By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH, Associated Press

The radiology technician slept in an RV in the parking lot of his rural Kansas hospital for more than a week because his co-workers were out sick with COVID-19 and no one else was available to take X-rays.

A doctor and physician assistant tested positive on the same day in November, briefly leaving the hospital without anyone who could write prescriptions or oversee patient care. The hospital is full, but diverting patients isn’t an option because surrounding medical centers are overwhelmed.

The situation at Rush County Memorial Hospital in La Crosse illustrates the depths of the COVID-19 crisis in rural America at a time when the virus is killing more than 2,000 people a day and inundating hospitals.

The virus is sidelining nurses, doctors and medical staff nationwide, but the problem is particularly dire in rural communities like La Crosse because they don’t have much of a bullpen - or many places to send patients with regional hospitals full.

The staff shortages have forced people like Eric Lewallen, a Gulf War veteran and alfalfa farmer who moonlights as a radiology technician, to mount a last line of defense. To keep the hospital open, he had no choice but to start living in his RV in the parking lot because he needed to be on site as the only remaining healthy staffer to perform X-rays.

“I’m it,” Lewallen said shortly after begging the hospital laundry staff to start washing his scrubs because he had run out of clean ones.

“To keep a critical access hospital open, you have to have X-ray and lab functioning,” he said. “If one of those go down, you go on diversion and you lose your ER at that point. We don’t want that to happen, especially for the community.”

La Crosse, a town of 1,300 people that dubs itself as the “Barbed Wire Capital of the World” and is home to a barbed wire museum, is like many small towns struggling with the virus. Case numbers have soared, there’s an outbreak at the nursing home, and its county has opted out of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s latest mask mandate.

And there are few larger medical centers to send its sickest patients with the rest of the region also overrun by the virus.

The larger Hays Medical Center, which is just 25 miles (40.23 kilometers) away from La Crosse, was always willing to take patients that needed more advanced care in the past. But it turned away 103 transfers in November alone. In the 14 years prior, it had rejected transfers just twice, said Dr. Heather Harris, the medical director there.

Physician assistant Kai Englert was able to fill in for six days at La Crosse, overseeing several COVID-19 patients, one of whom died after no larger hospital would take the patient. The La Crosse hospital doesn’t have a ventilator and the oxygen it provided wasn’t sufficient with the patient’s “chest full of COVID.” But Englert doubts more advanced would have made much difference because the patient was so sick.

He said the message from large hospitals is: “We are not going to waste a bed on someone who is going to die anyway. They can die in a small town and that is the sad reality of the situation.”

In November, the hospital had to close its attached clinic and turn to a temporary staffing agency to keep the emergency room open after the doctor and physician assistant tested positive for the virus on the same day. The nurse practitioner was also out on medical leave. Currently, a certified nursing assistant is quarantining, and at least two other nurses tested positive previously.

The doctor and physician assistant returned Thursday after finishing their quarantine and were swamped with a backlog of patients.

Michael Cooper, the hospital’s CEO, said it was a stroke of luck that he could find anyone to fill in while they were gone given the level of strain on the state’s hospitals. According to the Kansas Hospital Association, 42% of them are reporting staffing shortages.

“You go through your contingency plans and in the back of your mind you are thinking, ‘I am going to have to go on diversion and find a bed for these patients in a time where there are no beds to be found anywhere in the state,’” he said. “That is the crisis that I was really concerned about. If I can’t find a provider that can check on these patients then I am going to have to get rid of these patients. And there is no where to send them.”

Cooper said he would like to have more nurses, too, because of the volume of patients the hospital is treating, but staffing agencies are charging $140 to $240 an hour. “That is more than I pay my doctor.” Instead he is encouraging overtime, which is up about 20 or 25%.

Some of the nurses have taken him up on the offer, working a week straight as the virus surges in the county of 3,300 residents.

“We just kind of piece it together,” said Jolene Morgan, a registered nurse who suspects she contracted the illness in September. She quarantined for 14 days, although she was never tested.

Lewallen, the radiology technician, acknowledges it might get worse but said everyone is working hard from the kitchen and laundry staff to the nurses. The veteran is trying to keep the proper perspective after his experience in the military.

“It’s not like anyone shooting at us or anything, so I am confident we will get through it alright. It will just be a tough spell for awhile,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607431447900.png" alt="Photo courtesy Rush County Memorial Hospital" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Rush County Memorial Hospital</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH, Associated PressThe radiology technician slept in an RV in the parking lot of his rural Kansas hospital for more than a week because his co-workers were out sick with COVID-19 and no one else was available to take X-rays.A doctor and physician assistant tested positive on the same day in November, briefly leaving the hospital without anyone who could write prescriptions or oversee patient care. The hospital is full, but diverting patients isn’t an option because surrounding medical centers are overwhelmed.The situation at Rush County Memorial Hospital in La Crosse illustrates the depths of the COVID-19 crisis in rural America at a time when the virus is killing more than 2,000 people a day and inundating hospitals.The virus is sidelining nurses, doctors and medical staff nationwide, but the problem is particularly dire in rural communities like La Crosse because they don’t have much of a bullpen - or many places to send patients with regional hospitals full.The staff shortages have forced people like Eric Lewallen, a Gulf War veteran and alfalfa farmer who moonlights as a radiology technician, to mount a last line of defense. To keep the hospital open, he had no choice but to start living in his RV in the parking lot because he needed to be on site as the only remaining healthy staffer to perform X-rays.“I’m it,” Lewallen said shortly after begging the hospital laundry staff to start washing his scrubs because he had run out of clean ones.“To keep a critical access hospital open, you have to have X-ray and lab functioning,” he said. “If one of those go down, you go on diversion and you lose your ER at that point. We don’t want that to happen, especially for the community.”La Crosse, a town of 1,300 people that dubs itself as the “Barbed Wire Capital of the World” and is home to a barbed wire museum, is like many small towns struggling with the virus. Case numbers have soared, there’s an outbreak at the nursing home, and its county has opted out of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s latest mask mandate.And there are few larger medical centers to send its sickest patients with the rest of the region also overrun by the virus.The larger Hays Medical Center, which is just 25 miles (40.23 kilometers) away from La Crosse, was always willing to take patients that needed more advanced care in the past. But it turned away 103 transfers in November alone. In the 14 years prior, it had rejected transfers just twice, said Dr. Heather Harris, the medical director there.Physician assistant Kai Englert was able to fill in for six days at La Crosse, overseeing several COVID-19 patients, one of whom died after no larger hospital would take the patient. The La Crosse hospital doesn’t have a ventilator and the oxygen it provided wasn’t sufficient with the patient’s “chest full of COVID.” But Englert doubts more advanced would have made much difference because the patient was so sick.He said the message from large hospitals is: “We are not going to waste a bed on someone who is going to die anyway. They can die in a small town and that is the sad reality of the situation.”In November, the hospital had to close its attached clinic and turn to a temporary staffing agency to keep the emergency room open after the doctor and physician assistant tested positive for the virus on the same day. The nurse practitioner was also out on medical leave. Currently, a certified nursing assistant is quarantining, and at least two other nurses tested positive previously.The doctor and physician assistant returned Thursday after finishing their quarantine and were swamped with a backlog of patients.Michael Cooper, the hospital’s CEO, said it was a stroke of luck that he could find anyone to fill in while they were gone given the level of strain on the state’s hospitals. According to the Kansas Hospital Association, 42% of them are reporting staffing shortages.“You go through your contingency plans and in the back of your mind you are thinking, ‘I am going to have to go on diversion and find a bed for these patients in a time where there are no beds to be found anywhere in the state,’” he said. “That is the crisis that I was really concerned about. If I can’t find a provider that can check on these patients then I am going to have to get rid of these patients. And there is no where to send them.”Cooper said he would like to have more nurses, too, because of the volume of patients the hospital is treating, but staffing agencies are charging $140 to $240 an hour. “That is more than I pay my doctor.” Instead he is encouraging overtime, which is up about 20 or 25%.Some of the nurses have taken him up on the offer, working a week straight as the virus surges in the county of 3,300 residents.“We just kind of piece it together,” said Jolene Morgan, a registered nurse who suspects she contracted the illness in September. She quarantined for 14 days, although she was never tested.Lewallen, the radiology technician, acknowledges it might get worse but said everyone is working hard from the kitchen and laundry staff to the nurses. The veteran is trying to keep the proper perspective after his experience in the military.“It’s not like anyone shooting at us or anything, so I am confident we will get through it alright. It will just be a tough spell for awhile,” he said.

As virus spreads, Rush County hospital runs out of staff

The Kansas High School Activities Association on Tuesday voted to allow some family members to attend winter sports events and other activities.&nbsp;

The motion, which passed 54-24, states that, effective Dec. 10 through Jan. 28, interscholastic activities will allow up to two parents/guardians per student participant family, as allowed by the local school board or health department.&nbsp;

Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575374397201.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas High School Activities Association on Tuesday voted to allow some family members to attend winter sports events and other activities.&nbsp;The motion, which passed 54-24, states that, effective Dec. 10 through Jan. 28, interscholastic activities will allow up to two parents/guardians per student participant family, as allowed by the local school board or health department.&nbsp;Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

BREAKING: KSHSAA will allow parents/guardians to attend events

Midwest Energy announced Tuesday it will close all walk-in offices for the remainder of 2020 due to high COVID-19 numbers in the counties it serves.&nbsp; &nbsp;

“We’re doing this as a precaution to safeguard our employees, as well as members of the public,” said Bob Muirhead, Midwest Energy’s Vice President of Customer Service. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Muirhead noted that every function customers perform at the walk-in offices can be completed over the phone or on the company’s website, <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com">www.mwenergy.com</a>, except for one — cash transactions. &nbsp;

“You can start or stop service online, or by calling us at 1-800-222-3121,” Muirhead said.&nbsp; “The majority of our walk-in traffic is people paying their monthly bills, which can be done online by bank draft or credit card, or people can pay with check or money order, either by mail or in one of our drop box locations,” he said.&nbsp; Muirhead cautioned that customers should never send cash in the mail, and never put cash in a drop box. &nbsp;

While some Midwest Energy office employees are reporting to work as normal, others who have jobs that can be performed remotely are working from home.&nbsp; Electric and natural gas employees are minimizing their time in offices and warehouses, completing work orders remotely and riding one person per vehicle.&nbsp; The control center is always staffed 24/7, and electric and natural gas emergencies can always be reported by calling 1-800-222-3121. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy has walk-in locations in eight cities:&nbsp; Atwood, Colby, Great Bend, Hays, Hoxie, Phillipsburg, Scott City and WaKeeney.&nbsp; The company will continue to monitor COVID case numbers in the 40 counties it serves, and will re-open offices when it is safer to do so. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MWEMidwest Energy announced Tuesday it will close all walk-in offices for the remainder of 2020 due to high COVID-19 numbers in the counties it serves.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We’re doing this as a precaution to safeguard our employees, as well as members of the public,” said Bob Muirhead, Midwest Energy’s Vice President of Customer Service. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Muirhead noted that every function customers perform at the walk-in offices can be completed over the phone or on the company’s website, <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com">www.mwenergy.com</a>, except for one — cash transactions. &nbsp;“You can start or stop service online, or by calling us at 1-800-222-3121,” Muirhead said.&nbsp; “The majority of our walk-in traffic is people paying their monthly bills, which can be done online by bank draft or credit card, or people can pay with check or money order, either by mail or in one of our drop box locations,” he said.&nbsp; Muirhead cautioned that customers should never send cash in the mail, and never put cash in a drop box. &nbsp;While some Midwest Energy office employees are reporting to work as normal, others who have jobs that can be performed remotely are working from home.&nbsp; Electric and natural gas employees are minimizing their time in offices and warehouses, completing work orders remotely and riding one person per vehicle.&nbsp; The control center is always staffed 24/7, and electric and natural gas emergencies can always be reported by calling 1-800-222-3121. &nbsp;Midwest Energy has walk-in locations in eight cities:&nbsp; Atwood, Colby, Great Bend, Hays, Hoxie, Phillipsburg, Scott City and WaKeeney.&nbsp; The company will continue to monitor COVID case numbers in the 40 counties it serves, and will re-open offices when it is safer to do so. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy walk-in offices closed the remainder of 2020

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🎙 Post Podcast: Chamber Cheques available at Hays Chamber office

Submit a photo of your outdoor Christmas lights and decorations and you could win a special prize bundle that includes $100 Saint Nick's certificate.

<div> <script src="https://embed-750719.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="dcab88e4-89e0-43bb-8851-769ec70e861c" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>Submit a photo of your outdoor Christmas lights and decorations and you could win a special prize bundle that includes $100 Saint Nick's certificate.

Saint Nick's Christmas Lights Photo Contest

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Mon., Nov. 30, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2:54 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1700 block Hall St, Hays; 11/27 10 PM; 11/28 5 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Fire—100 block W 24th St, Hays; 11:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2600 block &nbsp;E 7th St,
Hays; 9 PM; 12 PM 
Battery – Domestic--800 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:35 PM; 12:39 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:52 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance--2900 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 1:09 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—1700 block Elm St, Hays;1:21 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 2:15 PM; 2:20 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—1000 block E 29th St, Hays; 3:30 PM; 3:35 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—2100 block Wheatland Ave, Hays; 3:55 PM; 4:15 PM 
Unwanted Person—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:26 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 6 traffic stops Tue., Dec. 1, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Assist - Other (not MV)—1500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:43
AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Hall St, Hays; 8:43 AM 
Theft (general)—4500 block Jagger Ct, Hays; 10:24 AM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10 AM; 10:31 AM 
Theft (general)—3400 block Rodeway Inn St, Hays; 11/20; 11/21 
Burglary/storage unit—2000 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Sex Offense—Hays; 2:26 PM 
Civil Transport—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 4:38 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Oak St, Hays; 6:02 PM; 6:04 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 7:57 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Wed., Dec. 2, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Lost Animals ONLY—100 block W 25th St, Hays; 8:39 AM 
Theft (general)—1000 block E 41st St, Hays;9:17 AM 
Animal Injured--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:55 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 11th St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 11/18
2 PM; 3:30 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:19 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block W 25th St, Hays; 4:18 PM 
Theft (general)—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 12/1 9 PM; 12/2 4:30 PM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11/10 12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--100 block W 17th St, Hays; 9:11 PM 
Unwanted Person—200 block 10th, Hays; 10:15 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Thu., Dec. 3, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:23 AM 
Suspicious Activity--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 12:42 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:39 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Toulon Ave, Hays; 10:05 AM 
Trash Dumping—400 block E 9th St, Hays; 10:44 AM 
Found/Lost Property--1000 block &nbsp;E 8th
St, Hays; 11:57 AM 
44 - Traffic Stop--100 block &nbsp;E 12th St,
Hays; 12:45 PM 
Search Warrant—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 1:03 PM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1:29 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:29 PM 
Overdose--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:44 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 6 PM 
Criminal Threat—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:54 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—4600 block Jefferson Dr, Hays; 10:04 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 11:33 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Fri., Dec. 4, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving Under the Influence-- 200 block E 6th St, Hays; 1:52
AM; 1:54 AM 
Burglary/storage unit-- 2003 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 12/1 AM; 11 AM 
Unwanted Person—1000 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:04 AM; 10:06 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 11:37 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1:26 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 11th St, Hays; 2:34 PM 
Shoplifting—1600 block Main St, Hays; 2:44 PM 
Civil Dispute--33rd and Vine, Hays; 2 PM; 2:30 PM 
Mental Health Call—Hays; 3:33 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--800 block Elm St, Hays; 3:52 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:56
PM 
44 - Traffic Stop—700 block Vine St, Hays; 5:48 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 10:31 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--300 block W 48th St, Hays; 10:46 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Ash St, Hays; 11:12 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 16 traffic stops Sat., Dec. 5, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disturbance – Noise—1700 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 12:01
AM 
Domestic Disturbance—1900 block E 24th St, Hays; 12:03 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--2400 block Fort St, Hays; 1:27 AM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:01 AM; 2:22 AM 
Battery – simple—1400 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 2:08 AM 
Battery – simple—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1 AM; 1:30 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Walnut St, Hays; 2:58 AM 
Battery – Domestic--200 block E 17th St, Hays; 3:30 AM; 5:08 AM 
Shoplifting—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 8:44 AM; 8:45 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:02 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 11th St, Hays; 3:45 PM; 3:55 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Sun., Dec. 6, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV Accident-Hit and Run--1900 block&nbsp;MacArthur Rd, Hays;&nbsp;3:20 PM Disturbance - General--2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:07 AM Mental Health Call--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:49 AM Driving Under the Influence--600 block Fort St, Hays;&nbsp;1:45 AM; 1:46 AM Credit Card Violations--500 block W 7th St, Hays;&nbsp;12:40 AM; 1:30 AM Burglary/vehicle--400 block W 6th St, Hays;&nbsp;2:46 AM; 2:49 AM Criminal Threat--800 block E 8th St, Hays;&nbsp;2:41 AM; 2:44 AM Overdose--400 block W 6th St, Hays;&nbsp;3:01 AM Burglary/vehicle--400 block W 8th St, Hays;&nbsp;3 AM; 3:53 AM Theft of Vehicle--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;2:45 AM; 3:06 AM Burglary/vehicle--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;2:45 AM; 2:58 AM Found/Lost Property--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;9:12 AM Sex Offense--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:20 PM MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--1700 block E 22nd St, Hays;&nbsp;10:15 AM; 12:29 PM Violation of City Ordinance --1900 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;2:12 PM Animal At Large--1100 block Downing Ave, Hays;&nbsp;2:48 PM Stolen/Recovered Property--1000 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;3:15 PM Welfare Check--1300 block Oak St, Hays;&nbsp;5:14 PM Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 16th St, Hays;&nbsp;5:27 PM Lost Animals ONLY--3700 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays;&nbsp;6:27 PM Unwanted Person--3400 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;8:14 PM Harassment, Telephone/FAX--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;9:41 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 7 traffic stops Mon., Nov. 30, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2:54 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1700 block Hall St, Hays; 11/27 10 PM; 11/28 5 AM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Fire—100 block W 24th St, Hays; 11:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2600 block &nbsp;E 7th St,
Hays; 9 PM; 12 PM 
Battery – Domestic--800 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:35 PM; 12:39 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:52 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance--2900 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 1:09 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—1700 block Elm St, Hays;1:21 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 2:15 PM; 2:20 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—1000 block E 29th St, Hays; 3:30 PM; 3:35 PM 
Violation of City Ordinance—2100 block Wheatland Ave, Hays; 3:55 PM; 4:15 PM 
Unwanted Person—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:26 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 6 traffic stops Tue., Dec. 1, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Assist - Other (not MV)—1500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:43
AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Hall St, Hays; 8:43 AM 
Theft (general)—4500 block Jagger Ct, Hays; 10:24 AM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 10 AM; 10:31 AM 
Theft (general)—3400 block Rodeway Inn St, Hays; 11/20; 11/21 
Burglary/storage unit—2000 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Sex Offense—Hays; 2:26 PM 
Civil Transport—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 4:38 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Oak St, Hays; 6:02 PM; 6:04 PM 
Suicidal Subject—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 7:57 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Wed., Dec. 2, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Lost Animals ONLY—100 block W 25th St, Hays; 8:39 AM 
Theft (general)—1000 block E 41st St, Hays;9:17 AM 
Animal Injured--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:55 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 11th St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 11/18
2 PM; 3:30 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:19 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block W 25th St, Hays; 4:18 PM 
Theft (general)—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 12/1 9 PM; 12/2 4:30 PM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11/10 12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--100 block W 17th St, Hays; 9:11 PM 
Unwanted Person—200 block 10th, Hays; 10:15 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 11 traffic stops Thu., Dec. 3, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:23 AM 
Suspicious Activity--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 12:42 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:39 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Toulon Ave, Hays; 10:05 AM 
Trash Dumping—400 block E 9th St, Hays; 10:44 AM 
Found/Lost Property--1000 block &nbsp;E 8th
St, Hays; 11:57 AM 
44 - Traffic Stop--100 block &nbsp;E 12th St,
Hays; 12:45 PM 
Search Warrant—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 1:03 PM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1:29 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:29 PM 
Overdose--200 block W 6th St, Hays; 3:44 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 6 PM 
Criminal Threat—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:54 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—4600 block Jefferson Dr, Hays; 10:04 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 11:33 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Fri., Dec. 4, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving Under the Influence-- 200 block E 6th St, Hays; 1:52
AM; 1:54 AM 
Burglary/storage unit-- 2003 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 12/1 AM; 11 AM 
Unwanted Person—1000 block W 27th St, Hays; 10:04 AM; 10:06 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 11:37 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block E 41st St, Hays; 1:26 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 11th St, Hays; 2:34 PM 
Shoplifting—1600 block Main St, Hays; 2:44 PM 
Civil Dispute--33rd and Vine, Hays; 2 PM; 2:30 PM 
Mental Health Call—Hays; 3:33 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--800 block Elm St, Hays; 3:52 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 4:56
PM 
44 - Traffic Stop—700 block Vine St, Hays; 5:48 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 10:31 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--300 block W 48th St, Hays; 10:46 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Ash St, Hays; 11:12 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 16 traffic stops Sat., Dec. 5, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disturbance – Noise—1700 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 12:01
AM 
Domestic Disturbance—1900 block E 24th St, Hays; 12:03 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--2400 block Fort St, Hays; 1:27 AM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--400 block W 6th St, Hays; 2:01 AM; 2:22 AM 
Battery – simple—1400 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 2:08 AM 
Battery – simple—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1 AM; 1:30 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Walnut St, Hays; 2:58 AM 
Battery – Domestic--200 block E 17th St, Hays; 3:30 AM; 5:08 AM 
Shoplifting—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 8:44 AM; 8:45 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:02 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:51 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—500 block E 11th St, Hays; 3:45 PM; 3:55 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 5 traffic stops Sun., Dec. 6, 2020, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV Accident-Hit and Run--1900 block&nbsp;MacArthur Rd, Hays;&nbsp;3:20 PM Disturbance - General--2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:07 AM Mental Health Call--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:49 AM Driving Under the Influence--600 block Fort St, Hays;&nbsp;1:45 AM; 1:46 AM Credit Card Violations--500 block W 7th St, Hays;&nbsp;12:40 AM; 1:30 AM Burglary/vehicle--400 block W 6th St, Hays;&nbsp;2:46 AM; 2:49 AM Criminal Threat--800 block E 8th St, Hays;&nbsp;2:41 AM; 2:44 AM Overdose--400 block W 6th St, Hays;&nbsp;3:01 AM Burglary/vehicle--400 block W 8th St, Hays;&nbsp;3 AM; 3:53 AM Theft of Vehicle--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;2:45 AM; 3:06 AM Burglary/vehicle--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;2:45 AM; 2:58 AM Found/Lost Property--500 block Walnut St, Hays;&nbsp;9:12 AM Sex Offense--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;12:20 PM MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--1700 block E 22nd St, Hays;&nbsp;10:15 AM; 12:29 PM Violation of City Ordinance --1900 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;2:12 PM Animal At Large--1100 block Downing Ave, Hays;&nbsp;2:48 PM Stolen/Recovered Property--1000 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;3:15 PM Welfare Check--1300 block Oak St, Hays;&nbsp;5:14 PM Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 16th St, Hays;&nbsp;5:27 PM Lost Animals ONLY--3700 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays;&nbsp;6:27 PM Unwanted Person--3400 block Vine St, Hays;&nbsp;8:14 PM Harassment, Telephone/FAX--1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays;&nbsp;9:41 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
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HPD Activity Log, Nov. 30-Dec. 6

There’s much for Bob Davis to unpack in 48 years of broadcasting, and he does so in his recently released book "The Dream is Real: My Life on the Airwaves."

Davis, who spent 16 years at KAYS radio in Hays broadcasting Hays High, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Fort Hays State athletics, collaborated with Hays native Jeff Bollig to produce the retrospective of his hall of fame career. The book also includes contributions from more than 50 individuals who intersected with Davis — including a former Sunday school student, coaches, athletes, broadcasting peers and friends.

The book is available online at Amazon.com and will be in select Dillons Stores by Dec. 22 including Hays, Lawrence, Topeka, and Dillons Marketplace Stores in Wichita, Andover and Derby.  

The title of the book is based on the line Davis uttered as time expired in the 1988 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship won by Kansas.

“I’ve always considered myself a storyteller, so this was my way of doing so — but in a different medium than I had for 48 years,” Davis said. “While the book follows the chronology of my life, that just provides the platform for documenting history, sharing humorous stories and highlighting interesting people I’ve encountered during my career. It was a fun project, especially working with Jeff who has been such a good friend for so many years.”

Davis’s love of sports and storytelling was sparked at an early age, accompanying his father, who was the local sports editor, to the games of the Independence (Kan.) Yankees, a Class D team in the Kansas-Oklahoma-Missouri League. The star of the team was a 17-year-old shortstop by the name of Mickey Mantle. Fast forward to his college days where he decided to quit law school after one year and pursue broadcasting.

Davis' first job was at KAYS in 1968 as a disc jockey and camera operator. His big break came when sports director Keith Cummings took a job in Lansing, Mich., three months after Davis arrived. He was promoted to sports director.

“I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time,” Davis said. “I thought I’d only be in Hays a few years then move on. But KAYS was such a good station, Bob Schmidt was a wonderful boss and I got to broadcast many games — so I stayed 16 years. I tell people I was born in southeast Kansas, went to junior high and high school in eastern Kansas, but I grew up in Hays. It’s where I got my start, met my wife and we had our child. I loved Hays and its people.”

In 1984, Davis was named Voice of the Kansas Jayhawks, a position he held for 32 years until 2016. He also spent 16 years as sports director at KMBZ radio in Kansas City and 16 years broadcasting the Kansas City Royals. He retired from the Royals following the 2012 season. In his career, he was selected to the Kansas sports and broadcasters halls of fame. He is a 14-time Kansas Sportscaster of the Year.

“I’ve been blessed,” said Davis, who resides in Lawrence. “I’ve gotten to do what I dreamed of doing since I was a child. Plus I’ve met so many great people along the way. It’s been a wonderful life, as Jimmy Stewart said.”

Bollig is a 1980 Hays High graduate, attended Fort Hays State as a freshman and graduated from Kansas. It is there where he actually met Davis working as a student assistant in the Jayhawk athletic department.

“I joke with Bob that he was too much of a star for me to approach him while he was in Hays,” Bollig said. “I had a few opportunities to meet him, but I was just too reserved and nervous. It is a bit ironic because working at KU as a student then later at full-time we were in contact frequently and became very close. He’s just great to be around. He’s a wonderful person and incredibly funny. To do the book with him was certainly a highlight.”

Bollig, who lives in Olathe, has co-authored two other books — "Beware of the Phog: 50 Years of Allen Fieldhouse" and "What it Means to be a Jayhawk."

Davis and Bollig plan to be in Hays for a book signing when the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. More information on the book can be found at www.BobDavisTheDreamIsReal.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607357743851.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Special to Hays PostThere’s much for Bob Davis to unpack in 48 years of broadcasting, and he does so in his recently released book "The Dream is Real: My Life on the Airwaves."Davis, who spent 16 years at KAYS radio in Hays broadcasting Hays High, Thomas More Prep-Marian and Fort Hays State athletics, collaborated with Hays native Jeff Bollig to produce the retrospective of his hall of fame career. The book also includes contributions from more than 50 individuals who intersected with Davis — including a former Sunday school student, coaches, athletes, broadcasting peers and friends.The book is available online at Amazon.com and will be in select Dillons Stores by Dec. 22 including Hays, Lawrence, Topeka, and Dillons Marketplace Stores in Wichita, Andover and Derby. The title of the book is based on the line Davis uttered as time expired in the 1988 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship won by Kansas.“I’ve always considered myself a storyteller, so this was my way of doing so — but in a different medium than I had for 48 years,” Davis said. “While the book follows the chronology of my life, that just provides the platform for documenting history, sharing humorous stories and highlighting interesting people I’ve encountered during my career. It was a fun project, especially working with Jeff who has been such a good friend for so many years.”Davis’s love of sports and storytelling was sparked at an early age, accompanying his father, who was the local sports editor, to the games of the Independence (Kan.) Yankees, a Class D team in the Kansas-Oklahoma-Missouri League. The star of the team was a 17-year-old shortstop by the name of Mickey Mantle. Fast forward to his college days where he decided to quit law school after one year and pursue broadcasting.Davis' first job was at KAYS in 1968 as a disc jockey and camera operator. His big break came when sports director Keith Cummings took a job in Lansing, Mich., three months after Davis arrived. He was promoted to sports director.“I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time,” Davis said. “I thought I’d only be in Hays a few years then move on. But KAYS was such a good station, Bob Schmidt was a wonderful boss and I got to broadcast many games — so I stayed 16 years. I tell people I was born in southeast Kansas, went to junior high and high school in eastern Kansas, but I grew up in Hays. It’s where I got my start, met my wife and we had our child. I loved Hays and its people.”In 1984, Davis was named Voice of the Kansas Jayhawks, a position he held for 32 years until 2016. He also spent 16 years as sports director at KMBZ radio in Kansas City and 16 years broadcasting the Kansas City Royals. He retired from the Royals following the 2012 season. In his career, he was selected to the Kansas sports and broadcasters halls of fame. He is a 14-time Kansas Sportscaster of the Year.“I’ve been blessed,” said Davis, who resides in Lawrence. “I’ve gotten to do what I dreamed of doing since I was a child. Plus I’ve met so many great people along the way. It’s been a wonderful life, as Jimmy Stewart said.”Bollig is a 1980 Hays High graduate, attended Fort Hays State as a freshman and graduated from Kansas. It is there where he actually met Davis working as a student assistant in the Jayhawk athletic department.“I joke with Bob that he was too much of a star for me to approach him while he was in Hays,” Bollig said. “I had a few opportunities to meet him, but I was just too reserved and nervous. It is a bit ironic because working at KU as a student then later at full-time we were in contact frequently and became very close. He’s just great to be around. He’s a wonderful person and incredibly funny. To do the book with him was certainly a highlight.”Bollig, who lives in Olathe, has co-authored two other books — "Beware of the Phog: 50 Years of Allen Fieldhouse" and "What it Means to be a Jayhawk."Davis and Bollig plan to be in Hays for a book signing when the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. More information on the book can be found at www.BobDavisTheDreamIsReal.com.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607357795523.jpeg" alt="Bob Davis" />
 <figcaption>Bob Davis</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607357834835.jpeg" alt="Jeff Bollig" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Bollig</figcaption>
 </figure>

Former KAYS broadcaster, Voice of the Tigers releases book on 48-year sportscasting career

With the generosity of the Schmidt Foundation and collaboration with the United Way of Ellis County, we are happy to provide a free Christmas Dinner to individuals in the community on Wednesday, Dec. 23.

 “The Schmidt Foundation is pleased to partner with the United Way to help families in our community celebrate the spirit of Christmas. It is always so exciting to see how our community comes together to help each other,” said Gary Shorman, chairman of the Schmidt Foundation.

The Press, 230 E. Eighth, and Thirsty’s, 2704 Vine, will be providing the meals and pick up will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 23. 

The meals will be served cold in reheatable containers. 

You will select your choice of location on the sign up form that you can find on the United Way of Ellis County’s website, <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-christmas-dinner">www.liveunited.us/community-christmas-dinner</a>.

Erica Berges, executive director of the United Way of Ellis County said, “We are always looking for ways to help support the community. This opportunity has come at a time when people need that extra helping hand, especially over the holidays.”

Sign up for meals is going on now until Wednesday, Dec. 16.

For questions or more information, contact the United Way of Ellis County office at 785-628-8281.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607356421709.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United WayWith the generosity of the Schmidt Foundation and collaboration with the United Way of Ellis County, we are happy to provide a free Christmas Dinner to individuals in the community on Wednesday, Dec. 23. “The Schmidt Foundation is pleased to partner with the United Way to help families in our community celebrate the spirit of Christmas. It is always so exciting to see how our community comes together to help each other,” said Gary Shorman, chairman of the Schmidt Foundation.The Press, 230 E. Eighth, and Thirsty’s, 2704 Vine, will be providing the meals and pick up will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 23. The meals will be served cold in reheatable containers. You will select your choice of location on the sign up form that you can find on the United Way of Ellis County’s website, <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/community-christmas-dinner">www.liveunited.us/community-christmas-dinner</a>.Erica Berges, executive director of the United Way of Ellis County said, “We are always looking for ways to help support the community. This opportunity has come at a time when people need that extra helping hand, especially over the holidays.”Sign up for meals is going on now until Wednesday, Dec. 16.For questions or more information, contact the United Way of Ellis County office at 785-628-8281.

United Way, Schmidt Foundation team to provide Community Christmas Dinner

MANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau recognized members and supporters at its 102nd&nbsp;Annual Meeting, Dec. 3-4 in Manhattan. Edie Dahlsten, McPherson County,&nbsp;received KFB’s Distinguished Service award. Edie and her husband, Larry, have spent their lives advocating, educating and serving on behalf of their farm organization. Dahlsten started out on the State Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and it was this experience that launched her appointment to the KFB Board of Directors in 1989, then was elected vice president in 2002 and made the decision to retire in 2011. Today, she still serves Kansas Farm Bureau as a board member for KFB’s Foundation for Agriculture. The organization also presented 13 Friends of Agriculture awards. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Kansas Farm Bureau and agriculture. They included:

Jay Overmiller, Smith County,&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau National Resources Award. This award goes to the farm family who exemplifies good land stewardship. Jay and his family operate a fourth-generation farm and grow wheat, soybeans and milo on 2,500 acres of side hills. The Overmillers use no-till techniques and implement vigilant soil testing, as well as utilize Conservation Security Program buffers to filter chemicals from field runoffs and provide a habitat for wildlife. The family has also planted nearly 300 trees and bushes over the last two years to increase water filtration and add more nutrients to the soil. Jay’s ongoing passion is to preserve the land he tends so the next generation of Overmillers can continue to protect their natural resources. Ray Will&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau Partnership Award. This award recognizes someone from Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS) who has gone above and beyond for the state’s largest farm organization. Ray is a Business Center Director for FBFS with both underwriting and claims staff oversight. He has been a tremendous partner for KFB and helps ensure members have a positive claims and underwriting experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575384916134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KFBMANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau recognized members and supporters at its 102nd&nbsp;Annual Meeting, Dec. 3-4 in Manhattan. Edie Dahlsten, McPherson County,&nbsp;received KFB’s Distinguished Service award. Edie and her husband, Larry, have spent their lives advocating, educating and serving on behalf of their farm organization. Dahlsten started out on the State Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and it was this experience that launched her appointment to the KFB Board of Directors in 1989, then was elected vice president in 2002 and made the decision to retire in 2011. Today, she still serves Kansas Farm Bureau as a board member for KFB’s Foundation for Agriculture. The organization also presented 13 Friends of Agriculture awards. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Kansas Farm Bureau and agriculture. They included:<ul>
 <li>Erik Atkinson, Wabaunsee County,&nbsp;has worked in the agriculture industry throughout the last 40 years. He now hosts “Agriculture Today” for the K-State Radio Network to inform Kansans on leading agricultural topics.</li><li>Stacey&nbsp;Forshee, Cloud County,&nbsp;has served agriculture for 30 years in various roles throughout Kansas Farm Bureau, including on KFB’s Board of Directors, as YF&amp;R State Committee Chair, District Resolutions Chair and an Ag Advisory Board member. She has always committed herself to advocating on behalf of farm families.</li><li>Herschel George, Miami County,&nbsp;started his career in agriculture 50 years ago. He has served as a 4-H extension agent and a watershed specialist, educating farmers on strategies concerning water supply. Throughout his career, he has provided expert advice to many in the industry.</li><li>Rick McNary, Butler County,&nbsp;is a published author, photographer and global hunger expert. He also founded the Facebook group “Shop Kansas Farms,” which has become an avenue for consumers to connect with local farmers. Although not directly engaged in farming, Rick is an avid ag supporter through his passion to combat hunger.</li><li>Keith Miller, Barton County,&nbsp;has served agriculture for more than 45 years. He is a third-generation farmer and raises wheat, alfalfa, milo, corn and soybeans. He served on KFB’s board of directors for 17 years and continues to serve agriculture as a commissioner for the Kansas Soybean Commission. Keith is a devout Farm Bureau member and his contributions to the industry are greatly appreciated.</li><li>Laura Moffet, Rooks County,&nbsp;is dedicated to educating youth about the importance of agriculture in our world by planning events such as Bushels for Backpacks and Ag in the Classroom. Along with her educational outreach efforts, she has served as the Rooks County Farm Bureau coordinator for several years.</li><li>Joe Newland, Wilson County,&nbsp;is a dedicated agriculturalist, farming more than 2,800 acres of wheat, corn, soybeans and hay, as well as managing a 300 head cow/calf herd. He was elected to KFB’s board of directors in 2011 and resigned in 2019 to replace Representative Larry Hibbard who retired from the Kansas 13th House District. He’s served as president of the Wilson County Farm Bureau board, on the state Resolutions Committee and volunteered on various school and bank boards.&nbsp;</li><li>Barbara Roux, Harvey County,&nbsp;has committed her career to preparing youth in the agriculture industry to be successful in life by serving the Kansas 4-H where she worked as an extension agent and coach. She also served on the Harvey County Farm Bureau Board for 10 years.</li><li>Harland Rupp, Ellis and Barton counties,&nbsp;has worked for 23 years to help Ellis and Barton counties with their agricultural accomplishments. He worked alongside K-State Research and Extension to develop the first Farm Safety Day and Kids Ag Day for students in both counties.</li><li>Randol Walker, Shawnee County,&nbsp;has made many contributions to agriculture throughout the last 47 years. He’s been a member of the K-State Extension board and held several roles in Shawnee County Farm Bureau. Walker has also spoken at numerous county commission meetings on local agricultural issues.</li>
 </ul>Jay Overmiller, Smith County,&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau National Resources Award. This award goes to the farm family who exemplifies good land stewardship. Jay and his family operate a fourth-generation farm and grow wheat, soybeans and milo on 2,500 acres of side hills. The Overmillers use no-till techniques and implement vigilant soil testing, as well as utilize Conservation Security Program buffers to filter chemicals from field runoffs and provide a habitat for wildlife. The family has also planted nearly 300 trees and bushes over the last two years to increase water filtration and add more nutrients to the soil. Jay’s ongoing passion is to preserve the land he tends so the next generation of Overmillers can continue to protect their natural resources. Ray Will&nbsp;received the Kansas Farm Bureau Partnership Award. This award recognizes someone from Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS) who has gone above and beyond for the state’s largest farm organization. Ray is a Business Center Director for FBFS with both underwriting and claims staff oversight. He has been a tremendous partner for KFB and helps ensure members have a positive claims and underwriting experience.

NW Kan. farmers honored at Kansas Farm Bureau annual meeting

Peek through FHSU Plymouth Schoolhouse windows to glimpse Christmas past

Three-day weather outlook

Is an air fryer the best thing for your family? There is not an easy answer to that question. Each year there seems to be a new kitchen appliance on the market and a decision has to be made about the value of that gadget for you or for the family. The participants in the five “Healthier Options with an Air Fryer” presentations over the last month shared their experiences but still had many questions.

Before purchasing an air fryer, it would be helpful to understand how the appliance works and the features that are available with the different brands and models. Air fryers cook food by circulating extremely hot air around the food. In some models the unit contains a basket to hold food, an electric heating element and a fan to circulate the hot air. There are other models that resemble a toaster oven or a small tabletop oven but there is still a fan to circulate hot air.&nbsp;

During our class, the first topic of discussion was to list the advantages and the disadvantages of this small appliance. The first item on the benefit list is they can provide a healthier alternative to conventional frying because they use little or no oil during the cooking process. They also are easy to clean and most are easy to operate. Using this small appliance will eliminate having to heat up the big oven especially in the summer. In most cases, the food does cook faster.&nbsp;

However, those who owned or had used the air fryer also voiced concerns. For those with small kitchens and not much countertop space, it is necessary to move the small appliance to the pantry or to another space to store it when not in use. For those with large families, it might be necessary to prepare two or more batches of the food if the appliance is not large enough. The biggest complaint from our audience was that the booklet that comes with the appliance lacked complete instructions for how to use it and there were very few recipes included.&nbsp;

&nbsp;One lesson learned was that if you have a convection oven or a toaster oven with the convection feature then you already have an “air fryer”. With a convection oven it is usually thought that the food is “baked”, but really it operates the same as the air fryer appliance. Another reminder is that with any new item in the kitchen, it will take time to learn the tricks but with practice it will become easier. &nbsp;

If you were unable to attend the Healthy Cooking with an Air Fryer presentations but would like the information and recipes from the class, please contact me at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a> or call the Extension Office at 785-628-9430 and we would be glad to share the information with you.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Is an air fryer the best thing for your family? There is not an easy answer to that question. Each year there seems to be a new kitchen appliance on the market and a decision has to be made about the value of that gadget for you or for the family. The participants in the five “Healthier Options with an Air Fryer” presentations over the last month shared their experiences but still had many questions.Before purchasing an air fryer, it would be helpful to understand how the appliance works and the features that are available with the different brands and models. Air fryers cook food by circulating extremely hot air around the food. In some models the unit contains a basket to hold food, an electric heating element and a fan to circulate the hot air. There are other models that resemble a toaster oven or a small tabletop oven but there is still a fan to circulate hot air.&nbsp;During our class, the first topic of discussion was to list the advantages and the disadvantages of this small appliance. The first item on the benefit list is they can provide a healthier alternative to conventional frying because they use little or no oil during the cooking process. They also are easy to clean and most are easy to operate. Using this small appliance will eliminate having to heat up the big oven especially in the summer. In most cases, the food does cook faster.&nbsp;However, those who owned or had used the air fryer also voiced concerns. For those with small kitchens and not much countertop space, it is necessary to move the small appliance to the pantry or to another space to store it when not in use. For those with large families, it might be necessary to prepare two or more batches of the food if the appliance is not large enough. The biggest complaint from our audience was that the booklet that comes with the appliance lacked complete instructions for how to use it and there were very few recipes included.&nbsp;&nbsp;One lesson learned was that if you have a convection oven or a toaster oven with the convection feature then you already have an “air fryer”. With a convection oven it is usually thought that the food is “baked”, but really it operates the same as the air fryer appliance. Another reminder is that with any new item in the kitchen, it will take time to learn the tricks but with practice it will become easier. &nbsp;If you were unable to attend the Healthy Cooking with an Air Fryer presentations but would like the information and recipes from the class, please contact me at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a> or call the Extension Office at 785-628-9430 and we would be glad to share the information with you.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Tell me more about air fryers

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Monday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Wester Star truck driven by Steven&nbsp;Swords,&nbsp; 31, Russell, was northbound on Northwest 70 Avenue seven miles south of Byers.

The truck's right tire dropped off of the east edge of the road. The driver overcorrected back onto the roadway and the truck traveled across both lanes of traffic into the west ditch and rolled.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Swords to Wesley Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Monday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Wester Star truck driven by Steven&nbsp;Swords,&nbsp; 31, Russell, was northbound on Northwest 70 Avenue seven miles south of Byers.The truck's right tire dropped off of the east edge of the road. The driver overcorrected back onto the roadway and the truck traveled across both lanes of traffic into the west ditch and rolled.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Swords to Wesley Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Russell man hospitalized after truck rollover crash

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days increased again from 26 on Friday to 31 on Monday.

<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 77 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 413 active cases, including nine active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 2,266 recovered cases.&nbsp;

As of Monday, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 33 on Friday, with 20 of those active patients and five in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 29.8 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 2,707 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 coronavirus-related deaths.

Of the total 14,293 tests administered, 17.8 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/2020/12/1607364440320.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days increased again from 26 on Friday to 31 on Monday.<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 77 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 413 active cases, including nine active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 2,266 recovered cases.&nbsp;As of Monday, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 33 on Friday, with 20 of those active patients and five in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 29.8 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 2,707 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 28 coronavirus-related deaths.Of the total 14,293 tests administered, 17.8 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/2020/12/1607370658125.png" alt="" />
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 </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 increases in Ellis Co.; 77 new cases identified

Office of Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill

TOPEKA — As a member of the SPARK (Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas) Steering Committee and member of the state Finance Council for Kansas, I would like to announce that the grant application process for movie theaters across the state of Kansas is now available.

The state of Kansas approved SPARK grant funding in the amount of $10,000 per screen to theater businesses impacted by COVID-19 that generate 50 percent of their revenue from showing movies and related products, such as concessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please complete the form below to confirm your presence as a movie theater in the state of Kansas and identify the number of screens that you operate.&nbsp; This intake form must be completed no later than 5 p.m. Wednesday. Payments will be issued by no later than Dec. 30.

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%253A%252F%252Fkansasdepartmentofcommerce.formstack.com%252Fforms%252Fsbwc_ks_movie_theater_intake&amp;data=04%257C01%257CDavid.Soffer%2540ks.gov%257Ce09f24a24b414fe1202c08d89abf7f25%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C637429494553065337%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C1000&amp;sdata=IfRHdfPGW4uoVELdCbDwsiHqps7xgCLELtFp%252FIStH1s%253D&amp;reserved=0">Kansas Movie Theater Grant Intake Form</a>

If you have any questions regarding the Movie Theater Grant Application process, call (785) 324-1822 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov">troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov</a>.

Office of Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker HillTOPEKA — As a member of the SPARK (Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas) Steering Committee and member of the state Finance Council for Kansas, I would like to announce that the grant application process for movie theaters across the state of Kansas is now available.The state of Kansas approved SPARK grant funding in the amount of $10,000 per screen to theater businesses impacted by COVID-19 that generate 50 percent of their revenue from showing movies and related products, such as concessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please complete the form below to confirm your presence as a movie theater in the state of Kansas and identify the number of screens that you operate.&nbsp; This intake form must be completed no later than 5 p.m. Wednesday. Payments will be issued by no later than Dec. 30.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%253A%252F%252Fkansasdepartmentofcommerce.formstack.com%252Fforms%252Fsbwc_ks_movie_theater_intake&amp;data=04%257C01%257CDavid.Soffer%2540ks.gov%257Ce09f24a24b414fe1202c08d89abf7f25%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C637429494553065337%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C1000&amp;sdata=IfRHdfPGW4uoVELdCbDwsiHqps7xgCLELtFp%252FIStH1s%253D&amp;reserved=0">Kansas Movie Theater Grant Intake Form</a>If you have any questions regarding the Movie Theater Grant Application process, call (785) 324-1822 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov">troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov</a>.

SPARK grant application process opens for Kan. movie theaters

By CRISTINA JANNEY and JAMES BELL Hays Post

Esther Courtney has been a member of the Center for Life Experience grief support groups since her brother died of suicide in the 1970s.&nbsp;

She found solace in the center's groups again when her husband of 35 years died in 2006. However, this year, she is unable to be with those friends forged through grief because of COVID-19.

"I seemed kind of isolated and distant from the other members," she said.

The Center for Life Experience is offering a chance for local residents to remember loved ones who have died with two memory trees at Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio, 1004 Main.&nbsp;

Healing After Loss and Healing After Loss of Suicide has dedicated one tree for remembering adults and those lost to suicide.&nbsp;

A second tree is sponsored by Healing Hearts for families who wish to remember children who have died.

For Courtney, that tangible symbol of her brother, Charlie, and husband, Ray, is meaningful.&nbsp;

"In a funny way, this tree, I find very comforting," she said. "In a funny way, it gives me hope. The reason being is that it is a visual. It's something concrete. It is something we can see.

"I think it is because it brings everybody together."

Courtney treasures a quote from an Arizona psychiatrist when she thinks about her brother.

" 'Suicide is about despair, and the only cure for despair is to regain hope.' To me that is what that memory tree is. That memory tree, for some reason, I just think it is hope."

Ann Leiker, Center for Life Improvement executive director, discussed the need to have outlets for grief, especially in this time of COVID-19.

"People are isolated either because they have COVID or they are exposed and they have to stay home," Leiker said. "So they can't gather the way they used to with friends, with family to remember their loved ones and celebrate them at this Christmas time and share stories of their loved ones."

Those who have lost loved ones to COVID are also especially impacted at this time of year, Leiker said.

"When we are under control with the COVID, there will still be a lot of grieving going on," she said.

The Center for Life Experience has for years sponsored a memorial tree for children in cooperation with its Healing Hearts group. This year, the tree has about 200 ornaments.

This year, the Center has added a second tree in memory of adults. The new tree is decorated with red cardinals for adults and white doves for those who have died by suicide.

Those who wish to remember a loved one can decorate the trees with their own ornament anytime the studio is open. Tags added to the ornament allow people to add messages or the names of whom the ornaments are in memory.

"This time of year, we often think of it as one of those great times of year when we have a lot of parties and celebrations and lights and decorations, but especially this year, we need to remember there are many who are dealing with a huge loss and grief."

The Center's mission is to help people to grieve and heal in positive ways. The Center focuses on being strong, sharing stories, sharing names and bringing people back to life in loved ones's hearts, Leiker said.&nbsp;

Because of high COVID numbers, the Center for Life Experience is conducting meetings for Healing After Loss of Suicide, Healing After Loss and Healing Hearts via Zoom.

Follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CenterforLifeExperienceinc">Center's Facebook page</a> for information on how to participate in the meetings. You can also learn more on the Center's website at <a href="http://www.cflehope.org">www.cflehope.org</a> or by calling 785-259-6859.

<div><iframe title="Center for Life Experiences sets up annual holiday memorial tree" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ebpwv-f3fab5?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607035057503.jpeg" alt="Members of the Center for Life Experience grief support groups stand next to a memory tree at&nbsp;Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio, 1004 Main St., Hays." />
 <figcaption>Members of the Center for Life Experience grief support groups stand next to a memory tree at&nbsp;Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio, 1004 Main St., Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY and JAMES BELL Hays PostEsther Courtney has been a member of the Center for Life Experience grief support groups since her brother died of suicide in the 1970s.&nbsp;She found solace in the center's groups again when her husband of 35 years died in 2006. However, this year, she is unable to be with those friends forged through grief because of COVID-19."I seemed kind of isolated and distant from the other members," she said.The Center for Life Experience is offering a chance for local residents to remember loved ones who have died with two memory trees at Jackie Creamer's Dance Studio, 1004 Main.&nbsp;Healing After Loss and Healing After Loss of Suicide has dedicated one tree for remembering adults and those lost to suicide.&nbsp;A second tree is sponsored by Healing Hearts for families who wish to remember children who have died.For Courtney, that tangible symbol of her brother, Charlie, and husband, Ray, is meaningful.&nbsp;"In a funny way, this tree, I find very comforting," she said. "In a funny way, it gives me hope. The reason being is that it is a visual. It's something concrete. It is something we can see."I think it is because it brings everybody together."Courtney treasures a quote from an Arizona psychiatrist when she thinks about her brother." 'Suicide is about despair, and the only cure for despair is to regain hope.' To me that is what that memory tree is. That memory tree, for some reason, I just think it is hope."Ann Leiker, Center for Life Improvement executive director, discussed the need to have outlets for grief, especially in this time of COVID-19."People are isolated either because they have COVID or they are exposed and they have to stay home," Leiker said. "So they can't gather the way they used to with friends, with family to remember their loved ones and celebrate them at this Christmas time and share stories of their loved ones."Those who have lost loved ones to COVID are also especially impacted at this time of year, Leiker said."When we are under control with the COVID, there will still be a lot of grieving going on," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607035171206.jpeg" alt="Carolyn and Neal Younger stand next to the Healing Hearts memory tree where families can honor children who have died." />
 <figcaption>Carolyn and Neal Younger stand next to the Healing Hearts memory tree where families can honor children who have died.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Center for Life Experience has for years sponsored a memorial tree for children in cooperation with its Healing Hearts group. This year, the tree has about 200 ornaments.This year, the Center has added a second tree in memory of adults. The new tree is decorated with red cardinals for adults and white doves for those who have died by suicide.Those who wish to remember a loved one can decorate the trees with their own ornament anytime the studio is open. Tags added to the ornament allow people to add messages or the names of whom the ornaments are in memory."This time of year, we often think of it as one of those great times of year when we have a lot of parties and celebrations and lights and decorations, but especially this year, we need to remember there are many who are dealing with a huge loss and grief."The Center's mission is to help people to grieve and heal in positive ways. The Center focuses on being strong, sharing stories, sharing names and bringing people back to life in loved ones's hearts, Leiker said.&nbsp;Because of high COVID numbers, the Center for Life Experience is conducting meetings for Healing After Loss of Suicide, Healing After Loss and Healing Hearts via Zoom.Follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CenterforLifeExperienceinc">Center's Facebook page</a> for information on how to participate in the meetings. You can also learn more on the Center's website at <a href="http://www.cflehope.org">www.cflehope.org</a> or by calling 785-259-6859.

🎙 Trees honor memories of loved ones this holiday season

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new system will notify crime victims when the offenders in their cases are released from custody.

Kansas Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) allows crime victims to use a phone or the internet to search for information regarding the custody statuses of the offenders in their cases.

The system updates information every 15 minutes.

Victims can also register to receive phone, text or email notification when the offenders's custody statuses change. If you miss the notification, the service will try to notify you again. The service will also notify users if the offender is rearrested or transferred.

Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, said she anticipates the new service&nbsp; will be valuable for victims of domestic and sexual violence.

"Once the suspect bonds out of jail and is getting released, that is the time when the victims are most at risk," Hecker said. 

In some jurisdictions, that can be a fairly short period of time — as short as two hours, which is not enough time for a victim to get to safety or make a safety plan, she said.

"We have gotten some feedback from some of the victims that we have worked with that they have been able to get that notification in time, and they could get to safety and create a safety plan," Hecker said. "That has been incredibly important for the victims we have worked for."

Kelsey Hogan, Options victims service coordinator, said victims using the shelter said the service has given them an added sense of security.

All but one county in Kansas that have county jails are participating in the program. In northwest Kansas, Rush, Gove, Logan and Cheyenne counties do not have county jails.

The service only includes county jails, and not Kansas Department of Corrections or offenders in federal custody.

Anyone can download the VINELink app for free on Apple and Android devices. You can also register for notifications <a href="https://www.vinelink.com/classic/#/home/site/17000">online</a>&nbsp;or call the Kansas VINE toll-free number at 866-574-8463.

You can register for notifications using your phone number and by setting up a PIN. Registration is confidential.

You can search for an offender using their name or their offender ID number. You do not have to be registered to search for offender status.

The service is available in English or Spanish.

The program is a collaboration of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas Department of Labor, the Office of the Attorney General and the Kansas Sheriffs' Association. The service has not cost local sheriff's departments anything to implement.

The Kansas Attorney General's Office has established an advisory board to evaluate how VINE is working in Kansas and how to promote VINE throughout the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606863718431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new system will notify crime victims when the offenders in their cases are released from custody.Kansas Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) allows crime victims to use a phone or the internet to search for information regarding the custody statuses of the offenders in their cases.The system updates information every 15 minutes.Victims can also register to receive phone, text or email notification when the offenders's custody statuses change. If you miss the notification, the service will try to notify you again. The service will also notify users if the offender is rearrested or transferred.Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, said she anticipates the new service&nbsp; will be valuable for victims of domestic and sexual violence."Once the suspect bonds out of jail and is getting released, that is the time when the victims are most at risk," Hecker said. In some jurisdictions, that can be a fairly short period of time — as short as two hours, which is not enough time for a victim to get to safety or make a safety plan, she said."We have gotten some feedback from some of the victims that we have worked with that they have been able to get that notification in time, and they could get to safety and create a safety plan," Hecker said. "That has been incredibly important for the victims we have worked for."Kelsey Hogan, Options victims service coordinator, said victims using the shelter said the service has given them an added sense of security.All but one county in Kansas that have county jails are participating in the program. In northwest Kansas, Rush, Gove, Logan and Cheyenne counties do not have county jails.The service only includes county jails, and not Kansas Department of Corrections or offenders in federal custody.Anyone can download the VINELink app for free on Apple and Android devices. You can also register for notifications <a href="https://www.vinelink.com/classic/#/home/site/17000">online</a>&nbsp;or call the Kansas VINE toll-free number at 866-574-8463.You can register for notifications using your phone number and by setting up a PIN. Registration is confidential.You can search for an offender using their name or their offender ID number. You do not have to be registered to search for offender status.The service is available in English or Spanish.The program is a collaboration of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas Department of Labor, the Office of the Attorney General and the Kansas Sheriffs' Association. The service has not cost local sheriff's departments anything to implement.The Kansas Attorney General's Office has established an advisory board to evaluate how VINE is working in Kansas and how to promote VINE throughout the state.

VINE system alerts victims of offenders' release

The second Dine Out for Kids of the year will be Tuesday at three Hays restaurants.

Participating restaurants will donate a portion of sales to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/haysarcparksplashpad?__eep__=6&amp;source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#HaysARCParkSplashPad</a>.

Participating restaurants include: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jimmy-Johns-132254540208431/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">Jimmy John's</a>&nbsp;(all day) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OldChicagoHays/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">Old Chicago</a>&nbsp;(6 p.m. to close) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JDscountryfriedchicken/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">JD's Country Style Chicken</a>&nbsp;(lunch only)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607056272193.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The second Dine Out for Kids of the year will be Tuesday at three Hays restaurants.Participating restaurants will donate a portion of sales to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/haysarcparksplashpad?__eep__=6&amp;source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#HaysARCParkSplashPad</a>.To-go orders are available, as well.Participating restaurants include: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jimmy-Johns-132254540208431/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">Jimmy John's</a>&nbsp;(all day) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OldChicagoHays/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">Old Chicago</a>&nbsp;(6 p.m. to close) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JDscountryfriedchicken/?fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARB8duOx2eQD_uJmXeiQzcXRQqNFfpsE7MsOHUxq50c8Xjm2aeoD1Xn3c5QYNm7YA6-9_utepRlKChXqrONkEtth4S_UwRcYtVlXEH7ieZ5_CrVTdhYduWcGhdgVsfk8t1QomL-DLZHUhFq8GfqeHTy3IBg2OiHZ5yL1WOgJmL6MazrXxqu37leYh2kBxH61csbjZGhWlrkCEECRjwvtiBimzGUWYF7jqW0Q6eUNECyR6EkCMPaOYz3lN5ovHnBN40uWydYON1om2OjfsktUgzKFytXtqTdW77hs2KNGym6cn3ndMcz90cdUYZ0x_72tCXhx7FmHgvX3NZdRPEtgK18&amp;__tn__=K-R">JD's Country Style Chicken</a>&nbsp;(lunch only)

ARC Park Splash Pad Dine Out for Kids is Tuesday

The Salvation Army of Ellis County is teaming up with Fuzzy's Taco Shop,&nbsp;4310 Vine,&nbsp; to do a toy drive for the Angel Tree this year.

Get an Angel from the tree to help out local children in need. 

If you need assistance, come by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salvationarmyhays/">The Salvation Army</a>,&nbsp;203 E. Seventh, Ste. A, in the Hadley Center for an application.

All Angel Tree applications must be turned in by Dec. 18 and no late applications will be accepted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606927788591.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Salvation Army of Ellis County is teaming up with Fuzzy's Taco Shop,&nbsp;4310 Vine,&nbsp; to do a toy drive for the Angel Tree this year.Get an Angel from the tree to help out local children in need. If you need assistance, come by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salvationarmyhays/">The Salvation Army</a>,&nbsp;203 E. Seventh, Ste. A, in the Hadley Center for an application.All Angel Tree applications must be turned in by Dec. 18 and no late applications will be accepted.For more information, call 785-621-2794.

Salvation Army Angel Tree toy drive at Fuzzy's Taco Shop

America has loved the swinging sounds of female close-harmony groups even before The Andrews Sisters hit the airwaves with “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” in 1937. Audiences will hear those great vintage songs with fresh ears when America’s Sweethearts take the Oakley High School stage Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. CST in their fresh and vibrant holiday show. The concert also traces a history through harmony of female groups extending back from the 1860s to the present.

Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20 and students $10 at the door. WPAA season 2020-21 season programs are made possible by the generous support of northwest Kansas areas businesses and individual donors including as special gift from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan. The Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation for Logan County also contributed to this show.

These New York City-based ladies have performed across the nation getting crowds tapping their feet to other hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” With selections from the Great American Songbook, Broadway, pop and jazz tunes, and Christmas favorites, America’s Sweethearts charm audiences of all ages. Presently a total of 12 women belong to the group, normally performing as a single trio of a soprano, mezzo-soprano, and alto.

Carly Kincannon, founder of America's Sweethearts, is an Indiana girl who came to New York City with big Broadway dreams started the group in 2016.

&nbsp;“Before ‘The Sweets’, I often felt out of place in New York City,” she said. “But the moment I met these inspiring women, it filled a void in my life that I didn't even know I had. They&nbsp;welcomed me into a family filled with respect, passion, and creativity. Singing with these women has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. There is so much to discover in the evolution of harmony through the decades, and I can think of no group better to explore it with than these gals.”

“The Andrews Sisters were such a huge hit of their era, not only because they were beautiful, classy dames, but also that their music and their incredible, intricate harmonies were an inspiration in a time when there was much darkness, Kincannon said. “Our goal is to spread nostalgia, joy, and human connection through harmonies…”

America’s Sweethearts also showcase other famous female close-harmony groups of the ‘40s, ’50s, ‘60s and ’70s. To learn which ones, attend the program.

Visit the group’s website at www.americas-sweethearts.com for videos, music samples, photos and store.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607269388604.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>WPAAAmerica has loved the swinging sounds of female close-harmony groups even before The Andrews Sisters hit the airwaves with “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” in 1937. Audiences will hear those great vintage songs with fresh ears when America’s Sweethearts take the Oakley High School stage Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. CST in their fresh and vibrant holiday show. The concert also traces a history through harmony of female groups extending back from the 1860s to the present.Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $20 and students $10 at the door. WPAA season 2020-21 season programs are made possible by the generous support of northwest Kansas areas businesses and individual donors including as special gift from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan. The Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation for Logan County also contributed to this show.These New York City-based ladies have performed across the nation getting crowds tapping their feet to other hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” With selections from the Great American Songbook, Broadway, pop and jazz tunes, and Christmas favorites, America’s Sweethearts charm audiences of all ages. Presently a total of 12 women belong to the group, normally performing as a single trio of a soprano, mezzo-soprano, and alto.Carly Kincannon, founder of America's Sweethearts, is an Indiana girl who came to New York City with big Broadway dreams started the group in 2016.&nbsp;“Before ‘The Sweets’, I often felt out of place in New York City,” she said. “But the moment I met these inspiring women, it filled a void in my life that I didn't even know I had. They&nbsp;welcomed me into a family filled with respect, passion, and creativity. Singing with these women has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. There is so much to discover in the evolution of harmony through the decades, and I can think of no group better to explore it with than these gals.”“The Andrews Sisters were such a huge hit of their era, not only because they were beautiful, classy dames, but also that their music and their incredible, intricate harmonies were an inspiration in a time when there was much darkness, Kincannon said. “Our goal is to spread nostalgia, joy, and human connection through harmonies…”America’s Sweethearts also showcase other famous female close-harmony groups of the ‘40s, ’50s, ‘60s and ’70s. To learn which ones, attend the program.Visit the group’s website at www.americas-sweethearts.com for videos, music samples, photos and store.

America’s Sweethearts will take the stage in Oakley

If selecting a cut Christmas tree, watch for these signs that the tree is too far gone.&nbsp; &nbsp; 

• Needles are a dull, grayish-green color • Needles fail to ooze pitch when broken apart and squeezed • Needles feel stiff and brittle • Needles pull easily off tree

Once you have your tree home, recut the trunk about one inch above the original cut. This will open up clogged, water-conducting tissues. Immediately place the trunk in warm water. Locate the tree in as cool a spot as possible. Avoid areas near fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and heat ducts as the heat will result in excess water loss. Make sure the reservoir stays filled. If the reservoir loses enough water that the bottom of the trunk is exposed, the trunk will need to be recut.

Adding aspirins, copper pennies, soda pop, sugar and bleach to the water reservoir have not been shown to prolong the life of a tree.​If you choose a living Christmas tree, be sure to dig the planting hole before the ground freezes. &nbsp;Mulch the hole and backfill soil to keep them from freezing. Live trees should not be kept inside for more than three days. Longer periods may cause them to lose dormancy resulting in severe injury when planted outside. 

You may wish to tag the tree at the nursery and then pick it up a couple days before Christmas. After Christmas, move the tree to an unheated garage for several days to acclimatize it to outside temperatures. After planting, water well and leave some mulch in place to prevent the soil water from freezing and becoming unavailable for plant uptake. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>If selecting a cut Christmas tree, watch for these signs that the tree is too far gone.&nbsp; &nbsp; • Needles are a dull, grayish-green color • Needles fail to ooze pitch when broken apart and squeezed • Needles feel stiff and brittle • Needles pull easily off treeOnce you have your tree home, recut the trunk about one inch above the original cut. This will open up clogged, water-conducting tissues. Immediately place the trunk in warm water. Locate the tree in as cool a spot as possible. Avoid areas near fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and heat ducts as the heat will result in excess water loss. Make sure the reservoir stays filled. If the reservoir loses enough water that the bottom of the trunk is exposed, the trunk will need to be recut. Adding aspirins, copper pennies, soda pop, sugar and bleach to the water reservoir have not been shown to prolong the life of a tree.​If you choose a living Christmas tree, be sure to dig the planting hole before the ground freezes. &nbsp;Mulch the hole and backfill soil to keep them from freezing. Live trees should not be kept inside for more than three days. Longer periods may cause them to lose dormancy resulting in severe injury when planted outside. You may wish to tag the tree at the nursery and then pick it up a couple days before Christmas. After Christmas, move the tree to an unheated garage for several days to acclimatize it to outside temperatures. After planting, water well and leave some mulch in place to prevent the soil water from freezing and becoming unavailable for plant uptake. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: When a Christmas tree is too far gone

Ellis High School cheer team takes fourth at state

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