As a student teacher in a remote learning classroom this semester, it’s not uncommon for Regina Anderson to spend time in front of her computer over the noon hour.

But Friday’s screen time will be different for this non-traditional student from Wichita. Anderson will be watching Fort Hays State University’s virtual commencement ceremony, anxious to hear her name called as a recipient of a master’s degree.

It’s the third FHSU online degree in six years for Anderson, who first earned an associate’s and bachelor’s in general studies before pursuing her master of science in education (MSE) with an emphasis in elementary education.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Hays State’s traditional, in-person fall commencement ceremony was converted into a series of smaller, college-specific virtual ceremonies. The College of Education’s ceremony is set for noon&nbsp;on the official&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG1Ygmh_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOiJuy6Jf91wKUfvKpG52HnhqIBpP-2Fy0JWiI2RBmhaWXDYrgEY5SdEYtZVu1wDWUNuKCRDd9b5a647IbbKA3AFkr96gemXAfLDDlLmr-2BkNBeFYq5F21Y3BlRTJZMTWm4k2G8uELWXjk7pr-2FQo4l1re-2BqRdIqpTYxvw1a-2Bjzcln0dnsQ2geJTD2Qq9GhYVABDYU-2BRZ1DZSyvWM3yuYjQFv0QhY0WT9hKPAZ1k9hRU4k3gZwauzpy4wgWA2YTssjMEdBXYQxCINJ0ZBJhkKzV-2B2FQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Fort Hays State Facebook page</a>&nbsp;and on the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFN7kIQJTdZlnE2sWDJxmAmpxq5fBRRzHIUDXanAt321ZhLx_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOiJuy6Jf91wKUfvKpG52HnhqIBpP-2Fy0JWiI2RBmhaWXDYrgEY5SdEYtZVu1wDWUNuKCRDd9b5a647IbbKA3AFkzERMECooYZ3upHvQvZ9HwlgM67-2FA0xok1t0t92kT6VlxsS1bLZ8QFX1kHixdXuRltcz53izTnUFWHdsmxsSyj-2FEWZNyrrS3OHbNqlCq-2FK-2BFMMxR1ibe7NMGiKHWT-2FjpLVS8TjoraZejruflkxyjd3kG0hj1p8oe6udvycUfaK9CdnTLonSf-2FdhiuNJ-2Fb5EIw-3D-3D">Tiger Media Network website</a>,&nbsp;and Anderson will be watching.&nbsp;

It’s been a long time coming, but Anderson said it’s been worth the effort taking classes at her pace, and online, while raising three children and working as a preschool teacher and a substitute teacher.

Anderson said taking classes online, working around her children’s school activities, was “perfect” for her and that it has been a positive experience for her entire family.

“The kids are super excited for me, and I think this is setting a great example for them,” she said. “They saw me struggle trying to balance my ‘mom’ life, school and their activities. They saw that persistence and hard work pays off.”

Anderson first learned from a friend about FHSU’s online programs not long after she and her family moved to Wichita from Arizona back in 2013.

She checked it out and “slowly, but surely, I kept taking classes and continued my journey,” she said. The more Anderson became involved with FHSU Online, the more she was impressed.

“Everyone at Fort Hays State kept going above and beyond,” she said. “They were always asking if there was anything I needed and giving me phone numbers for support if I needed anything. If this program didn’t exist, I would not have my degree. Being able to take classes online and be motivated by great teachers to keep going was key.”

Anderson said she also received a lot of encouragement and direction from Scott Gregory, director of field experiences for the College of Education, who is in charge of student teaching programs.

“He really connects with people and does a lot of student support,” Anderson said. “I feel like he really listens to students and what they need to succeed.”

Anderson plans to substitute teach during the spring semester with hopes of an elementary education position in the Wichita school district opening for the 2021-22 school year. All the while, she said she continues to encourage other non-traditional students to pursue a degree.

“It’s never too late to work on your degree, and FHSU has a great online program,” she said. “I tell them to take one class at a time if they have to, and they will eventually get there. It’s not how long it takes you, it’s where you end up.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607632413340.jpeg" alt="Regina Anderson" />
 <figcaption>Regina Anderson</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsAs a student teacher in a remote learning classroom this semester, it’s not uncommon for Regina Anderson to spend time in front of her computer over the noon hour.But Friday’s screen time will be different for this non-traditional student from Wichita. Anderson will be watching Fort Hays State University’s virtual commencement ceremony, anxious to hear her name called as a recipient of a master’s degree.It’s the third FHSU online degree in six years for Anderson, who first earned an associate’s and bachelor’s in general studies before pursuing her master of science in education (MSE) with an emphasis in elementary education.Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Hays State’s traditional, in-person fall commencement ceremony was converted into a series of smaller, college-specific virtual ceremonies. The College of Education’s ceremony is set for noon&nbsp;on the official&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG1Ygmh_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOiJuy6Jf91wKUfvKpG52HnhqIBpP-2Fy0JWiI2RBmhaWXDYrgEY5SdEYtZVu1wDWUNuKCRDd9b5a647IbbKA3AFkr96gemXAfLDDlLmr-2BkNBeFYq5F21Y3BlRTJZMTWm4k2G8uELWXjk7pr-2FQo4l1re-2BqRdIqpTYxvw1a-2Bjzcln0dnsQ2geJTD2Qq9GhYVABDYU-2BRZ1DZSyvWM3yuYjQFv0QhY0WT9hKPAZ1k9hRU4k3gZwauzpy4wgWA2YTssjMEdBXYQxCINJ0ZBJhkKzV-2B2FQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Fort Hays State Facebook page</a>&nbsp;and on the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFN7kIQJTdZlnE2sWDJxmAmpxq5fBRRzHIUDXanAt321ZhLx_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOiJuy6Jf91wKUfvKpG52HnhqIBpP-2Fy0JWiI2RBmhaWXDYrgEY5SdEYtZVu1wDWUNuKCRDd9b5a647IbbKA3AFkzERMECooYZ3upHvQvZ9HwlgM67-2FA0xok1t0t92kT6VlxsS1bLZ8QFX1kHixdXuRltcz53izTnUFWHdsmxsSyj-2FEWZNyrrS3OHbNqlCq-2FK-2BFMMxR1ibe7NMGiKHWT-2FjpLVS8TjoraZejruflkxyjd3kG0hj1p8oe6udvycUfaK9CdnTLonSf-2FdhiuNJ-2Fb5EIw-3D-3D">Tiger Media Network website</a>,&nbsp;and Anderson will be watching.&nbsp;It’s been a long time coming, but Anderson said it’s been worth the effort taking classes at her pace, and online, while raising three children and working as a preschool teacher and a substitute teacher.Anderson said taking classes online, working around her children’s school activities, was “perfect” for her and that it has been a positive experience for her entire family.“The kids are super excited for me, and I think this is setting a great example for them,” she said. “They saw me struggle trying to balance my ‘mom’ life, school and their activities. They saw that persistence and hard work pays off.”Anderson first learned from a friend about FHSU’s online programs not long after she and her family moved to Wichita from Arizona back in 2013.She checked it out and “slowly, but surely, I kept taking classes and continued my journey,” she said. The more Anderson became involved with FHSU Online, the more she was impressed.“Everyone at Fort Hays State kept going above and beyond,” she said. “They were always asking if there was anything I needed and giving me phone numbers for support if I needed anything. If this program didn’t exist, I would not have my degree. Being able to take classes online and be motivated by great teachers to keep going was key.”Anderson said she also received a lot of encouragement and direction from Scott Gregory, director of field experiences for the College of Education, who is in charge of student teaching programs.“He really connects with people and does a lot of student support,” Anderson said. “I feel like he really listens to students and what they need to succeed.”Anderson plans to substitute teach during the spring semester with hopes of an elementary education position in the Wichita school district opening for the 2021-22 school year. All the while, she said she continues to encourage other non-traditional students to pursue a degree.“It’s never too late to work on your degree, and FHSU has a great online program,” she said. “I tell them to take one class at a time if they have to, and they will eventually get there. It’s not how long it takes you, it’s where you end up.”

FHSU graduate excited to watch online ceremony

TOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 18 in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Atchison ‑&nbsp;59‑3 KA‑5885‑01 ‑ U.S. 59, from the Jefferson/Atchison county line north 14.4 miles to the west city limits of Atchison, overlay, 14.4 miles,&nbsp;Herzog Contracting Corp., St. Joseph, Missouri, $1,795,474.96.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;24‑52 KA‑5883‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, from the K‑16/U.S. 24 junction east 10.2 miles to the portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) west of the Wyandotte/Leavenworth county line, milling and overlay, 10.2 miles,&nbsp;Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,648,825.09.

Statewide –&nbsp;32-106 KA‑5868‑01 ‑ K‑32, from the K‑32/U.S. 24 junction east to the Douglas/Leavenworth county line and from the Douglas/ Leavenworth county line east to the Leavenworth/Wyandotte county line, surface recycle, 17.2 miles,&nbsp;Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,105,399.69.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;159‑106 KA‑5880‑01 ‑ U.S. 159, from the north city limits of Effingham north to the Atchison/Brown county line and from the Brown/Atchison county line north to the south city limits of Horton, milling and overlay, 13.8 miles,&nbsp;Herzog Contracting Corp., St. Joseph, Missouri, $1,891,827.07.

Chase ‑&nbsp;50‑9 KA‑5887‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the Marion/Chase county line northeast 8.8 miles and from the Simmons Creek bridge (#65) east to 1,209 feet west of the west U.S. 50/K‑177 junction, milling and overlay, 10.3 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,747,855.04.

Clay ‑&nbsp;14 C‑4987‑01 ‑ Various major collector roads and local roads, pavement marking, 170.0 miles,&nbsp;Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $550,028.95.

Dickinson ‑&nbsp;15‑21 KA‑5851‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the Marion/Dickinson county line north 20.6 miles to the south city limits of Abilene, milling and overlay, 20.6 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,891,255.48.

Geary ‑&nbsp;244‑31 KA‑6030‑01 ‑ K‑244, from the K‑244/RS270 junction east to the K-57/ K‑244 junction, crack repair, 3.9 miles,&nbsp;Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $33,639.00.

Mitchell ‑&nbsp;24‑62 KA‑3950‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #012 over Brown Creek located 7.61 miles east of K‑128, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $1,948,530.57.

Mitchell ‑&nbsp;24‑62 KA‑3963‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #014 over Mulberry Creek located 11.15 miles east of K‑128, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $2,090,417.57.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;9‑106 KA‑5861‑01 ‑ K‑9, from the east city limits of Concordia east to the Cloud/Washington county line (excluding the City of Clyde) and from the Cloud/Washington county line east to the north city limits of Clifton, surface recycle, 18.7 miles,&nbsp;Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $1,627,361.80.

Statewide –&nbsp;15-106 KA‑5865‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the Dickinson/Clay county line north to the south city limits of Clay Center and from the east K‑15/K-18 junction north to the Dickinson/Clay county line, milling and overlay, 23.1 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,127,500.17.

Logan ‑&nbsp;83‑55 KA‑5884‑01 ‑ U.S. 83, from the Scott/Logan county line north approximately 29 miles to the east U.S. 40/ U.S. 83 junction, overlay, 29.1 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $5,434,727.00.

Allen ‑&nbsp;54‑1 KA‑3913‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, bridge #013 over the Union Pacific Railroad located approximately a quarter mile east of U.S. 59, bridge replacement,&nbsp;A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa, $3,703,814.47.

Cherokee ‑&nbsp;7‑11 KA‑6032‑01 ‑ Various locations on K‑7, pavement marking, 11.1 miles,&nbsp;Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $299,575.00.

Harper ‑&nbsp;179‑39 KA‑6029‑01 ‑ K‑179, from the Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the south city limits of Anthony, crack repair, 11.1 miles,&nbsp;Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $47,422.12.

Reno ‑&nbsp;50‑78 KA‑5829‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the 2-lane/4-lane divide east to the Harvey/Reno county line, milling and overlay, 19.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,940,894.45.

Sumner ‑&nbsp;81‑96 KA‑4530‑03 – U.S. 81, east bank of the Ninnescah River, adjacent to U.S. 81, located 1.4 mile north of the U.S. 81/K‑55 junction (just west of the KTA) and the east bank of Ninnescah River adjacent to the intersection of East 100th Avenue North&nbsp;and U.S. 81, flood damage,&nbsp;Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $1,018,065.00.

Finney ‑&nbsp;28 C‑4971‑01 – All paved major and minor collector roads and local roads, pavement marking, 200.0 miles,&nbsp;Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., El Dorado, Kansas, $425,863.39.

Finney ‑&nbsp;156‑28 KA‑5852‑01 ‑ K‑156, from the east city limits of Garden City, northeast approximately 22 miles to the west K‑156/K‑23 junction, milling and overlay, 21.5 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,738,125.94.

Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑5886‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the U.S. 50 and Towns Road intersection near Garden City, east 9.8 miles to the Finney/Gray county line, milling and overlay, 9.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,775,601.89.

Scott ‑&nbsp;86 TE‑0485‑01 ‑ Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad corridor from Alice Avenue to Sixth Street in Scott City, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.6 mile,&nbsp;RFB Construction Company, Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $297,796.02.

Stanton ‑&nbsp;160‑94 KA‑5840‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, from the Colorado/Kansas state line east to the south K‑27/U.S. 160 junction, milling and overlay, 16.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $1,809,807.21.

The following projects were approved from the Oct. 21, 2020, letting.

Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;27 TE‑0474‑01 ‑ In the northeast and southeast quadrants of the K‑14/K‑140 intersection, landscaping, and beautification, Cahoj Earthmoving Inc., Atwood, Kansas, $395,602.66.

Mitchell ‑&nbsp;62 U‑2330‑02 – North Bell Street from West Third Street to West Sixth Street, North Poplar Street from East Main Street to East Seventh Street, West Fourth Street from North Kansas Avenue to North Poplar Street in Beloit, pedestrian, and bicycle paths, 1.5 miles, Multicon Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $505,022.75.

Miami ‑&nbsp;61 U‑2362‑01 ‑ Baptiste Drive/Hedge Lane intersection in Paola, intersection improvement, 0.1 mile, Gunter Construction Company, Kansas City, Kansas, $423,152.35

McPherson ‑&nbsp;59 C‑4928‑01 – 14th&nbsp;Avenue (RS305) from 0.3 mile south to 0.1 mile north of Chisholm Road, grade and surfacing, 0.4 mile, Malm Construction Co., Lindsborg, Kansas., $213, 122.29.

Elk ‑&nbsp;25 C‑4958‑01 – Bridge over tributary to Salt Creek located 6.1 miles north and 2.7 miles east of Howard, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $316.475.81

Pawnee ‑&nbsp;73 C‑4948‑01 ‑ Bridge over Pawnee River located 1 mile north and 3 miles west of Rozel, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $589,665.00.

Reno ‑&nbsp;78 C‑4960‑01 – Bridge over Goose Creek located 1 mile north and 11.1 miles west of Pretty Prairie, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $268,541.97.

Clark ‑&nbsp;13 C‑4945‑01 – Bridge over Bluff Creek located 1.7 miles south and 8 miles east of Minneola, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $838,464.70

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592777344559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA - The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 18 in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastAtchison ‑&nbsp;59‑3 KA‑5885‑01 ‑ U.S. 59, from the Jefferson/Atchison county line north 14.4 miles to the west city limits of Atchison, overlay, 14.4 miles,&nbsp;Herzog Contracting Corp., St. Joseph, Missouri, $1,795,474.96.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;24‑52 KA‑5883‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, from the K‑16/U.S. 24 junction east 10.2 miles to the portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) west of the Wyandotte/Leavenworth county line, milling and overlay, 10.2 miles,&nbsp;Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,648,825.09.Statewide –&nbsp;32-106 KA‑5868‑01 ‑ K‑32, from the K‑32/U.S. 24 junction east to the Douglas/Leavenworth county line and from the Douglas/ Leavenworth county line east to the Leavenworth/Wyandotte county line, surface recycle, 17.2 miles,&nbsp;Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,105,399.69.Statewide ‑&nbsp;159‑106 KA‑5880‑01 ‑ U.S. 159, from the north city limits of Effingham north to the Atchison/Brown county line and from the Brown/Atchison county line north to the south city limits of Horton, milling and overlay, 13.8 miles,&nbsp;Herzog Contracting Corp., St. Joseph, Missouri, $1,891,827.07.District Two — North CentralChase ‑&nbsp;50‑9 KA‑5887‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the Marion/Chase county line northeast 8.8 miles and from the Simmons Creek bridge (#65) east to 1,209 feet west of the west U.S. 50/K‑177 junction, milling and overlay, 10.3 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,747,855.04.Clay ‑&nbsp;14 C‑4987‑01 ‑ Various major collector roads and local roads, pavement marking, 170.0 miles,&nbsp;Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $550,028.95.Dickinson ‑&nbsp;15‑21 KA‑5851‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the Marion/Dickinson county line north 20.6 miles to the south city limits of Abilene, milling and overlay, 20.6 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,891,255.48.Geary ‑&nbsp;244‑31 KA‑6030‑01 ‑ K‑244, from the K‑244/RS270 junction east to the K-57/ K‑244 junction, crack repair, 3.9 miles,&nbsp;Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $33,639.00.Mitchell ‑&nbsp;24‑62 KA‑3950‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #012 over Brown Creek located 7.61 miles east of K‑128, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $1,948,530.57.Mitchell ‑&nbsp;24‑62 KA‑3963‑01 ‑ U.S. 24, bridge #014 over Mulberry Creek located 11.15 miles east of K‑128, bridge replacement,&nbsp;King Construction Company Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Hesston, Kansas, $2,090,417.57.Statewide ‑&nbsp;9‑106 KA‑5861‑01 ‑ K‑9, from the east city limits of Concordia east to the Cloud/Washington county line (excluding the City of Clyde) and from the Cloud/Washington county line east to the north city limits of Clifton, surface recycle, 18.7 miles,&nbsp;Dustrol Inc., Towanda, Kansas, $1,627,361.80.Statewide –&nbsp;15-106 KA‑5865‑01 ‑ K‑15, from the Dickinson/Clay county line north to the south city limits of Clay Center and from the east K‑15/K-18 junction north to the Dickinson/Clay county line, milling and overlay, 23.1 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,127,500.17.District Three — NorthwestLogan ‑&nbsp;83‑55 KA‑5884‑01 ‑ U.S. 83, from the Scott/Logan county line north approximately 29 miles to the east U.S. 40/ U.S. 83 junction, overlay, 29.1 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $5,434,727.00.District Four — SoutheastAllen ‑&nbsp;54‑1 KA‑3913‑01 ‑ U.S. 54, bridge #013 over the Union Pacific Railroad located approximately a quarter mile east of U.S. 59, bridge replacement,&nbsp;A M Cohron &amp; Son Inc., Atlantic, Iowa, $3,703,814.47.Cherokee ‑&nbsp;7‑11 KA‑6032‑01 ‑ Various locations on K‑7, pavement marking, 11.1 miles,&nbsp;Century Fence Co., Pewaukee, Wisconsin, $299,575.00.District Five — South CentralHarper ‑&nbsp;179‑39 KA‑6029‑01 ‑ K‑179, from the Oklahoma/Kansas state line north to the south city limits of Anthony, crack repair, 11.1 miles,&nbsp;Pavement Pro's LLC, McPherson, Kansas, $47,422.12.Reno ‑&nbsp;50‑78 KA‑5829‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the 2-lane/4-lane divide east to the Harvey/Reno county line, milling and overlay, 19.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,940,894.45.Sumner ‑&nbsp;81‑96 KA‑4530‑03 – U.S. 81, east bank of the Ninnescah River, adjacent to U.S. 81, located 1.4 mile north of the U.S. 81/K‑55 junction (just west of the KTA) and the east bank of Ninnescah River adjacent to the intersection of East 100th Avenue North&nbsp;and U.S. 81, flood damage,&nbsp;Dondlinger &amp; Sons Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $1,018,065.00.District Six — SouthwestFinney ‑&nbsp;28 C‑4971‑01 – All paved major and minor collector roads and local roads, pavement marking, 200.0 miles,&nbsp;Roadsafe Traffic Systems Inc., El Dorado, Kansas, $425,863.39.Finney ‑&nbsp;156‑28 KA‑5852‑01 ‑ K‑156, from the east city limits of Garden City, northeast approximately 22 miles to the west K‑156/K‑23 junction, milling and overlay, 21.5 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,738,125.94.Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑5886‑01 ‑ U.S. 50, from the U.S. 50 and Towns Road intersection near Garden City, east 9.8 miles to the Finney/Gray county line, milling and overlay, 9.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,775,601.89.Scott ‑&nbsp;86 TE‑0485‑01 ‑ Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad corridor from Alice Avenue to Sixth Street in Scott City, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.6 mile,&nbsp;RFB Construction Company, Inc., Pittsburg, Kansas, $297,796.02.Stanton ‑&nbsp;160‑94 KA‑5840‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, from the Colorado/Kansas state line east to the south K‑27/U.S. 160 junction, milling and overlay, 16.8 miles,&nbsp;APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $1,809,807.21.The following projects were approved from the Oct. 21, 2020, letting.Ellsworth ‑&nbsp;27 TE‑0474‑01 ‑ In the northeast and southeast quadrants of the K‑14/K‑140 intersection, landscaping, and beautification, Cahoj Earthmoving Inc., Atwood, Kansas, $395,602.66.Mitchell ‑&nbsp;62 U‑2330‑02 – North Bell Street from West Third Street to West Sixth Street, North Poplar Street from East Main Street to East Seventh Street, West Fourth Street from North Kansas Avenue to North Poplar Street in Beloit, pedestrian, and bicycle paths, 1.5 miles, Multicon Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $505,022.75.Miami ‑&nbsp;61 U‑2362‑01 ‑ Baptiste Drive/Hedge Lane intersection in Paola, intersection improvement, 0.1 mile, Gunter Construction Company, Kansas City, Kansas, $423,152.35McPherson ‑&nbsp;59 C‑4928‑01 – 14th&nbsp;Avenue (RS305) from 0.3 mile south to 0.1 mile north of Chisholm Road, grade and surfacing, 0.4 mile, Malm Construction Co., Lindsborg, Kansas., $213, 122.29.Elk ‑&nbsp;25 C‑4958‑01 – Bridge over tributary to Salt Creek located 6.1 miles north and 2.7 miles east of Howard, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $316.475.81Pawnee ‑&nbsp;73 C‑4948‑01 ‑ Bridge over Pawnee River located 1 mile north and 3 miles west of Rozel, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $589,665.00.Reno ‑&nbsp;78 C‑4960‑01 – Bridge over Goose Creek located 1 mile north and 11.1 miles west of Pretty Prairie, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Reece Construction Company, Inc., Salina, Kansas, $268,541.97.Clark ‑&nbsp;13 C‑4945‑01 – Bridge over Bluff Creek located 1.7 miles south and 8 miles east of Minneola, bridge replacement, 0.2 mile,&nbsp;L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $838,464.70

$5.4M Logan Co. roadwork bid among those approved by KDOT

Three-day weather outlook

K-State Research and Extension, along with several Extension Districts in north central KS, are bringing an ONLINE program to help producers with cattle marketing and end-of-year tax considerations. 

This program will be held on Tuesday, December 15th at 7:00 p.m. There is no cost to join this program. 

There will be two main speakers for this program. The first speaker will be Glynn Tonsor, Agriculture Economist for K-State Research and Extension. Glynn will discuss selling wintered calves, the subsequent spring, and selling calves at weaning in the fall. The second speaker will be Clay Simons, Executive Agriculture Economist for Kansas Farm Management Association. Clay will be discussing end of year tax considerations for cattle producers. 

After each session, we will be hosting a question and answer dialogue for the participants. If you are unable to join, we will record the session so you can view it later. To join the “virtual” meeting go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bit.ly/ksucattle">www.bit.ly/ksucattle</a>&nbsp;and provide us your name and email. A link will then be sent to the email that you provide to join the meeting on December 15th.

If you have any questions or need help signing up, contact any of the Extension Offices in the following Districts of Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, Post Rock or River Valley.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension, along with several Extension Districts in north central KS, are bringing an ONLINE program to help producers with cattle marketing and end-of-year tax considerations. This program will be held on Tuesday, December 15th at 7:00 p.m. There is no cost to join this program. There will be two main speakers for this program. The first speaker will be Glynn Tonsor, Agriculture Economist for K-State Research and Extension. Glynn will discuss selling wintered calves, the subsequent spring, and selling calves at weaning in the fall. The second speaker will be Clay Simons, Executive Agriculture Economist for Kansas Farm Management Association. Clay will be discussing end of year tax considerations for cattle producers. After each session, we will be hosting a question and answer dialogue for the participants. If you are unable to join, we will record the session so you can view it later. To join the “virtual” meeting go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bit.ly/ksucattle">www.bit.ly/ksucattle</a>&nbsp;and provide us your name and email. A link will then be sent to the email that you provide to join the meeting on December 15th. If you have any questions or need help signing up, contact any of the Extension Offices in the following Districts of Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, Post Rock or River Valley.&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: KSU online cattle marketing program 

For Kansas frontline workers, the news is good. The COVID vaccine is here and judged to be 94 percent effective. It is critical for the Governor of Kansas to prioritize who will be first to receive the vaccine. Clearly our healthcare workers and our vulnerable nursing home residents need to be on the top of the list. However, our teachers are also on the frontline and must be included in this crucial step. The cost to our schoolchildren is clear.

Our children are the future of Kansas and must be in school. While remote learning works for a small segment of students, the majority of students are failing miserably to adapt to this online world. It is essential that the teachers are protected, which will mean the students physical and mental health and their educational wellbeing will be cared for.&nbsp; 

Having children sit at home in front of computers is clearly a problem:&nbsp; The National Institutes of Health study found that a three-hour period of uninterrupted sitting causes a 33 percent reduction in vascular function in young girls.&nbsp; Mental health related visits for children under 17 have increased from 24 percent to 31 percent. Obesity rates have risen to almost 15 percent of all children which also points to the danger of kids sitting in front of computers. The frightening statistics make it clear that It is essential that our teachers need to be protected to keep them working in the schools; thereby securing students physical, mental health, and educational wellbeing.

The State of Kansas needs to place our teachers on the frontline list to have the opportunity to get the vaccine.&nbsp; Our children and all of Kansas are counting on it.

State Rep. Barb Wasinger, 111th District, R-Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For Kansas frontline workers, the news is good. The COVID vaccine is here and judged to be 94 percent effective. It is critical for the Governor of Kansas to prioritize who will be first to receive the vaccine. Clearly our healthcare workers and our vulnerable nursing home residents need to be on the top of the list. However, our teachers are also on the frontline and must be included in this crucial step. The cost to our schoolchildren is clear.Our children are the future of Kansas and must be in school. While remote learning works for a small segment of students, the majority of students are failing miserably to adapt to this online world. It is essential that the teachers are protected, which will mean the students physical and mental health and their educational wellbeing will be cared for.&nbsp; Having children sit at home in front of computers is clearly a problem:&nbsp; The National Institutes of Health study found that a three-hour period of uninterrupted sitting causes a 33 percent reduction in vascular function in young girls.&nbsp; Mental health related visits for children under 17 have increased from 24 percent to 31 percent. Obesity rates have risen to almost 15 percent of all children which also points to the danger of kids sitting in front of computers. The frightening statistics make it clear that It is essential that our teachers need to be protected to keep them working in the schools; thereby securing students physical, mental health, and educational wellbeing.The State of Kansas needs to place our teachers on the frontline list to have the opportunity to get the vaccine.&nbsp; Our children and all of Kansas are counting on it.State Rep. Barb Wasinger, 111th District, R-Hays

LETTER: Give teachers priority for COVID-19 vaccinations

🎥Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

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<div><iframe title="FHSU Alumni Association evaluating future events in wake of COVID-19" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/c5hej-f4a910?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: FHSU Alumni Association assessing future events

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

You can get a preview taste of the new Bricks Rockin' BBQ in downtown Hays and help a family whose daughter is struggling with a heart defect.

Bricks Rockin' BBQ, 110 W. 11th, Hays, won't be opening until Jan. 2. However, the Bricks Rockin' BBQ's owners David and Jacob Proffitt are offering a special BBQ platter for $20 from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, to benefit the Kaitlyn Cubillo family.

All of the proceeds will go to the family.

Kaitlyn, 5, was born with a heart defect. Kaitlyn's heart condition has been worsening since she had a Fontan surgery in May 2019.&nbsp;

Although her heart was already headed toward failure, her condition worsen after she contracted COVID-19.

Kaitlyn is not a candidate for a heart transplant and is likely to soon be transferred to hospice care, said Gari Herdt, Cubillo family friend and the BBQ's general manager.

"Medically, there is nothing they can do for her. We are just trying to support the family as much as we can," Herdt said.

Kaitlyn's parents are staying at a Ronald McDonald house in Kansas City to be near her as she receives treatment at Children's Mercy Hospital.

Tickets for the fundraiser can be purchased at any Proffitt business, including Tiger Burger, Taco Grande,&nbsp;Kitsune Asian Creations, Auman, The Uptown Fox and Munsch Fitness.&nbsp;

Tickets can also be purchased at Horizon Appliance. If you purchase tickets at Munsch, you can enter to win a 90-day membership to the fitness center. If you buy tickets at Horizon, you can enter to win a TV.

Tickets can also be purchased online by <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fundraiser-for-kaitlyn-cubillo-tickets-129245692345?fbclid=IwAR2VG-tuCi-PyAOu2hNVXAxv0pRVlaYrCw5AiTFOvXeb3pWVoSfSDYb38ZQ">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;

Meals will be available for carry out or dine in.

Bricks Rockin' BBQ will serve KC-style pit barbecue with&nbsp;Patsy Denault of Russell serving as the pit master.

Denault has been in the restaurant business for decades. She cooked for Meridy's Restaurant in Russell for 20 years, before striking out on her own with a catering business.

Denault was friends growing up with Jacob and David's sister, so the partnership is a friendship that has come full circle, David said.

She makes her own barbecue sauce, which will be served at the restaurant.

"It is a lot of stuff that I like to eat," Denault said. "We brought out a lot of stuff off the top of my head that I would like to see on the table. I can't wait to serve it."

The restaurant will offer brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, burnt ends, smoked sausage, hot links and sliced turkey slow smoked over hickory or apple wood.

"This is my passion. This is what I love to do," she said.

Sides include fries (loaded or unloaded), sweet potato fries, loaded baked potatoes, cole slaw, fried mushrooms, cheesy corn, smoked mac and cheese, loaded nachos, and Patsy's own recipes for barbecue baked beans and potato salad.&nbsp;

Encores include sweet potato pie, cobbler, chocolate lasagna and wafered banana pudding.

The business will begin with carry-out and dine in and hopes to add deliver at a later date. When the restaurant opens, its hours will be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

The name for the new barbecue joint came from the downtown building's past. It was a record store in the 1920s. 

Bricks Rockin' BBQ has a 1980s rock theme with a signed guitar from Rob Zombie and band, a&nbsp; guitar signed by C.C. Deville of Poison, a Johnny Cash signed record,&nbsp;a poster signed by Pat Benatar, and a poster on its way signed by the late Eddie Van Halen.

The Proffitts also have a guitar on display signed by their own brother, Charles Proffitt, who is a studio guitarist in Denver and has played on many studio albums.

The Proffitts own several downtown eateries, including The Uptown Fox, Tiger Burger and Kitsune Asian Creations.

"Jacob and I, our mission has always been to bring up the downtown whenever we can get a building to redo something," David said. "We have always believed the interstate is for the travelers and downtown is for the local people."&nbsp;

David said all of the brothers's businesses have been effected by the pandemic and opening in a difficult economic climate is scary.

"For us, we don't wait for someone else to make it happen," he said.&nbsp;"We have never been the kind of guys who sit around and wait something out. We are just going to keep pushing ahead and doing what we can."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607459235506.png" alt="Cubillo family" />
 <figcaption>Cubillo family</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostYou can get a preview taste of the new Bricks Rockin' BBQ in downtown Hays and help a family whose daughter is struggling with a heart defect.Bricks Rockin' BBQ, 110 W. 11th, Hays, won't be opening until Jan. 2. However, the Bricks Rockin' BBQ's owners David and Jacob Proffitt are offering a special BBQ platter for $20 from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, to benefit the Kaitlyn Cubillo family.All of the proceeds will go to the family.Kaitlyn, 5, was born with a heart defect. Kaitlyn's heart condition has been worsening since she had a Fontan surgery in May 2019.&nbsp;Although her heart was already headed toward failure, her condition worsen after she contracted COVID-19.Kaitlyn is not a candidate for a heart transplant and is likely to soon be transferred to hospice care, said Gari Herdt, Cubillo family friend and the BBQ's general manager."Medically, there is nothing they can do for her. We are just trying to support the family as much as we can," Herdt said.Kaitlyn's parents are staying at a Ronald McDonald house in Kansas City to be near her as she receives treatment at Children's Mercy Hospital.Tickets for the fundraiser can be purchased at any Proffitt business, including Tiger Burger, Taco Grande,&nbsp;Kitsune Asian Creations, Auman, The Uptown Fox and Munsch Fitness.&nbsp;Tickets can also be purchased at Horizon Appliance. If you purchase tickets at Munsch, you can enter to win a 90-day membership to the fitness center. If you buy tickets at Horizon, you can enter to win a TV.Tickets can also be purchased online by <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fundraiser-for-kaitlyn-cubillo-tickets-129245692345?fbclid=IwAR2VG-tuCi-PyAOu2hNVXAxv0pRVlaYrCw5AiTFOvXeb3pWVoSfSDYb38ZQ">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;Meals will be available for carry out or dine in.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607459287515.jpeg" alt="Bricks Rockin' BBQ,&nbsp;110 W. 11th St., Hays, will open to the general public on Jan. 2." />
 <figcaption>Bricks Rockin' BBQ,&nbsp;110 W. 11th St., Hays, will open to the general public on Jan. 2.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bricks Rockin' BBQ will serve KC-style pit barbecue with&nbsp;Patsy Denault of Russell serving as the pit master.Denault has been in the restaurant business for decades. She cooked for Meridy's Restaurant in Russell for 20 years, before striking out on her own with a catering business.Denault was friends growing up with Jacob and David's sister, so the partnership is a friendship that has come full circle, David said.She makes her own barbecue sauce, which will be served at the restaurant."It is a lot of stuff that I like to eat," Denault said. "We brought out a lot of stuff off the top of my head that I would like to see on the table. I can't wait to serve it."The restaurant will offer brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, burnt ends, smoked sausage, hot links and sliced turkey slow smoked over hickory or apple wood."This is my passion. This is what I love to do," she said.Sides include fries (loaded or unloaded), sweet potato fries, loaded baked potatoes, cole slaw, fried mushrooms, cheesy corn, smoked mac and cheese, loaded nachos, and Patsy's own recipes for barbecue baked beans and potato salad.&nbsp;Encores include sweet potato pie, cobbler, chocolate lasagna and wafered banana pudding.The business will begin with carry-out and dine in and hopes to add deliver at a later date. When the restaurant opens, its hours will be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607459353047.jpeg" alt="A guitar signed by Rob Zombie and his band is on display at Bricks Rockin' BBQ in Hays." />
 <figcaption>A guitar signed by Rob Zombie and his band is on display at Bricks Rockin' BBQ in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>The name for the new barbecue joint came from the downtown building's past. It was a record store in the 1920s. Bricks Rockin' BBQ has a 1980s rock theme with a signed guitar from Rob Zombie and band, a&nbsp; guitar signed by C.C. Deville of Poison, a Johnny Cash signed record,&nbsp;a poster signed by Pat Benatar, and a poster on its way signed by the late Eddie Van Halen.The Proffitts also have a guitar on display signed by their own brother, Charles Proffitt, who is a studio guitarist in Denver and has played on many studio albums.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607459410546.jpeg" alt="An album signed by Johnny Cash is also part of the barbecue restaurant's musical theme." />
 <figcaption>An album signed by Johnny Cash is also part of the barbecue restaurant's musical theme.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Proffitts own several downtown eateries, including The Uptown Fox, Tiger Burger and Kitsune Asian Creations."Jacob and I, our mission has always been to bring up the downtown whenever we can get a building to redo something," David said. "We have always believed the interstate is for the travelers and downtown is for the local people."&nbsp;David said all of the brothers's businesses have been effected by the pandemic and opening in a difficult economic climate is scary."For us, we don't wait for someone else to make it happen," he said.&nbsp;"We have never been the kind of guys who sit around and wait something out. We are just going to keep pushing ahead and doing what we can."

Bricks Rockin' BBQ to offer preview with fundraiser

The National Weather Service is forecasting a 50 percent chance of snow in Ellis County overnight Thursday and into Friday morning.

Dodge City NWS forecasters predict possible rain turning to snow this evening as temperatures fall, with a chance of snow all day Friday. Accumulation of 1 to 2 inches is possible in the Hays area, although the Goodland NWS said up to 3 inches could fall farther west.

Skies are expected to clear Saturday, with a slight chance of additional snow overnight Saturday.

Cooler temperatures will hold on through the weekend, with highs in the low 40s projected through Wednesday.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather and cancellations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607628164047.jpeg" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service is forecasting a 50 percent chance of snow in Ellis County overnight Thursday and into Friday morning.Dodge City NWS forecasters predict possible rain turning to snow this evening as temperatures fall, with a chance of snow all day Friday. Accumulation of 1 to 2 inches is possible in the Hays area, although the Goodland NWS said up to 3 inches could fall farther west.Skies are expected to clear Saturday, with a slight chance of additional snow overnight Saturday.Cooler temperatures will hold on through the weekend, with highs in the low 40s projected through Wednesday.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather and cancellations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607628252295.jpeg" alt="Goodland NWS" />
 <figcaption>Goodland NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Up to 2 inches of snow possible in Hays area overnight

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Hays State University’s traditional, in-person fall commencement ceremony was converted into a series of smaller, college-specific virtual ceremonies.

On Dec.11, FHSU will honor the 2020 graduates by hosting individual commencement ceremonies to represent each of its five colleges. The university’s spring 2020 commencement ceremony, originally scheduled for May of this year, was canceled due to the pandemic. This will be an opportunity for spring and summer graduates to participate in commencement.

The ceremonies will be available for viewing on the official&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG1uzHH_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaI-2FAGliaWE4D4c-2Fgr1z8lLOAzrrnoKu-2FrgTMLKGdPFbNiehVztm12fhiGn65RzRbHQcL-2F5ffDe-2BkqsQNvr98ci7SdknOsJtxrBLFKMUFJiHyb3QuKYeKHTXykwJC59dRQN1Bv9-2B9E3aUEcVVPdtk8jIOSziOrlM1eLRp4cl2qFjilDZZXyxt1yYdm2MFRc7ilA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Fort Hays State Facebook page</a>&nbsp;and on the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFN7kIQJTdZlnE2sWDJxmAmpxq5fBRRzHIUDXanAt321QpIK_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaPkiDCnbM3uAs-2FokXlX2SPuj7xNJCL09uaP-2F2dAa-2BZxA9hQM3tCpHQcaMGAWzNKiD5tUV9o7WentgDyTcjhgV94F-2BZOc-2BS6wPbqTDPxYCiY-2FDw-2BA47Ft-2BKP-2FPvPS-2FJYtTbr0m-2BwPeB4yTtW6W9YloGKCaoTzzpCv-2FdInjfcb-2FUVhf69xxVlwfqSxa93oMNE7YQ-3D-3D">Tiger Media Network website</a>&nbsp;as scheduled below:

Friday, Dec. 11, Central Standard Time&nbsp; 8 a.m. – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences 10 a.m. – Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship Noon – College of Education 2 p.m. – College of Health and Behavioral Sciences 4 p.m. – Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics

For the latest information on FHSU’s Fall 2020 Commencement, visit the university’s&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSDAvA_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaBPzl2ToRcq3gfwPTGWPsWs5T-2FlW-2Fdyy-2BlcgNvVcLnNgggInXPlVewQQ5JWJ6KlfNAPP4pKuA7rijZ8Bow-2FA-2Bk87bo7tL7EPeE1O-2Fwdcrj9-2FOylRj90DZK-2F0wZttO4Sryg4JlqE4zZDFQ8LKXXUnXKH3IcnVyV-2BSK32KiQnF6XrDo4c5P4sihYF2UGHFntOKVw-3D-3D">commencement website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607620823910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsIn response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Fort Hays State University’s traditional, in-person fall commencement ceremony was converted into a series of smaller, college-specific virtual ceremonies.On Dec.11, FHSU will honor the 2020 graduates by hosting individual commencement ceremonies to represent each of its five colleges. The university’s spring 2020 commencement ceremony, originally scheduled for May of this year, was canceled due to the pandemic. This will be an opportunity for spring and summer graduates to participate in commencement.The ceremonies will be available for viewing on the official&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtCrpoyDrUwFCFG4KbhtETYR5zmLwYI8Sa-2FrXYbOW5tG1uzHH_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaI-2FAGliaWE4D4c-2Fgr1z8lLOAzrrnoKu-2FrgTMLKGdPFbNiehVztm12fhiGn65RzRbHQcL-2F5ffDe-2BkqsQNvr98ci7SdknOsJtxrBLFKMUFJiHyb3QuKYeKHTXykwJC59dRQN1Bv9-2B9E3aUEcVVPdtk8jIOSziOrlM1eLRp4cl2qFjilDZZXyxt1yYdm2MFRc7ilA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Fort Hays State Facebook page</a>&nbsp;and on the&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtFN7kIQJTdZlnE2sWDJxmAmpxq5fBRRzHIUDXanAt321QpIK_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaPkiDCnbM3uAs-2FokXlX2SPuj7xNJCL09uaP-2F2dAa-2BZxA9hQM3tCpHQcaMGAWzNKiD5tUV9o7WentgDyTcjhgV94F-2BZOc-2BS6wPbqTDPxYCiY-2FDw-2BA47Ft-2BKP-2FPvPS-2FJYtTbr0m-2BwPeB4yTtW6W9YloGKCaoTzzpCv-2FdInjfcb-2FUVhf69xxVlwfqSxa93oMNE7YQ-3D-3D">Tiger Media Network website</a>&nbsp;as scheduled below:Friday, Dec. 11, Central Standard Time&nbsp; 8 a.m. – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences 10 a.m. – Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship Noon – College of Education 2 p.m. – College of Health and Behavioral Sciences 4 p.m. – Werth College of Science, Technology and MathematicsFor the latest information on FHSU’s Fall 2020 Commencement, visit the university’s&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtKwGCSEfb6-2Fx37KuxE5mpJcnq3UXO20ENBhx-2B1UVzGlSDAvA_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemAQODFfPT9ToDadgsIxOxLkA15ci07qUzPf0Sgy0zsATHfFvrlcEgjodV-2FskDWiQF-2BJAkQElCUU3Kb3SHe7YEaBPzl2ToRcq3gfwPTGWPsWs5T-2FlW-2Fdyy-2BlcgNvVcLnNgggInXPlVewQQ5JWJ6KlfNAPP4pKuA7rijZ8Bow-2FA-2Bk87bo7tL7EPeE1O-2Fwdcrj9-2FOylRj90DZK-2F0wZttO4Sryg4JlqE4zZDFQ8LKXXUnXKH3IcnVyV-2BSK32KiQnF6XrDo4c5P4sihYF2UGHFntOKVw-3D-3D">commencement website</a>.

FHSU’s virtual fall commencement set for Friday

Enter your info for your chance to win! One lucky winner will receive a gift card package that will satisfy any appetite. It includes: -&nbsp;$50 to Taco Grande - $50 Tiger Burger - $50 Kitsune Asian Creations - $50 Bricks Rockin BBQ - $100 to Uptown Fox - A 90 day Munsch Fitness Single Membership

<div> <script src="https://embed-754432.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="a2639584-699f-445d-ac7e-d61a06f5f800" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>Enter your info for your chance to win! One lucky winner will receive a gift card package that will satisfy any appetite. It includes: -&nbsp;$50 to Taco Grande - $50 Tiger Burger - $50 Kitsune Asian Creations - $50 Bricks Rockin BBQ - $100 to Uptown Fox - A 90 day Munsch Fitness Single Membership

Happy Holidays Giveaway from Kitsune Asian Creations

As Christmas approaches, so does the danger from those seeking to take advantage of the opportunity to steal from frazzled holiday shoppers, but keeping a few safety tips in mind can significantly reduce the risk.

"A lot of it is what we call common sense," said Hays Police Department Lt. Tim Greenwood of measures that can keep shoppers safe.

The first step in safe holiday shopping is planning, he said.

"A lot of it simply comes back to having a plan," Greenwood said. "Decide where you want to go and what you want to do and when you have that plan in place when you run into little hiccups and challenges you are able to stay calm and things tend to go a lot smoother."

One of the most common ways to stay safe is an often repeated message — lock your car doors.

"Make sure before you leave the car that there are no valuables sitting out, especially on the seat or visible through the windows," he said.

Also, a large coat or blanket can be used to cover purchased items inside the vehicle.

He also said, when possible, it is a good idea to drop off items at home while going from store to store.

"Don't tempt those that are looking for an easy way to break a window or open a door and grab a bunch of stuff that they don't have to pay for," Greenwood said. "By covering that up and making sure your car is locked, that's a great step in the right direction."

While inside, Greenwood said shoppers should also be wary and keep personal items close.

"It's too easy to step away from that cart for just one second and when you turn back around that wallet or purse is missing," he said.&nbsp;

Limiting the amount of cash carried can also lessen a shopper's risk.

"We don't want to be flashing that cash and tempting those that have less ethics than we have," Greenwood said. "Make sure you are being discreet with that money."

With COVID concerns this year, many are opting to purchase gifts online, but those that do risk another scourge of shopping theifdom — porch pirates.

Greenwood said an easy way to make sure packages make it inside safely is to sign up for notifications that send an alert when a package has arrived.

"It's a great service they provide because we can go check that front porch and get those packages taken off the porch sooner than later," he said.

A slightly more high-tech solution is the installation of internet-based doorbell cameras that allow the resident to see and record activity around their door, he said.

Once inside the home, just like with vehicles, keeping valuables from being highly visible can be a deterrent.

"Don't provide temptation if you don't need to," Greenwood said.

And even when a resident is inside the home, he said keeping doors and windows locked is a good idea.

After gifts have been opened, keeping the packaging from being seen can also mitigate the risk of being the target of a thief.

"Before you just carry out a bunch of boxes, break those things down and get them into your recycling bag," Greenwood said.&nbsp;

He said labels and item descriptions should be folded inside.

"All they see is that brown interior on the outside; just a bunch of brown cardboard versus seeing those items that you now have inside your house," Greenwood said.

While out checking items off the Christmas list, he said he hopes everyone can stay safe — and remember to bring a face covering.

"Take some time, have a plan, and stay calm and you will enjoy your season a lot better," Greenwood said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607545905950.png" alt="Images courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Images courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Small actions can help keep holiday shopping safe" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bji63-f48d3e?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs Christmas approaches, so does the danger from those seeking to take advantage of the opportunity to steal from frazzled holiday shoppers, but keeping a few safety tips in mind can significantly reduce the risk."A lot of it is what we call common sense," said Hays Police Department Lt. Tim Greenwood of measures that can keep shoppers safe.The first step in safe holiday shopping is planning, he said."A lot of it simply comes back to having a plan," Greenwood said. "Decide where you want to go and what you want to do and when you have that plan in place when you run into little hiccups and challenges you are able to stay calm and things tend to go a lot smoother."One of the most common ways to stay safe is an often repeated message — lock your car doors."Make sure before you leave the car that there are no valuables sitting out, especially on the seat or visible through the windows," he said.Also, a large coat or blanket can be used to cover purchased items inside the vehicle.He also said, when possible, it is a good idea to drop off items at home while going from store to store."Don't tempt those that are looking for an easy way to break a window or open a door and grab a bunch of stuff that they don't have to pay for," Greenwood said. "By covering that up and making sure your car is locked, that's a great step in the right direction."While inside, Greenwood said shoppers should also be wary and keep personal items close."It's too easy to step away from that cart for just one second and when you turn back around that wallet or purse is missing," he said.&nbsp;Limiting the amount of cash carried can also lessen a shopper's risk."We don't want to be flashing that cash and tempting those that have less ethics than we have," Greenwood said. "Make sure you are being discreet with that money."With COVID concerns this year, many are opting to purchase gifts online, but those that do risk another scourge of shopping theifdom — porch pirates.Greenwood said an easy way to make sure packages make it inside safely is to sign up for notifications that send an alert when a package has arrived."It's a great service they provide because we can go check that front porch and get those packages taken off the porch sooner than later," he said.A slightly more high-tech solution is the installation of internet-based doorbell cameras that allow the resident to see and record activity around their door, he said.Once inside the home, just like with vehicles, keeping valuables from being highly visible can be a deterrent."Don't provide temptation if you don't need to," Greenwood said.And even when a resident is inside the home, he said keeping doors and windows locked is a good idea.After gifts have been opened, keeping the packaging from being seen can also mitigate the risk of being the target of a thief."Before you just carry out a bunch of boxes, break those things down and get them into your recycling bag," Greenwood said.&nbsp;He said labels and item descriptions should be folded inside."All they see is that brown interior on the outside; just a bunch of brown cardboard versus seeing those items that you now have inside your house," Greenwood said. While out checking items off the Christmas list, he said he hopes everyone can stay safe — and remember to bring a face covering."Take some time, have a plan, and stay calm and you will enjoy your season a lot better," Greenwood said.

🎙HPD: Small actions can help keep holiday shopping safe

The Hays Regional Airport announces the return of early morning departures to Denver on Jan. 6. New daily departure time will be 8:30 a.m., allowing for passengers to easily connect to flights in Denver. The evening flight arrival time in Hays will be 9:35 p.m.

An additional afternoon flight to Denver will depart at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The full flight schedule can be viewed at <a href="https://flyhays.com/new-flight-schedule/">FlyHays.com</a>&nbsp;and below.

“The Hays Regional Airport is a valuable resource to our community,” said Airport Director Jamie Salter. “We understand the most important aspect of travel from Hays is schedule, and we have worked with SkyWest to offer an early departure for our passengers. With the industry’s focus on health and safety as top priority for the traveling public, this is a great way to start the new year.”

All flight schedules are set by SkyWest, which provides contracted air service for United Airlines.

To make travel as clean and safe as possible, airport visitors will notice additional cleaning shifts and sanitizing stations. Masks are also available for passengers if needed.

To encourage bookings, United Airlines has discounted fares to Denver. United has also eliminated all change fees, allowing passengers to reschedule travel dates if needed.

In an effort to reduce waste, the bottled water in the passenger boarding area has been replaced with bottle filling stations. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottle when they travel.

For more information on Hays Regional Airport and its services, visit <a href="https://flyhays.com/">FlyHays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607523636412.jpeg" alt="Early morning departures will&nbsp; again be available at Hays Regional Airport beginning Jan. 6." />
 <figcaption>Early morning departures will&nbsp; again be available at Hays Regional Airport beginning Jan. 6.</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Regional Airport announces the return of early morning departures to Denver on Jan. 6. New daily departure time will be 8:30 a.m., allowing for passengers to easily connect to flights in Denver. The evening flight arrival time in Hays will be 9:35 p.m.An additional afternoon flight to Denver will depart at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The full flight schedule can be viewed at <a href="https://flyhays.com/new-flight-schedule/">FlyHays.com</a>&nbsp;and below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607523602661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“The Hays Regional Airport is a valuable resource to our community,” said Airport Director Jamie Salter. “We understand the most important aspect of travel from Hays is schedule, and we have worked with SkyWest to offer an early departure for our passengers. With the industry’s focus on health and safety as top priority for the traveling public, this is a great way to start the new year.”All flight schedules are set by SkyWest, which provides contracted air service for United Airlines.To make travel as clean and safe as possible, airport visitors will notice additional cleaning shifts and sanitizing stations. Masks are also available for passengers if needed.To encourage bookings, United Airlines has discounted fares to Denver. United has also eliminated all change fees, allowing passengers to reschedule travel dates if needed.In an effort to reduce waste, the bottled water in the passenger boarding area has been replaced with bottle filling stations. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottle when they travel.For more information on Hays Regional Airport and its services, visit <a href="https://flyhays.com/">FlyHays.com</a>.

Early flights return to Hays Regional Airport

MANHATTAN — Saturday, more than 400 Farm Bureau members of Kansas wrapped up business for their farm organization during a virtual session for Kansas Farm Bureau’s 102nd annual meeting. &nbsp; The policies adopted will now become the organization’s road map for the 2021 legislative session. Topics of discussion included&nbsp;livestock marketing, trade and water. &nbsp; Montgomery County farmer Rich Felts was re-elected as president. Others elected to the board of directors include:

Other activities included a host of agriculture-related workshops and speakers including a keynote from Vance Crowe, an update on American Farm Bureau Federation activities from Andrew Walmsley and a townhall with members of the Kansas congressional delegation, including Sen. Jerry Moran, Sen.-elect Roger Marshall, Reps.-elect Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, and Rep. Sharice Davids. &nbsp; KFB also honored retiring Sen. Pat Roberts for his decades of service to Kansans, especially his dedication to ensuring farmers and ranchers had their voices heard in Washington, D.C. &nbsp; County Farm Bureaus and volunteers were recognized for their 2020 achievements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575384916134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KFBMANHATTAN — Saturday, more than 400 Farm Bureau members of Kansas wrapped up business for their farm organization during a virtual session for Kansas Farm Bureau’s 102nd annual meeting. &nbsp; The policies adopted will now become the organization’s road map for the 2021 legislative session. Topics of discussion included&nbsp;livestock marketing, trade and water. &nbsp; Montgomery County farmer Rich Felts was re-elected as president. Others elected to the board of directors include:<ul>
 <li>George Pretz, Miami County</li><li>Steven McCloud, Harvey County</li><li>Doug Zillinger, Phillips County</li><li>Joe Jury, Gray County</li><li>Kevin Holle, Rawlins County</li>
 </ul>Other activities included a host of agriculture-related workshops and speakers including a keynote from Vance Crowe, an update on American Farm Bureau Federation activities from Andrew Walmsley and a townhall with members of the Kansas congressional delegation, including Sen. Jerry Moran, Sen.-elect Roger Marshall, Reps.-elect Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, and Rep. Sharice Davids. &nbsp; KFB also honored retiring Sen. Pat Roberts for his decades of service to Kansans, especially his dedication to ensuring farmers and ranchers had their voices heard in Washington, D.C. &nbsp; County Farm Bureaus and volunteers were recognized for their 2020 achievements.

NW Kan. farmers named to board of Kansas Farm Bureau

No appointment necessary — taking pictures as pets come. Please remember be mindful of social distancing while waiting your turn.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607448337288.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>No appointment necessary — taking pictures as pets come. Please remember be mindful of social distancing while waiting your turn.

Pet pix with Santa to benefit new WaKeeney dog park

The directions to a desolate farmstead northwest of Syracuse led me through mile-after-mile of huge open crop fields and immense rocky pastures where the only green plant life seemed to be seas of thriving Yuca. Occasionally, buildings appeared on the horizon several miles away only to disappear behind the next hill. If I wasn’t in the middle of nowhere, it was certainly just over the next rise.

I traveled here to spend a couple days with a friend, John Borror and to help him on his western KS trapline. There in cattle country, ranchers rely on trapping to help control coyotes and other predators that prey of young spring calves. I finally spotted the grain bins he told me to look for and drove back a long dusty lane to find his trailer set up in front a big hay shed. He converted a long horse trailer into living quarters in the front and storage for freezers and trapping supplies in the rear.&nbsp;

John has trapped around his home in southeastern KS since he was a kid. When he married and started a family, his responsibility as a husband and a dad, plus a full-time job forced a lot of his trapping to be done in the dark, either before or after work. In 2010, with his 4 girls long-since on their own, and retired from his job, John began pursuing a dream of running long, extensive trap lines in other states. The first was in Arizona, then New Mexico and Texas and this was his third-year trapping around Syracuse, KS.&nbsp;

Each morning was a new adventure as we wound our way from trap site to trap site. Traps near the barely-flowing Arkansas River yielded mostly bobcats and an occasional coyote that travel the weedy field edges and tractor paths lined with dead tamaracks as they hunt for rabbits and other small game. Farther from the river, traps placed along crop land where field edges meet weedy cover or CRP, and in field corners that are natural “funnel” areas from one type of habitat to another, catch traveling coyotes, swift foxes and badgers. In the immense, sprawling, rocky rolling tracts of land known in that country as pastures, traps set at gateways, along cattle trails and in corners also catch coyotes, swift foxes and badgers. All these trap sites also attract occasional skunks that live in borrowed burrows, and raccoons that live who-knows-where since trees out there are as scarce as rain. At last estimate, John has trapping permission on nearly 40, 000 acres of land around the Syracuse area. One wonders how that amount of land could be trapped, but a 1,000-acre pasture might only have suitable sites for ten or a dozen traps, mostly at gateways and around edges.&nbsp;

At the end of each day, animals are skinned and the pelts layered carefully in a big freezer until he can finish them later. Numerous other parts of the animal are used also; various glands are harvested for making predator trapping bait, skulls of all animals except coyotes are kept to be cleaned and sold to colleges for studies and to collectors, entire bobcat carcasses are frozen, also to be used in making predator bait and bobcat paws are kept for sale to jewelry makers who use the claws.

John figures he has harvested well over one thousand animals on his extensive out-of-state and western KS trap lines. The most exciting was a mountain lion caught in Arizona that was released back into the wild with the help of Arizona wildlife officers. John has also put together a collection of more than 350 antique traps that can be seen at the Wilson County Old Iron Club in Fredonia, KS.

When I asked him why he travels all those miles to trap, he replied “From my years of trapping at home, I know each year where I will set each trap, and it gets repetitive, more like a job, so I like to see and trap new places.” When I left John a week ago, he had caught 70 coyotes, 9 badgers, 8 raccoons, 6 swift foxes, 6 skunks and a porcupine. Wild fur is a self-sustaining crop that will yield these same number of animals each year, forever, if properly managed…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>The directions to a desolate farmstead northwest of Syracuse led me through mile-after-mile of huge open crop fields and immense rocky pastures where the only green plant life seemed to be seas of thriving Yuca. Occasionally, buildings appeared on the horizon several miles away only to disappear behind the next hill. If I wasn’t in the middle of nowhere, it was certainly just over the next rise.I traveled here to spend a couple days with a friend, John Borror and to help him on his western KS trapline. There in cattle country, ranchers rely on trapping to help control coyotes and other predators that prey of young spring calves. I finally spotted the grain bins he told me to look for and drove back a long dusty lane to find his trailer set up in front a big hay shed. He converted a long horse trailer into living quarters in the front and storage for freezers and trapping supplies in the rear.&nbsp;John has trapped around his home in southeastern KS since he was a kid. When he married and started a family, his responsibility as a husband and a dad, plus a full-time job forced a lot of his trapping to be done in the dark, either before or after work. In 2010, with his 4 girls long-since on their own, and retired from his job, John began pursuing a dream of running long, extensive trap lines in other states. The first was in Arizona, then New Mexico and Texas and this was his third-year trapping around Syracuse, KS.&nbsp;Each morning was a new adventure as we wound our way from trap site to trap site. Traps near the barely-flowing Arkansas River yielded mostly bobcats and an occasional coyote that travel the weedy field edges and tractor paths lined with dead tamaracks as they hunt for rabbits and other small game. Farther from the river, traps placed along crop land where field edges meet weedy cover or CRP, and in field corners that are natural “funnel” areas from one type of habitat to another, catch traveling coyotes, swift foxes and badgers. In the immense, sprawling, rocky rolling tracts of land known in that country as pastures, traps set at gateways, along cattle trails and in corners also catch coyotes, swift foxes and badgers. All these trap sites also attract occasional skunks that live in borrowed burrows, and raccoons that live who-knows-where since trees out there are as scarce as rain. At last estimate, John has trapping permission on nearly 40, 000 acres of land around the Syracuse area. One wonders how that amount of land could be trapped, but a 1,000-acre pasture might only have suitable sites for ten or a dozen traps, mostly at gateways and around edges.&nbsp;At the end of each day, animals are skinned and the pelts layered carefully in a big freezer until he can finish them later. Numerous other parts of the animal are used also; various glands are harvested for making predator trapping bait, skulls of all animals except coyotes are kept to be cleaned and sold to colleges for studies and to collectors, entire bobcat carcasses are frozen, also to be used in making predator bait and bobcat paws are kept for sale to jewelry makers who use the claws.John figures he has harvested well over one thousand animals on his extensive out-of-state and western KS trap lines. The most exciting was a mountain lion caught in Arizona that was released back into the wild with the help of Arizona wildlife officers. John has also put together a collection of more than 350 antique traps that can be seen at the Wilson County Old Iron Club in Fredonia, KS.When I asked him why he travels all those miles to trap, he replied “From my years of trapping at home, I know each year where I will set each trap, and it gets repetitive, more like a job, so I like to see and trap new places.” When I left John a week ago, he had caught 70 coyotes, 9 badgers, 8 raccoons, 6 swift foxes, 6 skunks and a porcupine. Wild fur is a self-sustaining crop that will yield these same number of animals each year, forever, if properly managed…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Trapping the Wild West

The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell from 31 on Monday to 22 on Wednesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c57b0ee6-7e92-4319-a7ed-3a0947cc8375">RELATED:&nbsp;Ellis Co. Health Department announces expanded drive-through testing</a>

There were 71 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday. There are currently 432 active cases in the county, including 19 active hospitalizations of 19 Ellis County residents — up 10 since Monday. There have been 2,318 recovered cases.

As of Wednesday, there were 33 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 28 on Tuesday, with 29 of those active patients and four in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 27.9 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 2,778 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 coronavirus-related deaths.

Of the total 14,456 tests administered, 18.1 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607537870829.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell from 31 on Monday to 22 on Wednesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c57b0ee6-7e92-4319-a7ed-3a0947cc8375">RELATED:&nbsp;Ellis Co. Health Department announces expanded drive-through testing</a>There were 71 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday. There are currently 432 active cases in the county, including 19 active hospitalizations of 19 Ellis County residents — up 10 since Monday. There have been 2,318 recovered cases.As of Wednesday, there were 33 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, up from 28 on Tuesday, with 29 of those active patients and four in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 27.9 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 2,778 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 coronavirus-related deaths.Of the total 14,456 tests administered, 18.1 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607549779191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><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 virus rate falls in Ellis Co.; 71 new cases reported

Ellis USD 388 and Hays USD 489 will follow the&nbsp;Kansas High School Activities Association ruling Tuesday regarding spectators.

The districts will allow up to two parents or guardians per participant family to attend winter sports events and other activities.

KSHSAA had originally ruled winter activities would proceed without fans, but that decision was appealed.&nbsp;

KSHSAA's latest ruling on spectators will be in effect from&nbsp;Dec. 10 through Jan. 28.

Ellis High School has a wrestling tournament Friday, and the new rules will be in effect for that event for both visitors and the home team, said Donna Schmidt, Ellis High School principal.

Participants will provide the school with the names of the family members attending in lieu of tickets for the tournament Friday.

The Ellis school district will also continue to follow directives from the Ellis County Health Department, Schmidt said.

"We want to remind spectators to wear masks and observe social distancing and follow the mask mandate," Schmidt said.

Superintendent Ron Wilson of Hays USD 489 said Wednesday the district is still ironing out the details of the new policy.

The district hopes to release that policy Monday. Hays High School's next home varsity basketball game will be Friday, Dec. 18.

Kent Michel, superintendent of Victoria USD 432, said late Tuesday he needed to consult with his athletic director on the policy and also planned to discuss the issue with the school board at its next meeting.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis USD 388 and Hays USD 489 will follow the&nbsp;Kansas High School Activities Association ruling Tuesday regarding spectators.The districts will allow up to two parents or guardians per participant family to attend winter sports events and other activities.KSHSAA had originally ruled winter activities would proceed without fans, but that decision was appealed.&nbsp;KSHSAA's latest ruling on spectators will be in effect from&nbsp;Dec. 10 through Jan. 28.Ellis High School has a wrestling tournament Friday, and the new rules will be in effect for that event for both visitors and the home team, said Donna Schmidt, Ellis High School principal.Participants will provide the school with the names of the family members attending in lieu of tickets for the tournament Friday.The Ellis school district will also continue to follow directives from the Ellis County Health Department, Schmidt said."We want to remind spectators to wear masks and observe social distancing and follow the mask mandate," Schmidt said.<h2>Hays</h2>Superintendent Ron Wilson of Hays USD 489 said Wednesday the district is still ironing out the details of the new policy.The district hopes to release that policy Monday. Hays High School's next home varsity basketball game will be Friday, Dec. 18.<h2>Victoria</h2>Kent Michel, superintendent of Victoria USD 432, said late Tuesday he needed to consult with his athletic director on the policy and also planned to discuss the issue with the school board at its next meeting.

Ellis, Hays to allow 2 parents/guardians at sports events

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