<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617205088716.jpeg" alt="Chamber Awards version 3.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Chamber Awards version 3.jpg</figcaption>
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Hays Chamber announces 2021 annual award winners

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall to Vine between 27th and 41st&nbsp;streets and north of Interstate 70. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. &nbsp;Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. 

The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains.&nbsp;

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616106491764.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Wednesday in the area from Hall to Vine between 27th and 41st&nbsp;streets and north of Interstate 70. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. &nbsp;&nbsp;Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. &nbsp;Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains.&nbsp;Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

Fire hydrant flow testing, inspection in west Hays on Wednesday

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas State High School Activities Association announces Annie Diederich of Topeka will join its staff on July 1, 2021 as an Assistant Executive Director. Diederich was selected in a national search from a strong field of candidates. She will succeed Cheryl Gleason, who is retiring from the KSHSAA staff after 32 years of service.&nbsp;

Joining the KSHSAA after serving the Kansas State Department of Education as a Program Consultant for KESA, Diederich previously was the athletic director and elementary principal for the Jackson Heights School District outside of Holton, KS. Prior to her time with USD 335, she served 20 years with Topeka-Seaman USD 345 schools. While her tenure with Seaman began as an athletic/activities director for Logan Junior High and progressed to a 10-year position as principal of Elmont Elementary, Diederich also served at the district level as director of both elementary and secondary education and as the principal for Seaman Middle School.&nbsp;

A native of Hays and a graduate of Hays High School, Ms. Diederich earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Fort Hays State University in 1991 before completing a Masters in Elementary Administration with emphasis on PreK-12 Building Leadership also from Fort Hays State University in 1996. In 2013, she completed coursework at Washburn University fulfilling requirements to earn a District Leadership License.&nbsp;

Using her strong leadership skills, Diederich has served across the state on many advisory councils and professional boards to promote and educate Kansas schools. As a member of the Kansas Principals Association and United School Administrators, she has been able to represent middle school administrators and elementary school principals on state committees and executive boards. She has served as a member of the Kansas State Department of Education Professional Standards Board (2019-21) as well as on the Curriculum Leaders Advisory Council (2016-18) and Licensure Review Board (2012-15). Diederich also assisted on the Seaman USD 345 Tech Advisory Council (2015-20) and Emergency Operations Plan Team (2013-20). She also served five years as an officer with KAESP, culminating as President for the 2014-15 schoolyear.&nbsp;

Widely known throughout Kansas as a gifted school administrator with experience as teacher, school administrator, and ardent student advocate, Ms. Diederich has been recognized as a YWCA Woman of Excellence in 2017. She also received a Technology Rich Classroom Grant at Elmont Elementary in the spring of 2010. During her time at Logan Jr. High, Diederich received the M. Claradine Johnson KNCA Excellence in Education Award (2005), the John W. Vaughn NCA Excellence in Education Award (2006) and was named a Kansas Association of Middle School Administrators Assistant Principal of the Year (2004-05).&nbsp;

Ms. Diederich’s primary responsibilities will be the administration of bowling, gymnastics, tennis, volleyball, the KSHSAA Hall of Fame, the Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) program and assisting with general administration of the KSHSAA.&nbsp;

“Ms. Diederich is respected as an outstanding educator and will continue to empower students to serve, grow, and lead as they engage in the interscholastic activities. Her faithful service as a teacher, coach, building administrator, district leader, and her parent perspective all support Annie as an excellent choice to fulfill the duties so capably administered by Ms. Gleason,” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617141107845.png" alt="Diederich" />
 <figcaption>Diederich</figcaption>
 </figure>KSHSAATOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas State High School Activities Association announces Annie Diederich of Topeka will join its staff on July 1, 2021 as an Assistant Executive Director. Diederich was selected in a national search from a strong field of candidates. She will succeed Cheryl Gleason, who is retiring from the KSHSAA staff after 32 years of service.&nbsp;Joining the KSHSAA after serving the Kansas State Department of Education as a Program Consultant for KESA, Diederich previously was the athletic director and elementary principal for the Jackson Heights School District outside of Holton, KS. Prior to her time with USD 335, she served 20 years with Topeka-Seaman USD 345 schools. While her tenure with Seaman began as an athletic/activities director for Logan Junior High and progressed to a 10-year position as principal of Elmont Elementary, Diederich also served at the district level as director of both elementary and secondary education and as the principal for Seaman Middle School.&nbsp;A native of Hays and a graduate of Hays High School, Ms. Diederich earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Fort Hays State University in 1991 before completing a Masters in Elementary Administration with emphasis on PreK-12 Building Leadership also from Fort Hays State University in 1996. In 2013, she completed coursework at Washburn University fulfilling requirements to earn a District Leadership License.&nbsp;Using her strong leadership skills, Diederich has served across the state on many advisory councils and professional boards to promote and educate Kansas schools. As a member of the Kansas Principals Association and United School Administrators, she has been able to represent middle school administrators and elementary school principals on state committees and executive boards. She has served as a member of the Kansas State Department of Education Professional Standards Board (2019-21) as well as on the Curriculum Leaders Advisory Council (2016-18) and Licensure Review Board (2012-15). Diederich also assisted on the Seaman USD 345 Tech Advisory Council (2015-20) and Emergency Operations Plan Team (2013-20). She also served five years as an officer with KAESP, culminating as President for the 2014-15 schoolyear.&nbsp;Widely known throughout Kansas as a gifted school administrator with experience as teacher, school administrator, and ardent student advocate, Ms. Diederich has been recognized as a YWCA Woman of Excellence in 2017. She also received a Technology Rich Classroom Grant at Elmont Elementary in the spring of 2010. During her time at Logan Jr. High, Diederich received the M. Claradine Johnson KNCA Excellence in Education Award (2005), the John W. Vaughn NCA Excellence in Education Award (2006) and was named a Kansas Association of Middle School Administrators Assistant Principal of the Year (2004-05).&nbsp;Ms. Diederich’s primary responsibilities will be the administration of bowling, gymnastics, tennis, volleyball, the KSHSAA Hall of Fame, the Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) program and assisting with general administration of the KSHSAA.&nbsp;“Ms. Diederich is respected as an outstanding educator and will continue to empower students to serve, grow, and lead as they engage in the interscholastic activities. Her faithful service as a teacher, coach, building administrator, district leader, and her parent perspective all support Annie as an excellent choice to fulfill the duties so capably administered by Ms. Gleason,” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick.&nbsp;

Hays native, FHSU alum named to leadership position at KSHSAA

Ellis County Health Department is happy to report that through the COVID Community Vaccine Initiative,
8000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered. Through a tremendous outpouring of support
from the medical community, volunteers, and community partnerships the vaccine clinic is running
successfully. This week will still have ample supply of vaccine available. If you have not registered, please do so at www.ellisco.net. If you are unable to access the website, you may call 785-628-9440 for
assistance with registration. The Hays Public Library has also teamed up with ECHD to provide access to
computers and assistance with registration. You may call them at 785-625-9014.


The vaccine registration form located at www.ellisco.net allows for self-scheduling of appointments.
Currently, we are offering Moderna vaccine on Wednesday and a small amount of Johnson and Johnson
on Thursday morning. Following EUA authorization, this vaccine is only available to those 18 years and
older. If you are 16 years of age to 18 years of age and desire to be vaccinated, you will need to find a
location that is offering the Pfizer vaccine. At this point, the best location will be private pharmacies.
The Ellis County Health Department does not anticipate receiving or administering any Pfizer vaccine.



Due to the reliability and depth of information available on the KDHE dashboard beginning April 1, 2021
the Ellis County Health Department will no longer maintain a separate dashboard. We will place a link to
the KDHE Dashboard on our website. We encourage everyone to access this information on the <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE
Dashboard</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593005366466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Health DepartmentEllis County Health Department is happy to report that through the COVID Community Vaccine Initiative,
8000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered. Through a tremendous outpouring of support
from the medical community, volunteers, and community partnerships the vaccine clinic is running
successfully. This week will still have ample supply of vaccine available. If you have not registered, please do so at www.ellisco.net. If you are unable to access the website, you may call 785-628-9440 for
assistance with registration. The Hays Public Library has also teamed up with ECHD to provide access to
computers and assistance with registration. You may call them at 785-625-9014.
<h2>Vaccine registration</h2>The vaccine registration form located at www.ellisco.net allows for self-scheduling of appointments.
Currently, we are offering Moderna vaccine on Wednesday and a small amount of Johnson and Johnson
on Thursday morning. Following EUA authorization, this vaccine is only available to those 18 years and
older. If you are 16 years of age to 18 years of age and desire to be vaccinated, you will need to find a
location that is offering the Pfizer vaccine. At this point, the best location will be private pharmacies.
The Ellis County Health Department does not anticipate receiving or administering any Pfizer vaccine.

<h2>Data reporting</h2>Due to the reliability and depth of information available on the KDHE dashboard beginning April 1, 2021
the Ellis County Health Department will no longer maintain a separate dashboard. We will place a link to
the KDHE Dashboard on our website. We encourage everyone to access this information on the <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE
Dashboard</a>.

UPDATE: 8K vaccine doses administered, reporting will change

Hays Middle school was placed on a short lockdown Tuesday afternoon after a report of a bomb threat.

    "About 2:40 p.m., Ellis County law enforcement received notification from the KBI that a possible explosive device was at a location of 201 W. 29th, at a school," Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said. "This is the only school in the state with that address. So, we came up here and made contact with the school, and we were able to safely evacuate all of the children."

Scheibler said local law enforcement will work with Hays USD 489 and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to investigate the incident. The district reported that all students and staff had safely left the building as of 4:15 p.m.

    "The school had a plan in place, and their plan worked," he said. "We were happy to assist. The Ellis County Sheriff's Department, the Hays Police Department, the KBI and the Kansas Highway Patrol will continue to investigate the matter," he said.

Check Hays Post for more as details become available.

At 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, Hays Middle School was notified by the Hays Police Department of a emergency situation that required HMS to activate its room hold. Staff and students were asked to clear hallways and stay in classrooms while law enforcement checked hallways.

At 3:05 p.m. under the direction of the HPD, students were dismissed class by class to exit the building Students were not allowed to stop at their lockers, therefore they may not have their phones or items from their lockers.

Bus students will ride the bus as normal. All athletic practices are canceled for today, as well as after-school homework help. 

Parents are asked to pick up your student as soon as possible at the front door of the building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617138120285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostHays Middle school was placed on a short lockdown Tuesday afternoon after a report of a bomb threat. "About 2:40 p.m., Ellis County law enforcement received notification from the KBI that a possible explosive device was at a location of 201 W. 29th, at a school," Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said. "This is the only school in the state with that address. So, we came up here and made contact with the school, and we were able to safely evacuate all of the children."Scheibler said local law enforcement will work with Hays USD 489 and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to investigate the incident. The district reported that all students and staff had safely left the building as of 4:15 p.m. "The school had a plan in place, and their plan worked," he said. "We were happy to assist. The Ellis County Sheriff's Department, the Hays Police Department, the KBI and the Kansas Highway Patrol will continue to investigate the matter," he said.Check Hays Post for more as details become available.HPDAt 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, Hays Middle School was notified by the Hays Police Department of a emergency situation that required HMS to activate its room hold. Staff and students were asked to clear hallways and stay in classrooms while law enforcement checked hallways.At 3:05 p.m. under the direction of the HPD, students were dismissed class by class to exit the building Students were not allowed to stop at their lockers, therefore they may not have their phones or items from their lockers.Bus students will ride the bus as normal. All athletic practices are canceled for today, as well as after-school homework help. Parents are asked to pick up your student as soon as possible at the front door of the building.— HMS

UPDATE: Hays Middle School placed on room hold after bomb threat

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;

The Hays USD 489 school board expressed its intent to continue to require masks in schools even if the governor's mask mandate is allowed to expire Wednesday.

Senate Bill 40, which has been signed by the governor, puts the responsibility for making decisions on face masks, requiring different learning options and school closings due to COVID in the hands of local school boards.

"We will continue to monitor numbers," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "As vaccines become more and more relevant in our community and numbers continue to stay low, there might be a possibility we might recommend doing away with masks.

"Right now, we feel like it is a safety measure to have in place. We want to continue it for a little while longer and see where everything falls."

The board did not take a vote on the mask requirement, but agreed through consensus to continue to require masks in the district.

The school district will continue to do contact tracing for any positive COVID cases. However, the district is changing its policy on quarantines for close contacts.

If someone in the school is identified as a close contact to another student or staff member who is COVID positive, the student's parent or guardian will be notified the student has been a close contact. The family will be given the option to quarantine the student if the student does not have COVID symptoms.

This does not apply to students or staff who have be exposed to someone who is COVID-positive outside of school.

Wilson said he is recommending the change in the quarantine policy contingent on the school keeping in place mitigation efforts, including the wearing of masks.

He said he has discussed the quarantine change with the members of the local school COVID task force, which is made up of other local school leaders and medical professionals, and they agree with the new policy.

The new policy will be enacted after the Easter break.

Wilson said the change in the quarantine policy is another step toward returning to normal.

Wilson reported more than 200 staff members will be vaccinated for the second time Thursday.

"It is going to be a big hurdle that we have crossed," Wilson said. "We really feel good about that."

He noted some staff members have chosen to not be vaccinated at this time. The district is not requiring staff to take a COVID vaccine.

Wilson said COVID numbers related to the district look good. The district had no COVID positive cases reported as of Monday.

The district had six people in quarantine for possible exposore.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615984896927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;The Hays USD 489 school board expressed its intent to continue to require masks in schools even if the governor's mask mandate is allowed to expire Wednesday.Senate Bill 40, which has been signed by the governor, puts the responsibility for making decisions on face masks, requiring different learning options and school closings due to COVID in the hands of local school boards."We will continue to monitor numbers," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "As vaccines become more and more relevant in our community and numbers continue to stay low, there might be a possibility we might recommend doing away with masks."Right now, we feel like it is a safety measure to have in place. We want to continue it for a little while longer and see where everything falls."The board did not take a vote on the mask requirement, but agreed through consensus to continue to require masks in the district.The school district will continue to do contact tracing for any positive COVID cases. However, the district is changing its policy on quarantines for close contacts.If someone in the school is identified as a close contact to another student or staff member who is COVID positive, the student's parent or guardian will be notified the student has been a close contact. The family will be given the option to quarantine the student if the student does not have COVID symptoms.This does not apply to students or staff who have be exposed to someone who is COVID-positive outside of school.Wilson said he is recommending the change in the quarantine policy contingent on the school keeping in place mitigation efforts, including the wearing of masks.He said he has discussed the quarantine change with the members of the local school COVID task force, which is made up of other local school leaders and medical professionals, and they agree with the new policy.The new policy will be enacted after the Easter break.Wilson said the change in the quarantine policy is another step toward returning to normal.Wilson reported more than 200 staff members will be vaccinated for the second time Thursday."It is going to be a big hurdle that we have crossed," Wilson said. "We really feel good about that."He noted some staff members have chosen to not be vaccinated at this time. The district is not requiring staff to take a COVID vaccine.Wilson said COVID numbers related to the district look good. The district had no COVID positive cases reported as of Monday.The district had six people in quarantine for possible exposore.

Hays USD 489 will continue requiring masks

<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="Hays Chamber awards banquet set for Tuesday" 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=3qnmq-ff471f-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber's virtual award banquet set for Tuesday night

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board approved several large purchases at its meeting on Monday.

The board approved the lease agreement that will pay for a new heating and air conditioning system at Roosevelt Elementary School.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The annual payment on the $2.16 million debt will be about $240,000 paid over 10 years.

Work on the project will continue through the spring and summer.&nbsp;

The board approved a $265,000 bid from National Bus Sales for a new activity bus, as part of the district's ongoing vehicle replacement program.

The board approved the purchase of a compact tractor for buildings and ground. The low bid of $44,500 came from Lang Diesel for a Massey Ferguson. The bid includes a cab, loader and blade.

District staff researched buying a used tractor, but determined the government pricing made the cost of a new tractor comparable to the cost of a used tractor.

The tractor will be used to maintain the athletic fields at Hays High School, for snow removal and other buildings and grounds functions.

Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, said this tractor is replacing an older tractor, and the old tractor will be sold.

Board member Allen Park opposed the purchase, saying he did not think the tractor would be used enough to justify its purchase. He was the only no vote on the purchase.

The board also approved contracts for classified director contracts. They included the contracts for: • Russ Henningsen, director of transportation • Rusty Lindsay, director of building, grounds and maintenance • Scott Summers, director of technology • Jessica Younker, director of nutrition services

The board amended district policy to offer two-year contracts instead of one-year contracts to all district and building administrators.

Board president Mike Walker appointed himself and board members Craig Pallister and Lance Bickle to the team for teacher negotiations. Board member Tammy Wellbrock was appointed as an alternate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615261589655.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 board. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 board. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board approved several large purchases at its meeting on Monday.The board approved the lease agreement that will pay for a new heating and air conditioning system at Roosevelt Elementary School.&nbsp;&nbsp;The annual payment on the $2.16 million debt will be about $240,000 paid over 10 years.Work on the project will continue through the spring and summer.&nbsp;The board approved a $265,000 bid from National Bus Sales for a new activity bus, as part of the district's ongoing vehicle replacement program.The board approved the purchase of a compact tractor for buildings and ground. The low bid of $44,500 came from Lang Diesel for a Massey Ferguson. The bid includes a cab, loader and blade.District staff researched buying a used tractor, but determined the government pricing made the cost of a new tractor comparable to the cost of a used tractor.The tractor will be used to maintain the athletic fields at Hays High School, for snow removal and other buildings and grounds functions.Rusty Lindsay, director of buildings and grounds, said this tractor is replacing an older tractor, and the old tractor will be sold.Board member Allen Park opposed the purchase, saying he did not think the tractor would be used enough to justify its purchase. He was the only no vote on the purchase.<h2>Contracts</h2>The board also approved contracts for classified director contracts. They included the contracts for: • Russ Henningsen, director of transportation • Rusty Lindsay, director of building, grounds and maintenance • Scott Summers, director of technology • Jessica Younker, director of nutrition servicesThe board amended district policy to offer two-year contracts instead of one-year contracts to all district and building administrators.<h2>Negotiations team</h2>Board president Mike Walker appointed himself and board members Craig Pallister and Lance Bickle to the team for teacher negotiations. Board member Tammy Wellbrock was appointed as an alternate.

Hays school board approves purchase of activity bus, financing for Roosevelt HVAC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boys Divisions Five Boys age divisions:&nbsp;

Girls Divisions One Girls age division&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

Kansas Junior Amateur Golf tourney heading to Hays

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hays library seeks submissions for 21st annual poetry contest

Three-day weather outlook

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. &nbsp;Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes.

 The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615901060478.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Hays Fire Department)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Hays Fire Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe Hays Fire Department will be inspecting and flow testing fire hydrants on Tuesday in the area from Ash to Vine between Fourth and 13th&nbsp;streets. This is part of a coordinated effort by the city of Hays to inspect all fire hydrants in the city and flush all water mains annually. &nbsp;&nbsp;Inspecting fire hydrants ensures that the valves operate properly and that there is no damage or obstructions that will prevent or interfere with the prompt use of fire hydrants in an emergency. &nbsp;Firefighters are also checking the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood for firefighting purposes. The associated flushing of water mains allows chlorine to be distributed throughout the system to eliminate bio-filming in the water mains.&nbsp;Slight discoloration of the water supply may be encountered although there will be no health risks to the consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330.

Tuesday's fire hydrant testing situated in south Hays

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

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

There are currently nine active cases in Ellis County.

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617038400532.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained at zero.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/947beb64-eabd-48fb-a447-931d787133b8">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.There are currently nine active cases in Ellis County.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported one active COVID-19 patient at HaysMed. There was one active hospitalization of an Ellis County resident.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose slightly to 1.3 percent.Last week, Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy also said that, beginning April 1, his department would no longer be issuing regular updates to the county COVID-19 dashboard.&nbsp;"Due to the consistency and depth of information available on the KDHE website, the ECHD will no longer be separately reporting numbers of COVID-19 cases," he said Friday. "We encourage everyone to access the information on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE Dashboard</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since reporting began, there have been 3,720 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths. NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so KDHE figures might not necessarily correspond.

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

House Budget Passes Appropriations Committee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, March 26

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


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


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

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


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


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

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


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


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

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


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


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


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


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

Midwest Energy announces natural gas cost recovery plan

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

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

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

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

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

Hays USD 489 to consider several large purchases Monday

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

This phase of work should be completed by Friday.

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

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

Portion of Canal closed this week for storm sewer improvements

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

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

The event will focus on activities that stimulate the senses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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