The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--300 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:25 AM; 1:27 AM Civil Dispute--500
block E 8th St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--400 block W 33rd St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block Oak St, Hays; 12:04 PM 
Criminal Trespass--720 block Riley St, Hays; 1 PM; 2:03 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:24 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 2:01 PM 
Animal At Large--1700 block Hall St, Hays; 3:12 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 3 PM; 3:45 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:47 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 5:41 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1300 block Allen St, Hays; 8:44 PM; 8:45 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Main St, Hays; 10:18 PM; 10:20 PM 
Mental Health Call—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 10:59 PM; 11:15 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Friday, Dec. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suspicious
Person—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:28 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:32 AM; 
1:33 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 8:18 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Oak St, Hays; 8:37 AM 
Alarm – Bank--1000 block W 27th St, Hays; 12/17 3:30 PM; 6 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 7/21; 12/24 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 12/23 8 PM; 12/24 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Oak St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 12:01 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 12/23 12 AM; 12/24 12 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th St and Walnut St, Hays; 6 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--2400 block Hall St, Hays; 10:24 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:25 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 1 traffic stop Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suicidal
Subject—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 12:12 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--1400 block Hall St, Hays; 12:14 AM 
Mental Health Call—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 8:56 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—400 block E 21st St, Hays; 6:52 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:22 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Abandoned
Vehicle--400 block E 21st St, Hays; 9:01 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—600 block Oak St, Hays; 10:20 AM 
Animal At Large—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 11:11 AM 
Driving While Suspended/Revoked--1900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:07 PM; 1:54 PM Animal
Injured—1200 block E 33rd St, Hays; 1:50 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block E 17th St, Hays; 2:13 PM 
Civil Dispute—200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 7:49 PM 
Criminal Threat—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:02 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--4400 block Smoky Hill Dr, Hays; 9:40 PM 
Civil Dispute—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 6:43 AM 
Water Use Violation—2700 block Thunderbird Dr, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Animal Call—200 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—300 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:22 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 2:48 PM 
Theft of Services—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3 PM; 3:24 PM 
Stalking—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 12/12 2 AM; 2:30 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1100 block Oakmont St, Hays; 3:50 PM; 4:40 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:17 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 6:07 PM; 6:33 PM 
Mental Health Call—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:19 PM; 7:26 PM 
Battery – Domestic—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 2/1 12 AM; 12/25 11:59 PM 
Drug Offenses—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:36 PM 
Intoxicated Subject—500 block W 13th St, Hays; 11:19 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Lost Animals
ONLY—2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:30 AM; 8:45 AM 
Search Warrant—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 12:43 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--500 block Ash St, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block E 11th St, Hays; 1:57 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 12/27 10:13 AM; 5:33
PM 
Animal At Large—2500 block Virginia Dr, Hays; 2:42 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal—100 block E 13th St, Hays; 7:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:12 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 16 traffic stops Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suicidal
Subject--1300 block Marshall Rd, Hays; 12:34 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—3500 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 2:09 AM; 2:18 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block Fort St, Hays; 6:43 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block Allen St, Hays; 7 AM; 8 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:27 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:36 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:41 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—Dallas; 10:07 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block 33rd St, Hays; 11:08 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:11 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block E 17th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
Aggravated Battery—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 11:43 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 2:06 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Battery – Domestic—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 7 AM; 8:30 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 12/16 12 PM; 12/29 1:45
PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block W 36th St, Hays; 5:01 PM 
Runaway Juvenile--300 block W 33rd St, Hay; 11:36 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--300 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:25 AM; 1:27 AM Civil Dispute--500
block E 8th St, Hays; 8:55 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--400 block W 33rd St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block Oak St, Hays; 12:04 PM 
Criminal Trespass--720 block Riley St, Hays; 1 PM; 2:03 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:24 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1300 block Haney Dr, Hays; 2:01 PM 
Animal At Large--1700 block Hall St, Hays; 3:12 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 3 PM; 3:45 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 4:47 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 5:41 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1300 block Allen St, Hays; 8:44 PM; 8:45 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Main St, Hays; 10:18 PM; 10:20 PM 
Mental Health Call—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 10:59 PM; 11:15 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Friday, Dec. 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suspicious
Person—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:28 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 8th St, Hays; 1:32 AM; 
1:33 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 8:18 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Oak St, Hays; 8:37 AM 
Alarm – Bank--1000 block W 27th St, Hays; 12/17 3:30 PM; 6 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 7/21; 12/24 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 12/23 8 PM; 12/24 
Lost Animals ONLY—2500 block Oak St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 12:01 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 12/23 12 AM; 12/24 12 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--27th St and Walnut St, Hays; 6 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--2400 block Hall St, Hays; 10:24 PM 
Suspicious Activity—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:25 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 1 traffic stop Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suicidal
Subject—200 block W 34th St, Hays; 12:12 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--1400 block Hall St, Hays; 12:14 AM 
Mental Health Call—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 8:56 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—400 block E 21st St, Hays; 6:52 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:22 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Abandoned
Vehicle--400 block E 21st St, Hays; 9:01 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—600 block Oak St, Hays; 10:20 AM 
Animal At Large—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 11:11 AM 
Driving While Suspended/Revoked--1900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:07 PM; 1:54 PM Animal
Injured—1200 block E 33rd St, Hays; 1:50 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block E 17th St, Hays; 2:13 PM 
Civil Dispute—200 block W 22nd St, Hays; 7:49 PM 
Criminal Threat—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:02 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-City Street/Alley--4400 block Smoky Hill Dr, Hays; 9:40 PM 
Civil Dispute—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 6:43 AM 
Water Use Violation—2700 block Thunderbird Dr, Hays; 9:05 AM 
Animal Call—200 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—300 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:22 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 2:48 PM 
Theft of Services—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 3 PM; 3:24 PM 
Stalking—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 12/12 2 AM; 2:30 AM 
Suspicious Activity—1100 block Oakmont St, Hays; 3:50 PM; 4:40 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:17 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 6:07 PM; 6:33 PM 
Mental Health Call—400 block Walnut St, Hays; 7:19 PM; 7:26 PM 
Battery – Domestic—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 2/1 12 AM; 12/25 11:59 PM 
Drug Offenses—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:36 PM 
Intoxicated Subject—500 block W 13th St, Hays; 11:19 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Lost Animals
ONLY—2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:30 AM; 8:45 AM 
Search Warrant—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 12:43 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--500 block Ash St, Hays; 1:36 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block E 11th St, Hays; 1:57 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 12/27 10:13 AM; 5:33
PM 
Animal At Large—2500 block Virginia Dr, Hays; 2:42 PM 
MV Accident w/Animal—100 block E 13th St, Hays; 7:02 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—400 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:12 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 16 traffic stops Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suicidal
Subject--1300 block Marshall Rd, Hays; 12:34 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—3500 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 2:09 AM; 2:18 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1100 block Fort St, Hays; 6:43 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block Allen St, Hays; 7 AM; 8 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:27 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:36 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block W 15th St, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 8:41 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—Dallas; 10:07 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block 33rd St, Hays; 11:08 AM 
Animal At Large—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:11 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block E 17th St, Hays; 11:36 AM 
Aggravated Battery—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 11:43 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 2:06 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1200 block Motz Ave, Hays; 2:11 PM 
Battery – Domestic—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 7 AM; 8:30 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 12/16 12 PM; 12/29 1:45
PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block W 36th St, Hays; 5:01 PM 
Runaway Juvenile--300 block W 33rd St, Hay; 11:36 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Report, Dec. 23-29  

DECATUR COUNTY —Two people died in separate accidents Thursday evening in Northwest Kansas.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 7p.m., a 2003 Chevy Tahoe driven by Robert L. Papp, 54, Jennings, was northbound on 2400 Road just north of Jennings.

The driver lost control of the SUV. It rolled several times and the driver was ejected. Papp was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Pauls Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

At 7:20p.m., a Pontiac Grand Am driven by Barbara J. Herrington, 77, Brush, Colorado, was southbound on U.S 161 just north of S Road in Cheyenne County.

The vehicle veered left, traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp; Herrington was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Knodel Funeral Home. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DECATUR COUNTY —Two people died in separate accidents Thursday evening in Northwest Kansas.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 7p.m., a 2003 Chevy Tahoe driven by Robert L. Papp, 54, Jennings, was northbound on 2400 Road just north of Jennings.The driver lost control of the SUV. It rolled several times and the driver was ejected. Papp was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Pauls Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.At 7:20p.m., a Pontiac Grand Am driven by Barbara J. Herrington, 77, Brush, Colorado, was southbound on U.S 161 just north of S Road in Cheyenne County.The vehicle veered left, traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp; Herrington was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Knodel Funeral Home. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 dead in separate rollover accidents on NW Kansas highways

The Chamber in Hays received notification from the Fort Hays State University Athletic Department that the fraud alert from Thursday was a legitimate source for advertising on their site. We apologize for the confusion. However, members are still encouraged to go through FHSU Assistant AD Matt Cook for scheduling ads.

UPDATED 11:15 a.m. FridayThe Chamber in Hays received notification from the Fort Hays State University Athletic Department that the fraud alert from Thursday was a legitimate source for advertising on their site. We apologize for the confusion. However, members are still encouraged to go through FHSU Assistant AD Matt Cook for scheduling ads.— Submitted

UPDATE: Hays Chamber withdraws fraud alert

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 announced&nbsp; Wednesday in a text that because of an increase in positive COVID cases at Hays High School, Hays High school will require all students to wear masks starting Thursday.

The number of COVID cases has pushed it to level five on the USD 489's COVID mitigation plan.

Masks also will be required for all HHS activities.

The Hays Post reached out to school officials to determine if other schools in the district would be affected and did not have a response as of this post.

According to the district's mitigation policy, the district will stay at level five for two weeks. If cases decrease within that time period, officials will reconsider the district's COVID mitigation level.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a7ae1cb-cb56-4edd-a962-1f8ebb9ca7eb">The school board on Monday agreed to increase the number of positive cases in the district to 50 that would trigger masking.</a>

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 announced&nbsp; Wednesday in a text that because of an increase in positive COVID cases at Hays High School, Hays High school will require all students to wear masks starting Thursday.The number of COVID cases has pushed it to level five on the USD 489's COVID mitigation plan.Masks also will be required for all HHS activities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642037073192.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Post reached out to school officials to determine if other schools in the district would be affected and did not have a response as of this post. According to the district's mitigation policy, the district will stay at level five for two weeks. If cases decrease within that time period, officials will reconsider the district's COVID mitigation level. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a7ae1cb-cb56-4edd-a962-1f8ebb9ca7eb">The school board on Monday agreed to increase the number of positive cases in the district to 50 that would trigger masking.</a>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay

COVID surge results in mask requirement at Hays High

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

There was no stopping the multiple wildfires that started racing east across Ellis County last month and burned for three days.

"Even with all 19 of our trucks, with the wind blowing 100 miles an hour, we couldn't put it out," said Darin Myers, Ellis County Rural Fire Chief.

An after action review of the wildland fires that burned in Ellis County Dec. 15-17 was presented Tuesday night. Among those attending were&nbsp;county commissioners,&nbsp;public works director, sheriff, assistant director for fire and emergency management, several of the county's 88 volunteer firefighters, and at least one rural resident.

Myers, along with other county emergency services personnel, talked about what went well with the local response, what can be improved, and reviewed the resources used.&nbsp;

The Ellis County 17 wildfires covered 74 square miles, burning 46,720 acres. The fires' perimeter was more than 57 miles.

Myers described the rural landscape as "disintegrated. In some places, it looks like sand dunes of fine dust."

"We could have doubled all our resources -&nbsp; people, trucks, water - and it would not have been enough."

One man died when he drove out of Hays into the smoke, became disoriented and ultimately landed in a ravine as he was overcome by the smoke and fire.&nbsp;

There were no public safety injuries and just one fire engine was damaged.

Fires, most likely started by power lines according to the state fire marshal, were <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/24e11ab6-f29c-4355-91e5-47e7511a74ce">reported in 11 area counties</a>, burning a total of nearly 164,000 acres.

In Ellis County, the challenges included 100 mph winds, rough terrain, near zero visibility due to the smoke, long distances between fires, and multiple related incidents requiring the response of emergency medical services, fire trucks, rescue units, and law enforcement.

The Saline River bridge, six miles east of Highway 183, is closed for repair and the northeast part of the county does not have roads at every mile line.&nbsp;

"Getting from one side of the fire to the other took a lot longer," Myers said.

Three bridges were completely burned in the fire.

Downed power lines and multiple burned poles also caused widespread power outages, including at the emergency dispatch center in Hays.&nbsp;

Communication -&nbsp; with the public, people who had to be evacuated from their homes, between the five other county fire departments providing mutual aid, and public safety radio traffic - was also a challenge.&nbsp;

"In any disaster, communications is the one thing that can always be improved. ... We're fortunate in Ellis County that we have a good [emergency] radio system."&nbsp;

Ten homes, two of them unoccupied, were destroyed along with 16 other structures. The county is asking residents to report any affected structures not on the list. Fire reports will be created for each incident.&nbsp;

The destroyed structures list has been shared with the treasurer's department, whose employees are inspecting the properties to qualify for tax abatements in 2021 and 2022.&nbsp;

John Holub, president of the Hays Board of Realtors, discussed the local group's work with the National Association of Realtors® relief fund to provide financial assistance to homeowners who were displaced by the fire.

Manpower resources utilized by Ellis County to fight the blaze included all six fire companies, EMS, public works, and sheriff department, along with mutual aid from rural fire companies in Rooks, Ness, Russell, Osborne and Phillips counties.&nbsp;

Ellis County firefighters, most of whom work full-time jobs, were on the scene for a collective 1,700 hours over the three days.&nbsp;

Also assisting were the Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Forestry Service, Kansas Dept. of Emergency Management, Midwest Energy, Midland Marketing, CG Oil, American Red Cross, contract airplanes that dumped water on the flames, and landowners helping disc pastures to create back burning.&nbsp;

Myers talked about many things that were done well during the event.&nbsp;

He had high praise for the emergency communications department, which handled 153 911 calls between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. as the fire began spreading.&nbsp;

The incident command system implemented about five years ago kept fire crews working within their divisions in either the east or west side of the county, instead of moving into an area already covered.&nbsp;

The after action review concluded with discussion of what can be done better during a similar disaster.

At the top of the list was communications, as is expected Myers said.&nbsp;

"We're always going to have [mutual aid] departments and private operators of water and farm implements that are not able to operate on our radios."

Even communications between county departments can be misunderstood. Law enforcement uses 10 code; rural fire does not.

Myers also pointed out the difficulty of establishing a water supply.

"You can't keep it one place. The fire moved 17 miles within a couple hours. You have to constantly move that."&nbsp;

Two new projects by the county will rectify some of the concerns brought up by Myers. 

The rural fire department has received a grant for a water supply trailer and new pickup to pull it.

Ellis County is working on a new computerized system that places electronic markers on the maps which will move anytime an incident location changes.&nbsp;

Ellis County Commission Chairman Butch Schlyer issued a local disaster declaration at 8 p.m. Dec. 15. This will help local emergency departments and landowners with funding that could be available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642019288157.jpeg" alt="Ellis County wildfires the night of Dec. 15, 2021 (Courtesy Ellis County Rural Fire Dept.)&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County wildfires the night of Dec. 15, 2021 (Courtesy Ellis County Rural Fire Dept.)&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThere was no stopping the multiple wildfires that started racing east across Ellis County last month and burned for three days."Even with all 19 of our trucks, with the wind blowing 100 miles an hour, we couldn't put it out," said Darin Myers, Ellis County Rural Fire Chief.An after action review of the wildland fires that burned in Ellis County Dec. 15-17 was presented Tuesday night. Among those attending were&nbsp;county commissioners,&nbsp;public works director, sheriff, assistant director for fire and emergency management, several of the county's 88 volunteer firefighters, and at least one rural resident.Myers, along with other county emergency services personnel, talked about what went well with the local response, what can be improved, and reviewed the resources used.&nbsp;The Ellis County 17 wildfires covered 74 square miles, burning 46,720 acres. The fires' perimeter was more than 57 miles.Myers described the rural landscape as "disintegrated. In some places, it looks like sand dunes of fine dust.""We could have doubled all our resources -&nbsp; people, trucks, water - and it would not have been enough."One man died when he drove out of Hays into the smoke, became disoriented and ultimately landed in a ravine as he was overcome by the smoke and fire.&nbsp;There were no public safety injuries and just one fire engine was damaged.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642022468627.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy Ellis County)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Ellis County)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642022519918.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy Ellis County)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Ellis County)</figcaption>
 </figure>Fires, most likely started by power lines according to the state fire marshal, were <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/24e11ab6-f29c-4355-91e5-47e7511a74ce">reported in 11 area counties</a>, burning a total of nearly 164,000 acres.In Ellis County, the challenges included 100 mph winds, rough terrain, near zero visibility due to the smoke, long distances between fires, and multiple related incidents requiring the response of emergency medical services, fire trucks, rescue units, and law enforcement.The Saline River bridge, six miles east of Highway 183, is closed for repair and the northeast part of the county does not have roads at every mile line.&nbsp;"Getting from one side of the fire to the other took a lot longer," Myers said.Three bridges were completely burned in the fire.Downed power lines and multiple burned poles also caused widespread power outages, including at the emergency dispatch center in Hays.&nbsp;Communication -&nbsp; with the public, people who had to be evacuated from their homes, between the five other county fire departments providing mutual aid, and public safety radio traffic - was also a challenge.&nbsp;"In any disaster, communications is the one thing that can always be improved. ... We're fortunate in Ellis County that we have a good [emergency] radio system."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642025904570.jpeg" alt="Ten homes and 16 other structures were destroyed the fires. (Courtesy Ellis County)" />
 <figcaption>Ten homes and 16 other structures were destroyed the fires. (Courtesy Ellis County)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ten homes, two of them unoccupied, were destroyed along with 16 other structures. The county is asking residents to report any affected structures not on the list. Fire reports will be created for each incident.&nbsp;The destroyed structures list has been shared with the treasurer's department, whose employees are inspecting the properties to qualify for tax abatements in 2021 and 2022.&nbsp;John Holub, president of the Hays Board of Realtors, discussed the local group's work with the National Association of Realtors® relief fund to provide financial assistance to homeowners who were displaced by the fire.Manpower resources utilized by Ellis County to fight the blaze included all six fire companies, EMS, public works, and sheriff department, along with mutual aid from rural fire companies in Rooks, Ness, Russell, Osborne and Phillips counties.&nbsp;Ellis County firefighters, most of whom work full-time jobs, were on the scene for a collective 1,700 hours over the three days.&nbsp;Also assisting were the Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Forestry Service, Kansas Dept. of Emergency Management, Midwest Energy, Midland Marketing, CG Oil, American Red Cross, contract airplanes that dumped water on the flames, and landowners helping disc pastures to create back burning.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642029054712.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers discusses what was done well during the December fires.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers discusses what was done well during the December fires.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Myers talked about many things that were done well during the event.&nbsp;He had high praise for the emergency communications department, which handled 153 911 calls between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. as the fire began spreading.&nbsp;The incident command system implemented about five years ago kept fire crews working within their divisions in either the east or west side of the county, instead of moving into an area already covered.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642030186996.jpeg" alt="In any disaster, communications is the one thing that can always be improved, according to Myers. (Courtesy Ellis County)" />
 <figcaption>In any disaster, communications is the one thing that can always be improved, according to Myers. (Courtesy Ellis County)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5yYI4SxXBBQ"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The after action review concluded with discussion of what can be done better during a similar disaster.At the top of the list was communications, as is expected Myers said.&nbsp;"We're always going to have [mutual aid] departments and private operators of water and farm implements that are not able to operate on our radios."Even communications between county departments can be misunderstood. Law enforcement uses 10 code; rural fire does not.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642037189770.jpeg" alt="Scott Braun, Ellis Co. sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Scott Braun, Ellis Co. sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Myers also pointed out the difficulty of establishing a water supply."You can't keep it one place. The fire moved 17 miles within a couple hours. You have to constantly move that."&nbsp;Two new projects by the county will rectify some of the concerns brought up by Myers. The rural fire department has received a grant for a water supply trailer and new pickup to pull it.Ellis County is working on a new computerized system that places electronic markers on the maps which will move anytime an incident location changes.&nbsp;Ellis County Commission Chairman Butch Schlyer issued a local disaster declaration at 8 p.m. Dec. 15. This will help local emergency departments and landowners with funding that could be available.

🎥 10 homes, 16 other Ellis County structures destroyed during 3-day wildfire

With temperatures among average until recently, employees in the Hays Public Works Department were able to complete a number of concrete repairs and new sidewalk projects.

The mild weather also allowed for transplanting of cedar trees from King's Gate Addition that would have been destroyed as that new housing project enters its final phase.

More than 100 trees were donated and transplanted by parks department employees at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.&nbsp;

Bielser has highlights of more projects and activities of city departments during a recent progress report to the city commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641585233118.jpeg" alt="Hays Parks Dept. employees dig out cedar trees donated by Kings Gate Addition for transplanting at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. (City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>Hays Parks Dept. employees dig out cedar trees donated by Kings Gate Addition for transplanting at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. (City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostWith temperatures among average until recently, employees in the Hays Public Works Department were able to complete a number of concrete repairs and new sidewalk projects.The mild weather also allowed for transplanting of cedar trees from King's Gate Addition that would have been destroyed as that new housing project enters its final phase.More than 100 trees were donated and transplanted by parks department employees at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.&nbsp;Bielser has highlights of more projects and activities of city departments during a recent progress report to the city commission.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4HOTLNvM1u0"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 Donated cedar trees transplanted to Hays sports complex

Approximately 200 middle and high school students will visit Fort Hays State University Saturday to participate in an annual regional Science Olympiad.

The top three finishers in the FHSU regional event will receive medals, with those recording qualifying scores advancing to April’s state competition in Wichita.

The Saturday date at FHSU is a change from past years, when the event was held during the week.

The Science Olympiad is a competition involving a wide variety of contests in science and technology coordinated by faculty and students in several departments at the university.

Dr. Lanee Young, professor of mathematics, said scheduling the event on the Saturday before the start of the spring semester will help avoid any conflicts for participating FHSU faculty with their class schedules. It also will allow better use of classroom space for the participants.&nbsp;

FHSU is the site of one of four regional Olympiad events. Others will be held in Salina, Wichita, and Overland Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641931205922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsApproximately 200 middle and high school students will visit Fort Hays State University Saturday to participate in an annual regional Science Olympiad.The top three finishers in the FHSU regional event will receive medals, with those recording qualifying scores advancing to April’s state competition in Wichita.The Saturday date at FHSU is a change from past years, when the event was held during the week.The Science Olympiad is a competition involving a wide variety of contests in science and technology coordinated by faculty and students in several departments at the university.Dr. Lanee Young, professor of mathematics, said scheduling the event on the Saturday before the start of the spring semester will help avoid any conflicts for participating FHSU faculty with their class schedules. It also will allow better use of classroom space for the participants.&nbsp;FHSU is the site of one of four regional Olympiad events. Others will be held in Salina, Wichita, and Overland Park.

Annual Science Olympiad at Fort Hays State set for Saturday

Something special happened at Fort Hays State University last month: the return of our Encore Series. On Dec. 2, the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall was filled with patrons and Christmas joy as our community gathered to watch Christmas in Killarney – the first Encore show since 2020. It was a fabulous evening of Christmas carols and Irish traditions witnessed by an audience of more than 500 people.

According to Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union and overseer of the series, the Encore committee decided to schedule six shows for this first season back after the pandemic.

“At the time we started booking shows for 2021-22, we just were not sure what the fall would look like and did not want to risk having to cancel shows,” Edie said. “ There are no Broadway musicals this season, because those shows are just now getting back to full touring capacities. But we are planning on a return of musicals for the 2022-23 season, which we are already in the midst of planning. We are at full capacity for the theater. Masks and sanitizing stations are being provided at each show for our patron’s safety and comfort.”

In the spring, we will begin with The Flying Karamazov Brothers on Monday, Feb. 14. Some of our long-term audience members may remember the Brothers from their previous Encore performance in the 1990s. This time, they are back with their off-Broadway comedy juggling show,&nbsp;4Play.&nbsp;

Next up is the Roy Orbison &amp; Buddy Holly Rock ’N Roll Hologram Dream Tour on March 2,. This show will feature a live band fronted by hologram performances by the two rock and roll legends.&nbsp;

On March 26, the Encore Series will present Cross That River. This musical drama is&nbsp;based on historical recounts of a runaway slave who escapes to the American West to find a new life as a cowboy.&nbsp;

We will wrap up the season with two shows in April. The first is The Queen’s Cartoonists on April 21. This talented music ensemble performs jazz and classical pieces as scores to both classic and contemporary cartoons. Their mission is to instill a love and appreciation of these music genres in audiences of all ages.&nbsp;

The final performance, Canada’s Ballet Jorgen presents Anne of Green Gables the Ballet, is rescheduled from the abbreviated 2019-20 season, This is a newly commissioned work based on beloved book series. We are excited to bring the first-ever production of this ballet to Hays!

Edie also shared that she is closely monitoring any changes to tours or schedules that might occur due to the pandemic.

“We have had one small change to the 2021-22 season already. The Golden Dragon Acrobats, who were scheduled to perform on Feb. 14, 2022, have had to postpone their tour for one year due to travel restrictions in and out of China. We will bring the show to Hays in February 2023 as a result. Fortunately, the agency we worked with was able to help us find a substitute, so we will still have a full season.”

We used the past year to make a few upgrades to the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center, including an improved projection system and additional audio and lighting capabilities. What might be most noticeable to our patrons is we have a new and improved accessible seating area on the lower level of the theater. This allows us to accommodate more patrons with accessibility needs in a more comfortable location in the theater.&nbsp;

Patrons purchasing tickets for a single show also now have the option of printing tickets at home or using their phones as a digital ticket.

“One of the great things about living in a ‘college town’ is the opportunity to take part in the activities that go along with a university. FHSU’s Encore series has brought in quality entertainment that I would never have the chance to see otherwise. The Broadway musicals are always top-notch, but the series also brings in unique experiences from the world of music, dance, and theater,” shared Mary Ann Thompson, a community member who serves on the Encore Series selection committee.

Along with Edie, the committee, and the entire university community, and with a full heart, I thank our season ticket holders, show sponsors, and advertisers who make the Encore season possible. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Foundation generously sponsors the series. Show sponsors this year include Larry and Lyn Fenwick, Todd and Andrea Sandoval, Chartwells, and eyeSmile. And everyone who attends a show contributes to the success and sustainability of the Encore Series.

Season tickets are still available until Feb. 14. Those tickets, as well as tickets for individual performances, may be purchased by visiting <a href="http://fhsu.edu/encore">fhsu.edu/encore</a> or calling 785-628-5306.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Something special happened at Fort Hays State University last month: the return of our Encore Series. On Dec. 2, the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center in Sheridan Hall was filled with patrons and Christmas joy as our community gathered to watch Christmas in Killarney – the first Encore show since 2020. It was a fabulous evening of Christmas carols and Irish traditions witnessed by an audience of more than 500 people.According to Edie McCracken, director of the Memorial Union and overseer of the series, the Encore committee decided to schedule six shows for this first season back after the pandemic.“At the time we started booking shows for 2021-22, we just were not sure what the fall would look like and did not want to risk having to cancel shows,” Edie said. “ There are no Broadway musicals this season, because those shows are just now getting back to full touring capacities. But we are planning on a return of musicals for the 2022-23 season, which we are already in the midst of planning. We are at full capacity for the theater. Masks and sanitizing stations are being provided at each show for our patron’s safety and comfort.”In the spring, we will begin with The Flying Karamazov Brothers on Monday, Feb. 14. Some of our long-term audience members may remember the Brothers from their previous Encore performance in the 1990s. This time, they are back with their off-Broadway comedy juggling show,&nbsp;4Play.&nbsp;Next up is the Roy Orbison &amp; Buddy Holly Rock ’N Roll Hologram Dream Tour on March 2,. This show will feature a live band fronted by hologram performances by the two rock and roll legends.&nbsp;On March 26, the Encore Series will present Cross That River. This musical drama is&nbsp;based on historical recounts of a runaway slave who escapes to the American West to find a new life as a cowboy.&nbsp;We will wrap up the season with two shows in April. The first is The Queen’s Cartoonists on April 21. This talented music ensemble performs jazz and classical pieces as scores to both classic and contemporary cartoons. Their mission is to instill a love and appreciation of these music genres in audiences of all ages.&nbsp;The final performance, Canada’s Ballet Jorgen presents Anne of Green Gables the Ballet, is rescheduled from the abbreviated 2019-20 season, This is a newly commissioned work based on beloved book series. We are excited to bring the first-ever production of this ballet to Hays!Edie also shared that she is closely monitoring any changes to tours or schedules that might occur due to the pandemic.“We have had one small change to the 2021-22 season already. The Golden Dragon Acrobats, who were scheduled to perform on Feb. 14, 2022, have had to postpone their tour for one year due to travel restrictions in and out of China. We will bring the show to Hays in February 2023 as a result. Fortunately, the agency we worked with was able to help us find a substitute, so we will still have a full season.”We used the past year to make a few upgrades to the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center, including an improved projection system and additional audio and lighting capabilities. What might be most noticeable to our patrons is we have a new and improved accessible seating area on the lower level of the theater. This allows us to accommodate more patrons with accessibility needs in a more comfortable location in the theater.&nbsp;Patrons purchasing tickets for a single show also now have the option of printing tickets at home or using their phones as a digital ticket.“One of the great things about living in a ‘college town’ is the opportunity to take part in the activities that go along with a university. FHSU’s Encore series has brought in quality entertainment that I would never have the chance to see otherwise. The Broadway musicals are always top-notch, but the series also brings in unique experiences from the world of music, dance, and theater,” shared Mary Ann Thompson, a community member who serves on the Encore Series selection committee.Along with Edie, the committee, and the entire university community, and with a full heart, I thank our season ticket holders, show sponsors, and advertisers who make the Encore season possible. The Bob and Pat Schmidt Foundation generously sponsors the series. Show sponsors this year include Larry and Lyn Fenwick, Todd and Andrea Sandoval, Chartwells, and eyeSmile. And everyone who attends a show contributes to the success and sustainability of the Encore Series.Season tickets are still available until Feb. 14. Those tickets, as well as tickets for individual performances, may be purchased by visiting <a href="http://fhsu.edu/encore">fhsu.edu/encore</a> or calling 785-628-5306.

MASON: FHSU pleased to bring back Encore Series

<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/2022/1/1642018739032.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

Roosevelt Elementary will be closed Thursday, according to an announcement sent out Wednesday evening.

"Due to a mechanical issue that will require maintenance, Roosevelt Elementary will be CANCELED Thursday, January 13," the announcement said.

No other school in the district will be affected and will be in session as planned.

The district expects Roosevelt students will return to school on Friday.

Roosevelt Elementary will be closed Thursday, according to an announcement sent out Wednesday evening."Due to a mechanical issue that will require maintenance, Roosevelt Elementary will be CANCELED Thursday, January 13," the announcement said.No other school in the district will be affected and will be in session as planned.The district expects Roosevelt students will return to school on Friday.

Roosevelt Elementary closed Thursday

The Kansas legislative session ramped up on Monday, and local legislators are already sinking their teeth into a variety of issues.

Kan. Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, representing the 110th District, said he anticipated redistricting will be something legislators will tackle as soon as possible.

The 2020 census saw rural counties lose population, with metro areas and mid-size cities like Hays gaining population.

Rahjes said his district will need to gain about 1,700 people. Rahjes's district encompasses parts of Ellis and Graham counties.

"There's 125 of us, and there's probably 125 ideas of where things should go," Rahjes said.

The 111th District, which contains Hays and is currently represented by Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, will need to shed more than 1,000 people.

You can listen to Wasinger talk more about redistricting and other topics upcoming in the legislative session in her <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eec71a48-c486-451d-b27f-20286628d4c0">interview with Gary Shorman in his Podcast Forward Ever</a>.

Kansas has about a $2.9 billion surplus this year. Gov. Kelly in her State-of-the-State address on Tuesday suggested eliminating the state's portion of the sales tax on groceries and giving a $250 tax rebate to Kansas taxpayers who filed returns in 2021.

"I would caution that&nbsp; because we have a surplus, doesn't mean go out and spend it," Rahjes said."When I think of a surplus, I think of how we can best give that back to the taxpayers of Kansas."

Rahjes also said he thought the Legislature needs to look beyond the next one to two years. 

The Republicans have yet to introduce their own tax plan.

Rahjes said there may be some move by members of the Legislature to tie education policy to funding, specifically Critical Race Theory.

Critical Race Theory is a cross-disciplinary intellectual and social movement of civil rights scholars and activists who seek to examine the intersection of race and&nbsp;law in the United States.

He said he did not want to comment until he saw specific legislation.

Rahjes said he was more concerned about keeping small, rural schools open in the light of COVID and staffing shortages.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, who is also running for governor this year, has challenged federal vaccine mandates in court. 

"We in the majority in the Legislature will do everything we can to allow Kansans to have the freedoms that we should have and to try to keep the federal government at bay from drastic overreach," Rahjes said. 

"I believe it is up to the individual if they want to have the shot, then they can. If they don't, then they don't."

Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab has proposed allowing elections officials to purge voters from the rolls if they have not voted in two federal election cycles.

Rahjes said he thought this bill would pass in the Legislature.

As chairman of the Phillips County Republicans, Rahjes said he found names on the voting rolls of people who were deceased.

Schwab in his public statement as did Rahjes said the change would help ensure people who have moved are still not registered in a county in which they no longer live.

Legislation has been introduced to waive sales tax on fencing materials for those affected by December's wildfires. The legislation will seek to make that rebate available for future disasters without legislative action each time, Rahjes said.

Rahjes said this is the first time Gov. Kelly has proposed to fully fund the state's water plan.

He said Kansas has water quantity issues in the west and water quality issues in the east and different issues for urban areas.

"We have to have all three of those to come together and realize that we have to do things that are win-win for all of Kansas and all water users, whether you live in downtown Wichita or you are a farmer from far southwest Kansas," Rahjes said.

He said he also saw the ag committee addressing cultured meat, boll weevil infestation as cotton becomes a more prevalent crop in Kansas, county road right-of-way usage and the industrial hemp industry.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Kansas legislative session ramped up on Monday, and local legislators are already sinking their teeth into a variety of issues.Kan. Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, representing the 110th District, said he anticipated redistricting will be something legislators will tackle as soon as possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Kansas Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th District" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th District</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2020 census saw rural counties lose population, with metro areas and mid-size cities like Hays gaining population.Rahjes said his district will need to gain about 1,700 people. Rahjes's district encompasses parts of Ellis and Graham counties."There's 125 of us, and there's probably 125 ideas of where things should go," Rahjes said.The 111th District, which contains Hays and is currently represented by Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, will need to shed more than 1,000 people.You can listen to Wasinger talk more about redistricting and other topics upcoming in the legislative session in her <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eec71a48-c486-451d-b27f-20286628d4c0">interview with Gary Shorman in his Podcast Forward Ever</a>.<h2>Taxes</h2>Kansas has about a $2.9 billion surplus this year. Gov. Kelly in her State-of-the-State address on Tuesday suggested eliminating the state's portion of the sales tax on groceries and giving a $250 tax rebate to Kansas taxpayers who filed returns in 2021."I would caution that&nbsp; because we have a surplus, doesn't mean go out and spend it," Rahjes said."When I think of a surplus, I think of how we can best give that back to the taxpayers of Kansas."Rahjes also said he thought the Legislature needs to look beyond the next one to two years. The Republicans have yet to introduce their own tax plan. <h2>Education</h2>Rahjes said there may be some move by members of the Legislature to tie education policy to funding, specifically Critical Race Theory.Critical Race Theory is a cross-disciplinary intellectual and social movement of civil rights scholars and activists who seek to examine the intersection of race and&nbsp;law in the United States.He said he did not want to comment until he saw specific legislation. Rahjes said he was more concerned about keeping small, rural schools open in the light of COVID and staffing shortages.<h2>COVID</h2>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, who is also running for governor this year, has challenged federal vaccine mandates in court. "We in the majority in the Legislature will do everything we can to allow Kansans to have the freedoms that we should have and to try to keep the federal government at bay from drastic overreach," Rahjes said. "I believe it is up to the individual if they want to have the shot, then they can. If they don't, then they don't."<h2>&nbsp;Elections</h2>Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab has proposed allowing elections officials to purge voters from the rolls if they have not voted in two federal election cycles.Rahjes said he thought this bill would pass in the Legislature. As chairman of the Phillips County Republicans, Rahjes said he found names on the voting rolls of people who were deceased.Schwab in his public statement as did Rahjes said the change would help ensure people who have moved are still not registered in a county in which they no longer live.<h2>Wildfires, ag </h2>Legislation has been introduced to waive sales tax on fencing materials for those affected by December's wildfires. The legislation will seek to make that rebate available for future disasters without legislative action each time, Rahjes said.Rahjes said this is the first time Gov. Kelly has proposed to fully fund the state's water plan.He said Kansas has water quantity issues in the west and water quality issues in the east and different issues for urban areas. "We have to have all three of those to come together and realize that we have to do things that are win-win for all of Kansas and all water users, whether you live in downtown Wichita or you are a farmer from far southwest Kansas," Rahjes said. He said he also saw the ag committee addressing cultured meat, boll weevil infestation as cotton becomes a more prevalent crop in Kansas, county road right-of-way usage and the industrial hemp industry.

Rahjes: Send funding surplus back to taxpayers

A strong storm system moving into western Kansas could make travel hazardous beginning Friday afternoon and into Saturday.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service also warned of increased fire danger as the front brings with it north winds ranging from 25 to 45 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph.

The NWS warned of possible blowing dust, which could impact travel.

There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning between 8 and 9 p.m. Friday.

The front also will lead to a dramatic temperature drop. Thursday's projected high is nearly 60 degrees, while the high Saturday is expected to only reach 28 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642016754482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A strong storm system moving into western Kansas could make travel hazardous beginning Friday afternoon and into Saturday.&nbsp;The National Weather Service also warned of increased fire danger as the front brings with it north winds ranging from 25 to 45 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph.The NWS warned of possible blowing dust, which could impact travel.There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning between 8 and 9 p.m. Friday.The front also will lead to a dramatic temperature drop. Thursday's projected high is nearly 60 degrees, while the high Saturday is expected to only reach 28 degrees.

NWS: Front will bring strong winds, colder air to NW Kan.

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

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

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.

<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>

Local