By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

College athletics foster school spirit, community pride, and a sense of belonging among students, alums, and fans. Beyond camaraderie, participating in college sports promotes physical activity, wellness, discipline, and teamwork skills, enhancing the overall collegiate experience.

Athletic scholarships often make higher education accessible for talented student-athletes who excel in their respective sports. Additionally, successful athletic programs generate revenue and elevate a school's visibility, attracting prospective students and strengthening alum engagement.

Amid the multifaceted landscape of college athletics, the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) plays a pivotal yet often overlooked role. Appointed by and reporting to the president, the FAR is a crucial link between the institution, athletic department, and the NCAA, ensuring compliance, academic integrity, and student-athlete welfare.

Carrie Hielman, FAR at UVA, observed that two things are true: Most people don’t know what the faculty athletics representative does, and every NCAA school has one. Only one person from each of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s more than 1,100 colleges and universities serves as the faculty athletics representative for their school, making it a unique role at each institution.

At Fort Hays State University (FHSU), the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) position has a rich history of esteemed individuals who have significantly impacted the university's athletic journey within the NCAA.

Keith Faulkner held the role before 1989 when FHSU was a member of the NAIA, transitioning seamlessly into the NCAA era. Following Faulkner, Gary Cox served as the FAR for the RMAC Conference from 1989 to 1995, paving the way for the impactful tenure of Glen McNeil as FAR for the RMAC Conference from 1995 to 2006 and subsequently for the MIAA Conference until 2021. In 2021, Kenton Olliff took over as the FAR for the MIAA Conference, continuing FHSU's tradition of dedicated service to student-athletes and upholding the legacy of his predecessors.

FARs play a crucial role at NCAA member institutions like FHSU, ensuring the delicate balance between academics and intercollegiate athletics. As liaisons between the institution, the athletics department, and the NCAA, FARs like Glen McNeil and Kenton Olliff uphold compliance with regulations and promote academic integrity within athletics programs.

Their responsibilities include monitoring student-athlete academic performance, overseeing academic services, and providing senior advice on athletics. Engaging in institutional athletics committees, reporting to the faculty senate, and representing their institutions at NCAA conventions are among the duties fulfilled by FARs.

Beyond administrative tasks, FARs actively safeguard student-athletes’ well-being, engage with advisory committees, and conduct exit interviews to assess athletes' experiences. They also ensure institutional compliance with NCAA and conference regulations, swiftly addressing potential violations to maintain integrity in collegiate athletics programs.

The effectiveness of FARs like Kenton Olliff at FHSU is bolstered by institutional support, underscoring their vital role in upholding academic standards and student welfare within collegiate athletics.

Emphasizing holistic student-athlete development, Kenton stresses the fulfillment of witnessing student-athletes excel in both athletic and academic realms. This focus underscores the essential role of the FAR in shaping the well-rounded success of individual student-athletes within the FHSU athletic community.

Kenton works closely with Senior Women’s Administrator and Assistant Athletic Director Dixie Balman in certifying student-athlete eligibility and overseeing essential tasks to ensure their overall well-being. In the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, challenges such as regulatory changes, as well as facilitating student-athlete transfer, demand expertise to navigate effectively.

“It is rewarding to see student-athletes do well not only in their sport but also in the classroom,” shared Kenton.

With a spirit of collaboration and innovation reminiscent of initiatives seen at other institutions, the FAR's role at FHSU remains crucial in supporting the delicate balance between academics and athletics. The dedication and commitment of individuals like Kenton Olliff exemplify ongoing efforts to foster success and well-being among Fort Hays State University student-athletes, ensuring a thriving academic and athletic growth environment that honors the rich history of FARs who have paved the way before him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentCollege athletics foster school spirit, community pride, and a sense of belonging among students, alums, and fans. Beyond camaraderie, participating in college sports promotes physical activity, wellness, discipline, and teamwork skills, enhancing the overall collegiate experience.Athletic scholarships often make higher education accessible for talented student-athletes who excel in their respective sports. Additionally, successful athletic programs generate revenue and elevate a school's visibility, attracting prospective students and strengthening alum engagement.Amid the multifaceted landscape of college athletics, the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) plays a pivotal yet often overlooked role. Appointed by and reporting to the president, the FAR is a crucial link between the institution, athletic department, and the NCAA, ensuring compliance, academic integrity, and student-athlete welfare.Carrie Hielman, FAR at UVA, observed that two things are true: Most people don’t know what the faculty athletics representative does, and every NCAA school has one. Only one person from each of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s more than 1,100 colleges and universities serves as the faculty athletics representative for their school, making it a unique role at each institution.At Fort Hays State University (FHSU), the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) position has a rich history of esteemed individuals who have significantly impacted the university's athletic journey within the NCAA.Keith Faulkner held the role before 1989 when FHSU was a member of the NAIA, transitioning seamlessly into the NCAA era. Following Faulkner, Gary Cox served as the FAR for the RMAC Conference from 1989 to 1995, paving the way for the impactful tenure of Glen McNeil as FAR for the RMAC Conference from 1995 to 2006 and subsequently for the MIAA Conference until 2021. In 2021, Kenton Olliff took over as the FAR for the MIAA Conference, continuing FHSU's tradition of dedicated service to student-athletes and upholding the legacy of his predecessors.FARs play a crucial role at NCAA member institutions like FHSU, ensuring the delicate balance between academics and intercollegiate athletics. As liaisons between the institution, the athletics department, and the NCAA, FARs like Glen McNeil and Kenton Olliff uphold compliance with regulations and promote academic integrity within athletics programs.Their responsibilities include monitoring student-athlete academic performance, overseeing academic services, and providing senior advice on athletics. Engaging in institutional athletics committees, reporting to the faculty senate, and representing their institutions at NCAA conventions are among the duties fulfilled by FARs.Beyond administrative tasks, FARs actively safeguard student-athletes’ well-being, engage with advisory committees, and conduct exit interviews to assess athletes' experiences. They also ensure institutional compliance with NCAA and conference regulations, swiftly addressing potential violations to maintain integrity in collegiate athletics programs.The effectiveness of FARs like Kenton Olliff at FHSU is bolstered by institutional support, underscoring their vital role in upholding academic standards and student welfare within collegiate athletics.Emphasizing holistic student-athlete development, Kenton stresses the fulfillment of witnessing student-athletes excel in both athletic and academic realms. This focus underscores the essential role of the FAR in shaping the well-rounded success of individual student-athletes within the FHSU athletic community.Kenton works closely with Senior Women’s Administrator and Assistant Athletic Director Dixie Balman in certifying student-athlete eligibility and overseeing essential tasks to ensure their overall well-being. In the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, challenges such as regulatory changes, as well as facilitating student-athlete transfer, demand expertise to navigate effectively.“It is rewarding to see student-athletes do well not only in their sport but also in the classroom,” shared Kenton.With a spirit of collaboration and innovation reminiscent of initiatives seen at other institutions, the FAR's role at FHSU remains crucial in supporting the delicate balance between academics and athletics. The dedication and commitment of individuals like Kenton Olliff exemplify ongoing efforts to foster success and well-being among Fort Hays State University student-athletes, ensuring a thriving academic and athletic growth environment that honors the rich history of FARs who have paved the way before him.

Heart of a Tiger: Balancing academics, athletics, evolving role of Faculty Athletics Representatives

<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/2024/2/1709257718768.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

TMP-Marian vs Smith Center Thursday, Feb. 29 – 6 p.m. Oakley, Kan. - Oakley High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/1000398">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs take on the Smith Center Lady Red Thursday in the semifinals of the 2A Oakley sub-state in Oakley.

The Monarchs advanced to the second round with a win over the host Oakley while Smith Center defeated Hill City in the opening round.

Tipoff is set for 6:00 p.m. from Oakley High School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Smith Center Thursday, Feb. 29 – 6 p.m. Oakley, Kan. - Oakley High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/1000398">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs take on the Smith Center Lady Red Thursday in the semifinals of the 2A Oakley sub-state in Oakley.The Monarchs advanced to the second round with a win over the host Oakley while Smith Center defeated Hill City in the opening round.Tipoff is set for 6:00 p.m. from Oakley High School on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP Lady Monarchs take on Smith Center in sub-state semis

The Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team will be conducting training in Crisis Intervention Response between 1 and 7 p.m. today.

This training will take place at 205 E. Seventh St. 

Police officers will be training with special tactical equipment. This training is being done with great care and safety.

If in that area, you may see law enforcement officers move through your vicinity. There is no need to be alarmed.

The officers are merely conducting a realistic training exercise, and there is no danger to the community.

If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the on-site supervisor (Team Commander Tim Greenwood), or Chief Scheibler at 785-625-1030.

Hays Police DepartmentThe Hays Police Department Special Situation Response Team will be conducting training in Crisis Intervention Response between 1 and 7 p.m. today. This training will take place at 205 E. Seventh St. Police officers will be training with special tactical equipment. This training is being done with great care and safety.If in that area, you may see law enforcement officers move through your vicinity. There is no need to be alarmed.The officers are merely conducting a realistic training exercise, and there is no danger to the community.If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the on-site supervisor (Team Commander Tim Greenwood), or Chief Scheibler at 785-625-1030.

Hays police training set for this afternoon

At the Kansas State University men’s basketball game on Monday, Landon Rozean of Hays made a layup, a free throw and a three-pointer in the Trifecta Challenge sponsored by the Kansas Insurance Department and Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt.

Rozean won $500 courtesy of the department and their educational initiative <a href="http://SmartInvestKS.com">SmartInvestKS.com</a>, a website aimed at helping Kansans make smart investment decisions. Rozean is a freshman at Kansas State majoring in mechanical engineering.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709226805175.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Insurance DepartmentAt the Kansas State University men’s basketball game on Monday, Landon Rozean of Hays made a layup, a free throw and a three-pointer in the Trifecta Challenge sponsored by the Kansas Insurance Department and Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt.Rozean won $500 courtesy of the department and their educational initiative <a href="http://SmartInvestKS.com">SmartInvestKS.com</a>, a website aimed at helping Kansans make smart investment decisions. Rozean is a freshman at Kansas State majoring in mechanical engineering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709226840405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays K-State student wins $500 in basketball Trifecta Challenge

ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 5-month boy in Hays.

Just after noon on Tuesday emergency personnel were dispatched to the Roadway Inn - Room #206, 3404 Vine Street, Hays, for a child not breathing, according to a media release.

Hays Police Officers arrived after EMS and observed EMS staff performing CPR on a 5-month-old infant.&nbsp; The child was transported to Hays Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. 

&nbsp;The death of the infant is under investigation by the Hays Police Department and the Ellis County Coroner’s Office. Police did not release the name of the child.

Anyone with information relating to the incident at the motel should call Detective J.B. Burkholder at (785) 625-1030.

ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 5-month boy in Hays.Just after noon on Tuesday emergency personnel were dispatched to the Roadway Inn - Room #206, 3404 Vine Street, Hays, for a child not breathing, according to a media release.Hays Police Officers arrived after EMS and observed EMS staff performing CPR on a 5-month-old infant.&nbsp; The child was transported to Hays Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. &nbsp;The death of the infant is under investigation by the Hays Police Department and the Ellis County Coroner’s Office. Police did not release the name of the child.Anyone with information relating to the incident at the motel should call Detective J.B. Burkholder at (785) 625-1030.

Hays police investigating death of 5-month old 

At about 1:58 p.m. Wednesday, the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire in a manufactured home at 1010 Reservation Road in Hays.

Arriving fire crews found flames coming from the front and rear patio doors. Fire crews deployed two attack lines to extinguish the fire, and it was eventually brought under control. 

Afternoon winds added to the fire spread. Crews stayed on scene for several hours to ensure that all hotspots were extinguished.

No occupants were home at the time, but three family pets did not survive. The cause of the fire is determined to be accidental.

The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, Red Cross, and Midwest Energy for their assistance.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly.

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program.

Hays Fire DepartmentAt about 1:58 p.m. Wednesday, the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire in a manufactured home at 1010 Reservation Road in Hays.Arriving fire crews found flames coming from the front and rear patio doors. Fire crews deployed two attack lines to extinguish the fire, and it was eventually brought under control. Afternoon winds added to the fire spread. Crews stayed on scene for several hours to ensure that all hotspots were extinguished.No occupants were home at the time, but three family pets did not survive. The cause of the fire is determined to be accidental.The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, Red Cross, and Midwest Energy for their assistance.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly.Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program.

Fire burns trailer home in Hays

March 1-2 Soul Infusion Women's Retreat Osborne United Methodist Church, 105 N. 3rd St., Osborne, KS Friday night, family night 608 PM Supper and Childcare Provided Saturday, Women's conference, registration 8:30 AM, Presentation 9-3

March 2 Natoma Lions Club and Ladies Auxiliary Pancake Supper Natoma Community Center, 709 N. 2nd St., Natoma, KS 5:00 PM-7:30 PM Famous Flap Jacks served fresh (along with sausage, eggs, coffee, tea, water &amp; orange juice.) All you can eat! All Night!&nbsp; Proceeds from this supper will be given to the Prowse family.&nbsp; Free-will donation please!

March 3 &amp; 17 Free Square Dance Lessons Front Porch Event Center &amp; Bakery, 602 Mill St, Alton, KS Join us at the Front Porch Event Center from 5-7&nbsp; PM for a fun evening learning how to square dance!&nbsp;&nbsp;

March 31&nbsp;-- CANCELED: Easter Sunrise Pageant at the Alton Bluffs, Alton Join us for a moving pageant about the death and resurrection of Jesus - at sunrise.&nbsp; Followed by an Easter Breakfast at the Alton UMC, 408 Mill St., Alton&nbsp;&nbsp;

March 1-2 Soul Infusion Women's Retreat Osborne United Methodist Church, 105 N. 3rd St., Osborne, KS Friday night, family night 608 PM Supper and Childcare Provided Saturday, Women's conference, registration 8:30 AM, Presentation 9-3March 2 Natoma Lions Club and Ladies Auxiliary Pancake Supper Natoma Community Center, 709 N. 2nd St., Natoma, KS 5:00 PM-7:30 PM Famous Flap Jacks served fresh (along with sausage, eggs, coffee, tea, water &amp; orange juice.) All you can eat! All Night!&nbsp; Proceeds from this supper will be given to the Prowse family.&nbsp; Free-will donation please!March 3 &amp; 17 Free Square Dance Lessons Front Porch Event Center &amp; Bakery, 602 Mill St, Alton, KS Join us at the Front Porch Event Center from 5-7&nbsp; PM for a fun evening learning how to square dance!&nbsp;&nbsp;March 31&nbsp;-- CANCELED: Easter Sunrise Pageant at the Alton Bluffs, Alton Join us for a moving pageant about the death and resurrection of Jesus - at sunrise.&nbsp; Followed by an Easter Breakfast at the Alton UMC, 408 Mill St., Alton&nbsp;&nbsp;

Osborne County announces March events

🎥Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Rain and snow last month, after weeks of dry conditions, had a serious effect on Ellis County roads, and now officials are looking into ways to improve the maintenance process going forward.

Following the winter storm early in January, Ellis County
officials say they received several phone calls concerning the condition of
roads in the county's rural area and, even more so, the residential subdivisions
outside the city of Hays.

Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the subdivisions have sprung
up since zoning regulations were altered in the mid-2000’s and updated in 2021.

The regulations aimed to conserve agricultural land in the
county. However, Leiker said subdivisions created more roads maintained by county
public works crews, and the commission has not increased the department’s
budget. 

“While we've changed the way the county has looked at it and promoted growth in these areas,” Leiker said. “We haven't promoted growth
on our public works to handle the influx of residents in these small areas.”

Leiker and the rest of the county commission tasked Public
Works Director Brendan Mackay to come up with ideas for ways to improve conditions.

Mackay said during the storm, the county paid 450 hours of overtime, and that did not include the time he spent working during those days. 

“We have almost 1,400 miles of roadway in this county, and
the guys are traveling seven miles an hour. We can't be everywhere,” Mackay
said. “Expectations exceeded what the county has funded for years past and what
we can do realistically with employees and equipment level.”

Mackey said they have seen staff and equipment
shrink due to budget cuts.

“You always want to do more with less, but we're at the point where there's no more we can do with the less that we have,” Mackey said. “We
have to expand if we want to improve our end product basically and improve our
services because we're stretched the limit right now.”

Leiker said he did not want to be critical of the past commissions who have cut funding for public works and said in recent years, they started to put money aside for bridge replacements and have started a fund to help with road maintenance.

Mackey said over the last three-plus decades, they have lost four graders to maintain the roads, all while adding additional roads that need to be maintained because of the subdivisions.

The commission was presented information on 14 subdivisions along with the unincorporated community of Munjor, where the public works department is tasked with road maintenance.

Mackey said while the subdivisions have not had a dramatic increase
in the number of miles maintained by crews, it does make it more difficult
because roads in the subdivisions have to be maintained differently.

“If there's one of those developments, that's four miles. It'll take us four hours easily to do those four miles because of the amount of
time you have to spend to reopen things and clear off in front of entrances and
driveways,” Mackey said. “So it may be only 20 miles that we maintain out of
all those developments, but it's like maintaining over 100 miles of county
roadways with the time requirement to do it.”

Some subdivisions maintain their roads, and
there is a possibility that future developments may also be required to do that.

But Mackey said part of the problem is that they currently
maintain those roads as they were built and will need to be upgraded. 

As part of the regulations, all roads built in rural Ellis
County must be built to standards set by the public works department.

But Mackey said he thinks some roads are going
to be improved, and that is going to take time and manpower.

He said some roads will need to be reworked with
the materials there, while some will need additional materials brought
in to fix the road.

Mackey will present the commission with his plans at the commission’s
retreat and a future meeting in March.

He said he plans to give them options for the beginning of the
process and then steps along the way.

“I don't want us to overshoot, and then we end up having to
overcorrect,” he added, “and then we want to make it fair and equal for
everyone.”

Among the ideas floated by Mackey and the commission was to hire another person to be in charge of the subdivision maintenance and add another piece of equipment responsible for those areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709158801428.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Rain and snow last month, after weeks of dry conditions, had a serious effect on Ellis County roads, and now officials are looking into ways to improve the maintenance process going forward.Following the winter storm early in January, Ellis County
officials say they received several phone calls concerning the condition of
roads in the county's rural area and, even more so, the residential subdivisions
outside the city of Hays.<div><iframe title="Ellis County searching for ways to improve rural road maintenance" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fv9yx-15975af-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Commissioner Nathan Leiker said the subdivisions have sprung
up since zoning regulations were altered in the mid-2000’s and updated in 2021.The regulations aimed to conserve agricultural land in the
county. However, Leiker said subdivisions created more roads maintained by county
public works crews, and the commission has not increased the department’s
budget. “While we've changed the way the county has looked at it and promoted growth in these areas,” Leiker said. “We haven't promoted growth
on our public works to handle the influx of residents in these small areas.”Leiker and the rest of the county commission tasked Public
Works Director Brendan Mackay to come up with ideas for ways to improve conditions.Mackay said during the storm, the county paid 450 hours of overtime, and that did not include the time he spent working during those days. “We have almost 1,400 miles of roadway in this county, and
the guys are traveling seven miles an hour. We can't be everywhere,” Mackay
said. “Expectations exceeded what the county has funded for years past and what
we can do realistically with employees and equipment level.”Mackey said they have seen staff and equipment
shrink due to budget cuts.“You always want to do more with less, but we're at the point where there's no more we can do with the less that we have,” Mackey said. “We
have to expand if we want to improve our end product basically and improve our
services because we're stretched the limit right now.”Leiker said he did not want to be critical of the past commissions who have cut funding for public works and said in recent years, they started to put money aside for bridge replacements and have started a fund to help with road maintenance.Mackey said over the last three-plus decades, they have lost four graders to maintain the roads, all while adding additional roads that need to be maintained because of the subdivisions.The commission was presented information on 14 subdivisions along with the unincorporated community of Munjor, where the public works department is tasked with road maintenance.Mackey said while the subdivisions have not had a dramatic increase
in the number of miles maintained by crews, it does make it more difficult
because roads in the subdivisions have to be maintained differently.“If there's one of those developments, that's four miles. It'll take us four hours easily to do those four miles because of the amount of
time you have to spend to reopen things and clear off in front of entrances and
driveways,” Mackey said. “So it may be only 20 miles that we maintain out of
all those developments, but it's like maintaining over 100 miles of county
roadways with the time requirement to do it.”Some subdivisions maintain their roads, and
there is a possibility that future developments may also be required to do that.But Mackey said part of the problem is that they currently
maintain those roads as they were built and will need to be upgraded. As part of the regulations, all roads built in rural Ellis
County must be built to standards set by the public works department.But Mackey said he thinks some roads are going
to be improved, and that is going to take time and manpower.He said some roads will need to be reworked with
the materials there, while some will need additional materials brought
in to fix the road.Mackey will present the commission with his plans at the commission’s
retreat and a future meeting in March.He said he plans to give them options for the beginning of the
process and then steps along the way.“I don't want us to overshoot, and then we end up having to
overcorrect,” he added, “and then we want to make it fair and equal for
everyone.”Among the ideas floated by Mackey and the commission was to hire another person to be in charge of the subdivision maintenance and add another piece of equipment responsible for those areas.

🎙  Ellis County searching for ways to improve rural road maintenance 

Grow Hays welcomes the public to the MicroFactory Grand Opening Ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 13.

David Toland, Kansas Lieutenant Governor/ Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary, will be among those speaking. The 30,000-square-foot facility is at 3000 E. Ninth St., Hays. &nbsp;

The first-of-its-kind flexible lease space, MicroFactory is an incubator for small and startup manufacturing companies. The facility is designed specifically to meet the needs of manufacturers with various&nbsp;amounts of space allocated to tenants as needed.&nbsp;

"Grow Hays is working diligently to increase&nbsp;manufacturing opportunities in our community. The MicroFactory offers a fantastic facility for small and startup manufacturers giving them an appropriate space at a fraction of the cost of renting or constructing comparable space,"&nbsp;Grow Hays' Executive Director Doug Williams said.

The MicroFactory is a temperature-controlled facility, zoned I-1 light industrial. The all-inclusive rates start at $8 per square foot. Office rentals are $500 monthly with reduced rates if leasing a factory floor. The facility features 20-foot ceilings with five 12-foot dock doors, 24/7 secure access, HD camera system, fire sprinkler system, internet graciously provided by Nex-Tech and Vyve, offices and conference room with webcam, breakroom with refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. &nbsp;

Grow Hays' David Clingan said, “Grow Hays' mission is straightforward: grow our workforce by supporting startups and small manufacturing businesses by providing personalized spaces, affordable rates and essential amenities. Our goal at the MicroFactory is to create a collaborative environment where they can thrive together, equipped with the tools they need for sustained success."&nbsp;

The project was funded via grants and funding from the Kansas BASE Grant program, The Patterson Family Foundation, Heart of America Development Corporation, Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center and the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation.

If you have any questions, call Grow Hays at 785-628-3102.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702044986629.jpeg" alt="Hays MicroFactory. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays MicroFactory. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysGrow Hays welcomes the public to the MicroFactory Grand Opening Ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 13.David Toland, Kansas Lieutenant Governor/ Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary, will be among those speaking. The 30,000-square-foot facility is at 3000 E. Ninth St., Hays. &nbsp;The first-of-its-kind flexible lease space, MicroFactory is an incubator for small and startup manufacturing companies. The facility is designed specifically to meet the needs of manufacturers with various&nbsp;amounts of space allocated to tenants as needed.&nbsp;"Grow Hays is working diligently to increase&nbsp;manufacturing opportunities in our community. The MicroFactory offers a fantastic facility for small and startup manufacturers giving them an appropriate space at a fraction of the cost of renting or constructing comparable space,"&nbsp;Grow Hays' Executive Director Doug Williams said.The MicroFactory is a temperature-controlled facility, zoned I-1 light industrial. The all-inclusive rates start at $8 per square foot. Office rentals are $500 monthly with reduced rates if leasing a factory floor. The facility features 20-foot ceilings with five 12-foot dock doors, 24/7 secure access, HD camera system, fire sprinkler system, internet graciously provided by Nex-Tech and Vyve, offices and conference room with webcam, breakroom with refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. &nbsp;Grow Hays' David Clingan said, “Grow Hays' mission is straightforward: grow our workforce by supporting startups and small manufacturing businesses by providing personalized spaces, affordable rates and essential amenities. Our goal at the MicroFactory is to create a collaborative environment where they can thrive together, equipped with the tools they need for sustained success."&nbsp;The project was funded via grants and funding from the Kansas BASE Grant program, The Patterson Family Foundation, Heart of America Development Corporation, Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center and the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation.If you have any questions, call Grow Hays at 785-628-3102.

MicroFactory grand opening ceremony set for March 13

Hays March Community Events

Everyone dreams, wishes, hopes, or long for something. Some are blessed to build happy families, find satisfying jobs, and establish cozy homes. A dear friend recently achieved the specific dream of sharing her family story—a history specific to a small town in western Kansas. Since I’ve known Angela Bates, she’s researched and documented lives of her Kentucky ancestors, once enslaved people belonging to Vice-President Richard M. Johnson. Her story is the result of what happens when dream meets hard work and persistence.

Several years following Emancipation and the Homestead Act, recruiters traveled east to entice families to move West to homestead. Angela’s ancestors answered this call, founding Nicodemus and the surrounding township in Graham County.

Like many rural communities, Nicodemus experienced boom and bust, forcing many residents to seek jobs in urban regions. Swimming against that current, Angela changed career paths and left the city, returning to her ancestral home to document and share her family’s unique American history. Plan in mind, she collaborated with Kansas Senators Dole and Roberts, the National Park Service, and the Nicodemus community and descendants to establish Nicodemus as a National Historic Site in 1996.

For some this designation would suffice, but not Angela. For decades stories and scripts recounting an American tale specific to Angela’s family origins that led to the only remaining all Black town west of the Mississippi River waited to be shared. As she compiled family histories, ancestors’ lives scrolled through her mind like a movie on a screen.

Once technology made it possible to transition text to visuals, Angela persuaded donors, descendants of original settlers, Nicodemus Historical Society, friends, landowners, and regional filmmaker Nick Abt to turn the script simmering in her brain for decades into the documentary Ellis Trail to Nicodemus.

It first premiered February 17 at Frontier Stage in Hill City. Cast, crew, and land owners of film locations reunited to celebrate the long-awaited documentary. Hugs and laughter established the sense of a long-awaited family reunion as friends and loved ones reconnected. Two showings accommodated appreciative audiences.

Building the excitement, Angela announced an extended version of the documentary comes out later this year. A poignant script, sweeping photography, gritty visuals of actual descendants slogging over open prairie in a land unlike anything their pioneer ancestors had ever seen evoked audience gasps, sighs, laughs, and tears. Nick’s drone photography invited viewers to travel alongside those following forebearers’ footsteps through sere grasses, over eroded limestone hills, and across rivers.

Descendent interviews at the end of the documentary enriched it, adding depth to the stories of these African American pioneer settlers who sought and experienced freedom as first- time landowners and homesteaders in the West. To watch the actress playing Zerina Johnson channel her character’s emotion when she first sighted Nicodemus moved some viewers to the edge of their seats. Hearing descendants explain what Nicodemus means—a home they can always return to--and their sense of belonging to those pioneer families forced a communal scramble for tissues. Spectators responded to the power of family stories involving strong people who prayed and sacrificed their way to better lives for themselves and future generations.

While some families have dreamers who see possibility and make it happen, others don’t. The doers research and record the stories. They encourage others to share in translating that story to film to make it every human’s story-- the appeal of this documentary. While it’s unique in its representation of formerly enslaved men and women seeking freedom and landownership, its love story and willingness to risk everything for a better life is a universal dream come true.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725159287.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINEveryone dreams, wishes, hopes, or long for something. Some are blessed to build happy families, find satisfying jobs, and establish cozy homes. A dear friend recently achieved the specific dream of sharing her family story—a history specific to a small town in western Kansas. Since I’ve known Angela Bates, she’s researched and documented lives of her Kentucky ancestors, once enslaved people belonging to Vice-President Richard M. Johnson. Her story is the result of what happens when dream meets hard work and persistence.Several years following Emancipation and the Homestead Act, recruiters traveled east to entice families to move West to homestead. Angela’s ancestors answered this call, founding Nicodemus and the surrounding township in Graham County.Like many rural communities, Nicodemus experienced boom and bust, forcing many residents to seek jobs in urban regions. Swimming against that current, Angela changed career paths and left the city, returning to her ancestral home to document and share her family’s unique American history. Plan in mind, she collaborated with Kansas Senators Dole and Roberts, the National Park Service, and the Nicodemus community and descendants to establish Nicodemus as a National Historic Site in 1996.For some this designation would suffice, but not Angela. For decades stories and scripts recounting an American tale specific to Angela’s family origins that led to the only remaining all Black town west of the Mississippi River waited to be shared. As she compiled family histories, ancestors’ lives scrolled through her mind like a movie on a screen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725175440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Once technology made it possible to transition text to visuals, Angela persuaded donors, descendants of original settlers, Nicodemus Historical Society, friends, landowners, and regional filmmaker Nick Abt to turn the script simmering in her brain for decades into the documentary Ellis Trail to Nicodemus.It first premiered February 17 at Frontier Stage in Hill City. Cast, crew, and land owners of film locations reunited to celebrate the long-awaited documentary. Hugs and laughter established the sense of a long-awaited family reunion as friends and loved ones reconnected. Two showings accommodated appreciative audiences.Building the excitement, Angela announced an extended version of the documentary comes out later this year. A poignant script, sweeping photography, gritty visuals of actual descendants slogging over open prairie in a land unlike anything their pioneer ancestors had ever seen evoked audience gasps, sighs, laughs, and tears. Nick’s drone photography invited viewers to travel alongside those following forebearers’ footsteps through sere grasses, over eroded limestone hills, and across rivers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725189585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Descendent interviews at the end of the documentary enriched it, adding depth to the stories of these African American pioneer settlers who sought and experienced freedom as first- time landowners and homesteaders in the West. To watch the actress playing Zerina Johnson channel her character’s emotion when she first sighted Nicodemus moved some viewers to the edge of their seats. Hearing descendants explain what Nicodemus means—a home they can always return to--and their sense of belonging to those pioneer families forced a communal scramble for tissues. Spectators responded to the power of family stories involving strong people who prayed and sacrificed their way to better lives for themselves and future generations.While some families have dreamers who see possibility and make it happen, others don’t. The doers research and record the stories. They encourage others to share in translating that story to film to make it every human’s story-- the appeal of this documentary. While it’s unique in its representation of formerly enslaved men and women seeking freedom and landownership, its love story and willingness to risk everything for a better life is a universal dream come true.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752587394.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

MADORIN: A Dream Come True — Nicodemus documentary

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709145015564.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>

WASHINGTON — With millions of tax refunds going out each week, the Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers today that recent improvements to “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.SxgUOXruJOvbRetoZkoUp2dqe_uKnqrSPQNJXzFaCyI/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Where's My Refund?</a>” on IRS.gov provide more information and remains the best way to check the status of a refund.

The “Where’s My Refund?” tool provides taxpayers with three key pieces of information: IRS confirmation of receiving a federal tax return, approval of the tax refund and issuing date of the approved tax refund. Information for returns from tax years 2023, 2022 and 2021 is available.

During this busy part of filing season, millions of taxpayers are anticipating refunds. In the second of the weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.6xYPF5lMRPXc6Y4GXmt_JdvnpsPqtw3Hkgo5l07doNg/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS highlights important details about “Where’s My Refund?” that can help taxpayers quickly get the information they need without calling the IRS.

The improvements to the heavily used tool follow Inflation Reduction Act funding, which is providing for a variety of IRS technological advances and upgrades designed to help taxpayers and transform agency operations.

“Where’s My Refund?” enhancementsIn filing season 2024, taxpayers will benefit from important updates that reduce the need for many taxpayers to call the IRS and include:

How to use “Where’s My Refund?”To use “Where's My Refund?”, taxpayers must enter their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number, filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of their expected refund from the original tax return for the year they're checking.

Once the IRS acknowledges receipt of a return, refund status information is typically available within:

Taxpayers should note that the IRS updates the tool once a day, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more often. The IRS reminds taxpayers that the fastest way to get a refund is by&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2UtZmlsZS1vcHRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.aS3o0s0aOWNW3wx1A9hpl-g5e1uGjNw5JtkRnUC7v1g/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">filing electronically</a>&nbsp;and using&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy9nZXQteW91ci1yZWZ1bmQtZmFzdGVyLXRlbGwtaXJzLXRvLWRpcmVjdC1kZXBvc2l0LXlvdXItcmVmdW5kLXRvLW9uZS10d28tb3ItdGhyZWUtYWNjb3VudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.SEm7UcaLfrDORY_GixeRMFQoJE8mtdFUhwXtUGds3YY/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">direct deposit</a>.

Refund deliveryMany different factors may affect the timing of refund delivery:

The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return. IRS phone and walk-in representatives can only research the status of a refund if:

If a taxpayer refund isn't what is expected, it may be due to changes made by the IRS. These changes could include corrections to the Child Tax Credit or EITC amounts or an offset from all or part of the refund amount to pay past-due tax or debts. More information about&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMjAzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.lYlBmEwGZ8be2CpGAlLThRIN-GHtvrtsGFiv-bAzbI4/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">reduced refunds</a>&nbsp;is available on IRS.gov.

Filing season remindersTaxpayers should make IRS.gov their first stop to get information on filing a tax return. There is information on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4LXByb2Zlc3Npb25hbHMvY2hvb3NpbmctYS10YXgtcHJvZmVzc2lvbmFsIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.hFt-Xo7WWvhUR__5szVAo34UNqjAFSkWRBGcp9jDRr0/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Choosing a tax professional</a>, IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2ZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLWZlZGVyYWwtdGF4ZXMtZm9yLWZyZWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.AJJuuz4_17J25YcKDxPrdtb70VFOU-zJUvnS8p2fwKA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Free File</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.b9fdTY4X5LxXOFzZUjM93rLBImpXD4_-2G52SBvTX14/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Answers to tax questions</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.v94be3mSTxb-ENCp7_8rOuV8tjffQbN_C4jkKVi6Dys/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tips on filing a return</a>.

Taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit typically get their refund in less than 21 days. Taxpayers who don't have a bank account can find out how to open a bank account at a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYmFua3MuZGF0YS5mZGljLmdvdi9iYW5rZmluZC1zdWl0ZS9iYW5rZmluZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.HXZsAcfHacaeQWNykbf2Q1bSpmRnPPc_MV1tXJaKKrs/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">FDIC-insured bank</a>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbWFwcGluZy5uY3VhLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.mYIXjkPWYID4RREgaE7miaZ_qQD9xFnYqINQa9a7fkw/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">National Credit Union Locator Tool</a>.

Refund information for amended tax returns is not available on “Where’s My Refund?” Use “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL3doZXJlcy1teS1hbWVuZGVkLXJldHVybiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.XSu16WFEu3QAIY4ha2-Fc6RFeAyjemIfqNLIYKXbSkw/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Where’s My Amended Return?</a>” to get the status of an amended return.

The deadline for most taxpayers to file a tax return, pay any tax due or request an extension to file is Monday, April 15.

This news release is part of a series called the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.rNlpQi-dRBBcZj_nyqJjZj0Yg_tOJTLLOXEuUnNJRLA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource designed to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvcDE3LnBkZiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.wDwJGnEYawywtNH_KTX9MtldGF8EEOP_M7eh02wmAS4/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708975908202.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceWASHINGTON — With millions of tax refunds going out each week, the Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers today that recent improvements to “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.SxgUOXruJOvbRetoZkoUp2dqe_uKnqrSPQNJXzFaCyI/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Where's My Refund?</a>” on IRS.gov provide more information and remains the best way to check the status of a refund.The “Where’s My Refund?” tool provides taxpayers with three key pieces of information: IRS confirmation of receiving a federal tax return, approval of the tax refund and issuing date of the approved tax refund. Information for returns from tax years 2023, 2022 and 2021 is available.During this busy part of filing season, millions of taxpayers are anticipating refunds. In the second of the weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.6xYPF5lMRPXc6Y4GXmt_JdvnpsPqtw3Hkgo5l07doNg/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS highlights important details about “Where’s My Refund?” that can help taxpayers quickly get the information they need without calling the IRS.The improvements to the heavily used tool follow Inflation Reduction Act funding, which is providing for a variety of IRS technological advances and upgrades designed to help taxpayers and transform agency operations.“Where’s My Refund?” enhancementsIn filing season 2024, taxpayers will benefit from important updates that reduce the need for many taxpayers to call the IRS and include:<ul>
 <li>Messages with detailed refund status in plain language.</li><li>Seamless access on mobile devices and with the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pcnMyZ29hcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.I0MBek3Q26UIGvrPDAzSwexgLvSJ_Izts9dyYVCTO7o/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">IRS2Go</a>&nbsp;app.</li><li>Notifications indicating whether the IRS needs additional information.</li>
 </ul>How to use “Where’s My Refund?”To use “Where's My Refund?”, taxpayers must enter their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number, filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of their expected refund from the original tax return for the year they're checking.Once the IRS acknowledges receipt of a return, refund status information is typically available within:<ul>
 <li>24 hours after receipt of a taxpayer's e-filed tax year 2023 return.</li><li>Three to four days after receipt of an e-filed tax year 2022 or 2021 return.</li><li>Four weeks after mailing a paper return.</li>
 </ul>Taxpayers should note that the IRS updates the tool once a day, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more often. The IRS reminds taxpayers that the fastest way to get a refund is by&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2UtZmlsZS1vcHRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.aS3o0s0aOWNW3wx1A9hpl-g5e1uGjNw5JtkRnUC7v1g/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">filing electronically</a>&nbsp;and using&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy9nZXQteW91ci1yZWZ1bmQtZmFzdGVyLXRlbGwtaXJzLXRvLWRpcmVjdC1kZXBvc2l0LXlvdXItcmVmdW5kLXRvLW9uZS10d28tb3ItdGhyZWUtYWNjb3VudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.SEm7UcaLfrDORY_GixeRMFQoJE8mtdFUhwXtUGds3YY/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">direct deposit</a>.Refund deliveryMany different factors may affect the timing of refund delivery:<ul>
 <li>The tax return has errors, requires additional review or is incomplete.</li><li>The return needs a correction to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cy1kZWR1Y3Rpb25zL2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL2Vhcm5lZC1pbmNvbWUtdGF4LWNyZWRpdC1laXRjIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.5UmE82zpaFm5SYpUb9oIoT1xVwpXCOHBWyBjqb8dU7k/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Earned Income Tax Credit</a>&nbsp;(EITC) or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvZG9lcy1teS1jaGlsZGRlcGVuZGVudC1xdWFsaWZ5LWZvci10aGUtY2hpbGQtdGF4LWNyZWRpdC1vci10aGUtY3JlZGl0LWZvci1vdGhlci1kZXBlbmRlbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.kwyYFx6eqzgD4sY4zkf__U0XTatIMk20VSW2ARj4BxA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Additional Child Tax Credit</a>.</li><li>The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it to an account may vary since processing times fluctuate.</li>
 </ul>The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return. IRS phone and walk-in representatives can only research the status of a refund if:<ul>
 <li>21 days or more have passed since a return was filed electronically.</li><li>Six weeks or more have passed since a return was mailed.</li><li>“Where's My Refund?” tells the taxpayer to contact the IRS.</li>
 </ul>If a taxpayer refund isn't what is expected, it may be due to changes made by the IRS. These changes could include corrections to the Child Tax Credit or EITC amounts or an offset from all or part of the refund amount to pay past-due tax or debts. More information about&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMjAzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.lYlBmEwGZ8be2CpGAlLThRIN-GHtvrtsGFiv-bAzbI4/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">reduced refunds</a>&nbsp;is available on IRS.gov.Filing season remindersTaxpayers should make IRS.gov their first stop to get information on filing a tax return. There is information on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4LXByb2Zlc3Npb25hbHMvY2hvb3NpbmctYS10YXgtcHJvZmVzc2lvbmFsIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.hFt-Xo7WWvhUR__5szVAo34UNqjAFSkWRBGcp9jDRr0/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Choosing a tax professional</a>, IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2ZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLWZlZGVyYWwtdGF4ZXMtZm9yLWZyZWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.AJJuuz4_17J25YcKDxPrdtb70VFOU-zJUvnS8p2fwKA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Free File</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.b9fdTY4X5LxXOFzZUjM93rLBImpXD4_-2G52SBvTX14/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Answers to tax questions</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.v94be3mSTxb-ENCp7_8rOuV8tjffQbN_C4jkKVi6Dys/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tips on filing a return</a>.Taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit typically get their refund in less than 21 days. Taxpayers who don't have a bank account can find out how to open a bank account at a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYmFua3MuZGF0YS5mZGljLmdvdi9iYW5rZmluZC1zdWl0ZS9iYW5rZmluZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.HXZsAcfHacaeQWNykbf2Q1bSpmRnPPc_MV1tXJaKKrs/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">FDIC-insured bank</a>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbWFwcGluZy5uY3VhLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.mYIXjkPWYID4RREgaE7miaZ_qQD9xFnYqINQa9a7fkw/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">National Credit Union Locator Tool</a>.Refund information for amended tax returns is not available on “Where’s My Refund?” Use “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL3doZXJlcy1teS1hbWVuZGVkLXJldHVybiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.XSu16WFEu3QAIY4ha2-Fc6RFeAyjemIfqNLIYKXbSkw/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Where’s My Amended Return?</a>” to get the status of an amended return.The deadline for most taxpayers to file a tax return, pay any tax due or request an extension to file is Monday, April 15.This news release is part of a series called the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.rNlpQi-dRBBcZj_nyqJjZj0Yg_tOJTLLOXEuUnNJRLA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource designed to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvcDE3LnBkZiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.wDwJGnEYawywtNH_KTX9MtldGF8EEOP_M7eh02wmAS4/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>.More resources:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy9hYm91dC13aGVyZXMtbXktcmVmdW5kIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyOC45MDk1MjE4MSJ9.zQR7ZZo4FpjtZuH7GUNViQaie_orq-cKiILuwz-TrKA/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">About "Where's My Refund?"</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy90YXgtc2Vhc29uLXJlZnVuZC1mcmVxdWVudGx5LWFza2VkLXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjguOTA5NTIxODEifQ.JFrxNghtraRNp9OodBjw8wE7jT6UBpU2zExxb3-y6G8/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Tax season refund FAQs</a></li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy9nZXQteW91ci1yZWZ1bmQtZmFzdGVyLXRlbGwtaXJzLXRvLWRpcmVjdC1kZXBvc2l0LXlvdXItcmVmdW5kLXRvLW9uZS10d28tb3ItdGhyZWUtYWNjb3VudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI4LjkwOTUyMTgxIn0.qieW8aihEBNBRz9Pu8CH-ZZDbQsBqUG41m1iVob32gI/s/1558083055/br/237857529007-l">Direct deposit</a></li>
 </ul>

Tax Time Guide: IRS enhances ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool for 2024 filing season

The Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Board of Directors selected Steve Epperson as the company’s president and CEO, effective immediately. Headquartered in Hays, Sunflower has 413 employees serving a generation and transmission system extending across central and western Kansas.

Epperson acted as the interim president and CEO since July and was chosen for the permanent position after a nationwide search beginning last fall. Prior to the interim position, he served as the CEO of Pioneer Electric Cooperative and Southern Pioneer Electric Company—two of Sunflower’s seven distribution member-owners—since 2011.

“We had a pool of strong candidates for this position,” said Wes Campbell, Sunflower’s board chairman, “and the final nod went to Steve. He has effectively guided Sunflower since last July, and we believe his business knowledge, industry experience and expertise, servant leadership, and desire for excellence make Steve the person to lead Sunflower into the future.”

Epperson is the seventh president and CEO to serve in this position since Sunflower was formed by six distribution cooperatives in 1957 to provide wholesale generation and transmission services.

“The Sunflower board has high expectations and criteria for this position, and I am both honored and humbled by their confidence in me to accomplish their vision for Sunflower’s future,” Epperson said. “Sunflower was founded on the seven cooperative principles, and those principles are still our North Star. We will keep learning from leaders and staff who have paved the way, capitalizing on new opportunities so we can continue providing our member-owners with reliable energy at the lowest possible cost.”

About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices.

Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower. For more information, visit <a href="http://sunflower.net">sunflower.net</a>, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709156885400.jpeg" alt="Steve Epperson" />
 <figcaption>Steve Epperson</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Board of Directors selected Steve Epperson as the company’s president and CEO, effective immediately. Headquartered in Hays, Sunflower has 413 employees serving a generation and transmission system extending across central and western Kansas.Epperson acted as the interim president and CEO since July and was chosen for the permanent position after a nationwide search beginning last fall. Prior to the interim position, he served as the CEO of Pioneer Electric Cooperative and Southern Pioneer Electric Company—two of Sunflower’s seven distribution member-owners—since 2011.“We had a pool of strong candidates for this position,” said Wes Campbell, Sunflower’s board chairman, “and the final nod went to Steve. He has effectively guided Sunflower since last July, and we believe his business knowledge, industry experience and expertise, servant leadership, and desire for excellence make Steve the person to lead Sunflower into the future.”Epperson is the seventh president and CEO to serve in this position since Sunflower was formed by six distribution cooperatives in 1957 to provide wholesale generation and transmission services.“The Sunflower board has high expectations and criteria for this position, and I am both honored and humbled by their confidence in me to accomplish their vision for Sunflower’s future,” Epperson said. “Sunflower was founded on the seven cooperative principles, and those principles are still our North Star. We will keep learning from leaders and staff who have paved the way, capitalizing on new opportunities so we can continue providing our member-owners with reliable energy at the lowest possible cost.”About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices.Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., Scott City, Kan. Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses, is also a member of Sunflower. For more information, visit <a href="http://sunflower.net">sunflower.net</a>, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Sunflower Electric Power Corp. selects Steve Epperson as president, CEO

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA —&nbsp;Seventy-seven school buildings in about 29 districts across the state have implemented a four-day week this year, up from 60 in 2023.

As more Kansas public schools adapt to a shorter academic week, rural communities may see benefits. Rural school districts already contain the majority of the state’s four-day scheduled schools.&nbsp;

“It’s been a hot topic,” said Randy Watson,&nbsp;KBOE Commissioner of education, in a Feb. 14 Kansas State Board of Education meeting.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ece7aabc-5a5f-4f9a-a315-42b368c37386">Victoria USD 432 discussed going to a four-day school week, but will not be implementing it for the fall semester.</a>

Watson said most districts were having discussions about the possibility of implementing four-day weeks, especially in smaller, more rural areas. Since 2011, 93 Kansas school buildings have tested a four-day schedule, although some of the districts have returned to a typical five-day schedule. First proposed as a way to save money in some districts, the four-day week also has been utilized for teacher recruitment.

Kansas State Department of Education researchers examined the 2022-2023 school year population of 54 buildings using a four-day school week and 1,335 buildings using a five-day school week to compare learning outcomes. They looked at public and private elementary, middle, junior high and high schools with state assessment data for that school year.

The majority of the four-week scheduled schools are in more rural areas with smaller student enrollment. According to KSDE estimates, 92.6 percent of the buildings using a four-day week had fewer than 158 students enrolled. None of the buildings had more than 440 students enrolled.

Watson estimated a four-day week in Kansas schools averages 452 minutes per day to the five-day schools’ 406 minutes per day. During a week of learning, the five-day schools average 2,031 minutes of education to the four-week’s 1,810 minutes.

When department researchers looked at the academic performances of students, Watson said, five-day schools were performing slightly better than four-day schools on state assessments, though the difference was not statistically significant because of the small size of these schools. On average, the rural four-day schools also had more novice teachers and teachers with fewer years of experience than the rural five-day schools.

Five-day schools significantly outpaced four-day schools on ACT scores, but Watson stressed that multiple other factors, such as school resources and teacher experience, could also be at play.

“The mechanisms of how this works are very unclear,” Watson said. “Within any school, there are other variables going on, whether you’re going four days a week or whether you’re going five days.”

Board member Cathy Hopkins said communities need to make their own decisions about what works for them, but she had heard positive tidings from districts with the shortened week. Hopkins said in rural areas where families have to make longer journeys to places like the grocery store or doctor — which could be a two-hour trip in some areas — the extra day could make a significant difference.

“It’s a big deal to have that day for the family to do that,” Hopkins said. “They see healthier kids and teachers on that level as much as anything. They’re seeing some huge pros, and it’s working for them, so I think that’s a beautiful thing.”

In an interview for this story,&nbsp;Sherri Schwanz, music educator and president of Kansas National Education Association, said a lot of factors needed to be taken into account for the four-day work week, such as students dealing with food insecurity at home, if a parent is able to watch their children for that extra time at home, and day care options for younger students.&nbsp;

Schwanz said educators — from teachers, custodians, paraprofessionals, administrative assistants and onward — should be included when discussing the shortened week idea.

“The educator voice is so necessary as districts want to move forward with four-day week learning opportunities for students,” Schwanz said. “Every Kansas community is a little bit different. If the district in the community wants to make a four-day week successful, they have to vet a lot of barriers.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709137347896.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA —&nbsp;Seventy-seven school buildings in about 29 districts across the state have implemented a four-day week this year, up from 60 in 2023.As more Kansas public schools adapt to a shorter academic week, rural communities may see benefits. Rural school districts already contain the majority of the state’s four-day scheduled schools.&nbsp;“It’s been a hot topic,” said Randy Watson,&nbsp;KBOE Commissioner of education, in a Feb. 14 Kansas State Board of Education meeting.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ece7aabc-5a5f-4f9a-a315-42b368c37386">Victoria USD 432 discussed going to a four-day school week, but will not be implementing it for the fall semester.</a>Watson said most districts were having discussions about the possibility of implementing four-day weeks, especially in smaller, more rural areas. Since 2011, 93 Kansas school buildings have tested a four-day schedule, although some of the districts have returned to a typical five-day schedule. First proposed as a way to save money in some districts, the four-day week also has been utilized for teacher recruitment.Kansas State Department of Education researchers examined the 2022-2023 school year population of 54 buildings using a four-day school week and 1,335 buildings using a five-day school week to compare learning outcomes. They looked at public and private elementary, middle, junior high and high schools with state assessment data for that school year.The majority of the four-week scheduled schools are in more rural areas with smaller student enrollment. According to KSDE estimates, 92.6 percent of the buildings using a four-day week had fewer than 158 students enrolled. None of the buildings had more than 440 students enrolled.Watson estimated a four-day week in Kansas schools averages 452 minutes per day to the five-day schools’ 406 minutes per day. During a week of learning, the five-day schools average 2,031 minutes of education to the four-week’s 1,810 minutes.When department researchers looked at the academic performances of students, Watson said, five-day schools were performing slightly better than four-day schools on state assessments, though the difference was not statistically significant because of the small size of these schools. On average, the rural four-day schools also had more novice teachers and teachers with fewer years of experience than the rural five-day schools.Five-day schools significantly outpaced four-day schools on ACT scores, but Watson stressed that multiple other factors, such as school resources and teacher experience, could also be at play.“The mechanisms of how this works are very unclear,” Watson said. “Within any school, there are other variables going on, whether you’re going four days a week or whether you’re going five days.”Board member Cathy Hopkins said communities need to make their own decisions about what works for them, but she had heard positive tidings from districts with the shortened week. Hopkins said in rural areas where families have to make longer journeys to places like the grocery store or doctor — which could be a two-hour trip in some areas — the extra day could make a significant difference.“It’s a big deal to have that day for the family to do that,” Hopkins said. “They see healthier kids and teachers on that level as much as anything. They’re seeing some huge pros, and it’s working for them, so I think that’s a beautiful thing.”In an interview for this story,&nbsp;Sherri Schwanz, music educator and president of Kansas National Education Association, said a lot of factors needed to be taken into account for the four-day work week, such as students dealing with food insecurity at home, if a parent is able to watch their children for that extra time at home, and day care options for younger students.&nbsp;Schwanz said educators — from teachers, custodians, paraprofessionals, administrative assistants and onward — should be included when discussing the shortened week idea.“The educator voice is so necessary as districts want to move forward with four-day week learning opportunities for students,” Schwanz said. “Every Kansas community is a little bit different. If the district in the community wants to make a four-day week successful, they have to vet a lot of barriers.”

More Kansas schools embrace four-day weeks

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Fort Hays State University's Science Cafe delved into Ozempic and Wegovy drugs,&nbsp;examining their effectiveness in diabetes and weight loss.&nbsp;

FHSU Physics Instructor Kent Rohleder led the presentation,&nbsp;sharing his connection to the topic through his prior experience with Ozempic.

"I'm diabetic. I have been taking Ozempic for about a year and a half. It's worked exactly the way it's supposed to work for me," Rohleder said.

Rholeder adds a disclaimer to the presentation, saying he is not a medical professional and no medical advice is being given.

The obvious reason why people need to eat is for energy. Eating provides the body with vitamins, minerals and different macronutrients.

"The first one of those would be proteins we eat in animals and plants, made up of amino acids," he said.

Other macronutrients include lipids, carbohydrates and most importantly, glucose.

Rohleder said eating triggers a cycle: it raises blood glucose, signaling the pancreas to release insulin and followed by several other actions.

"We cycle through this multiple times a day, and as we eat more, making energy and using that energy, then the blood glucose goes down," he said.

This is the typical process in healthy individuals, but Rohleder said it doesn't function the same way in those with diabetes.

In the United States, 10 percent of individuals with diabetes have type 1, while the remaining 90 percent have type 2, according to Rohleder.

Two types of incretins, Glucagon-like peptide 1 and Gastric Inhibitory peptide enhance insulin release, increase lipogenesis, decrease digestion and extend the sensation of fullness in the stomach.

Despite being perceived as effective, Rohleder said that incretins have a short half-life, lasting about two minutes.

"Once the incretins are made and enter the bloodstream, they don't last long ," he said. "It doesn't sound efficient but these are just supposed to boost another pathway that's already present."

Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus are three new medications for weight loss and diabetes made by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmacy company.

Ozempic and Wegovy are both administered by weekly injections. While Wegovy targets obesity, Ozempic and Rybelsus, taken daily, address type 2 diabetes.

Rohleder said taking these drugs can be beneficial but they also come with secondary outcomes.

"There are some possible side effects and some of them are pretty nasty," he said.

The list of side effects Rohleder provided include:

"When testing the efficiency, they gave super high doses to rats, and there was a slight increase in thyroid cancer," Rohleder said. "But I don't think there's any data of linkages of thyroid cancer in humans."

Rohleder concluded the presentation with data concerning the economic impact of obesity in America.

The estimated annual healthcare costs of obesity-related illnesses amount to $190.2 billion. Additionally, obesity-related job absenteeism costs $4.3 billion annually, with employers facing a yearly productivity loss of $506 per obese worker.

While America ranks among the most obese nations globally, Rohleder said this issue is not exclusive to here.

"We are in an obesity epidemic across the world. It's worse in the U.S. than in a lot of other places, but across the world, there is an epidemic," he said.

The next session of the Science Cafe, titled “Snakes in Jars: using museum specimens to discover new species and test evolution,” is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 18 at The Venue at Thirty's, 2704 Vine St.

The presentation will highlight how scientists utilize the Sternberg Museum's research collections to explore a wide range of topics.

You can follow FHSU Science Cafe on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe/">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709054986854.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo by Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo by Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University's Science Cafe delved into Ozempic and Wegovy drugs,&nbsp;examining their effectiveness in diabetes and weight loss.&nbsp;FHSU Physics Instructor Kent Rohleder led the presentation,&nbsp;sharing his connection to the topic through his prior experience with Ozempic."I'm diabetic. I have been taking Ozempic for about a year and a half. It's worked exactly the way it's supposed to work for me," Rohleder said.Rholeder adds a disclaimer to the presentation, saying he is not a medical professional and no medical advice is being given.The obvious reason why people need to eat is for energy. Eating provides the body with vitamins, minerals and different macronutrients."The first one of those would be proteins we eat in animals and plants, made up of amino acids," he said.Other macronutrients include lipids, carbohydrates and most importantly, glucose.Rohleder said eating triggers a cycle: it raises blood glucose, signaling the pancreas to release insulin and followed by several other actions."We cycle through this multiple times a day, and as we eat more, making energy and using that energy, then the blood glucose goes down," he said.This is the typical process in healthy individuals, but Rohleder said it doesn't function the same way in those with diabetes.In the United States, 10 percent of individuals with diabetes have type 1, while the remaining 90 percent have type 2, according to Rohleder.Two types of incretins, Glucagon-like peptide 1 and Gastric Inhibitory peptide enhance insulin release, increase lipogenesis, decrease digestion and extend the sensation of fullness in the stomach.Despite being perceived as effective, Rohleder said that incretins have a short half-life, lasting about two minutes."Once the incretins are made and enter the bloodstream, they don't last long ," he said. "It doesn't sound efficient but these are just supposed to boost another pathway that's already present."Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus are three new medications for weight loss and diabetes made by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmacy company.Ozempic and Wegovy are both administered by weekly injections. While Wegovy targets obesity, Ozempic and Rybelsus, taken daily, address type 2 diabetes.Rohleder said taking these drugs can be beneficial but they also come with secondary outcomes."There are some possible side effects and some of them are pretty nasty," he said.The list of side effects Rohleder provided include:<ul>
 <li>Vomiting</li><li>Diarrhea</li><li>Headache</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Paralysis of the stomach </li><li>Pancreatitis swelling </li><li>Low chance of thyroid cancer in rats</li>
 </ul>"When testing the efficiency, they gave super high doses to rats, and there was a slight increase in thyroid cancer," Rohleder said. "But I don't think there's any data of linkages of thyroid cancer in humans."Rohleder concluded the presentation with data concerning the economic impact of obesity in America.The estimated annual healthcare costs of obesity-related illnesses amount to $190.2 billion. Additionally, obesity-related job absenteeism costs $4.3 billion annually, with employers facing a yearly productivity loss of $506 per obese worker.While America ranks among the most obese nations globally, Rohleder said this issue is not exclusive to here."We are in an obesity epidemic across the world. It's worse in the U.S. than in a lot of other places, but across the world, there is an epidemic," he said. The next session of the Science Cafe, titled “Snakes in Jars: using museum specimens to discover new species and test evolution,” is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 18 at The Venue at Thirty's, 2704 Vine St.The presentation will highlight how scientists utilize the Sternberg Museum's research collections to explore a wide range of topics. You can follow FHSU Science Cafe on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe/">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU presentation sheds light on Ozempic, Wegovy drugs

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays,
Kansas</a>, is pleased to announce Stepping
Out Day 2024 is scheduled for March 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This event holds significance as
it not only marks a day of member engagement but also showcases the Chamber's
commitment to fostering strong relationships within the community, said President
and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

“During Stepping Out Day, The
Chamber Ambassadors will embark on a mission to distribute 2024 membership
decals to all members who are up-to-date on their dues,” Wasinger said. “This
initiative not only emphasizes the importance of membership but also serves as
a tangible symbol of unity and support within the Hays business community.”

"Stepping Out Day is a
cornerstone of our annual calendar, offering a unique opportunity for our
Ambassadors to personally connect with our valued members. It's not just about
delivering decals; it's about reinforcing the sense of belonging and
camaraderie that defines our Chamber."

In addition to decal
distribution, Stepping Out Day provides a platform for members to engage with
The Chamber Ambassadors, share feedback, and explore the array of benefits that
come with Chamber membership. 

“The interactive nature of the
event fosters open dialogue, allowing members to voice their ideas, concerns,
and suggestions directly to Chamber representatives,” Wasinger said.

"The Chamber is dedicated to
serving as a catalyst for growth and prosperity in our community. Stepping Out
Day exemplifies our commitment to actively engage with our members, listen to
their needs, and work together to advance our shared goals."

With its strategic timing,
Stepping Out Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining
membership status, Wasinger said. 

“The Chamber encourages all
members to ensure their dues are current to take full advantage of the
resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts offered throughout
the year,” she said.

“Stepping Out Day 2024 promises
to be a dynamic event, filled with meaningful connections, valuable insights,
and a renewed sense of community spirit. Members are encouraged to mark their
calendars and participate in this pivotal day for the Hays business community.”

For more information about
Stepping Out Day 2024 or Chamber membership, please contact The Chamber at (785)
628-8201 or visit <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708976947971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a href="https://hayschamber.com/">The Chamber in Hays,
Kansas</a>, is pleased to announce Stepping
Out Day 2024 is scheduled for March 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event holds significance as
it not only marks a day of member engagement but also showcases the Chamber's
commitment to fostering strong relationships within the community, said President
and CEO Sarah Wasinger.<div><iframe title="The Chamber in Hays, Kansas plans Stepping Out event" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=p6phu-1593172-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“During Stepping Out Day, The
Chamber Ambassadors will embark on a mission to distribute 2024 membership
decals to all members who are up-to-date on their dues,” Wasinger said. “This
initiative not only emphasizes the importance of membership but also serves as
a tangible symbol of unity and support within the Hays business community.”"Stepping Out Day is a
cornerstone of our annual calendar, offering a unique opportunity for our
Ambassadors to personally connect with our valued members. It's not just about
delivering decals; it's about reinforcing the sense of belonging and
camaraderie that defines our Chamber."In addition to decal
distribution, Stepping Out Day provides a platform for members to engage with
The Chamber Ambassadors, share feedback, and explore the array of benefits that
come with Chamber membership. “The interactive nature of the
event fosters open dialogue, allowing members to voice their ideas, concerns,
and suggestions directly to Chamber representatives,” Wasinger said."The Chamber is dedicated to
serving as a catalyst for growth and prosperity in our community. Stepping Out
Day exemplifies our commitment to actively engage with our members, listen to
their needs, and work together to advance our shared goals."With its strategic timing,
Stepping Out Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining
membership status, Wasinger said. “The Chamber encourages all
members to ensure their dues are current to take full advantage of the
resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts offered throughout
the year,” she said.“Stepping Out Day 2024 promises
to be a dynamic event, filled with meaningful connections, valuable insights,
and a renewed sense of community spirit. Members are encouraged to mark their
calendars and participate in this pivotal day for the Hays business community.”For more information about
Stepping Out Day 2024 or Chamber membership, please contact The Chamber at (785)
628-8201 or visit <a href="http://www.hayschamber.com/">hayschamber.com</a>.

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