each turned eight. For Christmas during third grade, Santa delivered a new bike. I learned as an adult this meant dad had sold&nbsp;a&nbsp;gun so he could buy&nbsp;those shiny Schwinns. &nbsp;I’ve seen pictures of living rooms stacked with so many presents for each family member that gift opening takes&nbsp;hours. Looking back, I’m glad our drive around town looking at other families’&nbsp;lights and listening for&nbsp;sleigh&nbsp;bells occupied our time.&nbsp;Recollecting the&nbsp;anticipation as we&nbsp;wore out&nbsp;the&nbsp;Wish&nbsp;Book and&nbsp;tried to catch Santa delivering that&nbsp;simple gift leaves&nbsp;me&nbsp;nostalgic&nbsp;for&nbsp;that time&nbsp;when less was more.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: A time when less was more

Last week was a week of reminiscing. First of all, all five of us siblings were able to get together for a few days, which rarely happens anymore since we are now located in Kansas, Missouri, Ohio and Tennessee. Secondly, my brother is selling his beautiful home and absolute whitetail-deer haven buried deep in the southern Ohio woods, and I got to spend a little time with him there.&nbsp;Thirdly, while we were there, my&nbsp;niece’s&nbsp;daughter harvested her first deer and my nephew’s daughter trapped her first raccoon.&nbsp;

Now the harvest of these two may not seem much like reminiscing, but it reminded me of how my siblings and I became hunters and trappers, and&nbsp;our&nbsp;nieces, nephews and&nbsp;their&nbsp;kids are the generations that will keep these traditions alive after we siblings have gone-on.

We began deer hunting where we grew up in central Ohio. Deer were hunted a little differently there at that time.&nbsp;We&nbsp;neighborhood deer hunters&nbsp;all had stands we sat in for the first couple days of deer gun season, then we would gather&nbsp;as a group&nbsp;to hunt in woods owned by us hunters. The only legal guns allowed for deer hunting then in Ohio were shotguns using slugs. We would drop off a couple hunters at one end of a woods, then the remainder of the group would walk in from the opposite side to push deer towards the shooters. Last week, my brother reminded me that the first time I took him along, I told him that when certain members of the group started shooting, just drop to the ground, cause when a deer was spotted, all bets were off. We often gathered in a&nbsp;neighbor’s&nbsp;kitchen early in the morning for coffee and hot chocolate, and&nbsp;inevitably, someone would spot a deer crossing the road nearby, and chairs would fly and coffee cups clatter as we headed out the door in an attempt to get ahead of the deer. As I recall, my brother harvested his first deer, on my farm no less, before me, and I believe I asked him where he thought he was going to hunt from then on. I have harvested my share of Kansas deer since moving here, but my brother&nbsp;was always&nbsp;the better deer hunter.

I started trapping in junior high after making friends with an older local trapper named&nbsp;Mr. Wolfe.&nbsp;A stream traveled the entire length of our property, continuing on for a few miles before winding its way back around to cross our land a second time. As I remember, Mr. Wolfe trapped that stream for years. When I was in my early teens, he began taking me along, and I was hooked on trapping. Mr. Wolfe drove an old 1950’s vintage dark green Ford car. I can still see him seated behind the wheel wearing hip boots and a big coat with lots of pockets, and wearing a pistol on his side. He’d pull into the drive, get out and open the trunk to show me what he had caught. The trunk would contain a mix of traps and stakes, muskrats, coons’ and an occasional mink. 

I remember feeling pretty pleased that this old man would take the time to stop and show me his catch.&nbsp;Eventually I put together a rag-tag collection of used traps and Mr. Wolfe let me begin trapping our stream.&nbsp;I caught a few muskrats and a couple coons before we moved to a larger farm my junior year of high school. We built a pond there, and when my brother stared tagging along on trap checks and got hooked on trapping himself, I gave him the pond to trap.&nbsp;Since moving to Kansas, I have harvested numerous coyotes, raccoons and a few bobcats. My brother still traps a little, and will try to catch a few coyotes at his new home in Tennessee.

Our family’s interest in hunting, trapping, fishing and the outdoors came from our grandfather (our mother’s father) who routinely hunted deer, turkeys and elk in Texas and Wyoming, and harvested a&nbsp;moose that is in the Boone and Crocket record book. Of us five siblings, my brother and I and one sister are deer and turkey hunters&nbsp;and / or trappers, and most of my&nbsp;siblings’&nbsp;kids are hunters and&nbsp;trappers and&nbsp;have passed&nbsp;that&nbsp;interest&nbsp;on to their kids too.&nbsp;

Yes, it was a week of reminiscing, and I think our grandfather would have approved of the ways&nbsp;our family&nbsp;has&nbsp;handed down his passions. The younger generations are the ones that must keep alive the love of the outdoors, so&nbsp;take a kid with you hunting, trapping or fishing as you 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 week was a week of reminiscing. First of all, all five of us siblings were able to get together for a few days, which rarely happens anymore since we are now located in Kansas, Missouri, Ohio and Tennessee. Secondly, my brother is selling his beautiful home and absolute whitetail-deer haven buried deep in the southern Ohio woods, and I got to spend a little time with him there.&nbsp;Thirdly, while we were there, my&nbsp;niece’s&nbsp;daughter harvested her first deer and my nephew’s daughter trapped her first raccoon.&nbsp;Now the harvest of these two may not seem much like reminiscing, but it reminded me of how my siblings and I became hunters and trappers, and&nbsp;our&nbsp;nieces, nephews and&nbsp;their&nbsp;kids are the generations that will keep these traditions alive after we siblings have gone-on.We began deer hunting where we grew up in central Ohio. Deer were hunted a little differently there at that time.&nbsp;We&nbsp;neighborhood deer hunters&nbsp;all had stands we sat in for the first couple days of deer gun season, then we would gather&nbsp;as a group&nbsp;to hunt in woods owned by us hunters. The only legal guns allowed for deer hunting then in Ohio were shotguns using slugs. We would drop off a couple hunters at one end of a woods, then the remainder of the group would walk in from the opposite side to push deer towards the shooters. Last week, my brother reminded me that the first time I took him along, I told him that when certain members of the group started shooting, just drop to the ground, cause when a deer was spotted, all bets were off. We often gathered in a&nbsp;neighbor’s&nbsp;kitchen early in the morning for coffee and hot chocolate, and&nbsp;inevitably, someone would spot a deer crossing the road nearby, and chairs would fly and coffee cups clatter as we headed out the door in an attempt to get ahead of the deer. As I recall, my brother harvested his first deer, on my farm no less, before me, and I believe I asked him where he thought he was going to hunt from then on. I have harvested my share of Kansas deer since moving here, but my brother&nbsp;was always&nbsp;the better deer hunter.I started trapping in junior high after making friends with an older local trapper named&nbsp;Mr. Wolfe.&nbsp;A stream traveled the entire length of our property, continuing on for a few miles before winding its way back around to cross our land a second time. As I remember, Mr. Wolfe trapped that stream for years. When I was in my early teens, he began taking me along, and I was hooked on trapping. Mr. Wolfe drove an old 1950’s vintage dark green Ford car. I can still see him seated behind the wheel wearing hip boots and a big coat with lots of pockets, and wearing a pistol on his side. He’d pull into the drive, get out and open the trunk to show me what he had caught. The trunk would contain a mix of traps and stakes, muskrats, coons’ and an occasional mink. I remember feeling pretty pleased that this old man would take the time to stop and show me his catch.&nbsp;Eventually I put together a rag-tag collection of used traps and Mr. Wolfe let me begin trapping our stream.&nbsp;I caught a few muskrats and a couple coons before we moved to a larger farm my junior year of high school. We built a pond there, and when my brother stared tagging along on trap checks and got hooked on trapping himself, I gave him the pond to trap.&nbsp;Since moving to Kansas, I have harvested numerous coyotes, raccoons and a few bobcats. My brother still traps a little, and will try to catch a few coyotes at his new home in Tennessee.Our family’s interest in hunting, trapping, fishing and the outdoors came from our grandfather (our mother’s father) who routinely hunted deer, turkeys and elk in Texas and Wyoming, and harvested a&nbsp;moose that is in the Boone and Crocket record book. Of us five siblings, my brother and I and one sister are deer and turkey hunters&nbsp;and / or trappers, and most of my&nbsp;siblings’&nbsp;kids are hunters and&nbsp;trappers and&nbsp;have passed&nbsp;that&nbsp;interest&nbsp;on to their kids too.&nbsp;Yes, it was a week of reminiscing, and I think our grandfather would have approved of the ways&nbsp;our family&nbsp;has&nbsp;handed down his passions. The younger generations are the ones that must keep alive the love of the outdoors, so&nbsp;take a kid with you hunting, trapping or fishing as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: A week of reminiscing

<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/2022/11/1669409748256.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. &nbsp;I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the&nbsp;2022 Ellis County&nbsp;Fair that won awards. Esther&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe,&nbsp;Layered Reese’s Cake. &nbsp;Mya&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club,&nbsp;won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake. &nbsp;

​2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes

​Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for topping

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees.•Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. •Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. •Let cakes cool and remove from pans.•For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. &nbsp; •To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. &nbsp;Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. &nbsp; •Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees•Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. &nbsp;Shake out the excess flour. •Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. &nbsp;Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. &nbsp;Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. &nbsp; •Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. &nbsp;Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. &nbsp;Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. &nbsp; Allow to cool another 30 minutes. •Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. &nbsp;Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. •Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. &nbsp;I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the&nbsp;2022 Ellis County&nbsp;Fair that won awards. Esther&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe,&nbsp;Layered Reese’s Cake. &nbsp;Mya&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club,&nbsp;won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake. &nbsp;<h2>Layered Reese’s Cake</h2>Cake Ingredients​2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes​1 cup butter (2 sticks)​2 cups water​8 whole eggsFrosting and Topping Ingredients​2 cups butter (room temperature)​6 cups powdered sugar​4-8 Tbsp. whipping cream​1 ½ cups peanut butter​1 tsp vanilla​Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for toppingInstructions•Preheat oven to 350 degrees.•Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. •Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. •Let cakes cool and remove from pans.•For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. &nbsp; •To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. &nbsp;Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. &nbsp; •Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!<h2>Fresh Orange Cake</h2>Cake Ingredients​I box yellow cake mix​½ cup butter​1 tsp pure vanilla extract​1 cup fresh orange juice​¼ cup granulated sugar​4 large eggsGlaze Ingredients​1 cup confectioner’s sugar​1 tsp fresh grated orange zest​3 Tbsp fresh orange juiceInstructions•Preheat oven to 350 degrees•Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. &nbsp;Shake out the excess flour. •Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. &nbsp;Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. &nbsp;Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. &nbsp; •Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. &nbsp;Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. &nbsp;Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. &nbsp; Allow to cool another 30 minutes. •Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. &nbsp;Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. •Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.

KOERNER: Award-winning 4-H fair recipes

By GEMA DE LAS HERAS FTC consumer education specialist

<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/pass-it-on/imposter-scams/irs-imposter-scams">IRS impersonators</a>&nbsp;have been around for a while. But as more people get to know their tricks, they’re switching it up. So instead of contacting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/media/79942#:~:text=Scam%20artists%20are%20pretending%20to,They%20play%20on%20your%20fears.">tax debt and making threats to get you to pay up</a>, scammers may send you a text about a “tax rebate” or some other tax refund or benefit. Here’s what to know about the new twist.

The text messages may look legit, and mention a “tax rebate” or “refund payment.” But no matter what the text says, it’s a scammer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/small-businesses/cybersecurity/phishing">phishing</a>&nbsp;for your information. And if you click on the link to claim “your refund,” you’re exposing yourself to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-identity-theft">identity theft</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;that the scammer could install on your phone.

If someone contacts you about a tax rebate or refund:

●Never click on links in unexpected texts.&nbsp;Don’t share personal information with anyone who contacts you out of the blue. Always use a website or phone number you know is real.

●Know that the IRS won’t call, email or text to contact you for the first time.&nbsp;They’ll always start by sending you a letter. If you want to confirm, call the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.

●Find the status of any pending refund on the IRS official website.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp">Where’s My Refund</a>.

●Report unsolicited texts or emails&nbsp;claiming to be the IRS. Forward a screenshot or the email as an attachment to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov">phishing@irs.gov</a>.

If you clicked a link in one of these text or emails and shared personal information, file a report at&nbsp;<a href="https://identitytheft.gov/">IdentityTheft.gov</a>&nbsp;to get a customized recovery plan based on what information you shared.

Even if you didn’t lose money to an IRS impersonator scams, tell us about it at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportefraude.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669568150281.png" alt="Image courtesy FTC" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>By GEMA DE LAS HERAS FTC consumer education specialist<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/pass-it-on/imposter-scams/irs-imposter-scams">IRS impersonators</a>&nbsp;have been around for a while. But as more people get to know their tricks, they’re switching it up. So instead of contacting you about a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/media/79942#:~:text=Scam%20artists%20are%20pretending%20to,They%20play%20on%20your%20fears.">tax debt and making threats to get you to pay up</a>, scammers may send you a text about a “tax rebate” or some other tax refund or benefit. Here’s what to know about the new twist.The text messages may look legit, and mention a “tax rebate” or “refund payment.” But no matter what the text says, it’s a scammer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/small-businesses/cybersecurity/phishing">phishing</a>&nbsp;for your information. And if you click on the link to claim “your refund,” you’re exposing yourself to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-identity-theft">identity theft</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware">malware</a>&nbsp;that the scammer could install on your phone.If someone contacts you about a tax rebate or refund:●Never click on links in unexpected texts.&nbsp;Don’t share personal information with anyone who contacts you out of the blue. Always use a website or phone number you know is real.●Know that the IRS won’t call, email or text to contact you for the first time.&nbsp;They’ll always start by sending you a letter. If you want to confirm, call the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.●Find the status of any pending refund on the IRS official website.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp">Where’s My Refund</a>.●Report unsolicited texts or emails&nbsp;claiming to be the IRS. Forward a screenshot or the email as an attachment to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov">phishing@irs.gov</a>.If you clicked a link in one of these text or emails and shared personal information, file a report at&nbsp;<a href="https://identitytheft.gov/">IdentityTheft.gov</a>&nbsp;to get a customized recovery plan based on what information you shared.Even if you didn’t lose money to an IRS impersonator scams, tell us about it at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportefraude.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

No, that’s not the IRS texting about a tax refund or rebate; it’s a scam

It wasn't much, but Saturday's rain brought more than a tenth of an inch of precipitation to Hays — still below an inch of total accumulation for the month of November.

CoCoRaHS reports range from 0.14 inches of rain in east Hays to 0.05 inches near Victoria and Ellis.

Slightly more rainfall was accumulated to the east of Hays, with counties to the west remaining dry Saturday.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for Sunday and Monday to remain seasonably pleasant, but a cold front is expected to arrive overnight Monday causing the mercury to dive.

The high on a blustery Tuesday is only expected to be 33 degrees, with a slight chance of snow Tuesday afternoon. By Thursday, the high temperature is expected to reach 50 again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669564295817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It wasn't much, but Saturday's rain brought more than a tenth of an inch of precipitation to Hays — still below an inch of total accumulation for the month of November.CoCoRaHS reports range from 0.14 inches of rain in east Hays to 0.05 inches near Victoria and Ellis.Slightly more rainfall was accumulated to the east of Hays, with counties to the west remaining dry Saturday.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for Sunday and Monday to remain seasonably pleasant, but a cold front is expected to arrive overnight Monday causing the mercury to dive.The high on a blustery Tuesday is only expected to be 33 degrees, with a slight chance of snow Tuesday afternoon. By Thursday, the high temperature is expected to reach 50 again.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Temperatures will drop rapidly into the 10-20F range Tuesday night behind an earlier cold frontal passage. This combined with lingering north winds will result in potentially dangerous wind chills Wednesday morning for most of the area. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/mvTUKfKSh1">pic.twitter.com/mvTUKfKSh1</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1596789087280582657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Little more than a tenth of an inch of rain — cold front on the way

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio now

The Hays Public Library has hired a new public services coordinator,&nbsp;who will work with youth and families by connecting them with books and resources as well as facilitating library programs.

Chianti Madkins, originally from Ashdown, Ark., has bachelor of arts degrees in political science and philosophy from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. Since moving to Kansas, she has taught fifth&nbsp;and sixth&nbsp;grade.

Madkins said she wanted to work at the library because she loves to read and enjoys getting kids excited about reading.&nbsp;

She began working at the library on Nov. 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669128302554.png" alt="Chiante Madkins" />
 <figcaption>Chiante Madkins</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLThe Hays Public Library has hired a new public services coordinator,&nbsp;who will work with youth and families by connecting them with books and resources as well as facilitating library programs.Chianti Madkins, originally from Ashdown, Ark., has bachelor of arts degrees in political science and philosophy from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. Since moving to Kansas, she has taught fifth&nbsp;and sixth&nbsp;grade.Madkins said she wanted to work at the library because she loves to read and enjoys getting kids excited about reading.&nbsp;She began working at the library on Nov. 7.

Hays Public Library hires youth public services coordinator

OAKLEY — B﻿ack&nbsp;by popular demand, The Four Freshmen bring their unique sound to Christmas favorites. They bring a show for your holiday season full of Christmas Cheer, adding Four Freshmen favorites and traditional holiday favorites.&nbsp;Oakley High School Auditorium is the location; Sunday,&nbsp;Dec. 11, 3 p.m. (CST) is the time.&nbsp;

Singing with a harmony uniquely their own, The Four Freshmen have enamored listeners worldwide for years, while gaining recognition as one of the most influential vocal groups of all time. Their tight-knit sound inspired The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, The Mamas &amp; The Papas, Frankie Valli and the Manhattan Transfer. It all started in 1948, when four college freshmen crafted a unique style of vocal harmony that soon caught the ear of the great bandleader, Stan Kenton. Kenton was responsible for bringing the Freshmen to Capitol Records, where they would eventually record 23 albums, thrusting them into the national spotlight.&nbsp;

Today,&nbsp;The Freshmen have recorded over 75 albums, 70 top selling singles, and received 6 Grammy Nominations. The four have toured constantly since their inception, continuing to perform to sold out audiences around the globe. The integrity of the sound created by the original guys has been meticulously maintained. While paying tribute to such classic Freshmen favorites as “Day&nbsp;By&nbsp;Day” and “Blue World”,&nbsp;the current group also continues to bring new arrangements to their live shows and recordings.

This performance is funded in part by grants from the&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;County Community Foundation, the&nbsp;Greater Northwest Kansas Community&nbsp;Foundation,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.&nbsp;Admission is with WPAA season ticket or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669123505289.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WPAAOAKLEY — B﻿ack&nbsp;by popular demand, The Four Freshmen bring their unique sound to Christmas favorites. They bring a show for your holiday season full of Christmas Cheer, adding Four Freshmen favorites and traditional holiday favorites.&nbsp;Oakley High School Auditorium is the location; Sunday,&nbsp;Dec. 11, 3 p.m. (CST) is the time.&nbsp;Singing with a harmony uniquely their own, The Four Freshmen have enamored listeners worldwide for years, while gaining recognition as one of the most influential vocal groups of all time. Their tight-knit sound inspired The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, The Mamas &amp; The Papas, Frankie Valli and the Manhattan Transfer. It all started in 1948, when four college freshmen crafted a unique style of vocal harmony that soon caught the ear of the great bandleader, Stan Kenton. Kenton was responsible for bringing the Freshmen to Capitol Records, where they would eventually record 23 albums, thrusting them into the national spotlight.&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;The Freshmen have recorded over 75 albums, 70 top selling singles, and received 6 Grammy Nominations. The four have toured constantly since their inception, continuing to perform to sold out audiences around the globe. The integrity of the sound created by the original guys has been meticulously maintained. While paying tribute to such classic Freshmen favorites as “Day&nbsp;By&nbsp;Day” and “Blue World”,&nbsp;the current group also continues to bring new arrangements to their live shows and recordings.This performance is funded in part by grants from the&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;County Community Foundation, the&nbsp;Greater Northwest Kansas Community&nbsp;Foundation,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.&nbsp;Admission is with WPAA season ticket or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

The Four Freshman holiday show set for next month in Oakley

Voters in neighboring Missouri just legalized recreational marijuana. Meanwhile, Kansas remains in the minority of states where neither medical nor recreational marijuana are allowed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s a symptom of dysfunctional democracy in Kansas that legislators haven’t updated our marijuana laws. Polling for years has shown that Kansans support legalizing and taxing recreational marijuana. Yes, recreational. Not just medical.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For example, the 2022 FOX News Voter Analysis survey showed that 63 percent of Kansas voters supported “legalizing the recreational use of marijuana nationwide,” including almost one-third of Kansans voting Republican for governor. It’s not just Democratic voters.&nbsp;

But, legislators don’t seem to care.&nbsp;

America is a democracy, which means “rule by the people.” However, democracy doesn’t look the same everywhere.&nbsp;

Every state has a “democratic republic” form of government (often just called a “republic”). In this system, elected state legislatures supposedly represent the public will in making laws.&nbsp;

Every state also has some form of “direct democracy” where the people vote directly on laws. In many states like Missouri, citizens can bypass legislators and put potential laws on the ballot themselves. But, Kansans don’t have that right. Instead, Kansans are only allowed to vote on constitutional amendments that the Kansas legislature itself puts on the ballot. In short, the legislature gatekeeps you—tightly.&nbsp;

Kansans this year rejected two of three amendments that legislators proposed: one to facilitate an abortion ban and another to make legislators more powerful. Your disobedience probably makes most legislators afraid of what you might do if you could pass laws yourselves, so they’ll likely never support giving you that power at the expense of their own.&nbsp;

In most states that have legalized recreational marijuana, citizens passed it themselves by using direct democracy to bypass politicians. How many politicians in these states publicly opposed recreational marijuana out of misperceived fear for their own reelections, but happily voted to legalize it on the privacy of their ballots? Or, were politicians so disconnected from citizens that these votes actually shocked them?&nbsp;

Whatever the politics elsewhere, it’s unlikely that recreational marijuana will be legal in Kansas soon. Our legislators haven’t even legalized medical marijuana for the sick and dying. And voters aren’t allowed to do it.&nbsp;

If elected officials had followed public opinion on marijuana years ago, Kansas could have been a regional leader on this issue. But, they didn’t. Instead, Kansas legislators skipped a ripe opportunity for economic growth, keeping the marijuana economy in the black market and sending Kansas dollars to grow Colorado’s economy.&nbsp;

Legalization supporters in Missouri this year explicitly argued that Missouri would benefit economically from Kansans crossing the state line to buy marijuana. Unless Kansas militarizes that border, nothing will practically stop Kansans from breaking the law by bringing marijuana from Missouri back into Kansas. And it’s potentially a big market. Half of Kansans live less than an hour’s drive from Missouri. The Missouri state budget says thank you to the Kansas legislature.&nbsp;

The majority of Americans don’t use marijuana themselves, but also don’t care much if others do in private. Whatever your opinion about marijuana, the fundamental reality here, like it or not, is that many Kansans enjoy marijuana and someone is profiting from that. That someone just isn’t our schools, roads, or economic growth. If democracy in Kansas functioned better, reality would look very different.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. " />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas. </figcaption>
 </figure>Voters in neighboring Missouri just legalized recreational marijuana. Meanwhile, Kansas remains in the minority of states where neither medical nor recreational marijuana are allowed.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s a symptom of dysfunctional democracy in Kansas that legislators haven’t updated our marijuana laws. Polling for years has shown that Kansans support legalizing and taxing recreational marijuana. Yes, recreational. Not just medical.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, the 2022 FOX News Voter Analysis survey showed that 63 percent of Kansas voters supported “legalizing the recreational use of marijuana nationwide,” including almost one-third of Kansans voting Republican for governor. It’s not just Democratic voters.&nbsp;But, legislators don’t seem to care.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>America is a democracy, which means “rule by the people.” However, democracy doesn’t look the same everywhere.&nbsp;Every state has a “democratic republic” form of government (often just called a “republic”). In this system, elected state legislatures supposedly represent the public will in making laws.&nbsp;Every state also has some form of “direct democracy” where the people vote directly on laws. In many states like Missouri, citizens can bypass legislators and put potential laws on the ballot themselves. But, Kansans don’t have that right. Instead, Kansans are only allowed to vote on constitutional amendments that the Kansas legislature itself puts on the ballot. In short, the legislature gatekeeps you—tightly.&nbsp;Kansans this year rejected two of three amendments that legislators proposed: one to facilitate an abortion ban and another to make legislators more powerful. Your disobedience probably makes most legislators afraid of what you might do if you could pass laws yourselves, so they’ll likely never support giving you that power at the expense of their own.&nbsp;In most states that have legalized recreational marijuana, citizens passed it themselves by using direct democracy to bypass politicians. How many politicians in these states publicly opposed recreational marijuana out of misperceived fear for their own reelections, but happily voted to legalize it on the privacy of their ballots? Or, were politicians so disconnected from citizens that these votes actually shocked them?&nbsp;Whatever the politics elsewhere, it’s unlikely that recreational marijuana will be legal in Kansas soon. Our legislators haven’t even legalized medical marijuana for the sick and dying. And voters aren’t allowed to do it.&nbsp;If elected officials had followed public opinion on marijuana years ago, Kansas could have been a regional leader on this issue. But, they didn’t. Instead, Kansas legislators skipped a ripe opportunity for economic growth, keeping the marijuana economy in the black market and sending Kansas dollars to grow Colorado’s economy.&nbsp;Legalization supporters in Missouri this year explicitly argued that Missouri would benefit economically from Kansans crossing the state line to buy marijuana. Unless Kansas militarizes that border, nothing will practically stop Kansans from breaking the law by bringing marijuana from Missouri back into Kansas. And it’s potentially a big market. Half of Kansans live less than an hour’s drive from Missouri. The Missouri state budget says thank you to the Kansas legislature.&nbsp;The majority of Americans don’t use marijuana themselves, but also don’t care much if others do in private. Whatever your opinion about marijuana, the fundamental reality here, like it or not, is that many Kansans enjoy marijuana and someone is profiting from that. That someone just isn’t our schools, roads, or economic growth. If democracy in Kansas functioned better, reality would look very different.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Outdated marijuana laws = stifled democracy?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669409720741.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A third fire station will be built in northwest Hays on West 41st Street  starting next spring and will become the new headquarters of the Hays Fire Department.&nbsp;

It's something that's been discussed by the city since the mid-1990s.

The current fire station opened in 1974 in downtown Hays at 1507 Main.

 The city has another fire station, built in 2010, at the Hays Regional Airport. It is not staffed full-time. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) services, using specialized equipment, at Part 139 airports during air carrier flight arrivals and departures.

City commissioners Tuesday night awarded the $5.5 million low
bid&nbsp;to Paul Wertenberger Construction of Hays. 

That’s about $200,000 dollars more than what was budgeted.&nbsp;

Assistant City
Manager Collin Bielser says it's because of the current inflationary
economy.

“The funding for this project is
from the Ellis County quarter-cent sales tax. Collections have been healthy the
last two years and so now that’s projected to bring in $11.7 million in
revenue. So while the project is more than expected, the increased revenue
is&nbsp; off-setting," Bielser explained.&nbsp;

The construction cost plus the cost of design, brings the project to $5,704,450.&nbsp;

The bid does not include outfitting the new fire station. Staff will return to the commission at a later date seeking authorization for furniture, fixtures, and equipment, plus IT expenses.

Included in the project will be a remodel of the downtown station will be to be gender inclusive. A door will be added to each bunk room and a female locker room and restroom will be constructed.

Although there are currently no female firefighters on the force, there have been in the past, according to Chief Ryan Hagans.

The information technology data server room equipment in city hall (in the south side of the fire station facility)will be relocated to the new fire station which is outside of the floodplain.&nbsp;

IT Director Chad Ruder confirmed to the commission the IT room has been flooded several times in recent history.&nbsp;

 Most of the city’s residential and business growth the past 10-15 years has been to the northwest or north of Interstate 70, making the need for a fire station in that area become more apparent.

The work will begin this March and be completed in May 2024. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669405020958.jpeg" alt="A third fire station will be built in northwest Hays at&nbsp;1732 West 41st Street beginning in March 2023 . It's scheduled to be completed in May 2024 and become the new headquarters of the Hays Fire Department. (Artist rendering courtesy Hays Fire Department)" />
 <figcaption>A third fire station will be built in northwest Hays at&nbsp;1732 West 41st Street beginning in March 2023 . It's scheduled to be completed in May 2024 and become the new headquarters of the Hays Fire Department. (Artist rendering courtesy Hays Fire Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA third fire station will be built in northwest Hays on West 41st Street starting next spring and will become the new headquarters of the Hays Fire Department.&nbsp;It's something that's been discussed by the city since the mid-1990s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669413632942.jpeg" alt="Opened in 1974, the main Hays fire station is at 1507 Main, on the north side of city hall. The entire structure is in the flood plain. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Opened in 1974, the main Hays fire station is at 1507 Main, on the north side of city hall. The entire structure is in the flood plain. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>The current fire station opened in 1974 in downtown Hays at 1507 Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669413328984.jpeg" alt="The Hays airport fire station is generally only staffed when air carrier flights arrive and depart, an FAA requirement. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>The Hays airport fire station is generally only staffed when air carrier flights arrive and depart, an FAA requirement. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure> The city has another fire station, built in 2010, at the Hays Regional Airport. It is not staffed full-time. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) services, using specialized equipment, at Part 139 airports during air carrier flight arrivals and departures.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623537706458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669405365012.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City commissioners Tuesday night awarded the $5.5 million low
bid&nbsp;to Paul Wertenberger Construction of Hays. That’s about $200,000 dollars more than what was budgeted.&nbsp;Assistant City
Manager Collin Bielser says it's because of the current inflationary
economy.“The funding for this project is
from the Ellis County quarter-cent sales tax. Collections have been healthy the
last two years and so now that’s projected to bring in $11.7 million in
revenue. So while the project is more than expected, the increased revenue
is&nbsp; off-setting," Bielser explained.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/xhVAvv81-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Collin Fire Station 3" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The construction cost plus the cost of design, brings the project to $5,704,450.&nbsp;The bid does not include outfitting the new fire station. Staff will return to the commission at a later date seeking authorization for furniture, fixtures, and equipment, plus IT expenses.Included in the project will be a remodel of the downtown station will be to be gender inclusive. A door will be added to each bunk room and a female locker room and restroom will be constructed.Although there are currently no female firefighters on the force, there have been in the past, according to Chief Ryan Hagans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669407519683.jpeg" alt="Chad Ruder, Hays IT director, and Ryan Hagans, Hays fire chief, listen to the discussion of the bid award for a third fire station in the city. (Photo By Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Chad Ruder, Hays IT director, and Ryan Hagans, Hays fire chief, listen to the discussion of the bid award for a third fire station in the city. (Photo By Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>The information technology data server room equipment in city hall (in the south side of the fire station facility)will be relocated to the new fire station which is outside of the floodplain.&nbsp;IT Director Chad Ruder confirmed to the commission the IT room has been flooded several times in recent history.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669472800842.jpeg" alt="Location of the third fire station in Hays to be built starting in March 2023. (Courtesy City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Location of the third fire station in Hays to be built starting in March 2023. (Courtesy City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure> Most of the city’s residential and business growth the past 10-15 years has been to the northwest or north of Interstate 70, making the need for a fire station in that area become more apparent.The work will begin this March and be completed in May 2024.

🎥 Despite higher-than-budgeted cost, bid for 3rd Hays fire station OK'd

The turkey has been carved, and soon Christmas trees will be lit and holiday
festivities will pepper calendars. 

Among those favorite annual traditions in Hays is the Hays Arts Council’s Winter Art Walk, which will once
again provide area residents to enjoy local artists at locations inside shops
and restaurants across downtown Hays and beyond.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3. The day
follows the format developed during the pandemic to allow attendees to explore
the installations along with downtown shops and restaurants while avoiding the
crowds that form during the Friday night schedule, a hallmark of other arts
walks throughout the year.

“We
moved them to the Saturday to dilute the audience a little bit, let people feel
very comfortable being out,” said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda
Meder. “But then you realize that it's such a great time to be downtown. You
know that our downtown's beautiful. We have incredible retail places and other
merchants and spaces that look festive. 

"And it's just a lovely experience — great restaurants and coffee houses and the whole nine yards.”

She said
the daylong event, while more work for the arts council, is a boon for the
city.

“I know
it's a good thing for our community. People can come downtown and spend more
time, look at whatever art you want, and then go have coffee, then go to this
place that's not even on the art walk. But they're open because it's Saturday,
and you'll shop there,” Meder said. “And then maybe go back and look at
something else, or head down to the college and catch that exhibit before it
closes it too.”

It's a great way to settle into the community and enjoy arts and
culture, retail and business establishments while not feeling rushed to see all
the art walk locations, she said.

“Chestnut Street Kitchens
is on the Winter Art Walk. Again, I'm so excited that they were back on that. They're a fabulous place to go during the holidays. And they are going to be
hosting some middle school art from here in our community.”

The Five
State Photography competition will again anchor this year’s Winter Artwalk,
marking its 39th year.

“One of
the big key features is the anchor and is the reason that we get a lot of out-of-town
visitors that day,” Meder said. “That's why it's cool to have our downtown to
celebrate not just for our own community but for these guests that come in. And
I want them to take advantage of that.”

This year, the popular multistate competition received 549 entries. Only 150
made it to the exhibition.

April
Watson, photography curator at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, was selected as
the judge for this year’s exhibition. 

With so
much work coming in, Meder said that many otherwise deserving entries would not
make the show.

“This
year's competition is so steep, there's going to be a lot of truly not just
good work, but really brilliant work that just won't make it into the show,”
Meder said. “It's one person's opinion. We hire a qualified judge of integrity
and reputation. … And so, I know we're going to get a wonderful show. But I
also know that a lot of brilliant work will never see the light of day.”

The
sting of rejection might remain for those not selected, but she said the high
level of competition would create an exceptional show for visitors as they
explore the locations and partake in other Hays amenities.

“There's
just going to be a lot of fun options, but the heart and soul of that day will
be the Winter Artwalk anchored by that big Five State Photography,” Meder said.
“So we really do want to get people to get that on your calendar. It's going to
be a wonderful day.” 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623877479116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe turkey has been carved, and soon Christmas trees will be lit and holiday
festivities will pepper calendars. Among those favorite annual traditions in Hays is the Hays Arts Council’s Winter Art Walk, which will once
again provide area residents to enjoy local artists at locations inside shops
and restaurants across downtown Hays and beyond.The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3. The day
follows the format developed during the pandemic to allow attendees to explore
the installations along with downtown shops and restaurants while avoiding the
crowds that form during the Friday night schedule, a hallmark of other arts
walks throughout the year.“We
moved them to the Saturday to dilute the audience a little bit, let people feel
very comfortable being out,” said Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda
Meder. “But then you realize that it's such a great time to be downtown. You
know that our downtown's beautiful. We have incredible retail places and other
merchants and spaces that look festive. "And it's just a lovely experience — great restaurants and coffee houses and the whole nine yards.”<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council readies for 2022 Winter Art Walk" 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=69c54-13208ba-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>She said
the daylong event, while more work for the arts council, is a boon for the
city.“I know
it's a good thing for our community. People can come downtown and spend more
time, look at whatever art you want, and then go have coffee, then go to this
place that's not even on the art walk. But they're open because it's Saturday,
and you'll shop there,” Meder said. “And then maybe go back and look at
something else, or head down to the college and catch that exhibit before it
closes it too.”It's a great way to settle into the community and enjoy arts and
culture, retail and business establishments while not feeling rushed to see all
the art walk locations, she said.“Chestnut Street Kitchens
is on the Winter Art Walk. Again, I'm so excited that they were back on that. They're a fabulous place to go during the holidays. And they are going to be
hosting some middle school art from here in our community.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638486703873.jpeg" alt="2021 Five State Photography entries.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>2021 Five State Photography entries.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Five
State Photography competition will again anchor this year’s Winter Artwalk,
marking its 39th year.“One of
the big key features is the anchor and is the reason that we get a lot of out-of-town
visitors that day,” Meder said. “That's why it's cool to have our downtown to
celebrate not just for our own community but for these guests that come in. And
I want them to take advantage of that.”This year, the popular multistate competition received 549 entries. Only 150
made it to the exhibition.April
Watson, photography curator at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, was selected as
the judge for this year’s exhibition. With so
much work coming in, Meder said that many otherwise deserving entries would not
make the show.“This
year's competition is so steep, there's going to be a lot of truly not just
good work, but really brilliant work that just won't make it into the show,”
Meder said. “It's one person's opinion. We hire a qualified judge of integrity
and reputation. … And so, I know we're going to get a wonderful show. But I
also know that a lot of brilliant work will never see the light of day.”The
sting of rejection might remain for those not selected, but she said the high
level of competition would create an exceptional show for visitors as they
explore the locations and partake in other Hays amenities.“There's
just going to be a lot of fun options, but the heart and soul of that day will
be the Winter Artwalk anchored by that big Five State Photography,” Meder said.
“So we really do want to get people to get that on your calendar. It's going to
be a wonderful day.”

🎙 Hays Arts Council readies for 2022 Winter Art Walk

The Hays Area Children's Center is facing the difficult dilemma of trying to make up a funding gap without pricing its parents out of the market.

The nonprofit facility, which serves 79 children and 60 families, is operating in the red. The facility has to increase its rates, find alternative sources of revenue or some combination of both.

The current year's average tuition is $646 per month. Considering the center's current finances, it would have to increase tuition by $280 to $926 to bring the facility's budget to a break-even point.

"We are definitely needing to revamp how we run this center," said Jessamyn Staples, board member.

Raising the center's tuition the full $280 would likely price some families out of the child care market, Staples said. She said the board is trying to find alternative revenue sources that will help limit tuition hikes.

Seventy-four employers have employees who depend on the center for child care. HaysMed employees alone accounts for 8 percent of the families at the center.

A study done by the Ellis County Child Care Task Force indicated 151 people would likely re-enter the workforce if they had affordable, adequate child care. 

That same child care survey found Ellis County is in need of 600 child care slots to fill the current need, said Staples, who has also served on the child care task force.

Ellis County has one open child-care spot for every 10 children needing care. Ellis County is better off than many counties in northwest Kansas, which have no openings for infants or toddlers.

Staples, who has a daughter at the center, said if the center would have to sharply increase rates or, worst-case scenario close, more parents would be forced out of the workforce.

"We are cognizant of that. We are so mindful of that," she said of the effect on parents. "If this place doesn't exist as a whole, that's so much more of a disservice to our community versus having it pared down a little bit or making it a little smaller or raising our rates a little more to where we can be sustainable."

Local employers are already struggling to fill vacancies with a 2 percent unemployment rate in Ellis County in October.

Staples said the board has discussed meeting with employers about having pay-to-play options. An employer would pay to reserve a spot for an employee as a benefit that could assist with recruitment and retention.

The board has also discussed reaching out to donors about funding scholarships at the center. The center can receive donations through the Heartland Community Foundation. Click <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/giving/how-to-give/">HERE</a> to donate.

The center is facing many of the pressures that are facing all child care providers — increasing food costs, supply chain issues and a tight labor market.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63e5a97b-6312-4d82-b0e4-a4122df76646">SEE RELATED STORY: Local providers: Current child care system no longer sustainable</a>

"Our expenses are not going down, they're going up," Staples said.

In addition to inflation, one of the center's affordable food supplies was no longer able to supply the center because of supply chain issues. There were a few months the center had to use Dillons.

The Kansas Infant-Toddler Services (Part C) program, which served young children with disabilities had been housed in the Hays Area Children's Center. Although the services were separate and had separate budgets, the Part C program shared operating expenses.

That program has moved to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, which means the child care portion of the center has to cover the full burden of operational expenses.

"Our board is actively looking at new solutions, going to the city, the county commissioners, the foundations and saying 'This is our situation right now. What can you recommend and how can you support us?' " she said.

One new potential revenue source could be a meal program the center could offer to other child care providers in the community. The Hays Area Children's Center has a full-service kitchen and chef. It provides hot breakfasts and lunches plus a snack. 

The center already uses produce from an on-site garden, but Staples said the chef plans to expand the garden this spring in hopes of further cutting food costs.

The center could help other child care providers cut costs through bulk food purchasing, Staples said. The Ellis County Child Care Task Force has already discussed cooperative purchasing as a means of cutting costs for providers in the community.

Staples said the board has considered applying for grant funds for capital purchases that would be required to get the food service program running.

The center is also re-evaluating its enrollment policy. The center guarantees spots so children can age into the appropriate classroom level.

Holding open spots means the center is never at full capacity. This practice is costing the center $100,000 per year. The center has considered charging families a fee to hold spots open at the next level, Staples said.

The center is also struggling with infant care. The state requires one care provider for every three infants. The infant care center has three staff members, which means it can have up to nine infants.

"Infant care is so needed, and it's so expensive," Staples said. "A lot of child care programs don't offer that care because it sinks you."

Staff costs are a significant portion of any child care facility's budget, but Staples said child care direct care workers already receive low wages.

"Our basic pay here is $11 per hour with no benefits. They are basically working here as a ministry," Staples said.

For most providers, infant care has to be subsidized by care for older children where staff ratios are higher. A preschool classroom can have 12 children supervised by a single adult.

To break even in the infant room, the center would have to charge more than $1,000 a month per infant. Staples said $1,200 per child per month for children of all ages is standard for child care in Kansas City.

"We don't want to pass these high prices on to our parents, but we might not have a choice," Staples said.

The center only has reserves to last through the summer. Closure is a possibility if nothing changes, she said.

"That's why we're trying to get this out now. In the next few months, [if we do things] like raising tuition or finding some temporary funding, it can help us get to our sustainability plan," Staples said.

"We also need to be open and transparent with our families and staff, because we want them to trust us. We don't want to send a panic."

The center is also struggling with a staffing shortage. The center will need to fill 17 positions by the end of the year. This includes part-time and full-time positions and the center's coordinator position. There are generally a mix of 25 to 35 part- and full-time total employees.

Some of the slots are open because the positions are filled by Fort Hays State University students who will be graduating in December.

Staples said she and the other members of the board hope they will be able to fill some of the positions when students return in January. The center is working with FHSU to try to establish a work-study program at the center.

However, this may leave the center critically short-staffed over the holidays. Illness has further affected the center's staffing levels.

Staples said the center is trying to find temporary staff, parents, grandparents or volunteers to help in classrooms so classrooms or the entire center can avoid temporary closure during the holidays.

The center has reached out to local high schools about temporary workers. Teens 16 and older can count toward the adult ratio in center classes.

Staples said consistent hours have been one of the center's strengths. The center is only closed for several holidays and a couple of in-service days per year. However, the center had to close earlier this week because of illness among children and staff.

"We know that child care is a market failure," Staples said. "There is a supply-and-demand issue. Even though we have a demand, it's so hard to make these things run. That's everywhere. How we survive is with our community's support."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664486123034.jpeg" alt="File photo " />
 <figcaption>File photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Area Children's Center is facing the difficult dilemma of trying to make up a funding gap without pricing its parents out of the market. The nonprofit facility, which serves 79 children and 60 families, is operating in the red. The facility has to increase its rates, find alternative sources of revenue or some combination of both.The current year's average tuition is $646 per month. Considering the center's current finances, it would have to increase tuition by $280 to $926 to bring the facility's budget to a break-even point."We are definitely needing to revamp how we run this center," said Jessamyn Staples, board member.Raising the center's tuition the full $280 would likely price some families out of the child care market, Staples said. She said the board is trying to find alternative revenue sources that will help limit tuition hikes.<h2>Workers dependent on child care</h2>Seventy-four employers have employees who depend on the center for child care. HaysMed employees alone accounts for 8 percent of the families at the center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664486094481.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A study done by the Ellis County Child Care Task Force indicated 151 people would likely re-enter the workforce if they had affordable, adequate child care. That same child care survey found Ellis County is in need of 600 child care slots to fill the current need, said Staples, who has also served on the child care task force.Ellis County has one open child-care spot for every 10 children needing care. Ellis County is better off than many counties in northwest Kansas, which have no openings for infants or toddlers.Staples, who has a daughter at the center, said if the center would have to sharply increase rates or, worst-case scenario close, more parents would be forced out of the workforce."We are cognizant of that. We are so mindful of that," she said of the effect on parents. "If this place doesn't exist as a whole, that's so much more of a disservice to our community versus having it pared down a little bit or making it a little smaller or raising our rates a little more to where we can be sustainable."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664486162076.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Local employers are already struggling to fill vacancies with a 2 percent unemployment rate in Ellis County in October.Staples said the board has discussed meeting with employers about having pay-to-play options. An employer would pay to reserve a spot for an employee as a benefit that could assist with recruitment and retention.The board has also discussed reaching out to donors about funding scholarships at the center. The center can receive donations through the Heartland Community Foundation. Click <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/giving/how-to-give/">HERE</a> to donate. <h2>Costs increasing for center</h2>The center is facing many of the pressures that are facing all child care providers — increasing food costs, supply chain issues and a tight labor market.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63e5a97b-6312-4d82-b0e4-a4122df76646">SEE RELATED STORY: Local providers: Current child care system no longer sustainable</a> "Our expenses are not going down, they're going up," Staples said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664486023988.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to inflation, one of the center's affordable food supplies was no longer able to supply the center because of supply chain issues. There were a few months the center had to use Dillons. The Kansas Infant-Toddler Services (Part C) program, which served young children with disabilities had been housed in the Hays Area Children's Center. Although the services were separate and had separate budgets, the Part C program shared operating expenses.That program has moved to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, which means the child care portion of the center has to cover the full burden of operational expenses.<h2>Alternative sources of revenue</h2>"Our board is actively looking at new solutions, going to the city, the county commissioners, the foundations and saying 'This is our situation right now. What can you recommend and how can you support us?' " she said. One new potential revenue source could be a meal program the center could offer to other child care providers in the community. The Hays Area Children's Center has a full-service kitchen and chef. It provides hot breakfasts and lunches plus a snack. The center already uses produce from an on-site garden, but Staples said the chef plans to expand the garden this spring in hopes of further cutting food costs. The center could help other child care providers cut costs through bulk food purchasing, Staples said. The Ellis County Child Care Task Force has already discussed cooperative purchasing as a means of cutting costs for providers in the community. Staples said the board has considered applying for grant funds for capital purchases that would be required to get the food service program running. The center is also re-evaluating its enrollment policy. The center guarantees spots so children can age into the appropriate classroom level. Holding open spots means the center is never at full capacity. This practice is costing the center $100,000 per year. The center has considered charging families a fee to hold spots open at the next level, Staples said.<h2>Infant care doesn't pay</h2>The center is also struggling with infant care. The state requires one care provider for every three infants. The infant care center has three staff members, which means it can have up to nine infants."Infant care is so needed, and it's so expensive," Staples said. "A lot of child care programs don't offer that care because it sinks you." Staff costs are a significant portion of any child care facility's budget, but Staples said child care direct care workers already receive low wages."Our basic pay here is $11 per hour with no benefits. They are basically working here as a ministry," Staples said.For most providers, infant care has to be subsidized by care for older children where staff ratios are higher. A preschool classroom can have 12 children supervised by a single adult.To break even in the infant room, the center would have to charge more than $1,000 a month per infant. Staples said $1,200 per child per month for children of all ages is standard for child care in Kansas City. "We don't want to pass these high prices on to our parents, but we might not have a choice," Staples said. The center only has reserves to last through the summer. Closure is a possibility if nothing changes, she said. "That's why we're trying to get this out now. In the next few months, [if we do things] like raising tuition or finding some temporary funding, it can help us get to our sustainability plan," Staples said. "We also need to be open and transparent with our families and staff, because we want them to trust us. We don't want to send a panic." <h2>Staffing shortages</h2>The center is also struggling with a staffing shortage. The center will need to fill 17 positions by the end of the year. This includes part-time and full-time positions and the center's coordinator position. There are generally a mix of 25 to 35 part- and full-time total employees.Some of the slots are open because the positions are filled by Fort Hays State University students who will be graduating in December.Staples said she and the other members of the board hope they will be able to fill some of the positions when students return in January. The center is working with FHSU to try to establish a work-study program at the center. However, this may leave the center critically short-staffed over the holidays. Illness has further affected the center's staffing levels.Staples said the center is trying to find temporary staff, parents, grandparents or volunteers to help in classrooms so classrooms or the entire center can avoid temporary closure during the holidays. The center has reached out to local high schools about temporary workers. Teens 16 and older can count toward the adult ratio in center classes.Staples said consistent hours have been one of the center's strengths. The center is only closed for several holidays and a couple of in-service days per year. However, the center had to close earlier this week because of illness among children and staff. "We know that child care is a market failure," Staples said. "There is a supply-and-demand issue. Even though we have a demand, it's so hard to make these things run. That's everywhere. How we survive is with our community's support."