THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2029 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Tyler R. Morelock, 29, Chuckey, TN, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles west of U.S. 24.

The semi left the roadway to the right, returned to the roadway, and left the roadway to the right a second time, overturned and slid on the passenger side into the north ditch.

EMS transported Morelock to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2029 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Tyler R. Morelock, 29, Chuckey, TN, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles west of U.S. 24.The semi left the roadway to the right, returned to the roadway, and left the roadway to the right a second time, overturned and slid on the passenger side into the north ditch.EMS transported Morelock to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns on I-70

The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell from 10 on Monday to nine on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">RELATED: Vaccine information for state of Kansas</a>

There are currently 115 active cases of COVID-19 in the county, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,188 recovered cases.

As of Monday, there were 24 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 26 Tuesday, with 15 of those cases active and nine in the recovery phase.

The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from more than 14 percent Monday to 11.6 percent Wednesday.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,347 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 44 coronavirus-related deaths.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610564011490.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellis County Health Department on Wednesday reported the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the last seven days fell from 10 on Monday to nine on Wednesday.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">RELATED: Vaccine information for state of Kansas</a>There are currently 115 active cases of COVID-19 in the county, including six active hospitalizations of Ellis County residents, and 3,188 recovered cases.As of Monday, there were 24 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 26 Tuesday, with 15 of those cases active and nine in the recovery phase.The seven-day average of percent of positive tests fell from more than 14 percent Monday to 11.6 percent Wednesday.Since reporting began, there have been 3,347 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 44 coronavirus-related deaths.NOTE:&nbsp;"New cases" reflects cases reported by the Ellis County Health Department between regular reporting periods of Monday, Wednesday and Friday. "Total cases" reflects all cases reported by the department. Because of delayed test results, total cases might include cases prior to the previous reporting period, so the figures might not necessarily correspond.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnw0R-SGsnA"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

Per-day virus rate in Ellis County dips slightly

The Kansas Department of Health an Environment on Wednesday announced that 24 new cases of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Monday.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,347 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County.

As of 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, there was no update of cases from the Ellis County Health Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610564011490.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health an Environment on Wednesday announced that 24 new cases of COVID-19 had been identified in Ellis County since Monday.As of Monday, there were 24 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, down from 26 Tuesday, with 15 of those cases active and nine in the recovery phase.Since reporting began, there have been 3,347 cases of coronavirus identified in Ellis County.As of 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, there was no update of cases from the Ellis County Health Department.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnw0R-SGsnA"></iframe>
 <figcaption>Sponsored</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 24 new cases of COVID-19 in Ellis Co. since Monday

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<div><iframe title="Pet registrations for 2021 ongoing in Hays" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/tijb9-f77359?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Pet registrations for 2021 ongoing in Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board Monday night focused on doing what it can to fix its existing facilities with the money it will likely have during the next five years in its capital outlay budget.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said he hoped the discussion would hep identify short- and long-term goals for the district's facilities. However, he acknowledged those priorities will likely change as new needs arise.

The superintendent brought to the board a grid showing the condition of the facilities in the district. Wilson compiled the grid with the help of Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay.

More than half of the buildings in the district are in need of work to their HVAC and plumbing systems.&nbsp;

"I point out that we have done a lot of work," Wilson said. "It's not all red. We have done a lot of work by being very sensible about our dollars. The green is low attention and a lot of those are because we have put dollars toward maintenance, upgrading and improving those areas."

The district has an average annual capital outlay revenue of about $2.9 million. The July 1 carryover for FY21 was $2.77 million.

"We spend an average of $3.1 million in capital outlay every year, and that is just to keep everything going," Wilson said.

The district has about $1.4 million in recurring capital expenses annually. The $85,ooo for the superintendent's equipment and projects is for other projects and purchases that are needed, but not otherwise budgeted. Wilson said it is not a personal funding account.

The district is already obligated to pay $645,000 in lease payments this year for the Hays Middle School classroom addition, Early Childhood Complex project and technology leases.

Board President Mike Walker noted the board has discussed most of the capital projects for the current school year.

The O'Loughlin Elementary School secure entrance project has received approval from the board and gone out for bids. 

The secure entrance project for Wilson Elementary School was given the go ahead by the board at its meeting Monday night. That project is just entering the design phase and is estimated to cost $500,000.

The district wants to update security cameras in all of its schools, starting with the HHS and HMS in 2020-21.

After a recent visit from the fire marshal, the district learned HMS has fire doors that are not up to code. The district plans to replace those this year at a cost of $20,000.

The track at HMS is in disrepair and has deep crevices in the surface. The school had a student fall in one of the holes in the track and hurt himself. The cost of repairing the track this year is estimated at $150,000.

The windows at Wilson Elementary School are in dire need of work, Wilson said. Most of the windows can't be opened. Those that can be opened can't be shut once they are open, Principal Anita Scheve said.

After recurring expenses, the district has about $1.7 million to spend on capital projects. The proposed project list for 2020-21 equals an estimated $1.9 million. This means the district would have to dip slightly into its reserves to complete all the project on the list.

The district has about $2.7 million in reserve. In addition, it just received $495,000 for the sale of the former Washington school.

The district will pay off the last payment for the lease agreement on the HMS sixth-grade classroom addition in 2021-22.

"You have added 14 classrooms to the middle school, and it is still about four short," Wilson said.&nbsp;

The district will have its first payment on a lease agreement for the new HVAC system at Roosevelt Elementary School in 2021-22. That project will be started this summer. The project is out for bids now.

The HHS HVAC system needs repairs at an estimated cost of $4.5 million. However, Wilson said the district does not have the budget to make all the repairs at this time.

The district would like to resurface the track and replace or repair the old tennis court at the HHS at an estimated cost of $500,000 for both projects.

Security camera replacement at the elementary schools is also budgeted for the 2021-22 school year.

• $1.4 million for a culinary classroom at HHS. This would be used by the Helping Hands program, so those students wouldn't have to bused from HHS to Rockwell Administration Center. The district has discussed using space dedicated for Helping Hands at Rockwell for the Learning Center, which is temporarily located at the Hadley Center.

• $2.6 million for a classroom and cafeteria expansion at HMS

• $1.5 plumping repipe for Roosevelt

• $1.5 plumping repipe for Wilson

• $1.5 plumping repipe for O'Loughlin&nbsp;

•&nbsp;$1.5 plumping repipe for Lincoln

• $1.8 million for HVAC replacement at Wilson

• $2.5 million renovation of the auditorium at Rockwell to repair the HVAC, electrical and lighting.&nbsp;

"We have some fine arts groups that do some tremendous projects and presentations, and they are doing it in a less than ideal auditorium," Wilson said. 

He said the $2.5 million would only bring the auditorium up to minimum standards.

"For a 5A district, it is not adequate," Wilson said of the auditorium.

• $100,000 to add a street to Rome Road.&nbsp;This would be an attempt to relieve some of the congestion on Hall Street at O'Loughlin.

• $843,000 for turf field at HHS with the goal of playing football games there.

• $726,000 for a softball field at HHS.

• $100,000 for an elevator at Lincoln to make it Americans with Disabilities Act compliant.

"I think if we are going to continue, we are going to have to put a lot of dollars into Lincoln," Wilson said.

• $100,000 for an elevator at Rockwell

"What you can see is that we don't have enough capital outlay dollars to do all of this," Wilson said. "This is a vision of where our needs are in the district and where we need to look at to make things happen."

He added the district will not be able to do some of the large projects without additional revenue in terms of a bond issue or by increasing the district's lease payments.

"The one thing that jumps out me is that the district is working as hard as possible to meet our facilities needs without a bond—without some other revenue," Walker said. "I think people should understand that we are doing everything we can, and to do some of these other things, we are going to have to discuss a bond."

Wilson warned against becoming too burdened with lease payments, because then the district would not have enough funds available for maintenance.

Board member Lance Bickle said other buildings would suffer if the district put large amounts into lease payments for large projects like the HVAC system at HHS.

Wilson said based on the dollars the district has available, a more realistic capital plan would be stretched out another 30 years.

Board member Craig Pallister said the deferred capital outlay list for the district has continued to grow over the years.

"We have done a good job of meeting the immediate needs, but we have not been able to move forward with the improvement of the facilities in the district," Pallister said.&nbsp;

Wilson noted the newest building in the district with the exception of the ECC, is HHS, which is 40 years old. The oldest building is Lincoln, which is 95 years old.

"You have a lot of buildings that are right around the same age," he said. "Things just start to fail all at the same time. At some point, I think we're going to have to build a new facility."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590007907309.jpeg" alt="Corroded pipes at Roosevelt Elementary School. Roosevelt is set to receive a new HVAC system this summer. More than half of the district schools are in need of HVAC and plumbing upgrades, according to a report presented to the Hays school board Monday night." />
 <figcaption>Corroded pipes at Roosevelt Elementary School. Roosevelt is set to receive a new HVAC system this summer. More than half of the district schools are in need of HVAC and plumbing upgrades, according to a report presented to the Hays school board Monday night.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board Monday night focused on doing what it can to fix its existing facilities with the money it will likely have during the next five years in its capital outlay budget.Superintendent Ron Wilson said he hoped the discussion would hep identify short- and long-term goals for the district's facilities. However, he acknowledged those priorities will likely change as new needs arise.The superintendent brought to the board a grid showing the condition of the facilities in the district. Wilson compiled the grid with the help of Buildings and Grounds Director Rusty Lindsay.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610465963132.png" alt="USD 489 facility conditions" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 facility conditions</figcaption>
 </figure>More than half of the buildings in the district are in need of work to their HVAC and plumbing systems.&nbsp;"I point out that we have done a lot of work," Wilson said. "It's not all red. We have done a lot of work by being very sensible about our dollars. The green is low attention and a lot of those are because we have put dollars toward maintenance, upgrading and improving those areas."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610466402277.png" alt="USD&nbsp; 489 capital outlay revenues/expenditures" />
 <figcaption>USD&nbsp; 489 capital outlay revenues/expenditures</figcaption>
 </figure>The district has an average annual capital outlay revenue of about $2.9 million. The July 1 carryover for FY21 was $2.77 million."We spend an average of $3.1 million in capital outlay every year, and that is just to keep everything going," Wilson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610467107680.png" alt="USD 489 recurring capital outlay expenses" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 recurring capital outlay expenses</figcaption>
 </figure>The district has about $1.4 million in recurring capital expenses annually. The $85,ooo for the superintendent's equipment and projects is for other projects and purchases that are needed, but not otherwise budgeted. Wilson said it is not a personal funding account.The district is already obligated to pay $645,000 in lease payments this year for the Hays Middle School classroom addition, Early Childhood Complex project and technology leases.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610467362357.png" alt="USD 489 five-year capital outlay outlook" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 five-year capital outlay outlook</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>2020-21 projects</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610467452427.png" alt="USD 489 2020-21 proposed capital project list" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 2020-21 proposed capital project list</figcaption>
 </figure>Board President Mike Walker noted the board has discussed most of the capital projects for the current school year.The O'Loughlin Elementary School secure entrance project has received approval from the board and gone out for bids. The secure entrance project for Wilson Elementary School was given the go ahead by the board at its meeting Monday night. That project is just entering the design phase and is estimated to cost $500,000.The district wants to update security cameras in all of its schools, starting with the HHS and HMS in 2020-21.After a recent visit from the fire marshal, the district learned HMS has fire doors that are not up to code. The district plans to replace those this year at a cost of $20,000.The track at HMS is in disrepair and has deep crevices in the surface. The school had a student fall in one of the holes in the track and hurt himself. The cost of repairing the track this year is estimated at $150,000.The windows at Wilson Elementary School are in dire need of work, Wilson said. Most of the windows can't be opened. Those that can be opened can't be shut once they are open, Principal Anita Scheve said.After recurring expenses, the district has about $1.7 million to spend on capital projects. The proposed project list for 2020-21 equals an estimated $1.9 million. This means the district would have to dip slightly into its reserves to complete all the project on the list.The district has about $2.7 million in reserve. In addition, it just received $495,000 for the sale of the former Washington school.<h2>2021-22 projects</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610469913406.png" alt="USD 489 2021-22 capital project list" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 2021-22 capital project list</figcaption>
 </figure>The district will pay off the last payment for the lease agreement on the HMS sixth-grade classroom addition in 2021-22."You have added 14 classrooms to the middle school, and it is still about four short," Wilson said.&nbsp;The district will have its first payment on a lease agreement for the new HVAC system at Roosevelt Elementary School in 2021-22. That project will be started this summer. The project is out for bids now.The HHS HVAC system needs repairs at an estimated cost of $4.5 million. However, Wilson said the district does not have the budget to make all the repairs at this time.The district would like to resurface the track and replace or repair the old tennis court at the HHS at an estimated cost of $500,000 for both projects.Security camera replacement at the elementary schools is also budgeted for the 2021-22 school year.<h2>Other major long-term projects</h2>• $1.4 million for a culinary classroom at HHS. This would be used by the Helping Hands program, so those students wouldn't have to bused from HHS to Rockwell Administration Center. The district has discussed using space dedicated for Helping Hands at Rockwell for the Learning Center, which is temporarily located at the Hadley Center.• $2.6 million for a classroom and cafeteria expansion at HMS• $1.5 plumping repipe for Roosevelt• $1.5 plumping repipe for Wilson• $1.5 plumping repipe for O'Loughlin&nbsp;•&nbsp;$1.5 plumping repipe for Lincoln• $1.8 million for HVAC replacement at Wilson• $2.5 million renovation of the auditorium at Rockwell to repair the HVAC, electrical and lighting.&nbsp; "We have some fine arts groups that do some tremendous projects and presentations, and they are doing it in a less than ideal auditorium," Wilson said. He said the $2.5 million would only bring the auditorium up to minimum standards."For a 5A district, it is not adequate," Wilson said of the auditorium.• $100,000 to add a street to Rome Road.&nbsp;This would be an attempt to relieve some of the congestion on Hall Street at O'Loughlin.• $843,000 for turf field at HHS with the goal of playing football games there.• $726,000 for a softball field at HHS.• $100,000 for an elevator at Lincoln to make it Americans with Disabilities Act compliant."I think if we are going to continue, we are going to have to put a lot of dollars into Lincoln," Wilson said.• $100,000 for an elevator at Rockwell"What you can see is that we don't have enough capital outlay dollars to do all of this," Wilson said. "This is a vision of where our needs are in the district and where we need to look at to make things happen."He added the district will not be able to do some of the large projects without additional revenue in terms of a bond issue or by increasing the district's lease payments."The one thing that jumps out me is that the district is working as hard as possible to meet our facilities needs without a bond—without some other revenue," Walker said. "I think people should understand that we are doing everything we can, and to do some of these other things, we are going to have to discuss a bond."Wilson warned against becoming too burdened with lease payments, because then the district would not have enough funds available for maintenance.Board member Lance Bickle said other buildings would suffer if the district put large amounts into lease payments for large projects like the HVAC system at HHS.Wilson said based on the dollars the district has available, a more realistic capital plan would be stretched out another 30 years.Board member Craig Pallister said the deferred capital outlay list for the district has continued to grow over the years."We have done a good job of meeting the immediate needs, but we have not been able to move forward with the improvement of the facilities in the district," Pallister said.&nbsp;Wilson noted the newest building in the district with the exception of the ECC, is HHS, which is 40 years old. The oldest building is Lincoln, which is 95 years old."You have a lot of buildings that are right around the same age," he said. "Things just start to fail all at the same time. At some point, I think we're going to have to build a new facility."

USD 489 short of what it needs to meet facility improvement goals

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism has announced its list of 21 places in Kansas to experience in 2021. The 21 locations across Kansas range from events, agritourism, history, outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. &nbsp;

Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe expressed her enthusiasm for travel to resume. “Take this opportunity to explore your own state,” Jobe encourages. “While setting your New Year goals be sure to include travel as a part of that plan. There are many health benefits to taking a vacation, and Kansas has ample opportunities for travelers to safely experience these attractions.”&nbsp;

To learn more about these locations and travel safety guidelines, visit <a href="https://www.travelks.com/">TravelKS.com</a>. &nbsp;

The 21 Places in Kansas to Experience in 2021&nbsp;

Santa Fe Trail-&nbsp;2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail, and celebratory events will be happening across the state. Council Grove is commemorating the anniversary with a two-day celebration on July 16-17, 2021, including an old west gunslinger reenactment.&nbsp;

Cheyenne Bottoms&nbsp;Wildlife Area- The largest wetland in the interior U.S. It is a complex of marshy basins in a 41,000-acre lowland area containing the largest system of wetlands in Kansas, and the richest wetland feeding grounds in the central flyway. It is critical to the survival of many species. Some 320 bird species frequent Cheyenne Bottoms. &nbsp;

Kansas State Fair- Celebrate all things Kansas at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson, Sept. 10-19, 2021.&nbsp;

Historic Sites- Kansas is home to 16 state-owned historic sites and 27 national historic landmarks. Explore our state’s fascinating history from Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, and Native American history, to frontier forts and historic trails. &nbsp;

Wine Trail- Before prohibition, Kansas combined with Missouri to form one of the largest grape-growing and winemaking regions in America. Kansas, because of the fertile soil, is the perfect home for select grape varieties. Kansas' landscape is dotted with a growing number of local wineries – some of which are nationally- and internationally-recognized.&nbsp;

Tanganyika Wildlife Park- Tanganyika, located in Goddard, is the only park in the U.S. with 10 interactive encounters where you can touch, feed, and even ride unique animal species.&nbsp;Handcrafted by Tanganyika keepers, choose from more than 15 experiences that will deepen your connection to some our nation’s rare and endangered species.&nbsp;

State Parks-&nbsp;There are 28 state parks spread across Kansas. Some are amid steep, timbered slopes ringed in bus-sized boulders. Others are where prairie grasses and wildflowers stretch towards 10-mile horizons. Enjoy the hundreds of miles available for hiking where the terrain, and views, will leave you breathless.&nbsp;

Eisenhower Presidential Museum- Recently renovated with new exhibits, experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words. The all-new 25,000 square-foot museum in Abilene boasts innovations in technological components and interactive exhibits guaranteed to engage audiences of all ages and learning styles.&nbsp;

Nicodemus-&nbsp;The oldest preserved black settlement west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can learn about Nicodemus&nbsp;history in the Visitor's Center and take a&nbsp;walking tour&nbsp;to view the historic buildings that represent the five pillars of the African American community: church, self-government, education, home and business.&nbsp;

Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area- Extraordinary events in Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area are forever woven into our nation’s fabric. In the nineteenth century, the nation turned its eyes to the Missouri-Kansas border where differing definitions of “freedom” collided, inciting and fueling a Civil War. The heritage area, located in Lawrence, focuses on three main themes: Shaping the Frontier, Kansas/Missouri Border War and the Enduring Struggle for Freedom.&nbsp;

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve- Nearly 11,000 acres of wide-open space, beautiful vistas, seasonal wildflowers, wildlife, a bison herd, and plenty of solitude. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the only unit in the National Park Service dedicated to preserving a rare remnant of tallgrass prairie. The preserve, located near Strong City, has more than 40 miles of hiking and nature trails.&nbsp;

Emma Chase Friday Nights- Enjoy live music every Friday night in Cottonwood Falls. Dance under the stars downtown with the historic Chase County Courthouse as your backdrop. &nbsp;

Field Station: Dinosaurs- A one-of-a-kind, prehistoric experience featuring&nbsp;more than 40 life-size, moving and realistic dinosaurs&nbsp;that are thrilling, educational and fun! Your expedition includes 10-acres of walking trails, more than 30 live shows, and games and activities conveniently located in Derby.&nbsp;

Drive-In Theatres-&nbsp;The nostalgic pastime of a drive-in theatre is no longer in the past. Kanopolis, Wichita, Dodge City and Kansas City each offer the perfect option for a fun, family night out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rock Formations-&nbsp;Explore some of the Sunflower State’s most unique natural wonders – From the Niobrara chalk formations of Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, to the sandstone concretions of Rock City and the Dakota formations of Mushroom Rock State Park. &nbsp;

Brewery Tours- Hankering for hops? A growing number of Kansas breweries are popping up throughout the state, catering to those in search of fresh flavors and unique experiences. &nbsp;

Drive The Byways- Kansas has 12 byways – nine scenic, two of which are National Scenic Byways and three historic byways.&nbsp;Over a millennium, geologic shifts shaped the state's landscape to create a scenic backdrop for travelers.&nbsp;Follow the paths of great expedition teams and adventurers to see where history happened along Kansas' 12 distinctive byways.&nbsp;During the journey, visit museums and shops or enjoy local dining and lodging to create your own byway experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes- This Fort Scott museum highlights role models who demonstrate courage, compassion and respect, regardless of race, religion and creed. Through the Center’s unique project-based learning approach, students discover, develop and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes who have made a profound and positive impact on the course of history. By championing these Unsung Heroes, students, educators and communities discover their own power and responsibility to effect positive change in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Agritourism Business-&nbsp;Saddle up&nbsp;and experience the thrill&nbsp;<a></a>of a cattle drive or join in the harvest at a working Kansas farm. You'll have a new appreciation for the state's agricultural roots and the work involved in bringing food from&nbsp;farm to table. &nbsp;

Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas- Lucas is a folk-art lover’s paradise and home to some of the most whimsical attractions in Kansas. The World’s Largest Souvenir Travel Plate welcomes you to town, and traditional Post Rock limestone architecture enhances the aesthetic of local neighborhoods and downtown businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant-&nbsp;Held every three years, this special event commemorates the Great Peace Council of 1867 between the U.S. Government and the five Plains Tribes. The large-scale reenactment takes place in a natural amphitheater just east of Medicine Lodge in the beautiful Gyp Hills, near the original site of the council where the Medicine River and Elm Creek flow together. It compresses 300 years of history into two hours of entertainment and education, celebrating the diverse cultures of the native peoples, discoverers, explorers and settlers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610385072235.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPTTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism has announced its list of 21 places in Kansas to experience in 2021. The 21 locations across Kansas range from events, agritourism, history, outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. &nbsp;Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe expressed her enthusiasm for travel to resume. “Take this opportunity to explore your own state,” Jobe encourages. “While setting your New Year goals be sure to include travel as a part of that plan. There are many health benefits to taking a vacation, and Kansas has ample opportunities for travelers to safely experience these attractions.”&nbsp;To learn more about these locations and travel safety guidelines, visit <a href="https://www.travelks.com/">TravelKS.com</a>. &nbsp;The 21 Places in Kansas to Experience in 2021&nbsp;Santa Fe Trail-&nbsp;2021 marks the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail, and celebratory events will be happening across the state. Council Grove is commemorating the anniversary with a two-day celebration on July 16-17, 2021, including an old west gunslinger reenactment.&nbsp;Cheyenne Bottoms&nbsp;Wildlife Area- The largest wetland in the interior U.S. It is a complex of marshy basins in a 41,000-acre lowland area containing the largest system of wetlands in Kansas, and the richest wetland feeding grounds in the central flyway. It is critical to the survival of many species. Some 320 bird species frequent Cheyenne Bottoms. &nbsp;Kansas State Fair- Celebrate all things Kansas at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson, Sept. 10-19, 2021.&nbsp;Historic Sites- Kansas is home to 16 state-owned historic sites and 27 national historic landmarks. Explore our state’s fascinating history from Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, and Native American history, to frontier forts and historic trails. &nbsp;Wine Trail- Before prohibition, Kansas combined with Missouri to form one of the largest grape-growing and winemaking regions in America. Kansas, because of the fertile soil, is the perfect home for select grape varieties. Kansas' landscape is dotted with a growing number of local wineries – some of which are nationally- and internationally-recognized.&nbsp;Tanganyika Wildlife Park- Tanganyika, located in Goddard, is the only park in the U.S. with 10 interactive encounters where you can touch, feed, and even ride unique animal species.&nbsp;Handcrafted by Tanganyika keepers, choose from more than 15 experiences that will deepen your connection to some our nation’s rare and endangered species.&nbsp;State Parks-&nbsp;There are 28 state parks spread across Kansas. Some are amid steep, timbered slopes ringed in bus-sized boulders. Others are where prairie grasses and wildflowers stretch towards 10-mile horizons. Enjoy the hundreds of miles available for hiking where the terrain, and views, will leave you breathless.&nbsp;Eisenhower Presidential Museum- Recently renovated with new exhibits, experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words. The all-new 25,000 square-foot museum in Abilene boasts innovations in technological components and interactive exhibits guaranteed to engage audiences of all ages and learning styles.&nbsp;Nicodemus-&nbsp;The oldest preserved black settlement west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can learn about Nicodemus&nbsp;history in the Visitor's Center and take a&nbsp;walking tour&nbsp;to view the historic buildings that represent the five pillars of the African American community: church, self-government, education, home and business.&nbsp;Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area- Extraordinary events in Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area are forever woven into our nation’s fabric. In the nineteenth century, the nation turned its eyes to the Missouri-Kansas border where differing definitions of “freedom” collided, inciting and fueling a Civil War. The heritage area, located in Lawrence, focuses on three main themes: Shaping the Frontier, Kansas/Missouri Border War and the Enduring Struggle for Freedom.&nbsp;Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve- Nearly 11,000 acres of wide-open space, beautiful vistas, seasonal wildflowers, wildlife, a bison herd, and plenty of solitude. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the only unit in the National Park Service dedicated to preserving a rare remnant of tallgrass prairie. The preserve, located near Strong City, has more than 40 miles of hiking and nature trails.&nbsp;Emma Chase Friday Nights- Enjoy live music every Friday night in Cottonwood Falls. Dance under the stars downtown with the historic Chase County Courthouse as your backdrop. &nbsp;Field Station: Dinosaurs- A one-of-a-kind, prehistoric experience featuring&nbsp;more than 40 life-size, moving and realistic dinosaurs&nbsp;that are thrilling, educational and fun! Your expedition includes 10-acres of walking trails, more than 30 live shows, and games and activities conveniently located in Derby.&nbsp;Drive-In Theatres-&nbsp;The nostalgic pastime of a drive-in theatre is no longer in the past. Kanopolis, Wichita, Dodge City and Kansas City each offer the perfect option for a fun, family night out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rock Formations-&nbsp;Explore some of the Sunflower State’s most unique natural wonders – From the Niobrara chalk formations of Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, to the sandstone concretions of Rock City and the Dakota formations of Mushroom Rock State Park. &nbsp;Brewery Tours- Hankering for hops? A growing number of Kansas breweries are popping up throughout the state, catering to those in search of fresh flavors and unique experiences. &nbsp;Drive The Byways- Kansas has 12 byways – nine scenic, two of which are National Scenic Byways and three historic byways.&nbsp;Over a millennium, geologic shifts shaped the state's landscape to create a scenic backdrop for travelers.&nbsp;Follow the paths of great expedition teams and adventurers to see where history happened along Kansas' 12 distinctive byways.&nbsp;During the journey, visit museums and shops or enjoy local dining and lodging to create your own byway experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes- This Fort Scott museum highlights role models who demonstrate courage, compassion and respect, regardless of race, religion and creed. Through the Center’s unique project-based learning approach, students discover, develop and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes who have made a profound and positive impact on the course of history. By championing these Unsung Heroes, students, educators and communities discover their own power and responsibility to effect positive change in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Agritourism Business-&nbsp;Saddle up&nbsp;and experience the thrill&nbsp;<a></a>of a cattle drive or join in the harvest at a working Kansas farm. You'll have a new appreciation for the state's agricultural roots and the work involved in bringing food from&nbsp;farm to table. &nbsp;Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas- Lucas is a folk-art lover’s paradise and home to some of the most whimsical attractions in Kansas. The World’s Largest Souvenir Travel Plate welcomes you to town, and traditional Post Rock limestone architecture enhances the aesthetic of local neighborhoods and downtown businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant-&nbsp;Held every three years, this special event commemorates the Great Peace Council of 1867 between the U.S. Government and the five Plains Tribes. The large-scale reenactment takes place in a natural amphitheater just east of Medicine Lodge in the beautiful Gyp Hills, near the original site of the council where the Medicine River and Elm Creek flow together. It compresses 300 years of history into two hours of entertainment and education, celebrating the diverse cultures of the native peoples, discoverers, explorers and settlers.&nbsp;

Nicodemus, Lucas among '21 Places in Kansas to Experience in 2021'  

GARDEN CITY — Last week, U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall announced the hiring of David Schemm as agricultural adviser. Schemm joins the staff with extensive knowledge of farming and farm programs. In November 2017, he was named the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency’s Kansas State Executive Director. In that position, Schemm oversaw the implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill, three rounds of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program and various other FSA programs. Following the announcement, Marshall issued this statement:

“Agriculture is responsible for 40 percent of our state’s economy and since day one, I have prioritized my representation of the agriculture industry in Washington D.C.,” Marshall said. “David comes to my staff with an unmatched understanding of farm bill programs and Kansas agriculture and will be an invaluable resource for Kansas farmers and ranchers.”

In his capacity on Senator Marshall’s staff, Schemm will meet with agricultural groups throughout Kansas and advise the Senator on agricultural and farm bill issues. Schemm grew up in Sharon Springs, Kan., and received a bachelor’s degree in theology. After graduation he returned home to the family farm and custom crop-spraying business. He and his wife, Lisa, have two sons, Clay and Luke.

As a third-generation farmer, Schemm grows wheat, corn, grain sorghum and sunflowers. He is a member of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and National Association of Wheat Growers since 2002, and is also an active member of the Ag Data Advisory Committee, Field to Market Board of Directors and Ag Rail Business Council.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610137557376.jpeg" alt="Schemm" />
 <figcaption>Schemm</figcaption>
 </figure> GARDEN CITY — Last week, U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall announced the hiring of David Schemm as agricultural adviser. Schemm joins the staff with extensive knowledge of farming and farm programs. In November 2017, he was named the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency’s Kansas State Executive Director. In that position, Schemm oversaw the implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill, three rounds of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program and various other FSA programs. Following the announcement, Marshall issued this statement:“Agriculture is responsible for 40 percent of our state’s economy and since day one, I have prioritized my representation of the agriculture industry in Washington D.C.,” Marshall said. “David comes to my staff with an unmatched understanding of farm bill programs and Kansas agriculture and will be an invaluable resource for Kansas farmers and ranchers.”Background:In his capacity on Senator Marshall’s staff, Schemm will meet with agricultural groups throughout Kansas and advise the Senator on agricultural and farm bill issues. Schemm grew up in Sharon Springs, Kan., and received a bachelor’s degree in theology. After graduation he returned home to the family farm and custom crop-spraying business. He and his wife, Lisa, have two sons, Clay and Luke.As a third-generation farmer, Schemm grows wheat, corn, grain sorghum and sunflowers. He is a member of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and National Association of Wheat Growers since 2002, and is also an active member of the Ag Data Advisory Committee, Field to Market Board of Directors and Ag Rail Business Council.

Marshall hires Sharon Springs native as agricultural adviser

The events that unfolded last week in Washington, D.C., will stain the fabric of our democracy for the rest of our days. The images of insurrection in the Capitol are as much our legacy now as putting a man on the moon. It’s a stark contrast of what happens when we choose to embrace what divides us rather than what unites us.

There’s no doubt we all want the same things. We want the satisfaction from a good day’s work. We want a warm bed to sleep in. We all want safety and security for our friends and families. We all want our children to enjoy success greater than our own.

While our opinions differ on the best way to achieve these goals, time and time again reaching consensus and moving forward together has proven to be the most effective option.

In times of tragedy, like a death or natural disaster, we come together to mourn, recover and rebuild. In this moment, our national tragedy is manmade, but the solution is still unity and together we can mourn, recover and rebuild.

I’m proud of the pragmatism Kansas Farm Bureau employs to advocate for the interest of farmers and ranchers. We have and will continue to work with leaders of all stripes to advance our grassroots policy and organizational goals.

I must admit, I’d much rather work with leaders willing to tell hard, uncomfortable truths than ones who would placate me with promises that will never be realized. One of the best things we can do right now is demand truth from our elected representatives, no matter how unsavory it may be. We can overcome a difference of opinions, but we will be sunk by differing versions of reality.

When our forefathers declared their independence at the birth of our nation, it’s said Benjamin Franklin said, “we must all hang together, or ... we shall all hang separately.” For nearly 250 years we’ve been strengthened by our unity and built one of the greatest societies of the world. For it to continue, we must choose to see the best in others. We must strive for consensus in areas where it’s obtainable, and we must continue debating in good faith in those were we can’t.

Last week provided a compelling example. A few politicians entertained the idea the election results could be challenged. A mob stormed the Capitol in hopes of changing those results. In the end, the mob lost, and reality was certified. That result isn’t guaranteed in the future, and we now must choose if we want to continue on a path that will fray the fabric that holds us together or if we will rise to the occasion and let the stain fade as we have with other dark days in our history.

As individuals, it’s our duty to listen to each other if we want to mend and heal our nation. If we do this together today, I can promise you tomorrow will be brighter in our United States.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610377227483.jpeg" alt="Rich Felts, KFB president" />
 <figcaption>Rich Felts, KFB president</figcaption>
 </figure>The events that unfolded last week in Washington, D.C., will stain the fabric of our democracy for the rest of our days. The images of insurrection in the Capitol are as much our legacy now as putting a man on the moon. It’s a stark contrast of what happens when we choose to embrace what divides us rather than what unites us.There’s no doubt we all want the same things. We want the satisfaction from a good day’s work. We want a warm bed to sleep in. We all want safety and security for our friends and families. We all want our children to enjoy success greater than our own.While our opinions differ on the best way to achieve these goals, time and time again reaching consensus and moving forward together has proven to be the most effective option.In times of tragedy, like a death or natural disaster, we come together to mourn, recover and rebuild. In this moment, our national tragedy is manmade, but the solution is still unity and together we can mourn, recover and rebuild.I’m proud of the pragmatism Kansas Farm Bureau employs to advocate for the interest of farmers and ranchers. We have and will continue to work with leaders of all stripes to advance our grassroots policy and organizational goals.I must admit, I’d much rather work with leaders willing to tell hard, uncomfortable truths than ones who would placate me with promises that will never be realized. One of the best things we can do right now is demand truth from our elected representatives, no matter how unsavory it may be. We can overcome a difference of opinions, but we will be sunk by differing versions of reality.When our forefathers declared their independence at the birth of our nation, it’s said Benjamin Franklin said, “we must all hang together, or ... we shall all hang separately.” For nearly 250 years we’ve been strengthened by our unity and built one of the greatest societies of the world. For it to continue, we must choose to see the best in others. We must strive for consensus in areas where it’s obtainable, and we must continue debating in good faith in those were we can’t.Last week provided a compelling example. A few politicians entertained the idea the election results could be challenged. A mob stormed the Capitol in hopes of changing those results. In the end, the mob lost, and reality was certified. That result isn’t guaranteed in the future, and we now must choose if we want to continue on a path that will fray the fabric that holds us together or if we will rise to the occasion and let the stain fade as we have with other dark days in our history.As individuals, it’s our duty to listen to each other if we want to mend and heal our nation. If we do this together today, I can promise you tomorrow will be brighter in our United States."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Strength of unity

Three-day weather outlook

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated Areas

The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued a preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report, reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations within Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated Areas. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway.&nbsp; Technical information or comments are solicited on the proposed flood hazard determinations shown on the preliminary FIRM and/or FIS report for Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated Areas. These flood hazard determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to either adopt or show evidence of being already in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.&nbsp; However, before these determinations are effective for floodplain management purposes, you will be provided an opportunity to appeal the proposed information.&nbsp; 

For information on the statutory 90-day period provided for appeals, as well as a complete listing of the communities affected and the locations where copies of the FIRM are available for review, please visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/fhm/bfe, or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609887473432.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCYProposed Flood Hazard Determinations for Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated AreasThe Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued a preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report, reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations within Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated Areas. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway.&nbsp; Technical information or comments are solicited on the proposed flood hazard determinations shown on the preliminary FIRM and/or FIS report for Ellis County, Kansas and Incorporated Areas. These flood hazard determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to either adopt or show evidence of being already in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.&nbsp; However, before these determinations are effective for floodplain management purposes, you will be provided an opportunity to appeal the proposed information.&nbsp; For information on the statutory 90-day period provided for appeals, as well as a complete listing of the communities affected and the locations where copies of the FIRM are available for review, please visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/fhm/bfe, or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).

LEGAL: Proposed flood hazard determinations for Ellis County

Eagle Radio Hays will be doing planned tower maintenance starting at noon Wednesday. 

KFIX 96.9, 101.9 The Bull and KJLS Mix 103.3 will be off the air for approximately three hours, but you can still stream us at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayspost.com/">hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;or download our app.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio Hays will be doing planned tower maintenance starting at noon Wednesday. KFIX 96.9, 101.9 The Bull and KJLS Mix 103.3 will be off the air for approximately three hours, but you can still stream us at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayspost.com/">hayspost.com</a>&nbsp;or download our app.

Eagle Radio stations will be off-air for tower maintenance

The Hays school board gave the go ahead to a project to build a new secure entrance and office at Wilson Elementary School.

The entrance/office will include an addition that will be about 900 square feet. The project is entering the design phase, but is estimated to cost the district $500,000.

Superintendent Ron Wilson reviewed three options for the entrance with the board Monday night.&nbsp;

The first option would be to install an Aiphone at school's entrance and two new doors in the corridor outside of the current office at a cost of $30,000 to $50,000.&nbsp;

However, students move through that corridor throughout the day, which means the new doors what not necessarily create a secure entrance, Wilson said.

The second option would involve renovating existing space at the school for a secure entrance. This would mean losing part of the school's music room and a conference room, which is not preferred for a school that is already tight on space, Wilson said.

That option could cost between $100,000 and $200,000.

The final option would be to build a small addition onto school. This would include a new, larger office and the secure entrance.

This option is estimated to cost $400,000 to $500,000.

The current office space at Wilson is very small. The office only has one door, which makes getting people in and out of the small space difficult.

Principal Anita Scheve said the former office could be used for specialists who are sharing office space and are providing services in classrooms that are temporarily empty throughout the day.

"It is still not a lot of space, but in a building that is tight on space anyway, it's a better option than taking space," Scheve said.

Wilson said the project has been needed or a long time and would be a welcomed addition at Wilson. He said the district has funds available in the capital budget this year to complete the project.

Board President Mike Walker said,"The questions I always ask are 'Do we need it?' Yes, we do. 'And can we afford it?' You just said we can."

A secure entrance is also scheduled to be completed at O'Loughlin Elementary School this summer. That project is currently out for bids. The estimated cost for that project is $60,000.

Wilson and O'Loughlin will be the last schools in the district to receive secure entrances.

"It is a well-needed project," board member Craig Pallister said of the Wilson entrance. "I was just so concerned that all of our buildings should have this secure entrance. I appreciate you finding a way to do all of the schools and get this completed by this summer."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610482248040.png" alt="Wilson Elementary School entrance options" />
 <figcaption>Wilson Elementary School entrance options</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board gave the go ahead to a project to build a new secure entrance and office at Wilson Elementary School.The entrance/office will include an addition that will be about 900 square feet. The project is entering the design phase, but is estimated to cost the district $500,000.Superintendent Ron Wilson reviewed three options for the entrance with the board Monday night.&nbsp;The first option would be to install an Aiphone at school's entrance and two new doors in the corridor outside of the current office at a cost of $30,000 to $50,000.&nbsp;However, students move through that corridor throughout the day, which means the new doors what not necessarily create a secure entrance, Wilson said.The second option would involve renovating existing space at the school for a secure entrance. This would mean losing part of the school's music room and a conference room, which is not preferred for a school that is already tight on space, Wilson said.That option could cost between $100,000 and $200,000.The final option would be to build a small addition onto school. This would include a new, larger office and the secure entrance.This option is estimated to cost $400,000 to $500,000.The current office space at Wilson is very small. The office only has one door, which makes getting people in and out of the small space difficult.Principal Anita Scheve said the former office could be used for specialists who are sharing office space and are providing services in classrooms that are temporarily empty throughout the day."It is still not a lot of space, but in a building that is tight on space anyway, it's a better option than taking space," Scheve said.Wilson said the project has been needed or a long time and would be a welcomed addition at Wilson. He said the district has funds available in the capital budget this year to complete the project.Board President Mike Walker said,"The questions I always ask are 'Do we need it?' Yes, we do. 'And can we afford it?' You just said we can."A secure entrance is also scheduled to be completed at O'Loughlin Elementary School this summer. That project is currently out for bids. The estimated cost for that project is $60,000.Wilson and O'Loughlin will be the last schools in the district to receive secure entrances."It is a well-needed project," board member Craig Pallister said of the Wilson entrance. "I was just so concerned that all of our buildings should have this secure entrance. I appreciate you finding a way to do all of the schools and get this completed by this summer."

USD 489 board gives OK to secure entrance, new office at Wilson

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk 🐯🏀

TOPEKA — Thirty-two first-year educators from Kansas are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2021 Kansas Horizon Award program.

The 2021 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were announced Jan. 7 by the Kansas State Department of Education.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, gives all school districts in the state an opportunity to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.

Recipients of the 2021 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

“I want to commend these outstanding educators,” Watson said. "Thanks to the pandemic, this group has experienced anything but a typical first year in the teaching profession. And to be singled out by their districts for their extraordinary performance makes me both proud and excited to have them in Kansas classrooms.”

2021 KANSAS HORIZON AWARD RECIPIENTS

As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN), a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year.

Each awardee will receive a cash award sponsored by The Capitol Federal Foundation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594835635743.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSDETOPEKA — Thirty-two first-year educators from Kansas are being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2021 Kansas Horizon Award program.The 2021 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were announced Jan. 7 by the Kansas State Department of Education.The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, gives all school districts in the state an opportunity to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state’s U.S. congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.Recipients of the 2021 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.“I want to commend these outstanding educators,” Watson said. "Thanks to the pandemic, this group has experienced anything but a typical first year in the teaching profession. And to be singled out by their districts for their extraordinary performance makes me both proud and excited to have them in Kansas classrooms.”2021 KANSAS HORIZON AWARD RECIPIENTSRegion 1<ul>
 <li>Larrah Bills, Heusner Elementary School, Salina USD 305.</li><li>Hanna Lehr, Buhler High School, Buhler USD 313.</li><li>Shelby Mann, Norton Community High School, Norton Community Schools USD 211.</li><li>Sam Pahls, Prairie Hills Middle School, Buhler USD 313.</li><li>Nicholas Preheim, Hutchinson STEM Magnet School at Allen, Hutchinson USD 308.</li><li>Elizabeth Ratzlaff, Moundridge Middle/High School, Moundridge USD 423.</li><li>Paige Stewart, Hutchinson Middle School, Hutchinson USD 308.</li><li>Sarah Wedel, Park Elementary School, Lyons USD 405.</li>
 </ul>Region 2<ul>
 <li>Spencer Feldkamp, Ottawa High School, Ottawa USD 290.</li><li>Lindsay Francis, Lincoln Elementary School, Fredonia USD 484.</li><li>Allyson Gilmore, Lawrence Free State High School, Lawrence USD 497.</li><li>Sarah Kennedy, West Indianola Elementary School, Seaman USD 345.</li><li>Haydee Martinez Bretado, Scott Dual Language Magnet, Topeka USD 501.</li><li>Ruochen Shen, Eudora High School, Eudora USD 491.</li><li>Tricia Wyckoff, Southeast Elementary School, Southeast USD 247.</li><li>Dr. David Yoo, Baldwin High School, Baldwin USD 348.</li>
 </ul>Region 3<ul>
 <li>Sydney Clarke, Wheatridge Middle School, Gardner Edgerton USD 231.</li><li>Molly Dugan, Spring Hill Middle School, Spring Hill USD 230.</li><li>Kassidy Evans, Blue Valley Northwest High School, Blue Valley USD 229.</li><li>Rachel Leonard, F.L. Schlagle High School, Kansas City USD 500.</li><li>Kelsey Mackeprang, Junction Elementary School, Turner USD 202.</li><li>Emily Mauer, Timber Creek Elementary School, Blue Valley USD 229.</li><li>Abigail Morris, Stony Point North Elementary School, Kansas City USD 500.</li><li>Susan Specht, Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, Shawnee Mission</li>
 </ul>USD 512.Region 4<ul>
 <li>Micaela Heinrich, Maize South High School, Maize USD 266.</li><li>Brooke Hernandez, Andover Middle School, Andover USD 385.</li><li>Victoria Hoerst, Wheatland Elementary School, Andover USD 385.</li><li>Candice Michaud, Haysville West Middle School, Haysville USD 261.</li><li>Shonna Miller, Rex Elementary School, Haysville USD 261.</li><li>Alison Nikkel, Hesston Elementary School, Hesston USD 460.</li><li>Madison Sites, Pray-Woodman Elementary School, Maize USD 266.</li><li>Rebekah Wendland, Derby High School, Derby USD 260.</li>
 </ul>As recipients of the Kansas Horizon Award, these educators are invited to join the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN), a network of educators from around the state who have been formally recognized for exemplary performance. Members of KEEN have an opportunity to network with other outstanding educators and participate in several professional development programs throughout the year.Each awardee will receive a cash award sponsored by The Capitol Federal Foundation.&nbsp;

Norton teacher among Kansas Horizon Award first-year educators

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;For the&nbsp;fourth&nbsp;straight year,&nbsp;Voice of the Wildcats Wyatt Thompson has been named the Kansas Sportscaster of the Year as the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association announced their annual award recipients for 2020.

Thompson, who is in his 19th year as the play-by-play voice of the Wildcats, is a six-time winner of the award and ranks second all-time among K-State broadcasters in awards and fourth all-time among broadcasters in the state of Kansas. In addition to his play-by-play duties for Wildcat football and men’s basketball, Thompson can be seen regularly each summer at each Catbacker event across the state in addition to hosting various radio programs, events and programs at K-State and in the Manhattan community. He started his broadcasting career in 1976 as a sportscaster for various high schools, colleges and universities in Kansas, spending time at stations in Great Bend and Abilene. Thompson worked for KAYS radio and television in Hays from 1985 until 1989 where he was the play-by-play voice at Fort Hays State. While in Kansas, he was recognized with the Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB) Play-by-Play Award in 1982 and the Oscar Stauffer Sportscaster of the Year Award in 1989. Thompson, also the 2011 recipient of the Hod Humiston Award from the KAB, came to Kansas State in 2002 from Colorado State, where he was the play-by-play voice for CSU's football and men's basketball teams for five years. An accomplished professional, Thompson won the Colorado Broadcasting Association award for best play-by-play in 2000. In addition to&nbsp;his duties at CSU, Thompson was also a sports reporter for Clear Channel Denver, the Countdown to Kickoff host for the Denver Broncos on KOA Radio and hosted the Zone Sports Insiders show on 760 The Zone in Denver.

Thompson will be honored for his award during the 61st annual&nbsp;NSMA Awards Weekend, June 26-28, 2021, in Winston-Salem, N.C. &nbsp;– k-statesports.com –

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610470729866.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;For the&nbsp;fourth&nbsp;straight year,&nbsp;Voice of the Wildcats Wyatt Thompson has been named the Kansas Sportscaster of the Year as the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association announced their annual award recipients for 2020.Thompson, who is in his 19th year as the play-by-play voice of the Wildcats, is a six-time winner of the award and ranks second all-time among K-State broadcasters in awards and fourth all-time among broadcasters in the state of Kansas. In addition to his play-by-play duties for Wildcat football and men’s basketball, Thompson can be seen regularly each summer at each Catbacker event across the state in addition to hosting various radio programs, events and programs at K-State and in the Manhattan community. He started his broadcasting career in 1976 as a sportscaster for various high schools, colleges and universities in Kansas, spending time at stations in Great Bend and Abilene. Thompson worked for KAYS radio and television in Hays from 1985 until 1989 where he was the play-by-play voice at Fort Hays State. While in Kansas, he was recognized with the Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB) Play-by-Play Award in 1982 and the Oscar Stauffer Sportscaster of the Year Award in 1989. Thompson, also the 2011 recipient of the Hod Humiston Award from the KAB, came to Kansas State in 2002 from Colorado State, where he was the play-by-play voice for CSU's football and men's basketball teams for five years. An accomplished professional, Thompson won the Colorado Broadcasting Association award for best play-by-play in 2000. In addition to&nbsp;his duties at CSU, Thompson was also a sports reporter for Clear Channel Denver, the Countdown to Kickoff host for the Denver Broncos on KOA Radio and hosted the Zone Sports Insiders show on 760 The Zone in Denver.Thompson will be honored for his award during the 61st annual&nbsp;NSMA Awards Weekend, June 26-28, 2021, in Winston-Salem, N.C. &nbsp;– k-statesports.com –

Make it four in a row! K-State’s Thompson named Kansas Sportscaster of the Year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610403903152.jpeg" alt="Judge Glenn Braun, County Commissioner for the Second District Neal Younger, County Commissioner for the Third District Dean Haselhorst, County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling, Register of Deeds Rebecca Herzog, Sheriff Scott Braun and County Attorney Robert Anderson Jr. after being sworn in Monday to their elected posts. Corrected, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday to correct caption." />
 <figcaption>Judge Glenn Braun, County Commissioner for the Second District Neal Younger, County Commissioner for the Third District Dean Haselhorst, County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling, Register of Deeds Rebecca Herzog, Sheriff Scott Braun and County Attorney Robert Anderson Jr. after being sworn in Monday to their elected posts. Corrected, 9:15 a.m. Tuesday to correct caption.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610403938173.jpeg" alt="Outgoing Ellis County Clerk Donna Maskus swears 23rd Judicial District Judge Glenn Braun into office on Monday." />
 <figcaption>Outgoing Ellis County Clerk Donna Maskus swears 23rd Judicial District Judge Glenn Braun into office on Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610403965950.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Commissioner for the Third District Dean Haselhorst is sworn in to another term as county commissioner Monday." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Commissioner for the Third District Dean Haselhorst is sworn in to another term as county commissioner Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610404010747.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Commissioner for the Third District Neal Younger is sworn in for his first term as a commissioner Monday. Younger replaces Dustin Roths on the commission." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Commissioner for the Third District Neal Younger is sworn in for his first term as a commissioner Monday. Younger replaces Dustin Roths on the commission.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610404082512.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling is sworn in for her first term as county clerk. Dreiling takes the place of Donna Maskus, who retired." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling is sworn in for her first term as county clerk. Dreiling takes the place of Donna Maskus, who retired.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610404103504.jpeg" alt="Register of Deeds Rebecca Herzog is sworn in for another term in office.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Register of Deeds Rebecca Herzog is sworn in for another term in office.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610404151465.jpeg" alt="Robert Anderson Jr. is sworn in for his first term as Ellis County Attorney. Anderson replaces Tom Drees, who was sworn in later that day as a judge for the 23rd Judicial District.&nbsp;Corrected, 8:40 a.m. Tuesday to correct Robert Anderson Jr.'s name." />
 <figcaption>Robert Anderson Jr. is sworn in for his first term as Ellis County Attorney. Anderson replaces Tom Drees, who was sworn in later that day as a judge for the 23rd Judicial District.&nbsp;Corrected, 8:40 a.m. Tuesday to correct Robert Anderson Jr.'s name.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610404171705.jpeg" alt="Scott Braun is sworn in for his first term as Ellis County Sheriff. He takes the place of Ed Harbin, who retired." />
 <figcaption>Scott Braun is sworn in for his first term as Ellis County Sheriff. He takes the place of Ed Harbin, who retired.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County elected officials sworn in Monday

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly on Friday announced appointments to Kansas state boards and councils.

The Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Governor and the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture to review and make recommendations on department legislative initiatives and proposed rules and regulations.

The Governor’s Military Council was initially created by an Executive Order to address the issue of federal base relocation and to facilitate and work with the communities affected by the increase in the number of active duty armed service members and families based at Fort Riley, near Manhattan. The Council is obligated to initiate, act upon, and consider all necessary strategies to optimize the military presence in Kansas; actively foster close, effective cooperation among the installations and public and private sectors throughout the State; pursue quality-of-life enhancing initiatives for servicemen and women, veterans, and their families; and promote Kansas as a desired location for all Department of Defense retirees and separating servicemembers, among other things.

Johnson County Education Research Triangle Authority Board of Directors

The Johnson County Education Research Triangle (JCERT) Authority Board of Directors oversees the funds generated by a local 1/8 -cent sales tax approved by voters in 2008. All revenues collected by the tax can be used only at the JCERT’s Johnson County locations. The JCERT Authority board conducts audits, yearly reports and is responsible for ensuring that the use of public funds complies with state and local law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610138969328.jpeg" alt="Janis Lee" />
 <figcaption>Janis Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly on Friday announced appointments to Kansas state boards and councils.State Board of AgricultureThe Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Governor and the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture to review and make recommendations on department legislative initiatives and proposed rules and regulations.<ul>
 <li>Janis Lee, Hays</li><li>Scott Thellman, Lawrence</li><li>Scott Howard Strickland, Westwood (reappointment)</li><li>Donna Pearson McClish, Wichita</li>
 </ul>Governor’s Military CouncilThe Governor’s Military Council was initially created by an Executive Order to address the issue of federal base relocation and to facilitate and work with the communities affected by the increase in the number of active duty armed service members and families based at Fort Riley, near Manhattan. The Council is obligated to initiate, act upon, and consider all necessary strategies to optimize the military presence in Kansas; actively foster close, effective cooperation among the installations and public and private sectors throughout the State; pursue quality-of-life enhancing initiatives for servicemen and women, veterans, and their families; and promote Kansas as a desired location for all Department of Defense retirees and separating servicemembers, among other things.<ul>
 <li>Scott Stuckey, Junction City</li>
 </ul>Johnson County Education Research Triangle Authority Board of DirectorsThe Johnson County Education Research Triangle (JCERT) Authority Board of Directors oversees the funds generated by a local 1/8 -cent sales tax approved by voters in 2008. All revenues collected by the tax can be used only at the JCERT’s Johnson County locations. The JCERT Authority board conducts audits, yearly reports and is responsible for ensuring that the use of public funds complies with state and local law.<ul>
 <li>Brandon Woodard, Lenexa</li>
 </ul>

Hays woman appointed to State Board of Agriculture 

LOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is pleased to welcome Rhonda Goddard, rural Penokee, as the newest member of the board of trustees, effective immediately.

Goddard is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.B.A. in accounting and is a certified public accountant. She is currently employed as the chief financial officer for Nex-Tech. Through her twenty-seven years of experience in telecommunications, she has helped the company increase its assets and its broadband network from dial-up to fiber broadband service across a ten thousand square mile area of western and central Kansas.&nbsp;

In addition to her professional skills, her volunteer work is vast, including serving as vice president of the Morland Community Foundation, as a board member and treasurer of the Graham County Hospital, founder and president of Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, a member of the board of Osborne Industries and a board member of the Communication Coalition of Kansas.&nbsp;

“I am a passionate supporter of the rural way of life,” Goddard said. “The mission of the Hansen Foundation is close to my heart, and I look forward to working with the other trustees and the staff to continue creating opportunities for northwest Kansas to thrive.”

Goddard grew up in rural Morland, the great- granddaughter of Irish immigrants.&nbsp; She and her husband John raised their two sons, Lucas and Cordell on the family ranch near Penokee.&nbsp; Farming and ranching since 1884, the family also own and operate a small equipment sales and manufacturing business, started in the late 1950s.&nbsp; Believing strongly in the rewards of hard work, she shares with her ancestors and her family a vision to foster a better quality of life across the area.&nbsp;

Goddard is a private pilot and enjoys horseback riding and walking in her spare time.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Goddard’s appointment follows the retirement of former trustee, Doyle Fair, who served the foundation for 32 years.&nbsp; She joins current board members, Doug Albin, WaKeeney; Carol Bales, Logan; Warren Gfeller, Russell; Robert Hartman, Hays; Cy Moyer, Phillipsburg; and Brien Stockman, Logan.

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation was established in 1965 with an estate gift from Dane G. Hansen. Based in Mr. Hansen’s hometown of Logan, Kansas, the foundation has been providing scholarships and grants to support growth and prosperity to the residents of northwest Kansas for 55 years. The foundation has a primary service area that includes the 26 most northwest counties in the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610383884836.jpeg" alt="Rhonda Goddard" />
 <figcaption>Rhonda Goddard</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is pleased to welcome Rhonda Goddard, rural Penokee, as the newest member of the board of trustees, effective immediately.Goddard is a graduate of Fort Hays State University with a B.B.A. in accounting and is a certified public accountant. She is currently employed as the chief financial officer for Nex-Tech. Through her twenty-seven years of experience in telecommunications, she has helped the company increase its assets and its broadband network from dial-up to fiber broadband service across a ten thousand square mile area of western and central Kansas.&nbsp;In addition to her professional skills, her volunteer work is vast, including serving as vice president of the Morland Community Foundation, as a board member and treasurer of the Graham County Hospital, founder and president of Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, a member of the board of Osborne Industries and a board member of the Communication Coalition of Kansas.&nbsp;“I am a passionate supporter of the rural way of life,” Goddard said. “The mission of the Hansen Foundation is close to my heart, and I look forward to working with the other trustees and the staff to continue creating opportunities for northwest Kansas to thrive.”Goddard grew up in rural Morland, the great- granddaughter of Irish immigrants.&nbsp; She and her husband John raised their two sons, Lucas and Cordell on the family ranch near Penokee.&nbsp; Farming and ranching since 1884, the family also own and operate a small equipment sales and manufacturing business, started in the late 1950s.&nbsp; Believing strongly in the rewards of hard work, she shares with her ancestors and her family a vision to foster a better quality of life across the area.&nbsp;Goddard is a private pilot and enjoys horseback riding and walking in her spare time.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Goddard’s appointment follows the retirement of former trustee, Doyle Fair, who served the foundation for 32 years.&nbsp; She joins current board members, Doug Albin, WaKeeney; Carol Bales, Logan; Warren Gfeller, Russell; Robert Hartman, Hays; Cy Moyer, Phillipsburg; and Brien Stockman, Logan.The Dane G. Hansen Foundation was established in 1965 with an estate gift from Dane G. Hansen. Based in Mr. Hansen’s hometown of Logan, Kansas, the foundation has been providing scholarships and grants to support growth and prosperity to the residents of northwest Kansas for 55 years. The foundation has a primary service area that includes the 26 most northwest counties in the state.

FHSU grad, Penokee resident named to Hansen Foundation board of directors

CHS in McPherson raised its prices a dollar and a half on Friday. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $42.50 per barrel, the best price since February 19, 2020. After a long stretch of steady prices, we're now seeing a big bump at gas pumps across the country, and an even bigger bump locally. The statewide and national averages were up about three cents a gallon on the week, but local prices rose more than a dime in that same period. The statewide average in Kansas was $2.04 while the national average was just shy of $2.29 a gallon. Motorists in Hays and Great Bend were paying around $2.15 a gallon. There are just four states (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Missouri) boasting average gasoline prices under two dollars a gallon. Baker Hughes reports its year-end rig count was less than half the total at the end of 2019.&nbsp; The weekly count on Friday jumped eight oil rigs and one gas rig for a total of 360 active rigs. New Mexico added four rigs and Oklahoma added one. Canada was up 58 to 117 rigs.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a 32% drop in its weekly Rig Count in Kansas, all in the eastern half of the state. The count east of Wichita went from ten last week to just three this week. In Western Kansas, the tally rose by one to ten active drilling rigs. The active rig count statewide at the end of 2020 was down 17% from the year-end total in 2019. Regulators in Kansas approved eight new drilling permits across the state during the week ending January 7th. Four of them are in eastern Kansas and four are west of Wichita, including one new permit in Russell County. The state saw 482 permits last year, less than half of the total in 2019. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports six new well completions in the first of its weekly reports this year. Five of those were in western Kansas, including one dry hole in Barton County. Kansas ended the year 2019 with 785 newly-completed wells, compared to nearly twice that number the year before. Weekly crude inventories dropped eight million barrels. The Energy Information Administration Administration says stockpiles remain about nine percent above the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp; EIA reports U.S. crude production rose 2,000 barrels per day during the final week of the year, to remain slightly above eleven million barrels per day for the sixth week in a row. Production a year ago was approaching 13 million barrels per day. U.S. crude oil imports rose by 43,000 barrels per day. The four-week average remains 18% below the same four-week period a year ago. The government's final weekly crude-storage analysis of the year shows the Cushing tank farm at 74% of capacity for the fourth week in a row. Storage usage reached a peak May 1st as prices crashed. Weekly oil-by-rail traffic was up slightly week over week, but still down more than 21% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,266 rail cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week ending January 2nd. The trade group reports December's monthly total for oil-by-rail dropped by more than 10,000 carloads from a year ago, a decline of nearly 16 percent amid a decline of nearly four percent in all rail traffic. The world's largest international shipping association last week warned shippers to be on guard after Iran seized a South-Korea flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran took the vessel over alleged "oil pollution." South Korea has frozen seven billion dollars in Iranian oil funds held in a pair of Korean banks. Iran is demanding release of the money. Lawmakers in North Dakota have gotten used to huge new budgets as the state rose to become the second-biggest oil-producer in the country. Up until last year they hadn't needed to issue bonds to pay for large capital projects. But now, thanks to plunging revenues brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, they are moving ahead with infrastructure projects worth over two billion dollars, funded by bonds to be paid for with future oil-and-gas taxes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCHS in McPherson raised its prices a dollar and a half on Friday. Kansas Common crude starts the week at $42.50 per barrel, the best price since February 19, 2020. After a long stretch of steady prices, we're now seeing a big bump at gas pumps across the country, and an even bigger bump locally. The statewide and national averages were up about three cents a gallon on the week, but local prices rose more than a dime in that same period. The statewide average in Kansas was $2.04 while the national average was just shy of $2.29 a gallon. Motorists in Hays and Great Bend were paying around $2.15 a gallon. There are just four states (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Missouri) boasting average gasoline prices under two dollars a gallon. Baker Hughes reports its year-end rig count was less than half the total at the end of 2019.&nbsp; The weekly count on Friday jumped eight oil rigs and one gas rig for a total of 360 active rigs. New Mexico added four rigs and Oklahoma added one. Canada was up 58 to 117 rigs.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a 32% drop in its weekly Rig Count in Kansas, all in the eastern half of the state. The count east of Wichita went from ten last week to just three this week. In Western Kansas, the tally rose by one to ten active drilling rigs. The active rig count statewide at the end of 2020 was down 17% from the year-end total in 2019. Regulators in Kansas approved eight new drilling permits across the state during the week ending January 7th. Four of them are in eastern Kansas and four are west of Wichita, including one new permit in Russell County. The state saw 482 permits last year, less than half of the total in 2019. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports six new well completions in the first of its weekly reports this year. Five of those were in western Kansas, including one dry hole in Barton County. Kansas ended the year 2019 with 785 newly-completed wells, compared to nearly twice that number the year before. Weekly crude inventories dropped eight million barrels. The Energy Information Administration Administration says stockpiles remain about nine percent above the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp; EIA reports U.S. crude production rose 2,000 barrels per day during the final week of the year, to remain slightly above eleven million barrels per day for the sixth week in a row. Production a year ago was approaching 13 million barrels per day. U.S. crude oil imports rose by 43,000 barrels per day. The four-week average remains 18% below the same four-week period a year ago. The government's final weekly crude-storage analysis of the year shows the Cushing tank farm at 74% of capacity for the fourth week in a row. Storage usage reached a peak May 1st as prices crashed. Weekly oil-by-rail traffic was up slightly week over week, but still down more than 21% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,266 rail cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week ending January 2nd. The trade group reports December's monthly total for oil-by-rail dropped by more than 10,000 carloads from a year ago, a decline of nearly 16 percent amid a decline of nearly four percent in all rail traffic. The world's largest international shipping association last week warned shippers to be on guard after Iran seized a South-Korea flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran took the vessel over alleged "oil pollution." South Korea has frozen seven billion dollars in Iranian oil funds held in a pair of Korean banks. Iran is demanding release of the money. Lawmakers in North Dakota have gotten used to huge new budgets as the state rose to become the second-biggest oil-producer in the country. Up until last year they hadn't needed to issue bonds to pay for large capital projects. But now, thanks to plunging revenues brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, they are moving ahead with infrastructure projects worth over two billion dollars, funded by bonds to be paid for with future oil-and-gas taxes.

News From the Oil Patch: Kansas oil prices reach 11-month highs

I have been a registered Republican since I was first eligible to vote. I have to say that I was appalled by the actions of the mob at the Capitol on Jan. 6. I was even more appalled by the fact that Trump incited this debacle. His lies about the election and his inability to admit that he legitimately lost the election have led to his supporters reprehensible behavior. For a party and president who continually state that they are all about law and order, this behavior shows that they do not really believe their own statements. All of the lies by this president and the numerous members of the Republicans in the House and Senate have led to a destroyed faith in our democracy.

I also hold these elected officials responsible for the state our country is currently in. When Trump was first elected, it was their responsibility to hold him in check. They did not do this. What they actually did was roll over and play dead for him. The only thing they really care about is maintaining their position in politics. They felt that bowing to any and everything Trump said or wanted would secure the elected positions they were so desperate to maintain. They showed little if any regard for all of the Americans they are supposed to represent.

It is my opinion that the infamous senators (Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Cindi Hyde-Smith, John Kennedy, Roger Marshall, Tommy Tuberville) greatly contributed to the attempted coup that occurred on Jan. 6. For their active participation regarding the lies concerning fraud in the election they should be expelled from the Senate.&nbsp;

How can you possibly claim fraud when you were elected on the same ballot with Trump? You claim fraud; does that mean that you were fraudulently elected?&nbsp; Or was it that only one small part of the entire ballot was fraudulent? That doesn’t even make sense.&nbsp;

I also feel there should be consequences for the numerous Republican representatives in the House. They too contributed to the travesty that led to the insurrection.

In 2016, I did not vote for Trump because I honestly did not feel he was qualified or fit to be the President of the United States. In 2020, my feelings were even stronger that he was unfit and unqualified to hold that position.

I am very proud that I can say that not only did I never vote for Trump but I also refused to vote for Roger Marshall.

I am equally proud that I did not support Roger Marshall. I found his behavior during the campaign despicable. His campaign ads were full of lies and innuendoes. Of course people never bother to fact-check any of his false claims. Marshall’s behavior since he was sworn into office is even more despicable.

Linda Leiker Hays Pam Shaffer Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To the editor:I have been a registered Republican since I was first eligible to vote. I have to say that I was appalled by the actions of the mob at the Capitol on Jan. 6. I was even more appalled by the fact that Trump incited this debacle. His lies about the election and his inability to admit that he legitimately lost the election have led to his supporters reprehensible behavior. For a party and president who continually state that they are all about law and order, this behavior shows that they do not really believe their own statements. All of the lies by this president and the numerous members of the Republicans in the House and Senate have led to a destroyed faith in our democracy.I also hold these elected officials responsible for the state our country is currently in. When Trump was first elected, it was their responsibility to hold him in check. They did not do this. What they actually did was roll over and play dead for him. The only thing they really care about is maintaining their position in politics. They felt that bowing to any and everything Trump said or wanted would secure the elected positions they were so desperate to maintain. They showed little if any regard for all of the Americans they are supposed to represent.It is my opinion that the infamous senators (Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Cindi Hyde-Smith, John Kennedy, Roger Marshall, Tommy Tuberville) greatly contributed to the attempted coup that occurred on Jan. 6. For their active participation regarding the lies concerning fraud in the election they should be expelled from the Senate.&nbsp;How can you possibly claim fraud when you were elected on the same ballot with Trump? You claim fraud; does that mean that you were fraudulently elected?&nbsp; Or was it that only one small part of the entire ballot was fraudulent? That doesn’t even make sense.&nbsp;I also feel there should be consequences for the numerous Republican representatives in the House. They too contributed to the travesty that led to the insurrection.In 2016, I did not vote for Trump because I honestly did not feel he was qualified or fit to be the President of the United States. In 2020, my feelings were even stronger that he was unfit and unqualified to hold that position.I am very proud that I can say that not only did I never vote for Trump but I also refused to vote for Roger Marshall.I am equally proud that I did not support Roger Marshall. I found his behavior during the campaign despicable. His campaign ads were full of lies and innuendoes. Of course people never bother to fact-check any of his false claims. Marshall’s behavior since he was sworn into office is even more despicable.Linda Leiker Hays Pam Shaffer Hays

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