By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Unless there is a protest petition campaign, the transient guest tax at Hays hotels and Airbnbs will increase to 8.25% on April 1.

The current guest tax rate is 7%, established in 1998. Five percent of that is allocated to Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was added in 2018 for North Vine Street improvements.

"To go on a 5% operating budget for 25 years is quite impressive, but the CVB fund is becoming unsustainable," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.&nbsp;

"Technology has changed, costs have increased, so they're doing a lot of things differently."

Increasing the guest tax by 1.25% will generate about $250,000 more each year.

The Special Parks will receive $50,000 to maintain the city’s parks and recreational facilities.

"Those are amenities that both residents and visitors utilize alike," Bielser said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have to find reasons to make visitors come here," Commissioner Shaun Musil said.

The city's general fund is primarily financed by the local sales tax.

"We want visitors to come enjoy the quality-of-life amenities we've invested in," Commissioner Reese Barrick said.&nbsp;

Only two cities in Kansas have a higher guest tax than Hays will soon have. Overland Park and Mission are at 9%. Many cities are at 8%, including Dodge City, Emporia, and Shawnee.

In other business, city commissioners approved three items that continue moving forward The Grove, a retiree-focused&nbsp;housing project north of Hays Medical Center. 

Those included a low bid award of $3 million to Sporer Land Development, Oakley/Colby, for construction of street, water, storm water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements.

Commissioners signed a $100,438 construction engineering services agreement with Driggs Design Group, Hays, and approved the development agreement with Grow Hays.

Dirt work has begun on a portion of the project, including a new senior/child care/community center. There will also be an extension of the city's multi-use path from 22nd Street and the existing HaysMed path to the north of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

Also approved was a renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas for a triple-option employee health insurance plan. The premium will increase by almost 13% in 2025.

"That's still well below the national average," Giebler said.

The city will continue providing up to $625 in employer match for employees’ health savings accounts.

Giebler, the commissioners and Toby Dougherty, city manager, recognized employees who have a combined 315 years of service to the city.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729864067308.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hotel guests to pay higher visitors tax in Hays" 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=2dhh4-171b5e5-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 PostUnless there is a protest petition campaign, the transient guest tax at Hays hotels and Airbnbs will increase to 8.25% on April 1.The current guest tax rate is 7%, established in 1998. Five percent of that is allocated to Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was added in 2018 for North Vine Street improvements."To go on a 5% operating budget for 25 years is quite impressive, but the CVB fund is becoming unsustainable," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.&nbsp;"Technology has changed, costs have increased, so they're doing a lot of things differently."Increasing the guest tax by 1.25% will generate about $250,000 more each year.The Special Parks will receive $50,000 to maintain the city’s parks and recreational facilities."Those are amenities that both residents and visitors utilize alike," Bielser said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We have to find reasons to make visitors come here," Commissioner Shaun Musil said.The city's general fund is primarily financed by the local sales tax."We want visitors to come enjoy the quality-of-life amenities we've invested in," Commissioner Reese Barrick said.&nbsp;Only two cities in Kansas have a higher guest tax than Hays will soon have. Overland Park and Mission are at 9%. Many cities are at 8%, including Dodge City, Emporia, and Shawnee.In other business, city commissioners approved three items that continue moving forward The Grove, a retiree-focused&nbsp;housing project north of Hays Medical Center. Those included a low bid award of $3 million to Sporer Land Development, Oakley/Colby, for construction of street, water, storm water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements.Commissioners signed a $100,438 construction engineering services agreement with Driggs Design Group, Hays, and approved the development agreement with Grow Hays.Dirt work has begun on a portion of the project, including a new senior/child care/community center. There will also be an extension of the city's multi-use path from 22nd Street and the existing HaysMed path to the north of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.Also approved was a renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas for a triple-option employee health insurance plan. The premium will increase by almost 13% in 2025."That's still well below the national average," Giebler said.The city will continue providing up to $625 in employer match for employees’ health savings accounts.Giebler, the commissioners and Toby Dougherty, city manager, recognized employees who have a combined 315 years of service to the city.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870148107.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870272833.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870525573.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Hotel guests to pay higher visitors tax in Hays    

The Kansas Historical Society and the Society of Friends of Historic Fort Hays cordially invite you and your family to attend a celebration Frontier Fall at Historic Fort Hays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. 

Wagon rides, miniature pumpkin decorating, kids games, live folk music, candy, popcorn, and apples are available. 

A presentation on American Halloween history will begin at 2 p.m. Elizabeth Polly, the Blue Light Lady will be out here to greet visitors after the presentation. 

Twilight tours begin at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. where various either denizens of the Fort will provide stories throughout the fort. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729791446740.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Kansas Historical Society and the Society of Friends of Historic Fort Hays cordially invite you and your family to attend a celebration Frontier Fall at Historic Fort Hays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. Wagon rides, miniature pumpkin decorating, kids games, live folk music, candy, popcorn, and apples are available. A presentation on American Halloween history will begin at 2 p.m. Elizabeth Polly, the Blue Light Lady will be out here to greet visitors after the presentation. Twilight tours begin at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. where various either denizens of the Fort will provide stories throughout the fort. Come enjoy the fall colors with us.

Frontier Fall Celebration scheduled for Saturday at Historic Fort Hays

<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/2024/10/1729870867816.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

20 Ribeyes for 35 dollars at Big Creek Crossing!

This one time chance to get 20 ribeyes for 35 dollars won’t last long.

You’ll find deals on NY Strips, T-Bones, Boneless Chicken Breast and Seafood

20 Ribeyes for 35 dollars! Look for the Big White tent at Big Creek Crossing.

20 Ribeys for 35 Dollars and deals on NY Strips, T-Bones, Boneless Chicken and Seafood.

The truck will be leaving soon, so get to the big white tent at Creek Crossing Mall. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870499038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<h2>20 Ribeyes for 35 dollars at Big Creek Crossing!</h2>This one time chance to get 20 ribeyes for 35 dollars won’t last long.You’ll find deals on NY Strips, T-Bones, Boneless Chicken Breast and Seafood20 Ribeyes for 35 dollars! Look for the Big White tent at Big Creek Crossing.20 Ribeys for 35 Dollars and deals on NY Strips, T-Bones, Boneless Chicken and Seafood.The truck will be leaving soon, so get to the big white tent at Creek Crossing Mall. All major credit cards and accepted.

🎤Forward Ever: K9 Vests Midwest founder Emily Fawcett

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses the history of the company and its services with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.

<div><iframe title="IPI Financial Services shares business history and services" 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=auiis-170a110-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>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses the history of the company and its services with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.

🎙 Post Podcast: IPI Financial Services shares business history and services

Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason’s tour of Kansas begins on October 25 in Dodge City. During the four days of the tour, she will make 21 stops and cover more than 1,000 miles, meet with journalists in small Kansas community public and commercial radio stations, participate in two live TV programs, and sit down for an extensive podcast interview. This year’s tour will focus on the impact of the people, programs, and partnerships of FHSU on our state.&nbsp;

On this year’s tour, Mason will be joined at several tour stops by the presidents of FHSU’s Strategic Affiliation partner universities, President Eric Burks of Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and President Ben Schears of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. The trio will participate in panel discussions in Goodland and Beloit to share updates on the ongoing work of the Affiliation Implementation Teams charged with creating new academic pathways, integrating student services, and creating the business and community partnerships that best serve the workforce development needs of rural Kansas. The three presidents will also participate in TV and radio interviews in Wichita on October 30.

October 25: Dodge City, Garden City, and Goodland

Tour stops on day one will focus on addressing domestic violence and sex trafficking in rural Kansas. In addition, a panel discussion will be hosted by Fort Hays Tech | Northwest on our collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities and services in rural Kansas. The construction and engineering design Affiliation Implementation Team is working to address regional workforce needs, expand student opportunities, and create innovative educational pathways between our three affiliation partner institutions.

October 28: Russell, Beloit, and Salina

Tour stops on day two will include two radio interviews and a panel discussion on how FHSU and Fort Hays Tech | North Central are working to address the shortage of nursing and healthcare services professionals in rural Kanas.&nbsp;

President Mason will first visit the Topeka Correctional Institute for a radio interview about FHSU’s adult literacy outreach partnership that is helping incarcerated women connect with their children, grandchildren, and other family members. She will then meet with reporters to discuss the Docking Institute for Public Policy’s 2024 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey. Day three will conclude with a podcast interview and TV appearance that will focus on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative since it was launched in July of this year.

October 30: Wichita and Great Bend

Presidents Burks and Schears will join President Mason for a live TV interview and then participate in a radio interview. The three will share information on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative. The tour will conclude with two media interviews in Great Bend. The first will focus on the partnership between the university and the Kansas Bankers Association and the joint effort to recruit students interested in a career in banking and finance to come to FHSU and take advantage of the programs and professional networking offerings of the W. R. Robbins Banking Institute.&nbsp; The tour's final stop will be a news interview about the efforts of the FHSU Online Student Government to improve the online student experience for those who chose FHSU Online for its unmatched affordability, flexibility, and overall value.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729704614707.png" alt="Image courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Mason to kick off 2024 FHSU President’s Kansas Media Tour on Friday" 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=mmcr5-171b509-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>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University President Tisa Mason’s tour of Kansas begins on October 25 in Dodge City. During the four days of the tour, she will make 21 stops and cover more than 1,000 miles, meet with journalists in small Kansas community public and commercial radio stations, participate in two live TV programs, and sit down for an extensive podcast interview. This year’s tour will focus on the impact of the people, programs, and partnerships of FHSU on our state.&nbsp;On this year’s tour, Mason will be joined at several tour stops by the presidents of FHSU’s Strategic Affiliation partner universities, President Eric Burks of Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and President Ben Schears of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. The trio will participate in panel discussions in Goodland and Beloit to share updates on the ongoing work of the Affiliation Implementation Teams charged with creating new academic pathways, integrating student services, and creating the business and community partnerships that best serve the workforce development needs of rural Kansas. The three presidents will also participate in TV and radio interviews in Wichita on October 30.October 25: Dodge City, Garden City, and GoodlandTour stops on day one will focus on addressing domestic violence and sex trafficking in rural Kansas. In addition, a panel discussion will be hosted by Fort Hays Tech | Northwest on our collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities and services in rural Kansas. The construction and engineering design Affiliation Implementation Team is working to address regional workforce needs, expand student opportunities, and create innovative educational pathways between our three affiliation partner institutions.October 28: Russell, Beloit, and SalinaTour stops on day two will include two radio interviews and a panel discussion on how FHSU and Fort Hays Tech | North Central are working to address the shortage of nursing and healthcare services professionals in rural Kanas.&nbsp;October 29: TopekaPresident Mason will first visit the Topeka Correctional Institute for a radio interview about FHSU’s adult literacy outreach partnership that is helping incarcerated women connect with their children, grandchildren, and other family members. She will then meet with reporters to discuss the Docking Institute for Public Policy’s 2024 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey. Day three will conclude with a podcast interview and TV appearance that will focus on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative since it was launched in July of this year.October 30: Wichita and Great BendPresidents Burks and Schears will join President Mason for a live TV interview and then participate in a radio interview. The three will share information on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative. The tour will conclude with two media interviews in Great Bend. The first will focus on the partnership between the university and the Kansas Bankers Association and the joint effort to recruit students interested in a career in banking and finance to come to FHSU and take advantage of the programs and professional networking offerings of the W. R. Robbins Banking Institute.&nbsp; The tour's final stop will be a news interview about the efforts of the FHSU Online Student Government to improve the online student experience for those who chose FHSU Online for its unmatched affordability, flexibility, and overall value.

🎙 Mason to kick off 2024 FHSU President’s Kansas Media Tour on Friday

What is the scariest day for a potato? Fry-day.

What is the scariest day for a potato? Fry-day.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/25/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729790475954.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>

The road by a man's house was in bad condition. Every day he dodged potholes on the way to work, so he was relieved to see a construction crew working on the road one morning. Later, on his way home, he noticed the men were gone and no improvement in the road. But where the crew had been working stood a new, bright-yellow sign with the words "Rough Road."

The road by a man's house was in bad condition. Every day he dodged potholes on the way to work, so he was relieved to see a construction crew working on the road one morning. Later, on his way home, he noticed the men were gone and no improvement in the road. But where the crew had been working stood a new, bright-yellow sign with the words "Rough Road."

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/24/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729707168871.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>

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State University’s next Science Café is set for Monday, Oct. 28.

“Bats in the night,” presentation is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) and will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.

Dr. Lorelei Patrick, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at FHSU, will discuss her research into bats. Come and discover the fascinating world of Kansas bats, from their unique adaptations to their vital role in our ecosystem.

Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:

<a href="http://www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe">www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<a href="http://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729610778690.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State University’s next Science Café is set for Monday, Oct. 28.“Bats in the night,” presentation is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) and will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.Dr. Lorelei Patrick, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at FHSU, will discuss her research into bats. Come and discover the fascinating world of Kansas bats, from their unique adaptations to their vital role in our ecosystem.Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:<a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a><a href="http://www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe">www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

Just in time for Halloween: FHSU’s next Science Café set for Oct. 28

Young Billy and Willy were walking home from Sunday school, where they had just learned about Noah's ark. Willy asked, "Do you think Noah did much fishing?" "How could he?" said Billy. "He had only two worms."

Young Billy and Willy were walking home from Sunday school, where they had just learned about Noah's ark. Willy asked, "Do you think Noah did much fishing?" "How could he?" said Billy. "He had only two worms."

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/23/24

Call for entries is open through Nov. 8 for the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center.

The competition is open to photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri and Colorado. 

Photographers of any age, background, experience level, subject preference and style are eligible to participate, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.

<a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, is a first-time juror for the competition.

The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize as part of the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year career as a commercial fine art photographer and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame.

"His work is beautiful. ... I was so honored and pleased that he agreed to do it," Meder said.&nbsp;

White will select the works to be featured in the exhibition and award $1,500 in total cash awards.&nbsp;

Entry information,&nbsp;project details and entry forms are available on the Hays Arts Council&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;

A record 671 photographs were submitted last year.

"We know we're going to exhibit at least 125 photos this year. Our goal is 150," Meder said.&nbsp;

The exhibition will anchor the Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Artists and exhibition venues downtown are still being sought for the art walk.

"I don't care if it's children's art or the most esteemed professional. ... We're not the art police," Meder said. 

"We want all forms out there so that people can see artistic expression is very broad, takes many different forms. It's not about somebody needing to be at a certain level or stature for it to be worthy of sharing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729102451402.png" alt="Hays Arts Council" />
 <figcaption>Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="5-State Photography Competition upcoming at Hays Arts Center" 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=yivty-17165fd-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 PostCall for entries is open through Nov. 8 for the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center.The competition is open to photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri and Colorado. Photographers of any age, background, experience level, subject preference and style are eligible to participate, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.<a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, is a first-time juror for the competition. The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize as part of the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year career as a commercial fine art photographer and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame."His work is beautiful. ... I was so honored and pleased that he agreed to do it," Meder said.&nbsp;White will select the works to be featured in the exhibition and award $1,500 in total cash awards.&nbsp;Entry information,&nbsp;project details and entry forms are available on the Hays Arts Council&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;A record 671 photographs were submitted last year."We know we're going to exhibit at least 125 photos this year. Our goal is 150," Meder said.&nbsp;The exhibition will anchor the Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Artists and exhibition venues downtown are still being sought for the art walk."I don't care if it's children's art or the most esteemed professional. ... We're not the art police," Meder said. "We want all forms out there so that people can see artistic expression is very broad, takes many different forms. It's not about somebody needing to be at a certain level or stature for it to be worthy of sharing."

🎙 5-State Photography Competition upcoming at Hays Arts Center   

As part of WPAA’s fall line up, “America’s Sweethearts” will be preforming a wide range of music from Broadway to Big-Band in Three-Part Harmony!

America loved the swinging sounds of female close-harmony groups even before The Andrews Sisters hit the airwaves. 

But audiences will hear great vintage songs with fresh ears when AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS take the stage Nov. 3, at 3:00 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center on the Colby College campus in Colby. 

AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS charm audiences of all ages while navigating their way through a variety of trios, duets, and solo features... all with a slice of old-fashioned fun! 

This program is made possible through the generosity of area businesses, individual donors and grants from the Thomas County Community Foundation and the Dane Hansen Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729535811590.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As part of WPAA’s fall line up, “America’s Sweethearts” will be preforming a wide range of music from Broadway to Big-Band in Three-Part Harmony!America loved the swinging sounds of female close-harmony groups even before The Andrews Sisters hit the airwaves. But audiences will hear great vintage songs with fresh ears when AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS take the stage Nov. 3, at 3:00 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center on the Colby College campus in Colby. AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS charm audiences of all ages while navigating their way through a variety of trios, duets, and solo features... all with a slice of old-fashioned fun! This program is made possible through the generosity of area businesses, individual donors and grants from the Thomas County Community Foundation and the Dane Hansen Foundation.

WPAA to present 'America's Sweethearts'

A man loved to play golf. One Saturday, he returned home from a scheduled golf game much earlier than his wife expected. She asked him why he was home so early. “Would you want to play golf with someone who whines about every shot, complains about everything on the course, and makes noises when you’re trying to make an important shot?” he asked. “No, I wouldn’t,” answered his wife. “Well neither did they.”

A man loved to play golf. One Saturday, he returned home from a scheduled golf game much earlier than his wife expected. She asked him why he was home so early. “Would you want to play golf with someone who whines about every shot, complains about everything on the course, and makes noises when you’re trying to make an important shot?” he asked. “No, I wouldn’t,” answered his wife. “Well neither did they.”

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/22/24

On Friday, October 4, 2024, the release of debut children’s book&nbsp;The Master Potter&nbsp;was announced on social media. Author Katie (Greenwood) Hamel is local to Norton County.

Hamel moved to Lenora in 2022 following her marriage to Hill City native, Nathaniel Hamel. The couple have two children, Ignatius and Miriam. Hamel spends her days as a stay-at-home-mom and a freelance editor/writer of&nbsp;Faith&nbsp;magazine for the Catholic Diocese of Salina.

Greg Holdren of Beloit served as illustrator. Holdren, father of six and grandfather of 23,&nbsp;taught art for 38 years to students of all ages. Now mostly retired from teaching, Holdren continues to be involved in a variety of artistic endeavors including murals, statues and book illustrations.

The Master Potter&nbsp;is a narrative that tells the story of a potter who receives heartfelt letters from individuals requesting special gifts. The potter carefully crafts unique creations and breathes life into them in response to every letter.

Hamel shares that the idea for the book came on an extremely personal day. “I started writing&nbsp;The Master Potter&nbsp;the day I found out I was expecting my first child. The overwhelming emotions of knowing I was going to be a mom led me to reflect on the lessons I wanted to teach my child. Above all, I wanted him to know how special he was. With that hope in mind, I began writing. Two and a half years later, the book is finished!”

To purchase the book or read more from the author, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://katiehamel.com/">katiehamel.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729376565753.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Friday, October 4, 2024, the release of debut children’s book&nbsp;The Master Potter&nbsp;was announced on social media. Author Katie (Greenwood) Hamel is local to Norton County.Hamel moved to Lenora in 2022 following her marriage to Hill City native, Nathaniel Hamel. The couple have two children, Ignatius and Miriam. Hamel spends her days as a stay-at-home-mom and a freelance editor/writer of&nbsp;Faith&nbsp;magazine for the Catholic Diocese of Salina.Greg Holdren of Beloit served as illustrator. Holdren, father of six and grandfather of 23,&nbsp;taught art for 38 years to students of all ages. Now mostly retired from teaching, Holdren continues to be involved in a variety of artistic endeavors including murals, statues and book illustrations.The Master Potter&nbsp;is a narrative that tells the story of a potter who receives heartfelt letters from individuals requesting special gifts. The potter carefully crafts unique creations and breathes life into them in response to every letter.Hamel shares that the idea for the book came on an extremely personal day. “I started writing&nbsp;The Master Potter&nbsp;the day I found out I was expecting my first child. The overwhelming emotions of knowing I was going to be a mom led me to reflect on the lessons I wanted to teach my child. Above all, I wanted him to know how special he was. With that hope in mind, I began writing. Two and a half years later, the book is finished!”To purchase the book or read more from the author, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://katiehamel.com/">katiehamel.com</a>.

Local author, Katie Hamel, releases debut children’s book The Master Potter now available

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

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

What did one candle say to the other candle? I'm going out tonight.

What did one candle say to the other candle? I'm going out tonight.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/21/24

Winners have been announced for the 13th annual Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) photography contest. Photographers of all ages submitted photos that showcase the mission of RTK, “To preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes.”

Crystal Socha of Augusta was the grand prize winner in this year’s contest. This is the third year she has won grand prize, which is a testament to her talent level and how she captures the cowboy way of life. Many of her images are taken from horseback during real cattle drives and work in Flink Hills pastures.

She said, “I have several awesome cowboys who come out and ride for photography workshops. Lynn and his horse are simply amazing! I love watching them work together and those two can fly without wings.”

Lynn in the cowboy in the photo. He was chasing cattle that decided to run in a different direction.

She said, “When he took off running it was like the earth shook. I couldn't get my camera on them quick enough. Lynn is an amazing rider. This was one of those special moments that I was blessed to have been in the right place at the right time to capture!”

Amanda Buus Thomsen of Kiowa won the Fan Favorite category by just one vote! She received 212 votes on RTK’s Facebook page. It was a tight race down to the last second when voting closed. Her photo was taken west of Monument Rocks in Gove County.

“I am absolutely honored to have won the fan favorite category. There were so many great photos in the contest this year and I am humbled and thankful to have my photo chosen,” she said.

Winning images were selected by a panel of RTK and Kansas Livestock Association representatives, along with special guest judge and professional photographer Jim Richardson. Richardson is a Kansas native and has traveled the world as a National Geographic photographer for over 35 years. He also speaks nationally and internationally.

Category winners include: Landscape – Mike Scheufler, Augusta; Livestock – James Claassen, Meade; People – Shelly Wonders, North Newton; Sunrise or Sunset – Jennifer Wagner, Spring Hill; Youth and Wildlife – Jarett Riley, Galva; KLA Member – Marcella Warner Holman, Spearville; Honorable Mention – Scott Bean, Manhattan; and Holly Mettling, Bogue.

L’image is the exclusive sponsor of contest. The locally owned photo printing and picture framing store in Wichita has been in business for more than 25 years, specializing in their ready-to-hang plaque mount. Prizes are awarded to the top 10 winning photographers. All winning entries can be viewed on RTK’s Facebook page or website www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729374513345.jpeg" alt="Crystal Socha - Grand Prize&nbsp;&nbsp;13th annual Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) photography contest. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Crystal Socha - Grand Prize&nbsp;&nbsp;13th annual Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) photography contest. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWinners have been announced for the 13th annual Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) photography contest. Photographers of all ages submitted photos that showcase the mission of RTK, “To preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes.”Crystal Socha of Augusta was the grand prize winner in this year’s contest. This is the third year she has won grand prize, which is a testament to her talent level and how she captures the cowboy way of life. Many of her images are taken from horseback during real cattle drives and work in Flink Hills pastures.She said, “I have several awesome cowboys who come out and ride for photography workshops. Lynn and his horse are simply amazing! I love watching them work together and those two can fly without wings.”Lynn in the cowboy in the photo. He was chasing cattle that decided to run in a different direction.She said, “When he took off running it was like the earth shook. I couldn't get my camera on them quick enough. Lynn is an amazing rider. This was one of those special moments that I was blessed to have been in the right place at the right time to capture!”Amanda Buus Thomsen of Kiowa won the Fan Favorite category by just one vote! She received 212 votes on RTK’s Facebook page. It was a tight race down to the last second when voting closed. Her photo was taken west of Monument Rocks in Gove County.“I am absolutely honored to have won the fan favorite category. There were so many great photos in the contest this year and I am humbled and thankful to have my photo chosen,” she said.Winning images were selected by a panel of RTK and Kansas Livestock Association representatives, along with special guest judge and professional photographer Jim Richardson. Richardson is a Kansas native and has traveled the world as a National Geographic photographer for over 35 years. He also speaks nationally and internationally.Category winners include: Landscape – Mike Scheufler, Augusta; Livestock – James Claassen, Meade; People – Shelly Wonders, North Newton; Sunrise or Sunset – Jennifer Wagner, Spring Hill; Youth and Wildlife – Jarett Riley, Galva; KLA Member – Marcella Warner Holman, Spearville; Honorable Mention – Scott Bean, Manhattan; and Holly Mettling, Bogue.L’image is the exclusive sponsor of contest. The locally owned photo printing and picture framing store in Wichita has been in business for more than 25 years, specializing in their ready-to-hang plaque mount. Prizes are awarded to the top 10 winning photographers. All winning entries can be viewed on RTK’s Facebook page or website www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org.

Winners of RTK photography contest announced

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729444330496.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/2024/10/1729374122613.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/2024/10/1729299700155.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 Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ka8IJ-jhn2g?si=lDrxR15HO4YQn4ZK" 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 Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.

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