The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency.

 Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. 

The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817711819.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Thursday in the area from 230th Avenue to Commerce Parkway along and south of U.S. 40 Bypass to Reservation Road. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains. Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;

Fire department inspects hydrants in south Hays on Thursday 

Midland Marketing and Hays Post asked FFA chapters to submit a video to Hays Post for their chance to win $250. Five schools participated from around the listening/viewing area. Then the readers voted on their favorite video. 

Community support was shown for all chapters with over 1,300 total votes. Plainville FFA had the most votes and was the recipient of a $250 check from Midland Marketing.

Plainville FFA currently has 26 members. Jonah Smith, a senior, is the current president and will be attending Fort Hays State University in the fall, playing football and studying physical therapy. Vice President is Ben Hansen, who was was at the state wrestling tournament the day the video was shot. Brianna Augustine is the secretary also a senior and will be attending NCK Tech in the fall studying to become a pharmacy technician.&nbsp; &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/j80IAt_SquU"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midland Marketing and Hays Post asked FFA chapters to submit a video to Hays Post for their chance to win $250. Five schools participated from around the listening/viewing area. Then the readers voted on their favorite video. Community support was shown for all chapters with over 1,300 total votes. Plainville FFA had the most votes and was the recipient of a $250 check from Midland Marketing.Plainville FFA currently has 26 members. Jonah Smith, a senior, is the current president and will be attending Fort Hays State University in the fall, playing football and studying physical therapy. Vice President is Ben Hansen, who was was at the state wrestling tournament the day the video was shot. Brianna Augustine is the secretary also a senior and will be attending NCK Tech in the fall studying to become a pharmacy technician.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎥 Midland Marketing awards winner of FFA video contest

RUSSELL – A Russell man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/11/16/kbi-russell-man-arrested-for-murder-of-14-month-old/">second-degree murder and abuse of a child, </a>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Wednesday in a news release.

Jody Steven Fox, 29, Russell, was sentenced April 5 by Senior Judge Edward Bouker in Russell County District Court. Fox pleaded no contest to the death of a 14-month-old child in 2017. He was sentenced to 200 months in prison for second-degree murder and 34 months for child abuse to be served consecutively. Fox was also ordered to register as a violent offender for 15 years after his release.

The mother of the child, Brandi Niehoff, entered a no contest plea in December 2020 to aggravated child endangerment and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden and Assistant Attorney General CJ Rieg of Schmidt’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617817596757.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL – A Russell man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for the <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2018/11/16/kbi-russell-man-arrested-for-murder-of-14-month-old/">second-degree murder and abuse of a child, </a>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Wednesday in a news release.Jody Steven Fox, 29, Russell, was sentenced April 5 by Senior Judge Edward Bouker in Russell County District Court. Fox pleaded no contest to the death of a 14-month-old child in 2017. He was sentenced to 200 months in prison for second-degree murder and 34 months for child abuse to be served consecutively. Fox was also ordered to register as a violent offender for 15 years after his release.The mother of the child, Brandi Niehoff, entered a no contest plea in December 2020 to aggravated child endangerment and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13.The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Vic Braden and Assistant Attorney General CJ Rieg of Schmidt’s office.

Russell man sentenced for murder, abuse of toddler 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday — the first cases reported in April.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported four COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, three active and one recovering.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,725 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617816587238.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Monday — the first cases reported in April.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported four COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, three active and one recovering.Since reporting began, there have been 3,725 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Three new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co. since Monday

ELLIS — Visitors to Ellis City Hall are no longer required to wear a facemask after the City Council ended the provision during their regular meeting Monday.

The motion to remove the mandate was made by council member&nbsp;Kellie Crnkovich.

"The state has dropped all mandates, so I don't see why we have to have a mandate," Crnkovich said.&nbsp;

Council member Martin LaBarge seconded the motion.

Along with the end of the mask mandate, council chambers will also be returned to a pre-pandemic configuration.

With no discussion, the council voted 4-2 in favor of the measure.

Council member Jolene Niernberger and council president John Walz made up the dissenting votes.

Council members Devin Henderson and Tricia Pritchett, along with LaBarge and Crnkovich, voted in favor of the measure.

Walz said after the vote he was in favor of removing the mask mandate but hoped to continue with the newer configuration of the council chambers.

The measure took effect immediately, with most present immediately removing their masks.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — Visitors to Ellis City Hall are no longer required to wear a facemask after the City Council ended the provision during their regular meeting Monday.The motion to remove the mandate was made by council member&nbsp;Kellie Crnkovich."The state has dropped all mandates, so I don't see why we have to have a mandate," Crnkovich said.&nbsp;Council member Martin LaBarge seconded the motion.Along with the end of the mask mandate, council chambers will also be returned to a pre-pandemic configuration.With no discussion, the council voted 4-2 in favor of the measure.Council member Jolene Niernberger and council president John Walz made up the dissenting votes.Council members Devin Henderson and Tricia Pritchett, along with LaBarge and Crnkovich, voted in favor of the measure.Walz said after the vote he was in favor of removing the mask mandate but hoped to continue with the newer configuration of the council chambers.The measure took effect immediately, with most present immediately removing their masks.

Face masks no longer required in Ellis City Hall

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Sunflower Senior Solutions returns to delivering in person workshops" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m3hra-fffc2f-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Sunflower Senior Solutions offering in person workshops

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new program under the umbrella of DSNWK helps parents form better relationships with their children and boost brain development.

Fam-Link, which is in its first year, is free for families with children 6 to 24 months.

The program provides attachment and biobehavior catch up. The 10-week free program seeks to enhance the parents' or caregivers' bonds with their children.

Caregivers meet with the coaches for about one hour per week. Parents can choose to participate in the program through home visits or virtually. When the family competes the course, they receive a free keepsake video montage taken from the sessions.

The coaches help parents identify the signals their children are giving the caregiver and how the caregiver responds to the child, said Franses Schmidt, parent coach.

The child-caregiver bond is critical for brain connection and development, Schmidt said.

By picking up a child who is crying, that shows the child they can rely on their parent. The program helps the children learn emotional regulation that will help them later when they attend school, Schmidt said.

A child who is not talking yet communicates through facial expressions or they may turn away from the caregiver, Schmidt said.

"During a time like this with the pandemic, times can be stressful," Schmidt said. "Your child might cry and cry and cry. You might not know how to calm them down."

The coaches give caregivers ideas on how they can nurture their children.

"The take away from attachment and biobehavior catch up, is that it is really uplifting for the parent and enhances the bond between the child and parent or caregiver," Schmidt said.

The program has two parent coaches who serve nine Northwest Kansas counties — Ellis, Russell, Rooks, Phillips, Smith, Osborne, Norton, Graham and Trego counties.

The program initially took families who were referred by the Kansas Department of Children and Families. However, the program has now been opened to all families.

"Really, it is a program that is good for a new parent or someone just looking for parenting techniques, because it is really just working on how to respond to your child and building that bond," Schmidt said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617736701433.jpeg" alt="Natalie Ellis with her son works with Fam-Link parent coach Fransis Schmidt." />
 <figcaption>Natalie Ellis with her son works with Fam-Link parent coach Fransis Schmidt.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new program under the umbrella of DSNWK helps parents form better relationships with their children and boost brain development.Fam-Link, which is in its first year, is free for families with children 6 to 24 months.The program provides attachment and biobehavior catch up. The 10-week free program seeks to enhance the parents' or caregivers' bonds with their children.Caregivers meet with the coaches for about one hour per week. Parents can choose to participate in the program through home visits or virtually. When the family competes the course, they receive a free keepsake video montage taken from the sessions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617736812269.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The coaches help parents identify the signals their children are giving the caregiver and how the caregiver responds to the child, said Franses Schmidt, parent coach.The child-caregiver bond is critical for brain connection and development, Schmidt said.By picking up a child who is crying, that shows the child they can rely on their parent. The program helps the children learn emotional regulation that will help them later when they attend school, Schmidt said.A child who is not talking yet communicates through facial expressions or they may turn away from the caregiver, Schmidt said."During a time like this with the pandemic, times can be stressful," Schmidt said. "Your child might cry and cry and cry. You might not know how to calm them down."The coaches give caregivers ideas on how they can nurture their children."The take away from attachment and biobehavior catch up, is that it is really uplifting for the parent and enhances the bond between the child and parent or caregiver," Schmidt said.The program has two parent coaches who serve nine Northwest Kansas counties — Ellis, Russell, Rooks, Phillips, Smith, Osborne, Norton, Graham and Trego counties.The program initially took families who were referred by the Kansas Department of Children and Families. However, the program has now been opened to all families."Really, it is a program that is good for a new parent or someone just looking for parenting techniques, because it is really just working on how to respond to your child and building that bond," Schmidt said.

DSNWK's Fam-Link helps parents build bonds with infants, toddlers

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Regional Airport master plan and airport layout plan includes acquisition of land for existing and future aviation demand.

There are 43 hangars at the airport and all are occupied. There is limited space for new hangar construction within the airport's current layout.&nbsp;

According to information from city staff, the demand for hangars continues to increase.&nbsp;

The city has been offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport. It has has been identified for future growth in the airport layout plan, therefore making the purchase eligible for federal funding.

Expansion into the area would be used for future hangar development.&nbsp;

Total cost of the land, owned by JoAnn Koerner, and its acquisition, is $261, 692.&nbsp;

The purchase is eligible for 90 percent funding through the FAA, with a 10 percent city match of $26, 129.

City commissioners will consider authoring City Manager Toby Dougherty to execute the land purchase during their Thursday meeting.&nbsp;

In other business, commissioners are scheduled to vote on a quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf.

Several years ago, the city acquired the right of way for the northeast portion of what would be the 260th&nbsp;Avenue and East 41st Street intersection. Along with that acquisition came the mineral rights.&nbsp;

The owners of the&nbsp;contiguous tract want to sell the property along with the mineral rights and have asked the&nbsp;city to deed those rights back to the adjacent property.

There is a&nbsp;producing oil well on the property and because the city owns the street tract it&nbsp;has a small interest in the production of the oil and gas.

According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or an annual income of approximately $1.

The complete April 8 city commission agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082021-1263">here</a>.

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617721464450.jpeg" alt="The city is considering purchase of 20 acres directly east of Hays Regional Airport for future expansion, including new&nbsp; airplane hangar construction.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The city is considering purchase of 20 acres directly east of Hays Regional Airport for future expansion, including new&nbsp; airplane hangar construction.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Regional Airport master plan and airport layout plan includes acquisition of land for existing and future aviation demand.There are 43 hangars at the airport and all are occupied. There is limited space for new hangar construction within the airport's current layout.&nbsp;According to information from city staff, the demand for hangars continues to increase.&nbsp;The city has been offered the purchase of a 20.33-acre tract of land on the east side of the airport. It has has been identified for future growth in the airport layout plan, therefore making the purchase eligible for federal funding.Expansion into the area would be used for future hangar development.&nbsp;Total cost of the land, owned by JoAnn Koerner, and its acquisition, is $261, 692.&nbsp;The purchase is eligible for 90 percent funding through the FAA, with a 10 percent city match of $26, 129.City commissioners will consider authoring City Manager Toby Dougherty to execute the land purchase during their Thursday meeting.&nbsp;In other business, commissioners are scheduled to vote on a quitclaim deed for transfer of mineral rights requested by Rick and Betty Wolf.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617724036879.jpeg" alt="The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street." />
 <figcaption>The city of Hays owns the right of way at the northeast corner of 260th Avenue and East 41st Street.</figcaption>
 </figure>Several years ago, the city acquired the right of way for the northeast portion of what would be the 260th&nbsp;Avenue and East 41st Street intersection. Along with that acquisition came the mineral rights.&nbsp;The owners of the&nbsp;contiguous tract want to sell the property along with the mineral rights and have asked the&nbsp;city to deed those rights back to the adjacent property.There is a&nbsp;producing oil well on the property and because the city owns the street tract it&nbsp;has a small interest in the production of the oil and gas.According to figure from City Attorney John Bird, the one-tenth acre the city owns would amount to an annual barrel&nbsp;production of 0.0168 barrels, or an annual income of approximately $1.The complete April 8 city commission agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082021-1263">here</a>.The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

Hays commission to consider land purchase for future airport expansion

The word is out and excitement is building in Hays for the
opening of Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant in downtown Hays, a new establishment
that will offer arcade-style gaming for all ages in a restaurant setting.

“We are going to be a full restaurant and full bar,” said
Kelly DePiesse, one of the four owners, who also include his wife Sarah, along
with another husband-and-wife Tyrel and Jessica Somers. 

And the arcade will cater to fans of both classic and
modern games.

“We are going to have a pretty good list of different arcade
machines.” DePiesse said.

Many of those he said will be the old cabinet-style machines,
but some newer machines will be presented as well.

He also said, they have some “surprises” they plan to bring
in, as well, and cocktail-type games.

The idea behind Arcade 11 came from the owners own
experiences and their desire to see something similar to their favorite
locations locally.

“The group of us travel together quite a bit to different
things and a lot of times when we are traveling, we are always seeking out
different bars or arcades,” he said. “We always really enjoy going to them and
we were at one time, like ‘Why not at home?’ ”

And he believes area residents will take to the fresh
concept.

“Overall, the business is going to be marketed more toward
college students, 30-year olds, 40-years olds and working professionals,” he
said. “I think there is a need for it. Everyone from college-age kids to older
adults will find something fun here.”

But while the restaurant and bar may shift to an adult-only
crowd during the evening, he said during the day the establishment will be
family-friendly.

“Having a full restaurant, we are definitely expecting to have full families,”
he said. “Throughout the day, we definitely want to be welcoming to everybody
and let everyone have an opportunity to enjoy our business.”

Their location downtown also feeds into the desire to open a
place locals can enjoy. 

“It’s a great location, there is a lot of historical value
downtown,” DePiesse said. “There are a lot of great businesses around and we
also have the college not too far away and all of the different apartments,
sororities, fraternities and whatnot.”

“We are right on the corner of Fort and 10th,” DePiesse
said. “Most notably, we are right across from the railroad tracks, just right
next to Sip and Spin, right on the corner.”

The establishment will be located at 201 W 10th.

The building has been the home to a variety of businesses
including a retail outlet, a gym, a music store and most recently Tang’s
Market, an Asian grocery.

“When we got into the building, it was completely stocked
full of different merchandise from when Tang’s Market was in here,” DePiesse
said. “It was kind of frozen in time, it was kind of apocalyptic looking.”

But the group of owners, doing much of the work themselves,
have already removed almost everything from the interior to prepare for the
ongoing construction.

“It’s been a process and we are just working on getting the
building up to code and getting it cleaned,” Depiesse said. “We are going to be
pretty proud once it is done,” he said. “It is going to be pretty sharp.”

Larger scale projects, like replacing the floors are also
underway and the roof has already been replaced.

While the owners are hoping to open this summer, their first
focus is on creating a venue that people can enjoy.

“We want everyone a good experience in here, so it is
important to us to make sure everything is done properly, and everything looks
good,” he said. “We don’t want to rush anything.”

Currently, they believe the restaurant will be open before
the fall school term begins, but they are hopeful it may open sooner.

“We appreciate the positive feedback and interest we have
gotten from everybody in the community, and we ask people to check out the
facebook,” he said. “If you want to see something particular let us know…we are
always open to ideas.”

More information about the project can be found at the <a href="http://arcade-11.com/">Arcade
11 website </a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/arcade11bar">on social media.</a>

<div><iframe title="Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant coming to Hays this summer" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9wvqi-ffd1c6-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=1"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669622486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe word is out and excitement is building in Hays for the
opening of Arcade 11 Bar and Restaurant in downtown Hays, a new establishment
that will offer arcade-style gaming for all ages in a restaurant setting.“We are going to be a full restaurant and full bar,” said
Kelly DePiesse, one of the four owners, who also include his wife Sarah, along
with another husband-and-wife Tyrel and Jessica Somers. And the arcade will cater to fans of both classic and
modern games.“We are going to have a pretty good list of different arcade
machines.” DePiesse said.Many of those he said will be the old cabinet-style machines,
but some newer machines will be presented as well.He also said, they have some “surprises” they plan to bring
in, as well, and cocktail-type games.The idea behind Arcade 11 came from the owners own
experiences and their desire to see something similar to their favorite
locations locally.“The group of us travel together quite a bit to different
things and a lot of times when we are traveling, we are always seeking out
different bars or arcades,” he said. “We always really enjoy going to them and
we were at one time, like ‘Why not at home?’ ”And he believes area residents will take to the fresh
concept.“Overall, the business is going to be marketed more toward
college students, 30-year olds, 40-years olds and working professionals,” he
said. “I think there is a need for it. Everyone from college-age kids to older
adults will find something fun here.”But while the restaurant and bar may shift to an adult-only
crowd during the evening, he said during the day the establishment will be
family-friendly.“Having a full restaurant, we are definitely expecting to have full families,”
he said. “Throughout the day, we definitely want to be welcoming to everybody
and let everyone have an opportunity to enjoy our business.”Their location downtown also feeds into the desire to open a
place locals can enjoy. “It’s a great location, there is a lot of historical value
downtown,” DePiesse said. “There are a lot of great businesses around and we
also have the college not too far away and all of the different apartments,
sororities, fraternities and whatnot.”“We are right on the corner of Fort and 10th,” DePiesse
said. “Most notably, we are right across from the railroad tracks, just right
next to Sip and Spin, right on the corner.”The establishment will be located at 201 W 10th.The building has been the home to a variety of businesses
including a retail outlet, a gym, a music store and most recently Tang’s
Market, an Asian grocery.“When we got into the building, it was completely stocked
full of different merchandise from when Tang’s Market was in here,” DePiesse
said. “It was kind of frozen in time, it was kind of apocalyptic looking.”But the group of owners, doing much of the work themselves,
have already removed almost everything from the interior to prepare for the
ongoing construction.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669711685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s been a process and we are just working on getting the
building up to code and getting it cleaned,” Depiesse said. “We are going to be
pretty proud once it is done,” he said. “It is going to be pretty sharp.”Larger scale projects, like replacing the floors are also
underway and the roof has already been replaced.While the owners are hoping to open this summer, their first
focus is on creating a venue that people can enjoy.“We want everyone a good experience in here, so it is
important to us to make sure everything is done properly, and everything looks
good,” he said. “We don’t want to rush anything.”Currently, they believe the restaurant will be open before
the fall school term begins, but they are hopeful it may open sooner.“We appreciate the positive feedback and interest we have
gotten from everybody in the community, and we ask people to check out the
facebook,” he said. “If you want to see something particular let us know…we are
always open to ideas.”More information about the project can be found at the <a href="http://arcade-11.com/">Arcade
11 website </a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/arcade11bar">on social media.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617669664462.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Newest Hays bar and restaurant promises more than just food and drinks

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

A couple years ago I was at an event where a fellow Farm Bureau staffer from another state lamented he spent so much of his time dealing with the legislative process, there wasn’t much of a chance to really fight for agriculture.

I certainly admired his passion, but I believe “fight” was an unfortunate word to use. I’m not suggesting political fights aren’t necessary, rather I think they should be treated like real fights and saved for the rare instances when other options have been exhausted.

Both passion and perspective are required to effectively engage in politics. Far too often we are led to believe passion is equal to rage and rage is evidence of righteousness. The problem is rage overpowers our ability to reason, overwhelms our logical capabilities and overthrows our perspective.

People get so worked up looking for a fight, they begin tilting at windmills and let true threats go by unnoticed. Immediate gratification and instantaneous reaction supersedes information gathering and seeking deeper understanding. Part of this is most of us only have a limited understanding of what’s going on outside of our immediate lives. Sometimes just keeping track of my wallet and keys seems like a full-time job, let alone navigating the daily workings of a county commission, state legislature and the federal government’s vast bureaucracy. Never mind the social media rabbit trail I get lost on for hours at a time.

The problem with only having just the surface-level view of issues is we’re swayed by our previous experiences. As humans we’re hardwired to fill in gaps with our biases and prejudices. That serves you well when you’re walking through the woods and see something slithering along the trail.

Humans use the same fight or flight response when dealing with each other. We see safety in those who think and act in similar ways to ourselves, and we perceive danger in those who don’t. Nowhere is this more true than on social media.

These platforms are great for a variety of things but fostering a deeper understanding of political issues isn’t one of them. People allow their emotions and experiences to drive the discussion once a position is taken. We then ascribe all sorts of ulterior motives to those with different ideas as insular tribes form around issues and devolve into fights because this is the surface level of political discussion we see on TV.

In reality, even the smallest issues are incredibly complex, and solutions are difficult even in areas where there’s broad consensus. Our instinct is to perceive disagreement as a threat, which tricks us into believing we have two options: fight or flight.

There’s actually a third option and that’s to allow for uncertainty. It’s OK to believe those who disagree with you are sincere in their beliefs. Their experiences, biases and prejudices have led them to different policy prescriptions. But they are still human and experience all of the same emotions you do.

Fighting consumes not only time and energy, but also credibility. Brawling over every issue is a good way for others to quickly ignore you. Engagement requires perspective, logic and reason. And perseverance.

The best way to fight for agriculture is to develop a passion for the mundane things like talking to legislators and policy makers about our experiences, taking the time to provide feedback on issues that affect us, becoming educated on the issues before us and, maybe the most difficult of all, keeping our minds open to new ideas. We won’t resolve every issue, but these are the necessary steps before gearing up for a real fight.

"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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauA couple years ago I was at an event where a fellow Farm Bureau staffer from another state lamented he spent so much of his time dealing with the legislative process, there wasn’t much of a chance to really fight for agriculture.I certainly admired his passion, but I believe “fight” was an unfortunate word to use. I’m not suggesting political fights aren’t necessary, rather I think they should be treated like real fights and saved for the rare instances when other options have been exhausted.Both passion and perspective are required to effectively engage in politics. Far too often we are led to believe passion is equal to rage and rage is evidence of righteousness. The problem is rage overpowers our ability to reason, overwhelms our logical capabilities and overthrows our perspective.People get so worked up looking for a fight, they begin tilting at windmills and let true threats go by unnoticed. Immediate gratification and instantaneous reaction supersedes information gathering and seeking deeper understanding. Part of this is most of us only have a limited understanding of what’s going on outside of our immediate lives. Sometimes just keeping track of my wallet and keys seems like a full-time job, let alone navigating the daily workings of a county commission, state legislature and the federal government’s vast bureaucracy. Never mind the social media rabbit trail I get lost on for hours at a time.The problem with only having just the surface-level view of issues is we’re swayed by our previous experiences. As humans we’re hardwired to fill in gaps with our biases and prejudices. That serves you well when you’re walking through the woods and see something slithering along the trail.Humans use the same fight or flight response when dealing with each other. We see safety in those who think and act in similar ways to ourselves, and we perceive danger in those who don’t. Nowhere is this more true than on social media.These platforms are great for a variety of things but fostering a deeper understanding of political issues isn’t one of them. People allow their emotions and experiences to drive the discussion once a position is taken. We then ascribe all sorts of ulterior motives to those with different ideas as insular tribes form around issues and devolve into fights because this is the surface level of political discussion we see on TV.In reality, even the smallest issues are incredibly complex, and solutions are difficult even in areas where there’s broad consensus. Our instinct is to perceive disagreement as a threat, which tricks us into believing we have two options: fight or flight.There’s actually a third option and that’s to allow for uncertainty. It’s OK to believe those who disagree with you are sincere in their beliefs. Their experiences, biases and prejudices have led them to different policy prescriptions. But they are still human and experience all of the same emotions you do.Fighting consumes not only time and energy, but also credibility. Brawling over every issue is a good way for others to quickly ignore you. Engagement requires perspective, logic and reason. And perseverance.The best way to fight for agriculture is to develop a passion for the mundane things like talking to legislators and policy makers about our experiences, taking the time to provide feedback on issues that affect us, becoming educated on the issues before us and, maybe the most difficult of all, keeping our minds open to new ideas. We won’t resolve every issue, but these are the necessary steps before gearing up for a real fight."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.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Fighting for agriculture

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall St. to Fort St. between 27th St. and 7th St., and also Indian Trail to Canterbury between 27th St. and 22nd St. 

This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583494575399.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall St. to Fort St. between 27th St. and 7th St., and also Indian Trail to Canterbury between 27th St. and 22nd St. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually.&nbsp;

Testing and inspection of fire hydrants continues Wednesday

Three-day weather outlook

The City of Hays’ Department of Water Resources is looking for a dependable Maintenance Worker II to assist in providing reliable water and wastewater services to the citizens of Hays. Duties include manual labor, maintenance duties, pipe repairs, reading meters, equipment operations, snow removal and minor construction projects. &nbsp;

Working days include Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This position is subject to call outs and may be required to work a flexible work schedule as needed. &nbsp;

Valid driver’s license required.&nbsp; Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate. A working knowledge of general construction, plumbing, and equipment required.&nbsp;

Exposure to hazardous chemicals, machinery, excessive noise and all types of weather conditions is expected. This position requires a CDL Class B and has a residency requirement of Ellis County within 6 months of employment.

Full Pay Range: $14.78 – $21.97. Starting wage based on experience.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays offers great benefits including health insurance, KPERS, Paid Time Off &amp; Holidays. Visit <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment for more about the benefits.

Applications will be accepted in City Hall, 1507 Main, Hays, KS or online at <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment. Position opened until filled. Reviewing of applications will begin immediately. Questions about the position may be sent to Human Resources at <a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a> or by calling 785-628-7320. EOE

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MAINTENANCE WORKER IIThe City of Hays’ Department of Water Resources is looking for a dependable Maintenance Worker II to assist in providing reliable water and wastewater services to the citizens of Hays. Duties include manual labor, maintenance duties, pipe repairs, reading meters, equipment operations, snow removal and minor construction projects. &nbsp;Working days include Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This position is subject to call outs and may be required to work a flexible work schedule as needed. &nbsp;REQUIREMENTSValid driver’s license required.&nbsp; Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate. A working knowledge of general construction, plumbing, and equipment required.&nbsp;Exposure to hazardous chemicals, machinery, excessive noise and all types of weather conditions is expected. This position requires a CDL Class B and has a residency requirement of Ellis County within 6 months of employment.COMPENSATIONFull Pay Range: $14.78 – $21.97. Starting wage based on experience.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays offers great benefits including health insurance, KPERS, Paid Time Off &amp; Holidays. Visit <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment for more about the benefits.HOW TO APPLYApplications will be accepted in City Hall, 1507 Main, Hays, KS or online at <a href="http://www.haysusa.com">www.haysusa.com</a>/employment. Position opened until filled. Reviewing of applications will begin immediately. Questions about the position may be sent to Human Resources at <a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a> or by calling 785-628-7320. EOE

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Have you a heron in your hedgerow?

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for central Rush and southeastern Ellis County until 7:30 p.m.

At 6:43 p.m., a line of severe thunderstorms extended from near Liebenthal to southwest of Rush Center, moving northeast at 35 mph. Hazards include ping pong ball-sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts.&nbsp;

Locations impacted includ La Crosse, Victoria, Walker, Bison, Rush Center, Timken, Loretta  and Pfeifer.

Tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for central Rush and southeastern Ellis County until 7:30 p.m.At 6:43 p.m., a line of severe thunderstorms extended from near Liebenthal to southwest of Rush Center, moving northeast at 35 mph. Hazards include ping pong ball-sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts.&nbsp;Locations impacted includ La Crosse, Victoria, Walker, Bison, Rush Center, Timken, Loretta and Pfeifer.Tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

NWS: Ellis, Rush counties includes in T-storm warning

<div><iframe title="Hays Public Library remodel nears completion" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gjawr-ffe1e4-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Public Library remodel nears completion

RAWLINS COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of a suspect who stole a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper's vehicle in Rawlins County.

Just after noon Saturday while transporting a suspect to a detention facility following a pursuit that involved a stolen vehicle, the transporting state trooper witnessed an injury motorcycle crash on Kansas 25 near Atwood, according to&nbsp; Trooper Tod Hileman.

The trooper stopped to render aid. While the Trooper assisted the crash victim, the suspect identified as 23-year-old Joshua Swartwout of Naples, Fla., who was handcuffed behind the back gained control of the trooper's patrol vehicle and drove away southbound on Kansas 25 at a high rate of speed.

KHP and local law enforcement pursued the patrol vehicle to Interstate 70 where the suspect continued westbound.

At 12:40p.m., the stolen KHP vehicle came to a stop on Interstate near Esbon in Sherman County after the car ran out of fuel.

Swartwout, who was still handcuffed behind the back, fled the KHP vehicle on foot but was quickly apprehended.&nbsp; EMS at the scene check him and later he was transported to the jail in Sherman County without further incident.

Swartwout remains jailed on requested charges of Possession of Stolen Property, Fleeing or attempting to elude, Interference with LEO, Criminal Damage to property,&nbsp; Reckless Driving, Speeding, Driving on left in a no passing zone and Improper Driving on laned roadway, according to online jail records.

There were no injuries to law enforcement and the KHP vehicle did not sustain any damage, according to Hileman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617640293345.png" alt="Swartwout photo Sherman County" />
 <figcaption>Swartwout photo Sherman County</figcaption>
 </figure>RAWLINS COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of a suspect who stole a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper's vehicle in Rawlins County.Just after noon Saturday while transporting a suspect to a detention facility following a pursuit that involved a stolen vehicle, the transporting state trooper witnessed an injury motorcycle crash on Kansas 25 near Atwood, according to&nbsp; Trooper Tod Hileman.The trooper stopped to render aid. While the Trooper assisted the crash victim, the suspect identified as 23-year-old Joshua Swartwout of Naples, Fla., who was handcuffed behind the back gained control of the trooper's patrol vehicle and drove away southbound on Kansas 25 at a high rate of speed.KHP and local law enforcement pursued the patrol vehicle to Interstate 70 where the suspect continued westbound.At 12:40p.m., the stolen KHP vehicle came to a stop on Interstate near Esbon in Sherman County after the car ran out of fuel.Swartwout, who was still handcuffed behind the back, fled the KHP vehicle on foot but was quickly apprehended.&nbsp; EMS at the scene check him and later he was transported to the jail in Sherman County without further incident.Swartwout remains jailed on requested charges of Possession of Stolen Property, Fleeing or attempting to elude, Interference with LEO, Criminal Damage to property,&nbsp; Reckless Driving, Speeding, Driving on left in a no passing zone and Improper Driving on laned roadway, according to online jail records.There were no injuries to law enforcement and the KHP vehicle did not sustain any damage, according to Hileman.

Suspect who stole KHP trooper's vehicle remains in jail

RUSSELL — Bomgaars Supply Inc., a farm and ranch chain based in Sioux City, Iowa, recently purchased the former Shopko building in Russell.

Torrey Wingert, chief executive officer of Bomgaars, confirmed the purchase saying, “We look forward to providing our very popular lines of products to serve the people of this community.”

The 21,000-square-foot store is at 87 S. Fossil St. About 12 to 15 employees from the local area will be hired for a variety of positions. The store is scheduled to open for business in May. Store officials are hoping for a grand opening in June.

Major departments at all stores include lawn and garden plus nursery, footwear and clothing, farm, animal feed, pet, automotive, electrical, plumbing, hardware, housewares, and toys.

Some of the brand names the company offers in clothing include Wrangler, Carhartt, Under Armour, Columbia, Dickies, Ariat and Noble Outfitters.

Pet foods include Iams, Purina, Blue Buffalo, Wildology, Diamond and Science Diet.

Tool suppliers include DeWalt, Milwaukee, Irwin, Black Diamond and Stanley.

Automotive accessories, fluids and lubricants are well represented, along with a broad selection of Hutchison-Western gates, panels and wire.

In lawn and garden, items from Stihl, Echo, Troy-Bilt, Honda, Bonide, Scotts and Ortho are featured.&nbsp;

"Bomgaars has an excellent reputation throughout the area for its high-quality merchandise and first-rate service, along with competitive pricing on name brands chosen for reliability and value," a press release said.

Browse the website at <a href="http://www.bomgaars.com">www.bomgaars.com</a> for more information.

Bomgaars is a fourth-generation company, privately owned by Roger and Jane Bomgaars. The corporate office and distribution center is headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa, where the company originated in 1952.

During the past 69 years, Bomgaars has continually reinvested in the company to construct new buildings, enlarge or renovate existing ones and add locations as opportunities present themselves.

With 101 stores in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming and Kansas, the company employs about 2,700 people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617637873620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedRUSSELL — Bomgaars Supply Inc., a farm and ranch chain based in Sioux City, Iowa, recently purchased the former Shopko building in Russell.Torrey Wingert, chief executive officer of Bomgaars, confirmed the purchase saying, “We look forward to providing our very popular lines of products to serve the people of this community.”The 21,000-square-foot store is at 87 S. Fossil St. About 12 to 15 employees from the local area will be hired for a variety of positions. The store is scheduled to open for business in May. Store officials are hoping for a grand opening in June.Major departments at all stores include lawn and garden plus nursery, footwear and clothing, farm, animal feed, pet, automotive, electrical, plumbing, hardware, housewares, and toys.Some of the brand names the company offers in clothing include Wrangler, Carhartt, Under Armour, Columbia, Dickies, Ariat and Noble Outfitters.Pet foods include Iams, Purina, Blue Buffalo, Wildology, Diamond and Science Diet.Tool suppliers include DeWalt, Milwaukee, Irwin, Black Diamond and Stanley.Automotive accessories, fluids and lubricants are well represented, along with a broad selection of Hutchison-Western gates, panels and wire.In lawn and garden, items from Stihl, Echo, Troy-Bilt, Honda, Bonide, Scotts and Ortho are featured.&nbsp;"Bomgaars has an excellent reputation throughout the area for its high-quality merchandise and first-rate service, along with competitive pricing on name brands chosen for reliability and value," a press release said.Browse the website at <a href="http://www.bomgaars.com">www.bomgaars.com</a> for more information.Bomgaars is a fourth-generation company, privately owned by Roger and Jane Bomgaars. The corporate office and distribution center is headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa, where the company originated in 1952.During the past 69 years, Bomgaars has continually reinvested in the company to construct new buildings, enlarge or renovate existing ones and add locations as opportunities present themselves.With 101 stores in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming and Kansas, the company employs about 2,700 people.

Bomgaars Supply to open new store in Russell

Nymex settlement prices last week ranged from $59 to $61 per barrel. But light sweet crude ended the week just a dime higher than the week before, settling Thursday at $61.45 per barrel. In lunchtime trading Monday, the benchmark contract was down nearly five percent to $58 56 per barrel. London Brent dropped to $62.15. Some analysts are calling the selloff a delayed reaction to news last week that OPEC Plus will ease its self-imposed production cuts.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson remains unchanged since Thursday due to the holiday, and started the week Monday at $51.75 per barrel.&nbsp; The average price for the month of March was just short of $52.89 a barrel, marking the best monthly average for Kansas Common in McPherson since April of 2019. U.S. crude production last year dropped by eight percent from the record high set the year before. As we've told you, the decrease last year was the largest annual decline in EIA records. But Kansas output dropped even more, down 17 percent from the previous year. Drilling down into the data offered in a new report from the Kansas Geological Survey, we find the local totals are also significantly lower. Barton County output averaged 3,787 barrels per day (bpd) last year, down from 4,459 bpd the year before. Ellis County pumped 5,990 bpd, down from 6,925 bpd in 2019. Russell County production dropped from 4,107 bpd in 2019 to 3,593 bpd last year. Stafford county dipped below one million barrels total production last year for the first time in decades. Average output fell to 2,488 bpd, from 2,848 bpd the year before. State regulators reported a small spike in drilling notices in March. The Kansas Corporation Commission reported 103 intent-to-drill notices statewide compared to just 31 the month before. That's 213 intents during the first three months of the year, compared to 171 during the first quarter of last year. The KCC notes one new intent in Barton County, three in Russell County and one in Stafford County.&nbsp; Overall drilling activity in Kansas through the first three months of the year is down by about half compared to the first quarter of last year.&nbsp; That's based on new wells spud in the state. During the first quarter of 2021, Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 102 wells drilled to total depth. There are 18 active drilling rigs in Kansas, a 200% increase from a year ago. There are five active rigs in eastern Kansas, up four from the week before, and 13 west of Wichita, up two.&nbsp; Operators say they will soon spud a new well in Barton County. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes rose to 430 Friday, an increase of 13 oil rigs. That's the largest jump since January 2020. The count in Texas was up four, New Mexico was up three, and Utah was up two. Kansas regulators approved seven new drilling permits last week, three in the eastern half of the state and four in Western Kansas, for a year-to-date total of 195 new permits. Out of 19 newly-completed wells in Kansas last week, Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says 14 are in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, two in Ellis county and two in Stafford County. Operators have completed 178 wells across Kansas so far this year. For the first time in over a month, weekly U.S. oil-by-rail traffic declined last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,694 tanker cars hauling petroleum during the week ended March 27, down 945 tankers from the week before, and a 4.8% drop from a year earlier. The government says U.S. crude-oil inventories decreased by 900,000 barrels last week. At nearly 502 million barrels, stockpiles are about six percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production topped eleven million barrels per day for the first time since late January. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports production of 11.145 million barrels per day for the week ending March 26. That's up 191,000 barrels per day from the week before, but down nearly two million barrels per day from last year at this time. U.S. crude-oil imports increased by half a million barrels per day last week. Over the past four weeks, imports were down more than nine percent from the same four-week period last year. Gasoline stockpiles were up 1.7 million barrels last week, and are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. Triple-A says growing stockpiles and cheaper crude are putting downward pressure on pump prices, but not enough to report a steady trend just yet. The national average pump price on Monday (3/29) was lower than the average a week earlier for the first time since last November. Ships resumed transit through the Suez Canal last week, as port authorities braced for a flood of traffic that was diverted or delayed by that grounded container vessel. Authorities in the Canal Zone hoped to quickly clear the traffic jam, including a backlog of more than four hundred ships. Energy Giant Pioneer Natural Resources, announced another huge takeover deal. Two deals total $11 BILLION in cash, stock and debt to acquire competitors in the Permian Basin. Pioneer will buy DoublePoint Energy in a deal valued at $6.4 BILLION. The deal increases Pioneer's position to more than 1 million net acres, adding what the company called primarily undrilled new land.&nbsp; The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter. It would be Pioneer’s second big buy in just over six months, after announcing in October it would buy Parsley Energy for $4.5 billion. Tallgrass Pony Express Pipeline announced a binding open season looking for crude-oil shippers. They're offering volume incentive tariff rates to move crude some 830 miles from North Dakota, Wyoming and Colorado to Cushing, Oklahoma. Along the way the pipeline connects to refineries in McPherson and El Dorado, Kansas as well as Ponca City, Oklahoma. Tallgrass converted a 430-mile natural gas pipeline, and built another 260 miles of new pipe, to extend Pony Express through southern Kansas into Oklahoma.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARNymex settlement prices last week ranged from $59 to $61 per barrel. But light sweet crude ended the week just a dime higher than the week before, settling Thursday at $61.45 per barrel. In lunchtime trading Monday, the benchmark contract was down nearly five percent to $58 56 per barrel. London Brent dropped to $62.15. Some analysts are calling the selloff a delayed reaction to news last week that OPEC Plus will ease its self-imposed production cuts.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson remains unchanged since Thursday due to the holiday, and started the week Monday at $51.75 per barrel.&nbsp; The average price for the month of March was just short of $52.89 a barrel, marking the best monthly average for Kansas Common in McPherson since April of 2019. U.S. crude production last year dropped by eight percent from the record high set the year before. As we've told you, the decrease last year was the largest annual decline in EIA records. But Kansas output dropped even more, down 17 percent from the previous year. Drilling down into the data offered in a new report from the Kansas Geological Survey, we find the local totals are also significantly lower. Barton County output averaged 3,787 barrels per day (bpd) last year, down from 4,459 bpd the year before. Ellis County pumped 5,990 bpd, down from 6,925 bpd in 2019. Russell County production dropped from 4,107 bpd in 2019 to 3,593 bpd last year. Stafford county dipped below one million barrels total production last year for the first time in decades. Average output fell to 2,488 bpd, from 2,848 bpd the year before. State regulators reported a small spike in drilling notices in March. The Kansas Corporation Commission reported 103 intent-to-drill notices statewide compared to just 31 the month before. That's 213 intents during the first three months of the year, compared to 171 during the first quarter of last year. The KCC notes one new intent in Barton County, three in Russell County and one in Stafford County.&nbsp; Overall drilling activity in Kansas through the first three months of the year is down by about half compared to the first quarter of last year.&nbsp; That's based on new wells spud in the state. During the first quarter of 2021, Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 102 wells drilled to total depth. There are 18 active drilling rigs in Kansas, a 200% increase from a year ago. There are five active rigs in eastern Kansas, up four from the week before, and 13 west of Wichita, up two.&nbsp; Operators say they will soon spud a new well in Barton County. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes rose to 430 Friday, an increase of 13 oil rigs. That's the largest jump since January 2020. The count in Texas was up four, New Mexico was up three, and Utah was up two. Kansas regulators approved seven new drilling permits last week, three in the eastern half of the state and four in Western Kansas, for a year-to-date total of 195 new permits. Out of 19 newly-completed wells in Kansas last week, Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says 14 are in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, two in Ellis county and two in Stafford County. Operators have completed 178 wells across Kansas so far this year. For the first time in over a month, weekly U.S. oil-by-rail traffic declined last week. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,694 tanker cars hauling petroleum during the week ended March 27, down 945 tankers from the week before, and a 4.8% drop from a year earlier. The government says U.S. crude-oil inventories decreased by 900,000 barrels last week. At nearly 502 million barrels, stockpiles are about six percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production topped eleven million barrels per day for the first time since late January. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports production of 11.145 million barrels per day for the week ending March 26. That's up 191,000 barrels per day from the week before, but down nearly two million barrels per day from last year at this time. U.S. crude-oil imports increased by half a million barrels per day last week. Over the past four weeks, imports were down more than nine percent from the same four-week period last year. Gasoline stockpiles were up 1.7 million barrels last week, and are about four percent below the five-year seasonal average. Triple-A says growing stockpiles and cheaper crude are putting downward pressure on pump prices, but not enough to report a steady trend just yet. The national average pump price on Monday (3/29) was lower than the average a week earlier for the first time since last November. Ships resumed transit through the Suez Canal last week, as port authorities braced for a flood of traffic that was diverted or delayed by that grounded container vessel. Authorities in the Canal Zone hoped to quickly clear the traffic jam, including a backlog of more than four hundred ships. Energy Giant Pioneer Natural Resources, announced another huge takeover deal. Two deals total $11 BILLION in cash, stock and debt to acquire competitors in the Permian Basin. Pioneer will buy DoublePoint Energy in a deal valued at $6.4 BILLION. The deal increases Pioneer's position to more than 1 million net acres, adding what the company called primarily undrilled new land.&nbsp; The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter. It would be Pioneer’s second big buy in just over six months, after announcing in October it would buy Parsley Energy for $4.5 billion. Tallgrass Pony Express Pipeline announced a binding open season looking for crude-oil shippers. They're offering volume incentive tariff rates to move crude some 830 miles from North Dakota, Wyoming and Colorado to Cushing, Oklahoma. Along the way the pipeline connects to refineries in McPherson and El Dorado, Kansas as well as Ponca City, Oklahoma. Tallgrass converted a 430-mile natural gas pipeline, and built another 260 miles of new pipe, to extend Pony Express through southern Kansas into Oklahoma.

News From the Oil Patch: Kan. March crude prices best in two years

The National Weather Service is warning of a chance of severe thunderstorms in western Kansas beginning early Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

The storms are expected to be isolated and occur between 4 p.m. and midnight east of a Hays-to-Dodge City-to-Greensburg line.

Wind of up to 65 mph and 2-inch hail could be possible, the NWS said.&nbsp;

In Ellis County, there is a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday night.

Wednesday is expected to bring more rain, as well, with a 50 percent chance of showers and winds gusting to more than 40 mph. Skies are expected to clear Wednesday evening.

Check Hays Post and stay tuned to your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617726501846.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service is warning of a chance of severe thunderstorms in western Kansas beginning early Tuesday evening.&nbsp;The storms are expected to be isolated and occur between 4 p.m. and midnight east of a Hays-to-Dodge City-to-Greensburg line.Wind of up to 65 mph and 2-inch hail could be possible, the NWS said.&nbsp;In Ellis County, there is a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday night.Wednesday is expected to bring more rain, as well, with a 50 percent chance of showers and winds gusting to more than 40 mph. Skies are expected to clear Wednesday evening.Check Hays Post and stay tuned to your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617726528206.png" alt="Goodland NWS" />
 <figcaption>Goodland NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Tuesday evening storms could bring large hail, strong wind

A common disease of roses is blackspot, a fungus disease that can cause defoliation of susceptible plants. Look for dark, circular lesions with feathery edges on the top surface of the leaves and raised purple spots on young canes. Infected leaves will often yellow between spots and eventually drop. The infection usually starts on the lower leaves and works its way up the plant. Blackspot is most severe under conditions of high relative humidity (&gt;85%), warm temperatures (75 to 85 degrees F), and six or more hours of leaf wetness. Newly expanding leaves are most vulnerable to infection. The fungus can survive on fallen leaves or canes and is disseminated primarily by splashing water. &nbsp;Cultural practices are the first line of defense. 1. Don't plant susceptible roses unless you are willing to use fungicide sprays. Purdue University has a list of blackspot-resistant varieties. 2. Keep irrigation water off the foliage. Drip irrigation works well with roses. 3. Plant roses in sun in areas with good air movement to limit the amount of time the foliage is wet. 4. Remove diseased leaves that have fallen and prune out infected rose canes to minimize inoculum. If needed, protect foliage with a regular spray program (10- to 14-day schedule) of effective fungicides. Recommended fungicides include tebuconazole (BioAdvanced Disease Control for Roses, Flowers, and Shrubs, BioAdvanced All-In-One Rose &amp; Flower Care), myclobutanil (Immunox, F-Stop Lawn &amp; Garden Fungicide), and chlorothalonil (Broad Spectrum Lawn &amp; Garden Fungicide, Garden Disease Control, others). Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A common disease of roses is blackspot, a fungus disease that can cause defoliation of susceptible plants. Look for dark, circular lesions with feathery edges on the top surface of the leaves and raised purple spots on young canes. Infected leaves will often yellow between spots and eventually drop. The infection usually starts on the lower leaves and works its way up the plant. Blackspot is most severe under conditions of high relative humidity (&gt;85%), warm temperatures (75 to 85 degrees F), and six or more hours of leaf wetness. Newly expanding leaves are most vulnerable to infection. The fungus can survive on fallen leaves or canes and is disseminated primarily by splashing water. &nbsp;Cultural practices are the first line of defense. 1. Don't plant susceptible roses unless you are willing to use fungicide sprays. Purdue University has a list of blackspot-resistant varieties. 2. Keep irrigation water off the foliage. Drip irrigation works well with roses. 3. Plant roses in sun in areas with good air movement to limit the amount of time the foliage is wet. 4. Remove diseased leaves that have fallen and prune out infected rose canes to minimize inoculum. If needed, protect foliage with a regular spray program (10- to 14-day schedule) of effective fungicides. Recommended fungicides include tebuconazole (BioAdvanced Disease Control for Roses, Flowers, and Shrubs, BioAdvanced All-In-One Rose &amp; Flower Care), myclobutanil (Immunox, F-Stop Lawn &amp; Garden Fungicide), and chlorothalonil (Broad Spectrum Lawn &amp; Garden Fungicide, Garden Disease Control, others). Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Blackspot of roses

The Hays Police Department has arrested a 14-year-old Hays Middle School student on a charge of criminal threat for a bomb threat made against the school on March 30.

A threat of a bomb inside of a school at 201 W. 29th was made to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation tip line on March 30.

A quick search by the KBI determined the only school in the state with that address was Hays Middle School.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/57b6a164-afae-4c68-902d-bf9625879cfb">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle School placed on room hold after bomb threat</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4acda04e-a73a-4f70-9e8d-068816be73e2">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489: No explosives found; seeking information on the incident</a>

Kansas Highway Patrol bomb dogs, as well as other law enforcement, assisted in clearing the building that evening. No explosive devices were found.

The threat was tracked back to a school-issued device and then to the suspect. The suspect was arrested the day after the threat.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said he was uncertain of the motivation behind the threat, but he believed it was meant as a prank.

The gender of the suspect was not released.

Scheibler thanked the district staff and administration, Hays Middle School staff, the USD 489 technology department, Ellis County Sheriff's Office, Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas Highway Patrol for their assistance in the case.

"The school district took the threat very seriously, and their plan worked very well,"&nbsp;Scheibler said. "They had a quick response. We want all of our community to feel safe, especially in our schools."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617650812404.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays Police Department has arrested a 14-year-old Hays Middle School student on a charge of criminal threat for a bomb threat made against the school on March 30.A threat of a bomb inside of a school at 201 W. 29th was made to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation tip line on March 30.A quick search by the KBI determined the only school in the state with that address was Hays Middle School.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/57b6a164-afae-4c68-902d-bf9625879cfb">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle School placed on room hold after bomb threat</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4acda04e-a73a-4f70-9e8d-068816be73e2">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489: No explosives found; seeking information on the incident</a>Kansas Highway Patrol bomb dogs, as well as other law enforcement, assisted in clearing the building that evening. No explosive devices were found.The threat was tracked back to a school-issued device and then to the suspect. The suspect was arrested the day after the threat.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said he was uncertain of the motivation behind the threat, but he believed it was meant as a prank.The gender of the suspect was not released.Scheibler thanked the district staff and administration, Hays Middle School staff, the USD 489 technology department, Ellis County Sheriff's Office, Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas Highway Patrol for their assistance in the case."The school district took the threat very seriously, and their plan worked very well,"&nbsp;Scheibler said. "They had a quick response. We want all of our community to feel safe, especially in our schools."

Arrest made in Hays Middle School bomb threat

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported that no new cases of VODI-19 were identified in Ellis County since Friday.

The last reported case was identified on March 31, the KDHE said.

As of Monday, the&nbsp;University of Kansas Health System reported on active COVID-19 inpatient at HaysMed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617643116976.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported that no new cases of VODI-19 were identified in Ellis County since Friday.The last reported case was identified on March 31, the KDHE said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday, the&nbsp;University of Kansas Health System reported on active COVID-19 inpatient at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,722 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

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