The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported a handful of COVID-19 clusters identified in northwest Kansas.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3da09c09-f252-4d95-8e8d-f36e1811f25b">RELATED: 350 new COVID cases in Ellis County identified since Friday</a>

The following clusters were noted in Wednesday's coronavirus update (case count indicates cases in the last 14 days):

•&nbsp;Home Daycare, Great Bend: 6 cases •&nbsp;Russell Regional Hospital: 5 cases •&nbsp;Medicalodge, Great Bend: 32 cases •&nbsp;Parkview Care Center, Osborne: 7 cases •&nbsp;Smith County Health and Rehab: 9 cases

There are currently 217 active COVID-19 clusters accounting for 3,122 cases, 50 hospitalizations and 37 deaths, KDHE reported. 

Click <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">HERE</a> for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642013305303.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported a handful of COVID-19 clusters identified in northwest Kansas.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3da09c09-f252-4d95-8e8d-f36e1811f25b">RELATED: 350 new COVID cases in Ellis County identified since Friday</a>The following clusters were noted in Wednesday's coronavirus update (case count indicates cases in the last 14 days):•&nbsp;Home Daycare, Great Bend: 6 cases •&nbsp;Russell Regional Hospital: 5 cases •&nbsp;Medicalodge, Great Bend: 32 cases •&nbsp;Parkview Care Center, Osborne: 7 cases •&nbsp;Smith County Health and Rehab: 9 casesThere are currently 217 active COVID-19 clusters accounting for 3,122 cases, 50 hospitalizations and 37 deaths, KDHE reported. Click <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">HERE</a> for more information.

KDHE identifies COVID-19 clusters in northwest Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 149 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8e87b848-d187-43e9-9f0b-811944da4111?fbclid=IwAR20JdOZzHW7LRTXXGaOjP18WdfiA7KTJHxTrajadwxmDr1UjcTThScQL6g">Related:&nbsp;Doctors plead for COVID precautions to alleviate hospital crisis</a>

As of Wednesday morning, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;

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

The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 50 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 62 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 5,702 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642012640147.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 149 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8e87b848-d187-43e9-9f0b-811944da4111?fbclid=IwAR20JdOZzHW7LRTXXGaOjP18WdfiA7KTJHxTrajadwxmDr1UjcTThScQL6g">Related:&nbsp;Doctors plead for COVID precautions to alleviate hospital crisis</a>As of Wednesday morning, there were 25 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.The KDHE reported on Wednesday that 50 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 62 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 5,702 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 78 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e63276ea-ca10-4e6a-84c8-73db703c9286">RELATED:&nbsp;Hays docs say battling teen, parental hesitancy to vaccine a challenge</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642012767953.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 149 new COVID cases in Ellis County since Monday

You see the product on the field. #7 for Hays High accelerating towards the end zone or running through a tackle. The highlights under the Friday night lights are just a small part of the story for Jaren Kanak.

It is the work away from the field that built the Kanak into the top prospect out of Kansas for this signing class. That work included multiple trips to the gym in a single day. Extra foot work and speed drills at home and about any place he could find space.

The spring of 2021 proved to be where Kanak's recruiting profile exploded. The then junior, clocked a fully automated timed 10.37 second 100 meter dash. That time is one of the fastest in Kanas high school history.

Kanak originally committed to Clemson and planned to sign his National Letter of Intent during the early signing period in December. Plans however changed. Brent Venables, who was the major recruiter of Kanak, left his position as defensive coordinator at Clemson to become the head coach at the University of Oklahoma.

The relationship that he had built with Venables left Kanak wondering if he should make a change as well. Following some extensive soul searching, Kanak found himself leaning toward a change to the Sooners as well.

The process though took long enough to take out the possibility of signing a National Letter of Intent with Oklahoma in December. This result was no problem for Kanak as he went ahead and enrolled at Oklahoma for the spring 2022 semester. Kanak had already planned on graduating early from Hays High and completed the necessary course work.

In lieu of a signing celebration, since the next signing period opens in February, a commitment celebration was held for Kanak at Hays High School. The financial aid agreement that Kanak signed for the upcoming semester acted as a letter of intent, he will soon be placed on scholarship. The celebration took place on Wednesday, just a few days before Kanak moves to Norman, Oklahoma to begin his academic work and spring football.

Kanak played quarterback his senior year after primarily being a receiver for the past three seasons. The 2021 season broke several record for Hays High football. Total yards in a season, total rushing yards, and scoring total. Kanak broke the school record for total rushing yards at 1,615 and points scored in a season with 142.&nbsp;

Kanak's new position in college won't have him running through would be tacklers on his way to the end zone and landing at #2 on the ESPN's Top 10 plays. Instead he will be the one doing the tackling from a linebacker position.

You see the product on the field. #7 for Hays High accelerating towards the end zone or running through a tackle. The highlights under the Friday night lights are just a small part of the story for Jaren Kanak.It is the work away from the field that built the Kanak into the top prospect out of Kansas for this signing class. That work included multiple trips to the gym in a single day. Extra foot work and speed drills at home and about any place he could find space.Jaren Kanak<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1195182064&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/jaren-kanak-going-to-oklahoma" title="Jaren Kanak Going To Oklahoma" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jaren Kanak Going To Oklahoma</a></div></div>The spring of 2021 proved to be where Kanak's recruiting profile exploded. The then junior, clocked a fully automated timed 10.37 second 100 meter dash. That time is one of the fastest in Kanas high school history.Kanak originally committed to Clemson and planned to sign his National Letter of Intent during the early signing period in December. Plans however changed. Brent Venables, who was the major recruiter of Kanak, left his position as defensive coordinator at Clemson to become the head coach at the University of Oklahoma.The relationship that he had built with Venables left Kanak wondering if he should make a change as well. Following some extensive soul searching, Kanak found himself leaning toward a change to the Sooners as well.The process though took long enough to take out the possibility of signing a National Letter of Intent with Oklahoma in December. This result was no problem for Kanak as he went ahead and enrolled at Oklahoma for the spring 2022 semester. Kanak had already planned on graduating early from Hays High and completed the necessary course work.In lieu of a signing celebration, since the next signing period opens in February, a commitment celebration was held for Kanak at Hays High School. The financial aid agreement that Kanak signed for the upcoming semester acted as a letter of intent, he will soon be placed on scholarship. The celebration took place on Wednesday, just a few days before Kanak moves to Norman, Oklahoma to begin his academic work and spring football.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1195182286&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/tony-crough-about-kanak" title="Tony Crough About Kanak" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Crough About Kanak</a></div></div>Kanak played quarterback his senior year after primarily being a receiver for the past three seasons. The 2021 season broke several record for Hays High football. Total yards in a season, total rushing yards, and scoring total. Kanak broke the school record for total rushing yards at 1,615 and points scored in a season with 142.&nbsp;Kanak's new position in college won't have him running through would be tacklers on his way to the end zone and landing at #2 on the ESPN's Top 10 plays. Instead he will be the one doing the tackling from a linebacker position.

Jaren Kanak now an Oklahoma Sooner

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday morning approved a special-use permit for the Nex-Tech to build a new cellphone tower at 1803 General Custer Road.

The Board of Zoning Appeals also approved a variance for the height of the tower, which will be 120 feet.

The location is on the south side of Heartland Gymnastics near Chetolah Creek. 

The allowable height is 65 feet, although Curtis Deines, planning, inspection and enforcement superintendent, said the city is considering changing that ordinance to allow for taller towers.

The crumple zone for the tower is 63 feet, which means the fall zone would be short of the public street. However, the Heartland Gymnastics building is within that crumble zone.

Deines said a private property owner is allowed to assume the risk of a tower potentially falling on or damaging properties on his or her own property.

The tower would expand Nex-Tech Wireless' ability to offer 5G service. The tower would also have space for Nex-Tech to lease space to other providers.

Staff recommended approval of both the special-use permit for the tower as well as the height variance.

An attorney representing SBA Communications, Luke VanFletern of Wichita, spoke against the special-use permit for the tower.

Nex-Tech currently leases space from SBA for communications. SBA's tower is at 2000 Vine, which is about one-sixth of a mile from the site of the proposed tower. VanFletern argued another tower was not needed in such close proximity to another existing tower. 

Jesse Rohr, Hays director of public works, said the city regulations don't prohibit new towers being in proximity to existing towers.

Nathan Sutter, director of Nex-Tech network operations and engineering, said the SBA's tower, which is near its maximum structural load limit, did not have enough load for Nex-Tech's new 5G equipment or for future growth. The new tower will also have space that can be leased to other providers.

"What this comes down to is that Nex-Tech would like to offer 5G services and beyond off of that tower. It is the only one in Hays that currently does not have those services, and we need to get it there," Sutter said.

Sutter said the new tower would provide dense 5G coverage for the Vine Street Dillons and the surrounding area.

A local resident asked if the 5G service would affect air traffic from the Hays Regional Airport.

Sutter said 5g signal is the same electronically as 4G or 3G signals. He said 5G has no effects on air traffic or on human health.

Richard Augustine, property owner, said he had no concerns about the safety of the tower. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641922627670.png" alt="Location of proposed Nex-Tech cell tower. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Location of proposed Nex-Tech cell tower. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday morning approved a special-use permit for the Nex-Tech to build a new cellphone tower at 1803 General Custer Road.The Board of Zoning Appeals also approved a variance for the height of the tower, which will be 120 feet.The location is on the south side of Heartland Gymnastics near Chetolah Creek. The allowable height is 65 feet, although Curtis Deines, planning, inspection and enforcement superintendent, said the city is considering changing that ordinance to allow for taller towers.The crumple zone for the tower is 63 feet, which means the fall zone would be short of the public street. However, the Heartland Gymnastics building is within that crumble zone.Deines said a private property owner is allowed to assume the risk of a tower potentially falling on or damaging properties on his or her own property. The tower would expand Nex-Tech Wireless' ability to offer 5G service. The tower would also have space for Nex-Tech to lease space to other providers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641922763879.png" alt="The cell tower would be built on property owned by Richard August of Heartland Gymnastics Academy, 1803 General Custer Road. Nex-Tech is leasing the property. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The cell tower would be built on property owned by Richard August of Heartland Gymnastics Academy, 1803 General Custer Road. Nex-Tech is leasing the property. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>Staff recommended approval of both the special-use permit for the tower as well as the height variance.An attorney representing SBA Communications, Luke VanFletern of Wichita, spoke against the special-use permit for the tower.Nex-Tech currently leases space from SBA for communications. SBA's tower is at 2000 Vine, which is about one-sixth of a mile from the site of the proposed tower. VanFletern argued another tower was not needed in such close proximity to another existing tower. Jesse Rohr, Hays director of public works, said the city regulations don't prohibit new towers being in proximity to existing towers. Nathan Sutter, director of Nex-Tech network operations and engineering, said the SBA's tower, which is near its maximum structural load limit, did not have enough load for Nex-Tech's new 5G equipment or for future growth. The new tower will also have space that can be leased to other providers."What this comes down to is that Nex-Tech would like to offer 5G services and beyond off of that tower. It is the only one in Hays that currently does not have those services, and we need to get it there," Sutter said.Sutter said the new tower would provide dense 5G coverage for the Vine Street Dillons and the surrounding area. A local resident asked if the 5G service would affect air traffic from the Hays Regional Airport.Sutter said 5g signal is the same electronically as 4G or 3G signals. He said 5G has no effects on air traffic or on human health.Richard Augustine, property owner, said he had no concerns about the safety of the tower.

Hays Board of Zoning Appeals approves Nex-Tech cell tower

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Following a two-year reconstruction of north Vine Street in Hays, 2022 will be the year for reconstruction of south Vine Street.&nbsp;

This project, however, is smaller and does not include traffic roundabouts.

In 2019, the city was awarded a $1 million grant from the Kansas Dept. of Transportation (KDOT)&nbsp;City Connecting Link Improvement&nbsp;Program (CCLIP) to help fund the cost to reconstruct the&nbsp;pavement on Vine south of 13th Street.

Kaw Valley Engineers was hired by the city in 2020 to design the project. KDOT let the project and&nbsp;opened bids on December 15, 2021.&nbsp;

Only one bid was received, from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina, for $3.5 million. It's the same company that was hired for the north Vine Street project and traffic roundabouts.&nbsp;The bid from Smoky Hill is less than what the city of Hays budgeted several years back. 

Because Vine Street is also U.S. Highway 183, KDOT will be administering the construction as required by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).

The city's cost share of approximately $2.8 million will&nbsp;be funded from city commission capital reserve.&nbsp;Commissioner Sandy Jacobs pointed out the city will pay cash.

"Because of staff, the way we manage our budget in the city of Hays, we're paying cash for another large project. I think that's really important for the citizens to understand," Jacobs said.&nbsp;

According to Collin Bielser, asst. city manager, paying cash instead of issuing bonds for large capital projects is unusual, and Hays is believed to the only city in Kansas to do so.&nbsp;

The work will begin at the south city limit, which includes the intersection of Vine Street and the US-183 bypass and proceeds north to approximately 350 feet south of the intersection of 13th and Vine, near McDonald's restaurant.

John Braun, Hays project manager, told city commissioners Thursday night that no businesses will lose traffic access to their establishments.

"They're going to reconstruct the center lanes first. So traffic will be on the outside lanes going north and south," Braun said. "Typical of other projects, left turns will be severely reduced if not eliminated. Side streets will be right in and right out. The businesses will be right in, right out."

Intersections will remain open, including 8th Street and the bypass.&nbsp;

The work will be done in several phases, and the public will be alerted to upcoming traffic changes as was done during the north Vine reconstruction.&nbsp;

The project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and gutter, sidewalk ramps, new pedestrian crossings at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and pavement markings.

Construction will begin sometime between March 14 and May 9 and be completed within 115 working days.

In other business, commissioners unanimously approved the final plat for Heart of America 3rd Addition&nbsp;to give more property for a proposed development in east Hays near Commerce Parkway.

A final plat of El Charro Addition,&nbsp;2010 and 2020 E. 8th Street, was also approved. It will allow the property&nbsp;to be divided into four separate lots. Located within the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of three miles outside the city limits, there are three apartment buildings and a convenience store on the site.&nbsp;

The January 10 meeting began with the swearing in by city clerk Brenda Kitchen of the three commissioners elected in November, incumbents Sandy Jacobs and Shaun Musil, as well as newcomer Reese Barrick.

The ceremony was followed by reorganization of the governing body. Mason Ruder was appointed the new mayor and Michael Berges was appointed vice-mayor.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639119698465.jpeg" alt="South Vine Street in Hays will be reconstructed this spring between the south city limit and just south of 13th Street. Pedestrian crossings and signals will be installed at 8th Street.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>South Vine Street in Hays will be reconstructed this spring between the south city limit and just south of 13th Street. Pedestrian crossings and signals will be installed at 8th Street.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostFollowing a two-year reconstruction of north Vine Street in Hays, 2022 will be the year for reconstruction of south Vine Street.&nbsp;This project, however, is smaller and does not include traffic roundabouts.In 2019, the city was awarded a $1 million grant from the Kansas Dept. of Transportation (KDOT)&nbsp;City Connecting Link Improvement&nbsp;Program (CCLIP) to help fund the cost to reconstruct the&nbsp;pavement on Vine south of 13th Street.Kaw Valley Engineers was hired by the city in 2020 to design the project. KDOT let the project and&nbsp;opened bids on December 15, 2021.&nbsp;Only one bid was received, from Smoky Hill Construction, Salina, for $3.5 million. It's the same company that was hired for the north Vine Street project and traffic roundabouts.&nbsp;The bid from Smoky Hill is less than what the city of Hays budgeted several years back. Because Vine Street is also U.S. Highway 183, KDOT will be administering the construction as required by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641522782072.png" alt="Expected costs of South Vine Reconstruction Project" />
 <figcaption>Expected costs of South Vine Reconstruction Project</figcaption>
 </figure>The city's cost share of approximately $2.8 million will&nbsp;be funded from city commission capital reserve.&nbsp;Commissioner Sandy Jacobs pointed out the city will pay cash."Because of staff, the way we manage our budget in the city of Hays, we're paying cash for another large project. I think that's really important for the citizens to understand," Jacobs said.&nbsp;According to Collin Bielser, asst. city manager, paying cash instead of issuing bonds for large capital projects is unusual, and Hays is believed to the only city in Kansas to do so.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D66mNF1vYQ4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The work will begin at the south city limit, which includes the intersection of Vine Street and the US-183 bypass and proceeds north to approximately 350 feet south of the intersection of 13th and Vine, near McDonald's restaurant.John Braun, Hays project manager, told city commissioners Thursday night that no businesses will lose traffic access to their establishments."They're going to reconstruct the center lanes first. So traffic will be on the outside lanes going north and south," Braun said. "Typical of other projects, left turns will be severely reduced if not eliminated. Side streets will be right in and right out. The businesses will be right in, right out."Intersections will remain open, including 8th Street and the bypass.&nbsp;The work will be done in several phases, and the public will be alerted to upcoming traffic changes as was done during the north Vine reconstruction.&nbsp;The project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and gutter, sidewalk ramps, new pedestrian crossings at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and pavement markings.Construction will begin sometime between March 14 and May 9 and be completed within 115 working days.In other business, commissioners unanimously approved the final plat for Heart of America 3rd Addition&nbsp;to give more property for a proposed development in east Hays near Commerce Parkway.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641986303287.png" alt="Heart of America 3rd Addition" />
 <figcaption>Heart of America 3rd Addition</figcaption>
 </figure>A final plat of El Charro Addition,&nbsp;2010 and 2020 E. 8th Street, was also approved. It will allow the property&nbsp;to be divided into four separate lots. Located within the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of three miles outside the city limits, there are three apartment buildings and a convenience store on the site.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641986533969.png" alt="Final plat of El Charro Addition creating four separate lots. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Final plat of El Charro Addition creating four separate lots. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>The January 10 meeting began with the swearing in by city clerk Brenda Kitchen of the three commissioners elected in November, incumbents Sandy Jacobs and Shaun Musil, as well as newcomer Reese Barrick.The ceremony was followed by reorganization of the governing body. Mason Ruder was appointed the new mayor and Michael Berges was appointed vice-mayor.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641987126549.jpeg" alt="Newly appointed Hays Mayor Mason Ruder signs paperwork Thursday night after the city commission meeting with his three-year-old daughter Ryleigh alongside.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Newly appointed Hays Mayor Mason Ruder signs paperwork Thursday night after the city commission meeting with his three-year-old daughter Ryleigh alongside.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 $3.5M reconstruction of south Vine Street to begin this spring; no roundabouts

K-State Research and Extension will host the 19th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on January 18 and 19. The conference will take place in the traditional in-person format in Oberlin, Kansas.

Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region.

The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature university specialists and industry representative discussing the following topics:

The same programs will be offered both days of the conference (program schedule posted below). Registration will begin at 7:45 a.m. with educational sessions ending at 5:00 p.m. The sessions are followed by a social on Tuesday evening where attendees can visit with industry representatives and conference speakers while enjoying heavy hor d’oeurves.

Online registration is due by January 11. The fee is $60 for Tuesday, January 18th, $55 for Wednesday, January 19th, or $80 for both days. The registration fee for walk-ins on each day of the conference is $80. The conference fee includes lunch, morning and afternoon refreshments, and educational materials. The program offers a total of 10 continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Crop Advisors and 3 CEUs for Commercial Applicators.

To view the conference details, lodging accommodations, and online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>.&nbsp; For questions, call 785-462-6281.

Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include AKRS Equipment Solutions, Hoxie Implement, Lang Diesel, Nutrien Ag Solutions, SureFire Ag Systems and K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617107995572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionK-State Research and Extension will host the 19th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on January 18 and 19. The conference will take place in the traditional in-person format in Oberlin, Kansas.Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the Central High Plains region.The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature university specialists and industry representative discussing the following topics:<ul>
 <li>Changing Strategies in Insect Management 
Anthony Zukoff - KSU</li><li>Current Financial Status of NW Kansas Farms 
Jordan Steele and Mark Wood - KFMA</li><li>Economics of Soil Fertility and Testing 
Lucas Haag - KSU</li><li>High Plains Weather 
Jeff Hutton - NWS</li><li>Managing Hayed and Grazed Forages for Profit 
John Holman - KSU</li><li>Rolling with the Punches in Weed Management 
Sarah Lancaster - KSU</li><li>Soil Carbon: What You Need to Know 
Peter Tomlinson - KSU</li><li>Soil Health Strategies in Dryland 
Dale Younker and Matalyn Stark - NRCS</li><li>Taking Weed Control to the Next Level 
Cody Creech – UNL</li><li>Which Corners Can I Cut: Maximizing Fertilizer Value 
Dorivar Ruiz Diaz - KSU</li><li>Panel Discussion: Successes and Failures in Herbicide Efficacy 
&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The same programs will be offered both days of the conference (program schedule posted below). Registration will begin at 7:45 a.m. with educational sessions ending at 5:00 p.m. The sessions are followed by a social on Tuesday evening where attendees can visit with industry representatives and conference speakers while enjoying heavy hor d’oeurves.Online registration is due by January 11. The fee is $60 for Tuesday, January 18th, $55 for Wednesday, January 19th, or $80 for both days. The registration fee for walk-ins on each day of the conference is $80. The conference fee includes lunch, morning and afternoon refreshments, and educational materials. The program offers a total of 10 continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Crop Advisors and 3 CEUs for Commercial Applicators.To view the conference details, lodging accommodations, and online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>.&nbsp; For questions, call 785-462-6281.Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include AKRS Equipment Solutions, Hoxie Implement, Lang Diesel, Nutrien Ag Solutions, SureFire Ag Systems and K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

Cover Your Acres Winter Conference to be in person this month

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Violation of
Restraining Order/PFA--200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 1/4 9:40 PM; 1/6 7 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—Hays; 7:54 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--3500 block Willow St, Hays; 12:23 PM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 3:25 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--500 block W 33rd St, Hays; 3:32 PM 
Unwanted Person—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 5:16 PM 
Dead Animal Call—2700 block Oak St, Hays; 5:37 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 6:13 PM 
Welfare Check—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 6:37 PM; 7:13 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 7:49 PM; 8:03 PM Pursuit/Chase--
1000 block E 37th St, Hays; 9:54 PM; 11:30 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suicidal
Subject—1700 block Douglas Dr, Hays; 8:49 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:50 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1200 block Main St, Hays; 10:55 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Main St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Welfare Check—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:33 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2900 block Ash St, Hays; 12 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2800 block Vine St, Hays; 5:15 PM 
Animal Injured—2400 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 5:38 PM 
False/Altered ID—1000 block Elm St, Hays; 7:19 PM 
Suspicious Activity--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 9:51 PM 
Welfare Check—3800 block Vine St, Hays; 10:42 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 12:38 AM; 12:40 AM 
Mental Health Call—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 3:20 AM; 3:24 AM 
Custody Dispute—2900 block Willow St, Hays; 10:08 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Blackmail/Extortion—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Identity Theft—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 4:24 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 4:32 PM 
Animal At Large--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 5:53 PM 
Overdose—1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 9:05 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug
Offenses--3200 block Vine St, Hays; 12:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—Hays; 1:27 AM 
Burglary/vehicle--800 block Ash St, Hays; 2:26 AM 
Welfare Check—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 6:09 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:24 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Main St, Hays; 11:12 PM; 11:15 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Violation of
Restraining Order/PFA--200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 1/4 9:40 PM; 1/6 7 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—Hays; 7:54 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--3500 block Willow St, Hays; 12:23 PM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 13th St, Hays; 3:25 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--500 block W 33rd St, Hays; 3:32 PM 
Unwanted Person—2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 5:16 PM 
Dead Animal Call—2700 block Oak St, Hays; 5:37 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 6:13 PM 
Welfare Check—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 6:37 PM; 7:13 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 7:49 PM; 8:03 PM Pursuit/Chase--
1000 block E 37th St, Hays; 9:54 PM; 11:30 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 16 traffic stops Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suicidal
Subject—1700 block Douglas Dr, Hays; 8:49 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:50 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—1200 block Main St, Hays; 10:55 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Main St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Welfare Check—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:33 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2900 block Ash St, Hays; 12 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2800 block Vine St, Hays; 5:15 PM 
Animal Injured—2400 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 5:38 PM 
False/Altered ID—1000 block Elm St, Hays; 7:19 PM 
Suspicious Activity--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 7:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property—2100 block Vine St, Hays; 9:51 PM 
Welfare Check—3800 block Vine St, Hays; 10:42 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 19 traffic stops Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 12:38 AM; 12:40 AM 
Mental Health Call—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 3:20 AM; 3:24 AM 
Custody Dispute—2900 block Willow St, Hays; 10:08 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Blackmail/Extortion—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 3:59 PM 
Identity Theft—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 4:24 PM 
Harassment (All Other)—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 4:32 PM 
Animal At Large--2300 block E 13th St, Hays; 5:53 PM 
Overdose—1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 9:05 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug
Offenses--3200 block Vine St, Hays; 12:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—Hays; 1:27 AM 
Burglary/vehicle--800 block Ash St, Hays; 2:26 AM 
Welfare Check—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 6:09 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property—200 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2200 block E 15th St, Hays; 4:24 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1000 block Main St, Hays; 11:12 PM; 11:15 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Report, Jan. 6-9

LENORA — Nex-Tech announced today that it has been featured on the popular “World’s Greatest!...” television series. The episode highlighting Nex-Tech as a leader in the telecommunications industry aired on Jan. 8.

Nex-Tech was selected by How2Media to be featured on the 15th&nbsp;season of the television series that highlights the world’s premier companies, products, destinations, and more. Throughout each thirty-minute episode, viewers can experience the exciting inner-workings of leading companies in a variety of industries.&nbsp;

In featuring Nex-Tech in its 313th&nbsp;episode, How2Media recognizes the company as an innovator in rural broadband Internet service. How2Media crews spent time filming at Nex-Tech’s facilities in northwest Kansas to produce an episode showcasing the company’s investment in providing cutting-edge technological solutions to rural communities. Viewers will have the opportunity to experience first-hand how Nex-Tech connects thousands of people and businesses with the latest in broadband technology and the highest level of service.&nbsp;

“We think their story will be meaningful as well as educational to our viewers” said Kyle Freeman, executive producer of the show.

The episode featuring Nex-Tech provides an experience that is meaningful for the company as well.

“It is a great honor for Nex-Tech to be featured on the ‘World’s Greatest! ...’. As we pioneer broadband solutions in rural communities, we are excited to educate viewers about the technology, employees, and services that position Nex-Tech as a leader in the telecommunications industry,” said Nex-Tech Director of Customer Engagement Dustin Schlaefli. “We appreciate How2Media and their dedication to capturing the Nex-Tech’s commitment to providing customers with the most advanced technological solutions.”

The episode aired on Bloomberg TV on Jan. 8. The recording can now be accessed for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.nex-tech.com/e3t/Btc/ZO+113/c2T0b04/VWdKyv9k20N8W3KJy9r3DhKJ6VLsY3L4D79qsN3Z5r9m3q3npV1-WJV7CgB3MW25PlGN5j-17YW4hWbCn7Qbz7sW5cSc4l7TNMjHW5n8Gs47l43LbW3xQn_Y1VtmJTN5nQPjFB693vW40rwQD9gMy96N7vxG7gKyKlPW5yf91b4LkJHXVPLySL7vp94VW3L8tfT5vRVfLW5tgKly1VZwKtW3T8w7644Y4yrVh-FLr3XNLY4W6LVT-P8T9kN3W8Y0Jxp7yM3RGW2Bgdh02H4RDPW5P3k3G1tzqFNW7dQH941gr2PgW7JSXMc1rmxbKW4_T5Hb5m7MRNW4SzHs99dzbcW370x1" target="_blank">www.nex-tech.com/worlds-greatest</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601562391147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLENORA — Nex-Tech announced today that it has been featured on the popular “World’s Greatest!...” television series. The episode highlighting Nex-Tech as a leader in the telecommunications industry aired on Jan. 8.Nex-Tech was selected by How2Media to be featured on the 15th&nbsp;season of the television series that highlights the world’s premier companies, products, destinations, and more. Throughout each thirty-minute episode, viewers can experience the exciting inner-workings of leading companies in a variety of industries.&nbsp;In featuring Nex-Tech in its 313th&nbsp;episode, How2Media recognizes the company as an innovator in rural broadband Internet service. How2Media crews spent time filming at Nex-Tech’s facilities in northwest Kansas to produce an episode showcasing the company’s investment in providing cutting-edge technological solutions to rural communities. Viewers will have the opportunity to experience first-hand how Nex-Tech connects thousands of people and businesses with the latest in broadband technology and the highest level of service.&nbsp;“We think their story will be meaningful as well as educational to our viewers” said Kyle Freeman, executive producer of the show.The episode featuring Nex-Tech provides an experience that is meaningful for the company as well.“It is a great honor for Nex-Tech to be featured on the ‘World’s Greatest! ...’. As we pioneer broadband solutions in rural communities, we are excited to educate viewers about the technology, employees, and services that position Nex-Tech as a leader in the telecommunications industry,” said Nex-Tech Director of Customer Engagement Dustin Schlaefli. “We appreciate How2Media and their dedication to capturing the Nex-Tech’s commitment to providing customers with the most advanced technological solutions.”The episode aired on Bloomberg TV on Jan. 8. The recording can now be accessed for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.nex-tech.com/e3t/Btc/ZO+113/c2T0b04/VWdKyv9k20N8W3KJy9r3DhKJ6VLsY3L4D79qsN3Z5r9m3q3npV1-WJV7CgB3MW25PlGN5j-17YW4hWbCn7Qbz7sW5cSc4l7TNMjHW5n8Gs47l43LbW3xQn_Y1VtmJTN5nQPjFB693vW40rwQD9gMy96N7vxG7gKyKlPW5yf91b4LkJHXVPLySL7vp94VW3L8tfT5vRVfLW5tgKly1VZwKtW3T8w7644Y4yrVh-FLr3XNLY4W6LVT-P8T9kN3W8Y0Jxp7yM3RGW2Bgdh02H4RDPW5P3k3G1tzqFNW7dQH941gr2PgW7JSXMc1rmxbKW4_T5Hb5m7MRNW4SzHs99dzbcW370x1" target="_blank">www.nex-tech.com/worlds-greatest</a>.

Nex-Tech featured on popular “World’s Greatest! ...” TV series

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau All that’s left of the original home at the ranch is a foundation underneath an apple tree. Eventually, after years of sitting vacant, it was deemed unsafe and summarily demolished. I never got to see the inside, but I remember badly wanting to walk through the door and explore the rooms my great grandparents had inhabited at one time. I haven’t given the place much thought in the last 30 years, but it’s been on my mind lately as I sorted through the recently released Kansas Statewide Housing Needs Assessment, which is projected to be the first step in identifying how to address the needs and priorities for housing across the state. While at one time that farmhouse at the ranch was a home, if it were still standing the number of people who would consider living there is vanishingly small. I know at some point it was retrofitted with running water and had electric service, but it also had a coal furnace, little insulation and none of the modern-day luxuries we take for granted. If it were still standing, the house would be closer to a shelter than a home. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons it sat vacant for so long. It was outdated by the standards of the 1970s, and it would have been cost prohibitive to modernize it then. This scenario has played out across the state, especially in rural areas for the past century. Individually, it doesn’t appear like a big deal. Collectively, however, the decaying housing stock has become a limiting factor in the state’s future. One line in the report’s opening section stands out, “A lack of quality, affordable housing is widely recognized as one of the state’s biggest barriers to growth and development, particularly in rural and underserved communities.” I agree with this wholeheartedly, even though “affordable” causes some queasiness. Far too often the decision to expand a business or take a job in rural America aren’t solely decided by the dollars and cents of those individual decisions. Rather it comes down to secondary factors like an available workforce or desirable housing options, with the latter often limiting the former. The report also found that Kansas comes up short for housing across the income spectrum. Simply put, there’s a lack of housing at every price point, every size and every shape. The challenge isn’t simply building new dwellings, it’s figuring out how to create homes attractive to working families who can unlock the potential awaiting discovery across Kansas. While Johnson City will never resemble anything close to Johnson County, writing it off as just another casualty of modern life isn’t acceptable. I must confess I don’t have the solution for this problem, mainly because while the problem is singular and widespread, the options for fixing it is as diverse as it is local. The solution for Colby is likely far different than what will work for Colwich. Assessing the problem is the easy part. Finding the correct mix of public and private partnerships isn’t going to be easy. But it’s the best way to build to a better future.

"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/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau All that’s left of the original home at the ranch is a foundation underneath an apple tree. Eventually, after years of sitting vacant, it was deemed unsafe and summarily demolished. I never got to see the inside, but I remember badly wanting to walk through the door and explore the rooms my great grandparents had inhabited at one time. I haven’t given the place much thought in the last 30 years, but it’s been on my mind lately as I sorted through the recently released Kansas Statewide Housing Needs Assessment, which is projected to be the first step in identifying how to address the needs and priorities for housing across the state. While at one time that farmhouse at the ranch was a home, if it were still standing the number of people who would consider living there is vanishingly small. I know at some point it was retrofitted with running water and had electric service, but it also had a coal furnace, little insulation and none of the modern-day luxuries we take for granted. If it were still standing, the house would be closer to a shelter than a home. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons it sat vacant for so long. It was outdated by the standards of the 1970s, and it would have been cost prohibitive to modernize it then. This scenario has played out across the state, especially in rural areas for the past century. Individually, it doesn’t appear like a big deal. Collectively, however, the decaying housing stock has become a limiting factor in the state’s future. One line in the report’s opening section stands out, “A lack of quality, affordable housing is widely recognized as one of the state’s biggest barriers to growth and development, particularly in rural and underserved communities.” I agree with this wholeheartedly, even though “affordable” causes some queasiness. Far too often the decision to expand a business or take a job in rural America aren’t solely decided by the dollars and cents of those individual decisions. Rather it comes down to secondary factors like an available workforce or desirable housing options, with the latter often limiting the former. The report also found that Kansas comes up short for housing across the income spectrum. Simply put, there’s a lack of housing at every price point, every size and every shape. The challenge isn’t simply building new dwellings, it’s figuring out how to create homes attractive to working families who can unlock the potential awaiting discovery across Kansas. While Johnson City will never resemble anything close to Johnson County, writing it off as just another casualty of modern life isn’t acceptable. I must confess I don’t have the solution for this problem, mainly because while the problem is singular and widespread, the options for fixing it is as diverse as it is local. The solution for Colby is likely far different than what will work for Colwich. Assessing the problem is the easy part. Finding the correct mix of public and private partnerships isn’t going to be easy. But it’s the best way to build to a better future."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: Building for the future

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641938108797.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

We are looking for CDL Drivers (A or with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.&nbsp;

Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out of state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles &amp; equipment is also involved. 24/7 on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.

Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays, Kansas. If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641328630646.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We are looking for CDL Drivers (A or with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.&nbsp;Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out of state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles &amp; equipment is also involved. 24/7 on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays, Kansas. If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601.

🏀 FHSU women basketball now second in coaches poll

NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Norton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Ford pickup driven by Paul Anderson, 71, Edmond, was westbound on Kansas 9 three miles west of the U.S. 283 junction.

The pickup left the roadway to the north and the driver overcorrected. The pickup crossed the center line, rolled and the driver was ejected. The pickup came to rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported Anderson to the hospital in Norton. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Norton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Ford pickup driven by Paul Anderson, 71, Edmond, was westbound on Kansas 9 three miles west of the U.S. 283 junction.The pickup left the roadway to the north and the driver overcorrected. The pickup crossed the center line, rolled and the driver was ejected. The pickup came to rest in the south ditch.EMS transported Anderson to the hospital in Norton. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after ejected when pickup rolls

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Via Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Building on a 35-year career in public education, Tricia Reiser has 
been promoted to assistant superintendent for USD 428 Great Bend Public 
Schools. The announcement was made at the USD 428 Board of Education 
meeting on Monday, Jan. 10.

Beginning her career as a classroom 
teacher in multiple school districts across the state, Reiser moved 
“home” to Great Bend in 2005 to serve as Principal of Eisenhower 
Elementary for 11 years. In 2016, Reiser’s focus shifted to district 
leadership as Federal Programs Director, then as Director of Teaching 
and Learning.

“I’ve made equity in education my life’s mission,” 
said Reiser. “Together as a district we’ve made great progress in our 
systematic approach to addressing the needs of all students.”

As 
assistant superintendent, Reiser will continue to oversee district 
curriculum, Federal and State Title programs, district multicultural 
program, professional development opportunities for teachers, 
social-emotional learning, Parents as Teachers, and the Parent Teacher 
Resource Center.

“Mrs. Reiser is a driving force in our pursuit of
 academic excellence in Great Bend Schools,” said Khris Thexton, 
superintendent. “This promotion was earned with decades of dedicated 
service to our district; she is a leader and advocate who works 
tirelessly for students and teachers.”

Adding to her credentials, 
Reiser earned her Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Fort Hays State 
University in 2020, she also has a master’s degree in School Leadership 
from Baker University and bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from
 Kansas State University.

As a graduate of Great Bend High School,
 Reiser commented, “I’m a Great Bend Panther through and through, and 
both excited and proud to continue to serve our students, teachers, and 
community.”

You can learn more about Tricia Reiser and the USD 428 Administration Team by visiting GreatBendSchools.net. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641925951333.jpeg" alt="Tricia Reiser" />
 <figcaption>Tricia Reiser</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Via Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Building on a 35-year career in public education, Tricia Reiser has 
been promoted to assistant superintendent for USD 428 Great Bend Public 
Schools. The announcement was made at the USD 428 Board of Education 
meeting on Monday, Jan. 10.Beginning her career as a classroom 
teacher in multiple school districts across the state, Reiser moved 
“home” to Great Bend in 2005 to serve as Principal of Eisenhower 
Elementary for 11 years. In 2016, Reiser’s focus shifted to district 
leadership as Federal Programs Director, then as Director of Teaching 
and Learning.“I’ve made equity in education my life’s mission,” 
said Reiser. “Together as a district we’ve made great progress in our 
systematic approach to addressing the needs of all students.”As 
assistant superintendent, Reiser will continue to oversee district 
curriculum, Federal and State Title programs, district multicultural 
program, professional development opportunities for teachers, 
social-emotional learning, Parents as Teachers, and the Parent Teacher 
Resource Center.“Mrs. Reiser is a driving force in our pursuit of
 academic excellence in Great Bend Schools,” said Khris Thexton, 
superintendent. “This promotion was earned with decades of dedicated 
service to our district; she is a leader and advocate who works 
tirelessly for students and teachers.”Adding to her credentials, 
Reiser earned her Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Fort Hays State 
University in 2020, she also has a master’s degree in School Leadership 
from Baker University and bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from
 Kansas State University.As a graduate of Great Bend High School,
 Reiser commented, “I’m a Great Bend Panther through and through, and 
both excited and proud to continue to serve our students, teachers, and 
community.”You can learn more about Tricia Reiser and the USD 428 Administration Team by visiting GreatBendSchools.net.

FHSU alum named assistant superintendent in Great Bend

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

After 12 years Ellis County Commissioner, Dean Haselhorst
announced his resignation at Monday’s commission meeting.

In a prepared statement Monday, Haselhorst said after
purchasing a home built by North Central Kansas Technical College, he relocated it near the family farm in Russell County with the intention of
moving when he was done serving as a Ellis County commissioner.

Haselhorst said Monday their home in Hays sold quicker than
they had anticipated, and they moved into the new home in Russell County in time
for Christmas. Haselhorst was ill and not able to attend the first meeting in
January.

In his statement, Haselhorst thanked current commissioners
Butch Schlyer and Neal Younger.

“Butch, I always admired your ability to get to the point as
health director. We didn’t always see eye to eye, but we always worked it out.
As chair, you run a great meeting and are always willing to listen. Neil, I admire
your dedication and hard work. You are always willing to get the job done and
see that project to the end.”

Haselhorst served three years on the county planning
and zoning commission before he was named to the commission by then-Gov.
Mark Parkinson.

He also thanked past commissioners, department heads, other
elected officials and community leaders.

He added that he is looking forward to the completion of
current projects.

“Always remember you represent the whole county. I’m not
going far, and only a phone call away. I will always be glad to assist anyway I
can,” Haselhorst said.

The Ellis County Republican Party has 21 days to pick a
replacement. They will work with precinct members in the Third District to
elect someone to fill out the remainder of this year on the commission.

The position will then be on the November general election
ballot for a two-year term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641917691249.jpeg" alt="Dean Haselhorst" />
 <figcaption>Dean Haselhorst</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostAfter 12 years Ellis County Commissioner, Dean Haselhorst
announced his resignation at Monday’s commission meeting.In a prepared statement Monday, Haselhorst said after
purchasing a home built by North Central Kansas Technical College, he relocated it near the family farm in Russell County with the intention of
moving when he was done serving as a Ellis County commissioner.Haselhorst said Monday their home in Hays sold quicker than
they had anticipated, and they moved into the new home in Russell County in time
for Christmas. Haselhorst was ill and not able to attend the first meeting in
January.In his statement, Haselhorst thanked current commissioners
Butch Schlyer and Neal Younger.“Butch, I always admired your ability to get to the point as
health director. We didn’t always see eye to eye, but we always worked it out.
As chair, you run a great meeting and are always willing to listen. Neil, I admire
your dedication and hard work. You are always willing to get the job done and
see that project to the end.”Haselhorst served three years on the county planning
and zoning commission before he was named to the commission by then-Gov.
Mark Parkinson.He also thanked past commissioners, department heads, other
elected officials and community leaders.He added that he is looking forward to the completion of
current projects.“Always remember you represent the whole county. I’m not
going far, and only a phone call away. I will always be glad to assist anyway I
can,” Haselhorst said.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3xQOvn2PUs4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Ellis County Republican Party has 21 days to pick a
replacement. They will work with precinct members in the Third District to
elect someone to fill out the remainder of this year on the commission.The position will then be on the November general election
ballot for a two-year term.

Haselhorst steps down from Ellis County Commission

A special use/exception request by Nex-Tech Wireless for a new cell tower at 1803 General Custer Road, and to also increase its allowable height, are the subjects of public hearings tomorrow morning by the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals.

The location is on the south side of Heartland Gymnastics, 1803 General Custer Road, and near Chetolah Creek. It's zoned as a commercial general district, according to information from Curtis Deines, planning, inspection and enforcement superintendent.

Nex-Tech wants to increase the proposed new tower allowable height from 65 feet to 120 feet.

The tower would expand Nex-Tech Wireless service to 5G and allow for future planning.

Nex-Tech Wireless currently operates six cell sites within the city of Hays.&nbsp;

Along with 5G capabilities, the new build would add additional capacity and provide improved in-building coverage in surrounding areas.&nbsp;Future growth of Nex-Tech Wireless would be supported as technologies advance and require more radio equipment.

The applicant has met the compatibility standards for the special use request as required by the Unified Development Code. City staff feels that the&nbsp;request is reasonable and will not have a detrimental effect on the surrounding&nbsp;properties.

Other items on the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01122022-1319">January 12 agenda</a> include a request for a public hearing by Justin MacDonald for a variance to allow a six-foot fence in his front yard at 1303 Tallgrass Drive.

Another public hearing request will be made for a variance to construct a detached garage at&nbsp;3000 Northridge&nbsp;Court.

The meeting begins at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641922627670.png" alt="Location of proposed new cell tower by Nex-Tech Wireless (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Location of proposed new cell tower by Nex-Tech Wireless (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA special use/exception request by Nex-Tech Wireless for a new cell tower at 1803 General Custer Road, and to also increase its allowable height, are the subjects of public hearings tomorrow morning by the Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals.The location is on the south side of Heartland Gymnastics, 1803 General Custer Road, and near Chetolah Creek. It's zoned as a commercial general district, according to information from Curtis Deines, planning, inspection and enforcement superintendent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641923868864.png" alt="The proposed location of the new cell tower is located in C-2 Commercial General District. (City of Hays)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The proposed location of the new cell tower is located in C-2 Commercial General District. (City of Hays)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641922763879.png" alt="The cell tower would be built on property owned by Richard August of Heartland Gymnastics Academy, 1803 General Custer Road.&nbsp; Nex-Tech is leasing the property. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The cell tower would be built on property owned by Richard August of Heartland Gymnastics Academy, 1803 General Custer Road.&nbsp; Nex-Tech is leasing the property. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nex-Tech wants to increase the proposed new tower allowable height from 65 feet to 120 feet.The tower would expand Nex-Tech Wireless service to 5G and allow for future planning.Nex-Tech Wireless currently operates six cell sites within the city of Hays.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641923448461.png" alt="Nex-Tech Wireless currently operates six cell tower sites in Hays.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nex-Tech Wireless currently operates six cell tower sites in Hays.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Along with 5G capabilities, the new build would add additional capacity and provide improved in-building coverage in surrounding areas.&nbsp;Future growth of Nex-Tech Wireless would be supported as technologies advance and require more radio equipment.The applicant has met the compatibility standards for the special use request as required by the Unified Development Code. City staff feels that the&nbsp;request is reasonable and will not have a detrimental effect on the surrounding&nbsp;properties.Other items on the <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01122022-1319">January 12 agenda</a> include a request for a public hearing by Justin MacDonald for a variance to allow a six-foot fence in his front yard at 1303 Tallgrass Drive.Another public hearing request will be made for a variance to construct a detached garage at&nbsp;3000 Northridge&nbsp;Court.The meeting begins at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

New, taller cell tower request to undergo public hearings Wednesday

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The Hays USD 489 school district has changed its COVID policy to better reflect the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.

The most significant change is reducing isolation from 10 to five days if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19.

The district is also increasing the number of individuals from 35 to 50 in the district testing positive that would trigger a district-wide mask mandate. Fifty students equals about 1.5 percent of the student population.

The changes were made based upon recommendations from the Ellis County Health Department.

"We are definitely not trying to be more restrictive. We are trying to be less restrictive," Superintendent Ron Wilson told the Hays school board at a work session on Monday. 

Although cases are on the rise in Ellis County, Wilson said the district is not seeing spread within schools. Eighty-nine new COVID cases were reported in Ellis County between Friday and Monday.

The schools continue to contact trace. Wilson said the district will continue to monitor the situation and revisit the policy if necessary.

"COVID has been hard on kids and hard on staff," Wilson said. "We're trying to figure out how to be practical and still how to be responsible and keep everybody safe. It's a balancing act."

New USD 489 guidelines based on the new CDC guidelines

If you test positive for COVID-19 (regardless of vaccination status): 	•	Stay home for five days. 	•	If you have no symptoms or your symptoms are resolving after five days, you can leave your house. 	•	Must be fever free for 72 hours without fever reducing medication. •&nbsp; Controlled cough (the school does not provide cough drops)	 •	Must continue to wear a mask around others (this includes school) for five additional days. 	•	Check in with nurse daily.

If you were exposed to someone by a household contact and are unvaccinated and have not had COVID within this school year: 	•	Quarantine five days. 	•	Can test on day five. If no symptoms on day five and negative test, can return to school with mask. 	•	Daily check in with nurse 	•	If you develop symptoms, stay home and get tested.

If you were exposed to someone by a school contact and are unvaccinated and have not had COVID within this school year: 	•	Wear a mask around others for 10 days from last contact. 	•	Can test on day five. If no symptoms on day five and negative test, can stop wearing a mask. 	•	Daily check in with nurse 	•	If you develop symptoms, stay home and get tested.

**Those who have had COVID this school year (with a known positive test) will not need to quarantine unless symptomatic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641847333472.jpeg" alt="The USD 489 Hays school board Monday at its work session. " />
 <figcaption>The USD 489 Hays school board Monday at its work session. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school district has changed its COVID policy to better reflect the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.The most significant change is reducing isolation from 10 to five days if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19.The district is also increasing the number of individuals from 35 to 50 in the district testing positive that would trigger a district-wide mask mandate. Fifty students equals about 1.5 percent of the student population.The changes were made based upon recommendations from the Ellis County Health Department. "We are definitely not trying to be more restrictive. We are trying to be less restrictive," Superintendent Ron Wilson told the Hays school board at a work session on Monday. Although cases are on the rise in Ellis County, Wilson said the district is not seeing spread within schools. Eighty-nine new COVID cases were reported in Ellis County between Friday and Monday. The schools continue to contact trace. Wilson said the district will continue to monitor the situation and revisit the policy if necessary. "COVID has been hard on kids and hard on staff," Wilson said. "We're trying to figure out how to be practical and still how to be responsible and keep everybody safe. It's a balancing act." <h2>New USD 489 guidelines based on the new CDC guidelines</h2>If you test positive for COVID-19 (regardless of vaccination status): 	•	Stay home for five days. 	•	If you have no symptoms or your symptoms are resolving after five days, you can leave your house. 	•	Must be fever free for 72 hours without fever reducing medication. •&nbsp; Controlled cough (the school does not provide cough drops)	 •	Must continue to wear a mask around others (this includes school) for five additional days. 	•	Check in with nurse daily.If you were exposed to someone by a household contact and are unvaccinated and have not had COVID within this school year: 	•	Quarantine five days. 	•	Can test on day five. If no symptoms on day five and negative test, can return to school with mask. 	•	Daily check in with nurse 	•	If you develop symptoms, stay home and get tested. If you were exposed to someone by a school contact and are unvaccinated and have not had COVID within this school year: 	•	Wear a mask around others for 10 days from last contact. 	•	Can test on day five. If no symptoms on day five and negative test, can stop wearing a mask. 	•	Daily check in with nurse 	•	If you develop symptoms, stay home and get tested. **Those who have had COVID this school year (with a known positive test) will not need to quarantine unless symptomatic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641845677491.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641845829231.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641845955388.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641846071489.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays USD 489 changes COVID policy to reflect CDC guidelines

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 132 new intent-to-drill notices on file last month across the state, bringing the year-end total to 1,292. That's more than double the 560 filed last year, but still well short of prior years. The KCC reports four new intents in Barton County, one in Ellis County and three in Russell County. County totals for the year also show growth over 2020. Barton County added 37 new notices last year, compared to just 16 the year before. Ellis County was up from 16 in 2020 to 29 last year. Russell County was up from six to 18 new intent notices, and Stafford County notched 28, compared to just 12 the year before. The Rig Count in Kansas for the first week of the new year was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is unchanged from last week, and 25 west of Wichita, which is down one. Drilling was underway on one well in Russell County, they're about to spud two more in Barton County, and drilling was expected to resume on one lease in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reported 586 active drilling rigs nationwide at the end of the year. The totals are unchanged but state counts show Texas was down two while New Mexico and Oklahoma were each up one. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 19 completed wells last week, eleven in eastern Kansas and eight west of Wichita, including one new completions in Barton County. There are 23 new drilling permits across Kansas, with 14 east of Wichita and nine in Western Kansas, with one in Barton County. The government said crude-oil production in the US for the week through December 31st was down from the week before by about about 90,000 barrels per day to just under 11.8 million barrels per day. Output is up more than 700,000 barrels per day over last year at this time. The Energy Information Administration says US crude-oil inventories last week dropped to 417.9 million barrels on December 31st, down 2.1 million barrels from the week before. Stockpiles are about 8% below the five year average. EIA said gasoline inventories increased by ten million barrels, but are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. Imports were down 900,000 barrels to nearly six million barrels per day. The four week average for imports is up 17% over the same four weeks last year. Gasoline prices rose slightly over the holidays. Triple-A says the national average pump price for a gallon of regular is just over three twenty-nine a gallon. That's up a penny a gallon from a week ago, but nearly seven cents lower than a month ago. The average in Kansas held steady at two ninety-six per gallon. It's going for two ninety-four across Great Bend. We spotted anywhere from two eighty-one to two eighty-nine in Hays. The cost of a 15-gallon fill-up is down about a dollar on the week. Oil-by-rail traffic was up from the week before but down from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reported 9,006 tanker cars hauling petroleum for the week through January first, up 301 cars from the week before but down 12.2% from a year earlier. Canadian traffic was down 2,000 carloads from a week ago, and down more than 16% from a year ago. AAR says monthly US oil-by-rail tallies were down ten percent in December compared to a year ago. Total rail traffic was down about three percent for the month. Having called "a dirge for the merger," the pipeline company must "...pay the piper." That colorful turn of phrase from a judge in Delaware finalized a very expensive ruling for oil pipeline giant Energy Transfer LP. The company must pay $410 million for scuttling a $33 billion merger with rival Williams Companies over a tax flaw in the deal. According to reporting from Bloomberg last week, Energy Transfer is required to pay what's called a break-up fee under the terms of the merger agreement. The 95-page ruling from Delaware Chancery Court Judge Sam Glasscock III ends a more than five-year dispute over the deal.

By JOHN P. TRETBARThe Kansas Corporation Commission reports 132 new intent-to-drill notices on file last month across the state, bringing the year-end total to 1,292. That's more than double the 560 filed last year, but still well short of prior years. The KCC reports four new intents in Barton County, one in Ellis County and three in Russell County. County totals for the year also show growth over 2020. Barton County added 37 new notices last year, compared to just 16 the year before. Ellis County was up from 16 in 2020 to 29 last year. Russell County was up from six to 18 new intent notices, and Stafford County notched 28, compared to just 12 the year before. The Rig Count in Kansas for the first week of the new year was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is unchanged from last week, and 25 west of Wichita, which is down one. Drilling was underway on one well in Russell County, they're about to spud two more in Barton County, and drilling was expected to resume on one lease in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reported 586 active drilling rigs nationwide at the end of the year. The totals are unchanged but state counts show Texas was down two while New Mexico and Oklahoma were each up one. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 19 completed wells last week, eleven in eastern Kansas and eight west of Wichita, including one new completions in Barton County. There are 23 new drilling permits across Kansas, with 14 east of Wichita and nine in Western Kansas, with one in Barton County. The government said crude-oil production in the US for the week through December 31st was down from the week before by about about 90,000 barrels per day to just under 11.8 million barrels per day. Output is up more than 700,000 barrels per day over last year at this time. The Energy Information Administration says US crude-oil inventories last week dropped to 417.9 million barrels on December 31st, down 2.1 million barrels from the week before. Stockpiles are about 8% below the five year average. EIA said gasoline inventories increased by ten million barrels, but are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. Imports were down 900,000 barrels to nearly six million barrels per day. The four week average for imports is up 17% over the same four weeks last year. Gasoline prices rose slightly over the holidays. Triple-A says the national average pump price for a gallon of regular is just over three twenty-nine a gallon. That's up a penny a gallon from a week ago, but nearly seven cents lower than a month ago. The average in Kansas held steady at two ninety-six per gallon. It's going for two ninety-four across Great Bend. We spotted anywhere from two eighty-one to two eighty-nine in Hays. The cost of a 15-gallon fill-up is down about a dollar on the week. Oil-by-rail traffic was up from the week before but down from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reported 9,006 tanker cars hauling petroleum for the week through January first, up 301 cars from the week before but down 12.2% from a year earlier. Canadian traffic was down 2,000 carloads from a week ago, and down more than 16% from a year ago. AAR says monthly US oil-by-rail tallies were down ten percent in December compared to a year ago. Total rail traffic was down about three percent for the month. Having called "a dirge for the merger," the pipeline company must "...pay the piper." That colorful turn of phrase from a judge in Delaware finalized a very expensive ruling for oil pipeline giant Energy Transfer LP. The company must pay $410 million for scuttling a $33 billion merger with rival Williams Companies over a tax flaw in the deal. According to reporting from Bloomberg last week, Energy Transfer is required to pay what's called a break-up fee under the terms of the merger agreement. The 95-page ruling from Delaware Chancery Court Judge Sam Glasscock III ends a more than five-year dispute over the deal.

News From the Oil Patch: Kansas drill notices doubled last year

By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com">High Plains Journal</a>

Farmers and ranchers are continuing 
cleanup work from a Dec. 15 windstorm that led to a wildfire scorching 
nearly 163,000 acres in central Kansas. That fire is now known as the 
Four County Fire as the epicenter was in Ellis, Russell, Rooks and 
Osborne counties.

The Kansas
 Forest Service originally reported nearly 400,000 acres burned in a 
preliminary report but revised it downward as it worked with the 
National Interagency Fire Coordination Center to get additional 
information. Wind speeds exceeded 80 mph during the peak of 
the storm in the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service in
 Dodge City.

The wind and fire impact was felt in and
 around the region. The body of Derrick Kelley, 36, Hays, was found near
 his burned vehicle in rural Ellis County. Farmer and rancher Richard 
Shimanek, 84, Leoti, Kansas, died from injuries he sustained while 
trying to put out a fire at his home. The windstorm was also the cause 
of an eight-vehicle accident that claimed the lives of two western 
Kansas men well known and respected in the agricultural sector. Thomas 
W. Peterson, 55, of Cimarron, and Doyle E. Kauk, 78, of Hoxie, died 
while trying to help accident victims along U.S. Highway 160 in rural 
Grant County.

Generous 
contributors from across the country continue to donate funds for 
wildfire and severe storm relief to the Kansas Livestock Foundation. As 
of Dec. 21, the foundation collected or had commitments for $507,748. 
All the proceeds will be used to help producers affected by recent 
wildfires and severe weather.

Large
 contributions or commitments to KLF relief efforts have been from 
Cargill at $100,000; Tyson at $100,000 and an online stallion auction 
that raised $47,485. In addition, four Farm Credit Associations of 
Kansas, Oklahoma Ag Credit, Premier Farm Credit, Farm Credit of Southern
 Colorado and CoBank are donating a total of $141,000 to KLF.

Donations still are welcome and encouraged to help producers rebuild. To donate, go to <a href="http://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations">www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations</a>. Checks can be sent to KLF, 6031 SW 37th Street, Topeka, KS 66614. Please put wildfire relief in the memo line.

For
 hay and fencing supply donations, Heartland Regional Stockyards at 
Plainville and the Russell County Fairgrounds in Russell are serving as 
collection and distribution sites. Contact the auction market at 
785-688-4080 and the Extension office at 785-483-3157.

Secretary
 of Agriculture Mike Beam and Animal Health Commissioner Dr. Justin 
Smith, DVM, visited local officials, farmers and ranchers in several of 
the Kansas communities which are working to recover from the wildfires 
and storm that raged through the area.

There
 has been an outpouring of support from near and far, offering 
everything from clothing and food to labor and use of large equipment 
for recovery efforts.

Local 
services—including local emergency management offices, Extension 
offices, veterinarians, churches and others—have been instrumental in 
providing the help that the families in that area need right now. They 
know the communities and the people involved, and have been able to work
 on specific needs of the individual families who were impacted, 
ensuring that they have safe places to stay and support as they move 
forward.

“Kansans—and farmers 
and ranchers in particular—are resilient,” said Secretary Beam. “Even in
 the best of times, they endure under forces they can’t control and keep
 working day-in and day-out to care for their livestock and to harvest 
their crops.”

He noted that many of the ranchers 
focused their most immediate attention, after the fires were 
extinguished, to care for their livestock and help their neighbors, even
 before considering their own personal needs. “This disaster will 
certainly test that resilience to the limit, but the communities which 
surround these individuals will continue to support them and will help 
them persevere.”

The total 
impact of the storm is difficult to quantify, partly due to the many 
layers of the disaster. Clearly, the Four County Fire, which burned over
 a 100,000 acres, had the largest immediate impact. But there 
were several other smaller fires across the state as well, which 
affected Kansans in other communities, Beam said.

The
 extreme high winds caused damage to many agricultural entities 
statewide, especially those with greenhouses and high tunnel growing 
systems, Beam said. In addition, the wind, dust and ash may have caused 
damage to crops in the ground, like the winter wheat crop, that will not
 be known for several months.

What
 is known is that dozens of homes were reported to be destroyed or 
heavily damaged, over 1,000 cattle were lost, and thousands more 
cattle survived but are displaced because of the loss of grassland to 
sustain them, the state secretary of agriculture said.

“Ranchers
 are now focused on the health and welfare of the cattle who have 
survived,” said Smith. “They may still see health decline due to 
exposure to smoke and heat, but most should recover. The majority of 
those cattle will need to move to other locations, though, because the 
grazing land destroyed in the fire won’t grow back for several months.”

This
 recovery can take a significant physical and emotional toll on the 
individuals who have experienced these losses. Resources are available 
to help those who need this support and can be found at <a href="http://KansasAgStress.org">KansasAgStress.org</a>.

Other
 information about recovery efforts and lists of resources available to 
those who have suffered damage from the storm can be found at KDA’s 
Recovery Resources webpage at <a href="http://agriculture.ks.gov/Recovery">agriculture.ks.gov/Recovery</a>. That page also includes ways to make a donation to help with recovery efforts.

Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or <a href="mailto:dbergmeier@hpj.com">dbergmeier@hpj.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641564488141.png" alt="A burned tractor shows the intensity of the heat from the Dec. 15 wildfire from a farm in Russell County, Kansas. (Journal photo by Payton Stoppel)" />
 <figcaption>A burned tractor shows the intensity of the heat from the Dec. 15 wildfire from a farm in Russell County, Kansas. (Journal photo by Payton Stoppel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com">High Plains Journal</a>Farmers and ranchers are continuing 
cleanup work from a Dec. 15 windstorm that led to a wildfire scorching 
nearly 163,000 acres in central Kansas. That fire is now known as the 
Four County Fire as the epicenter was in Ellis, Russell, Rooks and 
Osborne counties.The Kansas
 Forest Service originally reported nearly 400,000 acres burned in a 
preliminary report but revised it downward as it worked with the 
National Interagency Fire Coordination Center to get additional 
information. Wind speeds exceeded 80 mph during the peak of 
the storm in the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service in
 Dodge City.The wind and fire impact was felt in and
 around the region. The body of Derrick Kelley, 36, Hays, was found near
 his burned vehicle in rural Ellis County. Farmer and rancher Richard 
Shimanek, 84, Leoti, Kansas, died from injuries he sustained while 
trying to put out a fire at his home. The windstorm was also the cause 
of an eight-vehicle accident that claimed the lives of two western 
Kansas men well known and respected in the agricultural sector. Thomas 
W. Peterson, 55, of Cimarron, and Doyle E. Kauk, 78, of Hoxie, died 
while trying to help accident victims along U.S. Highway 160 in rural 
Grant County.Generous 
contributors from across the country continue to donate funds for 
wildfire and severe storm relief to the Kansas Livestock Foundation. As 
of Dec. 21, the foundation collected or had commitments for $507,748. 
All the proceeds will be used to help producers affected by recent 
wildfires and severe weather.Large
 contributions or commitments to KLF relief efforts have been from 
Cargill at $100,000; Tyson at $100,000 and an online stallion auction 
that raised $47,485. In addition, four Farm Credit Associations of 
Kansas, Oklahoma Ag Credit, Premier Farm Credit, Farm Credit of Southern
 Colorado and CoBank are donating a total of $141,000 to KLF.Donations still are welcome and encouraged to help producers rebuild. To donate, go to <a href="http://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations">www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/donations</a>. Checks can be sent to KLF, 6031 SW 37th Street, Topeka, KS 66614. Please put wildfire relief in the memo line.For
 hay and fencing supply donations, Heartland Regional Stockyards at 
Plainville and the Russell County Fairgrounds in Russell are serving as 
collection and distribution sites. Contact the auction market at 
785-688-4080 and the Extension office at 785-483-3157.<h2>Top ag officials tour</h2>Secretary
 of Agriculture Mike Beam and Animal Health Commissioner Dr. Justin 
Smith, DVM, visited local officials, farmers and ranchers in several of 
the Kansas communities which are working to recover from the wildfires 
and storm that raged through the area.There
 has been an outpouring of support from near and far, offering 
everything from clothing and food to labor and use of large equipment 
for recovery efforts.Local 
services—including local emergency management offices, Extension 
offices, veterinarians, churches and others—have been instrumental in 
providing the help that the families in that area need right now. They 
know the communities and the people involved, and have been able to work
 on specific needs of the individual families who were impacted, 
ensuring that they have safe places to stay and support as they move 
forward.“Kansans—and farmers 
and ranchers in particular—are resilient,” said Secretary Beam. “Even in
 the best of times, they endure under forces they can’t control and keep
 working day-in and day-out to care for their livestock and to harvest 
their crops.”He noted that many of the ranchers 
focused their most immediate attention, after the fires were 
extinguished, to care for their livestock and help their neighbors, even
 before considering their own personal needs. “This disaster will 
certainly test that resilience to the limit, but the communities which 
surround these individuals will continue to support them and will help 
them persevere.”The total 
impact of the storm is difficult to quantify, partly due to the many 
layers of the disaster. Clearly, the Four County Fire, which burned over
 a 100,000 acres, had the largest immediate impact. But there 
were several other smaller fires across the state as well, which 
affected Kansans in other communities, Beam said.The
 extreme high winds caused damage to many agricultural entities 
statewide, especially those with greenhouses and high tunnel growing 
systems, Beam said. In addition, the wind, dust and ash may have caused 
damage to crops in the ground, like the winter wheat crop, that will not
 be known for several months.What
 is known is that dozens of homes were reported to be destroyed or 
heavily damaged, over 1,000 cattle were lost, and thousands more 
cattle survived but are displaced because of the loss of grassland to 
sustain them, the state secretary of agriculture said.“Ranchers
 are now focused on the health and welfare of the cattle who have 
survived,” said Smith. “They may still see health decline due to 
exposure to smoke and heat, but most should recover. The majority of 
those cattle will need to move to other locations, though, because the 
grazing land destroyed in the fire won’t grow back for several months.”This
 recovery can take a significant physical and emotional toll on the 
individuals who have experienced these losses. Resources are available 
to help those who need this support and can be found at <a href="http://KansasAgStress.org">KansasAgStress.org</a>.Other
 information about recovery efforts and lists of resources available to 
those who have suffered damage from the storm can be found at KDA’s 
Recovery Resources webpage at <a href="http://agriculture.ks.gov/Recovery">agriculture.ks.gov/Recovery</a>. That page also includes ways to make a donation to help with recovery efforts.Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or <a href="mailto:dbergmeier@hpj.com">dbergmeier@hpj.com</a>.