U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Acting State Director Kansas&nbsp;Dan Fischer today announced that USDA is investing $22,965,600 to build and improve critical community facilities in 15 communities. This infrastructure funding will increase access to health care and public safety while spurring community development and building sound infrastructure for people living in rural communities.

These are the Kansas projects receiving financial assistance:

A&nbsp;$93,400 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in&nbsp;replacing a fire engine. Currently southeast&nbsp;Rush County,
 including the town of Timken, is serviced by an old fire engine 
requiring a great deal of maintenance. Reliability of the truck in an 
emergency is questionable. The purchase of a new Quick Attack Fire Body 
truck will provide updated equipment to the volunteer firefighters.

A&nbsp;$34,500 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a new fully equipped vehicle for the City of&nbsp;Norton's
 Law Enforcement Department. This vehicle will replace an older vehicle 
with maintenance issues and outdated equipment. The new vehicle will 
come fully equipped with items that will meet the current needs of the 
department.

USDAU.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Acting State Director Kansas&nbsp;Dan Fischer today announced that USDA is investing $22,965,600 to build and improve critical community facilities in 15 communities. This infrastructure funding will increase access to health care and public safety while spurring community development and building sound infrastructure for people living in rural communities.These are the Kansas projects receiving financial assistance:A&nbsp;$93,400 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in&nbsp;replacing a fire engine. Currently southeast&nbsp;Rush County,
 including the town of Timken, is serviced by an old fire engine 
requiring a great deal of maintenance. Reliability of the truck in an 
emergency is questionable. The purchase of a new Quick Attack Fire Body 
truck will provide updated equipment to the volunteer firefighters.A&nbsp;$34,500 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a new fully equipped vehicle for the City of&nbsp;Norton's
 Law Enforcement Department. This vehicle will replace an older vehicle 
with maintenance issues and outdated equipment. The new vehicle will 
come fully equipped with items that will meet the current needs of the 
department.<ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$475,000 loan, along with a contribution from the applicant, will assist in completing street improvements, curb, guttering and storm water grading within the city of&nbsp;Cottonwood Falls. Streets have warped cross sections, reduced storm water capacity and irregular profiles resulting in potholes and ponding. This project will address the most immediate street needs through patching, replacement and storm sewer installation. The project includes approximately 13,850 square yards of asphalt milling, 2,710 tons of hot mix asphalt surface replacement, 3,510 square yards of concrete pavement, 31,200 square yards of chip and seal, 3,350 feet of sidewalk, and storm water grading and improvements.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$14,600 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing and installing&nbsp;a&nbsp;boiler system for the&nbsp;Hodgeman&nbsp;County Courthouse. The courthouse&nbsp;was built in 1929 and is on both the Kansas Historic Register and the National Historic Register. The new system will come with a one-year warranty and the county has entered a contract for continued maintenance, eliminating emergency costs of parts and labor.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$98,300 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing and installing heating and air conditioning systems and new lighting in the junior and senior high school facilities in&nbsp;Burlingame. Installation will include flat panel LED lights, to improve lighting quality and efficiency, and replacement of the entire heating and air conditioning system with a variant refrigerant flow zoning system.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$175,000 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant, will rebuild and repair two existing boiler units and address a safety issue of a third at the&nbsp;Neosho&nbsp;Memorial Regional Medical Center. Two boilers must be repaired to prevent failure and possible hospital closure. Additional work to be completed includes new diesel pumps, new boiler skins and re-insulating two boilers. A third boiler will be repaired. This project will add an additional 20-year lifespan to the medical center's power infrastructure.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$90,600 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in renovating a facility for the City of&nbsp;Moundridge&nbsp;public library. The existing library is housed in a building that was constructed in 1929. The city's Public Building Commission purchased a 4,500 square foot facility, built in 1979, and would need interior renovations before becoming the city's new public library. The new facility will be Americans with Disabilities Act compliant and include accessible shelving, tables, chairs and other furnishings. The new facility will have interactive child and technology areas. The facility will have study spaces, community room and an outdoor classroom.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$5,200 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a replacement sanitation truck for the waste department in the City of&nbsp;Sharon. The city's&nbsp;current truck, a 1999 GMC model, has reached the end of its useful life and is requiring weekly repairs and maintenance. The new truck is a&nbsp;2006 International model.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$26,400 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a previously owned 2012 Ford F-450 4X4 Type 1 Wheeled Coach Ambulance for the&nbsp;Sedan&nbsp;area Emergency Medical Service. The new ambulance will replace a 1997 model. The old ambulance is not dependable and requires upgrades, that are cost prohibitive to keep it in service.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$12,000 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a previously owned fire engine for the City of&nbsp;Sedgwick. This vehicle will replace a 1991 model with a water leak in its holding tank. The current truck does not meet testing standards leaving only one fully functional truck. The city is purchasing a 2009 LaFrance with only 600 hours of use.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$15,900 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist&nbsp; the City of&nbsp;Cawker City&nbsp;in replacing the roof on their fire station. The existing roof leaks, causing damage to the structure of the building.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$2,200 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing and installing a new heating and air conditioning unit for the senior center in&nbsp;Burdett. This facility's current heating and air conditioning system is failing and has become financially more difficult to maintain. The facility provides the area's aging population with meals, services and activities for a better quality of life in the community.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$50,000 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing a new Jetter Vac truck for the City of&nbsp;Belleville. This will replace an existing, 18-year-old truck. This truck is used by multiple city departments and is critical for cleaning sewers and vacuuming wastewater. The new truck will hold 1,300 gallons of waste or water, has a ten-foot aluminum telescoping boom, debris tank and other features.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$35,500 grant, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will assist in purchasing equipment for the&nbsp;Neodesha&nbsp;Law Enforcement Department. Offices are currently housed in a temporary storage area at the city hall with evidence stored in a shipping container. The container is not climate-controlled, and evidence is deteriorating due to the conditions. Funds will be used to purchase security cameras, evidence equipment and office equipment.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>A&nbsp;$19,869,000 direct loan&nbsp;and a&nbsp;$1,968,000 guaranteed loan&nbsp;through Western Alliance Business Trust, along with a contribution from the applicant,&nbsp;will construct a critical access hospital facility in&nbsp;Caldwell. The project will construct a new 41,000 square foot facility, with 16-beds and include clinic services.</li>
 </ul>

Rush County, Norton to receive USDA grants

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays USD 489 superintendent Ron Wilson about the Bond issue proposal brought to the board of education this week.

<div><iframe title="Proposed USD 489 bond issue addresses need for space across the district." allowtransparency="true" height="315" 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=aw3dz-118ea3d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays USD 489 superintendent Ron Wilson about the Bond issue proposal brought to the board of education this week.

🎙Post Podcast: Proposed USD 489 bond issue addresses lack of space

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Kaleigh Wentworth goes that extra mile to show both her students and their families that they are loved.

Wentworth was nominated by Nicole Dopita, parent of one of Wentworth's third-grade students, for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award. 

"Students love her because she is kind, loving, fun and cares about them. Parents love her because she makes them feel like their student is the only one in her classroom,"&nbsp; Dopita said in her nomination.

"Ms. Wentworth gets to know every student in her class as a whole person," Dopita&nbsp; said."Kaleigh is able to see exactly what each child brings to the classroom, and her teaching methodology involves finding and using the children’s unique strengths to help them grow and thrive, as well as harnesses their personalities to overcome struggles."

Dopita said she involves not only the kids but also the parents in classroom learning by uploading pictures and videos throughout the day for parents to experience her teaching and the environment she creates. 

Wentworth said she doesn't want children to miss out on any special experiences in class. 

Wentworth exhibited this personal touch with Dopita's daughter, Emily.&nbsp; Wentworth personally delivered popcorn to Dopita's home when Emily was sick and missed the monthly popcorn Friday celebration. She told Dopita she was leaving her home and hitting another student’s lemonade stand.  

Dopita called it a true testament of her integrity and dedication.  

Wentworth was also nominated by Maia Gray.

"Ms. Wentworth takes a lot of time to figure out how each kid learns. She then takes that information and forms her learning around it, which is amazing," Gray said. "She is great role model for any child who wants to be a teacher. She cares for each one of her students as if they were her own."

Wentworth, 34, has only been an elementary school teacher for three years. A Fort Hays State University graduate, she worked at Early Childhood Connections before returning to college to earn her master's degree through Kansas State University in 2019.

Wentworth said she made the change to K-12 education because she wanted to have more of an impact on her students.&nbsp; Wentworth grew up in Hays and attended O'Loughlin as a student, and she said she remembers her second- and third-grade teachers well.

"I just enjoy working with kids and helping them learn and teaching them," she said. 

Wentworth said she loves the silly things that come out of kids' mouths.

"I get a lot of joy out of the innocence that they bring and how brutally honest they can be without realizing," she said.

It was a challenging time to come back into education. Wentworth taught one semester before COVID hit. Just as she gets used to doing things in a certain way, a wrench gets thrown in, she said.

"My entire career has been trying to shuffle that, as well as the normal responsibilities of a teacher," Wentworth said.

However, Wentworth said COVID has not been her biggest challenge. She worries about the well being of her students. 

"There are some kids who have it better on the home front than others," she said. "It was hard for me in the beginning, and it's still hard for me now, to mentally clock out. 

"There are some kids that I worry if they're doing well at home. The personal aspect of that I enjoy can also be a double-edged sword and leave me worrying when I should be spending time with my family and relaxing."

Wentworth said she strives to build a positive education environment that feels like a family.

"We work very hard on building positive relationships," she said, "because I am a firm believer that you can't learn well in an environment you don't feel safe and loved in."

It goes beyond lemonade stands and personal popcorn deliveries. Wentworth said she knows her students and her families are struggling right now with the added strains of illness and COVID.

She recently took JD's Chicken chicken and noodle dinners to a student's family who was in quarantined.

"I hope it leaves a positive impact on kids so they do those kind things for people too, just to give the world a little more kindness," she said. 

"I think that personal touch lets each kiddo know that I care, and I try to do that with everybody."

O'Loughlin uses a looping model, which means children have the same classroom teacher for two years. Wentworth said that model allows her to see children's growth.

"I was just grading their spelling and their writing and thinking where they have come from. I remember getting them in second grade to now," she said. "Sometimes I just stop and reflect over that with them. 'Look at how much you've grown. See, you know so much.'"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643232786170.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643231766510.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Wentworth, O'Loughlin second- and third-grade teacher, is the January Hays Post Teacher of the Month. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Wentworth, O'Loughlin second- and third-grade teacher, is the January Hays Post Teacher of the Month. Photo By Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKaleigh Wentworth goes that extra mile to show both her students and their families that they are loved.Wentworth was nominated by Nicole Dopita, parent of one of Wentworth's third-grade students, for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award. "Students love her because she is kind, loving, fun and cares about them. Parents love her because she makes them feel like their student is the only one in her classroom,"&nbsp; Dopita said in her nomination. "Ms. Wentworth gets to know every student in her class as a whole person," Dopita&nbsp; said."Kaleigh is able to see exactly what each child brings to the classroom, and her teaching methodology involves finding and using the children’s unique strengths to help them grow and thrive, as well as harnesses their personalities to overcome struggles."Dopita said she involves not only the kids but also the parents in classroom learning by uploading pictures and videos throughout the day for parents to experience her teaching and the environment she creates. Wentworth said she doesn't want children to miss out on any special experiences in class. Wentworth exhibited this personal touch with Dopita's daughter, Emily.&nbsp; Wentworth personally delivered popcorn to Dopita's home when Emily was sick and missed the monthly popcorn Friday celebration. She told Dopita she was leaving her home and hitting another student’s lemonade stand. Dopita called it a true testament of her integrity and dedication. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643232150059.jpeg" alt="Teacher Kaleigh Wentworth with third-grade student, Emily. " />
 <figcaption>Teacher Kaleigh Wentworth with third-grade student, Emily. </figcaption>
 </figure>Wentworth was also nominated by Maia Gray."Ms. Wentworth takes a lot of time to figure out how each kid learns. She then takes that information and forms her learning around it, which is amazing," Gray said. "She is great role model for any child who wants to be a teacher. She cares for each one of her students as if they were her own."Wentworth, 34, has only been an elementary school teacher for three years. A Fort Hays State University graduate, she worked at Early Childhood Connections before returning to college to earn her master's degree through Kansas State University in 2019.Wentworth said she made the change to K-12 education because she wanted to have more of an impact on her students.&nbsp; Wentworth grew up in Hays and attended O'Loughlin as a student, and she said she remembers her second- and third-grade teachers well. "I just enjoy working with kids and helping them learn and teaching them," she said. Wentworth said she loves the silly things that come out of kids' mouths."I get a lot of joy out of the innocence that they bring and how brutally honest they can be without realizing," she said. It was a challenging time to come back into education. Wentworth taught one semester before COVID hit. Just as she gets used to doing things in a certain way, a wrench gets thrown in, she said."My entire career has been trying to shuffle that, as well as the normal responsibilities of a teacher," Wentworth said.However, Wentworth said COVID has not been her biggest challenge. She worries about the well being of her students. "There are some kids who have it better on the home front than others," she said. "It was hard for me in the beginning, and it's still hard for me now, to mentally clock out. "There are some kids that I worry if they're doing well at home. The personal aspect of that I enjoy can also be a double-edged sword and leave me worrying when I should be spending time with my family and relaxing." Wentworth said she strives to build a positive education environment that feels like a family."We work very hard on building positive relationships," she said, "because I am a firm believer that you can't learn well in an environment you don't feel safe and loved in."It goes beyond lemonade stands and personal popcorn deliveries. Wentworth said she knows her students and her families are struggling right now with the added strains of illness and COVID.She recently took JD's Chicken chicken and noodle dinners to a student's family who was in quarantined."I hope it leaves a positive impact on kids so they do those kind things for people too, just to give the world a little more kindness," she said. "I think that personal touch lets each kiddo know that I care, and I try to do that with everybody." O'Loughlin uses a looping model, which means children have the same classroom teacher for two years. Wentworth said that model allows her to see children's growth."I was just grading their spelling and their writing and thinking where they have come from. I remember getting them in second grade to now," she said. "Sometimes I just stop and reflect over that with them. 'Look at how much you've grown. See, you know so much.'" <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643232786170.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Teacher of the Month: Teacher shows love with chicken and noodles

The Hays Symphony will be presenting a Winter Concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the Fort Hays State University Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.

The concert features Sergei Prokofiev’s&nbsp;Symphony No. 1, Igor Stravinsky’s&nbsp;Pulcinella Suite, and conductor Brian Buckstead as violin soloist on Max Richter’s&nbsp;The Four Seasons Recomposed.

The Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25, also known as the "Classical" was Sergei Prokofiev's first numbered symphony.&nbsp; Prokofiev composed this work as a modern reinterpretation of the classical style of Franz Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The symphony follows the standard four-movement format but is much shorter in length than the symphonies of the classical period.

Stravinsky’s&nbsp;Pulcinella Suite&nbsp;was written for Les Ballet Russes and began a new compositional trend for the composer. The Suite is a shortened version of the ballet with the instrumental passages replacing the singing roles. Stravinsky believed that “Pulcinella&nbsp;was my discovery of the past, the epiphany through which the whole of my late work became possible.”&nbsp; In&nbsp;Pulcinella, Stravinsky weaves the charm of the classical style with the harmonic and rhythmic energy of twentieth century compositional techniques.

Max Richter’s&nbsp;The Four Seasons Reimagined&nbsp;will feature Dr. Brian Buckstead as the violin soloist. The musical themes of the original Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi are familiar to the general public through popular culture. Excerpts can be heard on the soundtrack of The&nbsp;Simpsons,&nbsp;the Secret Life’s of Pets, Disney’s&nbsp;Fantasia&nbsp;andMuzak. Max Richter says, “it's everywhere. For me, in this project I’m trying to reclaim the piece, to fall in love with it again." Richter takes Vivaldi’s opening theme and creates a loop to engage the listener into the current musical trend of dance music and bring classical sentiments into the 21st&nbsp;century.

Buckstead is Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at Fort Hays State University, as well as director of the Hays Symphony. He enjoys a thriving career as a violinist, violist and conductor.&nbsp;Buckstead is passionate about the education of young musicians. In addition to adjudicating local and national music competitions, he co-developed Bring Back the Music, an initiative to bring string instrument education to two underprivileged public schools in Medicine Hat, Alberta.

The post-concert reception is sponsored by a generous donation from the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.

All Hays Symphony concerts are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website (<a href="http://hayssymphony.org/">hayssymphony.org</a>). Tickets may also be picked up in advance at the Hays Convention Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, or at the symphony table in the lobby 30 minutes before the performance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633364673862.png" alt="Dr. Brian Buckstead" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Brian Buckstead</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Symphony will be presenting a Winter Concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the Fort Hays State University Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at FHSU.The concert features Sergei Prokofiev’s&nbsp;Symphony No. 1, Igor Stravinsky’s&nbsp;Pulcinella Suite, and conductor Brian Buckstead as violin soloist on Max Richter’s&nbsp;The Four Seasons Recomposed.The Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25, also known as the "Classical" was Sergei Prokofiev's first numbered symphony.&nbsp; Prokofiev composed this work as a modern reinterpretation of the classical style of Franz Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The symphony follows the standard four-movement format but is much shorter in length than the symphonies of the classical period.Stravinsky’s&nbsp;Pulcinella Suite&nbsp;was written for Les Ballet Russes and began a new compositional trend for the composer. The Suite is a shortened version of the ballet with the instrumental passages replacing the singing roles. Stravinsky believed that “Pulcinella&nbsp;was my discovery of the past, the epiphany through which the whole of my late work became possible.”&nbsp; In&nbsp;Pulcinella, Stravinsky weaves the charm of the classical style with the harmonic and rhythmic energy of twentieth century compositional techniques.Max Richter’s&nbsp;The Four Seasons Reimagined&nbsp;will feature Dr. Brian Buckstead as the violin soloist. The musical themes of the original Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi are familiar to the general public through popular culture. Excerpts can be heard on the soundtrack of The&nbsp;Simpsons,&nbsp;the Secret Life’s of Pets, Disney’s&nbsp;Fantasia&nbsp;andMuzak. Max Richter says, “it's everywhere. For me, in this project I’m trying to reclaim the piece, to fall in love with it again." Richter takes Vivaldi’s opening theme and creates a loop to engage the listener into the current musical trend of dance music and bring classical sentiments into the 21st&nbsp;century.Buckstead is Assistant Professor of Violin and Viola at Fort Hays State University, as well as director of the Hays Symphony. He enjoys a thriving career as a violinist, violist and conductor.&nbsp;Buckstead is passionate about the education of young musicians. In addition to adjudicating local and national music competitions, he co-developed Bring Back the Music, an initiative to bring string instrument education to two underprivileged public schools in Medicine Hat, Alberta.The post-concert reception is sponsored by a generous donation from the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau.All Hays Symphony concerts are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website (<a href="http://hayssymphony.org/">hayssymphony.org</a>). Tickets may also be picked up in advance at the Hays Convention Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, or at the symphony table in the lobby 30 minutes before the performance.

Hays Symphony's winter concert set for next month

Melissa Portenier, RN recently awarded the first Daisy Nurse Leader Award at HaysMed.&nbsp; Shewas selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed administrative team. The Practice Committee consists of staff and supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed. Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers, and associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient, and clinic settings.&nbsp;

“As the healthcare landscape becomes more complex, with increasing demands on Nurse Leaders, the Daisy Award recognizes those who create an environment of compassion and recognition for others,” said Terry Siek, Vice President for Patient Care. “They strongly deserve to be recognized themselves. The DAISY Award is a worldwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing our nurses with this honor.”

Melissa continues to go above and beyond for her staff and Hays Med.&nbsp; Much like everyone else in the nation currently, we have been working with limited staff.&nbsp; With the absence of several key nurses, Melissa knew that she was going to need to fill the void.&nbsp; She continued to do her day-to-day supervisor duties as well as work as Charge Nurse for the OR front desk.

Nurse Leaders provide a haven of safety for staff, both physically and emotionally. In this environment, Nurses are inspired to do their very best by Nurse Leaders who role-model caring behaviors. These leaders provide a setting where compassion is valued, and staff, in turn, treat patients and their families with deep humanity.

To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to&nbsp;<a href="file://hmcfile_svnt/docs/Nursing/Nursing%20Services/Daisy%20Award/Brochures/www.haysmed.com/daisyaward">www.haysmed.com/daisyaward</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions, you can call 785.623.2388

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643293242086.jpeg" alt="IMG_1402.jpg" />
 <figcaption>IMG_1402.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedMelissa Portenier, RN recently awarded the first Daisy Nurse Leader Award at HaysMed.&nbsp; Shewas selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed administrative team. The Practice Committee consists of staff and supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed. Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers, and associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient, and clinic settings.&nbsp;“As the healthcare landscape becomes more complex, with increasing demands on Nurse Leaders, the Daisy Award recognizes those who create an environment of compassion and recognition for others,” said Terry Siek, Vice President for Patient Care. “They strongly deserve to be recognized themselves. The DAISY Award is a worldwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing our nurses with this honor.”Melissa continues to go above and beyond for her staff and Hays Med.&nbsp; Much like everyone else in the nation currently, we have been working with limited staff.&nbsp; With the absence of several key nurses, Melissa knew that she was going to need to fill the void.&nbsp; She continued to do her day-to-day supervisor duties as well as work as Charge Nurse for the OR front desk.Nurse Leaders provide a haven of safety for staff, both physically and emotionally. In this environment, Nurses are inspired to do their very best by Nurse Leaders who role-model caring behaviors. These leaders provide a setting where compassion is valued, and staff, in turn, treat patients and their families with deep humanity.To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to&nbsp;<a href="file://hmcfile_svnt/docs/Nursing/Nursing%20Services/Daisy%20Award/Brochures/www.haysmed.com/daisyaward">www.haysmed.com/daisyaward</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions, you can call 785.623.2388

OR supervisor earns HaysMed's inaugural Daisy Nurse Leader Award

COLBY - Colby Community College announced the hiring of LeRoy Hays as the school’s new head rodeo coach.

Hays is a Phillipsburg native and worked as a lineman for Prairie Land Electric, Inc., from 1986 until his retirement in December 2021. 

He has served on the Kansas Biggest Rodeo Committee since 2001 and was a founding board member in 2005 for the Kansas Junior High School Rodeo Association. He holds an associate degree in horse training and management from Lamar Community College.

In his free time, Hays enjoys attending rodeos and other sporting events, judging youth rodeos, hunting, fishing, and camping. He and his wife Debbie have a daughter, Kadie (Cort) Chittick, and a son, Rylan.

Hays began his new position earlier this month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643296966990.jpeg" alt="LeRoy Hays" />
 <figcaption>LeRoy Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY - Colby Community College announced the hiring of LeRoy Hays as the school’s new head rodeo coach.Hays is a Phillipsburg native and worked as a lineman for Prairie Land Electric, Inc., from 1986 until his retirement in December 2021. He has served on the Kansas Biggest Rodeo Committee since 2001 and was a founding board member in 2005 for the Kansas Junior High School Rodeo Association. He holds an associate degree in horse training and management from Lamar Community College.In his free time, Hays enjoys attending rodeos and other sporting events, judging youth rodeos, hunting, fishing, and camping. He and his wife Debbie have a daughter, Kadie (Cort) Chittick, and a son, Rylan.Hays began his new position earlier this month.

LeRoy Hays hired to lead Colby CC rodeo program

The annual Thomas More Prep-Marian Pop Singers Dinner Show is back and better than ever.

Join us in the Dreiling Theater at TMP-Marian on:

Saturday, February 5: $20 per ticket. Enjoy a fabulous meal before the show; meal service begins at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m.

Sunday, February 6: $10 per ticket. Enjoy a delicious and diverse dessert bar beginning at 1:30 p.m. with the show to follow at 2:30 p.m.

<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/pop-singers-dinner-show">Click here to purchase your tickets today!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643224530022.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThe annual Thomas More Prep-Marian Pop Singers Dinner Show is back and better than ever.Join us in the Dreiling Theater at TMP-Marian on:Saturday, February 5: $20 per ticket. Enjoy a fabulous meal before the show; meal service begins at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m.Sunday, February 6: $10 per ticket. Enjoy a delicious and diverse dessert bar beginning at 1:30 p.m. with the show to follow at 2:30 p.m.<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/pop-singers-dinner-show">Click here to purchase your tickets today!</a>

TMP-M Pop Singers dinner show set for next month

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

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643401474685.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

“California girls.” Does that bring to mind blonde hair and sandy beaches?&nbsp;

Today we’ll meet a young woman from California with interests beyond the beachfront.&nbsp;&nbsp;She developed an interest in agriculture, married a Kansan, and made her way to the Sunflower State where the couple is adding value to their family beef operation through direct-to-consumer marketing.

Myndi and Jason Krafft are the owners of Krafft Beef in Phillips County. Jason is a fifth-generation farmer and rancher. He grew up farming with his dad, grandfather, and uncle and was active in 4-H and FFA. He made the livestock judging team at Colby Community College and then the team at Cal Poly in California. He met Myndi in an animal science class.&nbsp;

Myndi had grown up in southern California. Her family had a garden and backyard chickens. Her great grandfather had farmed near Enid, Okla. and Liberal, Kan.&nbsp;

“I remembered his stories and I became interested in where our food comes from,” Myndi said. She studied agriculture at Cal Poly, met and married Jason, and earned her ag teaching credentials plus a masters degree.&nbsp;

“I was an ag teacher for 10 years in the bay area,” Myndi said. She team-taught soil chemistry and a sustainable ag biology class which counted toward the students’ science requirements. “Agriculture is science,” Myndi said.&nbsp;

Jason worked with a veterinarian who specialized in embryo transfer of high quality beef seedstock. He had learned beef cow artificial insemination at K-State’s Kansas Artificial Breeding Service Unit in Manhattan, among other places, and worked across the west coast.&nbsp;

By 2017, the Kraffts had daughters Kinley and Kensi who were five and two years old, respectively. “We were living in a bedroom community about 1-2 hours from Silicon Valley and San Francisco,” Jason said. They chose to move to Phillips County to be closer to family and to raise their daughters in the rural countryside of Kansas.&nbsp;

Their farm is outside the rural community of Phillipsburg, population 2,581 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

“I loved it right away,” Myndi said. “It’s so much nicer, compared to the traffic in California,” Myndi said. In fact, Phillipsburg’s total population is smaller than the student population at the school where Myndi had taught.&nbsp;

The Kraffts have a livestock and grain farm, raising hay and grain to go with the cow-calf operation plus feeding steers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When we lived in California, Jason’s parents would send us a half of beef, and our friends would rave about how good it was,” Myndi said. The Kraffts saw the opportunity to market their beef directly, identified a nearby butcher to do the processing, and launched a website.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, Krafft Beef sells products all over the nation. “100% of our (meat) sales are online,” Myndi said. Krafft Beef delivers to local area customers, but most products are shipped.&nbsp;

“This week we shipped a beef bundle to the Hamptons,” Myndi said. Their products have gone coast to coast, from California to Massachusetts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Myndi manages the online marketing side of the business, which means maintaining the website, managing the inventory, doing the email marketing and connecting with customers through social media such as Instagram and Facebook. “The next generation of consumers, that is where they are,” Myndi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This is an additional marketing option for our beef,” Jason said. “We need to figure out how to do more with the acres we have.”&nbsp;

“This became my way to contribute to the family operation,” Myndi said. “You really need to pay attention to the market.”&nbsp;

For example, a chuck roast for the crockpot tends to be popular in the Midwest, but other cuts are more popular in warmer regions where people can grill most of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Everybody loves ribeyes,” Myndi said.&nbsp;

The Kraffts describe their beef as “family grown and responsibly raised.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.krafftbeef.com/">www.krafftbeef.com</a>.&nbsp;

We commend Myndi and Jason Krafft for making a difference with their creative way to market their products. If entrepreneurs in other states had knowledge of agriculture like hers, I wish they all could be that kind of California girl.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643206736489.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“California girls.” Does that bring to mind blonde hair and sandy beaches?&nbsp;Today we’ll meet a young woman from California with interests beyond the beachfront.&nbsp;&nbsp;She developed an interest in agriculture, married a Kansan, and made her way to the Sunflower State where the couple is adding value to their family beef operation through direct-to-consumer marketing. Myndi and Jason Krafft are the owners of Krafft Beef in Phillips County. Jason is a fifth-generation farmer and rancher. He grew up farming with his dad, grandfather, and uncle and was active in 4-H and FFA. He made the livestock judging team at Colby Community College and then the team at Cal Poly in California. He met Myndi in an animal science class.&nbsp;Myndi had grown up in southern California. Her family had a garden and backyard chickens. Her great grandfather had farmed near Enid, Okla. and Liberal, Kan.&nbsp;“I remembered his stories and I became interested in where our food comes from,” Myndi said. She studied agriculture at Cal Poly, met and married Jason, and earned her ag teaching credentials plus a masters degree.&nbsp;“I was an ag teacher for 10 years in the bay area,” Myndi said. She team-taught soil chemistry and a sustainable ag biology class which counted toward the students’ science requirements. “Agriculture is science,” Myndi said.&nbsp;Jason worked with a veterinarian who specialized in embryo transfer of high quality beef seedstock. He had learned beef cow artificial insemination at K-State’s Kansas Artificial Breeding Service Unit in Manhattan, among other places, and worked across the west coast.&nbsp;By 2017, the Kraffts had daughters Kinley and Kensi who were five and two years old, respectively. “We were living in a bedroom community about 1-2 hours from Silicon Valley and San Francisco,” Jason said. They chose to move to Phillips County to be closer to family and to raise their daughters in the rural countryside of Kansas.&nbsp;Their farm is outside the rural community of Phillipsburg, population 2,581 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“I loved it right away,” Myndi said. “It’s so much nicer, compared to the traffic in California,” Myndi said. In fact, Phillipsburg’s total population is smaller than the student population at the school where Myndi had taught.&nbsp;The Kraffts have a livestock and grain farm, raising hay and grain to go with the cow-calf operation plus feeding steers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“When we lived in California, Jason’s parents would send us a half of beef, and our friends would rave about how good it was,” Myndi said. The Kraffts saw the opportunity to market their beef directly, identified a nearby butcher to do the processing, and launched a website.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, Krafft Beef sells products all over the nation. “100% of our (meat) sales are online,” Myndi said. Krafft Beef delivers to local area customers, but most products are shipped.&nbsp;“This week we shipped a beef bundle to the Hamptons,” Myndi said. Their products have gone coast to coast, from California to Massachusetts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Myndi manages the online marketing side of the business, which means maintaining the website, managing the inventory, doing the email marketing and connecting with customers through social media such as Instagram and Facebook. “The next generation of consumers, that is where they are,” Myndi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This is an additional marketing option for our beef,” Jason said. “We need to figure out how to do more with the acres we have.”&nbsp;“This became my way to contribute to the family operation,” Myndi said. “You really need to pay attention to the market.”&nbsp;For example, a chuck roast for the crockpot tends to be popular in the Midwest, but other cuts are more popular in warmer regions where people can grill most of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Everybody loves ribeyes,” Myndi said.&nbsp;The Kraffts describe their beef as “family grown and responsibly raised.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.krafftbeef.com/">www.krafftbeef.com</a>.&nbsp;We commend Myndi and Jason Krafft for making a difference with their creative way to market their products. If entrepreneurs in other states had knowledge of agriculture like hers, I wish they all could be that kind of California girl.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Myndi & Jason Krafft, Krafft Beef 

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, M.D., will hold a public town hall at 8 a.m. Feb. 5 at the&nbsp;Hays Public Library. The public is invited to attend the town hall to learn about federal legislative issues and ask questions of the senator.&nbsp;

“I look forward to the opportunity to speak with Kansans and learn more about the issues and concerns impacting their lives,”&nbsp;Marshall said.&nbsp;“I value the opportunity to hear directly from folks in Ellis County so that I can take their stories and concerns with me when I return to Washington, D.C.”

Marshall's visit is part of the Hays Chamber's Legislative Coffee series.

Office of Sen. Roger MarshallU.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, M.D., will hold a public town hall at 8 a.m. Feb. 5 at the&nbsp;Hays Public Library. The public is invited to attend the town hall to learn about federal legislative issues and ask questions of the senator.&nbsp;“I look forward to the opportunity to speak with Kansans and learn more about the issues and concerns impacting their lives,”&nbsp;Marshall said.&nbsp;“I value the opportunity to hear directly from folks in Ellis County so that I can take their stories and concerns with me when I return to Washington, D.C.”Marshall's visit is part of the Hays Chamber's Legislative Coffee series.

Marshall will take part in Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee

John E. Hoover, publisher of SI Sooners, offered a sneak peek at incoming Oklahoma Sooners freshman Jaren Kanak of Hays High School.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.si.com/college/oklahoma/baseball/oklahoma-freshmen-getting-a-jump-on-college-football-lb-jaren-kanak">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read the entire article.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ad67b9b-7ba8-41ad-b423-e3e79ca71ba8">Kanak officially signed with the Sooners earlier this month.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636672234630.jpeg" alt="Hays High School senior Jaren Kanak / Photo by Kim Reel Photography" />
 <figcaption>Hays High School senior Jaren Kanak / Photo by Kim Reel Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>John E. Hoover, publisher of SI Sooners, offered a sneak peek at incoming Oklahoma Sooners freshman Jaren Kanak of Hays High School.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.si.com/college/oklahoma/baseball/oklahoma-freshmen-getting-a-jump-on-college-football-lb-jaren-kanak">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read the entire article.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9ad67b9b-7ba8-41ad-b423-e3e79ca71ba8">Kanak officially signed with the Sooners earlier this month.</a>

Sports Illustrated offers Sooners fans a sneak peek at Kanak

Hays USD 489 announced in a message to parents and guardians Friday afternoon that it will suspend its district-wide requirement for masks for students and staff.

Masks will continue to be required for individuals returning from isolation due to a positive COVID case.

District mitigation levels will be suspended beginning Monday as a result of guidance from the Kansas Department of Education, Department of Health and local health officials.

Close contacts will no longer be identified.

All individuals should monitor for symptoms and stay home if not feeling well.

See the updated guidelines for COVID in USD 489 below.

Hays Post Hays USD 489 announced in a message to parents and guardians Friday afternoon that it will suspend its district-wide requirement for masks for students and staff.Masks will continue to be required for individuals returning from isolation due to a positive COVID case.District mitigation levels will be suspended beginning Monday as a result of guidance from the Kansas Department of Education, Department of Health and local health officials.Close contacts will no longer be identified.All individuals should monitor for symptoms and stay home if not feeling well.See the updated guidelines for COVID in USD 489 below. <figure>
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Hays USD 489 suspends district-wide masks, contact tracing

RUSSELL — The City of Russell recently implemented a new mass notification system for members of the community to easily subscribe to various alerts to receive important information and updates. 

• Billing Notices – subscribers to this alert will receive a reminder for monthly utility bills. • Closings &amp; Cancellations – subscribers will be notified of city facility and service closures. • Emergency Alerts – subscribers will be notified of various emergencies impacting the local community. • Public Notices – subscribers will receive community information such as notices of altered trash routes, planned street closures, or other services/events that may impact the community. • Utility Outage Notice – subscribers will be altered to important information relating to water and electric utilities.

Subscribing to these alerts is fast and easy, follow the steps below to subscribe:

1. On a web browser, type in <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.russellcity.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0KM0T8rhynYRmA-a_SBcchpqzdcANPgDxWBT9PyBaWZZt6RZ3EsyuNr7w&amp;h=AT0Umu4G8pZXUjV5qR9MzQuaW6fBwaF8dnawKwhNJl17hY5TOrISXOJMoYPUTKZqUXyZUfM4LC_zgAsyNQXhX-vt6Coi-MDKfLrUAIEYsvWK80lv7QpUKwNhlJgso_9i&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3EaL6TNzvmpKa6dBByYAr1LJpl2kbWlDujtFRpMp-UwdGlte-bSEdrojSaiIaFapA2d4GASjTJ7DeqxFoP2ghxRHd1rl4VaUGN-7fVaVDzrNHr2sTkoJNGGPuIUU8FAyUKeV1gdtt5EvU3dftNqBAHbbBOksNxiGk9XRrwaf6yAQ" target="_blank">www.russellcity.org</a> On the home page, click on the Notify Me icon.

2. Type your email address in the box and select Sign in.3. If you would like to receive text messages enter your phone number and select Save.

4. To subscribe or unsubscribe Click   and/or    next to the lists to which you wish to subscribe/unsubscribe.

Remember to set your spam blocker to allow mail from listserv@civicplus.com to receive email notifications.

For assistance and questions, call the City Clerk’s office at (785) 483-6311.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Press ReleaseRUSSELL — The City of Russell recently implemented a new mass notification system for members of the community to easily subscribe to various alerts to receive important information and updates. Types of notices include:• Billing Notices – subscribers to this alert will receive a reminder for monthly utility bills. • Closings &amp; Cancellations – subscribers will be notified of city facility and service closures. • Emergency Alerts – subscribers will be notified of various emergencies impacting the local community. • Public Notices – subscribers will receive community information such as notices of altered trash routes, planned street closures, or other services/events that may impact the community. • Utility Outage Notice – subscribers will be altered to important information relating to water and electric utilities. Subscribing to these alerts is fast and easy, follow the steps below to subscribe:1. On a web browser, type in <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.russellcity.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0KM0T8rhynYRmA-a_SBcchpqzdcANPgDxWBT9PyBaWZZt6RZ3EsyuNr7w&amp;h=AT0Umu4G8pZXUjV5qR9MzQuaW6fBwaF8dnawKwhNJl17hY5TOrISXOJMoYPUTKZqUXyZUfM4LC_zgAsyNQXhX-vt6Coi-MDKfLrUAIEYsvWK80lv7QpUKwNhlJgso_9i&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3EaL6TNzvmpKa6dBByYAr1LJpl2kbWlDujtFRpMp-UwdGlte-bSEdrojSaiIaFapA2d4GASjTJ7DeqxFoP2ghxRHd1rl4VaUGN-7fVaVDzrNHr2sTkoJNGGPuIUU8FAyUKeV1gdtt5EvU3dftNqBAHbbBOksNxiGk9XRrwaf6yAQ" target="_blank">www.russellcity.org</a> On the home page, click on the Notify Me icon.2. Type your email address in the box and select Sign in.3. If you would like to receive text messages enter your phone number and select Save.4. To subscribe or unsubscribe Click and/or next to the lists to which you wish to subscribe/unsubscribe.Remember to set your spam blocker to allow mail from listserv@civicplus.com to receive email notifications.For assistance and questions, call the City Clerk’s office at (785) 483-6311.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Russell rolls out mass notification system

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A pre-annexation agreement with BBJ, LLC approved by Hays city commissioners last night is the first step toward development of more commercial properties north of Interstate 70 at Exit 157.

The agreement for four parcels along 55th Street near 230th Avenue - adjacent to the future home of a travel plaza - also governs the construction of infrastructure to serve future development. Improvements to the intersection of 55th and 230th were recently completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One tract has already been developed as a Peterbilt dealership and is served by a Hays waterline. All the land is currently outside city limits.&nbsp;

The pre-annexation agreement calls for the city to bid out extension of a waterline and a sanitary sewerline to serve BBJ's developable property.

"These are mains meant to serve not only the property owner's property but the properties also adjacent to the project," City Manager Toby Dougherty told the commission.

The city would pay for the waterline and split the cost of the sewerline with BBJ.

"In exchange for that the property owner agrees to immediately plat everything they own. They will annex tracts two, one and four. Then tract three, which is the Doonan Peterbuilt dealership, would be annexed three years after the installation of the facilities (infrastructure)."&nbsp;

The dealership annexation could be delayed by two provisions, according to Dougherty.

"If one of the other tracts that are currently undeveloped, develops within three years in a retail or commercial capacity, then that annexation would be pushed out to five years.

"If the water/sewer cost comes in at least $30,000&nbsp;below the $245,000 budget, then we push that annexation out to four years."

BBJ also wants the right upon annexation to come before the commission and request a modification of the Community Improvement District (CID) currently imposed on the property by Ellis County several years ago.&nbsp;

"The property owner doesn't actually have a concern about coming into the city limits, but does have a concern about coming into the city limits with an added two cents CID. ... (They'd) like a consideration to become before the city commission and ask for a reduction or elimination in the CID.

"We would fully support whatever the property owner wants. It's their CID." The city commisson as the governing body of jurisdiction upon annexation would have to approve any reduction.

Extension of the water and sewerlines would be bid out as a single project to be built within 12 months of the annexation agreement.&nbsp;

Commissioner Shaun Musil asked if the city has enough water capacity with the added water and sewer lines.

"Yes, absolutely," Dougherty answered. "We would make the developer's tracts developable for commercial capacity as well as the tract south of Celebration Church."

"I like it," said Musil. "Seems like a win for the city and a win for the business owner."

Commissioners also unanimously approved a rezoning request for 1680 East 10th Street from agriculture to heavy industrial and the final plat of the associated Langer Industrial Addition, which is not in the city limits.&nbsp;

The 17.9 acre area will house a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c44001c9-855e-40ec-9bd0-1c5c055c4389">metal recycling transload facility</a>, moving from 37th Street near I-70, to the larger area in south Hays with plans for addition of a railroad spur, according to owner Pete Langer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The development will increase truck traffic to the area. Access to the salvage yard will be off of 10th Street.

A third agenda item concerning property was approved. The city purchased 20.39 acres of land from Dean and July Haselhorst just east of the airport at 1135 280th Ave. for $61,170.&nbsp;

According to Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport manager, the land acquisition will be beneficial to control drainage, protect airspace, and support future development opportunities.

Commissioner Sandy Jacobs was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642734187257.png" alt="Four tracts of land owned by BBJ, LLC, will soon be annexed into the city of Hays for potential commercial development near the I-70 Exit 157 . Tract 3 is already the site of a Peterbuilt dealership." />
 <figcaption>Four tracts of land owned by BBJ, LLC, will soon be annexed into the city of Hays for potential commercial development near the I-70 Exit 157 . Tract 3 is already the site of a Peterbuilt dealership.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA pre-annexation agreement with BBJ, LLC approved by Hays city commissioners last night is the first step toward development of more commercial properties north of Interstate 70 at Exit 157.The agreement for four parcels along 55th Street near 230th Avenue - adjacent to the future home of a travel plaza - also governs the construction of infrastructure to serve future development. Improvements to the intersection of 55th and 230th were recently completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;One tract has already been developed as a Peterbilt dealership and is served by a Hays waterline. All the land is currently outside city limits.&nbsp;The pre-annexation agreement calls for the city to bid out extension of a waterline and a sanitary sewerline to serve BBJ's developable property.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hq6-IGtoRYw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"These are mains meant to serve not only the property owner's property but the properties also adjacent to the project," City Manager Toby Dougherty told the commission.The city would pay for the waterline and split the cost of the sewerline with BBJ."In exchange for that the property owner agrees to immediately plat everything they own. They will annex tracts two, one and four. Then tract three, which is the Doonan Peterbuilt dealership, would be annexed three years after the installation of the facilities (infrastructure)."&nbsp;The dealership annexation could be delayed by two provisions, according to Dougherty."If one of the other tracts that are currently undeveloped, develops within three years in a retail or commercial capacity, then that annexation would be pushed out to five years."If the water/sewer cost comes in at least $30,000&nbsp;below the $245,000 budget, then we push that annexation out to four years."BBJ also wants the right upon annexation to come before the commission and request a modification of the Community Improvement District (CID) currently imposed on the property by Ellis County several years ago.&nbsp;"The property owner doesn't actually have a concern about coming into the city limits, but does have a concern about coming into the city limits with an added two cents CID. ... (They'd) like a consideration to become before the city commission and ask for a reduction or elimination in the CID."We would fully support whatever the property owner wants. It's their CID." The city commisson as the governing body of jurisdiction upon annexation would have to approve any reduction.Extension of the water and sewerlines would be bid out as a single project to be built within 12 months of the annexation agreement.&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil asked if the city has enough water capacity with the added water and sewer lines."Yes, absolutely," Dougherty answered. "We would make the developer's tracts developable for commercial capacity as well as the tract south of Celebration Church.""I like it," said Musil. "Seems like a win for the city and a win for the business owner."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604357168597.jpeg" alt="Langer Industrial Service currently has a transfer station near the Vine, I-70 interchange in Hays. The metal recycling facility plans to relocate to south Hays. (Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Langer Industrial Service currently has a transfer station near the Vine, I-70 interchange in Hays. The metal recycling facility plans to relocate to south Hays. (Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also unanimously approved a rezoning request for 1680 East 10th Street from agriculture to heavy industrial and the final plat of the associated Langer Industrial Addition, which is not in the city limits.&nbsp;The 17.9 acre area will house a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c44001c9-855e-40ec-9bd0-1c5c055c4389">metal recycling transload facility</a>, moving from 37th Street near I-70, to the larger area in south Hays with plans for addition of a railroad spur, according to owner Pete Langer.&nbsp;&nbsp;The development will increase truck traffic to the area. Access to the salvage yard will be off of 10th Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643354492970.png" alt="City commissioners approved a rezoning request from agricultural to heavy industrial for the proposed new Langer Industrial Services. The area is not in the city limits.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>City commissioners approved a rezoning request from agricultural to heavy industrial for the proposed new Langer Industrial Services. The area is not in the city limits.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A third agenda item concerning property was approved. The city purchased 20.39 acres of land from Dean and July Haselhorst just east of the airport at 1135 280th Ave. for $61,170.&nbsp;According to Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport manager, the land acquisition will be beneficial to control drainage, protect airspace, and support future development opportunities.Commissioner Sandy Jacobs was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

🎥 City commission approves first steps for more development north of I-70 at Exit 157

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 111 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

There have been 1,545 new coronavirus cases reported in Ellis County in January.&nbsp;

As of Friday morning, there were 30 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including 14 active cases and 16 recovering cases.&nbsp;

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>

The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 51 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (age 5 and older) are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (5 and older) is approximately 63 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 6,719 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643394268868.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 111 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.There have been 1,545 new coronavirus cases reported in Ellis County in January.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, there were 30 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including 14 active cases and 16 recovering cases.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 51 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (age 5 and older) are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (5 and older) is approximately 63 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 6,719 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643394296258.png" alt="Statewide COVID-10 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-10 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 111 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Symphony Orchestra director Brian Buckstead.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays Symphony director Brian Buckstead" 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=a3hc4-118e9f6-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Symphony Orchestra director Brian Buckstead.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays Symphony director Brian Buckstead

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Celebration Community Church will host the Night to Shine Hays Shine Thru Parade from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Saturday in downtown Hays.

Due to COVID concerns, instead of the traditional dance, participants will load up in cars and join a parade down Main Street.

Residents are encouraged to line main and cheer on the participants as they pass in their decorated vehicles.

Night to Shine is an event that is centered on God’s love for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 14 and older. More than 100 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from northwest Kansas will be honored at this year’s Night to Shine Hays event.

"Our team is really excited to be hosting this event in downtown Hays for the second year in a row," said Brent Kaiser, local organizer. "Being in downtown Hays adds a unique and fun aspect to this wonderful event.

"We really hope to see lots of people lining the sidewalks and cheering on Main Street. Last year, our honored guests were so excited to see everyone cheering for them as they the cruised up and down Main."

This year, Night to Shine will celebrate its eighth anniversary as thousands from around the world will come together to honor those with disabilities.

Though this year will look a little different, nothing can keep faith, hope and love from shining as bright as ever, a news release said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643307511645.png" alt="File photo / Cristina Janney, Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo / Cristina Janney, Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post Celebration Community Church will host the Night to Shine Hays Shine Thru Parade from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Saturday in downtown Hays.Due to COVID concerns, instead of the traditional dance, participants will load up in cars and join a parade down Main Street.Residents are encouraged to line main and cheer on the participants as they pass in their decorated vehicles. Night to Shine is an event that is centered on God’s love for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 14 and older. More than 100 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from northwest Kansas will be honored at this year’s Night to Shine Hays event."Our team is really excited to be hosting this event in downtown Hays for the second year in a row," said Brent Kaiser, local organizer. "Being in downtown Hays adds a unique and fun aspect to this wonderful event. "We really hope to see lots of people lining the sidewalks and cheering on Main Street. Last year, our honored guests were so excited to see everyone cheering for them as they the cruised up and down Main." This year, Night to Shine will celebrate its eighth anniversary as thousands from around the world will come together to honor those with disabilities.Though this year will look a little different, nothing can keep faith, hope and love from shining as bright as ever, a news release said.

Hays Night to Shine drive-through parade set for Saturday on Main

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

Following the Dec. 15 Four-County Wildfire, the Kansas Livestock
Foundation quickly organized to support area ag producers, including the
creation of a special fund that assisted in recovery efforts.

Through the efforts of the Kansas Livestock Association more
than $1.6 million was raised for the foundation, as of Jan. 20, through the
contributions of over 1,400 individuals and companies.

And while they continue their efforts, applications for
relief are due by the end of the month.

“If you've received significant damage… and you're an
agricultural producer, you can apply to possibly get some help with your with
your damages through the Kansas Livestock Association,” said Cottonwood
Extension District agent Stacy Campbell. “And that application forum is due the
31st.”

The application is available on their website, KLA.org.

“It's form fillable,” Campbell said. “It's not a complicated
deal. They don't ask too many questions. They do kind of want to know what kind
of damages you had if you've gotten any estimates on what it's going to cost to
fix that damage and so forth, (you) kind of submit those things, but it's pretty
simplified and straightforward.”

Along with the KLA efforts, he said countless others worked
to assist those affected.

“The ag community is just wow, they are awesome and have really
stepped up to help these folks impacted,” Campbell said. 

But while one source of potential funds ends, he said
support will continue.

“Of course, as our folks in agriculture know, they're going
to need more hay to get through the winter. So, if you're needing some
assistance on that, or if you would like to donate, one of the places you could
go on Facebook, it's called Ashes to Ashes. And there are some folks that are
really doing a tremendous job in coordinating hay deliveries, people needing
hay.”

He said the district can also help guide producers to
available resources.

“If you're a need, you can give us a call and we can try to
get you connected as well,” Campbell said.

For more information about the KLA, including a link to the wildfire
relief form, visit their website <a href="https://www.kla.org/">kla.org.</a>

For more about the Cottonwood Extension District, visit their
website <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">cottonwood.k-state.edu.</a>

<div><iframe title="Upcoming Extension District events to assist ag producers" 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=eh6s4-118d203-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostFollowing the Dec. 15 Four-County Wildfire, the Kansas Livestock
Foundation quickly organized to support area ag producers, including the
creation of a special fund that assisted in recovery efforts.Through the efforts of the Kansas Livestock Association more
than $1.6 million was raised for the foundation, as of Jan. 20, through the
contributions of over 1,400 individuals and companies.And while they continue their efforts, applications for
relief are due by the end of the month.“If you've received significant damage… and you're an
agricultural producer, you can apply to possibly get some help with your with
your damages through the Kansas Livestock Association,” said Cottonwood
Extension District agent Stacy Campbell. “And that application forum is due the
31st.”The application is available on their website, KLA.org.“It's form fillable,” Campbell said. “It's not a complicated
deal. They don't ask too many questions. They do kind of want to know what kind
of damages you had if you've gotten any estimates on what it's going to cost to
fix that damage and so forth, (you) kind of submit those things, but it's pretty
simplified and straightforward.”Along with the KLA efforts, he said countless others worked
to assist those affected.“The ag community is just wow, they are awesome and have really
stepped up to help these folks impacted,” Campbell said. But while one source of potential funds ends, he said
support will continue.“Of course, as our folks in agriculture know, they're going
to need more hay to get through the winter. So, if you're needing some
assistance on that, or if you would like to donate, one of the places you could
go on Facebook, it's called Ashes to Ashes. And there are some folks that are
really doing a tremendous job in coordinating hay deliveries, people needing
hay.”He said the district can also help guide producers to
available resources.“If you're a need, you can give us a call and we can try to
get you connected as well,” Campbell said.For more information about the KLA, including a link to the wildfire
relief form, visit their website <a href="https://www.kla.org/">kla.org.</a>For more about the Cottonwood Extension District, visit their
website <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">cottonwood.k-state.edu.</a>

🎙 Kansas Livestock Foundation wildfire relief deadline approaching

Show me a Midwesterner who doesn’t have some sort of love-hate relationship with snow, and I’ll show you the rock they have lived under. It seems as though a person either love it or hates it, and for some of us it depends upon the day. It’s hard to explain how something that makes the landscape suddenly seem so sparkling clean and pure can turn on you in an instant and ruin your day. I was reminded last week how much I love to watch snow fall and how beautiful it makes everything it touches, but also how much I hate removing it from my driveway. I’m kind of a purist, in that I believe God put it there and I don’t want to shovel it and take away any satisfaction He might get from taking it away himself! Yes, to the traveler, home owner, maintenance man and commuter, snow is often an unwelcome inconvenience. To the outdoorsman, however, snow opens up a whole new world of opportunities.

For the outdoors photographer or painter there is no other canvas that compares to an outdoor scene sporting a fresh snowfall. Suddenly, as if by magic, the mundane becomes majestic, the drab becomes dynamic and the everyday becomes extraordinary. Outdoor spots we pass daily with no recognition suddenly become scenes from a calendar. Like the lava lamps of days gone by, the look of the landscape slowly changes from hour to hour with the wind.

Obviously, skiers and snowboarders live for fresh snow. After an overnight snowfall, hills too steep to climb become mere carnival rides beneath their feet. Cross country skiers can, in one day, see country it would take them several days to see on foot without the snow. And let’s not forget the farmers; around one foot of snow equals one inch of rain and snow supposedly brings with it good nutrients too, so after a couple dry years like we’ve had, all this snow is more than welcome for our Kansas wheat and alfalfa.

Hunters and trappers can benefit greatly from a fresh snowfall. Tracks of deer, coyotes, bobcats and other game animals are tough to spot in our often-dry Kansas soil, so trying to learn their movement patterns can rely on being fortunate enough to see the animals themselves. Remember going to dances back-in-the-day when your hand was stamped with a mark that only showed up under a special “black light?” That mark was there the whole time but only became visible when put under the light. Just like the black light, snow suddenly shows tracks of wildlife that have been traveling those same paths for months, but leaving no visible signs.

After a significant snowfall a few years ago, I spent time scouting an area I still had yet to trap. It was a soybean stubble field along the river where my wife harvested her first deer several years before. Besides hordes of deer tracks, I followed 2 sets of bobcat tracks as they meandered back and forth across the field and between several freshly made brush piles. I tracked a coyote for several hundred yards and was able to observe exactly how it related to certain land features. I followed coyote tracks on a frozen drainage ditch and could see where it had stopped to nose around under logs and other attractions. Its tracks showed me cattle trails it had traveled along the steep banks and where it had entered and left the ditch. Closing my eyes, I could almost see these animals as they left the footprints that held my attention.

So, the next time it snows, or before this current snow all melts, after you’ve shoveled the driveway, cleaned the walks, swept the deck and cursed the weatherman, grab your camera or walking stick and head for the woods. It will definitely influence your relationship with the “white stuff” as you continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Steve GillilandShow me a Midwesterner who doesn’t have some sort of love-hate relationship with snow, and I’ll show you the rock they have lived under. It seems as though a person either love it or hates it, and for some of us it depends upon the day. It’s hard to explain how something that makes the landscape suddenly seem so sparkling clean and pure can turn on you in an instant and ruin your day. I was reminded last week how much I love to watch snow fall and how beautiful it makes everything it touches, but also how much I hate removing it from my driveway. I’m kind of a purist, in that I believe God put it there and I don’t want to shovel it and take away any satisfaction He might get from taking it away himself! Yes, to the traveler, home owner, maintenance man and commuter, snow is often an unwelcome inconvenience. To the outdoorsman, however, snow opens up a whole new world of opportunities.For the outdoors photographer or painter there is no other canvas that compares to an outdoor scene sporting a fresh snowfall. Suddenly, as if by magic, the mundane becomes majestic, the drab becomes dynamic and the everyday becomes extraordinary. Outdoor spots we pass daily with no recognition suddenly become scenes from a calendar. Like the lava lamps of days gone by, the look of the landscape slowly changes from hour to hour with the wind.Obviously, skiers and snowboarders live for fresh snow. After an overnight snowfall, hills too steep to climb become mere carnival rides beneath their feet. Cross country skiers can, in one day, see country it would take them several days to see on foot without the snow. And let’s not forget the farmers; around one foot of snow equals one inch of rain and snow supposedly brings with it good nutrients too, so after a couple dry years like we’ve had, all this snow is more than welcome for our Kansas wheat and alfalfa.Hunters and trappers can benefit greatly from a fresh snowfall. Tracks of deer, coyotes, bobcats and other game animals are tough to spot in our often-dry Kansas soil, so trying to learn their movement patterns can rely on being fortunate enough to see the animals themselves. Remember going to dances back-in-the-day when your hand was stamped with a mark that only showed up under a special “black light?” That mark was there the whole time but only became visible when put under the light. Just like the black light, snow suddenly shows tracks of wildlife that have been traveling those same paths for months, but leaving no visible signs.After a significant snowfall a few years ago, I spent time scouting an area I still had yet to trap. It was a soybean stubble field along the river where my wife harvested her first deer several years before. Besides hordes of deer tracks, I followed 2 sets of bobcat tracks as they meandered back and forth across the field and between several freshly made brush piles. I tracked a coyote for several hundred yards and was able to observe exactly how it related to certain land features. I followed coyote tracks on a frozen drainage ditch and could see where it had stopped to nose around under logs and other attractions. Its tracks showed me cattle trails it had traveled along the steep banks and where it had entered and left the ditch. Closing my eyes, I could almost see these animals as they left the footprints that held my attention.So, the next time it snows, or before this current snow all melts, after you’ve shoveled the driveway, cleaned the walks, swept the deck and cursed the weatherman, grab your camera or walking stick and head for the woods. It will definitely influence your relationship with the “white stuff” as you continue to Explore Kansas OutdoorsSteve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Snow; Love it or hate it

Starting next week, donations given to the Heartland
Community Foundation will have an even larger impact in the area through the support of another area foundation.

<div><iframe title="Heartland Community Foundation funds assisting Dec. 15 victims" 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=u5pbw-1183592-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostStarting next week, donations given to the Heartland
Community Foundation will have an even larger impact in the area through the support of another area foundation.During the month of February, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation
will once again match donations, which will further go on to help support nonprofit
organizations.“We are tasked by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation to raise
money for our county funds,” said executive director Sarah Meitner. “Those
county legacy funds ... are the ones that we make grants
out of. So when you hear Heartland granted to the library or to First Call
for Help or to First Care Clinic or to yada yada school district, it a lot
of the time is either coming from pass-through money from Hanson, or it's
coming out of these legacy funds.”With that in mind, she said, it is critical that every dollar
possible is captured and doubling that money has a tangible positive impact she hopes area residents will take advantage of.“And that means that for every dollar that we raise
during the month of February, they will match dollar for dollar.”An even higher amount of matched funds will be given if the
foundation can reach its fundraising goal during the month.“If we hit our goal,
they will give us a bonus,” Meitner said. “So it really amounts to about $1.50 for every dollar raised.”The goal is $150,000 across the three counties serviced by
the foundation — Ellis, Rooks and Trego. “We have the month to do it. We have to raise $50,000 in each of the three counties,” Meitner said. “Counting all of the match money that we can get back, it's such a big investment for our
area into these funds.“So, if you have been a past donor, or maybe you have never
been a donor, but you're interested in and trying to see how you can help to make an impact in your community, consider making a donation to Heartland
Community Foundation — but during the month of February, so that we can count it
toward match month.”Those who give, she said, will be responsible for helping the
community in a number of ways.“We make grants that impact the lives of babies,
children, teens, young adults, seniors, people with disabilities, you name it,”
Meitner said. “You have likely been impacted by a grant that Heartland has made,
whether you even realize it or not. So, yeah, so definitely consider making a
gift in the month of February, but not the day before.”For more information about the Heartland Community
Foundation, visit their website, <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">heartlandcommunityfoundation.org.</a>For more information about the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, visit their website, <a href="https://danehansenfoundation.org/">danehansenfoundation.org.</a>Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

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