Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.

Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;

Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.

The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents.

"During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.

To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.

Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.

Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593633275710.jpeg" alt="Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home" />
 <figcaption>Local Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County home</figcaption>
 </figure>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County&nbsp;Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County works to improve the living conditions of individuals and families in Ellis County.Funds given directly to the Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County stay in Ellis County.&nbsp;Those funds are used to purchase and renovate homes that are sold to local income-qualified residents, making homeownership possible for some who would not otherwise be able to own a home.The local group also assists with home repairs for qualifying individuals.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3c3938e5-940b-4e39-b0c4-3d7926ee5f98">In December 2023, one family was placed in a home in Ellis, and an individual was placed in a small home in Hays.</a>Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is supported through donations and proceeds from the ReStore, 2707 Broadway, Hays. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.The group is raising funds now to purchase more homes for Ellis County residents."During the giving season, please consider making a donation to help us fund projects to help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish," the group said in a news release.To make monetary donations: Please send a check to Habitat for Humanity, 2707 Broadway Ave., Hays, KS 67601 or to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County, P.O. Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.Online donations can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfhec.org/donate-to-hfhec.html">www.hfhec.org/</a>.Learn more about <a href="https://www.hfhec.org/">Habitat on its website</a> or follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HFHEC">Habitat ReStore on Facebook.</a>

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County seek donations to house local families

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

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

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

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734131860675.png" alt="TMP-Marian" />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian</figcaption>
 </figure>

TMP-Marian Christmas grotto lighting and blessing is Thursday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's the season for holiday events in Hays.&nbsp;

Janet Kuhn,&nbsp;convention sales manager at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, reviews some of the December activities.

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733246730247.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's the season for holiday events in Hays.&nbsp;Janet Kuhn,&nbsp;convention sales manager at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, reviews some of the December activities.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DbEz9LZ7JOY" title="CVB dec" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733246976006.jpeg" alt="Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: It's holiday time in Hays

Hays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.

The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.

For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734024830454.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.All are welcome! For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

Hays Pride community potluck set for Saturday

City of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. 

The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.

As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.

City of HaysCity of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.Thank you for your cooperation!

Hays water conservation request lifted

A Red Cross blood drive will be from noon to 6 p.m. Friday at St. Michael's Parish Center in LaCrosse.

A Red Cross blood drive will be from noon to 6 p.m. Friday at St. Michael's Parish Center in LaCrosse.Walk-ins are welcome.

Blood drive set for Friday in LaCrosse

The Ellis County Landfill is announcing that beginning on December 11, the Ellis County Road &amp; Bridge Division will be completing a surface maintenance project on the road to and at the open area east of the transfer station. 

The area will be down to one-lane traffic for portions of the project.

 The expected completion date is Friday, December 13. 

Municipal Waste will remain open, and the gates will be closed at 4:45 p.m. No dumping will be allowed after that time. 

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460. We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579287163220.jpeg" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTYThe Ellis County Landfill is announcing that beginning on December 11, the Ellis County Road &amp; Bridge Division will be completing a surface maintenance project on the road to and at the open area east of the transfer station. The area will be down to one-lane traffic for portions of the project. The expected completion date is Friday, December 13. Municipal Waste will remain open, and the gates will be closed at 4:45 p.m. No dumping will be allowed after that time. Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460. We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;

Ellis County Transfer Station road work starts today

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio

Victoria Holiday Home Tours set for Dec. 14-15

As the 2024 holiday season commences, Fort Hays State University’s annual toy-building event is approaching quickly.

The 35th Annual Fred Ruda’s Teaming up for Tots event is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Center for Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. This year, volunteers from the community will build over 180 wooden helicopter toys that will be distributed to children in need in our community.

Students in the Department of Applied Technology have designed the toy and all the processes, jigs, and fixtures needed to produce the toys on a mass scale. Community members are asked to volunteer to run a station. Jobs include but aren’t limited to running machinery, moving pieces from one part of the assembly line to another, gluing and assembling parts, sanding, and applying oil finish to the production toys.

“This is one of the best opportunities for our students to give back to the community,” said Zach Pixler, Assistant Professor of Applied Technology. “Not only do they learn more about the manufacturing process, they get to flex their creative muscles a bit, practice critical thinking skills, and see the positive impact that their hard work has on those around them. This year’s helicopter toy incorporates some different materials, so it’s a challenge for our students. I’m excited to see them all come together on our line!”

Building will commence at 9 a.m. and will be completed by lunchtime. Join us for coffee and donuts before the event and pizza after the build. All ages are welcome. No sign-up is necessary; just bring safety glasses and be ready to build.

For answers to any questions, contact the Department of Applied Technology at 785-628-4211.

<div><iframe title="FHSU’s annual toy building event set for Saturday, Dec. 7" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=f7nu5-175f34c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By FHSU University CommunicationsAs the 2024 holiday season commences, Fort Hays State University’s annual toy-building event is approaching quickly.The 35th Annual Fred Ruda’s Teaming up for Tots event is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Center for Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. This year, volunteers from the community will build over 180 wooden helicopter toys that will be distributed to children in need in our community.Students in the Department of Applied Technology have designed the toy and all the processes, jigs, and fixtures needed to produce the toys on a mass scale. Community members are asked to volunteer to run a station. Jobs include but aren’t limited to running machinery, moving pieces from one part of the assembly line to another, gluing and assembling parts, sanding, and applying oil finish to the production toys.“This is one of the best opportunities for our students to give back to the community,” said Zach Pixler, Assistant Professor of Applied Technology. “Not only do they learn more about the manufacturing process, they get to flex their creative muscles a bit, practice critical thinking skills, and see the positive impact that their hard work has on those around them. This year’s helicopter toy incorporates some different materials, so it’s a challenge for our students. I’m excited to see them all come together on our line!”Building will commence at 9 a.m. and will be completed by lunchtime. Join us for coffee and donuts before the event and pizza after the build. All ages are welcome. No sign-up is necessary; just bring safety glasses and be ready to build.For answers to any questions, contact the Department of Applied Technology at 785-628-4211.

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU’s annual toy building event set for Dec. 7

2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.

In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.

The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.

Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.

Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618601684951.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

WaKeeney's Wreaths Across America ceremony Dec. 14

By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to the Hays Post

With the holiday season in full swing, children across Northwest Kansas are looking forward to Christmas and the gifts they know will soon arrive.

However, for many foster children, Christmas is different. Many of the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas have never received a Christmas gift.

Michele Eiland, a volunteer with St. Francis, acknowledges this fact is hard for most adults in this area to wrap their minds around.

That is why Eiland each year volunteers to help with St. Francis Ministries’ “Hope Tree Project.” From now until Friday, Dec. 6, St. Francis will collect gifts for these foster children in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas. Their ages range from infant to age 17.

Four Hope Trees have been erected at Hays businesses. Each tree contains cards containing a “wish list” compiled by each child, their caseworkers, and their foster parents. Eiland said most of those “wish lists” include both toys and clothing.

Each card lists the child’s age, gender and, if clothing is needed, what kind(s) and size(s). Individuals are asked to take a card (or more than one) and purchase items from the list for that child. The ministry suggests a spending limit of $125 per child.

The four tree locations are KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St.; Thomsen Customs engravers, inside the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., No. 111; The Gamers Guild, 200 E. Eighth St.; and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth St., No. 1.

Gifts should be returned unwrapped by Friday, Dec. 6, to the same location or to KPRD Praise Radio (see address above).

Eiland said, “Through no actions or decisions of their own, these children are not living with their parents. Many have never received any kind of gift, let alone a Christmas gift. When people purchase gifts that are on the wish list card, these children feel heard and important.”

The “Wrapping Extravaganza” to wrap the gifts for these 200 children will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. The community is invited to participate, but registration is requested to make sure there are enough wrapping supplies for everyone, Eiland said.

All wrapping supplies and gift tags will be provided. Eiland asked that people register by Friday, Dec. 6, by calling or texting her at 214-546-1974 and specifying the day and time they will help.

“The Wrapping Extravaganza is an opportunity to get your family, friends or social groups together and help out in the wrapping of these gifts,” Eiland said. “It is a great way for all ages to give back to others in the community with no monetary costs, only a few hours of your time.

“Both of these simple acts—the shopping and the wrapping—can and will make this Christmas holiday special for these special kids,” she added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733156937913.jpeg" alt="This St. Francis Ministries Hope Tree at KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St., is just one of four Hope Trees on display in Hays. Each tree contains cards with Christmas “wish lists” for foster children served by St. Francis Ministries. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)" />
 <figcaption>This St. Francis Ministries Hope Tree at KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St., is just one of four Hope Trees on display in Hays. Each tree contains cards with Christmas “wish lists” for foster children served by St. Francis Ministries. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)</figcaption>
 </figure>By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to the Hays PostWith the holiday season in full swing, children across Northwest Kansas are looking forward to Christmas and the gifts they know will soon arrive.However, for many foster children, Christmas is different. Many of the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas have never received a Christmas gift.Michele Eiland, a volunteer with St. Francis, acknowledges this fact is hard for most adults in this area to wrap their minds around.But it is true.That is why Eiland each year volunteers to help with St. Francis Ministries’ “Hope Tree Project.” From now until Friday, Dec. 6, St. Francis will collect gifts for these foster children in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas. Their ages range from infant to age 17.Four Hope Trees have been erected at Hays businesses. Each tree contains cards containing a “wish list” compiled by each child, their caseworkers, and their foster parents. Eiland said most of those “wish lists” include both toys and clothing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733156955963.jpeg" alt="“Hope Begins Here” for the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and counties throughout Northwest Kansas. Individuals are asked to remove a card from one of the Hope Trees on display in Hays, purchase gift items for the foster child, and return the gifts by Dec. 6. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>“Hope Begins Here” for the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and counties throughout Northwest Kansas. Individuals are asked to remove a card from one of the Hope Trees on display in Hays, purchase gift items for the foster child, and return the gifts by Dec. 6. (Photo by Linn Ann Huntington)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Each card lists the child’s age, gender and, if clothing is needed, what kind(s) and size(s). Individuals are asked to take a card (or more than one) and purchase items from the list for that child. The ministry suggests a spending limit of $125 per child.The four tree locations are KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St.; Thomsen Customs engravers, inside the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., No. 111; The Gamers Guild, 200 E. Eighth St.; and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth St., No. 1.Gifts should be returned unwrapped by Friday, Dec. 6, to the same location or to KPRD Praise Radio (see address above).Eiland said, “Through no actions or decisions of their own, these children are not living with their parents. Many have never received any kind of gift, let alone a Christmas gift. When people purchase gifts that are on the wish list card, these children feel heard and important.”The “Wrapping Extravaganza” to wrap the gifts for these 200 children will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. The community is invited to participate, but registration is requested to make sure there are enough wrapping supplies for everyone, Eiland said.All wrapping supplies and gift tags will be provided. Eiland asked that people register by Friday, Dec. 6, by calling or texting her at 214-546-1974 and specifying the day and time they will help.“The Wrapping Extravaganza is an opportunity to get your family, friends or social groups together and help out in the wrapping of these gifts,” Eiland said. “It is a great way for all ages to give back to others in the community with no monetary costs, only a few hours of your time.“Both of these simple acts—the shopping and the wrapping—can and will make this Christmas holiday special for these special kids,” she added.

‘Hope Tree Project’ collecting gifts for foster children

Celebrate the season at the Hays Public Library! With themed programs and Frost Fest, the library has something coming up for all ages.

The first weekend of December will include both the Winter Art Walk and Frost Fest. The Winter Art Walk on Dec. 7 will feature a poetry reading put on by the FHSU Poet Laureate, Eileen Veatch. Also, the library will exhibit landscapes by Jan Williams.

On the same Saturday, join Santa for a come-and-go breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., with a story at 10. Following the story, you can take a picture with Santa. Then get creative with seasonal crafts in the afternoon from 1 to 4. For the Frost Fest lighted parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, the library will reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot chocolate. Community members are welcome to view the parade, which begins at 6 p.m., from inside the library.

Seasonal programs for adults will include a snowman craft on Dec. 5, How-To Series: Gift Wrapping on December 10th, and Holiday Cookie and Recipe Swap on December 16th.

A complete list of activities for all ages is available on the event calendar at hayslibrary.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732724539667.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCelebrate the season at the Hays Public Library! With themed programs and Frost Fest, the library has something coming up for all ages.The first weekend of December will include both the Winter Art Walk and Frost Fest. The Winter Art Walk on Dec. 7 will feature a poetry reading put on by the FHSU Poet Laureate, Eileen Veatch. Also, the library will exhibit landscapes by Jan Williams.On the same Saturday, join Santa for a come-and-go breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., with a story at 10. Following the story, you can take a picture with Santa. Then get creative with seasonal crafts in the afternoon from 1 to 4. For the Frost Fest lighted parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, the library will reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot chocolate. Community members are welcome to view the parade, which begins at 6 p.m., from inside the library.Seasonal programs for adults will include a snowman craft on Dec. 5, How-To Series: Gift Wrapping on December 10th, and Holiday Cookie and Recipe Swap on December 16th.A complete list of activities for all ages is available on the event calendar at hayslibrary.org.

Frost Fest and holiday activities planned at the Hays Public Library

Our 52nd Annual Christmas Past event commences at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7. 

Old fashioned and traditional, our longstanding start to the Christmas season invites all to enjoy carriage rides and live music. 

As ever enough for everyone, candied apples and hot cider will warm spirits for the upcoming season. 

Many volunteers and reenactors devote their time, once a year, to help orchestrate our popular event. 

We cordially invite all to attend and make it one more great season for everyone!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732725192101.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOur 52nd Annual Christmas Past event commences at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7. Old fashioned and traditional, our longstanding start to the Christmas season invites all to enjoy carriage rides and live music. As ever enough for everyone, candied apples and hot cider will warm spirits for the upcoming season. Many volunteers and reenactors devote their time, once a year, to help orchestrate our popular event. We cordially invite all to attend and make it one more great season for everyone!

52nd annual Christmas Past scheduled

The Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University is once again looking for “elves” to help make toys.

The annual Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up For Tots event will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the wood shop of the Center for Applied Technology. 

Community volunteers are invited to come and go as their schedules permit. No reservations are required.

This year’s toy is a wooden helicopter. Approximately 200 will be made for children in the area, ages 2 through 6.

According to the department’s website, “The program is designed to spread holiday cheer to local children who may not otherwise receive Christmas presents. All ages are welcome to volunteer for toy production, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”

Jobs include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching parts, finishing and, for those who have experience, running some machine operations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732725697643.jpeg" alt="The Department of Applied Technology at FHSU is seeking community volunteer “elves” to make 200 of these wooden toy helicopters for children on Saturday, Dec. 7. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>The Department of Applied Technology at FHSU is seeking community volunteer “elves” to make 200 of these wooden toy helicopters for children on Saturday, Dec. 7. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University is once again looking for “elves” to help make toys.The annual Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up For Tots event will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the wood shop of the Center for Applied Technology. Community volunteers are invited to come and go as their schedules permit. No reservations are required.This year’s toy is a wooden helicopter. Approximately 200 will be made for children in the area, ages 2 through 6.According to the department’s website, “The program is designed to spread holiday cheer to local children who may not otherwise receive Christmas presents. All ages are welcome to volunteer for toy production, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”Jobs include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching parts, finishing and, for those who have experience, running some machine operations.

‘Elves’ needed to help make 200 toys at FHSU

LA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will be hosting the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 29, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live music while visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, and enjoy Kansas-grown popcorn.

Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. Kids of all ages will be treated to hot dogs, hot chocolate, chocolate milk and water “served right off the truck.”

There is a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. There will also be a special make and take craft project for the kids in the one-room school.

Events begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, November 29 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at www.rushcounty.org/RCHS or call 785-222-2808.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700066551294.png" alt="Courtesy Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLA CROSSE — The Rush County Historical Society and Kansas Barbed Wire Museum will be hosting the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Friday, Nov. 29, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the museum complex in La Crosse. Visitors can browse the five unique museums beautifully decorated for the holidays: the Historical Museum in the 19th Century Timken Depot; the Post Rock Museum, one of the seven wonders of Kansas Customs; the Nekoma Bank Museum, a restored 1916 rural bank; the Pleasant Point School Museum; and nationally recognized Kansas Barbed Wire Museum. There will be live music while visitors can enjoy hot cider, homemade cookies, roast marshmallows over an open fire, and enjoy Kansas-grown popcorn.Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 on the firetruck and hand out candy sacks to the kids in front of the bank museum. Kids of all ages will be treated to hot dogs, hot chocolate, chocolate milk and water “served right off the truck.”There is a special display of antique toys in the Pleasant Point One-Room School Museum. The century-old school is a time capsule of early 20th century rural education with nearly all of its original furnishings and books. There will also be a special make and take craft project for the kids in the one-room school.Events begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, November 29 at the museum campus on the south edge of La Crosse on West First Street. To ease congestion, visitors are asked to park north of the creek on Third Street across the bridge. Visitors can access the complex by the footbridge in the park. Persons with mobility issues are welcome to park in the museum parking lot.All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Rush County Historical Society on Facebook, on the web at www.rushcounty.org/RCHS or call 785-222-2808.

La Crosse hosts annual old-fashioned Christmas

The Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the Construction &amp; Demolition pit, the tree pile, and the dirt pile at the landfill are closed for dumping Wednesday due to muddy conditions. 

We will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. 

Please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460 if you have any questions.  We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Environmental Services office is announcing that the Construction &amp; Demolition pit, the tree pile, and the dirt pile at the landfill are closed for dumping Wednesday due to muddy conditions. We will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please call the Ellis County Landfill at (785) 628-9460 if you have any questions. We appreciate your cooperation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rainy conditions close much of Ellis County landfill Wednesday

STOCKTON — The 12th annual Holiday Mall at City Hall will be held in Stockton, on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Check out the many vendors with a nice selection of holiday crafts, homemade candy, clothing and holiday gift idea.s

Finish up or start your Christmas shopping!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732723189992.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSTOCKTON — The 12th annual Holiday Mall at City Hall will be held in Stockton, on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Check out the many vendors with a nice selection of holiday crafts, homemade candy, clothing and holiday gift idea.sRegister to win prizes!Finish up or start your Christmas shopping!

Holiday Mall at City Hall in Stockton is Dec. 7

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.•

• Monday, November 25, pick up will not change. • Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26. • Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732287931438.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.•• Monday, November 25, pick up will not change. • Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26. • Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Schedule change in refuse/recycling pick up in Hays for Thanksgiving holiday

City of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and Friday, November 29, 2024, in celebration of the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysCity of Hays offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and Friday, November 29, 2024, in celebration of the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Hays city offices to close for Thanksgiving holiday

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.

Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26, and Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.

Monday, November 25, pick up will not change.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 there will be changes to the refuse and recycling pick up schedule.Tuesday and Wednesday routes will both be picked up on Tuesday, November 26, and Thursday and Friday routes will both be picked up on Wednesday, November 27.Monday, November 25, pick up will not change.&nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recyclable will be encountered around the holidays. Please be sure to set your bags out by 7:00 a.m. on the collection day and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

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