THOMAS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Mazda 3 driven by Werner Haas, 92, Columbus, Ohio, was&nbsp;parked at the intersection of U.S. 83 and Interstate 70 westbound Exit 70 off ramp.

A 2013 Kenworth semi driven by Bruce L Vankooten, 67, Prairie View, was northbound on U.S. 83 five miles north of Oakley.&nbsp; Haas failed to yield and the Mazda struck the semi.&nbsp;

EMS transported Haas and a passenger&nbsp;Haas, Isolde T. Haas, 92, Columbus, to the Logan County Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Vankooten was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Mazda 3 driven by Werner Haas, 92, Columbus, Ohio, was&nbsp;parked at the intersection of U.S. 83 and Interstate 70 westbound Exit 70 off ramp.A 2013 Kenworth semi driven by Bruce L Vankooten, 67, Prairie View, was northbound on U.S. 83 five miles north of Oakley.&nbsp; Haas failed to yield and the Mazda struck the semi.&nbsp;EMS transported Haas and a passenger&nbsp;Haas, Isolde T. Haas, 92, Columbus, to the Logan County Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Vankooten was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

92-year-old couple hospitalized after crash with semi

The state basketball tournaments in 2021 had a different look to them as opening rounds were held at home sites. The first round match ups had also been previously determined by matching up certain sub-states. The result was #1 undefeated Hays facing #6 Topeka West who entered the game at 19-2.

A perfect season came to a screeching halt for the Hays High Indians as they fall to Topeka West 52-49 in the opening round of the 5A State Basketball Tournament. Hays shot 81% from field in the first half and built their lead as high as seven points at 25-18.&nbsp;

Topeka West called a timeout and slowly pulled Hays back in and cut the gap to 32-29 at halftime by banking in a long two point basket at the buzzer.

Hays hit a cold spell in the third quarter after taking a 34-32 lead. The Indians went scoreless for the next 5:05. The Chargers didn't exactly seize control of the game scoring only five points during that time to take a 37-34 advantage. West led into the fourth quarter 39-38.

The Indians took what proved to be their final lead at 40-39 with 7:40 remaining in the game. West built a pair of five point leads before Hays rattled off five quick points that tied the game at 47 following a Carson Kieffer three pointer with 3:50 remaining.

The Indians wouldn't score again until a moment before the final buzzer for the final 52-49 margin in favor of Topeka West. Hays missed a trio of three point attempts in the final 1:15 that could have tied the game at 50.

Hays was led in scoring by the game high 24 points of Jace Linenberger. Topeka West put three in double figures, the three that led Topeka West in scoring all season long. The Chargers' final four points came from two players that scored just one total point in the first three and a half quarters.

The Indians end their season at 22-1. The loss breaks a 30 game winning streak for Hays High. Topeka West moves on to the semifinals with a 20-2 record.

The state basketball tournaments in 2021 had a different look to them as opening rounds were held at home sites. The first round match ups had also been previously determined by matching up certain sub-states. The result was #1 undefeated Hays facing #6 Topeka West who entered the game at 19-2.#6 Topeka West 52 - #1 Hays 49A perfect season came to a screeching halt for the Hays High Indians as they fall to Topeka West 52-49 in the opening round of the 5A State Basketball Tournament. Hays shot 81% from field in the first half and built their lead as high as seven points at 25-18.&nbsp;Topeka West called a timeout and slowly pulled Hays back in and cut the gap to 32-29 at halftime by banking in a long two point basket at the buzzer.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1003628692&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/03-09-21-hhs-mbkb-vs-topeka-west-highlights" title="03 - 09 - 21 HHS MBKB Vs Topeka West Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">03 - 09 - 21 HHS MBKB Vs Topeka West Highlights</a></div></div>Hays hit a cold spell in the third quarter after taking a 34-32 lead. The Indians went scoreless for the next 5:05. The Chargers didn't exactly seize control of the game scoring only five points during that time to take a 37-34 advantage. West led into the fourth quarter 39-38.The Indians took what proved to be their final lead at 40-39 with 7:40 remaining in the game. West built a pair of five point leads before Hays rattled off five quick points that tied the game at 47 following a Carson Kieffer three pointer with 3:50 remaining.The Indians wouldn't score again until a moment before the final buzzer for the final 52-49 margin in favor of Topeka West. Hays missed a trio of three point attempts in the final 1:15 that could have tied the game at 50.Coach Alex Hutchins&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1003628725&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-coach-hutchins-interview" title="HHS Coach Hutchins Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS Coach Hutchins Interview</a></div></div>Hays was led in scoring by the game high 24 points of Jace Linenberger. Topeka West put three in double figures, the three that led Topeka West in scoring all season long. The Chargers' final four points came from two players that scored just one total point in the first three and a half quarters.The Indians end their season at 22-1. The loss breaks a 30 game winning streak for Hays High. Topeka West moves on to the semifinals with a 20-2 record.

🏀 Hays falls in 5A quarterfinals ending perfect season

The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Hugoton Tuesday to open the 3A state tournament with a matchup with the Hugoton Eagles in the state quarterfinals.

The game is set to start at 6:00 p.m. Our coverage begins at 5:40 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame show.

You can also listen to the game at&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Hugoton Tuesday to open the 3A state tournament with a matchup with the Hugoton Eagles in the state quarterfinals.The game is set to start at 6:00 p.m. Our coverage begins at 5:40 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame show.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5_9c096JzXU"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can also listen to the game at&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">99.5 KHAZ</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

 🏀WATCH: TMP-Marian vs Hugoton

The Hays High Indians open the 5A state tournament at home with a quarterfinals matchup with the Charges Tuesday at Hays High School.

The game starts at 6 p.m. with our coverage starting at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

The Hays High Indians open the 5A state tournament at home with a quarterfinals matchup with the Charges Tuesday at Hays High School.The game starts at 6 p.m. with our coverage starting at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-bD-9BRvN8Q"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

 🏀WATCH: Hays High v Topeka West

PAWNEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Pawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Nissan Frontier driven by Chase Fairchild, 37, Abilene, was northbound on U.S. 183 at X Road. 

The pickup crossed the center line and collided with a southbound 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Justin Jarchow, 39, Fairfield, Nebraska, in the southbound lane. 

The semi continued south across the highway into the east ditch and jack-knifed before coming to a stop facing northeast.

EMS transported Fairchild to Hays Medical Center. Jarchow was not injured. Fairchild was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

PAWNEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Pawnee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Nissan Frontier driven by Chase Fairchild, 37, Abilene, was northbound on U.S. 183 at X Road. The pickup crossed the center line and collided with a southbound 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Justin Jarchow, 39, Fairfield, Nebraska, in the southbound lane. The semi continued south across the highway into the east ditch and jack-knifed before coming to a stop facing northeast.EMS transported Fairchild to Hays Medical Center. Jarchow was not injured. Fairchild was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after pickup, semi crash

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Teacher Rene Burns has been hired as the new O'Loughlin Elementary School principal.

The Hays USD 489 school board approved her contract at its meeting Monday night.

Burns, who is teaching third-grade this year at O'Loughlin, will replace Vicki Gile, who will be retiring when her contract expires in June.

Burns is in her 14th year as a teacher at O'Loughlin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5eb05e5ceb7f1705360421e1">She was honored with the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award in May 2020.</a>

"We are very excited to have Rene," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "She brings a lot of excitement, energy and enthusiasm. She is going to be a great fit for O'Loughlin. The staff, who were on the interview committee, are really excited to have her."

John Linn, assistant principal at Hays High School, has also announced his retirement after three years of service with USD 489.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615305158584.png" alt="Rene Burns" />
 <figcaption>Rene Burns</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTeacher Rene Burns has been hired as the new O'Loughlin Elementary School principal.The Hays USD 489 school board approved her contract at its meeting Monday night.Burns, who is teaching third-grade this year at O'Loughlin, will replace Vicki Gile, who will be retiring when her contract expires in June.Burns is in her 14th year as a teacher at O'Loughlin.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5eb05e5ceb7f1705360421e1">She was honored with the Hays Post Teacher of the Month Award in May 2020.</a>"We are very excited to have Rene," Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "She brings a lot of excitement, energy and enthusiasm. She is going to be a great fit for O'Loughlin. The staff, who were on the interview committee, are really excited to have her."John Linn, assistant principal at Hays High School, has also announced his retirement after three years of service with USD 489.

Burns selected as the next O'Loughlin principal by USD 489

<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 Ambassadors to visit businesses Wednesday" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ag2xk-fd1d75?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></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 Ambassadors to visit businesses Wednesday

The Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of iPads for elementary and middle school teachers at its meeting Monday night.

The cost of purchasing 175 devices is estimated at $51,000. The devices will be purchased with federal COVID relief funds.

Last year the iPads for elementary students were replaced. The newer devices have updated operating systems that are not compatible with the older system on the teachers' devices.

The teachers have also had difficultly using Zoom on their older devices.

"This is really a need, and this is the best use of the funds at this time," Shanna Dinkel, assistant superintendent, said.

The new iPads will be ordered immediately.

The board also approved the next phase of concrete replacement for the Hays High School parking lot. The contract was awarded to the low bidder, Brian's Concrete of Hays for&nbsp;$185,625.

The board also discussed two other capital purchases.

The board heard a report from Russ Henningsen, director of transportation, on the purchase of a new activity bus.

The five-year transportation plan includes the purchase of an activity bus from funds in the 2021-22 budget. If the board approves of the purchase, the bus would be ordered this spring for delivery later this year.&nbsp;

The 2021-22 transportation budget includes no other vehicle purchases. The bid for the bus came in at $265,800.

The board took no action on the bus purchase Monday, but will likely vote on the item at its next meeting.

The board also heard a report from&nbsp;Henningsen on the purposed purchase of a new tractor for the buildings and grounds department.

The low bid of $44,500 came from Lang Diesel for a Massey Ferguson. The bid includes a cab, loader and blade.&nbsp;

Board members Craig Pallister and Allen Park asked&nbsp;Henningsen if he had researched the possible purchase of a used tractor.

Henningsen said he had and none of the three bidders had any used tractors that were the size the district is seeking to purchase.

He said he would check back with the dealers about the availability of used tractors before the next board meeting, at which time the board is scheduled to vote on the purchase.

The board also approved a board policy change on local bids to make it the same as state statute.

Correction: Tuesday, March 9 at&nbsp; 9:08 a.m., corrected to reflect the iPad purchase also includes devices for middle school teachers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615261589655.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board Monday night voted to approve the purchase of iPads for elementary and middle school teachers." />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board Monday night voted to approve the purchase of iPads for elementary and middle school teachers.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved the purchase of iPads for elementary and middle school teachers at its meeting Monday night.The cost of purchasing 175 devices is estimated at $51,000. The devices will be purchased with federal COVID relief funds.Last year the iPads for elementary students were replaced. The newer devices have updated operating systems that are not compatible with the older system on the teachers' devices.The teachers have also had difficultly using Zoom on their older devices."This is really a need, and this is the best use of the funds at this time," Shanna Dinkel, assistant superintendent, said.The new iPads will be ordered immediately.The old iPads will be sold.<h2>HHS parking lot</h2>The board also approved the next phase of concrete replacement for the Hays High School parking lot. The contract was awarded to the low bidder, Brian's Concrete of Hays for&nbsp;$185,625.<h2>Activity bus purchase</h2>The board also discussed two other capital purchases.The board heard a report from Russ Henningsen, director of transportation, on the purchase of a new activity bus.The five-year transportation plan includes the purchase of an activity bus from funds in the 2021-22 budget. If the board approves of the purchase, the bus would be ordered this spring for delivery later this year.&nbsp;The 2021-22 transportation budget includes no other vehicle purchases. The bid for the bus came in at $265,800.The board took no action on the bus purchase Monday, but will likely vote on the item at its next meeting.<h2>Tractor purchase</h2>The board also heard a report from&nbsp;Henningsen on the purposed purchase of a new tractor for the buildings and grounds department.The low bid of $44,500 came from Lang Diesel for a Massey Ferguson. The bid includes a cab, loader and blade.&nbsp;Board members Craig Pallister and Allen Park asked&nbsp;Henningsen if he had researched the possible purchase of a used tractor.Henningsen said he had and none of the three bidders had any used tractors that were the size the district is seeking to purchase.He said he would check back with the dealers about the availability of used tractors before the next board meeting, at which time the board is scheduled to vote on the purchase.<h2>Local bid policy change</h2>The board also approved a board policy change on local bids to make it the same as state statute.Correction: Tuesday, March 9 at&nbsp; 9:08 a.m., corrected to reflect the iPad purchase also includes devices for middle school teachers.&nbsp;

Hays school board OKs new iPads for K-8 teachers

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">ordinance requiring face masks to be worn in Hays</a> due to the coronavirus pandemic is on track to end Wednesday, if positive COVID cases in Ellis County continue their decline.

City commissioners approved the ordinance for face coverings which went into effect July 27.

During a Oct. 2 special meeting, commissioners voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b927d4eb-e1b4-4c57-bc57-56ad4e14516e">extend the ordinance </a>until the seven-day average of new cases of COVID-19 per day in Ellis County is five or fewer for 14 consecutive days as reported by the Ellis County Health Department, or until Gov. Laura Kelly's statewide COVID State of Disaster Emergency declaration lapses, is revoked or rescinded, whichever occurs first.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d9977cf7-263d-47a9-a4a6-e599571c67ba">seven-day average count hit 5&nbsp; on Feb. 24</a> and has been below five since then, through Monday.

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6d24b51b-37a8-447a-8586-0252da21e821">remained flat from Friday at two</a>.

"When the numbers get released Wednesday, if that day the seven-day average is below five, then the ordinance automatically expires," explains Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, "and so the city's mask mandate expires."

Dougherty says his office already has a press release "ready to go that afternoon with the high likelihood this is going to happen."

The reports are issued by Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy each Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the early afternoon.

"As of last Friday when it appeared we could be trending toward a Wednesday (March 10) removal of the mask requirement, I did reach out to Jason Kennedy personally and confirmed we were on the right track.

"He did confirm that and we have that communication from him on the numbers."

Although the city's mask mandate would end, the governor's mask ordinance is still in place through the end of the month — March 31.

By not specifically opting out of Kelly's declaration, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3d53f6e9-36be-48b9-851d-d86c38d7ffd5">Ellis County commissioners allowed the statewide mandate </a>to go into effect Nov. 25.

City of Hays offices will continue to require the public to wear masks as long as the governor's order is in effect, according to Dougherty.

Businesses and other entities open to the public can still require customers to wear face coverings in order to enter their premises.&nbsp;

Dougherty likens it to the signs sometime seen that declare "No shirt. No shoes. No service."

"They have the right to say you need to come in here wearing a mask.

"Even if the governor's mask order goes away, there could be corporate or even businesses at the local level that will require masks for entry to the businesses. That's their right."

If the metrics set out by the city commission are met Wednesday, commissioners will not have to meet to end the mandate. The ordinance will automatically expire.&nbsp;

If positive COVID cases in Ellis County were to begin trending upward, the ordinance doesn't automatically become effective again, Dougherty noted.

"City commissioners would have to convene and adopt another ordinance if they wanted to place a mask requirement on people in the city limits," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The number of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/77221c1a-ac9b-43bf-a8d5-2c54205f4867">confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas</a> increased by 752 to a total of 295,861, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Gov. Kelly proclaimed March 7 — the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e94ec343-c7fa-45ce-a54e-a495b1d8dcf0">one-year anniversary</a> of the first recorded case of COVID-19 in Kansas — as COVID Memorial Day to honor those who have died due to the coronavirus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596805526389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">ordinance requiring face masks to be worn in Hays</a> due to the coronavirus pandemic is on track to end Wednesday, if positive COVID cases in Ellis County continue their decline.City commissioners approved the ordinance for face coverings which went into effect July 27.During a Oct. 2 special meeting, commissioners voted to&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b927d4eb-e1b4-4c57-bc57-56ad4e14516e">extend the ordinance </a>until the seven-day average of new cases of COVID-19 per day in Ellis County is five or fewer for 14 consecutive days as reported by the Ellis County Health Department, or until Gov. Laura Kelly's statewide COVID State of Disaster Emergency declaration lapses, is revoked or rescinded, whichever occurs first.The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d9977cf7-263d-47a9-a4a6-e599571c67ba">seven-day average count hit 5&nbsp; on Feb. 24</a> and has been below five since then, through Monday.The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6d24b51b-37a8-447a-8586-0252da21e821">remained flat from Friday at two</a>."When the numbers get released Wednesday, if that day the seven-day average is below five, then the ordinance automatically expires," explains Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, "and so the city's mask mandate expires."Dougherty says his office already has a press release "ready to go that afternoon with the high likelihood this is going to happen."The reports are issued by Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy each Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the early afternoon."As of last Friday when it appeared we could be trending toward a Wednesday (March 10) removal of the mask requirement, I did reach out to Jason Kennedy personally and confirmed we were on the right track."He did confirm that and we have that communication from him on the numbers."Although the city's mask mandate would end, the governor's mask ordinance is still in place through the end of the month — March 31.By not specifically opting out of Kelly's declaration, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3d53f6e9-36be-48b9-851d-d86c38d7ffd5">Ellis County commissioners allowed the statewide mandate </a>to go into effect Nov. 25.City of Hays offices will continue to require the public to wear masks as long as the governor's order is in effect, according to Dougherty.Businesses and other entities open to the public can still require customers to wear face coverings in order to enter their premises.&nbsp;Dougherty likens it to the signs sometime seen that declare "No shirt. No shoes. No service.""They have the right to say you need to come in here wearing a mask."Even if the governor's mask order goes away, there could be corporate or even businesses at the local level that will require masks for entry to the businesses. That's their right."If the metrics set out by the city commission are met Wednesday, commissioners will not have to meet to end the mandate. The ordinance will automatically expire.&nbsp;If positive COVID cases in Ellis County were to begin trending upward, the ordinance doesn't automatically become effective again, Dougherty noted."City commissioners would have to convene and adopt another ordinance if they wanted to place a mask requirement on people in the city limits," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The number of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/77221c1a-ac9b-43bf-a8d5-2c54205f4867">confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas</a> increased by 752 to a total of 295,861, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Gov. Kelly proclaimed March 7 — the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e94ec343-c7fa-45ce-a54e-a495b1d8dcf0">one-year anniversary</a> of the first recorded case of COVID-19 in Kansas — as COVID Memorial Day to honor those who have died due to the coronavirus.

Hays mask ordinance could end Wednesday if case decline continues

The Kansas Scholastic Press Association released the results from regional contests recently, and in the 50 categories in which Hays High School journalism students entered, 44 entries qualified for state contests.

For reference, to qualify for state, entries had to place in the top six spots in regionals. State contests this year will be like regionals, in that all contests will be online submissions.&nbsp;

Cade Becker &amp; Ryan Schuckman – Video News

Allison Brooks &amp; Alicia Feyerherm – Multimedia Storytelling

Caitlin Leiker – Headline Writing &amp; Design

Brenna Schwien – Newspaper Sports Writing

Allison Brooks – Headline Writing &amp; Design

Jersey Johnson &amp; Brenna Schwien – Yearbook Theme &amp; Graphics

McKena McBride, Brenna Schwien, Nikka Vuong – Multimedia Storytelling

Alexis Pfannenstiel – Digital Illustration

Fernando Zarate – Yearbook Sports Writing

Leah Legleiter &amp; Aaliyah Neuburger – Yearbook Theme &amp; Graphics

Jersey Johnson – Yearbook Sports Writing

Ryan Schuckman &amp; Gracie Wente – Video PSA

Hope Schumacher &amp; Fernando Zarate – Video Sports Promo

Rylie Fairbank – Student Life Photography

Aaliyah Neuburger – Yearbook Copy Writing

Alexis Pfannenstiel – Infographic Design

Cayden Sanders – Newspaper Sports Writing

The Kansas Scholastic Press Association released the results from regional contests recently, and in the 50 categories in which Hays High School journalism students entered, 44 entries qualified for state contests.For reference, to qualify for state, entries had to place in the top six spots in regionals. State contests this year will be like regionals, in that all contests will be online submissions.&nbsp;<h2>First Place</h2>Cade Becker &amp; Ryan Schuckman – Video NewsAllison Brooks – Feature WritingAllison Brooks – Review WritingAllison Brooks &amp; Alicia Feyerherm – Multimedia StorytellingAlicia Feyerherm – Editorial WritingCaitlin Leiker – Headline Writing &amp; DesignCaitlin Leiker – News Page DesignCaitlin Leiker – Yearbook Copy WritingEmry Lundy – Copy EditingHope Schumacher – Cutline WritingBrenna Schwien – Newspaper Sports Writing<h2>Second Place</h2>Allison Brooks – Headline Writing &amp; DesignAlicia Feyerherm – Video NewsJersey Johnson &amp; Brenna Schwien – Yearbook Theme &amp; GraphicsMcKena McBride – News Page DesignMcKena McBride, Brenna Schwien, Nikka Vuong – Multimedia StorytellingAlexis Pfannenstiel – Digital IllustrationRyan Schuckman – Video Sports PromoFernando Zarate – Cutline WritingFernando Zarate – Yearbook Sports Writing<h2>Third Place</h2>Alicia Feyerherm – Feature WritingSophie Gross – Digital IllustrationLeah Legleiter &amp; Aaliyah Neuburger – Yearbook Theme &amp; GraphicsCayden Sanders – Winter PhotographyMeg Taggart – Editorial Cartoon<h2>Fourth Place</h2>Sophie Gross – Editorial CartoonJersey Johnson – Yearbook Sports WritingRyan Schuckman &amp; Gracie Wente – Video PSAHope Schumacher &amp; Fernando Zarate – Video Sports PromoFernando Zarate – Yearbook Design<h2>Fifth Place</h2>Rylie Fairbank – Student Life PhotographyAlicia Feyerherm – Video PSAAaliyah Neuburger – Yearbook Copy WritingAlexis Pfannenstiel – Infographic DesignHope Schumacher – Yearbook DesignBrenna Schwien – Sports Photography<h2>Sixth Place</h2>Cade Becker – Editorial WritingAlexandra Coveney – Sports PhotographyGrace Desbien – Sports PhotographyJersey Johnson – Yearbook Copy WritingMcKena McBride – Copy EditingCayden Sanders – Newspaper Sports WritingMaysyn Tippy – Review WritingNikka Vuong – Advertising Design— Submitted

Hays High students honored with journalism awards

Crude prices retreated on Monday, after a wild ride last week, followed by a missile attack on the world's largest crude terminal over the weekend. Crude prices surged above $71 a barrel in Asian trading after the attack in Saudi Arabia Sunday. Bloomberg said output appeared to be unaffected after the missiles and drones were intercepted.&nbsp; The OPEC+ alliance decided to extend its current output cuts. And the Saudis say they will continue their additional, voluntary production limits. The announcements sent crude prices through the roof last week, with the U.S. and international benchmarks jumping more than three percent. U.S. Crude prices continue their roller coaster ride. Benchmark prices topped $66 a barrel on Friday, marking a $4 gain on the week, after $3 losses the week before, and $3 gains the week before that. Prices were retreating Monday.&nbsp; Kansas crude prices have spiked more than $5 in the last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $56.25 per barrel after jumping more than $2 on Friday. The rig count in Kansas is up 20 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one for the week, and 14 in western Kansas, which is up two. Operators are about to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County and another in Stafford County.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 403 active drilling rigs nationwide as of Friday, an increase of one oil rig over the count last week. Texas was up five rigs, but Louisiana was down two, and both New Mexico and North Dakota were down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 newly completed wells in eastern Kansas last week and six west of Wichita. That's 116 completed wells across Kansas so far this year. We're seeing completion activity this week on five leases in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, six in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including two new permits in Russell County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, we've seen 122 permits for drilling at new locations in The Sunflower State. National gasoline prices continued to increase, rising nine cents last week and 30 cents in the month of February. AAA says the average across the U.S. Thursday was just over $2.74 a gallon, the most expensive daily national average since August of 2019. Prices across Kansas over the last month have jumped more than 36 cents to a statewide average just over $2.57 a gallon. We spotted $2.54 at several locations in Hays Thursday and $2.57 across Great Bend. The cost of filling up a 15-gallon tank is up more than four dollars from a month ago and up more than eight dollars compared to six months ago. A new federal report pegs Kansas crude oil production last year at just under 28 million barrels, or 76,000 barrels per day. Last year, most Kansas producers shut in most Kansas production due to low prices. That dropped annual production 17 percent from the year before, when total output in the Sunflower State reached nearly 34 million barrels, or about 93,000 barrels per day. The new totals from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show total U.S. output last year reached just 11.3 million barrels per day, down more than 940,000 barrels per day from the year before. U.S. crude inventories rose by 12.6 million barrels last week to nearly 485 million barrels. That's about three percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production dropped below ten million barrels per day for the second week in a row, marking the first time that's happened since September. A year ago this week, operators set the all-time record for domestic production over 13 million barrels per day. The government reported an increase in U.S. crude imports of nearly two million barrels per day last week, but said the four-week average remains nearly 13% below the same period last year. Oil-by-rail totals for the week ending February 27 rose more than 2,000 tanker cars from the week before, but the totals are down more than 22% from a year ago. Oil-by-rail in Canada, which is widely expected to spike without additional pipeline capacity, was up more than 1,000 tanker cars last week, but remains 16% below the totals from a year ago. Total U.S. freight shipments by rail plummeted in February. The Association of American Railroads said in a statement that total rail traffic dipped more than four percent, despite strong numbers in grain and intermodal shipments. AAR said harsh winter weather hit wide swaths of the country, wreaking havoc on all forms of transportation, including rail. The top trade group for the oil patch has also been among the top advocates against government action concerning climate change. But the American Petroleum Institute is now reportedly considering a move toward carbon pricing to limit emissions. The Chamber of Commerce embraced market-based emissions limits earlier this year, and several of API's largest members already support plans involving carbon taxes and rebates. Bloomberg reports the API is considering a draft policy statement which could receive a vote later this week.&nbsp; The world’s largest oil company may soon dispose of some huge assets as a way of maintaining its $75 billion annual dividend payments. Almost all that goes to the Saudi government. That payout – the biggest of any listed company in the world – became harder to sustain after the coronavirus pandemic caused crude prices to plunge last year. Aramco is studying at least seven non-binding bids from companies interested in taking a stake in the crude giant's oil pipelines. Bloomberg reports infrastructure funds are flush with capital, and are looking for predictable investments. This sale could be one of the biggest infrastructure deals this year. After years of rising output turned Canada into the world’s fourth-largest crude producer, expansion projects there have nearly halted on the heels of two market crashes since 2014. Bloomberg reports oil sands producers in Western Canada next month will conduct major maintenance and overhauls, idling nearly half a million barrels per day of production.&nbsp; It started some weeks back when the sporting goods company The North Face refused to fill an order for 400 jackets from an oil and gas company. The Colorado firm reportedly didn’t want to be associated with an industry that doesn’t meet its brand standards. As we pointed out then, the jackets, and almost every else The North Face sells, are made with nylon, polyester and polyurethane, all of which come from petroleum. So, the Colorado Oil and Gas Association decided to have some fun with the situation. It bestowed its first-ever “Extraordinary Customer Award” on The North Face, saying it appreciates the company for its abundant use of oil and gas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices retreated on Monday, after a wild ride last week, followed by a missile attack on the world's largest crude terminal over the weekend. Crude prices surged above $71 a barrel in Asian trading after the attack in Saudi Arabia Sunday. Bloomberg said output appeared to be unaffected after the missiles and drones were intercepted.&nbsp; The OPEC+ alliance decided to extend its current output cuts. And the Saudis say they will continue their additional, voluntary production limits. The announcements sent crude prices through the roof last week, with the U.S. and international benchmarks jumping more than three percent. U.S. Crude prices continue their roller coaster ride. Benchmark prices topped $66 a barrel on Friday, marking a $4 gain on the week, after $3 losses the week before, and $3 gains the week before that. Prices were retreating Monday.&nbsp; Kansas crude prices have spiked more than $5 in the last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $56.25 per barrel after jumping more than $2 on Friday. The rig count in Kansas is up 20 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports four active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, which is up one for the week, and 14 in western Kansas, which is up two. Operators are about to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County and another in Stafford County.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reports 403 active drilling rigs nationwide as of Friday, an increase of one oil rig over the count last week. Texas was up five rigs, but Louisiana was down two, and both New Mexico and North Dakota were down one. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 13 newly completed wells in eastern Kansas last week and six west of Wichita. That's 116 completed wells across Kansas so far this year. We're seeing completion activity this week on five leases in Barton County, and one each in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties. Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, six in eastern Kansas and 16 west of Wichita, including two new permits in Russell County and two in Stafford County. So far this year, we've seen 122 permits for drilling at new locations in The Sunflower State. National gasoline prices continued to increase, rising nine cents last week and 30 cents in the month of February. AAA says the average across the U.S. Thursday was just over $2.74 a gallon, the most expensive daily national average since August of 2019. Prices across Kansas over the last month have jumped more than 36 cents to a statewide average just over $2.57 a gallon. We spotted $2.54 at several locations in Hays Thursday and $2.57 across Great Bend. The cost of filling up a 15-gallon tank is up more than four dollars from a month ago and up more than eight dollars compared to six months ago. A new federal report pegs Kansas crude oil production last year at just under 28 million barrels, or 76,000 barrels per day. Last year, most Kansas producers shut in most Kansas production due to low prices. That dropped annual production 17 percent from the year before, when total output in the Sunflower State reached nearly 34 million barrels, or about 93,000 barrels per day. The new totals from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show total U.S. output last year reached just 11.3 million barrels per day, down more than 940,000 barrels per day from the year before. U.S. crude inventories rose by 12.6 million barrels last week to nearly 485 million barrels. That's about three percent above the five-year seasonal average. U.S. crude production dropped below ten million barrels per day for the second week in a row, marking the first time that's happened since September. A year ago this week, operators set the all-time record for domestic production over 13 million barrels per day. The government reported an increase in U.S. crude imports of nearly two million barrels per day last week, but said the four-week average remains nearly 13% below the same period last year. Oil-by-rail totals for the week ending February 27 rose more than 2,000 tanker cars from the week before, but the totals are down more than 22% from a year ago. Oil-by-rail in Canada, which is widely expected to spike without additional pipeline capacity, was up more than 1,000 tanker cars last week, but remains 16% below the totals from a year ago. Total U.S. freight shipments by rail plummeted in February. The Association of American Railroads said in a statement that total rail traffic dipped more than four percent, despite strong numbers in grain and intermodal shipments. AAR said harsh winter weather hit wide swaths of the country, wreaking havoc on all forms of transportation, including rail. The top trade group for the oil patch has also been among the top advocates against government action concerning climate change. But the American Petroleum Institute is now reportedly considering a move toward carbon pricing to limit emissions. The Chamber of Commerce embraced market-based emissions limits earlier this year, and several of API's largest members already support plans involving carbon taxes and rebates. Bloomberg reports the API is considering a draft policy statement which could receive a vote later this week.&nbsp; The world’s largest oil company may soon dispose of some huge assets as a way of maintaining its $75 billion annual dividend payments. Almost all that goes to the Saudi government. That payout – the biggest of any listed company in the world – became harder to sustain after the coronavirus pandemic caused crude prices to plunge last year. Aramco is studying at least seven non-binding bids from companies interested in taking a stake in the crude giant's oil pipelines. Bloomberg reports infrastructure funds are flush with capital, and are looking for predictable investments. This sale could be one of the biggest infrastructure deals this year. After years of rising output turned Canada into the world’s fourth-largest crude producer, expansion projects there have nearly halted on the heels of two market crashes since 2014. Bloomberg reports oil sands producers in Western Canada next month will conduct major maintenance and overhauls, idling nearly half a million barrels per day of production.&nbsp; It started some weeks back when the sporting goods company The North Face refused to fill an order for 400 jackets from an oil and gas company. The Colorado firm reportedly didn’t want to be associated with an industry that doesn’t meet its brand standards. As we pointed out then, the jackets, and almost every else The North Face sells, are made with nylon, polyester and polyurethane, all of which come from petroleum. So, the Colorado Oil and Gas Association decided to have some fun with the situation. It bestowed its first-ever “Extraordinary Customer Award” on The North Face, saying it appreciates the company for its abundant use of oil and gas.

News From the Oil Patch: The ups and downs of crude pricing

Three-day weather outlook

Grassy sandbur is the “sticker” plant that looks like grass. It will often invade thin lawns, especially in dry years. Therefore, the best control for this weed is a thick, healthy lawn.

However, if your lawn is thin this spring and grassy sandbur was a problem last year, use a preemergence herbicide before the sandbur comes up. However, not all preemergence herbicides are effective. The three products that can help minimize grassy sandbur are oryzalin, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. Oryzalin is sold under the trade name Weed Impede. &nbsp; It can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Oryzalin is also sold as a combination product with benefin as Green Light Amaze. &nbsp;As with oryzalin alone, it can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Apply Amaze or an oryzalin product about April 15 when redbud trees approach full bloom. Pendimethalin is sold commercially as Pendulum as well as several other names. On the homeowner side, it is sold as Scotts Halts. Pendimethalin is best applied as a split application with the first half applied about April 15 and the second about June 1. Alternatively, make the first application when redbud trees approach full bloom and the second six weeks later. Prodiamine is sold under the commercial name of Barricade. &nbsp;It is also sold as a homeowner product Howard Johnson Crabgrass Control Plus with 0.37 Prodiamine &nbsp;00-00-07. &nbsp;It can be used on all our common lawn grasses. Apply as is done for oryzalin, about April 15 or when redbud trees approach full bloom. Only one application is needed per year. None of the “weed preventers” will give complete control but each should help. Quinclorac (Drive) can provide some postemergence control especially if the sandbur is in the seedling stage. Quinclorac is also found in several combination products that control both broadleaf weeds and crabgrass such as one of the following. • Ortho Weed-B-Gon Max + Crabgrass Control • BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer • Monterey Crab-E-Rad Plus • Fertilome Weed Out with Crabgrass Killer • Trimec Crabgrass Plus Lawn Weed Killer • Bonide Weed Beater Plus Crabgrass &amp; Broadleaf Weed Killer • Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Again, the best control for grassy sandbur is a healthy, thick lawn. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Grassy sandbur is the “sticker” plant that looks like grass. It will often invade thin lawns, especially in dry years. Therefore, the best control for this weed is a thick, healthy lawn. However, if your lawn is thin this spring and grassy sandbur was a problem last year, use a preemergence herbicide before the sandbur comes up. However, not all preemergence herbicides are effective. The three products that can help minimize grassy sandbur are oryzalin, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. Oryzalin is sold under the trade name Weed Impede. &nbsp; It can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Oryzalin is also sold as a combination product with benefin as Green Light Amaze. &nbsp;As with oryzalin alone, it can be used on all warm-season grasses as well as tall fescue. It should not be used on cool-season grasses other than tall fescue such as Kentucky bluegrass. Apply Amaze or an oryzalin product about April 15 when redbud trees approach full bloom. Pendimethalin is sold commercially as Pendulum as well as several other names. On the homeowner side, it is sold as Scotts Halts. Pendimethalin is best applied as a split application with the first half applied about April 15 and the second about June 1. Alternatively, make the first application when redbud trees approach full bloom and the second six weeks later. Prodiamine is sold under the commercial name of Barricade. &nbsp;It is also sold as a homeowner product Howard Johnson Crabgrass Control Plus with 0.37 Prodiamine &nbsp;00-00-07. &nbsp;It can be used on all our common lawn grasses. Apply as is done for oryzalin, about April 15 or when redbud trees approach full bloom. Only one application is needed per year. None of the “weed preventers” will give complete control but each should help. Quinclorac (Drive) can provide some postemergence control especially if the sandbur is in the seedling stage. Quinclorac is also found in several combination products that control both broadleaf weeds and crabgrass such as one of the following. • Ortho Weed-B-Gon Max + Crabgrass Control • BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer • Monterey Crab-E-Rad Plus • Fertilome Weed Out with Crabgrass Killer • Trimec Crabgrass Plus Lawn Weed Killer • Bonide Weed Beater Plus Crabgrass &amp; Broadleaf Weed Killer • Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Again, the best control for grassy sandbur is a healthy, thick lawn. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Controlling grassy sandbur 'stickers'

LINCOLN COUNTY—Two Kansas teens were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Lincoln County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Pickup driven by Gunner A. Hulse, 15, Lucas, was turning left from N 13th Road onto Kansas 18.

The driver failed to yield when turning, according to the KHP. A westbound 2000 GMC pickup driven by Zachary J. Rose, 17, Luray, struck the Ford.&nbsp;

EMS transported Hulse to a Wichita hospital and Rose to the Lincoln County Hospital. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

LINCOLN COUNTY—Two Kansas teens were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Lincoln County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Pickup driven by Gunner A. Hulse, 15, Lucas, was turning left from N 13th Road onto Kansas 18.The driver failed to yield when turning, according to the KHP. A westbound 2000 GMC pickup driven by Zachary J. Rose, 17, Luray, struck the Ford.&nbsp;EMS transported Hulse to a Wichita hospital and Rose to the Lincoln County Hospital. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

2 Kansas teens hospitalized after pickups collide 

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

<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

There were just three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 18 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,677 recovered cases.

As of Monday, there were nine COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 10 on Friday, with two of those active patients and seven in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose from just less than 2 percent on Friday to 3.7 percent on Monday.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,695 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.

Of the total 25,103 tests administered, 13.6 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.

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/2021/3/1615226518756.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></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 flat from Friday at two.<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.There were just three new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 18 active cases, including four active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,677 recovered cases.As of Monday, there were nine COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 10 on Friday, with two of those active patients and seven in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose from just less than 2 percent on Friday to 3.7 percent on Monday.Since reporting began, there have been 3,695 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 72 coronavirus-related deaths.Of the total 25,103 tests administered, 13.6 percent have returned positive for COVID-19.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/2021/3/1615238827689.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Per-day virus rate at 2 in Ellis Co.; just 3 new cases identified

The Fort Hays State University Graphic Design program's annual exhibit is now on display at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Moss-Thorns-Gallery-of-Art-and-Patricia-A-Schmidt-Gallery-109295563837821">Moss-Thorns Gallery</a> on the FHSU campus.

The exhibit titled "Wabi Sabi" is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays until March 19.

The pandemic created some challenges for the students as they were forced to complete projects to create packaging materials via computer using the software Cinema 4D.

Sean Engler, a senior in graphic design from Wichita, used the software to create the packing for the fictional Harmony Wine. The logo was inspired by the the Chinese word for alcohol. Growing out of the symbol is a tree.&nbsp;

"The story is a made-up story," he said. "The producer's parents came over form China, and they used to work at the Temple of Heaven. They would use this berry that made a really good drink, so he created this wine off of it."

Engler said he did not have the physical objects to measure.

"I couldn't get the feel for the actual product in my hands," he said.&nbsp;

However, he said he enjoyed working in the 3-D space.

"With making stuff physically, there are a lot of limitations," he said. "But making stuff on the computer, you can do whatever you want to and whatever you need to without limitations."

Perla Medina, a senior in graphic design, created marketing materials for a gender-neutral personal care line.&nbsp;

"[Cinema 4D] was new to us, but it was honestly kind of fun and interesting," she said, "because you can do things here that you can't do by just printing it out and making it by hand. It is really nice to be able to do both."&nbsp;

Medina also has several posters included in the exhibit from the History of Graphic Design and the American Democracy Poster Series.

Bailey Werner, senior in graphic design from Plainville, created a brand of soaps that were sponsored by TV soap operas. Her work was inspired by her own love of soap operas. She hand drew vintage soap opera characters and included a soap character trading card in each box of soap.

Werner also has several posters in the exhibit from History of Graphic Design and the the Democracy Project Poster Series.

One of her posters depicts a limbo game between the Republican elephant and Democratic donkey with the tag line "How Low Can You Go?" Another has a "Wizard of Oz" theme with the tag line "Vote Like a Kansan." Yet another posters depicts a broken eagle with the tag line "Divided We Fall."

Werner created two book covers for "The Phantom of the Opera." She developed one cover using a ransom note as a theme. The other depicts an illustration using the "P" in phantom as inspiration. The front depicts the phantom heart's strings playing music. The back cover depicts those heart strings broken.

Paige Simpson, a senior in graphic design from Salina, created a fictional artist, Make Cooper, to promote her fictional office product line, Mark's Gestures Art and Office Supplies.

Simpson used mid-century modern shapes and bold colors. Each year Mark commissions an artist to create a limited-edition art print that is included with every purchase. More information on the artist can be accessed through a QR code in the packaging.

Alexis Zubik, junior in graphic design from Overland Park, has her 75 cent project in the exhibit. She repackaged tea light candles into a box that looks like a slice of pizza to inspire college students to purchase the candles for date nights. Behind each candle is cheesy pickup line.

Other students who have projects in the exhibit include Laura Krug, Tessa Simon, Emily Brecht, Tana Herreman, Codi Custer, Abigale Sorenson, Cadyn Dixon and Hanna Brooks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975278953.jpeg" alt="Sean Engler, a senior in graphic design from Wichita, with his&nbsp;Harmony Wine marketing materials. Engler's work is part of the&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Graphic Design&nbsp;"Wabi Sabi" exhibition open now at the Moss-Thorns Gallery at FHSU." />
 <figcaption>Sean Engler, a senior in graphic design from Wichita, with his&nbsp;Harmony Wine marketing materials. Engler's work is part of the&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Graphic Design&nbsp;"Wabi Sabi" exhibition open now at the Moss-Thorns Gallery at FHSU.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Fort Hays State University Graphic Design program's annual exhibit is now on display at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Moss-Thorns-Gallery-of-Art-and-Patricia-A-Schmidt-Gallery-109295563837821">Moss-Thorns Gallery</a> on the FHSU campus.The exhibit titled "Wabi Sabi" is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays until March 19.The pandemic created some challenges for the students as they were forced to complete projects to create packaging materials via computer using the software Cinema 4D.Sean Engler, a senior in graphic design from Wichita, used the software to create the packing for the fictional Harmony Wine. The logo was inspired by the the Chinese word for alcohol. Growing out of the symbol is a tree.&nbsp;"The story is a made-up story," he said. "The producer's parents came over form China, and they used to work at the Temple of Heaven. They would use this berry that made a really good drink, so he created this wine off of it."Engler said he did not have the physical objects to measure."I couldn't get the feel for the actual product in my hands," he said.&nbsp;However, he said he enjoyed working in the 3-D space."With making stuff physically, there are a lot of limitations," he said. "But making stuff on the computer, you can do whatever you want to and whatever you need to without limitations."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975424959.jpeg" alt="Perla Medina, a senior in graphic design, created marketing materials for a gender neutral personal care line.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Perla Medina, a senior in graphic design, created marketing materials for a gender neutral personal care line.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Perla Medina, a senior in graphic design, created marketing materials for a gender-neutral personal care line.&nbsp;"[Cinema 4D] was new to us, but it was honestly kind of fun and interesting," she said, "because you can do things here that you can't do by just printing it out and making it by hand. It is really nice to be able to do both."&nbsp;Medina also has several posters included in the exhibit from the History of Graphic Design and the American Democracy Poster Series.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975472614.jpeg" alt="Bailey Werner, senior in graphic design from Plainville, created a brand of soaps that were sponsored by TV soap operas." />
 <figcaption>Bailey Werner, senior in graphic design from Plainville, created a brand of soaps that were sponsored by TV soap operas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bailey Werner, senior in graphic design from Plainville, created a brand of soaps that were sponsored by TV soap operas. Her work was inspired by her own love of soap operas. She hand drew vintage soap opera characters and included a soap character trading card in each box of soap.Werner also has several posters in the exhibit from History of Graphic Design and the the Democracy Project Poster Series.One of her posters depicts a limbo game between the Republican elephant and Democratic donkey with the tag line "How Low Can You Go?" Another has a "Wizard of Oz" theme with the tag line "Vote Like a Kansan." Yet another posters depicts a broken eagle with the tag line "Divided We Fall."Werner created two book covers for "The Phantom of the Opera." She developed one cover using a ransom note as a theme. The other depicts an illustration using the "P" in phantom as inspiration. The front depicts the phantom heart's strings playing music. The back cover depicts those heart strings broken.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975540054.jpeg" alt="Paige Simpson, a senior in graphic design from Salina, created a fictional artist, Make Cooper, to promote her fictional office product line, Mark's Gestures Art and Office Supplies." />
 <figcaption>Paige Simpson, a senior in graphic design from Salina, created a fictional artist, Make Cooper, to promote her fictional office product line, Mark's Gestures Art and Office Supplies.</figcaption>
 </figure>Paige Simpson, a senior in graphic design from Salina, created a fictional artist, Make Cooper, to promote her fictional office product line, Mark's Gestures Art and Office Supplies.Simpson used mid-century modern shapes and bold colors. Each year Mark commissions an artist to create a limited-edition art print that is included with every purchase. More information on the artist can be accessed through a QR code in the packaging.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975681195.jpeg" alt="Alexis Zubik, junior in graphic design from Overland Park, and her Date Night Candles project." />
 <figcaption>Alexis Zubik, junior in graphic design from Overland Park, and her Date Night Candles project.</figcaption>
 </figure>Alexis Zubik, junior in graphic design from Overland Park, has her 75 cent project in the exhibit. She repackaged tea light candles into a box that looks like a slice of pizza to inspire college students to purchase the candles for date nights. Behind each candle is cheesy pickup line.Other students who have projects in the exhibit include Laura Krug, Tessa Simon, Emily Brecht, Tana Herreman, Codi Custer, Abigale Sorenson, Cadyn Dixon and Hanna Brooks.

Moss-Thorns gallery hosts FHSU graphic design students' exhibition

The Hays USD 489 school district will consider the purchase of an activity bus at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The purchase is part of a five-year transportation plan.

The district has budgeted $260,000 for the purchase.

The board will discuss the purchase of new iPads for K-8 teachers. The cost of purchasing 175 devices is estimated at $51,000.

The district will review bids for the replacement of a buildings and grounds tractor for the district.

The district has received three bids ranging from $44,500 to $51,300.

The district will also discuss new staffing requests for the 2021-22 school year and a revision to the local biding policy, and hear an update on Wilson Elementary School from Principal Anita Scheve.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school district will consider the purchase of an activity bus at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Rockwell Administration Center.The purchase is part of a five-year transportation plan.The district has budgeted $260,000 for the purchase.<h2>iPads for K-8 Teachers</h2>The board will discuss the purchase of new iPads for K-8 teachers. The cost of purchasing 175 devices is estimated at $51,000.<h2>Maintenance tractor</h2>The district will review bids for the replacement of a buildings and grounds tractor for the district.The district has received three bids ranging from $44,500 to $51,300.The district will also discuss new staffing requests for the 2021-22 school year and a revision to the local biding policy, and hear an update on Wilson Elementary School from Principal Anita Scheve.

Hays school board to discuss purchase of activity bus

Back to Western Plains Arts Association is Queen City Jazz Band. The traditional jazz band was founded in Denver more than 60 years ago, and is recognized across the nation for playing outstanding traditional, Dixieland, gospel and spiritual music. &nbsp;The group has also toured widely across Europe. Colby High School will host Queen City Jazz Band, at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 14. Admission is by season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door.&nbsp; In addition to businesses and individual donors across northwest Kansas, Queen City Jazz Band is made possible through special funding by the Dane Hansen Memorial Foundation, Lenora; the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, Bird City; and the Thomas County Community Foundation. Bill Clark, tubist and band leader, joined the QCJB in 1976 and became the leader in 1985. A retired University of Colorado music professor, Clark set a goal while a 1960's high school student to one day play in the already popular band. Band members come from strong music performance and/or music eduction background and all have played with a number of local bands prior to joining QCJB. Instrumentalists include Kevin Bollinger, trumpet; John Bredenberg, clarinet and saxophone; Eric Staffelt, trombone; Hank Troy, piano; Rory Thomas, banjo; and Tony Pantelis, drums. Their gospel, blues and jazz vocalist Wende Harston has sang with the band since 1992. The band has released numerous recordings over the years. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://queencityjazzband.com/">QueenCityJazzBand.com</a>&nbsp;for further information about the musicians and music, pictures and video samples. Ball in the House, and R&amp;B group originally scheduled this date, canceled their 2021 spring season because the on-going pandemic. The WPAA board appreciates QCJB for agreeing to perform at the same March 14 time. Colby High School is an alternate venue than originally scheduled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581542018976.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAABack to Western Plains Arts Association is Queen City Jazz Band. The traditional jazz band was founded in Denver more than 60 years ago, and is recognized across the nation for playing outstanding traditional, Dixieland, gospel and spiritual music. &nbsp;The group has also toured widely across Europe. Colby High School will host Queen City Jazz Band, at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 14. Admission is by season ticket or adults $20, students $10 at the door.&nbsp; In addition to businesses and individual donors across northwest Kansas, Queen City Jazz Band is made possible through special funding by the Dane Hansen Memorial Foundation, Lenora; the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, Bird City; and the Thomas County Community Foundation. Bill Clark, tubist and band leader, joined the QCJB in 1976 and became the leader in 1985. A retired University of Colorado music professor, Clark set a goal while a 1960's high school student to one day play in the already popular band. Band members come from strong music performance and/or music eduction background and all have played with a number of local bands prior to joining QCJB. Instrumentalists include Kevin Bollinger, trumpet; John Bredenberg, clarinet and saxophone; Eric Staffelt, trombone; Hank Troy, piano; Rory Thomas, banjo; and Tony Pantelis, drums. Their gospel, blues and jazz vocalist Wende Harston has sang with the band since 1992. The band has released numerous recordings over the years. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://queencityjazzband.com/">QueenCityJazzBand.com</a>&nbsp;for further information about the musicians and music, pictures and video samples. Ball in the House, and R&amp;B group originally scheduled this date, canceled their 2021 spring season because the on-going pandemic. The WPAA board appreciates QCJB for agreeing to perform at the same March 14 time. Colby High School is an alternate venue than originally scheduled.

Queen City Jazz Band set to perform in Colby

Upcoming
blood donation opportunities

Hays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cheyenne County Saint Francis 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 202 N College

Decatur County Oberlin 3/11/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 102 N. Cass

Ellis County&nbsp; Victoria 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Victoria High School, 1107 E. 10th St.

Gove County Quinter 3/12/2021: 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Church of the Brethren, 700 Grant

Osborne County Downs 3/9/2021: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Memorial Hall, S. Morgan Ave.

Phillips County Phillipsburg 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Phillips County 4-H Building, North Hwy 183

Thomas County Colby 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th 3/11/2021: 7:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th

Wallace County Sharon Springs 3/10/2021: 9:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Wallace County Schools, 521 N Main

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614983294750.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>Upcoming
blood donation opportunitiesHays Blood Donation Center 208 E. 8th Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cheyenne County Saint Francis 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 202 N CollegeDecatur County Oberlin 3/11/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 102 N. Cass Ellis County&nbsp; Victoria 3/9/2021: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Victoria High School, 1107 E. 10th St. Gove County Quinter 3/12/2021: 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Church of the Brethren, 700 Grant Osborne County Downs 3/9/2021: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Memorial Hall, S. Morgan Ave. Phillips County Phillipsburg 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Phillips County 4-H Building, North Hwy 183 Thomas County Colby 3/10/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5th 3/11/2021: 7:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Colby Community Building, 285 East 5thWallace County Sharon Springs 3/10/2021: 9:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., Wallace County Schools, 521 N Main

Red Cross needs blood donations after winter storms; area drives scheduled  

One of the most used applications for connecting people in 2021 is Zoom. It has been used to take the place of the classroom or transform a traditional classroom into a virtual one. Zoom has literally turned thousands of meeting rooms and classrooms into pandemic safe areas.&nbsp;

Prior to the pandemic, my schedule at work often included one or two Zoom meetings per week. Now, it is not uncommon to have one or two (or more) Zoom sessions each day. My Zoom sessions vary from our Cottonwood team meetings to classes I am teaching or taking. I have literally visited Washington DC, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Rochester, New York through virtual conferences during the past year. While I missed l face-to-face networking and experiencing the culture of traveling to a different part of the country, I did receive valuable ideas to incorporate in my work here in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more about Zoom mark your calendar for Friday, March 12th, and join me at 1:00 PM via Zoom of course. I have set up the Zoom link and you will need to e-mail me at&nbsp; <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a> so that I can send you that link. Megan Hammeke, from the Great Bend Recreation Center, is teaming up with me to help lead this session. Our goal is to cover the basics of the Zoom platform and help you navigate the features it offers.&nbsp;

Even though Zoom was launched in 2013 under the direction of Eric Yuan, the capacity of hosting a Zoom meeting was just 15 people. By 2015, that number mushroomed to a thousand. Statistics show that in March 2020 that two million people used Zoom every day. I think back to the days, back in 2006, when our son, Adam, spent a year teaching in Slovakia. We were thrilled to have a decent connection for our phone call (no video) once a week via Skype. Technology has certainly come a long way. Now we enjoy regular family meetings via Zoom since our kids and grandkids do not live in Great Bend.&nbsp;

We would love to have a nice sized group of folks who are wanting to learn more about Zoom join us on the 12th. All you need is a computer, ipad, or smart phone and an internet connection. You will be able to join from the comfort of your home. Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions about our Zoom session. I hope to “see” you on the 12th!

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;

<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>One of the most used applications for connecting people in 2021 is Zoom. It has been used to take the place of the classroom or transform a traditional classroom into a virtual one. Zoom has literally turned thousands of meeting rooms and classrooms into pandemic safe areas.&nbsp;Prior to the pandemic, my schedule at work often included one or two Zoom meetings per week. Now, it is not uncommon to have one or two (or more) Zoom sessions each day. My Zoom sessions vary from our Cottonwood team meetings to classes I am teaching or taking. I have literally visited Washington DC, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Rochester, New York through virtual conferences during the past year. While I missed l face-to-face networking and experiencing the culture of traveling to a different part of the country, I did receive valuable ideas to incorporate in my work here in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;If you would like to learn more about Zoom mark your calendar for Friday, March 12th, and join me at 1:00 PM via Zoom of course. I have set up the Zoom link and you will need to e-mail me at&nbsp; <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a> so that I can send you that link. Megan Hammeke, from the Great Bend Recreation Center, is teaming up with me to help lead this session. Our goal is to cover the basics of the Zoom platform and help you navigate the features it offers.&nbsp;Even though Zoom was launched in 2013 under the direction of Eric Yuan, the capacity of hosting a Zoom meeting was just 15 people. By 2015, that number mushroomed to a thousand. Statistics show that in March 2020 that two million people used Zoom every day. I think back to the days, back in 2006, when our son, Adam, spent a year teaching in Slovakia. We were thrilled to have a decent connection for our phone call (no video) once a week via Skype. Technology has certainly come a long way. Now we enjoy regular family meetings via Zoom since our kids and grandkids do not live in Great Bend.&nbsp;We would love to have a nice sized group of folks who are wanting to learn more about Zoom join us on the 12th. All you need is a computer, ipad, or smart phone and an internet connection. You will be able to join from the comfort of your home. Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions about our Zoom session. I hope to “see” you on the 12th!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;

KRUG: Learning more about the world of Zoom

BY HOLLY DICKMAN City of Hays Water Conservation Specialist

World Water Day is an annual observance focusing on the importance of water.&nbsp; To celebrate, the City of Hays and the KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds are once again partnering to host a World Water Day Fun Fest on Thursday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the lobby of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; 

This free event will feature fun, hands-on, "water-related" activities for kids of all ages. In addition, educational information regarding water conservation and water quality will be provided.&nbsp; Social distancing and masks are required. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614974465738.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY HOLLY DICKMAN City of Hays Water Conservation SpecialistWorld Water Day is an annual observance focusing on the importance of water.&nbsp; To celebrate, the City of Hays and the KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds are once again partnering to host a World Water Day Fun Fest on Thursday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the lobby of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.&nbsp; This free event will feature fun, hands-on, "water-related" activities for kids of all ages. In addition, educational information regarding water conservation and water quality will be provided.&nbsp; Social distancing and masks are required. &nbsp;

World Water Day Fun Fest set for March 25 in Hays

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

“Bring your best.” Perhaps you received that advice from a schoolteacher or coach. Today we’ll meet a rural Kansas farmer who has built a business by bringing the best of his family’s products to farmers markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gail and Sue Johnson are owners of Johnson Farms Country Market, which specializes in producing and selling produce, canned items, and baked goods at local farmers markets. Gail grew up on a farm near Bennington. Sue’s family lived at Burdick and Enterprise before she and Gail were married.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sue became a nurse, and Gail worked as a lab technician at a plant in Salina. In 1999, they bought a farm near Hope. “Our families both had big gardens growing up,” Gail said. They put in a garden at their new place. One day they stopped at the farmers market in Abilene. “We thought that would be fun to do,” Gail said.&nbsp;

They set up a stand to sell their garden vegetables at the weekly farmers market in Abilene, and it went well. Then they added some jams and jellies. When they wanted to make and sell pickles from their cucumbers, they needed a license and an approved kitchen. “Our first commercial kitchen was in 2015,” Gail said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614780169559.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“Bring your best.” Perhaps you received that advice from a schoolteacher or coach. Today we’ll meet a rural Kansas farmer who has built a business by bringing the best of his family’s products to farmers markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gail and Sue Johnson are owners of Johnson Farms Country Market, which specializes in producing and selling produce, canned items, and baked goods at local farmers markets. Gail grew up on a farm near Bennington. Sue’s family lived at Burdick and Enterprise before she and Gail were married.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sue became a nurse, and Gail worked as a lab technician at a plant in Salina. In 1999, they bought a farm near Hope. “Our families both had big gardens growing up,” Gail said. They put in a garden at their new place. One day they stopped at the farmers market in Abilene. “We thought that would be fun to do,” Gail said.&nbsp;They set up a stand to sell their garden vegetables at the weekly farmers market in Abilene, and it went well. Then they added some jams and jellies. When they wanted to make and sell pickles from their cucumbers, they needed a license and an approved kitchen. “Our first commercial kitchen was in 2015,” Gail said.&nbsp;Sue’s mom and grandma had an old German family recipe for bierocks, and people said they were good enough to sell. The bierocks are now their No. 1 seller.&nbsp;The business is called Johnson Farms Country Market, with products sold at a series of community-based farmers markets throughout the year. The Johnsons go to a regular circuit of farmers markets. Salina has a market on Tuesday, Abilene has a market on Wednesday, Junction City has a market on Thursday, and on Saturday there are markets in Abilene and Manhattan.&nbsp;The Johnsons also sell products at the Prairieland Market, a cooperatively owned grocery store in Salina, and the Hoffman Grist Mill in Enterprise.&nbsp;Today, Johnson Farms Country Market sells bierocks, cinnamon rolls, cookies, maple bars, banana bread, fruit pies, salsa and more. “These days, most of our produce is needed for our baked goods,” Gail said. “We source everything we can locally.” Fruit pies include such flavors as strawberry, rhubarb, gooseberry, peach, blueberry, red raspberry and more.&nbsp;“The chocolate chip cookies are our own recipe,” Gail said. One of their cooking secrets is to use a mix of cake and bread flour. “We might make a hundred dozen cookies in a week,” he said. That also meant that Sue might be up baking until 3 or 4 in the morning before the market.&nbsp;“We had a family meeting and had to decide if we would try to expand further or not,” Gail said. They chose to pursue the growth opportunities. In early 2020, Gail retired and went full-time into the business. A new 42 x 64 Morton building was constructed to house an expanded commercial kitchen with space for delivery vans. “Our five kids all help, plus a daughter-in-law,” Gail said. Their daughters also produce arts and craft items.&nbsp;When COVID-19 hit in spring 2020, farmers markets and other businesses shut down. Then food workers were deemed essential, and markets reopened, with added sanitation and socially distanced spacing. “Andrea from A&amp;H Farms is our market manager in Manhattan, and she’s done a great job,” Gail said.&nbsp;What is the key to success in direct marketing through farmer’s markets? “You have to offer a really good product and be at the market consistently,” Gail said. “Almost everything we make from scratch. My wife will not cook anything out of a can or a box. People love our pie crust.&nbsp;&nbsp;“My wife is very picky about what comes out of our kitchen,” he said. “We pride ourselves in bringing the best products that we can to the farmer’s markets.” That’s key to this business near the rural community of Hope, population 368 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“Bring your best.” It’s good advice for farmers markets and for life. We commend Gail and Sue Johnson for making a difference with their crops and kitchens, and for bringing out the best.&nbsp;