By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission recently approved a final round
of updated job descriptions and the employee pay scale as part of a
compensation study.

Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers said most of the job descriptions from the wage and benefit study by the Arnold Group
from Wichita, which were approved by the commission last week, were either new descriptions
or updates and corrections. 

Completing the changes will cost the county $909,000, with the implementation set for the March 31 through April 13 pay period. The commission
set aside $950,000 as part of the budgeting process in 2024. While each
department will have an increase in its budget authority, the pay increases will not increase
the overall county budget. &nbsp;

Myers said the study compared similar counties but looked deeper at each job’s description. 

“The study itself was an in-depth look at job descriptions, not necessarily employees,” Myers said. So, taking the bias
completely out of who the employee is within that position or how long they've
been here, the initial part of the study was to look at the job descriptions.”

Myers said one of the most significant issues the study fixes is ensuring employees with fewer years of service aren't making more than their
more tenured coworkers. 

“I would say probably not every single department, but most
departments had some, if not a quite a bit of compression where there was pay
that was not appropriate for the amount of services they had been with the
county,” Myers said. 

“The previous policy, as well as what this policy did, did
not look at the individual employee or how well they do their job,” Myers said. "It was based on the scientific method to place somebody on a pay scale, and
then looking at their years of service on where they fit on the step.”

County Commissioner Michael Berges called the approval of
the pay scale “the most important decision we're going to make this year to
secure the county going forward.”

“When we're hiring individuals with whatever experience, we
know where they're going to be set,” Berges said. “What the expectation is
along their employment journey through the county, similar to if you worked at
any other private business, they have a salary set, and you have
expectations on what to do and how to achieve a higher pay."

Berges also said the change will make it easier to budget in
the future because if the commission agrees, everyone will see a one step
increase on the pay scale every year. 

Myers said employee salaries make up about 53% of
expenditures.

“It's helpful for commissions going
forward, being able to have that number going into the budget, instead of
waiting for departments, each department of saying this is where I
think wages should be. ...,” Berges said.

Myers said the study did not ensure that every employee would
receive a cost of living increase (COLA). 

He said the 3.2% COLA for this year increase would cost the county about $330,000 and delay the implementation of the new study by five pay periods until the summer months.

The commission laid out the 2025 budget calendar later in
the meeting. With the cost of salaries already set, they can consider a potential
COLA increase later in the budget process.

The changes did not include an increase in pay for county administrator Myers. It did include a 3.2% COLA increase for attorneys
who work for the 23rd Judicial District and an increase for the fairgrounds
manager.

The commission also approved a resolution that sets salaries
for elected officials.

The resolution puts elected officials on a pay scale, just
like county employees, but there are no job descriptions.

Myers said the goal of the change is to adjust all wages equally according to the new compensation study.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission recently approved a final round
of updated job descriptions and the employee pay scale as part of a
compensation study.Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers said most of the job descriptions from the wage and benefit study by the Arnold Group
from Wichita, which were approved by the commission last week, were either new descriptions
or updates and corrections. Completing the changes will cost the county $909,000, with the implementation set for the March 31 through April 13 pay period. The commission
set aside $950,000 as part of the budgeting process in 2024. While each
department will have an increase in its budget authority, the pay increases will not increase
the overall county budget. &nbsp;Myers said the study compared similar counties but looked deeper at each job’s description. “The study itself was an in-depth look at job descriptions, not necessarily employees,” Myers said. So, taking the bias
completely out of who the employee is within that position or how long they've
been here, the initial part of the study was to look at the job descriptions.”Myers said one of the most significant issues the study fixes is ensuring employees with fewer years of service aren't making more than their
more tenured coworkers. “I would say probably not every single department, but most
departments had some, if not a quite a bit of compression where there was pay
that was not appropriate for the amount of services they had been with the
county,” Myers said. “The previous policy, as well as what this policy did, did
not look at the individual employee or how well they do their job,” Myers said. "It was based on the scientific method to place somebody on a pay scale, and
then looking at their years of service on where they fit on the step.”County Commissioner Michael Berges called the approval of
the pay scale “the most important decision we're going to make this year to
secure the county going forward.”“When we're hiring individuals with whatever experience, we
know where they're going to be set,” Berges said. “What the expectation is
along their employment journey through the county, similar to if you worked at
any other private business, they have a salary set, and you have
expectations on what to do and how to achieve a higher pay."Berges also said the change will make it easier to budget in
the future because if the commission agrees, everyone will see a one step
increase on the pay scale every year. Myers said employee salaries make up about 53% of
expenditures.“It's helpful for commissions going
forward, being able to have that number going into the budget, instead of
waiting for departments, each department of saying this is where I
think wages should be. ...,” Berges said.Myers said the study did not ensure that every employee would
receive a cost of living increase (COLA). He said the 3.2% COLA for this year increase would cost the county about $330,000 and delay the implementation of the new study by five pay periods until the summer months.The commission laid out the 2025 budget calendar later in
the meeting. With the cost of salaries already set, they can consider a potential
COLA increase later in the budget process.The changes did not include an increase in pay for county administrator Myers. It did include a 3.2% COLA increase for attorneys
who work for the 23rd Judicial District and an increase for the fairgrounds
manager.The commission also approved a resolution that sets salaries
for elected officials.The resolution puts elected officials on a pay scale, just
like county employees, but there are no job descriptions.Myers said the goal of the change is to adjust all wages equally according to the new compensation study.

Ellis County Commission approve pay scale changes

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about their annual report.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays releases annual report" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vftws-15d689a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about their annual report.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays releases annual report

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Spiking crude prices have spiked the Biden administration's plan to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The Department of Energy (DOE) unexpectedly canceled crude purchases aimed at refilling the SPR, citing current prices. 

DOE announced in March that it was soliciting 3 million barrels of oil, to help refill one of the four major government storage facilities. The announced target for the buybacks is $79 or less, nearly ten dollars below current pricing.&nbsp; 

The government has bought back about 32.3 million barrels since last year. The reserve, which held some 600 million barrels before the beginning of the Ukraine invasion, remains just over half full, with about 363 million barrels as of April. &nbsp;

Efforts to ban oil and gas exploration in Colorado have failed to find pay dirt. But the industry is bracing for new efforts to limit their efforts. 

The state's Senate Bill 159 was voted down in committee on March 28. That bill called for a phased-in ban on oil and gas permitting within five years. The industry says that would have killed more than 181,000 jobs, $321 billion in economic activity, and $48 billion in state and local funding. 

Colorado is currently the nation's number four producer of crude oil. Natural gas production ranks eighth. The industry claims to have reduced emissions along Colorado’s Front Range by more than 50% within the last decade, and says ongoing efforts to stymie the permitting process will do little to limit emissions.

Monthly crude oil production in the United States dropped nearly six percent from December to January, as cold temperatures and winter storms gripped a large swath of the oil patch. 

The Energy Information Administration reports January output of 12.5 million barrels per day nationwide, down nearly six percent from December. The tally is 775,000 barrels a day below the all-time record high set in November. 

Each of the top producing states saw big declines: Texas and New Mexico were each down more than five percent. North Dakota dropped by nearly 13%. Colorado was down more than eight percent. Crude production in Kansas dropped nearly 14% to 63,000 barrels per day.

Energy Information Administration's weekly crude production report averages 13,132,000 barrels per day for the second week in a row. Output is up more than a million barrels a day from a year ago.

Domestic crude inventories increased more than three million barrels last week. Government data show supplies total over 451 million barrels including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The Energy Information Administration say US Stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 82 new intent-to-drill notices on file in March, including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. That's 226 new intents so far this year, compared to 344 by the end of March last year.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is 620 rigs, up one oil rig but down two gas rigs. The tally in Texas is up seven rigs, New Mexico is down three and Louisiana is down two rigs.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down two at eleven rigs in eastern Kansas, and up one at 20 rigs west of Wichita. The tally is up 35% from a month ago, but down 21% from last year at this time.

Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, with seven in western Kansas including two in Stafford County. That's 232 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 314 a year ago.

Operators completed wells in Barton and Russell counties last week, among seven in western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 23 newly completed wells for the week, and 301 so far this year. Last year at this time operators had completed 493 wells.

Crude oil imports exceeded crude exports by more than two million barrels a day. Total petroleum exports, including refined products, outpaced imports by 1.6 million barrels a day. 

U.S. crude oil and petroleum product exports each declined last week. Energy Information Administration  said crude exports were down 159,000 barrels a day, while product exports were off by 711,000 barrels a day. Four-week average exports for crude and products dropped by 781,000 barrels a day.

The government reported average crude imports of 6.6 million barrels a day for the week, down 85-thousand barrels a day from the week before. The four-week average is up slightly from last year.

U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas lead the world, and the Energy Secretary says the pause on new export projects will soon be lifted. The U.S. exported more liquefied natural gas than any other country last year, at just under 12-billion cubic feet per day. The government says that's an increase of 12% over the year before.&nbsp;

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told a skeptical energy conference in Texas last month that a pause on U.S. liquid natural gas exports from new projects would be lifted within a year. The Department of Energy announced the pause to much alarm in January, as they sought to evaluate the impact of our gas export boom on climate, security and domestic prices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652188903167.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Spiking crude prices have spiked the Biden administration's plan to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The Department of Energy (DOE) unexpectedly canceled crude purchases aimed at refilling the SPR, citing current prices. DOE announced in March that it was soliciting 3 million barrels of oil, to help refill one of the four major government storage facilities. The announced target for the buybacks is $79 or less, nearly ten dollars below current pricing.&nbsp; The government has bought back about 32.3 million barrels since last year. The reserve, which held some 600 million barrels before the beginning of the Ukraine invasion, remains just over half full, with about 363 million barrels as of April. &nbsp;Efforts to ban oil and gas exploration in Colorado have failed to find pay dirt. But the industry is bracing for new efforts to limit their efforts. The state's Senate Bill 159 was voted down in committee on March 28. That bill called for a phased-in ban on oil and gas permitting within five years. The industry says that would have killed more than 181,000 jobs, $321 billion in economic activity, and $48 billion in state and local funding. Colorado is currently the nation's number four producer of crude oil. Natural gas production ranks eighth. The industry claims to have reduced emissions along Colorado’s Front Range by more than 50% within the last decade, and says ongoing efforts to stymie the permitting process will do little to limit emissions.Monthly crude oil production in the United States dropped nearly six percent from December to January, as cold temperatures and winter storms gripped a large swath of the oil patch. The Energy Information Administration reports January output of 12.5 million barrels per day nationwide, down nearly six percent from December. The tally is 775,000 barrels a day below the all-time record high set in November. Each of the top producing states saw big declines: Texas and New Mexico were each down more than five percent. North Dakota dropped by nearly 13%. Colorado was down more than eight percent. Crude production in Kansas dropped nearly 14% to 63,000 barrels per day.Energy Information Administration's weekly crude production report averages 13,132,000 barrels per day for the second week in a row. Output is up more than a million barrels a day from a year ago.Domestic crude inventories increased more than three million barrels last week. Government data show supplies total over 451 million barrels including the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The Energy Information Administration say US Stockpiles are about two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 82 new intent-to-drill notices on file in March, including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. That's 226 new intents so far this year, compared to 344 by the end of March last year.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is 620 rigs, up one oil rig but down two gas rigs. The tally in Texas is up seven rigs, New Mexico is down three and Louisiana is down two rigs.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down two at eleven rigs in eastern Kansas, and up one at 20 rigs west of Wichita. The tally is up 35% from a month ago, but down 21% from last year at this time.Kansas regulators approved 22 new drilling permits last week, with seven in western Kansas including two in Stafford County. That's 232 new drilling locations so far this year, compared to 314 a year ago.Operators completed wells in Barton and Russell counties last week, among seven in western Kansas. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 23 newly completed wells for the week, and 301 so far this year. Last year at this time operators had completed 493 wells. Crude oil imports exceeded crude exports by more than two million barrels a day. Total petroleum exports, including refined products, outpaced imports by 1.6 million barrels a day. U.S. crude oil and petroleum product exports each declined last week. Energy Information Administration said crude exports were down 159,000 barrels a day, while product exports were off by 711,000 barrels a day. Four-week average exports for crude and products dropped by 781,000 barrels a day.The government reported average crude imports of 6.6 million barrels a day for the week, down 85-thousand barrels a day from the week before. The four-week average is up slightly from last year.U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas lead the world, and the Energy Secretary says the pause on new export projects will soon be lifted. The U.S. exported more liquefied natural gas than any other country last year, at just under 12-billion cubic feet per day. The government says that's an increase of 12% over the year before.&nbsp;Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told a skeptical energy conference in Texas last month that a pause on U.S. liquid natural gas exports from new projects would be lifted within a year. The Department of Energy announced the pause to much alarm in January, as they sought to evaluate the impact of our gas export boom on climate, security and domestic prices.

News from the Oil Patch: High prices tank SPR refill plans

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 354&nbsp; incidents March 31-April 6, 2024, according to the activity report.

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 </figure>ECSOThe Ellis County Sheriff's Office responded to 354&nbsp; incidents March 31-April 6, 2024, according to the activity report.<figure>
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Ellis County Sheriff activity log, March 31-April 6, 2024

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Ellis County Jail bookings, April 1-8, 2024

Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Gage Paul of Hays.

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<script defer src="https://embed-1036328.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-script="6hi1rj">/**/</script></div>Congrats to today's Cash Grab Winner, Gage Paul of Hays.He heard the code word on 94.3 KAYS.Listen in at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. of 3 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX, 103.3 KJLS, 101.9 The Bull, 99.5 KZ Country, or 94.3 KAYS Monday through Friday during the month of April for your chance to win.&nbsp;

Monday's Cash Grab winner is....

WASHINGTON – In the sixth part of the “Dirty Dozen” tax scams for 2024, the Internal Revenue Service warned taxpayers about groups masquerading as charitable organizations to attract donations from unsuspecting contributors.

In natural disasters and other tragic events, it’s common for compassionate individuals to donate money to help the victims. Unfortunately, scammers often use fake charities as a cover to not only obtain money but also gather sensitive personal and financial information that can be exploited for tax-related identity fraud.

“We see repeated instances of scammers using major disasters as a way to prey on well-meaning taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “In these tragic situations, many people want to help, but con artists too frequently come in posing as charitable groups to take advantage of the situation, stealing money and personal information. People should remember it’s important to never feel pressured to give donations immediately. They should do some research and only donate to clearly established charities that help victims.”

Fake charities mark day six of the Dirty Dozen. Started in 2002, the IRS' annual Dirty Dozen campaign lists 12 scams and schemes that put taxpayers, businesses and the tax professional community at risk of losing money, personal information, data and more. While the Dirty Dozen is not a legal document or a formal listing of agency enforcement priorities, the education effort is designed to raise awareness and protect taxpayers and tax pros from common tax scams and schemes, including fake charities.

As a member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vc2VjdXJpdHktc3VtbWl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.4V9aTb8dKLT82D6MEDJRrleiYwDK2N90zCZoTnPlUDg/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">Security Summit</a>, the IRS has worked with state tax agencies and the nation’s tax industry for nine years to cooperatively implement a variety of internal security measures to protect taxpayers. The collaborative effort by the Summit partners also has focused on educating taxpayers about scams and fraudulent schemes throughout the year, which can lead to tax-related identity theft. Through initiatives like the Dirty Dozen and the Security Summit program, the IRS strives to protect taxpayers, businesses and the tax system from cyber criminals and deceptive activities that seek to extract information and money, including fake charities.

Real tragedies; fake charities

During times of disasters, fake charities become a concern. These deceitful organizations are created by scammers who take advantage of people’s generosity. They solicit money and personal information to victimize individuals through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaWRlbnRpdHktdGhlZnQtY2VudHJhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjIxNzEifQ.UAonYqy8JdoejhQEEKHn3P6JuRU9rok3uG1iyYm6il0/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">identity theft</a>.

When taxpayers decide to contribute funds or goods to an organization, they may qualify for a deduction on their tax return, but only if they itemize their deductions. It is important to remember that charitable donations are valid when directed toward IRS-recognized tax-exempt organizations. Individuals intending to donate can utilize the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.A2HauQ8LbsmPzcdiHzW8rwb8HK3sg87tI_ZvTQrLkaE/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS)</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov to ensure legitimacy.

Beware of scammers who might use email communications or manipulate caller IDs to deceive people into donating funds to charities. These fraudsters often target groups such as seniors and those with limited English proficiency.

Here are some helpful tips to avoid getting scammed:

As part of the Dirty Dozen awareness effort regarding tax schemes and unscrupulous tax return preparers, the IRS encourages individuals to report those who promote abusive tax practices and tax preparers who intentionally file incorrect returns.

To report an abusive tax scheme or a tax return preparer, people should use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwcy5pcnMuZ292L2FwcC9kaWdpdGFsLW1haWxyb29tL2RtYWYvZjE0MjQyLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjIxNzEifQ.RYNTDnfDls0PyTLiYBpTGuLo--CzGoliBdH1FfllrKU/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">online Form 14242, Report Suspected Abusive Tax Promotions or Preparers</a>,&nbsp;or mail or fax a completed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbG5rcy5nZC9sL2V5SmhiR2NpT2lKSVV6STFOaUo5LmV5SmlkV3hzWlhScGJsOXNhVzVyWDJsa0lqb3hNekVzSW5WeWFTSTZJbUp3TWpwamJHbGpheUlzSW5WeWJDSTZJbWgwZEhCek9pOHZkM2QzTG1seWN5NW5iM1l2Y0hWaUwybHljeTF3WkdZdlpqRTBNalF5TG5Ca1ppSXNJbUoxYkd4bGRHbHVYMmxrSWpvaU1qQXlOREEwTURFdU9USTJOemd3TURFaWZRLlBaWXJVVi0zM2pxTm04ZktZQ1pNSXJtS2dBSVN3YjVPdk9PYnVsTWJ1a00vcy83MDE0NDI0L2JyLzIzOTkxNTMyNTA1MC1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.POUApOAmQ0R5ji8huu8fwV-tDvcvIBFCr1f_DZbQdjQ/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">paper Form 14242, Report Suspected Abusive Tax Promotions or Preparers</a>,&nbsp;and any supporting material to the IRS Lead Development Center in the Office of Promoter Investigations.

IRSWASHINGTON – In the sixth part of the “Dirty Dozen” tax scams for 2024, the Internal Revenue Service warned taxpayers about groups masquerading as charitable organizations to attract donations from unsuspecting contributors.In natural disasters and other tragic events, it’s common for compassionate individuals to donate money to help the victims. Unfortunately, scammers often use fake charities as a cover to not only obtain money but also gather sensitive personal and financial information that can be exploited for tax-related identity fraud.“We see repeated instances of scammers using major disasters as a way to prey on well-meaning taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “In these tragic situations, many people want to help, but con artists too frequently come in posing as charitable groups to take advantage of the situation, stealing money and personal information. People should remember it’s important to never feel pressured to give donations immediately. They should do some research and only donate to clearly established charities that help victims.”Fake charities mark day six of the Dirty Dozen. Started in 2002, the IRS' annual Dirty Dozen campaign lists 12 scams and schemes that put taxpayers, businesses and the tax professional community at risk of losing money, personal information, data and more. While the Dirty Dozen is not a legal document or a formal listing of agency enforcement priorities, the education effort is designed to raise awareness and protect taxpayers and tax pros from common tax scams and schemes, including fake charities.As a member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vc2VjdXJpdHktc3VtbWl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.4V9aTb8dKLT82D6MEDJRrleiYwDK2N90zCZoTnPlUDg/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">Security Summit</a>, the IRS has worked with state tax agencies and the nation’s tax industry for nine years to cooperatively implement a variety of internal security measures to protect taxpayers. The collaborative effort by the Summit partners also has focused on educating taxpayers about scams and fraudulent schemes throughout the year, which can lead to tax-related identity theft. Through initiatives like the Dirty Dozen and the Security Summit program, the IRS strives to protect taxpayers, businesses and the tax system from cyber criminals and deceptive activities that seek to extract information and money, including fake charities.Real tragedies; fake charitiesDuring times of disasters, fake charities become a concern. These deceitful organizations are created by scammers who take advantage of people’s generosity. They solicit money and personal information to victimize individuals through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaWRlbnRpdHktdGhlZnQtY2VudHJhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjIxNzEifQ.UAonYqy8JdoejhQEEKHn3P6JuRU9rok3uG1iyYm6il0/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">identity theft</a>.When taxpayers decide to contribute funds or goods to an organization, they may qualify for a deduction on their tax return, but only if they itemize their deductions. It is important to remember that charitable donations are valid when directed toward IRS-recognized tax-exempt organizations. Individuals intending to donate can utilize the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.A2HauQ8LbsmPzcdiHzW8rwb8HK3sg87tI_ZvTQrLkaE/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS)</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov to ensure legitimacy.Beware of scammers who might use email communications or manipulate caller IDs to deceive people into donating funds to charities. These fraudsters often target groups such as seniors and those with limited English proficiency.Here are some helpful tips to avoid getting scammed:<ul>
 <li>Don’t give in to pressure. Scammers often create situations to get people to make payments. Genuine charities are always grateful for donations. Donors should take their time and research before making a charitable contribution.</li><li>Exercise caution when making donation payments. Avoid any charity that requests gift card numbers or wire transfers. It’s better to pay by credit card or check after ensuring the charity’s authenticity.</li><li>Verify the legitimacy of the charity. Scammers often use similar-sounding names for charities to confuse people. Before donating, potential donors need to ask the fundraiser for the charity's name, website and mailing address so they can independently verify its authenticity. Use the special IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY2hhcml0aWVzLW5vbi1wcm9maXRzL3NlYXJjaC1mb3ItdGF4LWV4ZW1wdC1vcmdhbml6YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.plRjUfA_e38m0qmKbRgEsloKinWxT8wC95OrKSrKp4I/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">TEOS</a>&nbsp;tool to verify if an organization is a legitimate tax-exempt charity.</li><li>Avoid sharing too much information. Scammers are always on the lookout for both money and personal data. Never disclose Social Security numbers, credit card numbers or Personal Identification Numbers. Only provide bank or credit card details after confirming the charity's legitimacy.</li>
 </ul>Report fraudAs part of the Dirty Dozen awareness effort regarding tax schemes and unscrupulous tax return preparers, the IRS encourages individuals to report those who promote abusive tax practices and tax preparers who intentionally file incorrect returns.To report an abusive tax scheme or a tax return preparer, people should use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwcy5pcnMuZ292L2FwcC9kaWdpdGFsLW1haWxyb29tL2RtYWYvZjE0MjQyLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDQuOTI4NjIxNzEifQ.RYNTDnfDls0PyTLiYBpTGuLo--CzGoliBdH1FfllrKU/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">online Form 14242, Report Suspected Abusive Tax Promotions or Preparers</a>,&nbsp;or mail or fax a completed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbG5rcy5nZC9sL2V5SmhiR2NpT2lKSVV6STFOaUo5LmV5SmlkV3hzWlhScGJsOXNhVzVyWDJsa0lqb3hNekVzSW5WeWFTSTZJbUp3TWpwamJHbGpheUlzSW5WeWJDSTZJbWgwZEhCek9pOHZkM2QzTG1seWN5NW5iM1l2Y0hWaUwybHljeTF3WkdZdlpqRTBNalF5TG5Ca1ppSXNJbUoxYkd4bGRHbHVYMmxrSWpvaU1qQXlOREEwTURFdU9USTJOemd3TURFaWZRLlBaWXJVVi0zM2pxTm04ZktZQ1pNSXJtS2dBSVN3YjVPdk9PYnVsTWJ1a00vcy83MDE0NDI0L2JyLzIzOTkxNTMyNTA1MC1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwNC45Mjg2MjE3MSJ9.POUApOAmQ0R5ji8huu8fwV-tDvcvIBFCr1f_DZbQdjQ/s/1558083055/br/240132547999-l">paper Form 14242, Report Suspected Abusive Tax Promotions or Preparers</a>,&nbsp;and any supporting material to the IRS Lead Development Center in the Office of Promoter Investigations.

Dirty Dozen: IRS warns about fake charities exploiting taxpayer generosity

In cooperation with our partners at Empower, the Hays Post will bring free video eclipse coverage from 1 to 4 p.m. today. Watch below.

A total solar eclipse comes to North America today. It will enter over Mexico’s Pacific coast, dashing across the U.S. from Texas to Maine before exiting over eastern Canada into the Atlantic.

The peak spectacle will last up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds in the path of total darkness — a 115-mile-wide path that slices across the continent. That's the place to be to experience the full eclipse — most of the rest of the continent outside the path of totality will get a partial eclipse.

<div><iframe title="Total solar eclipse across North America" aria-label="Locator maps" id="ap-chart-lbUzp" src="https://interactives.ap.org/embeds/lbUzp/12/" scrolling="no" width="100%" style="border:none" height="574"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(e){if(void 0!==e.data["datawrapper-height"]){var t=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var a in e.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<t.length;r++){if(t[r].contentWindow===e.source)t[r].style.height=e.data["datawrapper-height"][a]+"px"}}}))}();</script></div>In cooperation with our partners at Empower, the Hays Post will bring free video eclipse coverage from 1 to 4 p.m. today. Watch below.<div><div data-stn-player="9rx4n888"></div><script async type="text/javascript" src="https://embed.sendtonews.com/player3/embedcode.js?fk=9rx4n888"></script></div>A total solar eclipse comes to North America today. It will enter over Mexico’s Pacific coast, dashing across the U.S. from Texas to Maine before exiting over eastern Canada into the Atlantic.The peak spectacle will last up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds in the path of total darkness — a 115-mile-wide path that slices across the continent. That's the place to be to experience the full eclipse — most of the rest of the continent outside the path of totality will get a partial eclipse.

Watch the eclipse live today

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC

Finding an apartment or house to rent that’s safe, affordable, and near amenities you want can be hard for anyone. Folks in the LGBTQ+ community often use community groups on social media to find housing rentals, and people often assume that what’s posted is vetted and safe for community members. But scammers post in these groups, too. Here are ways to spot and avoid rental scams.

We’ve heard about these&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/rental-listing-scams#how">rental scams happening two ways</a>: scammers use legitimate rental listings but claim to be the landlord (but they’re not), or they make up listings for places that either aren’t for rent or don’t actually exist. Whether they use a real address with real pictures or make something up, it can be hard to spot a scam listing — especially if you’re coming from outside the area. In both cases, the scammer will rush you into paying an application fee, deposit, and/or first month’s rent,&nbsp;and promise to get you the keys right away — but instead, they’ll disappear.&nbsp;And you’ll be left without your money and with no place to move into.

Also, nobody legit will ever say you can only pay by&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire transfer</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/avoiding-and-reporting-gift-card-scams">gift card</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>. That’s a sure sign of a scam.

Spot a rental scam? Report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTCFinding an apartment or house to rent that’s safe, affordable, and near amenities you want can be hard for anyone. Folks in the LGBTQ+ community often use community groups on social media to find housing rentals, and people often assume that what’s posted is vetted and safe for community members. But scammers post in these groups, too. Here are ways to spot and avoid rental scams.We’ve heard about these&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/rental-listing-scams#how">rental scams happening two ways</a>: scammers use legitimate rental listings but claim to be the landlord (but they’re not), or they make up listings for places that either aren’t for rent or don’t actually exist. Whether they use a real address with real pictures or make something up, it can be hard to spot a scam listing — especially if you’re coming from outside the area. In both cases, the scammer will rush you into paying an application fee, deposit, and/or first month’s rent,&nbsp;and promise to get you the keys right away — but instead, they’ll disappear.&nbsp;And you’ll be left without your money and with no place to move into.To avoid rental scams:<ul>
 <li>Search online for the rental’s address, plus the name of the property owner or rental company listed. Do other ads come up for the same address? Maybe with a different owner or rental company name? Those are signs of a scam.</li><li>Check out the rental company.&nbsp;Search their website to see if the property is listed there, too. If it isn’t, the ad you found may be a scam.</li><li>Don’t pay for a property you’ve never seen.&nbsp;And never pay someone you’ve never met in person. If you can’t see the apartment or sign a lease before you pay, see if a friend can see it for you, or keep looking.</li>
 </ul>Also, nobody legit will ever say you can only pay by&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire transfer</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/avoiding-and-reporting-gift-card-scams">gift card</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>. That’s a sure sign of a scam.Spot a rental scam? Report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

How to spot hard-to-spot rental scams

The Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, in collaboration with CVBs in Wichita, Abilene, and Dodge City, recently launched the Gunsmoke Trail – a road trip that takes visitors through towns that were mentioned in the hit show of the same name.

Gunsmoke, the Emmy award-winning primetime Western, entertained audiences for 20 years. The show still runs on select networks, with iconic characters telling the story of frontier life in the Old West.

“This collaboration is a win-win for all of our communities,” said Melissa Dixon, Executive Director of the Hays CVB.

“The Gunsmoke fan base is looking for nostalgic Old West experiences that we already have in place, so we just had to make a connection with that audience.”

The Gunsmoke Trail is easily accessible through a mobile “passport” program which allows smart phone users to check in at different stops, earning points for prizes. The passport functions like a mobile app but requires no app download.

Examples of Wild West-themed locations that visitors will be directed to in Hays include:

Visitors can learn more and sign up for the program at KansasGunsmokeTrail.com or&nbsp;call 785-628-8202.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712263329340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau, in collaboration with CVBs in Wichita, Abilene, and Dodge City, recently launched the Gunsmoke Trail – a road trip that takes visitors through towns that were mentioned in the hit show of the same name.Gunsmoke, the Emmy award-winning primetime Western, entertained audiences for 20 years. The show still runs on select networks, with iconic characters telling the story of frontier life in the Old West.“This collaboration is a win-win for all of our communities,” said Melissa Dixon, Executive Director of the Hays CVB.“The Gunsmoke fan base is looking for nostalgic Old West experiences that we already have in place, so we just had to make a connection with that audience.”The Gunsmoke Trail is easily accessible through a mobile “passport” program which allows smart phone users to check in at different stops, earning points for prizes. The passport functions like a mobile app but requires no app download.Examples of Wild West-themed locations that visitors will be directed to in Hays include:<ul>
 <li>Historic Walking Tour on the Bricks in Downtown Hays, where bronze plaques mark the first shops, saloons, and shootouts of Hays City (now Hays)</li><li>Fort Hays State Historic Site, now offering free admission, which showcases the life of the soldiers who were stationed at Fort Hays</li><li>Ellis County Historical Society Museum, which offers scheduled tours of the Younger Harness Shop</li><li>Felten Sculpture Tour featuring statues of “Buffalo Bill” Cody and “Wild Bill” Hickok</li><li>Murals throughout downtown Hays featuring icons of the Old West</li><li>Bison Herd in Frontier Park</li><li>Boot Hill Cemetery, where many buried there died “with their boots on.”</li>
 </ul>Visitors can learn more and sign up for the program at KansasGunsmokeTrail.com or&nbsp;call 785-628-8202.

Hays featured in 'Gunsmoke Trail' tourism collaboration

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712509414819.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Manhattan and Kansas City, Kan. – &nbsp;Through the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.-2BTe45QdpQUblgDFYa53aPR4jwrpTnah-2B4gx2MDI9A4GDPpKbmajyD9niJGeMtA9hDKHR_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEvywVWOJP7bBOcw1jEzKrV3qurnZaXbiJE7E-2Bp6iTnZwAE-2BqzQdTmvZRWtjRIB4gb3ZRsdrpRKxqXkzU-2BMloFOQZf5y-2B-2BJL-2BaE-2FxM3VVwfPQTtJ9n3bBOxdcPnnQSe6Ic-2FM6OpA3mLGE5ICWEvkaiYtUfIZ4Uk6RMt2vYLwz3SpZ">K-State 105 initiative</a>, Kansas State University and&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14VfCF0FFUH7Wk5iMqU5jMs9jISuyekdyhDUs9SlWHS2hUP7ot_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEgHGO9GaCjRGn8kkrrxL7hLrDQMT7TFcim22iOWH1StddTHzWaTf0Ll8BbPc24jLIe1uYQZ-2BIJM6ZRiJccMYBT8-2FSxsAwWGZnPf1j4FisTBOUns9Xl-2BTyyUjXCmvqmNMOxHXEAvRniYYzBOpqw8MyZffAFd8lES57HWo0SOCWck9">The University of Kansas Health System</a>&nbsp;announced today that the organizations are working together to explore ways to support health care in rural Kansas communities. The two organizations made the announcement during a joint news conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The partnership is a first-of-its-kind collaboration that brings together the land-grant mission and statewide presence of K-State through K-State Research and Extension with the expertise and experience of the state's only academic health system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

"As a&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14Va5O4yzPYUwqKKt9CyjzPQBkxYtZSlAl3B9zkF7tdpH3eZw5_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkErVoXt06MEdAXGFVroL1wJZcALZv8QYaqtmelk0U-2FGZNFWmy8-2BItS7BeZvEyh7kqZNFSrXp6giyfVa8EPWNj6zPMtFmR5j3uEMhjdq1YS1p824mXxXCUMcPnEot6jWWsr1SLgAxIws9nC0WD6PeHxqyKkQphcjP2bLnQ-2B5DC-2BYnb">next-generation land-grant university</a>, Kansas State University has identified community health and well-being as a focus area for engagement and transforming lives in Kansas," said&nbsp;Marshall Stewart, K-State senior vice president and chief of staff. "We are thrilled to collaborate with our colleagues at The University of Kansas Health System and build a K-State 105 partnership that improves health care access for Kansans across the state."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Through the K-State 105 partnership, K-State and The University of Kansas Health System will work with the statewide K-State Research and Extension network to meaningfully address health care challenges, particularly in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

"Access to quality health care is critical for patients, and for their communities," said Bob Page, president and CEO of The University of Kansas Health System. "Our focus starts always with what is best for patients, and providing access to the expertise and resources of the state's only academic health system is one of many ways we are working to provide support across our state."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 The two organizations are identifying health care areas for initial project focus. Some of these areas could include:

• Caregiver support for patients with dementia.

• Increasing access to digital and telehealth resources.

• Programming focused on behavioral health needs in rural communities.

• Addressing OB-GYN/high-risk pregnancy provider shortages.

• Grant writing and facilitation resources.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 "Communities large and small across Kansas have similar goals — create a great place to live, work and enjoy life," said Tammy Peterman, MS, RN, FAAN, president of the health system's Kansas City Division. "We are excited to collaborate with K-State and its extension offices to address identified health challenges, as well as continue to learn and partner with rural health care providers on new solutions to emerging challenges."&nbsp; &nbsp;

The program will start with pilot projects in areas still being determined through collaboration with communities and with K-State Research and Extension offices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; "Through K-State 105, we are building economic prosperity in all 105 counties of Kansas," said Jessica Gnad, K-State 105 director. "We know that access to health care is an issue affecting economic and workforce development across Kansas. Our partnership with The University of Kansas Health System is just the beginning of a collaboration to empower Kansans to find solutions that work in their local communities."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 These efforts are meant to support and augment the work already being done by dedicated physicians, nurses and care providers throughout the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

The statewide K-State Research and Extension network has locations in all 105 counties and plays a key role in connecting with communities. Community vitality and health have long been a focus of K-State Research and Extension programming, and K-State Research and Extension agents understand the opportunities and challenges in their local communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This project will build on the work being done by the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14VfCF0FFUH7Wk5iMqU5jMs9iPS7xKH6Vys5D0fLslfTkBxVIuWkv8XyF-2FrdMB9ZTAIOEmKwinAxeaj43rBUPNskTDutJoIWMThQ0DZVmcOizCYNeU_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEhnzfzimR3BKwvewJ13u1ldIQyTrWgVNr0CES1hehjrzzvD-2Bshvs03sqOSt9dVHSS7TK88Aor08FLo5wFfTHZ9JXHV1n2IGI5-2FwrLohDiWIdOr0wUp0QHp3WCbM2V4tMdPvCOGwYlI-2B2qgUHqaqN3dwhxklXF7t3u6o-2Ff42nST8f">Care Collaborative</a>, a health system program that originally started to drive better outcomes in stroke, heart attack and sepsis care in rural Kansas. It now reaches 73 counties statewide, providing access to a variety of tools, expertise and resources for rural health care providers. The Care Collaborative, now in its 10th year, has developed programming and tools for quality improvement, behavioral health, diabetes education and new payment models for rural providers to enhance sustainability as the health care landscape changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State is focusing on health and well-being as the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14Va5O4yzPYUwqKKt9CyjzPQCIJNR9FMwIm7Kbf-2FH6mSgCRae5xw16JznEGu6P2lIH8FsBJGOraohJaGNLSSfbF181Oy1kPWnbsxrDkwJktCNIZfuP-2BlGXlIp-2B558yO0Hsnw-3D-3Dv8mW_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEs7Y5oWi26E0-2FEwm576hyJ82YF1g4Xrf3fV-2ByjPYqTZEhiWArAhfTgv380zZTl-2FRDXfbtXJolNdnYaXAO31aIWwGrTswEn7ZOz6ZLznEANIkIxtLyHdGEYjc-2FbmgBpBNxhp002Q1aBIr6SgtQk92JzpaN88x8OPSQBxL0Pw8-2B9KU">first Kansas university to adopt the international Okanagan Charter</a>, which calls upon higher education institutions to embed health into university culture and promote health collaboration and action.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SubmittedManhattan and Kansas City, Kan. – &nbsp;Through the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.-2BTe45QdpQUblgDFYa53aPR4jwrpTnah-2B4gx2MDI9A4GDPpKbmajyD9niJGeMtA9hDKHR_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEvywVWOJP7bBOcw1jEzKrV3qurnZaXbiJE7E-2Bp6iTnZwAE-2BqzQdTmvZRWtjRIB4gb3ZRsdrpRKxqXkzU-2BMloFOQZf5y-2B-2BJL-2BaE-2FxM3VVwfPQTtJ9n3bBOxdcPnnQSe6Ic-2FM6OpA3mLGE5ICWEvkaiYtUfIZ4Uk6RMt2vYLwz3SpZ">K-State 105 initiative</a>, Kansas State University and&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14VfCF0FFUH7Wk5iMqU5jMs9jISuyekdyhDUs9SlWHS2hUP7ot_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEgHGO9GaCjRGn8kkrrxL7hLrDQMT7TFcim22iOWH1StddTHzWaTf0Ll8BbPc24jLIe1uYQZ-2BIJM6ZRiJccMYBT8-2FSxsAwWGZnPf1j4FisTBOUns9Xl-2BTyyUjXCmvqmNMOxHXEAvRniYYzBOpqw8MyZffAFd8lES57HWo0SOCWck9">The University of Kansas Health System</a>&nbsp;announced today that the organizations are working together to explore ways to support health care in rural Kansas communities. The two organizations made the announcement during a joint news conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The partnership is a first-of-its-kind collaboration that brings together the land-grant mission and statewide presence of K-State through K-State Research and Extension with the expertise and experience of the state's only academic health system.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "As a&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14Va5O4yzPYUwqKKt9CyjzPQBkxYtZSlAl3B9zkF7tdpH3eZw5_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkErVoXt06MEdAXGFVroL1wJZcALZv8QYaqtmelk0U-2FGZNFWmy8-2BItS7BeZvEyh7kqZNFSrXp6giyfVa8EPWNj6zPMtFmR5j3uEMhjdq1YS1p824mXxXCUMcPnEot6jWWsr1SLgAxIws9nC0WD6PeHxqyKkQphcjP2bLnQ-2B5DC-2BYnb">next-generation land-grant university</a>, Kansas State University has identified community health and well-being as a focus area for engagement and transforming lives in Kansas," said&nbsp;Marshall Stewart, K-State senior vice president and chief of staff. "We are thrilled to collaborate with our colleagues at The University of Kansas Health System and build a K-State 105 partnership that improves health care access for Kansans across the state."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Through the K-State 105 partnership, K-State and The University of Kansas Health System will work with the statewide K-State Research and Extension network to meaningfully address health care challenges, particularly in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Access to quality health care is critical for patients, and for their communities," said Bob Page, president and CEO of The University of Kansas Health System. "Our focus starts always with what is best for patients, and providing access to the expertise and resources of the state's only academic health system is one of many ways we are working to provide support across our state."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The two organizations are identifying health care areas for initial project focus. Some of these areas could include:• Strategies to keep care local.• Caregiver support for patients with dementia.• Increasing access to digital and telehealth resources.• Programming focused on behavioral health needs in rural communities.• Addressing OB-GYN/high-risk pregnancy provider shortages.• Grant writing and facilitation resources.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Communities large and small across Kansas have similar goals — create a great place to live, work and enjoy life," said Tammy Peterman, MS, RN, FAAN, president of the health system's Kansas City Division. "We are excited to collaborate with K-State and its extension offices to address identified health challenges, as well as continue to learn and partner with rural health care providers on new solutions to emerging challenges."&nbsp; &nbsp;The program will start with pilot projects in areas still being determined through collaboration with communities and with K-State Research and Extension offices.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Through K-State 105, we are building economic prosperity in all 105 counties of Kansas," said Jessica Gnad, K-State 105 director. "We know that access to health care is an issue affecting economic and workforce development across Kansas. Our partnership with The University of Kansas Health System is just the beginning of a collaboration to empower Kansans to find solutions that work in their local communities."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These efforts are meant to support and augment the work already being done by dedicated physicians, nurses and care providers throughout the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The statewide K-State Research and Extension network has locations in all 105 counties and plays a key role in connecting with communities. Community vitality and health have long been a focus of K-State Research and Extension programming, and K-State Research and Extension agents understand the opportunities and challenges in their local communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This project will build on the work being done by the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14VfCF0FFUH7Wk5iMqU5jMs9iPS7xKH6Vys5D0fLslfTkBxVIuWkv8XyF-2FrdMB9ZTAIOEmKwinAxeaj43rBUPNskTDutJoIWMThQ0DZVmcOizCYNeU_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEhnzfzimR3BKwvewJ13u1ldIQyTrWgVNr0CES1hehjrzzvD-2Bshvs03sqOSt9dVHSS7TK88Aor08FLo5wFfTHZ9JXHV1n2IGI5-2FwrLohDiWIdOr0wUp0QHp3WCbM2V4tMdPvCOGwYlI-2B2qgUHqaqN3dwhxklXF7t3u6o-2Ff42nST8f">Care Collaborative</a>, a health system program that originally started to drive better outcomes in stroke, heart attack and sepsis care in rural Kansas. It now reaches 73 counties statewide, providing access to a variety of tools, expertise and resources for rural health care providers. The Care Collaborative, now in its 10th year, has developed programming and tools for quality improvement, behavioral health, diabetes education and new payment models for rural providers to enhance sustainability as the health care landscape changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;K-State is focusing on health and well-being as the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xSl5gT91Jhoe-2BdUsZP14Va5O4yzPYUwqKKt9CyjzPQCIJNR9FMwIm7Kbf-2FH6mSgCRae5xw16JznEGu6P2lIH8FsBJGOraohJaGNLSSfbF181Oy1kPWnbsxrDkwJktCNIZfuP-2BlGXlIp-2B558yO0Hsnw-3D-3Dv8mW_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6XkVpDOtrPoi5W9bsxczWTtUbScb7uO6ZIpNUMqpkIv7eH5-2BYkzp86K3xzSOKt4PlFnxyxZRIsahP7R938xsZ0C9ewei5Clxxp9BQXdMTxAj9qIKlX3au16Begl-2FomK-2B9tkkDfhtiDNzMDOdJbzbkEs7Y5oWi26E0-2FEwm576hyJ82YF1g4Xrf3fV-2ByjPYqTZEhiWArAhfTgv380zZTl-2FRDXfbtXJolNdnYaXAO31aIWwGrTswEn7ZOz6ZLznEANIkIxtLyHdGEYjc-2FbmgBpBNxhp002Q1aBIr6SgtQk92JzpaN88x8OPSQBxL0Pw8-2B9KU">first Kansas university to adopt the international Okanagan Charter</a>, which calls upon higher education institutions to embed health into university culture and promote health collaboration and action.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State, University of Kansas Health System partner to support rural health care

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://www.usd489.com/">USD 489</a> Assistant Special Education Director Lindy McDaniel and students speak with Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney about Autism Awareness Month.

<div><iframe title="USD 489 discusses Autism Awareness Month" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=y3g8h-15d4ec6-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://www.usd489.com/">USD 489</a> Assistant Special Education Director Lindy McDaniel and students speak with Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney about Autism Awareness Month.

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 discusses Autism Awareness Month

In cooperation with our partners at Empower, the Hays Post will bring free video eclipse coverage from 1 to 4 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Watch for the link on Monday.

A total solar eclipse comes to North America on April 8. It will enter over Mexico’s Pacific coast, dashing across the U.S. from Texas to Maine before exiting over eastern Canada into the Atlantic.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

In cooperation with our partners at Empower, the Hays Post will bring free video eclipse coverage from 1 to 4 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Watch for the link on Monday.<div><iframe title="Total solar eclipse across North America" aria-label="Locator maps" id="ap-chart-lbUzp" src="https://interactives.ap.org/embeds/lbUzp/12/" scrolling="no" width="100%" style="border:none" height="574"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(e){if(void 0!==e.data["datawrapper-height"]){var t=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var a in e.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<t.length;r++){if(t[r].contentWindow===e.source)t[r].style.height=e.data["datawrapper-height"][a]+"px"}}}))}();</script></div>A total solar eclipse comes to North America on April 8. It will enter over Mexico’s Pacific coast, dashing across the U.S. from Texas to Maine before exiting over eastern Canada into the Atlantic.The peak spectacle will last up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds in the path of total darkness — a 115-mile-wide path that slices across the continent. That's the place to be to experience the full eclipse — most of the rest of the continent outside the path of totality will get a partial eclipse.The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Watch the eclipse live on Hays Post on Monday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Tickets are on sale now for the eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays.

Several changes have been made to this year's event, said Julie Rider, Downtown Hays Development Corporation executive director.

The location has moved, she said, but not far.

For the past seven years, Brews on the Bricks has been held on 10th Street on the west side of Main Street.

"A lot of apartments have opened on that side, so it's a little harder to block that street," Rider said.

"Now that we have the beautiful Downtown Pavilion, our board decided to move the event to that beautiful structure and take advantage of some of the wonderful features available to us at Union Pacific Plaza."

Since the event is on a Saturday during the downtown market season, the starting time has been moved back to later in the afternoon.

"Previously, we got underway at 12:30 p.m. This year, our Brews and Bites VIP guests will be allowed to enter at 3:30 p.m. to take advantage of the first tastes and the shorter lines for that first hour and a half."

A new VIP lounge with special foods will also be accessible during the event.

VIP guests will also have access to a safe ride home courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos.&nbsp;

Other perks will be announced in the coming weeks and can be seen on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/7279244255490957/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D">Downtown Hays Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;

"As always, we'll have a great group of regional brewers there with sampling from 30-40 different labels," Ryder said.&nbsp;

"There's a great camaraderie among the brewers. They know each other from different events. It's a fun atmosphere."

General admission attendees can enjoy the event from 5 to 8 p.m.

There will also be food vendors for the general admission attendees, live music, games and activities, and a raffle.

"Our Brews app will also be back with shopping discounts," she said. "Lots of great things happening."

VIP tickets are $100, and general admission tickets are $50.&nbsp; You can purchase tickets online now at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a>.

"Tickets are selling quickly," Rider said, "particularly the VIP.

"We'll have a reduced number of those. Usually, we have 300; this year, we'll have 200, so they're going to go quick."&nbsp;

Editor's note: Hays Post is a division of Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712332820511.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostTickets are on sale now for the eighth-annual Brews on the Bricks in downtown Hays.Several changes have been made to this year's event, said Julie Rider, Downtown Hays Development Corporation executive director.The location has moved, she said, but not far.For the past seven years, Brews on the Bricks has been held on 10th Street on the west side of Main Street."A lot of apartments have opened on that side, so it's a little harder to block that street," Rider said."Now that we have the beautiful Downtown Pavilion, our board decided to move the event to that beautiful structure and take advantage of some of the wonderful features available to us at Union Pacific Plaza."Since the event is on a Saturday during the downtown market season, the starting time has been moved back to later in the afternoon."Previously, we got underway at 12:30 p.m. This year, our Brews and Bites VIP guests will be allowed to enter at 3:30 p.m. to take advantage of the first tastes and the shorter lines for that first hour and a half."A new VIP lounge with special foods will also be accessible during the event.VIP guests will also have access to a safe ride home courtesy of Diamond Luxury Limos.&nbsp;Other perks will be announced in the coming weeks and can be seen on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/7279244255490957/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D">Downtown Hays Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;"As always, we'll have a great group of regional brewers there with sampling from 30-40 different labels," Ryder said.&nbsp;"There's a great camaraderie among the brewers. They know each other from different events. It's a fun atmosphere."General admission attendees can enjoy the event from 5 to 8 p.m.There will also be food vendors for the general admission attendees, live music, games and activities, and a raffle."Our Brews app will also be back with shopping discounts," she said. "Lots of great things happening."Eagle Radio is the presenting sponsor.VIP tickets are $100, and general admission tickets are $50.&nbsp; You can purchase tickets online now at <a href="https://www.brewsonthebricks.info/">downtownhays.com</a>."Tickets are selling quickly," Rider said, "particularly the VIP."We'll have a reduced number of those. Usually, we have 300; this year, we'll have 200, so they're going to go quick."&nbsp;Editor's note: Hays Post is a division of Eagle Radio.

Tickets on sale now for Brews on the Bricks in Hays

Hays Medical Center, in collaboration with the Hays Medical Center Foundation, was pleased to extend an invitation to health care professionals from HaysMed and regional Critical Access hospitals to attend a training event focused on identifying and intervening in cases of human trafficking.

Heidi Olson, RN, MSN, CPN, SANE-P, and founder and president of Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, presented three two-hour sessions on “Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking: Practical Identification and Interventions for Health care Workers.”

The sessions took place on Feb. 29 and March 1, offering both in-person and virtual attendance options via Zoom.

Over 150 healthcare professionals from HaysMed and regional Critical Access Hospitals participated in the training, with additional remote registrants joining from six different states. Attendees had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of human trafficking and its implications for health care settings, as well as to learn practical strategies for identifying and responding to cases effectively.

Human trafficking is a pressing issue that requires a collective effort to address effectively. 

“While being trafficked, 90% of victims interact with health care workers, but they are only identified 5% of the time,” Olson said.

This program was designed to increase the identification of human trafficking and exploitation victims and examine response by hospital staff, forensic nurses, advocates, forensic interviewers and other professionals.

Following this training, the objectives included to apply techniques to identify a trafficking victim in the health care setting, apply ways to build rapport with trafficking victims in the health care setting, identify exploitation situations in the health care setting and examine opportunities to ensure facilities are equipped to handle difficult situations.

Topics from the training also covered the identifying the different types of trafficking victims, social media exploitation and the ideation that victims often choose the "path of least assault."

HaysMed acknowledges the critical role of community support in raising awareness and identifying instances of human trafficking. This recognition is particularly vital in rural Kansas, where access to resources may be limited. By fostering collaboration, education and training opportunities like this one within the community, HaysMed aims to continue to combat human trafficking and provide support to victims in need.

One notable aspect of the training was the availability of continuing education credits for attendees, enabling them to enhance their professional development while contributing to the fight against human trafficking in health care.

By hosting this educational initiative, HaysMed demonstrates its commitment to not only the ongoing education of its staff but also to supporting regional Critical Access Hospital networks in addressing this pressing issue.

HaysMed extends its gratitude to Heidi Olson for sharing her expertise and insights, as well as to all participants for their active engagement and dedication to improving healthcare responses to human trafficking.

For more information on Heidi Olson's Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, please visit her website at paradigmshifttc.com.

For more information about future educational opportunities and initiatives at HaysMed, contact the Education Department at 785-623-5500.

The HaysMed Human Trafficking Committee includes the following:

Trisha Haskell, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P - Forensic Program Coordinator Jaylea Black, LSCSW – Oncology Social Worker Amy Braun, LSCSW – Continuing Care Social Worker Jeff Brull, Executive Director of the Hays Medical Center Foundation Amy George, MSN, RN – Emergency Room Supervisor Shawn Hoss - Safety and Security Manager Debbie McLaren- Education Course Coordinator Doris Rack, RN – Nursing NICU Chris Schumacher, MSN, MS, RN, NPD-BC – Acute Care RN Jessica Seib, MSN, RN, IBCLC, RNC-OB – Birthing Center Development Coordinator Leanna Swart, Director of Marketing Michelle Yohe – HaysMed Office Manager

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712257094441.png" alt="Heidi Olson, RN, MSN, CPN, SANE-P, and founder and president of Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, presents to HaysMed associates on “Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking: Practical Identification and Interventions for Healthcare Workers.” Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Heidi Olson, RN, MSN, CPN, SANE-P, and founder and president of Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, presents to HaysMed associates on “Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking: Practical Identification and Interventions for Healthcare Workers.” Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHays Medical Center, in collaboration with the Hays Medical Center Foundation, was pleased to extend an invitation to health care professionals from HaysMed and regional Critical Access hospitals to attend a training event focused on identifying and intervening in cases of human trafficking.Heidi Olson, RN, MSN, CPN, SANE-P, and founder and president of Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, presented three two-hour sessions on “Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking: Practical Identification and Interventions for Health care Workers.”The sessions took place on Feb. 29 and March 1, offering both in-person and virtual attendance options via Zoom.Over 150 healthcare professionals from HaysMed and regional Critical Access Hospitals participated in the training, with additional remote registrants joining from six different states. Attendees had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of human trafficking and its implications for health care settings, as well as to learn practical strategies for identifying and responding to cases effectively.Human trafficking is a pressing issue that requires a collective effort to address effectively. “While being trafficked, 90% of victims interact with health care workers, but they are only identified 5% of the time,” Olson said.This program was designed to increase the identification of human trafficking and exploitation victims and examine response by hospital staff, forensic nurses, advocates, forensic interviewers and other professionals.Following this training, the objectives included to apply techniques to identify a trafficking victim in the health care setting, apply ways to build rapport with trafficking victims in the health care setting, identify exploitation situations in the health care setting and examine opportunities to ensure facilities are equipped to handle difficult situations.Topics from the training also covered the identifying the different types of trafficking victims, social media exploitation and the ideation that victims often choose the "path of least assault."HaysMed acknowledges the critical role of community support in raising awareness and identifying instances of human trafficking. This recognition is particularly vital in rural Kansas, where access to resources may be limited. By fostering collaboration, education and training opportunities like this one within the community, HaysMed aims to continue to combat human trafficking and provide support to victims in need.One notable aspect of the training was the availability of continuing education credits for attendees, enabling them to enhance their professional development while contributing to the fight against human trafficking in health care.By hosting this educational initiative, HaysMed demonstrates its commitment to not only the ongoing education of its staff but also to supporting regional Critical Access Hospital networks in addressing this pressing issue.HaysMed extends its gratitude to Heidi Olson for sharing her expertise and insights, as well as to all participants for their active engagement and dedication to improving healthcare responses to human trafficking.For more information on Heidi Olson's Paradigm Shift Training and Consulting, please visit her website at paradigmshifttc.com.For more information about future educational opportunities and initiatives at HaysMed, contact the Education Department at 785-623-5500.The HaysMed Human Trafficking Committee includes the following:Trisha Haskell, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P - Forensic Program Coordinator Jaylea Black, LSCSW – Oncology Social Worker Amy Braun, LSCSW – Continuing Care Social Worker Jeff Brull, Executive Director of the Hays Medical Center Foundation Amy George, MSN, RN – Emergency Room Supervisor Shawn Hoss - Safety and Security Manager Debbie McLaren- Education Course Coordinator Doris Rack, RN – Nursing NICU Chris Schumacher, MSN, MS, RN, NPD-BC – Acute Care RN Jessica Seib, MSN, RN, IBCLC, RNC-OB – Birthing Center Development Coordinator Leanna Swart, Director of Marketing Michelle Yohe – HaysMed Office Manager

HaysMed hosted human trafficking training sessions for health care workers

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Sunday in Norton.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Equinox driven by Alex J. Conn, 27, Greanleaf, was northbound on 1st Avenue at Main Street in Norton.

The SUV sideswiped a parked 2005 Peterbilt semi,&nbsp;continued northbound, crossing West Main Street, crossed the center line and struck a utility pole on the West side of 1st Avenue.

EMS transported Conn to the Norton County Hospital. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NORTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Sunday in Norton.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Equinox driven by Alex J. Conn, 27, Greanleaf, was northbound on 1st Avenue at Main Street in Norton.The SUV sideswiped a parked 2005 Peterbilt semi,&nbsp;continued northbound, crossing West Main Street, crossed the center line and struck a utility pole on the West side of 1st Avenue.EMS transported Conn to the Norton County Hospital. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after SUV sideswipes semi

WASHINGTON — With the April 15 tax deadline approaching, the IRS reminds taxpayers there is still time file their federal income tax return electronically and request direct deposit.

Filing electronically reduces tax return errors as tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Most people qualify for electronic filing at no cost and, when they choose direct deposit, receive their refund within 21 days.

Taxpayers with income of $79,000 or less in 2023 can use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.dC1nPajqHLmODDJlA20nYtHD1JjXIIn_Xh8n-DQOlxE/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;guided tax software now through Oct 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZS1maWxlLXByb3ZpZGVycy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZmlsbGFibGUtZm9ybXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.SbELI67jFZXS75Cdt96auW6HwI4q7uKRskprQ1N9PP8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free Fillable forms</a>, a part of this program, is available at no cost to taxpayers of any income level and provides electronic forms for people to fill out and e-file themselves.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.BNn2z0SHDM6gkkkKLyLnU5bTI7XE_9ZS92LJPVlr4Ts/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is now open to all eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to decide if it is the right option for them to file their 2023 federal tax returns online, for free, directly with the IRS. Go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRpcmVjdGZpbGUuaXJzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.UfxTnxKpKo3ZG1RXP0wmBz2JXWnYKPHHAKKLnKzOXio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;website for more information about Direct File pilot eligibility and the 12 participating states.

Through a network of community partnerships, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9mcmVldGF4cHJlcC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.th4wOAYy8crARmUgRLrqv0DgjQ7m9ssDDKmIzarcDa8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a>&nbsp;programs offer free tax return preparation to eligible people in the community by IRS certified volunteers.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1pbGl0YXJ5b25lc291cmNlLm1pbC9maW5hbmNpYWwtbGVnYWwvdGF4LXJlc291cmNlLWNlbnRlci9taWx0YXgtbWlsaXRhcnktdGF4LXNlcnZpY2VzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.zENLVGRFI7zVgIh4jY63gwwWuthqhTeeEl6BF0XqTH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">MilTax</a>, a Department of Defense program, generally offers free return preparation and electronic filing software for federal income tax returns and up to three state income tax returns for all military members, and some veterans, with no income limit.

Use ‘Where's My Refund?’ to check refund status

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.cKnbIR3lU_H7pInYlrJFA9ELS9qvdvB5wPueKuymQ94/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool will normally show a refund status within 24 hours after e-filing a 2023 tax return, three to four days after e-filing a 2021 or 2022 return and four weeks after filing a tax return by mail. To use the tool, taxpayers need their Social Security number, filing status and exact refund amount. Taxpayers can also check ‘Where's My Refund?’ by downloading our free mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pcnMyZ29hcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.m_3lyXW0g9vjuSW7MnDJfEyFPjSDSWKGNlkAtqy9WWU/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS2Go</a>, from an iPhone or Android device. The tool updates once a day, so people don't need to check more often.

Taxpayers that owe on their tax return

IRS reminds people they can avoid paying interest and some penalties by filing their tax return and, if they have a balance due, paying the total amount due by the tax deadline of Monday, April 15. For residents of Maine or Massachusetts, the tax deadline is Wednesday, April 17, due to Patriot’s Day and Emancipation Day holidays.

Payment options for individuals to pay in full

The IRS offers various options for taxpayers who are making tax&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.w-iiAB_TSwu22nk6wYNCvpxvuLO-Lzvln1nFHH1ks-A/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">payments</a>:

Payment options for individuals unable to pay their taxes in full

Taxpayers that are unable to pay in full by the tax deadline, should pay what they can now and apply for an&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.m_0zif1r9TLqNsK34Qv1WbikPUcXZ0El4QZ9ADB4L7E/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">online payment plan</a>. They can receive an immediate response of payment plan acceptance or denial without calling or writing to the IRS.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.XxoiSWZcJi8-T-roDFwDU6OzGl5Gl6FuAX8dqfYlYcQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Online payment plan</a>&nbsp;options include:

Though interest and late-payment penalties continue to accrue on any unpaid taxes after April 15, the failure to pay penalty is cut in half while an installment agreement is in effect. Find more information about the costs of payment plans on the IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5bWVudC1wbGFucy1pbnN0YWxsbWVudC1hZ3JlZW1lbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.Li4iRVO7cTlRV-c0-nvlr_cYFxQAeqavNq1ONLXZ0Tg/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Additional Information on Payment Plans</a>&nbsp;webpage.

Individuals unable to file their tax return by the tax deadline can apply for a tax-filing extension in the following ways:

Use IRS.gov for the quickest and easiest information

Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov 24 hours a day for answers to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.ySdtYXyBz5KMWdPcSo8ww8tyM9_1HLr9KPAAbzGfpmc/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">tax questions</a>, more tips and resources by visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JDlS4SUuHcmw-a2noFfKyHr6fwNmQaVjgNSC2IuPy_8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Let Us Help You</a>&nbsp;page.

IRSWASHINGTON — With the April 15 tax deadline approaching, the IRS reminds taxpayers there is still time file their federal income tax return electronically and request direct deposit.Filing electronically reduces tax return errors as tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Most people qualify for electronic filing at no cost and, when they choose direct deposit, receive their refund within 21 days.Free electronic filing optionsTaxpayers with income of $79,000 or less in 2023 can use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.dC1nPajqHLmODDJlA20nYtHD1JjXIIn_Xh8n-DQOlxE/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;guided tax software now through Oct 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZS1maWxlLXByb3ZpZGVycy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZmlsbGFibGUtZm9ybXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.SbELI67jFZXS75Cdt96auW6HwI4q7uKRskprQ1N9PP8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free Fillable forms</a>, a part of this program, is available at no cost to taxpayers of any income level and provides electronic forms for people to fill out and e-file themselves.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.BNn2z0SHDM6gkkkKLyLnU5bTI7XE_9ZS92LJPVlr4Ts/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is now open to all eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to decide if it is the right option for them to file their 2023 federal tax returns online, for free, directly with the IRS. Go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRpcmVjdGZpbGUuaXJzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.UfxTnxKpKo3ZG1RXP0wmBz2JXWnYKPHHAKKLnKzOXio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;website for more information about Direct File pilot eligibility and the 12 participating states.Through a network of community partnerships, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9mcmVldGF4cHJlcC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.th4wOAYy8crARmUgRLrqv0DgjQ7m9ssDDKmIzarcDa8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a>&nbsp;programs offer free tax return preparation to eligible people in the community by IRS certified volunteers.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1pbGl0YXJ5b25lc291cmNlLm1pbC9maW5hbmNpYWwtbGVnYWwvdGF4LXJlc291cmNlLWNlbnRlci9taWx0YXgtbWlsaXRhcnktdGF4LXNlcnZpY2VzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.zENLVGRFI7zVgIh4jY63gwwWuthqhTeeEl6BF0XqTH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">MilTax</a>, a Department of Defense program, generally offers free return preparation and electronic filing software for federal income tax returns and up to three state income tax returns for all military members, and some veterans, with no income limit.Use ‘Where's My Refund?’ to check refund statusThe&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.cKnbIR3lU_H7pInYlrJFA9ELS9qvdvB5wPueKuymQ94/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool will normally show a refund status within 24 hours after e-filing a 2023 tax return, three to four days after e-filing a 2021 or 2022 return and four weeks after filing a tax return by mail. To use the tool, taxpayers need their Social Security number, filing status and exact refund amount. Taxpayers can also check ‘Where's My Refund?’ by downloading our free mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pcnMyZ29hcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.m_3lyXW0g9vjuSW7MnDJfEyFPjSDSWKGNlkAtqy9WWU/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS2Go</a>, from an iPhone or Android device. The tool updates once a day, so people don't need to check more often.Taxpayers that owe on their tax returnIRS reminds people they can avoid paying interest and some penalties by filing their tax return and, if they have a balance due, paying the total amount due by the tax deadline of Monday, April 15. For residents of Maine or Massachusetts, the tax deadline is Wednesday, April 17, due to Patriot’s Day and Emancipation Day holidays.Payment options for individuals to pay in fullThe IRS offers various options for taxpayers who are making tax&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.w-iiAB_TSwu22nk6wYNCvpxvuLO-Lzvln1nFHH1ks-A/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">payments</a>:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvZGlyZWN0LXBheSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.n0olIAEQhh3lOs0ziBzBUnAek_aD44LZx5EMiayiEQQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct Pay</a>&nbsp;– Make a payment directly from a checking or savings account without any fees or registration.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXlvdXItdGF4ZXMtYnktZGViaXQtb3ItY3JlZGl0LWNhcmQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.5ltfmwv2Etw_wJYRiPPPIjW3FX0VUqTDUo8npsPAXm0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Pay with debit card, credit card or digital wallet</a>&nbsp;– Make a payment directly from a debit card, credit card or digital wallet. Processing fees are paid to the payment processors. The IRS doesn’t receive any fees for these payments. Authorized card processors and phone numbers are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.Xm1wzZk44H265zKVre-5E5bBMVRNrvAiIn4UIlOj9ME/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS.gov/payments</a>.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvZWZ0cHMtdGhlLWVsZWN0cm9uaWMtZmVkZXJhbC10YXgtcGF5bWVudC1zeXN0ZW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.YIlcO6tPTqJK53p-bfe4X3GIaYlyUa6m38iqiPvm-hY/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System</a>&nbsp;(EFTPS) –This free service gives taxpayers a safe, convenient way to pay individual and business taxes by phone or online. To enroll and for more information, taxpayers can call 800-555-4477 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmVmdHBzLmdvdi9lZnRwcy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.i1cmLrR3PqLv6SRXXMP6Cpl14wpZymmKHdGunyfy8u0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">eftps.gov</a>.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXRheGVzLWJ5LWVsZWN0cm9uaWMtZnVuZHMtd2l0aGRyYXdhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.DtUMwbQKs9Y_0wZM6NHK2qAvzY7mx6rkFIq6LC4wVH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Electronic funds withdrawal</a>&nbsp;– Taxpayers can file and pay electronically from their bank account when using tax preparation software or a tax professional. This option is free and only available when electronically filing a tax return.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LWJ5LWNoZWNrLW9yLW1vbmV5LW9yZGVyIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.pJ3egYAoiXFy2oyFJCYaSGHtACYGla5FRrlzx3aKtio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Check or money order</a>&nbsp;–Payments made by check or money order should be made payable to the “United States Treasury.”</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXlvdXItdGF4ZXMtd2l0aC1jYXNoIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.RN-awYvWX22dDy_y6pmknfTPaesgx6P8y5aQzzFpGeQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Cash</a>&nbsp;– Make a cash payment through a retail partner and other methods. The IRS urges taxpayers choosing this option to start early because it involves a four-step process. Details, including answers to frequently asked questions, are at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXdpdGgtY2FzaC1hdC1hLXJldGFpbC1wYXJ0bmVyIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.C_pO49BcwD4nZWscx9UCQqxgkF_zjxKo21vL7pL88QI/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS.gov/paywithcash</a>.</li>
 </ul>Payment options for individuals unable to pay their taxes in fullTaxpayers that are unable to pay in full by the tax deadline, should pay what they can now and apply for an&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.m_0zif1r9TLqNsK34Qv1WbikPUcXZ0El4QZ9ADB4L7E/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">online payment plan</a>. They can receive an immediate response of payment plan acceptance or denial without calling or writing to the IRS.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.XxoiSWZcJi8-T-roDFwDU6OzGl5Gl6FuAX8dqfYlYcQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Online payment plan</a>&nbsp;options include:<ul>
 <li>Short-term payment plan –The total balance owed is less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. Additional time of up to 180 days to pay the balance in full.</li><li>Long-term payment plan – The total balance owed is less than $50,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. Pay in monthly payments for up to 72 months. Payments may be set up using direct debit (automatic bank withdraw) which eliminates the need to send in a payment each month, saving postage costs and reducing the chance of default. For balances between $25,000 and $50,000, direct debit is required.</li>
 </ul>Though interest and late-payment penalties continue to accrue on any unpaid taxes after April 15, the failure to pay penalty is cut in half while an installment agreement is in effect. Find more information about the costs of payment plans on the IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5bWVudC1wbGFucy1pbnN0YWxsbWVudC1hZ3JlZW1lbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.Li4iRVO7cTlRV-c0-nvlr_cYFxQAeqavNq1ONLXZ0Tg/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Additional Information on Payment Plans</a>&nbsp;webpage.Unable to file by the April 15 deadline?Individuals unable to file their tax return by the tax deadline can apply for a tax-filing extension in the following ways:<ul>
 <li>Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZnJlZWZpbGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JfBwazR7arNG0y7KvpT66jDlwwf3k6fsDtmPCjiML-s/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;by filing a Form&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjQ4NjgucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.BgUFaWr_PGHneS-0qSUAbz_AGYKgj5hnhfMeNUv1sjY/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>.</li><li>Make an electronic payment using Direct Pay, debit card, credit card or digital wallet and indicate the payment is for an extension.</li><li>Mail Form 4868 by the tax deadline.</li><li>Things people should know when requesting a tax-filing extension:</li><li>Tax-filing extension requests are due by the tax deadline date, and it does not give an extension of time to pay the taxes.</li><li>Avoid some penalties by estimating and paying the tax due by the tax deadline.</li><li>Special rules for tax deadlines and automatic tax-filing extensions may apply for taxpayers&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZXh0ZW5zaW9uLW9mLWRlYWRsaW5lcy1jb21iYXQtem9uZS1zZXJ2aWNlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.hREJwezKhb170R54-PLG4SnJR3qEI6CEzNbDqIiVWE0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">serving in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty areas, living outside the United States</a>, and people living in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXJlbGllZi1pbi1kaXNhc3Rlci1zaXR1YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.lFA_WqOeJGC4k8_wR5cO_t7W22bjSkmo0cwGqfrQBg0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">certain disaster areas</a>. They may not need to submit a tax-filing extension; however, people should check to see if they qualify before the tax deadline.</li>
 </ul>Use IRS.gov for the quickest and easiest informationTaxpayers can visit IRS.gov 24 hours a day for answers to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.ySdtYXyBz5KMWdPcSo8ww8tyM9_1HLr9KPAAbzGfpmc/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">tax questions</a>, more tips and resources by visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JDlS4SUuHcmw-a2noFfKyHr6fwNmQaVjgNSC2IuPy_8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Let Us Help You</a>&nbsp;page.

Get ahead of tax deadline; act now to file, pay, request extension

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

The state’s Attorney General Kris Kobach has filed a lawsuit against the federal government to block student loan forgiveness, leading a multi-state coalition against the policy.

The lawsuit comes on the heels of the 2023 case led by Missouri where the Supreme Court struck down the federal government’s previous student loan forgiveness plans.

It’s clear that Kobach is leading this charge at least partly because he’s likely to be successful. In the 2023 case, the conservative majority Supreme Court demonstrated a willingness to grant standing to states suing the federal government for harms state agencies could face if student loans were forgiven.

The lawsuit challenges the legality of the federal government’s newest attempt to forgive student loans for some borrowers called the SAVE Plan. It only applies to borrowers who took out less than $12,000 and have been making consistent payments for over 10 years.

Not only is it questionable if Kansas has the legal standing for the lawsuit — the burden of proof is on the coalition of states to prove that individual states will be financially harmed by the forgiveness program — blocking student loan forgiveness would deny 1,200 Kansans financial relief, according to the federal government.

Millennials stand to benefit most from the student loan forgiveness program. According to TransUnion, Millennials hold 43% of all student loan debt as of 2023.

Millennials are those who came of age around the year 2000, typically born between 1981 and 1996, and are currently between 43 and 28 years old.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasThe state’s Attorney General Kris Kobach has filed a lawsuit against the federal government to block student loan forgiveness, leading a multi-state coalition against the policy.The lawsuit comes on the heels of the 2023 case led by Missouri where the Supreme Court struck down the federal government’s previous student loan forgiveness plans.It’s clear that Kobach is leading this charge at least partly because he’s likely to be successful. In the 2023 case, the conservative majority Supreme Court demonstrated a willingness to grant standing to states suing the federal government for harms state agencies could face if student loans were forgiven.The lawsuit challenges the legality of the federal government’s newest attempt to forgive student loans for some borrowers called the SAVE Plan. It only applies to borrowers who took out less than $12,000 and have been making consistent payments for over 10 years.Not only is it questionable if Kansas has the legal standing for the lawsuit — the burden of proof is on the coalition of states to prove that individual states will be financially harmed by the forgiveness program — blocking student loan forgiveness would deny 1,200 Kansans financial relief, according to the federal government.Millennials stand to benefit most from the student loan forgiveness program. According to TransUnion, Millennials hold 43% of all student loan debt as of 2023.Millennials are those who came of age around the year 2000, typically born between 1981 and 1996, and are currently between 43 and 28 years old.The Kansas Speaks public opinion survey, fielded every fall by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, gives us some insight into the attitudes of Kansas Millennials on economic and life-prospects in the state.Older Millennials had the worst rating of the Kansas economy in 2023. 37% of those aged 35-44 rated the state’s economy as “poor” or “very poor”. The next lowest rating was 26% and among younger Millennials and Gen Z — those aged 18-34.Older Millennials also expressed the most concern that the Kansas economy will seriously threaten their family’s well-being over the next year, 26% are very concerned and 23% are moderately concerned.These survey questions present various ways of measuring financial stability among this age group.According to a 2021 poll by the National Association of Realtors, 60% of Millennials say student loan debt has delayed their ability to buy a home. In 2021, only 43% of Millennials were homeowners, the lowest home ownership rate of any generation, per research conducted by Freddie Mac.In Kansas Speaks, older Millennials also had the highest rate of renting (47%), highest concern about the cost of housing in their community (73%), and the highest rate of disagreement with the statement “I spend the right amount of my income on housing costs” (42%).The cost of a college education has increased over the past several decades as states have consistently cut higher education funding, thus increasing tuition costs for students who then have had to take out more student loans. At the same time, the cost of living has increased exponentially while wages have remained stagnant for college graduates.Millennials are largely bearing this economic burden, and Gen Z is starting to join them.In 2019, Millennials became the largest population cohort in the United States, surpassing the Baby Boomers. Their sheer size gives Millennials social, economic, and political influence.Given the recent precedent, there’s good reason to assume Kobach’s case will be successful at the Supreme Court, begging the question of whether this is smart politics for Kansas?Championing a lawsuit that targets Millennials, the state’s largest voting cohort, doesn’t seem like the brightest political move by the state’s Attorney General, but only time will tell.The case will be heard by the US District Court in the coming months.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

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