High Plains Farm Credit has donated $50,000 to Fort Hays Tech | North Central’s new Construction Programs Building, a vital addition to the college that will expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in construction technology, electrical technology, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning (PHAC), and commercial driver’s license (CDL). In an impressive show of partnership and support, CoBank has matched this donation with an additional $50,000, bringing the total contribution to $100,000.

This $100,000 boost from High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank will help fund the new state-of-the-art facility, designed to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the construction and technical fields. The nearly 30,000-square-foot building will include updated classrooms, advanced workshop areas, new tools and equipment, and increased capacity to serve more students. By providing expanded training facilities and resources, Fort Hays Tech | NC will be better equipped to meet the needs of students and the industries that rely on them.

“We are incredibly grateful to High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank for their generosity and support of our mission,” said Eric Burks, President of Fort Hays Tech | NC. “This investment not only advances our efforts to provide first-class technical training, but also strengthens the skilled workforce our local economy depends on. With this new facility, we are proud to offer a dedicated space for hands-on learning in trades that are essential to our region and beyond.”

High Plains Farm Credit, a longstanding supporter of workforce education and development, sees this donation as a meaningful way to invest in the local community and provide students with more robust training opportunities in high-demand fields.

“High Plains Farm Credit is committed to investing in the future of our community,” said Kevin Swayne, CEO. “By supporting Fort Hays Tech | NC’s Construction Programs Building, we are helping to ensure that students have access to quality education that will prepare them for successful careers in fields that are critically needed in our community.”

CoBank, a cooperative bank serving rural America, also saw the opportunity to make a lasting impact by supporting Fort Hays Tech | NC’s mission to create a skilled workforce through high-quality technical education. “CoBank is honored to support Fort Hays Tech | North Central’s new Construction Programs Building alongside High Plains Farm Credit,” said Travis Ball, Vice President-Farm Credit Banking Group. “This facility represents a tremendous investment in the future of our communities by providing essential training for the skilled trades that drive local economies.”

Construction on the new building is ongoing with completion targeted for Fall 2025. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731967510940.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHigh Plains Farm Credit has donated $50,000 to Fort Hays Tech | North Central’s new Construction Programs Building, a vital addition to the college that will expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in construction technology, electrical technology, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning (PHAC), and commercial driver’s license (CDL). In an impressive show of partnership and support, CoBank has matched this donation with an additional $50,000, bringing the total contribution to $100,000.This $100,000 boost from High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank will help fund the new state-of-the-art facility, designed to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the construction and technical fields. The nearly 30,000-square-foot building will include updated classrooms, advanced workshop areas, new tools and equipment, and increased capacity to serve more students. By providing expanded training facilities and resources, Fort Hays Tech | NC will be better equipped to meet the needs of students and the industries that rely on them.“We are incredibly grateful to High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank for their generosity and support of our mission,” said Eric Burks, President of Fort Hays Tech | NC. “This investment not only advances our efforts to provide first-class technical training, but also strengthens the skilled workforce our local economy depends on. With this new facility, we are proud to offer a dedicated space for hands-on learning in trades that are essential to our region and beyond.”High Plains Farm Credit, a longstanding supporter of workforce education and development, sees this donation as a meaningful way to invest in the local community and provide students with more robust training opportunities in high-demand fields.“High Plains Farm Credit is committed to investing in the future of our community,” said Kevin Swayne, CEO. “By supporting Fort Hays Tech | NC’s Construction Programs Building, we are helping to ensure that students have access to quality education that will prepare them for successful careers in fields that are critically needed in our community.”CoBank, a cooperative bank serving rural America, also saw the opportunity to make a lasting impact by supporting Fort Hays Tech | NC’s mission to create a skilled workforce through high-quality technical education. “CoBank is honored to support Fort Hays Tech | North Central’s new Construction Programs Building alongside High Plains Farm Credit,” said Travis Ball, Vice President-Farm Credit Banking Group. “This facility represents a tremendous investment in the future of our communities by providing essential training for the skilled trades that drive local economies.”Construction on the new building is ongoing with completion targeted for Fall 2025.

High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank donate $100,000 to support Fort Hays Tech |  NC

HODGEMAN COUNTY —Kansas 156 highway east of Jetmore between U.S. 283 and U.S. 183 (4 miles east of the Rozel area)is closed after a trailer lost an oversized load wind turbine tower section, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. 

As a result Hodgeman County Schools will be closed Tuesday, according to a social media report from USD 227. There will be no practices and the music program will be rescheduled.

&nbsp;A flagging operation is in place to detour traffic. Please slow down and watch out for crews working the scene.&nbsp;

Officials will use a crane to remove it from under the transmission line probably have to cut power to those lines in the process, according to the Hodgeman County Sheriff.

The closure is expected to continue until late Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731981449151.png" alt="Photo KDOT" />
 <figcaption>Photo KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>HODGEMAN COUNTY —Kansas 156 highway east of Jetmore between U.S. 283 and U.S. 183 (4 miles east of the Rozel area)is closed after a trailer lost an oversized load wind turbine tower section, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. As a result Hodgeman County Schools will be closed Tuesday, according to a social media report from USD 227. There will be no practices and the music program will be rescheduled.&nbsp;A flagging operation is in place to detour traffic. Please slow down and watch out for crews working the scene.&nbsp;Officials will use a crane to remove it from under the transmission line probably have to cut power to those lines in the process, according to the Hodgeman County Sheriff.The closure is expected to continue until late Tuesday.

Road closed, schools closed: Semi hauling wind turbine tower lost load on K-156

LOGAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Logan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Lincoln MKX driven by 71-year-old Patricia S. Conger of Georgetown, Kentucky, was eastbound on U.S. 40 thirteen miles west of of Kansas 25 Highway.

The SUV struck deer&nbsp;in the roadway and traveled into the north ditch. EMS transported Conger to the Logan County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Logan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Lincoln MKX driven by 71-year-old Patricia S. Conger of Georgetown, Kentucky, was eastbound on U.S. 40 thirteen miles west of of Kansas 25 Highway.The SUV struck deer&nbsp;in the roadway and traveled into the north ditch. EMS transported Conger to the Logan County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman hospitalized after SUV, deer crash in NW Kansas

The Hays Police Department responded to 72 incidents Nov. 3-Nov. 9, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.

Hays Police DepartmentThe Hays Police Department responded to 72 incidents Nov. 3-Nov. 9, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
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Hays Police Department activity log, Nov. 3-Nov. 9, 2024

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Hays Police Department arrest log, Nov. 3-Nov. 9, 2024

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Dr. Jerod Grove has sued HaysMed in U.S. District Court to stop the hospital from enforcing a noncompete clause that he says prevents him from practicing medicine in western Kansas.

Grove, a general surgeon, resigned from the hospital on Nov. 12. HaysMed has employed him for nine years.

Grove has signed a contract with Greeley Health to practice at Tribune Medical Center in Tribune, Kansas.&nbsp;

The hospital administration indicated they were under a board directive to enforce Grove's noncompete clause, prohibiting him from practicing at Tribune Medical Center and most of western Kansas.

The noncompete stipulates Grove can't practice medicine within 110 miles of the city of Hays and within 30 miles in any direction from the city limits of any other city or town where the physician performs services on behalf of the hospital for two years.

Grove's attorney argues in the lawsuit the noncompete:

• Interferes with Grove's ability to make a living. • Constitues HaysMed operating a monopoly • Creates a health care access issue in western Kansas in which Grove is only one of 10 general surgeons in the region.

"... the prevention of Dr. Grove from providing his services in western Kansas is likely to significantly reduce access to medical care in western Kansas, and more specifically may cost someone their life," the lawsuit said.

Grove is seeking an injunction to allow him to continue practicing medicine in Tribune while the lawsuit is being resolved. He is also requesting unspecified damages to be determined at trial.

According to the lawsuit, during his time at Hays Med, "Dr. Grove began to notice certain troubling aspects of the treatment of HaysMed staff. Various issues were brought to his attention, and ultimately, he felt the best course of action was to resign his employment."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/72d9adfa-8b21-4d60-bd8c-049da4c03137">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: HaysMed surgeon announces departure</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>

Grove attempted to resign in August. However, the HaysMed administration brought the noncompete clause of his contract to his attention. According to the lawsuit, Grove was told the hospital would file an injunction against him practicing in western Kansas if he resigned.

The lawsuit states, "His concern regarding rural access to critical services was ignored and disregarded."

Grove is not the first physician to leave HaysMed in recent years. According to the lawsuit, HaysMed has lost 12 physicians, two certified registered nurse anesthetists, and three midlevel providers. None of these have remained in the region and provide services to the residents of the state's western half.

Services impacts include cardiology, urology, orthopedics, OB/GYN, hospitalists, oncology, nephrology and general family medicine, the lawsuit said.

The Federal Trade Commission recently issued a final Non-Compete Rule banning most non-compete agreements between an employer and its workers. The commission said noncompete clauses were an unfair method of competition.

However, that rule was overturned by a U.S. District Court ruling in Texas, which said the&nbsp;Federal Trade Commission had no authority to make such a rule.

Grove's lawsuits cited several findings from the Federal Trade Commission specifically related to the harms that noncompete clauses can cause in health care, including:

•&nbsp; Hundreds of physicians and other commenters in the health care industry stated noncompetes negatively affect physicians’ ability to provide quality care and limit patient access to care. • Noncompetes increase retaliation if physicians object to the practices' operations, poor care or services. • Noncompetes limit access to care or patient choice.&nbsp; • Noncompetes resulted in physicians leaving the area and severing patient relationships, and this caused a loss of knowledge, trust and compatibility in physician-patient relationships.

HaysMed issued a written statement to the Hays Post via email Monday afternoon.

“We have received and reviewed Dr. Grove’s complaint. We disagree with his allegations and look forward to responding through the appropriate legal process.

Noncompete agreements are standard practice in health care and provide assurance to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs.

HaysMed remains dedicated to providing specialty care for the residents of Hays and Western Kansas, just as we have for many decades.”

The case was filed on Nov. 12. No dates for hearings had been set as of this post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592337955905.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDr. Jerod Grove has sued HaysMed in U.S. District Court to stop the hospital from enforcing a noncompete clause that he says prevents him from practicing medicine in western Kansas.Grove, a general surgeon, resigned from the hospital on Nov. 12. HaysMed has employed him for nine years.Grove has signed a contract with Greeley Health to practice at Tribune Medical Center in Tribune, Kansas.&nbsp;The hospital administration indicated they were under a board directive to enforce Grove's noncompete clause, prohibiting him from practicing at Tribune Medical Center and most of western Kansas.The noncompete stipulates Grove can't practice medicine within 110 miles of the city of Hays and within 30 miles in any direction from the city limits of any other city or town where the physician performs services on behalf of the hospital for two years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731958608513.png" alt="Map showing the area that Dr. Jerod Grove cannot practice in according to his noncompete contract with HaysMed. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Map showing the area that Dr. Jerod Grove cannot practice in according to his noncompete contract with HaysMed. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Grove's attorney argues in the lawsuit the noncompete:• Interferes with Grove's ability to make a living. • Constitues HaysMed operating a monopoly • Creates a health care access issue in western Kansas in which Grove is only one of 10 general surgeons in the region."... the prevention of Dr. Grove from providing his services in western Kansas is likely to significantly reduce access to medical care in western Kansas, and more specifically may cost someone their life," the lawsuit said.Grove is seeking an injunction to allow him to continue practicing medicine in Tribune while the lawsuit is being resolved. He is also requesting unspecified damages to be determined at trial.According to the lawsuit, during his time at Hays Med, "Dr. Grove began to notice certain troubling aspects of the treatment of HaysMed staff. Various issues were brought to his attention, and ultimately, he felt the best course of action was to resign his employment."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/72d9adfa-8b21-4d60-bd8c-049da4c03137">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: HaysMed surgeon announces departure</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a>Grove attempted to resign in August. However, the HaysMed administration brought the noncompete clause of his contract to his attention. According to the lawsuit, Grove was told the hospital would file an injunction against him practicing in western Kansas if he resigned.The lawsuit states, "His concern regarding rural access to critical services was ignored and disregarded."Grove is not the first physician to leave HaysMed in recent years. According to the lawsuit, HaysMed has lost 12 physicians, two certified registered nurse anesthetists, and three midlevel providers. None of these have remained in the region and provide services to the residents of the state's western half.Services impacts include cardiology, urology, orthopedics, OB/GYN, hospitalists, oncology, nephrology and general family medicine, the lawsuit said.The Federal Trade Commission recently issued a final Non-Compete Rule banning most non-compete agreements between an employer and its workers. The commission said noncompete clauses were an unfair method of competition.However, that rule was overturned by a U.S. District Court ruling in Texas, which said the&nbsp;Federal Trade Commission had no authority to make such a rule.Grove's lawsuits cited several findings from the Federal Trade Commission specifically related to the harms that noncompete clauses can cause in health care, including:•&nbsp; Hundreds of physicians and other commenters in the health care industry stated noncompetes negatively affect physicians’ ability to provide quality care and limit patient access to care. • Noncompetes increase retaliation if physicians object to the practices' operations, poor care or services. • Noncompetes limit access to care or patient choice.&nbsp; • Noncompetes resulted in physicians leaving the area and severing patient relationships, and this caused a loss of knowledge, trust and compatibility in physician-patient relationships.HaysMed issued a written statement to the Hays Post via email Monday afternoon.“We have received and reviewed Dr. Grove’s complaint. We disagree with his allegations and look forward to responding through the appropriate legal process.Noncompete agreements are standard practice in health care and provide assurance to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs.HaysMed remains dedicated to providing specialty care for the residents of Hays and Western Kansas, just as we have for many decades.”The case was filed on Nov. 12. No dates for hearings had been set as of this post.

Doctor files lawsuit against HaysMed, seeks to continue practicing in western Kansas

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724699319635.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a><figure>
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Ellis County Jail bookings, Nov. 12-18, 2024

Ellis County landfill closed today

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 338 incidents Nov. 12-18, 2024, according to the activity report.

<figure>
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 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>ECSOThe Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 338 incidents Nov. 12-18, 2024, according to the activity report.<figure>
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Ellis County Sheriff activity log, Nov. 12-18, 2024

For the month of October 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 153 calls for service, conducted 32 traffic stops, and issued 1 traffic citation.

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 4 adult arrests.

The following adults were arrested in October by the Ellis Police Department:

On 10/06/2024, James Bieker was arrested on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (1st Offense). He was cited and released after testing.

On 10/06/2024, Dakoda Elliott was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was cited and released.

On 10/07/2024, Holly Liscum was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Oxycodone, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Kansas Drug Tax Stamp. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

On 10/07/2024, Austin Smith was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Oxycodone, Criminal Use of Weapons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Kansas Drug Tax Stamp. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

On 10/07/2024, an Ellis Police Officer on proactive patrol interrupted the plans of a pair of Interstate travelers as they stayed in the Days Inn Hotel. While patrolling the parking lot of the Days Inn, an Ellis Police Officer noticed a suspicious vehicle that was backed into a parking spot on the south end of the lot, tucked behind a trailer. As the officer approached the vehicle, he smelled the odor of marijuana. Much to the officer’s surprise, a very large stainless-steel pot was sitting near the vehicle, in plain view with the top open enough to see inside. On the inside of the pot, the officer was able to see a large amount of what he suspected to be marijuana. The officer requested assistance and began an investigation. Upon checking the vehicle's registration, it was discovered that the displayed temporary registration plate was being used illegally. Officers were then aided by hotel staff, who assisted in locating the owners of the vehicle. Officers then went to room 218 and contacted Holly Liscum and Austin Smith, who consented to a search of their hotel room. Smith also admitted to hiding a handgun in the room’s toilet as officers were knocking on the door to the room. Officers located illicitly obtained prescription drugs as well as suspected heroin in the hotel room and were later granted a search warrant to search the room as well as the vehicle that was in the parking lot. Both Liscum and Smith were transported to the Ellis County Jail where they were booked and are presently being held on $50,000 bonds. I’d like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case.

On 10/31/2024 Sgt. Kolas and Chief Smith were invited to speak to the teachers and staff of our local schools at the Ellis High School Auditorium. The topic of conversation was active shooter/ armed intruder incidents. Sgt. Kolas is a TEEX ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) Active Shooter Instructor. Staff members were shown statistical data and examples of officer responses to active shooter incidents. Staff were also shown strategies that can be used in an active shooter incident to help keep their students and themselves safe. In today’s day and age, teachers must receive adequate training and education on responding to an active shooter. The Ellis Police Department remains committed to our schools' security and safety; we believe every child deserves a safe environment to learn.

Thank you all for your patience, as this activity report was delayed by several days. I have had a busy past few weeks and have not had the time to provide it to you.

As always, we are taking photo submissions to use for these monthly reports. You can send them to the Facebook page or email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731950736724.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>For the month of October 2024, the Ellis Police Department responded to 153 calls for service, conducted 32 traffic stops, and issued 1 traffic citation.The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 4 adult arrests.The following adults were arrested in October by the Ellis Police Department:On 10/06/2024, James Bieker was arrested on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (1st Offense). He was cited and released after testing.On 10/06/2024, Dakoda Elliott was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was cited and released.On 10/07/2024, Holly Liscum was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Oxycodone, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Kansas Drug Tax Stamp. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.On 10/07/2024, Austin Smith was arrested on suspicion of Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Oxycodone, Criminal Use of Weapons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Kansas Drug Tax Stamp. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.On 10/07/2024, an Ellis Police Officer on proactive patrol interrupted the plans of a pair of Interstate travelers as they stayed in the Days Inn Hotel. While patrolling the parking lot of the Days Inn, an Ellis Police Officer noticed a suspicious vehicle that was backed into a parking spot on the south end of the lot, tucked behind a trailer. As the officer approached the vehicle, he smelled the odor of marijuana. Much to the officer’s surprise, a very large stainless-steel pot was sitting near the vehicle, in plain view with the top open enough to see inside. On the inside of the pot, the officer was able to see a large amount of what he suspected to be marijuana. The officer requested assistance and began an investigation. Upon checking the vehicle's registration, it was discovered that the displayed temporary registration plate was being used illegally. Officers were then aided by hotel staff, who assisted in locating the owners of the vehicle. Officers then went to room 218 and contacted Holly Liscum and Austin Smith, who consented to a search of their hotel room. Smith also admitted to hiding a handgun in the room’s toilet as officers were knocking on the door to the room. Officers located illicitly obtained prescription drugs as well as suspected heroin in the hotel room and were later granted a search warrant to search the room as well as the vehicle that was in the parking lot. Both Liscum and Smith were transported to the Ellis County Jail where they were booked and are presently being held on $50,000 bonds. I’d like to thank the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case.On 10/31/2024 Sgt. Kolas and Chief Smith were invited to speak to the teachers and staff of our local schools at the Ellis High School Auditorium. The topic of conversation was active shooter/ armed intruder incidents. Sgt. Kolas is a TEEX ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) Active Shooter Instructor. Staff members were shown statistical data and examples of officer responses to active shooter incidents. Staff were also shown strategies that can be used in an active shooter incident to help keep their students and themselves safe. In today’s day and age, teachers must receive adequate training and education on responding to an active shooter. The Ellis Police Department remains committed to our schools' security and safety; we believe every child deserves a safe environment to learn.Thank you all for your patience, as this activity report was delayed by several days. I have had a busy past few weeks and have not had the time to provide it to you.As always, we are taking photo submissions to use for these monthly reports. You can send them to the Facebook page or email them to me at asmith@cityofellisks.gov.Thank you for all your support!-Chief Smith

Ellis Police Department October 2024 report

Jana’s Campaign and Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services invite all community members to participate in a survey to help them better understand the factors that contribute to violence and safety within local communities.

The agencies are conducting a quality of life survey in Ellis, Thomas and Russell counties to gain insights into the risks and protections against violence, with a particular focus on sexual violence. 

This survey's purpose is to gather valuable information that will guide their efforts in creating safer, more supportive communities.

If you are an Ellis, Thomas or Russell County resident, you are encouraged to take 10 to 15 minutes to complete this survey.

&nbsp;"It is entirely anonymous. There are some potentially activating questions, so folks should please take care of themselves while taking this survey. And, of course, all should feel free to reach out," said Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, Options director of client services.

Links to the survey English:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8YP9KX?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR34a8iYBkLGIDCSmIKGiL1CkUj_BuCVa3GcAnRZQSA2osOLkvPdiPulo2o_aem_3x2KP4COXTmxoInPE56uJw" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8YP9KX</a> Espanol:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8XM5ZM?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0N2Y4O3ekmIuFrrgF2-qXh3E8FuKJF9iJemgxqSzvkrSnX1zLTwTRhGwM_aem_dZ94dQ0UMnb_kBWfxzqsjw" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8XM5ZM</a>

Options is also recruiting survivors to participate in a stakeholders' health equity research project in partnership with Fort Hays State University.

Local officials hope the survey, which is part of a community needs assessment, will provide a detailed understanding of the current landscape of sexual violence in these communities and guide the development of tailored prevention strategies.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0d92b93-0351-481e-be58-761a580605e5">SEE RELATED STORY: Options and Jana's Campaign join forces to combat sexual violence</a>

For more information on the partnership or survey, see the contacts below.

Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Phone: 785-625-4202

Jana's Campaign Contact: Kaiti Blackburn Email:&nbsp;kdinges@janascampaign.org Phone: 785-656-0324

If you are a survivor of domestic or sexual violence, you can receive help in a variety of ways. You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.

The Options website,&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>, offers a live chat option or video conference with an advocate.

The website has a safe escape button that allows you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies, so anyone who is on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.

Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731602132302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJana’s Campaign and Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services invite all community members to participate in a survey to help them better understand the factors that contribute to violence and safety within local communities.The agencies are conducting a quality of life survey in Ellis, Thomas and Russell counties to gain insights into the risks and protections against violence, with a particular focus on sexual violence. This survey's purpose is to gather valuable information that will guide their efforts in creating safer, more supportive communities.If you are an Ellis, Thomas or Russell County resident, you are encouraged to take 10 to 15 minutes to complete this survey.&nbsp;"It is entirely anonymous. There are some potentially activating questions, so folks should please take care of themselves while taking this survey. And, of course, all should feel free to reach out," said Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, Options director of client services.Links to the survey English:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8YP9KX?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR34a8iYBkLGIDCSmIKGiL1CkUj_BuCVa3GcAnRZQSA2osOLkvPdiPulo2o_aem_3x2KP4COXTmxoInPE56uJw" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8YP9KX</a> Espanol:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8XM5ZM?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0N2Y4O3ekmIuFrrgF2-qXh3E8FuKJF9iJemgxqSzvkrSnX1zLTwTRhGwM_aem_dZ94dQ0UMnb_kBWfxzqsjw" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H8XM5ZM</a>Options is also recruiting survivors to participate in a stakeholders' health equity research project in partnership with Fort Hays State University.Local officials hope the survey, which is part of a community needs assessment, will provide a detailed understanding of the current landscape of sexual violence in these communities and guide the development of tailored prevention strategies.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0d92b93-0351-481e-be58-761a580605e5">SEE RELATED STORY: Options and Jana's Campaign join forces to combat sexual violence</a>For more information on the partnership or survey, see the contacts below.Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Phone: 785-625-4202Jana's Campaign Contact: Kaiti Blackburn Email:&nbsp;kdinges@janascampaign.org Phone: 785-656-0324 <h2>How to get help</h2>If you are a survivor of domestic or sexual violence, you can receive help in a variety of ways. You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.The Options website,&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>, offers a live chat option or video conference with an advocate.The website has a safe escape button that allows you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies, so anyone who is on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."

Options, Jana's Campaign seek responses to gender violence survey

Farmers are increasingly relying on off-farm jobs to supplement their farm income. Today about 84% of farm families rely on another part-time or even full-time job to stay in business.

By TERESA HOMSI <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-11-11/farmers-second-jobs">Harvest Public Media</a>

The Leelanau Peninsula, known as Michigan’s pinky, extends for 30-miles into Lake Michigan. The rolling hills and the lake’s insulating effect makes this place ideal for growing fruit.

Cherry farmer Phil Hallstedt said the landscape never gets old, but growing cherries is becoming more difficult.

“I don’t go to Vegas because I gamble every year,” Hallstedt said. “Cherries are so, so risky.”

After several tough years, Hallstedt has transitioned his farm to a U-Pick model, where people pay to harvest their own cherries. He also plans to further cash in on the region’s tourist economy by opening campsites on his land.

Hallstedt said his family made those changes after years of working part-time jobs and still struggling to make ends meet.

“Two years ago, I was ready to throw in the towel,” Hallstedt said. “And my wife said, 'I'm not,' and I love my wife, and I follow my wife. And so I was like, OK, I gotta figure this out. So together we're trying this new business model."

Only&nbsp;<a href="https://ambrook.com/research/farm-finance/farmers-outside-jobs-off-farm-commute-rural-urban" target="_blank">37% of farmers</a>&nbsp;held a primary job off the farm in 1974. Today, roughly 84% of family farmers rely on other jobs to support their livelihoods, according to a 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/108074/eib-263.pdf?v=8165.3" target="_blank">USDA study.</a>

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack has said the increasing dependence on off-farm income is causing more small farms to sell, and the trend contributes to further&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2024/09/05/statement-agriculture-secretary-tom-vilsack-ers-2024-farm-sector#:~:text=This%20report%20shows%2090%25%20of,taken%20place%20since%20the%201980's." target="_blank">farm consolidation.</a>

Between 2017 and 2022, more than 140,000 farms closed down — most of which were from the smallest income category.

“The question I think we ask ourselves is simply, why is it that the farm family has to work multiple jobs?” Vilsack said at an August press conference. “Why can't the farm work harder and generate more farm income?”

The cost of inputs like seed, fertilizer and labor have generally gone up, while prices for produce and grains&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-10-18/farm-bill-expiration-programs" target="_blank">are lower.</a>

For Hallstedt, dealing with the risks, competition, low demand for fresh cherries and high cost of labor was just no longer worth the trouble.

“It cost about 35 cents a pound to grow tart cherries, and they paid them last year at 12 cents,” he said. “So every pound they picked, they lost 20 cents. You can’t sustain that.”

Daniel Munch, an agricultural economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation, said it’s harder for “little guys” to produce at the same price per unit as larger farms. Competing in a global market, Munch said, means farmers have to keep scaling up in order to be profitable.

“We're never in the position of saying it's bad that farms are getting bigger,” Munch said. “They're just doing it because that's what they need to survive in the marketplace we have now ... which is a harsh reality.”

Off-farm income isn’t necessarily a bad thing or a new trend, according to Alan Spell, an assistant extension professor at the University of Missouri. Spell co-authored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cobank.com/documents/7714906/7715332/Off-FarmIncome_Report_U-of-Missouri-Extension.pdf/3130eec1-5bbe-961f-2956-062ae7e776b9?t=1714689850500" target="_blank">a report on the importance of off-farm income</a>&nbsp;to the ag economy in 2022.

He said off-farm income can come with health insurance benefits and more flexibility, along with more stability in overall income. Technological advancements have also reduced the need for constant on-farm labor.

“We also have more farmers than we would otherwise, because if [producers] just relied on farming, then we'd have a lot less people in farming because they just couldn't afford to make it,” Spell said.

he percentage of farmers making the majority of their income from the farm has declined overall, Spell said, but there is still some year-to-year variation depending on commodity prices and the labor market. Farm financing also varies across different regions.

“If you told a young person today, with no assets in farming, to go out and be a farmer, that would be a daunting demand for them,” Spell said. “The reality is they're going to need to rely on those other income sources, and that's going to give them the ability to grow that business over time.”

In Nebraska, Vern Jantzen grows corn and soybeans and sells to a local co-op. He said the good news is that he’s debt-free, but he likely won’t break even from his crops this year.

“With an average yield and a below average price, it doesn't pencil out,” Jantzen said.

Along with a few odd jobs, Jantzen is also a substitute bus driver. While initially it wasn’t for the extra income, now he said he’s glad to have the job. He likens farming to the Cornhuskers, the University of Nebraska’s football team.

“We have had a terrible time for many years, but the thing that keeps us going as football fans is there's always next year,” Jantzen said. “And that's, I think, what keeps a lot of farmers going is, you know, there's always next year.”

Jantzen adds that farming is also a lifestyle, and hustling with side gigs is somewhat part of the job. He said he remembers his father selling insurance on the side and knows farmers who took on factory jobs in the winter.

But for small operations, there is a breaking point when on-farm income can’t keep up. Jantzen used to milk cows but after facing health issues in his herd and declining milk prices, he weighed his losses and decided to close down his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2016/04/10/473685875/facing-a-shaky-future-nebraska-family-farm-ponders-a-renaissance" target="_blank">dairy operation.</a>

“How much equity, value do I have in my farm?” Jantzen said. “If you're borrowing money against that value, at some point in time, either the banker or your wife is going to say, ‘that's enough.’”

antzen, who is also the vice president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, said a huge obstacle to on-farm profits is a lack of competitive price discovery. He said antitrust laws like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/packers-and-stockyards-act" target="_blank">Packers and Stockyards Act</a>&nbsp;need to be better enforced to prevent a few companies from controlling prices and limiting competition.

“We're squeezing [farmers] out, and it's our whole agricultural industrial complex … stacked against the little guy,” Jantzen said. “And so it's amazing how many of them still figure out a way to work around it and make it work.”

While farmers are used to the ups and downs, some are exploring ways to differentiate their products and generate more income from their goods. That could help small and mid-size farms diversify and survive, said J. Arbuckle, a professor of rural sociology at Iowa State University.

“Farmer Jane can't walk into the local grain elevator and say, ‘Hey, my yellow #2 corn is better than farmer John's over there, so please give me a price premium,’” Arbuckle said.

Arbuckle said adding value to a product is a go-to method to earn a price premium.

“Berries, turn them into jam, or pigs, turn them into ham,” he said. “Adding a second or third crop that has a more local or a more niche market [is another method].”

Or if it’s an option, farmers can turn to agritourism like Hallstedt has in Michigan.

A new farm-stay ordinance in Leelanau Township will now allow working farms in the region to open up to four campsites on a minimum of 40 acres of land. Hallstedt, who advocated for the ordinance over the last four years, is jumping on the opportunity to add another stream of revenue.

“It’s not just for our farm. It’s for all [farmers] in Leelanau Township.”

Even if cherries don’t pay, Hallstedt said he doesn’t want to see local orchards sliced up and turned into housing subdivisions. In order to preserve farmland, he said we need to ensure farmers can stay in business.

“Once that house goes up, it’s gone. It will always be housing,” Hallstedt said. “We’re trying to avoid that. We love this land and believe it’s special.”

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731883971905.jpeg" alt="Phil Hallstedt picks cherries on his orchard in Michigan. He and his wife both have worked part-time jobs, but recently Hallstedt transitioned his cherry orchard to a U-Pick model where people can pay to harvest their own cherries. He said the new business model was necessary to stay afloat. Beryl Striewski / Courtesy Phil Hallstedt" />
 <figcaption>Phil Hallstedt picks cherries on his orchard in Michigan. He and his wife both have worked part-time jobs, but recently Hallstedt transitioned his cherry orchard to a U-Pick model where people can pay to harvest their own cherries. He said the new business model was necessary to stay afloat. Beryl Striewski / Courtesy Phil Hallstedt</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Farmers are increasingly relying on off-farm jobs to supplement their farm income. Today about 84% of farm families rely on another part-time or even full-time job to stay in business.</h2>By TERESA HOMSI <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-11-11/farmers-second-jobs">Harvest Public Media</a>The Leelanau Peninsula, known as Michigan’s pinky, extends for 30-miles into Lake Michigan. The rolling hills and the lake’s insulating effect makes this place ideal for growing fruit.Cherry farmer Phil Hallstedt said the landscape never gets old, but growing cherries is becoming more difficult.“I don’t go to Vegas because I gamble every year,” Hallstedt said. “Cherries are so, so risky.”After several tough years, Hallstedt has transitioned his farm to a U-Pick model, where people pay to harvest their own cherries. He also plans to further cash in on the region’s tourist economy by opening campsites on his land.Hallstedt said his family made those changes after years of working part-time jobs and still struggling to make ends meet.“Two years ago, I was ready to throw in the towel,” Hallstedt said. “And my wife said, 'I'm not,' and I love my wife, and I follow my wife. And so I was like, OK, I gotta figure this out. So together we're trying this new business model."Only&nbsp;<a href="https://ambrook.com/research/farm-finance/farmers-outside-jobs-off-farm-commute-rural-urban" target="_blank">37% of farmers</a>&nbsp;held a primary job off the farm in 1974. Today, roughly 84% of family farmers rely on other jobs to support their livelihoods, according to a 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/108074/eib-263.pdf?v=8165.3" target="_blank">USDA study.</a>U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack has said the increasing dependence on off-farm income is causing more small farms to sell, and the trend contributes to further&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2024/09/05/statement-agriculture-secretary-tom-vilsack-ers-2024-farm-sector#:~:text=This%20report%20shows%2090%25%20of,taken%20place%20since%20the%201980's." target="_blank">farm consolidation.</a>Between 2017 and 2022, more than 140,000 farms closed down — most of which were from the smallest income category.“The question I think we ask ourselves is simply, why is it that the farm family has to work multiple jobs?” Vilsack said at an August press conference. “Why can't the farm work harder and generate more farm income?”<h2>Thinner profit margins</h2>The cost of inputs like seed, fertilizer and labor have generally gone up, while prices for produce and grains&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-10-18/farm-bill-expiration-programs" target="_blank">are lower.</a>For Hallstedt, dealing with the risks, competition, low demand for fresh cherries and high cost of labor was just no longer worth the trouble.“It cost about 35 cents a pound to grow tart cherries, and they paid them last year at 12 cents,” he said. “So every pound they picked, they lost 20 cents. You can’t sustain that.”Daniel Munch, an agricultural economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation, said it’s harder for “little guys” to produce at the same price per unit as larger farms. Competing in a global market, Munch said, means farmers have to keep scaling up in order to be profitable.“We're never in the position of saying it's bad that farms are getting bigger,” Munch said. “They're just doing it because that's what they need to survive in the marketplace we have now ... which is a harsh reality.”Off-farm income isn’t necessarily a bad thing or a new trend, according to Alan Spell, an assistant extension professor at the University of Missouri. Spell co-authored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cobank.com/documents/7714906/7715332/Off-FarmIncome_Report_U-of-Missouri-Extension.pdf/3130eec1-5bbe-961f-2956-062ae7e776b9?t=1714689850500" target="_blank">a report on the importance of off-farm income</a>&nbsp;to the ag economy in 2022.He said off-farm income can come with health insurance benefits and more flexibility, along with more stability in overall income. Technological advancements have also reduced the need for constant on-farm labor.“We also have more farmers than we would otherwise, because if [producers] just relied on farming, then we'd have a lot less people in farming because they just couldn't afford to make it,” Spell said.he percentage of farmers making the majority of their income from the farm has declined overall, Spell said, but there is still some year-to-year variation depending on commodity prices and the labor market. Farm financing also varies across different regions.“If you told a young person today, with no assets in farming, to go out and be a farmer, that would be a daunting demand for them,” Spell said. “The reality is they're going to need to rely on those other income sources, and that's going to give them the ability to grow that business over time.”<h2>Supporting small and mid-size farms</h2>In Nebraska, Vern Jantzen grows corn and soybeans and sells to a local co-op. He said the good news is that he’s debt-free, but he likely won’t break even from his crops this year.“With an average yield and a below average price, it doesn't pencil out,” Jantzen said.Along with a few odd jobs, Jantzen is also a substitute bus driver. While initially it wasn’t for the extra income, now he said he’s glad to have the job. He likens farming to the Cornhuskers, the University of Nebraska’s football team.“We have had a terrible time for many years, but the thing that keeps us going as football fans is there's always next year,” Jantzen said. “And that's, I think, what keeps a lot of farmers going is, you know, there's always next year.”Jantzen adds that farming is also a lifestyle, and hustling with side gigs is somewhat part of the job. He said he remembers his father selling insurance on the side and knows farmers who took on factory jobs in the winter.But for small operations, there is a breaking point when on-farm income can’t keep up. Jantzen used to milk cows but after facing health issues in his herd and declining milk prices, he weighed his losses and decided to close down his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2016/04/10/473685875/facing-a-shaky-future-nebraska-family-farm-ponders-a-renaissance" target="_blank">dairy operation.</a>“How much equity, value do I have in my farm?” Jantzen said. “If you're borrowing money against that value, at some point in time, either the banker or your wife is going to say, ‘that's enough.’”antzen, who is also the vice president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, said a huge obstacle to on-farm profits is a lack of competitive price discovery. He said antitrust laws like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/packers-and-stockyards-act" target="_blank">Packers and Stockyards Act</a>&nbsp;need to be better enforced to prevent a few companies from controlling prices and limiting competition.“We're squeezing [farmers] out, and it's our whole agricultural industrial complex … stacked against the little guy,” Jantzen said. “And so it's amazing how many of them still figure out a way to work around it and make it work.”<h2>Generating income ON the farm</h2>While farmers are used to the ups and downs, some are exploring ways to differentiate their products and generate more income from their goods. That could help small and mid-size farms diversify and survive, said J. Arbuckle, a professor of rural sociology at Iowa State University.“Farmer Jane can't walk into the local grain elevator and say, ‘Hey, my yellow #2 corn is better than farmer John's over there, so please give me a price premium,’” Arbuckle said.Arbuckle said adding value to a product is a go-to method to earn a price premium.“Berries, turn them into jam, or pigs, turn them into ham,” he said. “Adding a second or third crop that has a more local or a more niche market [is another method].”Or if it’s an option, farmers can turn to agritourism like Hallstedt has in Michigan.A new farm-stay ordinance in Leelanau Township will now allow working farms in the region to open up to four campsites on a minimum of 40 acres of land. Hallstedt, who advocated for the ordinance over the last four years, is jumping on the opportunity to add another stream of revenue.“It’s not just for our farm. It’s for all [farmers] in Leelanau Township.”Even if cherries don’t pay, Hallstedt said he doesn’t want to see local orchards sliced up and turned into housing subdivisions. In order to preserve farmland, he said we need to ensure farmers can stay in business.“Once that house goes up, it’s gone. It will always be housing,” Hallstedt said. “We’re trying to avoid that. We love this land and believe it’s special.”This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

To stay on the farm, more and more farmers are working second and even third jobs

LOGAN COUNTY — School is not in session Monday in Oakley, according to USD 274. The district reported they had a small fire on Friday and the district wants to make sure everything is safe for students and staff. Extra-curricular activities will continue as scheduled.

An adjuster will be at the school on Monday and the school district hopes they we can return to normal on Tuesday.

USD 274 also thanked the fire department for "getting here quickly and the community members and staff that helped us navigate through this." The school district released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731930159345.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>LOGAN COUNTY — School is not in session Monday in Oakley, according to USD 274. The district reported they had a small fire on Friday and the district wants to make sure everything is safe for students and staff. Extra-curricular activities will continue as scheduled.An adjuster will be at the school on Monday and the school district hopes they we can return to normal on Tuesday.USD 274 also thanked the fire department for "getting here quickly and the community members and staff that helped us navigate through this." The school district released no additional details.

USD 274: No school Monday after weekend fire in Oakley

Mark and Judy Hantla, owners of the Madd Matter Frame Shop and Gallery at 112 E. 11th, Hays, Kansas, would like to formally announce the closure and sale of their business effective December 31, 2024.

Our journey began in 1979, fueled by our passion for art as two art educators with a dream. Over the past 45 years we have had the privilege of sharing this passion with our community and providing custom framing services. We are deeply grateful to all our customers—local businesses, institutions, organizations, artists, and especially our cherished personal clients. Every relationship we’ve built has enriched our lives.

As we approach our retirement, we invite you to join us for a Customer Appreciation Reception at the Madd Matter Frame Shop on Saturday Dec. 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This event will coincide with the Winter Gallery Walk, offering a wonderful opportunity to thank you in person for your support and to share some memories.

We will continue to accept framing orders throughout the holiday season, so please feel free to bring in your final projects before the end of December.

Thank you for trusting us with your framing needs. We have been blessed by all of you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731883575356.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDear Friends and Family,Mark and Judy Hantla, owners of the Madd Matter Frame Shop and Gallery at 112 E. 11th, Hays, Kansas, would like to formally announce the closure and sale of their business effective December 31, 2024.Our journey began in 1979, fueled by our passion for art as two art educators with a dream. Over the past 45 years we have had the privilege of sharing this passion with our community and providing custom framing services. We are deeply grateful to all our customers—local businesses, institutions, organizations, artists, and especially our cherished personal clients. Every relationship we’ve built has enriched our lives.As we approach our retirement, we invite you to join us for a Customer Appreciation Reception at the Madd Matter Frame Shop on Saturday Dec. 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.This event will coincide with the Winter Gallery Walk, offering a wonderful opportunity to thank you in person for your support and to share some memories.We will continue to accept framing orders throughout the holiday season, so please feel free to bring in your final projects before the end of December.Thank you for trusting us with your framing needs. We have been blessed by all of you.Warmest regards,Mark and Judy HantlaMadd Matter Frame Shop

Madd Matter Frame Shop and Gallery owners announce closure

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in December. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724428131694.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationThe Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in December. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;Those celebrating 45 years:<ul>
 <li>Brent Gurwell, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Scranton</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:<ul>
 <li>Robert Robinson, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Columbus</li><li>Kevin Strube, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Horton</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 30 years:<ul>
 <li>Nicholas Baker, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Lewis</li><li>Mitch Sothers, Chief of Innovative Technology,&nbsp;Auburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 25 years:<ul>
 <li>David Alexander, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Hutchinson</li><li>Shane Houser, Construction Letting Engineer,&nbsp;Wakarusa</li><li>Delbert Ramsey, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Lyndon</li><li>Steven Sheaffer, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Oberlin</li><li>Brent Terstriep, District Two Engineer,&nbsp;Salina</li><li>Thad Vincent, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Weskan</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 20 years:<ul>
 <li>Anthony Menke, Project Delivery Director,&nbsp;Berryton</li><li>Dennis Oller, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Turon</li><li>Terri Slater, Public Service Executive III,&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Eric Walker, Equipment Shop Supervisor,&nbsp;Altoona</li><li>Lesley Yarrington, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Amsterdamm</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Those celebrating 15 years:<ul>
 <li>Matthew Graham, Professional Civil Engineer I,&nbsp;Wichita</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 10 years:<ul>
 <li>Christopher Blume, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Nickerson</li><li>Richard Ferguson, Equipment Mechanic,&nbsp;Moran</li><li>John Martin, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Cherokee</li><li>Jonathon Ploutz, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Larned</li><li>Joshua Wenger, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Muscotah</li>
 </ul>

KDOT employees celebrate service anniversaries

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Newly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;

Alicia&nbsp;Boor&nbsp;is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictNewly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;Alicia&nbsp;Boor&nbsp;is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Why do houseplants lose leaves after being brought inside? 

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Looking at turkeys for your holiday meals? Here are some tips to help make your holiday turkey safe and healthy. Turkey is a healthy choice since it is considered a white meat and full of protein! Some tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it or use herbs and lemon to season rather than butter and salt. Allow one pound (1 lb) of turkey per person you are serving.

Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them in one of three ways: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or the microwave. Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird. To roast the turkey, start with an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees when it is thoroughly cooked. Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.

Turkeys must be kept at a safe temperature during "the big thaw." While frozen, a turkey is safe indefinitely. However, as soon as it begins to thaw, any bacteria that may have been present before freezing can begin to grow again.

Immediately after grocery store checkout, take the frozen turkey home and store it in the freezer. Frozen turkeys should not be left on the back porch, in the car trunk, in the basement, or any place else where temperatures cannot be constantly monitored.

A package of frozen meat or poultry left thawing on the counter more than 2 hours is not at a safe temperature. Even though the center of the package may still be frozen, the outer layer of the food is in the "Danger Zone" between 40 and 140 °F — at a temperature where foodborne bacteria multiply rapidly.

There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in the microwave oven.

When thawing a turkey in the refrigerator:

· Plan ahead: allow approximately 24 hours for each 4 to 5 pounds in a refrigerator set at 40 °F or below.

· Place the turkey in a container to prevent the juices from dripping on other foods.

A thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before cooking. Foods thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen without cooking but there may be some loss of quality.

First be sure the turkey is in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination and to prevent the turkey from absorbing water, resulting in a watery product.

Submerge the wrapped turkey in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the turkey is thawed. Cook the turkey immediately after it is thawed.

A turkey thawed by the cold water method should be cooked immediately. After cooking, meat from the turkey can be refrozen.

Follow the microwave oven manufacturer's instruction when defrosting a turkey. Plan to cook it immediately after thawing because some areas of the food may become warm and begin to cook during microwaving. Holding partially cooked food is not recommended because any bacteria present wouldn't have been destroyed.

A turkey thawed in the microwave must be cooked immediately.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictLooking at turkeys for your holiday meals? Here are some tips to help make your holiday turkey safe and healthy. Turkey is a healthy choice since it is considered a white meat and full of protein! Some tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it or use herbs and lemon to season rather than butter and salt. Allow one pound (1 lb) of turkey per person you are serving.Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them in one of three ways: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or the microwave. Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird. To roast the turkey, start with an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees when it is thoroughly cooked. Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.Turkeys must be kept at a safe temperature during "the big thaw." While frozen, a turkey is safe indefinitely. However, as soon as it begins to thaw, any bacteria that may have been present before freezing can begin to grow again.Immediately after grocery store checkout, take the frozen turkey home and store it in the freezer. Frozen turkeys should not be left on the back porch, in the car trunk, in the basement, or any place else where temperatures cannot be constantly monitored.A package of frozen meat or poultry left thawing on the counter more than 2 hours is not at a safe temperature. Even though the center of the package may still be frozen, the outer layer of the food is in the "Danger Zone" between 40 and 140 °F — at a temperature where foodborne bacteria multiply rapidly.There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in the microwave oven.Refrigerator ThawingWhen thawing a turkey in the refrigerator:· Plan ahead: allow approximately 24 hours for each 4 to 5 pounds in a refrigerator set at 40 °F or below.· Place the turkey in a container to prevent the juices from dripping on other foods.REFRIGERATOR THAWING TIMESWhole turkey:· 4 to 12 pounds — 1 to 3 days· 12 to 16 pounds — 3 to 4 days· 16 to 20 pounds — 4 to 5 days· 20 to 24 pounds —5 to 6 daysA thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before cooking. Foods thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen without cooking but there may be some loss of quality.Cold Water ThawingAllow about 30 minutes per pound.First be sure the turkey is in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination and to prevent the turkey from absorbing water, resulting in a watery product.Submerge the wrapped turkey in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the turkey is thawed. Cook the turkey immediately after it is thawed.COLD WATER THAWING TIMES· 4 to 12 pounds — 2 to 6 hours· 12 to 16 pounds — 6 to 8 hours· 16 to 20 pounds — 8 to 10 hours· 20 to 24 pounds — 10 to 12 hoursA turkey thawed by the cold water method should be cooked immediately. After cooking, meat from the turkey can be refrozen.Microwave ThawingFollow the microwave oven manufacturer's instruction when defrosting a turkey. Plan to cook it immediately after thawing because some areas of the food may become warm and begin to cook during microwaving. Holding partially cooked food is not recommended because any bacteria present wouldn't have been destroyed.A turkey thawed in the microwave must be cooked immediately.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Turkey Basics

<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/2024/11/1731883493965.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Start the advent/holiday season on a glorious note with the FHSU choirs: Fort Hays Singers, Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale at the annual Cathedral Christmas Concert in Victoria.

Hays HS Chamber Singers and the St. Fidelis Church choir are the guest choirs. Also appearing: Tom Meagher, organ; FHSU Horn Ensemble; FHSU Flute Ensemble; several FHSU Music Faculty will perform, plus other members of the Music &amp; Theatre Dept.

This concert is free and open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670010791180.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCathedral Christmas ConcertSunday, December 8, 2024, 3:30pmBasilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, KSStart the advent/holiday season on a glorious note with the FHSU choirs: Fort Hays Singers, Concert Choir, and Smoky Hill Chorale at the annual Cathedral Christmas Concert in Victoria.Hays HS Chamber Singers and the St. Fidelis Church choir are the guest choirs. Also appearing: Tom Meagher, organ; FHSU Horn Ensemble; FHSU Flute Ensemble; several FHSU Music Faculty will perform, plus other members of the Music &amp; Theatre Dept.This concert is free and open to the public.

Cathedral Christmas Concert set for Dec. 8

Kansas State University is continuing community visits across the state and invites residents of Ellis County for a special afternoon focused on water education and conservation.

The “Know Your Water” event will take place on November 18, starting at 2 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays. Organizers say that participants will have the chance to learn about water systems, efficient irrigation techniques, and non-point source pollution.

“We want our residents to see these demonstrations first-hand and to hear about science-based water management strategies. K-State will use this visit to help everyone dive deeper into the important topic of water,” said Stacie Minson, an extension watershed specialist with K-State Research and Extension.

This community visit will feature experts from the university and Extension who will lead the hands-on showcases and demonstrations. Participants will also have a tour of Pleasant View Farms, where water quality improvements have been put into action.

The continuation of K-State’s community visits shows the university’s commitment to prioritizing engagement and driving partnerships that address real-world challenges — whether through educational outreach, innovative research or service programs that benefit the people and industries of Kansas.

Community visit events are free and open to all Kansans, including community members, leaders and industry partners. Those interested can go to bit.ly/KWY-visit to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719872287576.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas State University is continuing community visits across the state and invites residents of Ellis County for a special afternoon focused on water education and conservation.The “Know Your Water” event will take place on November 18, starting at 2 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays. Organizers say that participants will have the chance to learn about water systems, efficient irrigation techniques, and non-point source pollution.“We want our residents to see these demonstrations first-hand and to hear about science-based water management strategies. K-State will use this visit to help everyone dive deeper into the important topic of water,” said Stacie Minson, an extension watershed specialist with K-State Research and Extension.This community visit will feature experts from the university and Extension who will lead the hands-on showcases and demonstrations. Participants will also have a tour of Pleasant View Farms, where water quality improvements have been put into action.The continuation of K-State’s community visits shows the university’s commitment to prioritizing engagement and driving partnerships that address real-world challenges — whether through educational outreach, innovative research or service programs that benefit the people and industries of Kansas.Community visit events are free and open to all Kansans, including community members, leaders and industry partners. Those interested can go to bit.ly/KWY-visit to register.

K-State comes to Ellis Co. for community visit about water

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

While I realize Veterans Day has come-and-gone for 2024, I feel this column, even though a week late, is still applicable. I come from a family where many have served in the military in one way, shape or form. My dad was an infantryman in the Army during WW II and served in Italy for a time. His older brother served as Flight Engineer on a B-24, flying 13 missions over Germany during WWII. I was a Field Artillery Meteorologist, collecting atmospheric data for the artillery for 20 years in the Army National Guard, and was in Bosnia for 6 months. My wife Joyce spent 8 years in the Air National Guard as a photographer and as a plane cargo loader. Three of her uncles, all from Mennonite families, served in the army and navy during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Two of my cousins were in the Air Force, one of my nephews was a marine and another nephew is currently in the navy. When asked by her siblings, (all who are also Conscientious Objectors,) why she joined the military, my wife Joyce replied “Cause daddy never told me not to.” I say all this not to brag, but to say that we are a family who believes in and supports maintaining a strong military in the United States.

The person who suggested I write this column a couple years ago, told me of an office conversation discussing whether or not to do anything special that year for Veterans Day in their paper. One coworker replied “Yes, absolutely. Patriotism has to be taught.” That got me thinking about ways we can teach our kids and new citizens to be proud of our country and of our military, both current members and veterans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsWhile I realize Veterans Day has come-and-gone for 2024, I feel this column, even though a week late, is still applicable. I come from a family where many have served in the military in one way, shape or form. My dad was an infantryman in the Army during WW II and served in Italy for a time. His older brother served as Flight Engineer on a B-24, flying 13 missions over Germany during WWII. I was a Field Artillery Meteorologist, collecting atmospheric data for the artillery for 20 years in the Army National Guard, and was in Bosnia for 6 months. My wife Joyce spent 8 years in the Air National Guard as a photographer and as a plane cargo loader. Three of her uncles, all from Mennonite families, served in the army and navy during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Two of my cousins were in the Air Force, one of my nephews was a marine and another nephew is currently in the navy. When asked by her siblings, (all who are also Conscientious Objectors,) why she joined the military, my wife Joyce replied “Cause daddy never told me not to.” I say all this not to brag, but to say that we are a family who believes in and supports maintaining a strong military in the United States.The person who suggested I write this column a couple years ago, told me of an office conversation discussing whether or not to do anything special that year for Veterans Day in their paper. One coworker replied “Yes, absolutely. Patriotism has to be taught.” That got me thinking about ways we can teach our kids and new citizens to be proud of our country and of our military, both current members and veterans.First of all, by example, teach your kids respect for our flag, for the pledge of allegiance to our flag and for our National Anthem. When reciting the pledge of allegiance, honoring our flag as it is displayed or paraded past you or when singing the Star-Spangled Banner, stand, come to attention and face the flag with your right hand over your heart. Now, some will say the flag is only a piece of cloth, the pledge of allegiance only something we recite and the national anthem only a song. While those statements are true, these things are symbols of our freedom and of our country. Teaching our youth respect for these things will help teach them appreciation for God’s allowing us to live in a free country like the United States, appreciation for the soldiers that currently serve, soldiers that have served in the past and soldiers that have died protecting that freedom.Most places you go, be it Walmart, the mall, a fast-food restaurant or some large event, you will see men and women wearing a hat or another item of clothing giving the appearance that they are military veterans. Ask those people if they are veterans, and if so, offer your hand and thank them for their service, and urge your kids to do the same. This is also a great gesture toward law enforcement personnel, firefighters and all manner of first responders, for they, like soldiers are the ones who run toward dangerous situations, allowing the rest of us run to safety.I agree with the assessment that “Patriotism has to be taught,” and we as parents and grandparents must be the teachers. Be creative with other ways to honor our veterans; offer to pay for their Big Mac and fries, their morning coffee at Scooters or at the local café, let them go ahead of you in line at Dillons, etc. Also, take your kids and grandkids to church and be the example of wholeheartedly thanking God for these freedoms we have. As Lee Greenwood so eloquently sang, “God Bless the USA”Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.