When company is coming for&nbsp;dinner,&nbsp;it always seems like&nbsp;Murphy’s Law&nbsp;kicks in. Keeping a good sense of humor through it all will help. Here are a few&nbsp;food&nbsp;disaster remedies that may help you make it through the holidays.

•When the sauce is too thick, stir in more liquid a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Just a tablespoon at a time prevents you from having to fix the opposite problem.•When guests arrive late, turn the oven down to warm and keep the meat and potatoes covered with foil. Turn vegetables off and remove the cover to avoid overcooking. Quickly reheat to serve.•When there is just too much seasoning in a dish, add more food or liquid to diluteit. Or try to absorb the extra with a peeled potato.•When the holiday cookies seem to be drying out, add a slice of bread to the container to restore moistness.•When you forget to chill a fruit salad or beverage, stick it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Besure to set the timer!•And finally, when a food burns to the bottom of the pan, place a slice of bread on top of the food and let stand, covered, about five minutes to absorb the burned smell. Then dump out whatever comes easily without scraping.

I hope you are spending time enjoying the family gatherings that surround the holidays. If you have not&nbsp;finished&nbsp;your holiday shopping, remember that time, instead of expensive gifts, may be exactly&nbsp;what your family needs this year. Create your own traditions that exemplify your values. Time spent playing board or card games&nbsp;together;&nbsp;going to a movie or enjoying a sing-a-long can help define the holidays in a way that is meaningful to you.

If one of your goals during the holiday season is to teach your children that we are all part of a larger community, consider delivering meals on wheels or visiting a shut in.&nbsp;Remember that during and just following the holiday season&nbsp;are&nbsp;the most difficult time for&nbsp;almost all individuals who are not with loved ones. Levels of depression rise alarmingly during this time. This is especially true if someone has lost a loved one or has experienced other stressful events such as a divorce or the loss of a job.&nbsp;

Take time&nbsp;to celebrate your family during this holiday season!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="​Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>​Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>When company is coming for&nbsp;dinner,&nbsp;it always seems like&nbsp;Murphy’s Law&nbsp;kicks in. Keeping a good sense of humor through it all will help. Here are a few&nbsp;food&nbsp;disaster remedies that may help you make it through the holidays.•When the sauce is too thick, stir in more liquid a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Just a tablespoon at a time prevents you from having to fix the opposite problem.•When guests arrive late, turn the oven down to warm and keep the meat and potatoes covered with foil. Turn vegetables off and remove the cover to avoid overcooking. Quickly reheat to serve.•When there is just too much seasoning in a dish, add more food or liquid to diluteit. Or try to absorb the extra with a peeled potato.•When the holiday cookies seem to be drying out, add a slice of bread to the container to restore moistness.•When you forget to chill a fruit salad or beverage, stick it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Besure to set the timer!•And finally, when a food burns to the bottom of the pan, place a slice of bread on top of the food and let stand, covered, about five minutes to absorb the burned smell. Then dump out whatever comes easily without scraping.I hope you are spending time enjoying the family gatherings that surround the holidays. If you have not&nbsp;finished&nbsp;your holiday shopping, remember that time, instead of expensive gifts, may be exactly&nbsp;what your family needs this year. Create your own traditions that exemplify your values. Time spent playing board or card games&nbsp;together;&nbsp;going to a movie or enjoying a sing-a-long can help define the holidays in a way that is meaningful to you.If one of your goals during the holiday season is to teach your children that we are all part of a larger community, consider delivering meals on wheels or visiting a shut in.&nbsp;Remember that during and just following the holiday season&nbsp;are&nbsp;the most difficult time for&nbsp;almost all individuals who are not with loved ones. Levels of depression rise alarmingly during this time. This is especially true if someone has lost a loved one or has experienced other stressful events such as a divorce or the loss of a job.&nbsp;Take time&nbsp;to celebrate your family during this holiday season!​Donna Krug is the&nbsp;District Director and&nbsp;Family and Consumer Science Agent with&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;–&nbsp;Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>

KRUG: Avoiding holiday food disasters

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about holiday snacking during our Nutrition, Health and Wellness report.

<div><iframe title="Holiday treats okay, when eaten in moderation" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=nkwkg-133c0ce-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about holiday snacking during our Nutrition, Health and Wellness report.

🎙 Post Podcast: Holiday treats OK — in moderation

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Salvation Army is in desperate need of local residents to donate gifts for Ellis County children through its Angel Tree program.

The tree, which is at the Hays Walmart, still had 35 angels, representing 35 children, on it as of Thursday morning.

The Salvation Army is trying to get those angels and the corresponding gifts back by Sunday, so the gifts can be delivered in time for Christmas.

John Hubschman, Salvation Army kettle coordinator, said the organization had an increase in gift requests this holiday.

"I have noticed that a lot of these children have asked for in addition to toys, they've specifically asked for clothes and pajamas," he said. "There is definitely a need to help these kids because they are asking for essential items that they should already have taken care of."

All of the gifts are for children in Ellis County. The angels are for both girls and boys of various ages. 

To participate in the program, pick an angel for the tree. The angel should have the gender, and age gift requests from the child. You can shop at Walmart or other stores. 

Deliver the unwrapped gifts and the angel tag back to the customer service desk at Walmart by Sunday.

Hubschman said the Salvation Army has seen an increase in need across its services. More people are also seeking help from the Salvation Army's paper pantry and asking for assistance with utility payments.

"There's been a greater need, in general, this year," he said.

UPDATED, 2:15 p.m. Dec. 15 to clarify the organization sponsoring this Angel Tree.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post The Salvation Army is in desperate need of local residents to donate gifts for Ellis County children through its Angel Tree program.The tree, which is at the Hays Walmart, still had 35 angels, representing 35 children, on it as of Thursday morning.The Salvation Army is trying to get those angels and the corresponding gifts back by Sunday, so the gifts can be delivered in time for Christmas.John Hubschman, Salvation Army kettle coordinator, said the organization had an increase in gift requests this holiday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671135078298.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I have noticed that a lot of these children have asked for in addition to toys, they've specifically asked for clothes and pajamas," he said. "There is definitely a need to help these kids because they are asking for essential items that they should already have taken care of."All of the gifts are for children in Ellis County. The angels are for both girls and boys of various ages. To participate in the program, pick an angel for the tree. The angel should have the gender, and age gift requests from the child. You can shop at Walmart or other stores. Deliver the unwrapped gifts and the angel tag back to the customer service desk at Walmart by Sunday.Hubschman said the Salvation Army has seen an increase in need across its services. More people are also seeking help from the Salvation Army's paper pantry and asking for assistance with utility payments. "There's been a greater need, in general, this year," he said.UPDATED, 2:15 p.m. Dec. 15 to clarify the organization sponsoring this Angel Tree.

Gifts desperately needed by Salvation Army for 35 Ellis Co. Angel Tree children

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.&nbsp;<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.&nbsp;<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!

Arctic front will bring bitter cold to NW Kansas next week

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A former Ellis County District Court administrator who was charged with identity fraud after allegedly using electronic signatures to sign performance evaluations has entered into a diversion agreement.

Amanda Truan was charged in June with nine felony counts of identity fraud that were discovered during an Office of Judicial Administration audit in October 2021. 

The diversion agreement was registered on Dec. 5.

Truan is no longer an employee of the judicial district.

An affidavit in the case said employees were not aware nor did they authorize the submission of the evaluations or the use of their electronic signatures on the evaluations.

Kayla Acosta, who became the Ellis County District Court Clerk in May 2021, told investigators she did not recall having an evaluation since 2018.

The employee evaluations are used as performance indicators for each employee by the Office of Judicial Administration. The employee's evaluation has a direct effect on the employee's job and whether the employee will receive any type of wage enhancements or promotions. 

Each count of identity fraud could have been punishable by up to 23 months in prison and/or up to a $100,000 fine.

Truan had been on bond waiting for the resolution of the case.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA former Ellis County District Court administrator who was charged with identity fraud after allegedly using electronic signatures to sign performance evaluations has entered into a diversion agreement.Amanda Truan was charged in June with nine felony counts of identity fraud that were discovered during an Office of Judicial Administration audit in October 2021. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671125265075.png" alt="Amanda Truan" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Truan</figcaption>
 </figure>The diversion agreement was registered on Dec. 5. Truan is no longer an employee of the judicial district.An affidavit in the case said employees were not aware nor did they authorize the submission of the evaluations or the use of their electronic signatures on the evaluations.Kayla Acosta, who became the Ellis County District Court Clerk in May 2021, told investigators she did not recall having an evaluation since 2018.The employee evaluations are used as performance indicators for each employee by the Office of Judicial Administration. The employee's evaluation has a direct effect on the employee's job and whether the employee will receive any type of wage enhancements or promotions. Each count of identity fraud could have been punishable by up to 23 months in prison and/or up to a $100,000 fine.Truan had been on bond waiting for the resolution of the case.

Former Ellis Co. court employee enters into diversion agreement on fraud charges

WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

In Ellis County, the bridge over Big Creek on 270th Avenue near Walker was included in the list at a cost of $1.2 million.

Projects in Osborne, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks and Smith counties were also included.&nbsp;

“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”

The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.

The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.

The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.

The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.

“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”

Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950063249.png" alt="Photos by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post</figcaption>
 </figure>WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.In Ellis County, the bridge over Big Creek on 270th Avenue near Walker was included in the list at a cost of $1.2 million.Projects in Osborne, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks and Smith counties were also included.&nbsp;“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950106330.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950085913.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff/Little Apple Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670957743049.png" alt="Northwest Kansas bridge projects" />
 <figcaption>Northwest Kansas bridge projects</figcaption>
 </figure>

NW Kan. bridge projects included in $40.5M announcement

WILSON — Visitors to the Czech Capital of Kansas will soon be able to view two large murals honoring Czech immigrants and the railroad in rural Kansas.

The unveiling will take place in a dedication ceremony from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the site of the Midland Railroad Hotel Barn.

The murals created by artist Ace Walker from Oklahoma were made possible because of a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Rural Mural Program that required a 1:1 match from the community.

Wilson, one of 14 cities to receive a grant, was awarded one of the largest amounts ($10,000).

The Wilson Tourism Hub and the Kansas Czechs Inc., collaborated to successfully write the grant.

“By funding the creation of murals and public art in communities across Kansas, we want to celebrate the beauty of our state and highlight everything our small towns have to offer,” Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said.

The large murals, which will fill the south side of The Barn Event Center, will depict Czech immigrants arriving at the train station, along with a nod to the history of the horse racing track located in Wilson at the turn of the century.

Speakers will include Aaron Valesek, honorary consul to the Czech Republic, and Mike Peschka, mayor of Wilson.

The Kansas Czech queen, Hannah Andringa from Ellsworth, also will be in attendance. An artist reception will follow inside The Barn.

About the artist: Andrew “Ace” Walker lives in Prague, Olka., with his wife, Paige, and their two children. A former Major League Baseball player with the Texas Rangers, Walker received a degree in graphic design from the University of Alabama and started Ace Walker Art. He specializes in commercial artwork, large murals and commissioned oil paintings.

More on the history of The Barn can be found at https://hayspost.com/posts/51086065-ab6b-426a-9bf6-248cad68113d.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671027239058.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseWILSON — Visitors to the Czech Capital of Kansas will soon be able to view two large murals honoring Czech immigrants and the railroad in rural Kansas.The unveiling will take place in a dedication ceremony from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the site of the Midland Railroad Hotel Barn.The murals created by artist Ace Walker from Oklahoma were made possible because of a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Rural Mural Program that required a 1:1 match from the community.Wilson, one of 14 cities to receive a grant, was awarded one of the largest amounts ($10,000).The Wilson Tourism Hub and the Kansas Czechs Inc., collaborated to successfully write the grant.“By funding the creation of murals and public art in communities across Kansas, we want to celebrate the beauty of our state and highlight everything our small towns have to offer,” Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671027260690.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The large murals, which will fill the south side of The Barn Event Center, will depict Czech immigrants arriving at the train station, along with a nod to the history of the horse racing track located in Wilson at the turn of the century.Speakers will include Aaron Valesek, honorary consul to the Czech Republic, and Mike Peschka, mayor of Wilson.The Kansas Czech queen, Hannah Andringa from Ellsworth, also will be in attendance. An artist reception will follow inside The Barn.About the artist: Andrew “Ace” Walker lives in Prague, Olka., with his wife, Paige, and their two children. A former Major League Baseball player with the Texas Rangers, Walker received a degree in graphic design from the University of Alabama and started Ace Walker Art. He specializes in commercial artwork, large murals and commissioned oil paintings.More on the history of The Barn can be found at https://hayspost.com/posts/51086065-ab6b-426a-9bf6-248cad68113d.

Mural unveiling set for Saturday in Wilson

The December 15 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe December 15 Hays City Commission work session has been canceled.

No Hays city commission work session today

<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/2022/12/1671050801798.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

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Not all firewood is created equal. Some species of trees are able to produce much more heat per cord of wood. A cord is the amount of wood in a well-stacked woodpile measuring 4 feet wide by 8 feet long by 4 feet high.&nbsp;

Following are heat values (in million BTUs) per cord for various species of trees. The higher the value, the better the wood.

The Kansas Forest Service has a publication titled "Managing Your Woodland for Firewood" that is quite helpful. See <a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/mf773.pdf">http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/mf773.pdf</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Remember to obtain firewood locally. Emerald Ash Borer has spread in Kansas primarily because of transported wood.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNot all firewood is created equal. Some species of trees are able to produce much more heat per cord of wood. A cord is the amount of wood in a well-stacked woodpile measuring 4 feet wide by 8 feet long by 4 feet high.&nbsp;Following are heat values (in million BTUs) per cord for various species of trees. The higher the value, the better the wood.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670882212866.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Forest Service has a publication titled "Managing Your Woodland for Firewood" that is quite helpful. See <a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/mf773.pdf">http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/mf773.pdf</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Remember to obtain firewood locally. Emerald Ash Borer has spread in Kansas primarily because of transported wood.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670882244511.jpg" alt="Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

CAMPBELL: Not all firewood is created equal

By BOYCE DURR FHSU University Communications

FHSU men’s soccer starting forward Blake Arndt will cross the commencement stage this week, graduating with a degree in Business Management from Fort Hays State University’s Werth College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

While most seniors are moving on to graduate school or into the workforce, Arndt will return after graduation to complete additional certifications and play one more season with the FHSU men’s soccer team.

“I knew I had the extra year of eligibility because of COVID, but I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do after graduation,” Arndt said. He had considered moving on to a graduate program and playing somewhere else for his final season. “I’m excited it worked out, and I will get to finish up here at Fort Hays State.”

This year, Arndt led the Tigers in goals scored with 6 in the fall season. Arndt has 24 goals and 7 assists over three seasons at Fort Hays State. Once again, he was selected by the United Soccer Coaches and the D2CCA for the All-Central Region Team and the All-GAC/MIAA First Team for the third year in a row. His other honors while at FHSU include being the 2020/21 GAC/MIAA New Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year.&nbsp;

Arndt didn’t start his college soccer career as a Tiger. He transferred to FHSU after a year and a half of playing Division 1 soccer at the University of Central Arkansas.&nbsp;

“I had a nice scholarship to go to Arkansas and wanted to like it there,” Arndt said. “But I realized by the end of the second season that it just wasn’t working out for me.”

Luckily, Arndt had a friend and former teammate of 10 years from Wichita, Alec Bevis, who was already playing at FHSU and talked Arndt into trying out for the team.&nbsp;

“I called up Alec and asked him about Hays,” Arndt recalled. “He told me that Hays was great and said I needed to come check it out.”&nbsp;

It didn’t take him long to realize that FHSU was special and that he wanted to make the switch.

“Hays is such a great place to live,” Arndt said. “Everyone in town and on campus is so friendly, I have made great friends on the team and in my classes, and some of my best friends from home were already here. I could tell right away that Hays was the place for me.”

Arndt found success not only on the soccer field but also in the business management program.

“I feel like the business management program has taught me a lot not only about the technical aspects of the field, but the courses have helped me develop in many ways. The professors have helped me become a better communicator; through course presentations, in writing and email, I am much more comfortable speaking than I was at the start of my program,” Arndt said.

While he found all of his coursework and his professors helpful and encouraging, Arndt had high praise for one, Dr. Robert Lloyd. Discussion-based courses, and courses where students were asked to share their ideas as part of the learning process, had the most appeal.

“Dr. Lloyd is one of my favorite professors,” Arndt said. “Having classes where we were expected to give PowerPoint presentations over a problem or question connected to the current course topic, and doing this every couple of weeks really helped with my public speaking.”

Arndt hopes to take what he has learned in his business management program and build on that. He is looking to add some certifications through the Health and Human Performance department before going on to study sports management.

“I’ve had such a great time and made so many friends at Fort Hays State,” Arndt said. “The soccer team has been so supportive, like a group of brothers.”

The friendships Arndt made at FHSU are clearly important to him and are one of the things he will miss most once he is finished. He hopes to be able to travel and visit some of the soccer players from other countries once he has time.

“I’ve met a lot of cool people here at FHSU, and being on the soccer team has allowed me to meet people from all around the world,” Arndt said. “I’ve got friends from Chile, Japan, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Greece, everywhere. It would be great to just go visit them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671056962437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BOYCE DURR FHSU University CommunicationsFHSU men’s soccer starting forward Blake Arndt will cross the commencement stage this week, graduating with a degree in Business Management from Fort Hays State University’s Werth College of Business and Entrepreneurship.While most seniors are moving on to graduate school or into the workforce, Arndt will return after graduation to complete additional certifications and play one more season with the FHSU men’s soccer team.“I knew I had the extra year of eligibility because of COVID, but I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do after graduation,” Arndt said. He had considered moving on to a graduate program and playing somewhere else for his final season. “I’m excited it worked out, and I will get to finish up here at Fort Hays State.”This year, Arndt led the Tigers in goals scored with 6 in the fall season. Arndt has 24 goals and 7 assists over three seasons at Fort Hays State. Once again, he was selected by the United Soccer Coaches and the D2CCA for the All-Central Region Team and the All-GAC/MIAA First Team for the third year in a row. His other honors while at FHSU include being the 2020/21 GAC/MIAA New Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year.&nbsp;Arndt didn’t start his college soccer career as a Tiger. He transferred to FHSU after a year and a half of playing Division 1 soccer at the University of Central Arkansas.&nbsp;“I had a nice scholarship to go to Arkansas and wanted to like it there,” Arndt said. “But I realized by the end of the second season that it just wasn’t working out for me.”Luckily, Arndt had a friend and former teammate of 10 years from Wichita, Alec Bevis, who was already playing at FHSU and talked Arndt into trying out for the team.&nbsp;“I called up Alec and asked him about Hays,” Arndt recalled. “He told me that Hays was great and said I needed to come check it out.”&nbsp;It didn’t take him long to realize that FHSU was special and that he wanted to make the switch.“Hays is such a great place to live,” Arndt said. “Everyone in town and on campus is so friendly, I have made great friends on the team and in my classes, and some of my best friends from home were already here. I could tell right away that Hays was the place for me.”Arndt found success not only on the soccer field but also in the business management program.“I feel like the business management program has taught me a lot not only about the technical aspects of the field, but the courses have helped me develop in many ways. The professors have helped me become a better communicator; through course presentations, in writing and email, I am much more comfortable speaking than I was at the start of my program,” Arndt said.While he found all of his coursework and his professors helpful and encouraging, Arndt had high praise for one, Dr. Robert Lloyd. Discussion-based courses, and courses where students were asked to share their ideas as part of the learning process, had the most appeal.“Dr. Lloyd is one of my favorite professors,” Arndt said. “Having classes where we were expected to give PowerPoint presentations over a problem or question connected to the current course topic, and doing this every couple of weeks really helped with my public speaking.”Arndt hopes to take what he has learned in his business management program and build on that. He is looking to add some certifications through the Health and Human Performance department before going on to study sports management.“I’ve had such a great time and made so many friends at Fort Hays State,” Arndt said. “The soccer team has been so supportive, like a group of brothers.”The friendships Arndt made at FHSU are clearly important to him and are one of the things he will miss most once he is finished. He hopes to be able to travel and visit some of the soccer players from other countries once he has time.“I’ve met a lot of cool people here at FHSU, and being on the soccer team has allowed me to meet people from all around the world,” Arndt said. “I’ve got friends from Chile, Japan, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Greece, everywhere. It would be great to just go visit them.”

⚽️ FHSU senior set to graduate but will return for final soccer season

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

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.

<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;