The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just four new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from March 25 and 31.

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. Graham County was one of four counties in Kansas in the high-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 8,471 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680714363772.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 25 and 31.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. Graham County was one of four counties in Kansas in the high-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 8,471 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680714457793.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Only 4 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

I have spent the last three weekends holding Town Hall meetings in the 40th Senate District. 

When I spoke about the property tax rebate for seniors over 65 and disabled veterans many of the people were not aware of the property tax rebate program.

 I mentioned at the meetings that I would republish the information regarding the new tax law. During the 2022 session, there were several changes to tax law. One change is the first step in a property tax freeze for low-income seniors and disabled veterans via a rebate program administered by the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR). 

Applications for property tax relief must be submitted by April 18, 2023, and can be found at: <a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf">https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf</a>.

Please note that to qualify for the “freeze” a household annual income must be $50,000 or below, a homeowner must be 65 years or older, and the value of the home cannot be above $350,000. A disabled veteran must be at least 50% disabled. Property taxes are still paid to the county and then a homeowner may apply to Kansas Department of Revenue for a refund on their increase, resulting in a freeze. In 2023 we will continue to look for solutions for the reduction in property taxes for all Kansas tax payers.

We passed the Senate’s version of the budget:

The budget vote is the first step in a multi-stop train that is the annual budget process. The committee delayed action on several items to be reviewed at conference and some at omnibus. The legislature has the power of the purse and it’s important we do not just simply act as a rubber stamp. At this stage in the process, nothing is off the table. The final budget will include appropriated monies for the final tax plans that are adopted as well as any new expenditures that may be passed. One item of note that the committee delayed for review at omnibus, is an additional pay increase for state employees on top of the 5% that was passed last year. 

There is significant support for this item to ensure we’re taking care of our state employees, particularly with persistent inflation and costs of living, so it remains a viable point of discussion. An amendment was added by Senator Tyson that made a modest cut to agencies NOT INCLUDING health, safety, or K-12 education by just 3.25% to save $97 million. Senator Blasi also added an amendment that transferred $1.8 million from idle funds (meaning they are currently unused) in the Department of Corrections to help bring the pay for Targeted Case Managers for those with Intellectual Development Disabilities to $75/hour. Senator Blasi indicated that Kansas has been losing targeted case managers which is causing tremendous anxiety for families who need IDD care.

Some of the bills of interest for the 40th Senate District this week are:

HB2335 would authorize the Rail Service Improvement Fund to be used for qualified track maintenance and would increase transfers from the State Highway Fund to the Rail Service Improvement Fund from $5.0 million to $10.0 million annually, starting July 1, 2023. Continuing law authorizes use of these funds for financing, acquisition, or rehabilitation of railroad and rolling stock.

HB2290 would authorize the affiliation of Northwest Kansas Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College with Fort Hays State University (FHSU).

Senate Sub.for HB2302 would establish funding for the State Water Plan and water infrastructure projects, create the Water Technical Assistance Fund and the Water Projects Grant Fund, authorize the Kansas Water Office to provide grants and adopt rules and regulations to establish criteria for grants, update reporting requirements for the Kansas Water Authority, and make technical amendments.

HB2279 would add sections to the Kansas Groundwater Management District Act to require groundwater districts to submit annual reports to the Legislature and conservation and stabilization action plans to the Chief Engineer, Division of Water Resources, Kansas Department of Agriculture. The bill will be part of and supplemental to the Kansas Groundwater Management Act of the Kansas Statues Annotated.

This week is conference committee week where bills from the House and Senate that have differences will be negotiated and agreed to by conference committee participants from the House and Senate. After an agreement is met each chamber will need to receive a majority approval to the changes.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

* Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties * Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675701343257.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>April 5, 2023I have spent the last three weekends holding Town Hall meetings in the 40th Senate District. When I spoke about the property tax rebate for seniors over 65 and disabled veterans many of the people were not aware of the property tax rebate program. I mentioned at the meetings that I would republish the information regarding the new tax law. During the 2022 session, there were several changes to tax law. One change is the first step in a property tax freeze for low-income seniors and disabled veterans via a rebate program administered by the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR). Applications for property tax relief must be submitted by April 18, 2023, and can be found at: <a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf">https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf</a>. Please note that to qualify for the “freeze” a household annual income must be $50,000 or below, a homeowner must be 65 years or older, and the value of the home cannot be above $350,000. A disabled veteran must be at least 50% disabled. Property taxes are still paid to the county and then a homeowner may apply to Kansas Department of Revenue for a refund on their increase, resulting in a freeze. In 2023 we will continue to look for solutions for the reduction in property taxes for all Kansas tax payers.We passed the Senate’s version of the budget:The budget vote is the first step in a multi-stop train that is the annual budget process. The committee delayed action on several items to be reviewed at conference and some at omnibus. The legislature has the power of the purse and it’s important we do not just simply act as a rubber stamp. At this stage in the process, nothing is off the table. The final budget will include appropriated monies for the final tax plans that are adopted as well as any new expenditures that may be passed. One item of note that the committee delayed for review at omnibus, is an additional pay increase for state employees on top of the 5% that was passed last year. There is significant support for this item to ensure we’re taking care of our state employees, particularly with persistent inflation and costs of living, so it remains a viable point of discussion. An amendment was added by Senator Tyson that made a modest cut to agencies NOT INCLUDING health, safety, or K-12 education by just 3.25% to save $97 million. Senator Blasi also added an amendment that transferred $1.8 million from idle funds (meaning they are currently unused) in the Department of Corrections to help bring the pay for Targeted Case Managers for those with Intellectual Development Disabilities to $75/hour. Senator Blasi indicated that Kansas has been losing targeted case managers which is causing tremendous anxiety for families who need IDD care.Some of the bills of interest for the 40th Senate District this week are:HB2335 would authorize the Rail Service Improvement Fund to be used for qualified track maintenance and would increase transfers from the State Highway Fund to the Rail Service Improvement Fund from $5.0 million to $10.0 million annually, starting July 1, 2023. Continuing law authorizes use of these funds for financing, acquisition, or rehabilitation of railroad and rolling stock.HB2290 would authorize the affiliation of Northwest Kansas Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College with Fort Hays State University (FHSU).Senate Sub.for HB2302 would establish funding for the State Water Plan and water infrastructure projects, create the Water Technical Assistance Fund and the Water Projects Grant Fund, authorize the Kansas Water Office to provide grants and adopt rules and regulations to establish criteria for grants, update reporting requirements for the Kansas Water Authority, and make technical amendments.HB2279 would add sections to the Kansas Groundwater Management District Act to require groundwater districts to submit annual reports to the Legislature and conservation and stabilization action plans to the Chief Engineer, Division of Water Resources, Kansas Department of Agriculture. The bill will be part of and supplemental to the Kansas Groundwater Management Act of the Kansas Statues Annotated.This week is conference committee week where bills from the House and Senate that have differences will be negotiated and agreed to by conference committee participants from the House and Senate. After an agreement is met each chamber will need to receive a majority approval to the changes.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:* Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties * Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

BILLINGER: Senate Update, April 5

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher I don’t know about you, but spring is here and I am ready for it. After a cold winter, there is nothing better than the sun on your face&nbsp;that first warm spring day. That same sunshine brings new growth, and we can see our pastures greening up. At first, the blades of grass barely poke through the ground, but soon with a little bit of sunshine and (hopefully) some water the grass grows at an amazing rate. The growth is incredible and what I find more fascinating is it happens year after year. Fall and winter comes and the top growth dies off only to come back as new growth the next year. Why? The secret is in the roots, the grassroots. Just like the prairie, Kansas Farm Bureau relies on grassroots to make our organization strong and resilient. They are the source of everything that happens even though they may not always be very visible. Our grassroots are what anchor us in the ground and give the organization a strong footing. Our grassroots run deep; they have been growing for over a century. Without our counties anchoring and supporting, the rest of the organization would not exist. Our deep roots and wide network are also what make us survive. When things are tough, we cover enough ground to help us to receive what we need to keep going. Just like grassroots bring in water and nutrients, our counties supply the organization with new ideas, hard work and volunteers. In turn, the leaves provide the plant with energy. The Kansas Farm Bureau provides advocacy, support and education back to the counties. Those grassroots are what makes Farm Bureau such a great organization. It is the fact that each county has its own, autonomous association, then each state is its own entity and the American Farm Bureau Federation exists not because of the states but the counties in each state. Just like the grass plant, nothing else would exist without the county level organizations. All policy and decisions ultimately are made at the county level. Every leader started out as a member in their home county. Every policy in our state and national policy book started out as an idea at the county level and worked its way through the system. The most effective education, advocacy and community service all happen at the county level. That is why we can represent farmers and ranchers of all types of no matter how big or small their farms or ranches are. The depth and breadth of our roots is what makes us different from every other agricultural organization and we should be very proud of that. Yes, everyone sees the green grass growing above ground but that green grass exists because of its roots, and I don’t know about you but I am awfully proud of my grassroots. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher I don’t know about you, but spring is here and I am ready for it. After a cold winter, there is nothing better than the sun on your face&nbsp;that first warm spring day. That same sunshine brings new growth, and we can see our pastures greening up. At first, the blades of grass barely poke through the ground, but soon with a little bit of sunshine and (hopefully) some water the grass grows at an amazing rate. The growth is incredible and what I find more fascinating is it happens year after year. Fall and winter comes and the top growth dies off only to come back as new growth the next year. Why? The secret is in the roots, the grassroots. Just like the prairie, Kansas Farm Bureau relies on grassroots to make our organization strong and resilient. They are the source of everything that happens even though they may not always be very visible. Our grassroots are what anchor us in the ground and give the organization a strong footing. Our grassroots run deep; they have been growing for over a century. Without our counties anchoring and supporting, the rest of the organization would not exist. Our deep roots and wide network are also what make us survive. When things are tough, we cover enough ground to help us to receive what we need to keep going. Just like grassroots bring in water and nutrients, our counties supply the organization with new ideas, hard work and volunteers. In turn, the leaves provide the plant with energy. The Kansas Farm Bureau provides advocacy, support and education back to the counties. Those grassroots are what makes Farm Bureau such a great organization. It is the fact that each county has its own, autonomous association, then each state is its own entity and the American Farm Bureau Federation exists not because of the states but the counties in each state. Just like the grass plant, nothing else would exist without the county level organizations. All policy and decisions ultimately are made at the county level. Every leader started out as a member in their home county. Every policy in our state and national policy book started out as an idea at the county level and worked its way through the system. The most effective education, advocacy and community service all happen at the county level. That is why we can represent farmers and ranchers of all types of no matter how big or small their farms or ranches are. The depth and breadth of our roots is what makes us different from every other agricultural organization and we should be very proud of that. Yes, everyone sees the green grass growing above ground but that green grass exists because of its roots, and I don’t know about you but I am awfully proud of my grassroots. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: From the ground up

The Hays Police Department responded to 75 incidents March 19-25, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 75 incidents March 19-25, 2023, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680706802154.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680706978855.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680707092182.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, March 19-25

RUSSELL — The Board of Directors of the Russell Public Library has chosen a replacement for outgoing Library Director Jessica M. McGuire. 

Denise Ketchens has been a resident of Russell for the past three years and has been chosen to be the library's 10th director. She comes to the Russell Public Library with a variety of past library experience and was most recently director of the Oshkosh Public Library in Oshkosh, Neb.&nbsp; You might recognize Ketchens from her work in Russell at the Russell Area Chamber of Commerce and as the 2021 Prariesta Coordinator.

Ketchens has an associate of arts degree from Barton Community College in Great Bend and is currently working toward a bachelor of science in business at Fort Hays State University.

"It is great to know the library will be in such good hands,"&nbsp; McGuire said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680635530003.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRUSSELL — The Board of Directors of the Russell Public Library has chosen a replacement for outgoing Library Director Jessica M. McGuire. Denise Ketchens has been a resident of Russell for the past three years and has been chosen to be the library's 10th director. She comes to the Russell Public Library with a variety of past library experience and was most recently director of the Oshkosh Public Library in Oshkosh, Neb.&nbsp; You might recognize Ketchens from her work in Russell at the Russell Area Chamber of Commerce and as the 2021 Prariesta Coordinator.Ketchens has an associate of arts degree from Barton Community College in Great Bend and is currently working toward a bachelor of science in business at Fort Hays State University."It is great to know the library will be in such good hands,"&nbsp; McGuire said.

Russell library announces new director

<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/2023/4/1680623047546.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

We will be at first adjournment this week and then off for two weeks and come back to finish work on the budget and look at what bills the Governor will veto and see if action will be taken to override. Here are a few of the highlights from the last week:

House Budget - Over the last several months budget committees have been hard at work finding efficiencies and ensuring our state is in a healthy position. This past week, the House approved its version of the state’s budget. Our budget spends less than the Governor’s budget recommendations and leaves the state with roughly $1.5 billion in a rainy-day fund to help weather the tough times. Here are some key areas where the House differed from the governor’s recommendation: In the governor’s budget recommendation, $220 million would be transferred from the state general fund to the Build Kansas Matching Grant Fund providing a state match for federal infrastructure dollars. The House instead split that transfer into four yearly transfers of $55 million, developed means-testing for entities requesting grants, and added oversight from the legislature. The House added $2 million to the Alternatives to Abortion Program to enhance resources that promote childbirth. This allows struggling mothers to obtain all the information they need when decisions about childbirth are being made. The House added targeted funding to help those in need of home and community-based services, such as those in the intellectual and developmentally disabled community; the frail elderly; and our nursing homes. We hope that this increase will allow Kansans to get the care that so many rely on. The House removed the transfer of $50 million from the State General Fund to the Governor’s office which would have given her the oversight of the state’s match when agencies apply for federal grants.

Comprehensive Tax Package - The Kansas House passed a comprehensive tax package that will not raise taxes on any Kansan. The tax package will result in a simpler tax code that has a single rate, no matter your income. To give relief for low-income Kansans, we have increased the level at which taxes kick in by thousands of dollars, meaning that many people in our state will not pay anything in income tax. We also increased the standard deduction and tied it to inflation so Kansans can have some relief during hard economic times. It was important that we spread the tax relief across as many people as possible, and this package accomplishes that. Many homeowners in our state have been hit hard by rising property tax bills. Our new package will increase the residential property tax exemption from $40,000 to $80,000, giving around $80 million in property tax relief directly to Kansans. The grocery sales tax rate decline has already begun but is not set to phase out for another couple years. The plan passed this week will move the total elimination date to July 1st of this year for the state portion of sales tax on groceries. This will save the average Kansas household $310. I did vote in favor of the plan, although there were some things that could have been better but in order to move forward it was the best that could come out of our side.

Promise Scholarship Expansion - House Republicans passed a bill last week that expands scholarships offered under the Kansas Promise Scholarship Act to those studying transportation, elementary education, and secondary education. The scholarships offered by this program assist Kansans attending college in-state who will remain and work in Kansas for two years following graduation. HB 2132&nbsp;provides educational opportunity for students who wish to join our workforce in needed areas for our state.

Establishing the Office of the Child Advocate - Children across our state deserve to be protected and be heard. The House voted this week to establish the independent agency, The Office of the Child Advocate. This advocate hears and investigates complaints from within the Kansas child welfare system. The Child Advocate helps children and families receive coordination within the system and helps resolve issues that occur. An oversight board of 11 members ensures that the Office of the Child Advocate is carrying out their duties and remaining privileged and confidential. We want to provide as many resources as we can that help children who are dealing with the child welfare system.

Fighting the Manufacture and Sale of Fentanyl - The threat posed by fentanyl increases every day. As this drug quickly becomes a leading cause of death among young people, we are taking action to mitigate the damage that has been seen across the country. House Republicans passed legislation again reaffirming our commitment to a safe and secure Kansas by increasing penalties for those who manufacture fentanyl. Fentanyl manufacturers will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law with level 1 felonies that carry presumptive prison times.

These are just some the things that were discussed and passed last week. You can read about all the bills that passed or the status of the remainder that could be taken up next year by going online to kslegislature.org. If you would like to contact me: Email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov, phone during the session (785) 296-7463 or you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416.

Thanks for reading. It is my honor to serve you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680492110122.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes R-Agra, 110th Dist. (Photo by James Bell/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes R-Agra, 110th Dist. (Photo by James Bell/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>April 5, 2023Hello from Topeka. We will be at first adjournment this week and then off for two weeks and come back to finish work on the budget and look at what bills the Governor will veto and see if action will be taken to override. Here are a few of the highlights from the last week:House Budget - Over the last several months budget committees have been hard at work finding efficiencies and ensuring our state is in a healthy position. This past week, the House approved its version of the state’s budget. Our budget spends less than the Governor’s budget recommendations and leaves the state with roughly $1.5 billion in a rainy-day fund to help weather the tough times. Here are some key areas where the House differed from the governor’s recommendation: In the governor’s budget recommendation, $220 million would be transferred from the state general fund to the Build Kansas Matching Grant Fund providing a state match for federal infrastructure dollars. The House instead split that transfer into four yearly transfers of $55 million, developed means-testing for entities requesting grants, and added oversight from the legislature. The House added $2 million to the Alternatives to Abortion Program to enhance resources that promote childbirth. This allows struggling mothers to obtain all the information they need when decisions about childbirth are being made. The House added targeted funding to help those in need of home and community-based services, such as those in the intellectual and developmentally disabled community; the frail elderly; and our nursing homes. We hope that this increase will allow Kansans to get the care that so many rely on. The House removed the transfer of $50 million from the State General Fund to the Governor’s office which would have given her the oversight of the state’s match when agencies apply for federal grants.Comprehensive Tax Package - The Kansas House passed a comprehensive tax package that will not raise taxes on any Kansan. The tax package will result in a simpler tax code that has a single rate, no matter your income. To give relief for low-income Kansans, we have increased the level at which taxes kick in by thousands of dollars, meaning that many people in our state will not pay anything in income tax. We also increased the standard deduction and tied it to inflation so Kansans can have some relief during hard economic times. It was important that we spread the tax relief across as many people as possible, and this package accomplishes that. Many homeowners in our state have been hit hard by rising property tax bills. Our new package will increase the residential property tax exemption from $40,000 to $80,000, giving around $80 million in property tax relief directly to Kansans. The grocery sales tax rate decline has already begun but is not set to phase out for another couple years. The plan passed this week will move the total elimination date to July 1st of this year for the state portion of sales tax on groceries. This will save the average Kansas household $310. I did vote in favor of the plan, although there were some things that could have been better but in order to move forward it was the best that could come out of our side.Promise Scholarship Expansion - House Republicans passed a bill last week that expands scholarships offered under the Kansas Promise Scholarship Act to those studying transportation, elementary education, and secondary education. The scholarships offered by this program assist Kansans attending college in-state who will remain and work in Kansas for two years following graduation. HB 2132&nbsp;provides educational opportunity for students who wish to join our workforce in needed areas for our state.Establishing the Office of the Child Advocate - Children across our state deserve to be protected and be heard. The House voted this week to establish the independent agency, The Office of the Child Advocate. This advocate hears and investigates complaints from within the Kansas child welfare system. The Child Advocate helps children and families receive coordination within the system and helps resolve issues that occur. An oversight board of 11 members ensures that the Office of the Child Advocate is carrying out their duties and remaining privileged and confidential. We want to provide as many resources as we can that help children who are dealing with the child welfare system.Fighting the Manufacture and Sale of Fentanyl - The threat posed by fentanyl increases every day. As this drug quickly becomes a leading cause of death among young people, we are taking action to mitigate the damage that has been seen across the country. House Republicans passed legislation again reaffirming our commitment to a safe and secure Kansas by increasing penalties for those who manufacture fentanyl. Fentanyl manufacturers will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law with level 1 felonies that carry presumptive prison times.These are just some the things that were discussed and passed last week. You can read about all the bills that passed or the status of the remainder that could be taken up next year by going online to kslegislature.org. If you would like to contact me: Email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov, phone during the session (785) 296-7463 or you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416.Thanks for reading. It is my honor to serve you.

RAHJES REPORT: April 5, 2023

SHAWNEE&nbsp;– Topeka resident, Bobby Parkhurst, was fishing at Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 2 when the catch-of-a-lifetime came into contact with his lure. Little did Parkhurst know that what loomed beneath the surface, ready to strike, would break a Kansas state record set the very same month, nearly 60 years prior.

The enormous white crappie caught by Parkhurst on March 5 was taken with rod and reel and a minnow as bait. After inspection and measurement by John Reinke, assistant director of Fisheries for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the lunker catch was put on a certified scale where it was recorded as weighing 4.07 pounds – the equivalent of six cans of soup.

“As fisheries biologists, we get the chance to see a lot of big fish but this one is certainly for the books,” Reinke said. “This crappie measured in at 18 inches long and 14 inches in girth, so it truly deserves a spot on the state record list.”

The previous Kansas state record for white crappie was set in 1964 by Frank Miller of Eureka when he reeled in a 4.02-pound crappie that measured 17.5 inches long. Miller used a rod and reel and minnow, too.

Trophy catches such as these end up as a Kansas State Record if:

The 30-day waiting period for Parkhurst’s catch ends today, April 4, making his white crappie the biggest catch for the species in Kansas history. For now, that is.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TdGF0ZS1SZWNvcmQtRmlzaCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.e0aXJf3hIKJ4CaT1GT4Wrc9MGu49ObheQ9nrtijbaCw/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of current Kansas state record fish.

Caught a big fish but not quite a state record? Apply for a “Master Angler Award” and be recognized for your catch if it exceeds the measurements listed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9NYXN0ZXItQW5nbGVyLUF3YXJkLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDA0Ljc0NjE2NzIxIn0.44_B1ujxPINqTCYep9mmPV9nJOgJlmj2wlfGSBoNFB8/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>.

For more on fishing in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.rRaqcQ7E-ZOuk7LXJJAGDW3be9v3dlxyv87lEKGIYUs/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680644840706.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPSHAWNEE&nbsp;– Topeka resident, Bobby Parkhurst, was fishing at Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 2 when the catch-of-a-lifetime came into contact with his lure. Little did Parkhurst know that what loomed beneath the surface, ready to strike, would break a Kansas state record set the very same month, nearly 60 years prior.The enormous white crappie caught by Parkhurst on March 5 was taken with rod and reel and a minnow as bait. After inspection and measurement by John Reinke, assistant director of Fisheries for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the lunker catch was put on a certified scale where it was recorded as weighing 4.07 pounds – the equivalent of six cans of soup.“As fisheries biologists, we get the chance to see a lot of big fish but this one is certainly for the books,” Reinke said. “This crappie measured in at 18 inches long and 14 inches in girth, so it truly deserves a spot on the state record list.”The previous Kansas state record for white crappie was set in 1964 by Frank Miller of Eureka when he reeled in a 4.02-pound crappie that measured 17.5 inches long. Miller used a rod and reel and minnow, too.Trophy catches such as these end up as a Kansas State Record if:<ul>
 <li>The fish is caught by a licensed angler using legal means</li><li>The fish is identified by a Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks district fisheries biologist or regional fisheries supervisor</li><li>The fish is weighed on a certified scale prior to being frozen</li><li>The fish is photographed, in color, and a state record application is filled out</li><li>The mandatory 30-day waiting period has passed.</li>
 </ul>The 30-day waiting period for Parkhurst’s catch ends today, April 4, making his white crappie the biggest catch for the species in Kansas history. For now, that is.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TdGF0ZS1SZWNvcmQtRmlzaCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.e0aXJf3hIKJ4CaT1GT4Wrc9MGu49ObheQ9nrtijbaCw/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of current Kansas state record fish.Caught a big fish but not quite a state record? Apply for a “Master Angler Award” and be recognized for your catch if it exceeds the measurements listed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9NYXN0ZXItQW5nbGVyLUF3YXJkLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDA0Ljc0NjE2NzIxIn0.44_B1ujxPINqTCYep9mmPV9nJOgJlmj2wlfGSBoNFB8/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>.For more on fishing in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.rRaqcQ7E-ZOuk7LXJJAGDW3be9v3dlxyv87lEKGIYUs/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

Topeka angler sets new Kansas record for crappie

A faster-than-expected cold front moving into northwest Kansas is pushing down the risk of wildfires and dust storms, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported late Tuesday afternoon.

The expected strong southwest winds are now expected to remain in the far southwest portions of Kansas at the Oklahoma border.

The NWS in Goodland is predicting record or near-record low temperatures in far northwest Kansas early Wednesday morning, with the mercury expected to drop below 20 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680640767039.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A faster-than-expected cold front moving into northwest Kansas is pushing down the risk of wildfires and dust storms, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported late Tuesday afternoon.The expected strong southwest winds are now expected to remain in the far southwest portions of Kansas at the Oklahoma border.The NWS in Goodland is predicting record or near-record low temperatures in far northwest Kansas early Wednesday morning, with the mercury expected to drop below 20 degrees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680641283347.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here is an afternoon update on the winds and blowing dust. A faster than forecast cold front pushed south across west central and portions of southwest KS, pushing the greatest blowing dust and extreme fire weather conditions down toward the OK border into south central KS <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/QH3ukF9P0C">pic.twitter.com/QH3ukF9P0C</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1643341210126516224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Quick cold front keeps wind calmer than expected Tuesday

🎥⚾️🥎 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

By JAMES
BELL 
Hays Post

People
filled the Schmidt Community Commons of the Hays Public Library in downtown
Hays on Saturday morning for the last of three Legislative Coffee sessions. 

And
while everyone in the crowd came to hear updates from <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_rahjes_ken_1/">Rep.
Ken Rahjes, R-Agra</a>, <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_wasinger_barbara_1/">Rep.
Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays</a>, and <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/sen_billinger_rick_1/">Sen.
Rick Billinger</a>,&nbsp;R-Goodland, it was
clear from the outset that about a third had a specific topic on their minds.

Many sported
signs with sayings such as “Trans Lives Matter” and “Quality people don’t fear
equality.”

After
opening remarks and a brief budget discussion, their concerns began to be addressed
after moderator Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger asked, from a
list of previously submitted questions: 

“What is
your reasoning for why, at the February 13 hearing for House Bill 2238, there
were only seven proponents for the bill out of 104 testimonies?”

As the panel
collectively looked up the bill's topic, an audience member offered, “it’s the
fairness in women’s sports.”

“I find
that in any organization, in any bill, when you have a large number of people
that don't like it, they come in in force,” Rep. Wasinger said. “I don't use
that as a litmus test.”

“Obviously,
I have been in support of fairness in women's sports for the last three years,
and I will continue to work for it,” she continued. “And it has nothing and
says nothing about transgenderism. It says if you're a biological female, you
play on the female team. If you're a biological male, you can play in the male
team. Or you can play in an open team group where you can play with anybody you
want to switch everything around or coed.”

“I voted
for it, and we'll do a veto override this week probably,” Rahjes said. “We’ll
override the governor's veto.”

“Supporting
one thing does not mean we don’t support other things,” Rep. Wasinger said
before Billinger addressed
the question.

He
equated the legislation to little league baseball. 

“It
wouldn't be right to let a senior come and play on the eighth-grade team,” Billinger said. “You
can play up, but you can't play down. So that's similar to this.”

After moderator Wasinger addressed some chatter from the audience, Billinger said, “This all came up
with a swimmer that won and was clearly bigger, stronger than the women. That’s
basically where it is at.

An
audience member asked, “Do you know that swimmer's name?”

“William
Thomas,” Rep. Wasinger said.

<a href="https://statelinesportsnetwork.net/2022/01/20/the-impact-of-will-thomas-on-yesterdays-ncaa-ruling/">Thomas
was a lightning-rod figure in the discussion of transgender athletes as a
swimmer at Penn that first swam on the male team, before the female one, and is
now known as Lia Thomas.</a>

Moderator
Wasinger moved the panel onto another topic, but transgender issues would again
come up before the end of the session when an audience member directly asked Billinger:

“You
said in your opening statement, if I recall correctly, that you wanted every
single dollar to be spent wisely. Do you believe that enforcing bills such as
SB 233, SB 10, and the quote-unquote, fairness and women's sports act would be
enforcing that, and therefore the be wise as possible way to spend every
dollar?”

Billinger questioned
back what in the legislation would require funding.

Enforcement
on the public and private level, an audience member said.

“I don't
know that we've been spending a lot of dollars or time on that,” Billinger said.

Another
audience member pointed out there would be negative mental health implications
for those affected.

“I've mentioned
the mental health, I think that’s something we have got to do a better job,” Billinger said. “And
I think we're working towards trying to do a better job. Yeah, it's definitely
right up at the top.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680491582461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES
BELL 
Hays PostPeople
filled the Schmidt Community Commons of the Hays Public Library in downtown
Hays on Saturday morning for the last of three Legislative Coffee sessions. And
while everyone in the crowd came to hear updates from <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_rahjes_ken_1/">Rep.
Ken Rahjes, R-Agra</a>, <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_wasinger_barbara_1/">Rep.
Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays</a>, and <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/sen_billinger_rick_1/">Sen.
Rick Billinger</a>,&nbsp;R-Goodland, it was
clear from the outset that about a third had a specific topic on their minds.Many sported
signs with sayings such as “Trans Lives Matter” and “Quality people don’t fear
equality.”After
opening remarks and a brief budget discussion, their concerns began to be addressed
after moderator Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger asked, from a
list of previously submitted questions: “What is
your reasoning for why, at the February 13 hearing for House Bill 2238, there
were only seven proponents for the bill out of 104 testimonies?”As the panel
collectively looked up the bill's topic, an audience member offered, “it’s the
fairness in women’s sports.”“I find
that in any organization, in any bill, when you have a large number of people
that don't like it, they come in in force,” Rep. Wasinger said. “I don't use
that as a litmus test.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680491758491.jpeg" alt="<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_wasinger_barbara_1/">Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_wasinger_barbara_1/">Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays</a></figcaption>
 </figure>“Obviously,
I have been in support of fairness in women's sports for the last three years,
and I will continue to work for it,” she continued. “And it has nothing and
says nothing about transgenderism. It says if you're a biological female, you
play on the female team. If you're a biological male, you can play in the male
team. Or you can play in an open team group where you can play with anybody you
want to switch everything around or coed.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680492110122.jpeg" alt="<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_rahjes_ken_1/">Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/rep_rahjes_ken_1/">Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra</a></figcaption>
 </figure>“I voted
for it, and we'll do a veto override this week probably,” Rahjes said. “We’ll
override the governor's veto.”“Supporting
one thing does not mean we don’t support other things,” Rep. Wasinger said
before Billinger addressed
the question.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680491697150.jpeg" alt="Rep. Barbara Wasinger" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Barbara Wasinger</figcaption>
 </figure>He
equated the legislation to little league baseball. “It
wouldn't be right to let a senior come and play on the eighth-grade team,” Billinger said. “You
can play up, but you can't play down. So that's similar to this.”After moderator Wasinger addressed some chatter from the audience, Billinger said, “This all came up
with a swimmer that won and was clearly bigger, stronger than the women. That’s
basically where it is at.An
audience member asked, “Do you know that swimmer's name?”“William
Thomas,” Rep. Wasinger said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680491555476.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://statelinesportsnetwork.net/2022/01/20/the-impact-of-will-thomas-on-yesterdays-ncaa-ruling/">Thomas
was a lightning-rod figure in the discussion of transgender athletes as a
swimmer at Penn that first swam on the male team, before the female one, and is
now known as Lia Thomas.</a>Moderator
Wasinger moved the panel onto another topic, but transgender issues would again
come up before the end of the session when an audience member directly asked Billinger:“You
said in your opening statement, if I recall correctly, that you wanted every
single dollar to be spent wisely. Do you believe that enforcing bills such as
SB 233, SB 10, and the quote-unquote, fairness and women's sports act would be
enforcing that, and therefore the be wise as possible way to spend every
dollar?”Billinger questioned
back what in the legislation would require funding.Enforcement
on the public and private level, an audience member said.“I don't
know that we've been spending a lot of dollars or time on that,” Billinger said.Another
audience member pointed out there would be negative mental health implications
for those affected.“I've mentioned
the mental health, I think that’s something we have got to do a better job,” Billinger said. “And
I think we're working towards trying to do a better job. Yeah, it's definitely
right up at the top.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644197357258.jpeg" alt="<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/sen_billinger_rick_1/">Sen. Rick Billinger</a>&nbsp;(File photo)" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2022/b2021_22/members/sen_billinger_rick_1/">Sen. Rick Billinger</a>&nbsp;(File photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Transgender sports bill spurs discussion at Legislative Coffee in Hays

HaysMed will be opening an 11-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit this summer.&nbsp; The hospital has engaged Lifepoint Rehabilitation, a business unit of Lifepoint Health, to manage the inpatient rehabilitation unit. Under the agreement, HaysMed will own the unit and Lifepoint Rehabilitation will manage the operations.

The medical director for the unit has been secured and a separate announcement will take place closer to the opening.

“The rehabilitation services at HaysMed have a long history of offering exceptional care to patients recovering from injury and surgery,” said Terry Siek,&nbsp; chief nursing officer. “We identified a local need for inpatient rehabilitation services for our patients&nbsp;and establishing&nbsp;a unit dedicated to more complex rehab services is another way of providing the care needed as close to home as possible.”

“Working with Lifepoint Rehabilitation will advance rehabilitation services available to our patients and will help to establish our hospital as a regional center of excellence.&nbsp;Lifepoint Rehabilitation’s extensive network of relationships and its experience and expertise operating similar facilities and programs around the country make it the ideal partner for us going forward,” said Shae Veach, Vice President of Regional Operations.

Lifepoint Rehabilitation will provide HaysMed with management programs and best practices in quality rehabilitation services. It is a leading provider of rehabilitation program management services that serve to enhance productivity and program performance and provide staff training in more than 100+ centers and other post-acute care settings across the nation. It consistently outperforms national industry averages on quality measures.

“We are committed to investing in programs and services that enhance the quality of patient care at HaysMed and increase our community’s access to essential services to improve patients’ functional abilities and independence,” said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO. “Lifepoint Rehabilitation brings a high level of expertise, experience, insight and professionalism to our rehabilitation services.”

“HaysMed&nbsp;has a long-standing reputation for clinical excellence, innovation in patient care and outstanding quality outcomes,” said Russ Bailey, president of Lifepoint Rehabilitation. “We are excited about the opportunity to partner with them as we implement programs best tailored to meet patients’ needs and provide local employment opportunities. We share in their commitment to excellence and care philosophy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680533895711.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed will be opening an 11-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit this summer.&nbsp; The hospital has engaged Lifepoint Rehabilitation, a business unit of Lifepoint Health, to manage the inpatient rehabilitation unit. Under the agreement, HaysMed will own the unit and Lifepoint Rehabilitation will manage the operations.The medical director for the unit has been secured and a separate announcement will take place closer to the opening.“The rehabilitation services at HaysMed have a long history of offering exceptional care to patients recovering from injury and surgery,” said Terry Siek,&nbsp; chief nursing officer. “We identified a local need for inpatient rehabilitation services for our patients&nbsp;and establishing&nbsp;a unit dedicated to more complex rehab services is another way of providing the care needed as close to home as possible.”“Working with Lifepoint Rehabilitation will advance rehabilitation services available to our patients and will help to establish our hospital as a regional center of excellence.&nbsp;Lifepoint Rehabilitation’s extensive network of relationships and its experience and expertise operating similar facilities and programs around the country make it the ideal partner for us going forward,” said Shae Veach, Vice President of Regional Operations.Lifepoint Rehabilitation will provide HaysMed with management programs and best practices in quality rehabilitation services. It is a leading provider of rehabilitation program management services that serve to enhance productivity and program performance and provide staff training in more than 100+ centers and other post-acute care settings across the nation. It consistently outperforms national industry averages on quality measures.“We are committed to investing in programs and services that enhance the quality of patient care at HaysMed and increase our community’s access to essential services to improve patients’ functional abilities and independence,” said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO. “Lifepoint Rehabilitation brings a high level of expertise, experience, insight and professionalism to our rehabilitation services.”“HaysMed&nbsp;has a long-standing reputation for clinical excellence, innovation in patient care and outstanding quality outcomes,” said Russ Bailey, president of Lifepoint Rehabilitation. “We are excited about the opportunity to partner with them as we implement programs best tailored to meet patients’ needs and provide local employment opportunities. We share in their commitment to excellence and care philosophy.”

HaysMed to open inpatient rehabilitation unit

Crude prices post their biggest rally in a year after the "OPEC-Plus" exporters announce output cuts. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday at $75.67 per barrel.&nbsp; On Sunday, the OPEC-Plus oil exporters announced plans to cut output by an additional 1.1 million barrels per day.&nbsp; By lunchtime Monday, prices were up more than six percent trading over $80 in New York, and over $84 in London. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $66 per barrel at CHS in McPherson, after gaining a dollar and a half on Friday. Kansas regulators okayed 16 new drilling permits last week, 314 so far this year compared to 376 by this time last year. There are eight new permits in Western Kansas including two in Barton County. Operators across Kansas completed 22 new wells, with 13 west of Wichita including one in Barton County, two in Ellis County and two in Russell County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 493 newly-completed wells so far this year, compared to 413 a year ago.&nbsp; Operators filed 96 intent-to-drill notices across the state last month, according to the Kansas Corporation Commission. That's 344 so far this year, compared to 213 by the end of March last year.&nbsp; Barton County notched four intents last month, Russell County had one and Stafford County had three.&nbsp; Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Barton County and two in Stafford County.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, up two for the week, and 26 in the western half of the state, which is down two. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 755 active rigs for the week through March 31, down three rigs. The count in Texas was up four rigs, while New Mexico was down four. Oklahoma was down two. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports total crude production in the Sunflower State reached 28.3 million barrels for the year. That's over 77,000 barrels per day and the best year-end total since 2019.&nbsp; EIA reported a large dip in US crude inventories, down 7.5 million barrels in the week trough March 24th to 473.7 million barrels. Stockpiles are about six percent above the five-year average for this time of year. US crude production was down about 11,000 barrels per day from the week before, at just over 12.2 million barrels per day. That's nearly half a million barrels per day below US output a year ago. EIA said imports dropped to 5.3 million barrels per day last week. The four week average is down 5.8% from a year ago. The Biden administration offered one of the biggest energy lease-auctions ever. The government offered 73-million acres for off-shore energy exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf of the Gulf of Mexico. That includes almost all of the unspoken-for tracts in the Western and Central Gulf. The sale was among the concessions negotiated to pass the Inflation Reduction Act. It generated more than $263 million in high bids. California lawmakers took just one week to approve a measure intended to rein in price gouging at the gas pump. Lawmakers are giving regulators the power to punish oil companies for profiting from the type of gas price spikes that plagued the nation’s most populous state last summer. Governor Gavin Newsom was expected to sign the bill into law Tuesday. Eloy Garcia, lobbyist for the Western States Petroleum Association, said California’s high gas prices are the result of decades of public policy decisions that have made the state an island in the global petroleum market and driven many oil refiners out of the state. Garcia said the legislation sends a clear signal NOT to invest in California.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices post their biggest rally in a year after the "OPEC-Plus" exporters announce output cuts. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday at $75.67 per barrel.&nbsp; On Sunday, the OPEC-Plus oil exporters announced plans to cut output by an additional 1.1 million barrels per day.&nbsp; By lunchtime Monday, prices were up more than six percent trading over $80 in New York, and over $84 in London. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $66 per barrel at CHS in McPherson, after gaining a dollar and a half on Friday. Kansas regulators okayed 16 new drilling permits last week, 314 so far this year compared to 376 by this time last year. There are eight new permits in Western Kansas including two in Barton County. Operators across Kansas completed 22 new wells, with 13 west of Wichita including one in Barton County, two in Ellis County and two in Russell County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 493 newly-completed wells so far this year, compared to 413 a year ago.&nbsp; Operators filed 96 intent-to-drill notices across the state last month, according to the Kansas Corporation Commission. That's 344 so far this year, compared to 213 by the end of March last year.&nbsp; Barton County notched four intents last month, Russell County had one and Stafford County had three.&nbsp; Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Barton County and two in Stafford County.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 14 active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, up two for the week, and 26 in the western half of the state, which is down two. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 755 active rigs for the week through March 31, down three rigs. The count in Texas was up four rigs, while New Mexico was down four. Oklahoma was down two. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports total crude production in the Sunflower State reached 28.3 million barrels for the year. That's over 77,000 barrels per day and the best year-end total since 2019.&nbsp; EIA reported a large dip in US crude inventories, down 7.5 million barrels in the week trough March 24th to 473.7 million barrels. Stockpiles are about six percent above the five-year average for this time of year. US crude production was down about 11,000 barrels per day from the week before, at just over 12.2 million barrels per day. That's nearly half a million barrels per day below US output a year ago. EIA said imports dropped to 5.3 million barrels per day last week. The four week average is down 5.8% from a year ago. The Biden administration offered one of the biggest energy lease-auctions ever. The government offered 73-million acres for off-shore energy exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf of the Gulf of Mexico. That includes almost all of the unspoken-for tracts in the Western and Central Gulf. The sale was among the concessions negotiated to pass the Inflation Reduction Act. It generated more than $263 million in high bids. California lawmakers took just one week to approve a measure intended to rein in price gouging at the gas pump. Lawmakers are giving regulators the power to punish oil companies for profiting from the type of gas price spikes that plagued the nation’s most populous state last summer. Governor Gavin Newsom was expected to sign the bill into law Tuesday. Eloy Garcia, lobbyist for the Western States Petroleum Association, said California’s high gas prices are the result of decades of public policy decisions that have made the state an island in the global petroleum market and driven many oil refiners out of the state. Garcia said the legislation sends a clear signal NOT to invest in California.

News From the Oil Patch: Crude posts biggest price rally in a year

COLBY — This year's Spring Art Walk hosted by the Colby Community College art department will be set up throughout the college campus on Friday, April 21, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Artwork will also be displayed at Jonas Gallery and Donelan Jewelry on Franklin Avenue in downtown Colby.&nbsp;

The show features original works by professional artists and students from CCC and area K-12 public and private schools. Art will span the quad and hang in adjacent buildings around the center of campus. Many pieces are available for purchase.&nbsp;

"Ruth Ellen Lynch and her band are set to play jazz music all evening by the clock tower,"&nbsp;said CCC art instructor Rebel Mahieu."People should bring a chair and blanket so they can stay for a while and listen."

Additional highlights include a maze, food vendors, caricature drawings,&nbsp;an aluminum pour demonstration, face painting, and other activities.

There is no charge to attend. For more information or to volunteer, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673365135626.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — This year's Spring Art Walk hosted by the Colby Community College art department will be set up throughout the college campus on Friday, April 21, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Artwork will also be displayed at Jonas Gallery and Donelan Jewelry on Franklin Avenue in downtown Colby.&nbsp;The show features original works by professional artists and students from CCC and area K-12 public and private schools. Art will span the quad and hang in adjacent buildings around the center of campus. Many pieces are available for purchase.&nbsp;"Ruth Ellen Lynch and her band are set to play jazz music all evening by the clock tower,"&nbsp;said CCC art instructor Rebel Mahieu."People should bring a chair and blanket so they can stay for a while and listen."Additional highlights include a maze, food vendors, caricature drawings,&nbsp;an aluminum pour demonstration, face painting, and other activities.There is no charge to attend. For more information or to volunteer, contact Mahieu at (785) 269-7065.

Change of venue for annual Colby art walk

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680557556496.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>

A red flag warning remains in effect in&nbsp; the Hays area — and much of the state — until 11 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned.&nbsp;

With an expected high in the mid-to upper-70s and humidity below 10 percent, conditions are ideal for wildfires that could rapidly spread as the wind picks up through the day. Blowing dust could also reduce visibility, the NWS said.

Tuesday afternoon, the wind is expected to be sustained at 25 to 32 mph, gusting near 50 mph.

The mercury is expected to take a 50-degree nosedive to an overnight low in the mid-20s. The high on a breezy Wednesday is only expected to reach 50 degrees before beginning to tick up into the 60s heading into the weekend.

By Saturday and Sunday, high temperatures nearing 80 are possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680626611384.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning remains in effect in&nbsp; the Hays area — and much of the state — until 11 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned.&nbsp;With an expected high in the mid-to upper-70s and humidity below 10 percent, conditions are ideal for wildfires that could rapidly spread as the wind picks up through the day. Blowing dust could also reduce visibility, the NWS said.Tuesday afternoon, the wind is expected to be sustained at 25 to 32 mph, gusting near 50 mph.The mercury is expected to take a 50-degree nosedive to an overnight low in the mid-20s. The high on a breezy Wednesday is only expected to reach 50 degrees before beginning to tick up into the 60s heading into the weekend.By Saturday and Sunday, high temperatures nearing 80 are possible.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Very strong winds, extremely critical fire weather, and blowing dust will impact southwest KS today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/GzbzEd7GuX">pic.twitter.com/GzbzEd7GuX</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1643262195386695684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Red flag warning, wildfire risk through Tuesday in NW Kansas

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.

In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”

Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.

“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”

Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.

At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680617600468.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

Fred the Preparedness Dog retires after 10 years of services

If you have been following me for the last few weeks, I have been highlighting some of the forty 4-H projects that are available in Kansas!&nbsp;This week’s project highlights Horticulture, Fiber Arts, and Geology which are all good reasons to get outside and explore!

The Horticulture project seems like it would be just be about gardening but the curriculum starts with when, where, and what to plant and continues through selling produce, studying pollination, and food industry careers. Along the way, youth learn about cool versus warm season vegetables, plant parts, and garden tools. Youth also explore seed varieties and preventative pest control. More and more families are interested in growing their own fruit and vegetables and Horticulture is a great project for families to work together!

I love to see the continued activity in our Fiber Arts projects. These include knitting, crochet, quilting, macramé, cross-stitch and other needle work, rug-making, and spinning and weaving. During a day camp last summer at Dilly &amp; Doc, youth used a stick from the yard to make the&nbsp;start of a macramé plant hanger which combined Fiber Arts and Horticulture! Learning about different fibers can provide opportunities to explore how a variety of yarns are made and dyed. More advanced 4-H members may purchase wool and dye it themselves before turning&nbsp;it&nbsp;<a></a>into an item as part of this project.&nbsp;

For youth who love to explore outdoors and always have a pocket full of treasures, the Geology project may be a great fit for them! 4-H Youth learn about rocks, minerals, and fossils. This begins in the local area and expands across Kansas and other regions as the project develops. In addition to collecting a variety of specimens, youth practice record-keeping as they log the location and type of each sample found. They also learn about geological formations as well as types and impacts of erosion. A state 4-H geology trip is scheduled each year in a different part of Kansas providing hands-on learning!

If you are interested in learning more about&nbsp;these or other&nbsp;4-H projects, check out kansas4-h.org in the Projects section!&nbsp;All projects include communications skills, record keeping,&nbsp;career connections,&nbsp;and opportunities for leadership and community service!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>If you have been following me for the last few weeks, I have been highlighting some of the forty 4-H projects that are available in Kansas!&nbsp;This week’s project highlights Horticulture, Fiber Arts, and Geology which are all good reasons to get outside and explore!The Horticulture project seems like it would be just be about gardening but the curriculum starts with when, where, and what to plant and continues through selling produce, studying pollination, and food industry careers. Along the way, youth learn about cool versus warm season vegetables, plant parts, and garden tools. Youth also explore seed varieties and preventative pest control. More and more families are interested in growing their own fruit and vegetables and Horticulture is a great project for families to work together!I love to see the continued activity in our Fiber Arts projects. These include knitting, crochet, quilting, macramé, cross-stitch and other needle work, rug-making, and spinning and weaving. During a day camp last summer at Dilly &amp; Doc, youth used a stick from the yard to make the&nbsp;start of a macramé plant hanger which combined Fiber Arts and Horticulture! Learning about different fibers can provide opportunities to explore how a variety of yarns are made and dyed. More advanced 4-H members may purchase wool and dye it themselves before turning&nbsp;it&nbsp;<a></a>into an item as part of this project.&nbsp;For youth who love to explore outdoors and always have a pocket full of treasures, the Geology project may be a great fit for them! 4-H Youth learn about rocks, minerals, and fossils. This begins in the local area and expands across Kansas and other regions as the project develops. In addition to collecting a variety of specimens, youth practice record-keeping as they log the location and type of each sample found. They also learn about geological formations as well as types and impacts of erosion. A state 4-H geology trip is scheduled each year in a different part of Kansas providing hands-on learning!If you are interested in learning more about&nbsp;these or other&nbsp;4-H projects, check out kansas4-h.org in the Projects section!&nbsp;All projects include communications skills, record keeping,&nbsp;career connections,&nbsp;and opportunities for leadership and community service!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: Horticulture, fiber arts, geology 4-H project insights

Strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures will drastically increase the risk of wildfires across western Kansas on Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned.

A strong southwest wind will begin to pick up Monday evening. By Tuesday, winds will be sustained at 27 to 37 mph, gusting up to 50 mph. Blowing dust could reduce visibility.

A fire weather watch is in place into Tuesday evening, and a burn ban is in effect in Ellis County.

The mercury will jump to 74 degrees on Tuesday before a cooldown overnight. The high Wednesday is only expected to be 50 degrees.

The only chance of precipitation in the long-range forecast is a 20 percent chance of rain Saturday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680535755793.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures will drastically increase the risk of wildfires across western Kansas on Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Dodge City warned.A strong southwest wind will begin to pick up Monday evening. By Tuesday, winds will be sustained at 27 to 37 mph, gusting up to 50 mph. Blowing dust could reduce visibility.A fire weather watch is in place into Tuesday evening, and a burn ban is in effect in Ellis County.The mercury will jump to 74 degrees on Tuesday before a cooldown overnight. The high Wednesday is only expected to be 50 degrees.The only chance of precipitation in the long-range forecast is a 20 percent chance of rain Saturday evening.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Widespread Critical Fire Risk Possible across southwest and central Kansas on Tuesday. Gusty southwest winds of 30 to 45 mph combined with humidity values below 15 percent will result in widespread critical fire weather conditions Tuesday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mt69Z6tyc8">pic.twitter.com/Mt69Z6tyc8</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1642686433797496832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm, windy, dry: Fire weather watch in effect across western Kansas

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

Dane Straight chuckles when he talks about who is more excited about his new coaching position — him or his 10-year-old son, Levi.

Straight has been named the head men’s soccer coach at Bethany College in Lindsborg, where he played on the inaugural Swede team more than 30 years ago. And he “guarantees that Levi will be hanging out with me at the field.”

“It’s a dream come true, and it’s been surreal so far,” said Straight, a Hays native and a 1992 graduate of Hays High School. “Bethany was such a special place for me as a student. I am thrilled to be taking over a program that I helped build.”

Staying in Kansas to attend college wasn’t at the top of Straight’s list as a high school senior.

After all, Hays didn’t even have a high school program yet. Neither did Bethany.

That all changed when Straight took a trip to Boulder, Colo., and toured the University of Colorado, an NCAA Division I school. He said it just didn’t feel right for him.

Then he visited the beautiful campus in Little Sweden USA, just a few miles off Interstate135 about 20 miles south of Salina.

An honor student, Straight was chosen to receive the prestigious academic Founder’s Scholarship, given to only a handful of Bethany students each year. He also was offered a track scholarship. He was set up financially for a quality college education.&nbsp;

“And,” Straight says time and time again, “it just felt like home. From the first time I walked on campus, it just felt right.”

The draw to Bethany just kept getting better and better.

During one of his campus visits before his freshman year, he learned the Swedes were starting a men’s soccer program. Soccer was one of his favorite sports growing up, but he hadn’t been able to play competitively since eighth grade.

So off to Lindsborg he went. The rest, as they say, is history.

Straight went on to become the first player in school history to play soccer four years for Bethany.

He fell in love with the college and the city of Lindsborg and often wondered what it would be like to raise a family there someday.

Straight helped as a volunteer coach for the Swedes after using up his playing eligibility and working on a second major.

That’s when he realized that coaching was something he really wanted to pursue as a career.&nbsp;

Straight got plenty of experience in coaching before returning to Bethany to work in the admissions office three years ago as the college’s international student recruiting liaison.&nbsp;

He enjoyed coaching stints at McPherson College and Cloud County Community College in Concordia and helped start the men’s and women’s programs at Cowley College in Arkansas City.

Now, he is realizing the dream of raising a family in Lindsborg, saying that it’s a good fit for him, his wife Alycia and their two children.

Lindsborg is known for its practicing arts, where the Straights’ 12-year-old daughter, Claire, is active in music, art and theater.

Now, Dad gets to share his passion for soccer with Levi, who plans to be on the sidelines as often as possible – when he isn’t competing for his own youth team.

Straight would like to return the Bethany program to the glory days of his college career when the Swedes finished first or second in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference his first three years.

However, he stressed that teaching, coaching and mentoring young adults isn’t all about winning games.

“I’ve given them fair warning that I know how to coach one way - that’s the entire person,” he said. “I believe that coaching is three-dimensional: body, mind and soul, and that’s the way I’ll be coaching.”

Practicing his faith at the private Christian college is a way of life for Straight, a foundation that was strengthened during his college days.

“I was able to build lifelong friendships at Bethany, and it was a wonderful experience,” he said. “I want these players to come and love Bethany the way that I did – the way that I do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677528504039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364096893.jpeg" alt="Dane Straight is the new head men’s soccer coach at Bethany College in Lindsborg. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson." />
 <figcaption>Dane Straight is the new head men’s soccer coach at Bethany College in Lindsborg. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostDane Straight chuckles when he talks about who is more excited about his new coaching position — him or his 10-year-old son, Levi.Straight has been named the head men’s soccer coach at Bethany College in Lindsborg, where he played on the inaugural Swede team more than 30 years ago. And he “guarantees that Levi will be hanging out with me at the field.”“It’s a dream come true, and it’s been surreal so far,” said Straight, a Hays native and a 1992 graduate of Hays High School. “Bethany was such a special place for me as a student. I am thrilled to be taking over a program that I helped build.”Staying in Kansas to attend college wasn’t at the top of Straight’s list as a high school senior.Neither was playing college soccer.After all, Hays didn’t even have a high school program yet. Neither did Bethany.That all changed when Straight took a trip to Boulder, Colo., and toured the University of Colorado, an NCAA Division I school. He said it just didn’t feel right for him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364190598.jpeg" alt="Dane Straight and his son, Levi, enjoy professional soccer as well. Here, they catch a photo with Major League Soccer midfielder Sebastian Lletget of the FC Dallas club at the 2021 Gold Cup in Kansas City. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dane Straight and his son, Levi, enjoy professional soccer as well. Here, they catch a photo with Major League Soccer midfielder Sebastian Lletget of the FC Dallas club at the 2021 Gold Cup in Kansas City. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Then he visited the beautiful campus in Little Sweden USA, just a few miles off Interstate135 about 20 miles south of Salina.An honor student, Straight was chosen to receive the prestigious academic Founder’s Scholarship, given to only a handful of Bethany students each year. He also was offered a track scholarship. He was set up financially for a quality college education.&nbsp;“And,” Straight says time and time again, “it just felt like home. From the first time I walked on campus, it just felt right.”The draw to Bethany just kept getting better and better.During one of his campus visits before his freshman year, he learned the Swedes were starting a men’s soccer program. Soccer was one of his favorite sports growing up, but he hadn’t been able to play competitively since eighth grade.So off to Lindsborg he went. The rest, as they say, is history.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364214996.jpeg" alt="This will become a common sight for the Bethany College this fall – Coach Dane Straight praying with with his players. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson." />
 <figcaption>This will become a common sight for the Bethany College this fall – Coach Dane Straight praying with with his players. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson.</figcaption>
 </figure>Straight went on to become the first player in school history to play soccer four years for Bethany.He fell in love with the college and the city of Lindsborg and often wondered what it would be like to raise a family there someday.Straight helped as a volunteer coach for the Swedes after using up his playing eligibility and working on a second major.That’s when he realized that coaching was something he really wanted to pursue as a career.&nbsp;Straight got plenty of experience in coaching before returning to Bethany to work in the admissions office three years ago as the college’s international student recruiting liaison.&nbsp;He enjoyed coaching stints at McPherson College and Cloud County Community College in Concordia and helped start the men’s and women’s programs at Cowley College in Arkansas City.Now, he is realizing the dream of raising a family in Lindsborg, saying that it’s a good fit for him, his wife Alycia and their two children.Lindsborg is known for its practicing arts, where the Straights’ 12-year-old daughter, Claire, is active in music, art and theater.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364282092.jpeg" alt="Dane Straight, wife Aycia and children Claire and Levi have found the “perfect fit” for a home in Lindsborg. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dane Straight, wife Aycia and children Claire and Levi have found the “perfect fit” for a home in Lindsborg. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Now, Dad gets to share his passion for soccer with Levi, who plans to be on the sidelines as often as possible – when he isn’t competing for his own youth team.Straight would like to return the Bethany program to the glory days of his college career when the Swedes finished first or second in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference his first three years.However, he stressed that teaching, coaching and mentoring young adults isn’t all about winning games.“I’ve given them fair warning that I know how to coach one way - that’s the entire person,” he said. “I believe that coaching is three-dimensional: body, mind and soul, and that’s the way I’ll be coaching.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364334039.jpeg" alt="Dane Straight helped start the women’s and men's soccer program at Cowley College in Arkansas City. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson." />
 <figcaption>Dane Straight helped start the women’s and men's soccer program at Cowley College in Arkansas City. Photo by Danna Teeter Oglesby Lawson.</figcaption>
 </figure>Practicing his faith at the private Christian college is a way of life for Straight, a foundation that was strengthened during his college days.“I was able to build lifelong friendships at Bethany, and it was a wonderful experience,” he said. “I want these players to come and love Bethany the way that I did – the way that I do.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680364359257.jpeg" alt="Dane Straight during his playing days at Bethany College. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dane Straight during his playing days at Bethany College. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677528504039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

NWester: CIRCLE OF LIFE — Hays native named soccer coach at Bethany College

Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers announced a temporary burn
ban Monday.

The burn ban goes is due to the increased temperatures,
lower levels of humidity and the lack of measurable moisture.

The ban, in all unincorporated areas of Ellis County, goes
into effect immediately.

Hays PostEllis County Fire Chief Darin Myers announced a temporary burn
ban Monday.The burn ban goes is due to the increased temperatures,
lower levels of humidity and the lack of measurable moisture.The ban, in all unincorporated areas of Ellis County, goes
into effect immediately.

Ellis County issues burn ban

Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million

By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.

But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.

The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;

The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;

“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.

Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.

“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.

A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.

Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.

“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.

He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.

Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.

As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.

He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;

Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”

Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.

Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.

Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;

Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.

Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”

She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554659570.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million</h2>By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554762652.jpeg" alt="Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554815794.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”Hence, the Dumbbell name.Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554852926.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554880289.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)</figcaption>
 </figure>Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;“They are the ones that live there and have boots on the ground,” she said.Her dad died in 2016; her mom passed in 2021.The ranch has received local suitors, as well as interest and visitors from other states, since Johnson<a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/"> started marketing</a> it about a week ago, he said.Anne said her family is proud to have
 diversified the operation, which includes the Flying A Cattle Company, 
without forsaking the native rangeland. The family feels blessed, she 
said, to “be a small part of the unique Sandhills ecosystem and 
community.”“It’s dear to our hearts,” said Anne. “We love the Sandhills. Our family loves ranching. It’s time to move on.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554917938.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>

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