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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPDATE: One injured in overnight explosion in Great Bend

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

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

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

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

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

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

KDHE: Reports of new COVID cases fall across NW Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

First Care Clinic welcomes new nurse practitioner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NW Kansas facility to be retrofitted into oilseed crush plant

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

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

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

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

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

Man hospitalized after three-vehicle I-70 crash

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FHSU’s next Science Café set for March 27

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679407874584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Monarchs softball season begins Friday at home against
Russell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679440854128.jpeg" alt="Courtesy TMP-Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy TMP-Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThomas More Prep-Marian senior Jaci VonLintel made it official Tuesday, signing her letter of
intent to play both basketball and softball at Barton County College next
season.After spending her entire life playing both sports, VonLintel
said she is grateful to be given the opportunity to play both basketball and softball at
the next level.“It feels great because I don’t have to give one up,” VonLintel
said. “Because I always thought like, ' Dang, I’m going to have to pick one.'But now, I have to opportunity to go play both and excel in both.”<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1474493038&color=%232a4d75&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/jaci-vonlintel-signing-march-21-2023" title="Jaci VonLintel - Signing (March 21, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jaci VonLintel - Signing (March 21, 2023)</a></div></div>VonLintel led the TMP-M basketball team in every major statistical
category last season. She averaged 13.8 points per game along with nine
rebounds, 5.5 steals, three assists and two blocks per game.She was a two-time all Mid-Continent League selection,
earning first-team honors this past season.On the softball diamond, VonLintel led the Monarchs with a
.486 average as a junior. She amassed a team-high 12 extra base hits with three
home runs and led the team with 35 RBI’s and was second with 31 runs scored.The Monarchs softball season begins Friday at home against
Russell.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sign up open for community Arc Cornhole Tournament

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber Golf Tournament fundraiser preparations underway

🎥⚾️🥎 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

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

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

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

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

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

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

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

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

Most water leaks are easily detectable and easy to fix.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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

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

Salon Ten O Seven in downtown Hays under new ownership

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679338569215.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas Soybean Commission District Five: Keith Miller, Barton County

No candidates ran for commissioner in districts four and six. The Kansas Soybean Commission will appoint these positions.

No candidates ran for commissioner in districts four, five, or six. The Kansas Sunflower Commission will appoint these positions.

District Four: Michael McClellan, Rooks County District Six: Martin Kerschen, Sedgwick County

No candidates ran for commissioner in district five. The Kansas Wheat Commission will appoint this position.

For more information on Kansas commodity commissions, please visit the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzODg5MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9Db21tb2RpdHlDb21taXNzaW9ucz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.hmad1VC8QCJlC2twjENJtAO-NaP0F8qBMG1nbTCoggc/s/1377890880/br/156198408777-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/CommodityCommissions</a>&nbsp;.

Commissioners serve three-year terms and the terms will commence on April 1, 2023.

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

Two Rooks Co. farmers elected to commodity commissions

SCOTT COUNTY— For several months, law enforcement authorities in Scott City have been&nbsp;assisting the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation on an investigation in Oklahoma. They have a suspect in custody.

On March 16, police assisted Special Agents from the  Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation executing an arrest warrant. Officers too 22-year-old Kevin Adalberto Rodriguez-Ruiz, 22, of Scott City into custody at the Law Enforcement Center on an Oklahoma arrest warrant for alleged Rape and three counts of lewd or indecent acts to a child under the age of 16.

Rodriguez-Ruiz remains in the custody of the Scott County Jail awaiting extradition to Oklahoma. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679324669781.png" alt="Rodriguez-photo Scott County" />
 <figcaption>Rodriguez-photo Scott County</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTT COUNTY— For several months, law enforcement authorities in Scott City have been&nbsp;assisting the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation on an investigation in Oklahoma. They have a suspect in custody.On March 16, police assisted Special Agents from the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation executing an arrest warrant. Officers too 22-year-old Kevin Adalberto Rodriguez-Ruiz, 22, of Scott City into custody at the Law Enforcement Center on an Oklahoma arrest warrant for alleged Rape and three counts of lewd or indecent acts to a child under the age of 16.Rodriguez-Ruiz remains in the custody of the Scott County Jail awaiting extradition to Oklahoma.

Kansas man jailed for alleged sex crimes in Oklahoma

On this episode of the Post Podcast Holy Family Elementary students discuss the upcoming Stations of the Cross.

<div><iframe title="Preparations underway for Stations of the Cross at Holy Family Elementary in Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vnji3-13c027e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Holy Family Elementary students discuss the upcoming Stations of the Cross.

🎙 Post Podcast: Preparations underway for Stations of the Cross at Holy Family Elementary in Hays

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for high temperatures to range from the upper-50s to low-70s throughout a windy work week.

A strong south wind will blow throughout the week, sustained at 15 to 20 mph and gusting up to 30 mph. Increased fire risk and blowing dust is expected.

Thursday brings the first chance of moisture to northwest Kansas. There is a 20 percent to 40 percent chance of rain starting Thursday night and through Sunday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679338903080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for high temperatures to range from the upper-50s to low-70s throughout a windy work week.A strong south wind will blow throughout the week, sustained at 15 to 20 mph and gusting up to 30 mph. Increased fire risk and blowing dust is expected.Thursday brings the first chance of moisture to northwest Kansas. There is a 20 percent to 40 percent chance of rain starting Thursday night and through Sunday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wind gusts in excess of 50 mph are looking more and more likely across portions of southwest Kansas Wednesday afternoon. Near critical or critical fire weather conditions will be possible along with areas of blowing dust. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/0WuDNX2hsY">pic.twitter.com/0WuDNX2hsY</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1637848635403816961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm, windy week — with a chance of rain on the horizon

The Hays Arts Council will present live musical theater for young audiences with the Wichita Children’s Theatre production “The Three Little Kittens” on Friday at 7 p.m. in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). 

The interactive 45-minute production will be followed by a “meet &amp; greet” with the cast in the lobby. Through the support of project partners, admission
 is free. 

HACThe Hays Arts Council will present live musical theater for young audiences with the Wichita Children’s Theatre production “The Three Little Kittens” on Friday at 7 p.m. in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). The interactive 45-minute production will be followed by a “meet &amp; greet” with the cast in the lobby. Through the support of project partners, admission
 is free.

Free production of 'The Three Little Kittens' set for Friday in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Fort Hays State University graduate is expanding his detailing business to include the sales of affordable vehicles.

Hector&nbsp;Vazquez, 25, of Hays bought Elite Detailing in 2019. In February he obtained his vehicle sales license.

The detailing shop, as well as the vehicle lot, is at the former Fort Hays Auto Sales at 609 E. Eighth in Hays.

Vazquez said he plans on specializing in used vehicles ranging in price from $5,000 to $20,000. This could include cars, trucks, minivans and small SUVs.

"There's so much competition in this town," he said. "I want to keep it affordable. Hopefully, I can keep growing and add some more higher-end vehicles."

Financing will be available through the car lot.

Vazquez grew up in Hays and has a degree in marketing from FHSU. He bought the detailing business soon after graduation from college.

Car sales is always been something Vazques said he loved to do.

Vazquez is bilingual and welcomes Spanish-speaking customers.

"Customer service is my thing," he said. "I love dealing with people."

During the pandemic, used-vehicle prices skyrocketed. However, Vazques said those prices have since stabilized.

Elite will not be offering mechanics services at this time. Vazquez said he uses other shops in town for mechanic work.

He hopes to eventually be a dealer for Husky floor liners, as well as a line of trailers, which aren't currently offered in Hays.

Elite will continue to offer detailing services for both interiors and exteriors. This includes paint correction, fixing scratches, and seat, carpet and headliner shampooing, as well as other services.

Elite also offers detailing for RVs, boats and motorcycles.

A complete list of detailing services as well as pricing and online booking is available on the business' website, <a href="https://elitedetailinghays.com/">https://elitedetailinghays.com/</a>. The website also will calculate the estimated time to complete the services.

You also can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EliteDetailingHays">Elite Detailing &amp; Sales on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

Elite shares an office with Hertz. Look for the red, white and blue flags to identify the Elite vehicles that are for sale.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Additional weekend sales appointments can be made by calling&nbsp; 785-639-5050.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679089336606.jpeg" alt="Hector Vazquez, owner of Elite Detailing, has recently added vehicle sales to his business in Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hector Vazquez, owner of Elite Detailing, has recently added vehicle sales to his business in Hays. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Fort Hays State University graduate is expanding his detailing business to include the sales of affordable vehicles.Hector&nbsp;Vazquez, 25, of Hays bought Elite Detailing in 2019. In February he obtained his vehicle sales license.The detailing shop, as well as the vehicle lot, is at the former Fort Hays Auto Sales at 609 E. Eighth in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679089300484.jpeg" alt="Elite Detailing and Sales is in the former Fort Hays Auto Sales location,&nbsp;609 E. Eighth in Hays.&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Elite Detailing and Sales is in the former Fort Hays Auto Sales location,&nbsp;609 E. Eighth in Hays.&nbsp;Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Vazquez said he plans on specializing in used vehicles ranging in price from $5,000 to $20,000. This could include cars, trucks, minivans and small SUVs."There's so much competition in this town," he said. "I want to keep it affordable. Hopefully, I can keep growing and add some more higher-end vehicles."Financing will be available through the car lot.Vazquez grew up in Hays and has a degree in marketing from FHSU. He bought the detailing business soon after graduation from college.Car sales is always been something Vazques said he loved to do.Vazquez is bilingual and welcomes Spanish-speaking customers."Customer service is my thing," he said. "I love dealing with people."During the pandemic, used-vehicle prices skyrocketed. However, Vazques said those prices have since stabilized.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679089421112.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Elite will not be offering mechanics services at this time. Vazquez said he uses other shops in town for mechanic work.He hopes to eventually be a dealer for Husky floor liners, as well as a line of trailers, which aren't currently offered in Hays.Elite will continue to offer detailing services for both interiors and exteriors. This includes paint correction, fixing scratches, and seat, carpet and headliner shampooing, as well as other services.Elite also offers detailing for RVs, boats and motorcycles.A complete list of detailing services as well as pricing and online booking is available on the business' website, <a href="https://elitedetailinghays.com/">https://elitedetailinghays.com/</a>. The website also will calculate the estimated time to complete the services.You also can follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EliteDetailingHays">Elite Detailing &amp; Sales on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;Elite shares an office with Hertz. Look for the red, white and blue flags to identify the Elite vehicles that are for sale.Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Additional weekend sales appointments can be made by calling&nbsp; 785-639-5050.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679089347983.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Elite Detailing in Hays has added vehicle sales

TOPEKA - There will town hall meeting coming up on Saturday, March 25th throughout the 110th state district and they are in reverse order than we usually do. 

* Graham County, 8:15 a.m.- 9:15 a.m., 305 E. Main (Frontier State), Hill City *&nbsp;Norton County, 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m., 112 S. Kansas (Heaton Building), Norton * Phillips County, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 860 Park (Huck Boyd Center), Phillipsburg * Rooks County, 1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m., 311 Main Street (McKenna Youth Center), Palco * Ellis County, 3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m., 9007 Washington St. (Ellis Public Library), Ellis

Rep. Ken Rahjes, 110th Dist., R-Agra, will be joined by Sen. Rick Billinger, 40th Dist., R-Goodland, and Sen. Elaine Bowers, 36th Dist., R-Concordia, will also join us in Rooks and Phillips Counties. Rep. Barb Wasinger, 111th Dist., Hays, will join us in Ellis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604603917739.png" alt="Kansas statehouse&nbsp; (Photo by&nbsp; Stephen Koranda/Kansas News Service)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas statehouse&nbsp; (Photo by&nbsp; Stephen Koranda/Kansas News Service)</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Rep. Ken RahjesTOPEKA - There will town hall meeting coming up on Saturday, March 25th throughout the 110th state district and they are in reverse order than we usually do. Here are the times and places: * Graham County, 8:15 a.m.- 9:15 a.m., 305 E. Main (Frontier State), Hill City *&nbsp;Norton County, 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m., 112 S. Kansas (Heaton Building), Norton * Phillips County, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 860 Park (Huck Boyd Center), Phillipsburg * Rooks County, 1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m., 311 Main Street (McKenna Youth Center), Palco * Ellis County, 3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m., 9007 Washington St. (Ellis Public Library), EllisRep. Ken Rahjes, 110th Dist., R-Agra, will be joined by Sen. Rick Billinger, 40th Dist., R-Goodland, and Sen. Elaine Bowers, 36th Dist., R-Concordia, will also join us in Rooks and Phillips Counties. Rep. Barb Wasinger, 111th Dist., Hays, will join us in Ellis.

Local legislators to host town hall meetings March 25

Rahjes Report March 20, 2023

A quick reminder, there will town hall meetings coming up on Saturday, March 25th throughout the district and they are in reverse order than we usually do. Here are the times and places: Graham County, 8:15 a.m.- 9:15 a.m. @ 305 E Main (Frontier State) Hill City; Norton County, 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m., 112 S. Kansas (Heaton Building) Norton;&nbsp;Phillips County, 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. 860 Park (Huck Boyd Center) Phillipsburg;&nbsp;Rooks County, 1:30 p.m. -2:15 p.m. 311 Main Street (McKenna Youth Center) Palco; and Ellis County, 3:00- 3:45 p.m. 9007 Washington St. (Ellis Public Library) Ellis.

I will be joined by State Senator Rick Billinger and State Senator Elaine Bowers will join in Rooks and Phillips Counties. State Representative Barb Wasinger is scheduled to join us in Ellis.

Here are some of the highlights of things that have been happening on the house side of the Kansas legislature: 

Budget – After hearing all the budget sub-committee report, the house this week will create the budget bill then once a budget is passed, it will go to a conference with the Senate. In a few weeks the Omnibus budget will be put together, that will include possible additions if it will keep the state with a balanced budget, if not they will not be included. Bottomline our budget will be balanced, eliminate waste, work on paying down debt, and save for a rainy day.

No Patient Left Alone - This past week, the Senate held a hearing on the No Patient Left Alone Act. The House passed HB 2264 earlier in the session, providing for patients to receive in-person visitors so they will not have to pass away separated from their loved ones. It is important that we enact this bill to prevent what we saw during COVID from happening again. It should not be within our power to keep someone in their final moments secluded from family.

Incentivizing Investment in Energy - On a nearly unanimous vote, the Kansas House passed a bill (HB 2225) limiting the costs that certain electric public utilities can recover on transmission related expenditures. This allows Kansas energy providers to keep our energy reliability high and provide immediate savings to ratepayers. This bill also requires rate increases to be put before the Kansas Corporation Commission to ensure that any increases will be regionally competitive. Strong energy infrastructure increases reliability and efficiency for our residents and businesses. This will keep Kansas in line with surrounding areas while maintaining the dependability of services that customers have come to expect from our utility companies.

Providing Job Training to Unemployed Kansans - House Republicans are hard at work in committee to develop a plan to help those in need. We committed to provide opportunities to able-bodied Kansans down on their luck to gain skills and employment, which is exactly what HB 2140 does. This bill expands a currently existing program requiring unemployed Kansans without dependents to complete work training to continue to be eligible for assistance. These programs provide useful information to allow people to find more opportunities and widen their horizons.

Legislative Pay Increase - You may have seen this week that the House passed a bipartisan effort to examine salaries for legislators. No, we did not vote to give ourselves a pay raise. What this bill does is create an independent commission to examine our pay and determine where it should be. There are no changes to pay that are made by this bill, and any future recommendations can be turned down.

There are some practical reasons for examining this issue. Under current salaries, it is difficult for many Kansans to feel like they can serve in public office. There are many talented Kansans out there who cannot serve due to the lack of compensation. Possibly raising the salaries can be a way to expand the opportunity of service to others who currently cannot afford to. Should this plan be adopted, an independent group will recommend a new compensation package to be voted on. If the legislature accepts their recommendation, salary increases will not become active until after the next election.

Governor Kelly Vetoes Fairness in Women’s Sports – The governor vetoed HB 2238, the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act. Kansas should be a place where young women and girls can compete on a level playing field without fear of having opportunities stripped from them because other competitors had an unfair advantage. House Republicans support the young women and girls of Kansas and will fight to override her veto.

You can read about all the bills that passed or could be considered in either chamber by going online to <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/">kslegislature.org</a> and when the house and senate are on the floor or in committees you can see all of them on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A">Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel</a>. I am located at 186-W, which is the northwest corner of the capital. When you call my assistant, Terry Benitis will answer you call and help you with you matter. 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.

Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. which includes:&nbsp;

* Graham, Norton, Phillips and Rooks Counties * Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis, Munjor and Schoenchen Townships: Big Creek (part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Freedom, Herzog (part), Lookout, Victoria (part) and Wheatland

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678110420754.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Rahjes Report March 20, 2023Hello from Topeka. Welcome Spring! A quick reminder, there will town hall meetings coming up on Saturday, March 25th throughout the district and they are in reverse order than we usually do. Here are the times and places: Graham County, 8:15 a.m.- 9:15 a.m. @ 305 E Main (Frontier State) Hill City; Norton County, 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m., 112 S. Kansas (Heaton Building) Norton;&nbsp;Phillips County, 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. 860 Park (Huck Boyd Center) Phillipsburg;&nbsp;Rooks County, 1:30 p.m. -2:15 p.m. 311 Main Street (McKenna Youth Center) Palco; and Ellis County, 3:00- 3:45 p.m. 9007 Washington St. (Ellis Public Library) Ellis. I will be joined by State Senator Rick Billinger and State Senator Elaine Bowers will join in Rooks and Phillips Counties. State Representative Barb Wasinger is scheduled to join us in Ellis.Here are some of the highlights of things that have been happening on the house side of the Kansas legislature: Budget – After hearing all the budget sub-committee report, the house this week will create the budget bill then once a budget is passed, it will go to a conference with the Senate. In a few weeks the Omnibus budget will be put together, that will include possible additions if it will keep the state with a balanced budget, if not they will not be included. Bottomline our budget will be balanced, eliminate waste, work on paying down debt, and save for a rainy day.No Patient Left Alone - This past week, the Senate held a hearing on the No Patient Left Alone Act. The House passed HB 2264 earlier in the session, providing for patients to receive in-person visitors so they will not have to pass away separated from their loved ones. It is important that we enact this bill to prevent what we saw during COVID from happening again. It should not be within our power to keep someone in their final moments secluded from family.Incentivizing Investment in Energy - On a nearly unanimous vote, the Kansas House passed a bill (HB 2225) limiting the costs that certain electric public utilities can recover on transmission related expenditures. This allows Kansas energy providers to keep our energy reliability high and provide immediate savings to ratepayers. This bill also requires rate increases to be put before the Kansas Corporation Commission to ensure that any increases will be regionally competitive. Strong energy infrastructure increases reliability and efficiency for our residents and businesses. This will keep Kansas in line with surrounding areas while maintaining the dependability of services that customers have come to expect from our utility companies.Providing Job Training to Unemployed Kansans - House Republicans are hard at work in committee to develop a plan to help those in need. We committed to provide opportunities to able-bodied Kansans down on their luck to gain skills and employment, which is exactly what HB 2140 does. This bill expands a currently existing program requiring unemployed Kansans without dependents to complete work training to continue to be eligible for assistance. These programs provide useful information to allow people to find more opportunities and widen their horizons.Legislative Pay Increase - You may have seen this week that the House passed a bipartisan effort to examine salaries for legislators. No, we did not vote to give ourselves a pay raise. What this bill does is create an independent commission to examine our pay and determine where it should be. There are no changes to pay that are made by this bill, and any future recommendations can be turned down.There are some practical reasons for examining this issue. Under current salaries, it is difficult for many Kansans to feel like they can serve in public office. There are many talented Kansans out there who cannot serve due to the lack of compensation. Possibly raising the salaries can be a way to expand the opportunity of service to others who currently cannot afford to. Should this plan be adopted, an independent group will recommend a new compensation package to be voted on. If the legislature accepts their recommendation, salary increases will not become active until after the next election.Governor Kelly Vetoes Fairness in Women’s Sports – The governor vetoed HB 2238, the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act. Kansas should be a place where young women and girls can compete on a level playing field without fear of having opportunities stripped from them because other competitors had an unfair advantage. House Republicans support the young women and girls of Kansas and will fight to override her veto.You can read about all the bills that passed or could be considered in either chamber by going online to <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/">kslegislature.org</a> and when the house and senate are on the floor or in committees you can see all of them on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A">Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel</a>. I am located at 186-W, which is the northwest corner of the capital. When you call my assistant, Terry Benitis will answer you call and help you with you matter. 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.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. which includes:&nbsp;* Graham, Norton, Phillips and Rooks Counties * Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis, Munjor and Schoenchen Townships: Big Creek (part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Freedom, Herzog (part), Lookout, Victoria (part) and Wheatland

RAHJES REPORT: March 20, 2023

Linda Mills has had a lifelong mission of helping people, whether that was being a mentor to college students or Girl Scouts or leading efforts to help those facing hunger or homeless in Ellis County.

Mills will retire at the end of March as the executive director of First Call for Help.

First Call for Help addresses many community needs, including helping Ellis County residents with rental and utility assistance. It operates the Backpack for Kids program, which supplies backpacks and school supplies to families in need. The center also has a diaper pantry, operates Meals on Wheels and a small food pantry.

Before Mills worked as the director of First Call for Help, she worked for AmeriCorps at Fort Hays State University. She also worked as the director of the Sunflower Girl Scout Council.

When the Sunflower Girl Scout Council merged into the Girl Scouts of the Kansas Heartland, Mills' job required more travel.&nbsp;

She decided she wanted to remain in a service-oriented position, but she wanted to stay closer to her home in Hays.

"It was a good mission," she said of First Call for Help. "It helped people in ways that I had not experienced before."

She said she immediately started to learn about the needs in the community.&nbsp;

"I was getting to know what services were available in the county and what wasn't available and what was lacking and dove into that," she said. "I learned a lot and grew a lot personally through what I was learning."

She didn't know all of First Call for Help's services or what other services in the community existed.

"You don't know what you don't know sometimes," she said.

She said she learned people who grew up in a cycle of poverty think differently than those who were raised in the middle class.

A family from Nebraska ended up at the Hays Police Station because they ran out of gas and had no money. The family, which included four children ages 10 years to 3 months, were on their way to a funeral for a family member in Texas.

Mills said she didn't understand why a family would leave home, knowing they didn't have enough money or gas to get to their destination.

"It was not something that I understood, but as time went on I learned that people have different circumstances. They grew up differently than I did or a lot of us did. Whatever situation they're in is the situation that they're in. We don't place blame. We try not to judge."

"My family was certainly not wealthy," she said. "My dad was in the military. [I thought about] how blessed we were to have what we did have and parents who instilled that in us. Not everyone has those same opportunities."

During Mills' tenure, First Call for Help has reached several milestones.

The board began seriously discussing how to address homelessness in Hays. You might not see people in Hays sleeping on the streets, but people in Hays are still dealing with homelessness, Mills said.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLinda Mills has had a lifelong mission of helping people, whether that was being a mentor to college students or Girl Scouts or leading efforts to help those facing hunger or homeless in Ellis County.Mills will retire at the end of March as the executive director of First Call for Help.First Call for Help addresses many community needs, including helping Ellis County residents with rental and utility assistance. It operates the Backpack for Kids program, which supplies backpacks and school supplies to families in need. The center also has a diaper pantry, operates Meals on Wheels and a small food pantry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678998584188.jpeg" alt="Linda Mills, executive director of First Call for Help, is retiring at the end of March. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Linda Mills, executive director of First Call for Help, is retiring at the end of March. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Before Mills worked as the director of First Call for Help, she worked for AmeriCorps at Fort Hays State University. She also worked as the director of the Sunflower Girl Scout Council.When the Sunflower Girl Scout Council merged into the Girl Scouts of the Kansas Heartland, Mills' job required more travel.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678998077793.jpeg" alt="Volunteers hand out backpacks during First Call for Help's Backpacks for Kids program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers hand out backpacks during First Call for Help's Backpacks for Kids program. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>She decided she wanted to remain in a service-oriented position, but she wanted to stay closer to her home in Hays."It was a good mission," she said of First Call for Help. "It helped people in ways that I had not experienced before."She said she immediately started to learn about the needs in the community.&nbsp;"I was getting to know what services were available in the county and what wasn't available and what was lacking and dove into that," she said. "I learned a lot and grew a lot personally through what I was learning."She didn't know all of First Call for Help's services or what other services in the community existed."You don't know what you don't know sometimes," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678998377136.jpeg" alt="Linda Mills, left, and ECTV reporter Becky Kiser. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Linda Mills, left, and ECTV reporter Becky Kiser. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>She said she learned people who grew up in a cycle of poverty think differently than those who were raised in the middle class.A family from Nebraska ended up at the Hays Police Station because they ran out of gas and had no money. The family, which included four children ages 10 years to 3 months, were on their way to a funeral for a family member in Texas.Mills said she didn't understand why a family would leave home, knowing they didn't have enough money or gas to get to their destination."It was not something that I understood, but as time went on I learned that people have different circumstances. They grew up differently than I did or a lot of us did. Whatever situation they're in is the situation that they're in. We don't place blame. We try not to judge.""My family was certainly not wealthy," she said. "My dad was in the military. [I thought about] how blessed we were to have what we did have and parents who instilled that in us. Not everyone has those same opportunities."During Mills' tenure, First Call for Help has reached several milestones.The board began seriously discussing how to address homelessness in Hays. You might not see people in Hays sleeping on the streets, but people in Hays are still dealing with homelessness, Mills said.First Call's board decided it was going to move its office out of the Hadley Center and buy its own building on 13th Street with an eye on adding a transitional housing program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678997625835.jpeg" alt="Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, celebrating First Call reaching the fundraising goal for the First Step Housing project. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, celebrating First Call reaching the fundraising goal for the First Step Housing project. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The organization launched a $250,000 capital campaign in 2019 to remodel a portion of its new building into a four-units for a transitional housing program.Initially, some community members didn't have a lot of buy-in for a shelter in Hays, Mills said. During her tenure, she worked to increase&nbsp;First Call for Help's visibility and financial support."For me, it's not all about money, but it's all about the mission," she said. "You've got to get your mission out there in the community in order to get the support for it. ..."When we were able to get that final dollar of our capital campaign and continue to move ahead with our housing and then getting that housing open, [that was a milestone,]" she said.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f4275259-f0d0-4be5-a159-5b7f0dd64e43">The First Step Housing program started accepting participants in August 2021. It has since graduated eight people who have been able to find stable housing.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629915774769.jpeg" alt="Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, cuts the ribbon for he First Step Housing project in August 2021. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director, cuts the ribbon for he First Step Housing project in August 2021. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Mills said community members have helped First Call for Help meet its mission in small way and large.She recalled an older woman entering the office when the agency was still in the Hadley Center. The woman said First Call for Help assisted her 15 years ago when she was struggling."She said, 'Things in my life have turned around, and I'm in a good place now. I want to try to give back,'" Mills said.She handed Mills a donation for the agency."The check she gave us wasn't huge, but it was just the fact that she took the time to come in and do that. ..."People are very grateful for the help that we can give them," Mills said. "That is always a good feeling to know that you have been able to help somebody."Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help project coordinator and office assistant, worked with Mills at both First Call and the Girl Scouts."Sometimes people come into your life for various reasons," Shoaff said.&nbsp; "Our paths have crossed in many different avenues throughout our lives so far. Neighbors in our early years, friends, HRC kids’ soccer, co-workers, and for a short time walking partners. ..."Not only have I enjoyed working for Linda through these past nine years, but I also appreciate our friendship. I wish her a wonderful retirement full of glamping in her van, painting and cheering on the Chiefs!"Laura Allen, First Call for Help client services specialist, said Mills is a joy to work with."As one of the most non-judgmental people I have ever known, she treats not only employees but clients with respect and kindness," Allen said. "Directors don’t always like to 'work in the trenches' so to speak, but Linda was never scared to jump in and help wherever she was needed in the community."Her desire to help our most vulnerable populations was, and I am sure, will remain, genuine. She will be missed, but the work she did at FCFH will always be remembered."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/73aa9899-0142-48a6-ba40-e3be129e0911">In January 2022, Mills was honored with the&nbsp;eyeSMILE Vision + Dental Helping Hands Award from the Hays Chamber.&nbsp;</a> "It's been a good experience here," Mills said of First Call for Help. "I've learned, I've grown. The things we as a team, both this organization and the community have done are for the betterment of the community. I'm proud of that."Mills, 66, hasn't ruled out working again or volunteering for a non-profit agency. However, now she's planning on some much-deserved me time.She said she plans to take a year off from any job or service work. She wants to travel and spend more time with family, who are scattered across the country.There will be a come-and-go reception for Mills from 2:30 to 4 p.m. on March 29 at the Chestnut Street Building, 1200 Main, Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679079317865.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>