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.

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>

<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

🎙Hansen Foundation to match donations to Heartland Foundation during Feb.

In an ongoing effort to assist ag producers in the area,
the Cottonwood Extension District is set to offer a number of events in the
coming weeks.

On Monday, the Crop Talk Webinar series is set to begin
online, following the same format from last year.

“We did (online) last year because of COVID, and it went
over well,” said district agent Stacy Campbell.

The series will feature agents from across the region,
presenting a variety of topics during each weekly session.

“It's just a one-hour webinar on each Monday,” Campbell
said. “And they're going to be from 12 to one. So hopefully, that's a
convenient time for farmers and ranchers, they can, you know, come in while
they're having lunch and listen if they'd like to these crop talk webinar
series.” 

The series is set to run through March 7.

“It's really easy to register,” Campbell said, with registration
available now via a weblink or QR code.

Attendees are welcome to participate in as many of the
sessions as desired.

On Feb. 8, the district will host the 2022 K-State Winter
Ranch Management Program, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ag Research Center in Hays.

“It was actually supposed to be over in Russell, but because
of the wildfire, it's been moved to Hays,” Campbell said. “If folks are
interested in that, they do need to get signed up by February 1 and to do that
you would actually call either Extension office here in Hays at (785) 628-9439 or
over in Great Bend at (620) 793-1910.”

“These are programs that they kind of do every year around
the state, they move them around each year. Some of the topics they're going to
be talking about are bull management, historical cattle feeding trends, calfhood
implants, and then there's going to be just kind of a Q and A session with our
Extension specialist.”

On Feb. 15 and 16, four sessions will be offered across the region to share information about controlling weeds while herbicide availability is questionable.

Attendees will learn about residual herbicide in corn, non-chemical approaches to weed control and the latest in application technology research.&nbsp;

Locations include Colby, Osborne, Hill City and Claflin.

Registration is due by Feb. 8 and can be completed by contacting the local Extension district office.

For more information about upcoming events from the
Cottonwood Extension District, visit their Facebook page, <a href="ksrecottonwood,%20">ksrecottonwood, </a>or 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 PostIn an ongoing effort to assist ag producers in the area,
the Cottonwood Extension District is set to offer a number of events in the
coming weeks.<h2>CropTalk Webinar Series</h2>On Monday, the Crop Talk Webinar series is set to begin
online, following the same format from last year.“We did (online) last year because of COVID, and it went
over well,” said district agent Stacy Campbell.The series will feature agents from across the region,
presenting a variety of topics during each weekly session.“It's just a one-hour webinar on each Monday,” Campbell
said. “And they're going to be from 12 to one. So hopefully, that's a
convenient time for farmers and ranchers, they can, you know, come in while
they're having lunch and listen if they'd like to these crop talk webinar
series.” The series is set to run through March 7.“It's really easy to register,” Campbell said, with registration
available now via a weblink or QR code.Attendees are welcome to participate in as many of the
sessions as desired.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643226721434.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Winter Ranch Management seminar</h2>On Feb. 8, the district will host the 2022 K-State Winter
Ranch Management Program, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ag Research Center in Hays.“It was actually supposed to be over in Russell, but because
of the wildfire, it's been moved to Hays,” Campbell said. “If folks are
interested in that, they do need to get signed up by February 1 and to do that
you would actually call either Extension office here in Hays at (785) 628-9439 or
over in Great Bend at (620) 793-1910.”“These are programs that they kind of do every year around
the state, they move them around each year. Some of the topics they're going to
be talking about are bull management, historical cattle feeding trends, calfhood
implants, and then there's going to be just kind of a Q and A session with our
Extension specialist.”<h2>Weed Management Schools</h2>On Feb. 15 and 16, four sessions will be offered across the region to share information about controlling weeds while herbicide availability is questionable.Attendees will learn about residual herbicide in corn, non-chemical approaches to weed control and the latest in application technology research.&nbsp;Locations include Colby, Osborne, Hill City and Claflin.Registration is due by Feb. 8 and can be completed by contacting the local Extension district office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643227849092.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For more information about upcoming events from the
Cottonwood Extension District, visit their Facebook page, <a href="ksrecottonwood,%20">ksrecottonwood, </a>or their website, <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">cottonwood.k-state.edu.</a>

🎙 Upcoming Extension District events planned to assist ag producers

Fort Hays State University is celebrating its 111th anniversary of distance learning as one of the best online programs in the nation.

FHSU Online continues as a national leader in providing high-quality and affordable online education to students in Kansas and across the globe. Distance education at FHSU began in 1911 when the university delivered correspondence coursework to rural teachers through the mail.

In a report released this week, U.S. News &amp; World Report recognized FHSU as among the best in the nation in six different online education categories. Fort Hays State′s online programs were among more than 1,700 programs reviewed by U.S. News.

Heading that list in 2022 was FHSU’s online master’s in nursing program, which was ranked in the top 30 – 29th among the top 179 schools ranked. The latest U.S. News ranking also placed Fort Hays State 31st for its online master’s in education programs for veterans.

FHSU’s online bachelor’s in business program ranked 61st among 228 programs, and three other online programs were also mentioned among the nation’s best: master’s in education, bachelor’s programs for veterans, and online bachelor’s programs. More on FHSU’s rankings can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=KvW2o-2BmKIxzF-2BXLFqSlpu0A0iqd5D6dRPYd9MF8ukpM-2BnjU6TJjWAfpU54A7IwHWmt75SMMR6xDY29gadfrmHwQhVudxBemp8bcEoiO7OdEEdn-2BIaF2kgNzn4L-2BgHji7r-2BZcd6NnnAHOtm6klTdmZw-3D-3DTJqG_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemykm2FqFdAOf8Ltnv0wz5nnz5oiioBnDPzsnSnM9tzzALrkyCiaF6Cfi7zhJksUk67fzUm8FEEEsYENM9SCuA-2FtQo38Qh6t1sjraiyhw2E-2FywNFLbvrHsznaNLcZ6M1trT023nPctiR6WW7Ldha8oFT3Ba1VOuRFTs-2F8QEsIBlwXU5LsO6faCCqy6KY92ykzTNHce2VFk8YO5guUbWU4b1qRL82sAbpprzBTzlrozlqS4VhLZL7gAlTA9GMd4wJQcdsfIQxWmbIemROZViBUzxA-3D-3D">https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/fort-hays-state-university-155061/rankings</a>.

U.S. News began its higher education rankings program in 1983, and it has published online degree program rankings since 2013.&nbsp;U.S. News assesses schools based on a variety of categories depending on program level and discipline, including engagement, expert opinion, faculty credentials and training, services and technologies and student excellence. For a full list of rankings and how FHSU compares to other ranked schools, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=KvW2o-2BmKIxzF-2BXLFqSlpu0A0iqd5D6dRPYd9MF8ukpNs46XTVEM7CQkWi8WoTIPD3Yi__-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemykm2FqFdAOf8Ltnv0wz5nnz5oiioBnDPzsnSnM9tzzALrkyCiaF6Cfi7zhJksUk67fzUm8FEEEsYENM9SCuA-2FrytU8mr02XzCOc-2B3NH-2FgBJDeKYWOFHFUJYOZr-2BnQb32-2F4KuKmy3-2BOKkZEh-2F-2F2P9My189msvyGBRJgL6llt-2FQGPxsja3nR3m6s23AOv3umB-2FXyJ4hE7us3thUHCFy-2FzxIMkqE6M0Q0FzrKgcZFSfUpHfQ-2BJWTgpsOkGdBh5QqMJ4n5jH2-2BUXiNRVYapF7YDpZA-3D-3D">https://www.usnews.com/online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643138203729.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University is celebrating its 111th anniversary of distance learning as one of the best online programs in the nation.FHSU Online continues as a national leader in providing high-quality and affordable online education to students in Kansas and across the globe. Distance education at FHSU began in 1911 when the university delivered correspondence coursework to rural teachers through the mail.In a report released this week, U.S. News &amp; World Report recognized FHSU as among the best in the nation in six different online education categories. Fort Hays State′s online programs were among more than 1,700 programs reviewed by U.S. News.Heading that list in 2022 was FHSU’s online master’s in nursing program, which was ranked in the top 30 – 29th among the top 179 schools ranked. The latest U.S. News ranking also placed Fort Hays State 31st for its online master’s in education programs for veterans.FHSU’s online bachelor’s in business program ranked 61st among 228 programs, and three other online programs were also mentioned among the nation’s best: master’s in education, bachelor’s programs for veterans, and online bachelor’s programs. More on FHSU’s rankings can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=KvW2o-2BmKIxzF-2BXLFqSlpu0A0iqd5D6dRPYd9MF8ukpM-2BnjU6TJjWAfpU54A7IwHWmt75SMMR6xDY29gadfrmHwQhVudxBemp8bcEoiO7OdEEdn-2BIaF2kgNzn4L-2BgHji7r-2BZcd6NnnAHOtm6klTdmZw-3D-3DTJqG_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemykm2FqFdAOf8Ltnv0wz5nnz5oiioBnDPzsnSnM9tzzALrkyCiaF6Cfi7zhJksUk67fzUm8FEEEsYENM9SCuA-2FtQo38Qh6t1sjraiyhw2E-2FywNFLbvrHsznaNLcZ6M1trT023nPctiR6WW7Ldha8oFT3Ba1VOuRFTs-2F8QEsIBlwXU5LsO6faCCqy6KY92ykzTNHce2VFk8YO5guUbWU4b1qRL82sAbpprzBTzlrozlqS4VhLZL7gAlTA9GMd4wJQcdsfIQxWmbIemROZViBUzxA-3D-3D">https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/fort-hays-state-university-155061/rankings</a>.U.S. News began its higher education rankings program in 1983, and it has published online degree program rankings since 2013.&nbsp;U.S. News assesses schools based on a variety of categories depending on program level and discipline, including engagement, expert opinion, faculty credentials and training, services and technologies and student excellence. For a full list of rankings and how FHSU compares to other ranked schools, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=KvW2o-2BmKIxzF-2BXLFqSlpu0A0iqd5D6dRPYd9MF8ukpNs46XTVEM7CQkWi8WoTIPD3Yi__-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemykm2FqFdAOf8Ltnv0wz5nnz5oiioBnDPzsnSnM9tzzALrkyCiaF6Cfi7zhJksUk67fzUm8FEEEsYENM9SCuA-2FrytU8mr02XzCOc-2B3NH-2FgBJDeKYWOFHFUJYOZr-2BnQb32-2F4KuKmy3-2BOKkZEh-2F-2F2P9My189msvyGBRJgL6llt-2FQGPxsja3nR3m6s23AOv3umB-2FXyJ4hE7us3thUHCFy-2FzxIMkqE6M0Q0FzrKgcZFSfUpHfQ-2BJWTgpsOkGdBh5QqMJ4n5jH2-2BUXiNRVYapF7YDpZA-3D-3D">https://www.usnews.com/online</a>.

FHSU Online among the best in the nation

<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/2022/1/1643311799826.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

Pippa&nbsp;White was to perform for the general public on&nbsp;Sunday, February 6, at the Quinter H.S. Auditorium and then do 2 school programs on&nbsp;Monday, February 7, for students there.

This&nbsp;Western Plains Arts Association program&nbsp;is&nbsp;POSTPONED to&nbsp;Sunday, March 20, 3&nbsp;p.m. for the public performance in Quinter and&nbsp;Monday, March 21, for the student presentations.&nbsp; All performances will be held in the Quinter High School Auditorium.

Details of the rescheduled program will be announced closer to the postponed date.

The next WPAA program, New Odyssey Guy, is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, Feb. 20, at the Sharon Springs High School Auditorium.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581542018976.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>SubmittedPippa&nbsp;White was to perform for the general public on&nbsp;Sunday, February 6, at the Quinter H.S. Auditorium and then do 2 school programs on&nbsp;Monday, February 7, for students there.This&nbsp;Western Plains Arts Association program&nbsp;is&nbsp;POSTPONED to&nbsp;Sunday, March 20, 3&nbsp;p.m. for the public performance in Quinter and&nbsp;Monday, March 21, for the student presentations.&nbsp; All performances will be held in the Quinter High School Auditorium.Details of the rescheduled program will be announced closer to the postponed date.The next WPAA program, New Odyssey Guy, is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, Feb. 20, at the Sharon Springs High School Auditorium.

WPAA performance in Quinter postponed to March

Hays USD 489 and Thomas More Prep-Marian are among many area schools canceling classes as adverse weather conditions head to northwest Kansas.

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">HERE</a> for the latest cancellations and delays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579186347471.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Hays USD 489 and Thomas More Prep-Marian are among many area schools canceling classes as adverse weather conditions head to northwest Kansas.Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">HERE</a> for the latest cancellations and delays.

No school for Hays USD 489, TMP schools

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor whose 2014 convictions of rape of a child under the age of 14 were vacated by the Kansas Supreme Court in September has pleaded no contest to contributing to a child's misconduct in the case.

According to Saline County District Court documents, Judge Patrick H. Thompson accepted Brooke Dinkel's no contest plea Wednesday. Dinkel, now 40, was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle school. When the case went to trial, Dinkel had been charged with 10 counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age, and 10 counts of criminal sodomy for allegedly engaging in sex acts with the student. A jury convicted Dinkel of two counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age, and acquitted her of the remaining 18 charges, according to information in a later Kansas Supreme Court ruling on the case.

In her defense, Dinkel, who formerly taught in Hays, argued the alleged victim had physically forced the first act of sexual intercourse and blackmailed Dinkel into continuing the sexual contact and that she had a mental disease or defect.

After the conviction in Saline County District Court, Dinkel appealed, alleging a number of errors, and the Court of Appeals remanded the case for a hearing on whether her trial counsel had been ineffective, according to information released by the Kansas Supreme Court with its ruling. The district court concluded that Dinkel's counsel had not been ineffective and the Court of Appeals agreed. Additionally, the Court of Appeals rejected Dinkel's claims of error, largely based on its conclusion that her intent was irrelevant because there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child.

"On review, the Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals conclusion that Dinkel's intent was irrelevant. It ruled that evidence the sexual intercourse was physically forced was relevant to the voluntary act requirement," the Kansas Supreme Court information noted.

The Kansas Supreme Court then remanded the case to the district court for a hearing concerning whether Dinkel's counsel had been ineffective for failing to argue the voluntary act requirement. According to the information from the Kansas Supreme Court, the district court concluded counsel had not been ineffective.

"In an opinion written by Justice Eric Rosen, a majority of the Supreme Court disagreed. It held that counsel had been ineffective when it failed to craft a defense that rendered Dinkel's claims of forced intercourse legally relevant. But it affirmed the Court of Appeals conclusion there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child," the Kansas Supreme Court noted when it vacated Dinkel's convictions in September.

The plea agreement According to plea agreement information provided in Saline County District Court documents, "The Defendant will plead no contest to contributing to a child’s misconduct, 21- 5603(a)(4), a SL8 person felony. Both parties will recommend the Defendant be sentenced to the maximum sentence in the applicable guideline grid box and one-year’s post release supervision. The State agrees it will not oppose an expungement when available under the statute, as long as the Defendant has had no convictions in that time period."

The maximum presumptive sentence for contributing to a child's misconduct, a felony, is 23 months in prison and a potential fine of $100,000, according to Saline County District Court documents.

Salina Post requested a comment from the Saline County Attorney's Office concerning why a plea deal was accepted over retrying the case. Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632500056460.png" alt="Brook Dinkel / Photo Kansas Department of Corrections&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Brook Dinkel / Photo Kansas Department of Corrections&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor whose 2014 convictions of rape of a child under the age of 14 were vacated by the Kansas Supreme Court in September has pleaded no contest to contributing to a child's misconduct in the case. According to Saline County District Court documents, Judge Patrick H. Thompson accepted Brooke Dinkel's no contest plea Wednesday. Dinkel, now 40, was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle school. When the case went to trial, Dinkel had been charged with 10 counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age, and 10 counts of criminal sodomy for allegedly engaging in sex acts with the student. A jury convicted Dinkel of two counts of rape of a child under 14 years of age, and acquitted her of the remaining 18 charges, according to information in a later Kansas Supreme Court ruling on the case. In her defense, Dinkel, who formerly taught in Hays, argued the alleged victim had physically forced the first act of sexual intercourse and blackmailed Dinkel into continuing the sexual contact and that she had a mental disease or defect. After the conviction in Saline County District Court, Dinkel appealed, alleging a number of errors, and the Court of Appeals remanded the case for a hearing on whether her trial counsel had been ineffective, according to information released by the Kansas Supreme Court with its ruling. The district court concluded that Dinkel's counsel had not been ineffective and the Court of Appeals agreed. Additionally, the Court of Appeals rejected Dinkel's claims of error, largely based on its conclusion that her intent was irrelevant because there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child. "On review, the Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals conclusion that Dinkel's intent was irrelevant. It ruled that evidence the sexual intercourse was physically forced was relevant to the voluntary act requirement," the Kansas Supreme Court information noted. The Kansas Supreme Court then remanded the case to the district court for a hearing concerning whether Dinkel's counsel had been ineffective for failing to argue the voluntary act requirement. According to the information from the Kansas Supreme Court, the district court concluded counsel had not been ineffective. "In an opinion written by Justice Eric Rosen, a majority of the Supreme Court disagreed. It held that counsel had been ineffective when it failed to craft a defense that rendered Dinkel's claims of forced intercourse legally relevant. But it affirmed the Court of Appeals conclusion there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child," the Kansas Supreme Court noted when it vacated Dinkel's convictions in September. The plea agreement According to plea agreement information provided in Saline County District Court documents, "The Defendant will plead no contest to contributing to a child’s misconduct, 21- 5603(a)(4), a SL8 person felony. Both parties will recommend the Defendant be sentenced to the maximum sentence in the applicable guideline grid box and one-year’s post release supervision. The State agrees it will not oppose an expungement when available under the statute, as long as the Defendant has had no convictions in that time period." The maximum presumptive sentence for contributing to a child's misconduct, a felony, is 23 months in prison and a potential fine of $100,000, according to Saline County District Court documents. Salina Post requested a comment from the Saline County Attorney's Office concerning why a plea deal was accepted over retrying the case. Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

Former Hays teacher pleads to lesser charge in student sex crime case

Camdyn Darrah is a 13-year-old Hays girl who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin's lymphoma.

 Styles Dance Center is putting on a benefit concert at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center with all proceeds to go to Camdyn and her family. Admission will be a freewill donation. 

Doors will open at 5 p.m. The event will include special guests from DSNWK.

There will also be a raffle/auction, again with all proceeds going to Camdyn's family.&nbsp; 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/936acd61-abef-43a5-bfb2-2d697541f5db">RELATED STORY: Dance family rallies around Hays girl fighting cancer</a>

SubmittedCamdyn Darrah is a 13-year-old Hays girl who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin's lymphoma. Styles Dance Center is putting on a benefit concert at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center with all proceeds to go to Camdyn and her family. Admission will be a freewill donation. Doors will open at 5 p.m. The event will include special guests from DSNWK. There will also be a raffle/auction, again with all proceeds going to Camdyn's family.&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/936acd61-abef-43a5-bfb2-2d697541f5db">RELATED STORY: Dance family rallies around Hays girl fighting cancer</a> <figure>
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