An earthquake was recorded early Monday morning in central Rooks County, according to the Kansas Geological Survey.

The 3.2-magnitude quake was observed at 1:32 a.m. Monday just west of U.S. 183.

An earthquake was recorded early Monday morning in central Rooks County, according to the Kansas Geological Survey.The 3.2-magnitude quake was observed at 1:32 a.m. Monday just west of U.S. 183.

3.2-magnitude quake detected in Rooks County

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Ryan Hoag knew there was about to be more fun when a large group of his family members recently walked quietly into the Rose Garden Banquet Hall&nbsp; just as the party for Hays Special Olympians got started.

Hoag's family was there for a surprise announcement from two surprise guests.

Jason Jordan, the new programs and activities director for the Arc of Central Plains, introduced Brent Kaiser to the crowd. Kaiser held the same position for several years and recently accepted the position of&nbsp;

development and sports coordinator at Special Olympics Kansas.

Kaiser brought Hoag up to the microphone at the front of the room and told him he had been inducted into the Kansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame.

Hoag has been been a distance runner for several years in Special Olympics. Just he and one other athlete competed in the 1500M and 3000M in his first competition. The next year, both races were filled with athletes who had been inspired by Hoag's enthusiasm and dedication to the sport.

Kaiser said Hoag is passionate and "has been a catalyst for reviving distance running in Special Olympics Kansas."

Another surprise came when Kansas Special Olympics President and CEO John Lair, Shawnee, presented the induction trophy to Hoag.&nbsp;

Lair told Hoag it was a "very, very special award and honor with less than 200 athletes in the hall of fame."

Lair also had praise for the entire Hays Special Olympics program.

"Everybody does so much out here, so I wanted to make sure I was here to congratulate Ryan."

"I joined Special Olympics 23-24 years ago, loved every minute of it," Hoag said, also thanking his friends and family and those who have helped him along the way.

After the ceremony, Hoag talked about the importance of staying fit.

"You have to run and eat healthy foods," Hoag said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Noalee&nbsp;McDonald-Augustine is one of Hoag's coaches who has run other races with him.

"Ryan is such a great example and a mentor to other athletes," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637548848257.jpeg" alt="Ryan Hoag, Hays, (center right in turquoise T-shirt) poses with family members after being surprised Nov. 17 by his induction into the Kansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame." />
 <figcaption>Ryan Hoag, Hays, (center right in turquoise T-shirt) poses with family members after being surprised Nov. 17 by his induction into the Kansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA pizza party with bingo is always fun.Ryan Hoag knew there was about to be more fun when a large group of his family members recently walked quietly into the Rose Garden Banquet Hall&nbsp; just as the party for Hays Special Olympians got started.Hoag's family was there for a surprise announcement from two surprise guests.Jason Jordan, the new programs and activities director for the Arc of Central Plains, introduced Brent Kaiser to the crowd. Kaiser held the same position for several years and recently accepted the position of&nbsp;

development and sports coordinator at Special Olympics Kansas.Kaiser brought Hoag up to the microphone at the front of the room and told him he had been inducted into the Kansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame.Hoag has been been a distance runner for several years in Special Olympics. Just he and one other athlete competed in the 1500M and 3000M in his first competition. The next year, both races were filled with athletes who had been inspired by Hoag's enthusiasm and dedication to the sport.Kaiser said Hoag is passionate and "has been a catalyst for reviving distance running in Special Olympics Kansas."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637552932381.jpeg" alt="The trophy representing the recent induction of&nbsp; Ryan Hoag, Hays, into the Special Olympics Kansas Hall of Fame. Fewer than 200 people have been so honored." />
 <figcaption>The trophy representing the recent induction of&nbsp; Ryan Hoag, Hays, into the Special Olympics Kansas Hall of Fame. Fewer than 200 people have been so honored.</figcaption>
 </figure>Another surprise came when Kansas Special Olympics President and CEO John Lair, Shawnee, presented the induction trophy to Hoag.&nbsp;Lair told Hoag it was a "very, very special award and honor with less than 200 athletes in the hall of fame."Lair also had praise for the entire Hays Special Olympics program."Everybody does so much out here, so I wanted to make sure I was here to congratulate Ryan.""I joined Special Olympics 23-24 years ago, loved every minute of it," Hoag said, also thanking his friends and family and those who have helped him along the way.After the ceremony, Hoag talked about the importance of staying fit."You have to run and eat healthy foods," Hoag said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Noalee&nbsp;McDonald-Augustine is one of Hoag's coaches who has run other races with him."Ryan is such a great example and a mentor to other athletes," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637586870936.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays athlete inducted into Kansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame

TOPEKA — To reaffirm her administration’s support for local organizations engaged in efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccinations, Governor Laura Kelly last week announced the first round of Pandemic Assistance and Vaccine Equity Grants funding.

“The first round of PAVE grant funds will help our local organizations support their communities to beat this virus once and for all,” Kelly said.“Local organizations know their constituents the best, and my administration is committed to supporting their efforts to increase vaccinations, keep our businesses open, and ensure every Kansan stays safe and healthy.”

The Graham County-based Kansas Black Farmers Association was among the grant recipients.

This program is specifically dedicated to reaching high-risk communities disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including underserved populations such as racial and ethnic minorities and rural communities.&nbsp; The 10 organizations receiving these funds will reach communities across the state to help increase the rate of COVID-19 vaccinations.

These organizations will use funds to provide COVID-19 vaccine education and resources to Hispanic and Black populations, limited English speaking persons, older adults, long-term care facilities, foster parents, single mothers, persons with disabilities, schools, and rural communities. The grant will also fund transportation to vaccination sites and social media messaging and radio ads regarding the importance of vaccination.

A list of first round recipients can be found below:

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA — To reaffirm her administration’s support for local organizations engaged in efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccinations, Governor Laura Kelly last week announced the first round of Pandemic Assistance and Vaccine Equity Grants funding.“The first round of PAVE grant funds will help our local organizations support their communities to beat this virus once and for all,” Kelly said.“Local organizations know their constituents the best, and my administration is committed to supporting their efforts to increase vaccinations, keep our businesses open, and ensure every Kansan stays safe and healthy.”The Graham County-based Kansas Black Farmers Association was among the grant recipients.This program is specifically dedicated to reaching high-risk communities disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including underserved populations such as racial and ethnic minorities and rural communities.&nbsp; The 10 organizations receiving these funds will reach communities across the state to help increase the rate of COVID-19 vaccinations.These organizations will use funds to provide COVID-19 vaccine education and resources to Hispanic and Black populations, limited English speaking persons, older adults, long-term care facilities, foster parents, single mothers, persons with disabilities, schools, and rural communities. The grant will also fund transportation to vaccination sites and social media messaging and radio ads regarding the importance of vaccination.A list of first round recipients can be found below:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637256824057.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cover image courtesy Pixabay

NW Kan. organization receives grant to boost vaccination rates

By SARAH MEITNER Heartland Community Foundation executive director

Look closely at many of the furniture pieces at Custom Creations – the new downtown Hays storefront staffed by individuals with disabilities through DSNWK’s Employment Connections program. There are intricate cut and engraved wood pieces amid the refinishing work in all shapes and sizes.&nbsp;

Thanks to a $6,990 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation, DSNWK staff purchased a GlowForge machine for the store. With it, artisans with disabilities can create intricate embellishments and details for the furniture and other pieces. Staff have been able to create new merchandise – increasing sales for the store and sparking new, creative ideas. The sense of pride among the staff with disabilities is especially priceless!

This story, along with the countless others like it, demonstrates the importance of U.S. community foundations, which are uniquely situated to improve their regions by enacting innovative solutions and creating powerful partnerships. From November 12-18, we celebrate National Community Foundation Week -- a time when we can share and reflect on stories of local impact and human connection over the past year. Though you may not yet know your local community foundation, you’ve likely felt its impact!

That’s because Heartland Community Foundation and more than 750 other community foundations across the country help to bring donors and residents together. Community foundations work to support the efforts that will help the places we call home continue to flourish and grow.

By the end of 2021, Heartland Community Foundation will have granted more than $360,000 to nonprofit organizations in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties for new and innovative charitable projects. The impact from that investment is enormous, with immeasurable ripple effects. But beyond our grants, the staff and board members at Heartland have also strived to be community leaders – contributing to community development meetings about childcare, arts, housing, sustainability, schools, and more. We are striving for transformation, not merely transaction.&nbsp;

As we enter the giving season, millions of people from every background will be looking to give back to the communities that have supported them. They’ll also look to ensure that their heartfelt giving—however they choose to give—will have the most impact.

That’s why so many of them will choose to give to their local community foundation! A gift to the Ellis County Legacy Fund, which is an endowed fund, will have an impact forever. The more it grows, the more we can grant from the investment income to charitable groups exclusively in Ellis County.&nbsp;

Additionally, Heartland Community Foundation houses many other types of funds specific for local organizations and causes. We also are uniquely equipped to receive non-cash gifts -- such as stocks, retirement distribution, bonds, grain, real estate and more -- at a tax savings to the donor. With the donor’s help, those gifts can be directed to the causes or organizations they select.&nbsp;

An annual gift or estate gift to your local community foundation is an investment in the future of your community. We like to say that community foundations are “here for good.” At Heartland Community Foundation, we don’t think about the next election or business cycle, we think about the next generation and the next after that.&nbsp;

That can seem a daunting task, but it’s one that we all share. During National Community Foundation Week, I hope you’ll join us in recognizing our collective impact and the difference we can make together.

For more information about Heartland Community Foundation, contact Sarah Meitner at 785-621-4090 or <a href="mailto:sarahmeitner@gscf.org">sarahmeitner@gscf.org</a>. Learn more at <a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a> or follow us on Facebook.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SARAH MEITNER Heartland Community Foundation executive director Look closely at many of the furniture pieces at Custom Creations – the new downtown Hays storefront staffed by individuals with disabilities through DSNWK’s Employment Connections program. There are intricate cut and engraved wood pieces amid the refinishing work in all shapes and sizes.&nbsp;Thanks to a $6,990 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation, DSNWK staff purchased a GlowForge machine for the store. With it, artisans with disabilities can create intricate embellishments and details for the furniture and other pieces. Staff have been able to create new merchandise – increasing sales for the store and sparking new, creative ideas. The sense of pride among the staff with disabilities is especially priceless!This story, along with the countless others like it, demonstrates the importance of U.S. community foundations, which are uniquely situated to improve their regions by enacting innovative solutions and creating powerful partnerships. From November 12-18, we celebrate National Community Foundation Week -- a time when we can share and reflect on stories of local impact and human connection over the past year. Though you may not yet know your local community foundation, you’ve likely felt its impact!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600726153080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>That’s because Heartland Community Foundation and more than 750 other community foundations across the country help to bring donors and residents together. Community foundations work to support the efforts that will help the places we call home continue to flourish and grow.By the end of 2021, Heartland Community Foundation will have granted more than $360,000 to nonprofit organizations in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties for new and innovative charitable projects. The impact from that investment is enormous, with immeasurable ripple effects. But beyond our grants, the staff and board members at Heartland have also strived to be community leaders – contributing to community development meetings about childcare, arts, housing, sustainability, schools, and more. We are striving for transformation, not merely transaction.&nbsp;As we enter the giving season, millions of people from every background will be looking to give back to the communities that have supported them. They’ll also look to ensure that their heartfelt giving—however they choose to give—will have the most impact.That’s why so many of them will choose to give to their local community foundation! A gift to the Ellis County Legacy Fund, which is an endowed fund, will have an impact forever. The more it grows, the more we can grant from the investment income to charitable groups exclusively in Ellis County.&nbsp;Additionally, Heartland Community Foundation houses many other types of funds specific for local organizations and causes. We also are uniquely equipped to receive non-cash gifts -- such as stocks, retirement distribution, bonds, grain, real estate and more -- at a tax savings to the donor. With the donor’s help, those gifts can be directed to the causes or organizations they select.&nbsp;An annual gift or estate gift to your local community foundation is an investment in the future of your community. We like to say that community foundations are “here for good.” At Heartland Community Foundation, we don’t think about the next election or business cycle, we think about the next generation and the next after that.&nbsp;That can seem a daunting task, but it’s one that we all share. During National Community Foundation Week, I hope you’ll join us in recognizing our collective impact and the difference we can make together.For more information about Heartland Community Foundation, contact Sarah Meitner at 785-621-4090 or <a href="mailto:sarahmeitner@gscf.org">sarahmeitner@gscf.org</a>. Learn more at <a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a> or follow us on Facebook.&nbsp;

LETTER: Make a lasting impact on the future of your community

The Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

False Report—200
block W 15th St, Hays; 3:03 AM 
Criminal Trespass—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 11:23 AM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 11/5 1 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--17th St and Canterbury Dr, Hays; 1:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Donald Dr, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Aggravated Assault—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 1:20 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--17th St and Vine St, Hay; 3:51 PM 
Animal Injured—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 3:53 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—300 block E 17th St, Hays; 4:53 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:27 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1900 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 6:26 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—Hays; 6:40 PM 
Mental Health Call—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:07 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—400 block E 11th St, Hays; 12:55 AM 
Civil Dispute—200 block E 32nd St, Hays; 5:14 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—800 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:20 AM; 6:34 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 8:23 AM 
Juvenile Complaint-300 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:43 AM; 8:50 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 9:25 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:35 AM 
Animal Call—500 block E 27th St, Hays; 10:14 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1000 block Reservation Rd, Ha; 10:15 AM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 15th St, Hay; 12:06 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—100 block E 13th St, Hays; &nbsp;11/4 5 PM; 8 PM 
Animal Call—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 1:02 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—300 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:01 PM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 11/4 5:30 PM; 6 PM 
Credit Card Violations--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:10 PM; 1:12 PM 
Theft (general)—1100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 7:44 PM; 10:06 PM 
Suspicious Activity—100 block E 15th St, Hays; 7:49 PM 
Intoxicated Subject—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 8:50 PM 
Suspicious Activity—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:12 PM 
Mental Health Call—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 11:44 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 12 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-Co Road/St Hwy--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 6:59 AM 
Disturbance – General--4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 7:11 AM; 7:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 7:21 AM 
Disturbance – General--1700 block Donald Dr, Hays; 9:21 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Animal At Large--37th St and Summer Ln, Hays; 10:17 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:39 AM 
Theft (general)—Hays; 10:56 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 11:30 AM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hall St, Hays; 12:35 PM 
Drug Offenses—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 11/10 2:02 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 2:21 PM 
Dead Animal Call--2700 block Sternberg Dr, Hays; 2:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 19th St, Hays; 11/8; 11/10 
Suspicious Person—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 3:41 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:19 PM 
Document Service--1500 block Spring Hill Rd, Ellis County ; 5:12 PM; 5:43 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 21st St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/10 6:10 PM
 
Domestic Disturbance—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:20 PM; 6:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 21st St, Hays; 2 PM; 6:10 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 22nd St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/10 6:10 PM 
Drug Offenses—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:08 PM 
Unwanted Person—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 11:01 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 0 animal calls and conducted 23 traffic stops Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Criminal
Trespass—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:11 AM; 9:15 AM 
Mental Health Call—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 1:34 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:35 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block W 9th St, Hays; 12 PM; 4:47 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 7 PM; 7:45 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--13th and Donald Dr., Hays; 9:46 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 29 traffic stops Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

44 - Traffic
Stop--600 block Park St, Hays; 1:28 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—600 block Park St, Hays; 1:49 AM; 1:50 AM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:54 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 8:58 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 10:35 AM 
Theft (general)—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 7/16 8 AM; 11/12 11:42 AM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 11:51 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10/25 8 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10/7 8 AM 
Criminal Threat—1600 block E 27th St Terr, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 4:52 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 7:57 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--300 block W 18th St, Hays; 8:18 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 19 traffic stops Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--100 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:21 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:10 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:33 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2800 block Vine St, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--200 block Ash St, Hays; 11/12 10 PM; 11/13 5:30 AM
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 5 PM; 12 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:54 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 1:22 PM 
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6/1; 6/5 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block E 48th St, Hays; 3:55 PM 
Burglary/residence—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 1 PM; 10:42 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Criminal
Damage to Property—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:50 AM; 12:55 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 1:49 AM 
Suspicious Activity—200 block E 16th St, Hays; 2:26 AM 
Sex Offense—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 3:40 AM 
Burglary/residence—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 12 PM; 10:30 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—1000 block W 28th St, Hays; 6:54 AM 
Dead Animal Call--100 block E 13th St, Hays; 5:32 PM 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:56 PM 
Fireworks Violation--17th and Hall, Hays; 9:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:43 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 9 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.False Report—200
block W 15th St, Hays; 3:03 AM 
Criminal Trespass—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 11:23 AM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 11/5 1 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--17th St and Canterbury Dr, Hays; 1:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Donald Dr, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Aggravated Assault—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 1:20 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--17th St and Vine St, Hay; 3:51 PM 
Animal Injured—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 3:53 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—300 block E 17th St, Hays; 4:53 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:27 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1900 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 6:26 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—Hays; 6:40 PM 
Mental Health Call—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:07 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 9 traffic stops Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—400 block E 11th St, Hays; 12:55 AM 
Civil Dispute—200 block E 32nd St, Hays; 5:14 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—800 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:20 AM; 6:34 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 8:23 AM 
Juvenile Complaint-300 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:43 AM; 8:50 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 9:25 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:35 AM 
Animal Call—500 block E 27th St, Hays; 10:14 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1000 block Reservation Rd, Ha; 10:15 AM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 15th St, Hay; 12:06 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—100 block E 13th St, Hays; &nbsp;11/4 5 PM; 8 PM 
Animal Call—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 1:02 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—300 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:01 PM 
Theft (general)—4400 block Vine St, Hays; 11/4 5:30 PM; 6 PM 
Credit Card Violations--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:10 PM; 1:12 PM 
Theft (general)—1100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 7:44 PM; 10:06 PM 
Suspicious Activity—100 block E 15th St, Hays; 7:49 PM 
Intoxicated Subject—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 8:50 PM 
Suspicious Activity—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:12 PM 
Mental Health Call—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 11:44 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 12 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-Co Road/St Hwy--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 6:59 AM 
Disturbance – General--4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 7:11 AM; 7:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 7:21 AM 
Disturbance – General--1700 block Donald Dr, Hays; 9:21 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Animal At Large--37th St and Summer Ln, Hays; 10:17 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:39 AM 
Theft (general)—Hays; 10:56 AM 
Animal At Large--1200 block Vine St, Hays; 11:30 AM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hall St, Hays; 12:35 PM 
Drug Offenses—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 11/10 2:02 PM 
Theft of Vehicle—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 2:21 PM 
Dead Animal Call--2700 block Sternberg Dr, Hays; 2:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 19th St, Hays; 11/8; 11/10 
Suspicious Person—500 block E 7th St, Hays; 3:41 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:19 PM 
Document Service--1500 block Spring Hill Rd, Ellis County ; 5:12 PM; 5:43 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 21st St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/10 6:10 PM
 
Domestic Disturbance—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:20 PM; 6:23 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 21st St, Hays; 2 PM; 6:10 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—200 block E 22nd St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/10 6:10 PM 
Drug Offenses—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:08 PM 
Unwanted Person—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 11:01 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 0 animal calls and conducted 23 traffic stops Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Criminal
Trespass—200 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:11 AM; 9:15 AM 
Mental Health Call—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 1:34 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:35 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block W 9th St, Hays; 12 PM; 4:47 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 7 PM; 7:45 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--13th and Donald Dr., Hays; 9:46 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 29 traffic stops Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.44 - Traffic
Stop--600 block Park St, Hays; 1:28 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—600 block Park St, Hays; 1:49 AM; 1:50 AM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:54 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 8:58 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 10:35 AM 
Theft (general)—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 7/16 8 AM; 11/12 11:42 AM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 11:51 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10/25 8 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10/7 8 AM 
Criminal Threat—1600 block E 27th St Terr, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 4:52 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 7:57 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--300 block W 18th St, Hays; 8:18 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 19 traffic stops Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--100 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:21 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:10 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:33 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property—2800 block Vine St, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--200 block Ash St, Hays; 11/12 10 PM; 11/13 5:30 AM
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 5 PM; 12 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:54 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 1:22 PM 
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6/1; 6/5 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block E 48th St, Hays; 3:55 PM 
Burglary/residence—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 1 PM; 10:42 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Criminal
Damage to Property—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:50 AM; 12:55 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 1:49 AM 
Suspicious Activity—200 block E 16th St, Hays; 2:26 AM 
Sex Offense—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 3:40 AM 
Burglary/residence—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 12 PM; 10:30 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—1000 block W 28th St, Hays; 6:54 AM 
Dead Animal Call--100 block E 13th St, Hays; 5:32 PM 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:56 PM 
Fireworks Violation--17th and Hall, Hays; 9:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 9:43 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Nov. 8-14

Due to the city of Hays' observation of Thanksgiving Day, refuse/recycling collection schedules will be altered as follows. 

There are no expected changes to Monday’s collection route. 

Tuesday and Wednesday collection routes will be picked up on Tuesday. Thursday and Friday collection routes will be picked up on Wednesday. 

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7&nbsp; a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule. 

City of Hays customers who have questions should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 1-785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the city of Hays' observation of Thanksgiving Day, refuse/recycling collection schedules will be altered as follows. There are no expected changes to Monday’s collection route. Tuesday and Wednesday collection routes will be picked up on Tuesday. Thursday and Friday collection routes will be picked up on Wednesday. It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7&nbsp; a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule. City of Hays customers who have questions should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 1-785-628-7350.

Refuse/recycling collections changed for Thanksgiving week

Three-day weather outlook

It has always pleased me to be part of a church where so many guys and gals are hunters, fishermen, outdoorsmen and shooting enthusiasts. The dedicated upland bird hunters were easy to spot at my churches annual trap shooting get-together on Sunday, as most clay birds had little chance of survival when those shooters were on the firing line. Our small but diverse group consisted of an ex-soldier with extensive marksmanship training, an electrician, an engineer, a golf-course manager, a large farmer, the youth pastor, a couple high school kids and a few retired duffers like myself. Ages ranged from upper 70’s to 14 years young.

A 12-volt clay-bird thrower was set up in the farmers lawn overlooking a corn stubble field. Pickups parked with tail-gates down on the other side of the lawn against a tree row became staging areas for each shooter’s guns, ammo and equipment. After a brief meeting to explain safety expectations and a prayer, thanking God for our time together and asking for His control over the afternoon, we were off. The rules were simple; no loaded shotguns behind the firing line, and constant awareness to keep all guns, loaded or unloaded pointed downrange. Each shooter took a pocketful or a box of shells to the firing line with them and loaded their guns there. Someone ran the thrower with the remote control while two shooters, one on each side of the thrower took turns as targets were thrown. After ten or twelve shots each, shooters changed until each shooter had a few turns on the firing line.&nbsp;

It all reminded me of “turkey shoots” when I was a kid, where shooters shot one round at a paper target, and the shooter’s target with the most BB holes won a turkey or canned ham. My buddy always took his beat-up, scratched-up old twelve gauge single-shot that was so dilapidated it actually fell apart into two pieces to load. He’d walk to the firing line amidst chuckles and guffaws from shooters around him sporting twelve-hundred-dollar professional skeet guns, but you could hear a pin drop when his straight-shootin’ old cannon won every time.

After we tired of breaking clay birds thrown from the thrower, semi-automatic handguns and revolvers emerged from cases and bags. Targets became clay birds hung low to the ground from cornstalks, and paper plates stapled to leftover yard signs from a recent school board election campaign.&nbsp; Our soldier’s marksman’s expertise was invaluable as he was able to help those of us not really good with a handgun, and paper plates began filling with holes and clay birds began breaking.&nbsp;

Again, I’m proud to be part of a family, community and church congregation where numerous guys and gals are hunters, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the guys at the trap shoot remarked that he had just taken the last of his pheasant meat out of the freezer to grill, making way for the bounty from this year’s pheasant hunting season which opened Saturday. I thank God every day for His marvelous Creation, and for trusting us to manage His wildlife. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>It has always pleased me to be part of a church where so many guys and gals are hunters, fishermen, outdoorsmen and shooting enthusiasts. The dedicated upland bird hunters were easy to spot at my churches annual trap shooting get-together on Sunday, as most clay birds had little chance of survival when those shooters were on the firing line. Our small but diverse group consisted of an ex-soldier with extensive marksmanship training, an electrician, an engineer, a golf-course manager, a large farmer, the youth pastor, a couple high school kids and a few retired duffers like myself. Ages ranged from upper 70’s to 14 years young.A 12-volt clay-bird thrower was set up in the farmers lawn overlooking a corn stubble field. Pickups parked with tail-gates down on the other side of the lawn against a tree row became staging areas for each shooter’s guns, ammo and equipment. After a brief meeting to explain safety expectations and a prayer, thanking God for our time together and asking for His control over the afternoon, we were off. The rules were simple; no loaded shotguns behind the firing line, and constant awareness to keep all guns, loaded or unloaded pointed downrange. Each shooter took a pocketful or a box of shells to the firing line with them and loaded their guns there. Someone ran the thrower with the remote control while two shooters, one on each side of the thrower took turns as targets were thrown. After ten or twelve shots each, shooters changed until each shooter had a few turns on the firing line.&nbsp;It all reminded me of “turkey shoots” when I was a kid, where shooters shot one round at a paper target, and the shooter’s target with the most BB holes won a turkey or canned ham. My buddy always took his beat-up, scratched-up old twelve gauge single-shot that was so dilapidated it actually fell apart into two pieces to load. He’d walk to the firing line amidst chuckles and guffaws from shooters around him sporting twelve-hundred-dollar professional skeet guns, but you could hear a pin drop when his straight-shootin’ old cannon won every time.After we tired of breaking clay birds thrown from the thrower, semi-automatic handguns and revolvers emerged from cases and bags. Targets became clay birds hung low to the ground from cornstalks, and paper plates stapled to leftover yard signs from a recent school board election campaign.&nbsp; Our soldier’s marksman’s expertise was invaluable as he was able to help those of us not really good with a handgun, and paper plates began filling with holes and clay birds began breaking.&nbsp;Again, I’m proud to be part of a family, community and church congregation where numerous guys and gals are hunters, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the guys at the trap shoot remarked that he had just taken the last of his pheasant meat out of the freezer to grill, making way for the bounty from this year’s pheasant hunting season which opened Saturday. I thank God every day for His marvelous Creation, and for trusting us to manage His wildlife. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Zoar Trap Shoot 2021

NORTON COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 12a.m. Sunday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Mustang driven by Michael J.Dela Vega, 37, Norton, was&nbsp;westbound on Kansas 383 two miles east of the U.S. 36 Junction at a high rate of speed.

The driver lost control of the vehicle, It struck a guard rail on the north side of the highway, traveled into the ditch, into a field and rolled.

Dela Vega and a passenger Andrew S. Campbell Sr, 44, Colby, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to&nbsp;Plumer Gobber Funeral Home. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 12a.m. Sunday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on Kansas 383 two miles east of the U.S. 36 Junction at a high rate of speed. 

The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check Hays Post for more information as it becomes available.

NORTON COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 12a.m. Sunday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Mustang driven by Michael J.Dela Vega, 37, Norton, was&nbsp;westbound on Kansas 383 two miles east of the U.S. 36 Junction at a high rate of speed.The driver lost control of the vehicle, It struck a guard rail on the north side of the highway, traveled into the ditch, into a field and rolled.Dela Vega and a passenger Andrew S. Campbell Sr, 44, Colby, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to&nbsp;Plumer Gobber Funeral Home. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.--------NORTON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 12a.m. Sunday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on Kansas 383 two miles east of the U.S. 36 Junction at a high rate of speed. The driver lost control of the vehicle, It struck a guard rail on the north side of the highway, traveled into the ditch, into a field and rolled.The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check Hays Post for more information as it becomes available.

Two NW Kansas men dead after rollover crash

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A small city in the top U.S. coal-mining state of Wyoming will be home to a Bill Gates-backed experimental nuclear power project near a coal-fired power plant scheduled to close soon.

 Officials with Bellevue, Washington-based TerraPower announced Tuesday they will build the Natrium plant in Kemmerer, a southwestern Wyoming city of 2,600 people. 

A coal-fired power plant operated by PacifiCorp subsidiary Rocky Mountain Power is set to close in Kemmerer in 2025. 

Proponents of the project featuring a sodium-cooled fast reactor say it would perform better, be safer and cost less than traditional nuclear power.

 Others are skeptical, saying such reactors aren't as safe or practical as claimed.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A small city in the top U.S. coal-mining state of Wyoming will be home to a Bill Gates-backed experimental nuclear power project near a coal-fired power plant scheduled to close soon. Officials with Bellevue, Washington-based TerraPower announced Tuesday they will build the Natrium plant in Kemmerer, a southwestern Wyoming city of 2,600 people. A coal-fired power plant operated by PacifiCorp subsidiary Rocky Mountain Power is set to close in Kemmerer in 2025. Proponents of the project featuring a sodium-cooled fast reactor say it would perform better, be safer and cost less than traditional nuclear power. Others are skeptical, saying such reactors aren't as safe or practical as claimed.

Bill Gates venture picks Wyoming city for sodium nuke plant

Experts warn passing new laws to fight the vaccine mandates could sow 
chaos

By ABIGAIL CENSKY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-18/kansas-lawmakers-look-to-undercut-federal-vaccine-mandates-and-that-worries-public-health-officials">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA&nbsp;— Republican lawmakers look determined to take 
on the Biden administration’s insistence that employers pressure their 
workers to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

The Legislature meets 
in a special session this week to engage in battle with the federal 
government over the vaccine mandates. But courts will likely have the 
final say on if the mandate is legal, and some factions worry such bold 
action to fight mandates could further atrophy the state's ability to 
respond to public health crises.

Last week, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration <a href="https://www.natlawreview.com/article/osha-suspends-ets-enforcement-wake-fifth-circuit-s-latest-jab-vaccine-rule-future" target="_blank">paused enforcement </a>of its own temporary emergency standard <a href="https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/national/11042021" target="_blank">requiring</a> companies with 100 employees or more to mandate that workers either get vaccinated or submit to regular testing.

Legislative
 leaders waited until the emergency standard was in place to call a 
special session. But now that the rule is in legal limbo, it’s unlikely 
the Republicans who dominate the Legislature will abandon plans to give 
workers the freedom to dodge the mandates simply by invoking religious 
objections. Or drop other proposals offered in the spirit of civil 
liberties and aimed to undercut the federal mandates.

“We’re not 
going to let the Biden Administration force businesses to play God or 
doctor and determine whether a religious or medical exemption is valid 
or not,” Republican Senate President Ty Masterson said in a statement 
announcing the session. “We’re going to trust individual Kansans.”

Conservative legislators in Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Wyoming and <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/north-dakota/articles/2021-11-12/vaccines-race-theory-bills-pass-as-session-comes-to-closehttps://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/north-dakota/articles/2021-11-12/vaccines-race-theory-bills-pass-as-session-comes-to-close" target="_blank">North Dakota</a> have already completed special sessions and passed bills aimed at nullifying new federal mandates.

Lawmakers in <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2021/11/17/florida-legislature-sends-ron-desantis-the-covid-19-vaccine-bills-now-what/" target="_blank">Florida</a>
 passed a bill that would fine businesses $10,000 per violation if they 
didn’t offer a number of exemptions to their employees. The governor in <a href="https://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/governor-signs-the-one-vaccine-mandate-bill-that-survived-wyoming-special-session/article_00096807-84cb-5b7a-98f8-0d2f2b87f2d3.html" target="_blank">Wyoming</a>
 signed only one of the 20 bills that were written during the special 
session — a law that gives his office $4 million dollars to challenge 
federal vaccine mandates. Four of the states, including Kansas, will 
elect governors next year.

The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/18/us/coronavirus-public-health.html" target="_blank">reports</a>
 Kansas lawmakers are among legislators across the country that passed 
more than 100 laws that limit state and local health powers. State 
lawmakers passed a bill earlier this year modifying the Kansas Emergency
 Management Act to <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/07/31/1022907425/as-covid-concern-grows-in-kansas-so-does-confusion-over-who-is-in-charge" target="_blank">shift power away</a> from local public health officials and the governor and toward elected county commissioners.

Yet
 even if the federal mandate is struck down, new state laws making 
changes to religious exemptions in Kansas could transform the legal and 
public health systems for years to come.

“It seems like the bills 
are drafted to let the exemptions swallow the rule,” said Sharon Brett, 
legal director of the Kansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties 
Union.

Brett said there’s no freedom of religion provision in the 
First Amendment that allows a person to put another person in danger by 
practicing their religion.

If employers have incentives to skimp 
on verifying the sincerity of an employee who invokes a religious 
exemption — the way such things are subject to challenge in avoiding 
military service, for instance — Brett said that would mark a 
fundamental change.

“It basically gives a two-tiered system of 
justice,” Brett said, “where the religious rights of people in free 
society are upheld over public safety.”

“That sends a really 
difficult and unfortunate signal about who we are, and how we uphold the
 First Amendment in this country,” she said.

New laws 
strengthening religious exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines could also wind
 up undercutting laws on the books requiring vaccinations for 
school-aged children.

“It sets a precedent,” said Dr. Marcus 
Plescia, the chief medical officer for the Association of State and 
Territorial Health Officials. “It's particularly concerning for 
childhood vaccinations.”

He cited previous national measles 
outbreaks where some people garnered religious exemptions and remained 
unvaccinated. In cases like that, Plescia said, public health officials 
have often been able to lobby religious leaders to convince them of the 
good vaccines would do in their communities.

But in this case, he 
said some of these religious exemptions “aren’t really something that 
religions themselves are even calling for.”

State and local health
 officials face this political and legal fight when they’re already 
besieged by the pandemic. That’s made it harder to campaign against new 
laws that could have far-reaching effects on a range of vaccinations.

“There’s not a clear sort of national advocate who can step in,” Plescia said.

Meanwhile,
 he said groups like the conservative American Legislative Exchange 
Council have drafted model legislation adopted by legislatures across 
the country.

Abigail Censky is the political reporter for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @AbigailCensky or email her at abigailcensky@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637267848625.png" alt="Kansas lawmakers will return to Topeka next week to push back on the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kansas lawmakers will return to Topeka next week to push back on the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Experts warn passing new laws to fight the vaccine mandates could sow 
chaos</h2>By ABIGAIL CENSKY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-18/kansas-lawmakers-look-to-undercut-federal-vaccine-mandates-and-that-worries-public-health-officials">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA&nbsp;— Republican lawmakers look determined to take 
on the Biden administration’s insistence that employers pressure their 
workers to get vaccinated against COVID-19.The Legislature meets 
in a special session this week to engage in battle with the federal 
government over the vaccine mandates. But courts will likely have the 
final say on if the mandate is legal, and some factions worry such bold 
action to fight mandates could further atrophy the state's ability to 
respond to public health crises.Last week, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration <a href="https://www.natlawreview.com/article/osha-suspends-ets-enforcement-wake-fifth-circuit-s-latest-jab-vaccine-rule-future" target="_blank">paused enforcement </a>of its own temporary emergency standard <a href="https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/national/11042021" target="_blank">requiring</a> companies with 100 employees or more to mandate that workers either get vaccinated or submit to regular testing.Legislative
 leaders waited until the emergency standard was in place to call a 
special session. But now that the rule is in legal limbo, it’s unlikely 
the Republicans who dominate the Legislature will abandon plans to give 
workers the freedom to dodge the mandates simply by invoking religious 
objections. Or drop other proposals offered in the spirit of civil 
liberties and aimed to undercut the federal mandates.“We’re not 
going to let the Biden Administration force businesses to play God or 
doctor and determine whether a religious or medical exemption is valid 
or not,” Republican Senate President Ty Masterson said in a statement 
announcing the session. “We’re going to trust individual Kansans.”Conservative legislators in Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Wyoming and <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/north-dakota/articles/2021-11-12/vaccines-race-theory-bills-pass-as-session-comes-to-closehttps://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/north-dakota/articles/2021-11-12/vaccines-race-theory-bills-pass-as-session-comes-to-close" target="_blank">North Dakota</a> have already completed special sessions and passed bills aimed at nullifying new federal mandates.Lawmakers in <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2021/11/17/florida-legislature-sends-ron-desantis-the-covid-19-vaccine-bills-now-what/" target="_blank">Florida</a>
 passed a bill that would fine businesses $10,000 per violation if they 
didn’t offer a number of exemptions to their employees. The governor in <a href="https://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/governor-signs-the-one-vaccine-mandate-bill-that-survived-wyoming-special-session/article_00096807-84cb-5b7a-98f8-0d2f2b87f2d3.html" target="_blank">Wyoming</a>
 signed only one of the 20 bills that were written during the special 
session — a law that gives his office $4 million dollars to challenge 
federal vaccine mandates. Four of the states, including Kansas, will 
elect governors next year.The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/18/us/coronavirus-public-health.html" target="_blank">reports</a>
 Kansas lawmakers are among legislators across the country that passed 
more than 100 laws that limit state and local health powers. State 
lawmakers passed a bill earlier this year modifying the Kansas Emergency
 Management Act to <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/07/31/1022907425/as-covid-concern-grows-in-kansas-so-does-confusion-over-who-is-in-charge" target="_blank">shift power away</a> from local public health officials and the governor and toward elected county commissioners.Yet
 even if the federal mandate is struck down, new state laws making 
changes to religious exemptions in Kansas could transform the legal and 
public health systems for years to come.“It seems like the bills 
are drafted to let the exemptions swallow the rule,” said Sharon Brett, 
legal director of the Kansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties 
Union.Brett said there’s no freedom of religion provision in the 
First Amendment that allows a person to put another person in danger by 
practicing their religion.If employers have incentives to skimp 
on verifying the sincerity of an employee who invokes a religious 
exemption — the way such things are subject to challenge in avoiding 
military service, for instance — Brett said that would mark a 
fundamental change.“It basically gives a two-tiered system of 
justice,” Brett said, “where the religious rights of people in free 
society are upheld over public safety.”“That sends a really 
difficult and unfortunate signal about who we are, and how we uphold the
 First Amendment in this country,” she said.New laws 
strengthening religious exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines could also wind
 up undercutting laws on the books requiring vaccinations for 
school-aged children.“It sets a precedent,” said Dr. Marcus 
Plescia, the chief medical officer for the Association of State and 
Territorial Health Officials. “It's particularly concerning for 
childhood vaccinations.”He cited previous national measles 
outbreaks where some people garnered religious exemptions and remained 
unvaccinated. In cases like that, Plescia said, public health officials 
have often been able to lobby religious leaders to convince them of the 
good vaccines would do in their communities.But in this case, he 
said some of these religious exemptions “aren’t really something that 
religions themselves are even calling for.”State and local health
 officials face this political and legal fight when they’re already 
besieged by the pandemic. That’s made it harder to campaign against new 
laws that could have far-reaching effects on a range of vaccinations.“There’s not a clear sort of national advocate who can step in,” Plescia said.Meanwhile,
 he said groups like the conservative American Legislative Exchange 
Council have drafted model legislation adopted by legislatures across 
the country.Abigail Censky is the political reporter for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @AbigailCensky or email her at abigailcensky@kcur.org.

Kansas special session looks to undercut federal vaccine mandates

Featuring selections from holiday favorites

Get in the mood for the most wonderful season of all when the Hays Symphony presents a light program of Christmas favorites on Saturday, Dec. , 7:30 p.m. in the Fort Hays State University Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU.

The program features: Anderson’s&nbsp;Sleigh Ride; Coleridge-Taylor’s&nbsp;Christmas Overture; Guaraldi’s&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas; Holcombe’s&nbsp;Festive Sounds of Hanukah; Krogstad’s&nbsp;The Bells of Christmas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Christmas at the Movies; Mozart’s&nbsp;Sleigh Ride; and selections from Tchaikovsky’s&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite.

Sleigh Ride&nbsp;is&nbsp;one of the most recognizable festive works when the orchestra takes us on a ride with jingling sleigh bells, whip cracks, and a neighing horse. Both&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Christmas at the Movies&nbsp;will remind listeners of family time gathered around the television for those holiday&nbsp;specials. And the magical&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite&nbsp;transports us to a world of sugar plum fairies, toy soldiers, and a Russian folk dance.

Audience members are invited to attend a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning Inc.&nbsp;

All Hays Symphony concerts are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s web site. Tickets may also be picked up in advance at the Hays Convention Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Hays Development Corp., or at the symphony table in the lobby 30 minutes before the performance

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633364673862.png" alt="Dr. Brian Buckstead" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Brian Buckstead</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Featuring selections from holiday favorites</h2>News releaseGet in the mood for the most wonderful season of all when the Hays Symphony presents a light program of Christmas favorites on Saturday, Dec. , 7:30 p.m. in the Fort Hays State University Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU.The program features: Anderson’s&nbsp;Sleigh Ride; Coleridge-Taylor’s&nbsp;Christmas Overture; Guaraldi’s&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas; Holcombe’s&nbsp;Festive Sounds of Hanukah; Krogstad’s&nbsp;The Bells of Christmas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Christmas at the Movies; Mozart’s&nbsp;Sleigh Ride; and selections from Tchaikovsky’s&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite.Sleigh Ride&nbsp;is&nbsp;one of the most recognizable festive works when the orchestra takes us on a ride with jingling sleigh bells, whip cracks, and a neighing horse. Both&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Christmas at the Movies&nbsp;will remind listeners of family time gathered around the television for those holiday&nbsp;specials. And the magical&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite&nbsp;transports us to a world of sugar plum fairies, toy soldiers, and a Russian folk dance.Audience members are invited to attend a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning Inc.&nbsp;All Hays Symphony concerts are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s web site. Tickets may also be picked up in advance at the Hays Convention Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Hays Development Corp., or at the symphony table in the lobby 30 minutes before the performance

Hays Symphony's 'A Holiday Pops Concert' set for Dec. 4

In October, Fort Hays State University’s Admissions Office and the Department of Teacher Education hosted the third annual Future Educators Day. This event brings together area high school students interested in the teaching profession and the best teachers in Kansas. The goal of this event is to inspire the next generation of teachers through personal interactions, discussions, and examples of dynamic teaching. &nbsp;

This year’s event brought over 70 students and guests from 17 area high schools to the FHSU campus. These potential future educators, high school juniors and seniors, had the opportunity to observe and interact with the Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) &nbsp;team, learn about teacher preparation at FHSU, meet with department representatives and explore their programs, as well as participate in scholarship drawings.

Dr. Chris Jochum, chair of FHSU’s Department of Teacher Education, was excited to host so many area students in person this year. “It is great to have so many students and from such a variety of schools visit this year,” he said. “We hope to introduce students early to the idea of teaching and demonstrate all the possibilities that FHSU has to offer.”

“While the teacher shortage within Kansas and across the country is a real concern, I think it’s also important to highlight events like these which demonstrate the importance of the teaching profession and that there are high school students interesting in teaching as a career,” Jochum said.&nbsp;

FHSU Provost, Dr. Jill Arensdorf, began the day welcoming everyone. In her opening remarks, Arensdorf encouraged students to make a difference, noting that Kansas currently has over 500 teaching vacancies that districts are struggling to fill.&nbsp;

Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the College of Education at FHSU, encouraged students to embrace “a life of adventure” and challenged them to be willing to explore, saying, “You don’t know where teaching will take you.” Adams recounted some of his own adventures since becoming an educator, ones that have taken him across the United States and around the world.

The 2022 Kansas Teacher-of-the-Year team, which includes the top eight teachers, provided an interactive presentation centered around the theme of making connections. Entitled “Taking Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students from Surviving to Thriving,” the team focused on the importance of teachers connecting personally with all students.&nbsp;

One of the responsibilities of the KTOY team is to provide expert knowledge and experiences to current and future teachers. This year, the 2022 team, including the 2022 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Suzanne Stevenson, made its very first stop at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

The KTOY team led many activities where participants connected with others at the event, demonstrating the relative ease of making connections to others. Stevenson stressed to participants, “you will need to step outside of your comfort zone and make these connections.”&nbsp;

Other activities at the event included opportunities for visitors to interact with current education majors. This question and answer session allowed potential future educators a real behind-the-scenes look at the education program at FHSU. Additionally, students were able to learn about FHSU programs, majors, and other campus opportunities.

The final activity of the day included a drawing for scholarships. The FHSU School of Education awarded four $250 and two $500 scholarships. The FHSU Admissions Office provided three $1,000 awards. A fourth $1000 scholarship was awarded thanks to the generous donation by Barbary and Craig Ramsey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637255860016.jpeg" alt="FHSU Alum and KTOY team member Amanda Ketterling" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Alum and KTOY team member Amanda Ketterling</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsIn October, Fort Hays State University’s Admissions Office and the Department of Teacher Education hosted the third annual Future Educators Day. This event brings together area high school students interested in the teaching profession and the best teachers in Kansas. The goal of this event is to inspire the next generation of teachers through personal interactions, discussions, and examples of dynamic teaching. &nbsp;This year’s event brought over 70 students and guests from 17 area high schools to the FHSU campus. These potential future educators, high school juniors and seniors, had the opportunity to observe and interact with the Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) &nbsp;team, learn about teacher preparation at FHSU, meet with department representatives and explore their programs, as well as participate in scholarship drawings.Dr. Chris Jochum, chair of FHSU’s Department of Teacher Education, was excited to host so many area students in person this year. “It is great to have so many students and from such a variety of schools visit this year,” he said. “We hope to introduce students early to the idea of teaching and demonstrate all the possibilities that FHSU has to offer.”“While the teacher shortage within Kansas and across the country is a real concern, I think it’s also important to highlight events like these which demonstrate the importance of the teaching profession and that there are high school students interesting in teaching as a career,” Jochum said.&nbsp;FHSU Provost, Dr. Jill Arensdorf, began the day welcoming everyone. In her opening remarks, Arensdorf encouraged students to make a difference, noting that Kansas currently has over 500 teaching vacancies that districts are struggling to fill.&nbsp;Dr. Paul Adams, Dean of the College of Education at FHSU, encouraged students to embrace “a life of adventure” and challenged them to be willing to explore, saying, “You don’t know where teaching will take you.” Adams recounted some of his own adventures since becoming an educator, ones that have taken him across the United States and around the world.The 2022 Kansas Teacher-of-the-Year team, which includes the top eight teachers, provided an interactive presentation centered around the theme of making connections. Entitled “Taking Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students from Surviving to Thriving,” the team focused on the importance of teachers connecting personally with all students.&nbsp;One of the responsibilities of the KTOY team is to provide expert knowledge and experiences to current and future teachers. This year, the 2022 team, including the 2022 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Suzanne Stevenson, made its very first stop at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;The KTOY team led many activities where participants connected with others at the event, demonstrating the relative ease of making connections to others. Stevenson stressed to participants, “you will need to step outside of your comfort zone and make these connections.”&nbsp;Other activities at the event included opportunities for visitors to interact with current education majors. This question and answer session allowed potential future educators a real behind-the-scenes look at the education program at FHSU. Additionally, students were able to learn about FHSU programs, majors, and other campus opportunities.The final activity of the day included a drawing for scholarships. The FHSU School of Education awarded four $250 and two $500 scholarships. The FHSU Admissions Office provided three $1,000 awards. A fourth $1000 scholarship was awarded thanks to the generous donation by Barbary and Craig Ramsey.

Fort Hays State’s third annual Future Educators Day

	The United Nations (UN) completed the COP26 climate talks in November 2021 in Glasgow, UK.&nbsp; Sadly, the highlights were more of the same old hysterical alarmism.

	COP26 climate summit was expensive, energy-burning theater.&nbsp; One hundred eighteen private jets flew into the airport and President Biden’s motorcade had 24 vehicles.

	The 20,000 wealthy diplomats, Wall Street financiers, and activists who attended claim that the world’s future is their priority, but their actions reveal a disdain for humanity that should undermine any ideas they propose.&nbsp; The main message was people should use less and do with less.

	President Biden should have touted America's successes in reducing emissions.&nbsp; From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%.&nbsp; Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions by 27% — as the US economy grew by 25%.&nbsp; Biden should have compared that to China's announcement of 30 new coal-fired power plants and China being the world's biggest polluter.&nbsp; The president should have stood up for his people. Our people.

As winter approaches, Europe is getting cold.&nbsp; Low energy supplies, mortgaged to Russian control of the Nord Stream II gas pipeline (given the go-ahead by Biden), and shortages of wind power are jacking up energy prices and making leaders there nervous.

Winter is approaching in the United States as well.&nbsp; Gasoline prices have been rising steadily and they are about to be joined by heating oil and natural gas heat.&nbsp; President Biden should be rethinking permits for the Keystone Pipeline.&nbsp; Instead, the president asked - demanded – that OPEC pump more oil and shipping it halfway around the world in diesel or coal powered ships to American ports with offloading problems.&nbsp; OPEC has said no.&nbsp; That is not surprising to anyone but, perhaps, the president.

In an effort to woo Iran, the administration came into office deriding Saudi Arabia and what it called "the Saudi war in Yemen."&nbsp; More correctly, that war is the Iranian-fostered Houthi war in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, in which Saudi cities and oil production facilities have been attacked.&nbsp; But in September, the administration pulled American Patriot Missile batteries out of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and some from Jordan, leaving those countries exposed to increasingly long range and accurate missiles supplied to the Houthis by Tehran.

In what universe would Saudi Arabia pump more oil, lower the price, and help out the United States?

Americans have had fairly stable energy prices for the past few years, and fairly low ones, in part due to the tremendous increase in energy production in the United States – both oil and natural gas.&nbsp; In 2018, the U.S. produced 95% of its domestic energy requirements, the largest share since 1967.&nbsp; Gas prices, the marker Americans watch almost to the exclusion of everything else, averaged $2.60/gal in 2019, 4% lower than in 2018.

Then in 2019, Russia and Saudi Arabia colluded oddly, not to keep the price up but to outdo one another in production to drive it down to where it would bankrupt American producers, looking for market share for when they drove us out.&nbsp;

President Trump used the situation to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which President Biden is now considering tapping.

The truth of the climate summit and energy policy is that people don't want high energy costs or to be cold, and their governments have to respond – in China, in Europe, or in America the ramifications of high energy costs and cold citizens are politically dangerous whether they go to the ballot box or have revolutions.

For all the high-minded talk at the climate summit, the reality is it is all about production.&nbsp; And for Americans, it should be domestic production for domestic consumption.

America's president is failing the people.&nbsp; Our people.

Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584027001010.png" alt="Ed Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association." />
 <figcaption>Ed Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.</figcaption>
 </figure>	The United Nations (UN) completed the COP26 climate talks in November 2021 in Glasgow, UK.&nbsp; Sadly, the highlights were more of the same old hysterical alarmism.	COP26 climate summit was expensive, energy-burning theater.&nbsp; One hundred eighteen private jets flew into the airport and President Biden’s motorcade had 24 vehicles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>	The 20,000 wealthy diplomats, Wall Street financiers, and activists who attended claim that the world’s future is their priority, but their actions reveal a disdain for humanity that should undermine any ideas they propose.&nbsp; The main message was people should use less and do with less.	President Biden should have touted America's successes in reducing emissions.&nbsp; From 2005 to 2018, total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions fell 12% while global energy-related emissions increased nearly 24%.&nbsp; Since 2005, national greenhouse gas emissions fell by 10%, and power sector emissions by 27% — as the US economy grew by 25%.&nbsp; Biden should have compared that to China's announcement of 30 new coal-fired power plants and China being the world's biggest polluter.&nbsp; The president should have stood up for his people. Our people.As winter approaches, Europe is getting cold.&nbsp; Low energy supplies, mortgaged to Russian control of the Nord Stream II gas pipeline (given the go-ahead by Biden), and shortages of wind power are jacking up energy prices and making leaders there nervous.Winter is approaching in the United States as well.&nbsp; Gasoline prices have been rising steadily and they are about to be joined by heating oil and natural gas heat.&nbsp; President Biden should be rethinking permits for the Keystone Pipeline.&nbsp; Instead, the president asked - demanded – that OPEC pump more oil and shipping it halfway around the world in diesel or coal powered ships to American ports with offloading problems.&nbsp; OPEC has said no.&nbsp; That is not surprising to anyone but, perhaps, the president.In an effort to woo Iran, the administration came into office deriding Saudi Arabia and what it called "the Saudi war in Yemen."&nbsp; More correctly, that war is the Iranian-fostered Houthi war in Yemen and Saudi Arabia, in which Saudi cities and oil production facilities have been attacked.&nbsp; But in September, the administration pulled American Patriot Missile batteries out of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and some from Jordan, leaving those countries exposed to increasingly long range and accurate missiles supplied to the Houthis by Tehran.In what universe would Saudi Arabia pump more oil, lower the price, and help out the United States?Americans have had fairly stable energy prices for the past few years, and fairly low ones, in part due to the tremendous increase in energy production in the United States – both oil and natural gas.&nbsp; In 2018, the U.S. produced 95% of its domestic energy requirements, the largest share since 1967.&nbsp; Gas prices, the marker Americans watch almost to the exclusion of everything else, averaged $2.60/gal in 2019, 4% lower than in 2018.Then in 2019, Russia and Saudi Arabia colluded oddly, not to keep the price up but to outdo one another in production to drive it down to where it would bankrupt American producers, looking for market share for when they drove us out.&nbsp;President Trump used the situation to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which President Biden is now considering tapping.The truth of the climate summit and energy policy is that people don't want high energy costs or to be cold, and their governments have to respond – in China, in Europe, or in America the ramifications of high energy costs and cold citizens are politically dangerous whether they go to the ballot box or have revolutions.For all the high-minded talk at the climate summit, the reality is it is all about production.&nbsp; And for Americans, it should be domestic production for domestic consumption.America's president is failing the people.&nbsp; Our people.Ed Cross is president of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

CROSS: Biden energy policies failing the people — our people

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new couple has assumed ownership of the historic Bissing House, 117 W. 13th in Hays.

Casey Kelly and his wife, Manamee Guha, bought the house several months ago.

The couple became interested in owning the bed and breakfast when Guha was hired at Fort Hays State University. Casey works in IT and his work is remote. The couple just moved to Hays from Miami.

The couple is living on the third floor of the historic home and renting the three bedrooms on the second floor. The living room is shared space with the guests. 

The home was formerly owned by Kris and Larissa Munsch, who remodeled the home and ran it under the name The Inn at 117. Prior to that, the home was operated as the Tea Rose Inn.

Kelly said he and his wife plan to amp up breakfast and make other changes to enhance their borders' stays in the house.

The name Bissing House came from the original builders and owners of the home.&nbsp; The house was built in 1909 by a prominent Hays entrepreneur and carpenter, Justus Bissing Jr.

After living in the home for a few years, he sold the home to the Basgall family. The Basgall family loved and cared for the home for over 80 years. The home is filled with antiques that have been luckily inherited from the Basgall family, original to the house. 

Each suite is named after a historic figure tied to the house with a history binder relating to that person/family.

Kelly said despite the hit the hospitality industry took during COVID, their business has been busy since they took over the bed and breakfast.

"People are wanting to get back together," he said. "In the summer when we first moved in, we were getting the tail end of the summer road trip — of people who were kind of feeling cooped up a little bit.

"They wanted to get out, but they wanted a nice place to stay. I can't say anything for 2020, but I think things have really picked up again."

"Given, yes, I've lived everywhere, we've neither of us have really lived in suburbs or rural or just out of the way," he said. "We like walking to Gella's on a Friday. We like walking to the Golden Q and just grabbing a bite, but with the caveat that we can still jump in the car and go to Vine or Salina."

He added, "I'm excited about how downtown is going to be. It's kind of on the move up."

You can book a room at the Bissing House through AirBNB. You can access bookings through the AirBNB app or click the AirBNB icon on the <a href="https://bissinghouse.com/">Bissing House website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637189035761.jpeg" alt="Casey Kelly and his wife are the new owners of the historic Bissing House bed and breakfast. " />
 <figcaption>Casey Kelly and his wife are the new owners of the historic Bissing House bed and breakfast. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new couple has assumed ownership of the historic Bissing House, 117 W. 13th in Hays.Casey Kelly and his wife, Manamee Guha, bought the house several months ago.The couple became interested in owning the bed and breakfast when Guha was hired at Fort Hays State University. Casey works in IT and his work is remote. The couple just moved to Hays from Miami. The couple is living on the third floor of the historic home and renting the three bedrooms on the second floor. The living room is shared space with the guests. The home was formerly owned by Kris and Larissa Munsch, who remodeled the home and ran it under the name The Inn at 117. Prior to that, the home was operated as the Tea Rose Inn.Kelly said he and his wife plan to amp up breakfast and make other changes to enhance their borders' stays in the house.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637189220137.jpeg" alt="One of the bedrooms in the Bissing House bed and breakfast. " />
 <figcaption>One of the bedrooms in the Bissing House bed and breakfast. </figcaption>
 </figure>The name Bissing House came from the original builders and owners of the home.&nbsp; The house was built in 1909 by a prominent Hays entrepreneur and carpenter, Justus Bissing Jr.After living in the home for a few years, he sold the home to the Basgall family. The Basgall family loved and cared for the home for over 80 years. The home is filled with antiques that have been luckily inherited from the Basgall family, original to the house. Each suite is named after a historic figure tied to the house with a history binder relating to that person/family.Kelly said despite the hit the hospitality industry took during COVID, their business has been busy since they took over the bed and breakfast."People are wanting to get back together," he said. "In the summer when we first moved in, we were getting the tail end of the summer road trip — of people who were kind of feeling cooped up a little bit."They wanted to get out, but they wanted a nice place to stay. I can't say anything for 2020, but I think things have really picked up again."Kelly said he loves downtown Hays."Given, yes, I've lived everywhere, we've neither of us have really lived in suburbs or rural or just out of the way," he said. "We like walking to Gella's on a Friday. We like walking to the Golden Q and just grabbing a bite, but with the caveat that we can still jump in the car and go to Vine or Salina."He added, "I'm excited about how downtown is going to be. It's kind of on the move up." You can book a room at the Bissing House through AirBNB. You can access bookings through the AirBNB app or click the AirBNB icon on the <a href="https://bissinghouse.com/">Bissing House website</a>.

Bissing House opens under new owners as hospitality rebounds

By JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community College

There is an old saying that “TV rots your brain,” but for 23-year-old Seth Gruber that was not the case. In fact, his penchant for crime shows lead to his career in law enforcement.&nbsp; “Criminal Justice was always an area that interested me since I was young,” he said. “I was always fascinated by all the small details that investigators were able to uncover during various investigations you’d see on TV.”

Gruber, a Russell native, found his way to law enforcement through Barton’s Emergency Medical Services program. He discovered that taking EMS courses would count toward his Criminal Justice degree, so he dove in and worked his way through Barton’s program including the real-life-scenario-packed “Field Ops Day” that the department holds each spring.

“I was able to do the Field Ops Day with the EMS program in 2017 and was very ecstatic that I did, as it was a great opportunity to see how all the agencies work together and see some scenarios I could be faced with in the future,” he said. “Then, as a part of the Criminal Justice program, I was also able to participate in the law enforcement side of Field Ops Day in the Spring of 2018. Again, this was a great opportunity to have certified officers from the surrounding areas come to share with us scenarios they have faced previously and provide us with advice to ensure we would have long-lasting careers.”

However, it was not just the hands-on experience he received during Field Ops Day that he found beneficial.

“Some of my closest friends from Barton that were in the criminal justice program at the same time I was are now certified law enforcement officers all around the state, and they are a valuable tool and resource to reach out to,” he said.

Gruber left Barton with his associate degree in Criminal Justice in 2018. However, he was still too young to enroll in the Kansas Highway Patrol’s training program, so he worked for the City of Hoisington in various roles learning more and more about civic infrastructure that he hoped to one day protect and serve as an officer of the law. He also volunteered as an EMT for the Hoisington and Moundridge departments.&nbsp; Gruber turned 21 in late 2018 and enrolled in the KHP’s program. He was hired in June of 2019 and stationed in western Kansas along Interstate 70 in Logan County.

While there were numerous agencies Gruber could’ve worked for, choosing the KHP was a no-brainer.&nbsp; “I chose to become a State Trooper as they were always viewed as the elite group in Kansas,” he said. “Also, there are no boundary or jurisdiction lines or restrictions on where they can go to help someone in need.”

Gruber said he took the job knowing it was a difficult one, but vital to the very existence of our society. His day-to-day life is filled with unknowns, but that is part of the allure for him.&nbsp; “Law enforcement officers are a necessity to hold everyone accountable for their actions, whether someone was watching or not,” he said. “My favorite part is never knowing what my day will consist of or who I will have the opportunity to meet. My office views from my patrol vehicle are something you won’t find anywhere else.”

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://criminaljustice.bartonccc.edu/">criminaljustice.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information on the Criminal Justice program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637092499532.jpeg" alt="Seth Gruber / Photo by Joe Vinduska" />
 <figcaption>Seth Gruber / Photo by Joe Vinduska</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE VINDUSKA Barton Community CollegeThere is an old saying that “TV rots your brain,” but for 23-year-old Seth Gruber that was not the case. In fact, his penchant for crime shows lead to his career in law enforcement.&nbsp; “Criminal Justice was always an area that interested me since I was young,” he said. “I was always fascinated by all the small details that investigators were able to uncover during various investigations you’d see on TV.”Gruber, a Russell native, found his way to law enforcement through Barton’s Emergency Medical Services program. He discovered that taking EMS courses would count toward his Criminal Justice degree, so he dove in and worked his way through Barton’s program including the real-life-scenario-packed “Field Ops Day” that the department holds each spring.“I was able to do the Field Ops Day with the EMS program in 2017 and was very ecstatic that I did, as it was a great opportunity to see how all the agencies work together and see some scenarios I could be faced with in the future,” he said. “Then, as a part of the Criminal Justice program, I was also able to participate in the law enforcement side of Field Ops Day in the Spring of 2018. Again, this was a great opportunity to have certified officers from the surrounding areas come to share with us scenarios they have faced previously and provide us with advice to ensure we would have long-lasting careers.”However, it was not just the hands-on experience he received during Field Ops Day that he found beneficial.“Some of my closest friends from Barton that were in the criminal justice program at the same time I was are now certified law enforcement officers all around the state, and they are a valuable tool and resource to reach out to,” he said.Gruber left Barton with his associate degree in Criminal Justice in 2018. However, he was still too young to enroll in the Kansas Highway Patrol’s training program, so he worked for the City of Hoisington in various roles learning more and more about civic infrastructure that he hoped to one day protect and serve as an officer of the law. He also volunteered as an EMT for the Hoisington and Moundridge departments.&nbsp; Gruber turned 21 in late 2018 and enrolled in the KHP’s program. He was hired in June of 2019 and stationed in western Kansas along Interstate 70 in Logan County.While there were numerous agencies Gruber could’ve worked for, choosing the KHP was a no-brainer.&nbsp; “I chose to become a State Trooper as they were always viewed as the elite group in Kansas,” he said. “Also, there are no boundary or jurisdiction lines or restrictions on where they can go to help someone in need.”Gruber said he took the job knowing it was a difficult one, but vital to the very existence of our society. His day-to-day life is filled with unknowns, but that is part of the allure for him.&nbsp; “Law enforcement officers are a necessity to hold everyone accountable for their actions, whether someone was watching or not,” he said. “My favorite part is never knowing what my day will consist of or who I will have the opportunity to meet. My office views from my patrol vehicle are something you won’t find anywhere else.”Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://criminaljustice.bartonccc.edu/">criminaljustice.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information on the Criminal Justice program.

Barton grad, Russell native finds success as western Kan. state trooper

LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will host the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the museum complex in La Crosse. 

Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live musical performances including piano and organ. Visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies and popcorn, or roast their own marshmallows over an open fire. There will be a take-home crafts project for kids.

Santa Claus will arrive at 6 p.m. on the fire truck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. For kids of all ages, La Crosse Fire District #4 will be serving hot dogs and chocolate milk or water.

There will be a one-night only display of antique toys in the recently restored Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. In the Barbed Wire Museum, visitors can view models and schematics from the Fort Hays State University Exhibits Design class project to renovate and expand the museum’s galleries.

Events begin at 5 p.m., Friday, November 26 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at <a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/RCHS">www.rushcounty.org/RCHS</a> or call 785-222-2808.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637008013759.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will host the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live musical performances including piano and organ. Visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies and popcorn, or roast their own marshmallows over an open fire. There will be a take-home crafts project for kids.Santa Claus will arrive at 6 p.m. on the fire truck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. For kids of all ages, La Crosse Fire District #4 will be serving hot dogs and chocolate milk or water.There will be a one-night only display of antique toys in the recently restored Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. In the Barbed Wire Museum, visitors can view models and schematics from the Fort Hays State University Exhibits Design class project to renovate and expand the museum’s galleries.Events begin at 5 p.m., Friday, November 26 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at <a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/RCHS">www.rushcounty.org/RCHS</a> or call 785-222-2808.

La Crosse will host annual Old-Fashioned Christmas

Beginning Saturday through Nov. 29, the Hays Police Department will join many other law enforcement agencies across the state, including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Kansas *Thanksgiving Safe Arrival traffic enforcement campaign. 

Although all Kansas traffic laws will be enforced, this extra provision will be aggressively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws and driving under the influence enforcement.

On the drive to zero, YOU are in the driver’s seat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633024031174.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police DepartmentBeginning Saturday through Nov. 29, the Hays Police Department will join many other law enforcement agencies across the state, including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Kansas *Thanksgiving Safe Arrival traffic enforcement campaign. Although all Kansas traffic laws will be enforced, this extra provision will be aggressively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws and driving under the influence enforcement. Remember: Make the right choice. On the drive to zero, YOU are in the driver’s seat.

Hays PD launches holiday traffic enforcement campaign

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

If you have a sore foot, you don’t want your doctor to treat you for a headache. If you have a stomachache, you don’t want your doctor to put a cast on your hand.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637157513181.png" alt="Landon Oldham" />
 <figcaption>Landon Oldham</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;If you have a sore foot, you don’t want your doctor to treat you for a headache. If you have a stomachache, you don’t want your doctor to put a cast on your hand.&nbsp;The treatment should be driven by the precise diagnosis.&nbsp;Such is the case in modern agriculture, where farmers are recognizing that different types or amounts of soil treatments can be applied more precisely exactly where they are needed. Today we’ll meet a company that is helping farmers use data to apply their inputs in a more efficient, effective and environmentally friendly way.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Landon Oldham is the founder and owner of Heartland Soil Services, headquartered in Cunningham with representatives in several other Kansas towns. Landon grew up in Cunningham, working for multiple farmers in the region. He met Vicki in grade school and they would eventually marry. He earned a degree in agribusiness at K-State.&nbsp;During and after college, he worked for a Missouri company installing precision agriculture equipment. “It seemed to me that there was a missing link,” Landon said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Farmers needed more data in order to use those systems to their full potential.” &nbsp;He saw how more information would help farmers use this equipment more effectively and thought there might be a business opportunity there.&nbsp;“It was the end of 2009,” Landon said. “My wife was eight months pregnant with our first child and we had signed a contract on a house. I told her my idea and she said, `Yes, it could work.’ I said, `Well, I hope it does, because I quit my job today.”&nbsp;It was a leap of faith, but that was the beginning of Heartland Soil Services. Today, Heartland Soil Services&nbsp;specializes in soil sampling, yield mapping, imagery, irrigation management tools, variable rate seeding and fertilizer prescriptions, and end of season data analysis. This is useful for precision agriculture, which means applying precise amounts of field inputs only where needed and in the amounts needed.&nbsp;In previous decades, farmers might apply blanket amounts of fertilizer to their fields.&nbsp;&nbsp;Heartland Soil Services can gather the data to enable farmers to adjust their field applications according to nature’s needs. The process begins with testing soil samples from a field.&nbsp;“Unless you test, it’s just a guess” is a Heartland Soil Services motto. The soil tests indicate what nutrients are needed where.&nbsp;“Our field technician will physically drive the boundary of a field, lay out a grid map, and pull (soil) core samples for testing,” Landon said. The samples are tested in a lab and the results are entered into the Heartland Soil Services software system.&nbsp;“From that, we create a soil surface nutrient analysis and product recommendation,” Landon said. “Those recommendations are specific to that crop, that field, that grower, and that acre,” he said.&nbsp;The analysis covers both major and micro-nutrient needs. Furthermore, he said, that information can be loaded onto a thumb drive that can be plugged into the equipment so that inputs can be applied at various rates as needed in the field.&nbsp;When Heartland Soil Services’ system was first developed in 2013, the data files were too large for practical use. “We built our own file storage and transfer system,” Landon said. Now, Heartland Soil Services offers several services including DataFarm, which allows producers or co-ops to download files into a tractor or to control a spreader or sprayer.&nbsp;“The data is accessible on a cell phone,” Landon said.&nbsp;Heartland Soil Services works with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service on a program called FarmComp, which compiles and formats data that farmers need to submit in order to comply with soil and water conservation programs.&nbsp;All this creates a modern, high-tech way of farming that is good for the producer and the environment. It’s great to find this cutting-edge business in a rural community such as Cunningham, population 454 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandsoilservices.com/">www.heartlandsoilservices.com</a>.&nbsp;We commend Landon Oldham and all the people at Heartland Soil Services for making a difference with their innovative, high-tech approach to farming. Can their system help a farmer and the environment?&nbsp;&nbsp;Precisely.&nbsp;