I turned onto the street that runs in front of our home in the quiet, sleepy, little town of Inman, KS. I hadn’t driven more than fifty feet, when out from between two neighbors’ houses trotted a canine that was not a dog. The long, bushy tail with a white tip held straight out behind as it sauntered across the street, gave it away as a red fox. I followed it as it crossed the grade school parking lot, walked across the front lawn of the school, then crossed the street into a neighboring yard, never spooked and merely strolling along.

A few years back, a pair of red foxes called Inman home for awhile until the den was found and everybody and their brother began showing up to sneak a peek, at which point the foxes moved on. I had heard some were again being seen around town, and was glad for the show. Red foxes live in many of our small Kansas towns, having found all they need there for good, safe lives away from marauding coyotes that will kill them given the chance.&nbsp;

One of my editors who runs a monthly outdoor page suggested I do a column entitled “When wild animals encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t.” Welcome to spring in the Kansas outdoors when all the critters are on the prowl around chicken coops, corrals and even backyards looking for quick, easy meals to feed dens and nests full of youngins.’ This time of the year emboldens predators to hunt and prowl during the day when they would otherwise never think of it. &nbsp;

Like springtime on the farm, springtime in the wild is a season filled with babies everywhere. It is no coincidence that there is more prey available in the form of young, easily caught critters at this time each year, just exactly when every wild animal needs extra prey to feed its young.&nbsp; Isn’t it amazing how everything seems to come full circle back to the fact that God knew exactly what He was doing when he engineered the order of things! Even with the glut of easily caught “wild” lunches right now, predators are still opportunists at heart and will not think twice about grabbing a young farm animal or even cats, kittens and small dogs if given the chance. As spring turns into July and August, increased predation seen in the spring will slow again, but in the meantime, there are a few extra precautions that can be taken to at least make the opportunists think twice about grabbing’ something from the coop, corral or backyard.

Even though you can’t keep an eye on poultry and young farm animals 24/7, giving them a place under roof to spend the night will help dramatically. Giving poultry a place to spend the night behind a closed door is a good thing any time of the year. Remember, despite their willingness to prowl more during daylight right now, a predator’s favorite time to hunt is still after dark. Keeping the grass and weeds mowed and trees pruned around pens will help also, as removing any cover predators can use to sneak close to a barn, chicken house or yard will help deter their presence. Sadly, there’s not a lot that can be done in town to deter predators aside from keeping cats, dogs and chickens within a fenced yard or enclosure of some sort.

&nbsp;Playing a radio and keeping a couple lights lit in the barn where sheep and goats spend the night will sound like human activity to a predator and can help deter their presence. The most effective predator prevention is probably a good watch dog, even if it’s small.&nbsp; Dogs of any size make predators nervous, and even though any coyote, bobcat or raccoon worth its salt can easily overpower most small dogs especially if they catch them out in the open, a noisy little mutt relentlessly yapping away at them as they slink around the barn or sheep pen might at least make them question their plan, and will likely alert you in the process. Unfortunately, a yappy little dog will probably not work well in town, as it will probably keep you in hot water with the rest of the neighborhood.

Yup, its spring time in the Kansas outdoors again, and all the critters and predators have families to feed and might “Encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t” as they follow their God-given instincts to protect and feed their young. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not condoning that, after all, I’m a coyote trapper. But I am saying that understanding why it happens helps me look at it from a slightly different perspective. …. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>I turned onto the street that runs in front of our home in the quiet, sleepy, little town of Inman, KS. I hadn’t driven more than fifty feet, when out from between two neighbors’ houses trotted a canine that was not a dog. The long, bushy tail with a white tip held straight out behind as it sauntered across the street, gave it away as a red fox. I followed it as it crossed the grade school parking lot, walked across the front lawn of the school, then crossed the street into a neighboring yard, never spooked and merely strolling along.A few years back, a pair of red foxes called Inman home for awhile until the den was found and everybody and their brother began showing up to sneak a peek, at which point the foxes moved on. I had heard some were again being seen around town, and was glad for the show. Red foxes live in many of our small Kansas towns, having found all they need there for good, safe lives away from marauding coyotes that will kill them given the chance.&nbsp;One of my editors who runs a monthly outdoor page suggested I do a column entitled “When wild animals encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t.” Welcome to spring in the Kansas outdoors when all the critters are on the prowl around chicken coops, corrals and even backyards looking for quick, easy meals to feed dens and nests full of youngins.’ This time of the year emboldens predators to hunt and prowl during the day when they would otherwise never think of it. &nbsp;Like springtime on the farm, springtime in the wild is a season filled with babies everywhere. It is no coincidence that there is more prey available in the form of young, easily caught critters at this time each year, just exactly when every wild animal needs extra prey to feed its young.&nbsp; Isn’t it amazing how everything seems to come full circle back to the fact that God knew exactly what He was doing when he engineered the order of things! Even with the glut of easily caught “wild” lunches right now, predators are still opportunists at heart and will not think twice about grabbing a young farm animal or even cats, kittens and small dogs if given the chance. As spring turns into July and August, increased predation seen in the spring will slow again, but in the meantime, there are a few extra precautions that can be taken to at least make the opportunists think twice about grabbing’ something from the coop, corral or backyard.Even though you can’t keep an eye on poultry and young farm animals 24/7, giving them a place under roof to spend the night will help dramatically. Giving poultry a place to spend the night behind a closed door is a good thing any time of the year. Remember, despite their willingness to prowl more during daylight right now, a predator’s favorite time to hunt is still after dark. Keeping the grass and weeds mowed and trees pruned around pens will help also, as removing any cover predators can use to sneak close to a barn, chicken house or yard will help deter their presence. Sadly, there’s not a lot that can be done in town to deter predators aside from keeping cats, dogs and chickens within a fenced yard or enclosure of some sort.&nbsp;Playing a radio and keeping a couple lights lit in the barn where sheep and goats spend the night will sound like human activity to a predator and can help deter their presence. The most effective predator prevention is probably a good watch dog, even if it’s small.&nbsp; Dogs of any size make predators nervous, and even though any coyote, bobcat or raccoon worth its salt can easily overpower most small dogs especially if they catch them out in the open, a noisy little mutt relentlessly yapping away at them as they slink around the barn or sheep pen might at least make them question their plan, and will likely alert you in the process. Unfortunately, a yappy little dog will probably not work well in town, as it will probably keep you in hot water with the rest of the neighborhood.Yup, its spring time in the Kansas outdoors again, and all the critters and predators have families to feed and might “Encroach on your yard and eat stuff they shouldn’t” as they follow their God-given instincts to protect and feed their young. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not condoning that, after all, I’m a coyote trapper. But I am saying that understanding why it happens helps me look at it from a slightly different perspective. …. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com. &nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Springtime wildlife sightings

Join the Hays Area Interagency Coordinating Council in celebrating the Week of the Young Child April 10-16, 2021. The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world's largest early childhood education association.&nbsp;

This national organization first established the Week of the Young Child™ in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children's success in school and later life. The purpose of the Week of the Young Child® is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.

I would personally like to thank all those who work with young children and all our families of young children. This is such an important profession and is a more difficult job than it looks from the outside. These professionals are planning a fun-filled week for the young children and their families and the community. You can learn more about the activities being planned in Hays at: <a href="https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child">https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child</a>

	As a community member you can be involved too! First, support all families of young children. If it has been a few years since you have had youngsters in your house, think back about how tiring just one day of the week was. These parents, grandparents and guardians are working 24/7 to make life just a little better for their little ones. Offer your help in some small way if you can.&nbsp;

Second, support our educators in this field. They leave the job each day tired and worn out but they come back the next day because they love children. If you know of a young adult who does an excellent job working with this age group, encourage them to consider a career in Early Childhood Education. It is a profession that won’t make their pocketbook rich but it will make their life rich! We need the best of the best working in this profession to give children a step up in life.&nbsp;

Third, everyone can improve the life of a child in some way. If you have the financial means, donate to organizations who can help those families in need.&nbsp;

My hope would be that a child has someone in their life who will read to them every day. I still believe books are the path to the future. Would you step up and see if you can help make that happen?&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>

<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>Join the Hays Area Interagency Coordinating Council in celebrating the Week of the Young Child April 10-16, 2021. The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world's largest early childhood education association.&nbsp;This national organization first established the Week of the Young Child™ in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years lay the foundation for children's success in school and later life. The purpose of the Week of the Young Child® is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.	I would personally like to thank all those who work with young children and all our families of young children. This is such an important profession and is a more difficult job than it looks from the outside. These professionals are planning a fun-filled week for the young children and their families and the community. You can learn more about the activities being planned in Hays at: <a href="https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child">https://www.usd489.com/o/early-childhood/page/week-of-the-young-child</a>	As a community member you can be involved too! First, support all families of young children. If it has been a few years since you have had youngsters in your house, think back about how tiring just one day of the week was. These parents, grandparents and guardians are working 24/7 to make life just a little better for their little ones. Offer your help in some small way if you can.&nbsp;Second, support our educators in this field. They leave the job each day tired and worn out but they come back the next day because they love children. If you know of a young adult who does an excellent job working with this age group, encourage them to consider a career in Early Childhood Education. It is a profession that won’t make their pocketbook rich but it will make their life rich! We need the best of the best working in this profession to give children a step up in life.&nbsp;Third, everyone can improve the life of a child in some way. If you have the financial means, donate to organizations who can help those families in need.&nbsp;My hope would be that a child has someone in their life who will read to them every day. I still believe books are the path to the future. Would you step up and see if you can help make that happen?&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>

UNRUH: The Week of the Young Child

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

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

As of Wednesday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both active cases.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,727 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618425046509.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just one new case of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Monday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported two COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, both active cases.Since reporting began, there have been 3,727 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Just one new virus case in Ellis Co. since Monday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

In a phone survey completed in March, 68 percent of respondents said they would support a Hays USD 489 bond issue.

Rick Nobles, president of ExcellenceK12, the company that performed the survey for the district, gave a report on the survey to Hays school board Monday.

Although not all the questions in the survey were specifically geared toward a bond issue, Superintendent Ron Wilson said this is the first step in what could be another bond attempt.

The district has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years, and two bond issues have failed in the last five years.

Wilson asked the board, "Right now, I would say based on the information that you're seeing, is there a next step? Right now, I would say overall people feel pretty good about our district and what we're doing."

"What it says to me is that the patrons are happy with the district, but I do see some appetite among patrons to improve facilities," he said.

Wilson suggested the board have representatives of its architectural firm, DLR, present&nbsp;options on moving forward with a possible bond issue at the board's next meeting, which will be April 26.

Mike Walker, board president, said he wanted to move forward with bond talks, but slowly.

He said the board has yet to decide if it will even move forward with a bond proposal.

Three hundred people were called from a randomized list of both cell and landline phone numbers the survey company purchased of people who live in the district. All respondents also had to be registered voters. They were asked to give ratings of A-F on various aspects of the district.

Those letter grades were averaged with an A being a 5 and a F being a 1.

The district received high scores for student safety, quality education, and preparation of students for college, vocational training or employment.

Nobles said 4.31 was a very high score for quality of education and was comparable of what he has seen in surveys of Johnson County school districts.

The district's overall grade was a 3.98, which was a little bit higher than average, he said.

A 3.55 value for the tax dollars spent is the highest score Nobles said he has seen in five years.

Eighty-eight people people surveyed said facilities was an area that needed to be improved.

Ninety-eight percent of survey respondents said they would likely vote if the district put forth a bond in 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600983641036.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIn a phone survey completed in March, 68 percent of respondents said they would support a Hays USD 489 bond issue.Rick Nobles, president of ExcellenceK12, the company that performed the survey for the district, gave a report on the survey to Hays school board Monday.Although not all the questions in the survey were specifically geared toward a bond issue, Superintendent Ron Wilson said this is the first step in what could be another bond attempt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618329852532.png" alt="USD 489 bond survey" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 bond survey</figcaption>
 </figure>The district has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years, and two bond issues have failed in the last five years.Wilson asked the board, "Right now, I would say based on the information that you're seeing, is there a next step? Right now, I would say overall people feel pretty good about our district and what we're doing."Nobles said he agreed with Wilson."What it says to me is that the patrons are happy with the district, but I do see some appetite among patrons to improve facilities," he said.Wilson suggested the board have representatives of its architectural firm, DLR, present&nbsp;options on moving forward with a possible bond issue at the board's next meeting, which will be April 26.Mike Walker, board president, said he wanted to move forward with bond talks, but slowly.He said the board has yet to decide if it will even move forward with a bond proposal.Three hundred people were called from a randomized list of both cell and landline phone numbers the survey company purchased of people who live in the district. All respondents also had to be registered voters. They were asked to give ratings of A-F on various aspects of the district.Those letter grades were averaged with an A being a 5 and a F being a 1.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618329251213.png" alt="USD 489 survey grades" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 survey grades</figcaption>
 </figure>The district received high scores for student safety, quality education, and preparation of students for college, vocational training or employment.Nobles said 4.31 was a very high score for quality of education and was comparable of what he has seen in surveys of Johnson County school districts.The district's overall grade was a 3.98, which was a little bit higher than average, he said.A 3.55 value for the tax dollars spent is the highest score Nobles said he has seen in five years.Eighty-eight people people surveyed said facilities was an area that needed to be improved.Ninety-eight percent of survey respondents said they would likely vote if the district put forth a bond in 2021.

Bond support high in USD 489 survey, but board moving ahead slowly

The Hays school board is facing a natural gas bill more than three times normal thanks to a mid-February cold snap that sent gas prices soaring.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, told the Hays school board Monday the district bill for February is $88,674.

In the last few years, the average bill for both February and March has been between $37,000 to $40,000. For that two-month period this year, the bill is $110,000, which is higher than the district has paid on average on an annual basis for the last three years.

Hipp discussed several payment options with the school board.&nbsp;

The gas company, Symmetry Energy Solutions, has offered to give customers a 5 percent discount if the bill is paid in full now.

The district could also pay over the next six months at a low interest rate through Symmetry.

The third option is to pay the statutory minimum for gas, which is $4.57 per unit, and then hire an attorney representing other schools through a coalition with Kansas Association of School Boards to negotiate for a settlement for less than the $88,000 owed.

The same attorney is also negotiating for Kansas hospitals and some other industries, Hipp said.

The cost to hire the attorney is $900. If the the attorney is unable to negotiate a settlement, the district would still have to pay the full bill, but would have missed out on the 5 percent discount&nbsp;Symmetry is offering for paying now.

Hipp and Bill Jeter, board attorney, both recommended the school board join the school board association's coalition in attempts to come to a settlement with&nbsp;Symmetry.

The district delayed a final decision until it receives more information from the school board association.

Scott Summers, technology director, gave a report on proposed upgrades to the Hays High School and Hays Middle School security camera systems.

The low bid on the project was from Nex-Tech for&nbsp;$149,426 for both schools.

Summers said some areas of the high school are not covered, and some areas could be covered better both inside and outside the building.

A two-way camera system at the entrance to the high school will allow the district to see visitors before they are buzzed into the school.

The new cameras will provide clearer pictures. Summers noted the current pictures are so blurry that it is almost impossible to identify a student unless staff knows what they are wearing that day.

At HMS cameras will be added in gym, cafeteria and library. Summers said some of the cameras at HMS are at least 20 years old.

Summers said the video from the cameras is typically stored for 30 days. However, district staff can bookmark a time code in order to keep that video for longer if it is needed.

Cable for the new cameras has already been installed at the high school as part of another project. Installation of the camera cables at HMS is included in the Nex-Tech bid.

The board also heard a report on the district technology audit and a report from Summers on replacing computers for staff at Rockwell, as well as the maintenance, transportation and technology departments.

This would include 81 computers. Summers said he is waiting to receive bids on the new computers.

The district is planning a summer reading program for K-2 students. A middle school summer program will focus on students who staff deem have academic deficits going into the summer. Summer school at HHS will focus on credit recovery, as it has in the past.

The district will be using some federal COVID relief funds for these projects. Parents who have students who may qualify for the programs will be notified soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618347408846.jpg" alt="Hays USD 489 owes $88,674 for its February gas bill after a cold snap across the Midwest sent natural gas prices soaring." />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 owes $88,674 for its February gas bill after a cold snap across the Midwest sent natural gas prices soaring.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board is facing a natural gas bill more than three times normal thanks to a mid-February cold snap that sent gas prices soaring.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, told the Hays school board Monday the district bill for February is $88,674.In the last few years, the average bill for both February and March has been between $37,000 to $40,000. For that two-month period this year, the bill is $110,000, which is higher than the district has paid on average on an annual basis for the last three years.Hipp discussed several payment options with the school board.&nbsp;The gas company, Symmetry Energy Solutions, has offered to give customers a 5 percent discount if the bill is paid in full now.The district could also pay over the next six months at a low interest rate through Symmetry.The third option is to pay the statutory minimum for gas, which is $4.57 per unit, and then hire an attorney representing other schools through a coalition with Kansas Association of School Boards to negotiate for a settlement for less than the $88,000 owed.The same attorney is also negotiating for Kansas hospitals and some other industries, Hipp said.The cost to hire the attorney is $900. If the the attorney is unable to negotiate a settlement, the district would still have to pay the full bill, but would have missed out on the 5 percent discount&nbsp;Symmetry is offering for paying now.Hipp and Bill Jeter, board attorney, both recommended the school board join the school board association's coalition in attempts to come to a settlement with&nbsp;Symmetry.The district delayed a final decision until it receives more information from the school board association.<h2>Security cameras at HHS, HMS</h2>Scott Summers, technology director, gave a report on proposed upgrades to the Hays High School and Hays Middle School security camera systems.The low bid on the project was from Nex-Tech for&nbsp;$149,426 for both schools.Summers said some areas of the high school are not covered, and some areas could be covered better both inside and outside the building.A two-way camera system at the entrance to the high school will allow the district to see visitors before they are buzzed into the school.The new cameras will provide clearer pictures. Summers noted the current pictures are so blurry that it is almost impossible to identify a student unless staff knows what they are wearing that day.At HMS cameras will be added in gym, cafeteria and library. Summers said some of the cameras at HMS are at least 20 years old.Summers said the video from the cameras is typically stored for 30 days. However, district staff can bookmark a time code in order to keep that video for longer if it is needed.Cable for the new cameras has already been installed at the high school as part of another project. Installation of the camera cables at HMS is included in the Nex-Tech bid.The board also heard a report on the district technology audit and a report from Summers on replacing computers for staff at Rockwell, as well as the maintenance, transportation and technology departments.This would include 81 computers. Summers said he is waiting to receive bids on the new computers.<h2>Summer school&nbsp;</h2>The district is planning a summer reading program for K-2 students. A middle school summer program will focus on students who staff deem have academic deficits going into the summer. Summer school at HHS will focus on credit recovery, as it has in the past.The district will be using some federal COVID relief funds for these projects. Parents who have students who may qualify for the programs will be notified soon.

USD 489 faces big gas bill, considers new security cameras at HMS, HHS

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Downtown Hays Development Corporation would like to see a permanent performance stage or band shell built in Municipal Park and will present the idea to Hays city commissioners during their Thursday evening work session.

According to information supplied to commissioners by DHDC Executive Director Sara Bloom, Hays has not had an easily accessible outdoor community stage since 1983.

"It's in the early stages," said Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser. "DHDC will be coming before the commission to pitch the idea and see what they're thinking."&nbsp;

The proposed structure would be constructed on city-owned property.

"It has some benefits, of course, (for the city-sponsored) Wild West Festival. It would suffice that event and maybe other events throughout the year that occur down in that park, rather than have a stage come in and [be] taken down," Bielser added.

A task force has been formed for the project proposal with representatives from DHDC, Commercial Builders, Fort Hays State University, City of Hays, Wild West Festival, Oktoberfest and Rockalooa music festival.&nbsp;

Bloom said the stage would use the model created by the Downtown Pavilion project.&nbsp;

"Once it's constructed, the city would take it over and it would be a city feature," Bielser explained.&nbsp;

In other business, commissioners will hear a bid award recommendation for improvement of the 230th Avenue and 55th Street intersection north of Interstate 70 Exit 157.

At the request of Ellis County,&nbsp;the city in December 2019 assumed responsibility for a $1.5 million Kansas Department of Transportation economic development project grant.

The project will be paid by the KDOT funds with any overage paid by the developer of the Hays Truck Plaza, D&amp;J Land and Development LLC.&nbsp;

The low bid of $1,878,301 is from Hess Services, Hays. Construction engineering agreement with Driggs Design, Hays, at a cost of of&nbsp;$140,800 puts the total project cost at $2 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All project costs will be reimbursed to the city by the KDOT grant and the developer.&nbsp;

Jeff Crispin, director of water resources, will present four recommended bid awards for a water production lime slaker, portable generators for water wells and lift stations, cleaning of approximately 22 miles of sanitary sewer line, and inspection and rehabilitation of six of the city's 37 water wells.

At 6:15 p.m., prior to the start of the work session, Mayor Sandy Jacobs will present a city proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

The complete April 15 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04152021-1265">here</a>.

The work session begins at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Downtown Hays Development Corporation would like to see a permanent performance stage or band shell built in Municipal Park and will present the idea to Hays city commissioners during their Thursday evening work session.According to information supplied to commissioners by DHDC Executive Director Sara Bloom, Hays has not had an easily accessible outdoor community stage since 1983."It's in the early stages," said Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser. "DHDC will be coming before the commission to pitch the idea and see what they're thinking."&nbsp;The proposed structure would be constructed on city-owned property."It has some benefits, of course, (for the city-sponsored) Wild West Festival. It would suffice that event and maybe other events throughout the year that occur down in that park, rather than have a stage come in and [be] taken down," Bielser added.A task force has been formed for the project proposal with representatives from DHDC, Commercial Builders, Fort Hays State University, City of Hays, Wild West Festival, Oktoberfest and Rockalooa music festival.&nbsp;Bloom said the stage would use the model created by the Downtown Pavilion project.&nbsp;"Once it's constructed, the city would take it over and it would be a city feature," Bielser explained.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IVW-GCmzLng"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618351419288.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In other business, commissioners will hear a bid award recommendation for improvement of the 230th Avenue and 55th Street intersection north of Interstate 70 Exit 157.At the request of Ellis County,&nbsp;the city in December 2019 assumed responsibility for a $1.5 million Kansas Department of Transportation economic development project grant.The project will be paid by the KDOT funds with any overage paid by the developer of the Hays Truck Plaza, D&amp;J Land and Development LLC.&nbsp;The low bid of $1,878,301 is from Hess Services, Hays. Construction engineering agreement with Driggs Design, Hays, at a cost of of&nbsp;$140,800 puts the total project cost at $2 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;All project costs will be reimbursed to the city by the KDOT grant and the developer.&nbsp;Jeff Crispin, director of water resources, will present four recommended bid awards for a water production lime slaker, portable generators for water wells and lift stations, cleaning of approximately 22 miles of sanitary sewer line, and inspection and rehabilitation of six of the city's 37 water wells.At 6:15 p.m., prior to the start of the work session, Mayor Sandy Jacobs will present a city proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.The complete April 15 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04152021-1265">here</a>.The work session begins at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

🎥 DHDC hopes to build permanent entertainment stage in Municipal Park

The City of Hays is looking for their next employee to be a lifeline for citizens of Ellis County as well as Law Enforcement, Fire, &amp; EMS personnel. Dispatchers are responsible for making sure citizens get quick responses for the help they need by answering both emergency &amp; non-emergency calls.

The work schedule includes 12-hour shifts which provides for 7 days off within a 14-day period including every other weekend off.&nbsp; Weekends &amp; holidays required.

Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate.&nbsp;All Dispatchers are required to live within a 40-mile radius of the City of Hays within 6 months of employment.

Starting Base Pay: $16.07/hour with mandatory overtime plus holiday pay compensation.&nbsp; Additional pay may be given for previous experience with opportunities to advance to a Senior Dispatcher.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays also offers great benefits.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysusa.com/dispatcher">www.haysusa.com/dispatcher</a>&nbsp;for more information on benefits and how to apply.&nbsp; Contact Human Resources by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-628-7320 for any questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618415536043.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Hays is looking for their next employee to be a lifeline for citizens of Ellis County as well as Law Enforcement, Fire, &amp; EMS personnel. Dispatchers are responsible for making sure citizens get quick responses for the help they need by answering both emergency &amp; non-emergency calls.The work schedule includes 12-hour shifts which provides for 7 days off within a 14-day period including every other weekend off.&nbsp; Weekends &amp; holidays required.Paid on-the-job training for the right candidate.&nbsp;All Dispatchers are required to live within a 40-mile radius of the City of Hays within 6 months of employment.Starting Base Pay: $16.07/hour with mandatory overtime plus holiday pay compensation.&nbsp; Additional pay may be given for previous experience with opportunities to advance to a Senior Dispatcher.&nbsp; Guaranteed raises every year. The City of Hays also offers great benefits.Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysusa.com/dispatcher">www.haysusa.com/dispatcher</a>&nbsp;for more information on benefits and how to apply.&nbsp; Contact Human Resources by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hr@haysusa.com">hr@haysusa.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-628-7320 for any questions.

HPD celebrates dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Shae Biedenbender has been rodeoing since the age of five and you can see her and the FHSU Rodeo team in action this weekend at the 55th&nbsp;annual FHSU NIRA Rodeo.

The FHSU Rodeo is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, April 16-18 at Doug Philip Arena, located on Golf Course Road, a half mile west of U.S. Highway 183 Alternate, Hays.

Public performances begin at 7 p.m. both Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday. The 2021&nbsp;

FHSU rodeo queen will be crowned during Sunday’s performance.

“We’re super excited- it’s going to be a great rodeo,” Biedenbender said. “Especially because we have that home-town advantage and as a team we’ve been accelerating. Everyone’s been doing great so we can’t wait to get out there and see how everyone does. “

Nearly 600 competitors from 22 schools in the Central Plains Region will compete in bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, cowgirls barrel racing, cowgirls breakaway roping, cowgirls goat tying, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and tie-down roping.

These student athletes are competing for the opportunity to qualify for the College National Finals June 11-19 in Casper, Wyo.&nbsp; The top three individuals in points in each individual event, as well as the top two teams, in each of the 11 regions across the country will win their seat at the CNFR.

Tickets can be purchased at the Student Service Center in FHSU’s Memorial Union; Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, 2900 Broadway Ave.; and Vanderbilt’s, 2704 Vine. Advance ticket prices are $10. Prices at the gate will be $12.

COVID precautions will be applied to ensure the safety of our competitors and audience members including a new digital program guide that can be scanned when entering the arena.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618257752541.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsShae Biedenbender has been rodeoing since the age of five and you can see her and the FHSU Rodeo team in action this weekend at the 55th&nbsp;annual FHSU NIRA Rodeo.The FHSU Rodeo is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, April 16-18 at Doug Philip Arena, located on Golf Course Road, a half mile west of U.S. Highway 183 Alternate, Hays.Public performances begin at 7 p.m. both Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday. The 2021&nbsp;FHSU rodeo queen will be crowned during Sunday’s performance.“We’re super excited- it’s going to be a great rodeo,” Biedenbender said. “Especially because we have that home-town advantage and as a team we’ve been accelerating. Everyone’s been doing great so we can’t wait to get out there and see how everyone does. “Nearly 600 competitors from 22 schools in the Central Plains Region will compete in bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, cowgirls barrel racing, cowgirls breakaway roping, cowgirls goat tying, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and tie-down roping.These student athletes are competing for the opportunity to qualify for the College National Finals June 11-19 in Casper, Wyo.&nbsp; The top three individuals in points in each individual event, as well as the top two teams, in each of the 11 regions across the country will win their seat at the CNFR.Tickets can be purchased at the Student Service Center in FHSU’s Memorial Union; Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, 2900 Broadway Ave.; and Vanderbilt’s, 2704 Vine. Advance ticket prices are $10. Prices at the gate will be $12.COVID precautions will be applied to ensure the safety of our competitors and audience members including a new digital program guide that can be scanned when entering the arena.

Fort Hays State prepares for 55th annual rodeo

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher It is springtime in the Flint Hills, and that means one thing: It’s pasture burning season. Those of us who are caretakers of the Flint Hills know fire is the most important tool we have to maintain the last large-scale vestige of warm-season tallgrass prairie. Without it, invasive shrubs and trees would take over and the Flint Hills prairie would be no more. However, in recent years burning has come under extra scrutiny from the EPA because of air quality issues in the large cities surrounding the Flint Hills. Pardon the pun, but we had a burning issue. Kansas Farm Bureau and other agriculture organizations worked with EPA, Kansas State University and others to build&nbsp;<a href="http://ksfire.org/">ksfire.org</a>, a website that helps producers understand where their smoke will go so they can time burns to lessen the impact on our city cousins. This voluntary collaboration is an example of how working with others can ensure we have all the tools we need to be good stewards of the natural resources we all value and rely on. In the end we have helped reduce the air quality problems with minimal impact to our essential operations. That is why Kansas Farm Bureau is so vital to all of us as ag producers, even if you are not a Flint Hills grazer and are not impacted by this issue, I can give several others that do have direct implications to your long-term sustainability as a farmer or rancher. Kansas Farm Bureau plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations of everyone in agriculture, and I can think of no more important reason that every farmer and rancher, or anyone involved in ag for that matter, should be a member of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are all busy with the day-to-day details of our farms and ranches, and we only get busier every day. The incredible staff of Kansas Farm Bureau are here every day watching out for the best interests of our members. As the largest general farm organization in Kansas and as a part of the American Farm Bureau Association, the largest general farm organization in the United States, we can work with other ag organizations, consumer groups and across the aisle with both parties to help build better and more workable solutions to protect our livelihoods. I am sure you know those of us involved in production agriculture are a very small minority, less than 2 percent of the population, and that is why we need the unified collective voice of Kansas Farm Bureau. If you are not a member, I promise it will be the best money you spend each year. If you are a member and you know of neighbors who are not, I challenge you to sit down with them and tell them we need them. Kansas Farm Bureau has a place and a need for everyone involved in agriculture. Because of Kansas Farm Bureau’s engagement, we still have the ability to use fire as a tool to keep our Flint Hills ecosystem healthy and viable. This was a victory for all of us in Kansas agriculture and, pardon the pun, is not blowing smoke.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher It is springtime in the Flint Hills, and that means one thing: It’s pasture burning season. Those of us who are caretakers of the Flint Hills know fire is the most important tool we have to maintain the last large-scale vestige of warm-season tallgrass prairie. Without it, invasive shrubs and trees would take over and the Flint Hills prairie would be no more. However, in recent years burning has come under extra scrutiny from the EPA because of air quality issues in the large cities surrounding the Flint Hills. Pardon the pun, but we had a burning issue. Kansas Farm Bureau and other agriculture organizations worked with EPA, Kansas State University and others to build&nbsp;<a href="http://ksfire.org/">ksfire.org</a>, a website that helps producers understand where their smoke will go so they can time burns to lessen the impact on our city cousins. This voluntary collaboration is an example of how working with others can ensure we have all the tools we need to be good stewards of the natural resources we all value and rely on. In the end we have helped reduce the air quality problems with minimal impact to our essential operations. That is why Kansas Farm Bureau is so vital to all of us as ag producers, even if you are not a Flint Hills grazer and are not impacted by this issue, I can give several others that do have direct implications to your long-term sustainability as a farmer or rancher. Kansas Farm Bureau plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations of everyone in agriculture, and I can think of no more important reason that every farmer and rancher, or anyone involved in ag for that matter, should be a member of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are all busy with the day-to-day details of our farms and ranches, and we only get busier every day. The incredible staff of Kansas Farm Bureau are here every day watching out for the best interests of our members. As the largest general farm organization in Kansas and as a part of the American Farm Bureau Association, the largest general farm organization in the United States, we can work with other ag organizations, consumer groups and across the aisle with both parties to help build better and more workable solutions to protect our livelihoods. I am sure you know those of us involved in production agriculture are a very small minority, less than 2 percent of the population, and that is why we need the unified collective voice of Kansas Farm Bureau. If you are not a member, I promise it will be the best money you spend each year. If you are a member and you know of neighbors who are not, I challenge you to sit down with them and tell them we need them. Kansas Farm Bureau has a place and a need for everyone involved in agriculture. Because of Kansas Farm Bureau’s engagement, we still have the ability to use fire as a tool to keep our Flint Hills ecosystem healthy and viable. This was a victory for all of us in Kansas agriculture and, pardon the pun, is not blowing smoke."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Burning and other issues

Three-day weather outlook

Learning to identify poison ivy is vital if you wish to avoid the rash that accompanies exposure. &nbsp;Unfortunately, poison ivy can make identification difficult because it occurs in three forms: an erect woody shrub, a groundcover that creeps along the ground, and a woody vine that will climb trees.

When poison ivy climbs, it forms numerous aerial roots that give the vine the appearance of a fuzzy rope. The leaves of poison ivy also vary. Though the compound leaf always has three leaflets, the leaf margins may be toothed, incised, lobed, or smooth. The size of the leaves also can vary, although usually, the middle leaflet is larger than the other two. Also, the middle leaflet is the only one with a long stalk; the other two are closely attached to the petiole (leaf stem). The number of leaves gives rise to the saying: "Leaves of three, let it be!" Poison ivy is often confused with Virginia creeper or Woodbine. Each of these vines, however, has five leaflets rather than three. There are three methods commonly used to eradicate poison ivy. These include pulling or grubbing out the plants by hand, cutting off the vine, and then treating the cut stump or the regrowth, and spraying the plants directly. The method used depends somewhat on the plant's growth form. If the plant is growing as a groundcover, direct spray or grubbing the plant out is often used. If grubbing, wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt. The soil must be moist for grubbing to work well. Wash the clothes and yourself immediately after you finish. It might also be a good idea to rinse the washing machine. If the plant is in the shrub form, the direct spray is the most common control method. If the plant is a woody vine that has climbed a tree, the preferred method is to cut the plant off at the base and treat the sprouts after they emerge. Some triclopyr herbicides also have instructions on treating a freshly cut stump directly. Triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon Poison Ivy Killer, Brush Killer Stump Killer) is most often used for poison ivy control. Other Herbicides that can be used include glyphosate (Roundup, Killzall Weed and Grass Killer, Nutgrass, Poison Ivy, and VineKiller) or dicamba. Poison ivy is tough. Repeat applications may be necessary. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Learning to identify poison ivy is vital if you wish to avoid the rash that accompanies exposure. &nbsp;Unfortunately, poison ivy can make identification difficult because it occurs in three forms: an erect woody shrub, a groundcover that creeps along the ground, and a woody vine that will climb trees.When poison ivy climbs, it forms numerous aerial roots that give the vine the appearance of a fuzzy rope. The leaves of poison ivy also vary. Though the compound leaf always has three leaflets, the leaf margins may be toothed, incised, lobed, or smooth. The size of the leaves also can vary, although usually, the middle leaflet is larger than the other two. Also, the middle leaflet is the only one with a long stalk; the other two are closely attached to the petiole (leaf stem). The number of leaves gives rise to the saying: "Leaves of three, let it be!" Poison ivy is often confused with Virginia creeper or Woodbine. Each of these vines, however, has five leaflets rather than three. There are three methods commonly used to eradicate poison ivy. These include pulling or grubbing out the plants by hand, cutting off the vine, and then treating the cut stump or the regrowth, and spraying the plants directly. The method used depends somewhat on the plant's growth form. If the plant is growing as a groundcover, direct spray or grubbing the plant out is often used. If grubbing, wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt. The soil must be moist for grubbing to work well. Wash the clothes and yourself immediately after you finish. It might also be a good idea to rinse the washing machine. If the plant is in the shrub form, the direct spray is the most common control method. If the plant is a woody vine that has climbed a tree, the preferred method is to cut the plant off at the base and treat the sprouts after they emerge. Some triclopyr herbicides also have instructions on treating a freshly cut stump directly. Triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon Poison Ivy Killer, Brush Killer Stump Killer) is most often used for poison ivy control. Other Herbicides that can be used include glyphosate (Roundup, Killzall Weed and Grass Killer, Nutgrass, Poison Ivy, and VineKiller) or dicamba. Poison ivy is tough. Repeat applications may be necessary. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

​FICK: Poison ivy identification and control

At Monday night's Ellis USD 388 Board of Education meeting, the board unanimously voted to end the mandatory mask mandate in the district's schools.

Other mitigation measures will remain in place for the time being.

The action was a recommendation from the district administration as COVID case counts in the county continue to decline.

Superintendent Corey Burton said he believes the mandate and other mitigation efforts were a significant reason the district was able to remain open through the year.&nbsp;

He also said the continued decline in COVID case numbers is great.

The last quarantine of a student or staff member in the district he noted was March 5 and staff that sought vaccines were able to receive those earlier than others in the area, with the assistance of a Hill City pharmacy.

“Our staff members that wanted to take part in that have had
their first and their second vaccination… right before we started spring break,”
Burton said.

Surveys from staff found the majority was in favor of ending the mask mandate.

In a recent survey, only 27 percent of staff said they believe the mandate should stay in place until the end of the year, 46 said it should be optional and 26 percent said it should end completely.

So he recommended making the masks optional, while the district would continue
with the rest of the mitigation strategies in the reopening plan, including extra cleaning, social
distancing and temperature checks.

However, Burton said if cases begin to rise in the city or
in the school, the issue should be revisited.

“It just makes sense,” to end the mandate Burton said.&nbsp; “People have been really good – especially in the schools – about
supporting this, but I think it gets harder to gain support if it doesn’t seem
like there is a need.”

The measure passed unanimously and was made effective
immediately.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostAt Monday night's Ellis USD 388 Board of Education meeting, the board unanimously voted to end the mandatory mask mandate in the district's schools.Other mitigation measures will remain in place for the time being.The action was a recommendation from the district administration as COVID case counts in the county continue to decline.Superintendent Corey Burton said he believes the mandate and other mitigation efforts were a significant reason the district was able to remain open through the year.&nbsp;He also said the continued decline in COVID case numbers is great.The last quarantine of a student or staff member in the district he noted was March 5 and staff that sought vaccines were able to receive those earlier than others in the area, with the assistance of a Hill City pharmacy.“Our staff members that wanted to take part in that have had
their first and their second vaccination… right before we started spring break,”
Burton said.Surveys from staff found the majority was in favor of ending the mask mandate.In a recent survey, only 27 percent of staff said they believe the mandate should stay in place until the end of the year, 46 said it should be optional and 26 percent said it should end completely.So he recommended making the masks optional, while the district would continue
with the rest of the mitigation strategies in the reopening plan, including extra cleaning, social
distancing and temperature checks.However, Burton said if cases begin to rise in the city or
in the school, the issue should be revisited.“It just makes sense,” to end the mandate Burton said.&nbsp; “People have been really good – especially in the schools – about
supporting this, but I think it gets harder to gain support if it doesn’t seem
like there is a need.”The measure passed unanimously and was made effective
immediately.

Masks now optional in Ellis USD 388 schools

Wilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve was presented with the Kansas Principals Association Area 4 Principal of the Year Award at Wilson Monday morning.

Scheve, 48, has been the principal at Wilson for five years. She has been an educator for 26 years, 24 of those have been with USD 489.

The area award qualifies Scheve for consideration of the association's state Principal of the Year Award.

"They totally surprised me yesterday," she said. "It is easy when I have the staff that I have and students that I have. I'm not used to being in the spotlight. I am grateful everyday for what I get to do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618339206543.jpeg" alt="Wilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve with some of her students at Wilson Monday morning after receiving her Principal of the Year Award. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Wilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve with some of her students at Wilson Monday morning after receiving her Principal of the Year Award. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWilson Elementary School Principal Anita Scheve was presented with the Kansas Principals Association Area 4 Principal of the Year Award at Wilson Monday morning.Scheve, 48, has been the principal at Wilson for five years. She has been an educator for 26 years, 24 of those have been with USD 489.The area award qualifies Scheve for consideration of the association's state Principal of the Year Award."They totally surprised me yesterday," she said. "It is easy when I have the staff that I have and students that I have. I'm not used to being in the spotlight. I am grateful everyday for what I get to do."

Wilson Principal Anita Scheve wins Principal of Year Award

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

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/sites/default/files/2021_editable_golf_tournament_flyer.pdf">The registration form can be found on the Hays Chamber website</a>.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber Golf Tournament registration deadline approaching" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ie4vi-10093b6-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a><a href="https://hayschamber.com/sites/default/files/2021_editable_golf_tournament_flyer.pdf">The registration form can be found on the Hays Chamber website</a>.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber Golf Tournament registration deadline approaching

The legislature wrapped up its work for the regular session on April 9. Lawmakers will return to Topeka on May 3 for the veto session, at which time they will finalize the budget and consider any legislation vetoed by the governor during the April break. I hope to see many of you over the next couple of weeks in person on virtually.

Some 2021 Legislative Accomplishments:

The Value Them Both constitutional amendments will allow Kansas voters to determine whether Kansas will continue to be a pro-life state. This measure will be on the ballot in August 2022.

1) Mask mandates issued by the governor revoked, and authority given to local governments. 2) Property tax transparency; requires local governments to hold public hearings on tax increases and notify taxpayers of what taxes they will actually pay from various taxing entities. 3) Kansas Promise Scholarship Act - helps prepare Kansans for today’s workforce needs through targeted scholarships. &nbsp;4) Low-interest loan assistance for communities affected by the surge in natural gas prices during the winter cold snap. &nbsp;5) Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program – a new resource for small businesses and ag producers that may have been financially impacted by the pandemic. 6) Business and healthcare COVID-related liability protections set in place.

1) Overhaul the administration’s unemployment system; set modernization requirements and oversight to ensure that hardworking Kansans can receive the assistance they need. &nbsp;2) Tax cuts for families and small businesses, including increasing the standard deduction for all Kansans. 3) Harsher penalties for criminals who stalk minors.

Unemployment Overhaul Legislation Sent to the Governor

As a reminder, the House previously passed HB 2196, which urge Governor Kelly to overhaul the Kansas Department of Labor’s (KDOL) unemployment system. It is widely known that KDOL has experienced ongoing issues in assisting Kansans who need immediate assistance. 

The goal of this bill is to remedy that, to make sure that the administration addresses the current problems and to guarantee the long-term stability of the state’s unemployment system. The main components of the bill include: A) Oversight and IT modernization B) Fraud immunity for Kansas businesses C) Rate table adjustments for employers.

This past week, House and Senate negotiators further amended the bill to increase the criminal punishment for fraudsters and prohibit unemployment modernization contracts from being entered into prior to review by the Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and the Legislative Coordinating Council. HB 2196 passed the House and Senate and is on its way to the governor’s desk for her consideration.

Budget Headed to the Governor, Consensus Revenue Estimates Later&nbsp;This Month

&nbsp;Last Friday, the House and Senate approved the conference committee report for House Bill 2007, which contains the budget for all state agencies minus K-12 education. K-12 funding will be determined when legislators return for the veto session.

Following Senate approval of the measure, the House voted 71-52 to send the bill to the governor for her consideration. It is likely there will be line-item vetoes for the House to consider overriding when the legislature returns on May 3.

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, we will meet April 27 to begin work on the omnibus appropriations bill. 

The bill may contain positions from budget negotiations and earlier committee discussions, which deferred items to omnibus for consideration. 

The committee will be provided an update on the Consensus Revenue Estimates (CRE) and any possible Governor’s Budget Amendments (GBA). The estimates, a projection of SGF revenues, will be released on April 20 and will be a revision of the Fall 2020 estimates. A new SGF profile will be created, reflecting the new revenue estimates, along with approved expenditures from HB 2007. This profile is critical in balancing the state’s budget, protecting taxpayers, and planning for future needs.

If you would like to contact me: email is: ken.rahje@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at 785-302-8416. It is my honor to be your representative.

Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. House District 110 includes:&nbsp; Norton and Phillips Counties Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis and Schoenchen;&nbsp;Townships: Big Creek(part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Herzog(part),&nbsp;Lookout(part) and Wheatland(part) Graham County: City: Hill City;&nbsp;Townships: Hill City(part) and Nicodemus(part) Rooks County: Cities: Damar, Palco, Plainville,&nbsp;Stockton, Woodston and Zurich

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>04-13-21Hello from Agra. The legislature wrapped up its work for the regular session on April 9. Lawmakers will return to Topeka on May 3 for the veto session, at which time they will finalize the budget and consider any legislation vetoed by the governor during the April break. I hope to see many of you over the next couple of weeks in person on virtually.Some 2021 Legislative Accomplishments: The Value Them Both constitutional amendments will allow Kansas voters to determine whether Kansas will continue to be a pro-life state. This measure will be on the ballot in August 2022.Bills passed and signed into law: 1) Mask mandates issued by the governor revoked, and authority given to local governments. 2) Property tax transparency; requires local governments to hold public hearings on tax increases and notify taxpayers of what taxes they will actually pay from various taxing entities. 3) Kansas Promise Scholarship Act - helps prepare Kansans for today’s workforce needs through targeted scholarships. &nbsp;4) Low-interest loan assistance for communities affected by the surge in natural gas prices during the winter cold snap. &nbsp;5) Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program – a new resource for small businesses and ag producers that may have been financially impacted by the pandemic. 6) Business and healthcare COVID-related liability protections set in place.Bills awaiting action from the Governor: 1) Overhaul the administration’s unemployment system; set modernization requirements and oversight to ensure that hardworking Kansans can receive the assistance they need. &nbsp;2) Tax cuts for families and small businesses, including increasing the standard deduction for all Kansans. 3) Harsher penalties for criminals who stalk minors.Unemployment Overhaul Legislation Sent to the GovernorAs a reminder, the House previously passed HB 2196, which urge Governor Kelly to overhaul the Kansas Department of Labor’s (KDOL) unemployment system. It is widely known that KDOL has experienced ongoing issues in assisting Kansans who need immediate assistance. The goal of this bill is to remedy that, to make sure that the administration addresses the current problems and to guarantee the long-term stability of the state’s unemployment system. The main components of the bill include: A) Oversight and IT modernization B) Fraud immunity for Kansas businesses C) Rate table adjustments for employers.This past week, House and Senate negotiators further amended the bill to increase the criminal punishment for fraudsters and prohibit unemployment modernization contracts from being entered into prior to review by the Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and the Legislative Coordinating Council. HB 2196 passed the House and Senate and is on its way to the governor’s desk for her consideration.Budget Headed to the Governor, Consensus Revenue Estimates Later&nbsp;This Month&nbsp;Last Friday, the House and Senate approved the conference committee report for House Bill 2007, which contains the budget for all state agencies minus K-12 education. K-12 funding will be determined when legislators return for the veto session.Following Senate approval of the measure, the House voted 71-52 to send the bill to the governor for her consideration. It is likely there will be line-item vetoes for the House to consider overriding when the legislature returns on May 3.As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, we will meet April 27 to begin work on the omnibus appropriations bill. The bill may contain positions from budget negotiations and earlier committee discussions, which deferred items to omnibus for consideration. The committee will be provided an update on the Consensus Revenue Estimates (CRE) and any possible Governor’s Budget Amendments (GBA). The estimates, a projection of SGF revenues, will be released on April 20 and will be a revision of the Fall 2020 estimates. A new SGF profile will be created, reflecting the new revenue estimates, along with approved expenditures from HB 2007. This profile is critical in balancing the state’s budget, protecting taxpayers, and planning for future needs.If you would like to contact me: email is: ken.rahje@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at 785-302-8416. It is my honor to be your representative.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. House District 110 includes:&nbsp; Norton and Phillips Counties Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis and Schoenchen;&nbsp;Townships: Big Creek(part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Herzog(part),&nbsp;Lookout(part) and Wheatland(part) Graham County: City: Hill City;&nbsp;Townships: Hill City(part) and Nicodemus(part) Rooks County: Cities: Damar, Palco, Plainville,&nbsp;Stockton, Woodston and Zurich

RAHJES REPORT: April 13

Hays High is in search of a new assistant basketball and football coach. Trey O'Neil was officially approved as the new head boys basketball coach at Hugoton High School on Monday.

The former Fort Hays State basketball player has been an assistant with the Indians football and basketball teams for the past season seasons.

Hays High is in search of a new assistant basketball and football coach. Trey O'Neil was officially approved as the new head boys basketball coach at Hugoton High School on Monday.The former Fort Hays State basketball player has been an assistant with the Indians football and basketball teams for the past season seasons.

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