Three-day weather outlook

Staring at the two deer mounts on our living room wall, and the fact that Kansas deer rifles season opens this week, brought back memories of the hunts when we harvested those two deer and also memories of the process of getting them mounted. Both deer came from ground farmed by my wife’s family in southwestern KS. The very nice nine-point whitetail was my wife’s first buck, and the dandy ten-point mule deer was my first big buck, so we decided to spend the money to have them both mounted. Immediately after we got home that year, I took both the heads to a taxidermist, thinking that was the end of our responsibility. Not so, and let me see if I can explain the process.

When a taxidermist receives an animal or fish, the first step is removing the skin so it can be tanned or processed. With deer, the meat processing plant or the hunter removes the head from the animal, along with the hide down past the shoulders; this hide is known as the “cape.” The head and the cape are then taken to the taxidermist. The taxidermist carefully skins out the head, removes the top of the skull with both antlers intact, tags and stores the antlers and sends the cape to be tanned. That tanned cape, with the corresponding antlers, is eventually fitted over a form made from a hard foam material. This form ultimately determines the “pose” of the finished mount. Note; if having you animal processed at a commercial processing plant, MAKE CERTAIN to tell them to cape-out the head so you have enough hide for the mount, otherwise they will cut the skin way too short for the taxidermist.

Next step is choosing how you want you deer head “posed.” I felt like I was at a portrait studio trying to choose final pictures for the church directory. Without thinking, I assumed our only choice was to have both deer looking away from the wall! Not so! There are four basic “poses” or positions, and several variations of each. They all center around the state of alertness you want the animal to replicate, and the direction you want it looking. The first of the four basic positions poses the head extremely low with ears laid back as if the buck were sneaking. The subsequent three each raise the head higher until the final basic view shows the deer on “full alert” and ready to bolt. The look we chose shows our bucks with upright heads, but not startled, and one looking each direction, as if at each other.

Another option to an expensive full-shoulder mount is simply having the antlers mounted on a nice plaque. Few taxidermists will do this anymore, but kits are available for you to do it yourself. In my office hangs a nice heavy set of antlers from a buck I found dead on our Ohio farm when I was a kid. A third option that has become very popular of late is called a “European Mount” which consists of the bare skull with the antlers attached. These can be decorated or painted for a unique look. A couple years ago I gave my sister a nice European Mounted rack from a buck I harvested on her property. Her home décor is western and southwest, so I mounted it on a weathered piece of barnwood and hung some old rusty barbed-wire on its antlers.

Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to have a fish or animal mounted. Trophies do not have to be determined by size alone. Unusual shapes and colors of fish and animals can make them memorable. The situation surrounding the catch or hunt may be worthy also, like a son’s first turkey, or in our case, my wife’s first buck, which was also harvested on her uncle’s land. Good quality pictures are very important too. Who knows, maybe a picture will be your trophy. A classy plaque sporting a good picture makes a very attractive memento.

The mount’s “final resting place” in your home should absolutely be defined and agreed upon by harvester and spouse. This issue has been the source of much conflict between mates over the years. Hopefully your significant other has their priorities right and sees it your way!&nbsp;

Cost is also a factor. While I realize a price cannot be put on everything, think reasonably. Shoulder mounts, which are the most popular are costing above $600 now. I found out many taxidermists no longer do simple antler mounts, but the one that do charge around $150, or you can buy the DYI kit for only a few bucks. There are a few guys around who do European mounts which will cost around $100.&nbsp;

Selecting which wildlife artist to trust with your prize is the final step. Recommendations from other sportsmen are probably the best litmus tests of all. Look at work done by those you’re considering, even visit them at their shops. They will gladly spend time with you, because they are fellow outdoorsmen and understand how important this decision is.

We didn’t choose to have our deer mounted merely to brag about them or our skills (although I could hardly wait for my brother to see them.) Each time we look at these awesome examples of God’s creation, we want to be able to close our eyes and watch again the scenes of the hunt unfold around us; to sense the exhilaration as we wait for each buck to give us just that “right” shot; to feel anew the pride and gratitude for the opportunity we had been given…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>Staring at the two deer mounts on our living room wall, and the fact that Kansas deer rifles season opens this week, brought back memories of the hunts when we harvested those two deer and also memories of the process of getting them mounted. Both deer came from ground farmed by my wife’s family in southwestern KS. The very nice nine-point whitetail was my wife’s first buck, and the dandy ten-point mule deer was my first big buck, so we decided to spend the money to have them both mounted. Immediately after we got home that year, I took both the heads to a taxidermist, thinking that was the end of our responsibility. Not so, and let me see if I can explain the process.When a taxidermist receives an animal or fish, the first step is removing the skin so it can be tanned or processed. With deer, the meat processing plant or the hunter removes the head from the animal, along with the hide down past the shoulders; this hide is known as the “cape.” The head and the cape are then taken to the taxidermist. The taxidermist carefully skins out the head, removes the top of the skull with both antlers intact, tags and stores the antlers and sends the cape to be tanned. That tanned cape, with the corresponding antlers, is eventually fitted over a form made from a hard foam material. This form ultimately determines the “pose” of the finished mount. Note; if having you animal processed at a commercial processing plant, MAKE CERTAIN to tell them to cape-out the head so you have enough hide for the mount, otherwise they will cut the skin way too short for the taxidermist.Next step is choosing how you want you deer head “posed.” I felt like I was at a portrait studio trying to choose final pictures for the church directory. Without thinking, I assumed our only choice was to have both deer looking away from the wall! Not so! There are four basic “poses” or positions, and several variations of each. They all center around the state of alertness you want the animal to replicate, and the direction you want it looking. The first of the four basic positions poses the head extremely low with ears laid back as if the buck were sneaking. The subsequent three each raise the head higher until the final basic view shows the deer on “full alert” and ready to bolt. The look we chose shows our bucks with upright heads, but not startled, and one looking each direction, as if at each other.Another option to an expensive full-shoulder mount is simply having the antlers mounted on a nice plaque. Few taxidermists will do this anymore, but kits are available for you to do it yourself. In my office hangs a nice heavy set of antlers from a buck I found dead on our Ohio farm when I was a kid. A third option that has become very popular of late is called a “European Mount” which consists of the bare skull with the antlers attached. These can be decorated or painted for a unique look. A couple years ago I gave my sister a nice European Mounted rack from a buck I harvested on her property. Her home décor is western and southwest, so I mounted it on a weathered piece of barnwood and hung some old rusty barbed-wire on its antlers.Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to have a fish or animal mounted. Trophies do not have to be determined by size alone. Unusual shapes and colors of fish and animals can make them memorable. The situation surrounding the catch or hunt may be worthy also, like a son’s first turkey, or in our case, my wife’s first buck, which was also harvested on her uncle’s land. Good quality pictures are very important too. Who knows, maybe a picture will be your trophy. A classy plaque sporting a good picture makes a very attractive memento.The mount’s “final resting place” in your home should absolutely be defined and agreed upon by harvester and spouse. This issue has been the source of much conflict between mates over the years. Hopefully your significant other has their priorities right and sees it your way!&nbsp;Cost is also a factor. While I realize a price cannot be put on everything, think reasonably. Shoulder mounts, which are the most popular are costing above $600 now. I found out many taxidermists no longer do simple antler mounts, but the one that do charge around $150, or you can buy the DYI kit for only a few bucks. There are a few guys around who do European mounts which will cost around $100.&nbsp;Selecting which wildlife artist to trust with your prize is the final step. Recommendations from other sportsmen are probably the best litmus tests of all. Look at work done by those you’re considering, even visit them at their shops. They will gladly spend time with you, because they are fellow outdoorsmen and understand how important this decision is.We didn’t choose to have our deer mounted merely to brag about them or our skills (although I could hardly wait for my brother to see them.) Each time we look at these awesome examples of God’s creation, we want to be able to close our eyes and watch again the scenes of the hunt unfold around us; to sense the exhilaration as we wait for each buck to give us just that “right” shot; to feel anew the pride and gratitude for the opportunity we had been given…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: A trip to the taxidermist

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the Hays High Indians at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.

The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the Hays High Indians at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330819?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Hays High

The Hays High Indian boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the TMP-Marian Monarchs  at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indian boys and girls basketball teams open the season season with a first-round matchup against the TMP-Marian Monarchs at the Gerald Mitchell/Hays City Shootout.The girls game will tipoff at approximately 6:30 with the boys to follow at about 8:15 from Hays High School.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/330820?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High vs Thomas More Prep-Marian

The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees voted in September 2021, to retire $1 million in capital credits to eligible cooperative members. This year, eligible active members will see their capital credit in the form of a bill credit, visible either via SmartHub or on their December paper bill.

Electric cooperatives, like ours, operate at a cost. Any revenue above the cost of doing business (called margins) are repaid to the members in later years through capital credits. The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and their duration of membership. The payout years for this capital credit retirement are 1989 and 2020.

Every year, our trustees evaluate the financial condition of the cooperative to determine if we can retire capital credits. One of our seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, and capital credits is just one way we honor the cooperative spirit!

Inactive members or persons not currently purchasing their electricity from Wheatland Electric who were distribution members during the payout years will receive a paper check for any amount over $20. It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members to ensure the delivery of the capital credit checks. To confirm or update your mailing address, please call Wheatland Electric at 800-762-0436.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, Wheatland Electric will not host capital credit Harvest Days events this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638456935506.png" alt="The City of Lakin receives a capital credits payout from Wheatland Electric earlier this year from funds retired in 2020." />
 <figcaption>The City of Lakin receives a capital credits payout from Wheatland Electric earlier this year from funds retired in 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom Wheatland Electric...The Wheatland Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees voted in September 2021, to retire $1 million in capital credits to eligible cooperative members. This year, eligible active members will see their capital credit in the form of a bill credit, visible either via SmartHub or on their December paper bill.Electric cooperatives, like ours, operate at a cost. Any revenue above the cost of doing business (called margins) are repaid to the members in later years through capital credits. The credit amount that an individual member receives is based on the amount of electricity used (kilowatt hours) during the payout year(s), and their duration of membership. The payout years for this capital credit retirement are 1989 and 2020.Every year, our trustees evaluate the financial condition of the cooperative to determine if we can retire capital credits. One of our seven cooperative principles is members’ economic participation, and capital credits is just one way we honor the cooperative spirit!Inactive members or persons not currently purchasing their electricity from Wheatland Electric who were distribution members during the payout years will receive a paper check for any amount over $20. It is important that Wheatland Electric has the current mailing address of all inactive members to ensure the delivery of the capital credit checks. To confirm or update your mailing address, please call Wheatland Electric at 800-762-0436.Due to the ongoing pandemic, Wheatland Electric will not host capital credit Harvest Days events this year.

Wheatland Electric returns $1M in capital credits to members

Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World. These eight words are the guiding principles of Fort Hays State University alumnus Peter J. Werth. Indeed, I have witnessed over and over again his kindness, the tremendous impact he has had on teaching and learning at FHSU, and how Peter has changed not only our world but the lives of so many.&nbsp;

Starting with a $25 gift in 1981, and steadily expanding for more than 40 years, Peter has given generously to our women’s basketball program, departments of applied technology and chemistry, the entrepreneurship program housed in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, the Honors College, and the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.&nbsp;

Who is Peter J. Werth? If you read his biography, you will know that he has been a transformative visionary leader for more than fifty years. He is the founder, CEO, and president of ChemWerth Inc., Woodbridge, Conn., and a 1959 FHSU graduate with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He also earned a master’s in organic chemistry from Stanford University. Peter began his career with Hewlett-Packard in 1961.

In 1964, he worked as a staff scientist at Spindletop Research before becoming the head chemist for Upjohn Pharmaceuticals (now Pfizer). In 1965, he became manager of Upjohn's R&amp;D department. From 1975 to 1983, Peter served as vice president of sales and marketing for Ganes Chemicals. Peter founded ChemWerth in 1982 to develop active pharmaceutical ingredients to produce generic drugs. Today, Peter serves on several boards and is connected to several startup companies as an Angel investor.&nbsp;

Another scan of his biography reveals the many awards he has received, including the FHSU Alumni Achievement Award. He also has received honorary doctorate degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. The good works of his family foundation, his many charitable contributions, and the impact of his work have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people all over the world. &nbsp;

However, the elements of his story that most resonate with me are his humble beginnings, strong work ethic, kindness, and the direct, personal impact he has had on so many individuals.&nbsp;

Peter grew up in Hays, Kansas. Born into modest beginnings, he was one of eight children. His parents owned The Mecca, a local restaurant at the corner of 27th and Vine, the current location of Walgreens. He learned the value of hard work early in life. Peter and his siblings all helped out at the restaurant, famous for its hamburgers. When not studying or working at the restaurant, Peter could also be found mowing the acres of grass in the cemetery across the street. Hard work was a lesson all the Werth children learned early and often. These lessons not only powered him through college but also helped fuel his success throughout his career.

Having had the honor of spending time with Peter and watching him interact with many people, I have been most inspired by how he selflessly develops and champions opportunities for our students that are extraordinarily impactful. We are deeply indebted to Peter for his generous financial support for our Tiger women’s basketball program. But what differentiates Peter’s impact is his focus on crafting peak experiences for our student-athletes – like flying our team to Connecticut to meet legendary coach Geno Auriemma and practice and play an exhibition game against his UConn Huskies, one of the top women’s basketball teams in NCAA Division I. Our student-athletes will remember that experience for the rest of their lives.

“This definitely was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players,” said FHSU’s Kacey Kennett, who actually was making her second trip to UConn with Peter and the Tiger team – her first time back in 2017 as a player and this year as a graduate assistant coach.&nbsp;

“A lot of Division I teams don’t even get to play UConn,” Kacey added, “so this opportunity – and all the opportunities I have gotten by attending Fort Hays State – I will cherish forever.”

I am also awed by how compassionately he connects with others and his ongoing commitment to helping break down barriers for our students. As a very recent example, Peter is planning to fund the education expenses of a young Nepal woman, Nyima Gyalmu Lama, and send her to FHSU to study nursing. If Nyima can get her Visa by January, she might be able to begin her dream of becoming a nurse as early as the spring 2022 semester!

Recently, a delegation of FHSU faculty and staff had the opportunity to travel to UConn to visit the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. There, we met sophomore Allie Davenport, who, like Peter, has dreams of making our world better.&nbsp;

Allie was a high school athlete who developed a medical condition known as paradoxical vocal fold motion, a breathing disorder where the vocal cords function abnormally, restricting airflow during respiration. Allie learned that one of the underlying causes of this condition is anxiety.

“My mind was powerful enough to trigger my vocal cords to malfunction and restrict airflow,” she explained.

Allie underwent months of speech therapy to help her retrain her body how to breathe and her mind how to resist a panic mode and to relax. Her journey fueled her passion for mental wellness and for helping to make a difference for others on their personal wellness journey.

With the support of the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Allie set out to make a difference in the lives of others through the creation of StarMind – an interactive journal that combines daily self-reflection logs, thought-provoking activities, and a series of QR codes that leads the journalist to digital resources and tools on specific psychology-related concepts.

Allie did not just receive funding for an idea. Focusing on experiences, Peter provided her with an audience of FHSU faculty to hear her story and her pitch. We marveled at her passion and dedication. We expressed our enthusiastic support and encouragement. Several purchased journals on the spot while Peter purchased a book for the entire Tiger team and their parents who were present that day.

Like our basketball players and our Nepali nursing student, I bet Allie will remember that day and the connections she made with FHSU Tigers for a very long time. I will maintain an email relationship with Allie myself – encouraging her heart to continue to inspire the hearts and minds of others.&nbsp;

Some may know Peter Werth as a “rags to riches” story, others as an astute and accomplished businessman. I will always see him as someone who has lived his mantra: Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World. These eight words are the guiding principles of Fort Hays State University alumnus Peter J. Werth. Indeed, I have witnessed over and over again his kindness, the tremendous impact he has had on teaching and learning at FHSU, and how Peter has changed not only our world but the lives of so many.&nbsp;Starting with a $25 gift in 1981, and steadily expanding for more than 40 years, Peter has given generously to our women’s basketball program, departments of applied technology and chemistry, the entrepreneurship program housed in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science, the Honors College, and the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.&nbsp;Who is Peter J. Werth? If you read his biography, you will know that he has been a transformative visionary leader for more than fifty years. He is the founder, CEO, and president of ChemWerth Inc., Woodbridge, Conn., and a 1959 FHSU graduate with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He also earned a master’s in organic chemistry from Stanford University. Peter began his career with Hewlett-Packard in 1961.In 1964, he worked as a staff scientist at Spindletop Research before becoming the head chemist for Upjohn Pharmaceuticals (now Pfizer). In 1965, he became manager of Upjohn's R&amp;D department. From 1975 to 1983, Peter served as vice president of sales and marketing for Ganes Chemicals. Peter founded ChemWerth in 1982 to develop active pharmaceutical ingredients to produce generic drugs. Today, Peter serves on several boards and is connected to several startup companies as an Angel investor.&nbsp;Another scan of his biography reveals the many awards he has received, including the FHSU Alumni Achievement Award. He also has received honorary doctorate degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. The good works of his family foundation, his many charitable contributions, and the impact of his work have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people all over the world. &nbsp;However, the elements of his story that most resonate with me are his humble beginnings, strong work ethic, kindness, and the direct, personal impact he has had on so many individuals.&nbsp;Peter grew up in Hays, Kansas. Born into modest beginnings, he was one of eight children. His parents owned The Mecca, a local restaurant at the corner of 27th and Vine, the current location of Walgreens. He learned the value of hard work early in life. Peter and his siblings all helped out at the restaurant, famous for its hamburgers. When not studying or working at the restaurant, Peter could also be found mowing the acres of grass in the cemetery across the street. Hard work was a lesson all the Werth children learned early and often. These lessons not only powered him through college but also helped fuel his success throughout his career.Having had the honor of spending time with Peter and watching him interact with many people, I have been most inspired by how he selflessly develops and champions opportunities for our students that are extraordinarily impactful. We are deeply indebted to Peter for his generous financial support for our Tiger women’s basketball program. But what differentiates Peter’s impact is his focus on crafting peak experiences for our student-athletes – like flying our team to Connecticut to meet legendary coach Geno Auriemma and practice and play an exhibition game against his UConn Huskies, one of the top women’s basketball teams in NCAA Division I. Our student-athletes will remember that experience for the rest of their lives.“This definitely was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players,” said FHSU’s Kacey Kennett, who actually was making her second trip to UConn with Peter and the Tiger team – her first time back in 2017 as a player and this year as a graduate assistant coach.&nbsp;“A lot of Division I teams don’t even get to play UConn,” Kacey added, “so this opportunity – and all the opportunities I have gotten by attending Fort Hays State – I will cherish forever.”I am also awed by how compassionately he connects with others and his ongoing commitment to helping break down barriers for our students. As a very recent example, Peter is planning to fund the education expenses of a young Nepal woman, Nyima Gyalmu Lama, and send her to FHSU to study nursing. If Nyima can get her Visa by January, she might be able to begin her dream of becoming a nurse as early as the spring 2022 semester!Recently, a delegation of FHSU faculty and staff had the opportunity to travel to UConn to visit the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. There, we met sophomore Allie Davenport, who, like Peter, has dreams of making our world better.&nbsp;Allie was a high school athlete who developed a medical condition known as paradoxical vocal fold motion, a breathing disorder where the vocal cords function abnormally, restricting airflow during respiration. Allie learned that one of the underlying causes of this condition is anxiety.“My mind was powerful enough to trigger my vocal cords to malfunction and restrict airflow,” she explained.Allie underwent months of speech therapy to help her retrain her body how to breathe and her mind how to resist a panic mode and to relax. Her journey fueled her passion for mental wellness and for helping to make a difference for others on their personal wellness journey.With the support of the Peter Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Allie set out to make a difference in the lives of others through the creation of StarMind – an interactive journal that combines daily self-reflection logs, thought-provoking activities, and a series of QR codes that leads the journalist to digital resources and tools on specific psychology-related concepts.Allie did not just receive funding for an idea. Focusing on experiences, Peter provided her with an audience of FHSU faculty to hear her story and her pitch. We marveled at her passion and dedication. We expressed our enthusiastic support and encouragement. Several purchased journals on the spot while Peter purchased a book for the entire Tiger team and their parents who were present that day.Like our basketball players and our Nepali nursing student, I bet Allie will remember that day and the connections she made with FHSU Tigers for a very long time. I will maintain an email relationship with Allie myself – encouraging her heart to continue to inspire the hearts and minds of others.&nbsp;Some may know Peter Werth as a “rags to riches” story, others as an astute and accomplished businessman. I will always see him as someone who has lived his mantra: Be Good. Make A Difference. Change the World.&nbsp;

MASON: FHSU alum changing the world one experience at a time

The Kansas Geological Survey reported an earthquake was detected in Russell County on Wednesday.

The&nbsp;2.9-magnitude quake occurred at 10:22 p.m. in the far northeast corner of the county.

The Kansas Geological Survey reported an earthquake was detected in Russell County on Wednesday.The&nbsp;2.9-magnitude quake occurred at 10:22 p.m. in the far northeast corner of the county.

2.9-magnitude earthquake detected in Russell Co.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school district outlined three options for a bond issue at a meeting of educators, community members and administrators Wednesday night.

Each option includes building a new school. Ninety percent of district's educators and 86 percent of the district's community bond committee have said they favored closing Lincoln Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center, which would require building a new school.

The district has not decided on any specific option, and all options are still open to changes.

All three options would include a new auditorium at the high school. They also would include larger classrooms.

Option one includes building a new high school, moving the middle school into the renovated high school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school.

O'Loughlin and Roosvelt Elementary schools would be renovated. Rockwell and Lincoln would be closed. Administrative offices would be relocated into the Wilson Elementary building, and Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.

Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. 

The median cost of a home in Hays is $169,000.

The district bond counsel also calculated what the cost of each bond would be if a portion of the cost was paid for through a local sales tax. The cost for the new high school option with a sales tax would be $21.92 per month on a $150,000 home.

The district's architect and bond counsel also figured the cost for doing the bond work in two phases. However, each section of the bond would have to pass separately years apart.

All of the people surveyed at the meeting Wednesday night said they thought a single inclusive bond was more likely to pass.

&nbsp;Option two would include renovation of the high school, building a new middle school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school. This option would then follow the same path in option one with the other schools. 

Estimated cost for option two would be $139.1 million. The cost per month on a $150,000 home using property tax only would be $32.34. Cost with property and sales tax would be $20.84 per month.

Option three would be to build a new three-section elementary school, and renovate the middle school, high school, Roosevelt, O'Loughlin and Wilson. Rockwell would be closed and relocated to Lincoln. Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.

Cost of option three would be $123.1 million. Cost per month on a $150,000 home using only property tax would be $28.75. Cost with property tax and sales tax combined would be $17.25 per month.

Seventy-six percent of the attendees surveyed Wednesday night said they thought option one, which included a new high school, would be the mostly likely bond issue to pass. 

Seventy-two percent of the attendees said they thought the district should consider using sales tax to help fund the bond project.

Ron Wilson, superintendent, said the Hays school district is one of the few districts in the state that does not receive state aid for bonds.

Hays has a 1.71 pull factor. That means for every $1 spent in the city, 71 cents is being spent by someone from outside of the city. Using sales tax revenue would mean people from outside Hays would help pay for the bond.

"We have to be creative how we leverage our resources in our community," Wilson said. "This is a way to get people from the outside to pay.

"This is how can we leverage every resource we can and we can be equal to other school districts in the state."

The Hays City Commission would have to approve the use of sales tax for a bond issue. It would also be a separate question on the ballot. 

Shaun Musil, newly re-elected city commissioner, said he thought the school district should use sales tax for the bond.

Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber, said the district tried to pass a bond that included sales tax before and it failed by the largest margin of any of the options offered in that bond vote.

The district is seeking further input on a bond from the community at large through a survey that is now available on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">district's website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysUSD489">social media</a>.

The district will also host a community bond forum at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at the 12th Street Auditorium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638416629800.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school district outlined three options for a bond issue at a meeting of educators, community members and administrators Wednesday night.Each option includes building a new school. Ninety percent of district's educators and 86 percent of the district's community bond committee have said they favored closing Lincoln Elementary School and Rockwell Administration Center, which would require building a new school.The district has not decided on any specific option, and all options are still open to changes.All three options would include a new auditorium at the high school. They also would include larger classrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413524691.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 1. Build a new high school " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 1. Build a new high school </figcaption>
 </figure>Option one includes building a new high school, moving the middle school into the renovated high school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school.O'Loughlin and Roosvelt Elementary schools would be renovated. Rockwell and Lincoln would be closed. Administrative offices would be relocated into the Wilson Elementary building, and Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.Cost estimate is $143.5 million over a 25-year bond. The cost per month on a $150,000 home would be $33.42. The median cost of a home in Hays is $169,000.The district bond counsel also calculated what the cost of each bond would be if a portion of the cost was paid for through a local sales tax. The cost for the new high school option with a sales tax would be $21.92 per month on a $150,000 home. The district's architect and bond counsel also figured the cost for doing the bond work in two phases. However, each section of the bond would have to pass separately years apart.All of the people surveyed at the meeting Wednesday night said they thought a single inclusive bond was more likely to pass.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413610697.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 2. Build a new middle school " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 2. Build a new middle school </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Option two would include renovation of the high school, building a new middle school and renovating the middle school into a five-section elementary school. This option would then follow the same path in option one with the other schools. Estimated cost for option two would be $139.1 million. The cost per month on a $150,000 home using property tax only would be $32.34. Cost with property and sales tax would be $20.84 per month.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638413689126.jpeg" alt="USD 489 bond option 3. Build a new elementary school. " />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond option 3. Build a new elementary school. </figcaption>
 </figure>Option three would be to build a new three-section elementary school, and renovate the middle school, high school, Roosevelt, O'Loughlin and Wilson. Rockwell would be closed and relocated to Lincoln. Westside students would be relocated into existing district buildings based on their grades.Cost of option three would be $123.1 million. Cost per month on a $150,000 home using only property tax would be $28.75. Cost with property tax and sales tax combined would be $17.25 per month.Seventy-six percent of the attendees surveyed Wednesday night said they thought option one, which included a new high school, would be the mostly likely bond issue to pass. Seventy-two percent of the attendees said they thought the district should consider using sales tax to help fund the bond project.Ron Wilson, superintendent, said the Hays school district is one of the few districts in the state that does not receive state aid for bonds.Hays has a 1.71 pull factor. That means for every $1 spent in the city, 71 cents is being spent by someone from outside of the city. Using sales tax revenue would mean people from outside Hays would help pay for the bond. "We have to be creative how we leverage our resources in our community," Wilson said. "This is a way to get people from the outside to pay."This is how can we leverage every resource we can and we can be equal to other school districts in the state."The Hays City Commission would have to approve the use of sales tax for a bond issue. It would also be a separate question on the ballot. Shaun Musil, newly re-elected city commissioner, said he thought the school district should use sales tax for the bond.Sarah Wasinger, executive director of the Hays Chamber, said the district tried to pass a bond that included sales tax before and it failed by the largest margin of any of the options offered in that bond vote.The district is seeking further input on a bond from the community at large through a survey that is now available on the <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">district's website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysUSD489">social media</a>. The district will also host a community bond forum at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at the 12th Street Auditorium.

Hays bond committee discusses building new schools, bond costs

Fort Hays State University is calling back its elves to work for the university’s annual toy-building event.

The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.&nbsp;

The project, started in 1990, took on a new look last year. For more than 30 years, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble about 200 wooden toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive Christmas gifts. The community-participation portion of the event was canceled last year because of Covid-19 concerns. And completion of toys fell on the shoulders of faculty and students in FHSU’s chapter of Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA).

The Department of Applied Technology is happy to announce that TUFT Day is returning to its traditional in-person format this year, and Santa’s helpers of all ages are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.

Students in the Materials, Processes, and Production classes – taught by Assistant Professor Zach Pixler – produce several designs for the toy. Pixler and Kim Stewart, department chair, then choose the design. This year’s toy will be a transforming robot. Pixler’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638302573313.jpeg" alt="FHSU Assistant Professor Zach Pixler explains the design of the wooden toy that will be assembled at Saturday’s annual toy-building event." />
 <figcaption>FHSU Assistant Professor Zach Pixler explains the design of the wooden toy that will be assembled at Saturday’s annual toy-building event.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University is calling back its elves to work for the university’s annual toy-building event.The Dr. Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up for Tots (TUFT) Day is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in the woodshop of FHSU’s Center for Applied Technology.&nbsp;The project, started in 1990, took on a new look last year. For more than 30 years, faculty, staff, and community members have gathered on the first Saturday in December to assemble about 200 wooden toys for children ages 2 to 6 who might not otherwise receive Christmas gifts. The community-participation portion of the event was canceled last year because of Covid-19 concerns. And completion of toys fell on the shoulders of faculty and students in FHSU’s chapter of Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA).The Department of Applied Technology is happy to announce that TUFT Day is returning to its traditional in-person format this year, and Santa’s helpers of all ages are welcome to volunteer for the toy production. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.Jobs will include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching components, and finish work. Those with experience will be able to run some machine operations. Volunteers can come and go as it fits into their schedule.Students in the Materials, Processes, and Production classes – taught by Assistant Professor Zach Pixler – produce several designs for the toy. Pixler and Kim Stewart, department chair, then choose the design. This year’s toy will be a transforming robot. Pixler’s students cut out the individual pieces beforehand in preparation for the Saturday toy-building event.

FHSU toy-building event returns to traditional format

The Hays Police Department raised $1,200 for Your Voice Through Cancer through its No Shave November.

Participants agreed to not shave in November.

Master Police Officer Ethan Henderson lead the project.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638395051269.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Department at start of No Shave November " />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Department at start of No Shave November </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638395089879.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Department at the end of No Shave November" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Department at the end of No Shave November</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department raised $1,200 for Your Voice Through Cancer through its No Shave November.Participants agreed to not shave in November. Master Police Officer Ethan Henderson lead the project.&nbsp;

Hays PD raises $1,200 for cancer charity in 'No Shave November'

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Is there anything to do in Kansas?”&nbsp;

“Oh, yes.&nbsp;There are a HUNDRED things to do in Kansas!”&nbsp;

If you don’t believe me, take the word of author Roxie Yonkey. She recently wrote a book titled “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.”&nbsp;

Roxie was born and raised in Nebraska and always enjoyed writing. At college in Virginia, she became a staff writer.&nbsp;

Roxie came to Kansas for a job opportunity at the Goodland newspaper. Her plan was to stay for a year. More than 30 years later, she’s still here.&nbsp;

When Roxie took the job in Goodland, she met a good-looking guy at the next desk.&nbsp;&nbsp;Four years later, they would be married. Roxie and Eric bought a newspaper in Syracuse and sold it in 2000.&nbsp;

They came back to northwest Kansas. Roxie found that she enjoyed writing about Kansas attractions. She designed the regional travel guide called the Ultimate Guide to Northwest Kansas, worked for the Sherman County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and became administrator for the Kansas I-70 Association.&nbsp;

When those positions ended, she was not sure what to do next. “I was sitting and staring at my computer, asking myself, `What do I do now?’ Then it was as if a voice said to me, `What do you have in your hand?’ I answered, `A computer mouse…’&nbsp;&nbsp;I realized I could become a travel writer and blogger,” Roxie said.&nbsp;

In 2019, Roxie launched a website called&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">www.roxieontheroad.com</a>&nbsp;of which she is the Chief Exploration Officer. Her first post was about the Butterfield Trail Museum in the rural community of Russell Springs, population 24 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Roxie traveled the state extensively to research a book. “I would wake in the night and visualize how the book would go,” Roxie said. “It was writing itself.”&nbsp;

In 2021, Roxie published her book, titled “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The cover features Kansas sunflowers plus a picture of a tin bucket, to remind you of a bucket list.&nbsp;

“I wanted things from every portion of the state,” Roxie said. The book describes Kansas from corner to corner, from Atchison to Point of Rocks and from Route 66 to the Arikaree Breaks.&nbsp;

“You just have to include certain things, such as Eisenhower and Amelia Earhart,” Roxie said. The book includes big city attractions such as Legends in Kansas City, Old Town in Wichita, and the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, plus many, many rural events such as the Outhouse tour in Elk Falls (I am not making this up).&nbsp;

Descriptions include natural wonders such as the new Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park and Cheyenne Bottoms, plus historic landmarks like the Brown v. Board of Education site and John Brown mural at the state capitol. Then there are distinctly Kansas activities such as visiting the Little House on the Prairie or singing the state song at the Home on the Range cabin.&nbsp;

The book is conveniently organized into sections on Food and Drink, Music and Entertainment, Sports and Recreation, Culture and History, and Shopping and Fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;She even created an index of suggested itineraries and a list of seasonal activities to be best pursued in the winter, spring, summer or fall.&nbsp;

Ultimately, the book includes much more than 100 things to do. There are photos and descriptions of each of the 100 things, which Roxie augmented with many additional related tips and venue lists. She hopes her book will make a positive difference for the state.&nbsp;

“I would like people to flock to these attractions,” Roxie said. She has already had book orders from California to Connecticut. For more information or to order, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">www.roxieontheroad.com</a>.&nbsp;

Is there anything to do in Kansas? Roxie wrote in her preface: “Kansas is subtle. The Sunflower State doesn’t overwhelm visitors with its mountains or its oceans. We have neither. Instead, Kansas sneaks up on its guests, and before they realize it, they’ve fallen in love with the state, its friendly people, fascinating history, beauty, and fun activities.&nbsp;

“I know this,” Roxie wrote, “because it happened to me.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637768594573.png" alt="Yonkey" />
 <figcaption>Yonkey</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Is there anything to do in Kansas?”&nbsp;“Oh, yes.&nbsp;There are a HUNDRED things to do in Kansas!”&nbsp;If you don’t believe me, take the word of author Roxie Yonkey. She recently wrote a book titled “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.”&nbsp;Roxie was born and raised in Nebraska and always enjoyed writing. At college in Virginia, she became a staff writer.&nbsp;Roxie came to Kansas for a job opportunity at the Goodland newspaper. Her plan was to stay for a year. More than 30 years later, she’s still here.&nbsp;When Roxie took the job in Goodland, she met a good-looking guy at the next desk.&nbsp;&nbsp;Four years later, they would be married. Roxie and Eric bought a newspaper in Syracuse and sold it in 2000.&nbsp;They came back to northwest Kansas. Roxie found that she enjoyed writing about Kansas attractions. She designed the regional travel guide called the Ultimate Guide to Northwest Kansas, worked for the Sherman County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and became administrator for the Kansas I-70 Association.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631206837973.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>When those positions ended, she was not sure what to do next. “I was sitting and staring at my computer, asking myself, `What do I do now?’ Then it was as if a voice said to me, `What do you have in your hand?’ I answered, `A computer mouse…’&nbsp;&nbsp;I realized I could become a travel writer and blogger,” Roxie said.&nbsp;In 2019, Roxie launched a website called&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">www.roxieontheroad.com</a>&nbsp;of which she is the Chief Exploration Officer. Her first post was about the Butterfield Trail Museum in the rural community of Russell Springs, population 24 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Roxie traveled the state extensively to research a book. “I would wake in the night and visualize how the book would go,” Roxie said. “It was writing itself.”&nbsp;In 2021, Roxie published her book, titled “100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The cover features Kansas sunflowers plus a picture of a tin bucket, to remind you of a bucket list.&nbsp;“I wanted things from every portion of the state,” Roxie said. The book describes Kansas from corner to corner, from Atchison to Point of Rocks and from Route 66 to the Arikaree Breaks.&nbsp;“You just have to include certain things, such as Eisenhower and Amelia Earhart,” Roxie said. The book includes big city attractions such as Legends in Kansas City, Old Town in Wichita, and the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, plus many, many rural events such as the Outhouse tour in Elk Falls (I am not making this up).&nbsp;Descriptions include natural wonders such as the new Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park and Cheyenne Bottoms, plus historic landmarks like the Brown v. Board of Education site and John Brown mural at the state capitol. Then there are distinctly Kansas activities such as visiting the Little House on the Prairie or singing the state song at the Home on the Range cabin.&nbsp;The book is conveniently organized into sections on Food and Drink, Music and Entertainment, Sports and Recreation, Culture and History, and Shopping and Fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;She even created an index of suggested itineraries and a list of seasonal activities to be best pursued in the winter, spring, summer or fall.&nbsp;Ultimately, the book includes much more than 100 things to do. There are photos and descriptions of each of the 100 things, which Roxie augmented with many additional related tips and venue lists. She hopes her book will make a positive difference for the state.&nbsp;“I would like people to flock to these attractions,” Roxie said. She has already had book orders from California to Connecticut. For more information or to order, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roxieontheroad.com/">www.roxieontheroad.com</a>.&nbsp;Is there anything to do in Kansas? Roxie wrote in her preface: “Kansas is subtle. The Sunflower State doesn’t overwhelm visitors with its mountains or its oceans. We have neither. Instead, Kansas sneaks up on its guests, and before they realize it, they’ve fallen in love with the state, its friendly people, fascinating history, beauty, and fun activities.&nbsp;“I know this,” Roxie wrote, “because it happened to me.”&nbsp;

Now That's Rural: Roxie Yonkey, '100 Things to Do in Kansas'

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 36 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

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

As of Wednesday morning, HaysMed reported 19 COVID-19 inpatients.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,894 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638400219139.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 36 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, HaysMed reported 19 COVID-19 inpatients.The KDHE reported Wednesday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 65 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,894 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 36 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

VICTORIA — With an eye to the future, the Victoria Recreation
Commission recently began a process organizers hope will lead to the
opening of a recreation center for the community, creating a stronger city both
socially and economically.

While the commission hopes to see something come to
fruition, the first step in what is likely a long process was gathering input
from the community.

The commission hosted a community
meeting last month to discuss what plans for a Victoria recreation center may look like and what the community,
in general, would support.

"The benefits of having a community center are to help
build a strong, safe and inclusive community, said Sean Rodger, Victoria Recreation
Commission board member, who led the meeting. "It's a place where social
interaction volunteerism, civic pride and aesthetics are available within the
community. It's a building where practices for schools recreation teams can be
held safely and comfortably.

"It's a place where we can offer our children, young
adults and our elderly community members a place to meet for social
interaction, leisure and other activities. It will create a positive impact on
our youth as well as a stabilizing effect within the community. It'll provide a
central component to enact change at the community level. It'll be a popular
destination for social interaction, recreation and fitness, as well as the
ability to cater to the different needs of our community."

And while he said a new center would be a social asset to the
community, he said there is also a tangible economic benefit.

“Right now, as far as fitness center goes, I don't know how
many people go to Hays," Rodger said. "I do. I work out there. But
that's going to Hays, all that money's going to Hays. If we can bring it in and
keep it here, it'll benefit us as we will have the ability to grow and thrive
instead of just maintaining the status quo."

He noted other communities that have taken steps to build
recreation centers had seen those benefits.

"I was just talking the other day with … our elementary
school principal, and she was saying how I believe it was Clay Center,"
Rodger said. "People were going out of town all the time to work out, have
social activities, whatever and they decided to build a community center. And
after they did, people started coming and staying there to do the events and
activities."

And as they did, he said people decided to visit, build and live in their city.

For Victoria, he said the proposed center would also benefit various community
organizations and strengthen their programming.

"The vision is to be able to work in conjunction with
the three entities that we have in town," Rodger said. "USD 432, the
City of Victoria and the Basilica, St. Fidelis, as well as you the community."

It will offer our community members a safe, family-oriented
atmosphere where many activities can take place, he said.

"The proposed development of the future community
building encompasses a vast age range of residents within the community,"
Rodger said. "It's going to be a place where school and recreation can be
held. Community members can meet for social interaction through exercise,
games, meals, meal preparation, as well as having the ability to hold events
such as birthday parties, private baby and bridal showers, as well as a host of
other activities and programs."

While the first step is gauging community interest, securing
a location remains a significant unknown for the proposed center.

Rodger presented some potential locations, but most notably,
<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/20265d70-4cca-400e-9a7e-69323db9d166">as conversations about the former Victoria Rest Home continue,</a> the idea of
being located in or around that facility remains high, but other spots also might be suitable.

If the project continues to move forward, he said a
variety of skills would be needed to make the center a reality.

"It will definitely be a unique opportunity to put the
talents and skills of our community members to use," Rodger said. "As
a community, we can come together to bring an idea that started out as a seed into
a building that we can all use."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638298370165.jpeg" alt="Sean Rodger, Victoria Recreation Commission board member, speaks with a crowd assembled last month to discuss a proposed recreation center within the city." />
 <figcaption>Sean Rodger, Victoria Recreation Commission board member, speaks with a crowd assembled last month to discuss a proposed recreation center within the city.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostVICTORIA — With an eye to the future, the Victoria Recreation
Commission recently began a process organizers hope will lead to the
opening of a recreation center for the community, creating a stronger city both
socially and economically.While the commission hopes to see something come to
fruition, the first step in what is likely a long process was gathering input
from the community.The commission hosted a community
meeting last month to discuss what plans for a Victoria recreation center may look like and what the community,
in general, would support."The benefits of having a community center are to help
build a strong, safe and inclusive community, said Sean Rodger, Victoria Recreation
Commission board member, who led the meeting. "It's a place where social
interaction volunteerism, civic pride and aesthetics are available within the
community. It's a building where practices for schools recreation teams can be
held safely and comfortably."It's a place where we can offer our children, young
adults and our elderly community members a place to meet for social
interaction, leisure and other activities. It will create a positive impact on
our youth as well as a stabilizing effect within the community. It'll provide a
central component to enact change at the community level. It'll be a popular
destination for social interaction, recreation and fitness, as well as the
ability to cater to the different needs of our community."And while he said a new center would be a social asset to the
community, he said there is also a tangible economic benefit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638298711645.jpeg" alt="Sean Rodger, and&nbsp;Jeff Pfeifer, owner of the former Victoria rest home, listen to community members discuss the potential benefits and difficulties of creating a recreation center within Victoria.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sean Rodger, and&nbsp;Jeff Pfeifer, owner of the former Victoria rest home, listen to community members discuss the potential benefits and difficulties of creating a recreation center within Victoria.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“Right now, as far as fitness center goes, I don't know how
many people go to Hays," Rodger said. "I do. I work out there. But
that's going to Hays, all that money's going to Hays. If we can bring it in and
keep it here, it'll benefit us as we will have the ability to grow and thrive
instead of just maintaining the status quo."He noted other communities that have taken steps to build
recreation centers had seen those benefits."I was just talking the other day with … our elementary
school principal, and she was saying how I believe it was Clay Center,"
Rodger said. "People were going out of town all the time to work out, have
social activities, whatever and they decided to build a community center. And
after they did, people started coming and staying there to do the events and
activities."And as they did, he said people decided to visit, build and live in their city.For Victoria, he said the proposed center would also benefit various community
organizations and strengthen their programming."The vision is to be able to work in conjunction with
the three entities that we have in town," Rodger said. "USD 432, the
City of Victoria and the Basilica, St. Fidelis, as well as you the community."It will offer our community members a safe, family-oriented
atmosphere where many activities can take place, he said."The proposed development of the future community
building encompasses a vast age range of residents within the community,"
Rodger said. "It's going to be a place where school and recreation can be
held. Community members can meet for social interaction through exercise,
games, meals, meal preparation, as well as having the ability to hold events
such as birthday parties, private baby and bridal showers, as well as a host of
other activities and programs."While the first step is gauging community interest, securing
a location remains a significant unknown for the proposed center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632526843312.jpeg" alt="Jeff Pfeifer hosted a community meeting to discuss potential uses of the facility earlier this year. One of the most popular ideas was to use the building and grounds for a recreation center.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Pfeifer hosted a community meeting to discuss potential uses of the facility earlier this year. One of the most popular ideas was to use the building and grounds for a recreation center.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Rodger presented some potential locations, but most notably,
<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/20265d70-4cca-400e-9a7e-69323db9d166">as conversations about the former Victoria Rest Home continue,</a> the idea of
being located in or around that facility remains high, but other spots also might be suitable.If the project continues to move forward, he said a
variety of skills would be needed to make the center a reality."It will definitely be a unique opportunity to put the
talents and skills of our community members to use," Rodger said. "As
a community, we can come together to bring an idea that started out as a seed into
a building that we can all use."

Victoria residents discuss rec center proposal

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069923024072">Graham County Auto and Art Museum</a> recently traded out five of the cars owned by Stephen Tebo for five other cars.

One of the two feature cars is a 1955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It was No. 4 in Alice Cooper’s custom automobile collection.

In addition to being personalized by Alice Cooper, this frame off recreation features an all new GM drive train for reliability and serviceability, a 285 HP 5.3L V8 engine, automatic transmission, power steering, four wheel power disc brakes and air conditioning.

Cooper’s personal touches to this vehicle are the fully functional gull-wing doors and two-tone platinum silver and black paint. The custom paint scheme on this vehicle is the reverse of the Dirty Diamonds car, which was the first in this Alice Cooper series of vehicles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638289612075.jpeg" alt=" The wing of the door of the 1955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe signed by Alice Cooper when it went to auction in 2008. The car is on display at the Graham County Auto and Art Museum. Submitted photo " />
 <figcaption> The wing of the door of the 1955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe signed by Alice Cooper when it went to auction in 2008. The car is on display at the Graham County Auto and Art Museum. Submitted photo </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069923024072">Graham County Auto and Art Museum</a> recently traded out five of the cars owned by Stephen Tebo for five other cars.One of the two feature cars is a 1955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It was No. 4 in Alice Cooper’s custom automobile collection.In addition to being personalized by Alice Cooper, this frame off recreation features an all new GM drive train for reliability and serviceability, a 285 HP 5.3L V8 engine, automatic transmission, power steering, four wheel power disc brakes and air conditioning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638290844034.jpeg" alt="The engine of Alice Cooper's 955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe. Submitted photo " />
 <figcaption>The engine of Alice Cooper's 955 Mercedes 300 SL Gull-wing Coupe. Submitted photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Cooper’s personal touches to this vehicle are the fully functional gull-wing doors and two-tone platinum silver and black paint. The custom paint scheme on this vehicle is the reverse of the Dirty Diamonds car, which was the first in this Alice Cooper series of vehicles.

Graham County Auto, Art Museum features Alice Cooper's Mercedes

Hays High Band recently competed at two different marching competitions.

At both the FHSU Marching Festival and the WAC Marching Festival the band received 1 ratings.

At the FHSU Festival, bands are judged on music, marching and general effect. At WAC, the bands are judged on music, marching, general effect, drum line, and color guard and auxiliary.

This is the first time since 2010 that the band has received 1 ratings at the WAC Festival.

HHS has 91 members in its band. Matt Rome is the director. Shelby Higdon is the auxiliary coach.

"You could just tell from day one that there was just a fire," Rome said. "There was just a hunger. They wanted it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638216618568.jpeg" alt="Members representing the Hays High School band and their directors at the Nov. 22 Hays school board meeting as they were honored for their 1 ratings at the FHSU Marching Festival and the WAC Marching Festival. Shelby Higdon, auxiliary coach is on the far left. Matt Rome, director, is on the far right. " />
 <figcaption>Members representing the Hays High School band and their directors at the Nov. 22 Hays school board meeting as they were honored for their 1 ratings at the FHSU Marching Festival and the WAC Marching Festival. Shelby Higdon, auxiliary coach is on the far left. Matt Rome, director, is on the far right. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays High Band recently competed at two different marching competitions.At both the FHSU Marching Festival and the WAC Marching Festival the band received 1 ratings.At the FHSU Festival, bands are judged on music, marching and general effect. At WAC, the bands are judged on music, marching, general effect, drum line, and color guard and auxiliary. This is the first time since 2010 that the band has received 1 ratings at the WAC Festival.HHS has 91 members in its band. Matt Rome is the director. Shelby Higdon is the auxiliary coach. "You could just tell from day one that there was just a fire," Rome said. "There was just a hunger. They wanted it."

HHS band earns top ratings at FHSU, WAC marching festivals

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau The deer heard my footsteps crunching oak leaves as I crested a hill coming up out of the creek bottom. They didn’t make a sound as they darted through the clearing ahead of me. The white of their tails only briefly signaled their retreat before they slipped further into the tree line. I was taking advantage of decent temperatures to get one last hike in through the forest. They were fattening up before the real weather arrived. I had intruded on their afternoon of browsing on acorns scattered across the ground. The deer weren’t the only sign of colder days ahead. Everywhere I looked there were scant few signs of the previous growing season. A few persimmon fruit were still attached to one tree, but the majority of the burnt orange orbs were scattered among the acorns and hickory nuts on the forest floor. Except for a few maples, whose foliage had turned a deep red warning of what’s to come, the rest of the trees had shed their leaves. The bare branches overlapped like thin fingers against the steel gray sky. I pushed on, crossing the clearing, sliding down the other side of the hill back to the creek valley. The wind was blowing hard enough to make 65 feel a bit chilly when out in the open. In the protection of the trees and terrain, however, my sweatshirt proved to be almost too warm. I worked south as I scouted for an easy crossing, finding a gravel bar after a short hike along the bank. The ripples in the crystal-clear water spanned about four feet and appeared to be only a few inches deep. I carefully placed my foot on a mossy rock, and the water rose to just below my ankle. My treated boots kept my feet dry, but those and my wool socks couldn’t keep the cold from creeping in like an unwelcome guest. After making it across, I continued my push further upstream. I stopped at a pool on the far side of a 10-foot bank. The water was perfectly still, which provided a mirror image of the barren and khaki-colored world around it when viewed from an angle. Stepping to the water’s edge, I could see minnows still flitting about above the bedrock polished by running water. The opposing bank was a geological time capsule from the tan topsoil with roots protruding to the first sheet of shale, which stair-stepped into the water below. The sedimentary veneer once layered at the bottom of a shallow sea are now being carved away by a seasonal stream. This is where I decided to end my journey on foot. The valley narrowed up ahead and the tree cover lessened, allowing for more undergrowth. While a recent frost had taken care of the ticks and copperheads, there were still plenty of locust trees and other thorny obstacles ahead. I retreated to the comfort of a four-wheeler and revved it down an old dirt road, crossing a low-water bridge. The road climbed up a hill before disappearing into pasture. I followed the crest of the hill looking over the creek below, watching as the large hardwoods to the north transitioned to a smattering of redbuds and finally brush along the banks. Just as the brush was giving way to grassland, I spooked another deer, a single doe, out into the open. I got a better look at her than the others. She appeared to be in good health and looked primed for the season to come. She cleared a fence without any hesitation and, moments later, was gone over the horizon. I thought it best to end my intrusion here and went to my truck. On the drive home, I couldn’t help but think about how fortunate I was to have the time and cooperative weather to wander through a world waiting for winter to arrive. I’m not quite ready, but it will be here soon.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau The deer heard my footsteps crunching oak leaves as I crested a hill coming up out of the creek bottom. They didn’t make a sound as they darted through the clearing ahead of me. The white of their tails only briefly signaled their retreat before they slipped further into the tree line. I was taking advantage of decent temperatures to get one last hike in through the forest. They were fattening up before the real weather arrived. I had intruded on their afternoon of browsing on acorns scattered across the ground. The deer weren’t the only sign of colder days ahead. Everywhere I looked there were scant few signs of the previous growing season. A few persimmon fruit were still attached to one tree, but the majority of the burnt orange orbs were scattered among the acorns and hickory nuts on the forest floor. Except for a few maples, whose foliage had turned a deep red warning of what’s to come, the rest of the trees had shed their leaves. The bare branches overlapped like thin fingers against the steel gray sky. I pushed on, crossing the clearing, sliding down the other side of the hill back to the creek valley. The wind was blowing hard enough to make 65 feel a bit chilly when out in the open. In the protection of the trees and terrain, however, my sweatshirt proved to be almost too warm. I worked south as I scouted for an easy crossing, finding a gravel bar after a short hike along the bank. The ripples in the crystal-clear water spanned about four feet and appeared to be only a few inches deep. I carefully placed my foot on a mossy rock, and the water rose to just below my ankle. My treated boots kept my feet dry, but those and my wool socks couldn’t keep the cold from creeping in like an unwelcome guest. After making it across, I continued my push further upstream. I stopped at a pool on the far side of a 10-foot bank. The water was perfectly still, which provided a mirror image of the barren and khaki-colored world around it when viewed from an angle. Stepping to the water’s edge, I could see minnows still flitting about above the bedrock polished by running water. The opposing bank was a geological time capsule from the tan topsoil with roots protruding to the first sheet of shale, which stair-stepped into the water below. The sedimentary veneer once layered at the bottom of a shallow sea are now being carved away by a seasonal stream. This is where I decided to end my journey on foot. The valley narrowed up ahead and the tree cover lessened, allowing for more undergrowth. While a recent frost had taken care of the ticks and copperheads, there were still plenty of locust trees and other thorny obstacles ahead. I retreated to the comfort of a four-wheeler and revved it down an old dirt road, crossing a low-water bridge. The road climbed up a hill before disappearing into pasture. I followed the crest of the hill looking over the creek below, watching as the large hardwoods to the north transitioned to a smattering of redbuds and finally brush along the banks. Just as the brush was giving way to grassland, I spooked another deer, a single doe, out into the open. I got a better look at her than the others. She appeared to be in good health and looked primed for the season to come. She cleared a fence without any hesitation and, moments later, was gone over the horizon. I thought it best to end my intrusion here and went to my truck. On the drive home, I couldn’t help but think about how fortunate I was to have the time and cooperative weather to wander through a world waiting for winter to arrive. I’m not quite ready, but it will be here soon."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Waiting for winter

20th annual Chocolate Festival set for Saturday in Alton

Fort Hays State University Plymouth Schoolhouse annual Christmas Open House is this afternoon (Nov. 30) from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Come and enjoy Christmas from the past in the one-room school. Refreshments provided.

Sponsored by the FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638286405494.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSUFort Hays State University Plymouth Schoolhouse annual Christmas Open House is this afternoon (Nov. 30) from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.&nbsp;Come and enjoy Christmas from the past in the one-room school. Refreshments provided.Free and open to the public.Sponsored by the FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute.

One-room Plymouth Schoolhouse at FHSU celebrates Christmas open house today

🎥🏀 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

Hays USD 489 received a Commissioners Award with Honors related to students' success after they graduate from high school.

The district just missed receiving a silver award for state accreditation in post secondary effectiveness by two-tenths of a percentage point.

Schools are ranked based on accreditation criteria, including no award, copper, bronze, silver and gold.

Post-secondary progress looks at how many Hays High School students have earned an industry recognized certificate while in high school, post-secondary certificates, post-secondary degrees or are enrolled in post-secondary education both their first and second years after graduation.

The district's success rate in 2019 was 73.1 percent. That was up from 54.4 percent in 2015 when this measure began as part of the state accreditation process. 

"I think that's really focusing and having individual plans of study, talking to kids and helping them understand how important it is to be ready and have a plan after graduation ... very proud of that," said Shanna Dinkel, Hays assistant superintendent/director of curriculum.

The district's post-secondary effectiveness rate grew by almost 15 percent more than the state's average.

The HHS graduation rate was 91.1 percent in 2020. That is up 4.6 percent since 2015 and above the state average graduation rate of 88.3 percent.

Subgroups within Hays High have also seen increases in their graduation rates since 2015. Graduation rates for English language learners are up 3.2 percent, students receiving free and reduced-price lunches are up 7.6 percent. The 2020 graduation rate for disabled students is up 20 percent over five years.

Hays received a bronze award for its graduation rate in 2020. The state's goal is a 95 percent graduation rate for all students.

USD 489 scored 41 percent, earning the district a copper award in student academic preparedness for post-secondary education.

Districts are recognized annually for the percent of all students, across all grade levels scoring at levels 3 and 4 on Kansas state assessments in math, English language arts and science. It is the combination of all grades in all three assessed subjects.

Level three is students who are ready for post-secondary education, and level four students exceed the readiness standard.

Hays' percentages were English=46.4 1% Math=36.14% Science=40.35%

The district also filed a lengthy report on its efforts to increase kindergarten readiness, another accreditation criteria. The district received a copper award in this criteria

"We haven't got the feedback yet, so I'm hoping we can find ways to move up," Dinkel said.

Other accreditation measures the district officials hope to file reports on at a later date include individual plans of study, civic engagement and social-emotional growth.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 received a Commissioners Award with Honors related to students' success after they graduate from high school.The district just missed receiving a silver award for state accreditation in post secondary effectiveness by two-tenths of a percentage point.Schools are ranked based on accreditation criteria, including no award, copper, bronze, silver and gold. Post-secondary progress looks at how many Hays High School students have earned an industry recognized certificate while in high school, post-secondary certificates, post-secondary degrees or are enrolled in post-secondary education both their first and second years after graduation.The district's success rate in 2019 was 73.1 percent. That was up from 54.4 percent in 2015 when this measure began as part of the state accreditation process. "I think that's really focusing and having individual plans of study, talking to kids and helping them understand how important it is to be ready and have a plan after graduation ... very proud of that," said Shanna Dinkel, Hays assistant superintendent/director of curriculum. The district's post-secondary effectiveness rate grew by almost 15 percent more than the state's average.<h2>HHS graduation rate</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638211977701.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The HHS graduation rate was 91.1 percent in 2020. That is up 4.6 percent since 2015 and above the state average graduation rate of 88.3 percent.Subgroups within Hays High have also seen increases in their graduation rates since 2015. Graduation rates for English language learners are up 3.2 percent, students receiving free and reduced-price lunches are up 7.6 percent. The 2020 graduation rate for disabled students is up 20 percent over five years.Hays received a bronze award for its graduation rate in 2020. The state's goal is a 95 percent graduation rate for all students.<h2>Academic preparedness</h2>USD 489 scored 41 percent, earning the district a copper award in student academic preparedness for post-secondary education.Districts are recognized annually for the percent of all students, across all grade levels scoring at levels 3 and 4 on Kansas state assessments in math, English language arts and science. It is the combination of all grades in all three assessed subjects.Level three is students who are ready for post-secondary education, and level four students exceed the readiness standard. Hays' percentages were English=46.4 1% Math=36.14% Science=40.35%<h2>Kindergarten readiness</h2>The district also filed a lengthy report on its efforts to increase kindergarten readiness, another accreditation criteria. The district received a copper award in this criteria "We haven't got the feedback yet, so I'm hoping we can find ways to move up," Dinkel said.Other accreditation measures the district officials hope to file reports on at a later date include individual plans of study, civic engagement and social-emotional growth. Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

HHS students perform well after graduation, according to state report

When you are a student in Kayla North's kindergarten class at Holy Family Elementary School, everything is an adventure.

This includes learning your letters with Bee-Bots, learning to draw with ArtHub or getting your giggles out with a dance from GoNoodle.

Jami Breit's son is in North's class. She nominated North for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award.

"Mrs. North always goes above and beyond for her students," Breit said. "All of my boys have had her, and all of them have loved her. 

"She updates the parents and keeps us actively involved in what the children are doing, which is wonderful because I think it really shows that she cares about each one of them."

Breit said North makes learning fun and is quick to adapt technology in the classroom.

"My son always comes home happy to have been at school and showing me all he has learned," Breit said. "Mrs. North has a loving heart and is always making time for the kids."

North, who's been a teacher for 12 years, said teaching kindergarten allows her to be uniquely herself.

"You can be silly. You can be serious, and they love you the same," she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637766468670.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637767185433.jpeg" alt="Hays Post's November Teacher of the Month is Kayla North, kindergarten teacher at Holy Family Elementary School. " />
 <figcaption>Hays Post's November Teacher of the Month is Kayla North, kindergarten teacher at Holy Family Elementary School. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWhen you are a student in Kayla North's kindergarten class at Holy Family Elementary School, everything is an adventure.This includes learning your letters with Bee-Bots, learning to draw with ArtHub or getting your giggles out with a dance from GoNoodle.Jami Breit's son is in North's class. She nominated North for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award."Mrs. North always goes above and beyond for her students," Breit said. "All of my boys have had her, and all of them have loved her. "She updates the parents and keeps us actively involved in what the children are doing, which is wonderful because I think it really shows that she cares about each one of them."Breit said North makes learning fun and is quick to adapt technology in the classroom."My son always comes home happy to have been at school and showing me all he has learned," Breit said. "Mrs. North has a loving heart and is always making time for the kids."North, who's been a teacher for 12 years, said teaching kindergarten allows her to be uniquely herself."You can be silly. You can be serious, and they love you the same," she said. Kindergarten-age children love to learn, North said. They love doing a simple math problems the same as they love to read or do a craft. "They come in and say, 'What are we doing for math today?!' 'What are we doing for reading today?!' Even if it's just a regular math lesson, they're ready to do it, and they'll go home and tell their parents about it," she said. North is a huge fan of Dr. Seuss and incorporates a Dr. Seuss week into her lessons every year. "I have loved Dr. Seuss as long as I can remember," North said. "My grandma had a set of Dr. Seuss books, and I can remember thumbing through them growing up ... couldn't read them yet."When North was teaching second grade, her entire room was Dr. Seuss-themed. She had a chair she and her mother had covered in fake blue fur to represent Thing One and Thing Two. One of the boys in her class was having behavior problems, but he loved sitting in that blue fuzzy chair."He would do anything to sit in that chair," she said. ... "He's in high school now, but his mother said he still remembers that fuzzy chair." Last year, North and her co-teacher turned the week into a series of STEM lessons, borrowing ideas from Pinterest. The kids played with kinetic sand, and North always caps off the week by dressing up as the Cat in the Hat.The kids in North's class are learning basic coding through Bee-Bots, which are about the size of an adult palm. They are yellow and black and look like smiling bees. The kids press buttons on the bee's backs to tell them were to travel on a grid on the floor.North incorporates reading by having a child program the Bee-Bot to go to a specific letter or rhyming word. The kids can program the Bee-Bots for multiple stops to spell words. North is ordering jackets for the Bee-Bots so they can hold pencils and the kids can use them to draw letters."They're getting the same material, but in a fun way," North said.The kindergartners at Holy Family go to school for the full day. North said having brain breaks for the kids is important. She uses technology for that sometimes as well.GoNoodle is a free app that lets the kids watch short funny videos. Many of them include funny songs or dances so the kids can be active when they can't go outside for recess or they're just getting fidgety.&nbsp;"Sometimes we will literally just stand and shake our arms and be silly," North said. Art Hub is a YouTube channel that was created by a dad and shows kids how to step by step draw fun images. North uses the art lessons in conjunction with the students' letters of the week. The children draw the images, can take pictures of the art with their iPads and then share them with their parents on a secure online account."I just want to show kids they can learn and have fun at the same time," North said. "I'm not normally a serious person, so I want to show the kids that it's OK to make mistakes and it's OK to have fun. I want kids to enjoy school and get the most of it as they possibly can."Kindergarten can fun, but it also can be rough. Some of the kids come to Holy Family as kindergartners and have never been to school before. There's a lot more tears in kindergarten, North said. She hopes everything is good for the kids at home. Holy Family has many great families, but you never really know what is going on at home, and the kids don't know how to tell you what's wrong, she said. "You never know when something's going on," she said. "They might come in crying, but they can't tell you why or they might start crying and you might ask them what's wrong and 'I don't know.' They just can't communicate that."Just having the patient. 'OK, take a minute. It'll be OK.' Take their mind off of it. We'll go for walks in the hallway. We'll do a silly dance, just something to get their mind off it. But you never know what they're going through." <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637766468670.png" alt=" " />
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