Conspiracy theories have taken root in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reporter Jim McLean discovered this while visiting the town of Protection, Kansas, recently for a story.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1957, this Comanche County community became the first town in the U.S. to be fully vaccinated against polio.&nbsp;&nbsp;Back then, vaccinations were a community event with widespread public support.&nbsp;According to McLean, “it’s a different story today.”

McLean found today’s Protection deeply divided over the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Refusers and skeptics gave many reasons, including a vague sense of distrust.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, some people he interviewed expressed a more-specific belief, that the government puts a tracking microchip in each dose.&nbsp;&nbsp;This particular belief is not only baseless, it is also a component of a larger conspiracy theory called QAnon.&nbsp;&nbsp;When citizens and public officials tacitly endorse components of larger conspiracy theory narratives, they put public health in danger by raising the percentage of those not vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;They also make it more difficult to properly allocate supplies so that doses do not get wasted.&nbsp;&nbsp;Finally, they help spread the conspiracy theory itself.

Conspiracy theories also endanger our democracy, and Kansas’ elected officials are the culprits.&nbsp;&nbsp;Led by Trump appointee Christopher Krebs, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reported that the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election was “the most secure in U.S. history.”&nbsp;&nbsp;So, why did&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Reps. Tracey Mann, Jake LaTurner, Ron Estes, and Senator Roger Marshall refuse to certify the results?&nbsp;&nbsp;Each was vague, but one of the most popular narratives defending this decision was the belief that Dominion Voting Systems machines were “rigged” to change votes from Trump to Biden.&nbsp;&nbsp;This too is linked closely to QAnon, and it too is false.

What follows is an actual description of what these deniers are helping to spread.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is a brief primer on QAnon, which is taken seriously by an estimated one million Americans.

QAnon backers were heavily involved in the U.S. Capitol rioting on January 6th.&nbsp;&nbsp;QAnon believer Ashli Babbitt was shot and killed by capitol police while leading a mob.&nbsp;&nbsp;The shirtless rioters wearing horned headdresses were also QAnon followers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Other QAnon symbols spotted that day include logos incorporating the capital letter “Q,” references to John F. Kennedy, Jr., and the hashtags #WWG1WGA (Where We Go One We Go All) and #Savethechildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;

QAnon followers believe that leading members of the Democratic Party worship Satan and operate a child trafficking ring because they want to get high from a chemical in the childrens’ blood.&nbsp;&nbsp;QAnon draws heavily upon an anti-Semitic (anti-Jewish), Medieval European conspiracy theory called&nbsp;blood libel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Openly endorsed by two U.S. Representatives, QAnon anticipates&nbsp;the storm, when former President Trump will incarcerate or execute the alleged cabal.&nbsp;

QAnon followers also believe that John F. Kennedy, Jr. is still alive and that home goods retailer&nbsp;<a href="http://wayfair.com/">Wayfair.com</a>&nbsp;is a front for the child trafficking.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Followers are linked to stalking, kidnapping, an attack on the Canadian Prime Minister’s home, at least two murders, a blockade of the Hoover Dam, and a train derailment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last year, heavily armed QAnon believers were arrested on their way to the Philadelphia Convention Center while ballots were being counted.&nbsp;&nbsp;I recently wrote up my more-detailed deep dive into QAnon on the Midwest Political Science Association’s blog site, available at&nbsp;<a href="http://mpsanet.org/mpsa-blog">mpsanet.org/mpsa-blog</a>

When&nbsp;Kansas politicians and citizens endorse&nbsp;factually baseless&nbsp;components of conspiracy theories, they encourage&nbsp;the whole toxic narrative.&nbsp;&nbsp;They&nbsp;disrupt public health, endanger democracy, and even&nbsp;threaten&nbsp;to undermine our understanding of reality itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;It needs to stop, right now.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576785940426.png" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Conspiracy theories have taken root in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reporter Jim McLean discovered this while visiting the town of Protection, Kansas, recently for a story.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1957, this Comanche County community became the first town in the U.S. to be fully vaccinated against polio.&nbsp;&nbsp;Back then, vaccinations were a community event with widespread public support.&nbsp;According to McLean, “it’s a different story today.”McLean found today’s Protection deeply divided over the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Refusers and skeptics gave many reasons, including a vague sense of distrust.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, some people he interviewed expressed a more-specific belief, that the government puts a tracking microchip in each dose.&nbsp;&nbsp;This particular belief is not only baseless, it is also a component of a larger conspiracy theory called QAnon.&nbsp;&nbsp;When citizens and public officials tacitly endorse components of larger conspiracy theory narratives, they put public health in danger by raising the percentage of those not vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;They also make it more difficult to properly allocate supplies so that doses do not get wasted.&nbsp;&nbsp;Finally, they help spread the conspiracy theory itself.Conspiracy theories also endanger our democracy, and Kansas’ elected officials are the culprits.&nbsp;&nbsp;Led by Trump appointee Christopher Krebs, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reported that the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election was “the most secure in U.S. history.”&nbsp;&nbsp;So, why did&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Reps. Tracey Mann, Jake LaTurner, Ron Estes, and Senator Roger Marshall refuse to certify the results?&nbsp;&nbsp;Each was vague, but one of the most popular narratives defending this decision was the belief that Dominion Voting Systems machines were “rigged” to change votes from Trump to Biden.&nbsp;&nbsp;This too is linked closely to QAnon, and it too is false.What follows is an actual description of what these deniers are helping to spread.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is a brief primer on QAnon, which is taken seriously by an estimated one million Americans.QAnon backers were heavily involved in the U.S. Capitol rioting on January 6th.&nbsp;&nbsp;QAnon believer Ashli Babbitt was shot and killed by capitol police while leading a mob.&nbsp;&nbsp;The shirtless rioters wearing horned headdresses were also QAnon followers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Other QAnon symbols spotted that day include logos incorporating the capital letter “Q,” references to John F. Kennedy, Jr., and the hashtags #WWG1WGA (Where We Go One We Go All) and #Savethechildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;QAnon followers believe that leading members of the Democratic Party worship Satan and operate a child trafficking ring because they want to get high from a chemical in the childrens’ blood.&nbsp;&nbsp;QAnon draws heavily upon an anti-Semitic (anti-Jewish), Medieval European conspiracy theory called&nbsp;blood libel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Openly endorsed by two U.S. Representatives, QAnon anticipates&nbsp;the storm, when former President Trump will incarcerate or execute the alleged cabal.&nbsp;QAnon followers also believe that John F. Kennedy, Jr. is still alive and that home goods retailer&nbsp;<a href="http://wayfair.com/">Wayfair.com</a>&nbsp;is a front for the child trafficking.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Followers are linked to stalking, kidnapping, an attack on the Canadian Prime Minister’s home, at least two murders, a blockade of the Hoover Dam, and a train derailment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last year, heavily armed QAnon believers were arrested on their way to the Philadelphia Convention Center while ballots were being counted.&nbsp;&nbsp;I recently wrote up my more-detailed deep dive into QAnon on the Midwest Political Science Association’s blog site, available at&nbsp;<a href="http://mpsanet.org/mpsa-blog">mpsanet.org/mpsa-blog</a>When&nbsp;Kansas politicians and citizens endorse&nbsp;factually baseless&nbsp;components of conspiracy theories, they encourage&nbsp;the whole toxic narrative.&nbsp;&nbsp;They&nbsp;disrupt public health, endanger democracy, and even&nbsp;threaten&nbsp;to undermine our understanding of reality itself.&nbsp;&nbsp;It needs to stop, right now.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Conspiracy theories attack lives, democracy in Kan.

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🎙 Post Podcast: Commodity and food distribution ongoing in Ellis

The Center for Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University and Grow Hays will host and broadcast the Faulkner Challenge on Saturday, March 13, through a Zoom virtual platform at the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.&nbsp;

Students across the state of Kansas are eligible to compete for $10,000 in prizes. Students eligible to compete at the free event include those at universities, community colleges, trade schools, vocational schools and high schools. The live-streamed event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon. The public is invited to watch the event on multiple platforms: Facebook Live, Linked In and YouTube. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“These pitch events are impressive because they reflect the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our students and the Kansans across the state,” said Dr. Jane Talkington, interim director of The Center for Entrepreneurship.&nbsp;“This is meant not only to be an enjoyable event for all involved, but these kinds of exercises have potential to contribute to the economic development. The experience is a real boost for those early-stage entrepreneurs on campus and in the community.”&nbsp;

The Faulkner Challenge is made possible by the generosity of FHSU alum Kevin Faulkner. It is a business plan competition for new ventures in the conceptual stage, the seed stage or the startup stage.&nbsp;Grow Hays – a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing economic health in Ellis County – will assist the Faulkner Challenge finalists in practicing their final oral presentations. Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, is committed to helping those with great ideas articulate them clearly and convincingly.&nbsp;

Entry deadline via email is midnight Friday, March 5. The eight best business plans will be selected as finalists who will present virtually via Zoom. Entry information rules and judging criteria can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFWdBnDhG7PXohZUyM7u1Y5NtBF5vxNosRZagRX6kUFVAVLzl6EfdYdLXyw0We8gLg-3D-3DBehb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B6a2-2F4am2AzJDqXoZRNg6n-2FAWbQBoPB4yXY03hUdpanGUyxeB373Ez0BQKUwU0y2KwXhJHIMGDltZh92Qtfr-2FnOAG-2BqMJcdfPL-2BBhVwD87MUoLpnCFWa8XAcoGs2xlQo-2FLe1vRt5IDS8c3ZoChjlAekjlFsQfS79VDZ2f3rrUNtqS5ram6xhzouinDdqFN1-2Bz4ofJRAAJeFob6p33lysfJiXHUeJsFAJ3UxM1RX5PfnGwWJMr-2FX3w8E-2FFmNsOVAA1KxqqFRB-2BLdBf-2BkSiXVsl8w-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/cob/faulkner-challenge</a>. Finalists will be notified on Monday, March 8, and invited to deliver their 10-minute presentations to a panel of judges on the 13th. The top three business projects will split the $10,000 in prize money into awards of $6,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $1,000 for third place.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following the live-streamed business plan presentations, the judges will deliberate privately on the merits of each presentation until the start of the public awards presentation at 1 p.m. Following the awards presentation, the judges will give each team private feedback. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:FaulknerChallenge@FHSU.edu">FaulknerChallenge@FHSU.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612972163649.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe Center for Entrepreneurship at Fort Hays State University and Grow Hays will host and broadcast the Faulkner Challenge on Saturday, March 13, through a Zoom virtual platform at the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.&nbsp;Students across the state of Kansas are eligible to compete for $10,000 in prizes. Students eligible to compete at the free event include those at universities, community colleges, trade schools, vocational schools and high schools. The live-streamed event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon. The public is invited to watch the event on multiple platforms: Facebook Live, Linked In and YouTube. &nbsp;&nbsp;“These pitch events are impressive because they reflect the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our students and the Kansans across the state,” said Dr. Jane Talkington, interim director of The Center for Entrepreneurship.&nbsp;“This is meant not only to be an enjoyable event for all involved, but these kinds of exercises have potential to contribute to the economic development. The experience is a real boost for those early-stage entrepreneurs on campus and in the community.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612972279491.jpeg" alt="Dr. Jane Talkington" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jane Talkington</figcaption>
 </figure>The Faulkner Challenge is made possible by the generosity of FHSU alum Kevin Faulkner. It is a business plan competition for new ventures in the conceptual stage, the seed stage or the startup stage.&nbsp;Grow Hays – a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing economic health in Ellis County – will assist the Faulkner Challenge finalists in practicing their final oral presentations. Doug Williams, executive director of Grow Hays, is committed to helping those with great ideas articulate them clearly and convincingly.&nbsp;Entry deadline via email is midnight Friday, March 5. The eight best business plans will be selected as finalists who will present virtually via Zoom. Entry information rules and judging criteria can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFWdBnDhG7PXohZUyM7u1Y5NtBF5vxNosRZagRX6kUFVAVLzl6EfdYdLXyw0We8gLg-3D-3DBehb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B6a2-2F4am2AzJDqXoZRNg6n-2FAWbQBoPB4yXY03hUdpanGUyxeB373Ez0BQKUwU0y2KwXhJHIMGDltZh92Qtfr-2FnOAG-2BqMJcdfPL-2BBhVwD87MUoLpnCFWa8XAcoGs2xlQo-2FLe1vRt5IDS8c3ZoChjlAekjlFsQfS79VDZ2f3rrUNtqS5ram6xhzouinDdqFN1-2Bz4ofJRAAJeFob6p33lysfJiXHUeJsFAJ3UxM1RX5PfnGwWJMr-2FX3w8E-2FFmNsOVAA1KxqqFRB-2BLdBf-2BkSiXVsl8w-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/cob/faulkner-challenge</a>. Finalists will be notified on Monday, March 8, and invited to deliver their 10-minute presentations to a panel of judges on the 13th. The top three business projects will split the $10,000 in prize money into awards of $6,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $1,000 for third place.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following the live-streamed business plan presentations, the judges will deliberate privately on the merits of each presentation until the start of the public awards presentation at 1 p.m. Following the awards presentation, the judges will give each team private feedback. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:FaulknerChallenge@FHSU.edu">FaulknerChallenge@FHSU.edu</a>.

FHSU's Faulkner Challenge set for March 13 via Zoom

Three-day weather outlook

BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Those who own skid-steer loaders point out that these industrial machines can have many uses. Perhaps their only limitation is the type of equipment that can be attached to those skid steers. These attachments can pull posts, wind wire, cut trees, dig trenches, mix concrete and more.&nbsp;

Today we’ll learn about an innovative rural Kansas business which specializes in designing attachments for those skid steer loaders, while offering all the capabilities of a complete machine shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

LeeRoy Douglas is the owner and founder of Douglas Welding and Machine at Kipp, Kansas. LeeRoy and his wife Mary live in Kipp, near Salina. LeeRoy was working in a metal fabrication shop in Salina when he decided to start his own business in 1989.&nbsp;

Regan West is director of purchasing, sales and marketing for Douglas Machine and Welding today. “LeeRoy started working in his garage,” Regan said. “When he outgrew that, he built a shop and it’s grown from there.”&nbsp;

When LeeRoy and Mary’s son Colby joined the company, they had the idea to build attachments to go on skid steers. Their first product was an attachment that enabled the skid steer to pull up a post or small tree. It worked so well that it has become Douglas Welding’s best-selling product. “Other people may sell a post puller that works like scissors, but ours works like hands to grasp the post,” Regan said. “It works so much better, you can’t compare.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Douglas Welding and Machine, also known as DWM Attachments, continued to expand the type of skid steer attachments that it has developed. “We offer more than 40 different attachments,” Regan said. These include wire winders, various saws, stump grinders, mowers, trenchers, post-hole augers, corner-post setters, concrete mixers, buckets, backhoes, harrows, telebooms, bale spears, pallet forks, and more. New items include a tiller, tube grinder, and tree shovel.&nbsp;

Today, Douglas Welding and Machine specializes in fabrication of carbon steel products, including skid steer attachments and custom items. The machine shop offers CNC (computer numerically controlled), plasma-cutting, shearing, breaking, and full range fabrication capabilities.&nbsp;

In addition to attachments, Douglas Welding and Machine also produces products such as park benches, heavy-duty work benches, signs and other yard art, much of which is custom made. “We are able to create our own designs, and we do everything from start to finish,” Regan said. Other than the hydraulic motors, tubing, cylinders or bearings which they have to purchase, the fabricators can build most anything else themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We even make our own hoses,” Regan said. She is involved in many of the artistic products and is self-taught on the CNC equipment.&nbsp;

“Our software allows us to draw unique designs,” Regan said. “I do a lot of benches and custom signs for customers.” Items can also be custom-made as gifts. Regan hopes to enhance the company website to enable e-commerce and encourage online purchases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One regular customer is a contractor in North Carolina who uses the attachments to install playground equipment. Another interesting customer is in South Carolina. When a hurricane hit that state a couple of years ago, the business ordered a custom-made auger bucket that would fill sandbags to protect from hurricane damage.&nbsp;

The versatility of the uses for skid-steer attachments has created a major market opportunity for Douglas Welding and Machine. “It’s incredible how we’ve grown,” Regan said. “Last year we had orders from Washington to Pennsylvania. December was our busiest month, and sales have tripled.”&nbsp;

It’s a remarkable record for a business based in a rural community such as Kipp, an unincorporated town with an unofficial population of perhaps 50 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.douglasweldingmachine.com/">www.douglasweldingmachine.com</a>.&nbsp;

Skid steers have many uses, limited only by the type of attachments such as those developed by Douglas Welding and Machine. We commend LeeRoy, Mary, and Colby Douglas, Regan West and all those involved with Douglas Welding and Machine who are making a difference with entrepreneurship and creativity. These are the types of rural businesses to which I feel quite an attachment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612965932440.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentThose who own skid-steer loaders point out that these industrial machines can have many uses. Perhaps their only limitation is the type of equipment that can be attached to those skid steers. These attachments can pull posts, wind wire, cut trees, dig trenches, mix concrete and more.&nbsp;Today we’ll learn about an innovative rural Kansas business which specializes in designing attachments for those skid steer loaders, while offering all the capabilities of a complete machine shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;LeeRoy Douglas is the owner and founder of Douglas Welding and Machine at Kipp, Kansas. LeeRoy and his wife Mary live in Kipp, near Salina. LeeRoy was working in a metal fabrication shop in Salina when he decided to start his own business in 1989.&nbsp;Regan West is director of purchasing, sales and marketing for Douglas Machine and Welding today. “LeeRoy started working in his garage,” Regan said. “When he outgrew that, he built a shop and it’s grown from there.”&nbsp;When LeeRoy and Mary’s son Colby joined the company, they had the idea to build attachments to go on skid steers. Their first product was an attachment that enabled the skid steer to pull up a post or small tree. It worked so well that it has become Douglas Welding’s best-selling product. “Other people may sell a post puller that works like scissors, but ours works like hands to grasp the post,” Regan said. “It works so much better, you can’t compare.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Douglas Welding and Machine, also known as DWM Attachments, continued to expand the type of skid steer attachments that it has developed. “We offer more than 40 different attachments,” Regan said. These include wire winders, various saws, stump grinders, mowers, trenchers, post-hole augers, corner-post setters, concrete mixers, buckets, backhoes, harrows, telebooms, bale spears, pallet forks, and more. New items include a tiller, tube grinder, and tree shovel.&nbsp;Today, Douglas Welding and Machine specializes in fabrication of carbon steel products, including skid steer attachments and custom items. The machine shop offers CNC (computer numerically controlled), plasma-cutting, shearing, breaking, and full range fabrication capabilities.&nbsp;In addition to attachments, Douglas Welding and Machine also produces products such as park benches, heavy-duty work benches, signs and other yard art, much of which is custom made. “We are able to create our own designs, and we do everything from start to finish,” Regan said. Other than the hydraulic motors, tubing, cylinders or bearings which they have to purchase, the fabricators can build most anything else themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We even make our own hoses,” Regan said. She is involved in many of the artistic products and is self-taught on the CNC equipment.&nbsp;“Our software allows us to draw unique designs,” Regan said. “I do a lot of benches and custom signs for customers.” Items can also be custom-made as gifts. Regan hopes to enhance the company website to enable e-commerce and encourage online purchases.&nbsp;&nbsp;One regular customer is a contractor in North Carolina who uses the attachments to install playground equipment. Another interesting customer is in South Carolina. When a hurricane hit that state a couple of years ago, the business ordered a custom-made auger bucket that would fill sandbags to protect from hurricane damage.&nbsp;The versatility of the uses for skid-steer attachments has created a major market opportunity for Douglas Welding and Machine. “It’s incredible how we’ve grown,” Regan said. “Last year we had orders from Washington to Pennsylvania. December was our busiest month, and sales have tripled.”&nbsp;It’s a remarkable record for a business based in a rural community such as Kipp, an unincorporated town with an unofficial population of perhaps 50 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.douglasweldingmachine.com/">www.douglasweldingmachine.com</a>.&nbsp;Skid steers have many uses, limited only by the type of attachments such as those developed by Douglas Welding and Machine. We commend LeeRoy, Mary, and Colby Douglas, Regan West and all those involved with Douglas Welding and Machine who are making a difference with entrepreneurship and creativity. These are the types of rural businesses to which I feel quite an attachment.

Now That’s Rural: LeeRoy Douglas, Douglas Welding 

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Kansas schools would be required to offer full, in-person instruction starting March 26 under a bill that was introduced Friday.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said in news release announcing the bill that students must not continue to “languish in virtual learning.”

The state Department of Education recommended this week that school districts allow middle and high school students resume full-time in-person instruction if precautions are taken. Several of the state’s largest districts have been offering in-person classes only part-time for middle and high-schoolers or teaching students only online.

“Kansas parents have been patient, but they have seen their children struggling and they have had enough,” Masterson said. “It’s time to do what is desperately needed and get Kansas kids back to school.”

Marcus Baltzell, a spokesman for the Kansas National Education Association, said he hadn’t yet had a chance to review the bill.

But he noted: “Schools have been open since the beginning but returning to in-person instruction in a time of a pandemic should happen when it is safe to do so according to the medical experts. That has been our position all along and that will continue to be our position.”

The state is currently inoculating teachers as part of its second round of vaccinations, which also extended eligibility to people ages 65 and older, prisoners and essential workers such as law enforcement officers. The second phase covers as many as 1 million of the state’s 2.9 million residents.

As of Friday, 9.4% of the state’s population had been vaccinated, with 273,428 people receiving at least the first of two required doses, state health data showed.

Gov. Laura Kelly said the state is anticipating getting 90,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine next week, double what the state was receiving just two weeks ago,

“We are continuing to urge the federal government to increase the number of vaccines we receive and they are actually doing so,” Kelly said in her biweekly call with elected officials.

The number of cases has dropped dramatically in recent weeks. The state’s health department added 1,208 new confirmed cases from Wednesday to Friday, pushing the state’s pandemic total to 286,102. The number of deaths rose by 61 to 4,364.

The number of hospitalized patients also is dropping and staffing problems are improving as the rollout continues.

Lee Norman, the head of the state’s health department, said that one hospital had seen the number of staff members who were out because of COVID-19 illnesses or quarantines drop into the single digits from an average of 80 to 90.

“Staff are back and healthy and absenteeism is extremely low,” Norman said.

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Kansas schools would be required to offer full, in-person instruction starting March 26 under a bill that was introduced Friday.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said in news release announcing the bill that students must not continue to “languish in virtual learning.”The state Department of Education recommended this week that school districts allow middle and high school students resume full-time in-person instruction if precautions are taken. Several of the state’s largest districts have been offering in-person classes only part-time for middle and high-schoolers or teaching students only online.“Kansas parents have been patient, but they have seen their children struggling and they have had enough,” Masterson said. “It’s time to do what is desperately needed and get Kansas kids back to school.”Marcus Baltzell, a spokesman for the Kansas National Education Association, said he hadn’t yet had a chance to review the bill.But he noted: “Schools have been open since the beginning but returning to in-person instruction in a time of a pandemic should happen when it is safe to do so according to the medical experts. That has been our position all along and that will continue to be our position.”The state is currently inoculating teachers as part of its second round of vaccinations, which also extended eligibility to people ages 65 and older, prisoners and essential workers such as law enforcement officers. The second phase covers as many as 1 million of the state’s 2.9 million residents.As of Friday, 9.4% of the state’s population had been vaccinated, with 273,428 people receiving at least the first of two required doses, state health data showed.Gov. Laura Kelly said the state is anticipating getting 90,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine next week, double what the state was receiving just two weeks ago,“We are continuing to urge the federal government to increase the number of vaccines we receive and they are actually doing so,” Kelly said in her biweekly call with elected officials.The number of cases has dropped dramatically in recent weeks. The state’s health department added 1,208 new confirmed cases from Wednesday to Friday, pushing the state’s pandemic total to 286,102. The number of deaths rose by 61 to 4,364.The number of hospitalized patients also is dropping and staffing problems are improving as the rollout continues.Lee Norman, the head of the state’s health department, said that one hospital had seen the number of staff members who were out because of COVID-19 illnesses or quarantines drop into the single digits from an average of 80 to 90.“Staff are back and healthy and absenteeism is extremely low,” Norman said.

Bill would require Kansas schools to fully reopen next month

The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Phillipsburg for a key
Mid-Continent League showdown with the Panthers.

Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show at 5:40 on KHAZ.

&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the
games&nbsp; on&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 Phillipsburg for a key
Mid-Continent League showdown with the Panthers.Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show at 5:40 on KHAZ.Girls game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nsQtXhVk5MI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Boys game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eNZXioi8ScE"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the
games&nbsp; on&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 Phillipsburg

The Hays High Indians travel to Colby Friday for a non-league matchup with the Eagles. The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. Our coverage begins at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show. Girls game

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

The Hays High Indians travel to Colby Friday for a non-league matchup with the Eagles. The girls game is set to start at 6 p.m. with the boys to follow. Our coverage begins at 5:40 with the Hertz Rental Car Pregame Show. Girls game <figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qiGKLbNXkWg"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Boys game<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D7o4hmhyANk"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; You can also listen to the games on&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a>

 🏀WATCH: Hays High v Colby

With record-breaking cold gripping much of our region through next week, Midwest Energy’s natural gas schedulers have been busy lining up sufficient gas supply to meet demand when temperatures plunge below -10 degrees this weekend.&nbsp; &nbsp;

“We have spent the last several days on the phones, buying enough gas to get us through this cold spell,” said Bill Dowling, Midwest Energy’s Vice President for Engineering and Energy Supply. “Loads on the upstream pipeline that serves the Hays, Ellis and WaKeeney areas will strain the amount of available gas supplies, but unless conditions worsen, we believe we’ll be OK. Throughout the rest of the system, we see fewer issues that could impact gas supply.”

Dowling added that due to the ongoing freezing temperatures, gas supplies throughout the Midwestern U.S. are tight, and that the available gas is priced very high relative to just weeks ago.&nbsp; While Midwest buys a portion of its gas on contract in advance, Dowling said customers are burning “significantly more gas” keeping homes, businesses, hospitals and schools warm, and electric generating facilities throughout the region have ramped up the use of natural gas.&nbsp; Thus, the company has had to purchase additional gas on the spot market to make up the difference.&nbsp; Any fluctuations in the price of gas will be averaged out over the next year, and will be adjusted annually in February 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Midwest Energy encourages all customers to make sure furnaces are operating at peak efficiency, and changing furnace filters as per the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure airflow isn’t restricted.&nbsp; Closing furnace registers and doors to unoccupied rooms is another way to keep occupied rooms warmer, reducing consumption. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest EnergyWith record-breaking cold gripping much of our region through next week, Midwest Energy’s natural gas schedulers have been busy lining up sufficient gas supply to meet demand when temperatures plunge below -10 degrees this weekend.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We have spent the last several days on the phones, buying enough gas to get us through this cold spell,” said Bill Dowling, Midwest Energy’s Vice President for Engineering and Energy Supply. “Loads on the upstream pipeline that serves the Hays, Ellis and WaKeeney areas will strain the amount of available gas supplies, but unless conditions worsen, we believe we’ll be OK. Throughout the rest of the system, we see fewer issues that could impact gas supply.”Dowling added that due to the ongoing freezing temperatures, gas supplies throughout the Midwestern U.S. are tight, and that the available gas is priced very high relative to just weeks ago.&nbsp; While Midwest buys a portion of its gas on contract in advance, Dowling said customers are burning “significantly more gas” keeping homes, businesses, hospitals and schools warm, and electric generating facilities throughout the region have ramped up the use of natural gas.&nbsp; Thus, the company has had to purchase additional gas on the spot market to make up the difference.&nbsp; Any fluctuations in the price of gas will be averaged out over the next year, and will be adjusted annually in February 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp;Midwest Energy encourages all customers to make sure furnaces are operating at peak efficiency, and changing furnace filters as per the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure airflow isn’t restricted.&nbsp; Closing furnace registers and doors to unoccupied rooms is another way to keep occupied rooms warmer, reducing consumption. &nbsp;

Midwest Energy watching natural gas supplies  for Hays, Ellis, WaKeeney

BARTON COUNTY —Two drivers avoided serious injury in an accident just after 10a.m. Friday in Barton County.

A 2017 Toyota Prius driven by Shay McCoskey, 34, Great Bend was westbound on NW 50 Road and failed to yield right of way at a stop sign at the intersection of 30 Avenue, according to Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

A southbound 2018 Peterbilt truck tractor pulling a semi-trailer loaded with distiller grain and driven by Donald Berens, 60, Russell, struck the Prius.

The impact pushed the Toyota south of the intersection approximately 430 feet. McCoskey received minor lacerations and declined transport by ambulance, according to Bellendir. Berens was not injured in the collision.

The roadway was closed for approximately two hours while the Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation and crews from the Barton County Highway.Department cleared the road of spilled grain. The Sheriff’s office was assisted at the scene by units from the Great Bend Fire Department and EMS as well as a unit from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613166257520.png" alt="Friday morning crash -photo Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Friday morning crash -photo Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Two drivers avoided serious injury in an accident just after 10a.m. Friday in Barton County.A 2017 Toyota Prius driven by Shay McCoskey, 34, Great Bend was westbound on NW 50 Road and failed to yield right of way at a stop sign at the intersection of 30 Avenue, according to Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir.A southbound 2018 Peterbilt truck tractor pulling a semi-trailer loaded with distiller grain and driven by Donald Berens, 60, Russell, struck the Prius.The impact pushed the Toyota south of the intersection approximately 430 feet. McCoskey received minor lacerations and declined transport by ambulance, according to Bellendir. Berens was not injured in the collision.The roadway was closed for approximately two hours while the Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation and crews from the Barton County Highway.Department cleared the road of spilled grain. The Sheriff’s office was assisted at the scene by units from the Great Bend Fire Department and EMS as well as a unit from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Drivers avoid serious injury after violent Barton Co. crash

The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell slightly from eight on Wednesday to seven on Friday.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also announced an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 68.

As of Friday, there were 17 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 19 on Thursday, with seven of those active patients and 10 in the recovery phase.

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a46ce0f-0f53-4b97-bfb3-93c2d719fb92">RELATED:&nbsp;196 tests, just one additional unrelated positive ID'd after emergency testing</a>

There were 12 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 81 active cases, including five active hospitalizations, and 3,509 recovered cases.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 6.1 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,590 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 23,406 tests administered, 14.2 have returned positive for coronavirus.

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/2021/2/1613156519455.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: Feb. 12, 2021" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/v8tkz-fa898d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>The Ellis County Health Department on Friday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell slightly from eight on Wednesday to seven on Friday.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also announced an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 68.As of Friday, there were 17 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 19 on Thursday, with seven of those active patients and 10 in the recovery phase.<a href="https://form.jotform.com/210066258239051">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a46ce0f-0f53-4b97-bfb3-93c2d719fb92">RELATED:&nbsp;196 tests, just one additional unrelated positive ID'd after emergency testing</a>There were 12 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Wednesday. There are currently 81 active cases, including five active hospitalizations, and 3,509 recovered cases.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell slightly to 6.1 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 3,590 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 23,406 tests administered, 14.2 have returned positive for coronavirus.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/2021/2/1613165866930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙Per-day virus rate in Ellis Co. falls; additional death reported

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The University of Kansas Health System today announced an increase in the minimum hourly pay rate for employees to $15 per hour. The change took effect Feb. 7 and will be reflected in the paychecks beginning March 5.

“For more than two decades, our health system has succeeded because we have followed a simple guiding formula. We believe providing world-class service and world-class outcomes delivered by the right team of people will lead to strong growth and sustainability,” said Tammy Peterman, MS, RN, FAAN, president, Kansas City Division, executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at The University of Kansas Health System. “This hourly increase reflects our continued commitment to our people and the important role each and every employee has in our collective success.”

Despite the financial and operational challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, The University of Kanas Health System has not laid off or furloughed staff and remains committed to maintaining jobs. This pay increase is another step to support frontline workers and the critical role they play in providing care in our communities.

The decision to increase the minimum wage for health system employees in the Kansas City Division was based on a comprehensive review of salary data, cost of living expense and other factors. The health system also took a broad approach with this action and, as a result, has increased pay not only for employees who were below $15 per hour, but also for many more who were above that pay rate to ensure appropriate differences in pay based on experience and responsibilities.

A representative from HaysMed said on Friday the wage adjustment will only effect workers in the Kansas City division of the health system.

— The University of Kansas Health System

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The University of Kansas Health System today announced an increase in the minimum hourly pay rate for employees to $15 per hour. The change took effect Feb. 7 and will be reflected in the paychecks beginning March 5.“For more than two decades, our health system has succeeded because we have followed a simple guiding formula. We believe providing world-class service and world-class outcomes delivered by the right team of people will lead to strong growth and sustainability,” said Tammy Peterman, MS, RN, FAAN, president, Kansas City Division, executive vice president, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at The University of Kansas Health System. “This hourly increase reflects our continued commitment to our people and the important role each and every employee has in our collective success.”Despite the financial and operational challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, The University of Kanas Health System has not laid off or furloughed staff and remains committed to maintaining jobs. This pay increase is another step to support frontline workers and the critical role they play in providing care in our communities.The decision to increase the minimum wage for health system employees in the Kansas City Division was based on a comprehensive review of salary data, cost of living expense and other factors. The health system also took a broad approach with this action and, as a result, has increased pay not only for employees who were below $15 per hour, but also for many more who were above that pay rate to ensure appropriate differences in pay based on experience and responsibilities.A representative from HaysMed said on Friday the wage adjustment will only effect workers in the Kansas City division of the health system.— The University of Kansas Health System

University of Kansas Health System increases minimum pay in KC division

A winter storm watch is in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

In addition, a wind chill advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday — with wind chills expected to drop as low as 25 degrees below zero.

"North winds gusting to near 30 mph will create areas of blowing and drifting snow on Sunday. ... Widespread snow will produce snow packed roadways  and reduced visibility," the NWS said. "The cold wind chills could cause  frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

In Ellis County, snow is expected to begin after midnight Saturday, with 1 to 3 inches of accumulation possible. A 40 percent to 70 percent chance of snow persists into Sunday night, when the low temperature is predicted to dip to minus 12 degrees.

A high of 8 degrees on Saturday will be the warmest of the weekend, according to forecasters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613149343399.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>A winter storm watch is in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.In addition, a wind chill advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday — with wind chills expected to drop as low as 25 degrees below zero."North winds gusting to near 30 mph will create areas of blowing and drifting snow on Sunday. ... Widespread snow will produce snow packed roadways and reduced visibility," the NWS said. "The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.In Ellis County, snow is expected to begin after midnight Saturday, with 1 to 3 inches of accumulation possible. A 40 percent to 70 percent chance of snow persists into Sunday night, when the low temperature is predicted to dip to minus 12 degrees.A high of 8 degrees on Saturday will be the warmest of the weekend, according to forecasters.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613149451399.png" alt="Goodland NWS" />
 <figcaption>Goodland NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>

Bitter cold will be joined by snow, high winds this weekend

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal At
Large--5th and Allen St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Criminal Threat—1000 block Fort St, Hays; 10:25 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 10:32 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3300 block Willow Rd, Hays; 11:09 AM 
Animal At Large--1400 block &nbsp;W 45th St,
Hays; 11:11 AM 
Drug Offenses—100 block W 5th St, Hays; 11:37 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—1100 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:09 PM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 7th St,
Hays; 3:41 PM 
Civil Dispute—1400 block W 42nd St, Hays;
6:19 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—4300 block
Vine St, Hays; 7:37 PM; 7:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property--32nd and Vine Roundabout, Hays; 8:01 PM 
Arson—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:18 PM; 8:23
PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W
13th St, Hays; 11:18 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Theft
(general)—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 2/4 1 PM; 4:45 PM 
Welfare Check—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Theft (general)—3600 block Vine St, Hays; &nbsp;12/26/20 8 AM; 10 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/27/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/28/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/29/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/30/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/8/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/9/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/10/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/11/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/12/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/14/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/15/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/16/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/17/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft of Services--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft of Services--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:10 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--17th &amp; Fort St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
Drug Offenses—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Eisenhower Rd, Hays; 1:59 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:18 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1900 block Vine St, Hays; 3:55 PM; 3:57 PM 
Found/Lost Property—600 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:01 PM 
Drug Offenses--700 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:43 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 15th St, Hays; 5:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 7:08 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 11:07 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Sat., Feb. 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 1:51 AM 
Battery – Domestic—300 block W 16th St, Hays; 3:45 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 5:31 AM 
Disturbance – Genera—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 5:38 AM 
Found/Lost Property—2700 block Hall St, Hays; 10:53 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:05 PM 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:13 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 12:53 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 2:49 PM 
Battery – simple—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:06 PM 
Battery – Domestic—600 block E 7th St, Hays; 4 PM 
Welfare Check—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 5:21 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 8:51 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 7, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--900 block Ash St, Hays; 12:07 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--600 block Ash St, Hays; 12:46 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Main St, Hays; 1:55 AM; 3:21 AM 
Disorderly Conduct--700 block Park St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--300 block &nbsp;W
8th St, Hays; 2:29 AM 
Liquor Offense, sell, furnish, transport--800 block Main St, Hays; 4:30 AM 
Welfare Check--500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:57 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—1200 block E 30th St, Hays; 10:29 AM 
Found/Lost Property—Hays; 10:53 AM 
Mental Health Call—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:33 PM 
Animal At Large—400 block E 19th St, Hays; 2:14 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—100 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:50 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:17 PM 
Civil Dispute—600 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:57 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal At
Large--5th and Allen St, Hays; 9:56 AM 
Criminal Threat—1000 block Fort St, Hays; 10:25 AM 
Criminal Trespass—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 10:32 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3300 block Willow Rd, Hays; 11:09 AM 
Animal At Large--1400 block &nbsp;W 45th St,
Hays; 11:11 AM 
Drug Offenses—100 block W 5th St, Hays; 11:37 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—1100 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:09 PM 
Found/Lost Property—300 block W 7th St,
Hays; 3:41 PM 
Civil Dispute—1400 block W 42nd St, Hays;
6:19 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—4300 block
Vine St, Hays; 7:37 PM; 7:55 PM 
Found/Lost Property--32nd and Vine Roundabout, Hays; 8:01 PM 
Arson—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:18 PM; 8:23
PM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W
13th St, Hays; 11:18 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 5, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Theft
(general)—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 2/4 1 PM; 4:45 PM 
Welfare Check—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Theft (general)—3600 block Vine St, Hays; &nbsp;12/26/20 8 AM; 10 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/27/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/28/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/29/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 12/30/20 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/8/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/9/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/10/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/11/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/12/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/14/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/15/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/16/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 1/17/21 8 AM; 5 PM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft (general)--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft of Services--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:08 AM 
Theft of Services--3600 block Vine St, Hays; 2/5/2021 11:10 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--17th &amp; Fort St, Hays; 11:46 AM 
Drug Offenses—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 1:19 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block Eisenhower Rd, Hays; 1:59 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--100 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:18 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1900 block Vine St, Hays; 3:55 PM; 3:57 PM 
Found/Lost Property—600 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:01 PM 
Drug Offenses--700 block E 8th St, Hays; 4:43 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 15th St, Hays; 5:30 PM 
Civil Dispute—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 7:08 PM 
Theft (general)—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 11:07 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Sat., Feb. 6, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--700 block Fort St, Hays; 1:51 AM 
Battery – Domestic—300 block W 16th St, Hays; 3:45 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 5:31 AM 
Disturbance – Genera—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 5:38 AM 
Found/Lost Property—2700 block Hall St, Hays; 10:53 AM 
Mental Health Call—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 12:05 PM 
Civil Dispute—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:13 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1000 block Country Club Dr, Hays; 12:53 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--2000 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 2:49 PM 
Battery – simple—1300 block Vine St, Hays; 3:06 PM 
Battery – Domestic—600 block E 7th St, Hays; 4 PM 
Welfare Check—600 block E 6th St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 5:21 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 8:51 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 7, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--900 block Ash St, Hays; 12:07 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--600 block Ash St, Hays; 12:46 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--800 block Main St, Hays; 1:55 AM; 3:21 AM 
Disorderly Conduct--700 block Park St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--300 block &nbsp;W
8th St, Hays; 2:29 AM 
Liquor Offense, sell, furnish, transport--800 block Main St, Hays; 4:30 AM 
Welfare Check--500 block E 8th St, Hays; 9:57 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle—1200 block E 30th St, Hays; 10:29 AM 
Found/Lost Property—Hays; 10:53 AM 
Mental Health Call—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:33 PM 
Animal At Large—400 block E 19th St, Hays; 2:14 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—100 block W 10th St, Hays; 2:50 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Welfare Check—200 block E 5th St, Hays; 9:17 PM 
Civil Dispute—600 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:57 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410704431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

HPD Activity Log, Feb. 4-7

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs received her first of two Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations during Wednesday's clinic coordinated by the Ellis County Health Department and First Care Clinic of Hays.&nbsp;

Jacobs, and her husband Danny, are both over the age of 65, and both have had mild cases of coronavirus. They are eligible to receive the vaccine in the state's Phase 2 rollout plan targeting people 65 older.

The mayor was impressed with the clinic's efficiency as people stood in line at Big Creek Crossing - six feet apart - to get their shot.&nbsp;

Most of the staffing comes from the health department, First Care Clinic and HaysMed, who are working alongside student nurses from Fort Hays State University and NCK Technical College, and Ellis County EMS.

Employees of the Ellis County Sheriff's Department steer wheelchairs to help those who need it to get inside the storefront from their vehicles.&nbsp; They also make sure patients have their identification and then point them to the start of the line.&nbsp;

Other positions are filled by volunteers from the community.

Local businesses have donated the wheelchairs, internet access and a water cooler.

"It's a well-oiled machine," Jacobs said of the process headquartered in the former Gordmans storefront. "They are doing a wonderful job."&nbsp;

It took "just 5 or 6 minutes" from sign-in to getting the vaccine in her left arm by nurse Mary Ann Shorman, Jacobs noted.

Those who have been inoculated then must be seated in a monitored waiting area for 15 minutes so Ellis County EMS employees can be sure the person has not had an adverse reaction to the newly developed vaccine.

Jacobs was given a reminder card to return for her second shot in 24 or 28 days.

 This was the third week the clinic has operated. 

No one is being charged for the vaccines, according to Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy.

"We put this&nbsp;community coalition together to get vaccines out the door as fast as possible," he said. "This vaccine is so valuable and important in our community moving forward."

"Once we receive vaccines, people are scheduled, they come here. It's about 20 to 25 minutes for the entire process. They're in. They're out.&nbsp; And we're able to get a large part of the community vaccinated in a short amount of town."

The vaccines come from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to the state of Kansas, to Ellis County, so far in lots of just 400 or 500 at a time.

Kennedy wants more vaccines - lots more - but he has no control over the acquisition.

He got an email from the state saying another 400 doses will arrive next week.

"I don't get to change that number. I can't make it bigger."

The vaccinations have been given on Wednesdays, approximately 24 hours after they arrive in Hays. If, and when allocations increase, Kennedy says the clinic hours will expand.

Frontline healthcare workers, first responders, and long-term care residents and staff received the COVID-19 vaccine during Phase 1.

Some vaccines are now being sent by the CDC to private pharmacies in Kansas, including the Hays Walmart. Those federal programs are separate from the local clinic, with a different sign up process and potential costs.

"We encourage you to go get the vaccine wherever you can, as soon as you can," Kennedy said.

People can put their names on the Ellis County clinic list now, even as they await Phases 3 and 4.

You can sign up online on the Ellis County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/704/COVID-19-Information">https://www.ellisco.net/704/COVID-19-Information</a>&nbsp;or call the health department at&nbsp;785-628-9440 for assistance. First Care Clinic is also taking names by calling 785-621-4990. The Hays Public Library is offering its internet service for signing up to people without internet access.

Kennedy was named the Ellis County Health Officer in January 2020. COVID-19 spread to Kansas just three months later.&nbsp;

Kennedy had to hit the ground running. The pandemic was unexpected, but actually part of his job description, he says.&nbsp;

"This is historically one of the primary functions of the health department to deal with situations like this. It's been on-job-training for having to work with a constantly moving environment. I'm glad I've been able to be an advocate for the community and be there to help the community through this."&nbsp;

Although some people refuse to be vaccinated or wear masks, Kennedy says the "community has been very supportive of the health department" and describes the community COVID coalition as "phenomenal."

Jacobs has stayed focused on information from the local medical community, including KU Medical Center, about the vaccine's efficacy.

She's encouraging all Ellis County residents to sign-up for the vaccine, even as a <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">face mask mandate</a> remains in place for the city of Hays.

"We still want people to wear a mask, to wash their hands, really avoid big gatherings, and to social distance," Jacobs stressed.&nbsp;

"If we can get everybody in Hays and Ellis County vaccinated, our community opens up that much quicker."

The Ellis County Health Department in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b46cbb49-d2fb-4601-9359-c7ff2fc2e696">Wednesday's case update</a> reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at eight. Twenty-six new cases were identified.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613002723310.jpeg" alt="Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs receives her first COVID-19 vaccine from nurse Mary Ann Shorman during Wednesday's Ellis County COVID clinic. This was the third week for clinic which is providing free vaccines for people currently eligible under Phase 2 of Gov. Laura Kelly's Kansas rollout plan." />
 <figcaption>Hays Mayor Sandy Jacobs receives her first COVID-19 vaccine from nurse Mary Ann Shorman during Wednesday's Ellis County COVID clinic. This was the third week for clinic which is providing free vaccines for people currently eligible under Phase 2 of Gov. Laura Kelly's Kansas rollout plan.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays Mayor Sandy Jacobs received her first of two Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations during Wednesday's clinic coordinated by the Ellis County Health Department and First Care Clinic of Hays.&nbsp;Jacobs, and her husband Danny, are both over the age of 65, and both have had mild cases of coronavirus. They are eligible to receive the vaccine in the state's Phase 2 rollout plan targeting people 65 older.The mayor was impressed with the clinic's efficiency as people stood in line at Big Creek Crossing - six feet apart - to get their shot.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613089932941.jpeg" alt="Dr. Christine Fisher, First Care Clinic medical director, draws up a COVID-19 Moderna vaccine." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Christine Fisher, First Care Clinic medical director, draws up a COVID-19 Moderna vaccine.</figcaption>
 </figure>Most of the staffing comes from the health department, First Care Clinic and HaysMed, who are working alongside student nurses from Fort Hays State University and NCK Technical College, and Ellis County EMS.Employees of the Ellis County Sheriff's Department steer wheelchairs to help those who need it to get inside the storefront from their vehicles.&nbsp; They also make sure patients have their identification and then point them to the start of the line.&nbsp;Other positions are filled by volunteers from the community.Local businesses have donated the wheelchairs, internet access and a water cooler."It's a well-oiled machine," Jacobs said of the process headquartered in the former Gordmans storefront. "They are doing a wonderful job."&nbsp;It took "just 5 or 6 minutes" from sign-in to getting the vaccine in her left arm by nurse Mary Ann Shorman, Jacobs noted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613094183295.jpeg" alt="Patients are monitored for 15 minutes by Ellis County EMS after they receive their inoculation. Each person is given a pre-set timer to hold. The timers and chairs are wiped down as people leave.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patients are monitored for 15 minutes by Ellis County EMS after they receive their inoculation. Each person is given a pre-set timer to hold. The timers and chairs are wiped down as people leave.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Those who have been inoculated then must be seated in a monitored waiting area for 15 minutes so Ellis County EMS employees can be sure the person has not had an adverse reaction to the newly developed vaccine.Jacobs was given a reminder card to return for her second shot in 24 or 28 days.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2ihB2uZPm7A"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> This was the third week the clinic has operated. No one is being charged for the vaccines, according to Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy."We put this&nbsp;community coalition together to get vaccines out the door as fast as possible," he said. "This vaccine is so valuable and important in our community moving forward.""Once we receive vaccines, people are scheduled, they come here. It's about 20 to 25 minutes for the entire process. They're in. They're out.&nbsp; And we're able to get a large part of the community vaccinated in a short amount of town."The vaccines come from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to the state of Kansas, to Ellis County, so far in lots of just 400 or 500 at a time.Kennedy wants more vaccines - lots more - but he has no control over the acquisition.He got an email from the state saying another 400 doses will arrive next week."I don't get to change that number. I can't make it bigger."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613094632932.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy says the county is currently receiving allocations of Moderna coronavirus vaccines at a rate of 400 or 500 a week which are distributed within about 24 hours to patients.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy says the county is currently receiving allocations of Moderna coronavirus vaccines at a rate of 400 or 500 a week which are distributed within about 24 hours to patients.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The vaccinations have been given on Wednesdays, approximately 24 hours after they arrive in Hays. If, and when allocations increase, Kennedy says the clinic hours will expand.Frontline healthcare workers, first responders, and long-term care residents and staff received the COVID-19 vaccine during Phase 1.Some vaccines are now being sent by the CDC to private pharmacies in Kansas, including the Hays Walmart. Those federal programs are separate from the local clinic, with a different sign up process and potential costs."We encourage you to go get the vaccine wherever you can, as soon as you can," Kennedy said.People can put their names on the Ellis County clinic list now, even as they await Phases 3 and 4.You can sign up online on the Ellis County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/704/COVID-19-Information">https://www.ellisco.net/704/COVID-19-Information</a>&nbsp;or call the health department at&nbsp;785-628-9440 for assistance. First Care Clinic is also taking names by calling 785-621-4990. The Hays Public Library is offering its internet service for signing up to people without internet access.Kennedy was named the Ellis County Health Officer in January 2020. COVID-19 spread to Kansas just three months later.&nbsp;Kennedy had to hit the ground running. The pandemic was unexpected, but actually part of his job description, he says.&nbsp;"This is historically one of the primary functions of the health department to deal with situations like this. It's been on-job-training for having to work with a constantly moving environment. I'm glad I've been able to be an advocate for the community and be there to help the community through this."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613094392023.jpeg" alt="Phase 2 patients enter the Ellis County Community Coalition COVID Clinic Wednesday afternoon at Big Creek Crossing in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Phase 2 patients enter the Ellis County Community Coalition COVID Clinic Wednesday afternoon at Big Creek Crossing in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>Although some people refuse to be vaccinated or wear masks, Kennedy says the "community has been very supportive of the health department" and describes the community COVID coalition as "phenomenal."Jacobs has stayed focused on information from the local medical community, including KU Medical Center, about the vaccine's efficacy.She's encouraging all Ellis County residents to sign-up for the vaccine, even as a <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/733/Face-Mask-Ordinance">face mask mandate</a> remains in place for the city of Hays."We still want people to wear a mask, to wash their hands, really avoid big gatherings, and to social distance," Jacobs stressed.&nbsp;"If we can get everybody in Hays and Ellis County vaccinated, our community opens up that much quicker."The Ellis County Health Department in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b46cbb49-d2fb-4601-9359-c7ff2fc2e696">Wednesday's case update</a> reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days remained flat at eight. Twenty-six new cases were identified.

🎥 Mayor gets her first COVID vaccine, encourages residents to sign up

FHSU Online — the distance education arm of Fort Hays State University — continues to meet the strict requirements of membership in the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). The association recently announced that Fort Hays State had earned certification for a period to run through 2021.

The USDLA is a nonprofit distance learning association whose work focuses on supporting distance learning research, development, and praxis across the complete arena of education, training, and communications.

In the fall of 2019, FHSU met the exhaustive, 120-standard assessment process for membership in USDLA and became one of only six USDLA-certified institutions in the world during 2020. Qualities that make USDLA membership so exclusive are a thorough annual review&nbsp;that requires extensive reporting on all areas of online education at the university.

“Membership in the USDLA shows that FHSU’s online programs go beyond their many accreditations to satisfy more than 100 additional standards and benchmarks,” said Dr. Greg Atkins, interim assistant director of FHSU Online. “Only a few dozen institutions in the world meet such stringent requirements. What a testimony to the caliber of dedication and skill of FHSU’s Online faculty, students, staff and alumni.”

Fort Hays State, founded in 1902, entered into distance education in 1911 when faculty voted to offer courses free by mail so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to pursue the continuing education required to teach. The distance education department created then evolved continuously with changing technology and culture. In 1997, the Department of Continuing Education and Instructional Technology became the FHSU Virtual College, which was renamed FHSU Online in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612976284816.jpeg" alt="Hammond Hall" />
 <figcaption>Hammond Hall</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFHSU Online — the distance education arm of Fort Hays State University — continues to meet the strict requirements of membership in the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). The association recently announced that Fort Hays State had earned certification for a period to run through 2021.The USDLA is a nonprofit distance learning association whose work focuses on supporting distance learning research, development, and praxis across the complete arena of education, training, and communications.In the fall of 2019, FHSU met the exhaustive, 120-standard assessment process for membership in USDLA and became one of only six USDLA-certified institutions in the world during 2020. Qualities that make USDLA membership so exclusive are a thorough annual review&nbsp;that requires extensive reporting on all areas of online education at the university.“Membership in the USDLA shows that FHSU’s online programs go beyond their many accreditations to satisfy more than 100 additional standards and benchmarks,” said Dr. Greg Atkins, interim assistant director of FHSU Online. “Only a few dozen institutions in the world meet such stringent requirements. What a testimony to the caliber of dedication and skill of FHSU’s Online faculty, students, staff and alumni.”<h2>About FHSU Online</h2>Fort Hays State, founded in 1902, entered into distance education in 1911 when faculty voted to offer courses free by mail so that one-room school teachers across western Kansas could afford to pursue the continuing education required to teach. The distance education department created then evolved continuously with changing technology and culture. In 1997, the Department of Continuing Education and Instructional Technology became the FHSU Virtual College, which was renamed FHSU Online in 2020.

FHSU one of only 6 USDLA-certified institutions worldwide

Pedro Flores, RN, ICU nurse, was recently recognized as a Daisy Award winner at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.

This award is presented to an RN in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. Flores was nominated by a one of his patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Flores&nbsp;was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee. The Practice Committee consists of Staff and Supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers and Associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient and clinic settings.&nbsp;

“We are proud to be among the hospital systems participating in The DAISY Award program,” said Terry Siek, VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at HaysMed. “Nurses are heroes every day. It’s important that our nurses know their work is highly valued, and The DAISY Foundation provides another way for us to do that.”

The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing one of our nurses with this special honor every quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to&nbsp;<a href="file://hmcfile_svnt/docs/Nursing/Nursing%20Services/Daisy%20Award/Brochures/www.haysmed.com/daisyaward">www.haysmed.com/daisyaward</a>.&nbsp;For more information, call (785) 623-2388.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613068154230.jpeg" alt="Flores" />
 <figcaption>Flores</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedPedro Flores, RN, ICU nurse, was recently recognized as a Daisy Award winner at HaysMed, part of The University of Kansas Health System.This award is presented to an RN in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. Flores was nominated by a one of his patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;Flores&nbsp;was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee. The Practice Committee consists of Staff and Supervisors from a variety of departments across HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers and Associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient and clinic settings.&nbsp;“We are proud to be among the hospital systems participating in The DAISY Award program,” said Terry Siek, VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at HaysMed. “Nurses are heroes every day. It’s important that our nurses know their work is highly valued, and The DAISY Foundation provides another way for us to do that.”The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Hospital Partner, recognizing one of our nurses with this special honor every quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;To nominate a HaysMed nurse for the DAISY Award online, go to&nbsp;<a href="file://hmcfile_svnt/docs/Nursing/Nursing%20Services/Daisy%20Award/Brochures/www.haysmed.com/daisyaward">www.haysmed.com/daisyaward</a>.&nbsp;For more information, call (785) 623-2388.

HaysMed nurse recognized with Daisy Award

YODER — Twenty-eight new law enforcement officers, including one in Ellis County, graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center on Feb. 5 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.

Shannon Kratt of the Augusta Department of Public Safety was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was the sheriff for Wyandotte County, Donald Ash. Steve McCorkill, KLETC senior instructor of police, was the class coordinator for the 273rd Basic Training Class. Jarin Watkins from the Coffeyville Police Department was recognized for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot.”

Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.

Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education.

The graduates, who began their training in September 2020, represented 17 municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates are listed below by county and agency:

• Shannon Kratt, Augusta Department of Public Safety

• Amanda Cole, Augusta Department of Public Safety

• Michael Wigart, Augusta Department of Public Safety

• Arlo Leuke, Columbus Police Department

• Cory Johnson, Cowley County Sheriff’s Office

• Esther Law, Arkansas City Police Department

• Spencer Warren, Arkansas City Police Department

• William Wollard, Winfield Police Department

• Brennon Marcotte, Winfield Police Department

• Braden Parke, Ellis County Sheriff’s Office

• Adam Granatowski, Dodge City Police Department

• William Bishop, Harper County Sheriff’s Office

• Brad Crochet, Newton Police Department

• Michael Tedder, Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office

• Austin Watts, Marysville Police Department

• Bryant Jones, Marshall County Sheriff’s Office

• Robert McAnany, Miami County Sheriff’s Office

• Dallas Onions, Miami County Sheriff’s Office

• Tristan Geiger Osawatomie Department of Public Safety

• Jarin Watkins, Coffeyville Police Department

• Chance March, Coffeyville Police Department

• Kalen Ingalsbe, Saline County Sheriff's Office

• Alycia Buchanan, Saline County Sheriff's Office

• Luis Garcia, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

• Amber Freeman, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

• Jared McGrew, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

• Michael Morse, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office

• Brian Warczkoski, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444921352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KLETCYODER — Twenty-eight new law enforcement officers, including one in Ellis County, graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center on Feb. 5 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.Shannon Kratt of the Augusta Department of Public Safety was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was the sheriff for Wyandotte County, Donald Ash. Steve McCorkill, KLETC senior instructor of police, was the class coordinator for the 273rd Basic Training Class. Jarin Watkins from the Coffeyville Police Department was recognized for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot.”Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education.The graduates, who began their training in September 2020, represented 17 municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates are listed below by county and agency:Butler• Shannon Kratt, Augusta Department of Public Safety• Amanda Cole, Augusta Department of Public Safety• Michael Wigart, Augusta Department of Public SafetyCherokee• Arlo Leuke, Columbus Police DepartmentCowley• Cory Johnson, Cowley County Sheriff’s Office• Esther Law, Arkansas City Police Department• Spencer Warren, Arkansas City Police Department• William Wollard, Winfield Police Department• Brennon Marcotte, Winfield Police DepartmentEllis• Braden Parke, Ellis County Sheriff’s OfficeFord• Adam Granatowski, Dodge City Police DepartmentHarper• William Bishop, Harper County Sheriff’s OfficeHarvey• Brad Crochet, Newton Police DepartmentKiowa• Michael Tedder, Kiowa County Sheriff’s OfficeMarshall• Austin Watts, Marysville Police Department• Bryant Jones, Marshall County Sheriff’s OfficeMiami• Robert McAnany, Miami County Sheriff’s Office• Dallas Onions, Miami County Sheriff’s Office• Tristan Geiger Osawatomie Department of Public SafetyMontgomery• Jarin Watkins, Coffeyville Police Department• Chance March, Coffeyville Police DepartmentSaline• Kalen Ingalsbe, Saline County Sheriff's Office• Alycia Buchanan, Saline County Sheriff's OfficeWyandotte• Luis Garcia, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office• Amber Freeman, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office• Jared McGrew, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office• Michael Morse, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office• Brian Warczkoski, Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office.