The Hays Symphony is gearing up for another evening of musical excellence with its annual Arias and Concertos Concert, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

This event, celebrating the accomplished music students of Fort Hays State University, will showcase the winners of the Concerto/Aria Competition, an auditioned event held in December 2023.

Under the direction of Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU, the Hays Symphony will feature five exceptional soloists: Jiangzi "Deacon" Guo (cello), Mackenzie Bowers (mezzo soprano), Jackson Scott (marimba), Laurinda Lan (flute), and Xingyi "Jerry" Long (alto saxophone).

Board Chairwoman Sandy Jacobs said she is excited for the upcoming concert.

"Join the Hays Symphony for a special night celebrating the incredible talent of FHSU's music students,” Jacobs said. “The Arias and Concertos Concert promises an unforgettable showcase of skill and dedication from these outstanding performers."

Guo, a cello virtuoso from China, will perform the third movement of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major.

Bowers, a senior pursuing a music education degree with a focus on voice, will enchant the audience with pieces from Dvořák and Verdi.

Scott, a percussion performance major, will showcase his marimba prowess with the second movement of Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and String Orchestra.

Lan, a flautist and cellist in the KAMS/AMS program, will perform Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute and Orchestra, Op. 107.

Long, a saxophonist from Huaihua City, will captivate the audience with Darius Milhaud’s Scaramouche.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>.

Additionally, a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning, provides an opportunity to meet the musicians.

While the board is excited for the upcoming event, unfortunately, a second February concert has been cancelled.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances preventing the special conductor from China from attending the concert originally scheduled for Feb. 17, we had to call off the event,” Jacobs said. “However, the remainder of this year’s Hays Symphony events are still planned.”

For more information about the Hays Symphony, visit their website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>. The organization also maintains a presence on social media, including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysSymphony">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707176270933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Symphony is gearing up for another evening of musical excellence with its annual Arias and Concertos Concert, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.This event, celebrating the accomplished music students of Fort Hays State University, will showcase the winners of the Concerto/Aria Competition, an auditioned event held in December 2023.Under the direction of Brian Buckstead, assistant professor of violin and viola at FHSU, the Hays Symphony will feature five exceptional soloists: Jiangzi "Deacon" Guo (cello), Mackenzie Bowers (mezzo soprano), Jackson Scott (marimba), Laurinda Lan (flute), and Xingyi "Jerry" Long (alto saxophone).Board Chairwoman Sandy Jacobs said she is excited for the upcoming concert."Join the Hays Symphony for a special night celebrating the incredible talent of FHSU's music students,” Jacobs said. “The Arias and Concertos Concert promises an unforgettable showcase of skill and dedication from these outstanding performers."Guo, a cello virtuoso from China, will perform the third movement of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major.Bowers, a senior pursuing a music education degree with a focus on voice, will enchant the audience with pieces from Dvořák and Verdi.Scott, a percussion performance major, will showcase his marimba prowess with the second movement of Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and String Orchestra.Lan, a flautist and cellist in the KAMS/AMS program, will perform Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute and Orchestra, Op. 107.Long, a saxophonist from Huaihua City, will captivate the audience with Darius Milhaud’s Scaramouche.The concert is free and open to the public.Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance on the symphony’s website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>.Additionally, a post-concert reception, sponsored by Insurance Planning, provides an opportunity to meet the musicians.While the board is excited for the upcoming event, unfortunately, a second February concert has been cancelled.“Due to unforeseen circumstances preventing the special conductor from China from attending the concert originally scheduled for Feb. 17, we had to call off the event,” Jacobs said. “However, the remainder of this year’s Hays Symphony events are still planned.”For more information about the Hays Symphony, visit their website, <a href="http://hayssymphony.org">hayssymphony.org</a>. The organization also maintains a presence on social media, including <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysSymphony">Facebook</a>.

Hays Symphony annual Arias, Concertos concert Saturday; Feb. 17 concert cancelled

SENATE HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY 5, 2024

This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. Over 440 bills have been introduced in the Senate to date for this two-year session. Senate Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks as well as standing committees preparing to send bills out to the Senate floor for debate and votes.

SNAPSHOT OF THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE 2024

The Kansas Senate consists of forty Senators – twenty-eight Republicans, eleven Democrats, one Independent with sixteen women and twenty-four men. Eleven Senators live in cities of 100,000+ population, ten with 20,000 to 100,000, six with 5,000-20,000 and six with 2,000-5,000 and seven with 0-2,000 (this is an increase of one over last year). The Kansas House of Representatives consists of one-hundred twenty-five members with eighty-five Republicans and forty Democrats with thirty-three women and ninety-two men.

Senate extends Disability Employment Act – SB15

On Wednesday, the Kansas Senate voted to extend a critical program providing tax credits to certain businesses who employ individuals with disabilities. The program was included in SB 8 last year that was vetoed by the governor, and thus expired at the end of 2023, necessitating the legislature taking quick action to ensure the program could continue.

NATIONAL UNCLAIMED PROPERTY DAY – FEBRUARY 1

STATE TREASURERS’ OFFICE - Senate District #36 has over $1.3M in unclaimed funds.

Feb. 1 is marked as National Unclaimed Property Day, and the Kansas State Treasurers’ Office says there is quite a bit of money left unclaimed in Kansas. “Our office currently holds more than $525 million in unclaimed property for Kansans,” Kansas Treasurer Steven Johnson said in a news release. “It is estimated that one in 10 people nationwide has unclaimed property – so it’s worth checking regularly to see if you, your family, or friends have funds available to claim. The news release says the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) estimates that nearly 33 million people in the United States have unclaimed property. This amount could be in financial accounts or items of value in which the owner has not initiated any activity for a number of years. When the company cannot locate the owner, the assets are given to the state. Some of those assets could be unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, safe deposit boxes, and unused rebate cards. It is free for Kansans to search for and claim unclaimed property, and the news release says to be wary of third-party individuals offering to assist in filing claims for a fee. While some operate legally, there are also bad actors who use the promise of assistance as a hook for scams. Feel free to call my office in Topeka to check for your name or visit <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://www.Kansasstatetreasurer.com</a>.

The Kansas Turnpike’s conversion to cashless tolling is on schedule for mid-2024 expecting to be fully functional in July. In preparation for the change, the KTA Board established a simplified toll structure that keeps the Kansas Turnpike at the bottom of toll rates across the country. You can order K-TAGs at no charge at <a href="https://www.myktag.com/">www.myktag.com</a>.

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE – A NEW PROPERTY TAX TOOL

A new app for Kansans will make property value data easily available as the Department of Revenue continues its quest for transparency and accountability. Additionally, KDOR indicated the project will feature the Kansas Property Valuation Division Data Portal, a public, open-data website that will display up-to-date and easily accessible property value information. Revenue officials noted they wanted to streamline the property appraisal process and increase transparency as well as accountability. With the data publicly available, the hope is to empower Kansans to make informed decisions about their property and community. “We believe that transparency is key to building trust between government and citizens, and this site is an important step in that direction.” KDOR said the open data portal will feature appraised value data on all property types from each county. Kansans will be able to view the most up-to-date data in easily readable charts and graphs. <a href="https://ksopendata.ksrevenue.gov/">Kansas PVD Data Portal</a> (<a href="https://ksrevenue.gov/">ksrevenue.gov</a>).

As always, I’ll keep you updated on the activities of the Senate while we continue through the last few weeks before turn-around. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

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

Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:

Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644853578448.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SENATE HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY 5, 2024This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. Over 440 bills have been introduced in the Senate to date for this two-year session. Senate Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks as well as standing committees preparing to send bills out to the Senate floor for debate and votes.SNAPSHOT OF THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE 2024The Kansas Senate consists of forty Senators – twenty-eight Republicans, eleven Democrats, one Independent with sixteen women and twenty-four men. Eleven Senators live in cities of 100,000+ population, ten with 20,000 to 100,000, six with 5,000-20,000 and six with 2,000-5,000 and seven with 0-2,000 (this is an increase of one over last year). The Kansas House of Representatives consists of one-hundred twenty-five members with eighty-five Republicans and forty Democrats with thirty-three women and ninety-two men.SENATE FLOOR ACTIONSenate extends Disability Employment Act – SB15On Wednesday, the Kansas Senate voted to extend a critical program providing tax credits to certain businesses who employ individuals with disabilities. The program was included in SB 8 last year that was vetoed by the governor, and thus expired at the end of 2023, necessitating the legislature taking quick action to ensure the program could continue.The Senate passed SB15 34-0.NATIONAL UNCLAIMED PROPERTY DAY – FEBRUARY 1STATE TREASURERS’ OFFICE - Senate District #36 has over $1.3M in unclaimed funds.Feb. 1 is marked as National Unclaimed Property Day, and the Kansas State Treasurers’ Office says there is quite a bit of money left unclaimed in Kansas. “Our office currently holds more than $525 million in unclaimed property for Kansans,” Kansas Treasurer Steven Johnson said in a news release. “It is estimated that one in 10 people nationwide has unclaimed property – so it’s worth checking regularly to see if you, your family, or friends have funds available to claim. The news release says the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) estimates that nearly 33 million people in the United States have unclaimed property. This amount could be in financial accounts or items of value in which the owner has not initiated any activity for a number of years. When the company cannot locate the owner, the assets are given to the state. Some of those assets could be unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, safe deposit boxes, and unused rebate cards. It is free for Kansans to search for and claim unclaimed property, and the news release says to be wary of third-party individuals offering to assist in filing claims for a fee. While some operate legally, there are also bad actors who use the promise of assistance as a hook for scams. Feel free to call my office in Topeka to check for your name or visit <a href="https://unclaimedproperty.ks.gov/">https://www.Kansasstatetreasurer.com</a>.TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE UPDATEThe Kansas Turnpike’s conversion to cashless tolling is on schedule for mid-2024 expecting to be fully functional in July. In preparation for the change, the KTA Board established a simplified toll structure that keeps the Kansas Turnpike at the bottom of toll rates across the country. You can order K-TAGs at no charge at <a href="https://www.myktag.com/">www.myktag.com</a>.FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE – A NEW PROPERTY TAX TOOLA new app for Kansans will make property value data easily available as the Department of Revenue continues its quest for transparency and accountability. Additionally, KDOR indicated the project will feature the Kansas Property Valuation Division Data Portal, a public, open-data website that will display up-to-date and easily accessible property value information. Revenue officials noted they wanted to streamline the property appraisal process and increase transparency as well as accountability. With the data publicly available, the hope is to empower Kansans to make informed decisions about their property and community. “We believe that transparency is key to building trust between government and citizens, and this site is an important step in that direction.” KDOR said the open data portal will feature appraised value data on all property types from each county. Kansans will be able to view the most up-to-date data in easily readable charts and graphs. <a href="https://ksopendata.ksrevenue.gov/">Kansas PVD Data Portal</a> (<a href="https://ksrevenue.gov/">ksrevenue.gov</a>).As always, I’ll keep you updated on the activities of the Senate while we continue through the last few weeks before turn-around. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ at this website. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a><a href="http://www.elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">www.elainebowers.com</a> Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

BOWERS: Senate Scene Week 4: Cashless tolls, property tax tool

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus are three popular pharmaceuticals you likely know by name due to their catchy commercials, celebrity endorsements, and social media presence. While 50% of Americans are currently trying to lose weight, interest in these drugs is at an all-time high. All of these medications are known for their weight loss effects, and they are FDA-approved. They sound too good to be true. Are they?

Wegovy is approved for weight loss while Ozempic and Rybelsus are approved for diabetes, but sometimes they are prescribed “off-label” to treat obesity. While these medications have proven to be very successful in managing diabetes and reducing obesity, some factors should be taken into consideration before you ask your doctor about them.

There are common side effects, some of which affect the gastrointestinal system. In fact, about 50% of people report regular nausea and diarrhea, but more serious outcomes have been seen in people taking the drugs long-term. These issues span from gastroparesis, bowel obstruction, and pancreatitis, to muscle loss. Since the medications are relatively new to the general population, there isn’t much information on how the drugs affect biological function years down the road. The medications are usually a lifelong commitment as studies show that people who discontinue them gain most weight back within one year. So, if these effects are evident now, what will future consequences be?

Although it is hard to know if these drugs will be considered safe in the long run, the science behind the medication is quite interesting. It could also be beneficial in finding safe weight loss methods.

Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus are semiglutides that mimic the GLP-1 hormone which prompts the body to produce insulin. This reduces blood sugar. In higher dosages, the drugs suppress appetite and slow stomach emptying. These effects prove to help people manage diabetes and lose weight. Since the drugs mimic a naturally occurring hormone, supporting the body’s production of GLP-1 can result in safe weight loss and blood sugar control.

Natural methods of supporting GLP-1 include the intake of foods that boost the secretion of the hormone. Studies report that unsaturated, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and high-fiber foods tend to result in the highest levels of GLP-1 secretion.

Sources of unsaturated fats include avocados, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts. Seafood like salmon, mackerel, and cod are other great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Quality oils like olive oil and flaxseed oil are also great choices to increase your healthy fat intake.

Eating enough protein per day can also provide feelings of fullness through GLP-1 secretion. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that the average adult consumes at least 0.35 grams of protein per pound of body weight. Several lean proteins include chicken breast, fish, plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, beans, and lentils.

High-fiber foods also induce satiety through GLP-1. Specifically, soluble fiber in foods such as barley, oats, peas, beans, lentils, and apples are fermentable. This means they digest slowly, support the gut microbiome, and produce GLP-1 hours after eating.

Although there are circumstances when a prescription is necessary, using food as medicine is a promising strategy for weight loss. Creating a lifestyle with a diet high in unsaturated fat, lean protein, and fiber has the potential to impact weight, diabetes management, and quality of life without dangerous side effects.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus are three popular pharmaceuticals you likely know by name due to their catchy commercials, celebrity endorsements, and social media presence. While 50% of Americans are currently trying to lose weight, interest in these drugs is at an all-time high. All of these medications are known for their weight loss effects, and they are FDA-approved. They sound too good to be true. Are they?Wegovy is approved for weight loss while Ozempic and Rybelsus are approved for diabetes, but sometimes they are prescribed “off-label” to treat obesity. While these medications have proven to be very successful in managing diabetes and reducing obesity, some factors should be taken into consideration before you ask your doctor about them.There are common side effects, some of which affect the gastrointestinal system. In fact, about 50% of people report regular nausea and diarrhea, but more serious outcomes have been seen in people taking the drugs long-term. These issues span from gastroparesis, bowel obstruction, and pancreatitis, to muscle loss. Since the medications are relatively new to the general population, there isn’t much information on how the drugs affect biological function years down the road. The medications are usually a lifelong commitment as studies show that people who discontinue them gain most weight back within one year. So, if these effects are evident now, what will future consequences be?Although it is hard to know if these drugs will be considered safe in the long run, the science behind the medication is quite interesting. It could also be beneficial in finding safe weight loss methods.Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus are semiglutides that mimic the GLP-1 hormone which prompts the body to produce insulin. This reduces blood sugar. In higher dosages, the drugs suppress appetite and slow stomach emptying. These effects prove to help people manage diabetes and lose weight. Since the drugs mimic a naturally occurring hormone, supporting the body’s production of GLP-1 can result in safe weight loss and blood sugar control.Natural methods of supporting GLP-1 include the intake of foods that boost the secretion of the hormone. Studies report that unsaturated, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and high-fiber foods tend to result in the highest levels of GLP-1 secretion.Sources of unsaturated fats include avocados, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts. Seafood like salmon, mackerel, and cod are other great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Quality oils like olive oil and flaxseed oil are also great choices to increase your healthy fat intake.Eating enough protein per day can also provide feelings of fullness through GLP-1 secretion. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that the average adult consumes at least 0.35 grams of protein per pound of body weight. Several lean proteins include chicken breast, fish, plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, beans, and lentils.High-fiber foods also induce satiety through GLP-1. Specifically, soluble fiber in foods such as barley, oats, peas, beans, lentils, and apples are fermentable. This means they digest slowly, support the gut microbiome, and produce GLP-1 hours after eating.Although there are circumstances when a prescription is necessary, using food as medicine is a promising strategy for weight loss. Creating a lifestyle with a diet high in unsaturated fat, lean protein, and fiber has the potential to impact weight, diabetes management, and quality of life without dangerous side effects.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Food is Medicine, Safe Weight Loss

<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/2024/2/1707270173178.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

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved an amendment to a policy that would give school officials more autonomy in decisions on dismissing students in cases of emergencies.

The change was recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.

"The language in our policy on evacuations and emergencies was modified to give district staff more autonomy to determine when it is safe to dismiss school or release students in emergent situations. With these changes, the person charged with making these decisions on behalf of the administration would be able to determine whether the safety of staff and students was better served by allowing students to leave school or if keeping students under school supervision was safest based on the nature of the situation."

Board member Ruth Ruder asked if a parent has the right to remove a child from school if the school is on lockdown.

She gave a tornado as an example of an emergency.

Board attorney Bill Jeter said no state statute addresses that question.

However, he said students are the responsibility of the school from the time school starts until it releases.

As a practical matter, Jeter said a parent would not be able to get into the school if the school's doors were locked as part of the lockdown.

In the case of a tornado, the school could have liability if officials started releasing kids, Jeter said. Schools have safety features, such as storm shelters, that a person in a vehicle would not have, he said.

"The answer to your question is no, the parent won't necessarily have the right to come and pick up their child," Jeter said.

Board member Derek Yarmer said, "I don't think you give up your parental rights between 8 and 3."

Ruder used the example of a school shooting.

"You wouldn't want 5,000 parents going up to school to take their child out and take over when you have law enforcement trying to do their job," she said. "That is when we have to have faith in our district and faith in our principals and our administration about what is best for our child."

The policy revision passed 5-2 with Yarmer and board member Curt Vajnar voting against the policy change.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved an amendment to a policy that would give school officials more autonomy in decisions on dismissing students in cases of emergencies.The change was recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.The KASB summary explained the change as"The language in our policy on evacuations and emergencies was modified to give district staff more autonomy to determine when it is safe to dismiss school or release students in emergent situations. With these changes, the person charged with making these decisions on behalf of the administration would be able to determine whether the safety of staff and students was better served by allowing students to leave school or if keeping students under school supervision was safest based on the nature of the situation."Board member Ruth Ruder asked if a parent has the right to remove a child from school if the school is on lockdown.She gave a tornado as an example of an emergency.Board attorney Bill Jeter said no state statute addresses that question.However, he said students are the responsibility of the school from the time school starts until it releases.As a practical matter, Jeter said a parent would not be able to get into the school if the school's doors were locked as part of the lockdown.In the case of a tornado, the school could have liability if officials started releasing kids, Jeter said. Schools have safety features, such as storm shelters, that a person in a vehicle would not have, he said."The answer to your question is no, the parent won't necessarily have the right to come and pick up their child," Jeter said.Board member Derek Yarmer said, "I don't think you give up your parental rights between 8 and 3."Jeter said, "Then you and I disagree."Ruder used the example of a school shooting."You wouldn't want 5,000 parents going up to school to take their child out and take over when you have law enforcement trying to do their job," she said. "That is when we have to have faith in our district and faith in our principals and our administration about what is best for our child."The policy revision passed 5-2 with Yarmer and board member Curt Vajnar voting against the policy change.

Hays USD 489 board members question parental rights in emergency policy revision

McPherson at Hays High Tuesday, Feb. 6 Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/956650">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians return home Tuesday night for a non-league contest of the McPherson Bullpups.

After wins over Dodge City their last time out, the Hays girls have won three straight and the boys five straight.

The girls game is set to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys
game at follow at Hays City High School.

Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="HHS Listen Live" />
 <figcaption>HHS Listen Live</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson at Hays High Tuesday, Feb. 6 Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/956650">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians return home Tuesday night for a non-league contest of the McPherson Bullpups.After wins over Dodge City their last time out, the Hays girls have won three straight and the boys five straight.The girls game is set to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys
game at follow at Hays City High School.Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

🏀🎥 Indians step out of league play to host McPherson

Russell at TMP-Marian Tuesday, Feb. 6 – 6 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger Fieldhouse

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/956655">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Russell Broncos in a Mid-Continent League rivalry contest Tuesday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse in Hays.

The TMP girls are 8-9 and have won three straight while the
TMP boys are 7-10 and have won two in-a-row.

Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell at TMP-Marian Tuesday, Feb. 6 – 6 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger FieldhouseRadio: 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/956655">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Russell Broncos in a Mid-Continent League rivalry contest Tuesday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse in Hays.The TMP girls are 8-9 and have won three straight while the
TMP boys are 7-10 and have won two in-a-row.Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP Monarchs host Russell in MCL contest

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach lead a coalition of state attorneys general in opposition to an Environmental Protection Agency regulation that would require the replacement of more than 9 million lead pipes across the country, Kobach said in a press release issued today.

The city of Hays has contracted with a company to assist the city in determining where in Hays lead pipes might exist.

The process is part of a national initiative spearheaded by the Biden administration. The EPA announced in late November that utilities would have to pull and replace the lead pipes within 10 years.

In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain while the&nbsp;Natural Resources Defense Council believes there are more than 160,000.

Kobach said the proposed rule would cost individual homeowners thousands of dollars.

“This is another example of unnecessary overreach by the Biden administration. Americans are already burdened by rising energy and utility costs and crushing inflation, and this proposal just adds insult to injury,” Kobach said. “The EPA should abandon it.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eb8542e2-3db5-43d1-91a6-5ca28c1671fe">For much of the 20th Century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes, according to a story published&nbsp; on the Hays Post from the Kansas Reflector.</a>

Lead is a neurotoxin that in high doses can be fatal. It was in pipes, gasoline and household paint for most of the last century, exposing generations of children to its effects, the Reflector story said.

Even at low levels, exposure to lead can hinder children’s brain development and cause behavioral problems and learning difficulties. Lead-poisoned children can have trouble with language processing, memory, attention and impulsivity. Later in life, it raises the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, the Reflector story said.

The multi-state coalition strongly opposes the EPA’s&nbsp;“National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper,” because the regulations&nbsp;would increase utility costs for everyone and force private homeowners to pay to replace their own lines if they contain lead and connect to a city line, the press release said.

“This proposed rule creates a heavy-handed mandate on states that is nigh impossible to comply with and is also a financial burden on already squeezed middle-class families,” the joint letter reads. “It is unworkable, underfunded, and unnecessary and should be withdrawn.”

The attorneys general estimate the removal and replacement of the pipes would cost more than $60 billion. Congress earmarked only $15 billion for the undertaking. The EPA estimates it will cost an average of $4,700 or between $1,200 and $12,300 per line that needs to be replaced.

Kobach leads the multistate coalition. He was joined by 14 other states including Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Wyoming.

How many pipes if any remain in Hays is yet to be determined, Jeff Crispin, Hays director of water resources, said during an interview in December.

The city is working with Burns &amp; McDonnell Engineers as well as BlueConduit, which does predictive modeling to identify areas where the city might need to investigate for lead pipe.

The deadline to identify the pipes is October, Crispin said.

"Right now it's about identifying," Crispin said. "In the future, there will be some discussion and research on how to eradicate any lead that would be found within service lines that go into a home."

Typically cities deal with water mains and the lines that go to the meter. Past the meter is typically private and the responsibility of the homeowner, Crispin said.

"This requires the city to know what the material is not only from the city line to the meter but the meter to inside the home," he said.

Crispin said he has no idea how much removing any lead pipes might cost the city. That information will not be available until the survey is complete.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707252436670.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKansas Attorney General Kris Kobach lead a coalition of state attorneys general in opposition to an Environmental Protection Agency regulation that would require the replacement of more than 9 million lead pipes across the country, Kobach said in a press release issued today.The city of Hays has contracted with a company to assist the city in determining where in Hays lead pipes might exist.The process is part of a national initiative spearheaded by the Biden administration. The EPA announced in late November that utilities would have to pull and replace the lead pipes within 10 years.In&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/04/11/known-to-be-toxic-for-a-century-lead-still-poisons-thousands-of-midwestern-kids/">Kansas, the EPA estimates</a>&nbsp;54,107 lead pipes remain while the&nbsp;Natural Resources Defense Council believes there are more than 160,000.Kobach said the proposed rule would cost individual homeowners thousands of dollars.“This is another example of unnecessary overreach by the Biden administration. Americans are already burdened by rising energy and utility costs and crushing inflation, and this proposal just adds insult to injury,” Kobach said. “The EPA should abandon it.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/eb8542e2-3db5-43d1-91a6-5ca28c1671fe">For much of the 20th Century, utilities were permitted to install lead service lines, the pipes that carry water from water mains under the street into homes. The EPA banned them in 1986, but utilities have never been required to remove existing pipes, according to a story published&nbsp; on the Hays Post from the Kansas Reflector.</a>Lead is a neurotoxin that in high doses can be fatal. It was in pipes, gasoline and household paint for most of the last century, exposing generations of children to its effects, the Reflector story said.Even at low levels, exposure to lead can hinder children’s brain development and cause behavioral problems and learning difficulties. Lead-poisoned children can have trouble with language processing, memory, attention and impulsivity. Later in life, it raises the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, the Reflector story said.The multi-state coalition strongly opposes the EPA’s&nbsp;“National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper,” because the regulations&nbsp;would increase utility costs for everyone and force private homeowners to pay to replace their own lines if they contain lead and connect to a city line, the press release said.“This proposed rule creates a heavy-handed mandate on states that is nigh impossible to comply with and is also a financial burden on already squeezed middle-class families,” the joint letter reads. “It is unworkable, underfunded, and unnecessary and should be withdrawn.”The attorneys general estimate the removal and replacement of the pipes would cost more than $60 billion. Congress earmarked only $15 billion for the undertaking. The EPA estimates it will cost an average of $4,700 or between $1,200 and $12,300 per line that needs to be replaced.Kobach leads the multistate coalition. He was joined by 14 other states including Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Wyoming.How many pipes if any remain in Hays is yet to be determined, Jeff Crispin, Hays director of water resources, said during an interview in December.The city is working with Burns &amp; McDonnell Engineers as well as BlueConduit, which does predictive modeling to identify areas where the city might need to investigate for lead pipe.The deadline to identify the pipes is October, Crispin said."Right now it's about identifying," Crispin said. "In the future, there will be some discussion and research on how to eradicate any lead that would be found within service lines that go into a home."Typically cities deal with water mains and the lines that go to the meter. Past the meter is typically private and the responsibility of the homeowner, Crispin said."This requires the city to know what the material is not only from the city line to the meter but the meter to inside the home," he said.Crispin said he has no idea how much removing any lead pipes might cost the city. That information will not be available until the survey is complete.

Kobach, coalition demand Biden drop EPA lead pipe rule; Hays survey underway

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Property tax relief for Kansans is at the top of the priority list for this session for state legislators Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. and Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 109th Dist.

The pair were the featured speakers at Saturday morning's first legislative coffee in a series presented by The Chamber in Hays at the Hays Public Library.

"I continue to fight for property tax relief [but] there's not a lot we can do at the state level," Billinger said.&nbsp;

"Most of your property tax are local other than the 20 mills (at the state level] and in this proposed tax package there is cuts on the 20 mills. The first $100,000 (in state property taxes) in your homes comes off.&nbsp; There are small things being done in that package for property tax."&nbsp;

Billinger went on to discuss the Republicans' sweeping 5.25% flat income tax plan sent to the Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, where it was vetoed Jan. 26.

"We do have a governor and a legislature that is split," said Rahjes. "When I talked to constituents before the session, they were more excited about property tax relief than income tax relief.

"l think if we do any sort of tax reform, whether it be property tax, income tax, or so on, we don't need to do a one size for everything," he said. "We need to take this slowly, bits at a time."

Thirteen states have a single tax plan, including Nebraska and Colorado.&nbsp;

"We're not trying something new that's never happened," Billinger said.

Still, he remains more focused on property tax reduction. "It's my big push."

"Rep. Rahjes and I both have many elderly retired residents in our districts. ... They probably spent 30-40 years paying the mortgage on their home. Today, they're paying more in property tax than they ever did for a mortgage.

"I'm working to make sure these people can stay in their homes," Billinger said. "It's just unbelievable what we're doing to our seniors."

The proposed flat tax proposal would also have eliminated the state income tax on Social Security.

Billinger is concerned about inflation as well, saying people having to pay for groceries with credit cards is unsustainable.&nbsp;

Another split between the legislature and the governor has been Kelly's ongoing support of Medicaid expansion in Kansas.

Sen. Billinger supports expansion; Rep. Rahjes instead supports raising reimbursement rates back to hospitals.

"I know expanding Medicaid would help Hays Medical Center a lot, but we have some issues with it," he said. "Just become so many other states are doing it, is that the Kansas way?

He said both sides are yelling over each other, and nobody is listening.&nbsp;

"Let's put that to the side and let's talk about health care. Health care is an important part of our rural communities. ... We need to take a real look at it," Rahjes said.&nbsp;He acknowledged there are people "in the gap" and said that's unfortunate.

As chairman of the Agricultural and Natural Resources Committee, Rahjes said water - quantity and quality - is the most important issue he faces. He talked about the southeast Kansas town of&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a6ad7c1d-a6cb-4c8c-aaf2-dfb140032932">Caney running out of water</a>&nbsp;late last year and the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a7f6464-4683-4496-b32d-82ab5a0b42c3">R9 long-term water project for Hays and Russell</a>.&nbsp;

Asked about concerns about foreign ownership of Kansas farmland, Rahjes and Billinger both said they don't anticipate any bill passing that would limit to whom farmland can be sold.

"Who's to tell anyone you can't sell your farm to the highest guy, but I don't support foreign ownership of farmland," Billinger said. "Hopefully, farmers that own farmland would agree, and they can sell it to somebody that is not foreign owned."

The gap in special education funding and its impact particularly on smaller rural schools was addressed.

Billinger serves on two committees which work closely with the intellectual and developmental disability community.&nbsp;

"I've been for putting additional funding into special education since day one," said Billinger.

"When this plan came in the federal government said they'd [fund] 40 percent. They're not doing their part and the state isn't either.

"Last year the state added about $8 million," he said. "It's just not enough. Like everything else, with inflation it just doesn't go as far."

"It won't be fully funded this year," Rahjes said flatly. "I think that's going to be the next lawsuit [against the state of Kansas] by a group of schools that will sue. And, that's probably how we'll get there."&nbsp;

Rahjes said "the feds are not a good partner in this. ... We may wish for this, but guess who's going to pay for it? You and your neighbor, probably three times over.

"We know there's a committee working on this to over time, fully fund the state's part."

Regarding the 2024 budget, it's in good shape, said Billinger, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

"We continue to pay off debt, look at opportunities to pay callable bonds, and started a rainy day fund.&nbsp; We have $1.7 billion in the rainy day fund," he said. "We're trying to put our state in the best position we can so that when the next downturn comes, we're not cutting services."

The event was sponsored by Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News.

Two more legislative coffees are scheduled for March 2 and April 6.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707080114031.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/MCDpJmXV-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Legistative Coffee" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>By BECKY KISER Hays PostProperty tax relief for Kansans is at the top of the priority list for this session for state legislators Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. and Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 109th Dist.The pair were the featured speakers at Saturday morning's first legislative coffee in a series presented by The Chamber in Hays at the Hays Public Library."I continue to fight for property tax relief [but] there's not a lot we can do at the state level," Billinger said.&nbsp;"Most of your property tax are local other than the 20 mills (at the state level] and in this proposed tax package there is cuts on the 20 mills. The first $100,000 (in state property taxes) in your homes comes off.&nbsp; There are small things being done in that package for property tax."&nbsp;Billinger went on to discuss the Republicans' sweeping 5.25% flat income tax plan sent to the Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, where it was vetoed Jan. 26."We do have a governor and a legislature that is split," said Rahjes. "When I talked to constituents before the session, they were more excited about property tax relief than income tax relief."l think if we do any sort of tax reform, whether it be property tax, income tax, or so on, we don't need to do a one size for everything," he said. "We need to take this slowly, bits at a time."Thirteen states have a single tax plan, including Nebraska and Colorado.&nbsp;"We're not trying something new that's never happened," Billinger said.Still, he remains more focused on property tax reduction. "It's my big push.""Rep. Rahjes and I both have many elderly retired residents in our districts. ... They probably spent 30-40 years paying the mortgage on their home. Today, they're paying more in property tax than they ever did for a mortgage."I'm working to make sure these people can stay in their homes," Billinger said. "It's just unbelievable what we're doing to our seniors."The proposed flat tax proposal would also have eliminated the state income tax on Social Security.Billinger is concerned about inflation as well, saying people having to pay for groceries with credit cards is unsustainable.&nbsp;Another split between the legislature and the governor has been Kelly's ongoing support of Medicaid expansion in Kansas.Sen. Billinger supports expansion; Rep. Rahjes instead supports raising reimbursement rates back to hospitals."I know expanding Medicaid would help Hays Medical Center a lot, but we have some issues with it," he said. "Just become so many other states are doing it, is that the Kansas way?He said both sides are yelling over each other, and nobody is listening.&nbsp;"Let's put that to the side and let's talk about health care. Health care is an important part of our rural communities. ... We need to take a real look at it," Rahjes said.&nbsp;He acknowledged there are people "in the gap" and said that's unfortunate.As chairman of the Agricultural and Natural Resources Committee, Rahjes said water - quantity and quality - is the most important issue he faces. He talked about the southeast Kansas town of&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a6ad7c1d-a6cb-4c8c-aaf2-dfb140032932">Caney running out of water</a>&nbsp;late last year and the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1a7f6464-4683-4496-b32d-82ab5a0b42c3">R9 long-term water project for Hays and Russell</a>.&nbsp;Asked about concerns about foreign ownership of Kansas farmland, Rahjes and Billinger both said they don't anticipate any bill passing that would limit to whom farmland can be sold."Who's to tell anyone you can't sell your farm to the highest guy, but I don't support foreign ownership of farmland," Billinger said. "Hopefully, farmers that own farmland would agree, and they can sell it to somebody that is not foreign owned."The gap in special education funding and its impact particularly on smaller rural schools was addressed.Billinger serves on two committees which work closely with the intellectual and developmental disability community.&nbsp;"I've been for putting additional funding into special education since day one," said Billinger."When this plan came in the federal government said they'd [fund] 40 percent. They're not doing their part and the state isn't either."Last year the state added about $8 million," he said. "It's just not enough. Like everything else, with inflation it just doesn't go as far.""It won't be fully funded this year," Rahjes said flatly. "I think that's going to be the next lawsuit [against the state of Kansas] by a group of schools that will sue. And, that's probably how we'll get there."&nbsp;Rahjes said "the feds are not a good partner in this. ... We may wish for this, but guess who's going to pay for it? You and your neighbor, probably three times over."We know there's a committee working on this to over time, fully fund the state's part."Regarding the 2024 budget, it's in good shape, said Billinger, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee."We continue to pay off debt, look at opportunities to pay callable bonds, and started a rainy day fund.&nbsp; We have $1.7 billion in the rainy day fund," he said. "We're trying to put our state in the best position we can so that when the next downturn comes, we're not cutting services."The event was sponsored by Midwest Energy and the Hays Daily News.Two more legislative coffees are scheduled for March 2 and April 6.

Watch Feb. 3 Hays Chamber Legislative Coffee

The Hays USD 489 school board approved calendars for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years at its meeting Monday.

The calendars for both school years include one Monday off per month for students so teachers can have professional development days.

The schedule for both years will start later in August to better align with the Kansas State High School Activities Association schedule.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the calendar committee was presenting two years' worth of calendars because the companies working on the bond construction needed to know school stop and start dates.

The nine full professional days as opposed to early release days were requested by teachers and subsequently negotiated into their contract last year.

Wilson said Mondays were chosen because several also fall on federal holidays, which would give some families more time to spend together.

Board member Allen Park asked if the district is giving any support to parents on the days off.

Board member Jayme Goetz, who used to be a district teacher, said she found it difficult to make the transition between teaching and professional development on the early release days.

Goetz said she understands some families have difficulty finding child care, but the full in-service days are better for the staff, and that ultimately benefits students.

"The quality of instruction was not good, and the quality of the professional development was not good," she said.

Board President Ken Brooks said he prefers the full days of in-service. He said it was more of an inconvenience for him as a single dad to leave work to pick up kids in the middle of the day. On full days off, he knows his kids are at home.

Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said, as a parent, she also prefers the full days off for students as opposed to the early release days.

Board member Derek Yarmer said the hospital does not close for professional development.

He suggested teachers be required to attend in-service on Labor Day during fall and spring breaks.

Zampieri-Lillpopp&nbsp; said, "We are an education organization. ... It is not our mission to provide child care."

She said providing afterschool care and free breakfast has helped the community deal with some of its systemic problems.

"This time the rest of the community needs to come together and join us to take care of kids," she said.

Board member Ruth Ruder said child care is a larger community issue, which the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County has been working to address. However, she said she agreed the main mission of the school district is to educate children.

Teacher Sonya Herl, O'Loughlin Elementary School teacher, told the board the full days of professional development are not only valuable to teachers but to students.

"It's not just lesson plans," she said. "We're really talking about standards and test scores and ideas we have."

The 37-year veteran teacher said the half days did not give teachers the time they needed to focus on student needs.&nbsp;

"We are really looking at every single student and how to reach them better," she said.

Don Tillman, resident, spoke briefly to the board during the public comment session. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/140ea5ac-22d1-4f82-b326-ee295450dc59">You can read his letter on issues he has with the current calendar here</a>.

The calendars were approved 5-2 with Park and Yarmer voting against the motion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707193046198.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved calendars for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years at its meeting Monday.The calendars for both school years include one Monday off per month for students so teachers can have professional development days.The schedule for both years will start later in August to better align with the Kansas State High School Activities Association schedule.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the calendar committee was presenting two years' worth of calendars because the companies working on the bond construction needed to know school stop and start dates.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707164710591.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707164775107.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The nine full professional days as opposed to early release days were requested by teachers and subsequently negotiated into their contract last year.Wilson said Mondays were chosen because several also fall on federal holidays, which would give some families more time to spend together.Board member Allen Park asked if the district is giving any support to parents on the days off.Board member Jayme Goetz, who used to be a district teacher, said she found it difficult to make the transition between teaching and professional development on the early release days.Goetz said she understands some families have difficulty finding child care, but the full in-service days are better for the staff, and that ultimately benefits students."The quality of instruction was not good, and the quality of the professional development was not good," she said.Board President Ken Brooks said he prefers the full days of in-service. He said it was more of an inconvenience for him as a single dad to leave work to pick up kids in the middle of the day. On full days off, he knows his kids are at home.Board member Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp said, as a parent, she also prefers the full days off for students as opposed to the early release days.Board member Derek Yarmer said the hospital does not close for professional development.He suggested teachers be required to attend in-service on Labor Day during fall and spring breaks.Zampieri-Lillpopp&nbsp; said, "We are an education organization. ... It is not our mission to provide child care."She said providing afterschool care and free breakfast has helped the community deal with some of its systemic problems."This time the rest of the community needs to come together and join us to take care of kids," she said.Board member Ruth Ruder said child care is a larger community issue, which the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County has been working to address. However, she said she agreed the main mission of the school district is to educate children.Teacher Sonya Herl, O'Loughlin Elementary School teacher, told the board the full days of professional development are not only valuable to teachers but to students."It's not just lesson plans," she said. "We're really talking about standards and test scores and ideas we have."The 37-year veteran teacher said the half days did not give teachers the time they needed to focus on student needs.&nbsp;"We are really looking at every single student and how to reach them better," she said.Don Tillman, resident, spoke briefly to the board during the public comment session. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/140ea5ac-22d1-4f82-b326-ee295450dc59">You can read his letter on issues he has with the current calendar here</a>.The calendars were approved 5-2 with Park and Yarmer voting against the motion.

Hays USD 489 approves calendars with Monday professional development days

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.

During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;

The matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.

Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;

"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;

"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."

This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.

Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;

"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.

Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.

Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685631910392.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Heartland Community Foundation is in the midst of its 2024 Match Month fundraising campaign.During the month of February, all donations to the foundation's County Legacy Funds will be matched 300 percent. Heartland serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp;The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, is providing a match of $2 for every $1 donated. The Patterson Family Foundation, Kansas City, is contributing $1 for every $1 donation.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February" 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=jipfe-1570d21-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>The matches can be stacked, so a $100 donation becomes $400.Every dollar raised remains in the community where it is given, said Sara Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director.&nbsp;"They are our unrestricted funds that we use to make grants to a wide variety of organizations for their charitable projects," she said.&nbsp;"The granting committees in all three counties try really hard to find diversified recipients. They look at what's been given to community development, to our seniors, to art, culture and history, to food scarcity, to other things that are also important," Meitner said. "They're asking these questions and trying to be very concerted with how those grant dollars are spent so that it is benefiting everybody."This year's goal is to raise $70,000 in each of the three counties served by Heartland Community Foundation.Last year's Match Month campaign raised a total of $513,773.&nbsp;"This is a way to make a lasting difference in your community," Meitner said.Donations may be given online at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>, or dropped off at the foundation office at 1200 Main, Suite 102, in Hays, between Feb. 1 and 29.Donors who give to the campaign on or before Feb. 15 will be entered to win $500 in a drawing. Donations of $500 or more will receive an extra entry in the drawing. The prize dollars were provided by a donor.

🎙  Donations to Heartland Foundation matched 300% during February 

In today’s world, it is important for people to understand where their elected leaders stand on matters impacting basic concepts such as human freedom. 

That’s why on the first day of the session, we stood strong in support of Israel. 

This week, the Kansas Senate took a similar step in voicing strong support for Taiwan by adopting SR1734.

 The resolution strengthens the sister-state ties between Kansas and Taiwan and reaffirms support for Taiwan’s international participation. Our ties with Taiwan began in 1989 and continue to this day, as our belief in freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and basic human rights are shared. In fact, Taiwan recently held its 8th direct presidential election, demonstrating Taiwan’s status as a beacon of democracy in Asia. Taiwan also plays a vital role in our economy. In 2022, Taiwan was Kansas’ third largest import country and 11th largest export destination. It’s so important to recognize and support Taiwan’s desire to meaningfully participate in several international organizations, including the United Nations. The resolution commends and applauds Taiwan’s vibrant democracy, celebrates the 35th anniversary of sister-state relations with Taiwan, supports the further strengthening of Kansas-Taiwan trade relations and academic exchanges, and reaffirms Kansas support for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations.

On Wednesday, the Kansas Senate voted to extend a critical program providing tax credits to certain businesses who employ individuals with disabilities. The program was included in SB 8 last year that was vetoed by the governor, and thus expired at the end of 2023, necessitating the legislature taking quick action to ensure the program could continue. SB25, eliminates the provision specifying the credit to expire after tax year 2023, and would provide for a cap on the aggregate amount of credits under the Act to be $5 million in tax years 2019 through 2023 ($5 million over the entire period, not per year), $8 million in tax years 2024 through 2028 (over the entire period, not per year), and $8 million for each successive five tax years starting in tax year 2029 (over the entirety of each five year period, not per year). 

Under the bill, qualified vendors to receive the credit would include profit and non-profit businesses and non-profit organizations. The bill also creates the Sheltered Workshop Transition Grant Program to assist Kansas sheltered workshop employers away from employing individuals with disabilities under a 214(c) Certificate and toward paying all such employees at least the minimum wage. Workshop employers that seek to receive grants would be required to provide a transition plan to the Secretary demonstrating how the applicant will use the grant to transition away from the use of a 214(c) Certificate. 

The workshop employers would be required to commit to complete the plan and would be required to match grants on a dollar-for-dollar basis with nonstate funds. Workshop employers would be required to provide information to the Secretary regarding the use of grant funds and associated non-state funds and the progress made toward achieving the goal of the transition plan. 

The bill would define “Kansas sheltered workshop employer” and “workshop employer” to be a private, non-profit, state, or local government institution that provides employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities and provides such employment opportunities for all or a portion of such individuals under a 214(c) Certificate.

The Senate voted on SCR1615, which is a resolution dealing with salary increases for the governor and all elected officials. I voted NO on increasing salaries. On Tuesday of this coming week the Senate Ways and Means will have a hearing on this resolution.

My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12, February 19, and March 11. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office at room 545-S.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675701343257.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>February 5, 2024In today’s world, it is important for people to understand where their elected leaders stand on matters impacting basic concepts such as human freedom. That’s why on the first day of the session, we stood strong in support of Israel. This week, the Kansas Senate took a similar step in voicing strong support for Taiwan by adopting SR1734. The resolution strengthens the sister-state ties between Kansas and Taiwan and reaffirms support for Taiwan’s international participation. Our ties with Taiwan began in 1989 and continue to this day, as our belief in freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and basic human rights are shared. In fact, Taiwan recently held its 8th direct presidential election, demonstrating Taiwan’s status as a beacon of democracy in Asia. Taiwan also plays a vital role in our economy. In 2022, Taiwan was Kansas’ third largest import country and 11th largest export destination. It’s so important to recognize and support Taiwan’s desire to meaningfully participate in several international organizations, including the United Nations. The resolution commends and applauds Taiwan’s vibrant democracy, celebrates the 35th anniversary of sister-state relations with Taiwan, supports the further strengthening of Kansas-Taiwan trade relations and academic exchanges, and reaffirms Kansas support for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations.On Wednesday, the Kansas Senate voted to extend a critical program providing tax credits to certain businesses who employ individuals with disabilities. The program was included in SB 8 last year that was vetoed by the governor, and thus expired at the end of 2023, necessitating the legislature taking quick action to ensure the program could continue. SB25, eliminates the provision specifying the credit to expire after tax year 2023, and would provide for a cap on the aggregate amount of credits under the Act to be $5 million in tax years 2019 through 2023 ($5 million over the entire period, not per year), $8 million in tax years 2024 through 2028 (over the entire period, not per year), and $8 million for each successive five tax years starting in tax year 2029 (over the entirety of each five year period, not per year). Under the bill, qualified vendors to receive the credit would include profit and non-profit businesses and non-profit organizations. The bill also creates the Sheltered Workshop Transition Grant Program to assist Kansas sheltered workshop employers away from employing individuals with disabilities under a 214(c) Certificate and toward paying all such employees at least the minimum wage. Workshop employers that seek to receive grants would be required to provide a transition plan to the Secretary demonstrating how the applicant will use the grant to transition away from the use of a 214(c) Certificate. The workshop employers would be required to commit to complete the plan and would be required to match grants on a dollar-for-dollar basis with nonstate funds. Workshop employers would be required to provide information to the Secretary regarding the use of grant funds and associated non-state funds and the progress made toward achieving the goal of the transition plan. The bill would define “Kansas sheltered workshop employer” and “workshop employer” to be a private, non-profit, state, or local government institution that provides employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities and provides such employment opportunities for all or a portion of such individuals under a 214(c) Certificate.The Senate voted on SCR1615, which is a resolution dealing with salary increases for the governor and all elected officials. I voted NO on increasing salaries. On Tuesday of this coming week the Senate Ways and Means will have a hearing on this resolution.My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12, February 19, and March 11. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office at room 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Feb. 5

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Are you an employer? Have you ever wondered how you could support your employees who are pregnant or have young children? During the pandemic the need for quality child care was highlighted because of how child care directly affects many aspects of a community. Difficulties with child care were also brought to the attention of communities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictAre you an employer? Have you ever wondered how you could support your employees who are pregnant or have young children? During the pandemic the need for quality child care was highlighted because of how child care directly affects many aspects of a community. Difficulties with child care were also brought to the attention of communities.Jennifer Traffis, of the Family Conservancy in Wyandotte County, leads a collaborative effort to improve child care. She wrote an article about how businesses can use the child care tax credit. This could be a way for employers to support their employees while it also benefits them. She explains the workforce connection and how child care is foundational to the health and stability of the economy. “Our economic strength relies on business, businesses rely on employees, and employees with young children rely on child care. Without child care, working families cannot fully and adequately participate in the workforce, which negatively impacts the economy and our local business sector’s bottom line.” She further explains, “The child care sector is significantly underfunded, and the business model is broken. Thus, employers are facing a workforce shortage due to the lack of reliable, affordable, quality child care options for families.”She suggests that this problem isn’t just a family problem anymore but a community problem. When families have support from others around them then everyone wins. When businesses support their employees during their child bearing years, employers’ benefit. Employees will have improved morale and job satisfaction. The employer creates a loyal employee that feels supported. It can also attract quality employees when they offer benefits that other employers do not.Child care tax credits are also offered to businesses that support child care efforts. More information about the child care tax credit can be found here: https://www.raisingwyco.org/take-actionIf you click on Kansas Employer Child Care Tax Credit Toolkit is has an explanation on how it works at the federal and state level. Check it out!There are many other ways employers can support their employees during pregnancy, lactation, and the early years.1. Talk about plans and expectations early. There are laws in place to help protect this section of the population. It’s important that employees and employers have an open line of communication for both parties to express their needs and concerns.2. Accommodate nursing mothers. Supporting nursing mothers results in a 3:1 return on investment through lower healthcare costs, employee absenteeism, turnover rates and productivity and loyalty.3. Supporting fathers. Fathers need support to so they can be engaged with their family and balance providing financially and emotionally to his partner and children.4. Add dependent care flexible spending accounts to your company benefits. This allows parents to save for child care with tax advantages.5. Add a child care subsidy into your budget.6. Implement an infants-at-work program as a low-cost child care solution and to support a positive work-life balance. Allowing mothers and babies to be together fulfills many needs. Of course, this isn’t always a solution since safety must be first. Not all industries could have infants at the workplace.7. Expand parental leave. Allow extended, paid parental leave, including for adoptive and foster care parents.8. Changing company policies. Set a predictable work schedule or think outside the box such as remote positions or part-time or shared schedules.Another resources that employers could utilize to get ideas can be found here: https://childcareinkansas.com/employer-resources/ https://first1000daysks.org/familyfowardks/Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

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