Due to the conditions from the winter storm and heavy amounts of snow that fell over the weekend, recycling is not guaranteed to be collected this week. This only applies to the recycling materials – regular trash will be collected as normal.  Please note that the exact time of collection of the regular trash may be delayed. Please make sure your polycarts are out by 7:00 AM and keep in mind the trucks have no set time schedule. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause our customers.

City of Hays customers who have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734690570482.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the conditions from the winter storm and heavy amounts of snow that fell over the weekend, recycling is not guaranteed to be collected this week. This only applies to the recycling materials – regular trash will be collected as normal. Please note that the exact time of collection of the regular trash may be delayed. Please make sure your polycarts are out by 7:00 AM and keep in mind the trucks have no set time schedule. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause our customers.City of Hays customers who have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

Recycling collection for Hays not guaranteed this week

HaysMed is thrilled to celebrate the arrival of our first baby of 2025! Welcome to the world, Isla Kay, born in the early hours of Jan. 1.

Congratulations to her proud parents, Chelsey and Brad.

IT’S A GIRL! HaysMed is thrilled to celebrate the arrival of our first baby of 2025! Welcome to the world, Isla Kay, born in the early hours of Jan. 1.Congratulations to her proud parents, Chelsey and Brad.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736197718414.png" alt="Photo courtesy of HaysMed" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of HaysMed</figcaption>
 </figure>

HaysMed announces Baby New Year

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736187943569.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

USD 489 Hays will be closed Tuesday and will have a two-hour delay on Wednesday.

SubmittedUSD 489 Hays will be closed Tuesday and will have a two-hour delay on Wednesday.

No school in Hays on Tuesday, delayed start Wednesday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The K-State Ag Research Center reported 9 inches of snow in Hays as of Monday morning.

Bitter cold is forecast to linger over the area for the next two days. Highs are forecast in the low 20s Tuesday and Wednesday.

Wind chill values are forecast to be as low as -7 overnight.

Temperatures are forecast to barely break freezing on Thursday and the rest of the week.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe K-State Ag Research Center reported 9 inches of snow in Hays as of Monday morning.Sunday's high was 15. The low was -7.Bitter cold is forecast to linger over the area for the next two days. Highs are forecast in the low 20s Tuesday and Wednesday.Wind chill values are forecast to be as low as -7 overnight.Temperatures are forecast to barely break freezing on Thursday and the rest of the week.

Hays receives heavy snowfall Sunday

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Crude oil prices held steady on Monday after ringing in the New Year with a big spike. NYMEX crude prices on Friday rose from two-month highs to close at $73.96 per barrel, a weekly gain of more than three dollars a barrel. By midday Monday offers in New York were over $74. Brent crude in London was trading over $76 per barrel.

Kansas prices climbed a dollar and a half Friday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $63.50 per barrel. That's a half dollar higher than a year ago, and nearly four dollars higher than a week ago. Its almost four dollars over the average price for December 2024.

EIA says domestic commercial crude stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels to just over 415 million. Stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The Energy Department took delivery on another 300,000 barrels of crude to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Strategic reserves are now up near 394 million barrels, up 11% or nearly 40 million barrels from a year ago.

The government reports crude-oil imports for the final week of the year outpaced exports by more than three million barrels a day. US crude imports rose nearly half a million barrels a day to 6.9 million. The four week average drops to six-and-a-half-million barrels a day. Crude exports averaged 3.8 million barrels a day.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes starts the new year largely unchanged at 589 rigs. The oil count is down one rig while the gas tally is up one. Texas was up one rig while Louisiana drops by one.

For the past six years, US crude production has been the best ever, anywhere. Government numbers show the totals are still going up. The Energy Information Administration in the last year has reported record after broken record, starting with the annual average for the year 2023 of 12.9 million barrels a day. That beat the previous record set in 2019. This year's output will top 13.2 million barrels a day.&nbsp; EIA says the US records are unlikely to be broken any time soon by anyone else, because among the next largest producers, no other country has reached production capacity of 13 million barrels a day. Average annual production in Russia peaked in 2019 at 10.8 million barrels per day. Saudi Arabia's production topped out at 10.6 million barrels a day two years ago.

US Production in September dropped by 1.2% from August, to 13,204,000 barrels per day.  That's up 100,000 barrels a day from September of last year. Crude production in Texas rose 0.1%,  topping 5.8 million barrels a day, or 40% of US output. New Mexico dropped slightly from August, but still topped two million barrels a day, up 15 percent year-over-year. North Dakota was up for the month but down from a year ago, at just under 1.2 million barrels a day. Colorado rose by nearly five percent to 477,000 barrels a day. Oklahoma output rose by 140-thousand daily barrels to just under 398,000 barrels a day.

Weekly US crude production dropped, but remained above 13.5 million barrels a day for only the eighth time in history. The Energy Information Administration reported cumulative output will end the year above 13.26 million barrels a day, rising more than five percent over a year ago.

EIA estimates Kansas production at 76,000 barrels a day through September, down from 77,000 through August, but up from 75,000 barrels per day posted a year earlier. Raw numbers from the Kansas Geological Society show Ellis County output slipped a fraction under 5,700 barrels per day. Finney County pumped just under 4,500 barrels a day. Haskell County produced just under 4,300. Barton County is number four in the county rankings at just over 3,800 barrels a day. Russell County is fifth at 3,500. Next come Rooks and Ness counties, followed by Stafford County at 2,300 barrels a day. Rounding out the top ten are Graham and Butler counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736186814057.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaCrude oil prices held steady on Monday after ringing in the New Year with a big spike. NYMEX crude prices on Friday rose from two-month highs to close at $73.96 per barrel, a weekly gain of more than three dollars a barrel. By midday Monday offers in New York were over $74. Brent crude in London was trading over $76 per barrel.Kansas prices climbed a dollar and a half Friday. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $63.50 per barrel. That's a half dollar higher than a year ago, and nearly four dollars higher than a week ago. Its almost four dollars over the average price for December 2024.EIA says domestic commercial crude stockpiles dropped by more than a million barrels to just over 415 million. Stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The Energy Department took delivery on another 300,000 barrels of crude to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Strategic reserves are now up near 394 million barrels, up 11% or nearly 40 million barrels from a year ago.The government reports crude-oil imports for the final week of the year outpaced exports by more than three million barrels a day. US crude imports rose nearly half a million barrels a day to 6.9 million. The four week average drops to six-and-a-half-million barrels a day. Crude exports averaged 3.8 million barrels a day.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes starts the new year largely unchanged at 589 rigs. The oil count is down one rig while the gas tally is up one. Texas was up one rig while Louisiana drops by one.For the past six years, US crude production has been the best ever, anywhere. Government numbers show the totals are still going up. The Energy Information Administration in the last year has reported record after broken record, starting with the annual average for the year 2023 of 12.9 million barrels a day. That beat the previous record set in 2019. This year's output will top 13.2 million barrels a day.&nbsp; EIA says the US records are unlikely to be broken any time soon by anyone else, because among the next largest producers, no other country has reached production capacity of 13 million barrels a day. Average annual production in Russia peaked in 2019 at 10.8 million barrels per day. Saudi Arabia's production topped out at 10.6 million barrels a day two years ago.US Production in September dropped by 1.2% from August, to 13,204,000 barrels per day. That's up 100,000 barrels a day from September of last year. Crude production in Texas rose 0.1%, topping 5.8 million barrels a day, or 40% of US output. New Mexico dropped slightly from August, but still topped two million barrels a day, up 15 percent year-over-year. North Dakota was up for the month but down from a year ago, at just under 1.2 million barrels a day. Colorado rose by nearly five percent to 477,000 barrels a day. Oklahoma output rose by 140-thousand daily barrels to just under 398,000 barrels a day.Weekly US crude production dropped, but remained above 13.5 million barrels a day for only the eighth time in history. The Energy Information Administration reported cumulative output will end the year above 13.26 million barrels a day, rising more than five percent over a year ago.EIA estimates Kansas production at 76,000 barrels a day through September, down from 77,000 through August, but up from 75,000 barrels per day posted a year earlier. Raw numbers from the Kansas Geological Society show Ellis County output slipped a fraction under 5,700 barrels per day. Finney County pumped just under 4,500 barrels a day. Haskell County produced just under 4,300. Barton County is number four in the county rankings at just over 3,800 barrels a day. Russell County is fifth at 3,500. Next come Rooks and Ness counties, followed by Stafford County at 2,300 barrels a day. Rounding out the top ten are Graham and Butler counties.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices steady after new year's spike

Ellis County Sheriff's activity report: Dec. 30, 2024 - Jan. 6, 2025

Ellis County Jail bookings: Dec. 30, 2024 - Jan. 6, 2025

Please be advised that City of Hays crews will be removing snow from the downtown area from Oak to Fort streets and 7th to 13th streets, Main Street from 6th to 16th streets, and West 9th and 10th streets in the 100 and 200 blocks, tonight, Monday, January 6, 2025, starting at approximately 10 p.m.  City crews request that cars be removed from these areas to allow the crews the ability to completely plow the street and the on-street parking areas.

If there are any questions, please call the Public Works Service Division at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736180639737.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysPlease be advised that City of Hays crews will be removing snow from the downtown area from Oak to Fort streets and 7th to 13th streets, Main Street from 6th to 16th streets, and West 9th and 10th streets in the 100 and 200 blocks, tonight, Monday, January 6, 2025, starting at approximately 10 p.m. City crews request that cars be removed from these areas to allow the crews the ability to completely plow the street and the on-street parking areas.If there are any questions, please call the Public Works Service Division at 785-628-7350.

Snow removal in downtown area for Hays

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office is now just a tap away with its innovative new app, designed to keep the community informed and more connected than ever.

The Sheriff's app aims to enhance communication with residents by providing news, alerts and real-time updates.

Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said the mobile app will fill a critical gap in distributing information to the area.

"I'm excited to provide this to the community. It's something we have been missing and will give information that our community needs," he said.

The app allows users to submit crime tips, access live inmate information, view an offender watch map, explore cyber safety resources and receive weather updates.

You can download the app on <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ocv.a1327">Google Play</a> and <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ellis-county-sheriffs-office/id6737206397">iOS</a>.

The app was inspired by the sheriff's office's need to deliver urgent information to the community during critical events. Sheriff Scott Braun said relying on third-party platforms can cause communication delays.

"We were having to close highway 40 like seven times when a dust storm was coming through. We didn't have an adequate way of being able to push that information ourselves," he said.

The app allows the sheriff's office to communicate directly with the public when necessary.

Tips for ongoing investigations can be submitted directly from the app's homepage. However, Braun emphasizes that 911 should always be used in emergencies as the app can be vulnerable to technical issues.

The app features a live tracker for inmates at the Ellis County Jail, providing information such as current inmate names, alleged charges and physical descriptions.

The app also includes a registered offenders map to view the locations of violent, drug and sex offenders within their area.

"It will pin the location and where they live," Braun said. "If you're a next-door neighbor to somebody you didn't know [were registered], you can be fully aware of that by going to the sheriff app."

Even though the holiday season has ended, the sheriff's app covers you for keeping your home secure if you're out of town.

The vacation patrol request button lets residents inform the sheriff's office of their absence and submit details to add their property to a patrol checklist for routine checks.

Businesses can also use the app to provide emergency contact information for scheduled patrols.

The sheriff's app provides resources on scams and cyber security to educate and help community members safeguard against cyber threats and fraud.

The app also delivers real-time weather updates and alerts for Ellis County, informing anyone hitting the road about severe weather conditions.

"If we have information on multiple accidents, we can push it out immediately and say, 'Please avoid Highway 40. It is extremely slick,'" Braun said.

Braun said the sheriff's office plans to integrate a live weather channel into the app, which will allow users to hear updates from field officers.

The sheriff's app is available for download but is still being refined to enhance performance and provide a user-friendly experience.

"We'll find out what people use and what they don't use. We may tweak, remove and add some things," Braun said.

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office partnered with <a href="https://www.thesheriffapp.com/">TheSheriffApp.com</a> to create the app, which was released in early December and has since undergone updates.

You can continue to follow the Ellis County Sheriff's Office on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisCoSheriff.KS">Facebook</a>&nbsp;for updates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735914191342.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Sheriff's Office is now just a tap away with its innovative new app, designed to keep the community informed and more connected than ever.The Sheriff's app aims to enhance communication with residents by providing news, alerts and real-time updates.Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said the mobile app will fill a critical gap in distributing information to the area."I'm excited to provide this to the community. It's something we have been missing and will give information that our community needs," he said.The app allows users to submit crime tips, access live inmate information, view an offender watch map, explore cyber safety resources and receive weather updates.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735933789920.png" alt="The homepage of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The homepage of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>You can download the app on <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ocv.a1327">Google Play</a> and <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ellis-county-sheriffs-office/id6737206397">iOS</a>.The app was inspired by the sheriff's office's need to deliver urgent information to the community during critical events. Sheriff Scott Braun said relying on third-party platforms can cause communication delays."We were having to close highway 40 like seven times when a dust storm was coming through. We didn't have an adequate way of being able to push that information ourselves," he said.The app allows the sheriff's office to communicate directly with the public when necessary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735934080591.jpeg" alt="Submit a tip section in the Ellis County Sheriff's Office app" />
 <figcaption>Submit a tip section in the Ellis County Sheriff's Office app</figcaption>
 </figure>Tips for ongoing investigations can be submitted directly from the app's homepage. However, Braun emphasizes that 911 should always be used in emergencies as the app can be vulnerable to technical issues.The app features a live tracker for inmates at the Ellis County Jail, providing information such as current inmate names, alleged charges and physical descriptions.The app also includes a registered offenders map to view the locations of violent, drug and sex offenders within their area."It will pin the location and where they live," Braun said. "If you're a next-door neighbor to somebody you didn't know [were registered], you can be fully aware of that by going to the sheriff app."Even though the holiday season has ended, the sheriff's app covers you for keeping your home secure if you're out of town.The vacation patrol request button lets residents inform the sheriff's office of their absence and submit details to add their property to a patrol checklist for routine checks.Businesses can also use the app to provide emergency contact information for scheduled patrols.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735933979464.jpeg" alt="Cyber safety resources in the Ellis County Sheriff's Office app" />
 <figcaption>Cyber safety resources in the Ellis County Sheriff's Office app</figcaption>
 </figure>The sheriff's app provides resources on scams and cyber security to educate and help community members safeguard against cyber threats and fraud.The app also delivers real-time weather updates and alerts for Ellis County, informing anyone hitting the road about severe weather conditions."If we have information on multiple accidents, we can push it out immediately and say, 'Please avoid Highway 40. It is extremely slick,'" Braun said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735934030744.jpeg" alt="Live weather updates from the&nbsp;Ellis County Sheriff's Office app" />
 <figcaption>Live weather updates from the&nbsp;Ellis County Sheriff's Office app</figcaption>
 </figure>Braun said the sheriff's office plans to integrate a live weather channel into the app, which will allow users to hear updates from field officers.The sheriff's app is available for download but is still being refined to enhance performance and provide a user-friendly experience."We'll find out what people use and what they don't use. We may tweak, remove and add some things," Braun said.The Ellis County Sheriff's Office partnered with <a href="https://www.thesheriffapp.com/">TheSheriffApp.com</a> to create the app, which was released in early December and has since undergone updates.You can continue to follow the Ellis County Sheriff's Office on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EllisCoSheriff.KS">Facebook</a>&nbsp;for updates.

Ellis County Sheriff's Office launches new app to enhance safety, communication

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/02/democratic-gov-laura-kelly-highlights-bipartisan-laws-passed-with-gop-led-legislature-in-2024/?emci=575884cd-79c9-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;emdi=a6f6f886-b9c9-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly says bipartisan highlights of 2024 include strengthening authority of the state’s independent advocate for children, overhaul of Kansas’ worker compensation system and advancement of a blueprint for improving classroom instruction in reading.

Kelly, a Democrat in the middle of her second term as governor, said collaboration with the Republican-led Legislature, led to progress during the year on tax relief, K-12 education funding, infrastructure investments, economic development. In 2024, Kelly signed 103 bills that earned bipartisan support in the Legislature.

“I’m sort of amazed how much we’ve been able to get done,” Kelly said in an interview with Kansas Reflector. “We made promises and we’ve actually been able to deliver on those promises.”

Kelly signed legislation in June mandating establishment in law of an independent agency dedicated to advocating for children involved with the state welfare system. The agency is charged with acting on complaints regarding health, safety and welfare of individuals under 18 years of age in custody of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, alleged to be a child in need of care or receiving services from Kansas Department of Corrections.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/23/kansas-governor-signs-bill-creating-independent-agency-devoted-to-child-welfare-advocacy/">law, approved 117-3 in the House and 36-3 in the Senate</a>, required the top administrator of the agency to be appointed by the governor subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate. The child advocate office previously existed under a state executive order signed by Kelly.

Rep. Susan Concannon, R-Beloit, said the law offered “peace of mind that we will have a future of advocacy for Kansas kids who are in the child welfare system.”

In addition, the governor said bipartisanship was critical to enactment of the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/24/kansas-places-into-state-law-blueprint-for-reforming-k-12-instruction-in-reading/">bill adopted 34-3 in the Senate and 98-22 in the House</a>&nbsp;created a mechanism for updating university teacher education programs to improve K-12 instruction in reading. Existing teachers and university students preparing to become educators will take part in the remodeled programs of instruction.

“This bill places Kansas at the forefront of nationwide efforts to reform reading instruction,” Kelly said.

Kelly emphasized approval of a compromise bill amending the state’s system for compensating workers injured on the job. The law negotiated by labor and business interests and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kelly-signs-worker-compensation-reform-bill-passed-unanimously-by-lawmakers/">unanimously passed in the House and Senate</a>&nbsp;increased the cap on compensation benefits and added a cost-of-living adjustment beginning in 2027.

Under this law, employees and employers involved in a dispute would have the option of settling cases without a formal hearing. They also would exchange medical records in a timely way and restrict use of independent medical examinations.

“Experienced, level-headed professionals on both sides of this issue were able and willing to work together,” said Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican.

During 2024, Kelly and GOP lawmakers fought on specific provisions of tax reform, abortion and transgender rights, election law changes, Medicaid expansion and legalization of medical marijuana. 

The year was marked by a struggle over the Legislature’s two-thirds Republican majority. Kelly wanted to see enough Democrats elected to the House and Senate to deny GOP leadership a supermajority. The opposite occurred: Republicans deepened their bench in both chambers, making the looming 2025 legislation session more difficult for Kelly.

Meanwhile, Kelly said it took legislators from both sides of the political aisle to fully fund K-12 education for the sixth year in a row and appropriate $75 million for special education programs in 2024. The state budget dedicated $1.3 billion to the state’s higher education system.

&nbsp;In June, after a special session of the Legislature, the governor signed a robust tax relief bill that “responsibly cuts Kansans taxes while preserving the state’s long-term fiscal health.”

She said it would result in state tax reductions of nearly $2 billion over a five-year period. It moved Kansas to a two-tier income tax, down from three levels of taxation. It eliminated the state income tax on Social Security income and nearly doubled the state tax exemption on residential property to $75,000.

In terms of economic development, the&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;administration reported the state attracted 266 economic development projects that equated to $3.4 billion in new business investment in 2024. The governor’s office said the initiatives created or sustained 5,100 jobs.

Kelly said the Kansas Department of Transportation repaired 1,740 miles of roads and 136 bridges in the fiscal year ending in June. In an effort to narrow the digital divide, the state invested $16.8 million in broadening access to high-speed internet services. The state budget approved by the Legislature committed $35 million annually to water infrastructure, conservation and quality programs in Kansas.

Kelly said the state added 1,200 licensed child care slots in 2024. In September, the governor said Kansas would cover the state licensing, background check and fingerprinting fees for child care providers seeking initial licensure or licensure renewal through 2025 or until funding was expended.

“I am proud of all my administration has accomplished throughout this year,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“By working with the Legislature, our state agencies, stakeholders and Kansans from across the state, we were able to reach new heights in 2024. I look forward to carrying this momentum into 2025.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735900819748.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly looks back on the roster of bipartisan tax, education, child welfare, worker compensation and other policy accomplishments during 2024. The Democratic governor will outline her 2025 policy agenda in the State of the State speech to the Kansas Legislature on Jan. 15.&nbsp; Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly looks back on the roster of bipartisan tax, education, child welfare, worker compensation and other policy accomplishments during 2024. The Democratic governor will outline her 2025 policy agenda in the State of the State speech to the Kansas Legislature on Jan. 15.&nbsp; Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/02/democratic-gov-laura-kelly-highlights-bipartisan-laws-passed-with-gop-led-legislature-in-2024/?emci=575884cd-79c9-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;emdi=a6f6f886-b9c9-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly says bipartisan highlights of 2024 include strengthening authority of the state’s independent advocate for children, overhaul of Kansas’ worker compensation system and advancement of a blueprint for improving classroom instruction in reading.Kelly, a Democrat in the middle of her second term as governor, said collaboration with the Republican-led Legislature, led to progress during the year on tax relief, K-12 education funding, infrastructure investments, economic development. In 2024, Kelly signed 103 bills that earned bipartisan support in the Legislature.“I’m sort of amazed how much we’ve been able to get done,” Kelly said in an interview with Kansas Reflector. “We made promises and we’ve actually been able to deliver on those promises.”Kelly signed legislation in June mandating establishment in law of an independent agency dedicated to advocating for children involved with the state welfare system. The agency is charged with acting on complaints regarding health, safety and welfare of individuals under 18 years of age in custody of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, alleged to be a child in need of care or receiving services from Kansas Department of Corrections.The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/23/kansas-governor-signs-bill-creating-independent-agency-devoted-to-child-welfare-advocacy/">law, approved 117-3 in the House and 36-3 in the Senate</a>, required the top administrator of the agency to be appointed by the governor subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate. The child advocate office previously existed under a state executive order signed by Kelly.Rep. Susan Concannon, R-Beloit, said the law offered “peace of mind that we will have a future of advocacy for Kansas kids who are in the child welfare system.”In addition, the governor said bipartisanship was critical to enactment of the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/24/kansas-places-into-state-law-blueprint-for-reforming-k-12-instruction-in-reading/">bill adopted 34-3 in the Senate and 98-22 in the House</a>&nbsp;created a mechanism for updating university teacher education programs to improve K-12 instruction in reading. Existing teachers and university students preparing to become educators will take part in the remodeled programs of instruction.“This bill places Kansas at the forefront of nationwide efforts to reform reading instruction,” Kelly said.Kelly emphasized approval of a compromise bill amending the state’s system for compensating workers injured on the job. The law negotiated by labor and business interests and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kelly-signs-worker-compensation-reform-bill-passed-unanimously-by-lawmakers/">unanimously passed in the House and Senate</a>&nbsp;increased the cap on compensation benefits and added a cost-of-living adjustment beginning in 2027.Under this law, employees and employers involved in a dispute would have the option of settling cases without a formal hearing. They also would exchange medical records in a timely way and restrict use of independent medical examinations.“Experienced, level-headed professionals on both sides of this issue were able and willing to work together,” said Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican.During 2024, Kelly and GOP lawmakers fought on specific provisions of tax reform, abortion and transgender rights, election law changes, Medicaid expansion and legalization of medical marijuana. The year was marked by a struggle over the Legislature’s two-thirds Republican majority. Kelly wanted to see enough Democrats elected to the House and Senate to deny GOP leadership a supermajority. The opposite occurred: Republicans deepened their bench in both chambers, making the looming 2025 legislation session more difficult for Kelly.Meanwhile, Kelly said it took legislators from both sides of the political aisle to fully fund K-12 education for the sixth year in a row and appropriate $75 million for special education programs in 2024. The state budget dedicated $1.3 billion to the state’s higher education system.&nbsp;In June, after a special session of the Legislature, the governor signed a robust tax relief bill that “responsibly cuts Kansans taxes while preserving the state’s long-term fiscal health.”She said it would result in state tax reductions of nearly $2 billion over a five-year period. It moved Kansas to a two-tier income tax, down from three levels of taxation. It eliminated the state income tax on Social Security income and nearly doubled the state tax exemption on residential property to $75,000.In terms of economic development, the&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;administration reported the state attracted 266 economic development projects that equated to $3.4 billion in new business investment in 2024. The governor’s office said the initiatives created or sustained 5,100 jobs.Kelly said the Kansas Department of Transportation repaired 1,740 miles of roads and 136 bridges in the fiscal year ending in June. In an effort to narrow the digital divide, the state invested $16.8 million in broadening access to high-speed internet services. The state budget approved by the Legislature committed $35 million annually to water infrastructure, conservation and quality programs in Kansas.Kelly said the state added 1,200 licensed child care slots in 2024. In September, the governor said Kansas would cover the state licensing, background check and fingerprinting fees for child care providers seeking initial licensure or licensure renewal through 2025 or until funding was expended.“I am proud of all my administration has accomplished throughout this year,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“By working with the Legislature, our state agencies, stakeholders and Kansans from across the state, we were able to reach new heights in 2024. I look forward to carrying this momentum into 2025.”

Gov. Kelly highlights bipartisan laws passed with GOP-led Legislature in 2024

By ALVARO PUIG Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice

It’s that time of year when ads enticing you to upgrade your mobile phone seem to be everywhere you turn. If you’re thinking about upgrading your phone, here are four easy steps to remove your personal information from your phone before you trade it in.

Once you set up your new device, set it to automatically lock when you’re not using it, keep it up to date, and back up your data. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/08/three-ways-protect-personal-info-your-phone">Three ways to protect the personal info on your phone</a>&nbsp;for details on how to do that.

If you&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/use-two-factor-authentication-protect-your-accounts">use an authenticator app</a>&nbsp;to log into your accounts, set up the app on your new phone. And finally, if you’re not trading in or selling your phone, learn about where you can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/recycle/electronics-donation-and-recycling">recycle it</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735918648597.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALVARO PUIG Federal Trade Commission Consumer AdviceIt’s that time of year when ads enticing you to upgrade your mobile phone seem to be everywhere you turn. If you’re thinking about upgrading your phone, here are four easy steps to remove your personal information from your phone before you trade it in.<ol>
 <li>Save your information.&nbsp;Whether you’re going to trade in, sell, or donate your phone, start by&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-remove-your-personal-information-you-get-rid-your-phone#backup">backing up your data</a>. You’ll need this copy when you set up a new phone.</li><li>Remove SIM and SD cards.&nbsp;If your phone has a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-remove-your-personal-information-you-get-rid-your-phone#sim">SIM card</a>, remove it because it may have your personal information on it. If you’re keeping your phone number, ask if you can transfer your SIM card to the new phone. If you’re not going to reuse the SIM card, destroy it. If your phone has an SD storage card, remove it, too.</li><li>Unlink accounts connected to the device.&nbsp;If you use multi-factor authentication to log in to any accounts, remove your phone from the list of trusted devices for those accounts. And double check that your phone is no longer connected to your online accounts. Here’s how to unlink the phone from your&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsupport.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fwindows%2Fremove-a-device-from-your-microsoft-account-dda2c664-9d57-e5db-acf0-67f14d5fdf3c&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2025%2F01%2Fwhat-know-you-upgrade-your-phone-and-how-protect-your-new-one%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">Microsoft</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsupport.apple.com%2Fen-us%2F102649&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2025%2F01%2Fwhat-know-you-upgrade-your-phone-and-how-protect-your-new-one%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">Apple</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsupport.google.com%2Faccounts%2Fanswer%2F3067630%3Fhl%3Den&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2025%2F01%2Fwhat-know-you-upgrade-your-phone-and-how-protect-your-new-one%3Futm_source%3Dgovdelivery">Google</a></li><li>Erase your personal information.&nbsp;Finally,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-remove-your-personal-information-you-get-rid-your-phone#erase">restore your phone to the factory settings</a>. That’ll erase all your personal information, like your account numbers, passwords, messages, videos, and photos.</li>
 </ol>Once you set up your new device, set it to automatically lock when you’re not using it, keep it up to date, and back up your data. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/08/three-ways-protect-personal-info-your-phone">Three ways to protect the personal info on your phone</a>&nbsp;for details on how to do that.If you&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/use-two-factor-authentication-protect-your-accounts">use an authenticator app</a>&nbsp;to log into your accounts, set up the app on your new phone. And finally, if you’re not trading in or selling your phone, learn about where you can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/recycle/electronics-donation-and-recycling">recycle it</a>.

What to know before you upgrade your phone, how to protect your new one

MAYETTA, Kansas – Country singer/songwriter Tracy Lawrence is performing live at 7PM on April 3, 2025 at Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort!

Lawrence’s early albums Sticks and Stones (1991), Alibis (1992), and I See It Now (1994) quickly propelled him to high status in the 90’s neo-traditional country scene.

Throughout the 90’s and 2000’s, Lawrence released ten albums, four of which received platinum certification and two of which that were 2x certified platinum (Alibis and Time Marches On). Most known for hits such as “Time Marches On,” “Alibis,” “Texas Tornado,” and “Stars Over Texas,” Lawrence’s illustrious career produced 18 number one tracks. A dedicated artist, he continues to perform and write new tracks while experimenting with his sound more than ever before and working with new artists shaping modern country.

We hope to see you at Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort this April as Tracy Lawrence performs live in the Great Lakes Ballroom. This night of honky-tonk hits is sure to entertain all sorts of country music fans! Tickets go on sale at noon on Friday, January 17.

For more information, visit Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort’s website, hover over the shows tab, and click “Epic Entertainment.”


Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort was the first full-service casino in Kansas and is located on tribal land only 15 minutes north of Topeka. The casino offers a spacious gaming room that includes over 1,200 slot machines, 25 table games, along with a 300-seat bingo hall. There are four dining options, lobby bar, luxury hotel, on-site convenience store and RV park. The 12,000-square-foot Great Lakes Ballroom plays host to weddings, conferences, concerts and other live performances, and the award-winning Firekeeper Golf Course is only steps away. Prairie Band Casino has recently opened their new hotel expansion which features 74 new guest rooms, a full-service spa, Topgolf Swing Suite bays, indoor and outdoor pools, an arcade, meeting spaces, and a fitness room. With their newly added amenities, you’ll see why Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort promises their guests more ways to play.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724957567113.jpg" alt="Courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMAYETTA, Kansas – Country singer/songwriter Tracy Lawrence is performing live at 7PM on April 3, 2025 at Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort!Lawrence’s early albums Sticks and Stones (1991), Alibis (1992), and I See It Now (1994) quickly propelled him to high status in the 90’s neo-traditional country scene.Throughout the 90’s and 2000’s, Lawrence released ten albums, four of which received platinum certification and two of which that were 2x certified platinum (Alibis and Time Marches On). Most known for hits such as “Time Marches On,” “Alibis,” “Texas Tornado,” and “Stars Over Texas,” Lawrence’s illustrious career produced 18 number one tracks. A dedicated artist, he continues to perform and write new tracks while experimenting with his sound more than ever before and working with new artists shaping modern country.We hope to see you at Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort this April as Tracy Lawrence performs live in the Great Lakes Ballroom. This night of honky-tonk hits is sure to entertain all sorts of country music fans! Tickets go on sale at noon on Friday, January 17.For more information, visit Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort’s website, hover over the shows tab, and click “Epic Entertainment.”
Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort was the first full-service casino in Kansas and is located on tribal land only 15 minutes north of Topeka. The casino offers a spacious gaming room that includes over 1,200 slot machines, 25 table games, along with a 300-seat bingo hall. There are four dining options, lobby bar, luxury hotel, on-site convenience store and RV park. The 12,000-square-foot Great Lakes Ballroom plays host to weddings, conferences, concerts and other live performances, and the award-winning Firekeeper Golf Course is only steps away. Prairie Band Casino has recently opened their new hotel expansion which features 74 new guest rooms, a full-service spa, Topgolf Swing Suite bays, indoor and outdoor pools, an arcade, meeting spaces, and a fitness room. With their newly added amenities, you’ll see why Prairie Band Casino &amp; Resort promises their guests more ways to play.

Tracy Lawrence to perform live at Prairie Band Casino, resort

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735942017088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Hays, KS – [12/18/2024] – SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness is thrilled to announce the launch of Hays' first Direct Primary Care (DPC) service! This innovative healthcare model offers a more affordable and personalized approach for individuals, families, and employers.

DPC gives patients with direct access to their Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nikki Cherryholmes, APRN. This eliminates the need for insurance pre-approvals and unexpected bills. With a flat monthly membership fee, you gain access to:

· Comprehensive Care: From preventative wellness exams and lab tests to sick visits and most in-office procedures, SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness covers it all.

· Personalized Attention: Enjoy longer appointments and a deeper understanding of your health needs with one-on-one care from Nikki.

· Enhanced Convenience: Schedule same-day or next-day appointments and experience reduced wait times.

· After-Hours Access: Need medical advice outside of regular hours? Your provider is just a call or text away.

SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness also understands: medical needs can extend beyond DPC services. That's why Nikki has built strong relationships with local specialists, ensuring you receive the best cash-pay prices for any additional care you may require.

“I’m excited to bring this type of personalized healthcare to Hays, where patients are put first and not the red tape of insurance,” said Cherryholmes, owner of SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness. For more information, call (785)572-5410 or visit www.secondwindhays.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735836010292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays, KS – [12/18/2024] – SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness is thrilled to announce the launch of Hays' first Direct Primary Care (DPC) service! This innovative healthcare model offers a more affordable and personalized approach for individuals, families, and employers.DPC gives patients with direct access to their Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nikki Cherryholmes, APRN. This eliminates the need for insurance pre-approvals and unexpected bills. With a flat monthly membership fee, you gain access to:· Comprehensive Care: From preventative wellness exams and lab tests to sick visits and most in-office procedures, SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness covers it all.· Personalized Attention: Enjoy longer appointments and a deeper understanding of your health needs with one-on-one care from Nikki.· Enhanced Convenience: Schedule same-day or next-day appointments and experience reduced wait times.· After-Hours Access: Need medical advice outside of regular hours? Your provider is just a call or text away.SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness also understands: medical needs can extend beyond DPC services. That's why Nikki has built strong relationships with local specialists, ensuring you receive the best cash-pay prices for any additional care you may require.“I’m excited to bring this type of personalized healthcare to Hays, where patients are put first and not the red tape of insurance,” said Cherryholmes, owner of SecondWind IV &amp; Wellness. For more information, call (785)572-5410 or visit www.secondwindhays.com.

FHSU, FHSU-North Central Tech closed Monday

EB I-70 is closed at Hays due to Winter Weather. WB I-70 is closed at MM 313.

Part of I-70 in central Kansas also closed

Because of low visibility, impassable conditions and extreme winter weather, the Kansas Department of Transportation has closed all state highways in 16 counties across north central Kansas; including Washington, Clay, Geary, Dickinson, Morris, Marion, Chase, McPherson, Saline, Ellsworth, Lincoln, Ottawa, Mitchell, Republic, Cloud and Jewell counties.

In addition, I-70 is closed westbound from the east edge of Geary County (near Junction City) to the western Ellsworth County line (west of Ellsworth), and eastbound I-70 is closed from Hays east to the eastern Geary County line.

Motorists should anticipate additional closures across the state as the winter storm continues to move across the state and conditions continue to deteriorate due to blizzard conditions.

Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>, for updates on highway conditions across Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736106957324.png" alt="Trooper Ian sent this from Western Russell County. Eastbound I-70 was temporarily shut down due to a jackknife semi. Roads continue to be hazardous and travel is not recommended, but if you have to travel, don’t let your gas go below a 1/4 of a tank in case you get stuck in one of these or in the ditch. Courtesy of Kansas Highway Patrol via Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Trooper Ian sent this from Western Russell County. Eastbound I-70 was temporarily shut down due to a jackknife semi. Roads continue to be hazardous and travel is not recommended, but if you have to travel, don’t let your gas go below a 1/4 of a tank in case you get stuck in one of these or in the ditch. Courtesy of Kansas Highway Patrol via Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>Update:EB I-70 is closed at Hays due to Winter Weather. WB I-70 is closed at MM 313.-------Part of I-70 in central Kansas also closedBecause of low visibility, impassable conditions and extreme winter weather, the Kansas Department of Transportation has closed all state highways in 16 counties across north central Kansas; including Washington, Clay, Geary, Dickinson, Morris, Marion, Chase, McPherson, Saline, Ellsworth, Lincoln, Ottawa, Mitchell, Republic, Cloud and Jewell counties.In addition, I-70 is closed westbound from the east edge of Geary County (near Junction City) to the western Ellsworth County line (west of Ellsworth), and eastbound I-70 is closed from Hays east to the eastern Geary County line.Motorists should anticipate additional closures across the state as the winter storm continues to move across the state and conditions continue to deteriorate due to blizzard conditions.Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>, for updates on highway conditions across Kansas.

Update: Weather closes highways in north central Kansas

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams discusses his outlook for Grow Hays for 2025 with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays: Doug Williams Discusses Plans for 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=r9hka-17966a0-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams discusses his outlook for Grow Hays for 2025 with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams discusses Grow Hays outlook for 2025

Over the years, I’ve had lots of help getting my harvested deer out of the field and/or into the pickup. I hunt mostly on land owned by a family member, and my sister usually helps hoist my deer into the truck. Last year, however, I harvested a really old deer that was also the heaviest deer I’d ever taken. After it was tagged and field dressed, we tried multiple time to get the beast loaded with no luck. With her in the pickup pulling and me on the ground lifting, it just wasn’t going to happen. Luckily, a heavy equipment operator working in the field next door agreed to come to the rescue, and with the extra muscle on the ground to lift, it was soon loaded.

I’ve also had some mechanical help loading deer over the years. A few years back, my deer went down on the neighbor’s land. He was quite alright with me going there to retrieve it, but he was slowly clearing much of it for pasture, so the place had become forty acres of brush piles consisting mostly of thorn trees with long massive thorns, and thorny limbs from those trees lay everywhere. A deep creek bed also meandered through the property in several directions. If I had dragged the deer, it would have meant getting it down one side of the creek bed and up the other, or somehow heaving it over a fence, neither of which appealed to me. Its possible I could have weaseled my pickup in there, but rubber tires would just have been fodder for the thorn limbs. I walked out and drove to the neighbors, not really sure what good that was going to do, but viola, he had a skid loader on tracks, and in a short while, the deer was rolled onto a pallet on the forks, and away to the truck we went.

When Joyce and I were first married, we hunted on her uncle’s land where she grew up in southwestern Kansas. The first buck she shot was there on an evening hunt. She made what looked like a great shot and the whitetail buck went down immediately. But before we could celebrate, the buck stood up again and ran off down into a maze of briar patches and coulees. Both of our hearts sank, as we knew what lay ahead. We began searching, and soon it was dark; not just any normal “dark” as I remember, but pitch black. Somehow God helped us eventually find that deer, which had ended up down a steep embankment into a ravine. This was well over 20 years ago, but luckily, we did have a cell phone. I was able to clamor down to it, and while I field dressed the buck, she called her uncle, but what would she tell him? We had no idea at all where we were, but after explaining where our blind was and which direction the buck had gone, he seemed to know right where to find us. Soon we heard the motor and saw the lights of the tractor, and after dragging the buck up out of the ravine with a chain, and plopping it into the bucket of the loader, off to the shed we went.

Perhaps the most memorable story comes from harvesting my first deer in Kansas back in the late 1990’s. I hunted on Joyce’s uncle’s property in southwestern KS, and stayed in his basement. This particular morning was the last day I could hunt before I had to come back home, and that morning the fog was so thick you could literally see nothing. I debated on just throwing in the towel and heading home, but visibility slowly got better as the morning progressed. I walked up their lane to look down into a grassy pasture below, and as I stood there, 2 whitetail bucks cantered across the pasture and into his corral below, of all places. I found a spot between some

trees, and watched until the bigger of the 2 gave me a shot. The buck ran out of the corral and went down in an open spot in the pasture. I drove an older Ford Explorer with a rack on the roof, and easily maneuvered to where the deer lay. I tagged and field dressed the buck, but I guess I hadn’t very well thought about how I was gonna’ get this beast on the roof of my Explorer. I walked to his round top shed, opened the door and there sat the answer with the words Massey Ferguson written on its side. I drove to the deer, got it rolled into the bucket, but then it became a juggling act, getting the bucket just the right height and angle so as to slide the deer out of the bucket and onto the roof rack without crunching the roof of the vehicle or dumping the deer over the side and having to start all over again. After many trips on-and-off-the tractor, the deer finally lay on the roof. I returned the Ole’ Massey to its stable, strapped down the deer and headed home, mission accomplished!

I suppose one day when all I can remember are things from 40 years ago, I’ll constantly bore the nurses at the care home with stories like these. Oh well, I guess I could do worse...Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve can be contacted by email at stevnrgilliland@gmail.com.

By STEVE GILLILANDOver the years, I’ve had lots of help getting my harvested deer out of the field and/or into the pickup. I hunt mostly on land owned by a family member, and my sister usually helps hoist my deer into the truck. Last year, however, I harvested a really old deer that was also the heaviest deer I’d ever taken. After it was tagged and field dressed, we tried multiple time to get the beast loaded with no luck. With her in the pickup pulling and me on the ground lifting, it just wasn’t going to happen. Luckily, a heavy equipment operator working in the field next door agreed to come to the rescue, and with the extra muscle on the ground to lift, it was soon loaded.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="STEVE GILLILAND" />
 <figcaption>STEVE GILLILAND</figcaption>
 </figure>I’ve also had some mechanical help loading deer over the years. A few years back, my deer went down on the neighbor’s land. He was quite alright with me going there to retrieve it, but he was slowly clearing much of it for pasture, so the place had become forty acres of brush piles consisting mostly of thorn trees with long massive thorns, and thorny limbs from those trees lay everywhere. A deep creek bed also meandered through the property in several directions. If I had dragged the deer, it would have meant getting it down one side of the creek bed and up the other, or somehow heaving it over a fence, neither of which appealed to me. Its possible I could have weaseled my pickup in there, but rubber tires would just have been fodder for the thorn limbs. I walked out and drove to the neighbors, not really sure what good that was going to do, but viola, he had a skid loader on tracks, and in a short while, the deer was rolled onto a pallet on the forks, and away to the truck we went.When Joyce and I were first married, we hunted on her uncle’s land where she grew up in southwestern Kansas. The first buck she shot was there on an evening hunt. She made what looked like a great shot and the whitetail buck went down immediately. But before we could celebrate, the buck stood up again and ran off down into a maze of briar patches and coulees. Both of our hearts sank, as we knew what lay ahead. We began searching, and soon it was dark; not just any normal “dark” as I remember, but pitch black. Somehow God helped us eventually find that deer, which had ended up down a steep embankment into a ravine. This was well over 20 years ago, but luckily, we did have a cell phone. I was able to clamor down to it, and while I field dressed the buck, she called her uncle, but what would she tell him? We had no idea at all where we were, but after explaining where our blind was and which direction the buck had gone, he seemed to know right where to find us. Soon we heard the motor and saw the lights of the tractor, and after dragging the buck up out of the ravine with a chain, and plopping it into the bucket of the loader, off to the shed we went.Perhaps the most memorable story comes from harvesting my first deer in Kansas back in the late 1990’s. I hunted on Joyce’s uncle’s property in southwestern KS, and stayed in his basement. This particular morning was the last day I could hunt before I had to come back home, and that morning the fog was so thick you could literally see nothing. I debated on just throwing in the towel and heading home, but visibility slowly got better as the morning progressed. I walked up their lane to look down into a grassy pasture below, and as I stood there, 2 whitetail bucks cantered across the pasture and into his corral below, of all places. I found a spot between sometrees, and watched until the bigger of the 2 gave me a shot. The buck ran out of the corral and went down in an open spot in the pasture. I drove an older Ford Explorer with a rack on the roof, and easily maneuvered to where the deer lay. I tagged and field dressed the buck, but I guess I hadn’t very well thought about how I was gonna’ get this beast on the roof of my Explorer. I walked to his round top shed, opened the door and there sat the answer with the words Massey Ferguson written on its side. I drove to the deer, got it rolled into the bucket, but then it became a juggling act, getting the bucket just the right height and angle so as to slide the deer out of the bucket and onto the roof rack without crunching the roof of the vehicle or dumping the deer over the side and having to start all over again. After many trips on-and-off-the tractor, the deer finally lay on the roof. I returned the Ole’ Massey to its stable, strapped down the deer and headed home, mission accomplished!I suppose one day when all I can remember are things from 40 years ago, I’ll constantly bore the nurses at the care home with stories like these. Oh well, I guess I could do worse...Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve can be contacted by email at stevnrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: Loading the harvest

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

A couple of Rush County women who had known each other for more than 60 years back in 2014 found themselves spending even more time together than usual after their husbands died within a month of each other.

Now, 11 years later, Pat Petz and her mother, Mary Steitz, are almost inseparable.&nbsp;

Pat, a retired elementary school teacher, is the owner of Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry. Mary is a retired nurse aide who also cleaned medical offices until she was 90 years old.

Finding themselves living alone after their husbands passed away, Pat asked her mom to start accompanying her to craft shows to sell her wares.

Mary thought it sounded like a great way to get out and about. Ten years later, she says she plans to keep going even if she does have to slow down a little as she nears her 94th birthday in April.

Pat knows that time will come for her, too. Just not yet.

"I know that one of these days I'll have to scale back because my cases and tables are getting so heavy for me to load and unload," Pat said. "But for now, I plan to keep showing up at the craft shows. I love making the jewelry, and I love helping my customers discover a way to help with their pain and not have to use medicines to do it."

Several weekends a year, Pat jumps in her 2012 Toyota Sienna, loaded with 10 to 12 suitcases of jewelry, and makes the 25-mile trip to La Crosse from her farm 8 miles north of McCracken.

She picks up Mary at her La Crosse home, and together, they travel to towns as close as Hays and as far away as Marion to the east and Liberal in far southwest Kansas.

“Coming and going, she helps me stay awake,” Pat said. “Sometimes, I’ll even say, ‘Mom, sing to me, sing loud.’ ”

“I don’t have a singing voice,” Mary said. “But I sing.”

All along the way, mother and daughter enjoy their time together – as well as with other customers and vendors.

That includes the two hours it takes to set up their booth at each venue and the 1.5-hour takedown time.

“Meeting people, visiting with them, that’s so enjoyable,” Pat said. “And building relationships with other vendors is special.”

Pat first became interested in the benefits of wearing magnets back in 2010. After experiencing frequent headaches for several years, Pat received a magnetic necklace for her birthday from her daughter, Angie.

“I put in on, and the next morning, I woke up without a headache,” said Pat, who became an instant believer. “I used to take 16 to 18 Advil a day. Now, I might take two or three Advil a month.”

Magnet therapy has been used for centuries to help with pain.&nbsp;Currently, people all over the world are being treated with magnets for health issues such as migraines, arthritis, carpal tunnel, tendonitis, fibromyalgia and much more.

Pat soon began selling magnetic jewelry and later started making the jewelry herself. Now, she sets up at shows with more than 100 necklaces and hundreds of wrist and ankle bracelets. She also offers magnetic rings and shoe inserts.

She often finds herself making and/or adjusting items on the spot at the show because “everyone seems to want the one that’s not on the table.”

Pat takes it all in stride and enjoys seeing how she can help others dealing with pain.

“Seeing previous customers coming back to get updated jewelry because they swear by it is always heartwarming,” Pat said. “ If a new customer asks a question and (a previous customer) answers, 90 percent of the time, they do the selling for me. That is so fun to see their reaction.”

Her customers range in all ages, and she sometimes relies on her mom to help make a sale.

“If I’m talking with an elderly person, I can tell them something, but if Mom starts talking to them, they listen to her,” Pat said with a laugh.

Mary rides along to most of the indoor shows. The outdoor ones that she attends depend on the weather.

Even during the off-season for craft shows, mother and daughter still see each other frequently.

Pat, who retired in 2015 after teaching in the La Crosse School District 395 for 38 years, still returns to La Crosse classrooms three to five times a week as a substitute teacher.

“As long as I’m needed and doing a good job, I’ll keep subbing, too,” she said.

After school each day, Pat stops by to visit Mary to say Hi and see if she needs anything.

On days that Pat doesn’t make it to La Crosse, the two talk on the phone.

“Bless her heart,” Mary said. “She’s my angel.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735939250602.jpeg" alt="Pat Petz, right, and her mother, Mary Steitz, can be seen at many a craft shows across the state selling Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pat Petz, right, and her mother, Mary Steitz, can be seen at many a craft shows across the state selling Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731093059976.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostA couple of Rush County women who had known each other for more than 60 years back in 2014 found themselves spending even more time together than usual after their husbands died within a month of each other.Now, 11 years later, Pat Petz and her mother, Mary Steitz, are almost inseparable.&nbsp;Pat, a retired elementary school teacher, is the owner of Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry. Mary is a retired nurse aide who also cleaned medical offices until she was 90 years old.Finding themselves living alone after their husbands passed away, Pat asked her mom to start accompanying her to craft shows to sell her wares.Mary thought it sounded like a great way to get out and about. Ten years later, she says she plans to keep going even if she does have to slow down a little as she nears her 94th birthday in April.Pat knows that time will come for her, too. Just not yet."I know that one of these days I'll have to scale back because my cases and tables are getting so heavy for me to load and unload," Pat said. "But for now, I plan to keep showing up at the craft shows. I love making the jewelry, and I love helping my customers discover a way to help with their pain and not have to use medicines to do it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735939283552.jpeg" alt="Pat Petz, McCracken, left, has been making and selling magnetic jewelry for more than 20 years and now gets assistance from her mother, Mary Steitz. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pat Petz, McCracken, left, has been making and selling magnetic jewelry for more than 20 years and now gets assistance from her mother, Mary Steitz. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Several weekends a year, Pat jumps in her 2012 Toyota Sienna, loaded with 10 to 12 suitcases of jewelry, and makes the 25-mile trip to La Crosse from her farm 8 miles north of McCracken.She picks up Mary at her La Crosse home, and together, they travel to towns as close as Hays and as far away as Marion to the east and Liberal in far southwest Kansas.“Coming and going, she helps me stay awake,” Pat said. “Sometimes, I’ll even say, ‘Mom, sing to me, sing loud.’ ”“I don’t have a singing voice,” Mary said. “But I sing.”All along the way, mother and daughter enjoy their time together – as well as with other customers and vendors.That includes the two hours it takes to set up their booth at each venue and the 1.5-hour takedown time.“Meeting people, visiting with them, that’s so enjoyable,” Pat said. “And building relationships with other vendors is special.”Pat first became interested in the benefits of wearing magnets back in 2010. After experiencing frequent headaches for several years, Pat received a magnetic necklace for her birthday from her daughter, Angie.“I put in on, and the next morning, I woke up without a headache,” said Pat, who became an instant believer. “I used to take 16 to 18 Advil a day. Now, I might take two or three Advil a month.”Magnet therapy has been used for centuries to help with pain.&nbsp;Currently, people all over the world are being treated with magnets for health issues such as migraines, arthritis, carpal tunnel, tendonitis, fibromyalgia and much more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735939311900.jpeg" alt="Pat Petz can often be seen making and/or adjusting jewelry on the spot at craft shows. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien, Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Pat Petz can often be seen making and/or adjusting jewelry on the spot at craft shows. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien, Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Pat soon began selling magnetic jewelry and later started making the jewelry herself. Now, she sets up at shows with more than 100 necklaces and hundreds of wrist and ankle bracelets. She also offers magnetic rings and shoe inserts.She often finds herself making and/or adjusting items on the spot at the show because “everyone seems to want the one that’s not on the table.”Pat takes it all in stride and enjoys seeing how she can help others dealing with pain.“Seeing previous customers coming back to get updated jewelry because they swear by it is always heartwarming,” Pat said. “ If a new customer asks a question and (a previous customer) answers, 90 percent of the time, they do the selling for me. That is so fun to see their reaction.”Her customers range in all ages, and she sometimes relies on her mom to help make a sale.“If I’m talking with an elderly person, I can tell them something, but if Mom starts talking to them, they listen to her,” Pat said with a laugh.Mary rides along to most of the indoor shows. The outdoor ones that she attends depend on the weather.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735939339852.jpeg" alt="Mary Steitz, 93, enjoys helping make sales for Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry at craft shows with her daughter, Pat Petz. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Mary Steitz, 93, enjoys helping make sales for Pat’s Magnetic Jewelry at craft shows with her daughter, Pat Petz. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Even during the off-season for craft shows, mother and daughter still see each other frequently.Pat, who retired in 2015 after teaching in the La Crosse School District 395 for 38 years, still returns to La Crosse classrooms three to five times a week as a substitute teacher.“As long as I’m needed and doing a good job, I’ll keep subbing, too,” she said.After school each day, Pat stops by to visit Mary to say Hi and see if she needs anything.On days that Pat doesn’t make it to La Crosse, the two talk on the phone.“Bless her heart,” Mary said. “She’s my angel.”

NWester: Magnetic mother-daughter duo roll across Kansas together

Monarch for a Day set for Jan. 16 

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Dr. Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president about the 2024 accomplishments at FHSU.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Dr. Tisa Mason, Fort Hays State University president about the 2024 accomplishments at FHSU.<div><iframe title="Highlights from 2024 at Fort Hays State University with President Tisa Mason" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=urs8i-1793abf-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: 2024 highlights at Fort Hays State University

The start of a new year is a time for many to set their intentions by making annual resolutions. The Kansas Legislature also has this opportunity as it begins its 2025 session with a new slate of legislators following the November election.

The question remains will this new beginning bring about a legislature focused on the bread-and-butter policies that are a priority for all Kansans, or will they double-down on divisive culture war issues? The legislature should resolve to improve the lives of all Kansans by focusing on three important policy goals.

First, the Kansas legislature should continue to prioritize water policy. In the past few years, Kansas has made important strides developing a collaborative water management vision, which encouraged the use of more efficient irrigation systems and technologies, aimed to improve water quality, and invested in water research at state universities. However, water usage and the preservation of the Ogallala Aquifer are long-term challenges that require continued attention and innovation if Kansas hopes to mitigate climate change’s impact and support the economic health of the state’s agricultural sector.

Second, legislators should work across party lines to adequately fund Kansas public schools. It is no secret that Kansas has faced challenges with school funding for years. The state’s education funding formula has been the subject of partisan fights, with legislators weighing calls for more equitable distribution of funds across districts with concerns over the cost of doing so. The state needs to find a way to adjust state funding formulas to provide more targeted resource distribution that prioritizes districts serving large populations of low-income students and students with disabilities. It also needs to invest in infrastructure improvements in aging schools, particularly in rural Kansas. Finally, Kansas teachers need a raise.

The third policy goal should be to expand healthcare access in Kansas. The most straight-forward way to achieve this goal is to expand Medicaid. Several states, including Kansas, were understandably concerned about the financial cost of expansion when the Affordable Care Act of 2010 was first passed by Congress. However, legitimate concern has become poisoned by partisan fights that prioritize scoring political points rather than serving Kansans.

Research has demonstrated that expansion leads to positive outcomes. Medicaid expansion increases access to health care services, particularly preventive care and mental health services, reducing health disparities for individuals and families. Medicaid expansion has not only been a boon for individuals, but also for communities. It has been linked to job creation in the

healthcare sector, especially in rural areas. Given these positive outcomes, it’s time for Kansas to join most states, including neighboring states, and expand Medicaid access.

With pressing issues like water usage and quality, education funding, and healthcare access, Kansans are hoping that their elected officials will work toward improving their lives in the upcoming year. Ultimately, the 2025 legislative session will reveal whether Kansas legislators are willing to rise above the political noise and focus on addressing these core challenges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375940173.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIANNE HEIDBREDERThe start of a new year is a time for many to set their intentions by making annual resolutions. The Kansas Legislature also has this opportunity as it begins its 2025 session with a new slate of legislators following the November election.The question remains will this new beginning bring about a legislature focused on the bread-and-butter policies that are a priority for all Kansans, or will they double-down on divisive culture war issues? The legislature should resolve to improve the lives of all Kansans by focusing on three important policy goals.First, the Kansas legislature should continue to prioritize water policy. In the past few years, Kansas has made important strides developing a collaborative water management vision, which encouraged the use of more efficient irrigation systems and technologies, aimed to improve water quality, and invested in water research at state universities. However, water usage and the preservation of the Ogallala Aquifer are long-term challenges that require continued attention and innovation if Kansas hopes to mitigate climate change’s impact and support the economic health of the state’s agricultural sector.Second, legislators should work across party lines to adequately fund Kansas public schools. It is no secret that Kansas has faced challenges with school funding for years. The state’s education funding formula has been the subject of partisan fights, with legislators weighing calls for more equitable distribution of funds across districts with concerns over the cost of doing so. The state needs to find a way to adjust state funding formulas to provide more targeted resource distribution that prioritizes districts serving large populations of low-income students and students with disabilities. It also needs to invest in infrastructure improvements in aging schools, particularly in rural Kansas. Finally, Kansas teachers need a raise.The third policy goal should be to expand healthcare access in Kansas. The most straight-forward way to achieve this goal is to expand Medicaid. Several states, including Kansas, were understandably concerned about the financial cost of expansion when the Affordable Care Act of 2010 was first passed by Congress. However, legitimate concern has become poisoned by partisan fights that prioritize scoring political points rather than serving Kansans.Research has demonstrated that expansion leads to positive outcomes. Medicaid expansion increases access to health care services, particularly preventive care and mental health services, reducing health disparities for individuals and families. Medicaid expansion has not only been a boon for individuals, but also for communities. It has been linked to job creation in thehealthcare sector, especially in rural areas. Given these positive outcomes, it’s time for Kansas to join most states, including neighboring states, and expand Medicaid access.With pressing issues like water usage and quality, education funding, and healthcare access, Kansans are hoping that their elected officials will work toward improving their lives in the upcoming year. Ultimately, the 2025 legislative session will reveal whether Kansas legislators are willing to rise above the political noise and focus on addressing these core challenges.

INSIGHT: Legislative resolutions for 2025

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735853293546.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty declared the City of Hays to be under a Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency. &nbsp;During a Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency, it is unlawful to park a vehicle on any street designated as an emergency snow route. &nbsp;

The City of Hays Public Works Department and Hays Police Department are requesting your assistance with snow removal along emergency snow routes. &nbsp;Please take the appropriate measures and move your vehicle from the snow route at this time, should you take no action and allow your vehicle to remain parked on&nbsp;an emergency snow route, you risk receiving a citation and/or having your vehicle towed at your expense.

This Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency shall remain in effect until such time that the Hays City Manager deems the Winter Storm Traffic Emergency terminated.

Since winter precipitation continues to fall and conditions are expected to worsen through the evening, the Hays Police Department is asking that motorists avoid travel if at all possible. &nbsp;Those that must travel are advised to do so with caution and are encouraged to give themselves extra time to reach their destination. &nbsp;Please remember to drive slowly, pay attention to vehicles in front of you, and allow for extra stopping distance. &nbsp;

For a map of the snow routes in Hays go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/402/Snow-Route-Information">Snow Route Information | Hays, KS</a>

Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty declared the City of Hays to be under a Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency. &nbsp;During a Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency, it is unlawful to park a vehicle on any street designated as an emergency snow route. &nbsp;The City of Hays Public Works Department and Hays Police Department are requesting your assistance with snow removal along emergency snow routes. &nbsp;Please take the appropriate measures and move your vehicle from the snow route at this time, should you take no action and allow your vehicle to remain parked on&nbsp;an emergency snow route, you risk receiving a citation and/or having your vehicle towed at your expense.This Phase 1 Winter Storm Traffic Emergency shall remain in effect until such time that the Hays City Manager deems the Winter Storm Traffic Emergency terminated.Since winter precipitation continues to fall and conditions are expected to worsen through the evening, the Hays Police Department is asking that motorists avoid travel if at all possible. &nbsp;Those that must travel are advised to do so with caution and are encouraged to give themselves extra time to reach their destination. &nbsp;Please remember to drive slowly, pay attention to vehicles in front of you, and allow for extra stopping distance. &nbsp;For a map of the snow routes in Hays go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/402/Snow-Route-Information">Snow Route Information | Hays, KS</a>

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