Updated Friday, Feb. 26 at 8:17 p.m. with information on the condition of the victim from the Victoria house fire.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis County firefighters responded to 13 fire calls this week, including a house fire near Victoria that resulted in a resident receiving serious injuries.

Ellis County Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management Darin Myers said he could not release the name of the person who was injured near Victoria on Friday, Feb. 19.

The family also said they would prefer to not release the name of the victim. However, a family member said one of the residents of the home was able to exit the home uninjured.

The second resident received first- and second degree burns on their face, neck and lower arms. The victim also as received injuries to their lungs from inhalation of flash fire.

The injured person was in the ICU as of Friday and doing as well as can be expected, the family member said.

The home, which was at&nbsp;2584 Grants Villa Road, was a total loss.

An investigation by the state fire marshal could not determine a cause. However, inspectors suspect the blaze may have been sparked by a portable heater being used to warm pets.

No firefighters were injured in fighting that blaze.

Ellis County fire crews battled two significant grass fires Tuesday, while a third broke out across the county line in Russell County.

A grass fire west of U.S. 183 between Homestead Road and the Saline River burned about 270 acres. One hundred hay bales were caught in the blaze. Oil wells in the area were not affected, and cattle grazing in the area were able to be moved out of the path of the fire.

A home was threatened, but firefighters were able to protect the structure. An abandoned shed in the area was lost, Myers said.

Firefighters responded to another grass fire near Air Flyte Drive. A local resident was treated for smoke inhalation by EMS, but was not seriously injured, Myers said.

No firefighters were injured on calls this week.

Myers said this week has been exhausting for himself and the mostly volunteer county fire crews.

"Most of [these calls] have come in late in the day or evening," he said. "Most of these county firefighters work normal jobs and then some of them have been out on fires until midnight. That is 16 to 18 hours of hard labor."

Myers said the risk for grass fires will remain high until the area receives significant rain. That is not in the forecast any time soon. The National Weather Service is predicting no moisture for Hays at least through Thursday.

"Today and tomorrow, we will be at higher risk," Myers said. "When the wind speeds are 30 plus miles per hour, and humidity drops to 10 to 20 percent or less, there is a critical fire danger."

Anything that can create a spark can cause a fire in these dry conditions— a lit cigarette, sparks from a trailer chain dragging on the ground, power lines slapping in the wind, or the malfunction of a vehicle or piece of machinery, Myers said.

"Use common sense," Myers said, "When you are cutting or welding anything that drops hot sparks or embers, wet the area down. To prevent more significant damage, keep property maintained and mowed and create a good barrier between grass and your home."

If you have or see a fire, call 911 immediately, Myers said.

"The county is a pay-per-call department," he said. "We don't have people at the station. They have to leave home or work. We have 900 square miles in the county. It can take 20 to 30 minutes to reach the far reaches of the county. The quicker you call, the quicker we can respond."

Myers said he wanted to express his appreciate to the county's firefighters for their dedication to protect life and property.

Anyone who is interested in applying to be a county volunteer firefighter can receive an application by contacting the Ellis County Fire and Emergency Management office at 785-625-1061.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614376550118.png" alt="US Highway 183 fire on Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>US Highway 183 fire on Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>Updated Friday, Feb. 26 at 8:17 p.m. with information on the condition of the victim from the Victoria house fire.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis County firefighters responded to 13 fire calls this week, including a house fire near Victoria that resulted in a resident receiving serious injuries.Ellis County Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management Darin Myers said he could not release the name of the person who was injured near Victoria on Friday, Feb. 19.The family also said they would prefer to not release the name of the victim. However, a family member said one of the residents of the home was able to exit the home uninjured.The second resident received first- and second degree burns on their face, neck and lower arms. The victim also as received injuries to their lungs from inhalation of flash fire.The injured person was in the ICU as of Friday and doing as well as can be expected, the family member said.The home, which was at&nbsp;2584 Grants Villa Road, was a total loss.An investigation by the state fire marshal could not determine a cause. However, inspectors suspect the blaze may have been sparked by a portable heater being used to warm pets.No firefighters were injured in fighting that blaze.Ellis County fire crews battled two significant grass fires Tuesday, while a third broke out across the county line in Russell County.A grass fire west of U.S. 183 between Homestead Road and the Saline River burned about 270 acres. One hundred hay bales were caught in the blaze. Oil wells in the area were not affected, and cattle grazing in the area were able to be moved out of the path of the fire.A home was threatened, but firefighters were able to protect the structure. An abandoned shed in the area was lost, Myers said.Firefighters responded to another grass fire near Air Flyte Drive. A local resident was treated for smoke inhalation by EMS, but was not seriously injured, Myers said.No firefighters were injured on calls this week.Myers said this week has been exhausting for himself and the mostly volunteer county fire crews."Most of [these calls] have come in late in the day or evening," he said. "Most of these county firefighters work normal jobs and then some of them have been out on fires until midnight. That is 16 to 18 hours of hard labor."Myers said the risk for grass fires will remain high until the area receives significant rain. That is not in the forecast any time soon. The National Weather Service is predicting no moisture for Hays at least through Thursday."Today and tomorrow, we will be at higher risk," Myers said. "When the wind speeds are 30 plus miles per hour, and humidity drops to 10 to 20 percent or less, there is a critical fire danger."Anything that can create a spark can cause a fire in these dry conditions— a lit cigarette, sparks from a trailer chain dragging on the ground, power lines slapping in the wind, or the malfunction of a vehicle or piece of machinery, Myers said."Use common sense," Myers said, "When you are cutting or welding anything that drops hot sparks or embers, wet the area down. To prevent more significant damage, keep property maintained and mowed and create a good barrier between grass and your home."If you have or see a fire, call 911 immediately, Myers said."The county is a pay-per-call department," he said. "We don't have people at the station. They have to leave home or work. We have 900 square miles in the county. It can take 20 to 30 minutes to reach the far reaches of the county. The quicker you call, the quicker we can respond."Myers said he wanted to express his appreciate to the county's firefighters for their dedication to protect life and property.Anyone who is interested in applying to be a county volunteer firefighter can receive an application by contacting the Ellis County Fire and Emergency Management office at 785-625-1061.

UPDATE: Rural Victoria resident seriously injured in fire; firefighters respond to 13 fires this week

In an effort to alleviate some stress and answer some questions, the Hays High School prom planning committee wanted to send out this message to juniors and seniors regarding prom.&nbsp;

At this time, Hays High School is going forward with the prom planning process. So far, we have decided the following:

More details will be sent as they are available, but as always, if you have any questions feel free to contact the committee. 

Junior Class Sponsors: Julie Pfannenstiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">jpfannenstiel@usd489.com</a> <a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank"></a>Beth Schiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bschiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">bschiel@usd489.com</a>

In an effort to alleviate some stress and answer some questions, the Hays High School prom planning committee wanted to send out this message to juniors and seniors regarding prom.&nbsp;At this time, Hays High School is going forward with the prom planning process. So far, we have decided the following:<ol>
 <li>Prom will be&nbsp;from 6-8:30 p.m. April 10, 2021 with the location yet to be determined</li><li>Prom will be an outside event</li><li>Prom will be a formal event</li><li>Juniors and seniors will be allowed to invite the date of their choice as usual, but all of the usual guidelines will have to be followed for signing up dates, etc.</li><li>The “theme” will be the Roaring 20’s, but no new decorations will be ordered.&nbsp;Students and parents are welcome to donate items to the theme, but will not be reimbursed for them</li><li>Decorations will be limited and simple</li><li>There will be refreshments served, but they will also be limited to COVID-friendly snacks</li>
 </ol>More details will be sent as they are available, but as always, if you have any questions feel free to contact the committee. Junior Class Sponsors: Julie Pfannenstiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">jpfannenstiel@usd489.com</a> <a href="mailto:jpfannenstiel@usd489.com" target="_blank"></a>Beth Schiel:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bschiel@usd489.com" target="_blank">bschiel@usd489.com</a>

Hays High prom set for April 10

Healing After Loss will meet from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 2 and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 16 at 103 W. 27th, Oak Plaza Suite C.

There will be dinner with the meeting on March 16.

The meeting will be in person unless otherwise announced. You will be notified by email, Facebook or the Center for Life Experience website.

Please RSVP by the Monday prior to the meeting. RSVP to cfle1@eaglecom.net or text 785-625-6078.

Everyone is requested to wear masks and agree to social distance. Please bring your own mask. The center will have some available.

Healing After Loss will meet from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 2 and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 16 at 103 W. 27th, Oak Plaza Suite C.There will be dinner with the meeting on March 16.The meeting will be in person unless otherwise announced. You will be notified by email, Facebook or the Center for Life Experience website.Please RSVP by the Monday prior to the meeting. RSVP to cfle1@eaglecom.net or text 785-625-6078.Everyone is requested to wear masks and agree to social distance. Please bring your own mask. The center will have some available.

Healing After Loss to meet March 2, 16

NAMI to meet March 1 by Zoom, in-person

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries?utm_source=direct&amp;utm_medium=direct&amp;utm_campaign=hayspost_obituary_category">HERE</a> for the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries?utm_source=direct&amp;utm_medium=direct&amp;utm_campaign=hayspost_obituary_category">HERE</a> for the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Recent obituaries

The HaysMed Foundation is holding an online auction with the theme, "Together we Rise." The auction is live now through Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Items include art, electronics, jewelry, dinners, experiences, household items, passes, sports memorabilia, man-cave items, and lots of unique wine offerings.

Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction" target="_blank">https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction</a>&nbsp;for details. This event is open to anyone who would like to participate and support healthcare in our region. The online auction is being held in lieu of the annual HaysMed Black Tie Gala. Proceeds of the auction help support the people and programs of HaysMed. HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull said, "Like everyone else, we've had to adapt to challenging circumstances. We're extremely grateful for the people and businesses that have made our online auction a possibility through their generous gifts of auction items, direct donations, and word-of-mouth advertising. We'd also like to encourage everyone to thank our listed business partners by patronizing those local and regional partners when you can." The HaysMed Foundation was established 25 years ago to&nbsp;provide vital philanthropic support to help fund life-saving equipment, special projects and programs for HaysMed&nbsp;that will positively impact the health of our region. All gifts to the HaysMed Foundation remain local to help the people and patients in our region.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614269459892.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed FoundationThe HaysMed Foundation is holding an online auction with the theme, "Together we Rise." The auction is live now through Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Items include art, electronics, jewelry, dinners, experiences, household items, passes, sports memorabilia, man-cave items, and lots of unique wine offerings.Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction" target="_blank">https://haysmedfoundation.org/auction</a>&nbsp;for details. This event is open to anyone who would like to participate and support healthcare in our region. The online auction is being held in lieu of the annual HaysMed Black Tie Gala. Proceeds of the auction help support the people and programs of HaysMed. HaysMed Foundation Executive Director Jeff Brull said, "Like everyone else, we've had to adapt to challenging circumstances. We're extremely grateful for the people and businesses that have made our online auction a possibility through their generous gifts of auction items, direct donations, and word-of-mouth advertising. We'd also like to encourage everyone to thank our listed business partners by patronizing those local and regional partners when you can." The HaysMed Foundation was established 25 years ago to&nbsp;provide vital philanthropic support to help fund life-saving equipment, special projects and programs for HaysMed&nbsp;that will positively impact the health of our region. All gifts to the HaysMed Foundation remain local to help the people and patients in our region.&nbsp;

HaysMed Foundation online auction ends Saturday

The Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup is set for Monday, March 1.

Due to COVID, attendance is limited to only parents of incoming kindergarten students who do not currently have a sibling attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools.

The event will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays High School Gymnasium, 2300 E. 13th St.

Eligibility for kindergarten - Student must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2021.

If you have a child who is eligible to attend kindergarten in fall 2021 and you do not currently have a child attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools, please plan to attend our USD 489 Kindergarten Round-up.

This is a parents only informational meeting.

A kindergarten pre-enrollment form must be completed for each incoming kindergarten student.

These forms will be mailed to families who have incoming kindergarten students attending one of the district elementary schools, and they will be made available for other families the night of round up.

On the form, you will be asked to fill out and rank the four elementary schools in the order you prefer your child to attend. 

Efforts will be made to place your child in the school of your first choice, but there may be a chance your child will be placed at another school due to limits on class sizes.

Preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.

Pre-enrollment forms for all incoming kindergarten students must be returned to the USD 489 Board Office no later than Friday, March 19 for first choice to be considered.

Parents will be notified of their child's school assignment by the end of April.

Again, preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.

Round-up information will be made available for those who choose not to attend due to COVID and/or for those parents who have children currently attending Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt, or Wilson.

If you have questions, call any of the USD 489 elementary schools listed below.

Lincoln Elementary School: 623-2500 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School: 623-2510 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School: 623-2520 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wilson Elementary School: 623-2550

&nbsp;A master kindergarten contact list is kept at the district office. Please call Jess Reling at the Rockwell Administration Center 785-623-2400 to put your name on that contact list. Contacts will also be gathered from our elementary schools and the night of round up.&nbsp;

Reunión informativa sobre Kínder del distrito de USD 489

Debido a COVID, la asistencia está limitada solo a los PADRES de los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder y que NO tienen actualmente un hermano que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489.

Gimnasio de la escuela secundaria Hays, 2300 E. 13th St.

Lunes 1 de marzo, 2021 a las 6:30 pm

Elegibilidad para kínder: el estudiante debe tener cinco años el 31 de agosto de 2021 o antes.

Si tiene un niño que es elegible para asistir al Kínder en el otoño de 2021 y actualmente no tiene un niño que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489, planee asistir a nuestra reunión de Kínder de USD 489. Esta reunión informativa SOLAMENTE PARA PADRES se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de Hays High School el lunes 1 de marzo a las 6:30 pm.

Se debe completar un formulario de preinscripción para kínder para cada estudiante que ingrese a kínder. Estos formularios se enviarán por correo a las familias que tengan estudiantes entrantes a kínder que asistan a una de las escuelas primarias del distrito, y estarán disponibles para otras familias la noche de la reunión. En el formulario, se le pedirá que complete y clasifique las cuatro escuelas primarias en el orden en que prefiere que asista su hijo. Se harán esfuerzos para ubicar a su hijo en la escuela de su primera elección, pero existe la posibilidad de que su hijo sea colocado en otra escuela debido a los límites en el tamaño de las clases. Se dará preferencia a aquellos que tengan hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito. Los formularios de preinscripción para todos los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder deben devolverse a la Oficina de la Junta de USD 489 a más tardar el viernes 19 de marzo de 2021 para que se considere la primera opción. Los padres serán notificados de la asignación escolar de su hijo a fines de abril. Nuevamente, se dará preferencia a aquellos que tienen hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito.

TENGA EN CUENTA: La información de resumen estará disponible para aquellos que elijan no asistir debido a COVID y / o para aquellos padres que tienen hijos que actualmente asisten a Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt o Wilson.

¿¿PREGUNTAS?? Llame a cualquiera de las escuelas primarias de USD 489 que se enumeran a continuación. Ayúdenos a encontrar a los nuevos niños de kínder compartiendo esta información con todos sus conocidos. ¡Gracias!

Lincoln Elementary School:			623-2500			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School:			623-2510			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School:			623-2520				 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson Elementary School:			623-2550

Esperamos que usted y su hijo formen parte del

** En la oficina del distrito se mantiene una lista maestra de contactos de kindergarten. Llame a Jess Reling en el Centro de administración de Rockwell (785) 623-2400 para poner su nombre en esa lista de contactos. También se recopilarán contactos de nuestras escuelas primarias esa noche.&nbsp;

The Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup is set for Monday, March 1.Due to COVID, attendance is limited to only parents of incoming kindergarten students who do not currently have a sibling attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools.The event will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays High School Gymnasium, 2300 E. 13th St. Eligibility for kindergarten - Student must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2021.If you have a child who is eligible to attend kindergarten in fall 2021 and you do not currently have a child attending one of the four USD 489 elementary schools, please plan to attend our USD 489 Kindergarten Round-up.This is a parents only informational meeting.A kindergarten pre-enrollment form must be completed for each incoming kindergarten student.These forms will be mailed to families who have incoming kindergarten students attending one of the district elementary schools, and they will be made available for other families the night of round up.On the form, you will be asked to fill out and rank the four elementary schools in the order you prefer your child to attend. Efforts will be made to place your child in the school of your first choice, but there may be a chance your child will be placed at another school due to limits on class sizes.Preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.Pre-enrollment forms for all incoming kindergarten students must be returned to the USD 489 Board Office no later than Friday, March 19 for first choice to be considered.Parents will be notified of their child's school assignment by the end of April.Again, preference will be given to those who have siblings currently enrolled in a district elementary school.Round-up information will be made available for those who choose not to attend due to COVID and/or for those parents who have children currently attending Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt, or Wilson.If you have questions, call any of the USD 489 elementary schools listed below.Lincoln Elementary School: 623-2500 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School: 623-2510 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School: 623-2520 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wilson Elementary School: 623-2550&nbsp;A master kindergarten contact list is kept at the district office. Please call Jess Reling at the Rockwell Administration Center 785-623-2400 to put your name on that contact list. Contacts will also be gathered from our elementary schools and the night of round up.&nbsp;----Reunión informativa sobre Kínder del distrito de USD 489Debido a COVID, la asistencia está limitada solo a los PADRES de los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder y que NO tienen actualmente un hermano que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489.Gimnasio de la escuela secundaria Hays, 2300 E. 13th St.Lunes 1 de marzo, 2021 a las 6:30 pmElegibilidad para kínder: el estudiante debe tener cinco años el 31 de agosto de 2021 o antes.Si tiene un niño que es elegible para asistir al Kínder en el otoño de 2021 y actualmente no tiene un niño que asista a una de las cuatro escuelas primarias de USD 489, planee asistir a nuestra reunión de Kínder de USD 489. Esta reunión informativa SOLAMENTE PARA PADRES se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de Hays High School el lunes 1 de marzo a las 6:30 pm.Se debe completar un formulario de preinscripción para kínder para cada estudiante que ingrese a kínder. Estos formularios se enviarán por correo a las familias que tengan estudiantes entrantes a kínder que asistan a una de las escuelas primarias del distrito, y estarán disponibles para otras familias la noche de la reunión. En el formulario, se le pedirá que complete y clasifique las cuatro escuelas primarias en el orden en que prefiere que asista su hijo. Se harán esfuerzos para ubicar a su hijo en la escuela de su primera elección, pero existe la posibilidad de que su hijo sea colocado en otra escuela debido a los límites en el tamaño de las clases. Se dará preferencia a aquellos que tengan hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito. Los formularios de preinscripción para todos los estudiantes que ingresan a kínder deben devolverse a la Oficina de la Junta de USD 489 a más tardar el viernes 19 de marzo de 2021 para que se considere la primera opción. Los padres serán notificados de la asignación escolar de su hijo a fines de abril. Nuevamente, se dará preferencia a aquellos que tienen hermanos actualmente inscritos en una escuela primaria del distrito.TENGA EN CUENTA: La información de resumen estará disponible para aquellos que elijan no asistir debido a COVID y / o para aquellos padres que tienen hijos que actualmente asisten a Lincoln, O'Loughlin, Roosevelt o Wilson.¿¿PREGUNTAS?? Llame a cualquiera de las escuelas primarias de USD 489 que se enumeran a continuación. Ayúdenos a encontrar a los nuevos niños de kínder compartiendo esta información con todos sus conocidos. ¡Gracias!Lincoln Elementary School:			623-2500			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; O’Loughlin Elementary School:			623-2510			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Roosevelt Elementary School:			623-2520				 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Wilson Elementary School:			623-2550Esperamos que usted y su hijo formen parte delHays-USD 489 distrito escolar.** En la oficina del distrito se mantiene una lista maestra de contactos de kindergarten. Llame a Jess Reling en el Centro de administración de Rockwell (785) 623-2400 para poner su nombre en esa lista de contactos. También se recopilarán contactos de nuestras escuelas primarias esa noche.&nbsp;

Hays USD 489 kindergarten roundup set for March 1

The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club in affiliation with the Kansas Disc Golf Association is hosting a local food drive disc golf tournament this Saturday, February 27. All proceeds will benefit the Hays Community Assistance Center. 

Anyone is welcome to participate or donate cash or non-perishable food items. 

For $25 individuals can receive a custom stamped disc and register to compete or donate. 

Registration/Check-in will begin at 8:30AM that morning.

Schedule: 8:30 AM Registration/Check-in begins 10:00 AM Tee-Off Lunch following first round. Optional $5 best/worst doubles round after lunch. (Approximately 1 PM Tee-Off). $2 Donation=1 Mulligan 1 canned food item = 1 Mulligan Tournament Director:&nbsp; Brett E. Straight&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614266818975.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Flying Bison Disc Golf Club in affiliation with the Kansas Disc Golf Association is hosting a local food drive disc golf tournament this Saturday, February 27. All proceeds will benefit the Hays Community Assistance Center. Anyone is welcome to participate or donate cash or non-perishable food items. For $25 individuals can receive a custom stamped disc and register to compete or donate. Registration/Check-in will begin at 8:30AM that morning.Schedule: 8:30 AM Registration/Check-in begins 10:00 AM Tee-Off Lunch following first round. Optional $5 best/worst doubles round after lunch. (Approximately 1 PM Tee-Off). $2 Donation=1 Mulligan 1 canned food item = 1 Mulligan Tournament Director:&nbsp; Brett E. Straight&nbsp;&nbsp;

Flyin' Bison disc golf tourney includes local food drive 

The Knights of Columbus of Munjor will host a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, March 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Munjor School building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583868129243.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Knights of Columbus of Munjor will host a Lenten Fish Fry Friday, March 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Munjor School building.Takeout meals will be available.&nbsp;A freewill offering will be accepted.Everyone is invited.

Lenten Fish Fry March 5 hosted by Munjor K of C 

Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 26 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: corn, mixed fruit, frozen chicken, garbanzo beans, raisins, pecan pieces, orange juice, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, frozen chicken leg quarters, and split peas. 

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592580255349.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Government surplus food commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Common Grounds Coffee House and Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, Friday, February 26 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below: * $1,383 Household of one * $1,868 Household of two * $2,353 Household of three * $2,839 Household of four * $3,324 Household of five * $3,809 Household of six * $4,295 Household of seven * $4,780 Household of eight * Add $486 for each additional family member after eightCommodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: corn, mixed fruit, frozen chicken, garbanzo beans, raisins, pecan pieces, orange juice, fruit and nut mix, canned chicken, frozen chicken leg quarters, and split peas. Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

Commodity food distribution Friday morning in Hays 

COLBY — The annual Art on the Oasis art show is returning to Colby Community College March 5 through 7. The event, held in the Bedker Memorial Complex and&nbsp;the Cultural&nbsp;Arts Center gallery, features works by high school, amateur and professional artists from around the region.

The opening gala is from 6 to 9 p.m. at both venues on Friday, March 5, and continues Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.&nbsp;

"We'll have food, music, awards, and opportunities to purchase art," said organizer Rebel Mahieu. "We had more than 400 entries and five high schools participate last year and expect as many this year."

In addition to local entries, participating artists are from eastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, Hays, Great Bend, Phillipsburg, and Garden City.&nbsp;

The judge will be Fort Hays State University sculpture professor Tobias Flores.

"There will be a variety of pieces that include abstract and non-representational, paintings, drawings, sculpture, weaving, metal work, ceramics, photography, and mixed media," Mahieu said.

Admission is free. Masks are required but will also be available for those who do not have one. For more information, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The annual Art on the Oasis art show is returning to Colby Community College March 5 through 7. The event, held in the Bedker Memorial Complex and&nbsp;the Cultural&nbsp;Arts Center gallery, features works by high school, amateur and professional artists from around the region.The opening gala is from 6 to 9 p.m. at both venues on Friday, March 5, and continues Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.&nbsp;"We'll have food, music, awards, and opportunities to purchase art," said organizer Rebel Mahieu. "We had more than 400 entries and five high schools participate last year and expect as many this year."In addition to local entries, participating artists are from eastern Colorado, southern Nebraska, Hays, Great Bend, Phillipsburg, and Garden City.&nbsp;The judge will be Fort Hays State University sculpture professor Tobias Flores."There will be a variety of pieces that include abstract and non-representational, paintings, drawings, sculpture, weaving, metal work, ceramics, photography, and mixed media," Mahieu said.Admission is free. Masks are required but will also be available for those who do not have one. For more information, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colby Community College hosts Art on the Oasis 

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office has reported a Hays man is dead as the result of an accidental shooting Friday afternoon.

At 3:21 p.m. Friday, dispatchers received a 911 call regarding a vehicle parked in the 2000 block of 200th Avenue. The caller reported an individual laying next to the vehicle, not believed to be breathing.&nbsp;

Emergency responders reported finding Raymond Nieman, 72, Hays, deceased next to his vehicle with a single gunshot wound to the chest.

"The Ellis County Sheriff's Office along with
23rd Judicial District Coroner Lyle Noordhoek determined the death as accidental as all evidence
indicates Nieman was securing his shotgun in the back of the vehicle when it accidentally discharged," the sheriff's office said in a news release Friday evening.

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office has reported a Hays man is dead as the result of an accidental shooting Friday afternoon.At 3:21 p.m. Friday, dispatchers received a 911 call regarding a vehicle parked in the 2000 block of 200th Avenue. The caller reported an individual laying next to the vehicle, not believed to be breathing.&nbsp;Emergency responders reported finding Raymond Nieman, 72, Hays, deceased next to his vehicle with a single gunshot wound to the chest."The Ellis County Sheriff's Office along with
23rd Judicial District Coroner Lyle Noordhoek determined the death as accidental as all evidence
indicates Nieman was securing his shotgun in the back of the vehicle when it accidentally discharged," the sheriff's office said in a news release Friday evening.The complete release is below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614390316382.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Sheriff's office: Hays man dead after accidental shooting Friday

The Hays High Indians close out the regular season with a matchup with their rivals Great Bend Panthers Friday night at Hays High School.

The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. Our coverage begins at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show. Girls game

&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the games on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

The Hays High Indians close out the regular season with a matchup with their rivals Great Bend Panthers Friday night at Hays High School.The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. Our coverage begins at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show. Girls game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a9N1xK7TNHo"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Boys game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8dZpIINXK6Q"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the games on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

 🏀WATCH: Hays High v Great Bend

The Special Olympics Kansas announced Feb. 19 it will be canceling its summer games due to the pandemic, leaving many local athletes disappointed for a second summer.

The games were set for June&nbsp;4 to 6.&nbsp;The Summer Games, the organization’s largest annual statewide competition, typically brings more than 1,500 athletes, 300 coaches, and 1,400 volunteers from across the state to Maize South High School in Wichita for three days of competition in four sports. 

“Naturally, we’re disappointed that the lingering coronavirus outbreak has altered plans for the 2021 Summer Games,” John Lair, Special Olympics Kansas president/CEO, said in a news release. “The decision was made to ensure the safety and health of all attendees. Our athletes, volunteers and sponsors look forward to this annual event, and it was an incredibly tough decision.”&nbsp;

Brent Kaiser, director of activities for the Arc of the Central Plains, said he and the athletes in the local program were also disappointed to hear the news of the cancelation.

The summer 2020 Kansas Special Olympics was also canceled, as a result of the pandemic. For more than a year, most of the Special Olympics events have been canceled, Kaiser said.

"I think at the beginning, it was something that was really heartbreaking for them," Kaiser said. "It's still really heartbreaking for them.&nbsp;

"We are at the point now we are expecting the cancelation, but expecting the games to happen. I think our athletes have grown in understanding and understand the situation and why Special Olympics Kansas is canceling these events right now."

Athletes who have developmental or intellectual disabilities often have other underlying health concerns, which make them more vulnerable to complications if they would contract COVID-19, Kaiser said.

Even to gather 30 to 50 athletes together to travel to events on a bus has become impractical during the pandemic, he said.

The local Arc chapter is continuing to have gym nights and events as organizers think it is safe to do so. The local basketball team has not been able to travel and compete with other teams, but the local athletes will compete in an upcoming basketball skills night.

The local Arc is committed to having a local track and field event some time this year if Special Olympics Kansas does not host regional events, Kaiser said.

"Is it ideal? No. But we are going to continue to push for our local athletes to be able to participate," he said.

Kaiser said the gym times are important for socialization for athletes, and being able to socialize with their friends is why most of the athletes participate in Special Olympics.

In addition to Summer Games being canceled, the following sports announcements have been made for competitions through the end of the summer.&nbsp;

The Special Olympics Kansas Return to Play committee that was formed in the fall will be tasked with deciding on the exact precautions that will be in place for team training and each sport.

Special Olympics Kansas will continue to fundraise and plan for future events.

The Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run has big plans to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

"What began as a spark of hope in Wichita has become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympics worldwide," said Chief Richard LaMunyon, founder of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

The latest news on this celebratory year will be up to date on the <a href="https://ksso.org/">Special Olympics Kansas website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/specialolympicskansas">social media</a> accounts and newsletters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614267729100.jpeg" alt="Special Olympics athletes with the Arc of the Central Plains play softball in October in Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Special Olympics athletes with the Arc of the Central Plains play softball in October in Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Special Olympics Kansas announced Feb. 19 it will be canceling its summer games due to the pandemic, leaving many local athletes disappointed for a second summer.The games were set for June&nbsp;4 to 6.&nbsp;The Summer Games, the organization’s largest annual statewide competition, typically brings more than 1,500 athletes, 300 coaches, and 1,400 volunteers from across the state to Maize South High School in Wichita for three days of competition in four sports. “Naturally, we’re disappointed that the lingering coronavirus outbreak has altered plans for the 2021 Summer Games,” John Lair, Special Olympics Kansas president/CEO, said in a news release. “The decision was made to ensure the safety and health of all attendees. Our athletes, volunteers and sponsors look forward to this annual event, and it was an incredibly tough decision.”&nbsp;Brent Kaiser, director of activities for the Arc of the Central Plains, said he and the athletes in the local program were also disappointed to hear the news of the cancelation.The summer 2020 Kansas Special Olympics was also canceled, as a result of the pandemic. For more than a year, most of the Special Olympics events have been canceled, Kaiser said."I think at the beginning, it was something that was really heartbreaking for them," Kaiser said. "It's still really heartbreaking for them.&nbsp;"We are at the point now we are expecting the cancelation, but expecting the games to happen. I think our athletes have grown in understanding and understand the situation and why Special Olympics Kansas is canceling these events right now."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614267928301.jpeg" alt="Arc of the Central Plains athletes play kickball during a gym night this winter in the Hays High School gym. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Arc of the Central Plains athletes play kickball during a gym night this winter in the Hays High School gym. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Athletes who have developmental or intellectual disabilities often have other underlying health concerns, which make them more vulnerable to complications if they would contract COVID-19, Kaiser said.Even to gather 30 to 50 athletes together to travel to events on a bus has become impractical during the pandemic, he said.The local Arc chapter is continuing to have gym nights and events as organizers think it is safe to do so. The local basketball team has not been able to travel and compete with other teams, but the local athletes will compete in an upcoming basketball skills night.The local Arc is committed to having a local track and field event some time this year if Special Olympics Kansas does not host regional events, Kaiser said."Is it ideal? No. But we are going to continue to push for our local athletes to be able to participate," he said.Kaiser said the gym times are important for socialization for athletes, and being able to socialize with their friends is why most of the athletes participate in Special Olympics.In addition to Summer Games being canceled, the following sports announcements have been made for competitions through the end of the summer.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>The powerlifting and soccer seasons are canceled.</li><li>Bocce and corn hole will be offered regionally in April/May.</li><li>Cycling and tennis will be offered regionally in May.</li><li>Smaller, modified track and field competitions will be offered at the regional level in late May or early June</li><li>Bowling will be offered regionally only in late July or early August.</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614268058520.jpeg" alt="Although local Special Olympics athletes will not be able to compete on the state level this year, the Arc of the Central Plains will still be offering a training season and will have a local track and field event if a regional event can't be held." />
 <figcaption>Although local Special Olympics athletes will not be able to compete on the state level this year, the Arc of the Central Plains will still be offering a training season and will have a local track and field event if a regional event can't be held.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Special Olympics Kansas Return to Play committee that was formed in the fall will be tasked with deciding on the exact precautions that will be in place for team training and each sport. Special Olympics Kansas will continue to fundraise and plan for future events.The Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run has big plans to celebrate its 40th anniversary."What began as a spark of hope in Wichita has become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympics worldwide," said Chief Richard LaMunyon, founder of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.The latest news on this celebratory year will be up to date on the <a href="https://ksso.org/">Special Olympics Kansas website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/specialolympicskansas">social media</a> accounts and newsletters.

Kansas Summer Special Olympics for 2021 canceled

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days dipped to four — the lowest figure since that metric has been reported.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also reported two additional coronavirus-related deaths, raising the total to 72.

<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

There were 13 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 48 active cases, including five active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,629 recovered cases.

As of Friday, there were 13 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 14 on Thursday, with eight of those active patients and five in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from more than 8 percent Wednesday to 5.6 percent on Friday.

Since reported began, there have been 3,677 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 23,945 tests administered, 14.2 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614365311392.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days dipped to four — the lowest figure since that metric has been reported.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also reported two additional coronavirus-related deaths, raising the total to 72.<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.There were 13 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 48 active cases, including five active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,629 recovered cases.As of Friday, there were 13 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 14 on Thursday, with eight of those active patients and five in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from more than 8 percent Wednesday to 5.6 percent on Friday.Since reported began, there have been 3,677 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 23,945 tests administered, 14.2 percent have returned positive for coronavirus.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614380921602.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Per-day virus rate falls to 4 in Ellis Co.; two additional deaths reported

The Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, to spread any additional costs from the recent unprecedented winter weather event evenly over a 12-month time period.

Wheatland would like to ensure our members that we will continue to do everything possible to mitigate the impact that this March bill has on our members. Unfortunately, at this time, we do not yet know the full impact and will not know until we receive our power bill from Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, our generation and transmission provider.

“Just like our members, we are anxiously awaiting our power bill. Once we receive our wholesale power bill, members will be able to see the impact on their bill that generates on March 12th,” said Bruce W. Mueller, Wheatland’s CEO/General Manger.

Members who are enrolled in automatic bank draft or recurring credit and debit card payments should not be concerned that a large amount will be withdrawn from their account. Wheatland will not have this entire lump sum amount withdrawn from any members’ account at one time. Any additional costs from this winter weather event will be spread out evenly over a twelve-month time period starting with your March bill.

Additionally, Wheatland’s rates are not changing as they are set by our tariffs. This tariff includes a stated cost of electricity per kilowatt hour and are determined by a cost-of-service study. The most recent cost of service study was completed in 2019 and the current rates reflect that cost-of-service study recommendations. Members can expect to see an increase in the Power Cost Adjustment on their upcoming bill, due to the increased cost of natural gas.

Additionally, members most likely used more power than usual during the month of February due to the extreme cold weather. Both factors will contribute to a higher than average monthly bill.

This is a continually evolving situation and we will learn more in the coming days and weeks. Wheatland Electric will continue to keep you updated. Please follow us on social media and continue to check our website for updates, www.weci.net. A video message from our CEO/general manager can also be viewed at https://youtu.be/Nywr8-Lc-z8.

About Us Our Mission: Delivering Energy for Life–Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., a member owned distribution cooperative headquartered in Scott City, KS, was established in 1948 as a distribution and power cooperative in the state of Kansas. Today, Wheatland Electric serves more than 33,000 electric meters in 14 Kansas counties and three Colorado counties and maintains over 4,000 miles of distribution power lines across western, southcentral Kansas and eastern Colorado. Together, with the help of our members, we are committed to building a better and stronger rural America. Visit www.weci.net for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614352775965.jpeg" alt="Sheena McKinley, consumer services representative, visits with members on the phone at the Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., office in Garden City." />
 <figcaption>Sheena McKinley, consumer services representative, visits with members on the phone at the Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., office in Garden City.</figcaption>
 </figure>From Wheatland Electric...The Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, to spread any additional costs from the recent unprecedented winter weather event evenly over a 12-month time period.Wheatland would like to ensure our members that we will continue to do everything possible to mitigate the impact that this March bill has on our members. Unfortunately, at this time, we do not yet know the full impact and will not know until we receive our power bill from Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, our generation and transmission provider.“Just like our members, we are anxiously awaiting our power bill. Once we receive our wholesale power bill, members will be able to see the impact on their bill that generates on March 12th,” said Bruce W. Mueller, Wheatland’s CEO/General Manger.Members who are enrolled in automatic bank draft or recurring credit and debit card payments should not be concerned that a large amount will be withdrawn from their account. Wheatland will not have this entire lump sum amount withdrawn from any members’ account at one time. Any additional costs from this winter weather event will be spread out evenly over a twelve-month time period starting with your March bill.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611958165537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, Wheatland’s rates are not changing as they are set by our tariffs. This tariff includes a stated cost of electricity per kilowatt hour and are determined by a cost-of-service study. The most recent cost of service study was completed in 2019 and the current rates reflect that cost-of-service study recommendations. Members can expect to see an increase in the Power Cost Adjustment on their upcoming bill, due to the increased cost of natural gas.Additionally, members most likely used more power than usual during the month of February due to the extreme cold weather. Both factors will contribute to a higher than average monthly bill.This is a continually evolving situation and we will learn more in the coming days and weeks. Wheatland Electric will continue to keep you updated. Please follow us on social media and continue to check our website for updates, www.weci.net. A video message from our CEO/general manager can also be viewed at https://youtu.be/Nywr8-Lc-z8.About Us Our Mission: Delivering Energy for Life–Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., a member owned distribution cooperative headquartered in Scott City, KS, was established in 1948 as a distribution and power cooperative in the state of Kansas. Today, Wheatland Electric serves more than 33,000 electric meters in 14 Kansas counties and three Colorado counties and maintains over 4,000 miles of distribution power lines across western, southcentral Kansas and eastern Colorado. Together, with the help of our members, we are committed to building a better and stronger rural America. Visit www.weci.net for more information.

Wheatland Electric to spread costs from winter weather over 12 months

Last weekend in Hays, the police department reported a sudden spike in DUI cases, with five DUI arrests made on Feb. 19 and two more the next day.

"I want to remind people not to drink and drive," said Police Chief Don Scheibler. "I know they have been locked up during COVID and the cold weather, but we have to be responsible."

While he said he is appreciative of the work to identify impaired drivers by officers and remove them from the roads, he would rather see people make the right choice and not drive while intoxicated.

"We appreciate the hard work of the officers, being out there and being proactive, but we really need people to call for and Uber, get a designated driver or limit their drinking," Scheibler said.

He said typically Hays will average one or two arrests on a weekend and with COVID restrictions in place along with the recent cold snap, there have been even fewer DUI arrests.

"It was surprising for us to see that many DUIs in a weekend, but again the officers are out there being proactive," Scheibler said. "People just have to understand if you are going to drink and drive there is a good chance you are going to get arrested. It's not worth it."

A recent example of the dangers of drinking and driving in Hays occurred just after the weekend spike.

"We had an injury accident (Monday) in the parking lot of Whiskey Creek," Scheibler said. "The vehicle drove across the parking lot on the backside of the business at a high rate of speed and end up striking a telephone pole, destroying the front end of the vehicle and requiring him to be transported to the hospital."

Following an investigation into the incident, the suspect was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.&nbsp;

By JAMES BELL Hays PostLast weekend in Hays, the police department reported a sudden spike in DUI cases, with five DUI arrests made on Feb. 19 and two more the next day."I want to remind people not to drink and drive," said Police Chief Don Scheibler. "I know they have been locked up during COVID and the cold weather, but we have to be responsible."While he said he is appreciative of the work to identify impaired drivers by officers and remove them from the roads, he would rather see people make the right choice and not drive while intoxicated."We appreciate the hard work of the officers, being out there and being proactive, but we really need people to call for and Uber, get a designated driver or limit their drinking," Scheibler said.He said typically Hays will average one or two arrests on a weekend and with COVID restrictions in place along with the recent cold snap, there have been even fewer DUI arrests."It was surprising for us to see that many DUIs in a weekend, but again the officers are out there being proactive," Scheibler said. "People just have to understand if you are going to drink and drive there is a good chance you are going to get arrested. It's not worth it."A recent example of the dangers of drinking and driving in Hays occurred just after the weekend spike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614147280267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We had an injury accident (Monday) in the parking lot of Whiskey Creek," Scheibler said. "The vehicle drove across the parking lot on the backside of the business at a high rate of speed and end up striking a telephone pole, destroying the front end of the vehicle and requiring him to be transported to the hospital."Following an investigation into the incident, the suspect was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.&nbsp;

Hays PD reports recent spike in DUIs

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 8 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 18, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Gunshots/Non-Injury
Shooting—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:36 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 7:50 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block E 17th St, Hays; 2/16 8:30 AM; 8:35 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 2/17 10 PM; 2/18 11:38
AM 
Dead Animal Call—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:59 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 2/17 8AM; 11:30
PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block W 37th St, Hays; 5:49 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--400 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:57 PM 
Disturbance – Fight--1300 block Ash St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:43 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 19, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Criminal
Damage to Property--600 block E 11th St, Hays; 2/1; 2/18 8 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—1700 block Volga Dr, Hays; 2/16 
Shoplifting--2900 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 2/13 3:51 PM; 4:15 PM 
Parking Complaint--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
44 - Traffic Stop--22nd and Vine, Hays; 12:14 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:40 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Injury—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:52 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:17 PM 
CMB Viol-sell, furnish, transp--2500 block Vine St, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Animal Injured--3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block Fort St, Hays; 7:38 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1400 block Oak St, Hays; 8:40 PM 
Driving Under the Influence—3500 block Vine St, Hays; 9:22 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 10:07 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 8th St, Hays; 10:58 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--600 block Park St, Hays; 11:49 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Sat., Feb. 20, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Civil
Dispute—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:15 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 13th St, Hays; 1:04 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 2:05 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 2/19 10 PM; 2/20 6 AM Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 7:58 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:42 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—700 block E 12th St, Hays; 12:37 PM 
Sex Offense—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:20 PM 
Drug Offenses--2600 block Vine St, Hays; 12 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 2:44 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—400 block E 13th St, Hays; 2/19 10 PM; 2/20 1:55 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 2/19 7 PM; 2/20 3 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 25 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 21, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Battery –
simple—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:09 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Ash St, Hays; 1:48 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 2:10 AM; 2:17 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—400 block W 5th St, Hays; 2:43 AM 
Burglary/business—200 block W 48th St, Hays; 3:28 AM; 3:35 AM 
Stolen/Recovered Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 9:58 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 10:11 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:04 PM 
Found/Lost Property--Elm and 5th St, Hays; 5 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Linda Ln, Hays; 6:36 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 7:34 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 8:52 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:49 PM 
Drug Offenses—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:01 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—3900 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:22 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Mon., Feb. 22, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2/18 12:01 AM; 2/22 7:39 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2/20 &nbsp;3:30 PM; 4 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2900 block Vine St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 11:38 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:06 PM 
Unwanted Person—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 12:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—Hays; 12:37 PM 
Animal Call—1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident /DUI—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 1:29 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—100 block W 17th St, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Found/Lost Property--8th and Elm, Hays; 2:24 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:54 PM 
Drug Offenses—4200 block Vine St, Hays; 5:49 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 12 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Tue., Feb. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug
Offenses—1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 12:55 AM; 12:56 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—2500 block Felten Dr, Hays; 3:42 AM; 3:43 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—300 block W 11th St, Hays; 7:23 AM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:06 AM 
Animal At Large—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:34 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:37 PM 
Animal At Large—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 2:02 PM 
Dead Animal Call—2100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:23 PM 
Identity Theft—Hays; 12/20/20; 1/12/21 
Animal At Large--13th St and Steven Dr, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Animal Call--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 6:41 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:22 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:23 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1300 block Montgomery St, Hays; 11:08 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 4 traffic stops Wed., Feb. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 8 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 18, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Gunshots/Non-Injury
Shooting—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:36 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 7:50 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block E 17th St, Hays; 2/16 8:30 AM; 8:35 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 2/17 10 PM; 2/18 11:38
AM 
Dead Animal Call—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:59 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 2/17 8AM; 11:30
PM 
Disturbance – General—500 block W 37th St, Hays; 5:49 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--400 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:57 PM 
Disturbance – Fight--1300 block Ash St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:43 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 19, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Criminal
Damage to Property--600 block E 11th St, Hays; 2/1; 2/18 8 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—1700 block Volga Dr, Hays; 2/16 
Shoplifting--2900 block Broadway Ave, Hays; 2/13 3:51 PM; 4:15 PM 
Parking Complaint--500 block E 20th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
44 - Traffic Stop--22nd and Vine, Hays; 12:14 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 1:40 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Injury—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:52 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:17 PM 
CMB Viol-sell, furnish, transp--2500 block Vine St, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Animal Injured--3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 4:55 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block Fort St, Hays; 7:38 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1400 block Oak St, Hays; 8:40 PM 
Driving Under the Influence—3500 block Vine St, Hays; 9:22 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 10:07 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--200 block W 8th St, Hays; 10:58 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ--600 block Park St, Hays; 11:49 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Sat., Feb. 20, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Civil
Dispute—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:15 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 13th St, Hays; 1:04 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 2:05 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block E 14th St, Hays; 2/19 10 PM; 2/20 6 AM Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 7:58 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:42 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—700 block E 12th St, Hays; 12:37 PM 
Sex Offense—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:20 PM 
Drug Offenses--2600 block Vine St, Hays; 12 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 2:44 PM 
Burglary/vehicle—400 block E 13th St, Hays; 2/19 10 PM; 2/20 1:55 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 2/19 7 PM; 2/20 3 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 25 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 21, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Battery –
simple—100 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:09 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Ash St, Hays; 1:48 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 2:10 AM; 2:17 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—400 block W 5th St, Hays; 2:43 AM 
Burglary/business—200 block W 48th St, Hays; 3:28 AM; 3:35 AM 
Stolen/Recovered Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 9:58 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 10:11 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:04 PM 
Found/Lost Property--Elm and 5th St, Hays; 5 PM 
Welfare Check—400 block Linda Ln, Hays; 6:36 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 7:34 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 8:52 PM 
Theft (general)—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:49 PM 
Drug Offenses—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:01 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—3900 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:22 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Mon., Feb. 22, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 2/18 12:01 AM; 2/22 7:39 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2/20 &nbsp;3:30 PM; 4 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2900 block Vine St, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—100 block W 43rd St, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Burglary/vehicle—2500 block Henry Dr, Hays; 11:38 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:06 PM 
Unwanted Person—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 12:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—Hays; 12:37 PM 
Animal Call—1100 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:11 PM 
MV Accident /DUI—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 1:29 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—100 block W 17th St, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Found/Lost Property--8th and Elm, Hays; 2:24 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:54 PM 
Drug Offenses—4200 block Vine St, Hays; 5:49 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 12 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Tue., Feb. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug
Offenses—1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 12:55 AM; 12:56 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—2500 block Felten Dr, Hays; 3:42 AM; 3:43 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—300 block W 11th St, Hays; 7:23 AM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:06 AM 
Animal At Large—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:34 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:37 PM 
Animal At Large—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 2:02 PM 
Dead Animal Call—2100 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:23 PM 
Identity Theft—Hays; 12/20/20; 1/12/21 
Animal At Large--13th St and Steven Dr, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Animal Call--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 6:41 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:22 PM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:23 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1300 block Montgomery St, Hays; 11:08 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 4 traffic stops Wed., Feb. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, Feb. 18-24

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Regional Airport has received a $1 million federal grant as part of $10 million in funding for Kansas&nbsp;airports to help them respond to and prepare for the impacts of COVID-19.

The monies come from the Consolidated Appropriation Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriation Act, which was passed by Congress in December, provided funding for small and mid-sized airports impacted by COVID-19.

Jamie Salter, airport director, says the $1,008,174 in Hays will be used for operational expenses.

"That includes salaries, general supplies, grounds maintenance," Salter explained. The money can also be used for janitorial services and the additional cleaning and sanitation costs that have increased during the pandemic.

The city did not apply for the grant, according to Salter.

"There was no request made. The government made the awards based on prior entitlements and partially on our enplanements."

This is the second such grant received by the Hays airport.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e960241eb7f1705360280a6">Last April, the Hays airport received $1 million</a> from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through the Phase III Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

That grant, which is being used for&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ee2df3aebfb13423b278f1e">two longstanding capital improvement projects at the airport</a> - at no cost to the city - was secured by Salter.&nbsp;

More than 75&nbsp;airports across Kansas received the most recent funding to allow them to continue to serve their communities as passenger numbers remain low.&nbsp;The funding for Kansas airports was part of nearly $2 billion provided to the aviation industry.

The funding announcement was made by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall, R-Great Bend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609959431418.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy city of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy city of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Regional Airport has received a $1 million federal grant as part of $10 million in funding for Kansas&nbsp;airports to help them respond to and prepare for the impacts of COVID-19.The monies come from the Consolidated Appropriation Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriation Act, which was passed by Congress in December, provided funding for small and mid-sized airports impacted by COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591940181559.jpeg" alt="Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director, speaks to the Hays city commission last June.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director, speaks to the Hays city commission last June.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Jamie Salter, airport director, says the $1,008,174 in Hays will be used for operational expenses."That includes salaries, general supplies, grounds maintenance," Salter explained. The money can also be used for janitorial services and the additional cleaning and sanitation costs that have increased during the pandemic.The city did not apply for the grant, according to Salter."There was no request made. The government made the awards based on prior entitlements and partially on our enplanements."This is the second such grant received by the Hays airport.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e960241eb7f1705360280a6">Last April, the Hays airport received $1 million</a> from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through the Phase III Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.That grant, which is being used for&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ee2df3aebfb13423b278f1e">two longstanding capital improvement projects at the airport</a> - at no cost to the city - was secured by Salter.&nbsp;More than 75&nbsp;airports across Kansas received the most recent funding to allow them to continue to serve their communities as passenger numbers remain low.&nbsp;The funding for Kansas airports was part of nearly $2 billion provided to the aviation industry.The funding announcement was made by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall, R-Great Bend.&nbsp;

Hays airport receives additional $1M in federal COVID aid for operational expenses

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The fifth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team clinched a share of its third regular season MIAA championship Thursday evening (Feb. 25), fighting off Missouri Western on the road, 77-69.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614313534673.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The fifth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team clinched a share of its third regular season MIAA championship Thursday evening (Feb. 25), fighting off Missouri Western on the road, 77-69.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/993281782&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/womens-coach-hobson-interview-4" title="Womens Coach Hobson Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Womens Coach Hobson Interview</a></div></div>Fort Hays State has also all but locked up the top overall seed in the MIAA Championship Tournament, presented by Citizens Bank &amp; Trust. Barring any cancellations over the final two games of the regular season, the Tigers would have home-court advantage throughout the tournament. FHSU will host a quarterfinal game on Wednesday (March 3) and would host the semifinals on Saturday (March 6) and the championship on Sunday (March 7) if they were to advance to the weekend. Times are TBA. Both teams traded punches throughout the first half, combining to shoot 50 percent from the floor. There were eight lead changes and six ties, while neither team led by more than five. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5850">Whitney Randall</a>&nbsp;led all scorers with 17 first-half points, hitting 6-of-11 from the floor including a pair of 3-pointers. All eight Tigers who played in the opening half got on the scoresheet, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5853">Sydney Golladay</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5847">Jaden Hobbs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5849">Madison Mittie</a>&nbsp;all adding 3-pointers before the break, helping the Tigers to a slim 39-37 lead. As they have in games all season, the Tigers took firm control of the game with a dominant 10 minute stretch. This time the run came in the second half, spanning the final four minutes of the third quarter and the first six minutes of the fourth period. FHSU outscored the Griffons 25-8 over that stretch, hitting 8-of-13 from the floor and 7-of-9 from the line while forcing seven turnovers and holding MWSU to just three field goals. With the Tigers leading by just one, 48-47, Randall and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5858">Katie Wagner</a>&nbsp;helped the Tigers push the lead to nine with an 8-0 run. Randall scored six of those points, giving the senior a career-high 27 points before the end of the third quarter. Hobbs capped off the quarter with her second 3-pointer, giving the Tigers a 60-52 lead with 10 minutes to play. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5856">Jessie Sallach</a>&nbsp;took over in the fourth quarter, scoring eight points over a three-minute span to help the Tigers push their lead to 18. Hobbs drained another triple and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5854">Olivia Hollenbeck</a>&nbsp;added a bucket to put FHSU in front 73-55 with 4:12 to play. Missouri Western closed within six with 16 seconds to play, but it was too little, too late for the Griffons.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/993281788&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/02-25-21-fhsu-wbkb-vs-mwsu-highlights" title="02 - 25 - 21 FHSU WBKB Vs MWSU Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">02 - 25 - 21 FHSU WBKB Vs MWSU Highlights</a></div></div>Randall led all scorers with a career-high 29 points, the most points scored by a Tiger this season. The Alva, Okla. native hit 9-of-16 from the floor and 9-of-12 from the charity stripe while matching her career-high with five assists alongside five rebounds. Hobbs tallied 11 points, six assists, four rebounds, two steals and one block. Sallach finished with 10 points after hitting all three of her field goals. Hollenbeck added eight points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5858">Katie Wagner</a>&nbsp;contributes seven points, one rebound and one block. Golladay filled up the stats sheet with six points, three rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5849">Madison Mittie</a>&nbsp;led the team while matching her career-high with eight rebounds alongside four points, one assist and one steal.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5855">Emma Ruddle</a>&nbsp;chipped in two points, two rebounds and one steal. Fort Hays State hit at least 40 percent from the floor in all four quarters, finishing the game at 45.6 percent (26-of-57). The Tigers scored an impressive 17 points off 17 Griffon turnovers. The Griffons finished the game shooting 52.8 percent from the floor (28-of-53), the best shooting percentage for an FHSU opponent this season. The win was Fort Hays State's first road win over Missouri Western since December 2013. The Tigers have now won 14-straight games, tied for the fifth-longest stretch in team history. The Tigers will look to clinch the regular season title outright and tie the MIAA record for conference wins in a season on Saturday when they finish the schedule at Northwest Missouri State. First tip is slated for 1:30 p.m. from Maryville, Mo.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

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