By BECKY KISER Hays Post

For the second consecutive day, a new record overnight low temperature has been set in Hays.

According to official records at the K-State Agricultural Center, the mercury fell to -16 degrees Fahrenheit in Hays Monday night.

The previous record for February 15 was -15 degrees set back in 1903.

The wind chill at 8 a.m. Tuesday was -24 degrees.&nbsp;

The daytime high temperature in Hays yesterday was 2 degrees.&nbsp;One year ago, the high was 53 degrees.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2117d703-56f0-4cb9-aefb-75e8afc39118">Sunday's overnight low</a> in Hays was a record -18 degrees.&nbsp;

Power companies, including Midwest Energy, are asking customers to again <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d61efe15-b5a6-41e4-85ff-3a4c7ae131e1">cut back on their energy use</a> today.

A <a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.87743000000006&amp;lon=-99.32681999999994#.YCvee2hKiM8">wind chill warning</a> for Ellis County and most of western Kansas remains in effect until 11 a.m.&nbsp;

It will remain cold the next few days. The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/84568d4f-2c35-4fd6-b191-a0512397f2f5">weather forecast</a> is calling for temperatures to remain below freezing through Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613487559645.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostFor the second consecutive day, a new record overnight low temperature has been set in Hays.According to official records at the K-State Agricultural Center, the mercury fell to -16 degrees Fahrenheit in Hays Monday night.The previous record for February 15 was -15 degrees set back in 1903.The wind chill at 8 a.m. Tuesday was -24 degrees.&nbsp;The daytime high temperature in Hays yesterday was 2 degrees.&nbsp;One year ago, the high was 53 degrees.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2117d703-56f0-4cb9-aefb-75e8afc39118">Sunday's overnight low</a> in Hays was a record -18 degrees.&nbsp;Power companies, including Midwest Energy, are asking customers to again <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d61efe15-b5a6-41e4-85ff-3a4c7ae131e1">cut back on their energy use</a> today.A <a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.87743000000006&amp;lon=-99.32681999999994#.YCvee2hKiM8">wind chill warning</a> for Ellis County and most of western Kansas remains in effect until 11 a.m.&nbsp;It will remain cold the next few days. The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/84568d4f-2c35-4fd6-b191-a0512397f2f5">weather forecast</a> is calling for temperatures to remain below freezing through Thursday.

Another record overnight low in Hays

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation

The public is asked to continue conserving electricity and prepare for electricity interruptions. Sunflower Electric Power Corporation was notified by the Southwest Power Pool that the 14-state region is again in an Emergency Energy Alert Level 3 due to weather and resource conditions. 

An EEA3 means there is not currently enough electricity to serve the demand. Electric utilities have been ordered to implement scheduled interruptions. Please help by avoiding all unnecessary use of electricity.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613487018089.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower Electric Power CorporationThe public is asked to continue conserving electricity and prepare for electricity interruptions. Sunflower Electric Power Corporation was notified by the Southwest Power Pool that the 14-state region is again in an Emergency Energy Alert Level 3 due to weather and resource conditions. An EEA3 means there is not currently enough electricity to serve the demand. Electric utilities have been ordered to implement scheduled interruptions. Please help by avoiding all unnecessary use of electricity.&nbsp;

Public again asked to conserve power in midst of cold snap

It has been nearly 40 years since we have been experiencing this prolonged of a cold snap, the last few winters have been cold but temperatures near zero or below for several days. I appreciate you reading this column and responding back to it. I do ask that when you call my office please leave a phone number to contact you. It is tough to have a conversation when we cannot dialogue about your concern. We have several ways to communicate and I like to talk rather than email or text.

The House is pushing for an overhaul of the Kansas Department of Labor and the state’s unemployment system. Last week, the House Commerce Committee held a hearing on House Bill 2196, which is intended to immediately address the short-term problems at KDOL, but also guarantee the long-term stability of the state’s unemployment trust fund. The bill contains three main components:

•Oversight &amp; IT Modernization. HB 2196 creates oversight to ensure IT system upgrades are implemented at KDOL. The bill also requires the department to implement over 30 features and components in their upgraded IT infrastructure to ensure security and convenience for Kansas workers.

•Fraud Immunity. The bill provides protections so that Kansas businesses are not left to pay the price for fraudulent claims paid out by the department over the past year. Prior the pandemic, the unemployment trust fund was stable with over $1.2 billion in reserves. Today, less than $200 million sits in the fund’s reserves with an unknown chunk of those dollars being paid out in fraudulent claims that were not authorized by employers. Employers should not bear the burden of replenishing funds that were lost due to fraud.

• Rate Table Adjustments. Because the trust fund is exclusively paid for by employers, employers would be required to pay exorbitant amounts in taxes to refill the trust fund due to the non-fraudulent claims paid out through this pandemic. While employers understand taxes will have to be paid to restore the health of the trust fund, there are structural limitations in the rate tables that – if not addressed - would leave employers to disproportionally pay back the fund. HB 2196 seeks to remedy that, establishing parity for businesses by proposing new rate tables that will spread the restoration of the trust fund more evenly across the employer community.

These bills should not be partisan and we are at a time when all of us as elected officials need to pass these bills and the Governor sign them as we work together as one Kansas.

Late last week, the House advanced Senate Bill 15, sending it to the Governor for consideration. This legislation would create the Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program as a new resource for local businesses that may have been impacted economically by the pandemic.

The loan program, based on similar programs that have proven successful in other states, will make $60 million in state idle funds available – through our local financial institutions – in the form of low-interest loans. Kansas small businesses, farmers and ranchers are eligible for the loans, which may be up to

$250,000 with up to a 10-year term. The bill requires annual reporting on the outcome of the loan program so the Legislature can provide ongoing oversight.

A similar bill passed the House last May but was vetoed by Governor Kelly. It is a good bill for our rural communities. The Legislature remains hopeful the Governor will reconsider last year’s veto and make this financing available to Kansans.

My committee assignments this year: Chairperson of Committee on Agriculture, Member of Higher Education Budget and Member Committee on Appropriations.

Recently, I appeared on The Kansas Legislature show on Smoky Hills Public Television and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/608e35f3-38e8-416d-955d-5801a84b1b48">Forward Ever podcast with Gary Shorman from Eagle</a>. You can find those links on the internet.

Because of COVID, we are not encouraging visitors to come to Topeka but if you would like to contact me my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296- 7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416. When you call or write you might hear from Terry Bernatis, my assistant during the session. You can also follow me on Facebook @kenforkansas

It is my honor to be your representative.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>02-16-21Hello from Topeka! It has been nearly 40 years since we have been experiencing this prolonged of a cold snap, the last few winters have been cold but temperatures near zero or below for several days. I appreciate you reading this column and responding back to it. I do ask that when you call my office please leave a phone number to contact you. It is tough to have a conversation when we cannot dialogue about your concern. We have several ways to communicate and I like to talk rather than email or text.The House is pushing for an overhaul of the Kansas Department of Labor and the state’s unemployment system. Last week, the House Commerce Committee held a hearing on House Bill 2196, which is intended to immediately address the short-term problems at KDOL, but also guarantee the long-term stability of the state’s unemployment trust fund. The bill contains three main components:•Oversight &amp; IT Modernization. HB 2196 creates oversight to ensure IT system upgrades are implemented at KDOL. The bill also requires the department to implement over 30 features and components in their upgraded IT infrastructure to ensure security and convenience for Kansas workers.•Fraud Immunity. The bill provides protections so that Kansas businesses are not left to pay the price for fraudulent claims paid out by the department over the past year. Prior the pandemic, the unemployment trust fund was stable with over $1.2 billion in reserves. Today, less than $200 million sits in the fund’s reserves with an unknown chunk of those dollars being paid out in fraudulent claims that were not authorized by employers. Employers should not bear the burden of replenishing funds that were lost due to fraud.• Rate Table Adjustments. Because the trust fund is exclusively paid for by employers, employers would be required to pay exorbitant amounts in taxes to refill the trust fund due to the non-fraudulent claims paid out through this pandemic. While employers understand taxes will have to be paid to restore the health of the trust fund, there are structural limitations in the rate tables that – if not addressed - would leave employers to disproportionally pay back the fund. HB 2196 seeks to remedy that, establishing parity for businesses by proposing new rate tables that will spread the restoration of the trust fund more evenly across the employer community.These bills should not be partisan and we are at a time when all of us as elected officials need to pass these bills and the Governor sign them as we work together as one Kansas.Late last week, the House advanced Senate Bill 15, sending it to the Governor for consideration. This legislation would create the Kansas Economic Recovery Loan Deposit Program as a new resource for local businesses that may have been impacted economically by the pandemic.The loan program, based on similar programs that have proven successful in other states, will make $60 million in state idle funds available – through our local financial institutions – in the form of low-interest loans. Kansas small businesses, farmers and ranchers are eligible for the loans, which may be up to$250,000 with up to a 10-year term. The bill requires annual reporting on the outcome of the loan program so the Legislature can provide ongoing oversight.A similar bill passed the House last May but was vetoed by Governor Kelly. It is a good bill for our rural communities. The Legislature remains hopeful the Governor will reconsider last year’s veto and make this financing available to Kansans.My committee assignments this year: Chairperson of Committee on Agriculture, Member of Higher Education Budget and Member Committee on Appropriations.Recently, I appeared on The Kansas Legislature show on Smoky Hills Public Television and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/608e35f3-38e8-416d-955d-5801a84b1b48">Forward Ever podcast with Gary Shorman from Eagle</a>. You can find those links on the internet.Because of COVID, we are not encouraging visitors to come to Topeka but if you would like to contact me my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296- 7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416. When you call or write you might hear from Terry Bernatis, my assistant during the session. You can also follow me on Facebook @kenforkansasIt is my honor to be your representative.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. House District 110 includes:&nbsp; Norton and Phillips Counties Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis and Schoenchen;&nbsp;Townships: Big Creek(part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Herzog(part),&nbsp;Lookout(part) and Wheatland(part) Graham County: City: Hill City;&nbsp;Townships: Hill City(part) and Nicodemus(part) Rooks County: Cities: Damar, Palco, Plainville,&nbsp;Stockton, Woodston and Zurich

RAHJES REPORT: Feb. 16

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new 27,000-square-foot indoor sports facility has opened in Big Creek Crossing in Hays.

The Yard is in the former pharmacy on the south end of the mall. However, there is no public access to the facility from the mall. Patrons need to enter through a door on the east side of the mall.

The facility, which opened Feb. 2, has an artificial turf practice field and batting cages, which are primarily designed for baseball and softball training, owner Blake Wolf said.

The field on the lower level can accommodate a full college-level baseball infield with 90-foot bases.

"That is super helpful for a lot of kids as they start to get older," he said.

&nbsp;It also have seven permanent batting cages. Some of the cages are reserved for members only. Others are available to non-members.

However, the space can be used for other sports. A soccer team was practicing on the field the night the Hays Post visited. Football teams have also expressed interest.

Wolf said he also would like to make the facility available for other community events, such as a cornhole, dodgeball, whiffle ball or kickball tournaments. He also has been asked if the space can be used for pickleball.

The space, which includes two floors, is still under construction. Most of the bottom floor has been completed with the exception of a pro shop, which is planned for the east end of the lower floor.

The upper floor will include pitching tunnels that can also be transformed to batting cages, Wolf said.

"We're going to be under construction for awhile, but we have the mentality that you have to be forward thinking," Wolf said. "You've got to be planning for the future and constantly building. If not, you get stuck."

The facility will not have a full gym, but it will have accommodations for strength and agility training, including ladders, dumbbells, boxes for box jumps, medicine balls and slam balls.

The facility is equipped with HitTrax, which is similar to a golf simulator, but for hitting for baseball or softball.

"We can play games on it, and it can be a fun way for kids to compete against other kids, but it also tells us all the analytics from the their swing," Wolf said, "where's their swing path, where are they contacting the ball, how hard are they hitting the ball, what is their head doing, what is their hips doing.&nbsp;

"There is just a lot of analytics that we can gather from this that helps kids from 7 years old to all the way up to professional players using it."

The Yard has already established HitTrax leagues. They consist of three to six players per team and are separated by age groups. Leagues are available for boy and girls, as well as slow pitch softball for adults.&nbsp;

You hit off a normal pitcher and the software calculates wether you would have hit a single, double, or out, etc. In that way, the software can simulate a game.

Blake and Brianna Wolf of Hill City have a daughter and son who play softball and baseball. The couple wanted somewhere their children could practice, but they also wanted to share that space with community, the couple said.

Blake also coaches the youth Hays Wildcats baseball team.

Brianna said the facility gives kids a chance to be active even when the weather is bad. HitTrax allows the kids to play a game, gets them off their electronic devices and encourages them to be active, she said.

The Wolfs were considering building a new structure to house The Yard, but after they were introduced to the former pharmacy location, they discovered it had more than enough room to accommodate the business's needs.

The couple said they think the business will benefit from its central location. Although you can't enter the facility through the mall, the windows from the former mall entrance have attracted a lot of attention for the new facility, Blake said.

The facility also has a lounge area that has been dubbed The Dugout. Siblings can sit and work on homework while brothers or sisters work out, Brianna said. Parents can also watch their kids on field through a long bay of windows.

Brianna said the couple had some qualms about opening a new business during the pandemic, but the couple thought the facility was needed at this time.

"Them walking in here and just being able to run and play and there is so much space here for them to be able to do that," she said of local youth. "It gives you just a little bit of hope that it's not all bad. It's not all negative. It's a little bit of what we had before, while still being careful."

The facility's hours are 1 to 6 p.m. seven days a week for walk ins, 24/7 for members via passcodes.&nbsp;

For more information on memberships, cost to rent facilities and upcoming events, see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheYardKS">The Yard's Facebook page</a> or <a href="http://www.theyardks.com/">website</a>.

"Even if you don't have a membership, you're still welcome," Blake said. "You are not going to be thought of any differently if you don't have a membership. That is one of the things we are trying to accomplish. Everyone is welcome. Come on in, enjoy, have fun and get better at whatever you're training at."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613165924705.jpeg" alt="Blake and Brianna Wolf and their two children at the new indoor sports facility, The Yard, in Hays." />
 <figcaption>Blake and Brianna Wolf and their two children at the new indoor sports facility, The Yard, in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new 27,000-square-foot indoor sports facility has opened in Big Creek Crossing in Hays.The Yard is in the former pharmacy on the south end of the mall. However, there is no public access to the facility from the mall. Patrons need to enter through a door on the east side of the mall.The facility, which opened Feb. 2, has an artificial turf practice field and batting cages, which are primarily designed for baseball and softball training, owner Blake Wolf said.The field on the lower level can accommodate a full college-level baseball infield with 90-foot bases."That is super helpful for a lot of kids as they start to get older," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613166292226.jpeg" alt="Owner of The Yard, Blake Wolf's son hits balls in one of the facility's batting cages." />
 <figcaption>Owner of The Yard, Blake Wolf's son hits balls in one of the facility's batting cages.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;It also have seven permanent batting cages. Some of the cages are reserved for members only. Others are available to non-members.However, the space can be used for other sports. A soccer team was practicing on the field the night the Hays Post visited. Football teams have also expressed interest.Wolf said he also would like to make the facility available for other community events, such as a cornhole, dodgeball, whiffle ball or kickball tournaments. He also has been asked if the space can be used for pickleball.The space, which includes two floors, is still under construction. Most of the bottom floor has been completed with the exception of a pro shop, which is planned for the east end of the lower floor.The upper floor will include pitching tunnels that can also be transformed to batting cages, Wolf said."We're going to be under construction for awhile, but we have the mentality that you have to be forward thinking," Wolf said. "You've got to be planning for the future and constantly building. If not, you get stuck."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613166809679.jpeg" alt="A soccer team practices Thursday night at The Yard indoor sports facility in Big Creek Crossing in Hays." />
 <figcaption>A soccer team practices Thursday night at The Yard indoor sports facility in Big Creek Crossing in Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>The facility will not have a full gym, but it will have accommodations for strength and agility training, including ladders, dumbbells, boxes for box jumps, medicine balls and slam balls.The facility is equipped with HitTrax, which is similar to a golf simulator, but for hitting for baseball or softball."We can play games on it, and it can be a fun way for kids to compete against other kids, but it also tells us all the analytics from the their swing," Wolf said, "where's their swing path, where are they contacting the ball, how hard are they hitting the ball, what is their head doing, what is their hips doing.&nbsp;"There is just a lot of analytics that we can gather from this that helps kids from 7 years old to all the way up to professional players using it."The Yard has already established HitTrax leagues. They consist of three to six players per team and are separated by age groups. Leagues are available for boy and girls, as well as slow pitch softball for adults.&nbsp;You hit off a normal pitcher and the software calculates wether you would have hit a single, double, or out, etc. In that way, the software can simulate a game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613167269344.jpeg" alt="Blake and Brianna Wolf's daughter hits a softball in one of The Yard's batting cages." />
 <figcaption>Blake and Brianna Wolf's daughter hits a softball in one of The Yard's batting cages.</figcaption>
 </figure>Blake and Brianna Wolf of Hill City have a daughter and son who play softball and baseball. The couple wanted somewhere their children could practice, but they also wanted to share that space with community, the couple said.Blake also coaches the youth Hays Wildcats baseball team.Brianna said the facility gives kids a chance to be active even when the weather is bad. HitTrax allows the kids to play a game, gets them off their electronic devices and encourages them to be active, she said.The Wolfs were considering building a new structure to house The Yard, but after they were introduced to the former pharmacy location, they discovered it had more than enough room to accommodate the business's needs.The couple said they think the business will benefit from its central location. Although you can't enter the facility through the mall, the windows from the former mall entrance have attracted a lot of attention for the new facility, Blake said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613167984508.jpeg" alt="The Yard's lounge, which has be dubbed The Dugout." />
 <figcaption>The Yard's lounge, which has be dubbed The Dugout.</figcaption>
 </figure>The facility also has a lounge area that has been dubbed The Dugout. Siblings can sit and work on homework while brothers or sisters work out, Brianna said. Parents can also watch their kids on field through a long bay of windows.Brianna said the couple had some qualms about opening a new business during the pandemic, but the couple thought the facility was needed at this time."Them walking in here and just being able to run and play and there is so much space here for them to be able to do that," she said of local youth. "It gives you just a little bit of hope that it's not all bad. It's not all negative. It's a little bit of what we had before, while still being careful."The facility's hours are 1 to 6 p.m. seven days a week for walk ins, 24/7 for members via passcodes.&nbsp;For more information on memberships, cost to rent facilities and upcoming events, see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheYardKS">The Yard's Facebook page</a> or <a href="http://www.theyardks.com/">website</a>."Even if you don't have a membership, you're still welcome," Blake said. "You are not going to be thought of any differently if you don't have a membership. That is one of the things we are trying to accomplish. Everyone is welcome. Come on in, enjoy, have fun and get better at whatever you're training at."

The Yard indoor sports facility opens in Big Creek Crossing

The Hays Kiwanis Club met Thursday to celebrate the Legion of Honor Award winners.

Legion of Honor awardees have served the Kiwanis Club in Hays for at least 25 years.&nbsp; Combined, these Kiwanians have spent over 275 years dedicating their time to improve the world — one child and one community at a time.&nbsp;

Pictured from left: Jim Fouts, Kevin Schukman, Dennis Zimmerman, Connie Mermis, Perry Henman, Marion Dreher (former Legion of Honor recipient), and Andrew Rupp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613403810795.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Kiwanis Club met Thursday to celebrate the Legion of Honor Award winners.Legion of Honor awardees have served the Kiwanis Club in Hays for at least 25 years.&nbsp; Combined, these Kiwanians have spent over 275 years dedicating their time to improve the world — one child and one community at a time.&nbsp;Pictured from left: Jim Fouts, Kevin Schukman, Dennis Zimmerman, Connie Mermis, Perry Henman, Marion Dreher (former Legion of Honor recipient), and Andrew Rupp.<ul>
 <li>40 years of service awardees: Dale Montgomery, Andrew Rupp and Dennis Zimmerman</li><li>35 years of service awardees: Jim Fouts and Perry Henman</li><li>30 years of service awardees: Mark McCullick and Kevin Schukman</li><li>25 years of service awardees:&nbsp; Connie Mermis</li>
 </ul>

Hays Kiwanis Club honors Legion of Honor award winners

A total of 955 students completed associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees at Fort Hays State University in the fall 2020 term.

Graduates are listed with their degrees and majors and, in parentheses, areas of concentration. The university conferred 265 graduate degrees (master’s, Education Specialist and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees), 662 bachelor’s degrees and 28 associate degrees. Of those, 16 students graduated with two degrees. Graduates who requested privacy are included in the count but omitted from this listing.

FHSU does not release degree lists until transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements for graduation.

Graduates are arranged alphabetically by home county, city and ZIP. Graduates from other states are listed alphabetically by state, city and ZIP. International students are listed by country and city.

The complete list of summer 2020 graduates of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNVaQyYdAYjwNUrqPpf9LplWP3WSStqloFBYh5V2xoRyPKML1m7UY2cXmxF4vdnXdbcQAmvU8o3A3qtk1iAyFptcFDJ-2F0RfKvtdmuEMwATPK2x46_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemX0InqCrNwv4oIRPVFSADDQE19r2A51qklx2yjMFcn9VkrPTCMv7NOqt5j-2B9o0FLF2HQkpynKo3c-2FptmUqRFu8xbfOoj6AX1-2FcftyHuw8P-2F4JJ-2FnWuST3B69dBPsXqrK-2BextxzVjMFreEtq-2BAQhh3sMIWugrq370PWDXjbIWdjBjURMKLsFT-2BXIZJ-2FOIo7-2B2oRFD9-2FheL6AwTdL2NIi-2BmF67GD5puGnbG9DcImxbaeugKB-2B9HgS2Sf1maSAsOHz-2BWQAK5ZqpwwsHKhNJw47HyeA-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/news/2021/02/fort-hays-state-university-announces-fall-2020-graduates</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613403099806.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsA total of 955 students completed associate, bachelor’s or graduate degrees at Fort Hays State University in the fall 2020 term.Graduates are listed with their degrees and majors and, in parentheses, areas of concentration. The university conferred 265 graduate degrees (master’s, Education Specialist and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees), 662 bachelor’s degrees and 28 associate degrees. Of those, 16 students graduated with two degrees. Graduates who requested privacy are included in the count but omitted from this listing.FHSU does not release degree lists until transcripts have been verified as having met all requirements for graduation.Graduates are arranged alphabetically by home county, city and ZIP. Graduates from other states are listed alphabetically by state, city and ZIP. International students are listed by country and city.The complete list of summer 2020 graduates of Fort Hays State University can be viewed at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtNVaQyYdAYjwNUrqPpf9LplWP3WSStqloFBYh5V2xoRyPKML1m7UY2cXmxF4vdnXdbcQAmvU8o3A3qtk1iAyFptcFDJ-2F0RfKvtdmuEMwATPK2x46_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemX0InqCrNwv4oIRPVFSADDQE19r2A51qklx2yjMFcn9VkrPTCMv7NOqt5j-2B9o0FLF2HQkpynKo3c-2FptmUqRFu8xbfOoj6AX1-2FcftyHuw8P-2F4JJ-2FnWuST3B69dBPsXqrK-2BextxzVjMFreEtq-2BAQhh3sMIWugrq370PWDXjbIWdjBjURMKLsFT-2BXIZJ-2FOIo7-2B2oRFD9-2FheL6AwTdL2NIi-2BmF67GD5puGnbG9DcImxbaeugKB-2B9HgS2Sf1maSAsOHz-2BWQAK5ZqpwwsHKhNJw47HyeA-3D-3D">https://fhsu.edu/news/2021/02/fort-hays-state-university-announces-fall-2020-graduates</a>.

Fort Hays State University announces Fall 2020 graduates

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $49.75 per barrel after jumping nearly two dollars on Friday. Prices in McPherson are up nearly $3 from a week ago, and are six dollars higher than at the first of the month.&nbsp; Nymex crude futures on Monday were trading over $60 for the first time since early January. WTI prices have advanced 25 percent so far this year. The benchmark contract was up 66 cents in afternoon trading Monday to $60.13 per barrel. London Brent was up 78 cents at $63.21 per barrel. Of the 195 drilling rigs in Kansas this week, 138 are inactive and cold stacked, an increase of three rigs in that category over the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says there are nine active rigs in Western Kansas, which is up one for the week. The count east of Wichita is unchanged at seven active rigs.&nbsp; Drillers reached total depth on a well in Ellis County and an operator is about to spud a new well on a lease in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reports 397 active drilling rigs nationwide, an increase of seven oil rigs in its weekly Rotary Rig Count.&nbsp; The count in Texas was up four rigs. Canada was up five at 176 active rigs. Regulators approved five new drilling permits last week. That's 90 so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 10 newly completed wells across Kansas, 73 so far this year. There were four new completions in eastern Kansas, and six west of Wichita, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. The government said domestic crude-oil inventories rose 6.6 million barrels last week to 469 million. That's about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year. EIA reported an uptick in U.S. crude production last week. Production jumped nearly 100,000 barrels per day on the week to just over 11 million barrels per day. Output remains remain nearly two million barrels per day behind the record-setting pace of a year ago. when U.S. operators pumped just shy of 13 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration reported imports of 5.9 million barrels per day for the week ending February 5. That's down 700,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average for crude imports remains 12% below the same four-week period a year ago. In a monthly report, the Energy Information Administration reported worldwide oil prices in January were $5 per barrel higher than the month before, $9 per barrel lower than a year earlier. EIA said consumption worldwide was down 2.8 million barrels per day from a year earlier. Democratic politicians in a slew of oil-dependent states are now forced to reckon with a clash of progressive ideals: Their support for President Biden’s plan to fight global warming could damage the fossil-fuel economy that has been a huge source of revenue for schools in New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, coastal hurricane remediation, and other government programs. That was upwards of $1.8 billion total last year. Biden last month paused new leases on federal lands, and could soon deliver on a campaign promise for a permanent ban.&nbsp; OPEC confirmed what we've been telling you, that the world's major benchmark prices have increased roughly ten percent month over month. The cartel credits the rise on improving market fundamentals, including the prospect of shrinking global oil stockpiles and tighter supplies. Oil-by-rail shipments are up for the week ending February 6th, but still trail the totals from the same week last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,453 tanker cars moving petroleum and petroleum products last week, up from 11,291 the week before. Industry sources say the cancellation of the Keystone Pipeline will likely result in a spike in oil-by-rail deliveries, but just how big a spike is still up in the air. Analysts say the price spread will remain the biggest driver of Canadian heavy crude shipments. The wobbly fate of the Dakota Access Pipeline is propping up oil prices in North Dakota, as operators there rein in output and charge higher premiums. The pipeline is the main artery running crude oil out of the region. Reuters reports Bakken prices have surged to their highest levels in about six months. A court hearing scheduled last week was postponed until April by the Army Corps of Engineers, which is working on a new review of the impact of the line’s passage under a key source of water for indigenous communities in the Dakotas.&nbsp; It's not political or ethnic differences blocking oil exports in Libya; it's unpaid salaries. Bloomberg reports a tanker had to leave a Libyan export terminal without any oil after members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard stopped them from loading. Security guards are on strike for unpaid salaries. This is the second tanker blocked from loading this year. Last year Libya ended a decade-long civil war, and was able to ramp up oil production from zero to more than a million barrels per day. But they've been unable to keep that up due to the strikes, leaky pipelines, and the lack of maintenance funding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $49.75 per barrel after jumping nearly two dollars on Friday. Prices in McPherson are up nearly $3 from a week ago, and are six dollars higher than at the first of the month.&nbsp; Nymex crude futures on Monday were trading over $60 for the first time since early January. WTI prices have advanced 25 percent so far this year. The benchmark contract was up 66 cents in afternoon trading Monday to $60.13 per barrel. London Brent was up 78 cents at $63.21 per barrel. Of the 195 drilling rigs in Kansas this week, 138 are inactive and cold stacked, an increase of three rigs in that category over the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says there are nine active rigs in Western Kansas, which is up one for the week. The count east of Wichita is unchanged at seven active rigs.&nbsp; Drillers reached total depth on a well in Ellis County and an operator is about to spud a new well on a lease in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reports 397 active drilling rigs nationwide, an increase of seven oil rigs in its weekly Rotary Rig Count.&nbsp; The count in Texas was up four rigs. Canada was up five at 176 active rigs. Regulators approved five new drilling permits last week. That's 90 so far this year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 10 newly completed wells across Kansas, 73 so far this year. There were four new completions in eastern Kansas, and six west of Wichita, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. The government said domestic crude-oil inventories rose 6.6 million barrels last week to 469 million. That's about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year. EIA reported an uptick in U.S. crude production last week. Production jumped nearly 100,000 barrels per day on the week to just over 11 million barrels per day. Output remains remain nearly two million barrels per day behind the record-setting pace of a year ago. when U.S. operators pumped just shy of 13 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration reported imports of 5.9 million barrels per day for the week ending February 5. That's down 700,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average for crude imports remains 12% below the same four-week period a year ago. In a monthly report, the Energy Information Administration reported worldwide oil prices in January were $5 per barrel higher than the month before, $9 per barrel lower than a year earlier. EIA said consumption worldwide was down 2.8 million barrels per day from a year earlier. Democratic politicians in a slew of oil-dependent states are now forced to reckon with a clash of progressive ideals: Their support for President Biden’s plan to fight global warming could damage the fossil-fuel economy that has been a huge source of revenue for schools in New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, coastal hurricane remediation, and other government programs. That was upwards of $1.8 billion total last year. Biden last month paused new leases on federal lands, and could soon deliver on a campaign promise for a permanent ban.&nbsp; OPEC confirmed what we've been telling you, that the world's major benchmark prices have increased roughly ten percent month over month. The cartel credits the rise on improving market fundamentals, including the prospect of shrinking global oil stockpiles and tighter supplies. Oil-by-rail shipments are up for the week ending February 6th, but still trail the totals from the same week last year. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,453 tanker cars moving petroleum and petroleum products last week, up from 11,291 the week before. Industry sources say the cancellation of the Keystone Pipeline will likely result in a spike in oil-by-rail deliveries, but just how big a spike is still up in the air. Analysts say the price spread will remain the biggest driver of Canadian heavy crude shipments. The wobbly fate of the Dakota Access Pipeline is propping up oil prices in North Dakota, as operators there rein in output and charge higher premiums. The pipeline is the main artery running crude oil out of the region. Reuters reports Bakken prices have surged to their highest levels in about six months. A court hearing scheduled last week was postponed until April by the Army Corps of Engineers, which is working on a new review of the impact of the line’s passage under a key source of water for indigenous communities in the Dakotas.&nbsp; It's not political or ethnic differences blocking oil exports in Libya; it's unpaid salaries. Bloomberg reports a tanker had to leave a Libyan export terminal without any oil after members of the Petroleum Facilities Guard stopped them from loading. Security guards are on strike for unpaid salaries. This is the second tanker blocked from loading this year. Last year Libya ended a decade-long civil war, and was able to ramp up oil production from zero to more than a million barrels per day. But they've been unable to keep that up due to the strikes, leaky pipelines, and the lack of maintenance funding.

News From the Oil Patch: Crude price rally continues

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Some people are hunting for ways to diversify the rural economy. Today we’ll meet a Kansas entrepreneur who uses hunting itself to create additional opportunities on his farm.&nbsp;

Leon and Nancy Winfrey are founders and owners of Flying W Outfitters at Plains, Kansas. Leon grew up at Plains, attended Dodge City Community College, married Nancy, and came back to farm with his dad. “The section where we live was homesteaded by my great-grandparents in ’01,” he said. That’s 1901.&nbsp;

During the tough farm economy of the 1980s, Leon looked for ways to supplement the family’s farm income such as offering pheasant hunting.&nbsp;

“People would come and hunt, stay with us and become friends,” Leon said. In those days, paying to hunt was less typical. “Now, it’s customary to pay for an outfitter for hunting and a guide to fish,” he said.&nbsp;

In 1989, Leon obtained the necessary licenses to set up a controlled shooting area where guests could come and hunt birds. He called his business Flying W Pheasant Ranch. As the business grew, it was renamed Flying W Outfitters.&nbsp;

Leon continues to raise crops and cattle and has found ways to make hunting a complementary business. “We farm for our pheasants,” Leon said. “When we harvest a field, we’ll leave a strip of corn. We let weeds grow around our ponds.” This creates habitat where pheasants can grow and flourish.&nbsp;

“When I was a kid, we used chemicals which were a lot stronger than the ones we have now, but there were more pheasants than ever,” Leon said. “What has changed is that there is less habitat for pheasants to live.” No-till farming, for example, conserves moisture but leaves no weeds for habitat, according to Leon.&nbsp;

Leon strives to maintain natural habitat for the birds and then continually restocks his fields with pheasants during the season. “We replace 10% more than are taken out,” he said.&nbsp;

Flying W Outfitters offers a hunting package with everything included. “We provide lodging, guides and dogs,” Leon said. “The birds are cleaned and packaged. My wife provides great meals (for the hunters).” As the website states, “Once you’ve set your hunting dates, all you need to do is show up with your&nbsp;gun, ammo, and shooting eye.&nbsp;We take care of the rest!”&nbsp;

Such full-service convenience is a major plus. “We will have three or four hundred pheasant hunters during the year,” Leon said. “We’ve had hunters here from almost every state, from Hawaii to Connecticut.” Deer hunting is also an option. In addition, Flying W offers a fully equipped hunting lodge for visitors to stay in Plains.&nbsp;

“The big companies know that their people can come hunt with us, and they will be well-fed and everything will be taken care of,” Leon said.&nbsp;

“We’re a very faith-based family,” Leon said. “This is not ours; this is what the Good Lord gave us to care for.”&nbsp;

“We started this when our kids were little,” he said. Now their oldest son Dustin is heavily involved with the operation. “His boys being teenagers and pre-teens are a huge asset to the operation,” Leon said. “Son Weston and daughter Teddi are in agribusiness, and always available when we need help.”&nbsp;

Repeat customers are evidence of the business’ success. “We’ve had hunters who have hunted with us for 28 years,” Leon said. “I remember going through the fields with little kids walking behind us, and now those kids are grown, and their kids are out walking behind us. We’ve raised another generation.”&nbsp;

This is good to see in a rural community like Plains, population 1,146 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

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

We commend Leon and Nancy Winfrey for making a difference with an entrepreneurial idea, good stewardship of natural resources, and great customer service. Some people hunt for ways to diversify the economy, and some people diversify the economy through hunting.&nbsp;

And there’s more. Leon launched another entrepreneurial project from his farm. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613570523727.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentSome people are hunting for ways to diversify the rural economy. Today we’ll meet a Kansas entrepreneur who uses hunting itself to create additional opportunities on his farm.&nbsp;Leon and Nancy Winfrey are founders and owners of Flying W Outfitters at Plains, Kansas. Leon grew up at Plains, attended Dodge City Community College, married Nancy, and came back to farm with his dad. “The section where we live was homesteaded by my great-grandparents in ’01,” he said. That’s 1901.&nbsp;During the tough farm economy of the 1980s, Leon looked for ways to supplement the family’s farm income such as offering pheasant hunting.&nbsp;“People would come and hunt, stay with us and become friends,” Leon said. In those days, paying to hunt was less typical. “Now, it’s customary to pay for an outfitter for hunting and a guide to fish,” he said.&nbsp;In 1989, Leon obtained the necessary licenses to set up a controlled shooting area where guests could come and hunt birds. He called his business Flying W Pheasant Ranch. As the business grew, it was renamed Flying W Outfitters.&nbsp;Leon continues to raise crops and cattle and has found ways to make hunting a complementary business. “We farm for our pheasants,” Leon said. “When we harvest a field, we’ll leave a strip of corn. We let weeds grow around our ponds.” This creates habitat where pheasants can grow and flourish.&nbsp;“When I was a kid, we used chemicals which were a lot stronger than the ones we have now, but there were more pheasants than ever,” Leon said. “What has changed is that there is less habitat for pheasants to live.” No-till farming, for example, conserves moisture but leaves no weeds for habitat, according to Leon.&nbsp;Leon strives to maintain natural habitat for the birds and then continually restocks his fields with pheasants during the season. “We replace 10% more than are taken out,” he said.&nbsp;Flying W Outfitters offers a hunting package with everything included. “We provide lodging, guides and dogs,” Leon said. “The birds are cleaned and packaged. My wife provides great meals (for the hunters).” As the website states, “Once you’ve set your hunting dates, all you need to do is show up with your&nbsp;gun, ammo, and shooting eye.&nbsp;We take care of the rest!”&nbsp;Such full-service convenience is a major plus. “We will have three or four hundred pheasant hunters during the year,” Leon said. “We’ve had hunters here from almost every state, from Hawaii to Connecticut.” Deer hunting is also an option. In addition, Flying W offers a fully equipped hunting lodge for visitors to stay in Plains.&nbsp;“The big companies know that their people can come hunt with us, and they will be well-fed and everything will be taken care of,” Leon said.&nbsp;“We’re a very faith-based family,” Leon said. “This is not ours; this is what the Good Lord gave us to care for.”&nbsp;“We started this when our kids were little,” he said. Now their oldest son Dustin is heavily involved with the operation. “His boys being teenagers and pre-teens are a huge asset to the operation,” Leon said. “Son Weston and daughter Teddi are in agribusiness, and always available when we need help.”&nbsp;Repeat customers are evidence of the business’ success. “We’ve had hunters who have hunted with us for 28 years,” Leon said. “I remember going through the fields with little kids walking behind us, and now those kids are grown, and their kids are out walking behind us. We’ve raised another generation.”&nbsp;This is good to see in a rural community like Plains, population 1,146 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huntflyingw.com/">huntflyingw.com</a>.&nbsp;We commend Leon and Nancy Winfrey for making a difference with an entrepreneurial idea, good stewardship of natural resources, and great customer service. Some people hunt for ways to diversify the economy, and some people diversify the economy through hunting.&nbsp;And there’s more. Leon launched another entrepreneurial project from his farm. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Leon Winfrey, Flying W Outfitters 

There is an old country song by Waylon Jennings called “Stop the World” and includes the lyrics “Stop the world and let me off; I’m tired of going round and round.”

I feel like I have been going round and round for months with the message of being kind. Yet, all I have to do is turn on the tv or my social media to see so many examples of flat-out meanness.&nbsp;

We continue to hear about bullying in our world and the multitude of reactions to this behavior. Bullying will not stop in our schools and among youth until we as adults stop and set a positive example of dealing with adversity. Social Media is rampant with hateful, divisive posts and worse comments.

Not everyone is going to like you. Not everyone is going to agree with you. Not everyone is going to be respectful of or to you. None of this is a news flash and it can sure hurt when it happens! However, it can also be a learning experience – did I do or say something that may have injured someone else? Did I take on a position with the intention of digging in my heels and being contrary? Was I willing to listen to another’s point of view even – especially - if I don’t agree with it?

I have a good group of friends who have very specific views on their industry. While I don’t disagree with many of their points, their method of sharing their views can be very dismissive and condescending to others. They have lost their audience before they ever shared their message. They don’t need to change their beliefs but may need to adjust the tone of their message to reach the influential people that can make a difference.

I can certainly be judgmental; I know that I am stubborn; I can be snarky and sarcastic. Recognizing those things about myself is the first step to adjusting my reaction to adversarial situations. I am not always successful but my goal is to stop and think before I respond or hit send/post. More than once, I have typed a response only to backspace all the way through it because I recognize how it may be perceived by others. I appreciate having colleagues that I can call to talk through a situation and step away from the immediate response of anger or frustration.&nbsp;

Youth are watching and learning from us all the time, whether we realize it or not. How have you handled a bully? Have you been the bully in a situation? How can each of us set a better example of working with those who are different from us? I hope that you will take time to stop before you react with your child to set a positive example in a tough situation. Take a minute to observe and talk through both negative and positive reactions to situations.

Our 4-H motto is to Make The Best Better and I continue to work on a better version of me. I don’t really want the world to stop&nbsp; - but I look forward to kindness being something that goes round and round and it starts with each one of us!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>There is an old country song by Waylon Jennings called “Stop the World” and includes the lyrics “Stop the world and let me off; I’m tired of going round and round.”I feel like I have been going round and round for months with the message of being kind. Yet, all I have to do is turn on the tv or my social media to see so many examples of flat-out meanness.&nbsp;We continue to hear about bullying in our world and the multitude of reactions to this behavior. Bullying will not stop in our schools and among youth until we as adults stop and set a positive example of dealing with adversity. Social Media is rampant with hateful, divisive posts and worse comments.Not everyone is going to like you. Not everyone is going to agree with you. Not everyone is going to be respectful of or to you. None of this is a news flash and it can sure hurt when it happens! However, it can also be a learning experience – did I do or say something that may have injured someone else? Did I take on a position with the intention of digging in my heels and being contrary? Was I willing to listen to another’s point of view even – especially - if I don’t agree with it?I have a good group of friends who have very specific views on their industry. While I don’t disagree with many of their points, their method of sharing their views can be very dismissive and condescending to others. They have lost their audience before they ever shared their message. They don’t need to change their beliefs but may need to adjust the tone of their message to reach the influential people that can make a difference.I can certainly be judgmental; I know that I am stubborn; I can be snarky and sarcastic. Recognizing those things about myself is the first step to adjusting my reaction to adversarial situations. I am not always successful but my goal is to stop and think before I respond or hit send/post. More than once, I have typed a response only to backspace all the way through it because I recognize how it may be perceived by others. I appreciate having colleagues that I can call to talk through a situation and step away from the immediate response of anger or frustration.&nbsp;Youth are watching and learning from us all the time, whether we realize it or not. How have you handled a bully? Have you been the bully in a situation? How can each of us set a better example of working with those who are different from us? I hope that you will take time to stop before you react with your child to set a positive example in a tough situation. Take a minute to observe and talk through both negative and positive reactions to situations.Our 4-H motto is to Make The Best Better and I continue to work on a better version of me. I don’t really want the world to stop&nbsp; - but I look forward to kindness being something that goes round and round and it starts with each one of us!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Stop the world ... I want off!

Due to the extreme cold forecast for Tuesday morning, Hays USD 489 schools will be closed Tuesday. Classes will resume Wednesday.

The district said basketball games scheduled at Abilene will be played as scheduled.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587078674452.jpeg" alt="usd 489 logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>usd 489 logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Due to the extreme cold forecast for Tuesday morning, Hays USD 489 schools will be closed Tuesday. Classes will resume Wednesday.The district said basketball games scheduled at Abilene will be played as scheduled.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHaysUSD489%2Fposts%2F3474981689297740&width=500&show_text=true&height=207&appId" width="500" height="207" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

No school for Hays USD 489 students Tuesday

UPDATED, 2:20 p.m. Monday: According to Midwest Energy, the&nbsp;Energy Emergency Alert Level issued by the Southwest Power Pool has been scaled back to Level 2.

The Southwest Power Pool, which is the regional transmission operator for a 14-state region, issued a first-ever Energy Emergency Alert Level 3 to be effective at 10:08 a.m. Monday.&nbsp; An EEA3 is the highest of three levels of energy emergency alert and signals that SPP's operating reserves are below the required minimum.&nbsp;

As part of an EEA3, the SPP is asking member utilities to curtail energy use through controlled interruptions of service. Over the next few days, Midwest Energy may begin mandatory interruptions of service to non-critical facilities on a rotational basis, with each rotation lasting no more than two hours. Many of these interruptions would involve oil field service and industrial-type loads, though some rural residential customers in oil production areas could also be affected. &nbsp;

To further reduce loads, Midwest Energy is again asking customers whose health permits to turn thermostats down, and to not use appliances with heavy energy consumption, continuing through mid-week.&nbsp; A few specific actions customers can take to make a significant impact on electric and natural gas demand: &nbsp;

The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies.&nbsp; The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.&nbsp; Some pipelines are imposing cuts on the amount of gas available to customers, so Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers to conserve gas as well.&nbsp; We sincerely appreciate everyone’s efforts at conservation. &nbsp;

Updated 2 p.m. Monday to clarify possible interruptions of service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED, 2:20 p.m. Monday: According to Midwest Energy, the&nbsp;Energy Emergency Alert Level issued by the Southwest Power Pool has been scaled back to Level 2.Midwest EnergyThe Southwest Power Pool, which is the regional transmission operator for a 14-state region, issued a first-ever Energy Emergency Alert Level 3 to be effective at 10:08 a.m. Monday.&nbsp; An EEA3 is the highest of three levels of energy emergency alert and signals that SPP's operating reserves are below the required minimum.&nbsp;As part of an EEA3, the SPP is asking member utilities to curtail energy use through controlled interruptions of service. Over the next few days, Midwest Energy may begin mandatory interruptions of service to non-critical facilities on a rotational basis, with each rotation lasting no more than two hours. Many of these interruptions would involve oil field service and industrial-type loads, though some rural residential customers in oil production areas could also be affected. &nbsp;To further reduce loads, Midwest Energy is again asking customers whose health permits to turn thermostats down, and to not use appliances with heavy energy consumption, continuing through mid-week.&nbsp; A few specific actions customers can take to make a significant impact on electric and natural gas demand: &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>If your health permits, turn your furnace thermostat down 3 to 5 degrees lower than normal. &nbsp;</li><li>Postpone using high-consumption appliances such as clothes dryers, ovens and dishwashers.&nbsp; Delaying laundry a day or two, or making microwave-friendly meals, and hand-washing dishes would save significant amounts of energy. &nbsp;</li><li>Turn off any lights and appliances that you are not using.</li>
 </ul>The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies.&nbsp; The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.&nbsp; Some pipelines are imposing cuts on the amount of gas available to customers, so Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers to conserve gas as well.&nbsp; We sincerely appreciate everyone’s efforts at conservation. &nbsp;Updated 2 p.m. Monday to clarify possible interruptions of service.

Midwest Energy: Emergency alert scaled back to Level 2

Holy Family Elementary and TMP-Marian will be in remote learning. 

All afternoon activities will continue as scheduled.

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">HERE</a> for the latest cancellations and delays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579616767568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Holy Family Elementary and TMP-Marian will be in remote learning. All afternoon activities will continue as scheduled.Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6fc163afae0f4d5f5d2e4f">HERE</a> for the latest cancellations and delays.

TMP-M, Holy Family move to remote learning Tuesday

The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell slightly from seven on Friday to six on Monday.&nbsp;

There were 14 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 68 active cases, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,536 recovered cases.

As of Monday, there were 15 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 17 on Friday, with seven of those active patients and eight 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>

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose to 7.7 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,604 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 22,135 tests administered, 15 percent 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/2021/2/1613413048524.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Monday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell slightly from seven on Friday to six on Monday.&nbsp;There were 14 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County since Friday. There are currently 68 active cases, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,536 recovered cases.As of Monday, there were 15 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 17 on Friday, with seven of those active patients and eight 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>The seven-day average of percent of positive tests rose to 7.7 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 3,604 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County. Of the total 22,135 tests administered, 15 percent 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/2021/2/1613422399257.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Per-day virus rate falls slightly in Ellis Co.; 14 new cases identified

This year I chair the Senate Ways and Means Committee which produces the Senate budget for the next fiscal year. This week the Senate Ways and Means Committee had Dr. Lee Norman, head of the state health department give a report to our committee on vaccinations in Kansas. The committee questioned Dr. Norman as to when nursing homes and long term care facilities might start easing visitor restrictions. Dr. Norman reported 83% of the residents have received a first dose and 53% a second dose, with some turning down the vaccination, at least for now. He also reported that 56% of staff have agreed to take the vaccine. 

Dr. Norman reported that all 650 nursing homes under CMS oversight had received vaccinations and others not under CMS were called orphan facilities and all known orphan facilities had received the vaccinations. He did say they had found one facility that they did not know about and had plans to get these people vaccinated. He said the push to vaccinate has led a lot of hospitals and some nursing homes to begin easing the visitor restrictions, with some allowing one visitor. Dr. Norman reported during the peak of the pandemic visitors were often limited to those who were dying. 

Quoting Dr. Norman, “We are working a strategy with what is called rapid antigen testing where the unvaccinated person can have a rapid antigen test at the time that they come in to visit a loved one.”

We also had an update from the Kansas Department of Labor. 

They reported on the special 11 -week extension to pandemic unemployment insurance benefits built into December’s federal stimulus act is weeks away from implementation in Kansas. This means many workers will go 2 months or longer without unemployment payments. Many Kansans are waiting on the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program. Kansas Department of Labor is working to get the payments out. 

I continue to work daily to get unemployed Kansans their unemployment benefits. As I have stated in the past the Kansas Department of Labor must do a better job taking care of unemployed Kansans.

It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785-296-7399, or my cell number is 785-899-4700.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610490291573.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>February 15, 2021This year I chair the Senate Ways and Means Committee which produces the Senate budget for the next fiscal year. This week the Senate Ways and Means Committee had Dr. Lee Norman, head of the state health department give a report to our committee on vaccinations in Kansas. The committee questioned Dr. Norman as to when nursing homes and long term care facilities might start easing visitor restrictions. Dr. Norman reported 83% of the residents have received a first dose and 53% a second dose, with some turning down the vaccination, at least for now. He also reported that 56% of staff have agreed to take the vaccine. Dr. Norman reported that all 650 nursing homes under CMS oversight had received vaccinations and others not under CMS were called orphan facilities and all known orphan facilities had received the vaccinations. He did say they had found one facility that they did not know about and had plans to get these people vaccinated. He said the push to vaccinate has led a lot of hospitals and some nursing homes to begin easing the visitor restrictions, with some allowing one visitor. Dr. Norman reported during the peak of the pandemic visitors were often limited to those who were dying. Quoting Dr. Norman, “We are working a strategy with what is called rapid antigen testing where the unvaccinated person can have a rapid antigen test at the time that they come in to visit a loved one.”We also had an update from the Kansas Department of Labor. They reported on the special 11 -week extension to pandemic unemployment insurance benefits built into December’s federal stimulus act is weeks away from implementation in Kansas. This means many workers will go 2 months or longer without unemployment payments. Many Kansans are waiting on the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program. Kansas Department of Labor is working to get the payments out. I continue to work daily to get unemployed Kansans their unemployment benefits. As I have stated in the past the Kansas Department of Labor must do a better job taking care of unemployed Kansans.It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov. You may also call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785-296-7399, or my cell number is 785-899-4700.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is state senator of the Kansas 40th Dist.

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Feb. 15

OAKLEY -&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to a water main break, the city of Oakley Water Department will be shutting off the water at noon on Monday, February 15 in the following areas:

800 blocks of E. 5th &amp; E. 6th Streets 800 blocks of Amber, Ivory &amp; Hope Streets All of Royal Avenue 700 block of E. 2nd Street

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613407362381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of OakleyOAKLEY -&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to a water main break, the city of Oakley Water Department will be shutting off the water at noon on Monday, February 15 in the following areas:800 blocks of E. 5th &amp; E. 6th Streets 800 blocks of Amber, Ivory &amp; Hope Streets All of Royal Avenue 700 block of E. 2nd Street Sorry for the inconvenience!

Water break forces water shutoff in portions of Oakley

RUSSELL - The effects of widespread and extreme cold weather have led to an increasingly tightening condition in the Southwest Power Pools (SPP) service territory, of which Russell is a part. SPP has requested utilities in their service area to conserve energy until further notice to mitigate the risk of outages. The City of Russell has natural gas and diesel electric generation units.

 The city cannot run the natural gas generation due to the high demand for natural gas and priority given to heating. 

However, the City will run its diesel generation units, covering a portion of the City’s customers electric usage. However, with the high demand for electricity, inadequate supply of natural gas, and other variables, our customers are asked to reduce their electric usage to ensure the electric grid's safety and integrity and that our internal generation can cover the demand. This is not a Russell issue, or a Kansas issue, but a regional issue affecting numerous states in the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611586896424.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL - The effects of widespread and extreme cold weather have led to an increasingly tightening condition in the Southwest Power Pools (SPP) service territory, of which Russell is a part. SPP has requested utilities in their service area to conserve energy until further notice to mitigate the risk of outages. The City of Russell has natural gas and diesel electric generation units. The city cannot run the natural gas generation due to the high demand for natural gas and priority given to heating. However, the City will run its diesel generation units, covering a portion of the City’s customers electric usage. However, with the high demand for electricity, inadequate supply of natural gas, and other variables, our customers are asked to reduce their electric usage to ensure the electric grid's safety and integrity and that our internal generation can cover the demand. This is not a Russell issue, or a Kansas issue, but a regional issue affecting numerous states in the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City of Russell customers asked to conserve energy 

This week marked the fifth week of session with the first half of the legislative session almost behind us.&nbsp; As we approach “turn-around” which is March 5th, February 22nd&nbsp;will be the last week for committees to hear and work bills before the half-way point of 2021 session.&nbsp;

FLOOR ACTION – February 9th&nbsp;and 11th

The Senate confirmed four appointees nominated by the Governor - State Board of Tax Appeals, Chief Hearing Officer Thomas Browne; University of Kansas Hospital Authority, Member David Dillon; Kansas Human Rights Commission Michael Kane and State Long Term Care Ombudsman Camille Russell. State law in Kansas requires that certain appointments by the Governor or other state officials be confirmed by the Senate prior to the appointee exercising any power, duty, or function of the office.

SB 22&nbsp;- would enact the Rebuilding Employers and Livelihoods while Investing in Everyone’s Future (RELIEF) Act.&nbsp; A brief run through of the bill which passed off the Senate floor include:&nbsp; Kansans would be able to itemize regardless if the standard deduction is not claimed for federal income (can itemize on Kansas Taxes and not Federal Taxes).&nbsp; The state of Kansas will “decouple” from the federal government which simply means Kansans could itemize on state w/o itemizing on Federal.&nbsp; It would raise Kansas single deduction to $3,000 then $3,600 in 2021 and $4,050 in 2022 and married from $7,500 to $9000 in 2021 and $10,125 in 2022.&nbsp; SB 22 would exempt Social Security benefits (seniors) and allow retirement benefits to be subtracted from Kansas income taxes. It would decouple Kansas from federal government on business provision (GILTI) which is a tax Kansas has never collected until federal changes in 2017.&nbsp; (Only 6 states fully tax GILTI.&nbsp; This tax affects large companies in Kansas who employ thousands of people including Spirit, Cargill, Pfizer, Seaboard to list a few). SB 22 also clarifies that victims of ID theft will not owe Kansas individual income tax on unemployment compensation that was fraudulently obtained by another individual – we can trace the thief with this data on the tax return form.

As this was the first major income tax bill of the session – expect many changes to SB 22 as it moves along the process.&nbsp; It will now be sent to the House where it may be scheduled for a hearing in House Tax committee or they may propose their own bill where through votes of their members may change the direction of income tax measures.&nbsp; The final step would be Conference Committee action where this bill and other versions of income tax bills will be merged together for final votes in each chamber.&nbsp; And lastly be sent to the Governor for a final signature or veto.&nbsp;

SB 61&nbsp;- would change the definition of “eligible student” and “public school” in the Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program (TCLISSP) Act which passed in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp; The current program provides tax credits to individuals to fund scholarships to students who receive free lunch and only those students in the 100 lowest performing elementary schools.&nbsp; SB 61 would expand the eligibility to children who receive free or reduced lunches in Kansas. It would also be available to children in any public school in Kansas. The bill would add a requirement for qualified schools participating in the program to prominently display a link on their website that directs individuals to statutorily published reports on the Kansas State Department of Education’s website.&nbsp; It would require all qualified schools participating in the TCLISSP to provide a link on the school’s accountability reports webpage to the Kansas Department of Education webpage for school accreditation, performance accountability and achievement. In addition, the Department of Education would be required to prepare a performance accountability and achievement report for each accredited nonpublic school in Kansas. Current law requires these reports for public schools only.&nbsp;&nbsp; Each scholarship is limited to $8,000 and there is a $10 million annual cap on the amount of tax credits available to fund the program. If the amount of credit exceeds the contributor’s tax liability in any one taxable year, the remaining portion of the credit may be carried forward until the total amount of the credit is used.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb32/" target="_blank">SB 32</a>&nbsp;- allows school districts to pay the tuition for a student's dual or concurrent enrollment in a postsecondary educational institution and requiring a tuition waiver for foster children who are dually or concurrently enrolled. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb36/" target="_blank">SB 36</a>&nbsp;- permits&nbsp;employees of salvage vehicle pools to perform vehicle identification number inspections and salvage vehicle pools and dealers to apply for ownership documents for vehicles&nbsp;that are disclaimed by insurance companies.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb55/" target="_blank">SB 55</a>&nbsp;- would clarify the authority of healing arts school clinics to provide healing arts services. The bill would allow schools statutorily exempted from State Board of Regents approval requirements to be exempted from the prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine.&nbsp; The bill would also allow for offsite clinics owned or operated by a school in partnership with other providers to engage in the practice of healing arts.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb58/" target="_blank">SB 58</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;would add a provision to the Kansas Criminal Code that would prohibit the filing of certain liens or claims against real or personal property and provide for criminal penalties in such instances. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb64/" target="_blank">SB 64</a>&nbsp;- amends the Kansas Private and Out-of-State Postsecondary Education Institution Act

(Act) to clarify the State Board of Regents’ authority over private and out-of-state institutions. The bill would allow an institution currently exempt from the Act to apply to the Board for a certificate of approval if it is required for the institution to be eligible to receive federal Title IV student financial aid.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/SB70/" target="_blank">SB 70</a>&nbsp;- repeals the sunset on an exclusion of certain motor vehicle manufacturer rebates from the selling price for sales tax purposes. Current law excludes cash rebates granted by manufacturers to purchasers or lessees of new motor vehicles if such rebates are paid directly to retailers, but this provision is scheduled to sunset on June 30, 2021. Additionally, the bill would exclude discounts and coupons that are reimbursed by a third party from the definition of “sales or selling price” for the purpose of Kansas retail sales tax.

SB 4&nbsp;- would make unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment a severity level 8, nonperson felony in the case of electronic monitoring equipment and would also make unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment a class A nonperson misdemeanor.

SB 56&nbsp;- would amend law related to notices offering help to victims of human trafficking to require a prominent notice of help be posted in any place required to post notices to additional locations and businesses.&nbsp;

SB 68&nbsp;- would authorize and establish a fee fund for a firefighter distinctive license plate.

SB 69&nbsp;- would authorize the Love, Chloe Foundation distinctive license plate.

The Department of Commerce 2021 Community Development Block Grant Program has awarded 32 projects across the state totaling $13,864,149 of federal funds received to the state of Kansas. Six cities and counties in&nbsp;<a>Senate District #36 will receive these grants:&nbsp; City of Concordia - $48,975, City of Mankato - $600,000, City of Lincoln - $35,000, City of Vermillion - $250,000, City of Russell – $116,228 and Phillips County $192,514.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>The CDBG program is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and provides federal funds to local government for the development of viable communities by addressing their house, public facilities and development needs.&nbsp; These funds are one of the Department’s primary tools in supporting the state’s small, predominately rural communities.&nbsp;

Governor Kelly announced the Historic Sites Board of Review awarded $1,168,492 for 15 historic preservation

projects across the state as part of the 2021 round of Heritage Trust Fund (HTF) grants.&nbsp; The Lincoln State Bank in Lincoln was awarded a $90,000 grant which was the maximum amount allowed in the program.&nbsp; The HTF reimburses expenses for projects that preserve or restore historic properties. Qualifying expenses include professional fees and construction costs. Properties owned by the state or federal governments are not eligible, but those owned by local governments, private individuals, non-profit, and for-profit entities qualify. Individual grant awards may not exceed $90,000 and must be matched by the grant recipient.

If you have received a 1099-G form from the Kansas Department of Labor, but have not filed for unemployment insurance benefits or if you or your employer have received this 1099-G form and you are still employed, please visit immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://uiassistance.getkansasbenefits.gov/" target="_blank">https://uiassistance.getkansasbenefits.gov/</a>&nbsp;and fill out a “1099 Protest/Dispute.”&nbsp; Please be sure to upload an additional document known as an Unsworn Declaration which can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ui-benefits-forms/1099-g-forms/k-frd-100.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ui-benefits-forms/1099-g-forms/k-frd-100.pdf</a>.

If you have any reason to believe that your information is being used for fraudulent purposes in relation to unemployment insurance benefits, visit immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/fraud" target="_blank">https://www.dol.ks.gov/fraud</a>&nbsp;and click “Click Here to Report Fraudulent Activity.”&nbsp;This year the agency also has a specific phone line for claimants to call with questions concerning 1099s.&nbsp;The number is 785-575-1461.

ORPHAN TRAIN PODCAST – Concordia

One of the true treasures in Senate District #36 is the Orphan Train Museum.&nbsp; This incredible facility and story is something every Kansan should see, understand, and celebrate.&nbsp; Under the leadership of Shaley George and her board of directors; the Museum continues to do an amazing job of collecting, archiving, and sharing the Orphan Train story which is such a critical part of both Kansas and American history.&nbsp; Scott Heidner with Braden Heidner Lowe &amp; Associates in Topeka records podcasts of interesting people and places in Kansas and spent a day in Concordia and recorded a conversation with Shaley and it is now available to the public at &nbsp;<a href="https://bhlpodcasting.libsyn.com/bhl-podcast-show-ft-shaley-george-national-orphan-train-complex" target="_blank">https://bhlpodcasting.libsyn.com/bhl-podcast-show-ft-shaley-george-national-orphan-train-complex</a>.&nbsp; Listen in and enjoy the discussion of this historic site.&nbsp;

I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website.&nbsp; Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580853658061.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>February 15, 2021SENATE HIGHLIGHTSThis week marked the fifth week of session with the first half of the legislative session almost behind us.&nbsp; As we approach “turn-around” which is March 5th, February 22nd&nbsp;will be the last week for committees to hear and work bills before the half-way point of 2021 session.&nbsp;FLOOR ACTION – February 9th&nbsp;and 11thThe Senate confirmed four appointees nominated by the Governor - State Board of Tax Appeals, Chief Hearing Officer Thomas Browne; University of Kansas Hospital Authority, Member David Dillon; Kansas Human Rights Commission Michael Kane and State Long Term Care Ombudsman Camille Russell. State law in Kansas requires that certain appointments by the Governor or other state officials be confirmed by the Senate prior to the appointee exercising any power, duty, or function of the office.SB 22&nbsp;- would enact the Rebuilding Employers and Livelihoods while Investing in Everyone’s Future (RELIEF) Act.&nbsp; A brief run through of the bill which passed off the Senate floor include:&nbsp; Kansans would be able to itemize regardless if the standard deduction is not claimed for federal income (can itemize on Kansas Taxes and not Federal Taxes).&nbsp; The state of Kansas will “decouple” from the federal government which simply means Kansans could itemize on state w/o itemizing on Federal.&nbsp; It would raise Kansas single deduction to $3,000 then $3,600 in 2021 and $4,050 in 2022 and married from $7,500 to $9000 in 2021 and $10,125 in 2022.&nbsp; SB 22 would exempt Social Security benefits (seniors) and allow retirement benefits to be subtracted from Kansas income taxes. It would decouple Kansas from federal government on business provision (GILTI) which is a tax Kansas has never collected until federal changes in 2017.&nbsp; (Only 6 states fully tax GILTI.&nbsp; This tax affects large companies in Kansas who employ thousands of people including Spirit, Cargill, Pfizer, Seaboard to list a few). SB 22 also clarifies that victims of ID theft will not owe Kansas individual income tax on unemployment compensation that was fraudulently obtained by another individual – we can trace the thief with this data on the tax return form.As this was the first major income tax bill of the session – expect many changes to SB 22 as it moves along the process.&nbsp; It will now be sent to the House where it may be scheduled for a hearing in House Tax committee or they may propose their own bill where through votes of their members may change the direction of income tax measures.&nbsp; The final step would be Conference Committee action where this bill and other versions of income tax bills will be merged together for final votes in each chamber.&nbsp; And lastly be sent to the Governor for a final signature or veto.&nbsp;SB 61&nbsp;- would change the definition of “eligible student” and “public school” in the Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program (TCLISSP) Act which passed in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp; The current program provides tax credits to individuals to fund scholarships to students who receive free lunch and only those students in the 100 lowest performing elementary schools.&nbsp; SB 61 would expand the eligibility to children who receive free or reduced lunches in Kansas. It would also be available to children in any public school in Kansas. The bill would add a requirement for qualified schools participating in the program to prominently display a link on their website that directs individuals to statutorily published reports on the Kansas State Department of Education’s website.&nbsp; It would require all qualified schools participating in the TCLISSP to provide a link on the school’s accountability reports webpage to the Kansas Department of Education webpage for school accreditation, performance accountability and achievement. In addition, the Department of Education would be required to prepare a performance accountability and achievement report for each accredited nonpublic school in Kansas. Current law requires these reports for public schools only.&nbsp;&nbsp; Each scholarship is limited to $8,000 and there is a $10 million annual cap on the amount of tax credits available to fund the program. If the amount of credit exceeds the contributor’s tax liability in any one taxable year, the remaining portion of the credit may be carried forward until the total amount of the credit is used.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb32/" target="_blank">SB 32</a>&nbsp;- allows school districts to pay the tuition for a student's dual or concurrent enrollment in a postsecondary educational institution and requiring a tuition waiver for foster children who are dually or concurrently enrolled. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb36/" target="_blank">SB 36</a>&nbsp;- permits&nbsp;employees of salvage vehicle pools to perform vehicle identification number inspections and salvage vehicle pools and dealers to apply for ownership documents for vehicles&nbsp;that are disclaimed by insurance companies. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb55/" target="_blank">SB 55</a>&nbsp;- would clarify the authority of healing arts school clinics to provide healing arts services. The bill would allow schools statutorily exempted from State Board of Regents approval requirements to be exempted from the prohibition on the corporate practice of medicine.&nbsp; The bill would also allow for offsite clinics owned or operated by a school in partnership with other providers to engage in the practice of healing arts.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb58/" target="_blank">SB 58</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;would add a provision to the Kansas Criminal Code that would prohibit the filing of certain liens or claims against real or personal property and provide for criminal penalties in such instances. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb64/" target="_blank">SB 64</a>&nbsp;- amends the Kansas Private and Out-of-State Postsecondary Education Institution Act(Act) to clarify the State Board of Regents’ authority over private and out-of-state institutions. The bill would allow an institution currently exempt from the Act to apply to the Board for a certificate of approval if it is required for the institution to be eligible to receive federal Title IV student financial aid. <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/SB70/" target="_blank">SB 70</a>&nbsp;- repeals the sunset on an exclusion of certain motor vehicle manufacturer rebates from the selling price for sales tax purposes. Current law excludes cash rebates granted by manufacturers to purchasers or lessees of new motor vehicles if such rebates are paid directly to retailers, but this provision is scheduled to sunset on June 30, 2021. Additionally, the bill would exclude discounts and coupons that are reimbursed by a third party from the definition of “sales or selling price” for the purpose of Kansas retail sales tax. SB 4&nbsp;- would make unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment a severity level 8, nonperson felony in the case of electronic monitoring equipment and would also make unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment a class A nonperson misdemeanor.SB 56&nbsp;- would amend law related to notices offering help to victims of human trafficking to require a prominent notice of help be posted in any place required to post notices to additional locations and businesses.&nbsp;SB 68&nbsp;- would authorize and establish a fee fund for a firefighter distinctive license plate.SB 69&nbsp;- would authorize the Love, Chloe Foundation distinctive license plate.GOOD NEWS FOR SENATE DISTRICT #36The Department of Commerce 2021 Community Development Block Grant Program has awarded 32 projects across the state totaling $13,864,149 of federal funds received to the state of Kansas. Six cities and counties in&nbsp;<a>Senate District #36 will receive these grants:&nbsp; City of Concordia - $48,975, City of Mankato - $600,000, City of Lincoln - $35,000, City of Vermillion - $250,000, City of Russell – $116,228 and Phillips County $192,514.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>The CDBG program is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and provides federal funds to local government for the development of viable communities by addressing their house, public facilities and development needs.&nbsp; These funds are one of the Department’s primary tools in supporting the state’s small, predominately rural communities.&nbsp;Governor Kelly announced the Historic Sites Board of Review awarded $1,168,492 for 15 historic preservationprojects across the state as part of the 2021 round of Heritage Trust Fund (HTF) grants.&nbsp; The Lincoln State Bank in Lincoln was awarded a $90,000 grant which was the maximum amount allowed in the program.&nbsp; The HTF reimburses expenses for projects that preserve or restore historic properties. Qualifying expenses include professional fees and construction costs. Properties owned by the state or federal governments are not eligible, but those owned by local governments, private individuals, non-profit, and for-profit entities qualify. Individual grant awards may not exceed $90,000 and must be matched by the grant recipient.1099’s and FraudIf you have received a 1099-G form from the Kansas Department of Labor, but have not filed for unemployment insurance benefits or if you or your employer have received this 1099-G form and you are still employed, please visit immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://uiassistance.getkansasbenefits.gov/" target="_blank">https://uiassistance.getkansasbenefits.gov/</a>&nbsp;and fill out a “1099 Protest/Dispute.”&nbsp; Please be sure to upload an additional document known as an Unsworn Declaration which can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ui-benefits-forms/1099-g-forms/k-frd-100.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.dol.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ui-benefits-forms/1099-g-forms/k-frd-100.pdf</a>.If you have any reason to believe that your information is being used for fraudulent purposes in relation to unemployment insurance benefits, visit immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.ks.gov/fraud" target="_blank">https://www.dol.ks.gov/fraud</a>&nbsp;and click “Click Here to Report Fraudulent Activity.”&nbsp;This year the agency also has a specific phone line for claimants to call with questions concerning 1099s.&nbsp;The number is 785-575-1461.ORPHAN TRAIN PODCAST – ConcordiaOne of the true treasures in Senate District #36 is the Orphan Train Museum.&nbsp; This incredible facility and story is something every Kansan should see, understand, and celebrate.&nbsp; Under the leadership of Shaley George and her board of directors; the Museum continues to do an amazing job of collecting, archiving, and sharing the Orphan Train story which is such a critical part of both Kansas and American history.&nbsp; Scott Heidner with Braden Heidner Lowe &amp; Associates in Topeka records podcasts of interesting people and places in Kansas and spent a day in Concordia and recorded a conversation with Shaley and it is now available to the public at &nbsp;<a href="https://bhlpodcasting.libsyn.com/bhl-podcast-show-ft-shaley-george-national-orphan-train-complex" target="_blank">https://bhlpodcasting.libsyn.com/bhl-podcast-show-ft-shaley-george-national-orphan-train-complex</a>.&nbsp; Listen in and enjoy the discussion of this historic site.&nbsp;I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website.&nbsp; Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785 296-7389</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is the 36th Kansas District senator.&nbsp;The 36th District includes&nbsp;Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties.

BOWERS: Senate Scene, Week 5

With record-breaking cold expected to grip much of the country through mid-week, Midwest Energy is asking customers whose health permits to turn thermostats down a bit, and to not use appliances with heavy electricity consumption, beginning at 12:01 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15 and continuing through mid-week.

“Last week brought a trifecta of bad events — the lowest temperatures in decades across the entire region for more than a week; tight supplies of natural gas due to record use and supply interruptions; and finally, wind generation resources are at low levels and the wind is forecast to decrease further Sunday evening,” said Bill Dowling, Midwest Energy’s Vice President for Engineering and Energy Supply.

Patrick Parke, Midwest Energy’s Chief Executive Officer suggests there are a few specific actions customers can take to make a significant impact on electric and natural gas demand: &nbsp;

The Southwest Power Pool, which is the regional transmission operator for a 14-state region, issued a region-wide Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 1 to be effective at 5:00 am central time on Monday, Feb. 15.&nbsp; An EEA1 is the first of three levels of energy emergency alert.&nbsp; An EEA2 will be triggered if SPP no longer has sufficient generation available to meet expected energy requirements and reserves are considered deficient.&nbsp; A Level 3 event will result in planned service interruptions.&nbsp; Throughout SPP’s 14-state area, similar calls for conservation are being made by all electric utilities.&nbsp;

The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies.&nbsp; The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.&nbsp; Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers to conserve energy as well.&nbsp; We are seeing unprecedented demand on the gas system due to both the cold weather and the large demand for electric generation fuel. &nbsp;

“These next few days will be very tight in terms of both electric and natural gas supplies,” Parke said.&nbsp; “I’ve not seen a situation like this in my nearly four decades of utility experience.” &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest EnergyWith record-breaking cold expected to grip much of the country through mid-week, Midwest Energy is asking customers whose health permits to turn thermostats down a bit, and to not use appliances with heavy electricity consumption, beginning at 12:01 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15 and continuing through mid-week.“Last week brought a trifecta of bad events — the lowest temperatures in decades across the entire region for more than a week; tight supplies of natural gas due to record use and supply interruptions; and finally, wind generation resources are at low levels and the wind is forecast to decrease further Sunday evening,” said Bill Dowling, Midwest Energy’s Vice President for Engineering and Energy Supply.Patrick Parke, Midwest Energy’s Chief Executive Officer suggests there are a few specific actions customers can take to make a significant impact on electric and natural gas demand: &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>If your health permits, turn your furnace thermostat down 2 to 4 degrees. &nbsp;</li><li>Postpone using high-consumption appliances such as clothes dryers, ovens and dishwashers.&nbsp; Delay laundry a day or two, or making microwave-friendly meals, and hand-washing dishes (if you have an electric water heater) would save significant amounts of electricity. &nbsp;</li><li>Turn off any lights and appliances that you do not need or are not using.</li>
 </ul>The Southwest Power Pool, which is the regional transmission operator for a 14-state region, issued a region-wide Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 1 to be effective at 5:00 am central time on Monday, Feb. 15.&nbsp; An EEA1 is the first of three levels of energy emergency alert.&nbsp; An EEA2 will be triggered if SPP no longer has sufficient generation available to meet expected energy requirements and reserves are considered deficient.&nbsp; A Level 3 event will result in planned service interruptions.&nbsp; Throughout SPP’s 14-state area, similar calls for conservation are being made by all electric utilities.&nbsp;The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies.&nbsp; The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.&nbsp; Midwest Energy is asking its natural gas customers to conserve energy as well.&nbsp; We are seeing unprecedented demand on the gas system due to both the cold weather and the large demand for electric generation fuel. &nbsp;“These next few days will be very tight in terms of both electric and natural gas supplies,” Parke said.&nbsp; “I’ve not seen a situation like this in my nearly four decades of utility experience.” &nbsp;

 Midwest Energy appeals to customers to  conserve electricity, natural gas

If it has to be this cold in Hays, it should at least be a record cold - and, it is.

After a high temperature of just 2 degrees is Hays on Sunday, the overnight low dropped to -18 degrees Fahrenheit.

That's a new record low for February 14, according to official records from the K-State Agricultural Center, which date back 152 years.

The previous record low on February 14 in Hays was -9 degrees, set back in 1909.

The wind chill at 8 a.m. Monday - under a sunny sky - was -27 degrees.

Western Kansas, including Ellis County, is in a <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ddc/">wind chill warning</a> until 11 a.m. Tuesday, as issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613400390861.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIf it has to be this cold in Hays, it should at least be a record cold - and, it is.After a high temperature of just 2 degrees is Hays on Sunday, the overnight low dropped to -18 degrees Fahrenheit.That's a new record low for February 14, according to official records from the K-State Agricultural Center, which date back 152 years.The previous record low on February 14 in Hays was -9 degrees, set back in 1909.The wind chill at 8 a.m. Monday - under a sunny sky - was -27 degrees.Western Kansas, including Ellis County, is in a <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ddc/">wind chill warning</a> until 11 a.m. Tuesday, as issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;Midwest Energy is <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/113797b0-374e-4805-b8d5-88cb2c91c1b8">appealing to customers to conserve</a> their use of electricity and natural gas for the next few days.&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly issued a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/da725dc4-fe78-4794-bdf8-88cbb3d8d486">State of Disaster Emergency</a> Sunday afternoon because of the bitterly cold temperatures.&nbsp;The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/90ed58e5-b229-4234-b345-d26c4090cc8c">weather forecast</a> calls for a gradual warmup starting Wednesday.&nbsp;

Local