By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The spring weather is tempting many people to get outside and do some landscaping work around their homes.

Hays residents are encouraged to have water-smart landscapes, and "timing is everything" to achieve that, said Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist.

"Make sure that when it comes to planting, fertilizing, and those other cultural practices like aerating and mowing, that you're aware of what types of plants you have in the landscape and what their needs actually are," she said.

Warm-season grasses are starting to come out of dormancy.&nbsp;

"If you have buffalo or Bermuda grass, this is not the time of year to fertilize those types of turf grasses," she said.

"You want to wait until it's actively growing, usually in June or July, before you take the time to fertilize and water in that fertilizer."

When it comes to weed control, you need to know what type of weed it is and its life cycle.

"If we're talking about crabgrass or those nasty stickers, for example, those are warm-season annual weeds," Dickman said. "They won't be coming up just yet, not until the soil is warmer.

"You want to make sure that you time your herbicide applications appropriately to control those types of weeds."

In this area, Dickman said crabgrass preventers should be applied when the redbud trees are blooming, around April 15.

When it comes to vegetable gardens, cool-season vegetables such as potatoes, peas, spinach and radishes should be planted now.

Planting warm-season vegetables — tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons and peppers — should wait until the temperature and soil are warmer.&nbsp;

"It's helpful to know when certain vegetables should be planted," she said, "that way you're not wasting your efforts, resources and water," Dickman said.

Dickman recommends checking the newly updated and expanded K-State Research and Extension garden guide and planting calendar for more information about planting vegetables.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712758358132.jpeg" alt="Bermuda grass in Hays coming out of dormancy. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Bermuda grass in Hays coming out of dormancy. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe spring weather is tempting many people to get outside and do some landscaping work around their homes.Hays residents are encouraged to have water-smart landscapes, and "timing is everything" to achieve that, said Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist."Make sure that when it comes to planting, fertilizing, and those other cultural practices like aerating and mowing, that you're aware of what types of plants you have in the landscape and what their needs actually are," she said.Warm-season grasses are starting to come out of dormancy.&nbsp;"If you have buffalo or Bermuda grass, this is not the time of year to fertilize those types of turf grasses," she said."You want to wait until it's actively growing, usually in June or July, before you take the time to fertilize and water in that fertilizer."When it comes to weed control, you need to know what type of weed it is and its life cycle."If we're talking about crabgrass or those nasty stickers, for example, those are warm-season annual weeds," Dickman said. "They won't be coming up just yet, not until the soil is warmer."You want to make sure that you time your herbicide applications appropriately to control those types of weeds."In this area, Dickman said crabgrass preventers should be applied when the redbud trees are blooming, around April 15.When it comes to vegetable gardens, cool-season vegetables such as potatoes, peas, spinach and radishes should be planted now.Planting warm-season vegetables — tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons and peppers — should wait until the temperature and soil are warmer.&nbsp;"It's helpful to know when certain vegetables should be planted," she said, "that way you're not wasting your efforts, resources and water," Dickman said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712681139109.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Dickman recommends checking the newly updated and expanded K-State Research and Extension garden guide and planting calendar for more information about planting vegetables.

'Timing is everything' for water-smart landscapes, vegetables in Hays 

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

It has been my pleasure to witness the growth and expansion of the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) throughout my time at Fort Hays State University. For the past nineteen years, what started in 2005 with students exhibiting their research in Tomanek Hall, SACAD has grown into a week-long campus-wide showcase of the remarkable research and creativity of FHSU students, faculty, and staff that includes both online and in-person events and activities.

This year’s 19th annual event aspires to reimagine and expand this day of scholarly celebration in a variety of new and important ways, starting with a focus on community through an Open House format. On Wednesday, May 1, we are inviting not only members of the university but also the Hays community and other areas beyond to join us in this celebration.

Spread throughout the day and at venues across campus, activities will include academic posters, art, and creative works, meet the authors (book exhibition), musical performances, and applied industrial technology projects. Showcased creations will feature work from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the College of Education, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Peter Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics. A detailed schedule of activities can be found online at https://www.fhsu.edu/research/events-and-opportunities/sacad/event-submission-details.

As much as I am looking forward to this year’s events, I want to take a moment to reflect on the person for whom this day is named, Dr. John Heinrichs. An internationally renowned Arctic researcher, a popular professor of geosciences, and former chair of that department, John made a tremendous impact at Fort Hays State University. His colleagues, university administration, and especially his students held him in such high esteem that numerous events and awards were renamed or created in his honor after his passing in 2014.

In addition to John Heinrichs SACAD, there is now the John Heinrichs SEIRA (Student Excellence in Research Award), the Heinrichs Research Group, the Heinrichs Outstanding Undergraduate Research Mentor Award, and the Dr. John Heinrichs Memorial Geography Scholarship.

The John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) is the most prominent of all the honors and events dedicated to Dr. Heinrichs. One of several factors that makes SACAD truly unique to FHSU and different from other university presentation forums is the dedication to inclusivity. SACAD planners reach out across the university in order to include as many participants as possible from just about every discipline.

The amount of behind-the-scenes work required for a successful event is an example of what SACAD promotes at FHSU. The tireless efforts, dedication, and passion shown by everyone involved are a testament to John Heinrichs’ vision and would not be possible without the continued commitment from faculty and staff leaders.

This year, Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice and Scholarship Environment Committee (SEC) Event Coordinator, led the SACAD planning committee. Along with graduate

school and office of sponsored programs director Dr. Keith Bremer, associate professor of applied technology and SEC Chair Eric Deneault, assistant professor of criminal justice and SACAD Committee Chair Dr. Morgan Steele, and numerous other faculty, staff, and committee members, April has been instrumental in bringing this year’s events to life.

“Since learning about SACAD years ago, I’ve looked forward to the event each year,” April said. “I appreciate the welcoming environment it offers our students and the opportunity for everyone to showcase the awesome work they’re doing at FHSU. I’m excited to see the new additions to SACAD 2024 and look forward to the opportunity to converse with those attending and participating.”

Collaboration is key not only for the people who work to make it happen but also for all participants, even students who choose to work independently because they receive hands-on personal guidance from faculty mentors. For some, SACAD is an opportunity to reach across disciplines and bring people with different skill sets together to create something that would not be possible individually.

It is this type of collaboration, something that will be expected of many students once they begin their professional careers, that makes participation in SACAD such an impactful experience.

For members of the community who wish to attend, parking on campus will be free all day, and the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office will provide transportation across campus. Refreshments will be available at many of the event venues, with additional food and drink options available for purchase from the Union Catering Company within the Memorial Union. Sno-cones, cotton candy, and popcorn will also be served in the quad (limited to the first 200 attendees). I believe there are also plans for a variety of games and activities on the quad as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentIt has been my pleasure to witness the growth and expansion of the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) throughout my time at Fort Hays State University. For the past nineteen years, what started in 2005 with students exhibiting their research in Tomanek Hall, SACAD has grown into a week-long campus-wide showcase of the remarkable research and creativity of FHSU students, faculty, and staff that includes both online and in-person events and activities.This year’s 19th annual event aspires to reimagine and expand this day of scholarly celebration in a variety of new and important ways, starting with a focus on community through an Open House format. On Wednesday, May 1, we are inviting not only members of the university but also the Hays community and other areas beyond to join us in this celebration.Spread throughout the day and at venues across campus, activities will include academic posters, art, and creative works, meet the authors (book exhibition), musical performances, and applied industrial technology projects. Showcased creations will feature work from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the College of Education, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Peter Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics. A detailed schedule of activities can be found online at https://www.fhsu.edu/research/events-and-opportunities/sacad/event-submission-details.As much as I am looking forward to this year’s events, I want to take a moment to reflect on the person for whom this day is named, Dr. John Heinrichs. An internationally renowned Arctic researcher, a popular professor of geosciences, and former chair of that department, John made a tremendous impact at Fort Hays State University. His colleagues, university administration, and especially his students held him in such high esteem that numerous events and awards were renamed or created in his honor after his passing in 2014.In addition to John Heinrichs SACAD, there is now the John Heinrichs SEIRA (Student Excellence in Research Award), the Heinrichs Research Group, the Heinrichs Outstanding Undergraduate Research Mentor Award, and the Dr. John Heinrichs Memorial Geography Scholarship.The John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days (SACAD) is the most prominent of all the honors and events dedicated to Dr. Heinrichs. One of several factors that makes SACAD truly unique to FHSU and different from other university presentation forums is the dedication to inclusivity. SACAD planners reach out across the university in order to include as many participants as possible from just about every discipline.The amount of behind-the-scenes work required for a successful event is an example of what SACAD promotes at FHSU. The tireless efforts, dedication, and passion shown by everyone involved are a testament to John Heinrichs’ vision and would not be possible without the continued commitment from faculty and staff leaders.This year, Dr. April Terry, associate professor of criminal justice and Scholarship Environment Committee (SEC) Event Coordinator, led the SACAD planning committee. Along with graduateschool and office of sponsored programs director Dr. Keith Bremer, associate professor of applied technology and SEC Chair Eric Deneault, assistant professor of criminal justice and SACAD Committee Chair Dr. Morgan Steele, and numerous other faculty, staff, and committee members, April has been instrumental in bringing this year’s events to life.“Since learning about SACAD years ago, I’ve looked forward to the event each year,” April said. “I appreciate the welcoming environment it offers our students and the opportunity for everyone to showcase the awesome work they’re doing at FHSU. I’m excited to see the new additions to SACAD 2024 and look forward to the opportunity to converse with those attending and participating.”Collaboration is key not only for the people who work to make it happen but also for all participants, even students who choose to work independently because they receive hands-on personal guidance from faculty mentors. For some, SACAD is an opportunity to reach across disciplines and bring people with different skill sets together to create something that would not be possible individually.It is this type of collaboration, something that will be expected of many students once they begin their professional careers, that makes participation in SACAD such an impactful experience.For members of the community who wish to attend, parking on campus will be free all day, and the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office will provide transportation across campus. Refreshments will be available at many of the event venues, with additional food and drink options available for purchase from the Union Catering Company within the Memorial Union. Sno-cones, cotton candy, and popcorn will also be served in the quad (limited to the first 200 attendees). I believe there are also plans for a variety of games and activities on the quad as well.

HEART OF A TIGER: Celebrating SACAD, FHSU’s annual learning and creative expression showcase

<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/2024/4/1712856009957.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

Governor Laura Kelly today toured HaysMed in Ellis County as she relaunches the “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour. &nbsp;Governor Kelly will be touring the state, meeting with Kansans to discuss the importance of Medicaid expansion before the Kansas Legislature returns at the end of the month.

When legislators return on April 26, senators will have the opportunity to bring Medicaid expansion to a debate and vote in the Senate.

“When they return on April 26, the Legislature will decide if they want to keep moving Kansas forward,” Kelly said. “By voting to expand Medicaid, Kansans in every corner of the state would have access to the affordable, high-quality health care they deserve.”

In January, Governor Kelly’s Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act was&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtbWVkaWNhaWQtZXhwYW5zaW9uLXByb3Bvc2FsLWludHJvZHVjZWQtaW4tYm90aC1jaGFtYmVycy1vZi1zdGF0ZS1sZWdpc2xhdHVyZS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.Lqmo-IzkhzYh3v7GQKNU5_4cJ8TY4iFaUpYGNVrulHY/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas House and Senate. &nbsp;The legislation would increase access to health care for 150,000 Kansans while injecting $1.2 billion in annual federal funding into Kansas’ economy and creating 23,000 new jobs.

The upcoming vote on Medicaid expansion comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtYmlwYXJ0aXNhbi1tZWRpY2FpZC1leHBhbnNpb24tcHJvcG9zYWwtcmVjZWl2ZXMtaGVhcmluZy1mb3ItdGhlLWZpcnN0LXRpbWUtaW4tZm91ci15ZWFycy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.OMf0H6FJshpKBVaCR_0emh2mMpgdK_iOwmPuRrJLXDg/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">legislators met in March</a>&nbsp;for a joint session of the Senate Ways and Means Committee and Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee and an informational hearing in the House Health and Human Services Committee.

More than 900 pieces of written testimony were presented in those meetings.

Edward Herrman, president and CEO of HaysMed, was one of the Senate conferees who spoke about the impact of not expanding Medicaid has on his hospital.

“As the HaysMed President and CEO overseeing healthcare delivery, I can attest firsthand to the critical need for Medicaid expansion," Herrman, said. “Our hospitals are on the frontline, serving those in need regardless of their ability to pay. 

"Medicaid expansion isn't just a policy. It's a lifeline for countless individuals and families, ensuring they receive the care they deserve. We would like to thank Governor Kelly for her support in this critical initiative of expanding Medicaid for Kansans.”

This tour allowed HaysMed to further emphasize to legislators the need for Medicaid expansion and the impact access to essential health care services has on rural Kansans and the communities they represent.

The hospital invited legislators representing Ellis County and the surrounding area to the tour.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3VuZmxvd2VyZm91bmRhdGlvbi5vcmcvc3RhdGV3aWRlLXBvbGwtb24tbWVkaWNhaWQtZXhwYW5zaW9uLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTEuOTMyMzIyOTEifQ.sK5-JmxoHVi71HkqOOxIg5aku7ZcVRgv6Jow_guk4rM/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">most recent survey data from the Sunflower Foundation</a>&nbsp;shows almost 70 percent of Kansans support Medicaid expansion. This includes a majority of Republican primary voters and 83 percent of small business owners. &nbsp;

“I urge Kansans in every corner of the state to write, call, or meet with their legislators,” Kelly said. “Tell them Medicaid expansion must be debated and passed now. Let them know how critical this is for your family and your communities.”

This year was the first time Medicaid expansion had been given a hearing in four years.

Kansans can find contact information for their local legislator&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcGx1cmFscG9saWN5LmNvbS9maW5kLXlvdXItbGVnaXNsYXRvci8_YWRkcmVzcz0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.uCjR0OZlg3bXlGr1xabcN2pmgueVY_J31VL7x1xoTQg/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ecfe2300-c111-4a41-a442-c95d97b3e487">The Chamber in Hays has scheduled a Legislative Coffee for 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hays Public Library.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e927755-22fa-498b-a5b0-89180be29d1e">During the last legislative coffee in March, Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, said she was not in favor of Medicaid expansion because she thinks spending on Medicaid would crowd out higher education funding.</a>

Kelly said Thursday 90 percent of Medicaid expansion would be covered by the federal government. She said the expansion would not cost the state any additional money.

She said public education and transportation, two of the largest line items in the state budget, are funded, and medication expansion would not draw funds away from these programs.

The Hays Post contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712870883457.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly toured HaysMed on Thursday and spoke with local medical professionals. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly toured HaysMed on Thursday and spoke with local medical professionals. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the Kansas GovernorGovernor Laura Kelly today toured HaysMed in Ellis County as she relaunches the “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour. &nbsp;Governor Kelly will be touring the state, meeting with Kansans to discuss the importance of Medicaid expansion before the Kansas Legislature returns at the end of the month.When legislators return on April 26, senators will have the opportunity to bring Medicaid expansion to a debate and vote in the Senate.“When they return on April 26, the Legislature will decide if they want to keep moving Kansas forward,” Kelly said. “By voting to expand Medicaid, Kansans in every corner of the state would have access to the affordable, high-quality health care they deserve.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712870909322.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly shakes hands with Hays City Commissioner Sandy Jacobs Thursday at HaysMed. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly shakes hands with Hays City Commissioner Sandy Jacobs Thursday at HaysMed. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>In January, Governor Kelly’s Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act was&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtbWVkaWNhaWQtZXhwYW5zaW9uLXByb3Bvc2FsLWludHJvZHVjZWQtaW4tYm90aC1jaGFtYmVycy1vZi1zdGF0ZS1sZWdpc2xhdHVyZS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.Lqmo-IzkhzYh3v7GQKNU5_4cJ8TY4iFaUpYGNVrulHY/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas House and Senate. &nbsp;The legislation would increase access to health care for 150,000 Kansans while injecting $1.2 billion in annual federal funding into Kansas’ economy and creating 23,000 new jobs.The upcoming vote on Medicaid expansion comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtYmlwYXJ0aXNhbi1tZWRpY2FpZC1leHBhbnNpb24tcHJvcG9zYWwtcmVjZWl2ZXMtaGVhcmluZy1mb3ItdGhlLWZpcnN0LXRpbWUtaW4tZm91ci15ZWFycy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.OMf0H6FJshpKBVaCR_0emh2mMpgdK_iOwmPuRrJLXDg/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">legislators met in March</a>&nbsp;for a joint session of the Senate Ways and Means Committee and Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee and an informational hearing in the House Health and Human Services Committee.More than 900 pieces of written testimony were presented in those meetings.Edward Herrman, president and CEO of HaysMed, was one of the Senate conferees who spoke about the impact of not expanding Medicaid has on his hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712870935238.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly and&nbsp;Edward Herrman, President and CEO of HaysMed both urged local legislators to support Medicaid expansion during the governor's visit to HaysMed on Thursday. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly and&nbsp;Edward Herrman, President and CEO of HaysMed both urged local legislators to support Medicaid expansion during the governor's visit to HaysMed on Thursday. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“As the HaysMed President and CEO overseeing healthcare delivery, I can attest firsthand to the critical need for Medicaid expansion," Herrman, said. “Our hospitals are on the frontline, serving those in need regardless of their ability to pay. "Medicaid expansion isn't just a policy. It's a lifeline for countless individuals and families, ensuring they receive the care they deserve. We would like to thank Governor Kelly for her support in this critical initiative of expanding Medicaid for Kansans.”This tour allowed HaysMed to further emphasize to legislators the need for Medicaid expansion and the impact access to essential health care services has on rural Kansans and the communities they represent.The hospital invited legislators representing Ellis County and the surrounding area to the tour.The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3VuZmxvd2VyZm91bmRhdGlvbi5vcmcvc3RhdGV3aWRlLXBvbGwtb24tbWVkaWNhaWQtZXhwYW5zaW9uLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTEuOTMyMzIyOTEifQ.sK5-JmxoHVi71HkqOOxIg5aku7ZcVRgv6Jow_guk4rM/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">most recent survey data from the Sunflower Foundation</a>&nbsp;shows almost 70 percent of Kansans support Medicaid expansion. This includes a majority of Republican primary voters and 83 percent of small business owners. &nbsp;“I urge Kansans in every corner of the state to write, call, or meet with their legislators,” Kelly said. “Tell them Medicaid expansion must be debated and passed now. Let them know how critical this is for your family and your communities.”This year was the first time Medicaid expansion had been given a hearing in four years.Kansans can find contact information for their local legislator&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcGx1cmFscG9saWN5LmNvbS9maW5kLXlvdXItbGVnaXNsYXRvci8_YWRkcmVzcz0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDExLjkzMjMyMjkxIn0.uCjR0OZlg3bXlGr1xabcN2pmgueVY_J31VL7x1xoTQg/s/1303179659/br/240591893142-l" target="_blank">here</a>.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ecfe2300-c111-4a41-a442-c95d97b3e487">The Chamber in Hays has scheduled a Legislative Coffee for 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hays Public Library.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1e927755-22fa-498b-a5b0-89180be29d1e">During the last legislative coffee in March, Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, said she was not in favor of Medicaid expansion because she thinks spending on Medicaid would crowd out higher education funding.</a>Kelly said Thursday 90 percent of Medicaid expansion would be covered by the federal government. She said the expansion would not cost the state any additional money.She said public education and transportation, two of the largest line items in the state budget, are funded, and medication expansion would not draw funds away from these programs.The Hays Post contributed to this story.

Governor Kelly Tours HaysMed; relaunches 'Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy' Tour

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

More than two years after Karen Schumacher was killed by her husband, the
Ellis County Attorney's office reached an agreement in the case that sends her husband, Jay Schumacher, to prison for almost a decade.

However, her family said the plea agreement does not result in justice for Karen.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/99621faa-b187-4fff-9b17-16eef8488c0c">After the plea agreement was made public this week</a>, Schumacher’s only son, Jeremiah Schumacher, contacted the Hays Post to express his displeasure and disappointment with the entire process.

Jeremiah Schumacher said he wanted to see the case go to court because he “wanted the truth to come out. ... And this doesn’t get the truth out.”

He called the agreement a “slap in the face” and said it was “asinine.”

“He beat my mom for 40 years, and you're gonna give him this,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “What he did was not accidental. What he did was quite deliberate. Did he snap? Maybe. Sure. But it wasn't manslaughter.”

Following several hours of mediation Friday, the Ellis
County Attorney’s office and Jay Schumacher’s defense attorneys reached a plea
agreement. According to the agreement, Jay Schumacher agreed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter, aggravated battery and mistreatment of an adult.

All three charges are felony counts that carry a total maximum sentence of 148 months in prison if they are run consecutively. However, because of the Kansas sentencing rule,&nbsp;the most time Jay Schumacher can get behind
bars is 142 months, 11 years, and 10 months.

The plea agreement allows Jay Schumacher to request the sentence
for the third charge, mistreatment of an adult, to be run at the same time as
the first two charges for just 114 months or about nine and a half years in
prison. He is also asking to be placed at the Larned State Correctional Facility
instead of being placed in the Kansas Department of Corrections system.

Jeremiah Schumacher said he does not believe justice has been served, and that’s why he wanted the case to go to trial.

“Between a doctor that didn't do her job, the police department that didn't do their job in Victoria,” he said. “You know, there was, there's a lot of things I wanted to come out in this.

“I wanted to get some of these people on the stand to ask
them directly why they didn't do their job,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “There is so
much to this story that we'll never see the light of day that it's hard to put
into words.”

The sentencing in the case will be delayed so Jay Schumacher
can go through an evaluation that could lead to his placement at the Larned State
Correctional Facility. He was earlier found competent to stand trial. 

Jeremiah Schumacher said he believes it's just another
attempt to game the system.

“I don't think that my father has any mental issues other
than the normal things of aging, as far as memory goes,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “He
has been a master manipulator the entire time I've been alive.

“Because nobody was able to put two and two together that he
was doing this to me and my mom,” he said. 

Ellis County Assistant Attorney Aaron Cunningham prosecuted
the case for the state and said this week he was limited by what he could say
publicly because the case is still pending and sentencing has not been held.

“I know that cases like these, in general, are very hard for
these victims, and what everyone ultimately wants is impossible. We can’t
bring Karen back,” Cunningham said. “I can appreciate the emotional difficulty
of this.

“I think it's the state's responsibility to review and
assess the strengths of the case, not only from a factual perspective but also
to assess any potential legal arguments that could become problematic,”
Cunningham said. 

Cuningham added, “In reviewing this case, and knowing the
potential factual disputes and the potential legal issues that could exist on a
trial level or the appellate level, we believe that the resolution in this case
avoids those issues.”

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostMore than two years after Karen Schumacher was killed by her husband, the
Ellis County Attorney's office reached an agreement in the case that sends her husband, Jay Schumacher, to prison for almost a decade.However, her family said the plea agreement does not result in justice for Karen.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/99621faa-b187-4fff-9b17-16eef8488c0c">After the plea agreement was made public this week</a>, Schumacher’s only son, Jeremiah Schumacher, contacted the Hays Post to express his displeasure and disappointment with the entire process.Jeremiah Schumacher said he wanted to see the case go to court because he “wanted the truth to come out. ... And this doesn’t get the truth out.”He called the agreement a “slap in the face” and said it was “asinine.”“He beat my mom for 40 years, and you're gonna give him this,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “What he did was not accidental. What he did was quite deliberate. Did he snap? Maybe. Sure. But it wasn't manslaughter.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648238084775.jpeg" alt="Karen Schumacher" />
 <figcaption>Karen Schumacher</figcaption>
 </figure>Following several hours of mediation Friday, the Ellis
County Attorney’s office and Jay Schumacher’s defense attorneys reached a plea
agreement. According to the agreement, Jay Schumacher agreed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter, aggravated battery and mistreatment of an adult.All three charges are felony counts that carry a total maximum sentence of 148 months in prison if they are run consecutively. However, because of the Kansas sentencing rule,&nbsp;the most time Jay Schumacher can get behind
bars is 142 months, 11 years, and 10 months.The plea agreement allows Jay Schumacher to request the sentence
for the third charge, mistreatment of an adult, to be run at the same time as
the first two charges for just 114 months or about nine and a half years in
prison. He is also asking to be placed at the Larned State Correctional Facility
instead of being placed in the Kansas Department of Corrections system.Jeremiah Schumacher said he does not believe justice has been served, and that’s why he wanted the case to go to trial.“Between a doctor that didn't do her job, the police department that didn't do their job in Victoria,” he said. “You know, there was, there's a lot of things I wanted to come out in this.“I wanted to get some of these people on the stand to ask
them directly why they didn't do their job,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “There is so
much to this story that we'll never see the light of day that it's hard to put
into words.”The sentencing in the case will be delayed so Jay Schumacher
can go through an evaluation that could lead to his placement at the Larned State
Correctional Facility. He was earlier found competent to stand trial. Jeremiah Schumacher said he believes it's just another
attempt to game the system.“I don't think that my father has any mental issues other
than the normal things of aging, as far as memory goes,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “He
has been a master manipulator the entire time I've been alive.“Because nobody was able to put two and two together that he
was doing this to me and my mom,” he said. Ellis County Assistant Attorney Aaron Cunningham prosecuted
the case for the state and said this week he was limited by what he could say
publicly because the case is still pending and sentencing has not been held.“I know that cases like these, in general, are very hard for
these victims, and what everyone ultimately wants is impossible. We can’t
bring Karen back,” Cunningham said. “I can appreciate the emotional difficulty
of this.“I think it's the state's responsibility to review and
assess the strengths of the case, not only from a factual perspective but also
to assess any potential legal arguments that could become problematic,”
Cunningham said. Cuningham added, “In reviewing this case, and knowing the
potential factual disputes and the potential legal issues that could exist on a
trial level or the appellate level, we believe that the resolution in this case
avoids those issues.”

Son of woman killed by her husband says plea agreement  'slap in face'

A tax credit is an amount taxpayers claim on their tax return generally to reduce their income tax. Eligible taxpayers can use them to potentially reduce their tax bill and increase their refund.

Some tax credits are refundable. If a taxpayer's tax bill is less than the amount of a refundable credit, they can get the difference back in their refund. Some taxpayers who aren't required to file may still want to do so to claim refundable tax credits. Not all tax credits are refundable, however. For nonrefundable tax credits, once a taxpayer's liability is zero, the taxpayer won't get any leftover amount back as a refund.

There are a wide range of tax credits, and the amount and types available can vary by tax year. Taxpayers should carefully review current tax credits when preparing their federal tax return.

One refundable tax credit for moderate- and low-income taxpayers is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The IRS estimates four out of five eligible workers claim the EITC, which means millions of taxpayers are putting EITC dollars to work for them. Unfortunately, there are millions of workers who qualify but don't claim the EITC - missing out on thousands of dollars every year. This includes workers who are:

Taxpayers can find detailed information in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvcDU5Ni5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.l2uhsK2BDdyxDj0QsZieTaRoQfoMWg6lLlsvM2YPyD4/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 596, Earned Income Credit</a>, or use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cy1kZWR1Y3Rpb25zL2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL2Vhcm5lZC1pbmNvbWUtdGF4LWNyZWRpdC91c2UtdGhlLWVpdGMtYXNzaXN0YW50IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.XPwvE6iUdbiAuUkkJksqa-o7vUwvvf02BNqXHcdaxYk/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">EITC Assistant</a>&nbsp;to learn if they're eligible for the tax credit.

Child Tax Credit and Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit

The Child Tax Credit is nonrefundable and reduces the taxpayer's tax liability. To qualify, the child must:

Qualifying children may include foster children or extended family members if they meet other criteria. Dependents not eligible for the Child Tax Credit may qualify a taxpayer for the credit for other dependents.

Taxpayers who paid someone to care for their child, spouse or dependent so they can work, be a full-time student or look for work may be able to reduce their tax by claiming the Child and Dependent Care Credit.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi01MDMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.T8fqsachpKFLAa4YTY-I0YjWcJanAtoLK_TPz8DJ4eM/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses</a>, has detailed information.

The American Opportunity Tax Credit is for qualified education expenses paid by or on behalf of an eligible student for the first four years of higher education. It is partially refundable. If the credit reduces the amount of tax a taxpayer owes to zero, they can get a refund of 40% of any remaining amount of the credit, up to $1,000. Taxpayers can get a maximum annual credit of $2,500 per eligible student. The amount of the credit is 100% of the first $2,000 and 25% of the next $2,000 of qualified education expenses a taxpayer paid for each eligible student.

To claim the full credit, a taxpayer's income must be $80,000 or less ($160,000 or less for married filing jointly). The credit phases out entirely for taxpayers with income over $90,000 ($180,000 for joint filers).

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi05NzAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.rsYgOvDwYbNE5F6iao9Ta0AJCH70AbFnVbxCBEaxJIs/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education</a>, has detailed information.

There are many other tax credits for which a taxpayer may be eligible. Taxpayers can review&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cy1hbmQtZGVkdWN0aW9ucy1mb3ItaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.OsJomAqKjWl84xBj-fWVo8KzoCOAE_mVliKlPylh7v4/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">the credits and deductions page</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov to see which credits they may be able to claim, including:

Interactive Tax Assistant can help with tax credit questions

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.36cz19RW4ZhCFkyu0ePL5fYeCNQKg_7BVmJhyOuKX_M/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>&nbsp;is a tool that provides answers to many common tax law questions based on an individual's specific circumstances.&nbsp;User information is anonymous, and the system discards it when the user exits a topic. The assistant uses information to answer taxpayer questions and won't share or store it, nor can it identify individuals. It can help taxpayers with these tax credit-related questions:

Taxpayers can find more information about refundable credits and general filing information from:

SubmittedA tax credit is an amount taxpayers claim on their tax return generally to reduce their income tax. Eligible taxpayers can use them to potentially reduce their tax bill and increase their refund.Refundable vs. nonrefundable tax creditsSome tax credits are refundable. If a taxpayer's tax bill is less than the amount of a refundable credit, they can get the difference back in their refund. Some taxpayers who aren't required to file may still want to do so to claim refundable tax credits. Not all tax credits are refundable, however. For nonrefundable tax credits, once a taxpayer's liability is zero, the taxpayer won't get any leftover amount back as a refund.There are a wide range of tax credits, and the amount and types available can vary by tax year. Taxpayers should carefully review current tax credits when preparing their federal tax return.Earned Income Tax CreditOne refundable tax credit for moderate- and low-income taxpayers is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The IRS estimates four out of five eligible workers claim the EITC, which means millions of taxpayers are putting EITC dollars to work for them. Unfortunately, there are millions of workers who qualify but don't claim the EITC - missing out on thousands of dollars every year. This includes workers who are:<ul>
 <li>Grandparents raising their grandchildren.</li><li>Native Americans.</li><li>Veterans.</li><li>Self-employed.</li><li>Without a qualifying child.</li><li>Recently divorced, unemployed or experienced other changes to their marital, financial or parental status.</li><li>Below the filing requirement with earnings.</li><li>Not proficient in English.</li><li>Living in rural areas.</li><li>Receiving certain disability pensions or have children with disabilities.</li>
 </ul>Taxpayers can find detailed information in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvcDU5Ni5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.l2uhsK2BDdyxDj0QsZieTaRoQfoMWg6lLlsvM2YPyD4/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 596, Earned Income Credit</a>, or use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cy1kZWR1Y3Rpb25zL2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL2Vhcm5lZC1pbmNvbWUtdGF4LWNyZWRpdC91c2UtdGhlLWVpdGMtYXNzaXN0YW50IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.XPwvE6iUdbiAuUkkJksqa-o7vUwvvf02BNqXHcdaxYk/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">EITC Assistant</a>&nbsp;to learn if they're eligible for the tax credit.Child Tax Credit and Child and Dependent Care Tax CreditThe Child Tax Credit is nonrefundable and reduces the taxpayer's tax liability. To qualify, the child must:<ul>
 <li>Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident under age 17.</li><li>Have a Social Security number.</li><li>Be claimed as a dependent on the taxpayer's tax return.</li>
 </ul>Qualifying children may include foster children or extended family members if they meet other criteria. Dependents not eligible for the Child Tax Credit may qualify a taxpayer for the credit for other dependents.Taxpayers who paid someone to care for their child, spouse or dependent so they can work, be a full-time student or look for work may be able to reduce their tax by claiming the Child and Dependent Care Credit.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi01MDMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.T8fqsachpKFLAa4YTY-I0YjWcJanAtoLK_TPz8DJ4eM/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses</a>, has detailed information.American Opportunity Tax CreditThe American Opportunity Tax Credit is for qualified education expenses paid by or on behalf of an eligible student for the first four years of higher education. It is partially refundable. If the credit reduces the amount of tax a taxpayer owes to zero, they can get a refund of 40% of any remaining amount of the credit, up to $1,000. Taxpayers can get a maximum annual credit of $2,500 per eligible student. The amount of the credit is 100% of the first $2,000 and 25% of the next $2,000 of qualified education expenses a taxpayer paid for each eligible student.To claim the full credit, a taxpayer's income must be $80,000 or less ($160,000 or less for married filing jointly). The credit phases out entirely for taxpayers with income over $90,000 ($180,000 for joint filers).<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi05NzAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.rsYgOvDwYbNE5F6iao9Ta0AJCH70AbFnVbxCBEaxJIs/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education</a>, has detailed information.Other tax creditsThere are many other tax credits for which a taxpayer may be eligible. Taxpayers can review&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cy1hbmQtZGVkdWN0aW9ucy1mb3ItaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.OsJomAqKjWl84xBj-fWVo8KzoCOAE_mVliKlPylh7v4/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">the credits and deductions page</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov to see which credits they may be able to claim, including:<ul>
 <li>Family and Dependent Credits</li><li>Income and Savings Credits</li><li>Homeowner Credits</li><li>Electric Vehicle Credits</li><li>Health Care Credits</li>
 </ul>Interactive Tax Assistant can help with tax credit questionsThe&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.36cz19RW4ZhCFkyu0ePL5fYeCNQKg_7BVmJhyOuKX_M/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>&nbsp;is a tool that provides answers to many common tax law questions based on an individual's specific circumstances.&nbsp;User information is anonymous, and the system discards it when the user exits a topic. The assistant uses information to answer taxpayer questions and won't share or store it, nor can it identify individuals. It can help taxpayers with these tax credit-related questions:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvYW0taS1lbGlnaWJsZS10by1jbGFpbS1hbi1lZHVjYXRpb24tY3JlZGl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.eHZO7--SldKpdHb2hjIBUq1buyDgUzIYQNZTGvHsRxs/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Am I Eligible to Claim an Education Credit?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvZG9lcy1teS1jaGlsZGRlcGVuZGVudC1xdWFsaWZ5LWZvci10aGUtY2hpbGQtdGF4LWNyZWRpdC1vci10aGUtY3JlZGl0LWZvci1vdGhlci1kZXBlbmRlbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.XTVZMQW91Lt3tXTBD2mQyffd8VyMjZo0nXJMNP0vCv0/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Does My Child/Dependent Qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Credit for Other Dependents?</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvYW0taS1lbGlnaWJsZS10by1jbGFpbS10aGUtcHJlbWl1bS10YXgtY3JlZGl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.M2MqYqshyuTqsWMl8OTYCbgfDZ9sl6p88_yyNcgNBFU/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Am I Eligible to Claim the Premium Tax Credit?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvYW0taS1lbGlnaWJsZS10by1jbGFpbS10aGUtY2hpbGQtYW5kLWRlcGVuZGVudC1jYXJlLWNyZWRpdCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTAuOTMxNDYxOTEifQ.qnSGT24ZYI5nCeBPHB7xAMlWaRJ8qnIq1sgfCkr-fbY/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Am I Eligible to Claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvZG8taS1xdWFsaWZ5LWZvci10aGUtY3JlZGl0LWZvci10aGUtZWxkZXJseS1vci1kaXNhYmxlZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTAuOTMxNDYxOTEifQ.-dhe0skmChQuvyqTL1ObXWMucedem7udkC7KN3Kh314/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Do I Qualify for the Credit for the Elderly or Disabled?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvZG8taS1xdWFsaWZ5LWZvci10aGUtcmV0aXJlbWVudC1zYXZpbmdzLWNvbnRyaWJ1dGlvbnMtY3JlZGl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.ZOGtRSaw17_MPzYv8IgSyvdXanBb-7h9L2kECzlE5wA/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Do I Qualify for the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvYW0taS1lbGlnaWJsZS10by1jbGFpbS1hLWNyZWRpdC1mb3ItYWRvcHRpbmctYS1jaGlsZC1vci10by1leGNsdWRlLWVtcGxveWVyLXByb3ZpZGVkLWFkb3B0aW9uLWJlbmVmaXRzLWZyb20tbXktZW1wbG95ZXIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.T8Wbfi_1AK96vdXUbiDExVj2-Mbdo7g5PBi7XcjqN7M/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Am I Eligible to Claim a Credit for Adopting a Child or to Exclude Employer-Provided Adoption Benefits From My Employer?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvYW0taS1lbGlnaWJsZS10by1jbGFpbS10aGUtZm9yZWlnbi10YXgtY3JlZGl0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.8YWseMnWwFTycl3ZgiQa2OeYGJV6_7PlyM8vvhfBi8A/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Am I Eligible to Claim the Foreign Tax Credit?</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvZG8taS1uZWVkLXRvLXJlcGF5LXRoZS1maXJzdC10aW1lLWhvbWVidXllci1jcmVkaXQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ2MTkxIn0.TsZHtt3X_sY2aMi7u7DoCz4AMD7TBLRXpyWYiNFl4iU/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">Do I Need to Repay the First-Time Homebuyer Credit?</a></li>
 </ul>Taxpayers can find more information about refundable credits and general filing information from:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.4pKtPaXRO2sTx1l9mPh5whXwWtfeUgHFX-SeN2YkZ7g/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">IRS Free File</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4LXByb2Zlc3Npb25hbHMvY2hvb3NpbmctYS10YXgtcHJvZmVzc2lvbmFsIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMC45MzE0NjE5MSJ9.drXrAbjBeaMnEDf2CrWo-hewRYZgx9L0KuswknxXjVs/s/1558083055/br/240461278284-l">A trusted tax professional</a></li>
 </ul>

Tax credits for individuals: What they are, how they can benefit taxpayers

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LAWRENCE – Research on heat shock stress in colorectal cancer, wetland restoration practices’ impact on soil, lunar environments’ impact on fungal communities, neurodegeneration of Alzheimer’s disease and mathematical modeling in relation to plant species health will be among the work presented at the 24th annual University of Kansas-Haskell Indian Nations University Student Research Symposium.

Thirteen undergraduate students and six postbaccalaureate scholars supported by KU’s&nbsp;<a href="https://odst.ku.edu/">Office for Diversity in Science Training</a>&nbsp;will present posters explaining their research from 4 to 5:30 p.m. April 12 in Navarre Hall at Haskell.

The presenters include undergraduates from KU and Haskell, along with postbaccalaureate scholars from KU. Their research is supported by three National Institutes of Health-funded programs focused on training, workforce development and diversity in biomedical research. The programs include:

The Office for Diversity in Science Training is led by Paulyn Cartwright, director.

Symposium presenters are listed alphabetically:

Akhila Ayyadevara, of Overland Park, is a senior at KU majoring in behavioral neuroscience. Ayyadevara is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Zijun Wang, assistant professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Ayyadevara’s research focuses on the behavioral and neural changes that occur as a result of early social isolation.

Jianna Bond, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is a senior at KU majoring in microbiology. Bond is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Robert Unckless, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Bond’s research analyzes the genetic variation of immune genes’ response to gram-negative bacteria.

Kamar Chahine, of Lawrence and Tripoli, Lebanon, is a senior at KU majoring in molecular, cellular &amp; developmental biology with a minor in chemistry. Chahine is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Kristi Neufeld, Frank B. Tyler Professor of Cancer Research. Chahine’s research studies the relationship between APC and Gamma-H2AX upon heat shock stress in colorectal cancer.

Mollie Coffey, of Lawrence, is a junior at Haskell majoring in microbiology. Coffey is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Robin Orozco, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Coffey’s research focuses on extracting and genotyping DNA from PEP619ww to identify the presence of mutate allele PTPN22 and for CRE + or CRE – mice. Coffey is affiliated with the Comanche, Delaware, Kickapoo and Pawnee Nations of Oklahoma.

Maximino Emerson, of Wichita, has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from KU. Emerson is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Lisa Timmons, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Emerson’s research focuses on developing methods for assaying environmental iron concentration on the phenotypes of genetic mutants in specific genes.

Amanda Hoffman, of Cool, California, has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Haskell Indian Nations University. Hoffman is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Rosana Ferreira, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Hoffman researches&nbsp;S. epidermidis-derived small molecule(s) to determine their composition and how the&nbsp;S. aureus&nbsp;(MRSA) biofilm-forming genes are being affected. Hoffman is affiliated with the Karuk Tribe.

Lawrence James-Osondu, of Fate, Texas, is a sophomore at KU majoring in exercise science. James-Osondu is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Trent Herda, associate professor of health, sport &amp; exercise science. James-Osondu’s research endeavors to determine the differences in the skeletal muscle systems measure between the Fontan and healthy cardio-typical control groups.

Ginny Ke,&nbsp;of Hays, is a junior at KU majoring in interdisciplinary computing. Ke is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Prajnaparamita Dhar, professor of chemical &amp; petroleum engineering. Ke’s research aims to highlight the importance of observing the surface activity of polysorbate-based surfactants, specifically Polysorbate 80, and understanding the degradation of light-induced polysorbate samples.

Seth Pua, of Lawrence, is a junior at KU majoring in mathematics. Pua is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Maria Orive and Folashade Agusto, both professors of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Pua’s research focuses on mathematical modeling of diseases spread throughout two different plant species. Pua is affiliated with the Navajo Nation.

Kate Rosa, of Emporia, is a junior at KU majoring in molecular biology. Rosa is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Robin Orozco, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Rosa’s research investigates whether natural killer cells with and without the PTPN22 619WW mutation exhibit different phenotypes that could explain increased immune responses to viruses and tumors. Rosa is affiliated with the Sicangu Lakota Tribe.

Emmanuel Saama, of Overland Park, is a sophomore at KU majoring in chemistry. Saama is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Laird Forrest, professor of pharmaceutical chemistry. Saama’s research investigates why patient-administered monoclonal antibodies lose effectiveness over time.

Victoria Secondine, of Lawrence, has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Haskell Indian Nations University. Secondine is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Amy Burgin, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Secondine’s research aims to answer how differences in wetland restoration practices affect soil properties over time. Secondine is affiliated with the Delaware Tribe of Indians located in Oklahoma.

Anjali Singh, of Bel Aire, is a junior at KU majoring in human biology and women, gender &amp; sexuality studies. Singh is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Minae Mure, professor of chemistry. Singh aims to utilize previously established expression and purification techniques to isolate a recombinant form of putative copper amine oxidase from&nbsp;Klebsiella pneumoniae&nbsp;to biochemically characterize it.

Lucian Sours, of Pittsburg, is a sophomore at KU majoring in ecology &amp; evolutionary biology and environmental studies. Sours is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Paulyn Cartwright, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Sours’ research examines the differential expression of genes in the jellyfish&nbsp;Staurocladia&nbsp;with regards to the process of asexual reproduction in the medusae phase.

Kenneth Tadena Jr.,&nbsp;of Wapato, Washington, is a junior at Haskell majoring in health, sport &amp; exercise science. Tadena is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Philip Gallagher, professor of health, sport &amp; exercise science. Tadena’s research analyzes the movement of skeletal muscle and body tissue. Tadena is affiliated with the Yakama Nation.

Amina Tbaba, of Wichita, has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from California State University, Long Beach. Tbaba is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Adam Smith, professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Tbaba’s research investigates the functional role of the insular cortex in pair bonding, social loss and related behaviors using the prairie vole as an animal model.

Cristina Vargas Vazquez, of Santa Cruz, California, has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Vargas Vazquez is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Josephine Chandler, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Vargas Vazquez’s research focuses on promiscuous quorum sensing receptors and how they are utilized to advantage in the bacterial species&nbsp;Chromobacterium subtsugae.

Joshua Williams, of Goddard, is a junior at Haskell majoring in environmental science. Williams is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Benjamin Sikes, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Williams’ research aims to identify how simulated lunar environments, especially those amended with biowaste, impact fungal biology. Williams is affiliated with the Pawnee Nation.

Julian Yang, of Oakdale, Minnesota, has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Concordia University. Yang is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Heng Du, professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Yang’s research examines the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration during the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.

SubmittedLAWRENCE – Research on heat shock stress in colorectal cancer, wetland restoration practices’ impact on soil, lunar environments’ impact on fungal communities, neurodegeneration of Alzheimer’s disease and mathematical modeling in relation to plant species health will be among the work presented at the 24th annual University of Kansas-Haskell Indian Nations University Student Research Symposium.Thirteen undergraduate students and six postbaccalaureate scholars supported by KU’s&nbsp;<a href="https://odst.ku.edu/">Office for Diversity in Science Training</a>&nbsp;will present posters explaining their research from 4 to 5:30 p.m. April 12 in Navarre Hall at Haskell.The presenters include undergraduates from KU and Haskell, along with postbaccalaureate scholars from KU. Their research is supported by three National Institutes of Health-funded programs focused on training, workforce development and diversity in biomedical research. The programs include:<ul>
 <li>500 Nations Bridge Collaboration: Haskell/KUPrincipal investigators: Amy Burgin, KU; Nana Allison-Brewer, Haskell; Josephine Chandler, KU; and Melissa Holder, KU.</li><li>KU Maximizing Access to Research CareersPrincipal investigators: Paulyn Cartwright and Paul Hanson, KU.</li><li>KU Post-baccalaureate Research Education ProgramPrincipal investigators: Gustavo Blanco, Adam Smith and Ilya Vakser, KU.</li>
 </ul>The Office for Diversity in Science Training is led by Paulyn Cartwright, director.Symposium presenters are listed alphabetically:Akhila Ayyadevara, of Overland Park, is a senior at KU majoring in behavioral neuroscience. Ayyadevara is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Zijun Wang, assistant professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Ayyadevara’s research focuses on the behavioral and neural changes that occur as a result of early social isolation.Jianna Bond, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is a senior at KU majoring in microbiology. Bond is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Robert Unckless, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Bond’s research analyzes the genetic variation of immune genes’ response to gram-negative bacteria.Kamar Chahine, of Lawrence and Tripoli, Lebanon, is a senior at KU majoring in molecular, cellular &amp; developmental biology with a minor in chemistry. Chahine is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Kristi Neufeld, Frank B. Tyler Professor of Cancer Research. Chahine’s research studies the relationship between APC and Gamma-H2AX upon heat shock stress in colorectal cancer.Mollie Coffey, of Lawrence, is a junior at Haskell majoring in microbiology. Coffey is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Robin Orozco, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Coffey’s research focuses on extracting and genotyping DNA from PEP619ww to identify the presence of mutate allele PTPN22 and for CRE + or CRE – mice. Coffey is affiliated with the Comanche, Delaware, Kickapoo and Pawnee Nations of Oklahoma.Maximino Emerson, of Wichita, has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from KU. Emerson is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Lisa Timmons, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Emerson’s research focuses on developing methods for assaying environmental iron concentration on the phenotypes of genetic mutants in specific genes.Amanda Hoffman, of Cool, California, has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Haskell Indian Nations University. Hoffman is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Rosana Ferreira, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Hoffman researches&nbsp;S. epidermidis-derived small molecule(s) to determine their composition and how the&nbsp;S. aureus&nbsp;(MRSA) biofilm-forming genes are being affected. Hoffman is affiliated with the Karuk Tribe.Lawrence James-Osondu, of Fate, Texas, is a sophomore at KU majoring in exercise science. James-Osondu is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Trent Herda, associate professor of health, sport &amp; exercise science. James-Osondu’s research endeavors to determine the differences in the skeletal muscle systems measure between the Fontan and healthy cardio-typical control groups.Ginny Ke,&nbsp;of Hays, is a junior at KU majoring in interdisciplinary computing. Ke is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Prajnaparamita Dhar, professor of chemical &amp; petroleum engineering. Ke’s research aims to highlight the importance of observing the surface activity of polysorbate-based surfactants, specifically Polysorbate 80, and understanding the degradation of light-induced polysorbate samples.Seth Pua, of Lawrence, is a junior at KU majoring in mathematics. Pua is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Maria Orive and Folashade Agusto, both professors of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Pua’s research focuses on mathematical modeling of diseases spread throughout two different plant species. Pua is affiliated with the Navajo Nation.Kate Rosa, of Emporia, is a junior at KU majoring in molecular biology. Rosa is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Robin Orozco, assistant professor of molecular biosciences. Rosa’s research investigates whether natural killer cells with and without the PTPN22 619WW mutation exhibit different phenotypes that could explain increased immune responses to viruses and tumors. Rosa is affiliated with the Sicangu Lakota Tribe.Emmanuel Saama, of Overland Park, is a sophomore at KU majoring in chemistry. Saama is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Laird Forrest, professor of pharmaceutical chemistry. Saama’s research investigates why patient-administered monoclonal antibodies lose effectiveness over time.Victoria Secondine, of Lawrence, has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Haskell Indian Nations University. Secondine is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Amy Burgin, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Secondine’s research aims to answer how differences in wetland restoration practices affect soil properties over time. Secondine is affiliated with the Delaware Tribe of Indians located in Oklahoma.Anjali Singh, of Bel Aire, is a junior at KU majoring in human biology and women, gender &amp; sexuality studies. Singh is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Minae Mure, professor of chemistry. Singh aims to utilize previously established expression and purification techniques to isolate a recombinant form of putative copper amine oxidase from&nbsp;Klebsiella pneumoniae&nbsp;to biochemically characterize it.Lucian Sours, of Pittsburg, is a sophomore at KU majoring in ecology &amp; evolutionary biology and environmental studies. Sours is a scholar of the MARC program and is mentored by Paulyn Cartwright, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Sours’ research examines the differential expression of genes in the jellyfish&nbsp;Staurocladia&nbsp;with regards to the process of asexual reproduction in the medusae phase.Kenneth Tadena Jr.,&nbsp;of Wapato, Washington, is a junior at Haskell majoring in health, sport &amp; exercise science. Tadena is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Philip Gallagher, professor of health, sport &amp; exercise science. Tadena’s research analyzes the movement of skeletal muscle and body tissue. Tadena is affiliated with the Yakama Nation.Amina Tbaba, of Wichita, has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from California State University, Long Beach. Tbaba is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Adam Smith, professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Tbaba’s research investigates the functional role of the insular cortex in pair bonding, social loss and related behaviors using the prairie vole as an animal model.Cristina Vargas Vazquez, of Santa Cruz, California, has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Vargas Vazquez is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Josephine Chandler, associate professor of molecular biosciences. Vargas Vazquez’s research focuses on promiscuous quorum sensing receptors and how they are utilized to advantage in the bacterial species&nbsp;Chromobacterium subtsugae.Joshua Williams, of Goddard, is a junior at Haskell majoring in environmental science. Williams is a scholar of the Bridge program and is mentored by Benjamin Sikes, professor of ecology &amp; evolutionary biology. Williams’ research aims to identify how simulated lunar environments, especially those amended with biowaste, impact fungal biology. Williams is affiliated with the Pawnee Nation.Julian Yang, of Oakdale, Minnesota, has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Concordia University. Yang is a postbaccalaureate scholar in the PREP program and is mentored by Heng Du, professor of pharmacology &amp; toxicology. Yang’s research examines the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration during the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Hays native, KU student to present research projects

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board again tackled the topic of private bathrooms that are in the plans for the new high school.

The Hays school board has approved the contract for the new Hays High School building, and construction is underway.

Board member Allen Park moved to add the discussion to Monday night's school board agenda. The motion to add the item to the agenda passed on a vote of 4-3.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/677ac412-2adb-48bd-85f8-bbd5f05bb92f">The board discussed the bathrooms at length at a public meeting on Sept.&nbsp;</a>26&nbsp;and again on <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6942435f-2284-422c-9ed9-5bf7d68c4984">Oct. 5</a>. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f564071d-5044-453f-8442-251755f600c1">The plans for the building, which included the private bathrooms, were originally brought to the board on April 12, 2023.</a>

Each stall will be private and have a lockable door that goes to the floor. The stalls are not gender specific, and the group of private bathrooms will share common sinks. A large open doorway, monitored by cameras, leads from the hallway to the shared sink area. See the drawing below.

Board member Curt Vajnar said he did not think the board ever approved the HHS plans.

However, Superintendent Ron Wilson said the board approved the contract for the construction of the new high school and that included the plans for the building.

Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp also said this was the case.

Vajnar said he was frustrated that he could not print out larger schematics of the high school. He held up several pieces of 8X11 paper that he had taped together.

"I think we ought to have good visuals so we can actually see what's going on. I would appreciate it if we all knew what's going on, and [you could] make a high-quality diagram of where [the bathrooms] are at."

A schematic of the new high school was projected onto the two large screens in the board room, and the areas where the private bathrooms will be located were highlighted. A photo of that schematic is below.

The areas in green are the private bathrooms in question. The bathrooms in yellow are staff bathrooms, and the blue bathrooms are one-stall bathrooms.

Wilson said he was happy to help Vajnar with getting better views of the school. However, both board members Jayme Goetz and Ruth Ruder said they were concerned about releasing detailed drawings of the school to the public for security reasons.

Vajnar said he was concerned that there were no "normal bathrooms" on the academic floors.

"I think we need to see and know what's in that building, and I don't think we do," Vajnar said.

Ruder said she had some concerns about boys and girls using the same bathrooms. She said sanitary napkin stations would need to be in all bathrooms if both sexes are going to use the private bathrooms.

"I don't want everyone to know where every nook and cranny in the high school is for the protection of our kids," she said. "To have that public and out there terrifies me to death with active shooters and such.&nbsp;

"I think if we just expose the bathroom and give people peace of mind ..."

Ruder said she is continuously getting questions about the bathrooms.

Vajnar said the problem is where the private bathrooms are located. Traditional bathrooms are in the locker rooms and auditorium area.

Goetz said, "Why are these such an issue? ... Why is it that this is what we are focusing on? I have other things about the bond that I'm not thrilled about."

She said the private bathrooms were accessible for students with mobility issues. As a former teacher, she said teachers could check on a student of the opposite sex in these types of bathrooms.

"In my heart of hearts, I don't think nefarious things are going to happen in these bathrooms," she said. ...

"I don't think these bathrooms are going to change who your children are," Goetz said. "That's your job as parents to teach your children how to be. If these bathrooms go against your morals and these bathrooms are a concern for your children, then you talk to your children about it."

Goetz said other children and teachers deserve to be able to poop and pee in private.

Ruder said she favors the private bathrooms but thinks more information needs to be released to the public.

Goetz said anyone uncomfortable in the private bathrooms can still use the traditional bathrooms in other parts of the building.

Wilson said, "I think it's sad that we are still focusing on this when we're going to have this fabulous building that's going to be a great learning space for kids. People haven't really embraced how great this is."

Board member Derek Yarmer said the private bathrooms weren't discussed by the board after they became an issue with the public. Yarmer joined the board in January.

Wilson said the bathrooms have been discussed multiple times in open meetings.

Board President Ken Brooks said it became an election issue hot topic last year as well.

Wilson said the private bathrooms are for the benefit of the students so they can have more privacy.

Yarmer said he supported traditional bathrooms.&nbsp;

"We've had bathrooms forever growing up, and we're fine," he said.

HHS Principal Shawn Henderson passionately advocated for the private bathrooms and said he foresees significant student benefits.

He urged the board members to ask teenagers if they feel comfortable going to the bathroom in a large traditional bathroom.

"Ask a teenager who goes to the bathroom with people who have phones. I think that is something that is important, and we should come back and talk about," Henderson said.

"I'm super excited that we have this opportunity," he said. "I've tried to be careful with my own opinions because I know this is a contested issue."

He said he is on the ground with the students every day, and today is not like it was when he went to school.

"If you have a bowel movement, are you OK with the sights, sounds and smells and people being able to post this?" ...

"These spaces in our school are to give privacy and dignity to kids who want them," he said. "Our kids have the ability to make those choices, and so do their families."

Henderson said the lack of privacy has caused some students anxiety and diminished bowel health because they don't want to go to the restroom in a traditional bathroom.

Ruder said if people are concerned about students being raped or smoking in bathrooms, that is a security issue that may need to be addressed.

Henderson said just because a person uses a large traditional bathroom with members of the same gender does not mean that person is out of harm's way.&nbsp;

Henderson said the HHS staff is focused on safety every day and will continue to be.

"Those drawings are static," he said. "My school is dynamic. When the time comes we will make adjustments."

He said he hopes to finish a digital walk-through tour soon that will be available to the public.

Park said students who don't want to use the private bathrooms would have to walk across the school to use traditional bathrooms if they are in the academic wing.

However, Goetz said the same thing would happen if a student was in the gym or auditorium and wanted to use a private bathroom.

Goetz also advocated for the privacy of LGBTQ students.

"I identify as female. I know there are students out there who identify as other things," Goetz said. "I am not them, and they are not me. Just because it is not normal to me, it doesn't mean that they don't deserve the same amount of privacy.&nbsp;

"Every student every day. Even if I don't align with them, even if I don't understand them, they still deserve to poop in peace and to be."

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board again tackled the topic of private bathrooms that are in the plans for the new high school.The Hays school board has approved the contract for the new Hays High School building, and construction is underway.Board member Allen Park moved to add the discussion to Monday night's school board agenda. The motion to add the item to the agenda passed on a vote of 4-3.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/677ac412-2adb-48bd-85f8-bbd5f05bb92f">The board discussed the bathrooms at length at a public meeting on Sept.&nbsp;</a>26&nbsp;and again on <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6942435f-2284-422c-9ed9-5bf7d68c4984">Oct. 5</a>. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f564071d-5044-453f-8442-251755f600c1">The plans for the building, which included the private bathrooms, were originally brought to the board on April 12, 2023.</a>Each stall will be private and have a lockable door that goes to the floor. The stalls are not gender specific, and the group of private bathrooms will share common sinks. A large open doorway, monitored by cameras, leads from the hallway to the shared sink area. See the drawing below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712775010770.png" alt="A drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The doorway is to the top of the drawing. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489" />
 <figcaption>A drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The doorway is to the top of the drawing. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>Board member Curt Vajnar said he did not think the board ever approved the HHS plans.However, Superintendent Ron Wilson said the board approved the contract for the construction of the new high school and that included the plans for the building.Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp also said this was the case.Vajnar said he was frustrated that he could not print out larger schematics of the high school. He held up several pieces of 8X11 paper that he had taped together."I think we ought to have good visuals so we can actually see what's going on. I would appreciate it if we all knew what's going on, and [you could] make a high-quality diagram of where [the bathrooms] are at."A schematic of the new high school was projected onto the two large screens in the board room, and the areas where the private bathrooms will be located were highlighted. A photo of that schematic is below.The areas in green are the private bathrooms in question. The bathrooms in yellow are staff bathrooms, and the blue bathrooms are one-stall bathrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712774802872.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wilson said he was happy to help Vajnar with getting better views of the school. However, both board members Jayme Goetz and Ruth Ruder said they were concerned about releasing detailed drawings of the school to the public for security reasons.Vajnar said he was concerned that there were no "normal bathrooms" on the academic floors."I think we need to see and know what's in that building, and I don't think we do," Vajnar said.Ruder said she had some concerns about boys and girls using the same bathrooms. She said sanitary napkin stations would need to be in all bathrooms if both sexes are going to use the private bathrooms."I don't want everyone to know where every nook and cranny in the high school is for the protection of our kids," she said. "To have that public and out there terrifies me to death with active shooters and such.&nbsp;"I think if we just expose the bathroom and give people peace of mind ..."Ruder said she is continuously getting questions about the bathrooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712775816430.png" alt="A drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The open doorway is at the top left. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489" />
 <figcaption>A drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The open doorway is at the top left. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>Vajnar said the problem is where the private bathrooms are located. Traditional bathrooms are in the locker rooms and auditorium area.Goetz said, "Why are these such an issue? ... Why is it that this is what we are focusing on? I have other things about the bond that I'm not thrilled about."She said the private bathrooms were accessible for students with mobility issues. As a former teacher, she said teachers could check on a student of the opposite sex in these types of bathrooms."In my heart of hearts, I don't think nefarious things are going to happen in these bathrooms," she said. ..."I don't think these bathrooms are going to change who your children are," Goetz said. "That's your job as parents to teach your children how to be. If these bathrooms go against your morals and these bathrooms are a concern for your children, then you talk to your children about it."Goetz said other children and teachers deserve to be able to poop and pee in private.Ruder said she favors the private bathrooms but thinks more information needs to be released to the public.Goetz said anyone uncomfortable in the private bathrooms can still use the traditional bathrooms in other parts of the building.Wilson said, "I think it's sad that we are still focusing on this when we're going to have this fabulous building that's going to be a great learning space for kids. People haven't really embraced how great this is."Board member Derek Yarmer said the private bathrooms weren't discussed by the board after they became an issue with the public. Yarmer joined the board in January.Wilson said the bathrooms have been discussed multiple times in open meetings.Board President Ken Brooks said it became an election issue hot topic last year as well.Wilson said the private bathrooms are for the benefit of the students so they can have more privacy.Yarmer said he supported traditional bathrooms.&nbsp;"We've had bathrooms forever growing up, and we're fine," he said.HHS Principal Shawn Henderson passionately advocated for the private bathrooms and said he foresees significant student benefits.He urged the board members to ask teenagers if they feel comfortable going to the bathroom in a large traditional bathroom."Ask a teenager who goes to the bathroom with people who have phones. I think that is something that is important, and we should come back and talk about," Henderson said."I'm super excited that we have this opportunity," he said. "I've tried to be careful with my own opinions because I know this is a contested issue."He said he is on the ground with the students every day, and today is not like it was when he went to school."If you have a bowel movement, are you OK with the sights, sounds and smells and people being able to post this?" ..."These spaces in our school are to give privacy and dignity to kids who want them," he said. "Our kids have the ability to make those choices, and so do their families."Henderson said the lack of privacy has caused some students anxiety and diminished bowel health because they don't want to go to the restroom in a traditional bathroom.Ruder said if people are concerned about students being raped or smoking in bathrooms, that is a security issue that may need to be addressed.Henderson said just because a person uses a large traditional bathroom with members of the same gender does not mean that person is out of harm's way.&nbsp;Henderson said the HHS staff is focused on safety every day and will continue to be."Those drawings are static," he said. "My school is dynamic. When the time comes we will make adjustments."He said he hopes to finish a digital walk-through tour soon that will be available to the public.Park said students who don't want to use the private bathrooms would have to walk across the school to use traditional bathrooms if they are in the academic wing.However, Goetz said the same thing would happen if a student was in the gym or auditorium and wanted to use a private bathroom.Goetz also advocated for the privacy of LGBTQ students."I identify as female. I know there are students out there who identify as other things," Goetz said. "I am not them, and they are not me. Just because it is not normal to me, it doesn't mean that they don't deserve the same amount of privacy.&nbsp;"Every student every day. Even if I don't align with them, even if I don't understand them, they still deserve to poop in peace and to be."

Hays BOE discusses HHS bathrooms; principal advocates for student privacy

Since 2005, the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days have been an annual celebration of the scholarly work of Fort Hays State University students, faculty and staff. The work is shared among colleagues and with the public.

This year's event is April 29-May 3 at several locations on campus. <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/research/events-and-opportunities/sacad/">Online content</a> will be available the entire week.

&nbsp;A special open house will be May 1 for on-campus exhibitions, including:

The event is open to all academic disciplines.

Included in the presentations are traditional posters, art and creative works, musical performances, applied technology projects, and an opportunity to meet published authors, which is new this year.&nbsp;

Morgan Steele, criminal justice program assistant professor, said  scholarly and creative activity encourages critical thinking, innovation, collaboration and leadership.

"We have so many outstanding researchers — faculty members and students — who are doing really fascinating, impactful work in their areas," Steele said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Research is important, he said, because there are so many things we don't know.

Students doing research come from different backgrounds and experiences, while many faculty come from around the world. All have a unique perspective.

"There are things we are learning just now. It's always a good thing to keep pushing, not just yourself as an individual but in your field as a whole," he said.

Poster information will be archived permanently in the&nbsp;<a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/" target="_blank">FHSU Scholars Repository.</a>

The <a href="https://www.haysmemorial.com/obituary/John-Heinrichs">late John Heinrichs </a>was a popular FHSU geosciences professor, department chairman, and internationally known Arctic researcher who launched the original Research and Creative Activities Week.&nbsp;

Research and creative activities are 20% of the job requirements for FHSU faculty.

"A lot of people don't know what we do at Fort Hays. Being able to see why we do what we do and how we go about doing it is really just going to be such an important thing for everyone in the Hays community to see," Steele said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712605173779.png" alt="Posters submitted for a previous John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days at Fort Hays State University. Courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Posters submitted for a previous John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days at Fort Hays State University. Courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSince 2005, the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days have been an annual celebration of the scholarly work of Fort Hays State University students, faculty and staff. The work is shared among colleagues and with the public.<div><iframe title="FHSU to showcase 'meaningful, impactful research' during community open house" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:450px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=pevhc-15d8d63-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=450" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>This year's event is April 29-May 3 at several locations on campus. <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/research/events-and-opportunities/sacad/">Online content</a> will be available the entire week.&nbsp;A special open house will be May 1 for on-campus exhibitions, including:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712593900642.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The event is open to all academic disciplines.Included in the presentations are traditional posters, art and creative works, musical performances, applied technology projects, and an opportunity to meet published authors, which is new this year.&nbsp;Morgan Steele, criminal justice program assistant professor, said scholarly and creative activity encourages critical thinking, innovation, collaboration and leadership."We have so many outstanding researchers — faculty members and students — who are doing really fascinating, impactful work in their areas," Steele said.&nbsp; &nbsp;Research is important, he said, because there are so many things we don't know.Students doing research come from different backgrounds and experiences, while many faculty come from around the world. All have a unique perspective."There are things we are learning just now. It's always a good thing to keep pushing, not just yourself as an individual but in your field as a whole," he said.Poster information will be archived permanently in the&nbsp;<a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/" target="_blank">FHSU Scholars Repository.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711569743383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712592514654.png" alt="John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014) was chairman of the Fort Hays State University geosciences department. Photo courtesy FHSU" />
 <figcaption>John F. Heinrichs (1957-2014) was chairman of the Fort Hays State University geosciences department. Photo courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>The <a href="https://www.haysmemorial.com/obituary/John-Heinrichs">late John Heinrichs </a>was a popular FHSU geosciences professor, department chairman, and internationally known Arctic researcher who launched the original Research and Creative Activities Week.&nbsp;Research and creative activities are 20% of the job requirements for FHSU faculty."A lot of people don't know what we do at Fort Hays. Being able to see why we do what we do and how we go about doing it is really just going to be such an important thing for everyone in the Hays community to see," Steele said.&nbsp;

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