<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/2024/1/1706119796735.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

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary teacher Hannah Augustine about Catholic Schools Week.

<div><iframe title="Hays Catholic Schools prepare for Catholic School Week activities" 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=6p4jr-155ed33-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary teacher Hannah Augustine about Catholic Schools Week.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Catholic Schools prepare for Catholic School Week activities

By&nbsp;Monique Koerner Cottonwood Extension District

In my last article on budgeting, I referenced saving money and an emergency fund. I wanted to spend a little more time on this topic since its an important one.

Growing your savings requires a plan. It starts with a budget. There are many ways to save money the key is finding which one works best for you. The easiest way is to set up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. Most banks and credit unions allow you to automatically transfer funds into various accounts on a regular basis. Emergency savings should ideally be placed in an easily accessible account at a bank or credit union that will not charge you taxes, maintenance, or early withdrawal fees. Ideally, you would be able to earn interest on the money in your savings account.

If you don’t have money in savings then starting small is a good plan. Perhaps saving 5-10% of your paycheck or even $10 a week. The goal is to get to $500-$1,000 as soon as you can. That amount will usually cover repairs on appliances or vehicles, etc. Another way to save money is to create a savings plan. You figure out how much money you’ll need to save as a goal. Then divide the amount of money you want to save by the number of weeks you have to save it. That is your weekly savings target. You can try to increase savings by cutting out wants such as eating out or canceling cable or subscriptions for a while.

Tax time is a good time to save if you are getting a refund. Consider using all or part of a refund for savings. You can have your refund automatically placed in your savings account and then you don’t even have to think about it. So easy! Other one-time opportunities to save would be gifts of money for birthdays or holidays.

Once you have your emergency fund you will want to make sure you only use it for emergencies. An emergency fund is a cash reserve used only for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau defines emergency fund as savings that can be used for large or small unplanned bills or payments that are not part of your routine monthly expenses and spending. Some examples include car repairs, home repairs, medical bills, or loss of income. A vacation is not an emergency. Neither is the cute outfit or shoes that are on sale.

Having an emergency fund allows you to have a buffer when life happens. This allows someone the freedom of not having to use credit cards or loans, which can lead to debt that is harder to pay off. Having savings is particularly helpful for those with an irregular income.

Once you have a minimum amount in an emergency fund you may want to think about having more in the emergency fund for bigger emergencies such as an unexpected job loss. Having a few months of expenses in savings can be a buffer when the unexpected happens.

Learning to save money is a lifelong skill. Just like budgeting it can take some practice, so don’t give up. You will be pleased with the results. Happy saving!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Monique Koerner Cottonwood Extension DistrictIn my last article on budgeting, I referenced saving money and an emergency fund. I wanted to spend a little more time on this topic since its an important one.Growing your savings requires a plan. It starts with a budget. There are many ways to save money the key is finding which one works best for you. The easiest way is to set up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. Most banks and credit unions allow you to automatically transfer funds into various accounts on a regular basis. Emergency savings should ideally be placed in an easily accessible account at a bank or credit union that will not charge you taxes, maintenance, or early withdrawal fees. Ideally, you would be able to earn interest on the money in your savings account.If you don’t have money in savings then starting small is a good plan. Perhaps saving 5-10% of your paycheck or even $10 a week. The goal is to get to $500-$1,000 as soon as you can. That amount will usually cover repairs on appliances or vehicles, etc. Another way to save money is to create a savings plan. You figure out how much money you’ll need to save as a goal. Then divide the amount of money you want to save by the number of weeks you have to save it. That is your weekly savings target. You can try to increase savings by cutting out wants such as eating out or canceling cable or subscriptions for a while.Tax time is a good time to save if you are getting a refund. Consider using all or part of a refund for savings. You can have your refund automatically placed in your savings account and then you don’t even have to think about it. So easy! Other one-time opportunities to save would be gifts of money for birthdays or holidays.Once you have your emergency fund you will want to make sure you only use it for emergencies. An emergency fund is a cash reserve used only for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau defines emergency fund as savings that can be used for large or small unplanned bills or payments that are not part of your routine monthly expenses and spending. Some examples include car repairs, home repairs, medical bills, or loss of income. A vacation is not an emergency. Neither is the cute outfit or shoes that are on sale.Having an emergency fund allows you to have a buffer when life happens. This allows someone the freedom of not having to use credit cards or loans, which can lead to debt that is harder to pay off. Having savings is particularly helpful for those with an irregular income.Once you have a minimum amount in an emergency fund you may want to think about having more in the emergency fund for bigger emergencies such as an unexpected job loss. Having a few months of expenses in savings can be a buffer when the unexpected happens.Learning to save money is a lifelong skill. Just like budgeting it can take some practice, so don’t give up. You will be pleased with the results. Happy saving!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

KOERNER: Saving money and the emergency fund

How do you choose a credit card? Do you care about keeping your personal financial information secure and so you choose a company that you trust? Do you choose your card based on your spending habits and where you can maximize the rewards points or cash back earned? Most people choose their credit card based on both factors – I know I do!

As a community banker and a consumer, I want to use a credit card knowing that the company processing every transaction has invested in keeping my personal financial information safe every time I use it. AND I choose a credit card based on the value I receive back on every purchase made. Unfortunately, there is a bill being promoted in Congress that could put these important factors at risk.

The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) which is being supported by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, would impose a restrictive government mandate on credit card transactions by allowing merchants to choose more than one network for the processing of credit card transactions. Most likely, that merchant will choose the company that is the cheapest for them – and the cheapest may not be the best. It could potentially expose your personal financial information to a less secure network and eliminate the popular cash back and rewards programs enjoyed by credit card users.

If you like your cash back and rewards points and want your card processed on the network you choose for its safety and security, please join me in pushing back on this harmful mandate by clicking on the link below which will take you to a website called Free Market Kansans. It will send a message to Senator Marshall to stand down and allow the free market to work in the credit card space as it has done for many years!

<a href="http://www.freemarketkansans.org">www.freemarketkansans.org</a>

Mark Schifferdecker is the president and CEO of GNBank in Girard and serves as the Chairman of the Kansas Bankers Association’s Board of Directors.

How do you choose a credit card? Do you care about keeping your personal financial information secure and so you choose a company that you trust? Do you choose your card based on your spending habits and where you can maximize the rewards points or cash back earned? Most people choose their credit card based on both factors – I know I do!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As a community banker and a consumer, I want to use a credit card knowing that the company processing every transaction has invested in keeping my personal financial information safe every time I use it. AND I choose a credit card based on the value I receive back on every purchase made. Unfortunately, there is a bill being promoted in Congress that could put these important factors at risk.The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) which is being supported by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, would impose a restrictive government mandate on credit card transactions by allowing merchants to choose more than one network for the processing of credit card transactions. Most likely, that merchant will choose the company that is the cheapest for them – and the cheapest may not be the best. It could potentially expose your personal financial information to a less secure network and eliminate the popular cash back and rewards programs enjoyed by credit card users.If you like your cash back and rewards points and want your card processed on the network you choose for its safety and security, please join me in pushing back on this harmful mandate by clicking on the link below which will take you to a website called Free Market Kansans. It will send a message to Senator Marshall to stand down and allow the free market to work in the credit card space as it has done for many years!<a href="http://www.freemarketkansans.org">www.freemarketkansans.org</a>Mark Schifferdecker is the president and CEO of GNBank in Girard and serves as the Chairman of the Kansas Bankers Association’s Board of Directors.

LETTER: Why consumers should care about credit card routing mandates

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;

The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.

There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.

Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.

Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.

Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

Get Ready for Kansas Radon Action Month in January 

&nbsp;TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Ransom public water supply system located in Ness County. 

The advisory was issued because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692907085194.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHE&nbsp;TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Ransom public water supply system located in Ness County. The advisory was issued because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Boil water advisory rescinded for the city of Ransom

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Following a 15-minute executive session, Hays USD 489 board members approved one-year contract extensions for the four district-level administrators during their meeting Monday night.

The vote was 5-1-1. Board member Allen Park voted no, while new board member Derek Yarmer abstained. Both men wanted more time to review the administrators' evaluations.&nbsp;

"The process is too fast," said Park. "We spend months working with the teachers' contracts, and we get 15 minutes to discuss this. ... We haven't been able to look at the whole evaluation."

 "You're asking me to vote on something I know nothing about," Yarmer said.

"What we're doing here today is letting them know that we will be looking at their contracts in the future, and we're recommending that their contract be extended because we do want to keep this staff here," staff," said Ken Brooks, board chairman.

Another new board member, Jayme Goetz, who voted yes, said "You will be hard pressed to find anyone who care more about 'every student every day' than these four people right here." Her remark brought a round of applause and loud cheers from the audience that included a number of teachers.&nbsp;

Contracts were extended for Superintendent Ron Wilson,&nbsp;Assistant Superintendent/Director of Curriculum Shanna Dinkel,&nbsp;Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Chris Hipp, and&nbsp;Director of Special Education Kyle Carlin.

The vote announcement was followed by more cheers and applause from the large audience.&nbsp;

This was the inaugural meeting for three school board members elected in November — Goetz, Ruth Ruder, and Yarmer.&nbsp;

In discussion items, Hipp presented a proposal for a new health insurance plan that ultimately would allow the school district to hire more classified staff to work more hours per day and become full-time employees, without costing more money.

"This will really help with recruitment and retention of staff," said Kyle Carlin,&nbsp;director of special education. A large number of paras and aides work in special education classrooms.&nbsp;

More detailed information will be presented at a future meeting.&nbsp;

Wilson presented several recommended policy updates from the Kansas Association of School Boards which include language on evacuations and emergencies modified to give district staff more autonomy to determine when it is safe to dismiss school or release students in emergent situations. 

Another update addresses&nbsp;detailed policy language on unpaid meal&nbsp;charges. Wilson said Hays schools seldom have unpaid meal accounts and noted a recent $17,000 anonymous donation for school pantries.&nbsp;

Wilson also shared information from Gov. Laura Kelly's state of the state address and how her proposed budget may affect funding for Hays USD 489.

"Probably as important as anything, she's recommending that they fully fund for the base projection of about $5,300 per student, which is an increase.&nbsp;

"And, also, this is huge, she's recommending that special ed five-year phase-in of about $75 million [annually]. We're hopeful. We need it. It's crucial.

"You will have big decisions if we don't get some help in special ed."&nbsp;

Board members also heard an update of the USD 489 Foundation annual auction from Chrisy Crough, which raised $51,000 and the recognition of the WeKan Crew at the Kansas Association of School Boards first District Showcase in November. Only 20 districts in the state were selected to highlight outstanding programs in their district.

Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst for the city of Hays, made a presentation about a proposal to expand the existing Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. The program offers a property tax rebate to people making improvements to their properties within a specified district. USD 489 is one of the taxing entities that contributes to the rebate and would have to approve the proposal in the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706029592348.jpeg" alt="The Hays USD 489 school board held its first meeting of the year Monday night. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school board held its first meeting of the year Monday night. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostFollowing a 15-minute executive session, Hays USD 489 board members approved one-year contract extensions for the four district-level administrators during their meeting Monday night.The vote was 5-1-1. Board member Allen Park voted no, while new board member Derek Yarmer abstained. Both men wanted more time to review the administrators' evaluations.&nbsp;"The process is too fast," said Park. "We spend months working with the teachers' contracts, and we get 15 minutes to discuss this. ... We haven't been able to look at the whole evaluation." "You're asking me to vote on something I know nothing about," Yarmer said."What we're doing here today is letting them know that we will be looking at their contracts in the future, and we're recommending that their contract be extended because we do want to keep this staff here," staff," said Ken Brooks, board chairman.Another new board member, Jayme Goetz, who voted yes, said "You will be hard pressed to find anyone who care more about 'every student every day' than these four people right here." Her remark brought a round of applause and loud cheers from the audience that included a number of teachers.&nbsp;Contracts were extended for Superintendent Ron Wilson,&nbsp;Assistant Superintendent/Director of Curriculum Shanna Dinkel,&nbsp;Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Chris Hipp, and&nbsp;Director of Special Education Kyle Carlin.The vote announcement was followed by more cheers and applause from the large audience.&nbsp;This was the inaugural meeting for three school board members elected in November — Goetz, Ruth Ruder, and Yarmer.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706030081038.jpeg" alt="New Hays USD 489 school board members Derek Yarmer and Jayme Goetz. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>New Hays USD 489 school board members Derek Yarmer and Jayme Goetz. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706030302973.jpeg" alt="Ruth Ruder, new Hays school board member. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Ruth Ruder, new Hays school board member. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In discussion items, Hipp presented a proposal for a new health insurance plan that ultimately would allow the school district to hire more classified staff to work more hours per day and become full-time employees, without costing more money."This will really help with recruitment and retention of staff," said Kyle Carlin,&nbsp;director of special education. A large number of paras and aides work in special education classrooms.&nbsp;More detailed information will be presented at a future meeting.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706032345770.jpeg" alt="Chris Hipp (left), assistant superintendent&nbsp;of business services, presents a proposal to allow more aides and paras to work full-time within the district budget. Kyle Carlin, director of special education, looks on. The school board will further discuss the details at an upcoming meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Chris Hipp (left), assistant superintendent&nbsp;of business services, presents a proposal to allow more aides and paras to work full-time within the district budget. Kyle Carlin, director of special education, looks on. The school board will further discuss the details at an upcoming meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Wilson presented several recommended policy updates from the Kansas Association of School Boards which include language on evacuations and emergencies modified to give district staff more autonomy to determine when it is safe to dismiss school or release students in emergent situations. Another update addresses&nbsp;detailed policy language on unpaid meal&nbsp;charges. Wilson said Hays schools seldom have unpaid meal accounts and noted a recent $17,000 anonymous donation for school pantries.&nbsp;Wilson also shared information from Gov. Laura Kelly's state of the state address and how her proposed budget may affect funding for Hays USD 489."Probably as important as anything, she's recommending that they fully fund for the base projection of about $5,300 per student, which is an increase.&nbsp;"And, also, this is huge, she's recommending that special ed five-year phase-in of about $75 million [annually]. We're hopeful. We need it. It's crucial."You will have big decisions if we don't get some help in special ed."&nbsp;Board members also heard an update of the USD 489 Foundation annual auction from Chrisy Crough, which raised $51,000 and the recognition of the WeKan Crew at the Kansas Association of School Boards first District Showcase in November. Only 20 districts in the state were selected to highlight outstanding programs in their district.Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst for the city of Hays, made a presentation about a proposal to expand the existing Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. The program offers a property tax rebate to people making improvements to their properties within a specified district. USD 489 is one of the taxing entities that contributes to the rebate and would have to approve the proposal in the future.

Hays USD 489 district administrators' contracts extended another year

ELLIS — Ellis High School Wrestling Senior Night is Friday, January 26, 2024 at the MCL Wrestling Tournament.&nbsp; Senior Recognition will take place at the dinner break, somewhere around 6:30 p.m. depending on matches.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Congratulations to our seniors and good luck to the Railer Wrestling team on Friday!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706021714179.jpeg" alt="Back row (L to R): Kaishen Brack, son of Margo Randa and Joe Vallery; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Landon Dinkel, son of Doug Dinkel and Alison Melby.&nbsp;Front row (L to R): Kaydawn Haag, daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag; Callie Priest, daughter of Jerica Priest. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Back row (L to R): Kaishen Brack, son of Margo Randa and Joe Vallery; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger; Landon Dinkel, son of Doug Dinkel and Alison Melby.&nbsp;Front row (L to R): Kaydawn Haag, daughter of Ron and Latisha Haag; Callie Priest, daughter of Jerica Priest. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — Ellis High School Wrestling Senior Night is Friday, January 26, 2024 at the MCL Wrestling Tournament.&nbsp; Senior Recognition will take place at the dinner break, somewhere around 6:30 p.m. depending on matches.&nbsp; &nbsp;Congratulations to our seniors and good luck to the Railer Wrestling team on Friday!

Ellis High School Wrestling Senior Night is Friday

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in February. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Darrell Gwaltney, Engineering Technician Specialist, Topeka                &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

John Hutchison, Equipment Operator Specialist, Quinter Joe Palic, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Marion Nat Velasquez Jr., Professional Civil Engineer II,&nbsp;Grantville&nbsp;

Brian Huiting, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Downs Neil Schroll, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Syracuse&nbsp;

James Parrish, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Edwardsville Amy Smith, Public Service Executive I,&nbsp;Topeka &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kade Cooper, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Courtland Polly Jones, Land Survey Coordinator,&nbsp;Scranton Luke Metheny, Chief Geotechnical Engineer,&nbsp;Topeka &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Daniel Moore, Construction Manager,&nbsp;Phillipsburg&nbsp;

Bradley Alford, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Denison Jacob Bigler, Information Systems Manager II,&nbsp;Carbondale Marion Blackbourn, Professional Civil Engineer I,&nbsp;Burlington Nicholas Eastwood, Equipment Operator Senior, Neodesha Rowden Glaser, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Cherokee Phyllis Griffey, ROW Property Appraiser II,&nbsp;Topeka Matthew Peach, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;La Crosse&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701368603184.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in February. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 50 years:&nbsp;Darrell Gwaltney, Engineering Technician Specialist, Topeka &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:&nbsp;John Hutchison, Equipment Operator Specialist, Quinter Joe Palic, Area Engineer,&nbsp;Marion Nat Velasquez Jr., Professional Civil Engineer II,&nbsp;Grantville&nbsp;Those celebrating 30 years:&nbsp;Brian Huiting, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Downs Neil Schroll, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Syracuse&nbsp;Those celebrating 25 years:&nbsp;James Parrish, Engineering Technician Supervisor,&nbsp;Edwardsville Amy Smith, Public Service Executive I,&nbsp;Topeka &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 20 years:&nbsp;Kade Cooper, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Courtland Polly Jones, Land Survey Coordinator,&nbsp;Scranton Luke Metheny, Chief Geotechnical Engineer,&nbsp;Topeka &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 15 years:&nbsp;Daniel Moore, Construction Manager,&nbsp;Phillipsburg&nbsp;Those celebrating 10 years:&nbsp;Bradley Alford, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Denison Jacob Bigler, Information Systems Manager II,&nbsp;Carbondale Marion Blackbourn, Professional Civil Engineer I,&nbsp;Burlington Nicholas Eastwood, Equipment Operator Senior, Neodesha Rowden Glaser, Engineering Technician Specialist,&nbsp;Cherokee Phyllis Griffey, ROW Property Appraiser II,&nbsp;Topeka Matthew Peach, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;La Crosse&nbsp;

Area KDOT employees recognized for service anniversaries

TOPEKA –&nbsp;A number of local hospitals have been designated as Blue Distinction®&nbsp;Centers or Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM8e0oRAGIdW12rwje8nRhU0nD6EsvPd1iWXLNmWLyHLh5f-2BL4n-2B5o-2Bra2Q-2Baod3V-2BPywY6EVtJ6W1sjUHfoCyY7zv5PBx5kDqf-2BZ23zth7reEzkUnNNWPAFRxK3TuxRcDwxX1KLPW98O04M8b2k49wA-3DHixH_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXKoKYknxOx7TgLcummGoC7DtSTAWarTn6X476-2F1yj5JJjiazBCoUdIOrPECJrv2wFppj9ZQQX6RPbjjJS9PYMLIIaHZPQYAVKK5-2FZIDMegkZ4zdAv0ULADj4XsXlN3JEFWMZijRxy-2BbQKPoo7OHNX8y4qqOYOcGxKI1S3HG6c-2Bf-2FrK-2FAbiALQ0vjOraFtA4DQQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Blue Distinction Specialty Care program</a>.

"The provider and patient experience is powerful and we are proud that these provider partners have put in the work to ensure their patients have this level of care," said&nbsp;Matt All, President/CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. "Each facility recognized as a Blue Distinction Center is meeting rigorous quality metrics in all phases of their maternity care programs and, in doing so, delivering better care for our members and all Kansans.”

Based on data from the current designation cycle, facilities designated under the Maternity Care program demonstrate higher-quality care compared to non-Blue Distinction Center facilities, with overall average rates of 26% lower episiotomies, 60% fewer elective deliveries and 17% lower cesarean births—all of which point to healthier outcomes for patients. Facilities that meet the program’s selection criteria are eligible for designation at one of two levels:

Blue Distinction Centers (BDC)&nbsp;are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively. They include:Amberwell AtchisonUniversity of Kansas Health System – St. Francis (Topeka)

Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+)&nbsp;are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively, in addition to demonstrating more affordable care. BDC+ designated facilities also exhibit an average savings of 21% for maternity care, according to a recent program survey. They include:Ascension Via Christi Hospital Manhattan, Inc.Ascension Via Christi Hospital Pittsburg, Inc.Ascension Via Christi Hospitals Wichita, Inc.Hays Medical CenterHutchinson Regional Medical Center, Inc.Labette County Medical Center (Parsons)Lawrence Memorial HospitalNewman Regional Health (Emporia)Salina Regional Health Center, Inc.Southwest Medical Center (Liberal)Stormont Vail Hospital (Topeka)

The Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program plays a key role in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA)&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM0a28RzyREfiN1XJwG0YjsxdhtnHBn0Xqc2vzKzG-2BxV-2Bvo-2FU533DF4ZUj8Ufscqo6rFsHvc07blItWB4L-2BCT6g0-3DAELE_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXEkx1h-2BGjHV3vqVYYlngpcmLwXFkD-2FEUxAFq-2Fg-2BoN0eBTZ0ZYjTmar8CDcFsYhH8GUS7f-2Bj34LD2BpKVJjD8LQGV2Fhc2Hp-2BXSP-2FKIVLxv8sL1f-2FP8Z-2BE6aBZBab1J8lp3tWrobIMGeE3OeUKZpefoZjWUUEAR-2FEtoYtEUa1Nn-2BAtJiFD3VqRfsfkXfgKkIHJg-3D-3D" target="_blank">National Health Equity Strategy</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing racial health disparities across the care spectrum and improving patient outcomes for all Americans.

Severe maternal morbidity rates are on the rise among all pregnant women in the United States, which has the highest maternal mortality rate than any developed country. Moreover, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM57QgXQrGcca1g8j9-2BB4UryTMe8cf0-2Bts0CCcmQI6U8wvo7ouCFCFzsPwISa22MO9hhwnu6XcIuzpknTAURUBl1EapXFzMLqK67pWq0160b2iP57_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXC-2F8Q1bVavqvVMOpp0DtyFgIGty5Iu8oNfP4lEGjAgaDpr31brFriGtVI8YS5LjJqnF2obfs4nsdqKOO6-2F9OOIzM2inK4YX1aA2LVifbEeqqfhW1Sa52NK-2FxZxTuBrSoA-2FvpyeSAUoC3Ox3QZczOzJPeBFtiBcI47AkJFfvIph3DY1wsMV0OOl2sbjI0W0Ysog-3D-3D" target="_blank">three times more likely</a>&nbsp;to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. These disparities are unacceptable and demand immediate attention.

BCBSA is committed to reducing racial disparities in maternal health and has executed a multi-year National Health Equity Strategy to achieve this goal. To align with this strategy, the Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program enhanced its quality and measurement standards to recognize higher-quality facilities that have taken action to respond effectively to obstetric emergencies, reduce racial disparities, and improve maternal health outcomes.

The Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program’s selection criteria was devised to close clinical care gaps and reduce inequities that persist throughout the maternal care spectrum. The selection criteria includes components of BCBSA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM0a28RzyREfiN1XJwG0YjsxdhtnHBn0Xqc2vzKzG-2BxV-2Bvo-2FU533DF4ZUj8Ufscqo6ne-2FO6zTTa7Dgk5vAzNlx0bu7bNTLVARtGyCMp9oRoAjibEqSDRXkDs-2FoflUyDjbSQ-3D-3DBJgK_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXPVzGxjhai94mcZFOeDpL0Eg1cnrW9e5t5xAGggAzFsOuBOCs7EvxOU2AMcRZsrhcf7Ob9LoOykLxU4e2q4b0uYgFtxNrZh26bWWvMFuZQAU0TFKeheac0Xu8Mj-2BDM6a7l-2FU7m4i8slR7BZa4UcryRj3IBa71D-2Fj79xHK-2FPKvYZcyPTi6ScotJ1EYahjB3qqbA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Maternal Health Equity Actions,</a>&nbsp;which dismantle the cultural, operational and structural barriers that created inequities in maternal care.

To be designated under this program, each applicant facility was evaluated on a combination of objective data on patient outcomes as well as the practices implemented to reduce racial disparities and improve maternal health outcomes, such as:

To further drive improvements to maternal care, BCBSA will be working closely with BCBSKS to encourage facilities to implement performance improvement activities that will enhance their maternity care programs and improve patient outcomes.

“It is time to raise the bar.&nbsp;Everyone deserves to have higher-quality care at every stage of their pregnancy,” said&nbsp;Erin Barney, BCBSA’s vice president of Network Solutions. “Facilities that earned a Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care designation have proven that they deliver higher-quality maternity care and are committed to reducing maternal health disparities that are often treatable and preventable. Closing clinical care gaps is a joint effort, and we are proud to recognize facilities that put insights into action, creating a more equitable system of health for all.”

Since 2006, the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM8e0oRAGIdW12rwje8nRhU0nD6EsvPd1iWXLNmWLyHLh5f-2BL4n-2B5o-2Bra2Q-2Baod3V-2BPywY6EVtJ6W1sjUHfoCyY7zv5PBx5kDqf-2BZ23zth7reEzkUnNNWPAFRxK3TuxRcD9tyG3wr02pSChUVRPTb3CI-3DZMGl_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXAJHeaogzqElmhIcFNlGE6wCspeMz7S5j92CRLNZMXLh2JztC1hAiV11LMGj7UgnLsZrq6j1PuMq5qi1b0OFFI-2BKw3TtAScpAvjndoBOhJcI0yPQfLmH9svuEUdBJ9MD8D0Rp4tJKvaKAnAaTTBG7wzIW8QI0whXbuNYl4Q2dzUp4HPVBg9wGXGpizI1crTuHg-3D-3D" target="_blank">Blue Distinction Specialty Care program</a>&nbsp;has helped patients find quality specialty care at lower costs in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care, gene therapy, knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and recovery, and transplants, while encouraging health care professionals to improve the care they deliver.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=palW6G6yWU-2Fmx7OuVV-2Fcg1bM4F3iQeR-2FEuJpwRQNr16c4UNp0OzEh-2BGSdz8W9g9VIY2W_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXL8IEg4xG8nSTwzOxnxwyUrkKVUB-2B7S1uuOxF5cAIBws3BNNh7StLMIOI2n6sc2PcViAfnWY6dTd-2FPBZMobnbcMOBJy4yg7wHy04W33p4HYNnA-2FxTWXZjxNdTZhj9quseghVbiUbGaNMAAZmjVRr9BQcOUo5-2BnUTZr2-2FCAivrYONltpWTw2KTgO-2FVke3Yz0-2BJw-3D-3D" target="_blank">website</a>.

BlueCross BlueShield of KansasTOPEKA –&nbsp;A number of local hospitals have been designated as Blue Distinction®&nbsp;Centers or Blue Distinction Centers+ for Maternity Care by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM8e0oRAGIdW12rwje8nRhU0nD6EsvPd1iWXLNmWLyHLh5f-2BL4n-2B5o-2Bra2Q-2Baod3V-2BPywY6EVtJ6W1sjUHfoCyY7zv5PBx5kDqf-2BZ23zth7reEzkUnNNWPAFRxK3TuxRcDwxX1KLPW98O04M8b2k49wA-3DHixH_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXKoKYknxOx7TgLcummGoC7DtSTAWarTn6X476-2F1yj5JJjiazBCoUdIOrPECJrv2wFppj9ZQQX6RPbjjJS9PYMLIIaHZPQYAVKK5-2FZIDMegkZ4zdAv0ULADj4XsXlN3JEFWMZijRxy-2BbQKPoo7OHNX8y4qqOYOcGxKI1S3HG6c-2Bf-2FrK-2FAbiALQ0vjOraFtA4DQQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Blue Distinction Specialty Care program</a>."The provider and patient experience is powerful and we are proud that these provider partners have put in the work to ensure their patients have this level of care," said&nbsp;Matt All, President/CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. "Each facility recognized as a Blue Distinction Center is meeting rigorous quality metrics in all phases of their maternity care programs and, in doing so, delivering better care for our members and all Kansans.”Based on data from the current designation cycle, facilities designated under the Maternity Care program demonstrate higher-quality care compared to non-Blue Distinction Center facilities, with overall average rates of 26% lower episiotomies, 60% fewer elective deliveries and 17% lower cesarean births—all of which point to healthier outcomes for patients. Facilities that meet the program’s selection criteria are eligible for designation at one of two levels:Blue Distinction Centers (BDC)&nbsp;are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively. They include:Amberwell AtchisonUniversity of Kansas Health System – St. Francis (Topeka)Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+)&nbsp;are facilities that deliver quality care, safely and effectively, in addition to demonstrating more affordable care. BDC+ designated facilities also exhibit an average savings of 21% for maternity care, according to a recent program survey. They include:Ascension Via Christi Hospital Manhattan, Inc.Ascension Via Christi Hospital Pittsburg, Inc.Ascension Via Christi Hospitals Wichita, Inc.Hays Medical CenterHutchinson Regional Medical Center, Inc.Labette County Medical Center (Parsons)Lawrence Memorial HospitalNewman Regional Health (Emporia)Salina Regional Health Center, Inc.Southwest Medical Center (Liberal)Stormont Vail Hospital (Topeka)The Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program plays a key role in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA)&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM0a28RzyREfiN1XJwG0YjsxdhtnHBn0Xqc2vzKzG-2BxV-2Bvo-2FU533DF4ZUj8Ufscqo6rFsHvc07blItWB4L-2BCT6g0-3DAELE_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXEkx1h-2BGjHV3vqVYYlngpcmLwXFkD-2FEUxAFq-2Fg-2BoN0eBTZ0ZYjTmar8CDcFsYhH8GUS7f-2Bj34LD2BpKVJjD8LQGV2Fhc2Hp-2BXSP-2FKIVLxv8sL1f-2FP8Z-2BE6aBZBab1J8lp3tWrobIMGeE3OeUKZpefoZjWUUEAR-2FEtoYtEUa1Nn-2BAtJiFD3VqRfsfkXfgKkIHJg-3D-3D" target="_blank">National Health Equity Strategy</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing racial health disparities across the care spectrum and improving patient outcomes for all Americans.Commitment to Maternity Care:Severe maternal morbidity rates are on the rise among all pregnant women in the United States, which has the highest maternal mortality rate than any developed country. Moreover, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM57QgXQrGcca1g8j9-2BB4UryTMe8cf0-2Bts0CCcmQI6U8wvo7ouCFCFzsPwISa22MO9hhwnu6XcIuzpknTAURUBl1EapXFzMLqK67pWq0160b2iP57_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXC-2F8Q1bVavqvVMOpp0DtyFgIGty5Iu8oNfP4lEGjAgaDpr31brFriGtVI8YS5LjJqnF2obfs4nsdqKOO6-2F9OOIzM2inK4YX1aA2LVifbEeqqfhW1Sa52NK-2FxZxTuBrSoA-2FvpyeSAUoC3Ox3QZczOzJPeBFtiBcI47AkJFfvIph3DY1wsMV0OOl2sbjI0W0Ysog-3D-3D" target="_blank">three times more likely</a>&nbsp;to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. These disparities are unacceptable and demand immediate attention.BCBSA is committed to reducing racial disparities in maternal health and has executed a multi-year National Health Equity Strategy to achieve this goal. To align with this strategy, the Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program enhanced its quality and measurement standards to recognize higher-quality facilities that have taken action to respond effectively to obstetric emergencies, reduce racial disparities, and improve maternal health outcomes.The Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care program’s selection criteria was devised to close clinical care gaps and reduce inequities that persist throughout the maternal care spectrum. The selection criteria includes components of BCBSA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM0a28RzyREfiN1XJwG0YjsxdhtnHBn0Xqc2vzKzG-2BxV-2Bvo-2FU533DF4ZUj8Ufscqo6ne-2FO6zTTa7Dgk5vAzNlx0bu7bNTLVARtGyCMp9oRoAjibEqSDRXkDs-2FoflUyDjbSQ-3D-3DBJgK_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXPVzGxjhai94mcZFOeDpL0Eg1cnrW9e5t5xAGggAzFsOuBOCs7EvxOU2AMcRZsrhcf7Ob9LoOykLxU4e2q4b0uYgFtxNrZh26bWWvMFuZQAU0TFKeheac0Xu8Mj-2BDM6a7l-2FU7m4i8slR7BZa4UcryRj3IBa71D-2Fj79xHK-2FPKvYZcyPTi6ScotJ1EYahjB3qqbA-3D-3D" target="_blank">Maternal Health Equity Actions,</a>&nbsp;which dismantle the cultural, operational and structural barriers that created inequities in maternal care.To be designated under this program, each applicant facility was evaluated on a combination of objective data on patient outcomes as well as the practices implemented to reduce racial disparities and improve maternal health outcomes, such as:<ul>
 <li>Using evidence-based best practices to respond effectively to obstetric emergencies</li><li>Offering unconscious bias training</li><li>Participating in the regional Perinatal Quality Collaborative</li><li>Having doula support available on the maternity care team</li><li>Collecting race, ethnicity and language data</li><li>Having a program dedicated to quality improvements in maternal care</li><li>Running drills and simulations to prepare providers are prepared to deal with a range of obstetric emergencies</li><li>Demonstrating health outcomes that exceed the selection criteria from our program’s previous evaluation cycle</li>
 </ul>To further drive improvements to maternal care, BCBSA will be working closely with BCBSKS to encourage facilities to implement performance improvement activities that will enhance their maternity care programs and improve patient outcomes.“It is time to raise the bar.&nbsp;Everyone deserves to have higher-quality care at every stage of their pregnancy,” said&nbsp;Erin Barney, BCBSA’s vice president of Network Solutions. “Facilities that earned a Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care designation have proven that they deliver higher-quality maternity care and are committed to reducing maternal health disparities that are often treatable and preventable. Closing clinical care gaps is a joint effort, and we are proud to recognize facilities that put insights into action, creating a more equitable system of health for all.”Since 2006, the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=aYIb3RIcEE1NlZg2DINOM8e0oRAGIdW12rwje8nRhU0nD6EsvPd1iWXLNmWLyHLh5f-2BL4n-2B5o-2Bra2Q-2Baod3V-2BPywY6EVtJ6W1sjUHfoCyY7zv5PBx5kDqf-2BZ23zth7reEzkUnNNWPAFRxK3TuxRcD9tyG3wr02pSChUVRPTb3CI-3DZMGl_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXAJHeaogzqElmhIcFNlGE6wCspeMz7S5j92CRLNZMXLh2JztC1hAiV11LMGj7UgnLsZrq6j1PuMq5qi1b0OFFI-2BKw3TtAScpAvjndoBOhJcI0yPQfLmH9svuEUdBJ9MD8D0Rp4tJKvaKAnAaTTBG7wzIW8QI0whXbuNYl4Q2dzUp4HPVBg9wGXGpizI1crTuHg-3D-3D" target="_blank">Blue Distinction Specialty Care program</a>&nbsp;has helped patients find quality specialty care at lower costs in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care, gene therapy, knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and recovery, and transplants, while encouraging health care professionals to improve the care they deliver.For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=palW6G6yWU-2Fmx7OuVV-2Fcg1bM4F3iQeR-2FEuJpwRQNr16c4UNp0OzEh-2BGSdz8W9g9VIY2W_-2F-2F-2FfsOxP14379R49Szz8ei4yndhGqCYya0VZ9YWPVfQSEMGBlpNngCZbrGBmoN44xniuWMPpnHNchoPtgeQdLUBJN-2F0h44OVYuqqVeo2srMBum9AyPHhstBGB-2FeCE4warM1jLqQRQnNDoaIfCeui3xGZs89MoEoceeISOQklF-2Fapkrf8k87FacuReQlZYHKJygN6Rm-2F77A6HNh-2BEwb0xXL8IEg4xG8nSTwzOxnxwyUrkKVUB-2B7S1uuOxF5cAIBws3BNNh7StLMIOI2n6sc2PcViAfnWY6dTd-2FPBZMobnbcMOBJy4yg7wHy04W33p4HYNnA-2FxTWXZjxNdTZhj9quseghVbiUbGaNMAAZmjVRr9BQcOUo5-2BnUTZr2-2FCAivrYONltpWTw2KTgO-2FVke3Yz0-2BJw-3D-3D" target="_blank">website</a>.

HaysMed recognized  for higher-quality and lower-cost maternity care

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706034266768.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>

TMP-Marian vs Great Bend Tuesday, Jan. 23 – 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/921223">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

Following a pair of seventh place finishes at the Mid-Continent League tournament the TMP-Marian Monarchs return home Tuesday night for a non-league contest against the Great Bend Panthers.

Both TMP teams are 5-8 on the season while the Great Bend girls are 9-3 and the Panther boys are 8-4.

Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow at Al Billinger Fieldhouse. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Great Bend Tuesday, Jan. 23 – 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/921223">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>Following a pair of seventh place finishes at the Mid-Continent League tournament the TMP-Marian Monarchs return home Tuesday night for a non-league contest against the Great Bend Panthers.Both TMP teams are 5-8 on the season while the Great Bend girls are 9-3 and the Panther boys are 8-4.Tipoff of the girls game is set for 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow at Al Billinger Fieldhouse. Live coverage includes The TMP-Marian Sports Network and Eagle Radio.

🏀🎥 TMP hosts Great Bend in non-league contest

On January 20, 2024, at 6:48 p.m., the Ellis County Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 576 350th Ave., just south of Victoria.

 Upon arrival, heavy smoke and flames were found coming from a single-family dwelling. Fire crews made an interior attack and were able to extinguish the fire. Firefighters used three fire attack lines to extinguish the fire and keep the fire to the building of origin. 

Ellis County Fire Chief Lyle Pantle said the fire most likely originated in the attached garage.

The building and other materials inside suffered extensive fire and smoke damage.

The fire was reported out at 7:43 p.m. and under control at 8:21 p.m., at which time some fire crews were starting to be released from the scene. 

Midwest Energy was contacted to shut off utilities to the building. Fire crews remained on scene until 12:19 a.m. as fire watch to check for any rekindle. 

Thirty-eight firefighters from the Ellis County Fire Department (Hays, Ellis, Victoria, and Munjor) responded to assist. The Hays Fire Department also responded with their air truck, staffed by one firefighter. The ECFD was also assisted by the Ellis County EMS and Sheriff’s deputies.&nbsp;

There were no injuries, Pantle said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706027248925.jpeg" alt="Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Randy Gonzales/Special to Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Fire DepartmentOn January 20, 2024, at 6:48 p.m., the Ellis County Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 576 350th Ave., just south of Victoria. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and flames were found coming from a single-family dwelling. Fire crews made an interior attack and were able to extinguish the fire. Firefighters used three fire attack lines to extinguish the fire and keep the fire to the building of origin. Ellis County Fire Chief Lyle Pantle said the fire most likely originated in the attached garage.The building and other materials inside suffered extensive fire and smoke damage.The fire was reported out at 7:43 p.m. and under control at 8:21 p.m., at which time some fire crews were starting to be released from the scene. Midwest Energy was contacted to shut off utilities to the building. Fire crews remained on scene until 12:19 a.m. as fire watch to check for any rekindle. Thirty-eight firefighters from the Ellis County Fire Department (Hays, Ellis, Victoria, and Munjor) responded to assist. The Hays Fire Department also responded with their air truck, staffed by one firefighter. The ECFD was also assisted by the Ellis County EMS and Sheriff’s deputies.&nbsp;There were no injuries, Pantle said.&nbsp;

Weekend structure fire near Victoria displaces family

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

It could be weeks before U.S. crude production recovers from the winter weather hammering the patch in Texas and North Dakota. Bloomberg cites market participants estimating crude output is down by about ten million barrels per day. That includes upwards of six million barrels in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. Crude production in North Dakota is also taking a beating from winter weather. Output was cut in half last week and remains down about 20% this week. That's according to the North Dakota Pipeline Authority.

The dramatic drop comes on the heels of the second-best weekly production tally ever. U.S. operators pumped 13,335,000 barrels per day in the seven days through January 12, just 2,000 daily barrels behind the record, set three weeks earlier. The Energy Information Administration says current output topped the week before by 142,000 barrels per day, and surpasses the same week a year ago by more than a million barrels per day. Four-week average production through January 12 was just over 13.2 million barrels per day, an all-time high.

Energy Information Administration said U.S. commercial crude inventories dropped by 2.5 million barrels last week to just under 430 million barrels. That's about 3% below the five year seasonal average.

The government reported crude imports averaging 7.4 million barrels per day, up by 1.2 million barrels per day from the previous week. The four-week average is about 6.6% higher than the same four-week period last year. Crude exports dropped to just under 4million barrels per day last week. Total petroleum and petroleum products exports rose to 11.2 million barrels per day.

The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is 620 active rigs, down two oil rigs, but up three seeking natural gas. The count in Texas was down three rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down 7.9% from a week ago at 16 active rigs east of Wichita and 19 in western Kansas. The tally is unchanged from a month ago, and down more than 31% from a year ago.

Operators in Kansas completed eight wells last week, five east of Wichita and three in western Kansas. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 69 well completions so far this year.&nbsp; Kansas regulators okayed nine new drilling locations statewide, with one in eastern Kansas and eight west of Wichita, including one in Russell County. That's 55 new drilling permits across the state so far this year.

North Dakota operators increased output by two percent in November, to nearly 1.3 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state remains about half a million barrels per day behind New Mexico.

Drone attacks shut down Russia's second busiest Western crude export terminal. The attacks on Sunday, Jan. 21 sparked a widespread fire at a gas-condensate plant and prompted at least two tanker captains to pull their crude tankers back to sea. Maritime tracking data suggests loading had resumed by midday Monday at the facility on the Baltic Sea. Russia exports about 680,000 barrels per day from the terminal, mostly to India and China. Regional media reports assert the attack was organized by Ukraine’s secret services, targeting and igniting a source of fuel for the Russian army.

Spot prices for North Sea and Mediterranean crude oil spiked last week as attacks on commercial vessels threatened trade routes through the Red Sea. Bloomberg reports many tankers diverted away from the busy waterway, adding to cargo costs and tightening the global fleet.

BP appointed interim CEO Murray Auchincloss as its permanent chief executive, in a move that signals the oil major will stick with the shift to greener energy launched by his predecessor Bernard Looney. Looney quit in September after failing to disclose past relationships with company colleagues.

Royal Dutch Shell is set to conclude nearly a century of operations in Nigeria. The British energy giant is selling its subsidiary there to five local businesses for nearly $2.4 billion.&nbsp; Shell pioneered Nigeria's oil and gas business beginning in the 1930s. It has struggled for years with hundreds of onshore oil spills, theft, sabotage, operational issues, costly repairs and high-profile lawsuits. The OPEC member once boasted the 15th largest national production totals in the world.

Africa’s newest and biggest oil refinery has begun production of diesel and aviation fuel in Nigeria, ending a years-long wait. The $19 billion facility has a capacity of up to 650,000 barrels per day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications It could be weeks before U.S. crude production recovers from the winter weather hammering the patch in Texas and North Dakota. Bloomberg cites market participants estimating crude output is down by about ten million barrels per day. That includes upwards of six million barrels in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. Crude production in North Dakota is also taking a beating from winter weather. Output was cut in half last week and remains down about 20% this week. That's according to the North Dakota Pipeline Authority.The dramatic drop comes on the heels of the second-best weekly production tally ever. U.S. operators pumped 13,335,000 barrels per day in the seven days through January 12, just 2,000 daily barrels behind the record, set three weeks earlier. The Energy Information Administration says current output topped the week before by 142,000 barrels per day, and surpasses the same week a year ago by more than a million barrels per day. Four-week average production through January 12 was just over 13.2 million barrels per day, an all-time high.Energy Information Administration said U.S. commercial crude inventories dropped by 2.5 million barrels last week to just under 430 million barrels. That's about 3% below the five year seasonal average.The government reported crude imports averaging 7.4 million barrels per day, up by 1.2 million barrels per day from the previous week. The four-week average is about 6.6% higher than the same four-week period last year. Crude exports dropped to just under 4million barrels per day last week. Total petroleum and petroleum products exports rose to 11.2 million barrels per day.The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is 620 active rigs, down two oil rigs, but up three seeking natural gas. The count in Texas was down three rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down 7.9% from a week ago at 16 active rigs east of Wichita and 19 in western Kansas. The tally is unchanged from a month ago, and down more than 31% from a year ago.Operators in Kansas completed eight wells last week, five east of Wichita and three in western Kansas. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 69 well completions so far this year.&nbsp; Kansas regulators okayed nine new drilling locations statewide, with one in eastern Kansas and eight west of Wichita, including one in Russell County. That's 55 new drilling permits across the state so far this year.North Dakota operators increased output by two percent in November, to nearly 1.3 million barrels per day. The Department of Mineral Resources says the state remains about half a million barrels per day behind New Mexico.Drone attacks shut down Russia's second busiest Western crude export terminal. The attacks on Sunday, Jan. 21 sparked a widespread fire at a gas-condensate plant and prompted at least two tanker captains to pull their crude tankers back to sea. Maritime tracking data suggests loading had resumed by midday Monday at the facility on the Baltic Sea. Russia exports about 680,000 barrels per day from the terminal, mostly to India and China. Regional media reports assert the attack was organized by Ukraine’s secret services, targeting and igniting a source of fuel for the Russian army.Spot prices for North Sea and Mediterranean crude oil spiked last week as attacks on commercial vessels threatened trade routes through the Red Sea. Bloomberg reports many tankers diverted away from the busy waterway, adding to cargo costs and tightening the global fleet.BP appointed interim CEO Murray Auchincloss as its permanent chief executive, in a move that signals the oil major will stick with the shift to greener energy launched by his predecessor Bernard Looney. Looney quit in September after failing to disclose past relationships with company colleagues.Royal Dutch Shell is set to conclude nearly a century of operations in Nigeria. The British energy giant is selling its subsidiary there to five local businesses for nearly $2.4 billion.&nbsp; Shell pioneered Nigeria's oil and gas business beginning in the 1930s. It has struggled for years with hundreds of onshore oil spills, theft, sabotage, operational issues, costly repairs and high-profile lawsuits. The OPEC member once boasted the 15th largest national production totals in the world.Africa’s newest and biggest oil refinery has begun production of diesel and aviation fuel in Nigeria, ending a years-long wait. The $19 billion facility has a capacity of up to 650,000 barrels per day.

News From the Oil Patch: Weather hammers U.S. crude output

The <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/about-kda/wildfire-task-force">final report of the governor's wildfire task force</a>&nbsp;was released Nov. 29.&nbsp;

State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, an area farmer, is a member of the task force, which made 30&nbsp;recommendations with a $12 million plan for preventing and responding to potential wildfires by removing plant fuel from private and public lands as well as upgrading risk forecasts and volunteer fire departments.&nbsp;

“I created this task force [in 2022] because Kansas has been devastated by wildfires far too many times, and it was clear we needed to take a deeper look at how we prevent and respond to these disasters,” Gov. Laura Kelly said. “I look forward to working together to better support Kansans before, during and after wildfires.”

Devastating wildfires occurred in several southwest Kansas counties in 2016 and 2017, and in Reno County in 2022.

In mid-December 2021, about 164,000 acres of grassland burned in Ellis, Russell, Rooks and Osborne counties, swept by 100 mph plus winds. It's known as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b816284-349a-4002-b92c-082d727d3727">Four County Fire</a>.&nbsp;

The windstorm and wildfires caused more than $2.3 million in damages. Two people died, thousands of livestock were killed, and hundreds of miles of fencing burned.

Two of those four counties, Russell and Osborne, are within Waymaster's 109th House district.&nbsp;

Waymaster said he doesn't agree with all the recommendations made by the task force.&nbsp;

"We'll see what actually comes to fruition from that report. ... I did not necessarily support everything the task force was going to be submitting to the Legislature," he said, "but we'll see what we can do to having the state have a better response in regard to the wildfires."

Last year, Waymaster introduced a bill in the Kansas House that called for a structured response to any disaster that is declared by the governor.

He introduced it late in the 2023 session and said that was done on purpose because nothing had been generated from that particular task force.

"So, in one meeting we had in December 2022, I just started listening to the task force members and started crafting that piece of legislation ....

"... I did meet with the governor's office ... and they were in support of that structured way the state [should] respond to a natural disaster, whether it be wildfires, tornadoes, snowstorm or flooding," Waymaster said.

He considers the state's current response to natural disasters scattered.

"Regarding the Four County Fire, there was not a particular way the state responded. The governor issued the declaration of a disaster a week in advance of the Four County Fire," Waymaster said.

"And yet when it happened, the response from the different agencies and departments was miniscule, to be quite honest," he said.

"From KDHE to the Department of Agriculture, the Adjutant General's Office, to me, there was really no assistance from the state of Kansas.

"And that's what we need to protect our citizens," Waymaster said.

With little assistance coming from those state agencies, Waymaster said the affected farmers, ranchers,&nbsp; homeowners, county agencies and governments also lost out on financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Association.

"That's money that would have come back to the state of Kansas and assisted with the damages that were made, not only in the Four County Fire but those that happened all over the state that day," he said.

"Because we did not have that structure in place, or that backbone, we didn't serve our citizens, and that's why I crafted this legislation," Waymaster said. "Not only does it show who was responsible on a state level and how that trickled down to other agencies and departments, it also sets up a disaster contingency fund authorized by the State Finance Council of $10 million.

"So, if a local community like Paradise needs to have a match for the federal government regarding any dollars that might be coming from FEMA or any other federal agency, they can access that match through that contingency fund," Waymaster said.

The fund could only be accessed by the State Finance Council, which is led by the governor.&nbsp;

Cities would have to submit a request to the State Finance Council, which would meet and discuss whether to disperse the requested funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705351586838.png" alt="The 2021 Four County Fire as captured from fire vehicles. Courtesy Ellis County Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>The 2021 Four County Fire as captured from fire vehicles. Courtesy Ellis County Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/about-kda/wildfire-task-force">final report of the governor's wildfire task force</a>&nbsp;was released Nov. 29.&nbsp;State Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, an area farmer, is a member of the task force, which made 30&nbsp;recommendations with a $12 million plan for preventing and responding to potential wildfires by removing plant fuel from private and public lands as well as upgrading risk forecasts and volunteer fire departments.&nbsp;“I created this task force [in 2022] because Kansas has been devastated by wildfires far too many times, and it was clear we needed to take a deeper look at how we prevent and respond to these disasters,” Gov. Laura Kelly said. “I look forward to working together to better support Kansans before, during and after wildfires.”Devastating wildfires occurred in several southwest Kansas counties in 2016 and 2017, and in Reno County in 2022.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705351774822.png" alt="The burned-out shells of vehicles at a home in Paradise. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The burned-out shells of vehicles at a home in Paradise. Photo by Cristina Janney / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In mid-December 2021, about 164,000 acres of grassland burned in Ellis, Russell, Rooks and Osborne counties, swept by 100 mph plus winds. It's known as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b816284-349a-4002-b92c-082d727d3727">Four County Fire</a>.&nbsp;The windstorm and wildfires caused more than $2.3 million in damages. Two people died, thousands of livestock were killed, and hundreds of miles of fencing burned.Two of those four counties, Russell and Osborne, are within Waymaster's 109th House district.&nbsp;Waymaster said he doesn't agree with all the recommendations made by the task force.&nbsp;"We'll see what actually comes to fruition from that report. ... I did not necessarily support everything the task force was going to be submitting to the Legislature," he said, "but we'll see what we can do to having the state have a better response in regard to the wildfires."Last year, Waymaster introduced a bill in the Kansas House that called for a structured response to any disaster that is declared by the governor.He introduced it late in the 2023 session and said that was done on purpose because nothing had been generated from that particular task force."So, in one meeting we had in December 2022, I just started listening to the task force members and started crafting that piece of legislation ...."... I did meet with the governor's office ... and they were in support of that structured way the state [should] respond to a natural disaster, whether it be wildfires, tornadoes, snowstorm or flooding," Waymaster said.He considers the state's current response to natural disasters scattered."Regarding the Four County Fire, there was not a particular way the state responded. The governor issued the declaration of a disaster a week in advance of the Four County Fire," Waymaster said."And yet when it happened, the response from the different agencies and departments was miniscule, to be quite honest," he said."From KDHE to the Department of Agriculture, the Adjutant General's Office, to me, there was really no assistance from the state of Kansas."And that's what we need to protect our citizens," Waymaster said.With little assistance coming from those state agencies, Waymaster said the affected farmers, ranchers,&nbsp; homeowners, county agencies and governments also lost out on financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Association."That's money that would have come back to the state of Kansas and assisted with the damages that were made, not only in the Four County Fire but those that happened all over the state that day," he said."Because we did not have that structure in place, or that backbone, we didn't serve our citizens, and that's why I crafted this legislation," Waymaster said. "Not only does it show who was responsible on a state level and how that trickled down to other agencies and departments, it also sets up a disaster contingency fund authorized by the State Finance Council of $10 million."So, if a local community like Paradise needs to have a match for the federal government regarding any dollars that might be coming from FEMA or any other federal agency, they can access that match through that contingency fund," Waymaster said.The fund could only be accessed by the State Finance Council, which is led by the governor.&nbsp;Cities would have to submit a request to the State Finance Council, which would meet and discuss whether to disperse the requested funds.

Rep. Waymaster: State needs structured response to wildfire, other natural disasters 

If you are familiar with these five places on Earth, you may know the secrets of the longest-lived people on the planet. Although these populations tend to live well into their 100s, the amazing part of their aging process is not the number of years they live but the quality of life they maintain. In fact, most of these people are still active well into their 90s. So, what is their secret?

The Power 9 Rule, coined by Dan Buettner, describes the common traits of Blue Zone practices that empower people of these regions to live long, healthy lives.

Move naturally. Contradictory to modern exercise and diet culture, people within the Blue Zones don’t go to the gym, run marathons, or do CrossFit. Their everyday lifestyles avoid mechanical conveniences that nudge them into moving naturally throughout the day. Walking is the basis of their active lifestyles. Walking to the store, a friend’s house, or work is the norm. People garden and do physical labor on a daily basis.

The key here is that regular, low- moderate intensity activity is achieved daily. This keeps their cardiovascular systems strong while strengthening muscles without overusing joints, tendons, and ligaments.

Know your purpose. People in Blue Zones have a purpose for their lives. Every task completed throughout the day is done mindfully and with intention. Okinawans call this sense of purpose “ikigai” and Nicoyans name it “plan de Vida.” Both translate to “why I wake up in the morning.” Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of life expectancy.

Downshift. Stress is a major contributor to disease. It is directly linked to chronic inflammation that is associated with every major age-related disease. People of the Blue Zones have stress relief practices naturally built into their day. Adventists pray, Sardinians do a happy hour, and Greeks take an afternoon nap.

The 80% Rule. This Power 9 practice is directly related to healthy weight management. “Hara hachi bu” is the mantra said before meals to remind Okinawans to stop eating when they are 80% full. The science behind this indicates that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to realize that the stomach is full. This small gap could be the difference between gaining or losing weight.

Plant Slant. Most of us know that the food we consume is the foundation of well-being. This is one reason why people of the Blue Zones maintain health so effortlessly. What they consume is plant-based, unprocessed, and grown naturally. Common foods include an array of vegetables and omega-3-rich nuts. Beans are their main protein source along with moderate amounts of fatty fish. On the other hand, meat is a celebratory food that is eaten about five times per month.

Wine at Five. You may be surprised that a ritual happy hour is part of Power 9. As a regular part of their day, Sardinians drink red Cannanou wine which is exceptionally high in polyphenols while visiting with loved ones. It is important to note the health benefits of this particular drink and the socialization aspect of this practice. This may be more influential to well-being than the alcohol itself.

Belong. In all of the Blue Zones, people identify with some sort of faith-based community. While denomination doesn’t seem to matter, research shows that attending faith-based services once per week will add 4-14 years of life expectancy.

Loved Ones First. Being around family and close friends is incredibly important. Not only because of the socialization aspect, but because these close connections build relationships that foster trust, support, and stability.

Right Tribe. As the saying goes, “You become who you surround yourself with” is proven to be true. Studies show that smoking, obesity, happiness, and even loneliness are contagious. In Japan, the Okinawans have “moais” – groups of five friends who are committed to each other for life. People of the Blue Zones have favorable social networks that support healthy behaviors, and this creates an environment of healthy living.

So, there you have it; the most influential practices from the world's healthiest people. 

If you’re anything like me, you are fascinated by the research, but you are also puzzled by the reality of practicing the Power 9 in the U.S. 

Dan Buettner explains, “The secret to longevity, as I see it, has less to do with diet, or even exercise, and more to do with the environment in which a person lives: social and physical. What do I mean by this? They live rewardingly inconvenient lives.” I encourage you to read the Blue Zones Solution book or watch the new Netflix series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones to learn more.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Have you heard of the Blue Zones? If you are familiar with these five places on Earth, you may know the secrets of the longest-lived people on the planet. Although these populations tend to live well into their 100s, the amazing part of their aging process is not the number of years they live but the quality of life they maintain. In fact, most of these people are still active well into their 90s. So, what is their secret?The Power 9 Rule, coined by Dan Buettner, describes the common traits of Blue Zone practices that empower people of these regions to live long, healthy lives.Move naturally. Contradictory to modern exercise and diet culture, people within the Blue Zones don’t go to the gym, run marathons, or do CrossFit. Their everyday lifestyles avoid mechanical conveniences that nudge them into moving naturally throughout the day. Walking is the basis of their active lifestyles. Walking to the store, a friend’s house, or work is the norm. People garden and do physical labor on a daily basis.The key here is that regular, low- moderate intensity activity is achieved daily. This keeps their cardiovascular systems strong while strengthening muscles without overusing joints, tendons, and ligaments.Know your purpose. People in Blue Zones have a purpose for their lives. Every task completed throughout the day is done mindfully and with intention. Okinawans call this sense of purpose “ikigai” and Nicoyans name it “plan de Vida.” Both translate to “why I wake up in the morning.” Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of life expectancy.Downshift. Stress is a major contributor to disease. It is directly linked to chronic inflammation that is associated with every major age-related disease. People of the Blue Zones have stress relief practices naturally built into their day. Adventists pray, Sardinians do a happy hour, and Greeks take an afternoon nap.The 80% Rule. This Power 9 practice is directly related to healthy weight management. “Hara hachi bu” is the mantra said before meals to remind Okinawans to stop eating when they are 80% full. The science behind this indicates that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to realize that the stomach is full. This small gap could be the difference between gaining or losing weight.Plant Slant. Most of us know that the food we consume is the foundation of well-being. This is one reason why people of the Blue Zones maintain health so effortlessly. What they consume is plant-based, unprocessed, and grown naturally. Common foods include an array of vegetables and omega-3-rich nuts. Beans are their main protein source along with moderate amounts of fatty fish. On the other hand, meat is a celebratory food that is eaten about five times per month.Wine at Five. You may be surprised that a ritual happy hour is part of Power 9. As a regular part of their day, Sardinians drink red Cannanou wine which is exceptionally high in polyphenols while visiting with loved ones. It is important to note the health benefits of this particular drink and the socialization aspect of this practice. This may be more influential to well-being than the alcohol itself.Belong. In all of the Blue Zones, people identify with some sort of faith-based community. While denomination doesn’t seem to matter, research shows that attending faith-based services once per week will add 4-14 years of life expectancy.Loved Ones First. Being around family and close friends is incredibly important. Not only because of the socialization aspect, but because these close connections build relationships that foster trust, support, and stability.Right Tribe. As the saying goes, “You become who you surround yourself with” is proven to be true. Studies show that smoking, obesity, happiness, and even loneliness are contagious. In Japan, the Okinawans have “moais” – groups of five friends who are committed to each other for life. People of the Blue Zones have favorable social networks that support healthy behaviors, and this creates an environment of healthy living.So, there you have it; the most influential practices from the world's healthiest people. If you’re anything like me, you are fascinated by the research, but you are also puzzled by the reality of practicing the Power 9 in the U.S. Dan Buettner explains, “The secret to longevity, as I see it, has less to do with diet, or even exercise, and more to do with the environment in which a person lives: social and physical. What do I mean by this? They live rewardingly inconvenient lives.” I encourage you to read the Blue Zones Solution book or watch the new Netflix series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones to learn more.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Blue Zones Power 9

The 2024 legislative session began on Monday, January 8. The first week of session is usually ceremonial in nature with the State of the State and State of the Judiciary addresses before joint sessions of the legislature.

This year was slightly different as the Senate took up an important resolution that dealt with the horrific terrorist attacks that occurred in October. It was crucial for the Senate to speak clearly and without equivocation on such an important issue that impacts every single one of us. The resolution, SR 1729, makes it clear that the Kansas Senate unequivocally supports Israel’s right to exist, defend itself, and protect its citizens from terrorism and harm. We condemn the unprovoked attacks on the State of Israel, demand the unconditional safe return of hostages, and reject all forms of antisemitism, including threats against Jewish people and institutions, some of which have occurred in Kansas. This resolution passed the Senate 34-6 condemning the October 7, 2023, attacks on the State of Israel and reaffirming Kansas’ support and cooperation with the State of Israel.

Chief Justice Marla Luckett delivered the State of the Judiciary speech on Wednesday before a joint session of the legislature. Chief Justice Luckett discussed how a Russian-based ransomware group infiltrated the computer systems of the Kansas Judicial Branch on October 12, 2023. While she indicated the scope and source of the attack was not immediately apparent, they later learned that critical servers housed in the Kansas Judicial Center were inaccessible. The attack ultimately forced the shutdown of the e-filing system used by attorneys to file documents in cases. The attack also impacted case management systems that the district and appellate courts use to process cases.

On Wednesday evening, Governor Laura Kelly delivered her annual State of the State address. The governor devoted a large portion of her speech to promises about tax relief to the people of Kansas, when her veto is the very reason that taxpayers aren’t enjoying that relief today. Because of the veto, Kansas taxpayers are not receiving a reduction on their income tax, the state sales tax on food would have been eliminated and retirees would no longer be paying income tax on their Social Security benefits. These ideas are not new; we have been trying to pass these for years.

The Kansas House and Senate have both overwhelmingly passed bipartisan tax relief HB2284 and are now sending it to Governor Kelly’s desk for her to sign. 

Here is a brief explanation of the tax relief bill:

* It is a tax break for all Kansans, especially those who have been struggling to make ends meet. * Over 300,000 lower income Kansans will see their income tax eliminated. * Seniors receiving social security will see their income tax eliminated on their social security income. * All state sales tax on groceries will be eliminated. * Homeowners with homes under $100,000 will have their property tax eliminated from the states 20 mill levy. * All Kansas residential property will see an increased exemption from about $43,000 to $100,000, providing additional property&nbsp;tax relief. * This bill will also increase the personal exemption that hasn’t been changed in nearly thirty years.

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, or March 11.

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, stop by my office at 545-S.

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

Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Hays Post/Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Hays Post/Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>January 23, 2024The 2024 legislative session began on Monday, January 8. The first week of session is usually ceremonial in nature with the State of the State and State of the Judiciary addresses before joint sessions of the legislature.This year was slightly different as the Senate took up an important resolution that dealt with the horrific terrorist attacks that occurred in October. It was crucial for the Senate to speak clearly and without equivocation on such an important issue that impacts every single one of us. The resolution, SR 1729, makes it clear that the Kansas Senate unequivocally supports Israel’s right to exist, defend itself, and protect its citizens from terrorism and harm. We condemn the unprovoked attacks on the State of Israel, demand the unconditional safe return of hostages, and reject all forms of antisemitism, including threats against Jewish people and institutions, some of which have occurred in Kansas. This resolution passed the Senate 34-6 condemning the October 7, 2023, attacks on the State of Israel and reaffirming Kansas’ support and cooperation with the State of Israel.Chief Justice Marla Luckett delivered the State of the Judiciary speech on Wednesday before a joint session of the legislature. Chief Justice Luckett discussed how a Russian-based ransomware group infiltrated the computer systems of the Kansas Judicial Branch on October 12, 2023. While she indicated the scope and source of the attack was not immediately apparent, they later learned that critical servers housed in the Kansas Judicial Center were inaccessible. The attack ultimately forced the shutdown of the e-filing system used by attorneys to file documents in cases. The attack also impacted case management systems that the district and appellate courts use to process cases.On Wednesday evening, Governor Laura Kelly delivered her annual State of the State address. The governor devoted a large portion of her speech to promises about tax relief to the people of Kansas, when her veto is the very reason that taxpayers aren’t enjoying that relief today. Because of the veto, Kansas taxpayers are not receiving a reduction on their income tax, the state sales tax on food would have been eliminated and retirees would no longer be paying income tax on their Social Security benefits. These ideas are not new; we have been trying to pass these for years.The Kansas House and Senate have both overwhelmingly passed bipartisan tax relief HB2284 and are now sending it to Governor Kelly’s desk for her to sign. Here is a brief explanation of the tax relief bill:* It is a tax break for all Kansans, especially those who have been struggling to make ends meet. * Over 300,000 lower income Kansans will see their income tax eliminated. * Seniors receiving social security will see their income tax eliminated on their social security income. * All state sales tax on groceries will be eliminated. * Homeowners with homes under $100,000 will have their property tax eliminated from the states 20 mill levy. * All Kansas residential property will see an increased exemption from about $43,000 to $100,000, providing additional property&nbsp;tax relief. * This bill will also increase the personal exemption that hasn’t been changed in nearly thirty years.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, or March 11.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, stop by my office at 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

BILLINGER:  Senate Update, Jan. 23

TOPEKA–Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced the Kansas Insurance Department recovered more than $16 million for
Kansans in 2023, the largest single-year recovery in Department history. This
new record goes beyond the previous
year’s recovery total of $7.6 million. The Department’s Consumer Assistance
Division has recovered over $35 million for Kansans since Commissioner Schmidt
first took office in 2019.

“The insurance claims
process can be complicated for many – if you are having
an issue, I want to hear from you,” said Schmidt.
“I am proud of the work the Consumer Assistance Division has done to ensure that Kansans are getting the full benefits
from their policies.”

Funds considered “recovered” are calculated when Department staff assists
individuals in need of support
during their insurance
claims process. If a dispute
arises between a policyholder and an insurance company, regardless of the type of insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department investigates the complaint.
Department staff work with the consumer and the company to ensure the
insurance policy is followed and benefits are paid
accordingly.

A county-by-county breakdown of the
recoveries can be found here: <a href="https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9">https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9.</a>

If you or someone you know is having trouble
with an insurance
claim, please contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division
toll-free at 1-800- 432-2484, email <a href="mailto:KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov">KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov</a> or visit the Department online
at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a> for any claims-related questions or concerns.

TOPEKA–Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced the Kansas Insurance Department recovered more than $16 million for
Kansans in 2023, the largest single-year recovery in Department history. This
new record goes beyond the previous
year’s recovery total of $7.6 million. The Department’s Consumer Assistance
Division has recovered over $35 million for Kansans since Commissioner Schmidt
first took office in 2019.“The insurance claims
process can be complicated for many – if you are having
an issue, I want to hear from you,” said Schmidt.
“I am proud of the work the Consumer Assistance Division has done to ensure that Kansans are getting the full benefits
from their policies.”Funds considered “recovered” are calculated when Department staff assists
individuals in need of support
during their insurance
claims process. If a dispute
arises between a policyholder and an insurance company, regardless of the type of insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department investigates the complaint.
Department staff work with the consumer and the company to ensure the
insurance policy is followed and benefits are paid
accordingly.A county-by-county breakdown of the
recoveries can be found here: <a href="https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9">https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9.</a>If you or someone you know is having trouble
with an insurance
claim, please contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division
toll-free at 1-800- 432-2484, email <a href="mailto:KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov">KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov</a> or visit the Department online
at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a> for any claims-related questions or concerns.

Insurance Department recovers over $16 million for Kansas policyholders

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705948716659.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>

Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators

Wichita, Kan.- Agricultural Education teachers from across Kansas met at the Wichita Marriott in Wichita, Kansas for the Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators Ag Ed Symposium on January 18th through 20th. While there, teachers attended educational sessions, went on industry tours, networked with colleagues from across the state, held business sessions, and recognized award winners.

The conference is an annual conference that rotates across the state and is held each January. The symposium was led by KAAE Leadership including Dr. Kelly Hoelting, President; Jacob Larison, Past-President; Kasie Bogart, President-Elect; Carmelita Goossen, Executive Secretary; Jed Strnad, Executive Treasurer; Laura Bina, Membership Coordinator, and Lacie Harshbarger, Inservice Coordinator.

During the conference, Hays High School Agricultural Education instructor Nikole Winter was recognized as the winner of the KAAE Teachers Turn the Key Award. This award is for those teachers in their second, third, and fourth years. As the recipient of this award, Winter will receive a scholarship to attend the 2024 National Association of Agricultural Educators Convention and participate in the Teachers Turn the Key program with the other state winners.

“In her 4th year teaching at HHS, Mrs. Winter could easily pass for a seasoned veteran teacher,” commented Becky Hickert, CTE Coordinator and Assistant Principal of Hays High School. “She eagerly pursues professional development, which in turn supports student learning and success in high school and beyond. Hays High School has a long-standing tradition of a strong Agriculture Education Program, and these prestigious awards would affirm Mrs. Winter’s service to our community as an outstanding educator as she continues to build upon that strong foundation of success.”

“The Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators Ag Ed Symposium is the premier professional development conference for our KAAE members. The leadership team worked together to provide a conference with growth, collaboration, empowerment, and education for our teachers. With record attendance at the event, I am proud of the continued growth of the conference,” remarked Dr. Kelly Hoelting, KAAE President. “The three day conference helps to rejuvenate and cultivate a community where Agricultural Educators thrive, ensuring a robust future for Kansas Agricultural Education.”

The Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators is an organization of teachers of agriculture at the high school, postsecondary, and adult levels who seek to advance agricultural education in Kansas. The KAAE strives to provide leadership opportunities, service, and advocacy for its members.

The KAAE is affiliated with the National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705948195657.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Association of Agricultural EducatorsWichita, Kan.- Agricultural Education teachers from across Kansas met at the Wichita Marriott in Wichita, Kansas for the Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators Ag Ed Symposium on January 18th through 20th. While there, teachers attended educational sessions, went on industry tours, networked with colleagues from across the state, held business sessions, and recognized award winners.The conference is an annual conference that rotates across the state and is held each January. The symposium was led by KAAE Leadership including Dr. Kelly Hoelting, President; Jacob Larison, Past-President; Kasie Bogart, President-Elect; Carmelita Goossen, Executive Secretary; Jed Strnad, Executive Treasurer; Laura Bina, Membership Coordinator, and Lacie Harshbarger, Inservice Coordinator.During the conference, Hays High School Agricultural Education instructor Nikole Winter was recognized as the winner of the KAAE Teachers Turn the Key Award. This award is for those teachers in their second, third, and fourth years. As the recipient of this award, Winter will receive a scholarship to attend the 2024 National Association of Agricultural Educators Convention and participate in the Teachers Turn the Key program with the other state winners.“In her 4th year teaching at HHS, Mrs. Winter could easily pass for a seasoned veteran teacher,” commented Becky Hickert, CTE Coordinator and Assistant Principal of Hays High School. “She eagerly pursues professional development, which in turn supports student learning and success in high school and beyond. Hays High School has a long-standing tradition of a strong Agriculture Education Program, and these prestigious awards would affirm Mrs. Winter’s service to our community as an outstanding educator as she continues to build upon that strong foundation of success.”“The Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators Ag Ed Symposium is the premier professional development conference for our KAAE members. The leadership team worked together to provide a conference with growth, collaboration, empowerment, and education for our teachers. With record attendance at the event, I am proud of the continued growth of the conference,” remarked Dr. Kelly Hoelting, KAAE President. “The three day conference helps to rejuvenate and cultivate a community where Agricultural Educators thrive, ensuring a robust future for Kansas Agricultural Education.”The Kansas Association of Agricultural Educators is an organization of teachers of agriculture at the high school, postsecondary, and adult levels who seek to advance agricultural education in Kansas. The KAAE strives to provide leadership opportunities, service, and advocacy for its members.The KAAE is affiliated with the National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE).

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