TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;judge has invalidated two state permits allowing construction of large hog production operations in northwest Kansas that environmentalists deemed too close to surface water.

Shawnee County District Court Judge Richard Anderson ruled earlier this month that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment violated state law. The permits were issued for four operations in Norton and Phillips counties in 2017 and 2018, under Republican Gov. Sam Brownback.

The operations were under common management tied to prominent northwest Kansas hog farmer Terry Nelson but organized with as separate companies. KDHE allowed construction of each facility up to 250 feet from surface water. A single larger facility would have had to be 500 feet away.

The Sierra Club sued in 2018, arguing that the arrangement allowed Nelson and his relatives to skirt tougher regulations for one larger operation. An attorney for the Kansas Livestock Association, which provided engineering services, said it had consulted with KDHE on the arrangement's legality.

Anderson called KDHE's decisions "unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious” and ordered it to reconsider its actions. The agency and the livestock association did not respond to requests for comment, and Nelson Farms declined to take questions.

TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;judge has invalidated two state permits allowing construction of large hog production operations in northwest Kansas that environmentalists deemed too close to surface water.Shawnee County District Court Judge Richard Anderson ruled earlier this month that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment violated state law. The permits were issued for four operations in Norton and Phillips counties in 2017 and 2018, under Republican Gov. Sam Brownback.The operations were under common management tied to prominent northwest Kansas hog farmer Terry Nelson but organized with as separate companies. KDHE allowed construction of each facility up to 250 feet from surface water. A single larger facility would have had to be 500 feet away.The Sierra Club sued in 2018, arguing that the arrangement allowed Nelson and his relatives to skirt tougher regulations for one larger operation. An attorney for the Kansas Livestock Association, which provided engineering services, said it had consulted with KDHE on the arrangement's legality.Anderson called KDHE's decisions "unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious” and ordered it to reconsider its actions. The agency and the livestock association did not respond to requests for comment, and Nelson Farms declined to take questions.

Judge rejects permits for northwest Kansas hog operations

BY CORINNE BOYER Kansas News Service

GARDEN CITY — Wearing sweaters, small kids 
(of the goat variety) went springing over hay-lined pens in the Good 
Karma Micro-Dairy barn in Russell County. Here, Erin and Doug Renard 
milk goats and cows and make raw cheese, Greek yogurt, butter and 
gelato.

“As you noticed when you came here, there's no signs,” 
Erin Renard said. “One of the reasons there's no signs is expense. But 
the other reason was we couldn't even put 'raw milk' on the sign. Now we
 can.”&nbsp;

Prior to November, the Renards and other Kansas raw milk
 producers could advertise their products with only a sign on the farm —
 a 1967 law outlawed raw milk advertising otherwise. That changed when 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture settled a lawsuit with Mark and 
Coraleen Bunner, the owners of&nbsp; Shepherd’s Gate Dairy.

In Kansas,
 raw milk products — which aren’t inspected or pasteurized — still can’t
 be sold in stores. And while the agriculture department plans to 
propose legislation in 2020 to remove the advertising ban from state 
law, it won’t require ads to have warnings about the unregulated dairy 
products.

So, some raw dairies say that the key to preventing 
illness is for consumers to visit farms and do their research before 
drinking unpasteurized milk.

There are approximately 260 licensed dairies in Kansas, meaning they’re regulated.

When it comes to raw dairies, Kansas has about 45 <a href="https://www.realmilk.com/real-milk-finder/kansas/" target="_blank">producers</a>, and is one of 17 states that allow direct <a href="https://milk.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005192" target="_blank">raw milk</a> sales from farms to consumers. Thirteen of those states allow raw milk to be sold in stores.

Raw milk comes from goats, cows or sheep and is sold without pasteurization — <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/dangers-raw-milk-unpasteurized-milk-can-pose-serious-health-risk" target="_blank">a process</a>
 that heats milk and kills bad bacteria without changing the nutritional
 content. But advocates say raw milk is more nutritious, can cure 
lactose intolerance and treat asthma and allergies.

The Food and Drug Administration, however, has debunked a host of raw milk <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/raw-milk-misconceptions-and-danger-raw-milk-consumption" target="_blank">claims</a>.
 And for decades, the FDA has warned consumers about the dangers of raw 
milk. It may contain bacteria like E. coli, listeria and salmonella. If 
pregnant women consume raw milk products with <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/dangers-raw-milk-unpasteurized-milk-can-pose-serious-health-risk" target="_blank">listeria</a> in it, it can cause a miscarriage or even death of the newborn — even if the expectant mother never gets sick.

Plus,
 illnesses from bacteria in raw milk can be more dangerous for adults 
over 65, children under 5 and people with compromised immune systems.

Past
 outbreaks in Kansas from raw milk have sickened dozens of people, said 
Daniel Neises, an epidemiologist with the Kansas Department of Health 
and Environment. His agency stands behind studies and evidence they saw 
during past outbreaks.

“Some ... bacteria can cause severe 
illness with long-term consequences like hemolytic uremic syndrome, 
which can cause kidney failure, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, which can 
result in paralysis,” he said.

Third-generation
 farmer TeCoa Seibert is from Chapman, Kansas, and has had a goat herd 
for 35 years. She said she’s never gotten sick from consuming raw milk. 
But because it isn’t inspected in Kansas, she understands the potential 
health risks posed by sick animals and unsanitary milking conditions.

“Does
 the animal have a shiny coat? Are there any abscesses? Does the animal 
have a snotty nose?” she said. “Most of the people coming in to pick up 
milk from me would have no clue what a healthy animal or a clean farm is
 supposed to look like.”

Now that any raw milk producer can advertise, Seibert is worried. On 
one hand, she said advertising connects the consumer directly to the 
farm, so people can see the origin of the food.

“It's what the farmers want — they want people to come back to the farm and have a relationship with their food,” Seibert said.

But more advertising could open the door for unsanitary farms, she said.

“But
 without any inspection, without any kind of regulation … without 
understanding what our waste-handling facilities are or any of that, now
 you start getting a complication,” Seibert said, adding that she’s 
worried there might be “an increase in the number of people exposed to 
harmful diseases.”

The old law banning advertising of raw milk 
off of a farm was unconstitutional and violated free speech, said Kansas
 Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

“There's really not a logical 
connection between the advertising restriction and the government 
interest that's in play,” he said in November. “So, you know, it's 
pretty clear that on its face the advertising restriction would have 
fallen as we continued to contest the case.”

The Kansas 
Legislature must approve the bill that’s being drawn up by the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture in order to reflect the changes of the 
settlement. In the bill, the agency will push for labels on the 
advertisements, so it’s clear the product includes raw milk.

“For
 example, printed, written, or visual forms of advertisement should 
clearly state that such milk or milk products are raw,” said Jeff Jones,
 program manager for the KDA’s Dairy and Feed Safety Program. “In 
addition, containers of any unpasteurized milk offered for sale should 
be clearly labeled as ungraded raw milk.”

Neises, with the 
state’s health department, said the ads should have a warning. He said 
more advertising could lead to more widespread consumption of raw milk.

“If raw milk is being sold, it should be clear to the consumer that 
consuming that unpasteurized milk increases the risk of illness,” Neises
 said.

But Jones said his agency won’t seek a mandated warning label.

“I think that's where the people, you know, have to make that choice,” Jones said.

Raw
 dairy owners say consumers should do their due diligence. Erin Renard 
said they should research and ask several questions of the producers 
before purchasing raw milk.

“Do you have your milk tested? What 
are your methods? Can I watch you milk? ... Have you ever had any 
illness?” she said, adding, “we haven't.”&nbsp;

And as for some raw 
milk producers’ initial concerns that the state would try to completely 
rewrite the law to ban the sale of raw milk, Jones said that is not the 
case.

“Our intent is not to ban the sale of raw milk,” he said, 
“but to propose additional advertisement labeling requirements for 
public awareness.”

Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for 
High Plains Public Radio and&nbsp; the Kansas News Service. You can follow 
her on Twitter @corinne_boyer or ror email cboyer@hppr.org.&nbsp;The
 Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, 
KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on the health and well-being 
of Kansans, their communities and civic life.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576784214211.jpeg" alt="Goat kids play in a barn at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy in Russell County, Kansas.&nbsp; Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Goat kids play in a barn at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy in Russell County, Kansas.&nbsp; Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BY CORINNE BOYER Kansas News ServiceGARDEN CITY — Wearing sweaters, small kids 
(of the goat variety) went springing over hay-lined pens in the Good 
Karma Micro-Dairy barn in Russell County. Here, Erin and Doug Renard 
milk goats and cows and make raw cheese, Greek yogurt, butter and 
gelato.“As you noticed when you came here, there's no signs,” 
Erin Renard said. “One of the reasons there's no signs is expense. But 
the other reason was we couldn't even put 'raw milk' on the sign. Now we
 can.”&nbsp;Prior to November, the Renards and other Kansas raw milk
 producers could advertise their products with only a sign on the farm —
 a 1967 law outlawed raw milk advertising otherwise. That changed when 
the Kansas Department of Agriculture settled a lawsuit with Mark and 
Coraleen Bunner, the owners of&nbsp; Shepherd’s Gate Dairy.In Kansas,
 raw milk products — which aren’t inspected or pasteurized — still can’t
 be sold in stores. And while the agriculture department plans to 
propose legislation in 2020 to remove the advertising ban from state 
law, it won’t require ads to have warnings about the unregulated dairy 
products.So, some raw dairies say that the key to preventing 
illness is for consumers to visit farms and do their research before 
drinking unpasteurized milk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576784262013.jpeg" alt="Doug Renard milks a cow at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Doug Renard milks a cow at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Raw milk’s reach</h2>There are approximately 260 licensed dairies in Kansas, meaning they’re regulated.When it comes to raw dairies, Kansas has about 45 <a href="https://www.realmilk.com/real-milk-finder/kansas/" target="_blank">producers</a>, and is one of 17 states that allow direct <a href="https://milk.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005192" target="_blank">raw milk</a> sales from farms to consumers. Thirteen of those states allow raw milk to be sold in stores.Raw milk comes from goats, cows or sheep and is sold without pasteurization — <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/dangers-raw-milk-unpasteurized-milk-can-pose-serious-health-risk" target="_blank">a process</a>
 that heats milk and kills bad bacteria without changing the nutritional
 content. But advocates say raw milk is more nutritious, can cure 
lactose intolerance and treat asthma and allergies.The Food and Drug Administration, however, has debunked a host of raw milk <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/raw-milk-misconceptions-and-danger-raw-milk-consumption" target="_blank">claims</a>.
 And for decades, the FDA has warned consumers about the dangers of raw 
milk. It may contain bacteria like E. coli, listeria and salmonella. If 
pregnant women consume raw milk products with <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/dangers-raw-milk-unpasteurized-milk-can-pose-serious-health-risk" target="_blank">listeria</a> in it, it can cause a miscarriage or even death of the newborn — even if the expectant mother never gets sick.Plus,
 illnesses from bacteria in raw milk can be more dangerous for adults 
over 65, children under 5 and people with compromised immune systems.Past
 outbreaks in Kansas from raw milk have sickened dozens of people, said 
Daniel Neises, an epidemiologist with the Kansas Department of Health 
and Environment. His agency stands behind studies and evidence they saw 
during past outbreaks.“Some ... bacteria can cause severe 
illness with long-term consequences like hemolytic uremic syndrome, 
which can cause kidney failure, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, which can 
result in paralysis,” he said.<h2>Producers’ concerns</h2>Third-generation
 farmer TeCoa Seibert is from Chapman, Kansas, and has had a goat herd 
for 35 years. She said she’s never gotten sick from consuming raw milk. 
But because it isn’t inspected in Kansas, she understands the potential 
health risks posed by sick animals and unsanitary milking conditions.“Does
 the animal have a shiny coat? Are there any abscesses? Does the animal 
have a snotty nose?” she said. “Most of the people coming in to pick up 
milk from me would have no clue what a healthy animal or a clean farm is
 supposed to look like.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576784306653.jpeg" alt="Goat kids and a doe at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Goat kids and a doe at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Now that any raw milk producer can advertise, Seibert is worried. On 
one hand, she said advertising connects the consumer directly to the 
farm, so people can see the origin of the food.“It's what the farmers want — they want people to come back to the farm and have a relationship with their food,” Seibert said.But more advertising could open the door for unsanitary farms, she said.“But
 without any inspection, without any kind of regulation … without 
understanding what our waste-handling facilities are or any of that, now
 you start getting a complication,” Seibert said, adding that she’s 
worried there might be “an increase in the number of people exposed to 
harmful diseases.”The old law banning advertising of raw milk 
off of a farm was unconstitutional and violated free speech, said Kansas
 Attorney General Derek Schmidt.“There's really not a logical 
connection between the advertising restriction and the government 
interest that's in play,” he said in November. “So, you know, it's 
pretty clear that on its face the advertising restriction would have 
fallen as we continued to contest the case.”The Kansas 
Legislature must approve the bill that’s being drawn up by the Kansas 
Department of Agriculture in order to reflect the changes of the 
settlement. In the bill, the agency will push for labels on the 
advertisements, so it’s clear the product includes raw milk.“For
 example, printed, written, or visual forms of advertisement should 
clearly state that such milk or milk products are raw,” said Jeff Jones,
 program manager for the KDA’s Dairy and Feed Safety Program. “In 
addition, containers of any unpasteurized milk offered for sale should 
be clearly labeled as ungraded raw milk.”Neises, with the 
state’s health department, said the ads should have a warning. He said 
more advertising could lead to more widespread consumption of raw milk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576784335092.jpeg" alt="Erin Renard holds goat kids at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Erin Renard holds goat kids at the Good Karma Micro-Dairy.&nbsp;Credit Corinne Boyer / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>“If raw milk is being sold, it should be clear to the consumer that 
consuming that unpasteurized milk increases the risk of illness,” Neises
 said.But Jones said his agency won’t seek a mandated warning label.“I think that's where the people, you know, have to make that choice,” Jones said.Raw
 dairy owners say consumers should do their due diligence. Erin Renard 
said they should research and ask several questions of the producers 
before purchasing raw milk.“Do you have your milk tested? What 
are your methods? Can I watch you milk? ... Have you ever had any 
illness?” she said, adding, “we haven't.”&nbsp;And as for some raw 
milk producers’ initial concerns that the state would try to completely 
rewrite the law to ban the sale of raw milk, Jones said that is not the 
case.“Our intent is not to ban the sale of raw milk,” he said, 
“but to propose additional advertisement labeling requirements for 
public awareness.”Corinne Boyer covers western Kansas for 
High Plains Public Radio and&nbsp; the Kansas News Service. You can follow 
her on Twitter @corinne_boyer or ror email cboyer@hppr.org.&nbsp;The
 Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, 
KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on the health and well-being 
of Kansans, their communities and civic life.

Raw milk? Kansas producers and experts say buyer beware

Twas the night before Christmas but our deer camp was shaken

Not a hunter was happy cause’ no deer had been taken.

Our deer tags were hung by the chimney with care

In hopes that some big bucks soon would be there.

We hunters all snoozed in our long johns of red

While visions of jerky swirled in our head.

And the air carried odors I shouldn’t describe

The moon on the crest of the new fallen snow&nbsp;

Made our junky old house trailer twinkle and glow

When out in the woods there arose such a clatter

I sprang from my bunk and fell down the ladder.

But I horsed-up my back and busted the bed

I limped to the window and what did appear&nbsp;

But a miniature sleigh and eight TROPHY reindeer.

And they soon filled the windows to stare at the sled.

When they all saw the reindeer, a hush filled the room&nbsp;

As their huge antlers gleamed in the light of the moon.

Could this be St Nick and his magic reindeer?

And what in tarnation are they doin’ out here?

Each hunter had scattered to get to his gun;

&nbsp;I had to work fast before the shootin’ begun.

I grabbed my own rifle as I ran toward the sled

And fired several warning shots over their head.

“That should do it” I thought, “That should chase them away”

But it scared them so badly they tipped over the sleigh.

Certain there’d be shootin’ and the deer would be dead.

But instead all my buddies stood quietly by

&nbsp;And pointed at something bright in the sky.

	A star in the east shone so brightly that night

That we all stood there awestruck, solemn and quiet.

St Nick and the “boys” used this chance to vamoose

And streaked through the woods like an on-fire caboose

As for me and the guys, we slunk back inside

And nothing was hurt that night but our pride.&nbsp;

So just as the star on that first Christmas eve

Brought a savior to us for all who believe,

Its brilliance tonight once again lit the way

For St Nick to escape with his reindeer and sleigh.&nbsp;

And I heard him exclaim as they raced out of sight

Rudolph you blockhead, what were you thinking?&nbsp;

Of all the stupid places to land, in a deer hunting camp no less?

You nearly made this the last Christmas for all of us!

Seriously, if you try that again, I’ll personally hang your head in MY workshop

Merry Christmas from Steve and Joyce at Exploring Kansas Outdoors

Just a note: I have published a new book called “A Coon in my Coveralls.” Even as a kid growing up in Ohio, I discovered that every time I venture outdoors to hunt, fish or trap, something ridiculous happens or my best intentions go wrong. “A Coon in My Coveralls” tells the stories of those adventures gone awry and offers side-splitting “what-if” scenarios for the few adventures that actually went right. Books are $15 picked up or $18 postage paid. Order from Amazon or from me at <a href="http://stevenrgilliland@gmail.com">stevenrgilliland@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696138742.jpeg" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Twas the night before Christmas but our deer camp was shakenNot a hunter was happy cause’ no deer had been taken.Our deer tags were hung by the chimney with careIn hopes that some big bucks soon would be there.We hunters all snoozed in our long johns of redWhile visions of jerky swirled in our head.Our snoring echoed like growling insideAnd the air carried odors I shouldn’t describeThe moon on the crest of the new fallen snow&nbsp;Made our junky old house trailer twinkle and glowWhen out in the woods there arose such a clatterI sprang from my bunk and fell down the ladder.Lucky for me I lit’ on my headBut I horsed-up my back and busted the bedI limped to the window and what did appear&nbsp;But a miniature sleigh and eight TROPHY reindeer.I yelled for the guys to bail out of bedAnd they soon filled the windows to stare at the sled.When they all saw the reindeer, a hush filled the room&nbsp;As their huge antlers gleamed in the light of the moon.Could this be St Nick and his magic reindeer?And what in tarnation are they doin’ out here?Each hunter had scattered to get to his gun;&nbsp;I had to work fast before the shootin’ begun.I grabbed my own rifle as I ran toward the sledAnd fired several warning shots over their head.“That should do it” I thought, “That should chase them away”But it scared them so badly they tipped over the sleigh.I fell to the ground and covered my headCertain there’d be shootin’ and the deer would be dead.But instead all my buddies stood quietly by&nbsp;And pointed at something bright in the sky.	A star in the east shone so brightly that nightThat we all stood there awestruck, solemn and quiet.St Nick and the “boys” used this chance to vamooseAnd streaked through the woods like an on-fire cabooseAs for me and the guys, we slunk back insideAnd nothing was hurt that night but our pride.&nbsp;So just as the star on that first Christmas eveBrought a savior to us for all who believe,Its brilliance tonight once again lit the wayFor St Nick to escape with his reindeer and sleigh.&nbsp;And I heard him exclaim as they raced out of sightRudolph you blockhead, what were you thinking?&nbsp;Of all the stupid places to land, in a deer hunting camp no less?You nearly made this the last Christmas for all of us!Seriously, if you try that again, I’ll personally hang your head in MY workshopBright red nose and all!Merry Christmas from Steve and Joyce at Exploring Kansas OutdoorsJust a note: I have published a new book called “A Coon in my Coveralls.” Even as a kid growing up in Ohio, I discovered that every time I venture outdoors to hunt, fish or trap, something ridiculous happens or my best intentions go wrong. “A Coon in My Coveralls” tells the stories of those adventures gone awry and offers side-splitting “what-if” scenarios for the few adventures that actually went right. Books are $15 picked up or $18 postage paid. Order from Amazon or from me at <a href="http://stevenrgilliland@gmail.com">stevenrgilliland@gmail.com</a>.Steve Gilliland is from Inman.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: 'Twas the night before Christmas

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577117009115.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

 Three-day weather outlook

The latest edition of The Monarch Messenger, the student publication created by Thomas More Prep-Marian junior high students, is now available.

Click <a href="https://tmp-m.org/monarch-messenger-vol-8-no-2/">HERE</a> to download the latest version.

The latest edition of The Monarch Messenger, the student publication created by Thomas More Prep-Marian junior high students, is now available.Click <a href="https://tmp-m.org/monarch-messenger-vol-8-no-2/">HERE</a> to download the latest version.

Latest edition of The Monarch Messenger now online

The 11th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, December 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW in Hays, located at 22nd and Vine.&nbsp;

The Christmas meal is donated and prepared by the men of the VFW, who give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare the meal.

The dinner is free to the community, with donations accepted. Donations are in turn given to organizations in Hays that serve the community of Hays.&nbsp;

Eleven years ago, the Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community of Hays together to eat a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season - celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

The season of Christmas can quickly become a time of losing focus of why it is truly celebrated, overshadowed by the busyness that can arise with the holiday season.

The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, and it is a means to walk out the love of Christ. The Community Christmas Dinner provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served by the provision of a Christmas meal in a loving and peaceful environment.&nbsp;

Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are unable to make it to the dinner. The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8, and the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the community members volunteering their time each year.

For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and after in decorating and cleaning the VFW Hall.

Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning after the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;

Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.

For community members who cannot make it to the dinner and would like meal&nbsp;delivery, please contact using the information below.

If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please use the following contact information: 785-259-9735 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576789932193.png" alt="The free Community Christmas Dinner will be held 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 25 at the Hays VFW." />
 <figcaption>The free Community Christmas Dinner will be held 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 25 at the Hays VFW.</figcaption>
 </figure>The 11th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, December 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW in Hays, located at 22nd and Vine.&nbsp;The Christmas meal is donated and prepared by the men of the VFW, who give their time Christmas Day, and prior, to prepare the meal.The dinner is free to the community, with donations accepted. Donations are in turn given to organizations in Hays that serve the community of Hays.&nbsp;Eleven years ago, the Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community of Hays together to eat a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season - celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.The season of Christmas can quickly become a time of losing focus of why it is truly celebrated, overshadowed by the busyness that can arise with the holiday season.The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, and it is a means to walk out the love of Christ. The Community Christmas Dinner provides the opportunity for community members to serve and be served by the provision of a Christmas meal in a loving and peaceful environment.&nbsp;Service also extends&nbsp;beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are unable to make it to the dinner. The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8, and the dinner has continued to be an example of this love, thanks to Christ’s leading and the community members volunteering their time each year.For those wishing to&nbsp;volunteer, volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and after in decorating and cleaning the VFW Hall.Volunteer opportunities can&nbsp;include directing traffic, filling to-go boxes for delivery, greeting community members, filling and providing drinks, assisting with carrying plates, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning after the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;Desserts&nbsp;for the meal are also provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.For community members who cannot make it to the dinner and would like meal&nbsp;delivery, please contact using the information below.If wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a&nbsp;donation,&nbsp;please use the following contact information: 785-259-9735 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>.- SUBMITTED -&nbsp;

Community Christmas Dinner offered by Hays VFW

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Robots will bring more learning opportunities to rural schools in Kansas, thanks to a national grant to be awarded to the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/rec/index.html" target="_blank">Rural Education Center</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that the center will receive a $146,031&nbsp;Teaching Rural Students STEM Through Telepresence&nbsp;grant designed to create a distance learning network to benefit rural schools, with emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math. 

Participating schools will be&nbsp;Ashland High School, USD 220; Clay Center High School, USD 379; Dighton High School, USD 482;&nbsp;Haviland K-8, USD 474;&nbsp;Lakin High School, USD 215;&nbsp;Liberal High School, USD 480;&nbsp;Skyline High School, USD 438; and Bennington High School and Tescott High School, both in&nbsp;USD 240.

"We recognize the tremendous potential that exists in our rural students and are excited to take the lead in infusing our district partners with this innovative approach to STEM education," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. 

The telepresence grant is part of the USDA's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/newsroom/news-release/create-news-release-21" target="_blank">$42.5 million investment</a>&nbsp;in 133 distance learning and telemedicine projects in 37 states and two U.S. territories. The USDA will provide the funding through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants" target="_blank">Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program</a>.

These investments will benefit 5.4 million rural residents. In Kansas, the grant is expected to serve 2,360 rural students and 37,964 residents in rural communities.

The funds — used solely on equipment for the schools — will purchase 36 Double Robotics robots, which allow educators to teach and interact with their students who are at a different location. 

The schools will also receive Apple iPads and laptops, as well as other equipment necessary for the project.

"This grant will allow us to provide more STEM opportunities for student learning and teacher professional learning," said Spencer Clark, K-State associate professor of curriculum and instruction and director of the Rural Education Center.&nbsp;"We believe it could also possibly help address teacher vacancies in rural schools."

Jamie Wetig, superintendent of the Ashland Public Schools, said teacher supply is always an issue in rural schools and this partnership may impact what classes his schools can offer students.

"In an evermore challenging environment to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers, the ability to provide educational opportunities in a small and rural school may sometimes be limited," Wetig said.

 "By partnering with the Rural Education Center at Kansas State University, Ashland Public Schools will have the opportunity to work on the forefront in redesigning education from delivery to enhancing the curriculum. We look forward to expanding the opportunities afforded to USD 220 through the USDA telepresence grant and know this is just the beginning of using an innovative approach to support our students and our community."

Entering its fifth decade, the Center for Rural Education and Small Schools has been renamed the Rural Education Center. 

Along with Clark as its director, Lori Goodson, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, serves as assistant director. This is the initial grant since Clark and Goodson assumed center leadership in spring 2019.

Approved by the Kansas Board of Regents in 1978, the center focuses on meeting the needs of rural schools in the state of Kansas. 

Clark and Goodson are emphasizing advocacy for rural schools and their communities by pursuing grant opportunities and other sources of funding to support various rural educational projects. They will also conduct research and coordinate other educational activities to support the learning opportunities for rural students and teachers.

 Clark and Goodson look forward to supporting current curriculum initiatives and goals associated with the Kansas State Department of Education school redesign, STEAM education, place-based education and civic engagement in rural schools.

K-STATE NEWS SERVICEMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Robots will bring more learning opportunities to rural schools in Kansas, thanks to a national grant to be awarded to the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/rec/index.html" target="_blank">Rural Education Center</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>.The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that the center will receive a $146,031&nbsp;Teaching Rural Students STEM Through Telepresence&nbsp;grant designed to create a distance learning network to benefit rural schools, with emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math. Participating schools will be&nbsp;Ashland High School, USD 220; Clay Center High School, USD 379; Dighton High School, USD 482;&nbsp;Haviland K-8, USD 474;&nbsp;Lakin High School, USD 215;&nbsp;Liberal High School, USD 480;&nbsp;Skyline High School, USD 438; and Bennington High School and Tescott High School, both in&nbsp;USD 240."We recognize the tremendous potential that exists in our rural students and are excited to take the lead in infusing our district partners with this innovative approach to STEM education," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. The telepresence grant is part of the USDA's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/newsroom/news-release/create-news-release-21" target="_blank">$42.5 million investment</a>&nbsp;in 133 distance learning and telemedicine projects in 37 states and two U.S. territories. The USDA will provide the funding through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants" target="_blank">Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program</a>. These investments will benefit 5.4 million rural residents. In Kansas, the grant is expected to serve 2,360 rural students and 37,964 residents in rural communities.The funds — used solely on equipment for the schools — will purchase 36 Double Robotics robots, which allow educators to teach and interact with their students who are at a different location. The schools will also receive Apple iPads and laptops, as well as other equipment necessary for the project."This grant will allow us to provide more STEM opportunities for student learning and teacher professional learning," said Spencer Clark, K-State associate professor of curriculum and instruction and director of the Rural Education Center.&nbsp;"We believe it could also possibly help address teacher vacancies in rural schools."Jamie Wetig, superintendent of the Ashland Public Schools, said teacher supply is always an issue in rural schools and this partnership may impact what classes his schools can offer students."In an evermore challenging environment to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers, the ability to provide educational opportunities in a small and rural school may sometimes be limited," Wetig said. "By partnering with the Rural Education Center at Kansas State University, Ashland Public Schools will have the opportunity to work on the forefront in redesigning education from delivery to enhancing the curriculum. We look forward to expanding the opportunities afforded to USD 220 through the USDA telepresence grant and know this is just the beginning of using an innovative approach to support our students and our community."Entering its fifth decade, the Center for Rural Education and Small Schools has been renamed the Rural Education Center. Along with Clark as its director, Lori Goodson, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, serves as assistant director. This is the initial grant since Clark and Goodson assumed center leadership in spring 2019.Approved by the Kansas Board of Regents in 1978, the center focuses on meeting the needs of rural schools in the state of Kansas. Clark and Goodson are emphasizing advocacy for rural schools and their communities by pursuing grant opportunities and other sources of funding to support various rural educational projects. They will also conduct research and coordinate other educational activities to support the learning opportunities for rural students and teachers. Clark and Goodson look forward to supporting current curriculum initiatives and goals associated with the Kansas State Department of Education school redesign, STEAM education, place-based education and civic engagement in rural schools.

Robot-facilitated distance learning for W. Kansas rural students 

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the last full week of the year at $50.75 per barrel after dropping 75 cents a barrel on Friday.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a seasonal, 29 percent drop in its statewide rig count last week. There are five active rigs east of Wichita, which is unchanged, but the count in western Kansas dropped by eight, to 15 active drilling rigs.

Baker Hughes reported 813 active drilling rigs nationwide, an increase of 18 oil rigs, all of them in Texas. Canada reports 149 active rigs, down four from the week before.

Regulators approved 27 new drilling permits last week. Just two of them were in western Kansas. That's 1,076 permits for drilling at new locations so far this year.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 22 new well completions last week, which makes 1,379 so far this year. There are six newly completed wells in eastern Kansas, and 16 west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Russell County.

The government reported U.S. crude oil inventories were down 1.1 million barrels during the week ending Dec. 13 compared to the week before. At 446.8 million barrels, stockpiles are about 4 percent above the five-year average for this time of year.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) predicts production growth will continue to increase slightly in U.S. shale formations in December and January.&nbsp; EIA now predicts shale production of 9.1 million barrels per day in December and 9.13 million barrels per day in January. EIA reports U.S. crude oil production of 12.781 million barrels per day last week. That's down slightly from the week before, when we produced 12.788 million barrels per day.

EIA reports U.S. imports are down by more than 300,000 barrels per day at 6.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; The four-week average of 6.4 million barrels per day is down more than 15 percent from the same period a year ago.

Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. increased slightly last week, amid a broad downturn in total freight-train traffic. Total traffic was down 8.5 percent during the week ended December 14, but oil-by-rail was up seven-tenths of a percent from the same week a year ago. According to the Association of American Railroads, operators moved 13,643 petroleum tanker cars last week. The cumulative, year-to-date total is up more than 12 percent from a year ago. Canada oil-by-rail traffic is up 5.6 percent from the same week a year ago, and up 16 percent year-to-date

Air-quality regulators in Colorado approved tougher statewide oil and gas regulations ending a disparity between areas in the western half of the state. The new regs strengthen requirements for reducing emissions from storage tanks, require annual emission reports, and mandate more frequent inspections for leaks at facilities near homes, schools and other public facilities. Some industry officials argued that the new rules will make operating some low-producing wells uneconomical.

A major pipeline operator is suing the Texas Railroad Commission, the state agency that regulates oil and gas drilling, alleging that it has blatantly disregarded longstanding state law that restricts the controversial and growing practice of the burning off, or "flaring," of natural gas. The lawsuit is the latest development in a first-of-its-kind dispute between Williams Companies and Exco Operating Company. In December 2017, Exco asked the Railroad Commission for permission to burn off excess gas from dozens of oil wells and later asked for a two-year extension of that authority. The request was unusual because the wells were already connected to a pipeline gathering system owned by Williams that's capable of transporting the gas to market. Exco emerged from bankruptcy in July, and said it couldn’t afford the pipeline rates.

North Dakota could soon have a second carbon dioxide pipeline. State regulators are considering permitting a pipeline in the southwest corner of the state, connecting to old oil fields along the Montana-North Dakota border. The line would carry a supply of carbon dioxide that Denbury Resources plans to inject underground to squeeze out more oil in a process known as enhanced oil recovery. Denbury aims to build its pipeline in 2020 and begin injecting carbon dioxide in early 2021.

Gasoline is getting cheaper, but not as cheap as it was last winter. The end of the year historically ushers in some of the cheapest gas prices of the year. This was true last year when the national gas price average was recorded at $2.26 on Dec. 31. But the latest forecast from Triple-A shows prices dropping to between $2.40 and $2.45 per gallon, 15 to 20 cents more than last December. Right now the national average is just above $2.55 a gallon. A gallon of regular will cost you an average of $2.27 a gallon across Kansas, and $2.15 or less in Hays and Great Bend. The price for your 15-gallon fill-up edged up a few cents compared to last week but is still nearly five dollars cheaper than six months ago.

China continues record-breaking crude oil imports brought on by renewed hopes that easing trade tensions with the U.S. will bolster the economy. China imported an unprecedented 11.18 million barrels per day in November, the most by any country ever. The previous monthly record for imports was set by the U.S. in June of 2005. Bloomberg reports those numbers should continue to rise into next year, as two new Chinese refineries increase production runs and says a tax rebate will boost domestic production of marine fuel.

Russia and Ukraine have signed an agreement on the transit of Russian natural gas to Europe, bringing forward the long-awaited renewal of a deal due to expire at the end of the year. A stand-off between the two countries had threatened to disrupt supplies to Europe Dec. 31. Ukraine is a key transit route for Russian gas to Europe, an arrangement that earns the nation some $3 billion each year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140802303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By John P. TretbarKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the last full week of the year at $50.75 per barrel after dropping 75 cents a barrel on Friday.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a seasonal, 29 percent drop in its statewide rig count last week. There are five active rigs east of Wichita, which is unchanged, but the count in western Kansas dropped by eight, to 15 active drilling rigs.Baker Hughes reported 813 active drilling rigs nationwide, an increase of 18 oil rigs, all of them in Texas. Canada reports 149 active rigs, down four from the week before.Regulators approved 27 new drilling permits last week. Just two of them were in western Kansas. That's 1,076 permits for drilling at new locations so far this year.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 22 new well completions last week, which makes 1,379 so far this year. There are six newly completed wells in eastern Kansas, and 16 west of Wichita including one in Ellis County and one in Russell County.The government reported U.S. crude oil inventories were down 1.1 million barrels during the week ending Dec. 13 compared to the week before. At 446.8 million barrels, stockpiles are about 4 percent above the five-year average for this time of year.The Energy Information Administration (EIA) predicts production growth will continue to increase slightly in U.S. shale formations in December and January.&nbsp; EIA now predicts shale production of 9.1 million barrels per day in December and 9.13 million barrels per day in January. EIA reports U.S. crude oil production of 12.781 million barrels per day last week. That's down slightly from the week before, when we produced 12.788 million barrels per day.EIA reports U.S. imports are down by more than 300,000 barrels per day at 6.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; The four-week average of 6.4 million barrels per day is down more than 15 percent from the same period a year ago.Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. increased slightly last week, amid a broad downturn in total freight-train traffic. Total traffic was down 8.5 percent during the week ended December 14, but oil-by-rail was up seven-tenths of a percent from the same week a year ago. According to the Association of American Railroads, operators moved 13,643 petroleum tanker cars last week. The cumulative, year-to-date total is up more than 12 percent from a year ago. Canada oil-by-rail traffic is up 5.6 percent from the same week a year ago, and up 16 percent year-to-dateAir-quality regulators in Colorado approved tougher statewide oil and gas regulations ending a disparity between areas in the western half of the state. The new regs strengthen requirements for reducing emissions from storage tanks, require annual emission reports, and mandate more frequent inspections for leaks at facilities near homes, schools and other public facilities. Some industry officials argued that the new rules will make operating some low-producing wells uneconomical.A major pipeline operator is suing the Texas Railroad Commission, the state agency that regulates oil and gas drilling, alleging that it has blatantly disregarded longstanding state law that restricts the controversial and growing practice of the burning off, or "flaring," of natural gas. The lawsuit is the latest development in a first-of-its-kind dispute between Williams Companies and Exco Operating Company. In December 2017, Exco asked the Railroad Commission for permission to burn off excess gas from dozens of oil wells and later asked for a two-year extension of that authority. The request was unusual because the wells were already connected to a pipeline gathering system owned by Williams that's capable of transporting the gas to market. Exco emerged from bankruptcy in July, and said it couldn’t afford the pipeline rates.North Dakota could soon have a second carbon dioxide pipeline. State regulators are considering permitting a pipeline in the southwest corner of the state, connecting to old oil fields along the Montana-North Dakota border. The line would carry a supply of carbon dioxide that Denbury Resources plans to inject underground to squeeze out more oil in a process known as enhanced oil recovery. Denbury aims to build its pipeline in 2020 and begin injecting carbon dioxide in early 2021.Gasoline is getting cheaper, but not as cheap as it was last winter. The end of the year historically ushers in some of the cheapest gas prices of the year. This was true last year when the national gas price average was recorded at $2.26 on Dec. 31. But the latest forecast from Triple-A shows prices dropping to between $2.40 and $2.45 per gallon, 15 to 20 cents more than last December. Right now the national average is just above $2.55 a gallon. A gallon of regular will cost you an average of $2.27 a gallon across Kansas, and $2.15 or less in Hays and Great Bend. The price for your 15-gallon fill-up edged up a few cents compared to last week but is still nearly five dollars cheaper than six months ago.China continues record-breaking crude oil imports brought on by renewed hopes that easing trade tensions with the U.S. will bolster the economy. China imported an unprecedented 11.18 million barrels per day in November, the most by any country ever. The previous monthly record for imports was set by the U.S. in June of 2005. Bloomberg reports those numbers should continue to rise into next year, as two new Chinese refineries increase production runs and says a tax rebate will boost domestic production of marine fuel.Russia and Ukraine have signed an agreement on the transit of Russian natural gas to Europe, bringing forward the long-awaited renewal of a deal due to expire at the end of the year. A stand-off between the two countries had threatened to disrupt supplies to Europe Dec. 31. Ukraine is a key transit route for Russian gas to Europe, an arrangement that earns the nation some $3 billion each year.

News from the Oil Patch, Dec. 23

On December 16th the Hays Police Department received a report that a juvenile female had been sexually assaulted near Massey Park, 17th and Allen. 

The assault reportedly occurred at around 6:15 p.m. that day. 

The victim reported that she met a man on social media and agreed to meet him at the park. At the park, the man reportedly physically restrained the victim and then sexually assaulted her.

The victim ran from the scene with another female and then called the police.

On Friday, December 20 a search warrant was served by the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansa Bureau of Investigations, and the Victoria Police department at a home in Victoria. 

At that time the Hays Police Department arrested 31-year-old Cody W. Schultz of Victoria for Aggravated Criminal Sodomy and Electronic Solicitation. 

Schultz is currently being held in the Ellis County Jail and is considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

The investigation continues and anyone with any information should contact Detective J.B. Burkholder at (785) 625-1030.

Hays Police DepartmentOn December 16th the Hays Police Department received a report that a juvenile female had been sexually assaulted near Massey Park, 17th and Allen. The assault reportedly occurred at around 6:15 p.m. that day. The victim reported that she met a man on social media and agreed to meet him at the park. At the park, the man reportedly physically restrained the victim and then sexually assaulted her. The suspect then fled the park. The victim ran from the scene with another female and then called the police.On Friday, December 20 a search warrant was served by the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansa Bureau of Investigations, and the Victoria Police department at a home in Victoria. At that time the Hays Police Department arrested 31-year-old Cody W. Schultz of Victoria for Aggravated Criminal Sodomy and Electronic Solicitation. Schultz is currently being held in the Ellis County Jail and is considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.The investigation continues and anyone with any information should contact Detective J.B. Burkholder at (785) 625-1030.

Arrest made in Massey Park sexual assault case

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🎤Post Podcast: Keep your home safe over the holidays with these tips from the Ellis County Undersheriff

Last week’s inspection results from the Kansas Department of Agriculture:

IHOP - Dec. 18 4000 General Hays Rd. - Hays

A routine inspection found three violations.

Imperial Garden - Dec. 16 2918 Vine - Hays

A follow-up inspection found two violations.

Ol' 40 Express - Dec. 16 2020 E. Eighth - Hays

A routine inspection found two violations.

<h2>Last week’s inspection results from the Kansas Department of Agriculture:</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577115615594.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IHOP - Dec. 18 4000 General Hays Rd. - HaysA routine inspection found three violations.<ol>
 <li>During the inspection, a line cook had used his gloved hand to pick up a raw shelled egg and cracked it into a pan to cook. After this process he then grabbed a clean plate with the same gloved hand he had used to crack the egg.</li><li>In the server refrigeration area, there were several 2 oz containers of made in house salsa at the temperature of 63 F. This was being stored in ice but not fully submerged. In the cooking line, there was a container of pancake batter at the temperature of 54 F.&nbsp; </li><li>The ware washing machine the operator was using the machine to wash the attachments to the floor mixer. Inspector tested the sanitizing solution in the machine and there was no sanitizing solution registering.&nbsp; </li>
 </ol>Imperial Garden - Dec. 16 2918 Vine - HaysA follow-up inspection found two violations.<ol>
 <li>In the Silver King refrigerated prep-table, there was a food-grade container that had cut cabbage with no date of when it was cut.&nbsp; In the Silver Kind refrigerated make-table, there was a container of fully cooked beef that had no date of when it was cooked.&nbsp;</li><li>In the walk-in refrigerator, there was a food-grade tub of previously frozen peas and carrots with no dates of when they were pulled from the freezer. </li>
 </ol>Ol' 40 Express - Dec. 16 2020 E. Eighth - HaysA routine inspection found two violations.<ol>
 <li>Daylight donuts are being brought in from a local restaurant and being sold at the current establishment. Daylight Donuts store does not have a processing license.&nbsp;</li><li>In the cabinet directly under the hot dog roller there was a container of dish soap that was being stored on the same shelf as single-use salt and pepper containers. No evidence of leaking was observed.&nbsp; </li>
 </ol>

Ellis Co. restaurant and lodging inspections, 12/16 – 12/22

Citizens are encouraged to bring real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine Street. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area.

Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site is open through Monday, January 13, 2020.

Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the Highway 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge.

If there are questions, please call the Solid Waste Division at 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576865570721.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CITY OF HAYSCitizens are encouraged to bring real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine Street. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area.Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site is open through Monday, January 13, 2020.Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the Highway 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge.If there are questions, please call the Solid Waste Division at 628-7350.

Free Christmas tree disposal in Hays

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🎥 Eagle Forum: Michael Berges

The city of Hays is in talks with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism about public recreation uses for the R9 Ranch.

City Manager Toby Dougherty said the KDWPT initially expressed interest in the land for public walk-in hunting.&nbsp;

However, the department has also mentioned public hiking or horse trails. Dougherty said there are not a lot of public-use areas in that part of the state.

The Hays City Commission on Dec. 12 agreed to allow Dougherty to continue talks with the state.

The ranch was decommissioned two years ago and has been planted back to native grass. Limited cattle grazing is ongoing on a portion of the ranch.

Commissioner Shaun Musil said he hoped the city could show Edward County residents the ranch could have a positive economic impact on the surrounding community.

"We want to be good neighbors, as I think we are," Musil said.

Dougherty told the commission the city's first priority will always be maintaining the ranch for its water use.

This&nbsp;75-plus year water supply at the R9 would be used by Hays and Russell. The water rights have been owned by Hays and Russell since 1995. Discussion is ongoing about including the cities of Ellis and Victoria in the water-use plan.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/" target="_blank">final master order was issued March 27</a>&nbsp;by David Barfield, chief engineer at the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s<a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/change-applications/hays-change-and-water-transfer" target="_blank">&nbsp;Division of Water Resources</a>, approving change applications to convert the irrigation rights of the R9 Ranch to municipal use for the cities.

However,&nbsp;The Water Protection Association of Central Kansas is opposed to triggering the state's Water Transfer Act in connection with the R9 Ranch.

The city of Hays has asked the IRS to check into the nonprofit status of WaterPACK, the "only active opponent" in the long-term water supply project for Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576876538044.jpeg" alt="The R9 Ranch in Edwards County in 2017. The ranch was decommissioned two years ago. The city is in talks with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for recreational uses for the ranch." />
 <figcaption>The R9 Ranch in Edwards County in 2017. The ranch was decommissioned two years ago. The city is in talks with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for recreational uses for the ranch.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEYHays PostThe city of Hays is in talks with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism about public recreation uses for the R9 Ranch.City Manager Toby Dougherty said the KDWPT initially expressed interest in the land for public walk-in hunting.&nbsp;However, the department has also mentioned public hiking or horse trails. Dougherty said there are not a lot of public-use areas in that part of the state.The Hays City Commission on Dec. 12 agreed to allow Dougherty to continue talks with the state.The ranch was decommissioned two years ago and has been planted back to native grass. Limited cattle grazing is ongoing on a portion of the ranch.Commissioner Shaun Musil said he hoped the city could show Edward County residents the ranch could have a positive economic impact on the surrounding community."We want to be good neighbors, as I think we are," Musil said.Dougherty told the commission the city's first priority will always be maintaining the ranch for its water use.This&nbsp;75-plus year water supply at the R9 would be used by Hays and Russell. The water rights have been owned by Hays and Russell since 1995. Discussion is ongoing about including the cities of Ellis and Victoria in the water-use plan.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/" target="_blank">final master order was issued March 27</a>&nbsp;by David Barfield, chief engineer at the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s<a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/change-applications/hays-change-and-water-transfer" target="_blank">&nbsp;Division of Water Resources</a>, approving change applications to convert the irrigation rights of the R9 Ranch to municipal use for the cities.However,&nbsp;The Water Protection Association of Central Kansas is opposed to triggering the state's Water Transfer Act in connection with the R9 Ranch.The city of Hays has asked the IRS to check into the nonprofit status of WaterPACK, the "only active opponent" in the long-term water supply project for Hays.

City in discussions with KDWPT on recreation uses for R9 Ranch

The Sternberg Museum of Natural History and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will be the only two Fort Hays State University enterprises open during winter break.&nbsp;

The university closes at the end of business on Monday, Dec. 23, and will not reopen until Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020.&nbsp;

The Sternberg Museum, 3000 Sternberg Drive, will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day but will otherwise be open for its normal winter hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday.&nbsp;

The museum is closed on Mondays from Oct. 1 through March 19.&nbsp;

The KWEC, 592 NR. K-156 Highway, Great Bend, about 12 miles northeast of the city, will also be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day but will otherwise be open for its normal winter hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.&nbsp;

The Wetlands Center’s winter hours are from Nov. 1 through March 31.&nbsp;

The main campus will be closed for the break period except for essential services.&nbsp;

The University Police Department office will be closed, but full patrol schedules will be maintained, and operators will remain on duty at the power plant.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568998540950.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe Sternberg Museum of Natural History and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will be the only two Fort Hays State University enterprises open during winter break.&nbsp;The university closes at the end of business on Monday, Dec. 23, and will not reopen until Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020.&nbsp;The Sternberg Museum, 3000 Sternberg Drive, will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day but will otherwise be open for its normal winter hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday.&nbsp;The museum is closed on Mondays from Oct. 1 through March 19.&nbsp;The KWEC, 592 NR. K-156 Highway, Great Bend, about 12 miles northeast of the city, will also be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day but will otherwise be open for its normal winter hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.&nbsp;The Wetlands Center’s winter hours are from Nov. 1 through March 31.&nbsp;The main campus will be closed for the break period except for essential services.&nbsp;The University Police Department office will be closed, but full patrol schedules will be maintained, and operators will remain on duty at the power plant.&nbsp;

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