By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays City Commissioner Shaun Musil signed up Thursday to receive the COVID-19 vaccine from the Ellis County Health Department as he becomes eligible.

"It only took me five minutes," he said at the end of last night's city commission meeting.

Musil thanked the health department, First Care Clinic and HaysMed for working together to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/832f4144-2158-4b99-a427-1207f057e58f">roll out the vaccine to the public</a> in the state's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23a94dc1-6dcb-4a06-b7cd-25d21ef7b0c5">Phase 2 plan</a>.&nbsp;

Musil said he has a friend who works at First Care Clinic where "they're putting in lots of effort and time" to get the vaccines out for people who've signed up.

"He told me they're getting the vaccines out as soon as possible. I've seen people on Facebook complaining on why they haven't got theirs yet," Musil said. 

He encouraged residents to sign up and to be patient. 

The Ellis County Commission recently approved an agreement with Big Creek Crossing for space in the former Gordmans location to be used as a mass vaccination clinic. It opened Tuesday.

&nbsp;The Ellis County Health Department has an online&nbsp;<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">sign up form</a>&nbsp;for people who wish to receive the vaccine. You can call the health department at&nbsp;785-628-9440 to get registered if you don't have internet access.&nbsp;

Outlying clinics, such as HaysMed, also have their own lists, according to Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy.

Hays Public Library is <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/36c8d201-bab1-4d03-ae36-e6e5c944a512">providing assistance</a> for residents without computers to register online.

In addition to the health benefits, Musil said he also believes the vaccine rollout is finally beginning to help improve retail sales in Hays.

Musil and his wife, Heather, own the downtown Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market.

"I had a couple from Norton in my store the other day who had gotten their second shots.&nbsp;

"It was the first time they had been out to a business since March and they decided to come to Hays.

Musil acknowledged some people do not plan to be vaccinated against the coronavirus but added "a lot of people are excited to have it. I think it's good for our community."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611924063859.jpeg" alt="City commissioner Shaun Musil, right, has signed up with the Ellis County Health Department to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as he becomes eligible.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>City commissioner Shaun Musil, right, has signed up with the Ellis County Health Department to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as he becomes eligible.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays City Commissioner Shaun Musil signed up Thursday to receive the COVID-19 vaccine from the Ellis County Health Department as he becomes eligible."It only took me five minutes," he said at the end of last night's city commission meeting.Musil thanked the health department, First Care Clinic and HaysMed for working together to <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/832f4144-2158-4b99-a427-1207f057e58f">roll out the vaccine to the public</a> in the state's <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23a94dc1-6dcb-4a06-b7cd-25d21ef7b0c5">Phase 2 plan</a>.&nbsp;Musil said he has a friend who works at First Care Clinic where "they're putting in lots of effort and time" to get the vaccines out for people who've signed up."He told me they're getting the vaccines out as soon as possible. I've seen people on Facebook complaining on why they haven't got theirs yet," Musil said. He encouraged residents to sign up and to be patient. The Ellis County Commission recently approved an agreement with Big Creek Crossing for space in the former Gordmans location to be used as a mass vaccination clinic. It opened Tuesday.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q882V9mADYg"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The Ellis County Health Department has an online&nbsp;<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">sign up form</a>&nbsp;for people who wish to receive the vaccine. You can call the health department at&nbsp;785-628-9440 to get registered if you don't have internet access.&nbsp;Outlying clinics, such as HaysMed, also have their own lists, according to Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy. Hays Public Library is <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/36c8d201-bab1-4d03-ae36-e6e5c944a512">providing assistance</a> for residents without computers to register online.In addition to the health benefits, Musil said he also believes the vaccine rollout is finally beginning to help improve retail sales in Hays.Musil and his wife, Heather, own the downtown Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro and Market."I had a couple from Norton in my store the other day who had gotten their second shots.&nbsp;"It was the first time they had been out to a business since March and they decided to come to Hays.Musil acknowledged some people do not plan to be vaccinated against the coronavirus but added "a lot of people are excited to have it. I think it's good for our community."

🎥 Musil thanks local medical offices for support in distributing COVID-19 vaccine

MANHATTAN — Nearly 5,000 Kansas State University students have earned semester honors for their academic performance in the fall 2020 semester. Students earning a grade point average for the semester of 3.75 or above on at least 12 graded credit hours receive semester honors along with commendations from their deans. The honors also are recorded on their permanent academic records.

Hays:&nbsp;Carson Ackerman, Kinsey Ackerman, Mitchell Campbell, Kacie Engel, Katelyn Fross, Grant Ginther, Tucker Johnson, Madisyn Keller, Lauren Kent, Talyn Kleweno, Aubrey Koenigsman, Megan Koenigsman, Regan Konz, Eleanor Lang, Austin Leiker, Grace Loftus, Sage Markley, Erin Muirhead, Tiffany Pfeifer, Marie Reveles, Kaitlyn Schaben, Savannah Schneider, Michael Stecklein, Taylor Weidenhaft, Collin Werth&nbsp;

Victoria:&nbsp;Ally Dinkel, Cooper Windholz

&nbsp;For more area students who earned honors from Kansas State University click on:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/semesterhonors.html" target="_blank">https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/semesterhonors.html</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611703310702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSU NewsMANHATTAN — Nearly 5,000 Kansas State University students have earned semester honors for their academic performance in the fall 2020 semester. Students earning a grade point average for the semester of 3.75 or above on at least 12 graded credit hours receive semester honors along with commendations from their deans. The honors also are recorded on their permanent academic records.Ellis CountyEllis:&nbsp;Samantha CrawfordHays:&nbsp;Carson Ackerman, Kinsey Ackerman, Mitchell Campbell, Kacie Engel, Katelyn Fross, Grant Ginther, Tucker Johnson, Madisyn Keller, Lauren Kent, Talyn Kleweno, Aubrey Koenigsman, Megan Koenigsman, Regan Konz, Eleanor Lang, Austin Leiker, Grace Loftus, Sage Markley, Erin Muirhead, Tiffany Pfeifer, Marie Reveles, Kaitlyn Schaben, Savannah Schneider, Michael Stecklein, Taylor Weidenhaft, Collin Werth&nbsp;Schoenchen:&nbsp;Dustin Schneider&nbsp;Victoria:&nbsp;Ally Dinkel, Cooper Windholz&nbsp;For more area students who earned honors from Kansas State University click on:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/semesterhonors.html" target="_blank">https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/fa20/semesterhonors.html</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellis Co. students among those earning KSU fall 2020 honors

April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Beginning today Options Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Services, will host a poster contest for community members age 14 and older to bring awareness to Northwest Kansas about sexual assault.

The poster contest will focus on the importance of consent with the theme of “If I can’t say yes, I’m saying no.”

This means that if someone does not or cannot say yes to an interaction, then they are saying no.

Submissions for the poster contest starts today and will run through Friday, March 12. Options plans to host an event in April 2021 to unveil the posters to the public.

Those wishing to participate in the poster contest may submit one 18-inch-wide by 24-inch-tall poster. Posters must be original designs and can be created with any of the following medias: painting, collage (must be flat, 3-dimensional collages not accepted), drawing, photograph, or any form of digital program (examples; Pixlr, Photoshop, Canva, Inkscape, Microsoft Paint, SketchPad, etc.).

All poster entries will be featured throughout the month of April on Options social media.

The winning poster will be announced April 2.

. Posters will be displayed on April 30 during the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk at Farmers Insurance, 1012 Main St. in Hays. Winning artist will receive two professional prints of their poster.

Options will also display the winning poster at events, information tables, and at their offices throughout Northwest Kansas.

If you or someone you know needs help because of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking, call Options’ free 24-hour helpline at 800-794-4624; text "HOPE" to 847411; Live Chat at <a href="http://help4abuse.org">help4abuse.org</a>; or download the "My Mobile Options" app from the App Store or Google Play for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594750931446.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedApril is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.Beginning today Options Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Services, will host a poster contest for community members age 14 and older to bring awareness to Northwest Kansas about sexual assault.The poster contest will focus on the importance of consent with the theme of “If I can’t say yes, I’m saying no.”This means that if someone does not or cannot say yes to an interaction, then they are saying no.Submissions for the poster contest starts today and will run through Friday, March 12. Options plans to host an event in April 2021 to unveil the posters to the public.Those wishing to participate in the poster contest may submit one 18-inch-wide by 24-inch-tall poster. Posters must be original designs and can be created with any of the following medias: painting, collage (must be flat, 3-dimensional collages not accepted), drawing, photograph, or any form of digital program (examples; Pixlr, Photoshop, Canva, Inkscape, Microsoft Paint, SketchPad, etc.).All poster entries will be featured throughout the month of April on Options social media.The winning poster will be announced April 2.. Posters will be displayed on April 30 during the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk at Farmers Insurance, 1012 Main St. in Hays. Winning artist will receive two professional prints of their poster.Options will also display the winning poster at events, information tables, and at their offices throughout Northwest Kansas.If you or someone you know needs help because of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking, call Options’ free 24-hour helpline at 800-794-4624; text "HOPE" to 847411; Live Chat at <a href="http://help4abuse.org">help4abuse.org</a>; or download the "My Mobile Options" app from the App Store or Google Play for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Options hosts  poster contest for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Three-day weather outlook

State Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, announced this week that Kansas Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman has named her chair of the Joint Rules and Regulations Committee and vice chair of the Higher Education Budget Committee.&nbsp; 

Wasinger was also named a committee member of House Taxation and Financial Institutions and Pensions.&nbsp; 

“I am honored that the speaker chose me to be given these responsibilities and excited to be working in the Legislature this year with my new roles,” said Wasinger said. &nbsp;

State Rep. and Majority Whip Blake Carpenter has also named Wasinger as one of three deputy whips. &nbsp;

SubmittedState Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, announced this week that Kansas Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman has named her chair of the Joint Rules and Regulations Committee and vice chair of the Higher Education Budget Committee.&nbsp; Wasinger was also named a committee member of House Taxation and Financial Institutions and Pensions.&nbsp; “I am honored that the speaker chose me to be given these responsibilities and excited to be working in the Legislature this year with my new roles,” said Wasinger said. &nbsp;State Rep. and Majority Whip Blake Carpenter has also named Wasinger as one of three deputy whips. &nbsp;

Wasinger named to legislative committees

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose slightly from five on Wednesday to six on Friday.

The department also issued revised mortality data, raising the death total to 61. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27b90da6-7ff0-4a66-9141-2de8745fb214">Click HERE for more on the data revision.</a>

There were 15 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 57 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,345 recovered cases.

As of Friday, there were 16 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 13 on Thursday, with 10 of those active patients and six in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 7.6 percent.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23a94dc1-6dcb-4a06-b7cd-25d21ef7b0c5">RELATED:&nbsp;Phase 2 of vaccination plans begins Tuesday in Ellis County</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611943833445.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Jan. 29, 2021" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/zvkz2-f905c8?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days rose slightly from five on Wednesday to six on Friday.The department also issued revised mortality data, raising the death total to 61. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/27b90da6-7ff0-4a66-9141-2de8745fb214">Click HERE for more on the data revision.</a>There were 15 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 57 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,345 recovered cases.As of Friday, there were 16 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 13 on Thursday, with 10 of those active patients and six in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 7.6 percent.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23a94dc1-6dcb-4a06-b7cd-25d21ef7b0c5">RELATED:&nbsp;Phase 2 of vaccination plans begins Tuesday in Ellis County</a><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnw0R-SGsnA"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Per-day rate rises slightly in Ellis Co.; 15 new cases reported

Ellis County Health Department is happy to report that through the COVID Community Vaccine Initiative,
810 doses of COVID-19 vaccine were administered this week. Through a tremendous outpouring of
support from the medical community, volunteers, and community partnerships the vaccine clinic is
running successfully. We will begin again next week pending delivery of more vaccine from the State of
Kansas. If you have not registered please do so at www.ellisco.net or
<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051</a>. After registering, watch for an email or text message
from our partner, First Care Clinic, confirming your appointment time for vaccination. Currently this
opportunity is only open to individuals who live or work in Ellis County. If you are unable to access the
website, you may call 785-621-1812 for assistance with registration. The Hays Public Library has also
teamed up with ECHD to provide access to computers and assistance with registration. You may call
them at 785-625-9014.

ECHD is not notified directly of mortality associated with COVID-19 or for any other morbidities. This
data is reported by the patient’s physician on the certificate of death and reported directly to the State
of Kansas. The State of Kansas then confirms this death and updates the patient’s record. This process
can take months which leads to a lag in data reporting at the local level. To provide the most accurate
and up to date information beginning February 1, 2021 ECHD will no longer be reporting deaths
associated with COVID-19 on our dashboard. We encourage everyone to access this information on the
<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE Dashboard</a>.

In 2020, the KDHE reported 58 Ellis County deaths associated with COVID-19. Eighty one percent of the
overall COVID-19 associated mortality in Ellis County is in the most vulnerable population, those over 75
years of age. Below you will find a graph with case and mortality data. We want to extend our deepest
condolences to anyone who has lost a family member or loved one during this past year. We fully
understand the toll this pandemic has taken on everyone.


Ellis County Health DepartmentEllis County Health Department is happy to report that through the COVID Community Vaccine Initiative,
810 doses of COVID-19 vaccine were administered this week. Through a tremendous outpouring of
support from the medical community, volunteers, and community partnerships the vaccine clinic is
running successfully. We will begin again next week pending delivery of more vaccine from the State of
Kansas. If you have not registered please do so at www.ellisco.net or
<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051</a>. After registering, watch for an email or text message
from our partner, First Care Clinic, confirming your appointment time for vaccination. Currently this
opportunity is only open to individuals who live or work in Ellis County. If you are unable to access the
website, you may call 785-621-1812 for assistance with registration. The Hays Public Library has also
teamed up with ECHD to provide access to computers and assistance with registration. You may call
them at 785-625-9014.
<h2>Mortality Data</h2>ECHD is not notified directly of mortality associated with COVID-19 or for any other morbidities. This
data is reported by the patient’s physician on the certificate of death and reported directly to the State
of Kansas. The State of Kansas then confirms this death and updates the patient’s record. This process
can take months which leads to a lag in data reporting at the local level. To provide the most accurate
and up to date information beginning February 1, 2021 ECHD will no longer be reporting deaths
associated with COVID-19 on our dashboard. We encourage everyone to access this information on the
<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE Dashboard</a>.
In 2020, the KDHE reported 58 Ellis County deaths associated with COVID-19. Eighty one percent of the
overall COVID-19 associated mortality in Ellis County is in the most vulnerable population, those over 75
years of age. Below you will find a graph with case and mortality data. We want to extend our deepest
condolences to anyone who has lost a family member or loved one during this past year. We fully
understand the toll this pandemic has taken on everyone.

Ellis Co. Health Dept.: More than 800 doses of vaccine administered this week

On this episode of the Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with University of Kansas director of athletics, Jeff Long.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KU director of athletics Jeff Long" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bjjeh-f904ef?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of the Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with University of Kansas director of athletics, Jeff Long.

🎤Forward Ever: KU director of athletics Jeff Long

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

With many couples choosing to cancel or postpone their nuptials in 2020 because of COVID-19, those in the events industry are hoping for a wedding boom in 2021-22.

Area businesses will come together&nbsp;for the Save the Date Wedding Expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thestrandhays">The Strand</a>&nbsp;Event Center. Tickets are $5. You can pre-register or buy tickets at the door.

The expo will feature 23 booths, plus goodie bags and giveaways for ticket holders. See a list of vendors below.

&nbsp;Tara Grubb, wedding coordinator with <a href="https://completewedo.com/kansas/">COMPLETE Weddings + Events Kansas</a>, provides services across the state of Kansas including in the Hays area.

Last year was slow for the industry from March through summer. However, weddings started to pick back up in the fall, Grubb said.

This year, spring bookings have still been a bit slow, but summer and fall bookings are almost back up to pre-COVID numbers, Grubb said. The company is also seeing an increase in brides wanting wedding coordinators.

One distinction among couples right now is that they are not waiting to sign with a coordinator and book their venues.

"We find that a lot of people are booking the same day we give them pricing," Grubb said. "There is more urgency."

Kayci Schumacher, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weddingconnectionsofhays.com/">Wedding Connections of Hays</a>, said she she is still seeing some hesitancy for brides to book weddings this spring, but less so for the fall and 2022.

Hays is known for its large weddings—400 to 600 guests, Schumacher said. She said she has seen couples pairing down their guest lists.

"I would definitely say people are playing it safe," she said.

Wedding Connections rents linens and other wedding accessories.&nbsp;Schumacher also operates Chestnut Street Floral.

Her company offered onsite wedding coordination, but she decided to drop that service in 2020 after 12 years in light of the pandemic.&nbsp;

"With the limited amount of employees that I have that is just an extra added exposure to the number of guests a wedding has that I was not willing to take myself or to my staff," Schumacher said.

She replaced the service with contact-free coordination, which she offers at a lower price point.

Leland Olive, owner of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/coutureformen/">Couture for Men</a> in Hays, also said his men's formal business was down during the spring in summer, but began to rebound in the fall.

Even this month, Oliver has provided clothing for more weddings than last January and said he expects the trend to continue well into 2021.

"I think it is going to be a huge year for weddings," he said.

Amelia Teter, The Strand's event coordinator, said dates in 2021 and into 2022 are already starting to fill for the venue.

"I think people are looking to schedule their wedding that they may have put off in 2020 just with the bookings we've had," Teter said.

Couples are still needing to plan their weddings with COVID in mind, Grubb said. Restrictions vary depending on what part of the state in which the wedding will be conducted. Some venues have occupancy restrictions, and wedding parties will need to abide by mask regulations where they are mandated.

Couples have addressed these challenges in a variety of ways. Some are ordering custom masks and handing out hand sanitizer as favors.&nbsp;

Teter said couples who have rented The Strand have used the balcony for people who feel less comfort with floor seating among the crowd.

Others have chosen to significantly cut their gust lists to allow for social distancing, Grubb said.

"We have also found that people have started to enjoy the look and the feel of what we are calling a micro-weddings or smaller wedding that are a little bit more intimate.&nbsp;

"They can spend their budget on things that they couldn't before because their guest list is smaller. They can put a little more detail into things because that guest list is smaller."

Some couples have chosen to move those smaller weddings to private residences, which are less restricted than public venues.

However, many Kansas brides remain hesitant to book outdoor weddings because of the state's unpredictable weather, Grubb said.

Couples have also realized not all of their friends and family members are going to be able to travel to their weddings right now, so video and streaming services are popular, Grubb said.

Some remnants of COVID will likely stay as communities and the industry moves forward, including alternatives such as served buffets and prepackaged snacks, she said.

"I hope hand sanitizer as a centerpiece goes away," Grubbs said, giggling.

There will be a fashion show at 1:30 p.m. at the Wedding Expo on Saturday.

Olive of Couture for Men said grays and navies with brown shoes are trending this year. However, he said some grooms are opting to buy suits for themselves and their groomsmen as an alternative to rented formal wear.

"We have two wedding scheduled this year that we already have the suits in," he said. "They are buying suits instead of renting — not just using the money and having nothing to show for it."

Olive urged couples to book early. He suggested making appointments for fittings at least two months prior to the wedding date.

The Hilton Garden Inn will also host a Bridal Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 20. See their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2864582470426906">Facebook page</a> for more details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611762276152.jpeg" alt="A photo from the Sargent wedding in October at The Strand&nbsp; Event Center.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.turbanimages.com">Tresta Urban of Urban Images </a>" />
 <figcaption>A photo from the Sargent wedding in October at The Strand&nbsp; Event Center.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.turbanimages.com">Tresta Urban of Urban Images </a></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWith many couples choosing to cancel or postpone their nuptials in 2020 because of COVID-19, those in the events industry are hoping for a wedding boom in 2021-22.Area businesses will come together&nbsp;for the Save the Date Wedding Expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thestrandhays">The Strand</a>&nbsp;Event Center. Tickets are $5. You can pre-register or buy tickets at the door.The expo will feature 23 booths, plus goodie bags and giveaways for ticket holders. See a list of vendors below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611701448759.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>More weddings expected in 2021, 2022</h2>&nbsp;Tara Grubb, wedding coordinator with <a href="https://completewedo.com/kansas/">COMPLETE Weddings + Events Kansas</a>, provides services across the state of Kansas including in the Hays area.Last year was slow for the industry from March through summer. However, weddings started to pick back up in the fall, Grubb said.This year, spring bookings have still been a bit slow, but summer and fall bookings are almost back up to pre-COVID numbers, Grubb said. The company is also seeing an increase in brides wanting wedding coordinators.One distinction among couples right now is that they are not waiting to sign with a coordinator and book their venues."We find that a lot of people are booking the same day we give them pricing," Grubb said. "There is more urgency."Kayci Schumacher, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weddingconnectionsofhays.com/">Wedding Connections of Hays</a>, said she she is still seeing some hesitancy for brides to book weddings this spring, but less so for the fall and 2022.Hays is known for its large weddings—400 to 600 guests, Schumacher said. She said she has seen couples pairing down their guest lists."I would definitely say people are playing it safe," she said.Wedding Connections rents linens and other wedding accessories.&nbsp;Schumacher also operates Chestnut Street Floral.Her company offered onsite wedding coordination, but she decided to drop that service in 2020 after 12 years in light of the pandemic.&nbsp;"With the limited amount of employees that I have that is just an extra added exposure to the number of guests a wedding has that I was not willing to take myself or to my staff," Schumacher said.She replaced the service with contact-free coordination, which she offers at a lower price point.Leland Olive, owner of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/coutureformen/">Couture for Men</a> in Hays, also said his men's formal business was down during the spring in summer, but began to rebound in the fall.Even this month, Oliver has provided clothing for more weddings than last January and said he expects the trend to continue well into 2021."I think it is going to be a huge year for weddings," he said.Amelia Teter, The Strand's event coordinator, said dates in 2021 and into 2022 are already starting to fill for the venue."I think people are looking to schedule their wedding that they may have put off in 2020 just with the bookings we've had," Teter said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611762819866.jpeg" alt="Tables are set for a recent wedding reception at The Strand. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tables are set for a recent wedding reception at The Strand. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Still keep COVID in mind</h2>Couples are still needing to plan their weddings with COVID in mind, Grubb said. Restrictions vary depending on what part of the state in which the wedding will be conducted. Some venues have occupancy restrictions, and wedding parties will need to abide by mask regulations where they are mandated.Couples have addressed these challenges in a variety of ways. Some are ordering custom masks and handing out hand sanitizer as favors.&nbsp;Teter said couples who have rented The Strand have used the balcony for people who feel less comfort with floor seating among the crowd.<h2>Micro-weddings find popularity</h2>Others have chosen to significantly cut their gust lists to allow for social distancing, Grubb said."We have also found that people have started to enjoy the look and the feel of what we are calling a micro-weddings or smaller wedding that are a little bit more intimate.&nbsp;"They can spend their budget on things that they couldn't before because their guest list is smaller. They can put a little more detail into things because that guest list is smaller."Some couples have chosen to move those smaller weddings to private residences, which are less restricted than public venues.However, many Kansas brides remain hesitant to book outdoor weddings because of the state's unpredictable weather, Grubb said.Couples have also realized not all of their friends and family members are going to be able to travel to their weddings right now, so video and streaming services are popular, Grubb said.Some remnants of COVID will likely stay as communities and the industry moves forward, including alternatives such as served buffets and prepackaged snacks, she said."I hope hand sanitizer as a centerpiece goes away," Grubbs said, giggling.<h2>Men find fashion alternatives</h2>There will be a fashion show at 1:30 p.m. at the Wedding Expo on Saturday.Olive of Couture for Men said grays and navies with brown shoes are trending this year. However, he said some grooms are opting to buy suits for themselves and their groomsmen as an alternative to rented formal wear."We have two wedding scheduled this year that we already have the suits in," he said. "They are buying suits instead of renting — not just using the money and having nothing to show for it."Olive urged couples to book early. He suggested making appointments for fittings at least two months prior to the wedding date.The Hilton Garden Inn will also host a Bridal Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 20. See their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2864582470426906">Facebook page</a> for more details.

2021 could be 'huge' year for weddings; expo set for Saturday

BUNKER HILL – The Sarver Charitable Trust of Osborne County&nbsp; has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $2,500.&nbsp; The grant will support the literacy initiative program of Smoky Hills PBS.

The Smoky Hills PBS literacy leadership program provides the following:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Children’s programming on Smoky Hills PBS

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book distribution program (First Book Club) that will provide books to preschoolers in Osborne Elementary School

Michael Quade, interim general manager of Smoky Hills PBS said, “At Smoky Hills PBS we are dedicated to educating the youth within our viewing area and we want to thank the Sarver Charitable Trust for partnering with us in this mission.”

The Sarver Charitable Trust was established by Gail Sarver to benefit those living in Osborne County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589894008864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL – The Sarver Charitable Trust of Osborne County&nbsp; has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $2,500.&nbsp; The grant will support the literacy initiative program of Smoky Hills PBS.The Smoky Hills PBS literacy leadership program provides the following:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Children’s programming on Smoky Hills PBS·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Book distribution program (First Book Club) that will provide books to preschoolers in Osborne Elementary SchoolMichael Quade, interim general manager of Smoky Hills PBS said, “At Smoky Hills PBS we are dedicated to educating the youth within our viewing area and we want to thank the Sarver Charitable Trust for partnering with us in this mission.”The Sarver Charitable Trust was established by Gail Sarver to benefit those living in Osborne County.

Osborne County's Sarver Charitable Trust provides grant to Smoky Hills PBS

Andrew Duke, a a senior at Hays High School, has been named one of more than 4,500 candidates in the 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Duke is the grandson of Josephine Squires.

The candidates were selected from almost 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2021.

Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors.

Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community.

It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts.

In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields.

Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

If circumstances permit all Scholars are invited to Washington, D.C., in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.

A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select about 600 semifinalists in early April.

The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the scholars in May.

For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, parents and students can call the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at 507-931-8345, or send an e-mail to PSP@scholarshipamerica.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611692174387.jpeg" alt="Andrew Duke" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Duke</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAndrew Duke, a a senior at Hays High School, has been named one of more than 4,500 candidates in the 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.Duke is the grandson of Josephine Squires.The candidates were selected from almost 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2021.Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors.Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community.It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts.In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields.Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.If circumstances permit all Scholars are invited to Washington, D.C., in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select about 600 semifinalists in early April.The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the scholars in May.For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, parents and students can call the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at 507-931-8345, or send an e-mail to PSP@scholarshipamerica.org.

HHS student selected as candidate for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Click one of the links bellow for tickets or more information.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/734928890743132/">Facebook Event</a>

<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-day-virtual-party-tickets-137719810661?fbclid=IwAR2JLZKtuJt7ERVBbjuKEyZco_4wlyM4PfiFIbr8WiA-dTBzIQM4B-38MSo">Eventbrite Tickets</a>

<a href="https://www.wparks.org/">WPAR Website</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611613486677.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click one of the links bellow for tickets or more information.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/734928890743132/">Facebook Event</a><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-day-virtual-party-tickets-137719810661?fbclid=IwAR2JLZKtuJt7ERVBbjuKEyZco_4wlyM4PfiFIbr8WiA-dTBzIQM4B-38MSo">Eventbrite Tickets</a><a href="https://www.wparks.org/">WPAR Website</a>

Western Plains Animal Refuge to host virtual Valentine's fundraiser

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Thu., Jan. 21, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Domestic
Disturbance—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:54 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—300 block W 27th St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7:45 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2000 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7:50 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—300 block W 39th St, Hays; 1/20 9 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Theft of Vehicle—100 block W 37th St, Hays; 1/20 10 PM; 1/21 8:36 AM 
Animal Call—Hays; 9:21 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 7:10 AM; 8:10 AM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10:31 AM 
Criminal Threat—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 11:07 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:27 PM 
Sex Offense—2300 block Donald Dr, Hay; 2:14 PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 2:33 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2500 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 3:42 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—2100 block Elm St, Hays; 4:02 PM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:49 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:04 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Fri., Jan. 22, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 1:24 AM 
Battery – simple—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:55 AM; 1:58 AM 
MV Accident /DUI-- 6th and Halladay, Hays; 2:14 AM 
Battery – Domestic—200 block Pershing Ct, Hays; 2:35 AM; 2:43 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 7:22 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--500 block W 36th St, Hays; 8:10 AM 
Suicidal Subject—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:08 AM 
Welfare Check—2200 block Downing Ave, Hays; 12:20 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:02 PM 
Criminal Threat—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 2:45 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 8:01PM 
44 - Traffic Stop--2200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:48 PM 
Drug Offenses--600 block Elm St, Hays; 10:15 PM 
Battery – Domestic—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 11:30 PM; 11:58 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Sat., Jan. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:56 AM 
Disturbance – General—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:52 AM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--1200 block Ash St, Hays; 2:22 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 2:23 AM 
Suspicious Activity—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 8:09 AM 
Civil Dispute—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Theft (general)--17th and Ash, Hays; 9:41 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 10:16 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block W 23rd St, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2:08 PM 
Found/Lost Property--8th St, Hays; 4:08 PM 
Welfare Check—2200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:29 PM 
Mental Health Call—2100 block E 21st St, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Welfare Check—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 7:27 PM 
False/Altered ID—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:19 PM 
Overdose—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 10:23 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1300 block E 13th St, Hays; 11:51 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:45 PM; 12:51 AM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Sun., Jan. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

44 - Traffic
Stop--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:09 AM 
False/Altered ID—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:19 AM 
Theft (general)--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 1:20 AM; 1:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:57 AM; 2:20 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Disturbance – General--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 2:59 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 3:15 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 3:54 AM; 4:06 AM 
Civil Dispute—Hays; 7:59 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—200 block W 9th St, Hays; 1/23 11 AM; 1/24 8:19 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 1/23 4:30 PM; 1/24 8:30 AM
Abandoned Vehicle—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 10:04 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block Castillian Blvd, Hays; 10:58 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:40 PM 
Burglary/storage unit--1300 block E 13th St, Hays; 1/16 &nbsp;4 PM; 1/24 2 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--400 block W 7th, Hays; 4:42 PM 
Suicidal Subject—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:19 PM 
&nbsp;Assist - Other (not MV)—Hays; 9:44 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:13 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Thu., Jan. 21, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Domestic
Disturbance—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:54 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—300 block W 27th St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7:45 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2000 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7:50 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—300 block W 39th St, Hays; 1/20 9 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Theft of Vehicle—100 block W 37th St, Hays; 1/20 10 PM; 1/21 8:36 AM 
Animal Call—Hays; 9:21 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 7:10 AM; 8:10 AM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10:31 AM 
Criminal Threat—200 block W 5th St, Hays; 11:07 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2300 block Walnut St, Hays; 1/20 7 PM; 1/21 7 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 1:27 PM 
Sex Offense—2300 block Donald Dr, Hay; 2:14 PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 2:33 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2500 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 3:42 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—2100 block Elm St, Hays; 4:02 PM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:49 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:04 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Fri., Jan. 22, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 1:24 AM 
Battery – simple—200 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:55 AM; 1:58 AM 
MV Accident /DUI-- 6th and Halladay, Hays; 2:14 AM 
Battery – Domestic—200 block Pershing Ct, Hays; 2:35 AM; 2:43 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 7:22 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--500 block W 36th St, Hays; 8:10 AM 
Suicidal Subject—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:08 AM 
Welfare Check—2200 block Downing Ave, Hays; 12:20 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:02 PM 
Criminal Threat—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 2:45 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 8:01PM 
44 - Traffic Stop--2200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:48 PM 
Drug Offenses--600 block Elm St, Hays; 10:15 PM 
Battery – Domestic—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 11:30 PM; 11:58 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Sat., Jan. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:56 AM 
Disturbance – General—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:52 AM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--1200 block Ash St, Hays; 2:22 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 2:23 AM 
Suspicious Activity—300 block W 8th St, Hays; 8:09 AM 
Civil Dispute—1900 block Holmes Rd, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Theft (general)--17th and Ash, Hays; 9:41 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 10:16 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block W 23rd St, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2:08 PM 
Found/Lost Property--8th St, Hays; 4:08 PM 
Welfare Check—2200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:29 PM 
Mental Health Call—2100 block E 21st St, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Welfare Check—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 7:27 PM 
False/Altered ID—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:19 PM 
Overdose—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 10:23 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1300 block E 13th St, Hays; 11:51 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:45 PM; 12:51 AMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Sun., Jan. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.44 - Traffic
Stop--700 block Park St, Hays; 1:09 AM 
False/Altered ID—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:19 AM 
Theft (general)--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 1:20 AM; 1:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:57 AM; 2:20 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Disturbance – General--400 block W 8th St, Hays; 2:59 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 3:15 AM 
Disorderly Conduct—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 3:54 AM; 4:06 AM 
Civil Dispute—Hays; 7:59 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—200 block W 9th St, Hays; 1/23 11 AM; 1/24 8:19 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 1/23 4:30 PM; 1/24 8:30 AM
Abandoned Vehicle—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 10:04 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block Castillian Blvd, Hays; 10:58 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:40 PM 
Burglary/storage unit--1300 block E 13th St, Hays; 1/16 &nbsp;4 PM; 1/24 2 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--400 block W 7th, Hays; 4:42 PM 
Suicidal Subject—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:19 PM 
&nbsp;Assist - Other (not MV)—Hays; 9:44 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:13 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, Jan. 21-24 

RAWLINS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Thursday in Rawlins County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Kenworth semi driven by Edgar J.xRodriguez-Rodriguez, 33, Ulysses, was southbound on Kansas 25 eleven miles north of U.S. 36. The driver attempted a maneuver to keep from hitting a semi parked on the shoulder.&nbsp;

The Kenworth rear-ended a 2000&nbsp; Peterbilt semi driven by Fabian O.&nbsp;Aguilar Jimenez, 26, Garden City, who was also trying not to hit the semi on the shoulder. The unknown parked semi left the scene before KHP arrived.

EMS transported Jimenez to the hospital in Atwood. Rodriguez-Rodriguez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RAWLINS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Thursday in Rawlins County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Kenworth semi driven by Edgar J.xRodriguez-Rodriguez, 33, Ulysses, was southbound on Kansas 25 eleven miles north of U.S. 36. The driver attempted a maneuver to keep from hitting a semi parked on the shoulder.&nbsp;The Kenworth rear-ended a 2000&nbsp; Peterbilt semi driven by Fabian O.&nbsp;Aguilar Jimenez, 26, Garden City, who was also trying not to hit the semi on the shoulder. The unknown parked semi left the scene before KHP arrived.EMS transported Jimenez to the hospital in Atwood. Rodriguez-Rodriguez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi rear-ends semi

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Small actions can help prevent home fires" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/8e2i6-f8e926?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Small actions can help prevent home fires

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

As interest in retro video game equipment continues to rise among
collectors and players alike, a new shop in Hays has opened, selling and
repairing those classic games and systems.

Extra Life Gaming Repair and Retro Store opened in Hays on
Nov. 1, tucked into a small shop inside 103 E. 27th St., but even in the small
space, owner Brent Legleiter said the word has gotten out and interest in the shop
has already spread across western Kansas.

“It’s been fantastic,” Legleiter said. “I didn’t realize I
was going to be this popular, honestly.”

“I’m getting a lot of people from out of town,” he said, even
recalling a recent visitor who drove from Goodland just to visit the shop.

While there are other locations in Hays to buy newer used
games, older retro games and systems were harder to find, and repair was even
more rare, Legleiter said.

Seeing the potential in the local market, he grabbed at the opportunity.

And with the higher-than-expected interest in the business, Legleiter
said even though he is just getting started, he is already looking for a larger
location.

“I’m running out of space here,” he said. “I’m getting
buried under parts.”

At the heart of the business is retro gaming supplies, an
interest growing in popularity that has gamers scouring shops for games and
equipment for their own collections.

With the earliest video game systems dating back to the
early '70s, many of those items are no longer in working condition. This makes repair a key component of the shop.

“We fix, buy and sell all video games,” Legleiter said. “I
do repair work on any video game whatsoever and also controllers and anything
else that is broken.”

He also buys and sells accessories for all systems, outside
of the most current generation of systems like the Xbox One and the Nintendo
Switch.

“We take care of the retro market,” he said, but will also occasionally
do repairs on more modern accessories.

He said he was surprised by the number of collectors in the
area and the interest in old video games from area college students.

“I’ve been selling out of consoles almost as fast as I am
getting them in,” Legleiter said. “N64, Super Nintendo and Wii games for right
now for some odd reason...they are going crazy.”

Selling means also sourcing more items to sell, and for
Legleiter that means always looking for good deals across a variety of sources.


“It’s liquidation lots. I get some from eBay, major retailer
liquidations, stuff like that,” he said.

Locally, Legleiter said he will receive broken items from residents
as well from folks who want to save those previously treasured items from ending
up in the landfill.

“It kind of comes from wherever I can get it from,” he said.
“I try to buy massive lots of games.”

With his sourcing methods, Legleiter said he can always beat
eBay pricing.

“I’m very competitive,” he said. “I have brand new
controllers and refurbished controllers, and I am very competitive with Amazon
and (stores) of that nature.”

To ease the worry that accompanies the sale of a rehabbed item,
Legleiter offers a warranty on everything he sells.

All items come with a 60-day warranty, and all work done in
the shop comes with a 90-day warranty.

“You buy with confidence here,” Legleiter said. “If
something goes wrong, you have a face to bring it back to.”

To find out more about Extra Life Gaming Repair and Retro
Store visit <a href="https://www.extralifegaming.net/">extralifegaming.net </a>or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Extra-Life-Gaming-Repair-and-Retro-Store-107996501009760/">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611801923690.jpeg" alt="Brent Legleiter" />
 <figcaption>Brent Legleiter</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostAs interest in retro video game equipment continues to rise among
collectors and players alike, a new shop in Hays has opened, selling and
repairing those classic games and systems.Extra Life Gaming Repair and Retro Store opened in Hays on
Nov. 1, tucked into a small shop inside 103 E. 27th St., but even in the small
space, owner Brent Legleiter said the word has gotten out and interest in the shop
has already spread across western Kansas.“It’s been fantastic,” Legleiter said. “I didn’t realize I
was going to be this popular, honestly.”And it’s not just locals.“I’m getting a lot of people from out of town,” he said, even
recalling a recent visitor who drove from Goodland just to visit the shop.While there are other locations in Hays to buy newer used
games, older retro games and systems were harder to find, and repair was even
more rare, Legleiter said.Seeing the potential in the local market, he grabbed at the opportunity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611802121699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>And with the higher-than-expected interest in the business, Legleiter
said even though he is just getting started, he is already looking for a larger
location.“I’m running out of space here,” he said. “I’m getting
buried under parts.”At the heart of the business is retro gaming supplies, an
interest growing in popularity that has gamers scouring shops for games and
equipment for their own collections.With the earliest video game systems dating back to the
early '70s, many of those items are no longer in working condition. This makes repair a key component of the shop.“We fix, buy and sell all video games,” Legleiter said. “I
do repair work on any video game whatsoever and also controllers and anything
else that is broken.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611801795088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>He also buys and sells accessories for all systems, outside
of the most current generation of systems like the Xbox One and the Nintendo
Switch.“We take care of the retro market,” he said, but will also occasionally
do repairs on more modern accessories.He said he was surprised by the number of collectors in the
area and the interest in old video games from area college students.“I’ve been selling out of consoles almost as fast as I am
getting them in,” Legleiter said. “N64, Super Nintendo and Wii games for right
now for some odd reason...they are going crazy.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611802218334.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Selling means also sourcing more items to sell, and for
Legleiter that means always looking for good deals across a variety of sources.
“It’s liquidation lots. I get some from eBay, major retailer
liquidations, stuff like that,” he said.Locally, Legleiter said he will receive broken items from residents
as well from folks who want to save those previously treasured items from ending
up in the landfill.“It kind of comes from wherever I can get it from,” he said.
“I try to buy massive lots of games.”With his sourcing methods, Legleiter said he can always beat
eBay pricing.“I’m very competitive,” he said. “I have brand new
controllers and refurbished controllers, and I am very competitive with Amazon
and (stores) of that nature.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611801992365.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To ease the worry that accompanies the sale of a rehabbed item,
Legleiter offers a warranty on everything he sells.All items come with a 60-day warranty, and all work done in
the shop comes with a 90-day warranty.“You buy with confidence here,” Legleiter said. “If
something goes wrong, you have a face to bring it back to.”To find out more about Extra Life Gaming Repair and Retro
Store visit <a href="https://www.extralifegaming.net/">extralifegaming.net </a>or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Extra-Life-Gaming-Repair-and-Retro-Store-107996501009760/">Facebook</a>.

Retro gaming store brings classic video game sales, repair to Hays

Sheriff Curt Miner and Jim Kennedy from the Osborne County Sheriff's Office donated emergency phones to Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services survivors last week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611692688774.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sheriff Curt Miner and Jim Kennedy from the Osborne County Sheriff's Office donated emergency phones to Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services survivors last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611692711938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Options receives phones from Osborne County Sheriff's Office

&nbsp;Fort Hays State University has released the names of 1,723 students who earned places on the Deans Honor Roll for&nbsp;the fall 2020 semester.&nbsp;

The Deans Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.

Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, majors. This list does not include students who requested privacy.

Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.

The complete list of fall 2020 deans honor roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNVaQyYdAYjwNUrqPpf9LpntseE5ZdEvtVJXASqMgMJbVvS1ndZdzh6O5BFCvioqYUBFrb1g1lsbbOy-2FIbdyVpLDilXNZS2Qu1EdomVyWJKbCWnCTGgD5CxEWD4rtTmiU2ybruo-2FDG7gMNR4m0bvMQ0-3D6mWS_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BhxlUpEkaSleFAwDn-2FQTVhE21f4Pzy0WYX7je1kVB-2FFliqcm6PKw-2B7d3Mu5PHx6lixNcTaZdbhJORthxpBgpamTNWT8xZwqUfR5-2B4R8clz37-2BFAtBL0wS5-2FECOEZCR-2Ft-2BwcaoIgXqTwgXHlhWUeuc6GLoy-2Fmm5IlnRaqQwGrBIGf9-2FRC4m7g8ginPhu68O0RM4F49OBxLGEHa-2BGKYiUM0FY6R51smshG9v5CZenxqozdR9goIX79UqWxWV-2F0uRRvRSyBEIJhY4xaOEyKmaMYiQQ-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/news/2021/01/local-students-named-to-fall-2020-deans-honor-roll-at-fort-hays-state-university</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611843545919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University Relations&nbsp;Fort Hays State University has released the names of 1,723 students who earned places on the Deans Honor Roll for&nbsp;the fall 2020 semester.&nbsp;The Deans Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Online students are eligible.Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications – and, for those who have declared them, majors. This list does not include students who requested privacy.Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.The complete list of fall 2020 deans honor roll students of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNVaQyYdAYjwNUrqPpf9LpntseE5ZdEvtVJXASqMgMJbVvS1ndZdzh6O5BFCvioqYUBFrb1g1lsbbOy-2FIbdyVpLDilXNZS2Qu1EdomVyWJKbCWnCTGgD5CxEWD4rtTmiU2ybruo-2FDG7gMNR4m0bvMQ0-3D6mWS_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BhxlUpEkaSleFAwDn-2FQTVhE21f4Pzy0WYX7je1kVB-2FFliqcm6PKw-2B7d3Mu5PHx6lixNcTaZdbhJORthxpBgpamTNWT8xZwqUfR5-2B4R8clz37-2BFAtBL0wS5-2FECOEZCR-2Ft-2BwcaoIgXqTwgXHlhWUeuc6GLoy-2Fmm5IlnRaqQwGrBIGf9-2FRC4m7g8ginPhu68O0RM4F49OBxLGEHa-2BGKYiUM0FY6R51smshG9v5CZenxqozdR9goIX79UqWxWV-2F0uRRvRSyBEIJhY4xaOEyKmaMYiQQ-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/news/2021/01/local-students-named-to-fall-2020-deans-honor-roll-at-fort-hays-state-university</a>

Area students named to fall 2020 Deans Honor Roll at FHSU

Filled with anticipation for the new semester and re-energized after taking advantage of the privilege to rest and enjoy a long winter break, I find myself thinking about some of the people I admire and/or have gotten to know better this past year because of the pandemic. Here are just a few: our Hays city commissioners, our county health administrator and a group I refer to as our city rallying team.

Our city commissioners – Michael Berges, Sandy Jacobs, Ron Mellick, Shaun Musil and Mason Ruder – have always had important, and sometimes controversial, decisions to make, but who could have prepared for 2020? Just when the emotionally-charged debates over the roundabouts began to settle, along came the pandemic, and among the many critical decisions that had to be made was the mask ordinance.&nbsp;

Although I have attended city commission meetings in the past and interacted with commissioners at meetings and events, the pandemic provided me a different look at them as a leadership team. Here is what I learned. First and foremost, they are committed, hard-working people who have the courage to serve, listen and make tough decisions. Second, they are open-minded and willing to listen thoughtfully to a variety of perspectives. Several commissioners reached out to local and state leaders prior to the mask ordinance meeting to solicit different perspectives and to better understand emerging knowledge about the pandemic. Third, citizens were given the opportunity to speak at meetings and every voice was heard and respected. Fourth, when each commissioner voted, they stated their “whys.” The “whys” for each commissioner was different. Commissioners demonstrated the strength of their commitment to the people they serve by candidly disclosing their thoughts, each in their own style, with great passion. And finally, they did not vote the same. Watching our commissioners in action made me admire and respect them even more.

I have no evidence to back this up, but I believe among the most challenging jobs of 2020 was that of a county health administrator. I heard of several counties in Kansas that had difficulty hiring or keeping county health administrators during this pandemic. Hats off to Jason Kennedy, who continually showed up to meetings – night and day – presented data, developed protocols and kept our community informed. I imagine being in the public eye so much was indeed a big shift in his daily routine. Honestly, I did not know Jason until the pandemic (thrilled of course to learn he is a Fort Hays State grad), and I really valued his guidance as I made decisions for the university. I also think some of the hidden heroes of our times are the family members of those, like Jason, who serve the citizens of our community as public health administrators. I can only image the impact this pandemic had on the family life of these dedicated professionals.&nbsp;

My final shout out goes to the group I refer to as our city rallying team: Sara Bloom of the Downton Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), Melissa Dixon of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and Sarah Wasinger of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. They all approach each day with a “can-do attitude,” high energy and a remarkable capacity to reinvent, re-imagine and find solutions to complex challenges. Their resiliency throughout the pandemic was remarkable. Whenever something fell apart, they simply found new ways to put it&nbsp; back together again.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The DHDC, for instance, created the “Stronger Than Ever” gift card program that generated almost $50,000 in sales for 40 downtown businesses during the mandatory shutdown. Most of that money was raised in the first 48 hours of the campaign. Similarly, the Chamber sold $92,000 in Chamber Cheques (which support local shopping) in 2020, a six-year high for the program. The DHDC also secured more than $20,000 in donations in five weeks to turn the Downtown Pavilion into an ice-skating rink this winter so the community would have access to a fun and safe outdoor activity during the pandemic. I love how this community steps up. The generosity of the neighbors in our community never ceases to amaze me. &nbsp;

Creative efforts earned the DHDC two first-place Marketing Awards. March to Main went completely virtual but still highlighted the best parts of our community and engaged thousands of students. Dining with Downtown (a new event) created intimate dining experiences inside boutiques, art galleries, furniture stores and more, allowing participants to socially connect while physically distancing. It was so successful, DHDC plans to host two of these events in 2021.

One of the things I found beneficial as I navigated decisions for the university was meeting with my CEO colleagues who freely shared their thoughts, plans and lessons learned on their campuses and communities as they, like me, worked to create safe learning environments. While I engaged with my colleagues, our chamber provided similar opportunities for our community’s leaders and business professionals. Partnering with the FHSU Management Development Center, the chamber offered complimentary virtual lunch and learn sessions. In November, the Chamber acquired a Leadership Transformation Grant for 2021 from the Kansas Leadership Center, which provided 46 spots for participants to attend a workshop titled, “Your Leadership Edge, Lead for Change or Equip to Lead.” &nbsp;

Our Convention and Visitors Bureau has the unenviable task of creating new and compelling ways to bring visitors to our town. In a COVID-19 world, where travel, lodging, commerce and even basic human-to-human contact was so limited, how did the CVB respond to this unprecedented challenge? By adapting and reimagining their role. It pivoted to using the pandemic as an opportunity to focus on taking care of our community. In a normal year, the Welcome Center sells colorful Hays postcards to visitors in its welcome center. This year, the staff of the CVB printed positive messages on these cards and delivered several hundred of them to local assisted living facilities for their residents. They also partnered with FHSU’s College of Art and Design faculty to clean and restore 29 bronze markers on the Downtown Hays Historic Walking Tour. Now these markers are bright and readable. The CVB has plans to create a mobile version of the tour for visitors as well. Residents and visitors alike can also look forward to a CVB-designed driving tour of the iconic Pete Felten sculptures around Hays.

Remarkable leaders. A remarkable community. This is Hays, America.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Filled with anticipation for the new semester and re-energized after taking advantage of the privilege to rest and enjoy a long winter break, I find myself thinking about some of the people I admire and/or have gotten to know better this past year because of the pandemic. Here are just a few: our Hays city commissioners, our county health administrator and a group I refer to as our city rallying team.Our city commissioners – Michael Berges, Sandy Jacobs, Ron Mellick, Shaun Musil and Mason Ruder – have always had important, and sometimes controversial, decisions to make, but who could have prepared for 2020? Just when the emotionally-charged debates over the roundabouts began to settle, along came the pandemic, and among the many critical decisions that had to be made was the mask ordinance.&nbsp;Although I have attended city commission meetings in the past and interacted with commissioners at meetings and events, the pandemic provided me a different look at them as a leadership team. Here is what I learned. First and foremost, they are committed, hard-working people who have the courage to serve, listen and make tough decisions. Second, they are open-minded and willing to listen thoughtfully to a variety of perspectives. Several commissioners reached out to local and state leaders prior to the mask ordinance meeting to solicit different perspectives and to better understand emerging knowledge about the pandemic. Third, citizens were given the opportunity to speak at meetings and every voice was heard and respected. Fourth, when each commissioner voted, they stated their “whys.” The “whys” for each commissioner was different. Commissioners demonstrated the strength of their commitment to the people they serve by candidly disclosing their thoughts, each in their own style, with great passion. And finally, they did not vote the same. Watching our commissioners in action made me admire and respect them even more.I have no evidence to back this up, but I believe among the most challenging jobs of 2020 was that of a county health administrator. I heard of several counties in Kansas that had difficulty hiring or keeping county health administrators during this pandemic. Hats off to Jason Kennedy, who continually showed up to meetings – night and day – presented data, developed protocols and kept our community informed. I imagine being in the public eye so much was indeed a big shift in his daily routine. Honestly, I did not know Jason until the pandemic (thrilled of course to learn he is a Fort Hays State grad), and I really valued his guidance as I made decisions for the university. I also think some of the hidden heroes of our times are the family members of those, like Jason, who serve the citizens of our community as public health administrators. I can only image the impact this pandemic had on the family life of these dedicated professionals.&nbsp;My final shout out goes to the group I refer to as our city rallying team: Sara Bloom of the Downton Hays Development Corporation (DHDC), Melissa Dixon of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and Sarah Wasinger of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. They all approach each day with a “can-do attitude,” high energy and a remarkable capacity to reinvent, re-imagine and find solutions to complex challenges. Their resiliency throughout the pandemic was remarkable. Whenever something fell apart, they simply found new ways to put it&nbsp; back together again.&nbsp; &nbsp;The DHDC, for instance, created the “Stronger Than Ever” gift card program that generated almost $50,000 in sales for 40 downtown businesses during the mandatory shutdown. Most of that money was raised in the first 48 hours of the campaign. Similarly, the Chamber sold $92,000 in Chamber Cheques (which support local shopping) in 2020, a six-year high for the program. The DHDC also secured more than $20,000 in donations in five weeks to turn the Downtown Pavilion into an ice-skating rink this winter so the community would have access to a fun and safe outdoor activity during the pandemic. I love how this community steps up. The generosity of the neighbors in our community never ceases to amaze me. &nbsp;Creative efforts earned the DHDC two first-place Marketing Awards. March to Main went completely virtual but still highlighted the best parts of our community and engaged thousands of students. Dining with Downtown (a new event) created intimate dining experiences inside boutiques, art galleries, furniture stores and more, allowing participants to socially connect while physically distancing. It was so successful, DHDC plans to host two of these events in 2021.One of the things I found beneficial as I navigated decisions for the university was meeting with my CEO colleagues who freely shared their thoughts, plans and lessons learned on their campuses and communities as they, like me, worked to create safe learning environments. While I engaged with my colleagues, our chamber provided similar opportunities for our community’s leaders and business professionals. Partnering with the FHSU Management Development Center, the chamber offered complimentary virtual lunch and learn sessions. In November, the Chamber acquired a Leadership Transformation Grant for 2021 from the Kansas Leadership Center, which provided 46 spots for participants to attend a workshop titled, “Your Leadership Edge, Lead for Change or Equip to Lead.” &nbsp;Our Convention and Visitors Bureau has the unenviable task of creating new and compelling ways to bring visitors to our town. In a COVID-19 world, where travel, lodging, commerce and even basic human-to-human contact was so limited, how did the CVB respond to this unprecedented challenge? By adapting and reimagining their role. It pivoted to using the pandemic as an opportunity to focus on taking care of our community. In a normal year, the Welcome Center sells colorful Hays postcards to visitors in its welcome center. This year, the staff of the CVB printed positive messages on these cards and delivered several hundred of them to local assisted living facilities for their residents. They also partnered with FHSU’s College of Art and Design faculty to clean and restore 29 bronze markers on the Downtown Hays Historic Walking Tour. Now these markers are bright and readable. The CVB has plans to create a mobile version of the tour for visitors as well. Residents and visitors alike can also look forward to a CVB-designed driving tour of the iconic Pete Felten sculptures around Hays.Remarkable leaders. A remarkable community. This is Hays, America.

MASON: Remarkable leaders, a remarkable community

Fort Hays State University is celebrating its 110th anniversary of distance learning as one of the best online programs in the nation.

FHSU Online continues as a national leader in providing high quality and affordable distance education programs to students in Kansas and across the globe – a service that began in 1911 when the university delivered correspondence coursework to rural teachers through the mail.

In a report released this week, U.S. News &amp; World Report recognized FHSU as among the best in the nation in six different online education categories.&nbsp;Fort Hays State′s online programs were among more than 1,200 programs reviewed by U.S. News.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611702300055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University is celebrating its 110th anniversary of distance learning as one of the best online programs in the nation.FHSU Online continues as a national leader in providing high quality and affordable distance education programs to students in Kansas and across the globe – a service that began in 1911 when the university delivered correspondence coursework to rural teachers through the mail.In a report released this week, U.S. News &amp; World Report recognized FHSU as among the best in the nation in six different online education categories.&nbsp;Fort Hays State′s online programs were among more than 1,200 programs reviewed by U.S. News.Heading that list in 2021 was FHSU’s master’s in education programs for veterans, which was ranked in the top 20 – 19th among the top 30 schools ranked. The latest U.S. News ranking also placed Fort Hays State in the top 20 for its bachelor’s programs for veterans.FHSU’s master’s in nursing program ranked 27th among 88 programs, and three other programs also were mentioned among the nation’s best: master’s in education, bachelor’s programs for veterans, online bachelor’s programs and MBA programs. More on FHSU’s rankings can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMGpaItIrGXhICoUrxNyHkb4fCusQfqZdpSzQ5eMEsgP3QDrkniFx6SVZ-2BsK89p-2FX4-2BOprAWCJ5GweVXgB11VcWj2YrJxk9Ytpw7wec1t40aMdaOdFfPkSpfsAurDC-2B1yA-3D-3DSa9J_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbDq8IP2GuivjlYe-2BgqRTZ7mpxhODWaSXuwvwVSNmFyQFGtZCisDiLI6Lp7nYDej1XvcxDR-2FeYBg73uDuZNKl8G5z88ntP3Ak8C-2FbVQqIXzTwYu2Cux-2BDGhNPVJnUOMY0aXAfYDlBWsN3QgANFqm6cxLCpKHC19PVj676QFUIAYIAl86pT-2Fj5uBNQKwjndGJbIc3eC8sLK3-2BKh7s9-2BuBLgOZYbK7oK7o9oJ3eDkp9HzxSzJdiSFz7GDRwXfEwsIVtSAhi9UwqT-2BLuFyi4AwFnuCA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/fort-hays-state-university-155061/rankings</a>.U.S. News began its higher education rankings program in 1983, and it has published online degree program rankings for the past nine years.&nbsp;U.S. News assesses schools based on a variety of categories depending on program level and discipline, including&nbsp;engagement, expert opinion, faculty credentials and training, services and technologies and student excellence. For a full list of rankings and how FHSU compares to other ranked schools, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMGpaItIrGXhICoUrxNyHkb4fCusQfqZdpSzQ5eMEsgPQLhz7CIB8unrzkpbJmekhw-3D-3DKDv8_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbDq8IP2GuivjlYe-2BgqRTZ7mpxhODWaSXuwvwVSNmFyQFGtZCisDiLI6Lp7nYDej1XvcxDR-2FeYBg73uDuZNKl8G6rPGolgVmshvAJGBe3bHVT5WV8BBLEftL65tzFq9o7zXq9b9oAVD3J6X4vTOg1HbTMz98M-2BoJ3HVVN-2FJKHUbiU1Op2nFR4MOn4FbCHgHGR8u-2BDnSpUJLrKwP1mrFBA3EeNPf5AZIGsEALN40Kk7gmKAcjPljGmCFIM9G-2BbpMqSWK95XsGlv9533QDkAu8OttA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education</a>.