<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/2022/1/1643133645367.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 KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer January generally means implementing warmer socks, warmer drinks and warmer meals on our farm. The days require additional layers of work clothes while we load our stored grain into trucks headed to feed yards, mills or ethanol plants. Breakfast at our table is now enjoyed with the addition of warm mugs of hot cocoa before the kids have to bundle up to catch their bus for school. Meals are planned to intentionally utilize the oven to warm the kitchen while also making food that will warm bellies. &nbsp; It’s no secret I’m not a fan of winter. The colder and darker days do not make me favor this season in the slightest. In fact, if I had a choice, I’d spend my winter days as far south as possible. &nbsp; The extra layers, constant chill and seemingly dreary days do not bode well with me. They never have, and I suspect they never will. Perhaps it’s because I was a beach and desert dweller in my childhood. Perhaps it’s the many memories from the early days of my marriage of cold, newborn calves being brought inside the house to get warmed up and healthy. Perhaps it’s the idea that my children can’t enjoy recess outside due to the windchill. Whatever the reason, winter will always rank last for me. &nbsp; Yes, the chill of winter has set in. And with that, I’m constantly on the lookout for reminders to help me adjust my attitude and warm my spirit during this time of the year.&nbsp; &nbsp; During my daily walk to check the mail, I look forward to opening the box to discover a new catalog highlighting seeds and gardening essentials. It’s a reminder that spring planting is near, and I have the opportunity to plan for a future harvest of homegrown goodies during these cold days. &nbsp; The beautifully made quilts and blankets I have been gifted over time have now been brought out of storage and added to the backs of our sitting chairs or spread over beds. All too often these handmade treasures seem too heavy or too hot during the rest of the year, but now are a perfect addition. These items not only offer warmth while I read in the evenings or snuggle in at night; they also warm my heart as I remember those who made these precious gifts. &nbsp; Since the winter’s cold pushes my kids and husband into the house sooner in the evenings, I have the opportunity to enjoy more of their company. Whether it’s to play a game together, facilitate a science experiment or crafting session, or simply sitting together to enjoy a movie, I know once the days get longer and warmer this time will become less frequent. Having my little family together is something I cherish during the cold, dark winter months.&nbsp; &nbsp; Yes, even in the depths of winter, there are reminders of warmth all around. You just have to recognize them when you experience them.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer January generally means implementing warmer socks, warmer drinks and warmer meals on our farm. The days require additional layers of work clothes while we load our stored grain into trucks headed to feed yards, mills or ethanol plants. Breakfast at our table is now enjoyed with the addition of warm mugs of hot cocoa before the kids have to bundle up to catch their bus for school. Meals are planned to intentionally utilize the oven to warm the kitchen while also making food that will warm bellies. &nbsp; It’s no secret I’m not a fan of winter. The colder and darker days do not make me favor this season in the slightest. In fact, if I had a choice, I’d spend my winter days as far south as possible. &nbsp; The extra layers, constant chill and seemingly dreary days do not bode well with me. They never have, and I suspect they never will. Perhaps it’s because I was a beach and desert dweller in my childhood. Perhaps it’s the many memories from the early days of my marriage of cold, newborn calves being brought inside the house to get warmed up and healthy. Perhaps it’s the idea that my children can’t enjoy recess outside due to the windchill. Whatever the reason, winter will always rank last for me. &nbsp; Yes, the chill of winter has set in. And with that, I’m constantly on the lookout for reminders to help me adjust my attitude and warm my spirit during this time of the year.&nbsp; &nbsp; During my daily walk to check the mail, I look forward to opening the box to discover a new catalog highlighting seeds and gardening essentials. It’s a reminder that spring planting is near, and I have the opportunity to plan for a future harvest of homegrown goodies during these cold days. &nbsp; The beautifully made quilts and blankets I have been gifted over time have now been brought out of storage and added to the backs of our sitting chairs or spread over beds. All too often these handmade treasures seem too heavy or too hot during the rest of the year, but now are a perfect addition. These items not only offer warmth while I read in the evenings or snuggle in at night; they also warm my heart as I remember those who made these precious gifts. &nbsp; Since the winter’s cold pushes my kids and husband into the house sooner in the evenings, I have the opportunity to enjoy more of their company. Whether it’s to play a game together, facilitate a science experiment or crafting session, or simply sitting together to enjoy a movie, I know once the days get longer and warmer this time will become less frequent. Having my little family together is something I cherish during the cold, dark winter months.&nbsp; &nbsp; Yes, even in the depths of winter, there are reminders of warmth all around. You just have to recognize them when you experience them."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Warm reminders

RUSH COUNTY — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Rush County Sheriff’s Office released photos of the vehicle they are searching for connected to a homicide that occurred in Rush County.

The death of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, La Crosse, has now been determined to be a homicide. Investigators continue to search for Randa’s black 2006 GMC Envoy with Kansas tag 463HAE. The front grill guard is chrome. The vehicle was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the the Wichita area.

If anyone saw this SUV on Jan. 11, or after, contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643172469679.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KBIRUSH COUNTY — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Rush County Sheriff’s Office released photos of the vehicle they are searching for connected to a homicide that occurred in Rush County.The death of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, La Crosse, has now been determined to be a homicide. Investigators continue to search for Randa’s black 2006 GMC Envoy with Kansas tag 463HAE. The front grill guard is chrome. The vehicle was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the the Wichita area.If anyone saw this SUV on Jan. 11, or after, contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.The investigation is ongoing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643172506147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KBI: Be on the lookout for GMC connected to La Crosse homicide 

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound I-70 at Colby. U.S 40 from the Colorado border to Oakley and K-27 in Sherman and Wallace counties remain closed.

Drivers are reminded to slow down and use extra caution while traveling in winter weather conditions.

For the latest information on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://FE3A8F5D-07D9-45AF-9FEA-1DD457694873/2020/2019/Templates/www.kandrive.org">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound I-70 at Colby. U.S 40 from the Colorado border to Oakley and K-27 in Sherman and Wallace counties remain closed.Drivers are reminded to slow down and use extra caution while traveling in winter weather conditions.For the latest information on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="x-webdoc://FE3A8F5D-07D9-45AF-9FEA-1DD457694873/2020/2019/Templates/www.kandrive.org">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

UPDATE: Interstate 70, U.S. 40 reopened in Kansas

VICTORIA — Heartland Community Foundation invites the public to a&nbsp;Strategic Doing&nbsp;event for the redevelopment of the St. John's Rest Home building, from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Victoria VFW, 204 E. Main. 

This meeting is for community members interested in being involved in the redevelopment of the St. John's Rest Home building, and for those interested in creating something new for Victoria and Ellis County. 

The forum will be facilitated by the Heartland Community Foundation and Betty Johnson, a consultant with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Refreshments will be provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643132654970.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>VICTORIA — Heartland Community Foundation invites the public to a&nbsp;Strategic Doing&nbsp;event for the redevelopment of the St. John's Rest Home building, from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Victoria VFW, 204 E. Main. This meeting is for community members interested in being involved in the redevelopment of the St. John's Rest Home building, and for those interested in creating something new for Victoria and Ellis County. The forum will be facilitated by the Heartland Community Foundation and Betty Johnson, a consultant with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Refreshments will be provided.— Submitted

Wednesday Strategic Doing event will focus on Victoria rest home

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Barton County
 Sheriff Brian Bellendir went to Topeka last week to support a state 
constitutional amendment that will require county sheriffs in Kansas to 
be elected, not appointed. A hearing about that proposed amendment was 
held in the State House Committee on Federal and State Affairs last 
Thursday. Bellendir, who is the elected sheriff in Barton County, 
explained why he wants to see the amendment pass.&nbsp;

“There has been
 some movement in some locations to either consolidate city and county 
government and put the chief law enforcement officer, your sheriff, 
under a board of county commissioners or a board of directors or 
something like that,” Bellendir said. “Sheriffs feel very strongly about
 this that your chief law enforcement officer in your county should be 
elected democratically by the people.”&nbsp;

If the proposed amendment 
is approved by the state legislature, it will be placed on the ballot in
 November. State Representative Tory Arnberger-Blew who represents much 
of Barton County is the Vice-Chair of the Federal and State Affairs 
Committee. She has expressed her support for the measure.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614955691374.jpeg" alt="Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Barton County
 Sheriff Brian Bellendir went to Topeka last week to support a state 
constitutional amendment that will require county sheriffs in Kansas to 
be elected, not appointed. A hearing about that proposed amendment was 
held in the State House Committee on Federal and State Affairs last 
Thursday. Bellendir, who is the elected sheriff in Barton County, 
explained why he wants to see the amendment pass.&nbsp;“There has been
 some movement in some locations to either consolidate city and county 
government and put the chief law enforcement officer, your sheriff, 
under a board of county commissioners or a board of directors or 
something like that,” Bellendir said. “Sheriffs feel very strongly about
 this that your chief law enforcement officer in your county should be 
elected democratically by the people.”&nbsp;If the proposed amendment 
is approved by the state legislature, it will be placed on the ballot in
 November. State Representative Tory Arnberger-Blew who represents much 
of Barton County is the Vice-Chair of the Federal and State Affairs 
Committee. She has expressed her support for the measure.&nbsp;

Barton Co. sheriff among those lobbying for constitutional amendment 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Med president and CEO Edward Herrmann.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays Med president and CEO Edward Herrmann" 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=t9acq-118b5cf-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Med president and CEO Edward Herrmann.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays Med president and CEO Edward Herrmann

By&nbsp;JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Joe LeRoux of Victoria has been selected to fill the open Third District Ellis County Commission seat for the remainder of the year. 

LeRoux was selected from seven candidates Thursday in a
meeting held by the Ellis County Republican Party to fill the seat vacated by
former Commissioner Dean Haselhorst. 

The retired veteran and current operations manager at Hess Services said he is excited to get a chance
to serve on the commission.

“I’m excited to serve in this capacity,” LeRoux said. “I’m
excited that so many people came out to be considered and I’m very grateful that
out of all those great people I was selected to represent the Third District, and I can’t wait to hear the feedback from the folks that reside in my
district.”

Only two of the 12 precinct committee member seats are full in the district, so
it was up to those two individuals to pick from the seven candidates. 

Each candidate had an opportunity to address the two voting
members and the roughly 20 people who attended the meeting. 

They then took questions from the members, and each finished
with a closing thought.

The two precinct members picked their top two candidates and
LeRoux was listed in both of their top two.

“Ever since I’ve lived in western Kansas, I fell in love with
the place,” LeRoux said. “I’ve been a western Kansas resident on and off since
1996, (and) I’ve been a resident of Victoria for close to seven years. I’ve
fallen in love with that community. It’s treated me and my kids very well, and I
just want to give them good representation.”

The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.

LeRoux's appointment to the board of commissioners has been
sent off&nbsp; to the governor for her approval. He is expected to take his seat on
the commission in the first meeting of February.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642785067950.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostJoe LeRoux of Victoria has been selected to fill the open Third District Ellis County Commission seat for the remainder of the year. LeRoux was selected from seven candidates Thursday in a
meeting held by the Ellis County Republican Party to fill the seat vacated by
former Commissioner Dean Haselhorst. The retired veteran and current operations manager at Hess Services said he is excited to get a chance
to serve on the commission.“I’m excited to serve in this capacity,” LeRoux said. “I’m
excited that so many people came out to be considered and I’m very grateful that
out of all those great people I was selected to represent the Third District, and I can’t wait to hear the feedback from the folks that reside in my
district.”Only two of the 12 precinct committee member seats are full in the district, so
it was up to those two individuals to pick from the seven candidates. Each candidate had an opportunity to address the two voting
members and the roughly 20 people who attended the meeting. They then took questions from the members, and each finished
with a closing thought.The two precinct members picked their top two candidates and
LeRoux was listed in both of their top two.“Ever since I’ve lived in western Kansas, I fell in love with
the place,” LeRoux said. “I’ve been a western Kansas resident on and off since
1996, (and) I’ve been a resident of Victoria for close to seven years. I’ve
fallen in love with that community. It’s treated me and my kids very well, and I
just want to give them good representation.”The Third District is the largest in land size of the three
county commission districts. It is made up of six townships, which includes the
entire eastern edge of Ellis County and an area north of Hays.LeRoux's appointment to the board of commissioners has been
sent off&nbsp; to the governor for her approval. He is expected to take his seat on
the commission in the first meeting of February.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642785110151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642785087551.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642785082340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642785060754.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

LeRoux appointed to Ellis County Commission by precinct

A winter weather advisory is in effect until midnight for Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported Tuesday morning.

Monday's forecast of snowfall primarily accumulating west of Hays have shifted, with Ellis County now with a 73 percent chance of receiving 2 inches of snow or more.&nbsp; Up to 4 inches of snow is possible in the Hays area, with more accumulation expected farther west.

Snow is expected to taper off by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Wind chills Tuesday night are expected to be near zero.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643121485049.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>A winter weather advisory is in effect until midnight for Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City reported Tuesday morning.Monday's forecast of snowfall primarily accumulating west of Hays have shifted, with Ellis County now with a 73 percent chance of receiving 2 inches of snow or more.&nbsp; Up to 4 inches of snow is possible in the Hays area, with more accumulation expected farther west.Snow is expected to taper off by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Wind chills Tuesday night are expected to be near zero.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643121513425.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>

Winter weather advisory in effect Tuesday for Hays area

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Water conservation remains a priority for the city of Hays, and indoor water conservation programs and incentives are again available in 2022 for local residential and business customers, according to Holly Dickman, city water conservation specialist.

Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators are available in the City Hall finance office, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Aerators are free. Six types of showerheads are available with the exchange of an old shower head. Three models are free, and three others are $5 each.

Rebates for high-efficiency toilets remain one of the most popular programs offered by the city, Dickman said.&nbsp;

"You get anywhere from $50 to $150 for replacing your old inefficient toilet with a new high efficiency model. The less gallons per flush, the higher the rebate."

The toilets must have a gallon-per-flush of 1.28 or less to qualify. A list of qualifying models is available on the Department of Water Resources <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/572/High-Efficiency-Toilet-Rebate">website</a>.&nbsp;

The high efficiency clothes washer rebate program provides $200 for replacing older inefficient washing machines.

The new washers must have an integrated water factor of 3.2 or lower to qualify. A list of qualifying models is also on the department's <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/574/High-Efficiency-Clothes-Washer-Rebate">website</a>.

The IWF is the number of gallons per cycle per cubic feet that the washer uses, information typically found in the machine specifications or on the <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/">EnergyStar.gov</a> product finder.&nbsp;

Rebate forms and more information are available at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/161/Rebates-Programs">online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642629660624.png" alt="Cash rebates for purchase of qualified water-saving toilets and washing machines are available from the city of Hays to encourage water conservation. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Cash rebates for purchase of qualified water-saving toilets and washing machines are available from the city of Hays to encourage water conservation. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostWater conservation remains a priority for the city of Hays, and indoor water conservation programs and incentives are again available in 2022 for local residential and business customers, according to Holly Dickman, city water conservation specialist.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/blNakSC3NuI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators are available in the City Hall finance office, 1507 Main.&nbsp;Aerators are free. Six types of showerheads are available with the exchange of an old shower head. Three models are free, and three others are $5 each.Rebates for high-efficiency toilets remain one of the most popular programs offered by the city, Dickman said.&nbsp;"You get anywhere from $50 to $150 for replacing your old inefficient toilet with a new high efficiency model. The less gallons per flush, the higher the rebate."The toilets must have a gallon-per-flush of 1.28 or less to qualify. A list of qualifying models is available on the Department of Water Resources <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/572/High-Efficiency-Toilet-Rebate">website</a>.&nbsp;The high efficiency clothes washer rebate program provides $200 for replacing older inefficient washing machines.The new washers must have an integrated water factor of 3.2 or lower to qualify. A list of qualifying models is also on the department's <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/574/High-Efficiency-Clothes-Washer-Rebate">website</a>.The IWF is the number of gallons per cycle per cubic feet that the washer uses, information typically found in the machine specifications or on the <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/">EnergyStar.gov</a> product finder.&nbsp;Rebate forms and more information are available at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/161/Rebates-Programs">online</a>.

🎥 Cash rebates again offered for water-saving toilets, washers in Hays

Crude futures prices retreated Monday, dropping two percent from the seven-year highs reached last week. By lunchtime Monday, the benchmark US futures contract was down $2.01 to $83.13 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $75.50 per barrel, after dropping nearly two dollars on Friday. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 21 newly-completed wells across Kansas, including one in Barton County. There are six new completions in the eastern half of the state and 15 west of Wichita. That's 75 new completions so far this year. Kansas regulators OK'd 13 drilling permits last week including three in Ellis County and one in Russell County. There are two new permits in eastern Kansas and 11 west of Wichita, bringing the total for the year to 55 new drilling locations. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service found 16 active rigs in eastern Kansas either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. That's down two for the week. In Western Kansas, the count was unchanged at 25. Drilling was underway on one lease, and about to commence on another, in Russell County. The weekly Rotary Rig county from Baker Hughes reported 604 active drilling rigs in the US, noting an increase of four gas rigs, but a decline of one oil rig. The count in Texas was down one. Oklahoma was up one. The government last week said US crude-oil inventories rose half a million barrels. The tally on Jan. 14 was 413.8 million barrels, about eight percent below the five-year average seasonal average. EIA said domestic imports were up slightly to 6.7 million barrels per day. US crude production dropped 5,000 barrels per day to about 11.65 million barrels per day. The auto club Triple-A predicts gasoline pump prices will continue to rise despite falling demand. The price of oil accounts for roughly half of what consumers pay at the gas pump. The average price for a gallon of regular rose one cent to $3.31 across the US, while the average in Kansas rose above three dollars for the first time in three months. Prices rose to $3.09 a gallon across Great Bend, while outlets in Hays ranged from $2.89 to $2.99 a gallon on Wednesday. Oil-by-Rail shipments last week rose from the week before but remain more than 20% below the figures from a year ago. more than 21 percent from the same week a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,782 tanker carloads hauling petroleum during the week through January 15th, up from 8,894 the week before. Canadian oil-by-rail saw a dramatic increase, up more than 2,000 carloads for the week, and nearly two percent higher than a year ago. The number of wells in the major US shale plays that have been drilled but not yet completed, so-called DUCs, dropped by more than four percent last month. Each of the major basins dropped, but nearly half of the total decline was in the Permian Basin. The government says the December total for DUCs was 4,616, compared to 4,830 the month before. A suspected drone attack on an oil storage facility last week brought the ongoing Yemen war to the shores of the United Arab Emirates, the world's eighth-largest crude producer. Fears over new disruptions to global energy supplies helped prompt a brief spike in international crude prices.&nbsp; Texas’ oil and gas industry contributed nearly $16 billion in state taxes and royalties last year. That's an increase of more than 20% over the year before. A report released last week by the Texas Oil &amp; Gas Association shows the patch directly supported more than 420,000 jobs last year. Regulators in the number-three crude producing state report an increase in production in November. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports output of just under 1.6 million barrels per day in November, the latest numbers available. That's an increase of 4.4% over the month before. Statewide gas flaring volumes increased slightly, but so did gas capture. The percentage of natural gas produced and flared at oil wells dropped to 5.8% across the state. Regulators in Colorado begin taking public comment on what could be a very expensive new law for oil operators there. The Colorado Oil &amp; Gas Conservation Commission, newly-branded to protect health and the environment, wants to require drillers to put up bonds for each new well they drill, rather than posting "blanket bonds" for up to 100 wells. The funds are intended to guarantee payment for possible future plugging or cleanup. At $78,000 per well, the current proposal would cost the state's oil and gas industry nearly four billion dollars. The hearings are being conducted online on Thursday and Friday. The government says there are currently more than 130,000 documented oil and gas wells across the country for which no one is on the hook to pay for cleanup. The Department of the Interior recently more than doubled its tally of orphaned wells. The new infrastructure law includes $4.7 billion to plug and reclaim abandoned and orphaned wells, but the GAO says &nbsp;the full cleanup cost with the larger estimate could be closer to $19 billion.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude futures prices retreated Monday, dropping two percent from the seven-year highs reached last week. By lunchtime Monday, the benchmark US futures contract was down $2.01 to $83.13 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $75.50 per barrel, after dropping nearly two dollars on Friday. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 21 newly-completed wells across Kansas, including one in Barton County. There are six new completions in the eastern half of the state and 15 west of Wichita. That's 75 new completions so far this year. Kansas regulators OK'd 13 drilling permits last week including three in Ellis County and one in Russell County. There are two new permits in eastern Kansas and 11 west of Wichita, bringing the total for the year to 55 new drilling locations. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service found 16 active rigs in eastern Kansas either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. That's down two for the week. In Western Kansas, the count was unchanged at 25. Drilling was underway on one lease, and about to commence on another, in Russell County. The weekly Rotary Rig county from Baker Hughes reported 604 active drilling rigs in the US, noting an increase of four gas rigs, but a decline of one oil rig. The count in Texas was down one. Oklahoma was up one. The government last week said US crude-oil inventories rose half a million barrels. The tally on Jan. 14 was 413.8 million barrels, about eight percent below the five-year average seasonal average. EIA said domestic imports were up slightly to 6.7 million barrels per day. US crude production dropped 5,000 barrels per day to about 11.65 million barrels per day. The auto club Triple-A predicts gasoline pump prices will continue to rise despite falling demand. The price of oil accounts for roughly half of what consumers pay at the gas pump. The average price for a gallon of regular rose one cent to $3.31 across the US, while the average in Kansas rose above three dollars for the first time in three months. Prices rose to $3.09 a gallon across Great Bend, while outlets in Hays ranged from $2.89 to $2.99 a gallon on Wednesday. Oil-by-Rail shipments last week rose from the week before but remain more than 20% below the figures from a year ago. more than 21 percent from the same week a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,782 tanker carloads hauling petroleum during the week through January 15th, up from 8,894 the week before. Canadian oil-by-rail saw a dramatic increase, up more than 2,000 carloads for the week, and nearly two percent higher than a year ago. The number of wells in the major US shale plays that have been drilled but not yet completed, so-called DUCs, dropped by more than four percent last month. Each of the major basins dropped, but nearly half of the total decline was in the Permian Basin. The government says the December total for DUCs was 4,616, compared to 4,830 the month before. A suspected drone attack on an oil storage facility last week brought the ongoing Yemen war to the shores of the United Arab Emirates, the world's eighth-largest crude producer. Fears over new disruptions to global energy supplies helped prompt a brief spike in international crude prices.&nbsp; Texas’ oil and gas industry contributed nearly $16 billion in state taxes and royalties last year. That's an increase of more than 20% over the year before. A report released last week by the Texas Oil &amp; Gas Association shows the patch directly supported more than 420,000 jobs last year. Regulators in the number-three crude producing state report an increase in production in November. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports output of just under 1.6 million barrels per day in November, the latest numbers available. That's an increase of 4.4% over the month before. Statewide gas flaring volumes increased slightly, but so did gas capture. The percentage of natural gas produced and flared at oil wells dropped to 5.8% across the state. Regulators in Colorado begin taking public comment on what could be a very expensive new law for oil operators there. The Colorado Oil &amp; Gas Conservation Commission, newly-branded to protect health and the environment, wants to require drillers to put up bonds for each new well they drill, rather than posting "blanket bonds" for up to 100 wells. The funds are intended to guarantee payment for possible future plugging or cleanup. At $78,000 per well, the current proposal would cost the state's oil and gas industry nearly four billion dollars. The hearings are being conducted online on Thursday and Friday. The government says there are currently more than 130,000 documented oil and gas wells across the country for which no one is on the hook to pay for cleanup. The Department of the Interior recently more than doubled its tally of orphaned wells. The new infrastructure law includes $4.7 billion to plug and reclaim abandoned and orphaned wells, but the GAO says &nbsp;the full cleanup cost with the larger estimate could be closer to $19 billion.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices retreat from seven-year highs

By JAMES BELL 
Hays Post

The Hays Chamber is set to once again bring leadership
training to the city, with the upcoming 2022 Leadership Hays seminar sessions.

“It's really about partnerships and relationships,” said Marlis Fletcher, Hays
Chamber administrative assistant, who participated in last year’s
sessions. “You learn how to collaborate with the other people that are
participating.”

She said the class helped build connections to the
community and allowed her to grow as a person and learn more about Hays.

During the sessions, attendees will also have the opportunity
to participate in a service project.

“In each class, they have a project and get to choose what they want to do,” Fletcher said. “In our class, we also had
Samantha Gill from the library. We did a storytime space at the new ARC Park.”

Fundraising for that project is ongoing, with work slated to
begin in the spring, she said. 

“It's going to be a really nice little storytime space with
a little stage and some stools and some benches where. If somebody wants
to go play guitar, they can go play a guitar there … or if they want to read a story to their classroom or their
daycare."

It might also serve as a stop for the Hays Public Library Bookmobile,
she said.

While this year’s project is still up in the air, excitement
for the sessions is growing as the start date of Feb. 16 approaches.

While seats for this year’s session have been filled, a waiting list has already been started for next year’s session.

“I’m super excited about it,” said Mariah Legleiter, Hays
Chamber vice president of marketing and communications. “I'm really looking
forward to the opportunity to really see what I can give back to the community
and be put in a position where we ask the hard questions and get to
participate in discussions about it.

“It's going to be exciting to think about over the next
couple of weeks,” she said. “I'm
excited to make those connections, as well, and learn more about Hays. Because again,
Marlis said that she lived here her whole life basically, and learned things
about Hays through the program. And so I'm excited to learn some things and
maybe quiz my husband and see if I can finally beat him in some Hays trivia.”

For more information, visit the Hays Chamber’s website, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

By JAMES BELL 
Hays PostThe Hays Chamber is set to once again bring leadership
training to the city, with the upcoming 2022 Leadership Hays seminar sessions.“It's really about partnerships and relationships,” said Marlis Fletcher, Hays
Chamber administrative assistant, who participated in last year’s
sessions. “You learn how to collaborate with the other people that are
participating.”She said the class helped build connections to the
community and allowed her to grow as a person and learn more about Hays.During the sessions, attendees will also have the opportunity
to participate in a service project.“In each class, they have a project and get to choose what they want to do,” Fletcher said. “In our class, we also had
Samantha Gill from the library. We did a storytime space at the new ARC Park.”Fundraising for that project is ongoing, with work slated to
begin in the spring, she said. “It's going to be a really nice little storytime space with
a little stage and some stools and some benches where. If somebody wants
to go play guitar, they can go play a guitar there … or if they want to read a story to their classroom or their
daycare."It might also serve as a stop for the Hays Public Library Bookmobile,
she said.While this year’s project is still up in the air, excitement
for the sessions is growing as the start date of Feb. 16 approaches.While seats for this year’s session have been filled, a waiting list has already been started for next year’s session.“I’m super excited about it,” said Mariah Legleiter, Hays
Chamber vice president of marketing and communications. “I'm really looking
forward to the opportunity to really see what I can give back to the community
and be put in a position where we ask the hard questions and get to
participate in discussions about it.“It's going to be exciting to think about over the next
couple of weeks,” she said. “I'm
excited to make those connections, as well, and learn more about Hays. Because again,
Marlis said that she lived here her whole life basically, and learned things
about Hays through the program. And so I'm excited to learn some things and
maybe quiz my husband and see if I can finally beat him in some Hays trivia.”For more information, visit the Hays Chamber’s website, <a href="https://hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

Hays leadership series returns for 2022

BUNKER HILL — "Doctors on Call," a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Dr. Brandon Weidenhaft with Big Creek Vet Service in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will air at 7 p.m. Tuesday&nbsp;and will focus on pet health.

"Doctors on Call" is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode live on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPTVBUNKER HILL — "Doctors on Call," a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Dr. Brandon Weidenhaft with Big Creek Vet Service in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will air at 7 p.m. Tuesday&nbsp;and will focus on pet health."Doctors on Call" is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;&nbsp;The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. Tuesdays.&nbsp; You can also stream each episode live on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788.&nbsp;

Tuesday's 'Doctors on Call' features Big Creek Vet Service

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643045857195.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>

Click <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/article/633547">HERE</a> to read the latest edition of the student publication Monarch Messenger.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642776290781.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/article/633547">HERE</a> to read the latest edition of the student publication Monarch Messenger.

Latest edition of the Monarch Messenger available

TOPEKA - The 2022 legislative session began Monday, January 10 and senators immediately began work on a host of issues. 

The major requirements for this session are to complete the redistricting process and pass a budget. One of the first bills the Senate worked on was SB 318 which would aid property owners whose property was destroyed by natural disasters. The bill does so in two ways: It creates a sales tax exemption for purchases necessary to reconstruct, repair or replace a fence used to enclose agricultural land that was damaged or destroyed by wildfire, flood, tornado, or other natural disaster occurring on or after January 1, 2021. It expands the ability of county commissions to abate property taxes on certain types of real property destroyed or substantially destroyed by natural disasters. This bill was amended to include, beginning July 1, 2022, exempt from sales tax all sales of tangible personal property and services necessary to construct, reconstruct, repair or replace any fence used to enclose agricultural land.

Health care worker shortages continue to plague the country with shortages among nurses and other health care workers. In the ultimate twist of logic, some are even asking workers who test positive to come back to work, while unvaccinated who test negative will be laid off.&nbsp; Last year health care providers were heros and this year they are losing their jobs because of vaccination status. Kansas Senate adopted HB2477 which was crafted to address health care staffing shortages within Kansas. This bill temporarily deregulates several provisions of Kansas law and will now allow nursing staff with an inactive or lapsed license to provide medical services appropriate to their education, allow physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse anesthetists, registered professional nurses and licensed pharmacists to provide addition services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; Also, health care providers in other states would be able to practice in Kansas. This bill will sunset in January 2023.

On Wednesday, the governor introduced her budget which outlined ways to spend taxpayer money for the fiscal year. Included in her budget were her well-known proposal to eliminate the food sales tax, which she vetoed two years ago. The governor also proposed a $250 tax rebate to Kansans, a 5% pay increase for state employees, Medicaid expansion and money for renovation of the Docking office building in Topeka, remodeling a building for the Division of Emergency Management and constructing a new armory for the National Guard in Hays.

The state is sitting on a surplus of nearly $3 billion, which makes this year’s budget process a unique one. While the election year will make it tempting to spend the money, Republicans are committed to being fiscally responsible, which means using one-time revenue for one-time expenses, paying off debt and responsible tax reductions to help Kansas families and boost Kansas economy and continue to stabilize KPERS.

Despite repeated promises from the Biden Administration that the record inflation will soon reverse, it appears that the problem is going to get worse before it gets better. This week the government announced that the inflation rate, as per its Consumer Price index, has reached 7%, the highest it’s been since 1982. The consumer price index only tells us about the past. The future is all about the Producer Price index, which measures the costs to make things.

If you are interested in following the legislature you can connect to the following links:

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a>&nbsp;- Here you can follow the legislature live as it happens, or access archives of past sessions and committee meetings.

<a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/20220124/-1/14088?viewMode=1#handoutFile_">Kansas Legislature Audio</a> - Here you can listen in on session or committees when they are in session, or access prior committee meetings.

Kansas Legislature website-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org-/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills and past sessions.

Middle school (12 years of age or older) and high school students are invited to come to our Kansas State Capitol, to be my sponsored Senate Page for a day. The dates available are February 7 and 21 as well as March 7 and 14. There are openings for 4 pages on each day. Please contact my office, if you know a student who may have an interest in being a Senate Page.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th&nbsp;Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions and concerns, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka stop by my office at 545-S.

Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th district senator which includes:

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610490291573.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, 40th District" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, 40th District</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA - The 2022 legislative session began Monday, January 10 and senators immediately began work on a host of issues. The major requirements for this session are to complete the redistricting process and pass a budget. One of the first bills the Senate worked on was SB 318 which would aid property owners whose property was destroyed by natural disasters. The bill does so in two ways: It creates a sales tax exemption for purchases necessary to reconstruct, repair or replace a fence used to enclose agricultural land that was damaged or destroyed by wildfire, flood, tornado, or other natural disaster occurring on or after January 1, 2021. It expands the ability of county commissions to abate property taxes on certain types of real property destroyed or substantially destroyed by natural disasters. This bill was amended to include, beginning July 1, 2022, exempt from sales tax all sales of tangible personal property and services necessary to construct, reconstruct, repair or replace any fence used to enclose agricultural land.Health care worker shortages continue to plague the country with shortages among nurses and other health care workers. In the ultimate twist of logic, some are even asking workers who test positive to come back to work, while unvaccinated who test negative will be laid off.&nbsp; Last year health care providers were heros and this year they are losing their jobs because of vaccination status. Kansas Senate adopted HB2477 which was crafted to address health care staffing shortages within Kansas. This bill temporarily deregulates several provisions of Kansas law and will now allow nursing staff with an inactive or lapsed license to provide medical services appropriate to their education, allow physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse anesthetists, registered professional nurses and licensed pharmacists to provide addition services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; Also, health care providers in other states would be able to practice in Kansas. This bill will sunset in January 2023.On Wednesday, the governor introduced her budget which outlined ways to spend taxpayer money for the fiscal year. Included in her budget were her well-known proposal to eliminate the food sales tax, which she vetoed two years ago. The governor also proposed a $250 tax rebate to Kansans, a 5% pay increase for state employees, Medicaid expansion and money for renovation of the Docking office building in Topeka, remodeling a building for the Division of Emergency Management and constructing a new armory for the National Guard in Hays.The state is sitting on a surplus of nearly $3 billion, which makes this year’s budget process a unique one. While the election year will make it tempting to spend the money, Republicans are committed to being fiscally responsible, which means using one-time revenue for one-time expenses, paying off debt and responsible tax reductions to help Kansas families and boost Kansas economy and continue to stabilize KPERS.Despite repeated promises from the Biden Administration that the record inflation will soon reverse, it appears that the problem is going to get worse before it gets better. This week the government announced that the inflation rate, as per its Consumer Price index, has reached 7%, the highest it’s been since 1982. The consumer price index only tells us about the past. The future is all about the Producer Price index, which measures the costs to make things.If you are interested in following the legislature you can connect to the following links:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0NO-Pb96CFABvxDwXAq8A">Kansas Legislature YouTube</a>&nbsp;- Here you can follow the legislature live as it happens, or access archives of past sessions and committee meetings.<a href="http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/20220124/-1/14088?viewMode=1#handoutFile_">Kansas Legislature Audio</a> - Here you can listen in on session or committees when they are in session, or access prior committee meetings.Kansas Legislature website-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org-/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;has extensive information on legislators, committees, bills and past sessions.Middle school (12 years of age or older) and high school students are invited to come to our Kansas State Capitol, to be my sponsored Senate Page for a day. The dates available are February 7 and 21 as well as March 7 and 14. There are openings for 4 pages on each day. Please contact my office, if you know a student who may have an interest in being a Senate Page.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th&nbsp;Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions and concerns, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka stop by my office at 545-S.Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th district senator which includes:* Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton,
Rawlins, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties *Phillips County:
Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed; Townships: Beaver, Belmont,
Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,
Solomon(part) and Towanda&nbsp;

BILLINGER: Senate update, Jan. 24, 2022

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ccdcf9a-1148-4fe7-99f6-aea6edce8bd2">UPDATED forecast from NWS. CLICK HERE.</a>

A winter weather advisory has been issued for much of western Kansas, going into effect at midnight.

Moderate to heavy snow is expected west of Ellis County, with&nbsp; 3 to 5 inches of accumulation expected, the National Weather Service in Goodland reported.

Slippery road conditions are expected to impact the morning and evening commute for much of northwest Kansas. West of Ellis County, snow is expected to begin late Monday and continue into Tuesday morning.

In Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for the possibility of 1 to 2 inches of snowfall. There is a 60 percent chance of snow Tuesday, dissipating Tuesday night.

A high of 25 degrees is expected Tuesday. Skies are projected to clear Wednesday and into the weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643053216248.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ccdcf9a-1148-4fe7-99f6-aea6edce8bd2">UPDATED forecast from NWS. CLICK HERE.</a>A winter weather advisory has been issued for much of western Kansas, going into effect at midnight.Moderate to heavy snow is expected west of Ellis County, with&nbsp; 3 to 5 inches of accumulation expected, the National Weather Service in Goodland reported.Slippery road conditions are expected to impact the morning and evening commute for much of northwest Kansas. West of Ellis County, snow is expected to begin late Monday and continue into Tuesday morning.In Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for the possibility of 1 to 2 inches of snowfall. There is a 60 percent chance of snow Tuesday, dissipating Tuesday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643057721792.jpeg" alt="City crews begin the process of applying deicer on Vine Street in Hays Monday morning. (Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>City crews begin the process of applying deicer on Vine Street in Hays Monday morning. (Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>A high of 25 degrees is expected Tuesday. Skies are projected to clear Wednesday and into the weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643053275188.png" alt="Goodland NWS" />
 <figcaption>Goodland NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Winter weather advisory issued for much of NW Kan.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 103 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

There have been 1,315 new coronavirus cases reported in Ellis County in January.&nbsp;

As of Monday morning, there were 23 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including 15 active cases and eight recovering cases.&nbsp;

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>

The KDHE reported on Monday that 51 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (age 5 and older) are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (5 and older) is approximately 63 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 6,489 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643048187538.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 103 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.There have been 1,315 new coronavirus cases reported in Ellis County in January.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, there were 23 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including 15 active cases and eight recovering cases.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>The KDHE reported on Monday that 51 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (age 5 and older) are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (5 and older) is approximately 63 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 6,489 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643048212533.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 103 new COVID cases in Ellis County since Friday

UPDATE: While working on the
site yesterday morning, Ellis County Landfill employees discovered a fire about
10:15 a.m. They also found a downed power line in the field north of the landfill,
which is located along 55th Street north of Hays.

Emergency responders
and Midwest Energy were notified.

Rural Fire Chief Darin
Myers said the fire, driven by 25 mph northerly winds, traveled south
down into a draw, crossed 55th Street and continued into a wooded
area.

Fire crews stopped the
blaze about 100 yards before it reached Interstate&nbsp; 70, according to Myers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The smoke caused low visibility on the interstate and traffic was slowed by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Hot spots were a challenge because of the many
downed trees that continued smoldering.&nbsp;

Rural firefighters
from Hays, Victoria, Catherine, Munjor and Ellis responded.

The Hays Fire Department also responded to the northwest edge of Hays to help protect the homes within the city limits if the fire were to have crossed I-70, which it did not. The Hays Police Department and other sheriff’s deputies were also on site to help with evacuation notices if needed.

The fire was declared under control about noon and crews remained on scene checking hot spots until about 2:15 p.m. 

Myers says the fire
burned 30 acres of grass and brush.&nbsp; There were no injuries or structures
lost in the fire.

Ellis County rural firefighters and other emergency responders are on the scene of a grass fire near the Ellis County Landfill,&nbsp;1515 W. 55th, north of Hays.

The smoke is blowing to the south driven by 25 mph wind from the north. Visibility on Interstate 70 is limited and the Kansas Highway Patrol has slowed traffic.

Check Hays Post for more as more details become available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643044309813.jpeg" alt="Smoke from a grass fire at the Ellis County Landfill drifts south into Hays Monday morning near the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Smoke from a grass fire at the Ellis County Landfill drifts south into Hays Monday morning near the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: While working on the
site yesterday morning, Ellis County Landfill employees discovered a fire about
10:15 a.m. They also found a downed power line in the field north of the landfill,
which is located along 55th Street north of Hays.Emergency responders
and Midwest Energy were notified.Rural Fire Chief Darin
Myers said the fire, driven by 25 mph northerly winds, traveled south
down into a draw, crossed 55th Street and continued into a wooded
area.Fire crews stopped the
blaze about 100 yards before it reached Interstate&nbsp; 70, according to Myers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The smoke caused low visibility on the interstate and traffic was slowed by the Kansas Highway Patrol.Hot spots were a challenge because of the many
downed trees that continued smoldering.&nbsp;Rural firefighters
from Hays, Victoria, Catherine, Munjor and Ellis responded.The Hays Fire Department also responded to the northwest edge of Hays to help protect the homes within the city limits if the fire were to have crossed I-70, which it did not. The Hays Police Department and other sheriff’s deputies were also on site to help with evacuation notices if needed.The fire was declared under control about noon and crews remained on scene checking hot spots until about 2:15 p.m. Myers says the fire
burned 30 acres of grass and brush.&nbsp; There were no injuries or structures
lost in the fire.By BECKY KISER Hays PostEllis County rural firefighters and other emergency responders are on the scene of a grass fire near the Ellis County Landfill,&nbsp;1515 W. 55th, north of Hays.The smoke is blowing to the south driven by 25 mph wind from the north. Visibility on Interstate 70 is limited and the Kansas Highway Patrol has slowed traffic.Check Hays Post for more as more details become available.&nbsp;

UPDATE: Grass fire near Ellis County landfill burns 30 acres

Cheyenne 
Bottoms is a popular destination for bird watching in the spring and 
fall when birds are migrating, but some interesting activity can also be
 seen at the wetlands on cold winter days. According to Jason Wagner, 
Wildlife Manager at Cheyenne Bottoms, a couple of large birds attract 
attention this time of year.

"If you want to come see eagles, 
there's tons and tons of eagles out there right now on the ice," Wagner 
noted. "We still have some of the snowy owls out there, too. It's not 
anything to see 30 or 40 eagles out there at a time."

Wagner points out that the eagles are predators in the wetlands' ecosystem.

"They're
 chasing the waterfowl that is out on the ice," Wagner said. "The 
waterfowl are more vulnerable to predation from the eagles out on the 
ice. There's usually some cripples or something out there that the 
eagles help clean up."

The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is open 
year-round to vehicles. 30-minute and 90-minute van tours can also be 
scheduled at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. 

Large numbers of eagles can also be found at the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Stafford County.

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>Cheyenne 
Bottoms is a popular destination for bird watching in the spring and 
fall when birds are migrating, but some interesting activity can also be
 seen at the wetlands on cold winter days. According to Jason Wagner, 
Wildlife Manager at Cheyenne Bottoms, a couple of large birds attract 
attention this time of year."If you want to come see eagles, 
there's tons and tons of eagles out there right now on the ice," Wagner 
noted. "We still have some of the snowy owls out there, too. It's not 
anything to see 30 or 40 eagles out there at a time."Wagner points out that the eagles are predators in the wetlands' ecosystem."They're
 chasing the waterfowl that is out on the ice," Wagner said. "The 
waterfowl are more vulnerable to predation from the eagles out on the 
ice. There's usually some cripples or something out there that the 
eagles help clean up."The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is open 
year-round to vehicles. 30-minute and 90-minute van tours can also be 
scheduled at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Large numbers of eagles can also be found at the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Stafford County.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Cheyenne Bottoms provides home for America's national bird

'... as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza'

The Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Sex trafficking victims are not what many people may think they are. They are not people bound and tied in basements. They are children and adults walking among us who need help.

Jennifer White, executive director of the anti-human trafficking organization ICTSOS, and Tina Peck, founder of the Hope Medical Forensics Services in Wichita, spoke to two groups in Hays Wednesday about human trafficking. The event was sponsored by the HaysMed Foundation.

White&nbsp; and Peck explained some of the misconceptions about human trafficking.

"When in reality they're not tied up," Peck said. "They are walking amongst us in Walmart or Target or going to sporting events. Jen stated a couple of examples about the kids who go to school every day. They are bound by fear."

Many people think that human trafficking is moving people from one place to another or from one country to another. This is not the case, White said.

Any time a person is being taken advantage of for value, this is human trafficking. This does not just have to mean money, it could mean drugs, shelter, food, clothes, technology, hair appointments, or manicures and pedicure.

Labor trafficking can include a person being forced, tricked or threatened to work for little or no pay, in unsafe conditions or unfair hours.

The definitions for sex trafficking differ for adults and minors. Any minor who trades any sexual act for something of value is considered a sex trafficking victim. No one younger than 18, not 16 the age of sexual consent in Kansas, can consent to prostitution, pornography or stripping, White said.

For adults sex must be forced or obtained through fraud or coercion to be considered trafficking.

The average age of entry into prostitution in this area is 14 to 17. However, the national average is 12 to 14.

The majority of sex trafficking has moved online. With this, the locations where trafficking takes place has become much broader.

"With so much of this being facilitated online, as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza," White said.

Who does a victim, trafficker, buyer look like?

Pimps are not what many people might also imagine. White said she has seen multiple cases where the trafficker had family ties and was a mom, uncle or older brother.

ICTSOS has seen trafficking victims from all walks of life and all races, genders and sexual orientations. Victims can come from all economic classes, as well, White said.

Research done at one of the Wichita hospitals found mental issues were common among trafficked victims. Predators may use that vulnerability to take advantage of their victims.

Predators tend to look for vulnerabilities in their victims and attempt to fill those needs. For some that can be needs on the lower part of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, such as food or shelter.&nbsp;

They can also be needs for love, acceptance and achievement.

White described a scenario of victim, who was an educated, beautiful women from a good home. She was drawn into sex trafficking by a man who ran a modeling agency. He promised her access to connections in the modeling profession, but he was forcing her to have sex with other people.

"We do see this a lot in our homeless and runaway and kids in the foster care system, but really its people who are lacking a safety net," she said, "that don't have good support around them for whatever reason." 

Traffickers also come from all backgrounds, genders and races.

Sex buyers tend to be exclusively male, mostly middle-age white men 

"The buyer tends to be the person with the most power and control in the situation," White said. "They tend to have the resources. They think they are going to walk into the situation, pay for it and be done."

ICTSOS has had cases in which buyers were bankers, farmers, teachers, married men and men with children.

U.S. children's almost universal access to the internet puts them at risk from predators, White said.

• 13 percent of second and third graders report they've used the internet to talk to people they don't know. • 11 percent report having been asked to describe things about their body • 10 percent have been exposed to private things about someone else's body

"You wouldn't throw your keys to the car to your 16-year-old and say, 'Good luck,' but we give our kids access to the internet without any safety net or conversation about it a lot of times," White said.

When the COVID shutdown happened in March 2020, the national reporting of child pornography almost tripled from 379,107 in a week to 944,706 in a week. That number has stayed very high over the last two years, White said.

"With more of us working from home and being online, kids doing schooling online ... because there are more people in those spaces, that's where predators have moved to."

Reporting of trafficking has increased substantially in the last 10 years. The Kansas Attorney General's office reported two cases of human trafficking in 2009, and 503 in 2020.

"This is very hard on someone long term, as you can image," White said. "This is very hard on your body. A lot of times survivors may have long-term issues with nutrition, hygiene or dental health because they haven't had access to services."

White said many of the victims are dealing with substance abuse. Victims may have been caught up in trafficking because of their addiction, their traffickers may have used drugs or alcohol as a means to control their victims or victims may be using alcohol or drugs to deal with the past or present trauma.

White said professionals know victims stay in trafficking situations for many of the same reasons domestic violence victims stay with their abusers. A trafficker may have positioned himself as a boyfriend or husband. The victim may have children with her trafficker.

Victims often have distrust of the systems that are put in place to help them, including law enforcement and medical professionals, White said.

"A lot of survivors have either had bad experiences with law enforcement or they've been told if you go tell somebody, you're going to get in trouble," White said. "You're the one that's breaking the law. They're going to take you to jail. They aren't going to help you."

&nbsp;Many of victims don't realize what's happening to them is&nbsp; a crime, White said. They often blame themselves. Eighty to 90 percent of trafficking victims have a previous history of sexual abuse.

White reiterated victims don't have to be moved around to be considered trafficked. She gave the example of a girl who was being trafficked out of her own home by her brother.

The girl was going to school every day. She looked like all of the other girls. She turned in her homework on time. But her brother was taking her out at night and offering her for sex to his friends.

The case was discovered when one of the girl's friends attended a trafficking education session at school, and the friend brought her suspicions to the attention of authorities.

Traffickers will move victims to stay ahead of law enforcement, they also move victims to areas where there is more demand, like a business moving product, White said.

Interstate 70 and Interstate 35 are both considered corridors for traffickers. Wichita is often a city of origin for victims, White said.

"This happens in every community across the country," White said.

Victims can self report, but that doesn't happen very often, White said. Referrals to ICTSOS often come from medical professionals, as well as social services and law enforcement.

An audience member asked what he could do if he suspects someone is being trafficked. White suggested trying to make an excuse to get the person away from their suspected trafficker and simply ask them if they are safe and if they are OK. She said it's a means to open the conversation in a non-threatening way.

Peck and White both said having empathy toward and believing victims when they disclose trafficking is the most important thing both lay people and professionals can do to help victims.

ICTSOS gives Fresh Start bags to victims. These include a fresh set of clothes, hygiene items, a fast-food gift card, journal and pen for adults and teens and storybook and toy for children. There's no strings attached to the bags. Adults don't have to accept assistance to receive the bags, but it often has led victims to return for services, White said.

Peck spoke on some of the medical considerations concerns surrounding trafficking. The HaysMed Foundation offered a separate session presented by the two women specifically geared toward medical providers.

Peck worked for many years as a forensic nurse in a hospital setting. She said the hospitals have come a long way in terms of offering privacy and confidentiality to sexual violence and trafficking victims. When she started as a nurse, victims were often only separated by a curtain from other patients in the ER.

Working in a hospital and with law enforcement, she learned many victims never report or seek medical care because they've had a bad experience in a hospital setting.

Peck said she also learned medical documentation ways heavily in the ability of law enforcement's ability to charge cases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642628100523.jpg" alt="Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay. " />
 <figcaption>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay. </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'... as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza'</h2>The Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSex trafficking victims are not what many people may think they are. They are not people bound and tied in basements. They are children and adults walking among us who need help.Jennifer White, executive director of the anti-human trafficking organization ICTSOS, and Tina Peck, founder of the Hope Medical Forensics Services in Wichita, spoke to two groups in Hays Wednesday about human trafficking. The event was sponsored by the HaysMed Foundation.White&nbsp; and Peck explained some of the misconceptions about human trafficking."When in reality they're not tied up," Peck said. "They are walking amongst us in Walmart or Target or going to sporting events. Jen stated a couple of examples about the kids who go to school every day. They are bound by fear." <h2>Defining trafficking</h2>Many people think that human trafficking is moving people from one place to another or from one country to another. This is not the case, White said. Any time a person is being taken advantage of for value, this is human trafficking. This does not just have to mean money, it could mean drugs, shelter, food, clothes, technology, hair appointments, or manicures and pedicure.Labor trafficking can include a person being forced, tricked or threatened to work for little or no pay, in unsafe conditions or unfair hours.The definitions for sex trafficking differ for adults and minors. Any minor who trades any sexual act for something of value is considered a sex trafficking victim. No one younger than 18, not 16 the age of sexual consent in Kansas, can consent to prostitution, pornography or stripping, White said.For adults sex must be forced or obtained through fraud or coercion to be considered trafficking. The average age of entry into prostitution in this area is 14 to 17. However, the national average is 12 to 14.The majority of sex trafficking has moved online. With this, the locations where trafficking takes place has become much broader. "With so much of this being facilitated online, as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza," White said.<h2>Who does a victim, trafficker, buyer look like? </h2>Pimps are not what many people might also imagine. White said she has seen multiple cases where the trafficker had family ties and was a mom, uncle or older brother.ICTSOS has seen trafficking victims from all walks of life and all races, genders and sexual orientations. Victims can come from all economic classes, as well, White said.Research done at one of the Wichita hospitals found mental issues were common among trafficked victims. Predators may use that vulnerability to take advantage of their victims. Predators tend to look for vulnerabilities in their victims and attempt to fill those needs. For some that can be needs on the lower part of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, such as food or shelter.&nbsp;They can also be needs for love, acceptance and achievement.White described a scenario of victim, who was an educated, beautiful women from a good home. She was drawn into sex trafficking by a man who ran a modeling agency. He promised her access to connections in the modeling profession, but he was forcing her to have sex with other people. "We do see this a lot in our homeless and runaway and kids in the foster care system, but really its people who are lacking a safety net," she said, "that don't have good support around them for whatever reason." Traffickers also come from all backgrounds, genders and races.Sex buyers tend to be exclusively male, mostly middle-age white men "The buyer tends to be the person with the most power and control in the situation," White said. "They tend to have the resources. They think they are going to walk into the situation, pay for it and be done."ICTSOS has had cases in which buyers were bankers, farmers, teachers, married men and men with children.<h2>Online dangers for kids</h2>U.S. children's almost universal access to the internet puts them at risk from predators, White said.• 13 percent of second and third graders report they've used the internet to talk to people they don't know. • 11 percent report having been asked to describe things about their body • 10 percent have been exposed to private things about someone else's body "You wouldn't throw your keys to the car to your 16-year-old and say, 'Good luck,' but we give our kids access to the internet without any safety net or conversation about it a lot of times," White said. When the COVID shutdown happened in March 2020, the national reporting of child pornography almost tripled from 379,107 in a week to 944,706 in a week. That number has stayed very high over the last two years, White said."With more of us working from home and being online, kids doing schooling online ... because there are more people in those spaces, that's where predators have moved to."Reporting of trafficking has increased substantially in the last 10 years. The Kansas Attorney General's office reported two cases of human trafficking in 2009, and 503 in 2020.<h2>Indicators of trafficking</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642781864096.jpeg" alt="Indicators of exploitation. Courtesy of ICTSOS " />
 <figcaption>Indicators of exploitation. Courtesy of ICTSOS </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642782084324.jpeg" alt="Indicators of exploitation. Courtesy of ICTSOS" />
 <figcaption>Indicators of exploitation. Courtesy of ICTSOS</figcaption>
 </figure>"This is very hard on someone long term, as you can image," White said. "This is very hard on your body. A lot of times survivors may have long-term issues with nutrition, hygiene or dental health because they haven't had access to services."White said many of the victims are dealing with substance abuse. Victims may have been caught up in trafficking because of their addiction, their traffickers may have used drugs or alcohol as a means to control their victims or victims may be using alcohol or drugs to deal with the past or present trauma.White said professionals know victims stay in trafficking situations for many of the same reasons domestic violence victims stay with their abusers. A trafficker may have positioned himself as a boyfriend or husband. The victim may have children with her trafficker.Victims often have distrust of the systems that are put in place to help them, including law enforcement and medical professionals, White said."A lot of survivors have either had bad experiences with law enforcement or they've been told if you go tell somebody, you're going to get in trouble," White said. "You're the one that's breaking the law. They're going to take you to jail. They aren't going to help you."&nbsp;Many of victims don't realize what's happening to them is&nbsp; a crime, White said. They often blame themselves. Eighty to 90 percent of trafficking victims have a previous history of sexual abuse.White reiterated victims don't have to be moved around to be considered trafficked. She gave the example of a girl who was being trafficked out of her own home by her brother.The girl was going to school every day. She looked like all of the other girls. She turned in her homework on time. But her brother was taking her out at night and offering her for sex to his friends.The case was discovered when one of the girl's friends attended a trafficking education session at school, and the friend brought her suspicions to the attention of authorities.Traffickers will move victims to stay ahead of law enforcement, they also move victims to areas where there is more demand, like a business moving product, White said.Interstate 70 and Interstate 35 are both considered corridors for traffickers. Wichita is often a city of origin for victims, White said."This happens in every community across the country," White said. <h2>Helping victims </h2>Victims can self report, but that doesn't happen very often, White said. Referrals to ICTSOS often come from medical professionals, as well as social services and law enforcement. An audience member asked what he could do if he suspects someone is being trafficked. White suggested trying to make an excuse to get the person away from their suspected trafficker and simply ask them if they are safe and if they are OK. She said it's a means to open the conversation in a non-threatening way.Peck and White both said having empathy toward and believing victims when they disclose trafficking is the most important thing both lay people and professionals can do to help victims. ICTSOS gives Fresh Start bags to victims. These include a fresh set of clothes, hygiene items, a fast-food gift card, journal and pen for adults and teens and storybook and toy for children. There's no strings attached to the bags. Adults don't have to accept assistance to receive the bags, but it often has led victims to return for services, White said. Peck spoke on some of the medical considerations concerns surrounding trafficking. The HaysMed Foundation offered a separate session presented by the two women specifically geared toward medical providers.Peck worked for many years as a forensic nurse in a hospital setting. She said the hospitals have come a long way in terms of offering privacy and confidentiality to sexual violence and trafficking victims. When she started as a nurse, victims were often only separated by a curtain from other patients in the ER.Working in a hospital and with law enforcement, she learned many victims never report or seek medical care because they've had a bad experience in a hospital setting.Peck said she also learned medical documentation ways heavily in the ability of law enforcement's ability to charge cases.This two factors prompted her to open her private clinic. She utilizes victim assistance programs, as well as fundraising so she doesn't have to bill victims for her services.Health care professionals are in a unique position identify and offer resources to human trafficking victims, but most providers have not received training on identifying or assisting victims, Peck said.Peck said a provider is doing more harm if they identify a victim and do not have a plan to refer the victim to the appropriate resources.

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