By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The results of the race for the third seat up for election on the Hays USD 489 school board in this month’s general election did not change after the remaining votes were tallied Monday during the election canvass.

Following the Nov. 2 general election, Megan Zampieri-Lillpopp led Cathy Hopkins by five votes for the final spot up for grabs on the board of education, 1,217 to 1,212.

At Monday’s special Ellis County Commission meeting to canvass the election, 34 of 37 provisional ballots were added to the total results and the margin of five votes remained the same, 1,224 to 1,219 in favor of Zampieri-Lillpopp.

Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling told the commission that no races changed as a result of the provisional ballots.

Provisional ballots, Dreiling said, were either the voter moved to a different address within the county, changed their name or were not registered in Ellis County.

The three ballots that could not be counted were because the voter was not registered in Ellis County.

Dreiling also said they conducted a post-election audit of two randomly selected races, as required by law, and the hand counted ballots matched the machine tally.

The commission voted 3-0 to approve the canvass.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe results of the race for the third seat up for election on the Hays USD 489 school board in this month’s general election did not change after the remaining votes were tallied Monday during the election canvass.Following the Nov. 2 general election, Megan Zampieri-Lillpopp led Cathy Hopkins by five votes for the final spot up for grabs on the board of education, 1,217 to 1,212.At Monday’s special Ellis County Commission meeting to canvass the election, 34 of 37 provisional ballots were added to the total results and the margin of five votes remained the same, 1,224 to 1,219 in favor of Zampieri-Lillpopp.Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling told the commission that no races changed as a result of the provisional ballots.Provisional ballots, Dreiling said, were either the voter moved to a different address within the county, changed their name or were not registered in Ellis County.The three ballots that could not be counted were because the voter was not registered in Ellis County.Dreiling also said they conducted a post-election audit of two randomly selected races, as required by law, and the hand counted ballots matched the machine tally.The official turnout was 19.79 percent.The commission voted 3-0 to approve the canvass.

Hays USD 489 vote finalized after Ellis County canvass

Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy resigned at Monday's Ellis County Commission meeting.&nbsp;

Kennedy has served as director of the county health department since January 2020 — just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic made its presence felt in Kansas.

This is a developing story. Check Hays Post for more as details become available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637018124020.jpeg" alt="Jason Kennedy" />
 <figcaption>Jason Kennedy</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy resigned at Monday's Ellis County Commission meeting.&nbsp;Kennedy has served as director of the county health department since January 2020 — just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic made its presence felt in Kansas.This is a developing story. Check Hays Post for more as details become available.&nbsp;

BREAKING: Ellis Co. Health Services director steps down

The TMP-Marian Monarchs football team had 14 players named
to 18 spots on the 2021 all Mid-Continent League teams after recording their
second straight winning season.

Junior quarterback Kade Harris, senior wide receiver Jace
Wentling and offensive lineman Matthew Hess were all named to the first team
offense.

Harris finished with 2,000 total yards of offense and 19
touchdowns. 

Wentling hauled in a career-high 32 passes for 423 yards and
three touchdowns. Wenting finished with at least one reception in 26 straight
games and 29-of-30 games in three seasons. 

Wentling and Harris were also named to the first team
defense as defensive backs and sophomore Kendall Walker was a first team pick
at defensive tackle.

Harris led the Monarchs with a career-high 115 tackles. He
also finished with 10 tackles for loss.

Wentling also recorded a career-high with 68 tackles and one
interception that was returned for a touchdown.

Walker led TMP with 11 tackles for loss and finished with 52
tackles on the year.

TMP also swept the first team special teams spots. Wentling
was named to the first team as both a kicker and a punter and Harris was named
to the first team as a retuner.

Hess also earned second team all-league honors on the defensive
line. He was joined on the second team by senior linebacker Bryce Seib and offensive
lineman Kolten Hagans.

Sieb also earned honor mention honors at running back and
Walker was named to the honorable mention offensive line.

Senior Mark Rack (wide receiver) and Kenton Ginther (tight
end) were also named to the honorable mention team.

Junior lineman Michael Hale was named to the honorable
mention team for both offensive and defensive line.

TMP finished the season 8-2 and lost to Kingman in the 2A
state quarterfinals. 

This season marked just the third time a TMP team had advanced
past the first round of the playoffs. It was also the first time since 2002
that a TMP team won a first round and second round playoff game and the eight
wins was the most since 2002.

Hays PostThe TMP-Marian Monarchs football team had 14 players named
to 18 spots on the 2021 all Mid-Continent League teams after recording their
second straight winning season.Junior quarterback Kade Harris, senior wide receiver Jace
Wentling and offensive lineman Matthew Hess were all named to the first team
offense.Harris finished with 2,000 total yards of offense and 19
touchdowns. Wentling hauled in a career-high 32 passes for 423 yards and
three touchdowns. Wenting finished with at least one reception in 26 straight
games and 29-of-30 games in three seasons. Wentling and Harris were also named to the first team
defense as defensive backs and sophomore Kendall Walker was a first team pick
at defensive tackle.Harris led the Monarchs with a career-high 115 tackles. He
also finished with 10 tackles for loss.Wentling also recorded a career-high with 68 tackles and one
interception that was returned for a touchdown.Walker led TMP with 11 tackles for loss and finished with 52
tackles on the year.TMP also swept the first team special teams spots. Wentling
was named to the first team as both a kicker and a punter and Harris was named
to the first team as a retuner.Hess also earned second team all-league honors on the defensive
line. He was joined on the second team by senior linebacker Bryce Seib and offensive
lineman Kolten Hagans.Sieb also earned honor mention honors at running back and
Walker was named to the honorable mention offensive line.Senior Mark Rack (wide receiver) and Kenton Ginther (tight
end) were also named to the honorable mention team.Junior lineman Michael Hale was named to the honorable
mention team for both offensive and defensive line.TMP finished the season 8-2 and lost to Kingman in the 2A
state quarterfinals. This season marked just the third time a TMP team had advanced
past the first round of the playoffs. It was also the first time since 2002
that a TMP team won a first round and second round playoff game and the eight
wins was the most since 2002.You can find a complete list below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637596067046.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637596164222.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637596214387.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Monarchs land 14 players on all-MCL teams

Lewis Black is scheduled to perform in the Stiefel Theatre at 8 p.m. Jan. 28, according to information released this afternoon by Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director.

Tickets start at $55 and go on sale at noon on Friday. 

To buy tickets online go only to the official Stiefel website at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. You also can buy tickets in person at the box office of the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue, or by calling the box office at 785-827-1998. The box office is open from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Please check the <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">Stiefel website</a> for current COVID-19 policies.&nbsp;

Black is kicking off his Lewis Black: Off the Rails tour in Denver on Jan. 21. After Denver, his next stop is scheduled to be Salina, according to information from Black. 

Performer information as provided by Black

Black is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. Receiving critical acclaim, he performs more than 200 nights annually, to sold-out audiences throughout Europe, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. He is one of a few performers to sell out multiple renowned theaters, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Brooks Atkinson Theatre, New York City Center, the Main Stage at the Mirage in Las Vegas, and a sold-out Broadway run at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City.

His live performances provide a cathartic release of anger and disillusionment for his audience. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world.

Black does a live streaming show called THE RANT IS DUE at the end of each of his standup performances. This show is written by the audience watching throughout the world and also by the audience in the area of each show. With so much to get off their chests, people use Lewis’ platform to rant about what is on their minds. These rants are now also available on his podcast, Lewis Black's Rantcast.

Black continues as the longest running contributor to The Daily Show on Comedy Central. He has had comedy specials on HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime and Epix. In 2001, he won Best Male Stand-Up at the American Comedy Awards. He has released eight comedy albums, including the 2007 Grammy Award-winning The Carnegie Hall Performance. He won his second Grammy Award for his album Stark Raving Black and has published three bestselling books: Nothing’s Sacred (Simon &amp; Schuster, 2005), Me of Little Faith (Riverhead Books, 2008) and I’m Dreaming of a Black Christmas (Riverhead Books, 2010). In 2012, he performed eight sell-out shows at Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway as well as did one of his two HBO specials Black on Broadway. In 2015, Black notably voiced the character Anger in the Academy Award winning film from Pixar, Inside Out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637005152059.jpeg" alt="Lewis Black. Photo by Joey L./ACLU courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Lewis Black. Photo by Joey L./ACLU courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>The King of Rant is coming to Salina.Lewis Black is scheduled to perform in the Stiefel Theatre at 8 p.m. Jan. 28, according to information released this afternoon by Jane Gates, Stiefel executive director.Tickets start at $55 and go on sale at noon on Friday. To buy tickets online go only to the official Stiefel website at: <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>. You also can buy tickets in person at the box office of the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue, or by calling the box office at 785-827-1998. The box office is open from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.Please check the <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">Stiefel website</a> for current COVID-19 policies.&nbsp;Black is kicking off his Lewis Black: Off the Rails tour in Denver on Jan. 21. After Denver, his next stop is scheduled to be Salina, according to information from Black. Performer information as provided by BlackBlack is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. Receiving critical acclaim, he performs more than 200 nights annually, to sold-out audiences throughout Europe, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. He is one of a few performers to sell out multiple renowned theaters, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Brooks Atkinson Theatre, New York City Center, the Main Stage at the Mirage in Las Vegas, and a sold-out Broadway run at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in New York City.His live performances provide a cathartic release of anger and disillusionment for his audience. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world.Black does a live streaming show called THE RANT IS DUE at the end of each of his standup performances. This show is written by the audience watching throughout the world and also by the audience in the area of each show. With so much to get off their chests, people use Lewis’ platform to rant about what is on their minds. These rants are now also available on his podcast, Lewis Black's Rantcast.Black continues as the longest running contributor to The Daily Show on Comedy Central. He has had comedy specials on HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime and Epix. In 2001, he won Best Male Stand-Up at the American Comedy Awards. He has released eight comedy albums, including the 2007 Grammy Award-winning The Carnegie Hall Performance. He won his second Grammy Award for his album Stark Raving Black and has published three bestselling books: Nothing’s Sacred (Simon &amp; Schuster, 2005), Me of Little Faith (Riverhead Books, 2008) and I’m Dreaming of a Black Christmas (Riverhead Books, 2010). In 2012, he performed eight sell-out shows at Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway as well as did one of his two HBO specials Black on Broadway. In 2015, Black notably voiced the character Anger in the Academy Award winning film from Pixar, Inside Out.

Lewis Black to perform in Stiefel Theatre in January

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 25 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;

As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients, up from 10 on Friday.

The KDHE reported Friday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 64 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,717 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637000330282.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 25 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported 15 COVID-19 inpatients, up from 10 on Friday.The KDHE reported Friday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 64 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,717 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 25 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Friday

THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Kenworth semi driven by Alvin Abraham&nbsp;Pleitez-Valles, 32, Holcomb, was northbound on Kansas 25 twelve mile south of Colby.

The semi drifted to the right off the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the semi traveled across both lanes of the highway and overturned in the west ditch.&nbsp; EMS transported Pleitez-Valles to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Kenworth semi driven by Alvin Abraham&nbsp;Pleitez-Valles, 32, Holcomb, was northbound on Kansas 25 twelve mile south of Colby.The semi drifted to the right off the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the semi traveled across both lanes of the highway and overturned in the west ditch.&nbsp; EMS transported Pleitez-Valles to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after semi overturns in a ditch

The dodo is popularly known as the Icon of Extinction. This large flightless bird went extinct because of the activity of sailors and explorers at the end of the 1500s but so much about it remains a mystery. 

Hit the high seas of the 1600’s. It is the Age of Exploration and the Sternberg Museum of Natural History invites you to discover the dodo, a large flightless bird commonly known as the Icon of Extinction. 

"Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" is a family friendly exhibition that will transport guests 400 years in the past to the tropical island that was home to the dodo.

Learn how the dodo lived, and why it died. Explore what other animals are now at risk of extinction, and what can be done to help. 

"Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" is on display now through May 18th.

"Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" was built by Silver Plume Exhibitions and features original artwork by Julius Csotonyi, Alexandra Lefort, Gary Staab and William Stout.

There is something for every age visitor with hands-on exploration blending with historical intrigue. Come and nest like a dodo, explore like a sailor, and maybe we can all learn from the past to save our future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636572891057.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image " />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image </figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe dodo is popularly known as the Icon of Extinction. This large flightless bird went extinct because of the activity of sailors and explorers at the end of the 1500s but so much about it remains a mystery. Hit the high seas of the 1600’s. It is the Age of Exploration and the Sternberg Museum of Natural History invites you to discover the dodo, a large flightless bird commonly known as the Icon of Extinction. "Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" is a family friendly exhibition that will transport guests 400 years in the past to the tropical island that was home to the dodo.Learn how the dodo lived, and why it died. Explore what other animals are now at risk of extinction, and what can be done to help. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636573382090.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" is on display now through May 18th. "Exploring Extinction: The Dodo" was built by Silver Plume Exhibitions and features original artwork by Julius Csotonyi, Alexandra Lefort, Gary Staab and William Stout.There is something for every age visitor with hands-on exploration blending with historical intrigue. Come and nest like a dodo, explore like a sailor, and maybe we can all learn from the past to save our future.

'Exploring Extinction: The Dodo' set to open at Sternberg Museum

On Aug. 1, 1867, a crew of railroad workers were killed by Cheyenne, at Campbell’s Camp, near what is now called Victoria.

Word of the attack was received at Fort Hays, and 30 troopers from Co. F, 10th Cavalry were sent to the site.

After arriving at the site, troopers led by Capt. Armes followed the north branch of Big Creek in pursuit.

When no signs of the Cheyenne could be found, they returned on the opposite side of the creek to Campbell’s Camp.

Word was sent back to the fort to send additional troops. Armes waited until after daylight, and after there was no sign of additional troops coming, he and his men headed directly north to the Saline River.

They followed the Saline River west, about 15 miles, where they were then surrounded and ambushed by 75 Cheyenne. After battling the Cheyenne in two different areas, they retreated back to Fort Hays. This was the first ever engagement for the “Buffalo Soldiers," as they would come to be known.

The actual site of the battle had never been determined. C2T Ranch is excited to announce that the location has been identified and certified by archeologists from the Kansas Historical Society.

Ranch historian and battle site archivist Michael Cox, along with members of his crew Ryan Ruth and Josh Balman, have discovered and identified more than 100 period artifacts spread out across over 40 acres.

This information was confirmed by KHS archeologist Nikki Klarmann during a tour of the site in May 2021.

During this battle, six Native Americans and one trooper were killed. Srgt. William Christy of Pennsylvania was shot in the head and killed. He was the first casualty from the Buffalo Soldier troops. Mike Cox, who has spent four years combing the area with a metal detector, believes he has found the saber handle that belonged to Christy when he fell.

These and other artifacts, the story of the battle, and first hand account of Nicodemus trooper Samuel Garland will be shared with the public on Saturday, Nov. 20. Registration for the History Tour is required.

Barrie Tompkins, president of the Nicodemus Buffalo Soldiers, will be at the site to perform a characterization of “The Life and Times of the Buffalo Soldiers," and share the general history of the soldiers.

Angela Bates, descendant and executive director of the Nicodemus Historical Society, will present the story of her great uncle Samuel Garland, who was present at the battle.

This history tour is just the beginning of future plans for other events at the site, depicting the history of the Cheyenne and Buffalo Soldiers in the area. Everyone involved looks forward to working with interested parties, such as Fort Hays State University and Historic Fort Hays, to ensure the site, artifacts and information is preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

For further information, contact Chad Tuttle at 785-303-0298 or Angela Bates 785-839-8200.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636786293067.jpeg" alt="There have been artifacts found at the top of the cliffs in the picture, as well as the approach off to the right. The majority of the battlefield is just to the left (north) of that cliff. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>There have been artifacts found at the top of the cliffs in the picture, as well as the approach off to the right. The majority of the battlefield is just to the left (north) of that cliff. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News release On Aug. 1, 1867, a crew of railroad workers were killed by Cheyenne, at Campbell’s Camp, near what is now called Victoria.Word of the attack was received at Fort Hays, and 30 troopers from Co. F, 10th Cavalry were sent to the site.After arriving at the site, troopers led by Capt. Armes followed the north branch of Big Creek in pursuit.When no signs of the Cheyenne could be found, they returned on the opposite side of the creek to Campbell’s Camp.Word was sent back to the fort to send additional troops. Armes waited until after daylight, and after there was no sign of additional troops coming, he and his men headed directly north to the Saline River.They followed the Saline River west, about 15 miles, where they were then surrounded and ambushed by 75 Cheyenne. After battling the Cheyenne in two different areas, they retreated back to Fort Hays. This was the first ever engagement for the “Buffalo Soldiers," as they would come to be known.The actual site of the battle had never been determined. C2T Ranch is excited to announce that the location has been identified and certified by archeologists from the Kansas Historical Society.Ranch historian and battle site archivist Michael Cox, along with members of his crew Ryan Ruth and Josh Balman, have discovered and identified more than 100 period artifacts spread out across over 40 acres.This information was confirmed by KHS archeologist Nikki Klarmann during a tour of the site in May 2021.During this battle, six Native Americans and one trooper were killed. Srgt. William Christy of Pennsylvania was shot in the head and killed. He was the first casualty from the Buffalo Soldier troops. Mike Cox, who has spent four years combing the area with a metal detector, believes he has found the saber handle that belonged to Christy when he fell.These and other artifacts, the story of the battle, and first hand account of Nicodemus trooper Samuel Garland will be shared with the public on Saturday, Nov. 20. Registration for the History Tour is required.Barrie Tompkins, president of the Nicodemus Buffalo Soldiers, will be at the site to perform a characterization of “The Life and Times of the Buffalo Soldiers," and share the general history of the soldiers.Angela Bates, descendant and executive director of the Nicodemus Historical Society, will present the story of her great uncle Samuel Garland, who was present at the battle.This history tour is just the beginning of future plans for other events at the site, depicting the history of the Cheyenne and Buffalo Soldiers in the area. Everyone involved looks forward to working with interested parties, such as Fort Hays State University and Historic Fort Hays, to ensure the site, artifacts and information is preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from.For further information, contact Chad Tuttle at 785-303-0298 or Angela Bates 785-839-8200.

Evidence of Buffalo Soldiers' battle found at C2T Ranch in Ellis Co.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Girl Scouts annually participate in a community service project in November called the Festival of Giving.

This year, the Scouts of service unit 74 donated supplies to the First Step Housing program, which helps those who may be struggling with homelessness transition into more stable permanent housing.

The girls donated items the participants could use while they're in First Step program and baskets of items they can use when they leave the program for their new homes.

Participating troops included 12262, 11203, 11220, 10095 and 11261.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636736006359.jpeg" alt="Girls and leaders from Troop 11220 made a first aid kit for the First Step Housing program. " />
 <figcaption>Girls and leaders from Troop 11220 made a first aid kit for the First Step Housing program. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Girl Scouts annually participate in a community service project in November called the Festival of Giving.This year, the Scouts of service unit 74 donated supplies to the First Step Housing program, which helps those who may be struggling with homelessness transition into more stable permanent housing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636736217939.jpeg" alt="Kenzie Wolcott, representing Troop 11203, presents the First Step Housing program with two laundry baskets of household items for the project. " />
 <figcaption>Kenzie Wolcott, representing Troop 11203, presents the First Step Housing program with two laundry baskets of household items for the project. </figcaption>
 </figure>The girls donated items the participants could use while they're in First Step program and baskets of items they can use when they leave the program for their new homes.Participating troops included 12262, 11203, 11220, 10095 and 11261.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636736469512.jpeg" alt="Girls representing Troop 12262 present the First Step Housing program with household items for its participants. " />
 <figcaption>Girls representing Troop 12262 present the First Step Housing program with household items for its participants. </figcaption>
 </figure>

Girl Scouts give to First Step program during Festival of Giving

Online ranker OnlyInYourState.com has listed a northwest Kansas community on its list of must-sees for Christmas light lovers.

WaKeeney's Christmas City on the High Plains starts the list of the top eight destinations in Kansas for "A&nbsp;Christmas Lights Road Trip Through Kansas That’s Nothing Short Of Magical."

Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kansas/ks-christmas-light-road-trip/">HERE</a> to see the road trip or visit the city of WaKeeney's site <a href="https://www.wakeeney.org/christmastreelighting">HERE</a>.

Online ranker OnlyInYourState.com has listed a northwest Kansas community on its list of must-sees for Christmas light lovers.WaKeeney's Christmas City on the High Plains starts the list of the top eight destinations in Kansas for "A&nbsp;Christmas Lights Road Trip Through Kansas That’s Nothing Short Of Magical."Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kansas/ks-christmas-light-road-trip/">HERE</a> to see the road trip or visit the city of WaKeeney's site <a href="https://www.wakeeney.org/christmastreelighting">HERE</a>.

NW Kan. community kicks off Christmas light road trip

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hay; 6:26 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--500 block E 26th St, Hays; 6:46 AM 
Suspicious Activity-500 block E 11th St, Hays; 10/28 12:01 AM; 11/1 9:38 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 8th St, Hays; 10:46 AM; 11:20 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Welfare Check--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1600 block E 27th Street Terr, Hays; 11:43 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—4500 block Van Buren Dr, Hays; 1 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 7/6 8 PM 
Civil Dispute--500 block Walnut St, Hays; 10/29 11:50 PM; 10/30 12:30 AM 
Trash Dumping--500 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:20 PM; 4:51 PM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 5:08 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block Vine St, Hays; 5:42 PM; 6:38 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 10:05 PM; 10:06 PM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:56 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—2200 block Ash St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Mental Health Call—400 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:34 AM 
Aggravated Assault—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 10/28 9:30 PM; 10:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:15 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block Elm St, Hays; 9:20 PM; 4:57 PM 
Shoplifting--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5 PM; 5:28 PM 
MV Accident-Personal --400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 6:03 PM; 6:04 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Fort St, Hays; 11/2 6:22 PM; 11/5 7:15 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--27th and Vine, Hays; 7:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 8:36 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 9 PM; 9:10 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12:31 AM 
Overdose—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 2:58 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 11/2 10 PM; 11/3 7:40 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 10/30 12 AM; 11/3 8:40
AM 
Disturbance – General—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:02 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 9:35 AM 
Drug Offenses--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 1:14 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 1:44 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 3:07 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 11/2 7 PM; &nbsp;11/3 5 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 5:46 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2300 block E 13th St, Hay; 6:45 PM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 6:30 PM; 7 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—4400 block Larned Cir, Hays; 8:08 &nbsp;PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 8:14 PM 
Suspicious Activity--4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 9:56 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--700 block W 48th St, Hays; 6:30 AM 
Parking Complaint--500 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:59 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Main St, Hays; 11/4 8 AM 
Mental Health Call—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 8:43 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:44 AM 
Animal At Large—700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Welfare Check—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 1:12 PM 
Credit Card Violations--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:30 PM 
Theft (general—100 block W 5th St, Hays; 10/30 4 PM; 10/31 3 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:33 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 7:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2100 block Oak St, Hays; 8:20 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug
Offenses—700 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:53 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 7:01 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 6:30 AM; 7:25 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:20 AM; 9:27
AM 
Animal At Large--300 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
Animal At Large--300 block W 17th St, Hays; 1:47 PM 
Parking Complaint--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Theft (general)—Hays; 10/31 10:04 PM; 11/1 3:43 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:58 PM 
Welfare Check—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 6:05 PM; 6:23 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 6:28 PM 
Animal At Large--400 block Main St, Hays; 6:32 PM 
Suspicious Vehicle—4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 6:35 PM;&nbsp; 6:59 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 6:57 PM; 7:58 PM 
Civil Dispute—800 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 8:20 PM 
Overdose—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Suspicious Activity--1700 block Dechant Rd, Hays; 11/3 11:42 PM; 11/5 11:42 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11/6 1:11 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:03 AM 
Drug Offenses—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/6 1:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Judith Dr, Hays; 8:16 AM 
Battery – simple—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:21 AM 
Mental Health Call—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:40 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—100 block E 14th St, Hays; 9:15 AM; 11 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:42 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2000 block Hall St, Hays; 12:25 PM; 12:49 PM 
Gunshots/Non-Injury Shooting—1500 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 1:05 PM; 1:10 PM 
Disorderly Conduct—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:01 PM 
Unwanted Person—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:31 PM 
Theft of Services—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 4:05 PM 
Suspicious Person—200 block W 35th St, Hays; 4:20 PM 
Suspicious Person—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 5:19 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal—1100 block Vine St, Hays; 6:40 PM 
Mental Health Call—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 7:15 PM; 7:24 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 9:22 PM 
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 10/31 10:28 PM; &nbsp;11/6 10:28 PM 
Assist – Other--(not MV)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:33 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal--41st St and Truman Cir, Hays; 10:43 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:14 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—200 block 10th St, Hays; 11:37 PM 
Battery – Domestic—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 11:30 PM; 11:47 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

44 - Traffic
Stop--700 block Elm St, Hays; 1:10 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—700 block Park St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Drug Offenses—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 3:18 AM 
Theft (general)--9th and Ash, Hays; 2 AM; 4:45 AM 
Aggravated Battery—500 block E 8th St, Hay; 8:50 AM; 8:58 AM 
Suspicious Person--4300 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 9:44 AM 
Animal At Large--1700 block Elm St, Hays; 11:52 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 1:30 AM; 2 PM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 3:26 PM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 3:34 PM 
Runaway Juvenile—400 block W 4th St, Hays; 5:57 PM 
Disturbance – General—400 block E 11th St, Hays; 6:06 PM 
Theft (general)—300 block E 11th St, Hays; 12:01 AM; 6:06 PM 
Aggravated Battery—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 8:10 PM; 8:19 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hay; 6:26 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--500 block E 26th St, Hays; 6:46 AM 
Suspicious Activity-500 block E 11th St, Hays; 10/28 12:01 AM; 11/1 9:38 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 8th St, Hays; 10:46 AM; 11:20 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Welfare Check--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1600 block E 27th Street Terr, Hays; 11:43 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—4500 block Van Buren Dr, Hays; 1 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 7/6 8 PM 
Civil Dispute--500 block Walnut St, Hays; 10/29 11:50 PM; 10/30 12:30 AM 
Trash Dumping--500 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:20 PM; 4:51 PM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 5:08 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block Vine St, Hays; 5:42 PM; 6:38 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 10:05 PM; 10:06 PM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:56 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—2200 block Ash St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Mental Health Call—400 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:34 AM 
Aggravated Assault—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 10/28 9:30 PM; 10:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:15 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block Elm St, Hays; 9:20 PM; 4:57 PM 
Shoplifting--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5 PM; 5:28 PM 
MV Accident-Personal --400 block E 22nd St, Hays; 6:03 PM; 6:04 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Fort St, Hays; 11/2 6:22 PM; 11/5 7:15 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--27th and Vine, Hays; 7:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—200 block Northridge Dr, Hays; 8:36 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 9 PM; 9:10 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12:31 AM 
Overdose—200 block E 28th St, Hays; 2:58 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 11/2 10 PM; 11/3 7:40 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property--200 block W 5th St, Hays; 10/30 12 AM; 11/3 8:40
AM 
Disturbance – General—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:02 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 9:35 AM 
Drug Offenses--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 1:14 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 1:44 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 3:07 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 11/2 7 PM; &nbsp;11/3 5 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 5:46 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2300 block E 13th St, Hay; 6:45 PM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 6:30 PM; 7 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—4400 block Larned Cir, Hays; 8:08 &nbsp;PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 8:14 PM 
Suspicious Activity--4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 9:56 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--700 block W 48th St, Hays; 6:30 AM 
Parking Complaint--500 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:59 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Main St, Hays; 11/4 8 AM 
Mental Health Call—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 8:43 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:44 AM 
Animal At Large—700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Welfare Check—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 1:12 PM 
Credit Card Violations--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:30 PM 
Theft (general—100 block W 5th St, Hays; 10/30 4 PM; 10/31 3 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:33 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 7:04 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2100 block Oak St, Hays; 8:20 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug
Offenses—700 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:53 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 7:01 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 6:30 AM; 7:25 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:20 AM; 9:27
AM 
Animal At Large--300 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
Animal At Large--300 block W 17th St, Hays; 1:47 PM 
Parking Complaint--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Theft (general)—Hays; 10/31 10:04 PM; 11/1 3:43 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:58 PM 
Welfare Check—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 6:05 PM; 6:23 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 6:28 PM 
Animal At Large--400 block Main St, Hays; 6:32 PM 
Suspicious Vehicle—4000 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 6:35 PM;&nbsp; 6:59 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 6:57 PM; 7:58 PM 
Civil Dispute—800 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 8:20 PM 
Overdose—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Suspicious Activity--1700 block Dechant Rd, Hays; 11/3 11:42 PM; 11/5 11:42 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11/6 1:11 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:03 AM 
Drug Offenses—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 11/5 2 PM; 11/6 1:30 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Judith Dr, Hays; 8:16 AM 
Battery – simple—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:21 AM 
Mental Health Call—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:40 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—100 block E 14th St, Hays; 9:15 AM; 11 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:42 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2000 block Hall St, Hays; 12:25 PM; 12:49 PM 
Gunshots/Non-Injury Shooting—1500 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 1:05 PM; 1:10 PM 
Disorderly Conduct—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:01 PM 
Unwanted Person—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:31 PM 
Theft of Services—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 4:05 PM 
Suspicious Person—200 block W 35th St, Hays; 4:20 PM 
Suspicious Person—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 5:19 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal—1100 block Vine St, Hays; 6:40 PM 
Mental Health Call—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 7:15 PM; 7:24 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 9:22 PM 
Theft (general)--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 10/31 10:28 PM; &nbsp;11/6 10:28 PM 
Assist – Other--(not MV)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:33 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal--41st St and Truman Cir, Hays; 10:43 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11:14 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—200 block 10th St, Hays; 11:37 PM 
Battery – Domestic—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 11:30 PM; 11:47 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.44 - Traffic
Stop--700 block Elm St, Hays; 1:10 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—700 block Park St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Drug Offenses—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 3:18 AM 
Theft (general)--9th and Ash, Hays; 2 AM; 4:45 AM 
Aggravated Battery—500 block E 8th St, Hay; 8:50 AM; 8:58 AM 
Suspicious Person--4300 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 9:44 AM 
Animal At Large--1700 block Elm St, Hays; 11:52 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 1:30 AM; 2 PM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 3:26 PM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 3:34 PM 
Runaway Juvenile—400 block W 4th St, Hays; 5:57 PM 
Disturbance – General—400 block E 11th St, Hays; 6:06 PM 
Theft (general)—300 block E 11th St, Hays; 12:01 AM; 6:06 PM 
Aggravated Battery—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 8:10 PM; 8:19 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Nov. 1-7    

RUSSELL — The Russell County Association of Churches will host the annual Community Thanksgiving Service at St. John Lutheran Church, 425 N. Main, Russell, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. Community members wishing to sing with the Community Choir are asked to arrive at St. John by 5:45 p.m. for rehearsal.

Pastor Teri Sutherlin of St. John Lutheran Church will deliver the Thanksgiving message. The offering taken during this service will benefit the Russell County Food Pantry.

For more information, contact St. John Lutheran Church at 785-483-5358.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636387931688.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedRUSSELL — The Russell County Association of Churches will host the annual Community Thanksgiving Service at St. John Lutheran Church, 425 N. Main, Russell, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. Community members wishing to sing with the Community Choir are asked to arrive at St. John by 5:45 p.m. for rehearsal.Pastor Teri Sutherlin of St. John Lutheran Church will deliver the Thanksgiving message. The offering taken during this service will benefit the Russell County Food Pantry. For more information, contact St. John Lutheran Church at 785-483-5358.

Russell Co. churches will host Community Thanksgiving Service

Three-day weather outlook

	If you’ve ever planned a Thanksgiving feast, you know that the cost of everything can add up quickly! Here are some practical ideas for saving money on your holiday feast:

* Ham or turkey, not both.&nbsp; Choose one meat or main dish and plan the rest of your meal around it. This not only saves the cost of the additional meat, but also the cost of special side dishes that go with it. &nbsp;

* Balance “expensive” and “cheap” dishes. Mashed potatoes are less expensive to make than a creamy vegetable casserole; a pumpkin pie is generally cheaper to make than a cheesecake. Limit the number of dishes requiring expensive ingredients. Choose your family’s favorites and serve less expensive dishes to complement them.&nbsp;

* Trim down extras.&nbsp; Do you really need three different vegetable casseroles and four desserts? Try to cut out at least one extra that no one will miss from each food category. Steamed broccoli will cost less than a casserole with five extra ingredients.&nbsp;

* Serve inexpensive beverages.&nbsp; Alcohol, sodas, punch and fruit juices can be expensive additions to your Thanksgiving shopping list.&nbsp; Water, coffee, iced tea and lemonade are inexpensive alternatives.

* Take advantage of sales.&nbsp; In the weeks before Thanksgiving, grocery stores run fantastic specials on traditional holiday foods. They hope that while you’re visiting their stores to get the specials, you’ll also buy lots of other things. Be a savvy shopper. Take advantage of each week’s specials without falling into the extra spending trap. &nbsp;

* Stock up on seasonal bargains for future meals.&nbsp; Special holiday foods are seldom offered at a better price any other time of year. If your food budget allows, buy extras now which can be served for family meals in the future. Canned pumpkin is full of Vitamin A and can enhance muffins and breads all year long.&nbsp; Fresh cranberries can go directly into the freezer for use in future salads and sauces. Turkey is a delicious, low-calorie meat which can provide inexpensive family meals to come.&nbsp;

* Look for substitutions. Many holiday recipes call for expensive ingredients you may not normally keep on hand. Before you invest in special ingredients you’ll use for only one recipe, check the substitution guide in your favorite cookbook or at www.foodsubs.com to see if there’s anything you can substitute. Just type “buttermilk” in the search bar and the options for making your own buttermilk will be shared.&nbsp;

* Choose the right bird.&nbsp; Extension experts recommend purchasing about ½ to 1 pound of turkey for each person at the table.&nbsp; The higher estimate will allow for leftovers.&nbsp; If you don’t want to pay for or deal with leftovers, choose a bird within the lower weight range.

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>	If you’ve ever planned a Thanksgiving feast, you know that the cost of everything can add up quickly! Here are some practical ideas for saving money on your holiday feast:	* Ham or turkey, not both.&nbsp; Choose one meat or main dish and plan the rest of your meal around it. This not only saves the cost of the additional meat, but also the cost of special side dishes that go with it. &nbsp;	* Balance “expensive” and “cheap” dishes. Mashed potatoes are less expensive to make than a creamy vegetable casserole; a pumpkin pie is generally cheaper to make than a cheesecake. Limit the number of dishes requiring expensive ingredients. Choose your family’s favorites and serve less expensive dishes to complement them.&nbsp;	* Trim down extras.&nbsp; Do you really need three different vegetable casseroles and four desserts? Try to cut out at least one extra that no one will miss from each food category. Steamed broccoli will cost less than a casserole with five extra ingredients.&nbsp;	* Serve inexpensive beverages.&nbsp; Alcohol, sodas, punch and fruit juices can be expensive additions to your Thanksgiving shopping list.&nbsp; Water, coffee, iced tea and lemonade are inexpensive alternatives.	* Take advantage of sales.&nbsp; In the weeks before Thanksgiving, grocery stores run fantastic specials on traditional holiday foods. They hope that while you’re visiting their stores to get the specials, you’ll also buy lots of other things. Be a savvy shopper. Take advantage of each week’s specials without falling into the extra spending trap. &nbsp;	* Stock up on seasonal bargains for future meals.&nbsp; Special holiday foods are seldom offered at a better price any other time of year. If your food budget allows, buy extras now which can be served for family meals in the future. Canned pumpkin is full of Vitamin A and can enhance muffins and breads all year long.&nbsp; Fresh cranberries can go directly into the freezer for use in future salads and sauces. Turkey is a delicious, low-calorie meat which can provide inexpensive family meals to come.&nbsp;	* Look for substitutions. Many holiday recipes call for expensive ingredients you may not normally keep on hand. Before you invest in special ingredients you’ll use for only one recipe, check the substitution guide in your favorite cookbook or at www.foodsubs.com to see if there’s anything you can substitute. Just type “buttermilk” in the search bar and the options for making your own buttermilk will be shared.&nbsp;	* Choose the right bird.&nbsp; Extension experts recommend purchasing about ½ to 1 pound of turkey for each person at the table.&nbsp; The higher estimate will allow for leftovers.&nbsp; If you don’t want to pay for or deal with leftovers, choose a bird within the lower weight range.	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Feast on these Thanksgiving savings

A hard-drinking Civil War veteran, Jim Curry, a once resident of Hays in the mid-1800s, was described by one account as "the most depraved specimens that visited the western country."

The account of Curry in 1883's "History of the State of Kansas" was as follows.

He was the embodiment of everything bad and disreputable. The very quintessence of all wickedness and a living personification of crime in its worst forms without a single redeeming quality.

No person was safe against his attacks. His murderous weapons were aimed at all alike. It require pages to recite all his murderous acts, but a few will suffice to show the desperate character of the man on his short stay in Hays City.

He killed several colored men. Some of whom he threw into a dry well. He killed a man named Brady by cutting his throat by which he threw him into an empty box car and fastened up the door.

Another time he was going up the street and meeting a quiet inoffensive youth named Estes, who was about 18 years of age, told him to throw up his hands. The youth begged for him not to kill him, but the villain, deaf to such appeals, placed a revolver to the boy's breast and sent a bullet through his heart, stepped over the dead body and walked away.

James Drees, local historian, chronicled the life of Curry during a lecture last week at the Ellis County Historical Society 50th anniversary celebration. The event included speakers, depictions of Old West shoot outs, a party and dance, and raffle.

Drees noted that much of what was in the early historical accounts of the Old West came from newspaper accounts, many of which were sensationalized to sell more copies. The reliability of many of Curry's murderous deeds may be in doubt. 

This included the killing of the black soldiers in Hays during a vigilante town folk vs. soldier gunfight. The fight broke out after a drunken celebration among the soldiers on pay day.

Although the story goes that more than 500 shots were fired and multiple soldiers killed, there is no official record of any deaths among the soldiers that night.

"Jim Curry for good or bad has the reputation of being one of the wickedest men who ever lived in the Old West," Drees said. "I'm not going to argue that Curry's a saint. I'm not going to argue he's the wickedest man in the world. 

"What I'm going to say is that Jim Curry when he was here in Ellis County, wasn't the man who he was in 1879. Once you hear what I have to say about him, you can make up your own mind about how you should think about him."

Curry was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States with his brothers when he was 8 or 9 years old to escape the Irish Potato Famine. His parents were believed to have died in the famine.

Curry started hanging out in the rail yard in the New York City. He was hired on as a train fireman and worked his way up to locomotive engineer despite being functionally illiterate. 

Before he was 21, he was considered one of the most skilled locomotive engineers on the Little Miami Railroad. 

When the Civil War broke out, Curry was mustered into the service as a corporal for the 12th Ohio Infantry.&nbsp; 

Curry survived the battle at Carnifix Ferry, during which the Union took heavy casualties. The Confederate artillery fired grape shot, cans of meatball-sized iron pellets, into their ranks, shredding their colonel into pieces and spraying all the men behind him with blood and gore. The men of the 12th turn and ran. 

Numerous engagements, including the Battle of Antietam, followed for the 12th Ohio. Each time they took causalities. By the time the regiment's three years were up, about a third of the their ranks had been killed or wounded. Curry was never among those who was hit.

Drees suggested Curry, as did many veterans of the Civil War, likely suffered from post traumatic stress disorder. He further surmised that Curry, along with other veterans, including Wild Bill Hickok, treated their emotional distress by drinking heavily.

"As life went along, he drank more and more until he was a full-blown alcoholic," Drees said, "which ruined his career as a railroader and resulted in some very unfortunate things he did in Texas and New Mexico. ... "Basically his PTSD ruined his career as a railroader and everything else he tried to do and ultimately wrecked him as a man."

When Curry mustered out of the Army, the Union Pacific Railroad was building west through Kansas, and Curry signed on to be the engineer for the construction train.

Curry was sited as having killed men&nbsp; from his locomotive. The only corroborating evidence he could find for this was a newspaper account of tourists from an an excursion train who stopped in Junction City and viewed a scalp from what was believed to be a Kiowa medicine man that was allegedly taken by Curry. Drees surmised this might have been the first civilian killing Curry was involved in after the war.

Historical accounts have Curry in a shootout with Bobby Gill in Hays during a poker game. The accounts indicate Curry shot Gill in the mouth, but later writings contradict some of the specifics of what may have happened here in Hays.

During the winter of 1868-69 Curry joined the Forsyth Scouts to engage Native Americans. Curry was at the Battle of the Arickaree in summer 1868 in far northwest Kansas. Fifty-two soldiers engaged an estimated 250 to 500 Native Americans. 

They were only able to hold out because the Scouts were armed with repeater rifles, and the Native Americans were primarily outfitted with bows and arrows, and lances. 

The Native Americans resorted to a siege. The men were nearly starved until they were finally recused in late September at which time Curry returned to Hays.

During the time he was at Hays, he served as a guide for a group from an excursion train. Although U.S. Army and Native Americans were engaging violently in the area, tourists from the east were coming out on trains to sight see.

A writer from the excursion party described Curry in this way — a far cry from the villain in other historical and newspaper accounts.

His instinct was remarkable, and he rapidly acquired a knowledge of the country and an insight of Indian character, which have rendered him almost invaluable to the government. Incredible tales are told of his valor, adventures and hair-breath escapes.

In person, he is the bow-ideal of a Scout, not more than 25 of medium height with a figure faultless in its proportion, a face of almost classical regularity with close-shaven black hair, a neatly curly mustache and keen, nervous gray eyes, attired in corduroyed stretched in the legs of tall boots, a brown shirt collarless, with handkerchief knotted loosely around his neck, abrasive navy revolvers thrust into his belt with a Henry rifle swung across his back. He seemed just the daring courageous spirit that he is.

Although he was for a time a Hays resident, Curry was most noted for an incident that happened in Marshal, Texas, in March 1879.

Curry, working as a railroad detective, had just helped break up the notorious Sam Bass railroad gang and was on an alcoholic bender.

He went into a restaurant/bar and encountered several actors who were celebrating the local run of their play. One of them inadvertently tugged his ear. Curry thought that was a signal directed at him, so he confronted the man.

Two of the actors, Benjamin F. Porter and Reese Barrymore, didn't take this very well. Barrymore was a boxer in college and was fixin' for a fist fight. Curry, on the other hand, had his pistol hidden in the folds of his slicker, but told the men he was unarmed.

Drees explained Barrymore said, "I can beat you up all the better."

Curry raised his pistol and shot Ben Porter in the chest and Barrymore, standing there dumbfounded, in the arm. Barrymore has the sense to run and lives, Drees said. Porter died.

"The same guy through the entire history of Hays City was supposed have done all these killings, ... most of them died by the vigilantes, but it was always that dastardly Jim Curry who did all of that," he said. 

"History doesn't seem to back any of that up. I could go on and on and on. Nope, Curry didn't do that, but that's how it is. This is a man who despite everything all these positive aspects of this time, history's determined him Curry the Curd. That's how newspapers referred to him as the wickedest man who ever lived in Kansas."

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EPI1u4mCxD4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA hard-drinking Civil War veteran, Jim Curry, a once resident of Hays in the mid-1800s, was described by one account as "the most depraved specimens that visited the western country."The account of Curry in 1883's "History of the State of Kansas" was as follows. He was the embodiment of everything bad and disreputable. The very quintessence of all wickedness and a living personification of crime in its worst forms without a single redeeming quality.No person was safe against his attacks. His murderous weapons were aimed at all alike. It require pages to recite all his murderous acts, but a few will suffice to show the desperate character of the man on his short stay in Hays City.He killed several colored men. Some of whom he threw into a dry well. He killed a man named Brady by cutting his throat by which he threw him into an empty box car and fastened up the door.Another time he was going up the street and meeting a quiet inoffensive youth named Estes, who was about 18 years of age, told him to throw up his hands. The youth begged for him not to kill him, but the villain, deaf to such appeals, placed a revolver to the boy's breast and sent a bullet through his heart, stepped over the dead body and walked away. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636656545130.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>James Drees, local historian, chronicled the life of Curry during a lecture last week at the Ellis County Historical Society 50th anniversary celebration. The event included speakers, depictions of Old West shoot outs, a party and dance, and raffle.Drees noted that much of what was in the early historical accounts of the Old West came from newspaper accounts, many of which were sensationalized to sell more copies. The reliability of many of Curry's murderous deeds may be in doubt. This included the killing of the black soldiers in Hays during a vigilante town folk vs. soldier gunfight. The fight broke out after a drunken celebration among the soldiers on pay day. Although the story goes that more than 500 shots were fired and multiple soldiers killed, there is no official record of any deaths among the soldiers that night. "Jim Curry for good or bad has the reputation of being one of the wickedest men who ever lived in the Old West," Drees said. "I'm not going to argue that Curry's a saint. I'm not going to argue he's the wickedest man in the world. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636666050557.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"What I'm going to say is that Jim Curry when he was here in Ellis County, wasn't the man who he was in 1879. Once you hear what I have to say about him, you can make up your own mind about how you should think about him." Curry was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States with his brothers when he was 8 or 9 years old to escape the Irish Potato Famine. His parents were believed to have died in the famine. Curry started hanging out in the rail yard in the New York City. He was hired on as a train fireman and worked his way up to locomotive engineer despite being functionally illiterate. Before he was 21, he was considered one of the most skilled locomotive engineers on the Little Miami Railroad. When the Civil War broke out, Curry was mustered into the service as a corporal for the 12th Ohio Infantry.&nbsp; Curry survived the battle at Carnifix Ferry, during which the Union took heavy casualties. The Confederate artillery fired grape shot, cans of meatball-sized iron pellets, into their ranks, shredding their colonel into pieces and spraying all the men behind him with blood and gore. The men of the 12th turn and ran. Numerous engagements, including the Battle of Antietam, followed for the 12th Ohio. Each time they took causalities. By the time the regiment's three years were up, about a third of the their ranks had been killed or wounded. Curry was never among those who was hit.Drees suggested Curry, as did many veterans of the Civil War, likely suffered from post traumatic stress disorder. He further surmised that Curry, along with other veterans, including Wild Bill Hickok, treated their emotional distress by drinking heavily.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636666133773.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"As life went along, he drank more and more until he was a full-blown alcoholic," Drees said, "which ruined his career as a railroader and resulted in some very unfortunate things he did in Texas and New Mexico. ... "Basically his PTSD ruined his career as a railroader and everything else he tried to do and ultimately wrecked him as a man." When Curry mustered out of the Army, the Union Pacific Railroad was building west through Kansas, and Curry signed on to be the engineer for the construction train.Curry was sited as having killed men&nbsp; from his locomotive. The only corroborating evidence he could find for this was a newspaper account of tourists from an an excursion train who stopped in Junction City and viewed a scalp from what was believed to be a Kiowa medicine man that was allegedly taken by Curry. Drees surmised this might have been the first civilian killing Curry was involved in after the war.Historical accounts have Curry in a shootout with Bobby Gill in Hays during a poker game. The accounts indicate Curry shot Gill in the mouth, but later writings contradict some of the specifics of what may have happened here in Hays.During the winter of 1868-69 Curry joined the Forsyth Scouts to engage Native Americans. Curry was at the Battle of the Arickaree in summer 1868 in far northwest Kansas. Fifty-two soldiers engaged an estimated 250 to 500 Native Americans. They were only able to hold out because the Scouts were armed with repeater rifles, and the Native Americans were primarily outfitted with bows and arrows, and lances. The Native Americans resorted to a siege. The men were nearly starved until they were finally recused in late September at which time Curry returned to Hays.During the time he was at Hays, he served as a guide for a group from an excursion train. Although U.S. Army and Native Americans were engaging violently in the area, tourists from the east were coming out on trains to sight see.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636666210511.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A writer from the excursion party described Curry in this way — a far cry from the villain in other historical and newspaper accounts. His instinct was remarkable, and he rapidly acquired a knowledge of the country and an insight of Indian character, which have rendered him almost invaluable to the government. Incredible tales are told of his valor, adventures and hair-breath escapes. In person, he is the bow-ideal of a Scout, not more than 25 of medium height with a figure faultless in its proportion, a face of almost classical regularity with close-shaven black hair, a neatly curly mustache and keen, nervous gray eyes, attired in corduroyed stretched in the legs of tall boots, a brown shirt collarless, with handkerchief knotted loosely around his neck, abrasive navy revolvers thrust into his belt with a Henry rifle swung across his back. He seemed just the daring courageous spirit that he is. Although he was for a time a Hays resident, Curry was most noted for an incident that happened in Marshal, Texas, in March 1879. Curry, working as a railroad detective, had just helped break up the notorious Sam Bass railroad gang and was on an alcoholic bender.He went into a restaurant/bar and encountered several actors who were celebrating the local run of their play. One of them inadvertently tugged his ear. Curry thought that was a signal directed at him, so he confronted the man.Two of the actors, Benjamin F. Porter and Reese Barrymore, didn't take this very well. Barrymore was a boxer in college and was fixin' for a fist fight. Curry, on the other hand, had his pistol hidden in the folds of his slicker, but told the men he was unarmed.Drees explained Barrymore said, "I can beat you up all the better."Curry raised his pistol and shot Ben Porter in the chest and Barrymore, standing there dumbfounded, in the arm. Barrymore has the sense to run and lives, Drees said. Porter died."The same guy through the entire history of Hays City was supposed have done all these killings, ... most of them died by the vigilantes, but it was always that dastardly Jim Curry who did all of that," he said. "History doesn't seem to back any of that up. I could go on and on and on. Nope, Curry didn't do that, but that's how it is. This is a man who despite everything all these positive aspects of this time, history's determined him Curry the Curd. That's how newspapers referred to him as the wickedest man who ever lived in Kansas."

Wicked, depraved: Hays historian shares gunfighter's story

The Barton Community College Foundation presents scholarships each year from funds received through its fundraising events, endowments and annual scholarship gifts. For the 2021-22 academic year, a complete list of scholarship offers can be found <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/news/-foundation-scholarship-list-21">HERE</a>.

Claflin 
Brooke Farmer, Monica Bell Reser Memorial Scholarship 
Alexandria Oeser, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team) 
Hannah Redetzke, Frank J. Dome Memorial Scholarship 
Callie Zink, Neva &amp; L.E. Brocher Scholarship

Hays 
Tasiah Nunnery, Verna S. Davis Memorial Scholarship 
Kirsten Sulzman, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Amanda Welcher, Carol Edwardson Scholarship

Kensington 
Pricilla Villarreal, Tony &amp; Edna Schartz Memorial Scholarship

La Crosse 
Dustin Riley, Lee Turner Endowment

Larned 
Katherine Alnor, Rosalie Jean Pennington Memorial Scholarship 
Paige Cobb, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Jessica Grosfield, Roger &amp; Mary Lou Murphy Endowment 
Amber Hewson, Mary Mckay Memorial Scholarship &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Jessica Linarez, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Sarah Macmahon, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Nathanael Pfortmiller, Ralph &amp; Michael Raffelock Memorial Scholarship &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Ruthie Webster, L. E. "Gus" Shafer Endowment Memorial Scholarship

Ness City 
Taylor Crosswhite, Melvin O. Nuss Academic Award &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Janate Kerr, Melvin O. Nuss Academic Award&nbsp; 
Eladio Luna, Carol Edwardson Scholarship 
Guadalupe Rivera, L. E. "Gus" Shafer Endowment Memorial Scholarship 
Caitlin Smee, Fred &amp; Renee Schmitt Memorial Scholarship

Osborne 
Charlie Seifert, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust Financial Management Scholarship &amp; Mamie Robl Memorial Scholarship

Otis 
Cora Anderson, Robert Bonomo Memorial Scholarship 
Kendall Steinert, Emil John Gabelmann Memorial Scholarship

Phillipsburg 
Aaron Lenker, Amos Bayer Memorial Scholarship

Plainville 
Logan Nuss, Verna S. Davis Memorial Scholarship

Russell 
Caleb Nuss, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team) 
Katelynn Tammen, W. G. &amp; Beatrice Nicholson Memorial Scholarship 
Madison Whitfield, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team)

Smith Center 
Kandis Frydendall, Monica Bell Reser Memorial Scholarship

WaKeeney 
Lili Shubert, Jerry E. Felkel Memorial Scholarship

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636565484180.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College Foundation presents scholarships each year from funds received through its fundraising events, endowments and annual scholarship gifts. For the 2021-22 academic year, a complete list of scholarship offers can be found <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/news/-foundation-scholarship-list-21">HERE</a>.Area students include:Claflin 
Brooke Farmer, Monica Bell Reser Memorial Scholarship 
Alexandria Oeser, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team) 
Hannah Redetzke, Frank J. Dome Memorial Scholarship 
Callie Zink, Neva &amp; L.E. Brocher ScholarshipHays 
Tasiah Nunnery, Verna S. Davis Memorial Scholarship 
Kirsten Sulzman, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Amanda Welcher, Carol Edwardson ScholarshipKensington 
Pricilla Villarreal, Tony &amp; Edna Schartz Memorial ScholarshipLa Crosse 
Dustin Riley, Lee Turner EndowmentLarned 
Katherine Alnor, Rosalie Jean Pennington Memorial Scholarship 
Paige Cobb, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Jessica Grosfield, Roger &amp; Mary Lou Murphy Endowment 
Amber Hewson, Mary Mckay Memorial Scholarship &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Jessica Linarez, C &amp; R Schauf Foundation Medical Scholarship 
Sarah Macmahon, Yvonne Robbins Entrepreneur &amp; Leadership Endowment 
Nathanael Pfortmiller, Ralph &amp; Michael Raffelock Memorial Scholarship &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Ruthie Webster, L. E. "Gus" Shafer Endowment Memorial ScholarshipNess City 
Taylor Crosswhite, Melvin O. Nuss Academic Award &amp; Loren &amp; Maxine Pease Scholarship 
Janate Kerr, Melvin O. Nuss Academic Award&nbsp; 
Eladio Luna, Carol Edwardson Scholarship 
Guadalupe Rivera, L. E. "Gus" Shafer Endowment Memorial Scholarship 
Caitlin Smee, Fred &amp; Renee Schmitt Memorial ScholarshipOsborne 
Charlie Seifert, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust Financial Management Scholarship &amp; Mamie Robl Memorial ScholarshipOtis 
Cora Anderson, Robert Bonomo Memorial Scholarship 
Kendall Steinert, Emil John Gabelmann Memorial ScholarshipPhillipsburg 
Aaron Lenker, Amos Bayer Memorial ScholarshipPlainville 
Logan Nuss, Verna S. Davis Memorial ScholarshipRussell 
Caleb Nuss, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team) 
Katelynn Tammen, W. G. &amp; Beatrice Nicholson Memorial Scholarship 
Madison Whitfield, BEST (Barton Enhancement &amp; Scholarship Team)Smith Center 
Kandis Frydendall, Monica Bell Reser Memorial ScholarshipWaKeeney 
Lili Shubert, Jerry E. Felkel Memorial Scholarship

Area students earn scholarships from Barton CC Foundation

The Kansas City Chiefs beat the Green Bay Packers last Sunday.&nbsp; The opportunity opened up when the Packers’ star quarterback Aaron Rodgers could not play after testing positive for COVID-19.&nbsp; Previously, Rodgers had said he was “immunized,” but under scrutiny he admitted he had used homeopathic treatments and drugs not approved for COVID, including one used to treat people and animals for parasites.&nbsp; Ivermectin is neither approved nor effective as a COVID vaccination, and its misuse can lead to hospitalization and even death. Rodgers claims to be allergic to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines but will not say why.&nbsp; Even if true, he is still eligible for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, which he has not received.

Social media lit up with jokesters having a ball at Rodgers’ expense.&nbsp; One New Jersey mom volunteered to play quarterback in Rodgers’ place.&nbsp; She acknowledged that she has never played and knows little about football, but “I did my own research, so I’ll be fine,” she wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At least she was kidding.&nbsp; Most people who use that phrase are deadly serious — and dead wrong.

Looking up un- or improperly fact-checked nonsense on the internet and taking it for truth, all under the auspices of “doing my own research,” has become the bane of teachers, health care workers, researchers, and government officials alike.&nbsp; It disrupts classrooms and town hall meetings and makes effective policy making nearly impossible.&nbsp; It even leads to the occasional death threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is just as bad in the political arena.&nbsp; Politicians who should know better continue to spread conspiracy theories about the 2020 elections, certified by Trump appointee Christopher Krebs as the most secure in U.S. history.&nbsp; Many of these politicos know they are lying, but they must placate their party’s base.&nbsp; Meanwhile, people die needlessly because of anti-vaxxer nonsense, and the deranged QAnon conspiracy theory refuses to go away.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conspiracy theorists justify all this by claiming that traditional news media reporters and editors show bias.&nbsp; Sometimes, this is true.&nbsp; However, reporters also rigorously check their stories using reliable sources and professional journalism training.&nbsp; This is the difference between information and disinformation.&nbsp; Information is not perfect, but it is credible.&nbsp; Disinformation is neither.

We all want to be experts on things about which we know very little.&nbsp; Many of us would probably like to play quarterback for the Packers, too, but we are not qualified.&nbsp; It takes talent, luck, discipline, and practice to become a football player, and years of schooling and practice to be a good epidemiologist, doctor, or nurse.&nbsp; When it comes to election analysis, we read countless books, articles, depositions, and reports, serve as expert witnesses, and spend months deep-diving into elections data using advanced statistical programs and methods training.&nbsp; Some findings surprise me, for example when I discovered that photo ID laws do not suppress Democratic votes as is widely believed.&nbsp; Sometimes, we have to admit that our hypotheses are not confirmed by the data.&nbsp; It takes a long career of education, successes, and even a few failures to get here.&nbsp;&nbsp;

None of this can be summed up in a TikTok video or viral Facebook post.

Aaron Rodgers did not do his own research.&nbsp; He fell for ridiculous conspiracy theories that put himself, his family, his team, and the opposing teams at risk.&nbsp; He also handed a badly-needed win to the Chiefs, who have one of the highest vaccination rates in the NFL.

Thanks, Aaron. Now get off social media and go get vaccinated.&nbsp; Go Chiefs!

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576785940426.png" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City Chiefs beat the Green Bay Packers last Sunday.&nbsp; The opportunity opened up when the Packers’ star quarterback Aaron Rodgers could not play after testing positive for COVID-19.&nbsp; Previously, Rodgers had said he was “immunized,” but under scrutiny he admitted he had used homeopathic treatments and drugs not approved for COVID, including one used to treat people and animals for parasites.&nbsp; Ivermectin is neither approved nor effective as a COVID vaccination, and its misuse can lead to hospitalization and even death. Rodgers claims to be allergic to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines but will not say why.&nbsp; Even if true, he is still eligible for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, which he has not received.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Social media lit up with jokesters having a ball at Rodgers’ expense.&nbsp; One New Jersey mom volunteered to play quarterback in Rodgers’ place.&nbsp; She acknowledged that she has never played and knows little about football, but “I did my own research, so I’ll be fine,” she wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;At least she was kidding.&nbsp; Most people who use that phrase are deadly serious — and dead wrong.Looking up un- or improperly fact-checked nonsense on the internet and taking it for truth, all under the auspices of “doing my own research,” has become the bane of teachers, health care workers, researchers, and government officials alike.&nbsp; It disrupts classrooms and town hall meetings and makes effective policy making nearly impossible.&nbsp; It even leads to the occasional death threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is just as bad in the political arena.&nbsp; Politicians who should know better continue to spread conspiracy theories about the 2020 elections, certified by Trump appointee Christopher Krebs as the most secure in U.S. history.&nbsp; Many of these politicos know they are lying, but they must placate their party’s base.&nbsp; Meanwhile, people die needlessly because of anti-vaxxer nonsense, and the deranged QAnon conspiracy theory refuses to go away.&nbsp;&nbsp;Conspiracy theorists justify all this by claiming that traditional news media reporters and editors show bias.&nbsp; Sometimes, this is true.&nbsp; However, reporters also rigorously check their stories using reliable sources and professional journalism training.&nbsp; This is the difference between information and disinformation.&nbsp; Information is not perfect, but it is credible.&nbsp; Disinformation is neither.We all want to be experts on things about which we know very little.&nbsp; Many of us would probably like to play quarterback for the Packers, too, but we are not qualified.&nbsp; It takes talent, luck, discipline, and practice to become a football player, and years of schooling and practice to be a good epidemiologist, doctor, or nurse.&nbsp; When it comes to election analysis, we read countless books, articles, depositions, and reports, serve as expert witnesses, and spend months deep-diving into elections data using advanced statistical programs and methods training.&nbsp; Some findings surprise me, for example when I discovered that photo ID laws do not suppress Democratic votes as is widely believed.&nbsp; Sometimes, we have to admit that our hypotheses are not confirmed by the data.&nbsp; It takes a long career of education, successes, and even a few failures to get here.&nbsp;&nbsp;None of this can be summed up in a TikTok video or viral Facebook post.Aaron Rodgers did not do his own research.&nbsp; He fell for ridiculous conspiracy theories that put himself, his family, his team, and the opposing teams at risk.&nbsp; He also handed a badly-needed win to the Chiefs, who have one of the highest vaccination rates in the NFL.Thanks, Aaron. Now get off social media and go get vaccinated.&nbsp; Go Chiefs!Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Aaron Rodgers and the folly of 'doing your own research'

WASHINGTON — The Aspen Institute recently named Northwest Kansas Technical College one of the 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation's signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America's community colleges. The colleges selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds. &nbsp;

The 150 eligible colleges have been invited to submit data and narratives as the next steps in an intensive data and practice review process, culminating in the announcement of the Prize winner in spring 2023.&nbsp;

“We are honored to be recognized by the Aspen Institute for the efforts of our faculty and staff to improve the success and outcomes of our students,” said Northwest Tech President Ben Schears. “We are blessed to be a small campus where we get to know our students on a personal basis and can work to remove roadblocks to success.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636485808849.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseWASHINGTON — The Aspen Institute recently named Northwest Kansas Technical College one of the 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation's signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America's community colleges. The colleges selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds. &nbsp;The 150 eligible colleges have been invited to submit data and narratives as the next steps in an intensive data and practice review process, culminating in the announcement of the Prize winner in spring 2023.&nbsp;“We are honored to be recognized by the Aspen Institute for the efforts of our faculty and staff to improve the success and outcomes of our students,” said Northwest Tech President Ben Schears. “We are blessed to be a small campus where we get to know our students on a personal basis and can work to remove roadblocks to success.”The Aspen Prize spotlights exemplary community colleges in order to elevate the sector, drive attention to colleges doing the best work, and discover and share highly effective student success and equity strategies. Since 2010, Aspen has chosen to focus intensively on community colleges because they are—as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden stated at the 2021 Aspen Prize ceremony—“a powerful engine of prosperity.”&nbsp;But student outcomes vary enormously among community colleges, and improving those outcomes is essential to securing our nation’s economic future, strengthening communities, and ensuring that diverse populations experience economic mobility and prosperity. With these goals in mind, the Aspen Prize honors colleges with outstanding achievement in five critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and equity for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds.“In an era of persistent inequity and workforce talent gaps, our nation’s best community colleges are stepping up to deliver more degrees to increasingly diverse students so they are prepared for the good jobs waiting to be filled,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Leaders of exceptional community colleges understand that achieving excellence requires expanding college access and increasing degree completion, but it doesn’t stop there.&nbsp; They are committed to ensuring that all students—including students of color and those from low-income backgrounds—graduate with the skills needed to secure a job with family-sustaining wages or successfully transfer to and graduate from a university. That same commitment that stands at the center of the Aspen Prize: to advance the goals of social mobility and equitable talent development.”The eligible colleges represent the diversity and depth of the community college sector. Located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across 34 states, these colleges serve as few as 230 students and as many as 57,000. Winning colleges have ranged from smaller institutions serving rural community and smaller towns—including Lake Area Technical Institute (SD, 2017 Prize winner) and Walla Walla Community College (WA, 2013)—to large community colleges serving major metropolitan areas, including Miami Dade College (FL, 2019) and San Antonio College (TX, 2021).&nbsp;The four other previous winners are Indian River State College (FL, 2019); Santa Fe College (FL, 2015); Santa Barbara City College (CA, 2013); and Valencia College (FL, 2011).In this first round, eligibility for the Aspen Prize is based on publicly available data.&nbsp; Eligible colleges must show strong and improving student outcomes in key areas such as retention, completion, transfer, and equity. Nationwide, 15 percent of community colleges (150 of the approximately 1,000 public two-year colleges nationwide assessed for the Prize) have been invited to apply—the full list can be accessed on the <a href="https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/aspen-prize/">Prize homepage</a>.The next steps in the process include:<ul>
 <li>Selection of the top ten finalists by an expert panel of 15 experts in community colleges, higher education, and workforce training, to be announced in spring/summer 2022</li><li>Fall 2022 site visits to each of the ten finalists, during which the Aspen Institute and partners will collect additional information, including employment and earnings data and insights about promising practices</li><li>A distinguished jury will meet and make award decisions in the first quarter of early 2023</li><li>Announcement of the Aspen Prize in late spring 2023</li>
 </ul>For a full list of the top 150 eligible institutions and to read more on the selection process, visit <a href="https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/aspen-prize/">www.highered.aspeninstitute.org/aspen-prize</a>.

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