<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711558946569.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It was a short five-minute work session for Hays city commissioners last Thursday afternoon.

The sole agenda item was the first step in creating a reinvestment housing incentive district for The Grove development to be built north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.

Plans include 12 six-plex structures, eight duplexes, 50 single-family homes, and infrastructure to support and serve the development.

The commission agreed to move on a resolution to their <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03212024-1472">March 28&nbsp; meeting</a> for making certain housing needs findings and determinations.

"What that does is show the state there is a shortage of quality housing in Hays and that scenario is expected to continue," said Finance Director Kim Rupp.

"What is out of the norm is asking the city to finance the project with revenue bonds," he said.

Grow Hays is asking that the city finance and construct the infrastructure related to the project, by utilizing incentive district  revenues.

If the district is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years. Grow Hays estimates the incentive district would generate approximately $8.425 million in revenues.&nbsp;

"This state tool, what it does is, you've got a wheat field right now that's generating $200 a year in property tax," Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director said on Friday.

"When it's built out and has 50 houses on it, it's generating $150,000 a year in property tax. The RHID allows the developer to catch a significant portion of that increment ... until they have recovered their eligible costs for the development."&nbsp;

A 20-minute executive session was called at the end of the meeting for discussion of acquisition of real property. No action was taken afterwards.

Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711125026070.png" alt="Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="RHID proposed for The Grove project" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=akpdx-15c32ce-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt was a short five-minute work session for Hays city commissioners last Thursday afternoon.The sole agenda item was the first step in creating a reinvestment housing incentive district for The Grove development to be built north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive.Plans include 12 six-plex structures, eight duplexes, 50 single-family homes, and infrastructure to support and serve the development.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711466449227.png" alt="Patio home examples that would be built in The Grove. Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Patio home examples that would be built in The Grove. Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission agreed to move on a resolution to their <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03212024-1472">March 28&nbsp; meeting</a> for making certain housing needs findings and determinations."What that does is show the state there is a shortage of quality housing in Hays and that scenario is expected to continue," said Finance Director Kim Rupp."What is out of the norm is asking the city to finance the project with revenue bonds," he said.Grow Hays is asking that the city finance and construct the infrastructure related to the project, by utilizing incentive district revenues.If the district is created, the fund would collect incremental property tax revenues for a maximum period of 25 years. Grow Hays estimates the incentive district would generate approximately $8.425 million in revenues.&nbsp;"This state tool, what it does is, you've got a wheat field right now that's generating $200 a year in property tax," Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director said on Friday. "When it's built out and has 50 houses on it, it's generating $150,000 a year in property tax. The RHID allows the developer to catch a significant portion of that increment ... until they have recovered their eligible costs for the development."&nbsp;A 20-minute executive session was called at the end of the meeting for discussion of acquisition of real property. No action was taken afterwards.Commissioner Mason Ruder was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

🎙 Hays city commission hears reinvestment proposal for Grove housing district    

Q: What kind of jewelry do rabbits wear? A: 14 carrot gold.

Q. How did the Easter Bunny rate his favorite restaurant? A. He said it was eggs-cellent!

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

Q: What kind of jewelry do rabbits wear? A: 14 carrot gold. Q. How did the Easter Bunny rate his favorite restaurant? A. He said it was eggs-cellent!Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/27/24

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Rural Ellis County voters will get their opportunity later
this year to vote on whether their tax dollars will go only to support
libraries in Ellis County or if that money will continue to be distributed
across north-central Kansas. 

Last week the Ellis County Commission approved in a 3-0
vote, putting the question “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?” before rural voters on the August 6, 2024 ballot.

Commissioner Michael Berges stressed that the tax would
continue to be collected but instead of the taxes going to the Central Kansas
Library System (CKLS) and then distributed back to the 17 counties that are a
part of that system, the money would stay in Ellis County.

“The taxing would be essentially the same,” Berges said. &nbsp;If the Ellis County Library were to be
approved, “The $300,000 is just collected within our own county board (and) they
(would) determine how they want to provide library services through the current
libraries that we have within the county.”

Berges, who joined the KAYS Morning show last week, talked
about the proposal and what a complicated issue it is.

“We really won't know all the answers that people want
because depending on the resolution vote, it could take up to two years to finalize
a county library,” Berges said. 

Berges said a lot of the feedback that he has received is
asking questions that the county cannot answer until the measure goes before
voters, so the first step in the process is to approve the resolution and see
what the voters want.

“If the voters want to continue on the current use of the Central
Kansas Library System, then that's their choice and we continue down that path,”
Berges said. “But if the voters were to move to an Ellis County Library, then
there's a two year process still, that also still includes the state, and
whether they would allow us to opt out anyway.”

Berges, who previously served on the Hays City Commission
said this is an issue that he has been aware of for many years.

Only residents who live in Victoria and rural Ellis County currently will be affected by the proposal and allowed to vote on the resolution.

Both the cities of Hays and Ellis already collect taxes to
fund their respective public libraries. 

Residents of Victoria and rural Ellis County are currently paying a 1.5 mill collected for the Central Kansas Public Library.

Residents in all areas of the CKLS are also taxed at the 1.5
mill or about $150 on $100,000 worth of property rate but as Berges pointed out
those funds are then split among the 17-county area. 

“That worked fine and well in the '60s and '70s,” Berges said.
“When all these counties out here were populated relatively closely. The
valuations were similar.”

Both Ellis and Saline Counties in the CKLS continue to grow
while the other counties are not and both counties are seeing the amount of
funding they receive shrink.

“Ellis County residents are continuously paying more into
the Central Kansas Library System because our valuations are going up; we have
more people and the amount that we receive back, right now it's less than a
third,” Berges said. “So, if you pay $150 in, the Central Kansas Library system
sends about $50 back to Ellis County libraries.”

The Hays Public Library and the Ellis Public Library are
both members of the CKLS and receive funding from the system but Brandon Hines,
the director of the Hays Public Library said they are seeing less funding each
year.

Hines told the commission he sees the CKLS as an important
part of rural communities and that they are in no way attempting to be the only
library in Ellis County.

“Library services to our rural communities is very important,”
Hines said. “Ellis already has a library, we think this change could actually
increase their funding, increase their resources in the future.”

Because Victoria does not have a public library, Hines estimated
the Hays Public Library has 450 cardholders from Victoria and they believe they
could extend services to Victoria, if the Ellis County Library is approved. 

Berges also stressed that they see this as a benefit for the
Ellis Public Library and access to the Ellis Public Library is not going anywhere.
Hines also stressed that to the county commission.

“Absolutely, there needs to be a public library in Ellis,”
Hines who is an Ellis resident, said. “There's no intention of the Hays Public Library
being the only library in the county.”

The City of Ellis and the Ellis Public Library are currently
considering whether to remain separate from the proposed Ellis County Library
or opt in.

If they choose to remain separate, the funding remains the
same. They will still receive funds from the CKLS and the library will be funded
through local property taxes, just like the Hays Public Library.

If they elect to opt in to the Ellis County Library, the
voters in Ellis would also get to vote on the resolution and they would have
representation on the Ellis County Library Board.

Hines said that if the resolution is approved by voters the
process is already laid out by state statue.

“There would be a five member board, and it would be from
the taxing district,” Hines said. “So, if that taxing district was outside the
city limits of Hays, and outside the city limits of Ellis, it would be five
members from that taxing district. If Ellis decided to opt in or Hays decided
to opt in, it would also include that taxing district, but that board would be
appointed by the county commission.”

The board would set the mill levy and have control over the
library budget and contracts.

Both Hines and Berges reiterated that it is a very complicated
process and that they cannot answer all of the questions until voters weigh in
on the initial question, which is “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?”

Berges said, “The dividing line is if you feel the current
system works, and the libraries you feel are funded fine the way that is, vote
no and it remains,” Berges said. “If you feel like the opportunity is, ‘I
believe those tax dollars staying more local, and allowing local five board
members to make decisions for my tax dollars, (then vote yes),” Berges said. 

“I believe you would have a little bit more influence as citizens,
influence on your county and city commissioners on different topics,” Berges
said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704732367210.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostRural Ellis County voters will get their opportunity later
this year to vote on whether their tax dollars will go only to support
libraries in Ellis County or if that money will continue to be distributed
across north-central Kansas. Last week the Ellis County Commission approved in a 3-0
vote, putting the question “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?” before rural voters on the August 6, 2024 ballot.Commissioner Michael Berges stressed that the tax would
continue to be collected but instead of the taxes going to the Central Kansas
Library System (CKLS) and then distributed back to the 17 counties that are a
part of that system, the money would stay in Ellis County.<div><iframe title="Ellis County Commission sends library question to voters" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i79vr-15c33a5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>“The taxing would be essentially the same,” Berges said. &nbsp;If the Ellis County Library were to be
approved, “The $300,000 is just collected within our own county board (and) they
(would) determine how they want to provide library services through the current
libraries that we have within the county.”Berges, who joined the KAYS Morning show last week, talked
about the proposal and what a complicated issue it is.“We really won't know all the answers that people want
because depending on the resolution vote, it could take up to two years to finalize
a county library,” Berges said. Berges said a lot of the feedback that he has received is
asking questions that the county cannot answer until the measure goes before
voters, so the first step in the process is to approve the resolution and see
what the voters want.“If the voters want to continue on the current use of the Central
Kansas Library System, then that's their choice and we continue down that path,”
Berges said. “But if the voters were to move to an Ellis County Library, then
there's a two year process still, that also still includes the state, and
whether they would allow us to opt out anyway.”Berges, who previously served on the Hays City Commission
said this is an issue that he has been aware of for many years.Only residents who live in Victoria and rural Ellis County currently will be affected by the proposal and allowed to vote on the resolution.Both the cities of Hays and Ellis already collect taxes to
fund their respective public libraries. Residents of Victoria and rural Ellis County are currently paying a 1.5 mill collected for the Central Kansas Public Library.Residents in all areas of the CKLS are also taxed at the 1.5
mill or about $150 on $100,000 worth of property rate but as Berges pointed out
those funds are then split among the 17-county area. “That worked fine and well in the '60s and '70s,” Berges said.
“When all these counties out here were populated relatively closely. The
valuations were similar.”Both Ellis and Saline Counties in the CKLS continue to grow
while the other counties are not and both counties are seeing the amount of
funding they receive shrink.“Ellis County residents are continuously paying more into
the Central Kansas Library System because our valuations are going up; we have
more people and the amount that we receive back, right now it's less than a
third,” Berges said. “So, if you pay $150 in, the Central Kansas Library system
sends about $50 back to Ellis County libraries.”The Hays Public Library and the Ellis Public Library are
both members of the CKLS and receive funding from the system but Brandon Hines,
the director of the Hays Public Library said they are seeing less funding each
year.Hines told the commission he sees the CKLS as an important
part of rural communities and that they are in no way attempting to be the only
library in Ellis County.“Library services to our rural communities is very important,”
Hines said. “Ellis already has a library, we think this change could actually
increase their funding, increase their resources in the future.”Because Victoria does not have a public library, Hines estimated
the Hays Public Library has 450 cardholders from Victoria and they believe they
could extend services to Victoria, if the Ellis County Library is approved. Berges also stressed that they see this as a benefit for the
Ellis Public Library and access to the Ellis Public Library is not going anywhere.
Hines also stressed that to the county commission.“Absolutely, there needs to be a public library in Ellis,”
Hines who is an Ellis resident, said. “There's no intention of the Hays Public Library
being the only library in the county.”The City of Ellis and the Ellis Public Library are currently
considering whether to remain separate from the proposed Ellis County Library
or opt in.If they choose to remain separate, the funding remains the
same. They will still receive funds from the CKLS and the library will be funded
through local property taxes, just like the Hays Public Library.If they elect to opt in to the Ellis County Library, the
voters in Ellis would also get to vote on the resolution and they would have
representation on the Ellis County Library Board.Hines said that if the resolution is approved by voters the
process is already laid out by state statue.“There would be a five member board, and it would be from
the taxing district,” Hines said. “So, if that taxing district was outside the
city limits of Hays, and outside the city limits of Ellis, it would be five
members from that taxing district. If Ellis decided to opt in or Hays decided
to opt in, it would also include that taxing district, but that board would be
appointed by the county commission.”The board would set the mill levy and have control over the
library budget and contracts.Both Hines and Berges reiterated that it is a very complicated
process and that they cannot answer all of the questions until voters weigh in
on the initial question, which is “Shall Ellis County, Kansas establish and
maintain a county library?”Berges said, “The dividing line is if you feel the current
system works, and the libraries you feel are funded fine the way that is, vote
no and it remains,” Berges said. “If you feel like the opportunity is, ‘I
believe those tax dollars staying more local, and allowing local five board
members to make decisions for my tax dollars, (then vote yes),” Berges said. “I believe you would have a little bit more influence as citizens,
influence on your county and city commissioners on different topics,” Berges
said.

🎙 Ellis County Commission sends library question to voters

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711479596523.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Troy Moore with the Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, March 26th at 7 PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

SubmittedBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature&nbsp;Dr. Troy Moore with the Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic.&nbsp; This episode will air&nbsp;Tuesday, March 26th at 7 PM&nbsp;and will focus on PHYSICAL THERAPY.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;The program airs LIVE on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/">Russell Regional Hospital</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

'Doctors on Call' features Troy Moore from Ellinwood Hospital

Q. What did one colored Easter egg say to the other? A. Heard any good yolks lately?

Q. How does the Easter bunny stay in shape? A. Lots of eggs-ercise!

Q. What did one colored Easter egg say to the other? A. Heard any good yolks lately?Q. How does the Easter bunny stay in shape? A. Lots of eggs-ercise!Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/26/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711385038684.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Q: How did the soggy Easter Bunny dry himself? &nbsp;A: With a hare-dryer!

Q: How does a rabbit keep his fur looking excellent? A: With hare spray!

Q: How did the soggy Easter Bunny dry himself? &nbsp;A: With a hare-dryer! Q: How does a rabbit keep his fur looking excellent? A: With hare spray! Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/25/24

From noon to 3 p.m. on April 8, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering the community an opportunity to witness a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party. While our location may not experience totality, viewers will still be treated to a rare and spectacular sight as the moon obscures 82.5 percent of the sun.

The event is not just about the eclipse. It's a fun-filled and educational afternoon for all ages. Attendees can look forward to engaging in games, science experiments, snacks, crafts, and safe viewing opportunities. We encourage guests to bring lawn chairs and lunches to make the most of this exciting day.

Safety is paramount, and attendees will be reminded not to stare directly at the sun to avoid damage to their retinas. Thanks to the generosity of the Great Bend Noon Lions Club, 300 eclipse glasses will be available for distribution to participants on the day of the event.

Activities will include various safe viewing methods, learning sessions about moon phases, accompanied by sweet treats, discussion about animal behavior during an eclipse, and crafting sessions to make UV bead bookmarks and eclipse necklaces as keepsakes.

Sponsors and students from the Barton Community College STEM Club will assist in leading activities.

Additionally, lawn games will be set up around the picnic shelter, and eclipse-related videos will be screened in the auditorium.

For more information, contact the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at 877-243-9268.

Location: Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680886783788.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsFrom noon to 3 p.m. on April 8, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering the community an opportunity to witness a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party. While our location may not experience totality, viewers will still be treated to a rare and spectacular sight as the moon obscures 82.5 percent of the sun.The event is not just about the eclipse. It's a fun-filled and educational afternoon for all ages. Attendees can look forward to engaging in games, science experiments, snacks, crafts, and safe viewing opportunities. We encourage guests to bring lawn chairs and lunches to make the most of this exciting day.Safety is paramount, and attendees will be reminded not to stare directly at the sun to avoid damage to their retinas. Thanks to the generosity of the Great Bend Noon Lions Club, 300 eclipse glasses will be available for distribution to participants on the day of the event.Activities will include various safe viewing methods, learning sessions about moon phases, accompanied by sweet treats, discussion about animal behavior during an eclipse, and crafting sessions to make UV bead bookmarks and eclipse necklaces as keepsakes.Sponsors and students from the Barton Community College STEM Club will assist in leading activities.Additionally, lawn games will be set up around the picnic shelter, and eclipse-related videos will be screened in the auditorium.For more information, contact the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at 877-243-9268.Event details:<ul>
 <li>Date: April 8</li><li>Time: 12-3 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Location: Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend.

Solar eclipse viewing party at Kansas Wetlands Education Center

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711142405665.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Bobby Darin Allynn rocks his Branson and travelling shows with passion, stories, and the music of Elvis Presley. Known as the ‘World’s Youngest Elvis Tribute Artist’ Bobby started performing as Elvis back when he was only two years old.

The young artist will perform for Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, April 7 at 3 p.m. CDT, at the Colby Community College Cultural Arts Center. Admission by WPAA season ticket or $20 adults, $10 students at the door.

Throughout his childhood he regularly performed songs with his father, Keith Allynn, a familiar Neil Diamond Tribute artist to WPAA audiences, and his mother, Diana Lynn Allynn, a Karen Carpenter tribute artist.

Today Bobby Allynn has transformed his passion, movement and excitement of Elvis into a strong and captivating performance with all the amazing moves and outstanding vocals that would make Elvis proud. From the 50s-70s, he is recapturing the world of ‘The King’ in his very own show ‘Elvis My Way’.

This program is made possible through funding by generous area businesses and individuals including grants from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation for Thomas County.

Bobby Allynn Elvis on Facebook or www.backtothe70stributes.com for pictures and further show information.

SubmittedBobby Darin Allynn rocks his Branson and travelling shows with passion, stories, and the music of Elvis Presley. Known as the ‘World’s Youngest Elvis Tribute Artist’ Bobby started performing as Elvis back when he was only two years old.The young artist will perform for Western Plains Arts Association, Sunday, April 7 at 3 p.m. CDT, at the Colby Community College Cultural Arts Center. Admission by WPAA season ticket or $20 adults, $10 students at the door.Throughout his childhood he regularly performed songs with his father, Keith Allynn, a familiar Neil Diamond Tribute artist to WPAA audiences, and his mother, Diana Lynn Allynn, a Karen Carpenter tribute artist.Today Bobby Allynn has transformed his passion, movement and excitement of Elvis into a strong and captivating performance with all the amazing moves and outstanding vocals that would make Elvis proud. From the 50s-70s, he is recapturing the world of ‘The King’ in his very own show ‘Elvis My Way’.This program is made possible through funding by generous area businesses and individuals including grants from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation for Thomas County.Bobby Allynn Elvis on Facebook or www.backtothe70stributes.com for pictures and further show information.

WPAA to host Bobby Darin Allynn

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711142133348.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711137708863.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Sternberg Museum of Natural History&nbsp;&nbsp;Manager of Visitor Services,&nbsp;Brad Penka.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TjnI8ORX2mg?si=a9fyngG5bnWU1USs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Sternberg Museum of Natural History&nbsp;&nbsp;Manager of Visitor Services,&nbsp;Brad Penka.

🎤Forward Ever: Sternberg Museum Manager Brad Penka

Why should you not let a bear operate the remote? He will keep pressing the paws button.

Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

Why should you not let a bear operate the remote? He will keep pressing the paws button.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/22/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711041930452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
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What do frogs order when they go to a restaurant? French Flies.

What do frogs order when they go to a restaurant? French Flies.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/21/24

"The Merchant of Venice" is a play by&nbsp;William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1596 and 1598.

The students of Travis Grizzell, TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School drama director, will present the bard's famous comedy this weekend on the school's  Dreiling Theater stage. 

"It's not traditionally taught a lot in schools," Grizzell said. "It's not like 'Romeo and Juliet' or even 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' It's classified as a comedy, but there's some very dramatic things there as well.&nbsp; There's a love story. There's a little bit there for everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The version by the TMP drama program will take place in the Edwardian period rather than the Renaissance. Male characters will wear three-piece suits with ascots and sport lots of facial hair, while the female characters' clothing will be less voluminous and more fitted.&nbsp;

Male characters dominate the story and several female students will portray men.

Last year, the students performed Shakespeare's "A Midsummer's Night Dream."

"We've got a great group for this. They really do interpret it and act it out well," Grizzzell said. "'Merchant' is a little bit heavier than 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' with a lot of timely things in it.&nbsp; 

"It deals with antisemitism, stereotypes, some disparity in society. It starts a lot of good conversations, and we learn a little bit about history, too."

The central conflict in "The Merchant of Venice" stems from the segregation of Jewish people who were present at the time of its writing.&nbsp;

The commonalities in human lives over the centuries keep Shakespeare relevant for today's readers and audiences, Grizzell said.&nbsp;

"He wrote about the human condition and the things we all go through and feel. A lot of the things we were struggling with back then as a society, we're still struggling with today," he said.

Language that may come across as dry or stilted when one is reading Shakespeare today should come alive when performed on the stage. Grizzell said his students do a really good job of making that happen.

"I always tell the students if the acting is emphatic enough, and they're expressive, and the emotion is there, even though there's a language barrier, you'll get what's going on, and the audience will, too,"&nbsp; he said.

Phrases that originated in "The Merchant of Venice" and are still used today by English speakers include "pound of flesh" and "quality of mercy."&nbsp;

Grizzell teaches a Shakespeare unit in his drama class. He recently showed a performance of "The Merchant of Venice" by professional actors at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London.

"A lot of the students after seeing that were really excited about doing it. They'd kind of dipped their toes into it," he said.&nbsp;

The play will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and again at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets are available <a href="https://thomasmoreprepmarian.thundertix.com/events/226825">online</a> or at the door.&nbsp;

The cast list for "The Merchant of Venice" is

Antonio – Adrian Normandin Solanio – Allison Weber Salarino – Anabelle Leach Salerio – Grace Schmedler Shylock – Sam Schroeder Lorenzo – Riley Frank Gratiano – Eli Stein Launcelot Gobbo – Alyssa Church Bassanio – Nathan Stecklein Tubal/Duke of Venice – Kim Sack Portia – Ashley Hipp Nerissa – Breanna Seiler Jessica – Tessa Befort Prince of Morocco/Guard – Morgan Greenwood Prince of Arragon/Guard – Mario Valencia Balthasar – Ernest Pfeifer Leonardo – Mia Baltadano Stephanie – Brooke Befort

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710863027146.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Shakespeare's 'Merchant of Venice' to be performed by TMP-Marian this weekend" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=33uy8-15b9ec9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"The Merchant of Venice" is a play by&nbsp;William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1596 and 1598.The students of Travis Grizzell, TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School drama director, will present the bard's famous comedy this weekend on the school's Dreiling Theater stage. "It's not traditionally taught a lot in schools," Grizzell said. "It's not like 'Romeo and Juliet' or even 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' It's classified as a comedy, but there's some very dramatic things there as well.&nbsp; There's a love story. There's a little bit there for everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710947142476.png" alt="TMP-Marian students rehearse their spring play, Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice." Photo by Travis Grizzell" />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian students rehearse their spring play, Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice." Photo by Travis Grizzell</figcaption>
 </figure>The version by the TMP drama program will take place in the Edwardian period rather than the Renaissance. Male characters will wear three-piece suits with ascots and sport lots of facial hair, while the female characters' clothing will be less voluminous and more fitted.&nbsp;Male characters dominate the story and several female students will portray men.Last year, the students performed Shakespeare's "A Midsummer's Night Dream.""We've got a great group for this. They really do interpret it and act it out well," Grizzzell said. "'Merchant' is a little bit heavier than 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' with a lot of timely things in it.&nbsp; "It deals with antisemitism, stereotypes, some disparity in society. It starts a lot of good conversations, and we learn a little bit about history, too."The central conflict in "The Merchant of Venice" stems from the segregation of Jewish people who were present at the time of its writing.&nbsp;The commonalities in human lives over the centuries keep Shakespeare relevant for today's readers and audiences, Grizzell said.&nbsp;"He wrote about the human condition and the things we all go through and feel. A lot of the things we were struggling with back then as a society, we're still struggling with today," he said.Language that may come across as dry or stilted when one is reading Shakespeare today should come alive when performed on the stage. Grizzell said his students do a really good job of making that happen."I always tell the students if the acting is emphatic enough, and they're expressive, and the emotion is there, even though there's a language barrier, you'll get what's going on, and the audience will, too,"&nbsp; he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710947362109.png" alt="Photo by Travis Grizzell" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Travis Grizzell</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710947669719.png" alt="Photo by Travis Grizzell" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Travis Grizzell</figcaption>
 </figure>Phrases that originated in "The Merchant of Venice" and are still used today by English speakers include "pound of flesh" and "quality of mercy."&nbsp;Grizzell teaches a Shakespeare unit in his drama class. He recently showed a performance of "The Merchant of Venice" by professional actors at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London."A lot of the students after seeing that were really excited about doing it. They'd kind of dipped their toes into it," he said.&nbsp;The play will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and again at 2 p.m. Sunday.Tickets are available <a href="https://thomasmoreprepmarian.thundertix.com/events/226825">online</a> or at the door.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710948262161.png" alt="Photo by Travis Grizzell" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Travis Grizzell</figcaption>
 </figure>The cast list for "The Merchant of Venice" isAntonio – Adrian Normandin Solanio – Allison Weber Salarino – Anabelle Leach Salerio – Grace Schmedler Shylock – Sam Schroeder Lorenzo – Riley Frank Gratiano – Eli Stein Launcelot Gobbo – Alyssa Church Bassanio – Nathan Stecklein Tubal/Duke of Venice – Kim Sack Portia – Ashley Hipp Nerissa – Breanna Seiler Jessica – Tessa Befort Prince of Morocco/Guard – Morgan Greenwood Prince of Arragon/Guard – Mario Valencia Balthasar – Ernest Pfeifer Leonardo – Mia Baltadano Stephanie – Brooke Befort

🎤 Shakespeare's 'Merchant of Venice' to be performed by TMP-Marian this weekend  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710977475041.jpeg" alt="" />
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Why did the photo go to jail? Because it was framed.

Why did the photo go to jail? Because it was framed.Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/20/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710884470669.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JsvYviWXZ40?si=ipZDW49WXxoPMfq3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Wetlands Education Center manager Curtis Wolf

Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Unsurprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can’t have your kayak and heat it too.

Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Unsurprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can’t have your kayak and heat it too.Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook:<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 03/19/24

<figure>
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