PLAINVILLE — Andreson Memorial Park has been awarded a $5,000 grant from Midland Marketing. The park was honored for being a unique pillar of pride in the community. The grant will be used by the Plainville Ambassador Club to help maintain the beauty of the park.

Andreson Memorial Park was once an eyesore, sitting as an old lot in a prominent part of town. But thanks to the Plainville Ambassador Club, they transformed it into a beautiful park complete with a walking bridge, gazebo and even an underground sprinkler system. Two years ago, they also featured the traveling exhibit “Remembering Our Fallen,” a National Tribute to Post 9/11 Military.

The organization will use the money to maintain the beauty at the park, so it can be a space for community connection for years to come.

“Andreson Park is exactly what our community needed, and The Plainville Ambassador Club worked hard to provide for this space for the community,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Steve Hageman, petroleum manager at Midland Marketing. “We’re proud to assist this organization in involving our community and accelerating into the future.”

The grant was provided through an initiative that encourages Cenex dealers, retailers and distributors to share stories about what makes their local communities special.&nbsp;Now in its third year, the initiative has granted more than $300,000 to&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;brand is committed to supporting and celebrating what makes hometowns across America special,” said Akhtar Hussain, director of refined fuels at CHS. “We are proud of our&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;dealers, like&nbsp;Midland Marketing, who play an active role in supporting their local organizations and the people in their community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639595343756.png" alt="Pictured from left to right: Steve Hageman, petroleum manager at Midland Marketing; Susan Stahl, Sheila Hachmeister and Lora Weigel, representing the 
Plainville Ambassador Club; and Rocky Bell, district representative for 
CHS Inc." />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left to right: Steve Hageman, petroleum manager at Midland Marketing; Susan Stahl, Sheila Hachmeister and Lora Weigel, representing the 
Plainville Ambassador Club; and Rocky Bell, district representative for 
CHS Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedPLAINVILLE — Andreson Memorial Park has been awarded a $5,000 grant from Midland Marketing. The park was honored for being a unique pillar of pride in the community. The grant will be used by the Plainville Ambassador Club to help maintain the beauty of the park.Andreson Memorial Park was once an eyesore, sitting as an old lot in a prominent part of town. But thanks to the Plainville Ambassador Club, they transformed it into a beautiful park complete with a walking bridge, gazebo and even an underground sprinkler system. Two years ago, they also featured the traveling exhibit “Remembering Our Fallen,” a National Tribute to Post 9/11 Military.The organization will use the money to maintain the beauty at the park, so it can be a space for community connection for years to come.“Andreson Park is exactly what our community needed, and The Plainville Ambassador Club worked hard to provide for this space for the community,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Steve Hageman, petroleum manager at Midland Marketing. “We’re proud to assist this organization in involving our community and accelerating into the future.”The grant was provided through an initiative that encourages Cenex dealers, retailers and distributors to share stories about what makes their local communities special.&nbsp;Now in its third year, the initiative has granted more than $300,000 to&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;brand is committed to supporting and celebrating what makes hometowns across America special,” said Akhtar Hussain, director of refined fuels at CHS. “We are proud of our&nbsp;Cenex&nbsp;dealers, like&nbsp;Midland Marketing, who play an active role in supporting their local organizations and the people in their community.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plainville park awarded $5K grant from Midland Marketing

Dakota Dunes, S.D. –&nbsp; Tyson Foods is donating $100,000 to help support cattle farmers and ranchers affected by the recent wildfires in north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many family and independent farmers lost their homes, barns, and livestock.

“Our partnership with family and independent cattle producers is important to us, and we want to do our part to help those whose lives have been affected by the devastating wildfires,” said Shane Miller, group president, Fresh Meats for Tyson Foods.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re grateful for the longstanding relationships we have with our Kansas independent cattle suppliers and stand beside them during this difficult time.”

The company’s donation will be made through the Kansas Livestock Association.&nbsp;

Tyson Foods employs more than 5,800 team members in seven locations in the state of Kansas, and partners with more than 300 independent cattle producers in the state to purchase approximately $2 billion of cattle every year.

“This significant donation from Tyson is greatly appreciated,” said KLA Chief Executive Officer, Matt Teagarden. “Their support, along with that of other generous donors from across the country, will go a long way in helping Kansas livestock producers impacted by the fires and severe weather rebuild.”

KLA and the Kansas Livestock Foundation are accepting donations to support farmers and ranchers impacted by the fire.&nbsp;The Foundation is working to identify a committee of livestock producers who will assess needs and oversee distribution of funds raised.

Last week’s fires burned an estimated 400,000 acres across four counties, a region that is home to several cattle suppliers for Tyson Foods. Tyson’s operations have not been impacted by the fires.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations">KLA Donations</a>.

Press ReleaseDakota Dunes, S.D. –&nbsp; Tyson Foods is donating $100,000 to help support cattle farmers and ranchers affected by the recent wildfires in north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many family and independent farmers lost their homes, barns, and livestock.“Our partnership with family and independent cattle producers is important to us, and we want to do our part to help those whose lives have been affected by the devastating wildfires,” said Shane Miller, group president, Fresh Meats for Tyson Foods.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re grateful for the longstanding relationships we have with our Kansas independent cattle suppliers and stand beside them during this difficult time.”The company’s donation will be made through the Kansas Livestock Association.&nbsp;Tyson Foods employs more than 5,800 team members in seven locations in the state of Kansas, and partners with more than 300 independent cattle producers in the state to purchase approximately $2 billion of cattle every year.“This significant donation from Tyson is greatly appreciated,” said KLA Chief Executive Officer, Matt Teagarden. “Their support, along with that of other generous donors from across the country, will go a long way in helping Kansas livestock producers impacted by the fires and severe weather rebuild.”KLA and the Kansas Livestock Foundation are accepting donations to support farmers and ranchers impacted by the fire.&nbsp;The Foundation is working to identify a committee of livestock producers who will assess needs and oversee distribution of funds raised.Last week’s fires burned an estimated 400,000 acres across four counties, a region that is home to several cattle suppliers for Tyson Foods. Tyson’s operations have not been impacted by the fires.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations">KLA Donations</a>.

Tyson Foods donates $100,000 in wildfire relief to support Kansas cattle farmers and ranchers

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640189924742.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather click her</a>e.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Three-day weather outlook

RUSSELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Dodger Charger driven by&nbsp; Lori Esther Eckinger, 47, Johnstown, CO., was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Dorrance exit.

The car entered the south ditch, traveled through the KDOT fence and came to a stop in a field facing east.

EMS transported a passenger Patrick Michael Groover, 38, Johnstown, Co., to the Russell Regional Hospital. Eckinger was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Dodger Charger driven by&nbsp; Lori Esther Eckinger, 47, Johnstown, CO., was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Dorrance exit.The car entered the south ditch, traveled through the KDOT fence and came to a stop in a field facing east.EMS transported a passenger Patrick Michael Groover, 38, Johnstown, Co., to the Russell Regional Hospital. Eckinger was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man hospitalized after car travels through KDOT fence on I-70

A registered sex offender in Hays has been arrested on new sexual assault charges following an investigation by the Hays Police Department.

After the Hays Police Department received information about a possible sexual assault against a minor, an investigation was initiated, Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler said.

The result of the investigation led to the arrest of Donald Joesph Littlefoot, 46.

Littlefoot was arrested on suspicion of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated criminal sodomy.

Littlefoot was convicted in 2012 of aggravated indecent solicitation of a minor and is listed on the state sex offender registry. The victim, in that case, was identified as 12 years old.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640211317554.png" alt="Donald Joseph Littlefoot. Photo courtesy Kansas Bureau of Investigation." />
 <figcaption>Donald Joseph Littlefoot. Photo courtesy Kansas Bureau of Investigation.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostA registered sex offender in Hays has been arrested on new sexual assault charges following an investigation by the Hays Police Department.After the Hays Police Department received information about a possible sexual assault against a minor, an investigation was initiated, Hays Police Department Chief Don Scheibler said.The result of the investigation led to the arrest of Donald Joesph Littlefoot, 46.Littlefoot was arrested on suspicion of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated criminal sodomy.Littlefoot was convicted in 2012 of aggravated indecent solicitation of a minor and is listed on the state sex offender registry. The victim, in that case, was identified as 12 years old.

Hays registered sex offender arrested on suspicion of rape involving minor

The afternoon of Wednesday, Dec. 15, Midwest Energy’s entire
service area was pounded by a fierce wind event that saw gusts of up to 104
mph, toppling trees and poles and disrupting electric service to nearly 26,500
customers. 

Worse, wind-fueled wildfires occurred simultaneously, burning
366,000 acres of farm and rangeland in Ellis, Rooks, Russell and Osborne
Counties. 

“We do not recall an event where more than half of our electric
customers lost service on the same day,” said Patrick Parke, Midwest Energy’s
Chief Executive Officer.

“We’re accustomed to severe wind and storm events, but
not so widespread that outages occur in all of the 26 counties where we provide
electric service,” Parke said. 

The entire Midwest Energy team mobilized;
linemen, servicemen, field service representatives, warehouse personnel, system
operators and other support staff restored service to all but 4,900 within 24
hours. 

Within 48 hours of the event, power was restored to all but 2,000
customers. 

As the number without power decreased, the number of identified
downed or burned poles grew to 687 and additional help was called in.

Southern
Pioneer Electric Co., 4 Rivers Electric Cooperative, Heartland Rural Electric
Cooperative, and Sedgwick County Electric Cooperatives all sent one or more
crews under a mutual aid agreement, while Ward Electric Company and PAR
Electric Contractors sent multiple crews to assist in the recovery effort. 

“A
week later, we still have more than a dozen residences in remote areas without
power,” said Fred Taylor, Midwest Energy’s Vice President of Operations.

 “We
expect to have all residences capable of receiving power back on by Dec. 24.
Full repairs to the system will take much longer,” Taylor said. “We will work
with oil field customers to coordinate restoration in those areas.” 

Parke said
damage estimates to the electric system from this event “will likely be in
excess of $2.2 million,” far less than the $102 million in damages caused by
massive ice storms that hit much of the service area in 2005 and 2006.

It is
expected this event will be declared a FEMA disaster, making grants available
to cover some costs. 

“This was an unprecedented event in terms of the ferocity
of the wind, and the scale of the area impacted,” Parke said. “We are very
proud of the way our line crews, customer service representatives and the
entire support team performed in dangerous circumstances. We are also grateful
for the assistance from other co-ops, contractors and local emergency
responders."

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and grace as
we kept our focus on public and crew safety while restoring power.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640210710853.jpeg" alt="Midwest Energy linemen from Hays scramble to reconnect power to homes near 23rd and Drum after a wind-blown tree toppled power lines on Dec. 15. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Midwest Energy linemen from Hays scramble to reconnect power to homes near 23rd and Drum after a wind-blown tree toppled power lines on Dec. 15. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe afternoon of Wednesday, Dec. 15, Midwest Energy’s entire
service area was pounded by a fierce wind event that saw gusts of up to 104
mph, toppling trees and poles and disrupting electric service to nearly 26,500
customers. Worse, wind-fueled wildfires occurred simultaneously, burning
366,000 acres of farm and rangeland in Ellis, Rooks, Russell and Osborne
Counties. “We do not recall an event where more than half of our electric
customers lost service on the same day,” said Patrick Parke, Midwest Energy’s
Chief Executive Officer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640210784277.jpeg" alt="Crews from contractor Ward Electric work on Midwest Energy poles in the Fairport area on Dec. 22; the “4 corners” area of Rooks, Ellis, Osborne and Russell Counties saw severe wind and fire damage after the Dec. 15 wind event. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Crews from contractor Ward Electric work on Midwest Energy poles in the Fairport area on Dec. 22; the “4 corners” area of Rooks, Ellis, Osborne and Russell Counties saw severe wind and fire damage after the Dec. 15 wind event. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>“We’re accustomed to severe wind and storm events, but
not so widespread that outages occur in all of the 26 counties where we provide
electric service,” Parke said. The entire Midwest Energy team mobilized;
linemen, servicemen, field service representatives, warehouse personnel, system
operators and other support staff restored service to all but 4,900 within 24
hours. Within 48 hours of the event, power was restored to all but 2,000
customers. As the number without power decreased, the number of identified
downed or burned poles grew to 687 and additional help was called in.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640210836966.jpeg" alt="One of hundreds of poles lost in the Fairport area after wildfires swept through nearly 366,000 acres on Dec. 15 and 16. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>One of hundreds of poles lost in the Fairport area after wildfires swept through nearly 366,000 acres on Dec. 15 and 16. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Southern
Pioneer Electric Co., 4 Rivers Electric Cooperative, Heartland Rural Electric
Cooperative, and Sedgwick County Electric Cooperatives all sent one or more
crews under a mutual aid agreement, while Ward Electric Company and PAR
Electric Contractors sent multiple crews to assist in the recovery effort. “A
week later, we still have more than a dozen residences in remote areas without
power,” said Fred Taylor, Midwest Energy’s Vice President of Operations. “We
expect to have all residences capable of receiving power back on by Dec. 24.
Full repairs to the system will take much longer,” Taylor said. “We will work
with oil field customers to coordinate restoration in those areas.” Parke said
damage estimates to the electric system from this event “will likely be in
excess of $2.2 million,” far less than the $102 million in damages caused by
massive ice storms that hit much of the service area in 2005 and 2006.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640210890556.jpeg" alt="Midwest Energy linemen from Hays apply a temporary fix to a broken pole in the Pfeifer area of Ellis County on Dec. 16. Poles that can take temporary repairs allow for faster restoration of power after major events, allowing crews to come back and replace “temporary” poles at a later date. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Midwest Energy linemen from Hays apply a temporary fix to a broken pole in the Pfeifer area of Ellis County on Dec. 16. Poles that can take temporary repairs allow for faster restoration of power after major events, allowing crews to come back and replace “temporary” poles at a later date. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>It is
expected this event will be declared a FEMA disaster, making grants available
to cover some costs. “This was an unprecedented event in terms of the ferocity
of the wind, and the scale of the area impacted,” Parke said. “We are very
proud of the way our line crews, customer service representatives and the
entire support team performed in dangerous circumstances. We are also grateful
for the assistance from other co-ops, contractors and local emergency
responders."“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and grace as
we kept our focus on public and crew safety while restoring power.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640210983091.jpeg" alt="Crews from contractor Ward Electric work on Midwest Energy poles in the Fairport area on Dec. 22; the “4 corners” area of Rooks, Ellis, Osborne and Russell Counties saw severe wind and fire damage after the Dec. 15 wind event. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Crews from contractor Ward Electric work on Midwest Energy poles in the Fairport area on Dec. 22; the “4 corners” area of Rooks, Ellis, Osborne and Russell Counties saw severe wind and fire damage after the Dec. 15 wind event. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Midwest Energy provides updates; Thanks public for patience during wind event recovery 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 23 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

<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 Wednesday 56 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 66 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 5,115 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 77 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640198411533.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 23 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.<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 Wednesday 56 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 66 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 5,115 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 77 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 23 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA–The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Timken public water supply system, located in Rush County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system due to a power outage. Failure to maintain pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residual levels and may result in bacterial contamination.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Timken indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. 

For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjIuNTA3MDY2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.TiCe9RYlSKyGUOEH04PjzE-oziOK3uZocQO4gqMwP1k/s/1305913623/br/123567639265-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA–The Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Timken public water supply system, located in Rush County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system due to a power outage. Failure to maintain pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residual levels and may result in bacterial contamination.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Timken indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjIuNTA3MDY2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.TiCe9RYlSKyGUOEH04PjzE-oziOK3uZocQO4gqMwP1k/s/1305913623/br/123567639265-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

Boil water advisory for Timken recinded

Per Ellis County Resolution 2017-4, the Ellis County Fire Department is announcing the implementation of a temporary burn ban in all the unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective immediately. 

This is due to the unseasonable high temperatures, continuous low humidity levels, and a long spell without measurable moisture.

At the January 3rd, 2022, Ellis County Commission meeting, the commission will review the conditions and determine if the ban is to continue further into the year. 

Ellis CountyPer Ellis County Resolution 2017-4, the Ellis County Fire Department is announcing the implementation of a temporary burn ban in all the unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective immediately. This is due to the unseasonable high temperatures, continuous low humidity levels, and a long spell without measurable moisture.At the January 3rd, 2022, Ellis County Commission meeting, the commission will review the conditions and determine if the ban is to continue further into the year.

Ellis Co. implements burn ban

ELLIS—<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6b189127-91f3-4c40-963b-84eb37eeee85">Last
month, the departure of Ellis Police Chief Christopher Krom caught many off guard.</a>

The department is already short-staffed. Veteran Sgt. Avery Smith, who was appointed interim chief, said although the city remains safe and secure, he recognizes the challenges in place as he looks to bring
in new officers.

Currently the department is comprised
of Smith, a full-time officer and a part-time officer.

While their numbers are
low, he said staggered scheduling ensures an officer is always available in the
city.

“We
always have someone on duty, no matter what,” Smith said. “I don't believe
there's any increase in danger to the public at large. You know, they
may experience a little bit longer response time for some things because
sometimes we may be getting called out of bed. That's how it is sometimes. But right
now, we try to consistently at least have someone out.”

Scheduling
long shifts, he said helps allow needed off time, while providing continuous
police coverage for the city.

“We're
working long hours so you can also have the other person have long hours off as
well,” he said. “So, you may work a 72. Or you may work a 48. And the other
person will get 72 or 48 hours off to kind of decompress. … If they didn't
quite get caught up, they're more than welcome to come back in the office and
clear up reports and do stuff like that.”

“Victoria
has been doing that scheduling for years,” Smith said. “And they haven't, I
don't think, experienced any extra response time or any extra danger
because of that. And the Sheriff's office and the Highway Patrol have both
stepped up, big time.”

While citizens are safe, filling
the department is a priority with three additional full-time officers needed to
fill the ranks, along with another part timer.

“We have
approval for five full timers,” Smith said. “And then in the past, we have had
approval for two part-time positions. And I fully intend on keeping those part-time positions and using them to help cover vacation or sicknesses and stuff
like that, especially with all these COVID protocols and stuff that are in
place.”

He said
he fully intends on keeping part timers, as they can help cover events and
situations as needed and appreciates the assistance from the Ellis County Sheriff’s
Department as they frequently assist the department as well.

“Sometimes
it's only one person on duty, while we've had to have the Sheriff's office come
over and help with traffic control,” Smith said. 

While
the coverage is appreciated, he said, he also understands they have their
own jobs to do and would like the department to become more self-sufficient. However, finding officers to make that a reality has been challenging for the
department.

“It's an
uphill battle right now,” Smith said. “Because, you know, in some other places
in this country, the attitude towards law enforcement shifted. (It’s a)
complete 180 from where it was, even four years ago, with everything that's
happened.”

While he said national events have created difficult situations in communities
across Kansas and the nation, the Ellis residents have been overwhelmingly
supportive.

“We have
a very strong support system here,” Smith said. “We have a ton of people that
love us over here. And I love that. That's fantastic. So, I think that the
biggest thing right now is, is hiring people that are career-oriented, want to
become a part of the community and have them stay here long enough that they
can really see what this town is about.”

He said
a recent bump in the department’s pay schedule should also help in recruiting
efforts, along with a better than average benefits package.

“Our pay scale was just readjusted so we're making more money than we
were last year and in the years prior to that,” Smith said. “Our benefits over
here are 100 percent covered by the city, which is amazing. And that's whether you have
no one else in your family's dependent or if you have five kids and wife. That's
covered by the city, 100 percent of all the premiums are covered. So that's,
that's a very big draw.”

And with
any job in a small town, Smith said finding people that enjoy the community and
want to make Ellis home is a challenge. 

“If
someone comes in, we hired that could be the perfect candidate, but if they
don't, envelop themselves in the community, then I think they might constantly
feel like an outcast, and that's not what we want to have happen,” Smith said. “I
know in the past before my time here, we have officers that came in and did a good
job. But they didn't really involve themselves very much, and they just always
kind of felt like they were on the outside of everything.”

“We have
a good culture over here, I think, and I think it could be a fun and fulfilling
place to work. But you know, not many people want to move to small-town Kansas
and live in small-town Kansas anymore. People want to live in a place like Hays
that has, services to offer or even live somewhere like Wichita, Topeka,
Lawrence. They want to live in those bigger metropolitan areas, there's a lot
more opportunity there.”

But as
the department looks to rebuild its ranks, he said there are many positives for
incoming officers, including advancement opportunities that typically may be
lacking in a department of their size.

“As far
as building from the ground up, you know, we have a good foundation,” Smith
said. “Furthermore, we have a really, really good supportive city council that
will let us use our budget as we see fit, as long as it's within reason, of
course, which is to be expected, but that's fine. But I feel that we have a
really good strong foundation.”

Smith himself can be counted as
part of that foundation, as a transplant to Ellis, he has served the department
for over five years, coming in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e050c2b57544d3fe90e84d3">during the tenure of Chief Taft Yates.</a>

“I'm
very happy where I'm at,” Smith said. “I love the community I work in. I love the
people here. We have a very supportive community. And it's showing these last,
these last three weeks, we've been sorting through, what's happened. So, the
last three weeks, I've heard nothing but support.”

While
the process of rebuilding the department continues, Smith said he wants the
people of the city to know they are safe.

“I would
like the people of Ellis to be reassured that we're doing the best we can with
what we have right now,” Smith said. “We're going to continue forward, and we're
going to continue serving the public as best as we can with what we have for
the time being.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640127635241.jpeg" alt="Interim Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith shares department updates with the Ellis City Council during its meeting Monday." />
 <figcaption>Interim Ellis Chief of Police Avery Smith shares department updates with the Ellis City Council during its meeting Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS—<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6b189127-91f3-4c40-963b-84eb37eeee85">Last
month, the departure of Ellis Police Chief Christopher Krom caught many off guard.</a>
The department is already short-staffed. Veteran Sgt. Avery Smith, who was appointed interim chief, said although the city remains safe and secure, he recognizes the challenges in place as he looks to bring
in new officers.Currently the department is comprised
of Smith, a full-time officer and a part-time officer.While their numbers are
low, he said staggered scheduling ensures an officer is always available in the
city.“We
always have someone on duty, no matter what,” Smith said. “I don't believe
there's any increase in danger to the public at large. You know, they
may experience a little bit longer response time for some things because
sometimes we may be getting called out of bed. That's how it is sometimes. But right
now, we try to consistently at least have someone out.”Scheduling
long shifts, he said helps allow needed off time, while providing continuous
police coverage for the city.“We're
working long hours so you can also have the other person have long hours off as
well,” he said. “So, you may work a 72. Or you may work a 48. And the other
person will get 72 or 48 hours off to kind of decompress. … If they didn't
quite get caught up, they're more than welcome to come back in the office and
clear up reports and do stuff like that.”“Victoria
has been doing that scheduling for years,” Smith said. “And they haven't, I
don't think, experienced any extra response time or any extra danger
because of that. And the Sheriff's office and the Highway Patrol have both
stepped up, big time.”While citizens are safe, filling
the department is a priority with three additional full-time officers needed to
fill the ranks, along with another part timer.“We have
approval for five full timers,” Smith said. “And then in the past, we have had
approval for two part-time positions. And I fully intend on keeping those part-time positions and using them to help cover vacation or sicknesses and stuff
like that, especially with all these COVID protocols and stuff that are in
place.”He said
he fully intends on keeping part timers, as they can help cover events and
situations as needed and appreciates the assistance from the Ellis County Sheriff’s
Department as they frequently assist the department as well.“Sometimes
it's only one person on duty, while we've had to have the Sheriff's office come
over and help with traffic control,” Smith said. While
the coverage is appreciated, he said, he also understands they have their
own jobs to do and would like the department to become more self-sufficient. However, finding officers to make that a reality has been challenging for the
department.“It's an
uphill battle right now,” Smith said. “Because, you know, in some other places
in this country, the attitude towards law enforcement shifted. (It’s a)
complete 180 from where it was, even four years ago, with everything that's
happened.”While he said national events have created difficult situations in communities
across Kansas and the nation, the Ellis residents have been overwhelmingly
supportive.“We have
a very strong support system here,” Smith said. “We have a ton of people that
love us over here. And I love that. That's fantastic. So, I think that the
biggest thing right now is, is hiring people that are career-oriented, want to
become a part of the community and have them stay here long enough that they
can really see what this town is about.”He said
a recent bump in the department’s pay schedule should also help in recruiting
efforts, along with a better than average benefits package.“Our pay scale was just readjusted so we're making more money than we
were last year and in the years prior to that,” Smith said. “Our benefits over
here are 100 percent covered by the city, which is amazing. And that's whether you have
no one else in your family's dependent or if you have five kids and wife. That's
covered by the city, 100 percent of all the premiums are covered. So that's,
that's a very big draw.”And with
any job in a small town, Smith said finding people that enjoy the community and
want to make Ellis home is a challenge. “If
someone comes in, we hired that could be the perfect candidate, but if they
don't, envelop themselves in the community, then I think they might constantly
feel like an outcast, and that's not what we want to have happen,” Smith said. “I
know in the past before my time here, we have officers that came in and did a good
job. But they didn't really involve themselves very much, and they just always
kind of felt like they were on the outside of everything.”“We have
a good culture over here, I think, and I think it could be a fun and fulfilling
place to work. But you know, not many people want to move to small-town Kansas
and live in small-town Kansas anymore. People want to live in a place like Hays
that has, services to offer or even live somewhere like Wichita, Topeka,
Lawrence. They want to live in those bigger metropolitan areas, there's a lot
more opportunity there.”But as
the department looks to rebuild its ranks, he said there are many positives for
incoming officers, including advancement opportunities that typically may be
lacking in a department of their size.“As far
as building from the ground up, you know, we have a good foundation,” Smith
said. “Furthermore, we have a really, really good supportive city council that
will let us use our budget as we see fit, as long as it's within reason, of
course, which is to be expected, but that's fine. But I feel that we have a
really good strong foundation.”Smith himself can be counted as
part of that foundation, as a transplant to Ellis, he has served the department
for over five years, coming in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e050c2b57544d3fe90e84d3">during the tenure of Chief Taft Yates.</a>“I'm
very happy where I'm at,” Smith said. “I love the community I work in. I love the
people here. We have a very supportive community. And it's showing these last,
these last three weeks, we've been sorting through, what's happened. So, the
last three weeks, I've heard nothing but support.”While
the process of rebuilding the department continues, Smith said he wants the
people of the city to know they are safe.“I would
like the people of Ellis to be reassured that we're doing the best we can with
what we have right now,” Smith said. “We're going to continue forward, and we're
going to continue serving the public as best as we can with what we have for
the time being.”

Interim chief says Ellis is secure as department faces staffing challenges

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas has announced the receipt of a $12,000&nbsp; grant from the Beach Edwards Family Foundation. Terry Edwards, daughter of Ross and Marianna Beach, continues their legacy with this grant award to support DSNWK’s efforts to replace the roof on DSNWK’s Kid-Link office in Stockton.&nbsp;

The DSNWK Kid-Link program provides a full range of early intervention services to infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age in their natural living environment who have a diagnosed disability, are delayed in one or more developmental areas, or are at risk of developmental delay. Services are offered in Norton, Osborne, Philips, Rooks, Russell and Smith counties.&nbsp;

“The Beach Edwards Family Foundation has been a valuable source of help for DSNWK for many years,” expressed Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President and CEO.&nbsp; “We greatly appreciate their continued support and generosity.”

DSNWK is a 501c3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602261742827.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWKDevelopmental Services of Northwest Kansas has announced the receipt of a $12,000&nbsp; grant from the Beach Edwards Family Foundation. Terry Edwards, daughter of Ross and Marianna Beach, continues their legacy with this grant award to support DSNWK’s efforts to replace the roof on DSNWK’s Kid-Link office in Stockton.&nbsp;The DSNWK Kid-Link program provides a full range of early intervention services to infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age in their natural living environment who have a diagnosed disability, are delayed in one or more developmental areas, or are at risk of developmental delay. Services are offered in Norton, Osborne, Philips, Rooks, Russell and Smith counties.&nbsp;“The Beach Edwards Family Foundation has been a valuable source of help for DSNWK for many years,” expressed Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President and CEO.&nbsp; “We greatly appreciate their continued support and generosity.”DSNWK is a 501c3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.&nbsp;

DSNWK awarded grant from Beach Edwards Family Foundation

By Donna Krug District Director Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office

No doubt you, or someone you know, was affected by the wind storm that passed through our state last week. While the weather predictions earlier in the week were spot on, it was still hard to comprehend what needed to be done in preparation.

The following day a phone call from my regional extension director, who was in the midst of her own property clean-up effort in Lincoln County, was quick to check on the well being of our staff and offices.

Within an hour of that call, I received a call from our director of K-State Research and Extension, making sure we knew of their concern and support. The concern shown by our KSRE administration made me proud to be part of the Extension team.

A few hours later, I received an e-mail from Dr. Hadley with information about behavioral health resource support for those directly affected by the fires in our area. The Kansas Department of Agriculture has agreed to cross list those resources on its site. 

A couple of excellent links have been posted on our Cottonwood Extension website if you are in need of any of these relief services. 

<a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/news-events/kansas-wildfire-recovery-resources-december-2021">Kansas Wildfire Recovery Resources December 2021 (ks.gov)</a>

<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/community/natural-disasters/">Natural Disasters-Community-Research and Extension (K-State.edu)</a>

The KDA website has up-to-date information related to emergency hay distribution, livestock welfare, disposal of disaster debris, specialty crop losses, insurance problems and other topics. 

The good news is that you can count on the help and support from Extension to continue. This is not the first time a disaster like this has happened, so we are reaching out to colleagues who have been part of previous wildfire response efforts. 

The best way to contact anyone from our Cottonwood Extension team during the next couple of weeks will be to send an e-mail to either of the following addresses: BT@listserv.ksu.edu or el@listserv.ksu.edu 

This past weekend, my daughter’s family gave me a bracelet with a message on the inside to “Focus on the positive.” As we celebrate the holidays with our families my hope is that you can look past the many challenges you have experienced this year and focus on the positive. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from The Cottonwood Extension District!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension - Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

By Donna Krug District Director Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend officeNo doubt you, or someone you know, was affected by the wind storm that passed through our state last week. While the weather predictions earlier in the week were spot on, it was still hard to comprehend what needed to be done in preparation.The following day a phone call from my regional extension director, who was in the midst of her own property clean-up effort in Lincoln County, was quick to check on the well being of our staff and offices.Within an hour of that call, I received a call from our director of K-State Research and Extension, making sure we knew of their concern and support. The concern shown by our KSRE administration made me proud to be part of the Extension team.A few hours later, I received an e-mail from Dr. Hadley with information about behavioral health resource support for those directly affected by the fires in our area. The Kansas Department of Agriculture has agreed to cross list those resources on its site. A couple of excellent links have been posted on our Cottonwood Extension website if you are in need of any of these relief services. <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/news-events/kansas-wildfire-recovery-resources-december-2021">Kansas Wildfire Recovery Resources December 2021 (ks.gov)</a><a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/community/natural-disasters/">Natural Disasters-Community-Research and Extension (K-State.edu)</a>The KDA website has up-to-date information related to emergency hay distribution, livestock welfare, disposal of disaster debris, specialty crop losses, insurance problems and other topics. The good news is that you can count on the help and support from Extension to continue. This is not the first time a disaster like this has happened, so we are reaching out to colleagues who have been part of previous wildfire response efforts. The best way to contact anyone from our Cottonwood Extension team during the next couple of weeks will be to send an e-mail to either of the following addresses: BT@listserv.ksu.edu or el@listserv.ksu.edu This past weekend, my daughter’s family gave me a bracelet with a message on the inside to “Focus on the positive.” As we celebrate the holidays with our families my hope is that you can look past the many challenges you have experienced this year and focus on the positive. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from The Cottonwood Extension District!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension - Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

K-State Research, Extension providing disaster response

Western Cooperative General Manager Tom Ruth provided an update to the membership following last week’s severe windstorm.

On Monday, Western Co-op General Manager Tom Ruth said in a video update, “Last Wednesday, a severe storm with winds reaching 100 mph ripped through our communities, destroying houses, killing livestock and causing massive damage to our electrical power system.

After the storm moved across our service territory, more than 350 power poles were destroyed, and 8,200 were left without electricity, as well as many pieces of communications equipment. Approximately 70 percent of our electrical distribution system was left without power. 

 At this point, only 60 meters remain left to be restored.  All residential consumers were restored by 6 p.m. Sunday evening. Although we will not be satisfied until power has been restored to all meters, and we have more work to do,  it has taken a monumental effort to get to this point. 

Thank you to our linemen who have gone above and beyond, working day and night to restore power to our members. Their dedication to the job has been central to our efforts and inspiring.

Under catastrophic circumstances where we sustained significant damage across 13 counties, we were fortunate to bring in additional crews through our mutual-aid program with the Kansas Electric Cooperative Association, known as KEC. 

In the past, Western has sent crews to help other co-ops when possible because, as we always say, “We help when we can because you never know when we’ll be next.” And thankfully, several crews were able to assist to when we were the ones who called.

Although resources were stretched thin across the entire state due to similar damage to other systems, KEC coordinated six additional lines crews to aid and boost our restoration efforts. Thank you to CMS, Southern Pioneer, Ninnescah, Twin Valley, Prairie Land, and J&amp;J Contractors. Without you, we would not be where we are in the restoration.

I would also like to thank all of Western’s employees. Whether coordinating crews, ordering materials, fielding member’s calls, or preparing meals for the linemen, there was never a moment of hesitation to do what was necessary. It was truly a team effort and demonstrated the character of all the employees of Western as well as the spirit of cooperation that sets cooperatives apart.

Thank you for your support for our crews under such difficult conditions. I know the recent days have been extremely challenging, but despite the devastation, you …..our members… have been patient and extremely supportive throughout our restoration efforts. Rest assured that we will continue to work with members who are facing hardships in the aftermath of the storm. 

It is an honor to serve you, our members. Thank you!”

Link to video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YskpE2tPO2g">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YskpE2tPO2g</a>

Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas. For more information about Western, visit <a href="http://www.westerncoop.com">www.westerncoop.com</a>.

Western Cooperative General Manager Tom Ruth provided an update to the membership following last week’s severe windstorm.On Monday, Western Co-op General Manager Tom Ruth said in a video update, “Last Wednesday, a severe storm with winds reaching 100 mph ripped through our communities, destroying houses, killing livestock and causing massive damage to our electrical power system.After the storm moved across our service territory, more than 350 power poles were destroyed, and 8,200 were left without electricity, as well as many pieces of communications equipment. Approximately 70 percent of our electrical distribution system was left without power. At this point, only 60 meters remain left to be restored. All residential consumers were restored by 6 p.m. Sunday evening. Although we will not be satisfied until power has been restored to all meters, and we have more work to do, it has taken a monumental effort to get to this point. Thank you to our linemen who have gone above and beyond, working day and night to restore power to our members. Their dedication to the job has been central to our efforts and inspiring.Under catastrophic circumstances where we sustained significant damage across 13 counties, we were fortunate to bring in additional crews through our mutual-aid program with the Kansas Electric Cooperative Association, known as KEC. In the past, Western has sent crews to help other co-ops when possible because, as we always say, “We help when we can because you never know when we’ll be next.” And thankfully, several crews were able to assist to when we were the ones who called.Although resources were stretched thin across the entire state due to similar damage to other systems, KEC coordinated six additional lines crews to aid and boost our restoration efforts. Thank you to CMS, Southern Pioneer, Ninnescah, Twin Valley, Prairie Land, and J&amp;J Contractors. Without you, we would not be where we are in the restoration.I would also like to thank all of Western’s employees. Whether coordinating crews, ordering materials, fielding member’s calls, or preparing meals for the linemen, there was never a moment of hesitation to do what was necessary. It was truly a team effort and demonstrated the character of all the employees of Western as well as the spirit of cooperation that sets cooperatives apart.Thank you for your support for our crews under such difficult conditions. I know the recent days have been extremely challenging, but despite the devastation, you …..our members… have been patient and extremely supportive throughout our restoration efforts. Rest assured that we will continue to work with members who are facing hardships in the aftermath of the storm. It is an honor to serve you, our members. Thank you!”Link to video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YskpE2tPO2g">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YskpE2tPO2g</a> Western Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in WaKeeney. Established in 1945, Western now serves more than 12,000 meters and maintains over 4,000 miles of power lines across western and central Kansas. For more information about Western, visit <a href="http://www.westerncoop.com">www.westerncoop.com</a>.

Western Coop provides an update following wind storm

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640128792126.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather click her</a>e.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

HOLDREGE, Neb. (AP) — A bus carrying a Kansas college basketball team caught fire, leaving players and staff briefly stranded in a central Nebraska town. 

The Holdrege Daily Citizen says the Newman University men’s basketball team from Wichita was heading from Kearney, Nebraska, to Hays, Kansas on Saturday when the fire occurred. 

The bus was carrying 15 basketball players, three coaches and an athletic trainer. No one was injured. Holdrege volunteer firefighters received the call at around 1:40 p.m. Saturday. 

Head Coach R.J. Allen says the only personal items lost in the fire were phone chargers, pillows and blankets. Allen says the team was headed to a practice before a game against Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640128076441.png" alt="Newman Coach R.J. Allen-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Newman Coach R.J. Allen-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HOLDREGE, Neb. (AP) — A bus carrying a Kansas college basketball team caught fire, leaving players and staff briefly stranded in a central Nebraska town. The Holdrege Daily Citizen says the Newman University men’s basketball team from Wichita was heading from Kearney, Nebraska, to Hays, Kansas on Saturday when the fire occurred. The bus was carrying 15 basketball players, three coaches and an athletic trainer. No one was injured. Holdrege volunteer firefighters received the call at around 1:40 p.m. Saturday. Head Coach R.J. Allen says the only personal items lost in the fire were phone chargers, pillows and blankets. Allen says the team was headed to a practice before a game against Fort Hays State University.

Bus fire briefly stranded team on the way to game at FHSU

RUSSELL COUNTY—The Kansas Forrest Service has revised the total wildfire acres burned across western Kansas during last week's storms, according to a social media report from the agency.

Kansas Forest Service together with the National Interagency Fire Coordination Center used a new satellite data system to map ongoing wildfire to determine approximately 163,000 acres burned.&nbsp;

The agency originally reported 400,000 acres had been impacted by wildfire due to the historic high winds combined with the drought or near drought conditions across Kansas.

Further analysis of satellite mapping data resulted in revised acreage for the fires that occurred December 15, and detection of fires not previously reported.

As the air cleared of heat, dust and smoke, the satellite was able to get a clearer picture of the landscape. Authorities also learned in using this new satellite technology some of the fires’ perimeters were calculated twice. The newly released map has the updated acres from the recent satellite imagery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640120183716.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Forest Service" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Forest Service</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY—The Kansas Forrest Service has revised the total wildfire acres burned across western Kansas during last week's storms, according to a social media report from the agency.Kansas Forest Service together with the National Interagency Fire Coordination Center used a new satellite data system to map ongoing wildfire to determine approximately 163,000 acres burned.&nbsp;The agency originally reported 400,000 acres had been impacted by wildfire due to the historic high winds combined with the drought or near drought conditions across Kansas.Further analysis of satellite mapping data resulted in revised acreage for the fires that occurred December 15, and detection of fires not previously reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640119992895.png" alt="Kansas Forest Service map" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Forest Service map</figcaption>
 </figure>As the air cleared of heat, dust and smoke, the satellite was able to get a clearer picture of the landscape. Authorities also learned in using this new satellite technology some of the fires’ perimeters were calculated twice. The newly released map has the updated acres from the recent satellite imagery.

Forest Service revises estimates on acres burned in last week's fire

The Downtown Hays Development Corporation would like to thank everyone who participated and attended the Annual Frostfest Illuminated Parade. What a perfect night for our parade of lights, and oh, what a sight.

The parade, sponsored by the Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau, took place Saturday, December 18, on The Bricks in Downtown Hays. This year's parade theme was A Starry Christmas Night submitted by the Kansas Western Horseman's Association last year. KWHA served as the Grand Marshal.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/07385d43-bfb8-4393-9774-c02448a993b0">Related story: Making Mays merry and bright DHDC hosts Frostfest</a>

The Gardner family of Hays judged the many entries on theme, lighting, and creativity. The winners are as follows:

Judge's Choice Winner: Kansas Western Horseman's Association

Animal Winner: Kansas Western Horseman's Association

2nd: Farmers Insurance - Chelsy Proehl agency

An award not chosen by our judges is the Nex-Tech Wireless People's Choice Award. The general public determines this award through an open text-to-vote format. The winners of this award are as follows:

People's Choice Winner: NCK Technical College

2nd: Kansas Western Horseman's Association

The theme for the 2022 parade, Christmas Wishes, Mistletoe Kisses, was revealed at the end of the parade. It was once again submitted by the KWHA, who will lead the parade again next year.

DHDC wants to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thank you for supporting the businesses on The Bricks that make Hays such a wonderful place to shop, dine, and celebrate!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639965606400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Downtown Hays Development Corporation would like to thank everyone who participated and attended the Annual Frostfest Illuminated Parade. What a perfect night for our parade of lights, and oh, what a sight.The parade, sponsored by the Hays Convention and Visitor's Bureau, took place Saturday, December 18, on The Bricks in Downtown Hays. This year's parade theme was A Starry Christmas Night submitted by the Kansas Western Horseman's Association last year. KWHA served as the Grand Marshal.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/07385d43-bfb8-4393-9774-c02448a993b0">Related story: Making Mays merry and bright DHDC hosts Frostfest</a>The Gardner family of Hays judged the many entries on theme, lighting, and creativity. The winners are as follows:Judge's Choice Winner: Kansas Western Horseman's Association2nd: Koenigsman/post family3rd: Breathe Coffee houseAnimal Winner: Kansas Western Horseman's AssociationBusiness Winner: INSPIRE Fitness2nd: Farmers Insurance - Chelsy Proehl agency3rd: Hays Convention's Visitors BureauAn award not chosen by our judges is the Nex-Tech Wireless People's Choice Award. The general public determines this award through an open text-to-vote format. The winners of this award are as follows:People's Choice Winner: NCK Technical College2nd: Kansas Western Horseman's Association3rd: Blue Moon Barber LoungeThe theme for the 2022 parade, Christmas Wishes, Mistletoe Kisses, was revealed at the end of the parade. It was once again submitted by the KWHA, who will lead the parade again next year.DHDC wants to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thank you for supporting the businesses on The Bricks that make Hays such a wonderful place to shop, dine, and celebrate!

Frostfest parade winners announced

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Jerry Braun said his biggest challenge as a teacher is finding ways to challenge the kids he works with.

Braun, 49, a 25-year veteran teacher, works with gifted students in grades six through 12 at Hays Middle School and Hays High School.

"In this particular setting, [the challenge] is to stay a step ahead of the kids," he said, "because they learn things so fast and they're so eager to continue to push me in a good way. 

"I'm almost scrambling to stay ahead of them. They just keep me moving."

Gifted students are part of the special education program. They have been identified through testing, just as other special education students. They also have individual education plans.

He said his job is to feed his students' curiosity — something that regular classroom teachers don't always have the time to do.

His eighth-grade students recently took a field trip to the Holocaust exhibit at Union Station in Kansas City. 

"That was such a moving experience for all of us," he said. "It was pretty silent for a big part of the drive home because it really soaked in the vastness of what that was about. It led to some really good conversations, as well."

Braun said his students also have special social and emotional needs.

"They have different needs as far as creating a community that gets them — what's different about the way they think and the experiences they have and the kinds of topics they want to talk about and the maturity level," he said.

"It creates an environment in which they can feel comfortable to share and explore all of the things that are going on in their heads."

Some of his students are highly intelligent but have autistic tendencies.

"To figure out they can balance that and still maintain some social regularity and still get pushed in an academic setting has been an interesting challenge," he said, "but one that I accept with open arms."

Some of his best lesson plans fall flat, because the kids take the topics so much further than he expected. 

"That's the cool part," he said. "It's a learning process for me. It never gets old. It's always something different. It's always something new. I'm taking the kids where they want to go or I think they want to go."

Jeff Baczkowski, who nominated Braun for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month award, said "Jerry just really cares about the kids and where they are heading. He is accessible to both his students and their parents. ...

"Overall, I just feel that he is a great teacher and has made a difference in my son's and our family's lives." 

Braun said he was humbled by the nomination. 

"I just feel like I'm doing my job, and then you find out that it really does have an impact on kids and families and it makes a difference," he said. "It makes you feel good. It makes you feel what you're doing is actually worth it."

Braun has been a gifted teacher for seven years. He is a Victoria native and a Fort Hays State University graduate. He taught briefly at Thomas More Prep-Marian, but has taught the bulk of his 25 years in USD 489.

Braun said he was inspired to be a teacher by other teachers. He wanted to be a teacher since he was a little kid. Knowing teachers don't get paid much, Braun tried accounting in college, but that only lasted a semester.

He said he was inspired by his high school math teacher Lisa Colwell and Susie Stark, who was his high school accounting teacher. He said he also had two amazing mentors when he came to work at HMS — Lori Dreiling and Janet Ottaway.

He said those teachers always had a sense of excitement in their classes. 

"You wanted to go," he said. "You wanted to learn. You wanted to be engaged with them. You wanted to be around them."

He learned that he didn't have to know all of the answers, but he could work with his teachers to find them — something he tries to do with his students.

"Use mistakes, use errors as learning opportunities to build, and then celebrate when you've done a great job," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640035128103.jpeg" alt="Jerry Braun, Hays Post Teacher of the Month, with some of his sixth-grade gifted students at Hays Middle School. " />
 <figcaption>Jerry Braun, Hays Post Teacher of the Month, with some of his sixth-grade gifted students at Hays Middle School. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostJerry Braun said his biggest challenge as a teacher is finding ways to challenge the kids he works with.Braun, 49, a 25-year veteran teacher, works with gifted students in grades six through 12 at Hays Middle School and Hays High School."In this particular setting, [the challenge] is to stay a step ahead of the kids," he said, "because they learn things so fast and they're so eager to continue to push me in a good way. "I'm almost scrambling to stay ahead of them. They just keep me moving."Gifted students are part of the special education program. They have been identified through testing, just as other special education students. They also have individual education plans.He said his job is to feed his students' curiosity — something that regular classroom teachers don't always have the time to do.His eighth-grade students recently took a field trip to the Holocaust exhibit at Union Station in Kansas City. "That was such a moving experience for all of us," he said. "It was pretty silent for a big part of the drive home because it really soaked in the vastness of what that was about. It led to some really good conversations, as well." Braun said his students also have special social and emotional needs. "They have different needs as far as creating a community that gets them — what's different about the way they think and the experiences they have and the kinds of topics they want to talk about and the maturity level," he said. "It creates an environment in which they can feel comfortable to share and explore all of the things that are going on in their heads."Some of his students are highly intelligent but have autistic tendencies."To figure out they can balance that and still maintain some social regularity and still get pushed in an academic setting has been an interesting challenge," he said, "but one that I accept with open arms." Some of his best lesson plans fall flat, because the kids take the topics so much further than he expected. "That's the cool part," he said. "It's a learning process for me. It never gets old. It's always something different. It's always something new. I'm taking the kids where they want to go or I think they want to go." Jeff Baczkowski, who nominated Braun for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month award, said "Jerry just really cares about the kids and where they are heading. He is accessible to both his students and their parents. ... "Overall, I just feel that he is a great teacher and has made a difference in my son's and our family's lives." Braun said he was humbled by the nomination. "I just feel like I'm doing my job, and then you find out that it really does have an impact on kids and families and it makes a difference," he said. "It makes you feel good. It makes you feel what you're doing is actually worth it."Braun has been a gifted teacher for seven years. He is a Victoria native and a Fort Hays State University graduate. He taught briefly at Thomas More Prep-Marian, but has taught the bulk of his 25 years in USD 489.Braun said he was inspired to be a teacher by other teachers. He wanted to be a teacher since he was a little kid. Knowing teachers don't get paid much, Braun tried accounting in college, but that only lasted a semester.He said he was inspired by his high school math teacher Lisa Colwell and Susie Stark, who was his high school accounting teacher. He said he also had two amazing mentors when he came to work at HMS — Lori Dreiling and Janet Ottaway. He said those teachers always had a sense of excitement in their classes. "You wanted to go," he said. "You wanted to learn. You wanted to be engaged with them. You wanted to be around them." He learned that he didn't have to know all of the answers, but he could work with his teachers to find them — something he tries to do with his students. He said success breeds success."Use mistakes, use errors as learning opportunities to build, and then celebrate when you've done a great job," he said.

Teacher of the Month: Teacher inspired by his students to learn more

By Stacy Campbell Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources Extension Agent Cottonwood Extension District

Kansas Wildfire Recovery Resources

As I sit trying to write this news column, I am at a loss for what to type. The devastating wildfires have left a lot of us in the agriculture community numb, or maybe more appropriately for those directly impacted in tears and shock.

Fortunately, we live in a country that was founded on courage, determination, resiliency and true grit! Many people and organizations have quickly stepped up to lend assistance and help however they can.

There are many GoFundMe accounts and other ways to donate directly to help individuals and families.

From an agriculture standpoint if you wish to donate monetarily, KLA and the Kansas Livestock Foundation will be assisting in the efforts to support ranchers affected by numerous fires and high winds across the state Dec. 15. To provide monetary donations click the link below. Donations may be tax deductible and&nbsp;100 percent of all donations will be distributed to producers impacted by the weather event. Membership will not be required to receive funds.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations" target="_blank">https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations</a>

<a href="https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15" target="_blank">HitchPin</a>&nbsp;is an online platform that connects producers with products they need. During this disaster, the team at HitchPin has stepped up to add an option on their platform to allow disaster victims with specific needs to post those needs and get connected with members of the community who can provide and/or donate those products and services.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15" target="_blank">https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640036486831.jpeg" alt="Wildfire photo taken Dec 16. Photo courtesy of Stacy Campbell" />
 <figcaption>Wildfire photo taken Dec 16. Photo courtesy of Stacy Campbell</figcaption>
 </figure>By Stacy Campbell Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources Extension Agent Cottonwood Extension DistrictKansas Wildfire Recovery ResourcesAs I sit trying to write this news column, I am at a loss for what to type. The devastating wildfires have left a lot of us in the agriculture community numb, or maybe more appropriately for those directly impacted in tears and shock.Fortunately, we live in a country that was founded on courage, determination, resiliency and true grit! Many people and organizations have quickly stepped up to lend assistance and help however they can.There are many GoFundMe accounts and other ways to donate directly to help individuals and families.From an agriculture standpoint if you wish to donate monetarily, KLA and the Kansas Livestock Foundation will be assisting in the efforts to support ranchers affected by numerous fires and high winds across the state Dec. 15. To provide monetary donations click the link below. Donations may be tax deductible and&nbsp;100 percent of all donations will be distributed to producers impacted by the weather event. Membership will not be required to receive funds.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations" target="_blank">https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640036609602.jpeg" alt="Wildfire photo taken Dec 16. Photo courtesy of Stacy Campbell" />
 <figcaption>Wildfire photo taken Dec 16. Photo courtesy of Stacy Campbell</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15" target="_blank">HitchPin</a>&nbsp;is an online platform that connects producers with products they need. During this disaster, the team at HitchPin has stepped up to add an option on their platform to allow disaster victims with specific needs to post those needs and get connected with members of the community who can provide and/or donate those products and services.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15" target="_blank">https://www.hitchpin.com/december-15</a>Donations of Hay and SuppliesDonations of hay and other agricultural supplies are being collected to help those who have been affected by this week's wildfires. The greatest need at this time is hay and stock water tanks, but fencing supplies will also be in need soon. Please deliver donations to:PLAINVILLE AREA:Heartland Regional Stockyards,&nbsp;907 NW 3rd Street,&nbsp;Plainville, Kansas Contact the auction market at 785-688-4080, Landon Schneider at 785-259-3234 or Brandon Hamel at 785-434-6280. RUSSELL COUNTY: Russell County Fairgrounds,&nbsp;702 Fairway Drive, Russell, KS Accepting hay and supply distributions.&nbsp;Call extension agent Marcia Geir at 785-483-3157 to arrange a drop-off. Lane County/surrounding counties: A supply donation site has been set up at&nbsp;3 E. Road 120, Dighton, Kansas. To coordinate a drop-off, call Erik Steffens at 620-397-1687.&nbsp;If you are an agriculture producer who has been directly impacted by the wildfires or high winds and have lost livestock, feed supplies and fence you need&nbsp;to contact your County FSA Office ASAP.<a href="https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?state=ks&amp;agency=fsa" target="_blank">https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?state=ks&amp;agency=fsa</a>Lastly this web site by the Kansas Department of Agriculture has a lot of resources and Who’s Who to contact if you are a farmer and rancher impacted by this disaster, as well as the resources listed above.<a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/news-events/kansas-wildfire-recovery-resources-december-2021" target="_blank">https://agriculture.ks.gov/news-events/kansas-wildfire-recovery-resources-december-2021</a>If you have any questions or if Cottonwood Extension and its’ Agents can help you, please give us a call.Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

Local