NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Sterling driven by Billy T. Lowry, WaKeeney, was westbound on Kansas Highway 9 seven miles east of U.S. 283. 

The vehicle dropped the right side tires onto the right shoulder. The vehicle began to skid back onto the roadway and then rolled over onto the right side and slid down into the south ditch.

EMS transported Lowry to the hospital in Norton. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Sterling driven by Billy T. Lowry, WaKeeney, was westbound on Kansas Highway 9 seven miles east of U.S. 283. The vehicle dropped the right side tires onto the right shoulder. The vehicle began to skid back onto the roadway and then rolled over onto the right side and slid down into the south ditch.EMS transported Lowry to the hospital in Norton. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kan. man hospitalized after vehicle rolls into ditch

After 2022 opened with snowfall and an Arctic chill, forecasters are expecting unseasonably warm temperature to return next week.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for clear skies and high temperatures in the mid-40s by Saturday and into the mid-50s Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

The next chance of precipitation is a slight chance on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641588710942.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After 2022 opened with snowfall and an Arctic chill, forecasters are expecting unseasonably warm temperature to return next week.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for clear skies and high temperatures in the mid-40s by Saturday and into the mid-50s Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.The next chance of precipitation is a slight chance on Thursday.

NWS: After chilly start to '22, warmer weather on the way

Downtown Hays Development Corporation announced today the appointment of three new additions to the board of directors.

The three new directors are Chelsey Ladd, Kiley Rupp, and Bryan Vonfeldt.

Ladd is a native of Hays and a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.S. in Organizational Leadership and a B.A. in Political Science. She currently serves as the Director of Constituent Services for the Office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran. In that role, she manages the day-to-day operation of Senator Moran’s constituent services division, leading a team of 10 caseworkers.&nbsp;She is very active in the Hays community serving on the Fort Hays State University Alumni Association Board of Directors and the&nbsp;Hays Kiwanis Club Board of directors. Previously she was a Hays Chamber Ambassador and a member of the Hays Young Professionals. She also participates in a number of annual community events, such as Special Olympics Kansas, Night to Shine, Pack the Pantry and volunteers with various local organizations whenever opportunities arise.&nbsp; Additionally, she is an active member in her church, Hays First United Methodist Church. In her free time, Chelsey enjoys spending time outdoors, listening to music, reading, traveling to new places and spending quality time with her family and friends.&nbsp; Ladd, her husband Aaron and their son Theodore reside in Hays, Kansas.

Rupp is the owner of Body+Soul Day and Wellness Spa and recently founded The Collective at Body+Soul. Rupp has been in the beauty industry for over 15 years and during that time was able to experience several roles within the industry including behind the chair, editorial stylist, instructor, and salon/spa management. In 2014 Rupp attended SWIHA in Tempe, Arizona and earned her 200hr yoga instructor certification through Yoga Alliance. She was recognized by the Hays community as Businesswoman of The Year in 2021. Her passion for creating a sense community can be felt from the moment you step foot into these businesses. She is enthusiastic, entertaining, loves to travel, and loves spending time outdoors. Kiley is a Nebraska native, but has lived in Hays for seven years. She and her husband have three kids and three dogs.

VonFeldt has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Astra Bank since 2013. VonFeldt is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.S. in Finance and a Masters’ degree in General Business. The on-going joke is that he couldn’t get a Masters in Finance because he had already taken every banking and finance class the University offered. VonFeldt’s banking career began with First National Bank of Hays in 2007 and has encompassed a little bit of everything including, Teller, Operations, Investment Officer and Loan Officer. In 2018, Bryan completed the three-year Graduate School of banking program at SWGSB, located on campus at SMU. Bryan lives in Hays with his wife, Brittney, and two children, Logan (7) and Kinlee (3). He has also been the Head coach for the TMP High School Boys golf team over the past 14 seasons and is an adjunct professor at FHSU for the Robbins Banking Institute. Bryan also serves on other local boards and committees including, FHSU Foundation, Heart of America Corp., and Heartland Parishes.

“Each of these individuals have the potential to make significant impacts on the organization,” Sara Bloom, Executive Director said. “It’s why they were chosen. This group, the current board, of men and women are exemplary leaders looking for other leaders to come alongside them and inspire, dream, and do. I have no doubt these three will do just that.”

All three new members began their 3-year term on January 1, 2022. DHDC board members can serve up to three consecutive terms before&nbsp; stepping down.&nbsp;

DHDC is a 501(c)3 created in 2001. It strives to be the binding force and catalyst for organizations impacting Historic Downtown Hays. DHDC represents Downtown Hays through open communication and strategic planning which enhances and secures the quality of life in the community. The organization fosters awareness by recognizing, communicating, and celebrating the accomplishments of Downtown Hays.&nbsp;

CORRECTION: The original story identified Ladd as a current member of the Hays Young Professionals and a Chamber Ambassador. She had previously served in those roles, but does not do so currently. Her bio was also updated to reflect her status as a board member of the Hays Kiwanis Club. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596207699929.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCDowntown Hays Development Corporation announced today the appointment of three new additions to the board of directors.The three new directors are Chelsey Ladd, Kiley Rupp, and Bryan Vonfeldt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641587685524.jpeg" alt="Chelsey Ladd" />
 <figcaption>Chelsey Ladd</figcaption>
 </figure>Ladd is a native of Hays and a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.S. in Organizational Leadership and a B.A. in Political Science. She currently serves as the Director of Constituent Services for the Office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran. In that role, she manages the day-to-day operation of Senator Moran’s constituent services division, leading a team of 10 caseworkers.&nbsp;She is very active in the Hays community serving on the Fort Hays State University Alumni Association Board of Directors and the&nbsp;Hays Kiwanis Club Board of directors. Previously she was a Hays Chamber Ambassador and a member of the Hays Young Professionals. She also participates in a number of annual community events, such as Special Olympics Kansas, Night to Shine, Pack the Pantry and volunteers with various local organizations whenever opportunities arise.&nbsp; Additionally, she is an active member in her church, Hays First United Methodist Church. In her free time, Chelsey enjoys spending time outdoors, listening to music, reading, traveling to new places and spending quality time with her family and friends.&nbsp; Ladd, her husband Aaron and their son Theodore reside in Hays, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641587724555.jpeg" alt="Kiley Rupp" />
 <figcaption>Kiley Rupp</figcaption>
 </figure>Rupp is the owner of Body+Soul Day and Wellness Spa and recently founded The Collective at Body+Soul. Rupp has been in the beauty industry for over 15 years and during that time was able to experience several roles within the industry including behind the chair, editorial stylist, instructor, and salon/spa management. In 2014 Rupp attended SWIHA in Tempe, Arizona and earned her 200hr yoga instructor certification through Yoga Alliance. She was recognized by the Hays community as Businesswoman of The Year in 2021. Her passion for creating a sense community can be felt from the moment you step foot into these businesses. She is enthusiastic, entertaining, loves to travel, and loves spending time outdoors. Kiley is a Nebraska native, but has lived in Hays for seven years. She and her husband have three kids and three dogs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641587749394.jpeg" alt="Bryan VonFeldt" />
 <figcaption>Bryan VonFeldt</figcaption>
 </figure>VonFeldt has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Astra Bank since 2013. VonFeldt is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.S. in Finance and a Masters’ degree in General Business. The on-going joke is that he couldn’t get a Masters in Finance because he had already taken every banking and finance class the University offered. VonFeldt’s banking career began with First National Bank of Hays in 2007 and has encompassed a little bit of everything including, Teller, Operations, Investment Officer and Loan Officer. In 2018, Bryan completed the three-year Graduate School of banking program at SWGSB, located on campus at SMU. Bryan lives in Hays with his wife, Brittney, and two children, Logan (7) and Kinlee (3). He has also been the Head coach for the TMP High School Boys golf team over the past 14 seasons and is an adjunct professor at FHSU for the Robbins Banking Institute. Bryan also serves on other local boards and committees including, FHSU Foundation, Heart of America Corp., and Heartland Parishes.“Each of these individuals have the potential to make significant impacts on the organization,” Sara Bloom, Executive Director said. “It’s why they were chosen. This group, the current board, of men and women are exemplary leaders looking for other leaders to come alongside them and inspire, dream, and do. I have no doubt these three will do just that.”All three new members began their 3-year term on January 1, 2022. DHDC board members can serve up to three consecutive terms before&nbsp; stepping down.&nbsp;DHDC is a 501(c)3 created in 2001. It strives to be the binding force and catalyst for organizations impacting Historic Downtown Hays. DHDC represents Downtown Hays through open communication and strategic planning which enhances and secures the quality of life in the community. The organization fosters awareness by recognizing, communicating, and celebrating the accomplishments of Downtown Hays.&nbsp;CORRECTION: The original story identified Ladd as a current member of the Hays Young Professionals and a Chamber Ambassador. She had previously served in those roles, but does not do so currently. Her bio was also updated to reflect her status as a board member of the Hays Kiwanis Club. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

New members join board of Downtown Hays Development Corp.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, Thomas More Prep-Marian announced Friday afternoon that tonight's games against Sacred Heart and Saturday's game against Life Prep have been postponed. 

The Sacred Heart games have been rescheduled to Jan. 27. Check Hays Post for more on the makeup date for the Life Prep matchups.

UPDATED 2:40 p.m. Friday with information about makeup games.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, Thomas More Prep-Marian announced Friday afternoon that tonight's games against Sacred Heart and Saturday's game against Life Prep have been postponed. The Sacred Heart games have been rescheduled to Jan. 27. Check Hays Post for more on the makeup date for the Life Prep matchups.UPDATED 2:40 p.m. Friday with information about makeup games.

UPDATE: TMP-M games postponed due to COVID concerns

Due to the exceedingly rising cases in COVID-19 and the COVID-19 omicron variant, the Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation has made the difficult decision in rescheduling the Kansas Mission of Mercy event in Hays.

The new dates for the KMOM Event will be Friday, March 25, and Saturday, March 26. The event was originally scheduled for mid-February.

More information will be available in the coming week via the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dMfM18xjjaUlQjM6tFw22Bzq6C0s1JFAuX-_pJiForpaDOL8cSLYrDRALzzD7WU40dcnZ3kLhaVr3d17WR-G_ZrdrWAPLRFarMEGTMum1LE7&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">KDCF web site</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dC-wMqawp_BDDZ80kDfKIIK-aVAXDTS07R10e5B3BejFPvXPZuCziFETezps_KYvA3DNiMXyrudvAQro2hfeVhLods8GsqOttLBfqaX2d_nQjZ0Y9x8kK4IbM1zyMBLMHg==&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dC-wMqawp_BDJWklrsE-V8-dBS6a2ESF5oXVlR1ay9V_57dPKn-FED3PiNcf8IZcikzWD_fypYjX5hDBr1deNvEtD98KC9162VLV-OXKTtY_&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;pages.

The 21st Kansas Mission of Mercy dental clinic will still be held at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, in Hays on March 25 and 26 where approximately 1,000 patients will receive free dental cleaning, fillings and/or extractions, at no cost to them. During the previous 20 KMOM projects, volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and others provided 31,135 patients with over $20 million in free dental care.&nbsp;

A new volunteer registration link will be created for this new date.

Members of the media are invited to be present on set up day, March 24, or at any time during the clinic on March 25-26. Doors of the clinic will open to patients at 5:30 a.m. on both days. Dentists and other partners who are spearheading this unique, privately funded, volunteer effort will be on hand.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641585495617.png" alt="A dentist working at a previous Kansas Mission of Mercy event. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A dentist working at a previous Kansas Mission of Mercy event. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseDue to the exceedingly rising cases in COVID-19 and the COVID-19 omicron variant, the Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation has made the difficult decision in rescheduling the Kansas Mission of Mercy event in Hays.The new dates for the KMOM Event will be Friday, March 25, and Saturday, March 26. The event was originally scheduled for mid-February.More information will be available in the coming week via the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dMfM18xjjaUlQjM6tFw22Bzq6C0s1JFAuX-_pJiForpaDOL8cSLYrDRALzzD7WU40dcnZ3kLhaVr3d17WR-G_ZrdrWAPLRFarMEGTMum1LE7&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">KDCF web site</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dC-wMqawp_BDDZ80kDfKIIK-aVAXDTS07R10e5B3BejFPvXPZuCziFETezps_KYvA3DNiMXyrudvAQro2hfeVhLods8GsqOttLBfqaX2d_nQjZ0Y9x8kK4IbM1zyMBLMHg==&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lLE3a3u7aO183Ve1wKjzxmoWp9DKl4TJgwZlFFWgFVVZCfc4d1J_dC-wMqawp_BDJWklrsE-V8-dBS6a2ESF5oXVlR1ay9V_57dPKn-FED3PiNcf8IZcikzWD_fypYjX5hDBr1deNvEtD98KC9162VLV-OXKTtY_&amp;c=v2R_VfvEmFKlyVXppDWjSmQDg8tcqXoaaSbcgsqVo1OW1xjB7EeROw==&amp;ch=JN4DVLJgvD2uwtBYL5SaxwLzHkGBauGxJZMrGzdwAuXi-6FY_GflaQ==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;pages.The 21st Kansas Mission of Mercy dental clinic will still be held at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, in Hays on March 25 and 26 where approximately 1,000 patients will receive free dental cleaning, fillings and/or extractions, at no cost to them. During the previous 20 KMOM projects, volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and others provided 31,135 patients with over $20 million in free dental care.&nbsp;A new volunteer registration link will be created for this new date.Members of the media are invited to be present on set up day, March 24, or at any time during the clinic on March 25-26. Doors of the clinic will open to patients at 5:30 a.m. on both days. Dentists and other partners who are spearheading this unique, privately funded, volunteer effort will be on hand.&nbsp;Cover image courtesy Pixabay

COVID uptick forces free dental clinic to reschedule

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 97 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/73a7bd2f-aecf-4f81-89e9-48b515e19efd">RELATED: TMP-M games postponed due to COVID concerns</a>

It was the largest spike in new cases between reporting periods in Ellis County since mid-December 2020. KDHE updates cases each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8e87b848-d187-43e9-9f0b-811944da4111?fbclid=IwAR20JdOZzHW7LRTXXGaOjP18WdfiA7KTJHxTrajadwxmDr1UjcTThScQL6g">Related:&nbsp;Doctors plead for COVID precautions to alleviate hospital crisis</a>

As of Friday morning, there were 26 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.&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/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a>

The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 50 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 61 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 5,464 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641578281343.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 97 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/73a7bd2f-aecf-4f81-89e9-48b515e19efd">RELATED: TMP-M games postponed due to COVID concerns</a>It was the largest spike in new cases between reporting periods in Ellis County since mid-December 2020. KDHE updates cases each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8e87b848-d187-43e9-9f0b-811944da4111?fbclid=IwAR20JdOZzHW7LRTXXGaOjP18WdfiA7KTJHxTrajadwxmDr1UjcTThScQL6g">Related:&nbsp;Doctors plead for COVID precautions to alleviate hospital crisis</a>As of Friday morning, there were 26 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.&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/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a>The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 50 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 61 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 5,464 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641578432957.png" alt="Statewide COVID case curve in Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID case curve in Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 97 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The first work session of the year for the Hays city commission lasted just 15 minutes Thursday night. The agenda items that were approved to move on for commission action will impact the city for years to come.

Among projects discussed by commissioners were a final plat for Heart of America Third Addition to give more property for a proposed development in east Hays.

According to Jesse Rohr, director of public works,&nbsp;there are two parties&nbsp; in the early stages of development projects and&nbsp;have requested some adjustments to the lots to make them more desirable for their&nbsp;development plans.

 Another project involves reconstruction on Vine Street, this time at the south end.

In 2019, the city was awarded a $1 million grant from the Kansas Dept. of Transportation (KDOT)&nbsp;City Connecting Link Improvement&nbsp;Program (CCLIP) to help fund the cost to reconstruct the&nbsp;pavement on Vine south of 13th Street.

Kaw Valley Engineers was hired by the city in 2020 to design the project. KDOT let the project and&nbsp;opened bids on December 15, 2021.&nbsp;

Only one bid was received, from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina, for $3.5 million. It's the same company that was hired for the north Vine Street project and traffic roundabouts.&nbsp;

Because Vine Street is also U.S. Highway 183, KDOT will be administering the construction as required by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).

Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked John Braun, city project manager, if there was any concern about a single bid.

"A lot of the contractors I've been talking are saying they've got more work than they can do. ... I think that's the case here too," Braun said.

The bid from Smoky Hill is less than what the city of Hays budgeted several years back.&nbsp;

"It's a good bid," Braun said, "and a good contractor. We're happy that they bid on this contract, but, yeah, everybody's got more than enough work to do."

Jacobs is also happy that Smoky Hill got the contract.

"I think we're just exceptionally pleased with everything I'm aware of on that whole process of them finishing (the north Vine Street project) ahead of time, which is huge. I'm really impressed with that company, as I've heard from a lot of people in the community. They were glad as well."

"We should point out it was about $200,000 under budget," added Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city's cost share of the project is $2.7 million to be paid out of city commission capital reserve.

Construction will begin project this spring and be completed within 115 working days.

The project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and gutter, sidewalk ramps, new pedestrian crossings at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and pavement markings. 

The work will begin at the south city limit, which includes the intersection of Vine Street and the US-183 bypass and proceeds north to approximately 350 feet south of the intersection of 13th and Vine, near McDonald's restaurant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639119698465.jpeg" alt="South Vine Street from the south city limit to just south of 13th Street will be reconstructed starting in the spring. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>South Vine Street from the south city limit to just south of 13th Street will be reconstructed starting in the spring. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe first work session of the year for the Hays city commission lasted just 15 minutes Thursday night. The agenda items that were approved to move on for commission action will impact the city for years to come.Among projects discussed by commissioners were a final plat for Heart of America Third Addition to give more property for a proposed development in east Hays.According to Jesse Rohr, director of public works,&nbsp;there are two parties&nbsp; in the early stages of development projects and&nbsp;have requested some adjustments to the lots to make them more desirable for their&nbsp;development plans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641530430898.png" alt="Heart of America Third Addition has submitted a final plat (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Heart of America Third Addition has submitted a final plat (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure> Another project involves reconstruction on Vine Street, this time at the south end.In 2019, the city was awarded a $1 million grant from the Kansas Dept. of Transportation (KDOT)&nbsp;City Connecting Link Improvement&nbsp;Program (CCLIP) to help fund the cost to reconstruct the&nbsp;pavement on Vine south of 13th Street.Kaw Valley Engineers was hired by the city in 2020 to design the project. KDOT let the project and&nbsp;opened bids on December 15, 2021.&nbsp;Only one bid was received, from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina, for $3.5 million. It's the same company that was hired for the north Vine Street project and traffic roundabouts.&nbsp;Because Vine Street is also U.S. Highway 183, KDOT will be administering the construction as required by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked John Braun, city project manager, if there was any concern about a single bid.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Jbf0vhJWsc"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"A lot of the contractors I've been talking are saying they've got more work than they can do. ... I think that's the case here too," Braun said.The bid from Smoky Hill is less than what the city of Hays budgeted several years back.&nbsp;"It's a good bid," Braun said, "and a good contractor. We're happy that they bid on this contract, but, yeah, everybody's got more than enough work to do."Jacobs is also happy that Smoky Hill got the contract."I think we're just exceptionally pleased with everything I'm aware of on that whole process of them finishing (the north Vine Street project) ahead of time, which is huge. I'm really impressed with that company, as I've heard from a lot of people in the community. They were glad as well.""We should point out it was about $200,000 under budget," added Shaun Musil, commissioner.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city's cost share of the project is $2.7 million to be paid out of city commission capital reserve.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641522782072.png" alt="Expected costs of the south Vine Street reconstruction project" />
 <figcaption>Expected costs of the south Vine Street reconstruction project</figcaption>
 </figure>Construction will begin project this spring and be completed within 115 working days.The project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and gutter, sidewalk ramps, new pedestrian crossings at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and pavement markings. The work will begin at the south city limit, which includes the intersection of Vine Street and the US-183 bypass and proceeds north to approximately 350 feet south of the intersection of 13th and Vine, near McDonald's restaurant.

🎥 City looks at single bid for south Vine Street reconstruction

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disturbance –
Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:06 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:29 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 2:04 AM 
Found/Lost Property--13th and Vine St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1300 block Hall St, Hays; 10:10 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—1200 block Tamarac Cir, Hays; 11:24 AM 
Animal Call—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:09 PM 
Animal Call—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 2:32 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 3:29 PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 4:28 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—4500 block Danby Ln, Hays; 4:32 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:48 PM; 4:50 PM 
Mental Health Call—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:41 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3000 block Indian Trl, Hays; 6:24 PM 
Runaway Juvenile—200 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Disorderly Conduct—800 block Ash St, Hays; 9:56 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Theft of
Vehicle—200 block E 18th St, Hays; 2:53 AM 
Theft (general)--1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:11 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 5:41 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 4 AM; 4:22 AM Disturbance
– General--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:20 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—200 block E 9th St, Hays; 12/30 10:12
PM; 12/31 8:06 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—200 block W 15th St, Hays; 12/28 2:20 PM; 2:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 8:41 AM 
Animal At Large—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 10:55 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—200 block W 15th St, Hays; 12/30 1:28 PM; 7:45 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:01 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1400 block Montgomery St, Hays; 2:12 PM 
Disturbance – General—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:40 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2700 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 7:44 PM 
Drug Offenses--2600 block Hall St, Hays; 11:21 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 21 traffic stops Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Underage
Possession of CMB/LIQ--700 block Elm St, Hays; 12:02 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1200 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:46 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 14th St, Hays; 1:33 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Elm St, Hays; 2:05 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1100 block Fort St, Hays; 2:12 AM; 2:31 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2:23 AM; 2:24 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 6:51 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3700 block Country Ln, Hays; 4 AM; 12:28 PM 
Civil Dispute—1600 block Main St, Hays; 3:13 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:48 PM; 2:49 PM 
Theft (general)--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 12/31/21 10 AM; 1/1/22 3 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--800 block E 11th St, Hays; 5:02 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2800 block Fort St, Hays; 6:42 PM; 7:22 PM 
Welfare Check—Hays; 8:53 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-Hit and Run—300 block W 21st St, Hays; 1/2 5 PM; 1/1 11:01 PM Driving
Under the Influence—400 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:04 AM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 3:37 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX--Hays; 8:159 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 9:09 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Pine St, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 3:06 PM 
Water Use Violation—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:45 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 3:47 PM 
Drug Offenses—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 5:45 PM 
Juvenile Complaint—300 block E 22nd St, Hays ; 1 PM; 8:41 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disturbance –
Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:06 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 12:29 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 2:04 AM 
Found/Lost Property--13th and Vine St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1300 block Hall St, Hays; 10:10 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—1200 block Tamarac Cir, Hays; 11:24 AM 
Animal Call—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:09 PM 
Animal Call—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 2:32 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 3:29 PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 4:28 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—4500 block Danby Ln, Hays; 4:32 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:48 PM; 4:50 PM 
Mental Health Call—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:41 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3000 block Indian Trl, Hays; 6:24 PM 
Runaway Juvenile—200 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Disorderly Conduct—800 block Ash St, Hays; 9:56 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Theft of
Vehicle—200 block E 18th St, Hays; 2:53 AM 
Theft (general)--1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:11 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 5:41 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 4 AM; 4:22 AM Disturbance
– General--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 7:20 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—200 block E 9th St, Hays; 12/30 10:12
PM; 12/31 8:06 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—200 block W 15th St, Hays; 12/28 2:20 PM; 2:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 8:41 AM 
Animal At Large—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 10:55 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—200 block W 15th St, Hays; 12/30 1:28 PM; 7:45 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:01 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1400 block Montgomery St, Hays; 2:12 PM 
Disturbance – General—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:40 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2700 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 7:44 PM 
Drug Offenses--2600 block Hall St, Hays; 11:21 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 21 traffic stops Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Underage
Possession of CMB/LIQ--700 block Elm St, Hays; 12:02 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1200 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:46 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 14th St, Hays; 1:33 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Elm St, Hays; 2:05 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1100 block Fort St, Hays; 2:12 AM; 2:31 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2:23 AM; 2:24 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 6:51 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3700 block Country Ln, Hays; 4 AM; 12:28 PM 
Civil Dispute—1600 block Main St, Hays; 3:13 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:48 PM; 2:49 PM 
Theft (general)--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 12/31/21 10 AM; 1/1/22 3 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--800 block E 11th St, Hays; 5:02 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2800 block Fort St, Hays; 6:42 PM; 7:22 PM 
Welfare Check—Hays; 8:53 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-Hit and Run—300 block W 21st St, Hays; 1/2 5 PM; 1/1 11:01 PM Driving
Under the Influence—400 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:04 AM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 3:37 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX--Hays; 8:159 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 9:09 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Pine St, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 3:06 PM 
Water Use Violation—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:45 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 3:47 PM 
Drug Offenses—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:30 PM; 5:45 PM 
Juvenile Complaint—300 block E 22nd St, Hays ; 1 PM; 8:41 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Dec. 30-Jan. 2

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger" 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=7grv6-1172239-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>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger.&nbsp;

🎤Forward Ever: District 111 Representative Barbara Wasinger

TREGO COUNTY — Black bass, crappie, white bass and wipers are just a few of the prized sportfish anglers can catch at Cedar Bluff Reservoir in Trego County, but one particular species has had Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Fisheries biologists’ special attention the past several years – walleye.

In an effort to gather data that can be used to guide future walleye management practices at Cedar Bluff Reservoir, District Fisheries Biologist Dave Spalsbury has implemented the following harvest exception:

The exception, which went into effect on January 1, 2022, has been posted on area signage, to include information kiosks, boat ramps, and other access points around the reservoir.

For questions and additional information regarding walleye harvest at Cedar Bluff Reservoir, contact Spalsbury at (785) 726-3212.

For more information on fishing in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641584289417.png" alt="Cedar Bluff walleye (KDWP)" />
 <figcaption>Cedar Bluff walleye (KDWP)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPTREGO COUNTY — Black bass, crappie, white bass and wipers are just a few of the prized sportfish anglers can catch at Cedar Bluff Reservoir in Trego County, but one particular species has had Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Fisheries biologists’ special attention the past several years – walleye.In an effort to gather data that can be used to guide future walleye management practices at Cedar Bluff Reservoir, District Fisheries Biologist Dave Spalsbury has implemented the following harvest exception:<ul>
 <li>The current 21-inch minimum length limit – and 5 fish, per day, per angler – will remain in effect, except&nbsp;anglers may include up to 2 walleye greater than 15 inches but less than 18 inches in their 5-fish daily creel.</li>
 </ul>The exception, which went into effect on January 1, 2022, has been posted on area signage, to include information kiosks, boat ramps, and other access points around the reservoir.For questions and additional information regarding walleye harvest at Cedar Bluff Reservoir, contact Spalsbury at (785) 726-3212.For more information on fishing in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

Change enacted at Cedar Bluff to improve walleye population

By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend Post

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir is criticizing Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for failing to adequately respond to security and operational issues at Larned State Hospital. Bellendir was a guest Thursday on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM's County Edition.&nbsp;

Bellendir cited the escape from the facility of 43-year-old Isaac Watts on Monday night. Watts was being held at the hospital for a mental evaluation after being charged with kidnapping and attempted second-degree murder in Grant County. He was apprehended by Garden City Police the next day. In June, 42-year-old John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's Sexual Predator Treatment Program and remained at large until his capture in Utah in September.&nbsp;

Bellendir was joined by 58 other county sheriffs in Kansas last October in sending a letter to Kelly to express their concern about the hospital's management. &nbsp;

"The Governor didn’t even bother to send us a response,” Bellendir reported. “The gist of that letter was that something needs to change over there drastically. We’re not talking about forced escapes and we’re not talking about overpowering people. These guys are just walking out of the facility. There needs to be, in my opinion, a change of leadership over there.” &nbsp;

Safety is not the only issue Bellendir is concerned about. He said that he knew of nine people in western Kansas this week who are on a waiting list to be admitted.&nbsp;

"We can’t get people into the state hospital who are in mental crisis. When you’ve got eight or nine people waiting to get in, the state needs to step up here. This is a disservice to those people as well.” &nbsp;

Kelly announced on Tuesday that she is directing the state agency in charge of Larned State Hospital to hire an independent firm to conduct a review of the facility's operations. Bellendir is not pleased with that approach. He said that process could take at least a year to complete and&nbsp;change&nbsp;is needed before then.&nbsp;

Listen below to the entire interview with Bellendir from Jan. 6, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614955691374.jpeg" alt="Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend PostBarton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir is criticizing Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for failing to adequately respond to security and operational issues at Larned State Hospital. Bellendir was a guest Thursday on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM's County Edition.&nbsp;Bellendir cited the escape from the facility of 43-year-old Isaac Watts on Monday night. Watts was being held at the hospital for a mental evaluation after being charged with kidnapping and attempted second-degree murder in Grant County. He was apprehended by Garden City Police the next day. In June, 42-year-old John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's Sexual Predator Treatment Program and remained at large until his capture in Utah in September.&nbsp;Bellendir was joined by 58 other county sheriffs in Kansas last October in sending a letter to Kelly to express their concern about the hospital's management. &nbsp;"The Governor didn’t even bother to send us a response,” Bellendir reported. “The gist of that letter was that something needs to change over there drastically. We’re not talking about forced escapes and we’re not talking about overpowering people. These guys are just walking out of the facility. There needs to be, in my opinion, a change of leadership over there.” &nbsp;Safety is not the only issue Bellendir is concerned about. He said that he knew of nine people in western Kansas this week who are on a waiting list to be admitted.&nbsp;"We can’t get people into the state hospital who are in mental crisis. When you’ve got eight or nine people waiting to get in, the state needs to step up here. This is a disservice to those people as well.” &nbsp;Kelly announced on Tuesday that she is directing the state agency in charge of Larned State Hospital to hire an independent firm to conduct a review of the facility's operations. Bellendir is not pleased with that approach. He said that process could take at least a year to complete and&nbsp;change&nbsp;is needed before then.&nbsp;Listen below to the entire interview with Bellendir from Jan. 6, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/hsj0rpnd/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Barton Co. Sheriff challenges governor to take action at LSH

Humane Society of The High Plains&nbsp;is conducting a shoe&nbsp;drive from Jan. 10 to March 10 to raise funds for medical care for the animals that come into us.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Humane Society of the High Plains&nbsp;organization will earn funds based on the&nbsp;total&nbsp;weight&nbsp;of the shoes&nbsp;collected&nbsp;as Funds2Orgs will purchase all&nbsp;of the donated&nbsp;footwear. &nbsp;Those dollars will benefit multiple animals in our care. Anyone can&nbsp;help by donating gently worn, used&nbsp;or new shoes&nbsp;at the Humane Society or the Hays Public Library.

All donated shoes will&nbsp;then&nbsp;be redistributed&nbsp;throughout the Funds2Orgs network of microenterprise partners in&nbsp;developing nations. &nbsp;Funds2Orgs&nbsp;helps impoverished people&nbsp;start, maintain and grow&nbsp;businesses&nbsp;in countries such as Haiti, Honduras and other&nbsp;nations&nbsp;in Central America and Africa.&nbsp;Proceeds&nbsp;from the shoe sales are used to feed, clothe&nbsp;and house their&nbsp;families.&nbsp;One&nbsp;budding entrepreneur in Haiti&nbsp;even earned enough to send to her son to law school.

“We are excited&nbsp;about our&nbsp;shoe drive," said Sierra Diehl, President of the Board of Directors . "We know that&nbsp;most people have&nbsp;extra shoes&nbsp;in their closets&nbsp;they would like donate&nbsp;to us&nbsp;and help&nbsp;those less fortunate become self-sufficient. &nbsp;It’s a win-win for everyone,”&nbsp;added&nbsp;Sierra.

By donating&nbsp;gently worn, used and new&nbsp;shoes to the Humane Society of the High Plains,&nbsp;the shoes will be&nbsp;given a second chance&nbsp;and&nbsp;make a difference&nbsp;in people’s lives.

SubmittedHumane Society of The High Plains&nbsp;is conducting a shoe&nbsp;drive from Jan. 10 to March 10 to raise funds for medical care for the animals that come into us.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Humane Society of the High Plains&nbsp;organization will earn funds based on the&nbsp;total&nbsp;weight&nbsp;of the shoes&nbsp;collected&nbsp;as Funds2Orgs will purchase all&nbsp;of the donated&nbsp;footwear. &nbsp;Those dollars will benefit multiple animals in our care. Anyone can&nbsp;help by donating gently worn, used&nbsp;or new shoes&nbsp;at the Humane Society or the Hays Public Library.All donated shoes will&nbsp;then&nbsp;be redistributed&nbsp;throughout the Funds2Orgs network of microenterprise partners in&nbsp;developing nations. &nbsp;Funds2Orgs&nbsp;helps impoverished people&nbsp;start, maintain and grow&nbsp;businesses&nbsp;in countries such as Haiti, Honduras and other&nbsp;nations&nbsp;in Central America and Africa.&nbsp;Proceeds&nbsp;from the shoe sales are used to feed, clothe&nbsp;and house their&nbsp;families.&nbsp;One&nbsp;budding entrepreneur in Haiti&nbsp;even earned enough to send to her son to law school.“We are excited&nbsp;about our&nbsp;shoe drive," said Sierra Diehl, President of the Board of Directors . "We know that&nbsp;most people have&nbsp;extra shoes&nbsp;in their closets&nbsp;they would like donate&nbsp;to us&nbsp;and help&nbsp;those less fortunate become self-sufficient. &nbsp;It’s a win-win for everyone,”&nbsp;added&nbsp;Sierra.By donating&nbsp;gently worn, used and new&nbsp;shoes to the Humane Society of the High Plains,&nbsp;the shoes will be&nbsp;given a second chance&nbsp;and&nbsp;make a difference&nbsp;in people’s lives.

Humane Society of the High Plains schedules shoe drive

The
 class of 1971 has been assisting the Thomas More Prep-Marian Alumni office with the 
digitization of student newspapers that span the entire history of our 
great school.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hayscatholicschools.org/page/historical-newspapers" target="_blank">Visit here to access the database.</a>

Thank you to the hard work of the class of 1971 for continuing the research started by Dave '71 Dunn who passed away in 2020.&nbsp;

Other archive work is being done such as the yearbooks and researching and easy-to-use archive software solution.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641310283539.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY TROY RUDA TMP-MThe
 class of 1971 has been assisting the Thomas More Prep-Marian Alumni office with the 
digitization of student newspapers that span the entire history of our 
great school.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hayscatholicschools.org/page/historical-newspapers" target="_blank">Visit here to access the database.</a>Thank you to the hard work of the class of 1971 for continuing the research started by Dave '71 Dunn who passed away in 2020.&nbsp;Other archive work is being done such as the yearbooks and researching and easy-to-use archive software solution.&nbsp;

Digital archives of TMP-M student newspapers available

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

On farms large and small across the state of Kansas, the number of women involved in decision making on farms and ranches is growing. Against that backdrop and especially in view of the ups and downs of the farm economy, Kansas State University and the Cottonwood Extension District will host two sites for the series of workshops focused on helping women sharpen their risk management skills.

The K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District, program will run as a series, so each evening session builds on material from the previous sessions. Participants register at a cost of $50 for the entire series. The fee covers all meals and program materials. &nbsp;

The sessions, all on Wednesdays, are scheduled on January 12, January 19, January 26 and February 2, with an optional session on February 23, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and will be held in Hays, at the Extension Office meeting room, 601 Main Street and in Great Bend at American Ag Credit, 5634 10th Street. The sessions will feature a combination of broadcasted keynote speakers as well as local speakers.&nbsp;

The registration deadline has been extended to Friday, January 7 on-line at <a href="http://www.agmanager.info">www.agmanager.info</a> under “events” or contact the Hays office 785-628-9430 or Great Bend 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

Topics will include Enterprise Budgets (determining cost of production), Crop Insurance, Stress and Resiliency, Crop Marketing, Family Communication, Farm Bill programs and Cow/Calf enterprise budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;

There are 36 locations around the state hosting this series, to find the one closest to you go to the Ag Manager web site listed above.&nbsp;

More than 25,500 women are decision makers on Kansas farms. They farm more than 14 million acres, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture. Overall, in 2017, 36% of all agricultural producers across the country were women, up from 31.5% in 2012. Fifty-six percent of farms had at least one female decision maker.

“Women in agriculture will be specifically targeted for these workshops,” said Stacy Campbell and Alicia Boor, Crop and Livestock Agents with the Cottonwood District and K-State Research and Extension. “They tend to be an underserved demographic, but many times are involved or solely making the risk management tasks for the operation. By teaching them the necessary skills for helping to complete enterprise budgets, making crop insurance decisions, helping to relieve farm family stress, along with understanding the farm bill programs.”

The program is supported by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture through North-Central Extension Risk Management Education.

Don’t delay registration deadline has been extended to January 7th at <a href="http://www.agmanager.info">www.agmanager.info</a> under “events”.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617107995572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictOn farms large and small across the state of Kansas, the number of women involved in decision making on farms and ranches is growing. Against that backdrop and especially in view of the ups and downs of the farm economy, Kansas State University and the Cottonwood Extension District will host two sites for the series of workshops focused on helping women sharpen their risk management skills.The K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District, program will run as a series, so each evening session builds on material from the previous sessions. Participants register at a cost of $50 for the entire series. The fee covers all meals and program materials. &nbsp;The sessions, all on Wednesdays, are scheduled on January 12, January 19, January 26 and February 2, with an optional session on February 23, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and will be held in Hays, at the Extension Office meeting room, 601 Main Street and in Great Bend at American Ag Credit, 5634 10th Street. The sessions will feature a combination of broadcasted keynote speakers as well as local speakers.&nbsp;The registration deadline has been extended to Friday, January 7 on-line at <a href="http://www.agmanager.info">www.agmanager.info</a> under “events” or contact the Hays office 785-628-9430 or Great Bend 620-793-1910.&nbsp;Topics will include Enterprise Budgets (determining cost of production), Crop Insurance, Stress and Resiliency, Crop Marketing, Family Communication, Farm Bill programs and Cow/Calf enterprise budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;There are 36 locations around the state hosting this series, to find the one closest to you go to the Ag Manager web site listed above.&nbsp;More than 25,500 women are decision makers on Kansas farms. They farm more than 14 million acres, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture. Overall, in 2017, 36% of all agricultural producers across the country were women, up from 31.5% in 2012. Fifty-six percent of farms had at least one female decision maker.“Women in agriculture will be specifically targeted for these workshops,” said Stacy Campbell and Alicia Boor, Crop and Livestock Agents with the Cottonwood District and K-State Research and Extension. “They tend to be an underserved demographic, but many times are involved or solely making the risk management tasks for the operation. By teaching them the necessary skills for helping to complete enterprise budgets, making crop insurance decisions, helping to relieve farm family stress, along with understanding the farm bill programs.”The program is supported by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture through North-Central Extension Risk Management Education.Don’t delay registration deadline has been extended to January 7th at <a href="http://www.agmanager.info">www.agmanager.info</a> under “events”.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

KSU ‘Risk Management Skills for Women in Ag’ workshop series

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641502563483.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

With fertilizer prices continuing to be a significant input cost and the availability issues, it is increasingly important for agriculture producers to properly manage their inputs.

To address the topic of nutrient management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs. &nbsp;

January 11 – Ellsworth – 9 a.m. to NOON – National Guard Armory

January 11 – Rush Center – 3 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Walnut Valley Senior Center, 220 Washington Street.&nbsp;

January 12 – Goodland – 9 a.m. to NOON – Sherman Co. 4-H Building

January 12 – Hoxie – 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - 4-H Building at the Sheridan Co. Fairgrounds

Topics will include: Storage methods; Maximum rate of return for N; “Growing N with manure or cover crops; Application timing methods; KSU Research updates along with a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you!&nbsp;

CCA credits have been approved for 4 CEU’s. &nbsp;

There is no cost for the meetings, however, pre-registration for the Rush Center location has been extended to Monday, January 10th by 12 noon. Register online at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; or call the Hays Extension office at 785-628-9430.

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWith fertilizer prices continuing to be a significant input cost and the availability issues, it is increasingly important for agriculture producers to properly manage their inputs.To address the topic of nutrient management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs. &nbsp;January 11 – Ellsworth – 9 a.m. to NOON – National Guard ArmoryJanuary 11 – Rush Center – 3 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Walnut Valley Senior Center, 220 Washington Street.&nbsp;January 12 – Goodland – 9 a.m. to NOON – Sherman Co. 4-H BuildingJanuary 12 – Hoxie – 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - 4-H Building at the Sheridan Co. FairgroundsTopics will include: Storage methods; Maximum rate of return for N; “Growing N with manure or cover crops; Application timing methods; KSU Research updates along with a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you!&nbsp;CCA credits have been approved for 4 CEU’s. &nbsp;There is no cost for the meetings, however, pre-registration for the Rush Center location has been extended to Monday, January 10th by 12 noon. Register online at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; or call the Hays Extension office at 785-628-9430.

KSU crop nutrient management meetings scheduled

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason and athletic director Curtis Hammeke share information about university sports during the upcoming spring semester.

<div><iframe title="FHSU Athletics continue impressive year as the spring semester kicks off" 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=4w3se-1171109-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>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason and athletic director Curtis Hammeke share information about university sports during the upcoming spring semester.

🎙Post Podcast: FHSU Athletics continue impressive year as semester begins

MANHATTAN, Kan. – It’s January, it’s cold and many landscapes are covered with snow, but in Kansas and surrounding areas, gardeners are heeding a similar set of commands: Ready, Set…Go?&nbsp;

“Planning for and starting vegetable and flower transplants,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham, “can make this a much more interesting time of year.”&nbsp;

Steadfast gardeners know that the first of the year is an ideal time for purchasing quality seed. Specific to Kansas, Upham said K-State Research and Extension publishes a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/L41.pdf">guide of recommended vegetable varieties</a>&nbsp;to help gardeners get started.&nbsp;

“These plants have proven themselves across the state of Kansas and this is a good place to start when deciding what to plant,” Upham said. “However, also talk to your neighbors, friends and your local garden center about what has worked well for them.”&nbsp;

Upham said most garden centers and seed catalogs are reputable sources for quality seeds. If choosing seeds from a business that does not specialize in plants, “pay special attention to the package date to make sure the seed was packaged for the current year,” he said.&nbsp;

“Though most seed remains viable for about three years, germination decreases as seed ages. (Buying current seed) allows you to keep seed for a longer period of time with an expectation of good germination.”&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VPW_pirdliw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cold? Snow? No matter to gardeners&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN, Kan. – It’s January, it’s cold and many landscapes are covered with snow, but in Kansas and surrounding areas, gardeners are heeding a similar set of commands: Ready, Set…Go?&nbsp;“Planning for and starting vegetable and flower transplants,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham, “can make this a much more interesting time of year.”&nbsp;Steadfast gardeners know that the first of the year is an ideal time for purchasing quality seed. Specific to Kansas, Upham said K-State Research and Extension publishes a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/L41.pdf">guide of recommended vegetable varieties</a>&nbsp;to help gardeners get started.&nbsp;“These plants have proven themselves across the state of Kansas and this is a good place to start when deciding what to plant,” Upham said. “However, also talk to your neighbors, friends and your local garden center about what has worked well for them.”&nbsp;Upham said most garden centers and seed catalogs are reputable sources for quality seeds. If choosing seeds from a business that does not specialize in plants, “pay special attention to the package date to make sure the seed was packaged for the current year,” he said.&nbsp;“Though most seed remains viable for about three years, germination decreases as seed ages. (Buying current seed) allows you to keep seed for a longer period of time with an expectation of good germination.”&nbsp;Additional tips include:&nbsp;&nbsp; <ul>
 <li>Determine the ‘Date to Seed’ when purchasing seeds. Gardeners who start growing plants indoors should also know their target date for transplanting outside. For example, late March and early April is the target date for transplanting broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and onions; most annual flowers are not planted until May 10 or later. &nbsp;</li><li>Do not use garden soil to germinate seed indoors; Upham said garden soil is too heavy and may contain disease organisms. “Use a media made especially for seed germination,” he said. &nbsp;</li><li>Seed must be kept moist to germinate. Water often enough so that the media never dries. “Using a clear plastic wrap over the top of the container can reduce the amount of watering needed,” Upham said. “Remove the wrap after the seedlings emerge.” &nbsp;</li><li>Many plants will germinate in darkness or light, but some require darkness only. All plants require adequate amounts of light once emergence occurs. South-facing windows may not provide enough light, so fluorescent or LED lights may be needed. &nbsp;</li><li>The temperature best for germination is often higher than what we commonly keep inside homes. “Moving the container to the ceiling or top of a refrigerator can help, but a heating mat is best for consistent germination,” Upham said. &nbsp;</li><li>Plants react to movement. Brushing over the plants with your hand stimulates them to become more stocky and less ‘leggy,’ according to Upham. Try 20 brushing strokes per day, he said. &nbsp;</li><li>Harden plants by moving them outside and exposing them to sun and wind before transplanting occurs. Start gradually two weeks out and increase the number of hours and degrees of exposure over the two-week period.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

🎥 K-State horticulture expert says now’s the time to select seeds, begin transplants 

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly directed the Kansas Department of Revenue and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to waive fees for birth certificates, marriage certificates, and vehicle registration. These directives will provide much needed relief for Kansans who experienced loss of crops, cattle, and their homes due to the wildfires from December 15, 2021 in Ellis, Gove, Graham, Lane, Logan, Ness, Osborne, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Trego, and Wichita counties.

<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/20220104135529026.pdf">Click here to see the</a> KDOR directive

“When I met with the farmers and ranchers who were impacted by the devastating wildfires, they shared with me the financial burden they’re up against to rebuild their livelihoods,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Waiving these fees is a commonsense and necessary action this administration can take to help these Kansans recover from the wildfires.”

The aid from the Division of Vehicles is available until February 28, 2022.

In addition, Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart has waived fees that are typically applied to requests for tax documents from previous years for Kansans affected by the storms. Those requests can be made to Sarah Fulton, Kansas Department of Revenue’s records custodian, by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Sarah.Fulton1@ks.gov" target="_blank">Sarah.Fulton1@ks.gov</a>.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Office of Vital Statistics will:

Affected Kansans should contact the Office of Vital Statistics at 785-296-1400.

The aid from the Office of Vital Statistics is available until February 28, 2022.

Please find the KDHE directive&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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._8Mf0bd7Pg7kemAk0YP_GsnhDRSM1l8IGtyITJSgadM/s/1303160919/br/124256982902-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Additional information about recovery resources for farmers and ranchers, including mental health resources, can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjEuNTA2NDMxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9uZXdzLWV2ZW50cy9rYW5zYXMtd2lsZGZpcmUtcmVjb3ZlcnktcmVzb3VyY2VzLWRlY2VtYmVyLTIwMjE_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.cGoV0mxiXOQYJ5kEWNnII3wlffJyIJu8ECsdV_yvgMo%2Fs%2F1305913645%2Fbr%2F123509803803-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7CLauren.Fitzgerald%40ks.gov%7Cd119fd917450468cecd508d9d0a56068%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637770230975735264%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=K0mhpCtdO3RTNO7l6fdSVth27xOV6o6lmRRvmbqRrnI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Agriculture website</a>.

The Kansas Forest Service estimated that nearly 165,000 acres were impacted by wildfire on December 15.

On December 9, 2021, Governor Kelly declared a State of Disaster Emergency due to the elevated dangers of wildfires. On December 16, 2021, Governor Kelly directed the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Forest Service to deploy aerial assets to the affected areas to assist with fire suppression efforts in multiple counties with active wildfires.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640825399567.png" alt="On Dec. 29, Gov. Laura Kelly met with&nbsp;Kansans impacted by the wildfires to discuss how best we can support their recovery. " />
 <figcaption>On Dec. 29, Gov. Laura Kelly met with&nbsp;Kansans impacted by the wildfires to discuss how best we can support their recovery. </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly directed the Kansas Department of Revenue and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to waive fees for birth certificates, marriage certificates, and vehicle registration. These directives will provide much needed relief for Kansans who experienced loss of crops, cattle, and their homes due to the wildfires from December 15, 2021 in Ellis, Gove, Graham, Lane, Logan, Ness, Osborne, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Trego, and Wichita counties.<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/20220104135529026.pdf">Click here to see the</a> KDOR directive“When I met with the farmers and ranchers who were impacted by the devastating wildfires, they shared with me the financial burden they’re up against to rebuild their livelihoods,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Waiving these fees is a commonsense and necessary action this administration can take to help these Kansans recover from the wildfires.”The Division of Vehicles will:<ul>
 <li>Waive penalties associated with late vehicle registrations;</li><li>Waive any fees associated with the reprint or replacement of vehicle registration documentation, printed vehicle certificate of titles, driver’s licenses, and/or identification cards;</li><li>Issue a temporary driver's license to an applicant who cannot provide valid documentary evidence so long as the applicant provides compelling evidence proving current lawful presence. Any temporary license issued pursuant to this declaration shall be valid for one year.</li>
 </ul>The aid from the Division of Vehicles is available until February 28, 2022.In addition, Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart has waived fees that are typically applied to requests for tax documents from previous years for Kansans affected by the storms. Those requests can be made to Sarah Fulton, Kansas Department of Revenue’s records custodian, by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Sarah.Fulton1@ks.gov" target="_blank">Sarah.Fulton1@ks.gov</a>.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Office of Vital Statistics will:<ul>
 <li>Waive fees for one-time replacement of Kansas birth certificates&nbsp;</li><li>Waive fees for one-time replacement of Kansas marriage certificates</li>
 </ul>Affected Kansans should contact the Office of Vital Statistics at 785-296-1400.The aid from the Office of Vital Statistics is available until February 28, 2022.Please find the KDHE directive&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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._8Mf0bd7Pg7kemAk0YP_GsnhDRSM1l8IGtyITJSgadM/s/1303160919/br/124256982902-l" target="_blank">here</a>.Additional information about recovery resources for farmers and ranchers, including mental health resources, can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjEuNTA2NDMxMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9uZXdzLWV2ZW50cy9rYW5zYXMtd2lsZGZpcmUtcmVjb3ZlcnktcmVzb3VyY2VzLWRlY2VtYmVyLTIwMjE_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.cGoV0mxiXOQYJ5kEWNnII3wlffJyIJu8ECsdV_yvgMo%2Fs%2F1305913645%2Fbr%2F123509803803-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7CLauren.Fitzgerald%40ks.gov%7Cd119fd917450468cecd508d9d0a56068%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637770230975735264%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=K0mhpCtdO3RTNO7l6fdSVth27xOV6o6lmRRvmbqRrnI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Agriculture website</a>.The Kansas Forest Service estimated that nearly 165,000 acres were impacted by wildfire on December 15.On December 9, 2021, Governor Kelly declared a State of Disaster Emergency due to the elevated dangers of wildfires. On December 16, 2021, Governor Kelly directed the Kansas National Guard and Kansas Forest Service to deploy aerial assets to the affected areas to assist with fire suppression efforts in multiple counties with active wildfires.

Kan. agencies to waive fees for farmers, ranchers affected by wildfires

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 bond forum Wednesday night focused on the investment new school facilities would be for Hays.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said people think of bonds in two ways.

"They either think of it as a cost or an investment. A cost is how much am I going to have to pay," Wilson said. "An investment is what result am I going to get from the money I put into it.

"We want you to understand that everything we are presenting tonight, we want you to think of as an investment — an investment in our students, an investment in our staff, an investment in our community."

The district has no final plan of what it will bring to voters. However, officials have floated three options in public. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63930500-9846-41ad-8bc8-85aee2b6e95f">Each option would include building a new school either a high school, middle school or elementary school.</a>

District officials have considered phased approaches, which would require passing a second bond issue.

The most expensive option would be to build a new high school. Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. 

Doug Williams, director of Grow Hays, said schools are key infrastructure in the community, no different than roads or a sewer plant.

"We need to be competitive to recruit people to our community," Williams said. "Schools are critically important to bringing health care providers, teachers and businesses that are going to worry about hiring and keeping people in their business.

"We are not putting our best foot forward."

He urged the audience to trust district officials, members of the bond committee and professionals to do what is right for the community.

"My question is what is it going to cost this community if we don’t pass a bond. I guarantee the cost is higher if we don’t do it," Williams said.

"People are not going to come here. Businesses not going to come here. If we aren’t willing to make investments, why should they?"

Dustin Roths, local business owner, said a public school bond is a hard sell for him because of the tax increase and the fact that he and his wife plan to send their children to Catholic school.

However, he said his businesses need Hays to grow. The new high school option is the most expensive, but he said he thought that would be the most likely to be accepted by fellow&nbsp; business owners.

"We want something that will be beacon — that is impressive. We do not want the district to look the same after investing over $100 million," he said.

An audience member asked if the district had considered how the Catholic schools would factor into the bond.

Troy Ruda, director of advancement for Hays Catholic schools, said Catholic families are being asked for significant financial investments.

They are being asked to support improvements at Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marian and a renovation at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.&nbsp;

"What I brought to the Vision Committee meeting that we need to look at is there's only so much money in everyone's pocket," he said.

Ruda said he would likely vote for a USD 489 bond, because of the bond's importance to the community as a whole.

Catholic schools need Hays to grow too, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641441860364.jpeg" alt="About 75 people attended the Hays USD 489 community bond forum on Wednesday. " />
 <figcaption>About 75 people attended the Hays USD 489 community bond forum on Wednesday. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 bond forum Wednesday night focused on the investment new school facilities would be for Hays.Superintendent Ron Wilson said people think of bonds in two ways. "They either think of it as a cost or an investment. A cost is how much am I going to have to pay," Wilson said. "An investment is what result am I going to get from the money I put into it."We want you to understand that everything we are presenting tonight, we want you to think of as an investment — an investment in our students, an investment in our staff, an investment in our community."The district has no final plan of what it will bring to voters. However, officials have floated three options in public. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/63930500-9846-41ad-8bc8-85aee2b6e95f">Each option would include building a new school either a high school, middle school or elementary school.</a>District officials have considered phased approaches, which would require passing a second bond issue.The most expensive option would be to build a new high school. Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641441961007.jpeg" alt="Hays Superintendent Ron Wilson speaks during a community bond forum on Wednesday. " />
 <figcaption>Hays Superintendent Ron Wilson speaks during a community bond forum on Wednesday. </figcaption>
 </figure>Doug Williams, director of Grow Hays, said schools are key infrastructure in the community, no different than roads or a sewer plant. "We need to be competitive to recruit people to our community," Williams said. "Schools are critically important to bringing health care providers, teachers and businesses that are going to worry about hiring and keeping people in their business."We are not putting our best foot forward."He urged the audience to trust district officials, members of the bond committee and professionals to do what is right for the community.He also weighed cost versus investment."My question is what is it going to cost this community if we don’t pass a bond. I guarantee the cost is higher if we don’t do it," Williams said. "People are not going to come here. Businesses not going to come here. If we aren’t willing to make investments, why should they?"Dustin Roths, local business owner, said a public school bond is a hard sell for him because of the tax increase and the fact that he and his wife plan to send their children to Catholic school.However, he said his businesses need Hays to grow. The new high school option is the most expensive, but he said he thought that would be the most likely to be accepted by fellow&nbsp; business owners."We want something that will be beacon — that is impressive. We do not want the district to look the same after investing over $100 million," he said.An audience member asked if the district had considered how the Catholic schools would factor into the bond.Troy Ruda, director of advancement for Hays Catholic schools, said Catholic families are being asked for significant financial investments.They are being asked to support improvements at Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marian and a renovation at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.&nbsp; "What I brought to the Vision Committee meeting that we need to look at is there's only so much money in everyone's pocket," he said.Ruda said he would likely vote for a USD 489 bond, because of the bond's importance to the community as a whole.Catholic schools need Hays to grow too, he said.

USD 489 bond touted as investment in Hays growth at forum

75 total COVID admissions for December 2021 at HaysMed 

• Average age 62 • 60% male; 40% female • 8 deaths - Average age 67 (All unvaccinated) • 29 out of 75 admissions were from Ellis County • 66 out of the 75 were not vaccinated. • 1 out of 75 were partially vaccinated

Via HaysMed75 total COVID admissions for December 2021 at HaysMed • Average age 62 • 60% male; 40% female • 8 deaths - Average age 67 (All unvaccinated) • 29 out of 75 admissions were from Ellis County • 66 out of the 75 were not vaccinated. • 1 out of 75 were partially vaccinated

HaysMed releases COVID stats for December

WICHITA – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 100 people as new U.S. citizens, including Hays and&nbsp; Colby residents, Friday at Wichita State University. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Mitchell Herren will preside, and a clerk of the court will administer the Oath of Allegiance.

The citizenship candidates originate from 28 countries: Australia, Benin, China, Congo (Kinshasa), El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, France, Guatemala, India, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, Somalia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Syria, Sudan, Thailand, United Kingdom, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

The citizenship candidates live in Andover, Bel Aire, Colby, Derby, Dodge City, Garden City, Great Bend, Hays, Haysville, Hoisington, Liberal, Lindsborg, McPherson, Modoc, Rose Hill, Salina, Valley Center and Wichita.

North High School color guard will open the ceremony. The League of Women Voters will be in the lobby if new citizens want to register to vote.

USCIS naturalized approximately 808,000 people in fiscal year 2021.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629927322321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USCISWICHITA – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will welcome 100 people as new U.S. citizens, including Hays and&nbsp; Colby residents, Friday at Wichita State University. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Mitchell Herren will preside, and a clerk of the court will administer the Oath of Allegiance.The citizenship candidates originate from 28 countries: Australia, Benin, China, Congo (Kinshasa), El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, France, Guatemala, India, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, Somalia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Syria, Sudan, Thailand, United Kingdom, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.The citizenship candidates live in Andover, Bel Aire, Colby, Derby, Dodge City, Garden City, Great Bend, Hays, Haysville, Hoisington, Liberal, Lindsborg, McPherson, Modoc, Rose Hill, Salina, Valley Center and Wichita.North High School color guard will open the ceremony. The League of Women Voters will be in the lobby if new citizens want to register to vote.USCIS naturalized approximately 808,000 people in fiscal year 2021.&nbsp;

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