On this episode of the Post Podcast, Eagle Radio's Amy B. checks in with Chris Thompson of the Eli Young Band, set to perform in Hays on March 30 at the Fox Theater.

<div><iframe title="Eli Young Band to perform in Hays March 30" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sek4d-13c36c0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Eagle Radio's Amy B. checks in with Chris Thompson of the Eli Young Band, set to perform in Hays on March 30 at the Fox Theater.

🎙 Post Podcast: Eli Young Band to perform in Hays March 30

A small fire at the top of a pole on the U.S. 183 Bypass caused a brief power outage in downtown Hays early Wednesday morning.

Midwest Energy spokesman Mike Morley said the fire was reported at approximately 7:30 a.m. Minutes later, Midwest remotely opened the circuit, causing an outage for about 900 customers downtown.

The Hays Fire Department responded to the scene, and a Midwest linemen crew arrived with a bucket truck and extinguished the fire just before 8 a.m. Power was rerouted was restored to customers by 8:15 a.m.

Morley expressed the utility's gratitude to the fire department for its quick response.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMidwestEnergy%2Fvideos%2F925619381809368%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Hays PostA small fire at the top of a pole on the U.S. 183 Bypass caused a brief power outage in downtown Hays early Wednesday morning.Midwest Energy spokesman Mike Morley said the fire was reported at approximately 7:30 a.m. Minutes later, Midwest remotely opened the circuit, causing an outage for about 900 customers downtown.The Hays Fire Department responded to the scene, and a Midwest linemen crew arrived with a bucket truck and extinguished the fire just before 8 a.m. Power was rerouted was restored to customers by 8:15 a.m.Morley expressed the utility's gratitude to the fire department for its quick response.Video courtesy Midwest Energy

🎥 Pole fire causes early morning power outage in downtown Hays

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post (This story has been updated with comments from an eyewitness).

GREAT BEND — Debris
 littered the roof of the Baltzell Lodge and surrounding properties 
early Wednesday morning, the result of a large overnight explosion in 
the 700 block of east 10th Street in Great Bend. The initial report of 
the blast came in around 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, and the explosion 
could be felt and heard as far away as Ellinwood.

"We're not sure 
what caused the explosion," Great Bend Chief of Police Steve Haulmark 
said Wednesday morning. "We're being assisted greatly by the fire 
department, the state fire marshal, and KBI. We're all working together 
on this, and it's still pretty early. We don't have a lot to release at 
this point."

Mariah Thomas was having a sleepless night several 
blocks directly west of the explosion. She was sitting on a porch swing 
facing east when the night sky lit up.

"I just this huge fireball 
flying through the sky," she said. "I saw it before I heard it. Then, 
the sound wave hit, and it knocked out the electricity in the whole 
surrounding area. I called 911 right away as it was happening. Once I 
hung up with them, I heard people just screaming. That probably was the 
worst part."

Thomas said the fireball had a peculiar look. "It was
 the explosion that was so crazy to me because it wasn't like one giant 
flame and a bunch of fire," she said. "It looked almost like an 
artillery shell firework. It was full of red sparks. That's the part 
that really blew my mind."

Haulmark did confirm a male subject was severely injured in the 
explosion, which leveled a residence situated just east of the Baltzell 
main office. As of 8 a.m., U.S. 56 Highway eastbound traffic was still 
reduced to one lane to maintain the integrity of the crime scene. 
Haulmark encouraged drivers to stay away from the area.

"There's 
really not a lot to see here, and there's no further concern for the 
community at this point," he said. "Either us or one of the other 
agencies will release a press release as soon as we can."

Haulmark
 said the state fire marshal's office is currently leading the 
investigation, and he was not sure when the Kansas Bureau of 
Investigation would take over.

Watch for more details on Post as they are made available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679490654446.jpeg" alt="Emergency personnel responded to the 700 block of east 10th Street in Great Bend early Wednesday morning after a residential explosion." />
 <figcaption>Emergency personnel responded to the 700 block of east 10th Street in Great Bend early Wednesday morning after a residential explosion.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post (This story has been updated with comments from an eyewitness).GREAT BEND — Debris
 littered the roof of the Baltzell Lodge and surrounding properties 
early Wednesday morning, the result of a large overnight explosion in 
the 700 block of east 10th Street in Great Bend. The initial report of 
the blast came in around 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, and the explosion 
could be felt and heard as far away as Ellinwood."We're not sure 
what caused the explosion," Great Bend Chief of Police Steve Haulmark 
said Wednesday morning. "We're being assisted greatly by the fire 
department, the state fire marshal, and KBI. We're all working together 
on this, and it's still pretty early. We don't have a lot to release at 
this point."Mariah Thomas was having a sleepless night several 
blocks directly west of the explosion. She was sitting on a porch swing 
facing east when the night sky lit up."I just this huge fireball 
flying through the sky," she said. "I saw it before I heard it. Then, 
the sound wave hit, and it knocked out the electricity in the whole 
surrounding area. I called 911 right away as it was happening. Once I 
hung up with them, I heard people just screaming. That probably was the 
worst part."Thomas said the fireball had a peculiar look. "It was
 the explosion that was so crazy to me because it wasn't like one giant 
flame and a bunch of fire," she said. "It looked almost like an 
artillery shell firework. It was full of red sparks. That's the part 
that really blew my mind."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679490732594.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Haulmark did confirm a male subject was severely injured in the 
explosion, which leveled a residence situated just east of the Baltzell 
main office. As of 8 a.m., U.S. 56 Highway eastbound traffic was still 
reduced to one lane to maintain the integrity of the crime scene. 
Haulmark encouraged drivers to stay away from the area."There's 
really not a lot to see here, and there's no further concern for the 
community at this point," he said. "Either us or one of the other 
agencies will release a press release as soon as we can."Haulmark
 said the state fire marshal's office is currently leading the 
investigation, and he was not sure when the Kansas Bureau of 
Investigation would take over.Watch for more details on Post as they are made available.

UPDATE: One injured in overnight explosion in Great Bend

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just four new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 11 and 17.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County remained in the moderate-incidence category (see map below), and several counties in northwest Kansas were moved to the low-incidence category.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,458 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679509196005.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just four new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 11 and 17.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County remained in the moderate-incidence category (see map below), and several counties in northwest Kansas were moved to the low-incidence category.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,458 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679509175164.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Reports of new COVID cases fall across NW Kansas

The Eagle online auction is going on right now. Save on items you use every day. 

Click <a href="https://www.rabezauction.com/gocart/main.cfm?mid=65">HERE</a> to get registered, view items and bid.

The Eagle Radio online auction — where saving money is just a click away!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633357447611.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Eagle online auction is going on right now. Save on items you use every day. Click <a href="https://www.rabezauction.com/gocart/main.cfm?mid=65">HERE</a> to get registered, view items and bid.The Eagle Radio online auction — where saving money is just a click away!

Eagle Radio auction is underway!

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Kacy Claassen came to the First Step Housing program with a few bags after hastily fleeing from an abusive relationship.

Claassen, 25, had no place to live, no car, no job and no money. She was completely starting from scratch.

She has since graduated from the program. She has a job she likes, her own apartment and was able to purchase a used car.

Claassen is one of eight women who have graduated from the First Step Housing program since it opened as a part of First Call for Help in August 2021.

"I did find a place," she said. "I've been pretty much able to get back on my feet since leaving here. ... It was a new experience, but I never had any doubts on my safety here at all."

First Step is a transitional housing program for residents of Ellis County under the umbrella of First Call for Help. It accepts women or families. No single men are allowed. Participants must be clean and sober and pass a drug and alcohol test.

Laura Allen, client services specialist, said the drug and alcohol test has been a barrier for some applicants. However, she said the program will allow applicants to work toward sobriety and then retest.

She said one applicant was struggling to pass the drug test. She finally was able to pass and was admitted to the program and has gone on to take college classes.

The average stay in the housing program is six months. However, some participants have been able to move to stable housing more quickly. Classen needed eight months to find an apartment in her budget range.

Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, said the staff first does an assessment with the client to determine what they have struggled with and what have been their barriers to maintaining housing. The program allows a couple of days for the clients to settle in, and then goal-setting begins in earnest.

"Everyone is different," Mills said. "Their needs are a little bit different, so their individual goal-setting is different."

Allen said sometimes bad choices bring clients to the program and sometimes it is just unfortunate circumstances.&nbsp;

"When you're living paycheck to paycheck, if you don't have something to fall back on, you get behind in your rent and then you get evicted," she said.

One woman lost her mobile home in a wind storm. She had a job, but needed time to save for her security deposits, Allen said.

"Depending on their situation, they may have gotten to a point where it is very difficult for them to make up time," Mills said. "If you're a little bit behind, you can usually find a way to stay where you're at.&nbsp;

"But if you've had any legal problems. If you have had child care problems or job problems and you're behind on everything, sometimes you're just in that deep hole and you can't dig yourself out on your own."

Allen said once you get into that cycle it's easy to give up and fall into the mindset its just going to be this way forever.

Often clients need encouragement to get out of that hopeless mindset. One woman was so overwhelmed she thought she could only handle part-time work. First Step worked with her on her job goals and now she's working full time and progressing more quickly toward her savings goals.

The No. 1 priority for participants is to find a job. Allen helps women learn to read a lease, access job resources and make a budget.

Some participants have applied for tenant-based rental assistance. However, Allen said Harvest America in Hays' list for that assistance is very long. Some women also have filed applications for low-income housing.

Claassen said the program directed her to other resources in the community that she hadn't thought of using.

She urged future participants to work the program.

"Do the work," she said. "Put in the applications. Save the money. Do the classes if you need classes. Do what you can to better your life. It will change your experience."

First Step does not charge participants rent or utilities. This allows them to pay off bills and save for rent and utility deposits.

They are expected to take care of their other personal expenses. However, the women can access the First Call for Help food pantry as well as its hygiene supplies once a month.

Furniture, sheets, pots and pans are provided in the four living units in the First Step Housing wing of First Call for Help. The living space can accommodate two people per room or more if it is a mother with small children.

"It was definitely a humbling experience," Claassen said. "I don't normally take things for granted that I have. I'm not a very materialistic person. I do look back now and I was very materialistic at one point in time. And then I lost pretty much everything. Now that I have started over, it's the best thing that I could have ever done."

Claassen said she now frequents the Arc Thrift Store and Goodwill and learned that there was some pretty cool stuff.

"Yeah, name-brand stuff for a $1 or half price," she said and giggled. "That is the greatest thing."

The community at large has also been a great help, donating furniture for her new home.

"It's just so nice to see a community that is willing to help somebody even if they don't know their situation," Claassen said. "This a good place for women, not just women of domestic violence, but any woman who is needing to start over."

Claassen is truly on her own now. All her finances are now in her own name. She said she is moving forward.

"I don't regret marrying my husband," she said. "I do wish I would have seen signs sooner before I married. But every piece of life is a learning experience, I've found.&nbsp; I have no hard feelings toward him at all. What he does with his life is his life. What he did to me was his choice. I can just hope and pray he will see what he did and fix it before it's too late."

Claassen lost full custody of her 2-year-old daughter temporarily because of her situation. Settling in her apartment is a big part of making her family whole again.

Allen and Mills both said they the program as a success a year and a half after opening.

"They have their ups, and they have their downs, but we are thrilled when they move on to where they want to go," Allen said of the clients.

The program has been steadily occupied but not at max capacity. As of last week, the program had space available.

Allen wanted women to know they don't have to be on the street or in a crisis to ask for help. If they are staying with a friend or staying in car or know they are going to be evicted, reach out, she said.

You can call <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help</a> at&nbsp;785-623-2800 or go to its office at&nbsp;607 E. 13th St. in Hays to find more information about being a participant in the First Step Housing project.

You also can follow First Call for Help on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook</a>.

Local residents can aid the program by donating food to its food bank. The program maintains a small supply of dish and laundry soap, dish towels and kitchenware that clients will need to start in their new homes. Storage space for these items is limited.

The clients also often need furniture for their new homes, but First Call for Help does not have a place to store these items on an ongoing basis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679325319535.jpeg" alt="The kitchen of the First Step Housing Project. The transitional housing program has four units with each unit able to house at least two people. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The kitchen of the First Step Housing Project. The transitional housing program has four units with each unit able to house at least two people. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKacy Claassen came to the First Step Housing program with a few bags after hastily fleeing from an abusive relationship.Claassen, 25, had no place to live, no car, no job and no money. She was completely starting from scratch.She has since graduated from the program. She has a job she likes, her own apartment and was able to purchase a used car.Claassen is one of eight women who have graduated from the First Step Housing program since it opened as a part of First Call for Help in August 2021."I did find a place," she said. "I've been pretty much able to get back on my feet since leaving here. ... It was a new experience, but I never had any doubts on my safety here at all."First Step is a transitional housing program for residents of Ellis County under the umbrella of First Call for Help. It accepts women or families. No single men are allowed. Participants must be clean and sober and pass a drug and alcohol test.Laura Allen, client services specialist, said the drug and alcohol test has been a barrier for some applicants. However, she said the program will allow applicants to work toward sobriety and then retest.She said one applicant was struggling to pass the drug test. She finally was able to pass and was admitted to the program and has gone on to take college classes.The average stay in the housing program is six months. However, some participants have been able to move to stable housing more quickly. Classen needed eight months to find an apartment in her budget range.Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, said the staff first does an assessment with the client to determine what they have struggled with and what have been their barriers to maintaining housing. The program allows a couple of days for the clients to settle in, and then goal-setting begins in earnest."Everyone is different," Mills said. "Their needs are a little bit different, so their individual goal-setting is different."Allen said sometimes bad choices bring clients to the program and sometimes it is just unfortunate circumstances.&nbsp;"When you're living paycheck to paycheck, if you don't have something to fall back on, you get behind in your rent and then you get evicted," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679325495447.jpeg" alt="Participants in the First Step Housing project are encouraged to be as self-sufficient as possible, including providing their own food, cooking, working and saving for deposits for a new home. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Participants in the First Step Housing project are encouraged to be as self-sufficient as possible, including providing their own food, cooking, working and saving for deposits for a new home. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>One woman lost her mobile home in a wind storm. She had a job, but needed time to save for her security deposits, Allen said."Depending on their situation, they may have gotten to a point where it is very difficult for them to make up time," Mills said. "If you're a little bit behind, you can usually find a way to stay where you're at.&nbsp;"But if you've had any legal problems. If you have had child care problems or job problems and you're behind on everything, sometimes you're just in that deep hole and you can't dig yourself out on your own."Allen said once you get into that cycle it's easy to give up and fall into the mindset its just going to be this way forever.Often clients need encouragement to get out of that hopeless mindset. One woman was so overwhelmed she thought she could only handle part-time work. First Step worked with her on her job goals and now she's working full time and progressing more quickly toward her savings goals.The No. 1 priority for participants is to find a job. Allen helps women learn to read a lease, access job resources and make a budget.Some participants have applied for tenant-based rental assistance. However, Allen said Harvest America in Hays' list for that assistance is very long. Some women also have filed applications for low-income housing.Claassen said the program directed her to other resources in the community that she hadn't thought of using.She urged future participants to work the program."Do the work," she said. "Put in the applications. Save the money. Do the classes if you need classes. Do what you can to better your life. It will change your experience."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679325660531.jpeg" alt="First Step Housing has graduated eight women from the program in about a year and a half. The program currently has vacancies. You can contact First Call for Help to learn more about applying for the program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>First Step Housing has graduated eight women from the program in about a year and a half. The program currently has vacancies. You can contact First Call for Help to learn more about applying for the program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>First Step does not charge participants rent or utilities. This allows them to pay off bills and save for rent and utility deposits.They are expected to take care of their other personal expenses. However, the women can access the First Call for Help food pantry as well as its hygiene supplies once a month.Furniture, sheets, pots and pans are provided in the four living units in the First Step Housing wing of First Call for Help. The living space can accommodate two people per room or more if it is a mother with small children."It was definitely a humbling experience," Claassen said. "I don't normally take things for granted that I have. I'm not a very materialistic person. I do look back now and I was very materialistic at one point in time. And then I lost pretty much everything. Now that I have started over, it's the best thing that I could have ever done."Claassen said she now frequents the Arc Thrift Store and Goodwill and learned that there was some pretty cool stuff."Yeah, name-brand stuff for a $1 or half price," she said and giggled. "That is the greatest thing."The community at large has also been a great help, donating furniture for her new home."It's just so nice to see a community that is willing to help somebody even if they don't know their situation," Claassen said. "This a good place for women, not just women of domestic violence, but any woman who is needing to start over."Claassen is truly on her own now. All her finances are now in her own name. She said she is moving forward."I don't regret marrying my husband," she said. "I do wish I would have seen signs sooner before I married. But every piece of life is a learning experience, I've found.&nbsp; I have no hard feelings toward him at all. What he does with his life is his life. What he did to me was his choice. I can just hope and pray he will see what he did and fix it before it's too late."Claassen lost full custody of her 2-year-old daughter temporarily because of her situation. Settling in her apartment is a big part of making her family whole again.Allen and Mills both said they the program as a success a year and a half after opening."They have their ups, and they have their downs, but we are thrilled when they move on to where they want to go," Allen said of the clients.The program has been steadily occupied but not at max capacity. As of last week, the program had space available.Allen wanted women to know they don't have to be on the street or in a crisis to ask for help. If they are staying with a friend or staying in car or know they are going to be evicted, reach out, she said.You can call <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help</a> at&nbsp;785-623-2800 or go to its office at&nbsp;607 E. 13th St. in Hays to find more information about being a participant in the First Step Housing project.You also can follow First Call for Help on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook</a>.Local residents can aid the program by donating food to its food bank. The program maintains a small supply of dish and laundry soap, dish towels and kitchenware that clients will need to start in their new homes. Storage space for these items is limited.The clients also often need furniture for their new homes, but First Call for Help does not have a place to store these items on an ongoing basis.

First Step Housing helps women start over

First Care Clinic has announced that&nbsp;Tiffany DeWitt, APRN&nbsp;has&nbsp;joined its medical staff.&nbsp;DeWitt&nbsp;obtained her&nbsp;Master of&nbsp;Science&nbsp;in Nursing&nbsp;from&nbsp;United States University. &nbsp;She is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Board-Certified&nbsp;Family Nurse Practitioner with American&nbsp;Nurses Credentialing Center.

“Tiffany is the perfect addition to our Express Care&nbsp;clinic. Express Care offers same-day appointments to patients with acute issues. Tiffany has many years of acute care experience and will take excellent care of our Express Care patients,”&nbsp;said Dr. Christine Fisher,&nbsp;Medical Director.&nbsp;

“We are&nbsp;excited to welcome&nbsp;Tiffany&nbsp;to our&nbsp;staff.&nbsp;We&nbsp;look forward to&nbsp;her&nbsp;contributions as&nbsp;we&nbsp;continue to grow&nbsp;and&nbsp;expand&nbsp;our patient&nbsp;services,” said Eric Flax, CEO.&nbsp;“Tiffany&nbsp;is currently&nbsp;seeing&nbsp;patients&nbsp;at our&nbsp;13th&nbsp;Street&nbsp;location&nbsp;and will continue to do so&nbsp;until our new Express Care Clinic and&nbsp;Pharmacy&nbsp;opens at&nbsp;1301&nbsp;Main St.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call&nbsp;First Care Clinic at&nbsp;(785) 621-4990.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679326430685.jpeg" alt="Tiffany DeWitt, APRN" />
 <figcaption>Tiffany DeWitt, APRN</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseFirst Care Clinic has announced that&nbsp;Tiffany DeWitt, APRN&nbsp;has&nbsp;joined its medical staff.&nbsp;DeWitt&nbsp;obtained her&nbsp;Master of&nbsp;Science&nbsp;in Nursing&nbsp;from&nbsp;United States University. &nbsp;She is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Board-Certified&nbsp;Family Nurse Practitioner with American&nbsp;Nurses Credentialing Center.“Tiffany is the perfect addition to our Express Care&nbsp;clinic. Express Care offers same-day appointments to patients with acute issues. Tiffany has many years of acute care experience and will take excellent care of our Express Care patients,”&nbsp;said Dr. Christine Fisher,&nbsp;Medical Director.&nbsp;“We are&nbsp;excited to welcome&nbsp;Tiffany&nbsp;to our&nbsp;staff.&nbsp;We&nbsp;look forward to&nbsp;her&nbsp;contributions as&nbsp;we&nbsp;continue to grow&nbsp;and&nbsp;expand&nbsp;our patient&nbsp;services,” said Eric Flax, CEO.&nbsp;“Tiffany&nbsp;is currently&nbsp;seeing&nbsp;patients&nbsp;at our&nbsp;13th&nbsp;Street&nbsp;location&nbsp;and will continue to do so&nbsp;until our new Express Care Clinic and&nbsp;Pharmacy&nbsp;opens at&nbsp;1301&nbsp;Main St.”For more information or to schedule an appointment, call&nbsp;First Care Clinic at&nbsp;(785) 621-4990.&nbsp;

First Care Clinic welcomes new nurse practitioner

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

<div><a href="https://www.sunflowerbank.com/hays/"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665496178318.jpeg"/></a></div>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Recent obituaries and service times

<a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-invests-in-kansas-oilseed-crush-facility-for-renewable-fuels-market/">News release</a>

GOODLAND — Farmers in Kansas and Oklahoma will have access to the rapidly growing 
renewable fuels market after Scoular converts a facility in Goodland into a dual oilseed crush plant.&nbsp;

Scoular announced recently it will recommission <a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-purchases-grain-handling-facility-to-improve-service-to-northwestern-kansas-farmers/">the former sunflower crush plant outside of Goodland that it purchased in 2021.&nbsp;</a>
 The Nebraska-based agribusiness will make an investment to retrofit the
 facility to crush both soybeans and canola. Up to 40 new jobs will be 
created in Goodland. The facility is 
expected to begin operations in fall 2024.&nbsp;

Because
 of its high-oil content, canola is highly valued in the renewable fuels
 sector, particularly for use in the growing renewable diesel and 
sustainable aviation fuel markets. Those markets will grow to over 5 
billion gallons by 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The
 facility will process 11 million bushels of oilseeds a year, toggling 
between canola and soybeans as availability dictates. As low-carbon 
crops such as camelina develop in the future, Scoular will be able to 
process those new seeds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Scoular is bringing the canola market back to Kansas and Oklahoma,” said <a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoulars-prosser-to-serve-on-commodity-futures-trading-commissions-ag-advisory-committee/">Ed Prosser, the company’s Senior Vice President of Emerging Businesses</a>. “This investment will provide producers with the opportunity to participate in the booming renewable fuels market.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scoular
 is partnering with Kansas State University to advise farmers on best 
practices for growing canola. The crop is well-suited for planting in a 
winter wheat rotation in the Southern Great Plains. The rotation can 
improve weed control and wheat yields.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The recommissioning of the crush facility in Goodland will breathe new life into the Great Plains canola industry,” said Michael Stamm, a K-State agronomist and canola breeder.
 “This facility will provide new opportunities for renewable diesel 
feedstock production, generating greater value for the canola grown in 
the region.”&nbsp;

“In
 small towns across Kansas, every business counts,” said U.S. Sen. Jerry
 Moran of Kansas. “Scoular’s decision to invest in the crush facility in
 Goodland will increase marketing opportunities for farmers and 
contribute to the economic prosperity of northwest Kansas. The Goodland 
oilseed processing plant is an important juncture for farming in western
 Kansas and food and fuel production for the nation.”&nbsp;

For more information, <a href="https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7137999/Scoular-Canola">click here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679404302679.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Up to 40 new jobs expected to be created</h2><a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-invests-in-kansas-oilseed-crush-facility-for-renewable-fuels-market/">News release</a>GOODLAND — Farmers in Kansas and Oklahoma will have access to the rapidly growing 
renewable fuels market after Scoular converts a facility in Goodland into a dual oilseed crush plant.&nbsp;Scoular announced recently it will recommission <a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-purchases-grain-handling-facility-to-improve-service-to-northwestern-kansas-farmers/">the former sunflower crush plant outside of Goodland that it purchased in 2021.&nbsp;</a>
 The Nebraska-based agribusiness will make an investment to retrofit the
 facility to crush both soybeans and canola. Up to 40 new jobs will be 
created in Goodland. The facility is 
expected to begin operations in fall 2024.&nbsp;Because
 of its high-oil content, canola is highly valued in the renewable fuels
 sector, particularly for use in the growing renewable diesel and 
sustainable aviation fuel markets. Those markets will grow to over 5 
billion gallons by 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The
 facility will process 11 million bushels of oilseeds a year, toggling 
between canola and soybeans as availability dictates. As low-carbon 
crops such as camelina develop in the future, Scoular will be able to 
process those new seeds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Scoular is bringing the canola market back to Kansas and Oklahoma,” said <a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoulars-prosser-to-serve-on-commodity-futures-trading-commissions-ag-advisory-committee/">Ed Prosser, the company’s Senior Vice President of Emerging Businesses</a>. “This investment will provide producers with the opportunity to participate in the booming renewable fuels market.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Scoular
 is partnering with Kansas State University to advise farmers on best 
practices for growing canola. The crop is well-suited for planting in a 
winter wheat rotation in the Southern Great Plains. The rotation can 
improve weed control and wheat yields.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The recommissioning of the crush facility in Goodland will breathe new life into the Great Plains canola industry,” said Michael Stamm, a K-State agronomist and canola breeder.
 “This facility will provide new opportunities for renewable diesel 
feedstock production, generating greater value for the canola grown in 
the region.”&nbsp;“In
 small towns across Kansas, every business counts,” said U.S. Sen. Jerry
 Moran of Kansas. “Scoular’s decision to invest in the crush facility in
 Goodland will increase marketing opportunities for farmers and 
contribute to the economic prosperity of northwest Kansas. The Goodland 
oilseed processing plant is an important juncture for farming in western
 Kansas and food and fuel production for the nation.”&nbsp;For more information, <a href="https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7137999/Scoular-Canola">click here</a>.&nbsp;

NW Kansas facility to be retrofitted into oilseed crush plant

RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 1997 Toyota Tacoma driven by Carlos Hernandez, 70, Aurora, Colorado, was stopped eastbound on Interstate 70 two miles east of the Russell exit. The driver pulled the SUV towing a Honda CRV into the driving lane.

A 2012 Honda Accord driven by Drake A. Wick, 24, Clive, Iowa, struck the Honda CRV. After impact, all three vehicles entered the median.&nbsp;

EMS transported Hernandez to the hospital in Russell. Wick was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 1997 Toyota Tacoma driven by Carlos Hernandez, 70, Aurora, Colorado, was stopped eastbound on Interstate 70 two miles east of the Russell exit. The driver pulled the SUV towing a Honda CRV into the driving lane.A 2012 Honda Accord driven by Drake A. Wick, 24, Clive, Iowa, struck the Honda CRV. After impact, all three vehicles entered the median.&nbsp;EMS transported Hernandez to the hospital in Russell. Wick was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man hospitalized after three-vehicle I-70 crash

Fort Hays State University’s next Science Café is set for Monday.

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

Dr. William “Bill” Stark, professor of biological sciences at FHSU, will help everyone “dip their toes” in the water world of fish and explore some of the ways fish experience their world that is a bit different than our own. He will have some hands-on material. Participation of all ages is encouraged.

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

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTgHXu_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3aZygUsVnChmKSeGuTiCbzeATy7W5yjio0G355E6wLudBMkvCurpY8wittVRIcby2bEu6OCtEHSoFvbYFEtRkCl1hdsrl59DZjrFx2d8M8zVxSf8GWes4AK0ddTmkBdFL2L4kmQnbf4hLSdRk5rUEv8xrCfJFkVwSPBmLYw-2FUaHT-2BvKXrChncSh-2B1AzB6ObQo628tK-2BuMv26V8oFNAwZUuKfBLvL89CU12Lx19v4-2BArReWP-2BvVUGYlwVm8G7Da1P">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3DYgbv_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3aZygUsVnChmKSeGuTiCbzeATy7W5yjio0G355E6wLudBMkvCurpY8wittVRIcby2bEu6OCtEHSoFvbYFEtRkBBjCxEcvZFPYvGF3tZLQ50c2LGpDKSSFpLyuozEqMR2xR8rLV-2BaxHg9EAAx48v0vgz4LPDjDkekyyjD8aRDIb5JEnIYaSQT4sJNm1RjKkqK6Glaskn824r0hIGBRve6yBDwcc6m5kQabS9ipGQaKFndF2Aq-2BMogX6ZlI-2FN0TWWt">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679338361047.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s next Science Café is set for Monday.This month’s presentation,&nbsp;“Fishes, Senses, and Fishing,”&nbsp;is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI). The presentation will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.Dr. William “Bill” Stark, professor of biological sciences at FHSU, will help everyone “dip their toes” in the water world of fish and explore some of the ways fish experience their world that is a bit different than our own. He will have some hands-on material. Participation of all ages is encouraged.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679338459684.jpeg" alt="Stark" />
 <figcaption>Stark</figcaption>
 </figure>Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIbWkKLWq-2BAH9EOMnpKiWtF21cgruX7hnOpjSWWak0MVlSkz_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3aZygUsVnChmKSeGuTiCbzeATy7W5yjio0G355E6wLudBMkvCurpY8wittVRIcby2bEu6OCtEHSoFvbYFEtRkE2l2yAl0WtOGeFbznLZ64A-2FxDlrntXQW-2BQ7AVEoXMKsMsKl90RLpBuudO6edujxCE8E03ujIoZvQw5sgM3HOmbfOeW3BFkI1LIRkviiTlcBqMJtBDr0A0vcv3eTh5m8aYocTFhPtcwuBAaTt-2FzeXZznPqMkcTcsMLwV7TMJ-2BRcw">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTgHXu_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3aZygUsVnChmKSeGuTiCbzeATy7W5yjio0G355E6wLudBMkvCurpY8wittVRIcby2bEu6OCtEHSoFvbYFEtRkCl1hdsrl59DZjrFx2d8M8zVxSf8GWes4AK0ddTmkBdFL2L4kmQnbf4hLSdRk5rUEv8xrCfJFkVwSPBmLYw-2FUaHT-2BvKXrChncSh-2B1AzB6ObQo628tK-2BuMv26V8oFNAwZUuKfBLvL89CU12Lx19v4-2BArReWP-2BvVUGYlwVm8G7Da1P">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3DYgbv_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3aZygUsVnChmKSeGuTiCbzeATy7W5yjio0G355E6wLudBMkvCurpY8wittVRIcby2bEu6OCtEHSoFvbYFEtRkBBjCxEcvZFPYvGF3tZLQ50c2LGpDKSSFpLyuozEqMR2xR8rLV-2BaxHg9EAAx48v0vgz4LPDjDkekyyjD8aRDIb5JEnIYaSQT4sJNm1RjKkqK6Glaskn824r0hIGBRve6yBDwcc6m5kQabS9ipGQaKFndF2Aq-2BMogX6ZlI-2FN0TWWt">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

FHSU’s next Science Café set for March 27

<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/2023/3/1679407874584.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

Thomas More Prep-Marian senior Jaci VonLintel made it official Tuesday, signing her letter of
intent to play both basketball and softball at Barton County College next
season.

After spending her entire life playing both sports, VonLintel
said she is grateful to be given the opportunity to play both basketball and softball at
the next level.

“It feels great because I don’t have to give one up,” VonLintel
said. “Because I always thought like, ' Dang, I’m going to have to pick one.'But now, I have to opportunity to go play both and excel in both.”

VonLintel led the TMP-M basketball team in every major statistical
category last season. She averaged 13.8 points per game along with nine
rebounds, 5.5 steals, three assists and two blocks per game.

She was a two-time all Mid-Continent League selection,
earning first-team honors this past season.

On the softball diamond, VonLintel led the Monarchs with a
.486 average as a junior. She amassed a team-high 12 extra base hits with three
home runs and led the team with 35 RBI’s and was second with 31 runs scored.

The Monarchs softball season begins Friday at home against
Russell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679440854128.jpeg" alt="Courtesy TMP-Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy TMP-Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThomas More Prep-Marian senior Jaci VonLintel made it official Tuesday, signing her letter of
intent to play both basketball and softball at Barton County College next
season.After spending her entire life playing both sports, VonLintel
said she is grateful to be given the opportunity to play both basketball and softball at
the next level.“It feels great because I don’t have to give one up,” VonLintel
said. “Because I always thought like, ' Dang, I’m going to have to pick one.'But now, I have to opportunity to go play both and excel in both.”<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/1474493038&color=%232a4d75&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/jaci-vonlintel-signing-march-21-2023" title="Jaci VonLintel - Signing (March 21, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jaci VonLintel - Signing (March 21, 2023)</a></div></div>VonLintel led the TMP-M basketball team in every major statistical
category last season. She averaged 13.8 points per game along with nine
rebounds, 5.5 steals, three assists and two blocks per game.She was a two-time all Mid-Continent League selection,
earning first-team honors this past season.On the softball diamond, VonLintel led the Monarchs with a
.486 average as a junior. She amassed a team-high 12 extra base hits with three
home runs and led the team with 35 RBI’s and was second with 31 runs scored.The Monarchs softball season begins Friday at home against
Russell.

🏀 🥎 TMP’s VonLintel headed to Barton as a two-sport athlete

<a target="_blank" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link">A.R.C. Tigers Cornhole Tournament</a>&nbsp;will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 1.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link"></a>Sign up in teams of two to four or sign up to be paired with members of the intellectual and developmental disabilities community.

A free meal and T-shirt will be provided to all participants of the event. Come spend the day competing in a bracket for prizes and building new friendships.

Come out, play some cornhole, eat some lunch, build relationships and learn more about the Arc.&nbsp;

Sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679427438023.png" alt="download.png" />
 <figcaption>download.png</figcaption>
 </figure><a target="_blank" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link">A.R.C. Tigers Cornhole Tournament</a>&nbsp;will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 1.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link"></a>Sign up in teams of two to four or sign up to be paired with members of the intellectual and developmental disabilities community.A free meal and T-shirt will be provided to all participants of the event. Come spend the day competing in a bracket for prizes and building new friendships.Come out, play some cornhole, eat some lunch, build relationships and learn more about the Arc.&nbsp;Sign up at&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8-lgRPYdNrGih8zRTiZrCyUmSc67kRCp9DhBBRQ2tNs3k_Q/viewform?usp=share_link</a>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Sign up open for community Arc Cornhole Tournament

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for unseasonably warm temperatures Wednesday, with a high in the low-70s in the Hays area and some areas of western Kansas possibly reaching the 80s.

Winds are expected to pick up through the day, sustained at 10 to 20 mph and gusting near 40 mph by Wednesday night.

The high temperature Thursday is expected to reach the mid- to upper-50s, and a slight chance for rain returns Thursday night and through Sunday. There is a 20 percent to 30 percent chance of precipitation through the weekend.

Daytime highs Thursday through Saturday will be in the low- to mid-50s, with Sunday's high in the mid- to upper-40s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679409142192.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for unseasonably warm temperatures Wednesday, with a high in the low-70s in the Hays area and some areas of western Kansas possibly reaching the 80s.Winds are expected to pick up through the day, sustained at 10 to 20 mph and gusting near 40 mph by Wednesday night.The high temperature Thursday is expected to reach the mid- to upper-50s, and a slight chance for rain returns Thursday night and through Sunday. There is a 20 percent to 30 percent chance of precipitation through the weekend.Daytime highs Thursday through Saturday will be in the low- to mid-50s, with Sunday's high in the mid- to upper-40s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Unseasonably warm temperatures are expected Wednesday afternoon, in the 70s and lower 80s. Southwest winds will be strong, with the highest gusts favoring areas adjacent to Colorado. Areas of blowing dust can be expected with the ongoing drought. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/iP3sQofb13">pic.twitter.com/iP3sQofb13</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1637959752708943873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm, windy Wednesday on the way — and maybe some rain

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the Hays Chamber as they prepare for their upcoming Golf Tournament fundraiser.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber Golf Tournament fundraiser preparations underway" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3ysax-13c13cd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the Hays Chamber as they prepare for their upcoming Golf Tournament fundraiser.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber Golf Tournament fundraiser preparations underway

🎥⚾️🥎 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

The Hays
Arts Council is preparing for a busy spring season with events planned for area
school children and the community.

Among
those events is the annual Creative Writing Contest, currently underway. 

“That's
actually off in the hands of our judges now,” said Hays Arts Council Executive
Director Brenda Meder. “And bless their hearts that a variety of staff members
from the Fort Hays English department, faculty and staff there take those
entries and judge them.”

As students
await the results of that contest, others are prepping for Famous Figures, a
chance for Ellis County Fifth graders to learn about and perform as a positive
role model from history for the 27th year.

The contest
is limited to two fifth-grade students per classroom and will conclude with a
county-wide competition from 8:20 to 11:45 a.m. May 5 in the Beach/Schmidt Performing
Art Center on the Fort Hays State University campus. Competitor names and their
chosen characters are due to the Arts Council by April 28.

And later this week, area fourth and
fifth graders will have the opportunity to see live productions from the Wichita
Children’s Theater on March 24.

“In the
morning, we will be having … I think we'll have about 175 students in Beach/Schmidt
from fourth and fifth grades with their production of Yankee Doodle,
which is a really wonderful homage to Americana history and significant
movers and shakers.”

Students
from Hays, Ellis, Victoria, Plainville and Russell will be in
attendance.

“And in
the afternoon, we've got The Three Little Kittens for kindergarten and
first graders,” Meder said.

Another
performance will be hosted that at 7 p.m., again in Beach/Schmidt.

“It's
highly entertaining, very audience participatory engagement,” Meder said. “So the kids absolutely love it. And there's a lot of little kids that aren't in
those grades we touch, and we want them to come back with their families or an
older grade where this is still wonderfully suitable, but they're not part of
the mix. 

“There
will be no fee for that. We do pay for these companies, so there's a fee with
that, but we will be offering this as a gift to the community because of the
sponsorship and the support that we've gotten.”

Following
the performance, she said a cast meet-and-greet is scheduled in the lobby.

While the
children’s events approach, work in the gallery for their latest exhibition
is also underway, a Master of Fine Arts Thesis exhibition from Cassie Rebman. 

“It's
going to be a very unique a different kind of big sculptural thesis exhibition,”
Meder said. "Putting together some of what you would think of its disjointed
materials and the way they flow from one item to the next. So I think
that's going to be very cool.”

The
exhibition is scheduled to open with a reception from 6:30 to 9 p.m. March 31.

“And
what's cool about that evening is we're also hosting a professional development
exhibition, again for Fort Hays students in our annex,” Meder said. “While we're talking about great things across the
community, down in the Moss Thorns Gallery is the annual student honors
exhibition. And so all three of those shows celebrating the talent and
creativity and instruction and everything out of Fort Hays State University
will be on full display.”

Moving
through the season, the Art Center will also work to prepare for the Spring Art
Walk, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29. Throughout the day, participating
locations will display various art forms in lobbies and storefronts as hundreds
of area residents explore exhibitions throughout downtown and beyond.

While it
might be more than a month away, Meder said participating artists and businesses
are connecting now.

“We take
all comers, if it is your original creations, we take all comers,” Meder said. “That's
what we want, is to celebrate individual creativity. And so, all you have to do
is hook up with any place across our wonderful community.”

In order
to be included in the printed event announcement, she said, participants have until
April 14.

“Plenty
of time to make this happen,” Meder said. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623877479116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hays
Arts Council is preparing for a busy spring season with events planned for area
school children and the community.Among
those events is the annual Creative Writing Contest, currently underway. “That's
actually off in the hands of our judges now,” said Hays Arts Council Executive
Director Brenda Meder. “And bless their hearts that a variety of staff members
from the Fort Hays English department, faculty and staff there take those
entries and judge them.”The
award ceremony is set for April 30. <div><iframe title="Preparations underway for children’s programing at Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wvdys-13bd074-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>As students
await the results of that contest, others are prepping for Famous Figures, a
chance for Ellis County Fifth graders to learn about and perform as a positive
role model from history for the 27th year.The contest
is limited to two fifth-grade students per classroom and will conclude with a
county-wide competition from 8:20 to 11:45 a.m. May 5 in the Beach/Schmidt Performing
Art Center on the Fort Hays State University campus. Competitor names and their
chosen characters are due to the Arts Council by April 28.And later this week, area fourth and
fifth graders will have the opportunity to see live productions from the Wichita
Children’s Theater on March 24.“In the
morning, we will be having … I think we'll have about 175 students in Beach/Schmidt
from fourth and fifth grades with their production of Yankee Doodle,
which is a really wonderful homage to Americana history and significant
movers and shakers.”Students
from Hays, Ellis, Victoria, Plainville and Russell will be in
attendance.“And in
the afternoon, we've got The Three Little Kittens for kindergarten and
first graders,” Meder said.Another
performance will be hosted that at 7 p.m., again in Beach/Schmidt.“It's
highly entertaining, very audience participatory engagement,” Meder said. “So the kids absolutely love it. And there's a lot of little kids that aren't in
those grades we touch, and we want them to come back with their families or an
older grade where this is still wonderfully suitable, but they're not part of
the mix. “There
will be no fee for that. We do pay for these companies, so there's a fee with
that, but we will be offering this as a gift to the community because of the
sponsorship and the support that we've gotten.”Following
the performance, she said a cast meet-and-greet is scheduled in the lobby.While the
children’s events approach, work in the gallery for their latest exhibition
is also underway, a Master of Fine Arts Thesis exhibition from Cassie Rebman. “It's
going to be a very unique a different kind of big sculptural thesis exhibition,”
Meder said. "Putting together some of what you would think of its disjointed
materials and the way they flow from one item to the next. So I think
that's going to be very cool.”The
exhibition is scheduled to open with a reception from 6:30 to 9 p.m. March 31.“And
what's cool about that evening is we're also hosting a professional development
exhibition, again for Fort Hays students in our annex,” Meder said. “While we're talking about great things across the
community, down in the Moss Thorns Gallery is the annual student honors
exhibition. And so all three of those shows celebrating the talent and
creativity and instruction and everything out of Fort Hays State University
will be on full display.”Moving
through the season, the Art Center will also work to prepare for the Spring Art
Walk, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29. Throughout the day, participating
locations will display various art forms in lobbies and storefronts as hundreds
of area residents explore exhibitions throughout downtown and beyond.While it
might be more than a month away, Meder said participating artists and businesses
are connecting now.“We take
all comers, if it is your original creations, we take all comers,” Meder said. “That's
what we want, is to celebrate individual creativity. And so, all you have to do
is hook up with any place across our wonderful community.”In order
to be included in the printed event announcement, she said, participants have until
April 14.“Plenty
of time to make this happen,” Meder said.

🎙 Spring event preparation underway at Hays Arts Council

Drilling for natural gas spiked last week despite prices at two-year lows. Baker Hughes reported an increase of nine active natural-gas rigs as of March 17. Oil rigs were down one. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday reported increases in drilling activity in the Permian and Marcellus shale plays. The closely-watched Henry Hub natural gas spot price in February averaged a dollar lower than the month before and three dollars lower than in December. Monday's futures prices are the lowest since September of 2020. Crude prices in New York remain at 15-month lows Monday, trading below $67 after dropping more than a dollar and a half on Friday. At CHS in McPherson prices were own $1.50 to $57 per barrel. Kansas operators have spudded 216 wells so far this year, down 20% from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports an estimated total depth of 667,000 feet, which is down 26.4% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was up one rig statewide, with 12 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, down two, and 27 west of Wichita, which is up three rigs. Kansas regulators approved 34 new drilling locations in Kansas, with 20 in Western Kansas, including one new permit in Barton County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 439 newly-completed wells statewide. Fifteen of those were in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Ellis County. The Energy Information Administration reported a spike in US crude inventories for the week, up 1.6 million barrels to 480.1 million as of March 10th. US crude stockpiles are about seven percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reports a slight increase in US crude production last week, up more than 150,000 barrels to 12.244 million per day. Output is up more than 600,000 barrels per day from a year ago. EIA said US crude imports last week dropped by 55,000 barrels per day.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, imports are down 1.1% from the same four weeks a year ago. Production in the number-three crude-producing state rebounded from a big blizzard downturn. Output in North Dakota reached 1.06 million barrels per day in January, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. That's up 11% from the month before, when winter weather shut down about one-third of the state's oil patch. The last time statewide output dipped below a million barrels per day in North Dakota was after a pair of spring blizzards back in April of last year. Gasoline prices across the USA Thursday were down slightly from a week earlier, up four cents from a month earlier, and down 54 cents year over year. The auto club AAA said diesel prices are down more than 77 cents a gallon from a year ago.&nbsp; Prices in Kansas average just over $3.46 per gallon. Several Kansas counties were below $3 on Monday.&nbsp; Crude-oil exports set a record last year at 3.6 million barrels per day, a 22% increase from the year before. The Energy Information Administration says growth was driven by increased U.S. production, strategic petroleum releases, and increased global demand for alternatives to Russia’s crude. EIA says our top customers were South Korea, the Netherlands and the UK.&nbsp; According to the report, exports to India and China declined dramatically last year but were more than offset by increases to Europe and elsewhere.

By JOHN P. TRETBARDrilling for natural gas spiked last week despite prices at two-year lows. Baker Hughes reported an increase of nine active natural-gas rigs as of March 17. Oil rigs were down one. The Rotary Rig Count on Friday reported increases in drilling activity in the Permian and Marcellus shale plays. The closely-watched Henry Hub natural gas spot price in February averaged a dollar lower than the month before and three dollars lower than in December. Monday's futures prices are the lowest since September of 2020. Crude prices in New York remain at 15-month lows Monday, trading below $67 after dropping more than a dollar and a half on Friday. At CHS in McPherson prices were own $1.50 to $57 per barrel. Kansas operators have spudded 216 wells so far this year, down 20% from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports an estimated total depth of 667,000 feet, which is down 26.4% from a year ago. The Rig Count in Kansas was up one rig statewide, with 12 active rigs in the eastern half of the state, down two, and 27 west of Wichita, which is up three rigs. Kansas regulators approved 34 new drilling locations in Kansas, with 20 in Western Kansas, including one new permit in Barton County and another in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 439 newly-completed wells statewide. Fifteen of those were in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Ellis County. The Energy Information Administration reported a spike in US crude inventories for the week, up 1.6 million barrels to 480.1 million as of March 10th. US crude stockpiles are about seven percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The government reports a slight increase in US crude production last week, up more than 150,000 barrels to 12.244 million per day. Output is up more than 600,000 barrels per day from a year ago. EIA said US crude imports last week dropped by 55,000 barrels per day.&nbsp; Over the last four weeks, imports are down 1.1% from the same four weeks a year ago. Production in the number-three crude-producing state rebounded from a big blizzard downturn. Output in North Dakota reached 1.06 million barrels per day in January, according to the state's Department of Mineral Resources. That's up 11% from the month before, when winter weather shut down about one-third of the state's oil patch. The last time statewide output dipped below a million barrels per day in North Dakota was after a pair of spring blizzards back in April of last year. Gasoline prices across the USA Thursday were down slightly from a week earlier, up four cents from a month earlier, and down 54 cents year over year. The auto club AAA said diesel prices are down more than 77 cents a gallon from a year ago.&nbsp; Prices in Kansas average just over $3.46 per gallon. Several Kansas counties were below $3 on Monday.&nbsp; Crude-oil exports set a record last year at 3.6 million barrels per day, a 22% increase from the year before. The Energy Information Administration says growth was driven by increased U.S. production, strategic petroleum releases, and increased global demand for alternatives to Russia’s crude. EIA says our top customers were South Korea, the Netherlands and the UK.&nbsp; According to the report, exports to India and China declined dramatically last year but were more than offset by increases to Europe and elsewhere.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices sink, but drilling spikes

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

This is National Fix A Leak Week — March 20 to 26 — as proclaimed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and acknowledged by the city of Hays. Residents are reminded to check their household appliances and outdoor irrigation systems.

Mason Ruder made the local proclamation before the start of last week's city work session.

It's estimated nearly one trillion gallons of water is wasted each year in the U.S. because of water leaks, according to the EPA.

Fixing those leaks can save a homeowner more than 10,000 gallons of water a year — the amount in a typical backyard swimming pool.

Most water leaks are easily detectable and easy to fix.

Common household water leaks include worn toilet tank flappers, leaking showerheads and dripping faucets and pipes.&nbsp;One drip every second can add up to five gallons a day.

Toilets can have silent leaks and are discoverable by placing red dye in the tank and waiting to see if the red color shows up in the bowl.&nbsp;

Stopping a drip may be a simple as twisting a faucet completely off.

 Leaking shower heads or appliances such as a dishwater should be replaced with EPA WaterSense and Energy Star-labeled products.&nbsp;

WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the EPA to protect the future of the nation's water supply by promoting water efficiency and WaterSense-labeled products.

The city of Hays offers residents free faucet aerators and water-efficient showerheads. There are also free red dye tabs for checking leaks, all available in city hall, 1507 Main.

Information about city rebates for purchasing water-efficient washing machines, toilets, smart irrigation controllers and rain sensor shutoffs are available on the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/161/Rebates-Programs">city website</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679327216830.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThis is National Fix A Leak Week — March 20 to 26 — as proclaimed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and acknowledged by the city of Hays. Residents are reminded to check their household appliances and outdoor irrigation systems.Mason Ruder made the local proclamation before the start of last week's city work session.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/6NaCLioV-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Fix A Leak Week" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>It's estimated nearly one trillion gallons of water is wasted each year in the U.S. because of water leaks, according to the EPA.Fixing those leaks can save a homeowner more than 10,000 gallons of water a year — the amount in a typical backyard swimming pool.Most water leaks are easily detectable and easy to fix.Common household water leaks include worn toilet tank flappers, leaking showerheads and dripping faucets and pipes.&nbsp;One drip every second can add up to five gallons a day.Toilets can have silent leaks and are discoverable by placing red dye in the tank and waiting to see if the red color shows up in the bowl.&nbsp;Stopping a drip may be a simple as twisting a faucet completely off. Leaking shower heads or appliances such as a dishwater should be replaced with EPA WaterSense and Energy Star-labeled products.&nbsp;WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the EPA to protect the future of the nation's water supply by promoting water efficiency and WaterSense-labeled products.The city of Hays offers residents free faucet aerators and water-efficient showerheads. There are also free red dye tabs for checking leaks, all available in city hall, 1507 Main.Information about city rebates for purchasing water-efficient washing machines, toilets, smart irrigation controllers and rain sensor shutoffs are available on the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/161/Rebates-Programs">city website</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679331544809.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 Fix A Leak Week: Rebates, water efficiency info available in Hays

Salon Ten O Seven has announced new ownership.
Darian Leiker has acquired the local business from Dereama Allenbaugh.


Located at 1007 Main Street, the salon's services include haircuts, color and styling for men and women, as well as massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, and lash extensions. Hair
care lines include AVEDA, Bare Minerals, LANZA and Redken.


Leiker grew up in the Hays community and graduated from Hays High School and
attended cosmetology school in Wichita at Eric Fisher Academy. Leiker began
working for Allenbaugh in 2015 at both Salon Ten O Seven and Rock Haven
Spa. She also has experience working at salons in Wichita and for Eric Fisher prior to
returning to her hometown to manage Salon Ten O Seven in 2021.


Leiker followed in her parents, Alan and Jackie Leiker, footsteps in pursuit of becoming
an entrepreneur. She also sought the help and advice from her community and was
assisted in financing by local entities Astra Bank, Grow Hays and Network Kansas.


For more, visit <a href="https://www.salon1007.com/">https://www.salon1007.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679329997305.jpeg" alt="Darian Leiker" />
 <figcaption>Darian Leiker</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy Grow HaysSalon Ten O Seven has announced new ownership.
Darian Leiker has acquired the local business from Dereama Allenbaugh.
Located at 1007 Main Street, the salon's services include haircuts, color and styling for men and women, as well as massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, and lash extensions. Hair
care lines include AVEDA, Bare Minerals, LANZA and Redken.
Leiker grew up in the Hays community and graduated from Hays High School and
attended cosmetology school in Wichita at Eric Fisher Academy. Leiker began
working for Allenbaugh in 2015 at both Salon Ten O Seven and Rock Haven
Spa. She also has experience working at salons in Wichita and for Eric Fisher prior to
returning to her hometown to manage Salon Ten O Seven in 2021.
Leiker followed in her parents, Alan and Jackie Leiker, footsteps in pursuit of becoming
an entrepreneur. She also sought the help and advice from her community and was
assisted in financing by local entities Astra Bank, Grow Hays and Network Kansas.
For more, visit <a href="https://www.salon1007.com/">https://www.salon1007.com</a>.

Salon Ten O Seven in downtown Hays under new ownership

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679338569215.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>

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture has announced the result of the elections held for the state’s five grain commodity commissions — corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, sunflowers and wheat — in districts four, five, and six in the central region of the state.

Grain commodity commissions serve the Kansas agriculture industry by managing their crop’s research promotion and education programs funded with check-off funds. Candidates for the commissions must be a grower of the commodity in question and a resident in the state of voting age, and are elected by eligible growers in their district.

District Four: Mike Brzon, Republic County District Five: Derek Belton, Marion County District Six: Kent Moore, Pratt County

Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission District Four: Matthew Benoit, Rooks County

No candidates ran for commissioner in districts five and six. The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission will appoint these positions.

Kansas Soybean Commission District Five: Keith Miller, Barton County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605208576931.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture has announced the result of the elections held for the state’s five grain commodity commissions — corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, sunflowers and wheat — in districts four, five, and six in the central region of the state.Grain commodity commissions serve the Kansas agriculture industry by managing their crop’s research promotion and education programs funded with check-off funds. Candidates for the commissions must be a grower of the commodity in question and a resident in the state of voting age, and are elected by eligible growers in their district.Newly elected commissioners:Kansas Corn CommissionDistrict Four: Mike Brzon, Republic County District Five: Derek Belton, Marion County District Six: Kent Moore, Pratt County Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission District Four: Matthew Benoit, Rooks County No candidates ran for commissioner in districts five and six. The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission will appoint these positions.Kansas Soybean Commission District Five: Keith Miller, Barton County No candidates ran for commissioner in districts four and six. The Kansas Soybean Commission will appoint these positions.Kansas Sunflower CommissionNo candidates ran for commissioner in districts four, five, or six. The Kansas Sunflower Commission will appoint these positions.Kansas Wheat CommissionDistrict Four: Michael McClellan, Rooks County District Six: Martin Kerschen, Sedgwick County No candidates ran for commissioner in district five. The Kansas Wheat Commission will appoint this position.For more information on Kansas commodity commissions, please visit the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzODg5MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9Db21tb2RpdHlDb21taXNzaW9ucz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.hmad1VC8QCJlC2twjENJtAO-NaP0F8qBMG1nbTCoggc/s/1377890880/br/156198408777-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/CommodityCommissions</a>&nbsp;. Commissioners serve three-year terms and the terms will commence on April 1, 2023.