The Alzheimer's Association - Central &amp; Western Kansas Chapter is pleased to announce that Annalynn Kirkhart has accepted the position of Walk Manager for Walk to End Alzheimer's in Western Kansas including Walks in Dodge City, Garden City, Great Bend, and Hays.

Annalynn has more than a decade of experience in volunteer engagement, marketing management, and nonprofit leadership and brings a wealth of expertise and passion to this vital role.&nbsp;

I am honored to join the Alzheimer's Association and contribute to the Walk to End Alzheimer's initiative." Kirkhart said. "This mission is close to my heart and I am eager to work alongside this incredible community to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer's."

Annalynn can be reached&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ankirkhart@alz.org">ankirkhart@alz.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734301768852.png" alt="Annalynn Kirkhart (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Annalynn Kirkhart (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Alzheimer's Association - Central &amp; Western Kansas Chapter is pleased to announce that Annalynn Kirkhart has accepted the position of Walk Manager for Walk to End Alzheimer's in Western Kansas including Walks in Dodge City, Garden City, Great Bend, and Hays. Annalynn has more than a decade of experience in volunteer engagement, marketing management, and nonprofit leadership and brings a wealth of expertise and passion to this vital role.&nbsp; I am honored to join the Alzheimer's Association and contribute to the Walk to End Alzheimer's initiative." Kirkhart said. "This mission is close to my heart and I am eager to work alongside this incredible community to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer's." Annalynn can be reached&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ankirkhart@alz.org">ankirkhart@alz.org</a>.

Walk to End Alzheimer's area manager announced

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Merry Christmas Everyone! At this time of year, we bring plants into our house to help decorate for the season. Many of these, such as trees and poinsettias are removed and discarded at the end of the season, but Christmas Cactus are plants that you can enjoy all year long! I found a short article on them to share with you this week that goes over care if you have one already, or what to do if you are looking at getting a Cactus. I hope you enjoy this and I hope each and every one of you has a Very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) are epiphytes native to the jungles of South America. Epiphytic plants grow on other plants and use them for support but not for nutrients. Though these cacti are different species, they will hybridize and produce varying stem shapes. Christmas cactus normally has smooth stem segments, and Thanksgiving Cactus has hook-like appendages on each segment. Both of these cacti prefer bright indirect light. Too much sun can result in the leaves turning yellow. Common household temperatures are fine. Soil should be kept constantly moist but not waterlogged. Give them a light fertilization every other week. Blooming will normally cease in late winter to early spring, but continue to keep them moist and fertilized until fall. During the fall, stop fertilizing, and give the plants only enough water so the stems do not shrivel in order to encourage flower bud formation. Though these plants seem to flower best if kept a little pot bound, flowers will diminish if they are too crowded. If you haven't repotted in several years, or if you notice a decrease in flowering from the previous year, move the plant to a larger pot in the spring. If possible, move the plants outside for the summer. Choose a shady spot because these plants will not tolerate full sun. Leave the plants outside until frost threatens. Normally, the plants will have received enough cool nights in the 50- to 55-degree range that flower buds will have formed. However, if they haven't, subjecting the plants to nights greater than 12 hours long and temperatures between 59 and 69 degrees can also generate flowers. Twenty-five consecutive long nights is enough for flower initiation. Place the plants in an unused room or cover them with a dark cloth or cardboard box to insure that they receive uninterrupted darkness. After the flower buds have formed, it takes an additional nine to 10 weeks for flowers to complete development and bloom.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictMerry Christmas Everyone! At this time of year, we bring plants into our house to help decorate for the season. Many of these, such as trees and poinsettias are removed and discarded at the end of the season, but Christmas Cactus are plants that you can enjoy all year long! I found a short article on them to share with you this week that goes over care if you have one already, or what to do if you are looking at getting a Cactus. I hope you enjoy this and I hope each and every one of you has a Very Merry Christmas!Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) are epiphytes native to the jungles of South America. Epiphytic plants grow on other plants and use them for support but not for nutrients. Though these cacti are different species, they will hybridize and produce varying stem shapes. Christmas cactus normally has smooth stem segments, and Thanksgiving Cactus has hook-like appendages on each segment. Both of these cacti prefer bright indirect light. Too much sun can result in the leaves turning yellow. Common household temperatures are fine. Soil should be kept constantly moist but not waterlogged. Give them a light fertilization every other week. Blooming will normally cease in late winter to early spring, but continue to keep them moist and fertilized until fall. During the fall, stop fertilizing, and give the plants only enough water so the stems do not shrivel in order to encourage flower bud formation. Though these plants seem to flower best if kept a little pot bound, flowers will diminish if they are too crowded. If you haven't repotted in several years, or if you notice a decrease in flowering from the previous year, move the plant to a larger pot in the spring. If possible, move the plants outside for the summer. Choose a shady spot because these plants will not tolerate full sun. Leave the plants outside until frost threatens. Normally, the plants will have received enough cool nights in the 50- to 55-degree range that flower buds will have formed. However, if they haven't, subjecting the plants to nights greater than 12 hours long and temperatures between 59 and 69 degrees can also generate flowers. Twenty-five consecutive long nights is enough for flower initiation. Place the plants in an unused room or cover them with a dark cloth or cardboard box to insure that they receive uninterrupted darkness. After the flower buds have formed, it takes an additional nine to 10 weeks for flowers to complete development and bloom.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Christmas cactus

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

If you find that you are feeling a little more stressed than usual right now, you’re definitely not alone. Most people would say the holidays bring extra stress. It could be several things that include: the extra expenses. Angry in-laws. Exhausted and sugared-up kids. Cold weather and seasonal darkness. Final exams, sporting events and recitals. Absent romantic partners. Profound loneliness . . . Individually, we can handle each of these stressors as they come. But during the holidays, everything hits at once and can become overwhelming for anyone!

When we are stressed, we need to be sure we are coping with it in the best ways possible. When stress gets the best of us, we may turn to less healthy means of coping. Here are some ways to make the season less stressful and more fun.

The holiday season is a time of parties and other social gatherings. Remember that you don't have to do it all. Figure out what you really enjoy versus what you feel you’re supposed to do.

Focus the majority of your energy and time on activities that are fun for you.

Travel can be especially stressful during the holiday season. If you must travel, do what you can to make it as easy as possible on yourself. Try to get direct flights or at least minimize the number of stops along the way. You'll avoid the stress of having to rush from one plane to the next or having to wait around for long periods of time.

Many people complain about spending too much time in the car during the holiday season driving from one gathering to the next. This can be exhausting. If possible, limit your driving to one or two events that you truly want to attend. It's part of setting healthy boundaries and keeping a reasonable schedule.

For many, the holidays are a time of gift giving. This can be a lot of fun, but it can also be financially stressful. Go make a budget now and stay within the spending limits that you have set.

You're not obligated to spend beyond your means, and you will very likely regret it if you do.

4. Be responsible about food and alcohol consumption

Do your best to stick with healthy eating choices. Don't overdue the sugar. Moderation is key, especially with holiday treats and alcohol. Many of us succumb to the pressure to overeat or drink to excess during the holidays. But too much sugar messes up your natural hormone responses, blood sugar, insulin levels, and your brain’s neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers). Try to stay within your usual guidelines for healthy eating and responsible drinking. Remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

5. Enjoy family on your terms and set boundaries

While it can be enjoyable to see family during the holidays, some people find extended family time to be stressful. Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself. If necessary, take a break from the gathering. Go for a walk. Call someone you enjoy talking to. Take some alone time if you need it. And then you decide what you can handle around the plans that are made whether it is around traveling, food, hosting, and money spent.

Consider giving yourself the gift of time during the holidays. Take a break from rushing around, shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Set aside time to read a good book, watch your favorite movie, go for a bike ride or take a nap. Skip social media and screen time and spend more time looking in your loved ones eyes and choose human connection rather than the screen time. Your mental health will thank you.

The holidays can be especially challenging for those of us who have lost loved ones. Be sure to make space for your grief. Consider changing up your traditions to make your feelings of loss more manageable. You can also find a new way to weave in the memory of your loved one into your existing holiday traditions.

Get plenty of sleep. Eat regularly. Exercise. Get a massage. Meditate. Don't forget to breathe. And don’t forget to get outside and move. I don’t care how cold it is—put on some extra layers and just do it (or at least get into the gym). Exercise helps your body process and release stress hormones, and nature is important for our emotional and physical health. Here are some ways you can stay active during the holidays:

· Bundle up and go on a walk to see Christmas lights in the neighborhood.

· Get an epic snowball fight going with the neighbors (play is exercise too).

Nobody wants to be sick at Christmastime—and exercising, getting outside, and resting are all natural immune-boosting activities that will help you feel strong, peaceful and healthy.

Try and stick to your normal routine as much as possible.

If you know that this time of year is typically hard for you, lean on your friends and family. Talk to them about how you're feeling and let them help you set boundaries and practice self-care. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or explore the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictIf you find that you are feeling a little more stressed than usual right now, you’re definitely not alone. Most people would say the holidays bring extra stress. It could be several things that include: the extra expenses. Angry in-laws. Exhausted and sugared-up kids. Cold weather and seasonal darkness. Final exams, sporting events and recitals. Absent romantic partners. Profound loneliness . . . Individually, we can handle each of these stressors as they come. But during the holidays, everything hits at once and can become overwhelming for anyone!When we are stressed, we need to be sure we are coping with it in the best ways possible. When stress gets the best of us, we may turn to less healthy means of coping. Here are some ways to make the season less stressful and more fun.1. Don’t over schedule yourselfThe holiday season is a time of parties and other social gatherings. Remember that you don't have to do it all. Figure out what you really enjoy versus what you feel you’re supposed to do.Focus the majority of your energy and time on activities that are fun for you.2. Simplify travel and limit car timeTravel can be especially stressful during the holiday season. If you must travel, do what you can to make it as easy as possible on yourself. Try to get direct flights or at least minimize the number of stops along the way. You'll avoid the stress of having to rush from one plane to the next or having to wait around for long periods of time.Many people complain about spending too much time in the car during the holiday season driving from one gathering to the next. This can be exhausting. If possible, limit your driving to one or two events that you truly want to attend. It's part of setting healthy boundaries and keeping a reasonable schedule.3. Make a budgetFor many, the holidays are a time of gift giving. This can be a lot of fun, but it can also be financially stressful. Go make a budget now and stay within the spending limits that you have set.You're not obligated to spend beyond your means, and you will very likely regret it if you do.4. Be responsible about food and alcohol consumptionDo your best to stick with healthy eating choices. Don't overdue the sugar. Moderation is key, especially with holiday treats and alcohol. Many of us succumb to the pressure to overeat or drink to excess during the holidays. But too much sugar messes up your natural hormone responses, blood sugar, insulin levels, and your brain’s neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers). Try to stay within your usual guidelines for healthy eating and responsible drinking. Remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.5. Enjoy family on your terms and set boundariesWhile it can be enjoyable to see family during the holidays, some people find extended family time to be stressful. Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself. If necessary, take a break from the gathering. Go for a walk. Call someone you enjoy talking to. Take some alone time if you need it. And then you decide what you can handle around the plans that are made whether it is around traveling, food, hosting, and money spent.6. Take time for yourselfConsider giving yourself the gift of time during the holidays. Take a break from rushing around, shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Set aside time to read a good book, watch your favorite movie, go for a bike ride or take a nap. Skip social media and screen time and spend more time looking in your loved ones eyes and choose human connection rather than the screen time. Your mental health will thank you.7. Honor the losses of the yearThe holidays can be especially challenging for those of us who have lost loved ones. Be sure to make space for your grief. Consider changing up your traditions to make your feelings of loss more manageable. You can also find a new way to weave in the memory of your loved one into your existing holiday traditions.8. Don't forget routine maintenanceGet plenty of sleep. Eat regularly. Exercise. Get a massage. Meditate. Don't forget to breathe. And don’t forget to get outside and move. I don’t care how cold it is—put on some extra layers and just do it (or at least get into the gym). Exercise helps your body process and release stress hormones, and nature is important for our emotional and physical health. Here are some ways you can stay active during the holidays:· Bundle up and go on a walk to see Christmas lights in the neighborhood.· Get an epic snowball fight going with the neighbors (play is exercise too).· Walk through a Christmas tree farm.· Go ice-skating.· Build a snowman in the front yard.· Go for a hike or nature walk.· Go sledding.Nobody wants to be sick at Christmastime—and exercising, getting outside, and resting are all natural immune-boosting activities that will help you feel strong, peaceful and healthy.Try and stick to your normal routine as much as possible.9. Reach out if you need helpIf you know that this time of year is typically hard for you, lean on your friends and family. Talk to them about how you're feeling and let them help you set boundaries and practice self-care. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or explore the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Holiday stress

<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/2024/12/1734301569526.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

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

Welcome to Kansas, you’ll know when you’re here, Cause we hunt our pheasants, our quail and our deer.

But that wiley ole’ Grinch tried to spoil my deer season But he gave me no clue, not a why, not a reason.

I hunted deer high, and I hunted deer low But I left empty handed, not a buck nor a doe.

Now the Who’s down in Whoville continued to feast When that Grinch wrecked their Christmas and stole their roast beast.

But I needed a plan to show all was not lost Then I scratched on my noggin” and I thought and I thought.

So, I set out to prove I could spoil his Grinch notion, When out in the field there arose a commotion.

As I peered from my blind, what did appear, But a strange looking sleigh pulled by flying reindeer.

So, I’m thinking “Take that” Mr. Grinch you old geezer, Just one of those deer will fill my fridge and my freezer.

They landed their rig not far away, And a chubby old man tumbled out of the sleigh.

Now I’m thinkin’ it’s Grinch dressed like St Nick, Out here to fool me with some kind of trick.

To keep me from shootin’ one of these beasts, To keep me from havin’ a fine reindeer feast.

But instead of defending his steeds from my hunt, He gestured their way and said “Which one do you want?”

Now I thought this was odd for even the Grinch, That he’d let me shoot one and not even flinch.

But the deer in the front had a bright shiny nose, It’d be hard to miss that one the way that it glowed.

So, I lined up my shot, my freezer to fill When commotion again came from over the hill

It’s looked like ole’ Santa runnin’ our way, Seems the Grinch had tossed him out of his sleigh.

He tackled Ole’ Grinch and took back his red suit, Then he put on his hat, his coat and his boots.

He climbed into the sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And off they all flew like the down of a thistle.

And I heard him exclaim as they flew out of sight, “Thanks for not shootin’ Rudolph and ruining the night.”

But he also admonished to all who could hear “Keep Christ in Christmas and Happy New Year.”

Guess I’ll travel to Whoville and join in their feast, And hope that Ole’ Grinch gave them back their roast beast.

Merry Christmas from Steve and Joyce at Exploring Kansas Outdoors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsWelcome to Kansas, you’ll know when you’re here, Cause we hunt our pheasants, our quail and our deer.But that wiley ole’ Grinch tried to spoil my deer season But he gave me no clue, not a why, not a reason.I hunted deer high, and I hunted deer low But I left empty handed, not a buck nor a doe.Now the Who’s down in Whoville continued to feast When that Grinch wrecked their Christmas and stole their roast beast.But I needed a plan to show all was not lost Then I scratched on my noggin” and I thought and I thought.So, I set out to prove I could spoil his Grinch notion, When out in the field there arose a commotion.As I peered from my blind, what did appear, But a strange looking sleigh pulled by flying reindeer.So, I’m thinking “Take that” Mr. Grinch you old geezer, Just one of those deer will fill my fridge and my freezer.They landed their rig not far away, And a chubby old man tumbled out of the sleigh.Now I’m thinkin’ it’s Grinch dressed like St Nick, Out here to fool me with some kind of trick.To keep me from shootin’ one of these beasts, To keep me from havin’ a fine reindeer feast.But instead of defending his steeds from my hunt, He gestured their way and said “Which one do you want?”Now I thought this was odd for even the Grinch, That he’d let me shoot one and not even flinch.But the deer in the front had a bright shiny nose, It’d be hard to miss that one the way that it glowed.So, I lined up my shot, my freezer to fill When commotion again came from over the hillIt’s looked like ole’ Santa runnin’ our way, Seems the Grinch had tossed him out of his sleigh.He tackled Ole’ Grinch and took back his red suit, Then he put on his hat, his coat and his boots.He climbed into the sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And off they all flew like the down of a thistle.And I heard him exclaim as they flew out of sight, “Thanks for not shootin’ Rudolph and ruining the night.”But he also admonished to all who could hear “Keep Christ in Christmas and Happy New Year.”Guess I’ll travel to Whoville and join in their feast, And hope that Ole’ Grinch gave them back their roast beast.Merry Christmas from Steve and Joyce at Exploring Kansas Outdoors.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: You're a mean one Mr. Grinch

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post&nbsp;

For some, “Blue Christmas” is more than an Elvis Presley No. 1 hit from 60 years ago.&nbsp;

Also sometimes known as The Longest Night, Blue Christmas is a church service for those not having a Holly Jolly Christmas. It is a time to remember loved ones who are no longer with them and for those experiencing the holiday blues.

“I think it’s important because the one thing we all experience is death and loss,” said Brenda Rodger, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hays. “In that experience, it is good to have a safe place.”&nbsp;

This year’s service host is Trinity Lutheran, 2703 Fort, and is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18. For more information about the service, call 785-625-2044.

Rodger and Ben Houchen, pastor for St. Michael’s Episcopal Church and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, will lead the service, with each providing scripture readings. During the service, those in attendance are invited to light a candle for lost loved ones.&nbsp;

St. Michael’s is at 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays, while St. Andrew’s is a rural church about 13 miles northwest of Hays at 2422 Hyacinth Ave.

“Blue Christmas is such an important part of our Christmas season,” Houchen said. “For so many people, this isn’t just a time of joy. It’s also a time of loss and mourning.”&nbsp;

“Loved ones gone, relationships broken, even just the turn to more darkness in a day makes this all a harder time for so many people,” he added. “Having a space to come together and acknowledge that pain, to give that over and share it with a caring community, that’s what this service is about.”&nbsp;

Shay Craig, the former pastor at St. Michael’s who now is pastor at Christ Episcopal Cathedral in Salina, brought Blue Christmas with her when she came to Hays in 2020. She said the Blue Christmas service, which dates back to around 1990, is common in the church, and she wanted to bring it to the Hays area.&nbsp;

“It was well received,” Craig said. “Everywhere I’ve done it, it’s been well received.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The First Presbyterian Church in Hays played host last year to a similar service, The Longest Night, sponsored by the Center for Life Experience. The First United Methodist Church also held a Longest Night service last year and has done so for about the last dozen years, but it did not work out to have one this year.&nbsp;

Center for Life Experience, which closed its office in October and will cease operations at the end of the year, had held its service since at least 2012 but will not have a service this year.&nbsp;

“Very often, the journey through grief and loss feels like the longest night,” said Ann Leiker, former center executive director and a member of the Presbyterian Church. “There’s hope because after the darkest night comes the light.”&nbsp;

“Hope comes through out of that darkness,” Leiker added. “Blue Christmas is one way churches do that.”&nbsp;

Rev. Christine Wagner, transitional minister for the First Presbyterian Church, believes Blue Christmas fits perfectly with the meaning of Christmas.&nbsp;

“If one really gets into the Advent season, we’re asked to always be dwelling with the paradox of Christmas,” Wagner said. “Blue Christmas is not antithetical to the spirit of Christmas.”&nbsp;

“Where does the light appear? It appears in the darkness,” she added. “Where does joy appear? It appears in the midst of sorrow. Where does peace appear? It comes in the midst of chaos. There’s always a juxtaposition of what isn’t right with the world with the possibility always there of the wonder of God’s presence.”&nbsp;

Pat Hill, a Trinity Lutheran parishioner, appreciates having the Blue Christmas service every year.&nbsp;

“I’ve had a lot of deaths in my family,” Hill said. “It’s just a wonderful service.”&nbsp;

Hill knows what part of the service she cherishes most.&nbsp;

“Lighting the candle at the end of the service,” Hill said. “It kind of ties it all together. I really like that.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734219943114.jpeg" alt="A church service in Hays on Wednesday is planned to help provide some light in the darkness for those attending the Blue Christmas service at Trinity Lutheran Church. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>A church service in Hays on Wednesday is planned to help provide some light in the darkness for those attending the Blue Christmas service at Trinity Lutheran Church. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731093059976.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post&nbsp;For some, “Blue Christmas” is more than an Elvis Presley No. 1 hit from 60 years ago.&nbsp;Also sometimes known as The Longest Night, Blue Christmas is a church service for those not having a Holly Jolly Christmas. It is a time to remember loved ones who are no longer with them and for those experiencing the holiday blues.“I think it’s important because the one thing we all experience is death and loss,” said Brenda Rodger, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hays. “In that experience, it is good to have a safe place.”&nbsp;This year’s service host is Trinity Lutheran, 2703 Fort, and is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18. For more information about the service, call 785-625-2044.Rodger and Ben Houchen, pastor for St. Michael’s Episcopal Church and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, will lead the service, with each providing scripture readings. During the service, those in attendance are invited to light a candle for lost loved ones.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734220001546.jpeg" alt="Those attending this year’s Blue Christmas services will be greeted by the nativity scene outside Trinity Lutheran Church. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Those attending this year’s Blue Christmas services will be greeted by the nativity scene outside Trinity Lutheran Church. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Michael’s is at 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays, while St. Andrew’s is a rural church about 13 miles northwest of Hays at 2422 Hyacinth Ave.“Blue Christmas is such an important part of our Christmas season,” Houchen said. “For so many people, this isn’t just a time of joy. It’s also a time of loss and mourning.”&nbsp;“Loved ones gone, relationships broken, even just the turn to more darkness in a day makes this all a harder time for so many people,” he added. “Having a space to come together and acknowledge that pain, to give that over and share it with a caring community, that’s what this service is about.”&nbsp;Shay Craig, the former pastor at St. Michael’s who now is pastor at Christ Episcopal Cathedral in Salina, brought Blue Christmas with her when she came to Hays in 2020. She said the Blue Christmas service, which dates back to around 1990, is common in the church, and she wanted to bring it to the Hays area.&nbsp;“It was well received,” Craig said. “Everywhere I’ve done it, it’s been well received.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734220059796.jpeg" alt="Attendees gathered at the Blue Christmas service two years ago at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Attendees gathered at the Blue Christmas service two years ago at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The First Presbyterian Church in Hays played host last year to a similar service, The Longest Night, sponsored by the Center for Life Experience. The First United Methodist Church also held a Longest Night service last year and has done so for about the last dozen years, but it did not work out to have one this year.&nbsp;Center for Life Experience, which closed its office in October and will cease operations at the end of the year, had held its service since at least 2012 but will not have a service this year.&nbsp;“Very often, the journey through grief and loss feels like the longest night,” said Ann Leiker, former center executive director and a member of the Presbyterian Church. “There’s hope because after the darkest night comes the light.”&nbsp;“Hope comes through out of that darkness,” Leiker added. “Blue Christmas is one way churches do that.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734220111712.jpeg" alt="Lit candles, shown here at last year’s Blue Christmas service at Trinity Lutheran Church, play an important part in the service, with those gathered lighting small candles in remembrance of lost loved ones. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Lit candles, shown here at last year’s Blue Christmas service at Trinity Lutheran Church, play an important part in the service, with those gathered lighting small candles in remembrance of lost loved ones. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Rev. Christine Wagner, transitional minister for the First Presbyterian Church, believes Blue Christmas fits perfectly with the meaning of Christmas.&nbsp;“If one really gets into the Advent season, we’re asked to always be dwelling with the paradox of Christmas,” Wagner said. “Blue Christmas is not antithetical to the spirit of Christmas.”&nbsp;“Where does the light appear? It appears in the darkness,” she added. “Where does joy appear? It appears in the midst of sorrow. Where does peace appear? It comes in the midst of chaos. There’s always a juxtaposition of what isn’t right with the world with the possibility always there of the wonder of God’s presence.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734220181130.jpeg" alt="St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, rural Hays, is one of the three churches hosting this year’s Blue Christmas services. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, rural Hays, is one of the three churches hosting this year’s Blue Christmas services. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Pat Hill, a Trinity Lutheran parishioner, appreciates having the Blue Christmas service every year.&nbsp;“I’ve had a lot of deaths in my family,” Hill said. “It’s just a wonderful service.”&nbsp;Hill knows what part of the service she cherishes most.&nbsp;“Lighting the candle at the end of the service,” Hill said. “It kind of ties it all together. I really like that.”&nbsp;

NWester: Hays churches spread light to others with Blue Christmas services

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/11/kansas-smallest-school-district-to-dissolve-following-voter-state-board-approval/?emci=20983435-4eb8-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=73a6f5eb-6fb8-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Two students are enrolled this year at the Healy Public Schools district in western Kansas, a decrease from 20 students the previous year.

Steadily declining enrollment led area voters in November to favor dissolution, and the Kansas State Board of Education affirmed the vote Tuesday.

“The community understands the situation with the low enrollment with the school that a decision had to be made,” said Jeff Jones, superintendent of Healy Public Schools.

Healy’s neighboring district, Scott County Schools, will absorb its territory and property, and eventually collect taxes that would have typically gone toward the Healy district.

The process to dissolve the Healy Public School district has been in motion for&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/24/kansas-smallest-school-district-prepares-to-close-in-warning-sign-for-rural-communities/">months</a>. A majority of Healy Public Schools students already attend Scott County Public Schools, Jones said.

“Having a choice in where the future of our school district would be was a significant reason for our school district to continue to function this year,” he said.

Scott County Schools accepted the transfer of property Monday, according to Scott Gordon, the Kansas Department of Education’s legal counsel.

He said the final step was the state board’s approval, which came with a 9-1 vote.

Healy Public Schools is the first district to close in Kansas since 2011.&nbsp;The dissolution has highlighted concern for rural school closures due to population decline and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/13/about-1500-kansas-students-change-school-districts-under-new-open-enrollment-policy/">new open enrollment policies</a>.

Losing a rural school is like losing a community’s livelihood, said Jamie Rumford, the superintendent for Scott County Schools.

“Kansas is a rural state, and rural Kansas has to be strong,” said Rumford. “It feels like it’s getting weaker in some areas.”

Scott County Schools employees are sorting out the details of absorbing Healy’s student records, some lingering tax revenue and transportation needs. The absorption was arranged so that Healy landowners won’t have to pay taxes on Scott County Schools’ bond project since they didn’t get a chance to vote on it, and the district’s bus has already been transporting former Healy students who have already enrolled in Scott County Schools. He said he feels for Healy residents who have invested tax dollars, time and effort into their district’s schools.

“When it just crosses the line of having to close down, that just takes a lot away,” he said.

Once a Kansas public school district drops below 10 students, it is no longer eligible for accreditation. Ten public school districts in Kansas, including Healy’s, have just 100 students or fewer. More than 30 districts have fewer than 200 students.&nbsp;Legislators&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/lawmakers-pass-bill-responding-to-low-kansas-school-district-enrollment/">vowed earlier this year</a>&nbsp;to examine school districts with low enrollment in the 2025 legislative session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734025169679.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Board of Education members rubber stamped an effort to dissolve the Healy Public Schools district in Lane County, making it the first district to close in Kansas in more than a decade. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Board of Education members rubber stamped an effort to dissolve the Healy Public Schools district in Lane County, making it the first district to close in Kansas in more than a decade. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/11/kansas-smallest-school-district-to-dissolve-following-voter-state-board-approval/?emci=20983435-4eb8-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=73a6f5eb-6fb8-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Two students are enrolled this year at the Healy Public Schools district in western Kansas, a decrease from 20 students the previous year.Steadily declining enrollment led area voters in November to favor dissolution, and the Kansas State Board of Education affirmed the vote Tuesday.“The community understands the situation with the low enrollment with the school that a decision had to be made,” said Jeff Jones, superintendent of Healy Public Schools.Healy’s neighboring district, Scott County Schools, will absorb its territory and property, and eventually collect taxes that would have typically gone toward the Healy district.The process to dissolve the Healy Public School district has been in motion for&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/24/kansas-smallest-school-district-prepares-to-close-in-warning-sign-for-rural-communities/">months</a>. A majority of Healy Public Schools students already attend Scott County Public Schools, Jones said.“Having a choice in where the future of our school district would be was a significant reason for our school district to continue to function this year,” he said.Scott County Schools accepted the transfer of property Monday, according to Scott Gordon, the Kansas Department of Education’s legal counsel.He said the final step was the state board’s approval, which came with a 9-1 vote.Healy Public Schools is the first district to close in Kansas since 2011.&nbsp;The dissolution has highlighted concern for rural school closures due to population decline and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/13/about-1500-kansas-students-change-school-districts-under-new-open-enrollment-policy/">new open enrollment policies</a>.Losing a rural school is like losing a community’s livelihood, said Jamie Rumford, the superintendent for Scott County Schools.“Kansas is a rural state, and rural Kansas has to be strong,” said Rumford. “It feels like it’s getting weaker in some areas.”Scott County Schools employees are sorting out the details of absorbing Healy’s student records, some lingering tax revenue and transportation needs. The absorption was arranged so that Healy landowners won’t have to pay taxes on Scott County Schools’ bond project since they didn’t get a chance to vote on it, and the district’s bus has already been transporting former Healy students who have already enrolled in Scott County Schools. He said he feels for Healy residents who have invested tax dollars, time and effort into their district’s schools.“When it just crosses the line of having to close down, that just takes a lot away,” he said.Once a Kansas public school district drops below 10 students, it is no longer eligible for accreditation. Ten public school districts in Kansas, including Healy’s, have just 100 students or fewer. More than 30 districts have fewer than 200 students.&nbsp;Legislators&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/lawmakers-pass-bill-responding-to-low-kansas-school-district-enrollment/">vowed earlier this year</a>&nbsp;to examine school districts with low enrollment in the 2025 legislative session.

Western KS school to close following voter, state board approval

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The proposed <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/70507513-a0c4-489b-86c5-f7edf0fdf753">latest housing development at 25th and Wheatland</a> in east Hays will undergo a public hearing Monday afternoon.

Developer Heart of America is asking for a rezoning from agriculture&nbsp; and residential general district to residential multi-family district to provide for denser development.

The difference is the side yard setback of 4 ft. instead of 7 ft., allowing for smaller lots, the structures to be closer together and options for&nbsp;duplexes or townhomes.&nbsp;

The Hays Area Planning Commission will also consider a final plat for the Tallgrass 4th Addition.&nbsp;

The complete Dec. 12 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12162024-1516">here</a>.

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732302380275.png" alt="Tallgrass 2nd Addition Phase 4 plat map. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Tallgrass 2nd Addition Phase 4 plat map. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe proposed <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/70507513-a0c4-489b-86c5-f7edf0fdf753">latest housing development at 25th and Wheatland</a> in east Hays will undergo a public hearing Monday afternoon.Developer Heart of America is asking for a rezoning from agriculture&nbsp; and residential general district to residential multi-family district to provide for denser development.The difference is the side yard setback of 4 ft. instead of 7 ft., allowing for smaller lots, the structures to be closer together and options for&nbsp;duplexes or townhomes.&nbsp;The Hays Area Planning Commission will also consider a final plat for the Tallgrass 4th Addition.&nbsp;The complete Dec. 12 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12162024-1516">here</a>.The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Public hearing Monday for Tallgrass 4th Addition rezoning in Hays

By RUSSELL FOX Insight Kansas

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article296570569.html">recently affirmed</a>&nbsp;that, with the Republican legislative majority&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article294547689.html">even stronger</a>&nbsp;after the 2024 elections, the leadership will bring back the push to ban transgender surgery on those under 18 years old. The last effort to do so ended with a veto from Governor Laura Kelly and a veto-override attempt which failed by only two votes. So it’s reasonable, now that they have additional votes on their side, that the Republicans would try again.

Reasonable, that is, in terms of signaling. Is it reasonable in terms of substance?

The role of political signaling, as opposed to the usually unglamorous work of addressing policy substance, is a complicated one in democratic governance. It is not uncommon for voters to complain that those elected to represent them are spending their time on meaningless bills or resolutions that show their support for one cause or another, instead of getting down to the business of building actually substantive legislation. It’s a fair—and not inaccurate—complaint.

Yet I sympathize with legislators who operate in a nationalized media environment, whose funding so often depends upon major interest groups and organizations that usually care little for specific budget or policy matters, and instead are focused on creating media messages which exist primarily to rile up or placate key constituencies. A reasonable politician might well conclude that have to play the signaling game, if only to make sure they have the opportunity to also focus on the difficult matters that may concern them most.

That’s not to say that there aren’t members of the Republican super-majority in Topeka who, for a variety of reasons, may well be sincerely concerned—maybe even horrified—by the prospect of someone under the age of 18 receiving gender modification surgery, and see banning such as a necessary action in the name of public health or morality. I’m sure some fit that description.

But I suspect most of our legislators actually understand that they are crusading symbolically against an almost non-existent concern. There’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/24/lawmakers-rejection-of-gender-affirming-care-ban-protects-kansas-patients-and-providers/">no evidence</a>&nbsp;of any Kansas medical center ever performing gender transition surgery on a minor, and nationally the numbers are&nbsp;<a href="https://watermark.silverchair.com/dai_2024_ld_240088_1718729289.71123.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAAy8wggMrBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggMcMIIDGAIBADCCAxEGCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMq2ySlf_ZCW-pvwHmAgEQgIIC4k9G2PoPW44Q7r0qvv8AfyF0kchyr9YKN9egZT5Qmd9VK62TxiYvv2LtvNOi3VnCvcVlbjXSvXRjAuGw6byQz4RcG8-FnBCjAHPwXFzSoc4zny38NPJ0fNIi8PepKwj9P-X1oTPKyoveFWZNuJlYyUgzdQc-ajmfwYzaDjYwLTWbOnuSV3I8I3EIymEhTpargG-uif_PsydOSbE1Y--l85qSsyrPcPF7ks5ubBXchNOc4QTZNi9uzrn6_rpR9AMSwuue5474-C1lrivJ3K1KAJFlOLhAWN6sr3oPhByLUusa9ofhCC0qFG9KEwaDWk7xQ0gQ77CyxFB5hd_dKNEBrNmP4Xn2WXxL_6PukPWd_wPF0UYJ0CawqJayIZs5BaB-kemVQLLKFFcDDpl3fVzszOHldLkbWWT-r2RyvFkXGU-SDkMyj3ioERPZtNI8adB2bZUHq_jaqdBejIA9Q8onSLbD8V_dfHd4GbKW2oViCGd622MwlG0YRtrplAesWfLJLqo2YtPewAAp8PE45pMHiqiGFDTP07olQpn6QHOUfS1Va2G6cuJQZPyzHtEYxdIu5QmQZ1Ka2fM-aNg034pFHNMG8KaBtiXAzZcaRtO4O4Q0H3Pw8L6Ncnd635TaWywF7Y1zdPcpm1498KLeD4xpugdjxF5AdesbmPKtnPOwPgtR2tb1Cxdg5qWoRvSotjHPodnkjq2loo1Dug1bmyetPUx6m-3LkYefFOAMQ4PSc9w10bBo3eKf4_WKVAs6P_36zQOeKDVILXMDFp4mgyjp-CFl0gJpNbrJLekDylEg2ZFUFhW1xkhlRVyfTwDUqwgcCeTYLabHuVNTrVmpwS39mjJTq6bFB2Mv8qu_eU8ONe7prWat9YAHzuNdRJetY6WuMN0q5qCeUXRhRRoG77TtQSmZ7SqGIjXJumpBcp_e3RyLyViQG8oGo0gYmhFBF6WDRRy8TVh4pK3mMR5iIF_it0MQTw">incredibly low</a>: out of all gender-affirming surgeries in the United States in recent years, perhaps 2 out of every 100,000 were performed on a person between the ages of 15 and 17, and 1 out of 1,000,000 were performed on a person between the ages of 13 and 15. Beneath that age, the number is zero.

This pattern—when the data and the message don’t match--holds for many other issues as well. The number of transgender athletes seeking to play sports competitively in the category of their chosen gender is tiny, yet everyone seems to have a story about some transgender woman with an unfair advantage at their child’s high school. It’s the same for illegal immigrants, who are&nbsp;<a href="https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/undocumented-immigrant-offending-rate-lower-us-born-citizen-rate">far more law-abiding</a>&nbsp;than the rest of the population, yet every story about an undocumented resident who commits a crime will be shared over and over and over again.

On a certain level, one must simply accept this as a political reality: most people, lacking both the time and inclination to become experts regarding any given matter, depend upon—and make decisions upon—the conveying of key signals, whether involving law or morality or anything else. For those who do have expert information—often because they actually are one of the people being symbolically discussed (a person with sexual dysphoria, a Dreamer, or more)—the battle to call attention to the actual data, and introduce substantive arguments, is never-ending. But necessary, all the same.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL FOX Insight KansasKansas Senate President Ty Masterson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article296570569.html">recently affirmed</a>&nbsp;that, with the Republican legislative majority&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article294547689.html">even stronger</a>&nbsp;after the 2024 elections, the leadership will bring back the push to ban transgender surgery on those under 18 years old. The last effort to do so ended with a veto from Governor Laura Kelly and a veto-override attempt which failed by only two votes. So it’s reasonable, now that they have additional votes on their side, that the Republicans would try again.Reasonable, that is, in terms of signaling. Is it reasonable in terms of substance?The role of political signaling, as opposed to the usually unglamorous work of addressing policy substance, is a complicated one in democratic governance. It is not uncommon for voters to complain that those elected to represent them are spending their time on meaningless bills or resolutions that show their support for one cause or another, instead of getting down to the business of building actually substantive legislation. It’s a fair—and not inaccurate—complaint.Yet I sympathize with legislators who operate in a nationalized media environment, whose funding so often depends upon major interest groups and organizations that usually care little for specific budget or policy matters, and instead are focused on creating media messages which exist primarily to rile up or placate key constituencies. A reasonable politician might well conclude that have to play the signaling game, if only to make sure they have the opportunity to also focus on the difficult matters that may concern them most.That’s not to say that there aren’t members of the Republican super-majority in Topeka who, for a variety of reasons, may well be sincerely concerned—maybe even horrified—by the prospect of someone under the age of 18 receiving gender modification surgery, and see banning such as a necessary action in the name of public health or morality. I’m sure some fit that description.But I suspect most of our legislators actually understand that they are crusading symbolically against an almost non-existent concern. There’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/24/lawmakers-rejection-of-gender-affirming-care-ban-protects-kansas-patients-and-providers/">no evidence</a>&nbsp;of any Kansas medical center ever performing gender transition surgery on a minor, and nationally the numbers are&nbsp;<a href="https://watermark.silverchair.com/dai_2024_ld_240088_1718729289.71123.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAAy8wggMrBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggMcMIIDGAIBADCCAxEGCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMq2ySlf_ZCW-pvwHmAgEQgIIC4k9G2PoPW44Q7r0qvv8AfyF0kchyr9YKN9egZT5Qmd9VK62TxiYvv2LtvNOi3VnCvcVlbjXSvXRjAuGw6byQz4RcG8-FnBCjAHPwXFzSoc4zny38NPJ0fNIi8PepKwj9P-X1oTPKyoveFWZNuJlYyUgzdQc-ajmfwYzaDjYwLTWbOnuSV3I8I3EIymEhTpargG-uif_PsydOSbE1Y--l85qSsyrPcPF7ks5ubBXchNOc4QTZNi9uzrn6_rpR9AMSwuue5474-C1lrivJ3K1KAJFlOLhAWN6sr3oPhByLUusa9ofhCC0qFG9KEwaDWk7xQ0gQ77CyxFB5hd_dKNEBrNmP4Xn2WXxL_6PukPWd_wPF0UYJ0CawqJayIZs5BaB-kemVQLLKFFcDDpl3fVzszOHldLkbWWT-r2RyvFkXGU-SDkMyj3ioERPZtNI8adB2bZUHq_jaqdBejIA9Q8onSLbD8V_dfHd4GbKW2oViCGd622MwlG0YRtrplAesWfLJLqo2YtPewAAp8PE45pMHiqiGFDTP07olQpn6QHOUfS1Va2G6cuJQZPyzHtEYxdIu5QmQZ1Ka2fM-aNg034pFHNMG8KaBtiXAzZcaRtO4O4Q0H3Pw8L6Ncnd635TaWywF7Y1zdPcpm1498KLeD4xpugdjxF5AdesbmPKtnPOwPgtR2tb1Cxdg5qWoRvSotjHPodnkjq2loo1Dug1bmyetPUx6m-3LkYefFOAMQ4PSc9w10bBo3eKf4_WKVAs6P_36zQOeKDVILXMDFp4mgyjp-CFl0gJpNbrJLekDylEg2ZFUFhW1xkhlRVyfTwDUqwgcCeTYLabHuVNTrVmpwS39mjJTq6bFB2Mv8qu_eU8ONe7prWat9YAHzuNdRJetY6WuMN0q5qCeUXRhRRoG77TtQSmZ7SqGIjXJumpBcp_e3RyLyViQG8oGo0gYmhFBF6WDRRy8TVh4pK3mMR5iIF_it0MQTw">incredibly low</a>: out of all gender-affirming surgeries in the United States in recent years, perhaps 2 out of every 100,000 were performed on a person between the ages of 15 and 17, and 1 out of 1,000,000 were performed on a person between the ages of 13 and 15. Beneath that age, the number is zero.This pattern—when the data and the message don’t match--holds for many other issues as well. The number of transgender athletes seeking to play sports competitively in the category of their chosen gender is tiny, yet everyone seems to have a story about some transgender woman with an unfair advantage at their child’s high school. It’s the same for illegal immigrants, who are&nbsp;<a href="https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/undocumented-immigrant-offending-rate-lower-us-born-citizen-rate">far more law-abiding</a>&nbsp;than the rest of the population, yet every story about an undocumented resident who commits a crime will be shared over and over and over again.On a certain level, one must simply accept this as a political reality: most people, lacking both the time and inclination to become experts regarding any given matter, depend upon—and make decisions upon—the conveying of key signals, whether involving law or morality or anything else. For those who do have expert information—often because they actually are one of the people being symbolically discussed (a person with sexual dysphoria, a Dreamer, or more)—the battle to call attention to the actual data, and introduce substantive arguments, is never-ending. But necessary, all the same.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: On substance and signaling, in Topeka and beyond

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734218633924.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>

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Submitted<h2>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY NEWS</h2>THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!Monday<ol>
 <li>1B Polar Express Day.&nbsp;</li><li>Reconciliation for students in 3rd-5th grade at 2:00 p.m. at IHM.</li>
 </ol>Tuesday<ol>
 <li>PK3-4 Christmas Celebrations.</li>
 </ol>Wednesday<ol>
 <li>Last Day of Half-Day Preschool for PK 3-4.</li>
 </ol>Friday<ol>
 <li>Hourly Staff timesheets are due to Ms. Karla in the office this morning.&nbsp;</li><li>End of Qtr. 2 and 1st Semester.&nbsp;</li><li>Last Day before Break! Half Day of School – Students will dismiss at 1!:00 a.m. today so there will not be any lunch! There is no bus services or After School Care today.</li><li>Students could wear a Christmas, red or green shirt with jeans/uniform bottoms today!</li><li>1A will have Polar Express Day and party this morning!&nbsp;</li><li>Staff Christmas Luncheon at 12:00 in the L.T.&nbsp;</li><li>Have a WONDERFUL Christmas Break and a Happy New Year!! We will see you back in 2025!!</li>
 </ol>

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

Kansas State running back D.J. Giddens has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.

Giddens, a former Junction City Blue Jay football player,&nbsp; announced his decision about declaring for the Draft on Instagram.

Kansas State running back D.J. Giddens has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734231578610.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Giddens, a former Junction City Blue Jay football player,&nbsp; announced his decision about declaring for the Draft on Instagram.

K-State running back D.J. Giddens declares for NFL Draft

The Hays City Commission approved infrastructure engineering services for city-owned property just northeast of Exit 161 on Interstate 70 on Thursday.

The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.

Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, received the low bid of&nbsp;$118,750 for the design of infrastructure improvements.&nbsp;

Tom Howie, Hays project manager, agreed with Hays Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder that bringing infrastructure under I-70 to the new property is "very proactive and shows our intent. It'll never be more cost-effective than now."

A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art.

"When I moved here in the early '90s, there was nothing north of I-70. Look at what we have now," Shaun Musil, commissioner,&nbsp;said.

"It's going to take time, but it's going to happen. ... I'm very proud of what we're doing with this."

Hays has already been&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a>&nbsp;as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In other agenda items, T&amp;T Builders, Hays, was awarded a low bid of $231,616 for connecting multi-use paths in northeast Hays.

Jeff Boyle, parks director, said in 2021, Hays funded a new multi-use path from the Hays Recreation Commission to HaysMed. The city is currently working with the state of Kansas on a new path from 41st and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The Grove housing development north of HaysMed, will include a multi-use path.&nbsp;The east connector path will link all these path segments.&nbsp;

Once all the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use paths connecting the entire northeast side of town, Boyle said.

Boyle also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

Hays Recreation Commission board members and city commissioners agreed last week to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools under a long-standing agreement. Hays will reimburse the rec center $25,447.

The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.

Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing two obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;

Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility upgrade was completed in 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;

One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.

A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.

Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.

Commissioners also approved the consent agenda, which included: • 2025 cereal malt beverage annual licenses • Adoption of the 2024 employee pay plan • Mayoral appointments of Cindy Elliot and Amy Schaffer to the CARE Council • Waiver resolution for generally accepted accounting principles. The city now uses the Kansas Municipal Audit and Accounting Guide.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734108175110.png" alt="The 93-acre Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>The 93-acre Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays City Commission approved infrastructure engineering services for city-owned property just northeast of Exit 161 on Interstate 70 on Thursday.The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, received the low bid of&nbsp;$118,750 for the design of infrastructure improvements.&nbsp;Tom Howie, Hays project manager, agreed with Hays Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder that bringing infrastructure under I-70 to the new property is "very proactive and shows our intent. It'll never be more cost-effective than now."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500723566.png" alt="Braun property development concept by RDG Planning and Design. Courtesy RDG" />
 <figcaption>Braun property development concept by RDG Planning and Design. Courtesy RDG</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wUs7Ta5plN4" title="musil ruder on exit 161" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art."When I moved here in the early '90s, there was nothing north of I-70. Look at what we have now," Shaun Musil, commissioner,&nbsp;said."It's going to take time, but it's going to happen. ... I'm very proud of what we're doing with this."Hays has already been&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a>&nbsp;as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734109447835.png" alt="Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734109563933.png" alt="Multi-use paths in Hays, including the yet-to-be-developed connectors in the northeast area. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Multi-use paths in Hays, including the yet-to-be-developed connectors in the northeast area. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Walking path extension</h2>In other agenda items, T&amp;T Builders, Hays, was awarded a low bid of $231,616 for connecting multi-use paths in northeast Hays.Jeff Boyle, parks director, said in 2021, Hays funded a new multi-use path from the Hays Recreation Commission to HaysMed. The city is currently working with the state of Kansas on a new path from 41st and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The Grove housing development north of HaysMed, will include a multi-use path.&nbsp;The east connector path will link all these path segments.&nbsp;Once all the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use paths connecting the entire northeast side of town, Boyle said.Boyle also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.Hays Recreation Commission board members and city commissioners agreed last week to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools under a long-standing agreement. Hays will reimburse the rec center $25,447.The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733503964195.png" alt="Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Water plant demo</h2>Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing two obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility upgrade was completed in 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.Commissioners also approved the consent agenda, which included: • 2025 cereal malt beverage annual licenses • Adoption of the 2024 employee pay plan • Mayoral appointments of Cindy Elliot and Amy Schaffer to the CARE Council • Waiver resolution for generally accepted accounting principles. The city now uses the Kansas Municipal Audit and Accounting Guide.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎥 Infrastructure engineering services approved for new Hays development at I-70 Exit 161

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident during a pursuit by law enforcement just after 10p.m. Friday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Thomas County Sheriff's Deputy&nbsp; attempted to stop a 2008 Ford Mustang driven by 16-year-old Nerlyn Y.&nbsp;Arriago of Colby for drag racing.

The teen driver failed to yield and began driving at a high rate of speed eastbound on College Drive in Colby and continued onto County Road R. 

The driver lost control of the car just east of County Road 23 at around 105 mph. The car slid sideways into the north ditch rolled and came to rest on its top.

EMS transported&nbsp;Arriago to&nbsp;Citizen's Medical Center. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident during a pursuit by law enforcement just after 10p.m. Friday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Thomas County Sheriff's Deputy&nbsp; attempted to stop a 2008 Ford Mustang driven by 16-year-old Nerlyn Y.&nbsp;Arriago of Colby for drag racing.The teen driver failed to yield and began driving at a high rate of speed eastbound on College Drive in Colby and continued onto County Road R. The driver lost control of the car just east of County Road 23 at around 105 mph. The car slid sideways into the north ditch rolled and came to rest on its top.EMS transported&nbsp;Arriago to&nbsp;Citizen's Medical Center. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kan. teen drag racing crashed during police chase

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis USD 388 board member Cindy Hertel resigned from her position on the board as of Monday.

Several board members thanked her for her service.

The board is in the process of seeking applications for a new board member.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The board will interview candidates at its February meeting. The person who is appointed will serve until the next board election.

An election will be held to fill the vacant seat. The person elected to that seat will fill the remaining two years in the term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700661924756.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis USD 388 board member Cindy Hertel resigned from her position on the board as of Monday.She is moving.Several board members thanked her for her service.The board is in the process of seeking applications for a new board member.&nbsp;&nbsp;The board will interview candidates at its February meeting. The person who is appointed will serve until the next board election.An election will be held to fill the vacant seat. The person elected to that seat will fill the remaining two years in the term.

Ellis USD 388 school board seeking new member

On Sunday, December 15, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance in Hays on Main Street between 11th and 12th Streets between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

The street will remain open to traffic with parking blocked off. 

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286&nbsp;or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734102024693.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Sunday, December 15, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance in Hays on Main Street between 11th and 12th Streets between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The street will remain open to traffic with parking blocked off. The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286&nbsp;or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

Hays sewer line maintenance Sunday on Main between 11th and 12th Streets 

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

The Environmental Protection Agency has required each state to update their certification and training plans, which outline private and commercial pesticide certification in Kansas for agricultural producers.

Starting January 1, 2025 there will be three options for applicators to receive certification. These include:

· Closed-book examination (We will still offer this option at the Extension Office)

· Attend an in-person training to obtain certification

· Complete an online training that will be released

The new options to be able to get a private pesticide certification will also be the same for a producer to recertify.

Farmers &amp; ranchers--if you need to get your private applicator license, DO NOT DELAY and get to your local County of District Extension Office before the Christmas Holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Environmental Protection Agency has required each state to update their certification and training plans, which outline private and commercial pesticide certification in Kansas for agricultural producers.Starting January 1, 2025 there will be three options for applicators to receive certification. These include:· Closed-book examination (We will still offer this option at the Extension Office)· Attend an in-person training to obtain certification· Complete an online training that will be releasedThe new options to be able to get a private pesticide certification will also be the same for a producer to recertify.Farmers &amp; ranchers--if you need to get your private applicator license, DO NOT DELAY and get to your local County of District Extension Office before the Christmas Holiday.

CAMPBELL: Private pesticide applicator licensing, recertification changes announced

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734114058653.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>

TMP-Marian&nbsp;at Hill City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hill City, Kan. - Hill City High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1839530">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin Mid-Continent League play Friday night on the road at Hill City.

The Monarchs are coming off a seventh-place girls and an eighth-place boys finish at the Hays City Shootout on Saturday.

Tipoff of the girl's game is set for 6&nbsp;p.m. from Hill City on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian&nbsp;at Hill City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hill City, Kan. - Hill City High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1839530">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs begin Mid-Continent League play Friday night on the road at Hill City.The Monarchs are coming off a seventh-place girls and an eighth-place boys finish at the Hays City Shootout on Saturday.Tipoff of the girl's game is set for 6&nbsp;p.m. from Hill City on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP travels to Hill City for MCL opener

Hays High vs Junction City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772600"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

&nbsp;The Hays High Indians are at home tonight to take on the Junction City Bluejays.

The 8th-ranked girls are 4-0, and the boys are 3-1 after their wins at Liberal on Tuesday.

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6 p.m., and the boys' game will follow on the Indians Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Junction City Friday, Dec. 13 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1772600"> CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>&nbsp;The Hays High Indians are at home tonight to take on the Junction City Bluejays.The 8th-ranked girls are 4-0, and the boys are 3-1 after their wins at Liberal on Tuesday.Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6 p.m., and the boys' game will follow on the Indians Sports Network.

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