On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the economic impact of Medicaid expansion in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses benefits of Medicaid expansion" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:450px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=86etq-15e00db-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=450" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the economic impact of Medicaid expansion in Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses benefits of Medicaid expansion

By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

Although Kansas is not known for its mushroom hunting, morel mushrooms can be found here, and rain expected for this week followed by warm spring days should bring them out. Now, I’m not an avid or seasoned morel hunter, and the likelihood of me finding a morel mushroom is probably about the same as finding a transgender Sumo wrestler, but I remember a trip I took several springs ago with a local morel hunting legend.

When I started this adventure, I was aware that dyed-in-the-wool mushroom hunters would just as soon give away their favorite deer stand or rat out their own mother as they would divulge their mushroom honey-holes, so I wasn’t surprised when my host for that evening insisted on anonymity for both himself and our location. My choices were simple; forget who he was and where we were, or ride blindfolded in the trunk of his car. Since I hate blindfolds and the trunk of his car was the bed of his old pickup, I choose the former. I will tell you, however, that we were somewhere south of Nebraska.

We parked and walked up a rutted sandy drive that wound through acres of every kind of cover imaginable, from dry knee-high grass and 3-foot dogwoods to 60-foot cottonwoods and everything between. The common denominator was leaf litter which covered every inch of soil. My host, whom I’ll dub “Hawkeye” for reasons that will become apparent, began to school me in “Morel Mushrooms 101.” As for location, the sandier the soil and the sunnier the spot the better. It seems morels like the soil damp but not too wet. They often prefer somewhat open areas, but not always. We found some of ours in dense cover, often crawling around on our hands and knees. In other words, conditions have to be just right and only the mushrooms can determine that. He ended this part of the class with the prophetic statement “You just find them where you find them,” adding that morels can often be found in the same spots year after year.

We stepped off the drive and headed toward a spot in the woods where “Hawkeye” had found mushrooms in the past. He had hunted deer in this area for over 30 years and knew the terrain like the back of his hand. He found the spot, but no mushrooms. As we walked on, we began to discuss the finer points of morel mushroom reproduction. Morels reproduce from spores which are scattered and distributed mostly by the wind, and no, the old wives tale suggesting they grow totally overnight is not true. My research found they can grow from spore to fully grown in a very few days, depending on conditions, but not merely overnight. “Hawkeye” said he had learned to look along fence lines and tree rows that run in such a direction as to catch the prevailing wind, evidently capturing and holding the wind-borne spores. Since morel reproduction is so “iffy,” God designed their spongy body purposely to hold the maximum number of spores for dispersion.

We had walked only a short distance farther when “Hawkeye” stopped and pointed 30 feet or so ahead of us. “There’s some,” he stated rather matter-of-factly, (I was doing good to see the ground that far away) and sure enough, in a small clearing ahead, several small Morel Mushrooms pointed skyward. We cut them off just above the ground and moved on. Awhile latter I found him staring intently into a small open spot several feet ahead beneath a tangle of vines. “You should find five in there before you’re through” he

stated before walking on. On hands and knees, I crawled under the vines, knowing “Hawkeye” was toying with me…Having added the 5 mushrooms to my bag I crawled out the other side with new found respect for both his eyesight and sincerity! We ended the evening with 2 nice “messes” of fresh spring morel mushrooms.

As a novice to both harvesting and preparing morels, I’ll tell you what works well for my host. They need to be soaked in salt water for awhile to help clean them and rid them of pests, but just before you’re ready to prepare them, as they will get soggy. Soak them just long enough to do the job, say 30 minutes. After cleaning and soaking, slice each one lengthways into thirds (or quarters if large enough) them dredge each piece in a mixture of egg and milk, roll them in flour or your favorite coating and fry them in butter or oil like fish until golden brown.

Each time I write about another crop to harvest from the Kansas outdoors, I think I’ve seen them all, but each time, I find I’ve merely scratched the surface! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsAlthough Kansas is not known for its mushroom hunting, morel mushrooms can be found here, and rain expected for this week followed by warm spring days should bring them out. Now, I’m not an avid or seasoned morel hunter, and the likelihood of me finding a morel mushroom is probably about the same as finding a transgender Sumo wrestler, but I remember a trip I took several springs ago with a local morel hunting legend.When I started this adventure, I was aware that dyed-in-the-wool mushroom hunters would just as soon give away their favorite deer stand or rat out their own mother as they would divulge their mushroom honey-holes, so I wasn’t surprised when my host for that evening insisted on anonymity for both himself and our location. My choices were simple; forget who he was and where we were, or ride blindfolded in the trunk of his car. Since I hate blindfolds and the trunk of his car was the bed of his old pickup, I choose the former. I will tell you, however, that we were somewhere south of Nebraska.We parked and walked up a rutted sandy drive that wound through acres of every kind of cover imaginable, from dry knee-high grass and 3-foot dogwoods to 60-foot cottonwoods and everything between. The common denominator was leaf litter which covered every inch of soil. My host, whom I’ll dub “Hawkeye” for reasons that will become apparent, began to school me in “Morel Mushrooms 101.” As for location, the sandier the soil and the sunnier the spot the better. It seems morels like the soil damp but not too wet. They often prefer somewhat open areas, but not always. We found some of ours in dense cover, often crawling around on our hands and knees. In other words, conditions have to be just right and only the mushrooms can determine that. He ended this part of the class with the prophetic statement “You just find them where you find them,” adding that morels can often be found in the same spots year after year.We stepped off the drive and headed toward a spot in the woods where “Hawkeye” had found mushrooms in the past. He had hunted deer in this area for over 30 years and knew the terrain like the back of his hand. He found the spot, but no mushrooms. As we walked on, we began to discuss the finer points of morel mushroom reproduction. Morels reproduce from spores which are scattered and distributed mostly by the wind, and no, the old wives tale suggesting they grow totally overnight is not true. My research found they can grow from spore to fully grown in a very few days, depending on conditions, but not merely overnight. “Hawkeye” said he had learned to look along fence lines and tree rows that run in such a direction as to catch the prevailing wind, evidently capturing and holding the wind-borne spores. Since morel reproduction is so “iffy,” God designed their spongy body purposely to hold the maximum number of spores for dispersion.We had walked only a short distance farther when “Hawkeye” stopped and pointed 30 feet or so ahead of us. “There’s some,” he stated rather matter-of-factly, (I was doing good to see the ground that far away) and sure enough, in a small clearing ahead, several small Morel Mushrooms pointed skyward. We cut them off just above the ground and moved on. Awhile latter I found him staring intently into a small open spot several feet ahead beneath a tangle of vines. “You should find five in there before you’re through” hestated before walking on. On hands and knees, I crawled under the vines, knowing “Hawkeye” was toying with me…Having added the 5 mushrooms to my bag I crawled out the other side with new found respect for both his eyesight and sincerity! We ended the evening with 2 nice “messes” of fresh spring morel mushrooms.As a novice to both harvesting and preparing morels, I’ll tell you what works well for my host. They need to be soaked in salt water for awhile to help clean them and rid them of pests, but just before you’re ready to prepare them, as they will get soggy. Soak them just long enough to do the job, say 30 minutes. After cleaning and soaking, slice each one lengthways into thirds (or quarters if large enough) them dredge each piece in a mixture of egg and milk, roll them in flour or your favorite coating and fry them in butter or oil like fish until golden brown.Each time I write about another crop to harvest from the Kansas outdoors, I think I’ve seen them all, but each time, I find I’ve merely scratched the surface! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

GILLILAND: The Morel of the Story

BUNKER HILL, KS – Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that they will bring Clifford The Big Red Dog to the Hays ARC Park on Saturday, April 27th from 9 AM to 11 AM.&nbsp; Our friends from the Hays Police Department, Hays Fire Department, Hays EMS, Sternberg Museum, and the Hays Public Library will also have free activities for the kids.&nbsp;

The Family Fun Day event gives kids a chance to meet Clifford The Big Red Dog in person and take pictures with him. The first 500 kids that come to meet Clifford will receive a FREE gift from Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;

“We’re thrilled to announce that Clifford The Big Red Dog will be making a special appearance at the Hays ARC Park,” said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “This is an exciting opportunity for families to meet Clifford in person, capture memories with photos, and enjoy a day filled with fun activities!”

Family Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.

SubmittedBUNKER HILL, KS – Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that they will bring Clifford The Big Red Dog to the Hays ARC Park on Saturday, April 27th from 9 AM to 11 AM.&nbsp; Our friends from the Hays Police Department, Hays Fire Department, Hays EMS, Sternberg Museum, and the Hays Public Library will also have free activities for the kids.&nbsp;The Family Fun Day event gives kids a chance to meet Clifford The Big Red Dog in person and take pictures with him. The first 500 kids that come to meet Clifford will receive a FREE gift from Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;“We’re thrilled to announce that Clifford The Big Red Dog will be making a special appearance at the Hays ARC Park,” said Haley Gagnon, event coordinator for Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “This is an exciting opportunity for families to meet Clifford in person, capture memories with photos, and enjoy a day filled with fun activities!”Family Fun Day is an educational and entertaining event that Smoky Hills PBS puts on approximately 4 times a year across Central and Western Kansas.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS brings a special PBS character to visit and FREE books and educational gifts are distributed to those children in attendance.

Clifford The Big Red Dog and Smoky Hills PBS are coming to Hays

First Responder Appreciation event planned

Corrected: April 15 for events on ESU campus.

By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight Kansas

For the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.

The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.

What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; 

I was not aware of any campus sponsored eclipse watching events, except for small performance by some music students on another part of campus.&nbsp; I later learned that the School of Science and Mathematics did indeed host such events but I was not aware of them at the time.

&nbsp;Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;

These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;

This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Corrected: April 15 for events on ESU campus.By MICHAEL A. SMITH Insight KansasFor the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; I was not aware of any campus sponsored eclipse watching events, except for small performance by some music students on another part of campus.&nbsp; I later learned that the School of Science and Mathematics did indeed host such events but I was not aware of them at the time.&nbsp;Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Eclipse watch parties show how campus has changed

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713040190752.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

KBI: Silver Alert canceled, Kan. woman found safe

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kensington public water supply system located in Smith 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;

Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Kensington indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-476-2668 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTMuOTMzMTQ2MjEifQ.VrqZMbtoARBRTGdn7yZLaikZ9qck2zvZp-0AgfyepMk/s/1305913623/br/240696669284-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706371129693.jpeg" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kensington public water supply system located in Smith 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;Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Kensington indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-476-2668 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTMuOTMzMTQ2MjEifQ.VrqZMbtoARBRTGdn7yZLaikZ9qck2zvZp-0AgfyepMk/s/1305913623/br/240696669284-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

Boil Water Advisory rescinded for Kensington in Smith County

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

"I learn something new every time I attend one of these," said Sandy Jacobs, Hays vice-mayor.

Jacobs was among about 25 community leaders who participated in Tuesday afternoon's "Community Cruise."&nbsp;

The event, sponsored by the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Chamber in Hays, Downtown Hays Development Corporation, and Grow Hays, started with a lunch meeting followed by a bus tour of the community to learn about updates on ongoing major projects.

Attendees included Hays city and Ellis County commissioners, along with staff, Hays USD 489 board members and staff, and representatives of Fort Hays State University, NCK Technical College, and Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr./Sr. High School.

The tour started at Fort Hays State University, with Jason Williby,&nbsp; president/CEO of the FHSU Foundation, talking about the upcoming $28 million <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fd9dbf04-469f-43e8-ae0c-32e6179ff044">renovation of Forsyth Library</a>,&nbsp;which was built in 1967. Work will start this summer.

"It's going to look a lot the same from the outside, but the inside will be completely remodeled," Williby said.&nbsp;

Plans are also underway for the $11.5 million <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b18b93-2254-4d50-b590-c6011cba4e6a">Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex</a>, a 20,000-square-foot, two-story building to be constructed just beyond the south end zone of Lewis Field. Athletics donors are funding it.&nbsp;

"Our current locker room doesn't hold 130 people. We have 130 players. ... [Some of them] had to move their stuff out every Thursday afternoon during football season so TMP and Hays High could play there on Fridays," Williby said.&nbsp;

The tour went past the new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/086b27b6-fc06-490d-91ed-833bbf3e82cd">MicroFactory</a>, which celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting March 13. Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, said the&nbsp;30,000-square-foot facility is still awaiting its first tenant, "and we have some prospects."

Williams also talked about <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/574448d6-a9f0-4a11-94a0-966cef8d0a1b">housing projects in Hays </a>that are underway, or soon will be, including The Grove, north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive. It will be retiree-focused and include a new community center and child care facility.

The Tallgrass Addition in east Hays has been wildly successful with homes selling before they reach the market. 

"It's been a great project and continues to provide critical workforce housing for our community," Williams said.

The newest Kings Gate addition in northwest Hays has 22 lots, which were all quickly sold.&nbsp;

"This represents the last of the lots in the northwest part of town," Williams said. "We're at a point where we have a real need for lots in the northwest area without a plan for moving forward for how we're going to make that happen, so that needs to happen.

"Housing prices are remaining strong, but Hays is not keeping up with demand," he said.

A developer is looking at building "shouses" — a shed/house combination — west of Kings Gate where the former landfill was located, Williams said.

"I'm told KDHE says there shouldn't be any problems there," he said.

Downtown Hays is also seeing an increase in housing with the growing popularity of lofts, said Julie Rider, Downtown Hays Development Corporation executive director.

"The former bank building at 12th and Main is undergoing renovation now to become two lofts," Ryder said.&nbsp;

Construction of the new Hays High School is underway, said Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services. 

Bus passengers could see the "one wall and a lot of dirt" on the site east of the existing high school, which will be remodeled as the new middle school.

Hipp joked about doing a test during last weekend's 50-mph wind gusts,&nbsp; and "the wall stood up. We're pretty confident the rest of it is going to be solid as well."

One of the school's wings and slab work are starting to be poured.

Students who are sophomores will experience their senior year in the new building beginning in fall 2026.&nbsp;

The facility, part of a <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/bond">$143.5 million bond issu</a>e, will be built for about 1,000 students and "can easily be flexed up for about 1,300 students," Hipp said.

Additional protected pedestrian crossing lanes will be installed on 13th Street, which will be widened between Anthony Drive and Commerce Parkway. The street work is a joint project of USD 489, the city of Hays and Ellis County.

Renovations are also underway at Roosevelt Elementary School, where classrooms and a gymnasium are being added.

"The primary purpose of the bond was adding instruction space," Hipp said.&nbsp;

Eric Burks, president of NCK Technical College, talked about the pending <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5683f384-1e67-481c-b399-4453e631f198">affiliation agreement</a> between NCK Tech in Hays and Beloit, Fort Hays State University, and Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, which is anticipated to launch in August.

"We've been working with Fort Hays State for years, and this is the next progression of that," Burks said. "We're really excited to work through that.

"We will become Fort Hays Tech North Central, so our name will change, and we'll change mascots and colors and all that."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f3c8f54-abcc-47d0-94dd-1add2a58ce3f">NCK Tech will still offer its same programs with enhancements in some areas</a>, including a new $6 million, 30,000-square-foot&nbsp; building on the main Hays campus-

"It will double the capacity of our carpentry, electricity, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and commercial driver's license programs," Burks said.

"We've had to put students on waiting lists for these programs, which generally means they go somewhere else."

The college's Big Creek Technical Training Center on south Main Street will be repurposed for its telecommunications program, which is housed in Victoria in a partnership with Nex-Tech.&nbsp;

Ellis County added more child care slots in 2023 than any other northwest Kansas county, said Wasinger of the Childcare Taskforce of Ellis County.

That included 12 in-home providers, six in-home group providers, and a new child care facility at HaysMed, overseen by Bright Minds Academy.

The northernmost point on the bus tour was the location of the new $6 million Ellis County Public Works building, which is under construction east of the landfill on 250th Avenue.

Neal Younger,&nbsp;second district county commissioner, said county employees hope to be in the building by December. It will include the Noxious Weed Department.&nbsp;

The county plans to sell the property on 280th Avenue where the current public works building sits.

Williams also talked about Interstate 70, Exit 157, in west Hays.

Infrastructure is in the northwest section, where a travel plaza has been proposed.

"We're a little behind schedule on that," Williams said.&nbsp;

"It is ready. In conversations with the owner, he continues to have discussions with potential truck stop operators. But at this point, nothing firm is in place yet."

In the northeast corner, between Doonan Truck and Highway&nbsp;183 bypass, is the 10-acre&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/359a5c5b-1815-4ddb-8320-e6d04d6f7159">future location of a Salina-based 24/7 Travel Plaza</a>.&nbsp;

Reconstruction has started on the exit bridge and the on- and off ramps.&nbsp;

The road to the Ellis County Fairgrounds from the bypass is being re-routed through the adjacent Enersys property.

"Lots and lots of activity going on out here," Williams said.&nbsp;

The city's third fire station, 1732 W. 41st St., has been built. An open house and ribbon cutting will be on April 22.&nbsp;

The new facility will become the fire department's new headquarters and will be fully staffed 24/7 along with the fire station at 601 Main, said Collin Bielser, deputy Hays city manager. It will also house the city's IT department.

At Thomas More Prep Marian, the addition of sixth graders to the junior high this academic year lines up well with other schools in Hays, said Chad Meitner, principal.

"They're leaving a building in fifth grade and going to a different building for sixth grade, regardless. That's worked out well for us," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meitner discussed the Catholic school's new creative learning building, which has just started construction adjacent to the main building.&nbsp;

"The creative learning building is going to expand our STEM opportunities as well as our vocational activities for kids getting ready for a career or college.

"We'll have some expanded things like welding, things we've never had before or haven't had in a very long time," Meitner said.

"We want it to be a space where not only the sciences, engineering and math can happen but also the arts."&nbsp;&nbsp;

There's a lot going on in Hays, Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said after the tour.

"Collaboration is an important part of it all and sharing what's happening in our community," Jacobs said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712937249820.jpeg" alt="Local community leaders toured major projects underway in Ellis County on April 9. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Local community leaders toured major projects underway in Ellis County on April 9. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"I learn something new every time I attend one of these," said Sandy Jacobs, Hays vice-mayor.Jacobs was among about 25 community leaders who participated in Tuesday afternoon's "Community Cruise."&nbsp;The event, sponsored by the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Chamber in Hays, Downtown Hays Development Corporation, and Grow Hays, started with a lunch meeting followed by a bus tour of the community to learn about updates on ongoing major projects.Attendees included Hays city and Ellis County commissioners, along with staff, Hays USD 489 board members and staff, and representatives of Fort Hays State University, NCK Technical College, and Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr./Sr. High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712764617880.jpeg" alt="Jason Williby, president/CEO of the Fort Hays State University Foundation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jason Williby, president/CEO of the Fort Hays State University Foundation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY</h2>The tour started at Fort Hays State University, with Jason Williby,&nbsp; president/CEO of the FHSU Foundation, talking about the upcoming $28 million <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fd9dbf04-469f-43e8-ae0c-32e6179ff044">renovation of Forsyth Library</a>,&nbsp;which was built in 1967. Work will start this summer."It's going to look a lot the same from the outside, but the inside will be completely remodeled," Williby said.&nbsp;Plans are also underway for the $11.5 million <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/08b18b93-2254-4d50-b590-c6011cba4e6a">Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex</a>, a 20,000-square-foot, two-story building to be constructed just beyond the south end zone of Lewis Field. Athletics donors are funding it.&nbsp;"Our current locker room doesn't hold 130 people. We have 130 players. ... [Some of them] had to move their stuff out every Thursday afternoon during football season so TMP and Hays High could play there on Fridays," Williby said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712767983291.jpeg" alt="Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, talks about the MicroFactory as Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, looks on. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, talks about the MicroFactory as Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, looks on. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>MICROFACTORY</h2>The tour went past the new <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/086b27b6-fc06-490d-91ed-833bbf3e82cd">MicroFactory</a>, which celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting March 13. Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director, said the&nbsp;30,000-square-foot facility is still awaiting its first tenant, "and we have some prospects."<h2>HOUSING</h2>Williams also talked about <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/574448d6-a9f0-4a11-94a0-966cef8d0a1b">housing projects in Hays </a>that are underway, or soon will be, including The Grove, north of Hays Medical Center on Canterbury Drive. It will be retiree-focused and include a new community center and child care facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712867819711.jpeg" alt="Jarrod Kuckelman, Hays management analyst, and Michael Berges, Ellis County commissioner First District, look at newly built homes in the Tallgrass Addition in east Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Jarrod Kuckelman, Hays management analyst, and Michael Berges, Ellis County commissioner First District, look at newly built homes in the Tallgrass Addition in east Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>The Tallgrass Addition in east Hays has been wildly successful with homes selling before they reach the market. "It's been a great project and continues to provide critical workforce housing for our community," Williams said.The newest Kings Gate addition in northwest Hays has 22 lots, which were all quickly sold.&nbsp;"This represents the last of the lots in the northwest part of town," Williams said. "We're at a point where we have a real need for lots in the northwest area without a plan for moving forward for how we're going to make that happen, so that needs to happen."Housing prices are remaining strong, but Hays is not keeping up with demand," he said.A developer is looking at building "shouses" — a shed/house combination — west of Kings Gate where the former landfill was located, Williams said."I'm told KDHE says there shouldn't be any problems there," he said.Downtown Hays is also seeing an increase in housing with the growing popularity of lofts, said Julie Rider, Downtown Hays Development Corporation executive director."The former bank building at 12th and Main is undergoing renovation now to become two lofts," Ryder said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712846789559.jpeg" alt="Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services. Photo by Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services. Photo by Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>USD 489 BOND ISSUE</h2>Construction of the new Hays High School is underway, said Chris Hipp, USD 489 assistant superintendent of business services. Bus passengers could see the "one wall and a lot of dirt" on the site east of the existing high school, which will be remodeled as the new middle school.Hipp joked about doing a test during last weekend's 50-mph wind gusts,&nbsp; and "the wall stood up. We're pretty confident the rest of it is going to be solid as well."One of the school's wings and slab work are starting to be poured.Students who are sophomores will experience their senior year in the new building beginning in fall 2026.&nbsp;The facility, part of a <a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/bond">$143.5 million bond issu</a>e, will be built for about 1,000 students and "can easily be flexed up for about 1,300 students," Hipp said.Additional protected pedestrian crossing lanes will be installed on 13th Street, which will be widened between Anthony Drive and Commerce Parkway. The street work is a joint project of USD 489, the city of Hays and Ellis County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712865114569.jpeg" alt="Roosevelt Elementary School renovations are to be completed by the end of the year. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Roosevelt Elementary School renovations are to be completed by the end of the year. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Renovations are also underway at Roosevelt Elementary School, where classrooms and a gymnasium are being added."The primary purpose of the bond was adding instruction space," Hipp said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712850821336.jpeg" alt="Eric Burks, president of NCK Technical College. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Eric Burks, president of NCK Technical College. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>NCK TECHNICAL COLLEGE</h2>Eric Burks, president of NCK Technical College, talked about the pending <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5683f384-1e67-481c-b399-4453e631f198">affiliation agreement</a> between NCK Tech in Hays and Beloit, Fort Hays State University, and Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, which is anticipated to launch in August."We've been working with Fort Hays State for years, and this is the next progression of that," Burks said. "We're really excited to work through that."We will become Fort Hays Tech North Central, so our name will change, and we'll change mascots and colors and all that."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f3c8f54-abcc-47d0-94dd-1add2a58ce3f">NCK Tech will still offer its same programs with enhancements in some areas</a>, including a new $6 million, 30,000-square-foot&nbsp; building on the main Hays campus-"It will double the capacity of our carpentry, electricity, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and commercial driver's license programs," Burks said."We've had to put students on waiting lists for these programs, which generally means they go somewhere else."The college's Big Creek Technical Training Center on south Main Street will be repurposed for its telecommunications program, which is housed in Victoria in a partnership with Nex-Tech.&nbsp;<h2>CHILD CARE</h2>Ellis County added more child care slots in 2023 than any other northwest Kansas county, said Wasinger of the Childcare Taskforce of Ellis County.That included 12 in-home providers, six in-home group providers, and a new child care facility at HaysMed, overseen by Bright Minds Academy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712852684731.jpeg" alt="Construction underway of the new Ellis County Public Works building at 1681 250th Ave. Photo by Becky Kiser&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Construction underway of the new Ellis County Public Works building at 1681 250th Ave. Photo by Becky Kiser&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>ELLIS COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING</h2>The northernmost point on the bus tour was the location of the new $6 million Ellis County Public Works building, which is under construction east of the landfill on 250th Avenue.Neal Younger,&nbsp;second district county commissioner, said county employees hope to be in the building by December. It will include the Noxious Weed Department.&nbsp;The county plans to sell the property on 280th Avenue where the current public works building sits.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712867474292.jpeg" alt="Interstate 70 Exit 157 on the west side of Hays is being reconstructed. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Interstate 70 Exit 157 on the west side of Hays is being reconstructed. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>I-70 EXIT 157</h2>Williams also talked about Interstate 70, Exit 157, in west Hays.Infrastructure is in the northwest section, where a travel plaza has been proposed."We're a little behind schedule on that," Williams said.&nbsp;"It is ready. In conversations with the owner, he continues to have discussions with potential truck stop operators. But at this point, nothing firm is in place yet."In the northeast corner, between Doonan Truck and Highway&nbsp;183 bypass, is the 10-acre&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/359a5c5b-1815-4ddb-8320-e6d04d6f7159">future location of a Salina-based 24/7 Travel Plaza</a>.&nbsp;Reconstruction has started on the exit bridge and the on- and off ramps.&nbsp;The road to the Ellis County Fairgrounds from the bypass is being re-routed through the adjacent Enersys property."Lots and lots of activity going on out here," Williams said.&nbsp;<h2>NORTHWEST HAYS FIRE STATION</h2>The city's third fire station, 1732 W. 41st St., has been built. An open house and ribbon cutting will be on April 22.&nbsp;The new facility will become the fire department's new headquarters and will be fully staffed 24/7 along with the fire station at 601 Main, said Collin Bielser, deputy Hays city manager. It will also house the city's IT department.<h2>TMP-MARIAN</h2>At Thomas More Prep Marian, the addition of sixth graders to the junior high this academic year lines up well with other schools in Hays, said Chad Meitner, principal."They're leaving a building in fifth grade and going to a different building for sixth grade, regardless. That's worked out well for us," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meitner discussed the Catholic school's new creative learning building, which has just started construction adjacent to the main building.&nbsp;"The creative learning building is going to expand our STEM opportunities as well as our vocational activities for kids getting ready for a career or college."We'll have some expanded things like welding, things we've never had before or haven't had in a very long time," Meitner said."We want it to be a space where not only the sciences, engineering and math can happen but also the arts."&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a lot going on in Hays, Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said after the tour."Collaboration is an important part of it all and sharing what's happening in our community," Jacobs said.&nbsp;

'Community Cruise' updates local officials on projects in Ellis County 

On April 3 through 5, 2024, over 1,600 high school and middle school students from across the state of Kansas converged at the Stormont Vail Events Center and the Hotel Topeka at City Center to compete in the state’s largest business student competition—The Kansas Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference. FBLA members from 99 different chapters vied for a chance to compete at this summer’s Future Business Leaders of American National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida on June 29 through July 2, 2024.

With 78 business and technology events, the top four winners in every event have the opportunity to move on to compete against some of the best business students in the nation and around the world. Whether it be competing in objective tests, interviews, public speaking events, presentations or problem-solving scenarios, the Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference brings excitement and energy to the participants and their advisers. Many students have been spending months preparing for their particular events.

Over 120 career professionals from around the state judged and evaluated the competitors to not only decide who qualified to represent Kansas at nationals, but to also help better the students who were competing in events. Also, of the 78 events that students participated in, at least 70 of them were sponsored by small town businesses, corporations, and individuals. These sponsorships will help to provide some of the firstplace event winners with finances to cover a portion of their registration costs to compete at the 2024 National Leadership Conference.

From the excitement of the Opening Session kick off where members presented their campaign speeches and skits, to the climax of the announcing of the event winners, FBLA members had two days of jam-packed activities. Also included in the festivities were campaign booths (and campaigning), college booths, a March of Dimes presentation that pertained to Prematurity Awareness, candidate caucusing, and an energized dance for all attendees.

TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference. Each member represented Thomas More Prep-Marian High School with Pride and Dignity that exemplified TMP-M’s commitment to academic and spiritual development. Below are the names of FBLA members who placed at the 2024 FBLA State Leadership Conference.

Mia Lang took 6th place in Client Services

Joey Mindrup and Evan Balthazor took 7th place in Marketing

Hyeongseo Emmett Choi was the State Champion in both Computer Problem Solving and in Cybersecurity

With this year’s national FBLA theme being “TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE”, there was no better representation of this theme than through the efforts of all the FBLA advisers across the State of Kansas. The Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference is solely run by the volunteer efforts of every Kansas FBLA adviser and a small group of Kansas FBLA Conference Committee members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712691346404.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn April 3 through 5, 2024, over 1,600 high school and middle school students from across the state of Kansas converged at the Stormont Vail Events Center and the Hotel Topeka at City Center to compete in the state’s largest business student competition—The Kansas Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference. FBLA members from 99 different chapters vied for a chance to compete at this summer’s Future Business Leaders of American National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida on June 29 through July 2, 2024.With 78 business and technology events, the top four winners in every event have the opportunity to move on to compete against some of the best business students in the nation and around the world. Whether it be competing in objective tests, interviews, public speaking events, presentations or problem-solving scenarios, the Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference brings excitement and energy to the participants and their advisers. Many students have been spending months preparing for their particular events.Over 120 career professionals from around the state judged and evaluated the competitors to not only decide who qualified to represent Kansas at nationals, but to also help better the students who were competing in events. Also, of the 78 events that students participated in, at least 70 of them were sponsored by small town businesses, corporations, and individuals. These sponsorships will help to provide some of the firstplace event winners with finances to cover a portion of their registration costs to compete at the 2024 National Leadership Conference.From the excitement of the Opening Session kick off where members presented their campaign speeches and skits, to the climax of the announcing of the event winners, FBLA members had two days of jam-packed activities. Also included in the festivities were campaign booths (and campaigning), college booths, a March of Dimes presentation that pertained to Prematurity Awareness, candidate caucusing, and an energized dance for all attendees.TMP-M FBLA had 20 members compete at this year’s state conference. Each member represented Thomas More Prep-Marian High School with Pride and Dignity that exemplified TMP-M’s commitment to academic and spiritual development. Below are the names of FBLA members who placed at the 2024 FBLA State Leadership Conference.Mia Lang took 6th place in Client ServicesJoey Mindrup and Evan Balthazor took 7th place in MarketingHyeongseo Emmett Choi was the State Champion in both Computer Problem Solving and in CybersecurityWith this year’s national FBLA theme being “TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE”, there was no better representation of this theme than through the efforts of all the FBLA advisers across the State of Kansas. The Kansas FBLA State Leadership Conference is solely run by the volunteer efforts of every Kansas FBLA adviser and a small group of Kansas FBLA Conference Committee members.

TMP-Marian students compete at 2023 Leadership Conference

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712857355515.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712857323642.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

American Pickers TV show to film in Kansas

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Did you know that approximately 666,500 youth up to 20 years old annually work on farms operated by persons other than their guardians? That 22,600 farm injuries occur to these youth each year, more than in any profession employing youth? And that 100 youth die each year in farming-related incidents.

In an effort to mitigate agricultural injuries and fatalities to young workers in agriculture. Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture (HOSTA) or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will be held at Hoxie Implement, 933 Oak Ave. Hoxie, Kansas. Many thanks to Outdoor Bank for providing the lunch and refreshments and to Thunder Linner Memorial Fund for helping sponsor the training manuals.

In a collaboration with businesses, state and county agencies. K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more. The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents, and in some instances even when working on the family farm.

Participants must complete some assignments before attending the training on the 27th. To obtain this information and to pay the $10 registration fee by Friday, April 19th. You will need to visit one of the following K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices – Twin Creeks 785-421-3411, Golden Prairie 785-673-4805, Phillips-Rooks 785-425-6851 and Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.

Some Extension Offices may provide transportation to the training, don’t delay and register by Friday, April 19th for the Tractor &amp; Farm Machinery Safety Course for youth 14 - 15 years of age to be held in Hoxie on Saturday, April 27th.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664468918962.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictDid you know that approximately 666,500 youth up to 20 years old annually work on farms operated by persons other than their guardians? That 22,600 farm injuries occur to these youth each year, more than in any profession employing youth? And that 100 youth die each year in farming-related incidents.In an effort to mitigate agricultural injuries and fatalities to young workers in agriculture. Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture (HOSTA) or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will be held at Hoxie Implement, 933 Oak Ave. Hoxie, Kansas. Many thanks to Outdoor Bank for providing the lunch and refreshments and to Thunder Linner Memorial Fund for helping sponsor the training manuals.In a collaboration with businesses, state and county agencies. K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more. The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents, and in some instances even when working on the family farm.Participants must complete some assignments before attending the training on the 27th. To obtain this information and to pay the $10 registration fee by Friday, April 19th. You will need to visit one of the following K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices – Twin Creeks 785-421-3411, Golden Prairie 785-673-4805, Phillips-Rooks 785-425-6851 and Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.Some Extension Offices may provide transportation to the training, don’t delay and register by Friday, April 19th for the Tractor &amp; Farm Machinery Safety Course for youth 14 - 15 years of age to be held in Hoxie on Saturday, April 27th.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

Agriculture safety training schedule for April 27 in Hoxie

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712947828531.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>

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Twenty-two teams from 15 Kansas schools will travel to Salina on Saturday with their sights set on winning a state title in the Kansas KidWind Challenge. To qualify for the event, each team placed first or second in their age division at one of six regional competitions held throughout the state. Saturday's competition will determine the top two teams in each age bracket that will represent Kansas in the World KidWind Challenge in Minneapolis, MN.

The state finals will be held at the Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe Ave in Salina beginning at 8 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. Area educators are encouraged to attend to find out more about KidWind and see the fun, excitement and learning firsthand. KidWind is gaining momentum across the state with 84 teams from 50 schools competing this year.

To prepare for the KidWind competition, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. Each team’s turbine will be put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.0 meters/second (6.7 miles/hour). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.

Teams participating in Saturday’s state finals are listed below:

KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

SubmittedTOPEKA&nbsp;– Twenty-two teams from 15 Kansas schools will travel to Salina on Saturday with their sights set on winning a state title in the Kansas KidWind Challenge. To qualify for the event, each team placed first or second in their age division at one of six regional competitions held throughout the state. Saturday's competition will determine the top two teams in each age bracket that will represent Kansas in the World KidWind Challenge in Minneapolis, MN.The state finals will be held at the Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe Ave in Salina beginning at 8 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. Area educators are encouraged to attend to find out more about KidWind and see the fun, excitement and learning firsthand. KidWind is gaining momentum across the state with 84 teams from 50 schools competing this year.To prepare for the KidWind competition, team members work together to design, build and test a wind turbine using the materials of their choice. Each team’s turbine will be put to the test in a 48" × 48" wind tunnel at a wind speed of approximately 3.0 meters/second (6.7 miles/hour). Scoring is based on turbine performance and efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation to judges where the team explains its design process.Teams participating in Saturday’s state finals are listed below:4th-8th&nbsp;Grade Division<ul>
 <li>Hutch STEM Blue – Allen STEM Magnet School – Hutchinson</li><li>Black Bears – Sterling Jr/Sr High School – Sterling</li><li>Beloit Breeze Club – Beloit Junior High School – Beloit</li><li>4 Wind Guys – Beloit Junior High School – Beloit</li><li>Team Sky Wings – McPherson Middle School – McPherson</li><li>Burlington Middle School – Burlington Middle School – Burlington</li><li>Wind Warriors – Kepley Middle School – Ulysses</li><li>Men in Black – Kepley Middle School – Ulysses</li><li>Neon Ninjas – Oakley Middle School – Oakley</li><li>Power Winders – Oakley Middle School – Oakley</li><li>Voyagers – Clear Creek Elementary School – Lenexa</li><li>Seriously Speedy Spinners – Mize Elementary School – Shawnee</li>
 </ul>9th-12th&nbsp;Grade Division<ul>
 <li>Cru Winds – Buhler High School – Buhler</li><li>White Chicks &amp; Deryn – Sterling Jr/Sr High – Sterling</li><li>Burlington Wind Company BLKT – Burlington High School – Burlington</li><li>Burlington Wind Company MICZA – Burlington High School – Burlington</li><li>The Rising Sun – Ulysses High School – Ulysses</li><li>Big Blue Sky – Dighton High School – Dighton</li><li>W-2 – Oakley High School – Oakley</li><li>Gentle Breeze – Oakley High School – Oakley</li><li>Wind Warriors Cordelius – Olathe West High School – Olathe</li><li>Olathe West – Olathe West High School – Olathe</li>
 </ul>KidWind is an Energy Education Event from the Kansas Corporation Commission and K-State Engineering Extension made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The goal is to help students learn key concepts around science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. The KidWind program actively engages students. It teaches not only STEM skills, but also promotes teamwork, problem solving and public speaking.

Kansas KidWind state finals planned for Saturday in Salina

WASHINGTON — With the April tax deadline arriving next week, the Internal Revenue Service today reminded millions of last-minute tax filers that the agency has a variety of free&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90b29scyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.iiG6EjFl8XtO4scO3_BxzLoVC4NyppC8vqnku1QTQxo/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">tools</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.8ktrHj4D2d2LKgIwYNXZ0PmE_ZT-A-UPg85DHyyri3g/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">resources</a>&nbsp;available on IRS.gov.

From tax preparation, answers to tax law questions, refund tracking, tax law research to business topics and more, IRS.gov has everything needed for taxpayers to file on time or get an easy, automatic six-month extension to file. The IRS also has&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vc3BlY2lhbC1zYXR1cmRheS1oZWxwLWF2YWlsYWJsZS1hcHJpbC0xMy1hdC03MC1pcnMtdGF4cGF5ZXItYXNzaXN0YW5jZS1jZW50ZXJzLW5hdGlvbndpZGUtbm8tYXBwb2ludG1lbnQtbmVlZGVkIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.KSuRFzI-FjnQxCJQoW-HsjArWLiqc6RTjlilXhYt4HQ/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">special Saturday hours</a>&nbsp;available at 70 Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country to help taxpayers.

“Millions of taxpayers across the nation will be working on their tax returns during the final hours, and people should remember they have many ways to get last-minute help,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “We have a variety of free tools on IRS.gov that can help with basic tax law questions, provide free filing options, update refund status and even provide ways to request an extension for more time to file. We’re continuing our expanded special assistance for taxpayers right through the final weekend of tax season with special Saturday hours at 70 locations.”

For most of the nation, the tax deadline is April 15. Taxpayers in Maine and Massachusetts have until April 17 to file and pay taxes due this year. This is because these states observe the Patriots’ Day holiday on April 15 this year and April 16 is the Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia. Other taxpayers in disaster areas, certain active-duty military members and citizens living abroad automatically get more time to file; more details are below.

For taxpayers who need an extension of time to file their taxes, there are&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2dldC1hbi1leHRlbnNpb24tdG8tZmlsZS15b3VyLXRheC1yZXR1cm4iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.7kBFxHjzP04IruPlwGgPdaYiXux6zLQTGzio-a53oV8/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">several options</a>&nbsp;to get an automatic extension through Oct. 15. Although an extension grants extra time to file, it does not extend the obligation to pay taxes due on April 15, 2024. To avoid penalties and late fees, taxpayers who owe should pay either their full tax bill or at least what they can afford to pay by the April 15 deadline.

The IRS estimates 19 million taxpayers will file for an automatic extension.

The IRS has already received more than 100 million tax returns, with tens of millions more expected to be filed as the tax deadline approaches.

“Delivering tax season is a massive undertaking, and we greatly appreciate people in many different areas working long hours to serve taxpayers as the tax deadline approaches,” Werfel added. “This effort reaches far beyond the IRS and includes hard-working tax professionals, software providers, the payroll community as well as our colleagues in the state tax agencies. Their work helping taxpayers makes a difference.”&nbsp;

For those needing last-minute help, taxpayers will find filing information for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.FG_C6lTqiKI4QuK0LmqbGZsyXqOd5bh2DPq14fnkqvs/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">individuals</a>&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3NlcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.yMaePBoA2zag5myjW-bdue1eS_miSM4_QS-KP2AvL7Q/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">businesses and self-employed</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov. For last-minute filers looking for free resources,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.bCKTJx7bGPyL84rEDdBcCyMIt3vhtPCCRss-RlwY6lU/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;remains an option as does&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.tyaWjybuS2_ZzMPd9X7nod92Vl-pRJ-kTps81b-GPQU/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">IRS Free File</a>. Anyone can use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2ZyZWUtZmlsZS1ldmVyeW9uZS1jYW4tZmlsZS1hbi1leHRlbnNpb24tZm9yLWZyZWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.6WLYdPKKk1HClorfWmm5kXrrLiy2BfUHoTnR_ox0itQ/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">IRS Free File to submit an extension</a>&nbsp;of time to file regardless of their income.

IRS.gov is an important resource that can help in a number of areas:

Go paperless&nbsp;The IRS encourages all taxpayers to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2UtZmlsZS1vcHRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.7ZzugV0S1D0FUdn0Du-trEti30x0GE7vfdF7gO_MMLU/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">file electronically</a>&nbsp;and choose&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcy9nZXQteW91ci1yZWZ1bmQtZmFzdGVyLXRlbGwtaXJzLXRvLWRpcmVjdC1kZXBvc2l0LXlvdXItcmVmdW5kLXRvLW9uZS10d28tb3ItdGhyZWUtYWNjb3VudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.CQiKkK8O84XvO96dvZ6jz-f3In_o_psBMBkCNqgX3Dw/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">direct deposit</a>&nbsp;to avoid refund delays. Filing on paper can significantly delay a refund. Tax software helps individuals steer clear of mistakes by doing the math. It also guides people through each section of their tax return using a question-and-answer format.

Some taxpayers get automatic extensions

Special rules offer some taxpayers more time without having to request an extension:

Find information on free local tax prep&nbsp;The IRS'&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvZnJlZS10YXgtcmV0dXJuLXByZXBhcmF0aW9uLWZvci1xdWFsaWZ5aW5nLXRheHBheWVycyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.W1UVob4T6qzANbCAq1tAmzfz-iQmNL5_0hco-FAZpUY/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)</a>&nbsp;program offers free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals, including:

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmFhcnAub3JnL21vbmV5L3RheGVzL2FhcnBfdGF4YWlkZS9sb2NhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.5aibNspYh4xY995ct2m-YsRSObLX5erNKCzZ2vKVr0c/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a>&nbsp;program also offers free tax help for taxpayers, particularly those age 60 and older.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9mcmVldGF4cHJlcC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.SOAQFthuylkOajgZv3kUZ8R_Co0PKfBujnZqSaYsoVk/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">VITA/TCE Site Locator</a>&nbsp;can help eligible taxpayers find the nearest community-based site staffed by IRS-trained and certified volunteers. Demand is high for this service, so taxpayers may experience longer wait times for appointments. Taxpayers can use the locator tool to find an available site near them. It’s updated throughout the tax season, so individuals should check back or increase the distance from their location in their search if they don't see a nearby site listed.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1pbGl0YXJ5b25lc291cmNlLm1pbC9maW5hbmNpYWwtbGVnYWwvdGF4LXJlc291cmNlLWNlbnRlci9taWx0YXgtbWlsaXRhcnktdGF4LXNlcnZpY2VzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.q5OlH1rxCebtpxKIr1XppILXlIhCoE1JHROgCr3KXm8/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">MilTax</a>, Military OneSource’s tax service, offers online software for eligible military members, veterans and their families to electronically file a federal return and up to three state returns for free.

Assistive technology options&nbsp;At the online&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9pbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1hYm91dC10aGUtYWx0ZXJuYXRpdmUtbWVkaWEtY2VudGVyIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.CuQmgIO_O7E1c4ylKlfUY7n0dmtnHCkjpHcmjRGeZoc/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Alternative Media Center</a>, taxpayers will find a variety of accessible products like screen reading software, refreshable Braille displays and screen magnifying software. These products include tax forms, instructions and publications. Many can be downloaded or viewed online as Section 508 compliant PDF, HTML, eBraille, text and large print.

Having trouble paying? IRS has options to help

For those who owe a payment with their tax return, the IRS has a number of&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuaXJzLmdvdi9wYXltZW50cyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.vEfugBy2C_cjjl2mU-PwWIdUqx_n1uGp420A2gcpAis/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">payment options</a>.

For taxpayers that are unable to pay in full by the tax deadline, the IRS recommends they should file their tax return and pay what they can, and apply for an&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9.AsTZHor6aTqmHmMM_mCrjbqjC21Dy4Gf9VsTpa329Do/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">online payment plan</a>. By filing by the deadline, taxpayers will avoid failure to file penalties and interest – even if they’re unable to pay. Taxpayers can explore various payments options; they can receive an immediate response of payment plan acceptance or denial without calling or writing to the IRS. Online payment plan options include:

Though interest and late-payment penalties continue to accrue on any unpaid taxes after April 15, the failure to pay penalty is cut in half while an installment agreement is in effect. Find more information about the costs of payment plans on the IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5bWVudC1wbGFucy1pbnN0YWxsbWVudC1hZ3JlZW1lbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQxMi45MzI2MDUyMSJ9._KYpaWuZuBH7dKp39YImMxoer2RZmQXaNhajUeZCzFs/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Additional information on payment plans</a>&nbsp;webpage.

Adjust withholding to prevent tax ‘surprises’&nbsp;Tax filing season is an excellent time for taxpayers to check their withholding to avoid a tax surprise when filing in 2025.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvbWFuYWdpbmcteW91ci10YXhlcy1hZnRlci1hLWxpZmUtZXZlbnQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEyLjkzMjYwNTIxIn0.QUtLOkkZBgpsS8CS9kXIyYhjNMw0Jultes1SKQ7xByk/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Life events</a>&nbsp;like marriage, divorce, having a child or an income change can all impact taxes.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvdGF4LXdpdGhob2xkaW5nLWVzdGltYXRvciIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.MjDBJQN0Pqfs1Wg6XXmHeQC3I5dwiWi1jby2xJWLCn8/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;helps people bring the tax they pay closer to what is owed. Employees can assess their income tax, credits, adjustments and deductions, and determine whether they need to change their withholding by submitting a new&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLXctNCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTIuOTMyNjA1MjEifQ.agN4ceNn3bkmbF-QtAbOyeZ8Nr0p01zFM0Zs8yDIYZs/s/1558083055/br/240633573176-l" target="_blank">Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate</a>&nbsp;to their employer, not the IRS.

IRS.gov offers last-minute filing tips, resources to help taxpayers who still need to file before April 15; special Saturday hours in 70 locations

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe..

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cbi3gCJDv0Q?si=e66NsstphQYH_QC0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe..

🎤Forward Ever: High Plains Mental Health director Craig Poe

The Kansas Legislature, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature State&nbsp;Representative Troy Waymaster&nbsp;(Dist. # 109 – Bunker Hill), and State Representative Ken Rahjes (Dist. #110 – Agra) on&nbsp;Friday, April 12 at 7 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues. During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;

Becky Kiser, News Reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2024 season of&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.

Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;

To find a list of legislators that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2024 season schedule.&nbsp;

The 2024 Kansas Legislature is made possible by a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712690727723.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Kansas Legislature, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature State&nbsp;Representative Troy Waymaster&nbsp;(Dist. # 109 – Bunker Hill), and State Representative Ken Rahjes (Dist. #110 – Agra) on&nbsp;Friday, April 12 at 7 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature&nbsp;is a program that takes place during the legislative session and gives the legislators and viewers the opportunity to discuss up-to-date issues. During the program, viewers can call 1-800-337-4788 with their legislative questions.&nbsp;Becky Kiser, News Reporter for Hays Post/Eagle Radio, has been named the moderator for the 2024 season of&nbsp;The Kansas Legislature.&nbsp; She will be joined by two or three legislators during each show.Streaming access is also available for each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel:&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS</a>.&nbsp;To find a list of legislators that might be on the show each week, go to our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;where you will find the 2024 season schedule.&nbsp;The 2024 Kansas Legislature is made possible by a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/">Docking Institute of Public Affairs</a>, Fort Hays State University.

This Week on The Kansas Legislature: Waymaster, Rahjes

Crews were back in northeast Ellis County this morning dealing with hot spots and rekindled fires from a fire that burned 1,700 acres and destroyed a structure Thursday.

Fire crews were in the area of Buckye and Cathedral roads as of about 11 this morning.

Ellis County Fire sent a press release about the fire Friday morning.

At about 11:31 a.m. Thursday, the Ellis County Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Codell Road and St. John St. Andrew for a grass fire. While responding and upon arrival, high wind speeds quickly started to spread the fire. 

Also due to the location and terrain additional Ellis County Fire Department units were dispatched to assist with the fire.

Mutual Aid was then requested several fire departments in Russell, Rooks, Trego, Lincoln, and Osborne Counties as well as the Hays Fire Department.

The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office assisted in traffic control. Ellis County EMS also was requested for assistance to check on a firefighter who was feeling ill, and then stayed on standby throughout the evening. Ellis County Public Works provided several water trucks, a fuel truck, several graders, and a couple supervisors to assist.

The Ellis County Rehabilitation Unit also responded to provide firefighters with food and water, and to help monitor firefighters’ health while on breaks.

At about 3:30 p.m., the Ellis County Commission Chair, Nathan Leiker approved a local emergency disaster to assist with the emergency management procedures allowing state resources to be requested.

The Kansas Forestry Service was also requested for assistance, who then led the communications efforts for arial operations from two air tankers. 

Both air tankers made 11 trips to drop water on the fire. The State Emergency Operations Center also dispatched the Mitchell County - North Central Kansas Wildfire Task Force.

Throughout the day, several local businesses and area farmers assisted the ECFD by bringing out loads of water to the water fill site, or used farm implements to help control the spread of the fire.

Thank you to Midland Marketing, Basgall Tank Service, Flatlander, Simpson Farm Enterprise, and others who assisted. Thanks also to Drieling Field Service for responding to the scene to service fire trucks and replace a tire on a fire engine. We apologize if we missed anyone.

A special thanks to Wendy’s and McDonalds for providing food to the firefighters. You would be surprised how well a couple warm McDouble’s goes over with the firefighters who have been working a fire all day. 

Thank you as well to those community members who showed up on scene and dropped off water and snacks to our firefighters.

All the Ellis County Fire Department responded to assist to include 18 fire apparatus and 60 firefighters. The fire was reported under control at about 6:30 p.m.; however the fire was not out.

Fire crews stayed on scene until about midnight continuing to put out hot spots and complete some back burning to protect perimeters. Fire crews will be on site on Friday to continue to monitor the area and put out any hots spots that are needed.

The fire was reported to have started from the use of an UTV in the area. The preliminary estimate is the fire burnt approximately 1,750 acres, was 4.5 miles long, and about 1/3 mile wide. One vacant structure was lost, and there were no reported injuries.

Hays PostCrews were back in northeast Ellis County this morning dealing with hot spots and rekindled fires from a fire that burned 1,700 acres and destroyed a structure Thursday.Fire crews were in the area of Buckye and Cathedral roads as of about 11 this morning.-----Ellis County Fire sent a press release about the fire Friday morning.At about 11:31 a.m. Thursday, the Ellis County Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Codell Road and St. John St. Andrew for a grass fire. While responding and upon arrival, high wind speeds quickly started to spread the fire. Also due to the location and terrain additional Ellis County Fire Department units were dispatched to assist with the fire.Mutual Aid was then requested several fire departments in Russell, Rooks, Trego, Lincoln, and Osborne Counties as well as the Hays Fire Department.The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office assisted in traffic control. Ellis County EMS also was requested for assistance to check on a firefighter who was feeling ill, and then stayed on standby throughout the evening. Ellis County Public Works provided several water trucks, a fuel truck, several graders, and a couple supervisors to assist.The Ellis County Rehabilitation Unit also responded to provide firefighters with food and water, and to help monitor firefighters’ health while on breaks.At about 3:30 p.m., the Ellis County Commission Chair, Nathan Leiker approved a local emergency disaster to assist with the emergency management procedures allowing state resources to be requested.The Kansas Forestry Service was also requested for assistance, who then led the communications efforts for arial operations from two air tankers. Both air tankers made 11 trips to drop water on the fire. The State Emergency Operations Center also dispatched the Mitchell County - North Central Kansas Wildfire Task Force.Throughout the day, several local businesses and area farmers assisted the ECFD by bringing out loads of water to the water fill site, or used farm implements to help control the spread of the fire.Thank you to Midland Marketing, Basgall Tank Service, Flatlander, Simpson Farm Enterprise, and others who assisted. Thanks also to Drieling Field Service for responding to the scene to service fire trucks and replace a tire on a fire engine. We apologize if we missed anyone.A special thanks to Wendy’s and McDonalds for providing food to the firefighters. You would be surprised how well a couple warm McDouble’s goes over with the firefighters who have been working a fire all day. Thank you as well to those community members who showed up on scene and dropped off water and snacks to our firefighters.All the Ellis County Fire Department responded to assist to include 18 fire apparatus and 60 firefighters. The fire was reported under control at about 6:30 p.m.; however the fire was not out.Fire crews stayed on scene until about midnight continuing to put out hot spots and complete some back burning to protect perimeters. Fire crews will be on site on Friday to continue to monitor the area and put out any hots spots that are needed.The fire was reported to have started from the use of an UTV in the area. The preliminary estimate is the fire burnt approximately 1,750 acres, was 4.5 miles long, and about 1/3 mile wide. One vacant structure was lost, and there were no reported injuries.