Tugboat captains blared their horns Monday as that huge container ship blocking 10 percent of the world's sea commerce was finally re-floated, six days after wedging itself into the mud along the Suez Canal. But, as so often happens, there are those on the internet who are not happy with the end of their memes. On Twitter, "PUT IT BACK" has become a trending topic in the United States. 

Heavy dirt-movers and multiple tugboats were aided by high tides, high winds, and a full moon Sunday night and Monday morning, as the EVERGIVEN finally regained buoyancy and was able to resume it's course northward through the Suez Canal. Now the ship's owners, its insurers, and its lawyers are bracing for a raft of lawsuits. There were over 300 ships waiting in line to use the canal on Sunday. Analysts say that backlog could be with us for days if not weeks. The traffic jam delayed billions of dollars in trade every day, causing some big problems for regional hot spots Syria and Lebanon, where fuel shortages have already prompted rationing and blackouts.

Kansas Crude prices during the month of March have been up and down, between a low of $48 a barrel and a high of $56.25.  But Kansas Common starts this week at $51.25, which is just 25 cents more than the price at the start of the month.

Oil-by-rail shipments across the U.S. showed another weekly increase. Operators moved 11,639 petroleum tanker cars during the week ending March 20, up 260 cars from the week before. That's down nearly 4 percent from a year ago, marking the smallest year-over-year decline since since January. 

Baker Hughes on Friday reported 417 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase six oil rigs. The count in Texas was up three for the week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a 40% drop in its weekly Rig Count in Kansas. There's one active drilling rig in the eastern half of the state, down five from the week before. In Western Kansas, there are 11 active rigs, down three.

Regulators okayed 33 new drilling permits last week across Kansas, 26 of them east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas. That's 188 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 26 newly-completed wells across the state, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County. That's 159 completed wells so far this year, compared to more than 300 by the end of the first quarter last year, as prices plunged and operators began shutting down production.

The Kansas Geological Society earlier this year recognized and named four new oil and gas fields in Kansas. One of them is the Kay field in Ellis County, targeting the Lansing-Kansas City formation. The Kay#1 well is operated by TDI Incorporated.

The government reported the fifth consecutive weekly increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of over 502 million barrels last week, up by nearly two million barrels. That's about six percent above the five-year seasonal average.

The government reports an increase in weekly U.S. crude-oil production of 94,000 barrels per day compared to the week before. EIA reports an average of 10.86 million barrels per day for the week ending March 19.  A year ago this week, domestic output was just shy of 13 million barrels per day.

The four-week average for U.S. crude imports remains about 13 percent less than reports from the same four weeks last year. EIA reports average imports last week were up 41,000 barrels per day over the week before at 5.9 million barrels per day. 

A huge railroad merger should make it easier to move Canadian crude to the Gulf Coast, and refined products from there into Mexico. Canadian Pacific Railway is buying Kansas City Southern. The $25 BILLION stock-and-cash deal would create the Calgary-based "Canadian Pacific Kansas City," which is touted as the first rail network connecting the US, Mexico and Canada. The integrated company would boast 20,000 miles of rail network stretching from the Alberta oil sands through central Mexico. The merged railroad would represent the smallest of the six major freight haulers in the United States. Reaction has been mixed. The Premier of Alberta Province said the deal was a win for crude oil export capacity from Western Canada following the cancellation of the Keystone pipeline expansion project. But some longtime crude-by-rail exporters don't expect it will make much difference, with most oil-by-rail in the region already shipping via the new company's biggest competitor, Canadian National Railway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARTugboat captains blared their horns Monday as that huge container ship blocking 10 percent of the world's sea commerce was finally re-floated, six days after wedging itself into the mud along the Suez Canal. But, as so often happens, there are those on the internet who are not happy with the end of their memes. On Twitter, "PUT IT BACK" has become a trending topic in the United States. Heavy dirt-movers and multiple tugboats were aided by high tides, high winds, and a full moon Sunday night and Monday morning, as the EVERGIVEN finally regained buoyancy and was able to resume it's course northward through the Suez Canal. Now the ship's owners, its insurers, and its lawyers are bracing for a raft of lawsuits. There were over 300 ships waiting in line to use the canal on Sunday. Analysts say that backlog could be with us for days if not weeks. The traffic jam delayed billions of dollars in trade every day, causing some big problems for regional hot spots Syria and Lebanon, where fuel shortages have already prompted rationing and blackouts.Kansas Crude prices during the month of March have been up and down, between a low of $48 a barrel and a high of $56.25. But Kansas Common starts this week at $51.25, which is just 25 cents more than the price at the start of the month.Oil-by-rail shipments across the U.S. showed another weekly increase. Operators moved 11,639 petroleum tanker cars during the week ending March 20, up 260 cars from the week before. That's down nearly 4 percent from a year ago, marking the smallest year-over-year decline since since January. Baker Hughes on Friday reported 417 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase six oil rigs. The count in Texas was up three for the week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported a 40% drop in its weekly Rig Count in Kansas. There's one active drilling rig in the eastern half of the state, down five from the week before. In Western Kansas, there are 11 active rigs, down three.Regulators okayed 33 new drilling permits last week across Kansas, 26 of them east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas. That's 188 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 26 newly-completed wells across the state, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County. That's 159 completed wells so far this year, compared to more than 300 by the end of the first quarter last year, as prices plunged and operators began shutting down production.The Kansas Geological Society earlier this year recognized and named four new oil and gas fields in Kansas. One of them is the Kay field in Ellis County, targeting the Lansing-Kansas City formation. The Kay#1 well is operated by TDI Incorporated.The government reported the fifth consecutive weekly increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of over 502 million barrels last week, up by nearly two million barrels. That's about six percent above the five-year seasonal average.The government reports an increase in weekly U.S. crude-oil production of 94,000 barrels per day compared to the week before. EIA reports an average of 10.86 million barrels per day for the week ending March 19. A year ago this week, domestic output was just shy of 13 million barrels per day.The four-week average for U.S. crude imports remains about 13 percent less than reports from the same four weeks last year. EIA reports average imports last week were up 41,000 barrels per day over the week before at 5.9 million barrels per day. A huge railroad merger should make it easier to move Canadian crude to the Gulf Coast, and refined products from there into Mexico. Canadian Pacific Railway is buying Kansas City Southern. The $25 BILLION stock-and-cash deal would create the Calgary-based "Canadian Pacific Kansas City," which is touted as the first rail network connecting the US, Mexico and Canada. The integrated company would boast 20,000 miles of rail network stretching from the Alberta oil sands through central Mexico. The merged railroad would represent the smallest of the six major freight haulers in the United States. Reaction has been mixed. The Premier of Alberta Province said the deal was a win for crude oil export capacity from Western Canada following the cancellation of the Keystone pipeline expansion project. But some longtime crude-by-rail exporters don't expect it will make much difference, with most oil-by-rail in the region already shipping via the new company's biggest competitor, Canadian National Railway.

News From the Oil Patch: Ship freed; internet demands 'PUT IT BACK'

Smoky Hill Country Club in conjunction with Central Links Golf are excited to host the 2021 Kansas Junior Amateur Golf Tournament June 7 to 10. This is a great event for our community where the Junior Golf Players throughout Kansas can show their skills. &nbsp;This is the largest event for Junior Golf in Kansas with Central Links Golf and by far the largest event Smoky Hill Country Club has hosted for this caliber of players.

Boys Divisions Five Boys age divisions:&nbsp;

Girls Divisions One Girls age division&nbsp;

Both Champions and Runner Ups will receive a qualifying spot into the KS Regional,&nbsp;Notah Begay III Junior Championship,&nbsp;at Firekeeper Golf Course on July 20-21, 2021.

Competition practice round will start on June 7th&nbsp;with the following format scheduled for play starting on the 8th. 54 holes of individual stroke play within five age divisions for boys.&nbsp; 54 holes of individual stroke play within one age division for girls.&nbsp; Following 36 holes there will be a cut to the low 15 and ties in each age division.&nbsp; Overall Champion to be determined (boys and girls).&nbsp; The event may be shortened to&nbsp;36 holes if weather cancels either round..&nbsp; Following 36 holes there will be a cut to the low 15 and ties in each age division.

Smoky Hill Country Club is excited for the opportunity to co-host this event and have available for the public to be part of the gallery. &nbsp;Save the date to come watch these young players showcase their golf skills. The public is invited and cost to be part of this gallery is free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616772397761.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSmoky Hill Country Club in conjunction with Central Links Golf are excited to host the 2021 Kansas Junior Amateur Golf Tournament June 7 to 10. This is a great event for our community where the Junior Golf Players throughout Kansas can show their skills. &nbsp;This is the largest event for Junior Golf in Kansas with Central Links Golf and by far the largest event Smoky Hill Country Club has hosted for this caliber of players.Boys Divisions Five Boys age divisions:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>14 &amp; Under</li><li>15 age&nbsp;</li><li>16 age</li><li>17 age</li><li>18 age</li>
 </ul>Girls Divisions One Girls age division&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>All Girls</li>
 </ul>Both Champions and Runner Ups will receive a qualifying spot into the KS Regional,&nbsp;Notah Begay III Junior Championship,&nbsp;at Firekeeper Golf Course on July 20-21, 2021.Competition practice round will start on June 7th&nbsp;with the following format scheduled for play starting on the 8th. 54 holes of individual stroke play within five age divisions for boys.&nbsp; 54 holes of individual stroke play within one age division for girls.&nbsp; Following 36 holes there will be a cut to the low 15 and ties in each age division.&nbsp; Overall Champion to be determined (boys and girls).&nbsp; The event may be shortened to&nbsp;36 holes if weather cancels either round..&nbsp; Following 36 holes there will be a cut to the low 15 and ties in each age division.Smoky Hill Country Club is excited for the opportunity to co-host this event and have available for the public to be part of the gallery. &nbsp;Save the date to come watch these young players showcase their golf skills. The public is invited and cost to be part of this gallery is free.—&nbsp;News release

Kansas Junior Amateur Golf tourney heading to Hays

The Hays Public Library 21st annual poetry contest is going virtual. Rather than holding one night of in-person submissions, HPL will be accepting online submissions of original works of poetry now through 11:59 p.m. April 12.&nbsp;

Participants (age 16 and older) can enter one original piece of poetry on the Hays Public Library website,&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest">hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest</a>. Judges, including Department Chair of History at Fort Hays State University David Goodlett, FHSU adviser and local author Dawne Leiker, and HPL Patron Experience Coordinator Nicole Thibodeau will deliberate and choose a first place and second place winner, which will be announced via the HPL Facebook page on April 16. The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques and his or her name engraved on the Poetry Contest plaque, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;

HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered. Both physical and digital copies of&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;will be available.&nbsp;

For questions or comments, contact Thibodeau at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org" target="_blank">nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org</a>.

You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617024632177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPLThe Hays Public Library 21st annual poetry contest is going virtual. Rather than holding one night of in-person submissions, HPL will be accepting online submissions of original works of poetry now through 11:59 p.m. April 12.&nbsp;Participants (age 16 and older) can enter one original piece of poetry on the Hays Public Library website,&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest">hayslibrary.org/poetry-contest</a>. Judges, including Department Chair of History at Fort Hays State University David Goodlett, FHSU adviser and local author Dawne Leiker, and HPL Patron Experience Coordinator Nicole Thibodeau will deliberate and choose a first place and second place winner, which will be announced via the HPL Facebook page on April 16. The first-place winner will receive $75 in Chamber Cheques and his or her name engraved on the Poetry Contest plaque, and second place will receive $50 in Chamber Cheques.&nbsp;HPL values the art of the written word and celebrates bringing together the many voices of the Hays community. After the contest, all submitted works of poetry will be published in a literary journal titled&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;to showcase the incredible creativity and hard work of those who entered. Both physical and digital copies of&nbsp;Mirrors&nbsp;will be available.&nbsp;For questions or comments, contact Thibodeau at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org" target="_blank">nthibodeau@hayslibrary.org</a>.You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Hays library seeks submissions for 21st annual poetry contest

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Would you like to hear a yarn? Today, we’ll meet a Kansas family that has established a farm of specialty animals producing fiber that can be woven into yarn and other products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Collen and Mike McGee are the owners of Rowantree Farm near Abilene. Collen grew up in Washington state, served in the military, and joined the civil service after military retirement. Then she met and married Mike, who also served in the Army.&nbsp;

“In 2014, Fort Riley called,” Collen said. She had the opportunity to join the public affairs office, and Mike had the opportunity to be a counselor at Fort Riley, so they drove to Kansas. “Our first stop was at Milford Lake,” Collen recalled. “We said, ‘Yes, we could live here.’”&nbsp;

Collen and Mike decided they wanted a more rural lifestyle, so they found a place to live outside of Abilene. It had a building and livestock pens where they began their farm. The McGees named their farm Rowantree Farm, which is a play on Collen’s maiden name of Roundtree.&nbsp;

“We wanted animals that fit our size and age,” Collen said. In other words, they wanted animals that had value but were smaller and more manageable than big cows, for example. Specifically, they are raising Pygora and Cashmere goats and Babydoll Southdown sheep that produce high quality fiber. They also raise chickens and eggs.&nbsp;

Pygoras are sometimes called “the versatile goat with the luxurious coat.” Pygora goats are a cross between pygmy goats and angora goats. They are specifically bred to produce fine cashmere fiber for hand spinning.&nbsp;

Southdown sheep originated in the South “Downs” of Sussex County, England, and came to the United States in 1803. Through the years, they were bred for larger size and meat production. Babydoll Southdowns are the small-framed, diminutive version of the breed that resemble the original sheep from old England. These sheep will be 18 to 24 inches tall when full grown. Babydoll wool blends especially well with Pygora and cashmere fibers.&nbsp;

“My mom had owned a yarn shop in Washington state after my dad retired,” Collen said. Producing fiber allowed Collen to reconnect with these roots.&nbsp;

“There is a resurgence in fiber arts,” Collen said. “Gen Xers and Millennials want to be makers of real things.” Collen and Mike shear their sheep and goats to harvest the fiber for processing and use. “My husband started playing with it and found he liked it too,” Collen said. “He’s now the dye guy.”&nbsp;

The McGees sell yarn, eggs, fiber for spinning, drop spindles and&nbsp;needle felting kits. In non-pandemic times, they host school tours and daycare groups at the farm. They are also working on opening their own fiber mill and on-farm store. “There’s room in the industry for another mill, because there are six- to nine-month delays in getting fiber processed,” Collen said. Rowantree Farm is a member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://fromthelandofkansas.com/">From the Land of Kansas</a>&nbsp;program sponsored by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;

In January 2021, Collen helped start a Kansas Fiber Producers Association that meets as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/232962661716906">Facebook group</a>. This umbrella group is composed of producers who harvest fiber from a variety of animals such as sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and rabbits.&nbsp;

In early May, the group is planning its first-ever Homestead Hop for people to visit various farms and see local, small producers. For more information, watch for upcoming posts about the Homestead Hop on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/232962661716906">Facebook Group’s page</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/therowantreefarm/">Rowantree Farm page on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

Rowantree Farm is located out in the country, situated between the rural communities of Abilene, population 6,844 people; Buckeye, population 413; and Detroit, population 178 people. Now, that’s rural. For more information, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://rowantreefarm.business.site/">Rowantree Farm website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The story of the McGees is not just any yarn. It is the true story of a couple who started their own farm to grow fiber which could become spun into actual yarn. Now they are adding value by reaching out to other fiber producers and starting a mini-mill of their own. We commend Collen and Mike McGee of Rowantree Farm for making a difference with their fiber farm and fiber arts. I’m glad that they can weave these ideas together.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616591087695.png" alt="Collen and Mike McGee" />
 <figcaption>Collen and Mike McGee</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Would you like to hear a yarn? Today, we’ll meet a Kansas family that has established a farm of specialty animals producing fiber that can be woven into yarn and other products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Collen and Mike McGee are the owners of Rowantree Farm near Abilene. Collen grew up in Washington state, served in the military, and joined the civil service after military retirement. Then she met and married Mike, who also served in the Army.&nbsp;“In 2014, Fort Riley called,” Collen said. She had the opportunity to join the public affairs office, and Mike had the opportunity to be a counselor at Fort Riley, so they drove to Kansas. “Our first stop was at Milford Lake,” Collen recalled. “We said, ‘Yes, we could live here.’”&nbsp;Collen and Mike decided they wanted a more rural lifestyle, so they found a place to live outside of Abilene. It had a building and livestock pens where they began their farm. The McGees named their farm Rowantree Farm, which is a play on Collen’s maiden name of Roundtree.&nbsp;“We wanted animals that fit our size and age,” Collen said. In other words, they wanted animals that had value but were smaller and more manageable than big cows, for example. Specifically, they are raising Pygora and Cashmere goats and Babydoll Southdown sheep that produce high quality fiber. They also raise chickens and eggs.&nbsp;Pygoras are sometimes called “the versatile goat with the luxurious coat.” Pygora goats are a cross between pygmy goats and angora goats. They are specifically bred to produce fine cashmere fiber for hand spinning.&nbsp;Southdown sheep originated in the South “Downs” of Sussex County, England, and came to the United States in 1803. Through the years, they were bred for larger size and meat production. Babydoll Southdowns are the small-framed, diminutive version of the breed that resemble the original sheep from old England. These sheep will be 18 to 24 inches tall when full grown. Babydoll wool blends especially well with Pygora and cashmere fibers.&nbsp;“My mom had owned a yarn shop in Washington state after my dad retired,” Collen said. Producing fiber allowed Collen to reconnect with these roots.&nbsp;“There is a resurgence in fiber arts,” Collen said. “Gen Xers and Millennials want to be makers of real things.” Collen and Mike shear their sheep and goats to harvest the fiber for processing and use. “My husband started playing with it and found he liked it too,” Collen said. “He’s now the dye guy.”&nbsp;The McGees sell yarn, eggs, fiber for spinning, drop spindles and&nbsp;needle felting kits. In non-pandemic times, they host school tours and daycare groups at the farm. They are also working on opening their own fiber mill and on-farm store. “There’s room in the industry for another mill, because there are six- to nine-month delays in getting fiber processed,” Collen said. Rowantree Farm is a member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://fromthelandofkansas.com/">From the Land of Kansas</a>&nbsp;program sponsored by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;In January 2021, Collen helped start a Kansas Fiber Producers Association that meets as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/232962661716906">Facebook group</a>. This umbrella group is composed of producers who harvest fiber from a variety of animals such as sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and rabbits.&nbsp;In early May, the group is planning its first-ever Homestead Hop for people to visit various farms and see local, small producers. For more information, watch for upcoming posts about the Homestead Hop on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/232962661716906">Facebook Group’s page</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/therowantreefarm/">Rowantree Farm page on Facebook</a>.&nbsp;Rowantree Farm is located out in the country, situated between the rural communities of Abilene, population 6,844 people; Buckeye, population 413; and Detroit, population 178 people. Now, that’s rural. For more information, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://rowantreefarm.business.site/">Rowantree Farm website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The story of the McGees is not just any yarn. It is the true story of a couple who started their own farm to grow fiber which could become spun into actual yarn. Now they are adding value by reaching out to other fiber producers and starting a mini-mill of their own. We commend Collen and Mike McGee of Rowantree Farm for making a difference with their fiber farm and fiber arts. I’m glad that they can weave these ideas together.

Now That’s Rural: Collen and Mike McGee, Rowantree Farm 

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. 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;&nbsp;

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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;

Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615901060478.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Hays Fire Department)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Hays Fire Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. 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;&nbsp;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. &nbsp;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.&nbsp;Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

Tuesday's fire hydrant testing situated in south Hays

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained at zero.

<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.

There are currently nine active cases in Ellis County.

As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported one active COVID-19 patient at HaysMed. There was one active hospitalization of an Ellis County resident.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 1.3 percent.

Last week, Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy also said that, beginning April 1, his department would no longer be issuing regular updates to the county COVID-19 dashboard.&nbsp;

"Due to the consistency and depth of information available on the KDHE website, the ECHD will no longer be separately reporting numbers of COVID-19 cases," he said Friday. "We encourage everyone to access the information on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since reporting began, there have been 3,720 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617038400532.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained at zero.<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.There are currently nine active cases in Ellis County.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported one active COVID-19 patient at HaysMed. There was one active hospitalization of an Ellis County resident.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 1.3 percent.Last week, Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy also said that, beginning April 1, his department would no longer be issuing regular updates to the county COVID-19 dashboard.&nbsp;"Due to the consistency and depth of information available on the KDHE website, the ECHD will no longer be separately reporting numbers of COVID-19 cases," he said Friday. "We encourage everyone to access the information on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since reporting began, there have been 3,720 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths. NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.

UPDATE: Per-day virus rate in Ellis Co. remains at zero

House Budget Passes Appropriations Committee

Late last week, the House Appropriations Committee finalized our budget bill and passed it for debate on the House floor.&nbsp; Substitute for House Bill 2397 includes adjusted funding for the current fiscal year of 2021 and the complete funding for fiscal year 2022.

The adjusted fiscal year 2021 budget totals $19.9 billion, including $8 billion from the State General Fund.&nbsp; Some of the areas that we addressed beyond the Governor’s recommended budget are providing an increase for the daily reimbursement rate for nursing care facilities and increasing the provider reimbursement rates for the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services Intellectual/Developmental Disability waiver.&nbsp;

We also included $7.4 million for the Judicial Branch due to the loss of docket fees this past year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The adjustments that we made in the fiscal year 2022 budget were deleting the reamoritization of the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System, which was an amount that we needed to add back in since the Governor proposed this measure, however, it did not pass the Legislature.&nbsp;

We also included $10 million to the Board of Regents who will then distribute those funds to the public universities in Kansas for reimbursements for tuition to students if they were enrolled in an in-person class that went virtual.&nbsp;&nbsp; We also provided $3 million for the Senior Care Act services, which was allotted by the Governor in 2021.&nbsp;

We have not debated the bill yet on the House Floor, although, I contend that we will have that debate next week.

The House Federal and State Affairs committee on Wednesday, passed out of their committee the House version allowing for the legalization of sports wagering in the state of Kansas.&nbsp; This bill would allow for sports wagering to be administered through the Kansas Lottery, where the Senate version has it at the state-owned casinos.&nbsp; There was much discussion on the reduction of the current tax rate for the slot machines that are allowed at the racing facilities in the state of Kansas, however, in this bill the current tax rate remains at 38%.&nbsp;

The one addition that would affect the racing facilities would be the facility in the Wichita area.&nbsp; An amendment was passed to allow Sedgwick county to have a revote on allowing for slot machines at parimutuel facility. In the House bill, there is also the inclusion on ILottery.&nbsp; This bill now awaits debate on the House Floor.

The House has spent much of our time this week passing bills out of our committees since the last day to meet for committees is Friday, March 26.&nbsp; We also debated numerous bills on the House Floor and will continue to debate bills in the House Chamber everyday next week.&nbsp; Here are some of the bills that we debated this week:

House Bill 2406 would allow for cities and counties the option of expanding or restricting retail sales of alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverages.&nbsp; This bill also changes the restricted hours for Sunday liquor sales to 9 am to 8 pm.&nbsp; The bill also eliminates the restriction of sales on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.&nbsp; The bill passed the House, 80-42.

House Substitute for Senate Bill 63 enacts the “Back to School Act” which requires school districts to provide a full-time, in-person attendance option for all students beginning March 31, 2021.&nbsp; This bill passed, 77-46.

The next bill was Senate Bill 24, which would create the Kansas Energy Choice Act.&nbsp; This act would prohibit a municipality from taking any action that would limit a customer’s uses of a service from a public utility based upon the source of energy to be delivered to the customer.&nbsp; This bill passed the House, 93-29.

For these three bills, I voted, “yes” on all three.

Anytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov" target="_blank">troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov</a>.&nbsp; Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions.&nbsp; I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Troy L. Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_109.pdf">109th Kansas House District</a>&nbsp;state representative and chairman of the Appropriations Committee.&nbsp;

The 109th District includes&nbsp;Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties, and portions of Barton, Jewell, Lincoln and Rush counties.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577788173848.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>March 26, 2021House Budget Passes Appropriations CommitteeLate last week, the House Appropriations Committee finalized our budget bill and passed it for debate on the House floor.&nbsp; Substitute for House Bill 2397 includes adjusted funding for the current fiscal year of 2021 and the complete funding for fiscal year 2022.The adjusted fiscal year 2021 budget totals $19.9 billion, including $8 billion from the State General Fund.&nbsp; Some of the areas that we addressed beyond the Governor’s recommended budget are providing an increase for the daily reimbursement rate for nursing care facilities and increasing the provider reimbursement rates for the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services Intellectual/Developmental Disability waiver.&nbsp;We also included $7.4 million for the Judicial Branch due to the loss of docket fees this past year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.The adjustments that we made in the fiscal year 2022 budget were deleting the reamoritization of the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System, which was an amount that we needed to add back in since the Governor proposed this measure, however, it did not pass the Legislature.&nbsp;We also included $10 million to the Board of Regents who will then distribute those funds to the public universities in Kansas for reimbursements for tuition to students if they were enrolled in an in-person class that went virtual.&nbsp;&nbsp; We also provided $3 million for the Senior Care Act services, which was allotted by the Governor in 2021.&nbsp;We have not debated the bill yet on the House Floor, although, I contend that we will have that debate next week.Sports Wagering and Gaming BillThe House Federal and State Affairs committee on Wednesday, passed out of their committee the House version allowing for the legalization of sports wagering in the state of Kansas.&nbsp; This bill would allow for sports wagering to be administered through the Kansas Lottery, where the Senate version has it at the state-owned casinos.&nbsp; There was much discussion on the reduction of the current tax rate for the slot machines that are allowed at the racing facilities in the state of Kansas, however, in this bill the current tax rate remains at 38%.&nbsp;The one addition that would affect the racing facilities would be the facility in the Wichita area.&nbsp; An amendment was passed to allow Sedgwick county to have a revote on allowing for slot machines at parimutuel facility. In the House bill, there is also the inclusion on ILottery.&nbsp; This bill now awaits debate on the House Floor.<a>Bills Passed the House</a>The House has spent much of our time this week passing bills out of our committees since the last day to meet for committees is Friday, March 26.&nbsp; We also debated numerous bills on the House Floor and will continue to debate bills in the House Chamber everyday next week.&nbsp; Here are some of the bills that we debated this week:House Bill 2406 would allow for cities and counties the option of expanding or restricting retail sales of alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverages.&nbsp; This bill also changes the restricted hours for Sunday liquor sales to 9 am to 8 pm.&nbsp; The bill also eliminates the restriction of sales on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.&nbsp; The bill passed the House, 80-42.House Substitute for Senate Bill 63 enacts the “Back to School Act” which requires school districts to provide a full-time, in-person attendance option for all students beginning March 31, 2021.&nbsp; This bill passed, 77-46.The next bill was Senate Bill 24, which would create the Kansas Energy Choice Act.&nbsp; This act would prohibit a municipality from taking any action that would limit a customer’s uses of a service from a public utility based upon the source of energy to be delivered to the customer.&nbsp; This bill passed the House, 93-29.For these three bills, I voted, “yes” on all three.Contact InformationAnytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov" target="_blank">troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov</a>.&nbsp; Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions.&nbsp; I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Troy L. Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_109.pdf">109th Kansas House District</a>&nbsp;state representative and chairman of the Appropriations Committee.&nbsp;The 109th District includes&nbsp;Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties, and portions of Barton, Jewell, Lincoln and Rush counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, March 26

Open meeting to approve plan, gas rate changes set for May 17


Midwest Energy is holding two online meetings to discuss treatment of excess energy costs from
February’s Winter Storm Uri, and proposed adjustments to gas delivery rates.


A virtual “Town Hall” meeting on April 8 will inform customers and answer questions about both
issues. Approval of a cost-spreading plan and adjustments to rates will be discussed at an open May 17
meeting of the Board of Directors.

Because of Midwest Energy’s owned generation operating during the energy emergency, electric
impacts are expected to be minimal. Natural gas is a different matter. While some of the final costs are
not yet known, Midwest Energy spent approximately $12 million buying gas in February 2021; normal
pricing for the month would have been roughly $1.5 million.


Midwest Energy will ease customer impact by amortizing the excess costs. The Board is considering
spreading cost recovery over no more than 36 months, making average residential impact less than $10
month. Subject to Board approval, residential and commercial customers would pay up to an estimated
12.9¢ per therm addition to the Gas Supply Cost Adjustment. This will appear on bills as part of the
“Cost of Gas Commodity per Therm” charge, effective no sooner than July 1. Irrigation customers,
which were not operating during the Winter Storm Uri period, are not included in the excess cost recovery
proposal to be considered by the Board.


At a special board meeting March 3 to address Winter Storm Uri issues, the board of directors froze new
customer requests to transfer accounts to gas transport service, effective with any applications received
after March 1. That decision will be reconsidered at the May meeting.

At the May 17 meeting, the board will also consider adjustments to natural gas delivery rates in a
matter originally scheduled for consideration in May 2020. That decision was suspended due to the
pandemic.


The proposed delivery rate change would result in a net revenue increase of $1.04 million to the
company compared to current rates. The increase would support pipeline safety, reliability improvements
and operating expenses. If adopted as proposed, the delivery rate changes would result in an average
residential bill increasing by approximately $2.14 per month compared to currently effective rates based
on actual 2020 gas usage. Proposed changes include increasing the monthly customer charge for
residential customers from $18 to $19 and the delivery rate from 13.5¢ per therm to 18¢ per therm.


Even with the proposed changes, Midwest Energy’s residential gas delivery rates would remain among
the lowest with commercial rates remaining the lowest in Kansas. If approved, rates would go into effect
no sooner than July 1, 2021. Proposed bill examples and other rate information can be found at:
www.mwenergy.com/residential/gas_rate_changes_2021.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the April 8 “Town Hall” will be accessible only via streaming
video on YouTube, while the May 17 open meeting will be accessible via WebEx. All Midwest Energy
customers are welcome to attend both meetings.


The virtual “Town Hall” meeting to discuss Uri’s impacts and the natural gas rate case will be held April 8
from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at https://youtu.be/SFks2k0_LCk. Questions will be answered live during the meeting
and may be submitted by e-mail to questions@mwenergy.com.


The open meeting at which the Board will consider all proposed changes will occur May 17 at 1 p.m.
Login for the open meeting will be posted at www.mwenergy.com by May 7. During the meeting,
members are welcome to attend virtually and may submit questions via e-mail to
questions@mwenergy.com.


Customers may send comments regarding the proposed rate changes to Midwest Energy no later than May
7, 2021. Comments should be addressed to Bob Muirhead, VP for Customer Service, at
bmuirhead@mwenergy.com, or by calling 785-650-2502 with your comments.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Open meeting to approve plan, gas rate changes set for May 17
</h2>Midwest EnergyMidwest Energy is holding two online meetings to discuss treatment of excess energy costs from
February’s Winter Storm Uri, and proposed adjustments to gas delivery rates.
A virtual “Town Hall” meeting on April 8 will inform customers and answer questions about both
issues. Approval of a cost-spreading plan and adjustments to rates will be discussed at an open May 17
meeting of the Board of Directors.<h2>Winter Storm Uri Impacts
</h2>Because of Midwest Energy’s owned generation operating during the energy emergency, electric
impacts are expected to be minimal. Natural gas is a different matter. While some of the final costs are
not yet known, Midwest Energy spent approximately $12 million buying gas in February 2021; normal
pricing for the month would have been roughly $1.5 million.
Midwest Energy will ease customer impact by amortizing the excess costs. The Board is considering
spreading cost recovery over no more than 36 months, making average residential impact less than $10
month. Subject to Board approval, residential and commercial customers would pay up to an estimated
12.9¢ per therm addition to the Gas Supply Cost Adjustment. This will appear on bills as part of the
“Cost of Gas Commodity per Therm” charge, effective no sooner than July 1. Irrigation customers,
which were not operating during the Winter Storm Uri period, are not included in the excess cost recovery
proposal to be considered by the Board.
At a special board meeting March 3 to address Winter Storm Uri issues, the board of directors froze new
customer requests to transfer accounts to gas transport service, effective with any applications received
after March 1. That decision will be reconsidered at the May meeting.<h2>Natural gas rate case
</h2>At the May 17 meeting, the board will also consider adjustments to natural gas delivery rates in a
matter originally scheduled for consideration in May 2020. That decision was suspended due to the
pandemic.
The proposed delivery rate change would result in a net revenue increase of $1.04 million to the
company compared to current rates. The increase would support pipeline safety, reliability improvements
and operating expenses. If adopted as proposed, the delivery rate changes would result in an average
residential bill increasing by approximately $2.14 per month compared to currently effective rates based
on actual 2020 gas usage. Proposed changes include increasing the monthly customer charge for
residential customers from $18 to $19 and the delivery rate from 13.5¢ per therm to 18¢ per therm.
Even with the proposed changes, Midwest Energy’s residential gas delivery rates would remain among
the lowest with commercial rates remaining the lowest in Kansas. If approved, rates would go into effect
no sooner than July 1, 2021. Proposed bill examples and other rate information can be found at:
www.mwenergy.com/residential/gas_rate_changes_2021.<h2>Accessing the meetings
</h2>Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the April 8 “Town Hall” will be accessible only via streaming
video on YouTube, while the May 17 open meeting will be accessible via WebEx. All Midwest Energy
customers are welcome to attend both meetings.
The virtual “Town Hall” meeting to discuss Uri’s impacts and the natural gas rate case will be held April 8
from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at https://youtu.be/SFks2k0_LCk. Questions will be answered live during the meeting
and may be submitted by e-mail to questions@mwenergy.com.
The open meeting at which the Board will consider all proposed changes will occur May 17 at 1 p.m.
Login for the open meeting will be posted at www.mwenergy.com by May 7. During the meeting,
members are welcome to attend virtually and may submit questions via e-mail to
questions@mwenergy.com.
Customers may send comments regarding the proposed rate changes to Midwest Energy no later than May
7, 2021. Comments should be addressed to Bob Muirhead, VP for Customer Service, at
bmuirhead@mwenergy.com, or by calling 785-650-2502 with your comments.

Midwest Energy announces natural gas cost recovery plan

The Hays USD 489 Board of Education is set to discuss several significant purchases during Monday night's meeting.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Toepfer Board Room in the Rockwell Administration Center, 323 W. 12th.

Among the topics on Monday's agenda are three large purchases under consideration by the board, including a $2.16 million lease-purchase agreement for HVAC equipment for Roosevelt Elementary.

The board is also set to consider a $265,000 bid from National Bus Sales for a new activity bus, as part of the district's ongoing vehicle replacement program, as well as the purchase of a compact tractor for buildings and ground maintenance projects for $44,500.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 Board of Education is set to discuss several significant purchases during Monday night's meeting.The meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Toepfer Board Room in the Rockwell Administration Center, 323 W. 12th.Among the topics on Monday's agenda are three large purchases under consideration by the board, including a $2.16 million lease-purchase agreement for HVAC equipment for Roosevelt Elementary.The board is also set to consider a $265,000 bid from National Bus Sales for a new activity bus, as part of the district's ongoing vehicle replacement program, as well as the purchase of a compact tractor for buildings and ground maintenance projects for $44,500.

Hays USD 489 to consider several large purchases Monday

Beginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be closed between 24th and 27th streets for storm sewer improvements related to the project to reconstruct 27th Street. &nbsp;

This phase of work should be completed by Friday.

Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617023938910.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday, Canal Boulevard in Hays will be closed between 24th and 27th streets for storm sewer improvements related to the project to reconstruct 27th Street. &nbsp;This phase of work should be completed by Friday.Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

Portion of Canal closed this week for storm sewer improvements

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Let's Talk Behavior and DSNWK are teaming up to sponsor an event for children to create awareness of autism on World Autism Awareness Day.

The public is invited, and children of all developmental levels are encouraged to attend. The event will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday in the Eagle Plaza parking lot at 27th and Hall streets in front of the DSNWK office 

The event will focus on activities that stimulate the senses.

The Hays police and fire departments will be on hand. The fire department is providing a fire suit the children can handle.

Children will be invited to paint colored hand prints on the Let's Talk Behavior office windows. The kids can blow bubbles, draw with sidewalk chalk, play games and create crafts.&nbsp;

Wild Style KickBoxing will provide pads so the children can try some kickboxing moves. Free goodie bags, snowball cards and stickers will also be distributed.

Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hays Recreation Commission and Kansas Special Olympics are also participating in the event.

Marsha Avery, board certified behavior analyst, is the only person in the state of Kansas with international behavior analyst credentials.

Avery's practice is new to Hays. She opened her office, 2703 Hall St., Ste. 5, in Eagle Plaza in September.

She works with families who have loved ones who have autism.

She observes individuals with autism and helps caregivers collect behavior data on their loved ones who have autism. She uses this information to develop treatment plans for individuals who have autism.

Those plans can help the individuals who have autism deal with sensory, motor, emotional and communication issues that are common challenges among people who have autism.

"A lot of them have sensory and texture issues," Avery said. "They don't like the taste of things. They don't like the touch of things. They don't like the smell of things, so they kind of shut down."

The event will help children who have autism explore their senses, she said.

"When you're having fun doing it, you don't really realize you're learning and you're building up exposure to say, 'It's OK to touch Play-Doh,' " she said. " 'Hey, it's OK to wear a different type of clothing or it's OK to smell something different and not only be what I like.' "

Engaging children who have autism in social interactions is also important, she said.

"A lot of kids don't understand social cues," Avery said, "so they can't read the emotional aspect of what someone is saying. ... Putting them in an environment that exposes them to [social interactions] helps teach them what society wants others to know."

The event is also meant to help children and adults who don't have special needs become more aware of autism and its challenges.

"When you bring awareness, you can also build on acceptance and then move on to advocacy," Avery said. "In a community that doesn't have a lot of awareness about special differences, the best thing to do is bring them together with kids and activities."

Avery said she hopes the children will learn it is OK for others to look different or act different, Avery said.

"You can still be their friend," she said. "They're humans. They still have feelings. They have emotions. ... The more that we bring awareness, the more people are going to accept that society is full of all sorts of different flowers."

She added, "One of the biggest things I want out of this day is to make the community an acceptable place where people feel safe to be different."

Avery hopes the event will give families the opportunity to connect with resources in the community, including DSNWK.

"This is another opportunity for us to reach back out to our families and to serve our individuals," said Natalie Ellis, DSNWK community support specialist.

Although not directly linked to autism, a representative of DSNWK's new Fam-Link program will be available at the event to speak with caregivers.

The program works with children ages 6 to 24 months and their caregivers to enhance the bonds they have with their children. The connection can be important to brain development, Franses Schmidt, Fam-Link parent coach, said.

The Fam-Link program is open to any family in a six-county region, including Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617069399884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLet's Talk Behavior and DSNWK are teaming up to sponsor an event for children to create awareness of autism on World Autism Awareness Day.The public is invited, and children of all developmental levels are encouraged to attend. The event will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday in the Eagle Plaza parking lot at 27th and Hall streets in front of the DSNWK office The event will focus on activities that stimulate the senses.The Hays police and fire departments will be on hand. The fire department is providing a fire suit the children can handle.Children will be invited to paint colored hand prints on the Let's Talk Behavior office windows. The kids can blow bubbles, draw with sidewalk chalk, play games and create crafts.&nbsp;Wild Style KickBoxing will provide pads so the children can try some kickboxing moves. Free goodie bags, snowball cards and stickers will also be distributed.Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hays Recreation Commission and Kansas Special Olympics are also participating in the event.Marsha Avery, board certified behavior analyst, is the only person in the state of Kansas with international behavior analyst credentials.Avery's practice is new to Hays. She opened her office, 2703 Hall St., Ste. 5, in Eagle Plaza in September.She works with families who have loved ones who have autism.She observes individuals with autism and helps caregivers collect behavior data on their loved ones who have autism. She uses this information to develop treatment plans for individuals who have autism.Those plans can help the individuals who have autism deal with sensory, motor, emotional and communication issues that are common challenges among people who have autism."A lot of them have sensory and texture issues," Avery said. "They don't like the taste of things. They don't like the touch of things. They don't like the smell of things, so they kind of shut down."The event will help children who have autism explore their senses, she said."When you're having fun doing it, you don't really realize you're learning and you're building up exposure to say, 'It's OK to touch Play-Doh,' " she said. " 'Hey, it's OK to wear a different type of clothing or it's OK to smell something different and not only be what I like.' "Engaging children who have autism in social interactions is also important, she said."A lot of kids don't understand social cues," Avery said, "so they can't read the emotional aspect of what someone is saying. ... Putting them in an environment that exposes them to [social interactions] helps teach them what society wants others to know."The event is also meant to help children and adults who don't have special needs become more aware of autism and its challenges."When you bring awareness, you can also build on acceptance and then move on to advocacy," Avery said. "In a community that doesn't have a lot of awareness about special differences, the best thing to do is bring them together with kids and activities."Avery said she hopes the children will learn it is OK for others to look different or act different, Avery said."You can still be their friend," she said. "They're humans. They still have feelings. They have emotions. ... The more that we bring awareness, the more people are going to accept that society is full of all sorts of different flowers."She added, "One of the biggest things I want out of this day is to make the community an acceptable place where people feel safe to be different."Avery hopes the event will give families the opportunity to connect with resources in the community, including DSNWK."This is another opportunity for us to reach back out to our families and to serve our individuals," said Natalie Ellis, DSNWK community support specialist.Although not directly linked to autism, a representative of DSNWK's new Fam-Link program will be available at the event to speak with caregivers.The program works with children ages 6 to 24 months and their caregivers to enhance the bonds they have with their children. The connection can be important to brain development, Franses Schmidt, Fam-Link parent coach, said.The Fam-Link program is open to any family in a six-county region, including Ellis County.

Let's Talk Behavior, DSNWK to sponsor autism awareness event for kids

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.2 percent in February. This was a decrease from 3.4 percent in January and is unchanged from 3.2 percent in February 2020.

“The rate of recovery accelerated in February for the leisure and hospitality industry, with Kansas employers adding 3,900 jobs,” said Acting Secretary Amber Shultz. “This growth was offset by losses in other industries. Construction saw the largest decline over-the-month falling by 3,100, which is likely the result of severe winter weather impacting the state during the reference week." 

Unemployment rates fell in most northwest Kansas counties, with Ellis County showing a decrease from 3.7 percent in January to 2.7 percent in February.

Graham County had the highest jobless rate in the region at 5.4 percent, while Greeley County in far western Kansas had the state's lowest unemployment rate at 1.4 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs decreased by 5,200 from January. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, decreased by 4,200 from the previous month, while government decreased by 1,000.

“Kansas continues to see recovery with continued decline in the unemployment rate at 3.2 percent for February,” said Labor Economist Todd Rilinger. “However, the alternative measures of labor underutilization show that Kansas still has a ways to go. Broader measures of unemployment, including discouraged workers and individuals working part time for economic reasons, remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels."

Since February 2020, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 70,500. This change is due to a decrease of 56,500 private sector jobs and 14,000 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616769030223.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.2 percent in February. This was a decrease from 3.4 percent in January and is unchanged from 3.2 percent in February 2020.“The rate of recovery accelerated in February for the leisure and hospitality industry, with Kansas employers adding 3,900 jobs,” said Acting Secretary Amber Shultz. “This growth was offset by losses in other industries. Construction saw the largest decline over-the-month falling by 3,100, which is likely the result of severe winter weather impacting the state during the reference week." Unemployment rates fell in most northwest Kansas counties, with Ellis County showing a decrease from 3.7 percent in January to 2.7 percent in February.Graham County had the highest jobless rate in the region at 5.4 percent, while Greeley County in far western Kansas had the state's lowest unemployment rate at 1.4 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs decreased by 5,200 from January. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, decreased by 4,200 from the previous month, while government decreased by 1,000.“Kansas continues to see recovery with continued decline in the unemployment rate at 3.2 percent for February,” said Labor Economist Todd Rilinger. “However, the alternative measures of labor underutilization show that Kansas still has a ways to go. Broader measures of unemployment, including discouraged workers and individuals working part time for economic reasons, remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels."Since February 2020, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have declined by 70,500. This change is due to a decrease of 56,500 private sector jobs and 14,000 government jobs.

Unemployment rate in Ellis County falls to 2.7 percent in February

LAWRENCE — Dementia researchers are convinced the path to beating back the life-robbing disease goes directly through clinical trials fueled by research volunteers willing to join the battle. That's why the experts at the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kualzheimers.org/">University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center</a>&nbsp;put so much energy into recruiting people to participate in its abundant number of active studies.

One way the KU ADC is hoping to supercharge its research recruitment efforts is through a three-year, $4.3 million grant it earned from the National Institutes of Health that will elevate dementia care in communities across Kansas, making Kansas City and the surrounding region more prepared.

"Our number one barrier to a cure is recruitment of volunteers to participate in research," said Jeff Burns, M.D., co-director of the KU ADC and a professor of neurology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. "People want to participate, but access and knowledge of the ongoing studies are barriers. We want to overcome that by improving care in the community and making this a real community effort, linking primary care physicians and patients with researchers."

The KU ADC will take an ambitious three-prong approach to executing the grant by creating a new community engagement tool, working with select community partners to strengthen its relationships with communities of color and in rural Kansas through outreach and education, and expanding an already-established community-based initiative for providers.

The broad initiative aims to produce enhanced care for people with dementia as well as an improved ability to recruit volunteers for its clinical trials all at the same time. It also is designed to help the city, state and region become more capable of identifying, supporting, and providing resources and services for people with dementia and their families.

"Through the grant we'll grow our network of primary care physicians, grow a network of community members and patients, grow our network of community organizations that partner with us, and align all around the goal of making Kansas City and Kansas more ‘dementia-capable,'" Burns said.

As part of the grant, the KU ADC launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ku-adc/join-myalliance-for-brain-health.html">MyAlliance for Brain Health</a>&nbsp;this winter. The free community engagement and education effort is open to anyone with an interest in brain health. Its practical aim is to provide individuals with regular communications such as insights customized to their interests and needs; tips on eating, exercise and lifestyle; advice and support for caregivers; special invitations to webinars and other events; and easy access to research opportunities.

Meanwhile, an underlying goal of the initiative is to help grow the pool of potential research-ready volunteers and boost the likelihood they will elect to get involved when research opportunities arise. To push this goal forward, the KU ADC will use MyAlliance to change its approach to recruiting research volunteers, which has traditionally been rooted in appeals based on altruism - for example, you should participate in clinical research for the sake of the greater good to society. Now the KU ADC will shift toward an approach based on building positive relationships with potential participants while serving as a trusted community partner and source of valuable information and resources.

"We're building a coalition and our research is a collaboration by all the partners," said Eric Vidoni, PT, Ph.D., director of outreach, recruitment and engagement at the KU ADC and an associate professor of neurology at KU Medical Center. "Whether you're a doctor who wants better care for your patients, an individual who wants access to our programming, or a community organization recognizing more dementia in your constituents and looking for resources, we want to provide a valued service to you. In providing that service, we can introduce the idea of research participation."

The approach is designed to deliver a personalized experience that benefits everyone involved.

"It's really all about education, engagement and empowerment for virtually anyone interested in brain health and/or in any way experiencing or managing Alzheimer's or dementia," said Deb Brook, director of outreach and engagement at the KU ADC. "We want to be the trusted resource for this type of information, and in building that trust with people, we want to hear what they need, work to meet those needs and continue to engage with them throughout their relationship with us."

The KU ADC also will use the grant to strengthen its ties with communities of color and rural communities across Kansas by expanding the advisory role and educational and outreach capabilities of three of its long-standing community partners, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bhcckc.org/">Black Health Care Coalition</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.elcentroinc.com/">El Centro, Inc.</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://occk.com/">OCCK</a>.

These groups already play an important role in the KU ADC's drive to build and diversify its current research volunteer pool. Perhaps more importantly to the success of the grant and its overall aims, these organizations are frequently on the front lines interacting with the public about dementia care and resources in the community. In preparation for their beefier roles, the partners will receive additional training and resources, including guidance on how to engage people in the research process.

For instance, El Centro's promotoras de salud, or health promoters, who are trained volunteers who provide education and outreach on healthy lifestyles, will be introduced to a new curriculum designed by the KU ADC. The community organization's health navigators, who help their clients access health care services, will get additional in-depth training around dementia as well as a new, easy-to-use screening test for memory and thinking issues, a tool they've never had before.

"A lot of times in our community, we think it's just that our loved ones are older, but the truth is, it could be dementia, and if it is, help is available," said Erica Andrade, chief program officer with El Centro, Inc., who added that through this grant, the organization will be able to help spark more important conversation around the disease. "Just being able to encourage more families to talk about dementia and point them to the appropriate resources is what success looks like with this grant."

El Centro, Inc., annually serves around 750 people through the work of the promotoras de salud and health navigators and has been using diabetes as a point of reference for the predominantly Latino population it serves when talking about dementia. That won't change, but Elizabeth Reynoso, director of communication, education and outreach, hopes the grant will expand the audience who hears the message.

"We try to explain it's not just the older population that has diabetes. It's the same with Alzheimer's disease. We try to explain how important it is to exercise, eat healthy and be more mentally active," Reynoso said. "Some of our clients have access to all our resources and services, but for a variety reasons, others may not. One of my goals with this grant is that we push for those individuals who may not have the same level of support and that we work hard to educate everyone and provide the same opportunities for everyone."

The third prong of the multi-strategy approach the KU ADC is taking with the grant involves expanding the ability of its already established Cognitive Care Network to provide important social work support to more people with dementia and train more primary care physicians to treat them. By extending the reach of the Cognitive Care Network, the KU ADC believes it can not only enhance the care of people with dementia, but also boost the number of people with whom it shares information about its available research opportunities.

The Cognitive Care Network trains health care providers, accepts referrals from participating providers for individualized care coordination and offers caregiver support groups. Free to primary care physicians, the network is currently made up of 45 providers based mostly in the Kansas City area as well as Barton, Russell and Wilson counties. "Ultimately, what we hope is different at the end of this grant is that every person who notices cognitive changes can get those concerns addressed, and if it is a disease process such as Alzheimer's, that it is addressed early and in a way allows people with dementia and their families to feel empowered," said Michelle Neidens, director of the Cognitive Care Network at the KU ADC.

While the multiple initiatives under the grant are clearly interrelated, the KU ADC's Brook noted the three "legs of the same stool" will also be driven somewhat independently.

"Obviously any one of these three parts could have been its own grant, but part of the beauty lies in the ambitious goal of moving all three vital components forward together, faster," she said.

The unique approach the KU ADC is taking with this grant was inspired by an earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kuendowment.org/News-Stories/News-Releases/2018/Gifts-totaling-$1-4-million-help-advance-KU-Alzhei">$1.4 million investment</a>&nbsp;from several Kansas City-area donors. The gifts, made through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kuendowment.org/Home">KU Endowment</a>&nbsp;to the KU ADC and its partner, the Global Alzheimer's Platform Foundation, were aimed at expanding the center's research enterprise and doubling its capacity for clinical trials. Donors included The Ann and Gary Dickinson Family Charitable Foundation of Kansas City, Mo., John and Marny Sherman of Kansas City, Mo., and Bradley and Elizabeth Bergman of Overland Park, Kan.

With the larger NIH award, the KU ADC will move closer to the objectives set by those earlier gifts as it is hoping to grow its network of contacts by 1,000 research volunteers, primary care physicians, community organizations and other community members. Meanwhile, a less tangible, but equally crucial result of the effort could be an increased number of providers, social workers and health care navigators specially trained to recognize, screen for and manage dementia.

"My big goal is for this grant is to help make Kansas City and the surrounding region the most dementia capable and research-ready place in the world," Vidoni said. "To me, if we can move the needle on that, it will be the real success."

For more information about MyAlliance for Brain Health, the KU ADC and research opportunities, visit the KU ADC&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kualzheimers.org/">website</a>. To learn more about the Cognitive Care Network contact Michelle Niedens at 913-945-7310 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cniedens2@kumc.edu">cniedens2@kumc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616710945775.jpeg" alt="Russell Swerdlow, M.D. and&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Burns, M.D. of the University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center. (Photo by KU News Service)" />
 <figcaption>Russell Swerdlow, M.D. and&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Burns, M.D. of the University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center. (Photo by KU News Service)</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Dementia researchers are convinced the path to beating back the life-robbing disease goes directly through clinical trials fueled by research volunteers willing to join the battle. That's why the experts at the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kualzheimers.org/">University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center</a>&nbsp;put so much energy into recruiting people to participate in its abundant number of active studies.One way the KU ADC is hoping to supercharge its research recruitment efforts is through a three-year, $4.3 million grant it earned from the National Institutes of Health that will elevate dementia care in communities across Kansas, making Kansas City and the surrounding region more prepared."Our number one barrier to a cure is recruitment of volunteers to participate in research," said Jeff Burns, M.D., co-director of the KU ADC and a professor of neurology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. "People want to participate, but access and knowledge of the ongoing studies are barriers. We want to overcome that by improving care in the community and making this a real community effort, linking primary care physicians and patients with researchers."The KU ADC will take an ambitious three-prong approach to executing the grant by creating a new community engagement tool, working with select community partners to strengthen its relationships with communities of color and in rural Kansas through outreach and education, and expanding an already-established community-based initiative for providers.The broad initiative aims to produce enhanced care for people with dementia as well as an improved ability to recruit volunteers for its clinical trials all at the same time. It also is designed to help the city, state and region become more capable of identifying, supporting, and providing resources and services for people with dementia and their families."Through the grant we'll grow our network of primary care physicians, grow a network of community members and patients, grow our network of community organizations that partner with us, and align all around the goal of making Kansas City and Kansas more ‘dementia-capable,'" Burns said.<h2>Rewriting the recruiting script</h2>As part of the grant, the KU ADC launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ku-adc/join-myalliance-for-brain-health.html">MyAlliance for Brain Health</a>&nbsp;this winter. The free community engagement and education effort is open to anyone with an interest in brain health. Its practical aim is to provide individuals with regular communications such as insights customized to their interests and needs; tips on eating, exercise and lifestyle; advice and support for caregivers; special invitations to webinars and other events; and easy access to research opportunities.Meanwhile, an underlying goal of the initiative is to help grow the pool of potential research-ready volunteers and boost the likelihood they will elect to get involved when research opportunities arise. To push this goal forward, the KU ADC will use MyAlliance to change its approach to recruiting research volunteers, which has traditionally been rooted in appeals based on altruism - for example, you should participate in clinical research for the sake of the greater good to society. Now the KU ADC will shift toward an approach based on building positive relationships with potential participants while serving as a trusted community partner and source of valuable information and resources."We're building a coalition and our research is a collaboration by all the partners," said Eric Vidoni, PT, Ph.D., director of outreach, recruitment and engagement at the KU ADC and an associate professor of neurology at KU Medical Center. "Whether you're a doctor who wants better care for your patients, an individual who wants access to our programming, or a community organization recognizing more dementia in your constituents and looking for resources, we want to provide a valued service to you. In providing that service, we can introduce the idea of research participation."The approach is designed to deliver a personalized experience that benefits everyone involved."It's really all about education, engagement and empowerment for virtually anyone interested in brain health and/or in any way experiencing or managing Alzheimer's or dementia," said Deb Brook, director of outreach and engagement at the KU ADC. "We want to be the trusted resource for this type of information, and in building that trust with people, we want to hear what they need, work to meet those needs and continue to engage with them throughout their relationship with us."<h2>Strengthening community relationships</h2>The KU ADC also will use the grant to strengthen its ties with communities of color and rural communities across Kansas by expanding the advisory role and educational and outreach capabilities of three of its long-standing community partners, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bhcckc.org/">Black Health Care Coalition</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.elcentroinc.com/">El Centro, Inc.</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://occk.com/">OCCK</a>.These groups already play an important role in the KU ADC's drive to build and diversify its current research volunteer pool. Perhaps more importantly to the success of the grant and its overall aims, these organizations are frequently on the front lines interacting with the public about dementia care and resources in the community. In preparation for their beefier roles, the partners will receive additional training and resources, including guidance on how to engage people in the research process.For instance, El Centro's promotoras de salud, or health promoters, who are trained volunteers who provide education and outreach on healthy lifestyles, will be introduced to a new curriculum designed by the KU ADC. The community organization's health navigators, who help their clients access health care services, will get additional in-depth training around dementia as well as a new, easy-to-use screening test for memory and thinking issues, a tool they've never had before."A lot of times in our community, we think it's just that our loved ones are older, but the truth is, it could be dementia, and if it is, help is available," said Erica Andrade, chief program officer with El Centro, Inc., who added that through this grant, the organization will be able to help spark more important conversation around the disease. "Just being able to encourage more families to talk about dementia and point them to the appropriate resources is what success looks like with this grant."El Centro, Inc., annually serves around 750 people through the work of the promotoras de salud and health navigators and has been using diabetes as a point of reference for the predominantly Latino population it serves when talking about dementia. That won't change, but Elizabeth Reynoso, director of communication, education and outreach, hopes the grant will expand the audience who hears the message."We try to explain it's not just the older population that has diabetes. It's the same with Alzheimer's disease. We try to explain how important it is to exercise, eat healthy and be more mentally active," Reynoso said. "Some of our clients have access to all our resources and services, but for a variety reasons, others may not. One of my goals with this grant is that we push for those individuals who may not have the same level of support and that we work hard to educate everyone and provide the same opportunities for everyone."<h2>Improving care, powering research</h2>The third prong of the multi-strategy approach the KU ADC is taking with the grant involves expanding the ability of its already established Cognitive Care Network to provide important social work support to more people with dementia and train more primary care physicians to treat them. By extending the reach of the Cognitive Care Network, the KU ADC believes it can not only enhance the care of people with dementia, but also boost the number of people with whom it shares information about its available research opportunities.The Cognitive Care Network trains health care providers, accepts referrals from participating providers for individualized care coordination and offers caregiver support groups. Free to primary care physicians, the network is currently made up of 45 providers based mostly in the Kansas City area as well as Barton, Russell and Wilson counties. "Ultimately, what we hope is different at the end of this grant is that every person who notices cognitive changes can get those concerns addressed, and if it is a disease process such as Alzheimer's, that it is addressed early and in a way allows people with dementia and their families to feel empowered," said Michelle Neidens, director of the Cognitive Care Network at the KU ADC.<h2>Ambitious goal</h2>While the multiple initiatives under the grant are clearly interrelated, the KU ADC's Brook noted the three "legs of the same stool" will also be driven somewhat independently."Obviously any one of these three parts could have been its own grant, but part of the beauty lies in the ambitious goal of moving all three vital components forward together, faster," she said.The unique approach the KU ADC is taking with this grant was inspired by an earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kuendowment.org/News-Stories/News-Releases/2018/Gifts-totaling-$1-4-million-help-advance-KU-Alzhei">$1.4 million investment</a>&nbsp;from several Kansas City-area donors. The gifts, made through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kuendowment.org/Home">KU Endowment</a>&nbsp;to the KU ADC and its partner, the Global Alzheimer's Platform Foundation, were aimed at expanding the center's research enterprise and doubling its capacity for clinical trials. Donors included The Ann and Gary Dickinson Family Charitable Foundation of Kansas City, Mo., John and Marny Sherman of Kansas City, Mo., and Bradley and Elizabeth Bergman of Overland Park, Kan.With the larger NIH award, the KU ADC will move closer to the objectives set by those earlier gifts as it is hoping to grow its network of contacts by 1,000 research volunteers, primary care physicians, community organizations and other community members. Meanwhile, a less tangible, but equally crucial result of the effort could be an increased number of providers, social workers and health care navigators specially trained to recognize, screen for and manage dementia."My big goal is for this grant is to help make Kansas City and the surrounding region the most dementia capable and research-ready place in the world," Vidoni said. "To me, if we can move the needle on that, it will be the real success."For more information about MyAlliance for Brain Health, the KU ADC and research opportunities, visit the KU ADC&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kualzheimers.org/">website</a>. To learn more about the Cognitive Care Network contact Michelle Niedens at 913-945-7310 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cniedens2@kumc.edu">cniedens2@kumc.edu</a>.

Russell Co. provider part of KU Alzheimer’s Disease Center expansion

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly Thursday announced appointments to Kansas state boards and commissions.

Appointment is subject to Senate confirmation*

Board of Examiners in Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments

The purpose of this Board is to regulate the&nbsp;licensing of examiners and market of hearing aids.

The purpose of the Kansas Human Rights Commission is to&nbsp;eliminate and prevent discrimination and assure equal opportunities in the state of Kansas in all employment relations, places of public accommodations, and in housing.

The purpose of the Kansas Real Estate Commission is to license and regulate real estate brokers.

The Real Estate Appraisal Board regulates real estate appraiser's licenses, provides access to appraiser education resources, and informs appraisers of industry news.

The State Board of Tax Appeals ensures that all property in the state is assessed for tax purposes in an equal and uniform manner in accordance with the Kansas Constitution and state statutes, impartially resolves disputes between taxpayers and taxing authorities, and reviews tax exemption decisions made by local governments or grievances resulting from technical errors and corrects tax inequities.

Office of Gov.TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly Thursday announced appointments to Kansas state boards and commissions.Appointment is subject to Senate confirmation*Board of Examiners in Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing InstrumentsThe purpose of this Board is to regulate the&nbsp;licensing of examiners and market of hearing aids.<ul>
 <li>Tim Stanton, Ellis</li>
 </ul>Kansas Human Rights CommissionThe purpose of the Kansas Human Rights Commission is to&nbsp;eliminate and prevent discrimination and assure equal opportunities in the state of Kansas in all employment relations, places of public accommodations, and in housing.<ul>
 <li>Nathan Spriggs, Bel Aire</li>
 </ul>Kansas Real Estate CommissionThe purpose of the Kansas Real Estate Commission is to license and regulate real estate brokers.<ul>
 <li>Jacqueline Kelly, Wichita</li>
 </ul>Real Estate Appraisal BoardThe Real Estate Appraisal Board regulates real estate appraiser's licenses, provides access to appraiser education resources, and informs appraisers of industry news.<ul>
 <li>Ernest Warren Jr., Wichita</li>
 </ul>State Board of Tax AppealsThe State Board of Tax Appeals ensures that all property in the state is assessed for tax purposes in an equal and uniform manner in accordance with the Kansas Constitution and state statutes, impartially resolves disputes between taxpayers and taxing authorities, and reviews tax exemption decisions made by local governments or grievances resulting from technical errors and corrects tax inequities.<ul>
 <li>Mark Hixon, Baxter Springs*</li>
 </ul>

Ellis man appointed to state hearing aid licensing board

Last week, the Kansas legislature adopted a slightly modified version of the Back to School Act. The bill will require public schools in Kansas to offer a full-time in-person learning option beginning on March 31st and covers the remainder of the current school year. Many school districts have resumed in-person learning since the legislation was introduced. Governor Kelly has indicated she will sign the legislation.

In a unanimous vote, the Senate passed HB2071, which would amend the definition of the crime of stalking to include intentionally engaging in a course of conduct targeted at a specific child under the age of 14. The crime would occur when a reasonable person, in the circumstances of the targeted child or an immediate family member of such child, feared for such child’s safety. The penalty for the new provision would be a severity 7, person felony for a first conviction and a severity level 4, person felony for a second or subsequent conviction. The Johnson County District Attorney testified that the bill closes a loophole that was identified in a recently publicized case in Johnson County.

This week SB24 is being sent to the governor for signature after the House passed the Energy Choice Act which the Senate passed in February. “The freedom of energy choice is being undermined in many areas around the country, with governments seeking to limit or prohibit the use of natural gas. This poses a growing threat to the 870,000 households in Kansas who use natural gas and rely on it to heat their homes and water, cook meals for their families and many other uses,” said Senator Thompson.

SB40 has been signed by the governor. This bill will reform the Kansas Emergency Management Act. The bill has a number of provisions important to preserving the liberty and freedom of Kansans, including:

* Ends all COVID-19 related statewide mandates, including the mask mandate, on March 31. * Proper checks and balances for any order issued by the governor. * Prohibits the governor from closing businesses, civil organizations, and churches. * Protects 2nd Amendment rights. * Establishes due process rights for Kansans aggrieved by an order. * Ensures the buck stops with elected officials at the state and local level. * Preserves local control of schools.

The Senate confirmed the appointments of Jacy Hurst and Lesley Isherwood to the Kansas Court of Appeals. Jacy Hurst will be the first woman of color in the Court of Appeal’s. Jacy lives in Lawrence, KS and is a partner in the law firm Kutak Rock LLP in Kansas City, Missouri. Lesley Isherwood is a resident of Wichita, KS, and a Senior Assistant District Attorney in Sedgwick County.

It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is 785 899-4700.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

The 40th Senate District includes Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties, and a portion of Phillips County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604611883673.png" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>March 29, 2021Last week, the Kansas legislature adopted a slightly modified version of the Back to School Act. The bill will require public schools in Kansas to offer a full-time in-person learning option beginning on March 31st and covers the remainder of the current school year. Many school districts have resumed in-person learning since the legislation was introduced. Governor Kelly has indicated she will sign the legislation.In a unanimous vote, the Senate passed HB2071, which would amend the definition of the crime of stalking to include intentionally engaging in a course of conduct targeted at a specific child under the age of 14. The crime would occur when a reasonable person, in the circumstances of the targeted child or an immediate family member of such child, feared for such child’s safety. The penalty for the new provision would be a severity 7, person felony for a first conviction and a severity level 4, person felony for a second or subsequent conviction. The Johnson County District Attorney testified that the bill closes a loophole that was identified in a recently publicized case in Johnson County.This week SB24 is being sent to the governor for signature after the House passed the Energy Choice Act which the Senate passed in February. “The freedom of energy choice is being undermined in many areas around the country, with governments seeking to limit or prohibit the use of natural gas. This poses a growing threat to the 870,000 households in Kansas who use natural gas and rely on it to heat their homes and water, cook meals for their families and many other uses,” said Senator Thompson.SB40 has been signed by the governor. This bill will reform the Kansas Emergency Management Act. The bill has a number of provisions important to preserving the liberty and freedom of Kansans, including: * Ends all COVID-19 related statewide mandates, including the mask mandate, on March 31. * Proper checks and balances for any order issued by the governor. * Prohibits the governor from closing businesses, civil organizations, and churches. * Protects 2nd Amendment rights. * Establishes due process rights for Kansans aggrieved by an order. * Ensures the buck stops with elected officials at the state and local level. * Preserves local control of schools.The Senate confirmed the appointments of Jacy Hurst and Lesley Isherwood to the Kansas Court of Appeals. Jacy Hurst will be the first woman of color in the Court of Appeal’s. Jacy lives in Lawrence, KS and is a partner in the law firm Kutak Rock LLP in Kansas City, Missouri. Lesley Isherwood is a resident of Wichita, KS, and a Senior Assistant District Attorney in Sedgwick County.It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399, or my cell number is 785 899-4700.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.The 40th Senate District includes Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties, and a portion of Phillips County.

BILLINGER: Senate Update, March 29

Too often caregivers neglect their own health and well-being and put their own needs “on the back burner”. The first chapter of The Caregiver Helpbook is about taking care of yourself. Additional chapters will help the caregiver set goals, make a plan and problem solve.&nbsp;

If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming virtual class to be offered for six consecutive Mondays, April 5th through May 10th from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class does cost $5 but it includes a 230-page Caregiver Helpbook that will be very helpful to family members. The class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/2WsKkcFe">https://bit.ly/2WsKkcF</a> or you can call the Ford County Extension Office at 620-227-4542. If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Too often caregivers neglect their own health and well-being and put their own needs “on the back burner”. The first chapter of The Caregiver Helpbook is about taking care of yourself. Additional chapters will help the caregiver set goals, make a plan and problem solve.&nbsp;If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming virtual class to be offered for six consecutive Mondays, April 5th through May 10th from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class does cost $5 but it includes a 230-page Caregiver Helpbook that will be very helpful to family members. The class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/2WsKkcFe">https://bit.ly/2WsKkcF</a> or you can call the Ford County Extension Office at 620-227-4542. If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;The Powerful Tools for Caregivers class is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. The class will provide tools to:<ul>
 <li>Help you reduce stress</li><li>Communicate effectively</li><li>Take care of yourself</li><li>Reduce guilt, anger and depression</li><li>Help you relax</li><li>Make tough decisions</li><li>Set goals and problem solve.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The class is only being offered virtually on Zoom at this time. But don’t let that turn you away. If you have never used Zoom, I would be glad to set up a zoom link with you so you can practice before the class starts. Don’t hesitate to give me a call if you have questions about the Powerful Tools for Caregivers class.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

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