For the 16th&nbsp;consecutive year, FHSU has been recognized for its investment in programs that improve the lives of veterans and military personnel, earning the 2023-2024 Military Friendly School&nbsp;designation from&nbsp;<a href="http://militaryfriendly.com/">militaryfriendly.com</a>.&nbsp;

Institutions that received the designation were evaluated using public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-24 survey, with 530 schools earning award-level designations in Gold, Silver, and Bronze. FHSU attained the rank of Silver again this year.

“We strive to achieve the goal of being not only ‘military-friendly’ but also ‘military-focused’,” said Kelsi Broadway, assistant director of FHSU Online Recruitment &amp; Military-Connected Student Services. “Using this survey as an annual tool to build from, we move new initiatives forward with the intentional purpose of improving our military-connected student experience at FHSU.”

The Military Friendly® program creates civilian opportunities for veterans and is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful opportunities for the military community.

The 2023-24 Military Friendly® Schools list can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJP68D2oBWYdWIPRk0jUrqxq64gF6QrVsDAiLaavI3YwO8lez_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BbX01OM-2Fe5DJ9s44N3Jwv1IURxIP06ZGv7z-2F3-2FyrYtHexq8IL-2F0TBfOHFeNa0dkqltbmSEY7sydrdjhuSeOU-2BX7Kq2G80gOHZbs3JB27YjKkhRVAEbxEGGMX2z8Z10J4-2FjJsbdzaDivfC-2FTsH7SAXbbwenLL7cwEslpTaLftUU7Evo8hWa5Gr-2BvkGu6fz7N6UAFCQRTb-2Fb9jMGK2vXW9Ds83c7LHjDyQu1jZClGB-2FZ-2FXPZXxT1-2FQ7pfGrQSyNGs6n">www.militaryfriendly.com</a>.

Benefits at FHSU for military students include tuition assistance, Veteran Affairs benefits, Yellow Ribbon, and in-state tuition and scholarships. More information on military benefits can be found <a href="https://fhsu.edu/transfer-military-center/military-benefits/index">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679433403826.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFor the 16th&nbsp;consecutive year, FHSU has been recognized for its investment in programs that improve the lives of veterans and military personnel, earning the 2023-2024 Military Friendly School&nbsp;designation from&nbsp;<a href="http://militaryfriendly.com/">militaryfriendly.com</a>.&nbsp;Institutions that received the designation were evaluated using public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-24 survey, with 530 schools earning award-level designations in Gold, Silver, and Bronze. FHSU attained the rank of Silver again this year.“We strive to achieve the goal of being not only ‘military-friendly’ but also ‘military-focused’,” said Kelsi Broadway, assistant director of FHSU Online Recruitment &amp; Military-Connected Student Services. “Using this survey as an annual tool to build from, we move new initiatives forward with the intentional purpose of improving our military-connected student experience at FHSU.”The Military Friendly® program creates civilian opportunities for veterans and is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful opportunities for the military community.The 2023-24 Military Friendly® Schools list can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJP68D2oBWYdWIPRk0jUrqxq64gF6QrVsDAiLaavI3YwO8lez_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BbX01OM-2Fe5DJ9s44N3Jwv1IURxIP06ZGv7z-2F3-2FyrYtHexq8IL-2F0TBfOHFeNa0dkqltbmSEY7sydrdjhuSeOU-2BX7Kq2G80gOHZbs3JB27YjKkhRVAEbxEGGMX2z8Z10J4-2FjJsbdzaDivfC-2FTsH7SAXbbwenLL7cwEslpTaLftUU7Evo8hWa5Gr-2BvkGu6fz7N6UAFCQRTb-2Fb9jMGK2vXW9Ds83c7LHjDyQu1jZClGB-2FZ-2FXPZXxT1-2FQ7pfGrQSyNGs6n">www.militaryfriendly.com</a>.Benefits at FHSU for military students include tuition assistance, Veteran Affairs benefits, Yellow Ribbon, and in-state tuition and scholarships. More information on military benefits can be found <a href="https://fhsu.edu/transfer-military-center/military-benefits/index">HERE</a>.

Fort Hays State again recognized as Military Friendly School

Nature Cat to appear at Family Fun Day in Hays April 1

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced the recipients of waste tire product grants.

“These grants will help handle the costs of proper disposal of many materials scrap tires and assist many important local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction. KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation that our communities have in reusing materials that help support the mission of protecting the health and environment of all Kansans” said&nbsp;Janet Stanek, Secretary, Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a $0.25/vehicle tire fee.

The grants totaled $522,312.25, an almost 20 percent (19.8%) increase from 2022 were awarded to 45 organizations to fund projects that include the use of recycled tire products, including playground surfacing and picnic tables.

• City of Palco, Rooks - $11,232.00. • USD 270 Plainville, Rooks - $11,855.00. • USD 407 Russell School District, Russell - $31,176.00

Visit,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjEuNzM3MjUwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi83MDAvV2FzdGUtUmVkdWN0aW9uLVB1YmxpYy1FZHVjYXRpb24tR3JhbnRzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.j3vAwoaqjkRQfYBFnC1qlpwL55IQb6D5KdyuljUf9qE/s/1305914139/br/156487932852-l">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>&nbsp;for information about their projects.

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced the recipients of waste tire product grants.“These grants will help handle the costs of proper disposal of many materials scrap tires and assist many important local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction. KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation that our communities have in reusing materials that help support the mission of protecting the health and environment of all Kansans” said&nbsp;Janet Stanek, Secretary, Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a $0.25/vehicle tire fee.The grants totaled $522,312.25, an almost 20 percent (19.8%) increase from 2022 were awarded to 45 organizations to fund projects that include the use of recycled tire products, including playground surfacing and picnic tables.Northwest Kansas recipients include:• City of Palco, Rooks - $11,232.00. • USD 270 Plainville, Rooks - $11,855.00. • USD 407 Russell School District, Russell - $31,176.00Visit,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjEuNzM3MjUwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi83MDAvV2FzdGUtUmVkdWN0aW9uLVB1YmxpYy1FZHVjYXRpb24tR3JhbnRzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.j3vAwoaqjkRQfYBFnC1qlpwL55IQb6D5KdyuljUf9qE/s/1305914139/br/156487932852-l">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>&nbsp;for information about their projects.

NW Kansas organizations receive waste tire grants

The Hays Police Department responded to 55 calls March 11-18, 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 55 calls March 11-18, 2023 according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679588650526.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679588715290.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, March 11-18  

<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/2023/3/1679511048020.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

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension

The National Sorghum Yield Contest embraces four objectives:

•Improve sorghum yields across the country,•Transfer knowledge between growers,•Identify top sorghum producers in each state,•Recognize growers for their outstanding yields.

This article contains information from the KSRE publication MF3615&nbsp;National Sorghum Yield Contest: A Summary for Kansas.&nbsp;The full publication is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3615.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3615.pdf</a>

Results&nbsp;- five years of data were summarized (2013-2017) from the National Sorghum Yield Contest with a focus on Kansas entries. The data analyzed comprised a total of 175 observations from 38 counties. Most entries were for dryland fields (63%) with an average yield of 139 bushels per acre. For irrigated fields, the average water application was 8 inches, with a yield of 161 bushels per acre. Data entries were split in three groups (high, medium, and low) according to their yield values.

•The high-yielding group included values from 175 to 230 bushels per acre, with an average of 190 bushels per acre. •The medium-yielding group included values from 125 to 175 bushels per acre, with an average value of 150 bushels per acre. •The low-yielding values ranged from 60 to 125 bushels per acre, with an average yield of 110 bushels per acre.

Grain yield reported by the National Agricultural Statistics Service from USDA for the sorghum yield from the same period (2013-2017) ranged from 59 to 91 bushels per acre. Thus, the data from the yield contest is roughly two-fold above the state average.

Conventional tillage presented similar frequencies across yield groups. The high-yielding group presented a large proportion of fields with reduced-till; yet this factor was not significant to explain the yield variations. Irrigated fields prevailed in the high-yielding group 72%;diminishing their frequency within the medium- and low-yielding groups (34 and 19%, respectively).

Crop Management&nbsp;-management practices explained close to 80% of the yield variation. Irrigation was the factor accounting for a large proportion of the yield variation (21%), followed by nitrogen fertilization (18%), and changes in planting date (11%). Row spacing did not vary among yield groups. Most entries (88%) presented a row spacing of 30 inches. The remaining 12% had other variations with narrower rows (10 to 20 inches). No significant yield differences were observed relating to row spacing. High-yielding planting dates ranged from May 1 to June 1. A greater proportion of late-planting dates (after June 1) were found in medium- to low-yielding groups. No distinctive pattern was found regarding plant density among yield groups Irrigated fields had higher seeding rates. Observations with nitrogen fertilization of less than 200 pounds per acre were the most frequent.&nbsp;These low nitrogen fertilization rates were less frequent in the high-yielding group, with the high-yielding group presenting a high frequency of high phosphorus rates (P&gt;25 pounds per acre) and lowest proportion of no phosphorus fertilization.&nbsp;

Summary&nbsp;- the reported management practices implemented by farmers in the five years (2013-2017) analyzed from the National Sorghum Yield Contest&nbsp;impacted the sorghum yields in different magnitudes. The result of the study indicated that the use of irrigation and adequate nitrogen fertilization is critical to maximize sorghum grain yields in Kansas. In addition, planting before June was shown to be a relevant strategy to maximize sorghum yields across the different production regions.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by email at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood ExtensionThe National Sorghum Yield Contest embraces four objectives:•Improve sorghum yields across the country,•Transfer knowledge between growers,•Identify top sorghum producers in each state,•Recognize growers for their outstanding yields.This article contains information from the KSRE publication MF3615&nbsp;National Sorghum Yield Contest: A Summary for Kansas.&nbsp;The full publication is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3615.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3615.pdf</a>Results&nbsp;- five years of data were summarized (2013-2017) from the National Sorghum Yield Contest with a focus on Kansas entries. The data analyzed comprised a total of 175 observations from 38 counties. Most entries were for dryland fields (63%) with an average yield of 139 bushels per acre. For irrigated fields, the average water application was 8 inches, with a yield of 161 bushels per acre. Data entries were split in three groups (high, medium, and low) according to their yield values.•The high-yielding group included values from 175 to 230 bushels per acre, with an average of 190 bushels per acre. •The medium-yielding group included values from 125 to 175 bushels per acre, with an average value of 150 bushels per acre. •The low-yielding values ranged from 60 to 125 bushels per acre, with an average yield of 110 bushels per acre. Grain yield reported by the National Agricultural Statistics Service from USDA for the sorghum yield from the same period (2013-2017) ranged from 59 to 91 bushels per acre. Thus, the data from the yield contest is roughly two-fold above the state average.Conventional tillage presented similar frequencies across yield groups. The high-yielding group presented a large proportion of fields with reduced-till; yet this factor was not significant to explain the yield variations. Irrigated fields prevailed in the high-yielding group 72%;diminishing their frequency within the medium- and low-yielding groups (34 and 19%, respectively).Crop Management&nbsp;-management practices explained close to 80% of the yield variation. Irrigation was the factor accounting for a large proportion of the yield variation (21%), followed by nitrogen fertilization (18%), and changes in planting date (11%). Row spacing did not vary among yield groups. Most entries (88%) presented a row spacing of 30 inches. The remaining 12% had other variations with narrower rows (10 to 20 inches). No significant yield differences were observed relating to row spacing. High-yielding planting dates ranged from May 1 to June 1. A greater proportion of late-planting dates (after June 1) were found in medium- to low-yielding groups. No distinctive pattern was found regarding plant density among yield groups Irrigated fields had higher seeding rates. Observations with nitrogen fertilization of less than 200 pounds per acre were the most frequent.&nbsp;These low nitrogen fertilization rates were less frequent in the high-yielding group, with the high-yielding group presenting a high frequency of high phosphorus rates (P&gt;25 pounds per acre) and lowest proportion of no phosphorus fertilization.&nbsp;Summary&nbsp;- the reported management practices implemented by farmers in the five years (2013-2017) analyzed from the National Sorghum Yield Contest&nbsp;impacted the sorghum yields in different magnitudes. The result of the study indicated that the use of irrigation and adequate nitrogen fertilization is critical to maximize sorghum grain yields in Kansas. In addition, planting before June was shown to be a relevant strategy to maximize sorghum yields across the different production regions.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by email at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

CAMPBELL: National Sorghum Yield Contest: A summary for Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🎥 Pole fire causes early morning power outage in downtown Hays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPDATE: One injured in overnight explosion in Great Bend

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

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

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

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

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

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

KDHE: Reports of new COVID cases fall across NW Kansas

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

<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>

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="" />
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 </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.

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