The Summer Session of Athletic Edge at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System, will run from June 1 through July 29.&nbsp; This program is designed for ages 10 – 18 to increase their skills in a fun, positive environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We will be offering small group sessions held 4 times per week on Monday through Thursdays.&nbsp; Sessions will be 1 - 1.5 hours each day and include 1 hour of speed, agility, plyometrics, injury prevention training and conditioning.&nbsp; Participants will also have the option for 2 – 30-minute weight training sessions per week on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday immediately following the 1-hour gym session.&nbsp;

One on one sessions are also available.&nbsp; Any athletes interested in individual sessions should contact Shawn Landers at 785-623-8635 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:slanders2@haysmed.com">slanders2@kumc.edu</a>

Due to the safety measures in place for the COVID virus and to help decrease spread of the virus the following plans will be followed for the Athletic Edge for this summer.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sessions will be kept smaller (10-12 kids maximum in a group)

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weight training groups limited to 5-6 kids per session and alternating lifting days

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Temperatures will be taken at the entrance to The Center

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Masks should be worn at all times in the facility (not while exercising)

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Athletes should bring their own water bottles each session

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All equipment will be disinfected frequently throughout the day as it is used

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/the-center/athletic-edge/">Athletic Edge – Hays Medical Center</a>&nbsp;

HaysMedThe Summer Session of Athletic Edge at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System, will run from June 1 through July 29.&nbsp; This program is designed for ages 10 – 18 to increase their skills in a fun, positive environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;We will be offering small group sessions held 4 times per week on Monday through Thursdays.&nbsp; Sessions will be 1 - 1.5 hours each day and include 1 hour of speed, agility, plyometrics, injury prevention training and conditioning.&nbsp; Participants will also have the option for 2 – 30-minute weight training sessions per week on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday immediately following the 1-hour gym session.&nbsp;One on one sessions are also available.&nbsp; Any athletes interested in individual sessions should contact Shawn Landers at 785-623-8635 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:slanders2@haysmed.com">slanders2@kumc.edu</a>Due to the safety measures in place for the COVID virus and to help decrease spread of the virus the following plans will be followed for the Athletic Edge for this summer.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sessions will be kept smaller (10-12 kids maximum in a group)2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weight training groups limited to 5-6 kids per session and alternating lifting days3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Temperatures will be taken at the entrance to The Center4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Masks should be worn at all times in the facility (not while exercising)5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Athletes should bring their own water bottles each session6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All equipment will be disinfected frequently throughout the day as it is usedFor more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/the-center/athletic-edge/">Athletic Edge – Hays Medical Center</a>&nbsp;

HaysMed offers summer session of Athletic Edge

Three-day weather outlook

There are four Cottonwood Extension District Positions that will be on the November ballot. While the election is still over 6 months away, the deadline to file for a position is just around the corner.&nbsp; When the Cottonwood District formed in 2017 our eight-member board was appointed by the County Commissioners in both Barton and Ellis County. So that all positions would not come open at the same time, four members served two-year terms while the other four board members were appointed to serve four-year terms. From now on, all terms are four years in length.

Each of our eight board members have a commitment to create a budget that is reasonable for you, the taxpayer, while still supporting the delivery of valuable Extension education materials for lifelong learners in our district. Extension board member qualifications include:

A more detailed board member position description can be viewed on the KSRE web site.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/boardleadership/board-leadership-modules/recruiting-board-and-pdc-members/Extension%2520Board%2520Member%2520Position%2520Description.pdf">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/boardleadership/board-leadership-modules/recruiting-board-and-pdc-members/Extension%20Board%20Member%20Position%20Description.pdf</a>&nbsp;

My hope is that you have utilized our services in one or many ways. Perhaps Lauren Fick, our district horticulture agent, has provided the answer to a lawn, garden or tree question. Our agriculture and natural resources agents, Stacy Campbell and Alicia Boor, are always ready to field questions about weed control, and research-based information related to crops or livestock. Our programming related to healthy families is covered by Berny Unruh and myself. We have programming in place to help people of all ages improve their lives. And 4-H and other youth in our communities are participating in learning opportunities under the direction of Susan Schlichting and Michelle Beran. Theresa Meis and Brenda Walton provide the office professional duties that keep us connected to you.&nbsp;

If you would like to get involved by running for a position on the Cottonwood Extension District Board, you will need to fill out the paperwork and pay a $20 filing fee at the County Clerks’ office where you reside. The filing deadline is Thursday, June 1st, at noon. The two candidates who receive the most votes will begin their term as soon as the November election results are certified.&nbsp;

Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions related to serving on our Extension Board!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>There are four Cottonwood Extension District Positions that will be on the November ballot. While the election is still over 6 months away, the deadline to file for a position is just around the corner.&nbsp; When the Cottonwood District formed in 2017 our eight-member board was appointed by the County Commissioners in both Barton and Ellis County. So that all positions would not come open at the same time, four members served two-year terms while the other four board members were appointed to serve four-year terms. From now on, all terms are four years in length.Each of our eight board members have a commitment to create a budget that is reasonable for you, the taxpayer, while still supporting the delivery of valuable Extension education materials for lifelong learners in our district. Extension board member qualifications include:<ul>
 <li>At least 18 years of age and a resident of the local unit</li><li>Interested in working within the mission of K-State Research and Extension.</li><li>Willing to work closely with the local unit director, regional director and other members of the board.</li><li>Sincere interest in improving the quality of life for local unit residents.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A more detailed board member position description can be viewed on the KSRE web site.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/boardleadership/board-leadership-modules/recruiting-board-and-pdc-members/Extension%2520Board%2520Member%2520Position%2520Description.pdf">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/boardleadership/board-leadership-modules/recruiting-board-and-pdc-members/Extension%20Board%20Member%20Position%20Description.pdf</a>&nbsp;My hope is that you have utilized our services in one or many ways. Perhaps Lauren Fick, our district horticulture agent, has provided the answer to a lawn, garden or tree question. Our agriculture and natural resources agents, Stacy Campbell and Alicia Boor, are always ready to field questions about weed control, and research-based information related to crops or livestock. Our programming related to healthy families is covered by Berny Unruh and myself. We have programming in place to help people of all ages improve their lives. And 4-H and other youth in our communities are participating in learning opportunities under the direction of Susan Schlichting and Michelle Beran. Theresa Meis and Brenda Walton provide the office professional duties that keep us connected to you.&nbsp;If you would like to get involved by running for a position on the Cottonwood Extension District Board, you will need to fill out the paperwork and pay a $20 filing fee at the County Clerks’ office where you reside. The filing deadline is Thursday, June 1st, at noon. The two candidates who receive the most votes will begin their term as soon as the November election results are certified.&nbsp;Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions related to serving on our Extension Board!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Consider serving on Cottonwood Extension board

The Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct three public hearings Wednesday morning.

* Ellis County for a special use permit for a construction and demolition landfill on property at 55th Street and 240th Avenue.

* Brian M. Ralph for a two-foot side yard variance from the required 5 feet for a detached garage at 203 W. 37th.

* BJ and Dena Rupp for two additional signs on the south and north sides of their building located at 1007 Vine.

In other business, the board will hear from Werth Rentals LLC on a&nbsp; request for a public hearing for variance in setbacks and total square feet for an off-premise sign at 1007 E. 37th.

Details and the complete April 14 agenda are available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142021-1264">here</a>.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Area Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct three public hearings Wednesday morning.The public hearings involve:&nbsp;* Ellis County for a special use permit for a construction and demolition landfill on property at 55th Street and 240th Avenue.* Brian M. Ralph for a two-foot side yard variance from the required 5 feet for a detached garage at 203 W. 37th.* BJ and Dena Rupp for two additional signs on the south and north sides of their building located at 1007 Vine.In other business, the board will hear from Werth Rentals LLC on a&nbsp; request for a public hearing for variance in setbacks and total square feet for an off-premise sign at 1007 E. 37th. Details and the complete April 14 agenda are available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04142021-1264">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 8:15 a.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Zoning Appeals Board to conduct public hearings Wednesday

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

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

As of Monday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients, two active and two in recovery.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,726 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618248697119.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported no new cases of COVID-19 were identified in Ellis County since Friday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported three COVID-19 inpatients, two active and two in recovery.Since reporting began, there have been 3,726 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: No new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co. since Friday

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

<div><iframe title="Center for Life Experiences helps those dealing with grief and loss" 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=qdiec-10073d8-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Center for Life Experiences helps those dealing with grief and loss

The 55th annual Fort Hays State University NIRA Rodeo kicks off on Friday and continues through Sunday at Doug Philip Arena on Golf Course Road off the Highway 183 Bypass in Hays.

Since 1964, the FHSU Rodeo Club and team have provided students with valuable opportunities to hone their skills in an arena environment. This is an exciting intercollegiate rodeo that attracts around 600 entrants from 26 colleges and universities.

Advanced tickets are available now at Vanderbilts, Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, and in the FHSU Memorial Union.

Advanced tickets: Adults $10 Children (12 and under) $5

At the gate: Adults $12 Children (12 and under) $8

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618239910810.jpeg" alt="FHSU NIRA Rodeo action (Photo by Hays CVB)" />
 <figcaption>FHSU NIRA Rodeo action (Photo by Hays CVB)</figcaption>
 </figure>The 55th annual Fort Hays State University NIRA Rodeo kicks off on Friday and continues through Sunday at Doug Philip Arena on Golf Course Road off the Highway 183 Bypass in Hays.Since 1964, the FHSU Rodeo Club and team have provided students with valuable opportunities to hone their skills in an arena environment. This is an exciting intercollegiate rodeo that attracts around 600 entrants from 26 colleges and universities.Advanced tickets are available now at Vanderbilts, Orscheln Farm &amp; Home, and in the FHSU Memorial Union.Advanced tickets: Adults $10 Children (12 and under) $5At the gate: Adults $12 Children (12 and under) $8

55th annual FHSU NIRA Rodeo this weekend in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;

The Hays school district on Monday will hear a report on a community survey conducted by the district's architectural firm.

Although the survey touched on a variety of topics, including facilities, quality of education, the school board, the district's fiscal responsibility and student safety, Superintendent Ron Wilson said he thought this was the first step in any bond attempt.

Wilson said in an April 5 interview the results of the phone survey were not surprising and he will discuss them with the school board on Monday night.

A survey can't tell you if you'll pass a bond issue, Wilson said, but can show positive signs people are willing to look at the issue.

Hays USD 489 has not passed a major bond issue in 40 years. It has had two failed bond issues in the last five years.

The board has had limited discuss on any potential bond issue since the beginning of the pandemic, with some board members expressing concerns the community was not ready to consider a bond in the economic climate of 202o.

However, Wilson said he thought the local economy was starting to rebound and now is an appropriate time for another bond attempt.

"I think several things are in our favor right now," he said. "Interest rates are at an all-time low. If we are going to pass a bond, we are going to spend less money than we will possibly down the road.

"I look at projections in the state and even locally as they're reported and the recovery piece has been pretty good in terms of how we've rebounded. I feel we will continue to have a strong rebound."

Wilson also cited the recent jobs report, which showed the unemployment rate for Ellis County in February at 2.7 percent.

"I think people are way more willing to look at it now than they were several years ago," he said. "I think there are a lot of good signs, but I don't get to make that decision. That is a board decision."

There has been no discussion in recent months as to what improvements a bond might include or what dollar figure the board might bring to voters.

Wilson said he thought western Kansas needs a reason for people to locate here. He said there can be some reality in "if you build it, they will come."

"People make perceptions on first looks as they drive by, and if they perceive us to be a progressive community, they'll want this to be some where they want their family and kids to be a part of."

Wilson said he thought new facilities build capacity in the community's children.

"It helps them to understand that we value them," Wilson said. "It's kind of weird how kids respond to that, but when you put money into facilities, kids like that and they feel a real sense of pride.&nbsp;

"I have been in communities where we have passed bond issues, and I have seen that rebirth of kids feeling really proud in their community and in what the people in the community have done for them."

Wilson was not with USD 489 during the last two bond attempts.&nbsp;

When asked why he thought those bonds attempts failed he said, "I don't think people have realized the importance facilities play in terms of building for the future and building for the next generation.

"Sometimes it's not being forward thinking," Wilsons said,"in terms of we're building for the future. We're building for the next generation. I think sometimes people forget that people did that for them."

However, Wilson emphasized he did not want to focus on past bond attempts, but what the school district could do moving forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617915706897.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;The Hays school district on Monday will hear a report on a community survey conducted by the district's architectural firm.Although the survey touched on a variety of topics, including facilities, quality of education, the school board, the district's fiscal responsibility and student safety, Superintendent Ron Wilson said he thought this was the first step in any bond attempt.Wilson said in an April 5 interview the results of the phone survey were not surprising and he will discuss them with the school board on Monday night.A survey can't tell you if you'll pass a bond issue, Wilson said, but can show positive signs people are willing to look at the issue.Hays USD 489 has not passed a major bond issue in 40 years. It has had two failed bond issues in the last five years.The board has had limited discuss on any potential bond issue since the beginning of the pandemic, with some board members expressing concerns the community was not ready to consider a bond in the economic climate of 202o.However, Wilson said he thought the local economy was starting to rebound and now is an appropriate time for another bond attempt."I think several things are in our favor right now," he said. "Interest rates are at an all-time low. If we are going to pass a bond, we are going to spend less money than we will possibly down the road."I look at projections in the state and even locally as they're reported and the recovery piece has been pretty good in terms of how we've rebounded. I feel we will continue to have a strong rebound."Wilson also cited the recent jobs report, which showed the unemployment rate for Ellis County in February at 2.7 percent."I think people are way more willing to look at it now than they were several years ago," he said. "I think there are a lot of good signs, but I don't get to make that decision. That is a board decision."There has been no discussion in recent months as to what improvements a bond might include or what dollar figure the board might bring to voters.Wilson said he thought western Kansas needs a reason for people to locate here. He said there can be some reality in "if you build it, they will come.""People make perceptions on first looks as they drive by, and if they perceive us to be a progressive community, they'll want this to be some where they want their family and kids to be a part of."Wilson said he thought new facilities build capacity in the community's children."It helps them to understand that we value them," Wilson said. "It's kind of weird how kids respond to that, but when you put money into facilities, kids like that and they feel a real sense of pride.&nbsp;"I have been in communities where we have passed bond issues, and I have seen that rebirth of kids feeling really proud in their community and in what the people in the community have done for them."Wilson was not with USD 489 during the last two bond attempts.&nbsp;When asked why he thought those bonds attempts failed he said, "I don't think people have realized the importance facilities play in terms of building for the future and building for the next generation."Sometimes it's not being forward thinking," Wilsons said,"in terms of we're building for the future. We're building for the next generation. I think sometimes people forget that people did that for them."However, Wilson emphasized he did not want to focus on past bond attempts, but what the school district could do moving forward.

Wilson: USD 489 survey may indicate residents ready to discuss bond again 

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Mon., April 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal At
Large—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 8:01 AM 
Probation/Parole Violation—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 4/4 10 PM; 4/5 8:57 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2700 block Walnut St, Hays; 4/1 12:01 AM; 4/5 10:13 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen--100 block W 38th St, Hays; 11:25 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:32 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—400 block E 23rd St, Hays; 12:01 PM Credit
Card Violations—Hays; 1:46:28 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:01 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:46:39 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:28 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:53 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:43 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:12 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:47 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:37 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:32 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:21 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:42 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2500 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 12 AM 
Animal At Large--15th and Main St, Hays; 4:08 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:26 PM 
Animal At Large—2200 &nbsp;block &nbsp;Ash St, Hays; 4:33 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2500 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 5:13 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 3/27 2:51 AM; 4/5/
7:46 PM 
MV Accident-Co Road/St Hwy—100 block Ash St, Hays; 9:05 PM; 9:18 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Tue., April 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-Private Property—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:29 AM; 3:30 AM 
Drug Offenses--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 7:29 AM 
Suspicious Person—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Theft (general)—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3/30 8 AM; 4/6 8 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1100 block E 27th St, Hay; 11:24 AM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 11:49 AM; 11:52 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--200 block E 20th St, Hays; 12:57 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 3:31 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 4/5 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 7:07 PM

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

911 Hangup
Call—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 1:23 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 4/6 11:25:00 PM; 11:35
PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:17 AM 
Criminal Trespass—800 block Main St, Hays; 10:37 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2000 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 10:46 AM 
Dead Animal Call--200 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:03 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—800 block Main St, Hays; 11:22 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 12:43 PM 
Theft (general)—1100 block E 43rd St, Hays; 4/6 11:36 AM; 11:45 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX--4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 7:30 AM; 7:50 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 4:36 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:48 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 11:46 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Mon., April 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal At
Large—1300 block Golden Belt Dr, Hays; 8:01 AM 
Probation/Parole Violation—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 4/4 10 PM; 4/5 8:57 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block W 8th St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2700 block Walnut St, Hays; 4/1 12:01 AM; 4/5 10:13 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen--100 block W 38th St, Hays; 11:25 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 11:32 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—400 block E 23rd St, Hays; 12:01 PM Credit
Card Violations—Hays; 1:46:28 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:01 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:46:39 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:28 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:53 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:47:43 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:12 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:47 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:37 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:32 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:21 PM 
Credit Card Violations—Hays; 1:48:42 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2500 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 12 AM 
Animal At Large--15th and Main St, Hays; 4:08 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:26 PM 
Animal At Large—2200 &nbsp;block &nbsp;Ash St, Hays; 4:33 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2500 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 5:13 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 3/27 2:51 AM; 4/5/
7:46 PM 
MV Accident-Co Road/St Hwy—100 block Ash St, Hays; 9:05 PM; 9:18 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Tue., April 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-Private Property—3700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:29 AM; 3:30 AM 
Drug Offenses--2800 block Vine St, Hays; 7:29 AM 
Suspicious Person—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Theft (general)—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3/30 8 AM; 4/6 8 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1100 block E 27th St, Hay; 11:24 AM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 11:49 AM; 11:52 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--200 block E 20th St, Hays; 12:57 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 3:31 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 4/5 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 7:07 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 7 traffic stops Wed., April 7, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.911 Hangup
Call—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 1:23 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 4/6 11:25:00 PM; 11:35
PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:17 AM 
Criminal Trespass—800 block Main St, Hays; 10:37 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2000 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 10:46 AM 
Dead Animal Call--200 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:03 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—800 block Main St, Hays; 11:22 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1100 block Centennial Blvd, Hays; 12:43 PM 
Theft (general)—1100 block E 43rd St, Hays; 4/6 11:36 AM; 11:45 AM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX--4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 7:30 AM; 7:50 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—400 block W 7th St, Hays; 4:36 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—400 block E 15th St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 10:48 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 11:46 PM<figure>
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HPD Activity Log, April 5-7

COLBY — The annual National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association rodeo is returning to Colby April 30 through May 2 in the E.L. Garrett Arena at the Thomas County Fairgrounds.&nbsp;

More than 500 contestants from 24 Kansas and Oklahoma colleges will compete in the event, which typically occurs in the fall semester but was delayed last year because of Covid-19.

Performances on Friday and Saturday will begin at 7 p.m. Sunday, the finals with the top 10 in each event start at 1 p.m.

Men’s events include bareback bronc riding, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping&nbsp;and&nbsp;bull riding.

The women will compete in breakaway roping, goat tying, team roping and barrel racing.

Tickets at the gate are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Rodeo fans under five years old will&nbsp;be admitted&nbsp;free when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Colby Community CollegeCOLBY — The annual National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association rodeo is returning to Colby April 30 through May 2 in the E.L. Garrett Arena at the Thomas County Fairgrounds.&nbsp;More than 500 contestants from 24 Kansas and Oklahoma colleges will compete in the event, which typically occurs in the fall semester but was delayed last year because of Covid-19.Performances on Friday and Saturday will begin at 7 p.m. Sunday, the finals with the top 10 in each event start at 1 p.m.Men’s events include bareback bronc riding, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping&nbsp;and&nbsp;bull riding.The women will compete in breakaway roping, goat tying, team roping and barrel racing.Tickets at the gate are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Rodeo fans under five years old will&nbsp;be admitted&nbsp;free when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Intercollegiate rodeo returns to Colby 

High Plains Mental Health is pleased to announce its staff office building at 1412 E. 29th, has been named the Spec and Peg Woods Office Building. The late Spec Woods was a longtime Hays architect and co-founder of Woods &amp; Starr Architects. He and his late wife, Peg, were staunch supporters of community mental health services in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

“Spec and Peg were great champions of helping High Plains build residential services in Hays and Colby,” Executive Director Walt Hill said. “The couple worked tirelessly to build and support mental health services in northwest Kansas.”

Naming the building in their honor is intended to pay tribute to the Woods family’s lasting contributions to regional mental health services and community supports for clients.

High Plains has partnerships with facilities in Hays and Colby to provide subsidized housing for those with a diagnosis of Serious Mental Illness. The Spec and Peg Woods Office Building is adjacent to Woodhaven Apartments LP, the housing complex in Hays.&nbsp;

High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617995984507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHigh Plains Mental Health is pleased to announce its staff office building at 1412 E. 29th, has been named the Spec and Peg Woods Office Building. The late Spec Woods was a longtime Hays architect and co-founder of Woods &amp; Starr Architects. He and his late wife, Peg, were staunch supporters of community mental health services in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;“Spec and Peg were great champions of helping High Plains build residential services in Hays and Colby,” Executive Director Walt Hill said. “The couple worked tirelessly to build and support mental health services in northwest Kansas.”Naming the building in their honor is intended to pay tribute to the Woods family’s lasting contributions to regional mental health services and community supports for clients.High Plains has partnerships with facilities in Hays and Colby to provide subsidized housing for those with a diagnosis of Serious Mental Illness. The Spec and Peg Woods Office Building is adjacent to Woodhaven Apartments LP, the housing complex in Hays.&nbsp;High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

High Plains Mental Health names building after late Hays architect

HaysMed has continued its commitment to improving infant and maternal health by earning recognition&nbsp;through High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier, a program developed by the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates in Kansas.

High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier provides resources and a framework to help Kansas hospitals and birth facilities implement ten evidence-based practices proven to support successful breastfeeding, improving maternal and infant health outcomes while also reducing racial and ethnic health disparities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To obtain High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier recognition, each facility is asked to complete a voluntary and self-reported evaluation and to follow all ten of the evidence-based practices:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Facility will have a written maternity care and infant feeding policy that addresses all ten High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby practices supporting breastfeeding

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Facility will maintain staff competency in lactation support

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All pregnant women will receive information and instruction on breastfeeding

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assure immediate and sustained skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby after birth

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All families will receive individualized infant feeding counseling

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Give newborn infants no food or drink other than breastmilk unless medically indicated

7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice “rooming in” -allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day

8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Families will be encouraged to feed their babies when the baby exhibits feeding cues, regardless of feeding methods

9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants

10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Provide mothers options for breastfeeding support in the community (such as a telephone number, walk-in clinic information, support groups, etc.) upon discharge

“Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in the overall health of babies and mothers,” stated Katie Schoenhoff, Director of Programs at the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. “Following the ten High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby practices demonstrates HaysMed’s commitment to infant and maternal health by helping moms successfully initiate and maintain breastfeeding.”

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), 60% of mothers stopped breastfeeding sooner than they planned. Some factors that influence how long or if a baby is breastfed include: hospital practices, education and encouragement, policies or support in the workplace, and access to community support – which is why High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby facilities are committed to helping women breastfeed successfully, through staff trained in breastfeeding best practices and policies to help mothers meet their breastfeeding goals.

Along with the recognition of being named a High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier facility, HaysMed also receives on-going education and training opportunities, support and resources through a community of delivery centers, and scholarship opportunities to further staff education.

“Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers, and we’re honored to receive this recognition from the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund for our efforts to support successful breastfeeding initiation and maintenance. As a facility committed to providing the very highest quality of care, we have found the High 5 practices and resources to not only improve health outcomes but also increase patient satisfaction,” said Terry Siek,&nbsp;MSN, RN, NEA-BC,&nbsp;Vice President of Patient Care/Chief Nursing Officer.

For more information on High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier, contact Gwen Whittit, Program Coordinator:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:coordinator@high5kansas.org">coordinator@high5kansas.org</a>, or visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.high5kansas.org/">https://www.high5kansas.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617731973411.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed has continued its commitment to improving infant and maternal health by earning recognition&nbsp;through High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier, a program developed by the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates in Kansas.High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier provides resources and a framework to help Kansas hospitals and birth facilities implement ten evidence-based practices proven to support successful breastfeeding, improving maternal and infant health outcomes while also reducing racial and ethnic health disparities.&nbsp;&nbsp;To obtain High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier recognition, each facility is asked to complete a voluntary and self-reported evaluation and to follow all ten of the evidence-based practices:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Facility will have a written maternity care and infant feeding policy that addresses all ten High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby practices supporting breastfeeding2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Facility will maintain staff competency in lactation support3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All pregnant women will receive information and instruction on breastfeeding4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assure immediate and sustained skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby after birth5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All families will receive individualized infant feeding counseling6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Give newborn infants no food or drink other than breastmilk unless medically indicated7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice “rooming in” -allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Families will be encouraged to feed their babies when the baby exhibits feeding cues, regardless of feeding methods9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Provide mothers options for breastfeeding support in the community (such as a telephone number, walk-in clinic information, support groups, etc.) upon discharge“Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in the overall health of babies and mothers,” stated Katie Schoenhoff, Director of Programs at the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. “Following the ten High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby practices demonstrates HaysMed’s commitment to infant and maternal health by helping moms successfully initiate and maintain breastfeeding.”According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), 60% of mothers stopped breastfeeding sooner than they planned. Some factors that influence how long or if a baby is breastfed include: hospital practices, education and encouragement, policies or support in the workplace, and access to community support – which is why High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby facilities are committed to helping women breastfeed successfully, through staff trained in breastfeeding best practices and policies to help mothers meet their breastfeeding goals.Along with the recognition of being named a High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier facility, HaysMed also receives on-going education and training opportunities, support and resources through a community of delivery centers, and scholarship opportunities to further staff education.“Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers, and we’re honored to receive this recognition from the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund for our efforts to support successful breastfeeding initiation and maintenance. As a facility committed to providing the very highest quality of care, we have found the High 5 practices and resources to not only improve health outcomes but also increase patient satisfaction,” said Terry Siek,&nbsp;MSN, RN, NEA-BC,&nbsp;Vice President of Patient Care/Chief Nursing Officer.For more information on High 5 for Mom &amp; Baby Premier, contact Gwen Whittit, Program Coordinator:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:coordinator@high5kansas.org">coordinator@high5kansas.org</a>, or visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.high5kansas.org/">https://www.high5kansas.org/</a>.

HaysMed earns high marks for infant, maternal care

SENATE HIGHLIGHTS -&nbsp;WEEKLY OVERVIEWS

This week was the last week of legislative activity before VETO session.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon, the Senate gaveled out for adjournment and will reconvene on May 3 for VETO Session.&nbsp; The Senate voted on numerous conference committee reports and also debated bills on the Senate Floor the last few short weeks.&nbsp; A conference committee is a small, bipartisan, and bicameral committee that works to smooth out the differences between the House and Senate’s version of a similar bill.&nbsp; Once the conference committee reaches a compromise, the negotiated bill is sent to both the House and Senate for a final vote before advancing to the governor’s desk.&nbsp;

The Senate voted to confirm ten appointments: Daniel Klucas to the Office of the State Securities Commissioner; Amber Shultz, new Secretary of Labor; Steven Anderson, Office of Inspector General; Rebecca Dickinson, Kansas Crime Victims Compensation Board; Sheryl Gilchrist and Tom Phillips to the State Civil Service Board; Brandon Jones, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission; Suchitra Padmanabhan, Kansas Development Finance Authority; Mark Uhlig, University of Kansas Hospital Authority; and Kristen Wheeler to the State Board of Tax Appeals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SB 50&nbsp;- Marketplace Facilitators and Income Tax Deductions and Exemptions.&nbsp; It would&nbsp; require the collection and remittance of taxes by marketplace facilitators.&nbsp; The bill also amends income tax law regarding fraudulent unemployment benefits, itemized and standard deductions, business income related to 2017 federal legislation, corporation return filing, net operating losses, and the business expensing deduction.

HB 2332 &amp; S Sub for HB 2183 –&nbsp;would require any third-party who sends out advance voting applications to identify who they are, who the head of their organization is, and a clear statement indicating it is not mailed from the government.&nbsp; It would also prevent the Governor, the Executive Branch, and the Judicial Branch from altering election laws, as occurred last year.&nbsp; It also broadened the definition of election tampering.

HB 2039&nbsp;- Civics Education bill - would require, beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, students enrolled in an accredited public, private, or parochial high school to pass a civics test, or series of tests, as part of the Kansas required courses of instruction for graduation.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2074/" target="_blank">S Sub for HB 2074</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Technology Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institutions (TEFFI) - Fiduciary Financial Institutions Act (Act), Kansas trusts will be established by investors across the United States to hold their alternative asset investments with the goal to provide cash flow to Kansas “economic growth zones,” which largely overlap Rural Opportunity Zones.

SB 199&nbsp;would amend law in the Insurance Code governing specially designed policies and short-term policies to update references to short-term limited duration up to a maximum policy period of 36 months total in duration.&nbsp; <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb100/" target="_blank">SB 100</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;would amend a statute requiring suspension of a driver’s license for driving when the person’s driving privileges are canceled, suspended, or revoked, a provision requiring the Division of Vehicles to extend a period of suspension or revocation an additional 90 days.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb265/" target="_blank">SB 265</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Governor’s allotment for the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) Death and Disability Program and institute a moratorium on all payments made by KPERS employers for Fiscal Year 2021.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb304/" target="_blank">SB 304</a>&nbsp;would remove the expiration date of May 1, 2021, contained in the COVID-19 Contact Tracing Privacy Act.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2064/" target="_blank">HB 2064</a>&nbsp;would amend provisions in the Kansas Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) Act relating to participating members’ election and extension of their DROP periods.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2077/" target="_blank">HB 2077</a>&nbsp;would amend law related to the Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission and the Kansas Closed Case Task Force.&nbsp;

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2079/" target="_blank">HB 2079</a>&nbsp;would transfer certain duties from the Secretary of State to the Attorney General. It would also amend statutes to transfer responsibility for administering the Safe at Home program from the Secretary of State to the Attorney General.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2085/" target="_blank">HB 2085</a>&nbsp;would create the Students’ Right to Know Act. It would require the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) to ensure the distribution, electronic or otherwise, of certain information to all students in grades 7 through 12.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2101/" target="_blank">HB 2101</a>&nbsp;extend the current transfer of the first $10.5 million credited to the Expanded Lottery Act Revenues Fund (ELARF) from ELARF to the Kangrow engineering fund - KU, the Kan-grow engineering fund - KSU, and the Kan-grow engineering fund - WSU with each such engineering fund.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2106/" target="_blank">HB 2106</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;expends the dates when corporate tax returns are required to be filed.&nbsp; It would clarify that victims of identity theft would not owe Kansas individual income tax on any compensation that was fraudulently obtained by another.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2114/" target="_blank">HB 2114</a>&nbsp;would establish the Kansas Senior Care Task Force.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2121/" target="_blank">HB 2121</a>&nbsp;would amend the penalties for the crime of mistreatment of a dependent adult or elder person, define the term “absconds from supervision,” and amend law regarding sureties and delivery of a person arrested.&nbsp; The bill would amend the crime of mistreatment of a dependent adult or elder person to raise the penalty.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2136/" target="_blank">HB 2136</a>&nbsp;would amend several provisions in the Insurance Code pertaining to service contracts, surplus lines insurance, the Standard Nonforfeiture Law for Individual Deferred Annuities, the Utilization Review Organization Act and oversight of utilization review organizations, and risk retention groups.&nbsp;

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2158/" target="_blank">&nbsp;2158</a>&nbsp;would amend provisions in the statute governing the State Child Death Review Board regarding confidentiality of information acquired by and records of the Board.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2196/" target="_blank">S Sub HB 2196</a>&nbsp;would create the Unemployment Compensation Modernization and&nbsp;Improvement Council; require the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) to modernize its information technology (IT) infrastructure.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2201/" target="_blank">S Sub HB 2201</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Secretary of Transportation to let construction any modernization or expansion project under the Eisenhower Program that would utilize federal stimulus funds.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2208/" target="_blank">S Sub HB 2208</a>&nbsp;would enact the Rural Emergency Hospital Act and create a category of licensure to enable certain Kansas hospitals to receive federal health care reimbursement as rural emergency hospitals.&nbsp; The bill would require benefits coverage for services provided by rural emergency hospitals if covered when performed by a general hospital or critical access hospital. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2244/" target="_blank">HB 2244</a>&nbsp;would amend the Commercial Industrial Hemp Act to transfer registration and regulation of industrial hemp processors currently regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture to the State Fire Marshal.&nbsp; It would also amend law regarding the disposal of industrial hemp; unlawful marketing, selling, or distributing hemp products without registration or license; and create an exception for transportation of industrial hemp between producers and processors.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2247/" target="_blank">HB 2247</a>&nbsp;designates several highways and bridges across Kansas as memorial highways and bridges, naming them after certain individuals who served Kansas in distinguished ways, including veterans and former elected officials.&nbsp; This bill includes Marshall County US Hwy&nbsp;77 as the CPL Allen E. Oatney and SP4 Gene A. Myers memorial highway.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2379/" target="_blank">HB 2379</a>&nbsp;would enact the Peer-to-Peer (or P2P) Vehicle Sharing Program Act, which would allow the authorized use of a shared vehicle by an individual other than the shared vehicle’s owner through a P2P program.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2390/" target="_blank">HB 2390</a>&nbsp;would amend the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) to make certain temporary exceptions in current law permanent.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2391/" target="_blank">HB 2391</a>&nbsp;would revise and update certain provisions pertaining to business and other related filings and repeal obsolete laws, related to the Secretary of State. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb283/" target="_blank">SB 283</a>&nbsp;extends several provisions of law related to COVID-19, extending provisions regarding Telemedicine, Temporary Licensure, and Immunity.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2021/" target="_blank">HB 2021</a>&nbsp;would authorize the Kansas Development Finance Authority (KDFA), on and after July 1, 2021, to issue bonds, not to exceed $10.5 million, for the purpose of financing the construction of a state veterans home facility located in northeast Kansas.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2143/" target="_blank">HB 2143</a>&nbsp;would extend the sunset on an exclusion of motor vehicle manufacturer rebates from the selling price for sales tax purposes to June 30, 2024.&nbsp; It would also exempt the Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation of Kansas and Multi Community Diversified Services from paying sales tax on purchases related to the building, maintenance, and enlargement of facilities.&nbsp; Also, the bill would increase, as of January 1, 2022, the threshold filing amounts for retailers to submit sales taxes to the Department of Revenue - from $400 to $15,000 for annual filings and $4,000 to $25,000 for quarterly filings.&nbsp; Retailers with annual liability in excess of $25,000 would be required to file and remit sales tax on a monthly basis.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2245/" target="_blank">HB 2245</a>&nbsp;authorizes the Division of Vehicles of the Department of Revenue to collect emergency contact information and would provide for the use of such information by law enforcement agencies. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2104/" target="_blank">S Sub SB 2104</a>&nbsp;would amend law related to the list of eligible county appraisers, the qualifications of county and district appraisers, appraisal standards, Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) administration and membership, property valuation appeals, judicial review of property tax disputes, BOTA membership and school district budget certification. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb124/" target="_blank">SB 124</a>&nbsp;reauthorizes and amends several provisions related to the STAR Bonds program.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2238/" target="_blank">HB 2238</a>&nbsp;would remove a $500,000 limit on gifts school districts, governing bodies of cities, or both jointly are able to accept for the express purpose of the construction or furnishing of a library.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2295/" target="_blank">HB 2295</a>&nbsp;would exempt municipal motor grader vehicles from requirements of the Kansas Uniform Commercial Drivers’ License Act. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb181/" target="_blank">SB 181</a>&nbsp;would create the Elevator Safety Act. It would establish requirements for licensure of elevator contractors, mechanics, and inspectors; require elevators to be certified as having been annually inspected; establish the Elevator Safety Advisory Board.&nbsp;

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb290/" target="_blank">SB 290</a>&nbsp;would amend coverage requirements specified in the Health Care Provider Insurance Availability Act (HCPIAA) for all new and renewal professional liability insurance policies for defined health care providers.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2134/" target="_blank">HB 2134</a>&nbsp;would codify the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Credit for Reinsurance Model Regulation into statute and amend the Kansas credit for reinsurance statute.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2165/" target="_blank">HB 2165</a>&nbsp;would define all vehicles more than 35 years old as an antique vehicle.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2167/" target="_blank">HB 2167</a>&nbsp;would add two exceptions to law requiring a license plate to be attached to the rear of a motor vehicle. The bill would allow concrete mixer trucks the option to display a license plate on the front of the vehicle rather than on the rear of the vehicle and would require a dump truck with a gross weight of 26,000 pounds or more to display a license plate on the front of the vehicle.&nbsp; The requirement for a dump truck to display a license plate on the front of the vehicle would not apply to a vehicle registered as a farm truck.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2203/" target="_blank">HB 2203</a>&nbsp;would establish the Asbestos Remediation Fund.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2218/" target="_blank">HB 2218</a>&nbsp;would amend law governing the implementation and administration of the State Health Care Benefits Program.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb172/" target="_blank">SB 172</a>&nbsp;would protect critical infrastructure in Kansas. It would amend the Kansas Criminal Code regarding crimes involving property by establishing four new crimes: trespassing on a critical infrastructure facility, aggravated trespassing and criminal damage to a CIF. The bill would also allow a judge to order restitution for property damage.

HCR 5015 -&nbsp;- A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION urging the United States Congress to reject legislation to federalize elections in the United States of America.

HB 2224&nbsp;would expand the definition of "infectious disease" in certain statutes related to crimes in which bodily fluids may have been transmitted from one person to another.

S Sub HB2138&nbsp;would make changes to the Kansas Liquor Control Act and Club and Drinking Establishment Act concerning suspending, canceling, or revoking certain liquor licenses; days and times of sale of liquor and cereal malt beverage (CMB); and refillable and sealable containers of liquor and CMB.

Sub HB 2089&nbsp;would create law related to firearm safety education programs conducted in public school districts.

HB 2408&nbsp;would authorize and direct the Kansas Historical Society (KSHS) to convey by quitclaim deed, a parcel of land in Doniphan County to the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.

HB 2405&nbsp;would authorize the Kansas Development Finance Authority (KDFA) to issue bonds, in one or more series, in an amount not to exceed $500 million, plus all amounts required to pay the costs of issuance. Proceeds from those bonds must be applied to the unfunded actuarial pension liability of the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS).

HB 2401&nbsp;would authorize the Secretary of Corrections to enter into agreements for public-private partnerships for projects for new or renovated buildings at correctional institutions.

Full texts of the bills and supplemental notes as well as the Final Action vote on these measures can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>.&nbsp;

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORTS AND ACTION BY THE GOVERNOR&nbsp;

Numerous conference committee reports – the blended House and Senate versions of bills – from the last week are being processed and sent to the governor’s office.&nbsp; Within ten days after passage, a bill must be signed by the presiding officers of each chamber, the chief clerk of the House and the secretary of the Senate, and be presented to the governor for approval.&nbsp; The governor has ten days after receipt of the bill to act on it.&nbsp; If the governor does not act on it during the ten-day period, the bill automatically becomes law without the governor’s signature.&nbsp; Most bills passed by the Legislature are approved by the governor.&nbsp; However, the governor may veto a bill by refusing to sign it and returning it to the chamber in which the bill originated, together with a statement of the reasons for the veto.&nbsp; In appropriation bills only, the governor may veto some items (line-item) and approve the others by signing the bill.&nbsp; However, should the governor veto a bill, the Legislature, by a two-thirds vote in both chambers, may override (overturn) the governor's veto and the bill will be enacted into law without the governor’s signature.&nbsp; Once the bill becomes a law, whether by the governor’s approval or a legislative override, it is filed with the secretary of state.

Please email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785 243-3325x2 at my office in Concordia with questions or concerns during the break.

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>

Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is the 36th Kansas District senator.&nbsp;The 36th District includes&nbsp;Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties.

BOWERS: Senate Scene, Weeks 12 & 13

Last week was primarily spent with the House and Senate committee leadership meeting to negotiate on the differences from the bills that passed each chamber.&nbsp; Once the conference committee report is agreed upon, the report then goes for a vote from the House and Senate, and, if passed by both chambers, the report then goes to the Governor for her signature or veto.&nbsp; There were many items that these conference committees discussed, including the budget for the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

In April, the Consensus Revenue Group will meet to adjust the projected revenues for the state of Kansas for the current and next fiscal year.&nbsp; There will be a reanalysis of these projections in November 2021.

The state of Kansas has experienced a rebounding economy even through the COVID-19 pandemic, with the state exceeding the revenue expectations each month, with the exception of May 2020, during the pandemic.&nbsp; The revenues for March 2021 were actually $52 million above the stated projections.

It is imperative that we pass much of the legislation that is still pending before we break for our first adjournment. This allows for Governor Kelly to consider each piece of legislation that has passed the Legislature.&nbsp; She will then decide to sign the legislation, let it become law without her signature, or veto it.

The Legislature will reconvene on May 3, which is commonly referred to as Veto-Session.&nbsp; This is when we will consider legislation that was vetoed by the Governor and, also, legislation that we still need to consider before we adjourn for Sine Die, the official end of the legislative session.

The House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means met to discuss and deliberate on the state budget for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.&nbsp; The negotiators for each chamber are the chairmen, vice-chairs and ranking minority member.&nbsp; We did decide that there were some items that we need to discuss later, which is referred to as omnibus.&nbsp; One of those items were pay increases for state employees, including the Judicial Branch.&nbsp;

We did agree on increases to our nursing care facilities because of the pandemic, increase for the provider reimbursement rates for the Community Based Services Intellectual Developmental Disability waiver, reinstated the funding for the Excel in Career Technical Education Tuition Fund, and provided funding for our local health departments and for community-based primary care grants.&nbsp; The conference committee report passed both chambers on Friday.

There were numerous bills, now in the form of conference committee reports that were negotiated between the House and the Senate.&nbsp; We also debated two bills on the House floor and here are the details of those bills.

House Substitute for Senate Bill 91 will exempt any business that accepts a student in a work-based learning program from certain claims arising from a student’s negligence as a result of participating in the program at the business or work site.&nbsp; Also, except for incidents arising from gross negligence or willful misconduct, a student’s school district would be solely responsible for civil liberty for these claims.&nbsp; This bill passed the House, 123-0.

The other bill that we debated on Thursday was House Bill 2366.&nbsp; This bill would require prosecutors to disclose their intent to introduce testimony from a jailhouse witness and to forward related information to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp; This bill also passed the House, 123-0.

The Legislature will be on break for approximately three weeks.&nbsp;

On April 20, we will be receiving revised estimates for our revenue projections.&nbsp; On April 27, the House Appropriations committee will address budgetary items that we have decided to discuss prior to Veto-Session.&nbsp; The Veto-Session begins when we return on May 3.

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.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>April 12, 2021First AdjournmentLast week was primarily spent with the House and Senate committee leadership meeting to negotiate on the differences from the bills that passed each chamber.&nbsp; Once the conference committee report is agreed upon, the report then goes for a vote from the House and Senate, and, if passed by both chambers, the report then goes to the Governor for her signature or veto.&nbsp; There were many items that these conference committees discussed, including the budget for the state of Kansas.&nbsp;In April, the Consensus Revenue Group will meet to adjust the projected revenues for the state of Kansas for the current and next fiscal year.&nbsp; There will be a reanalysis of these projections in November 2021.The state of Kansas has experienced a rebounding economy even through the COVID-19 pandemic, with the state exceeding the revenue expectations each month, with the exception of May 2020, during the pandemic.&nbsp; The revenues for March 2021 were actually $52 million above the stated projections.It is imperative that we pass much of the legislation that is still pending before we break for our first adjournment. This allows for Governor Kelly to consider each piece of legislation that has passed the Legislature.&nbsp; She will then decide to sign the legislation, let it become law without her signature, or veto it.The Legislature will reconvene on May 3, which is commonly referred to as Veto-Session.&nbsp; This is when we will consider legislation that was vetoed by the Governor and, also, legislation that we still need to consider before we adjourn for Sine Die, the official end of the legislative session.Budget Bill Reaches CompromiseThe House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means met to discuss and deliberate on the state budget for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.&nbsp; The negotiators for each chamber are the chairmen, vice-chairs and ranking minority member.&nbsp; We did decide that there were some items that we need to discuss later, which is referred to as omnibus.&nbsp; One of those items were pay increases for state employees, including the Judicial Branch.&nbsp;We did agree on increases to our nursing care facilities because of the pandemic, increase for the provider reimbursement rates for the Community Based Services Intellectual Developmental Disability waiver, reinstated the funding for the Excel in Career Technical Education Tuition Fund, and provided funding for our local health departments and for community-based primary care grants.&nbsp; The conference committee report passed both chambers on Friday.<a>Bills Passed the House</a>There were numerous bills, now in the form of conference committee reports that were negotiated between the House and the Senate.&nbsp; We also debated two bills on the House floor and here are the details of those bills.House Substitute for Senate Bill 91 will exempt any business that accepts a student in a work-based learning program from certain claims arising from a student’s negligence as a result of participating in the program at the business or work site.&nbsp; Also, except for incidents arising from gross negligence or willful misconduct, a student’s school district would be solely responsible for civil liberty for these claims.&nbsp; This bill passed the House, 123-0.The other bill that we debated on Thursday was House Bill 2366.&nbsp; This bill would require prosecutors to disclose their intent to introduce testimony from a jailhouse witness and to forward related information to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp; This bill also passed the House, 123-0.The Legislature will be on break for approximately three weeks.&nbsp;On April 20, we will be receiving revised estimates for our revenue projections.&nbsp; On April 27, the House Appropriations committee will address budgetary items that we have decided to discuss prior to Veto-Session.&nbsp; The Veto-Session begins when we return on May 3.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, April 12

Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in Agriculture

K-State Research &amp; Extension will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training for Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 24, in two locations — WaKeeney and Norton. At both locations it will be held at the 4-H Building on the fairgrounds, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this basic course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more.&nbsp; The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents.&nbsp;

The course is free to attend, thanks to our sponsor People’s State Bank. RSVP is requested by April 21. Contact one of the following Extension Offices in Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rooks, Sheridan, or Trego County by Tuesday, April 21, to register for the Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in Agriculture course on April 24th.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578070283981.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in AgricultureK-State Research &amp; Extension will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training for Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 24, in two locations — WaKeeney and Norton. At both locations it will be held at the 4-H Building on the fairgrounds, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Local K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this basic course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more.&nbsp; The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents.&nbsp;The course is free to attend, thanks to our sponsor People’s State Bank. RSVP is requested by April 21. Contact one of the following Extension Offices in Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Phillips, Rooks, Sheridan, or Trego County by Tuesday, April 21, to register for the Hazardous Occupations Safety Training in Agriculture course on April 24th.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Youth farm safety course upcoming

<div><iframe title="Summer events planned in Ellis" 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=e94zz-1005131-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Summer events planned in Ellis

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

School events bring people into Hays and those visitors spend money at local businesses, but some local officials think Hays may be leaving money on the table by not upgrading&nbsp;USD 489's facilities.

Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, said overnight guests brought in $44 million in revenue to Hays in 2019. The CVB's data shows a spike in revenue around community sporting events, some of which are USD 489-sponsored events.

Day visitors are also bringing in funds to the local economy, although she said that revenue is harder to track. They shop, dine and fill their vehicles up with gas while they're in Hays, she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617898644563.jpeg" alt="Hays High School is limited on what events it can host because the size of the gym at Hays High School. Photos courtesy of Kim Reel Photography&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography</a> " />
 <figcaption>Hays High School is limited on what events it can host because the size of the gym at Hays High School. Photos courtesy of Kim Reel Photography&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography</a> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSchool events bring people into Hays and those visitors spend money at local businesses, but some local officials think Hays may be leaving money on the table by not upgrading&nbsp;USD 489's facilities.Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, said overnight guests brought in $44 million in revenue to Hays in 2019. The CVB's data shows a spike in revenue around community sporting events, some of which are USD 489-sponsored events.Day visitors are also bringing in funds to the local economy, although she said that revenue is harder to track. They shop, dine and fill their vehicles up with gas while they're in Hays, she said."I would love to have a shiny new sports facility in the next few years," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617901276889.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>However, Dixon said she thought the facilities where students attend classes are more important than sports facilities, especially when it comes to encouraging new families to move to Hays.“My kids go to Lincoln, and they love it," she said, "but there are days that we are, ‘What is that funny smell in the basement?’ ‘Oh, we're having trouble with our sewer line.’ Those problems aren’t going to go away without a little bit of money.“I think it is a real shame that our community hasn’t been able to pass a bond because they don’t see the value in our schools.”"In my job, I want both, so we can recruit those tournaments too," she said of both new academic and athletic facilities.The Hays school district has not passed a major bond issue in more than 40 years. The school district has had two failed bond attempts in the last five years.The district recently completed a survey of residents conducted by its architectural firm, which may be the first step in another bond attempt.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e374b49f-3e79-4fa4-b721-b8eb465e3b93">Lance Krannawitter,&nbsp;HHS athletics and activities director, said in a school board meeting in February that Hays has not turfed any of its soccer or football fields despite other schools in the region turfing even its middle school fields</a>.The district also is seeking to build a new softball field. The Hays High students are currently using a field off campus as is junior varsity baseball.The district has tried to make some improvements using capital outlay funds, but does not have enough funds to make major improvements, including turfing fields, building a new softball field,&nbsp; or expanding its gym space.A group of community residents recently offered donations to build new soccer fields at HHS, something the administration and school board admitted could not be done without private funding. That project is underway.HHS has an average of 650 athletic participants annually out of about 850 students. Some of those are individuals who participate in multiple sports.Superintendent Ron Wilson said although the district has updated some of the volleyball infrastructure in its main gym at the high school to accommodate sub-state tournaments, the capacity in the gym is still lacking for other events.The lack of an auditorium at the high school has also been a complicating factor in bringing student events to Hays. Hays hosted a regional student council conference at Rockwell Administration Center because HHS does not have an auditorium.The conditions at Rockwell were not ideal, Wilson said.Not having an auditorium at the high school is an issue. However, even when the Hays students use the 12th Street Auditorium at Rockwell, there are issues with seating capacity, as well as the size of the stage.Wilson said if the district would be able to fund a new auditorium it would invite other community groups to use the facilities.Dixon said she thought improving school facilities are important to all residents of the community.“I think it is a real shame that our community hasn’t been able to pass a bond because they don’t see the value in our schools,” she said.“I think we need to do a better job of educating our citizens on how important it is and just because you don’t have kids in school doesn’t mean that it doesn’t affect you and your quality of life,” she added.