GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Friday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Jessica Leigh Summers, 42, Beach Bluff, Tennessee,&nbsp;was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the K216 Grinnell exit.

The driver closed her eyes and the semi swerved into the median.&nbsp; When she overcorrected the semi rolled onto the drivers side and came to rest in the median.

EMS transported&nbsp;Summers to the Gove County Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Friday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Jessica Leigh Summers, 42, Beach Bluff, Tennessee,&nbsp;was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the K216 Grinnell exit.The driver closed her eyes and the semi swerved into the median.&nbsp; When she overcorrected the semi rolled onto the drivers side and came to rest in the median.EMS transported&nbsp;Summers to the Gove County Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after she closed her eyes and semi overturned

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two different groups of Hays USD 489 students have conducted fundraisers for a staff member who lost her home in a recent explosion.

WeKan students have made burp rags and bookmarks, which are they selling to raise money for the staff member.

The suggested donation for the burp rags is $10 each and $10 for three bookmarks. Email WeKanCrew@gmail.com to place an order.

Students at Roosevelt Elementary School conducted a bake sale.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo different groups of Hays USD 489 students have conducted fundraisers for a staff member who lost her home in a recent explosion.WeKan students have made burp rags and bookmarks, which are they selling to raise money for the staff member.The suggested donation for the burp rags is $10 each and $10 for three bookmarks. Email WeKanCrew@gmail.com to place an order.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707508497402.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Students at Roosevelt Elementary School conducted a bake sale.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707508635950.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707508658800.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707508679017.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>

Students raise funds for Hays USD 489 member who lost home in explosion

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The first step in rebuilding the 21-year-old crosswind runway at Hays Regional Airport was approved by the city commission Thursday.

The FAA considers the project a high priority due to considerable deterioration.

FAA construction standards have changed considerably since the concrete runway was built in 2003, said Jamie Salter, airport director.&nbsp;

"Reconstruction of the 4-22 runway is necessary to address these issues and will also better serve our current and future anticipated aircraft fleet mix with the pavement weight bearing capacity increasing from 12,500 pounds to 30,000 pounds," she said. 

Commissioners approved an engineering contract with Lochner, Lenexa, for&nbsp;$485,300 to be funded from the airport improvement fund. The FAA will reimburse the city 90 percent of the project cost.

Construction, under a separate bidding process, is anticipated to be done in spring/summer 2025.

The commission also set Feb. 22 as the public hearing date for a proposed expansion of the Neighborhood Revitalization District. It would include structures built before 1980.&nbsp;

The plan provides a 10-year tax rebates to property owners who make improvements that raise the appraised value of residential or commercial properties, said Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst.&nbsp;

Chad Ruder, director of information technology, made a presentation of the city's updated GIS mapping system. New technology allows views as precise as a three-inch resolution as well as oblique angles of pictures.

Vice-mayor Sandy Jacobs called for a 20-minute special session to discuss personnel. No action was taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707443867250.png" alt="The crosswind runway at the Hays Regional Airport was built in 2003 and has considerable deterioration. It will be reconstructed in 2025. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>The crosswind runway at the Hays Regional Airport was built in 2003 and has considerable deterioration. It will be reconstructed in 2025. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe first step in rebuilding the 21-year-old crosswind runway at Hays Regional Airport was approved by the city commission Thursday.The FAA considers the project a high priority due to considerable deterioration.FAA construction standards have changed considerably since the concrete runway was built in 2003, said Jamie Salter, airport director.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707489581217.jpeg" alt="Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Reconstruction of the 4-22 runway is necessary to address these issues and will also better serve our current and future anticipated aircraft fleet mix with the pavement weight bearing capacity increasing from 12,500 pounds to 30,000 pounds," she said. Commissioners approved an engineering contract with Lochner, Lenexa, for&nbsp;$485,300 to be funded from the airport improvement fund. The FAA will reimburse the city 90 percent of the project cost.Construction, under a separate bidding process, is anticipated to be done in spring/summer 2025.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707442640675.png" alt="The red area is the current Neighborhood Revitalization District in Hays. The blue area is the proposed expansion area which would include buildings erected before 1980. City of Hays map" />
 <figcaption>The red area is the current Neighborhood Revitalization District in Hays. The blue area is the proposed expansion area which would include buildings erected before 1980. City of Hays map</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission also set Feb. 22 as the public hearing date for a proposed expansion of the Neighborhood Revitalization District. It would include structures built before 1980.&nbsp;The plan provides a 10-year tax rebates to property owners who make improvements that raise the appraised value of residential or commercial properties, said Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst.&nbsp;Chad Ruder, director of information technology, made a presentation of the city's updated GIS mapping system. New technology allows views as precise as a three-inch resolution as well as oblique angles of pictures.Vice-mayor Sandy Jacobs called for a 20-minute special session to discuss personnel. No action was taken.

Design contract approved for reconstruction of crosswind runway at Hays Regional Airport    

ELLIS COUNTY —The Hays Police Department is investigating a criminal case of animal cruelty, according to a social media report.

Police are asking for the public’s help in finding the owner or owners of this young male puppy that was in poor health and placed in a box next to two large dumpsters on Wednesday in the 1500 block of Old Highway 40 bypass in Hays.

  The puppy was taken to an area vet clinic where it tested positive for parvovirus. 

 If you recognize this puppy or know who may have owned the puppy, please contact the Hays Police Department at 785-625-1030.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707483650332.png" alt="photo Hays Police Department" />
 <figcaption>photo Hays Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —The Hays Police Department is investigating a criminal case of animal cruelty, according to a social media report.Police are asking for the public’s help in finding the owner or owners of this young male puppy that was in poor health and placed in a box next to two large dumpsters on Wednesday in the 1500 block of Old Highway 40 bypass in Hays. The puppy was taken to an area vet clinic where it tested positive for parvovirus. If you recognize this puppy or know who may have owned the puppy, please contact the Hays Police Department at 785-625-1030.

Police asking for help with report of alleged animal cruelty

The Ellis County Health Department,&nbsp;2507 Canterbury Drive, now offers a foot care clinic for residents.

Director Kim Reel noticed an increased number of calls about the availability of foot care when the COVID pandemic was dying down.

"We're a little bit of a compass at our office. When people call us, they're asking about what kind of health care is available in our community. We started getting a lot of calls about foot care and foot problems," Reel said.&nbsp;

The staff talked about the situation and eventually hired Geri French who has 15 years' experience working in podiatry.

"We'll be doing general foot care," French said.

That includes soaking the feet, trimming toenails, thinning thick toenails, and checking for problems such as red spots and deformities to pinpoint any abnormalities before worsening complications.&nbsp;

Patients also will get a short foot massage with lotion.

Diabetic clients must bring a letter from their doctor stating they are healthy enough to receive foot care.&nbsp;

A special podiatry chair is used for appointments and equipment is sanitized after each patient's use. Clients should bring their own towels. The clinic will not supply them.&nbsp;

The service costs $25 and is self-pay.&nbsp;

"We will not bill insurance," French said.

Appointments are scheduled on Wednesdays only. Call 785-628-9440 for more information.&nbsp;

The average appointment will take from 45 minutes to an hour.&nbsp;

Regular foot care is important to overall general health.

"You're standing on them all day," Reel said. "The average person takes 10,000 steps a day, and we put force on our feet of two to three times our body weight.

"Sometimes our feet tend to kind of break down, kind of like tires on a car."

Good foot care is even more critical if a person has co-morbidities such as diabetes or heart problems, which can cause poor blood circulation.

Feet may not be included in regular annual physicals.

"A lot of people don't take their socks off, so sometimes it's overlooked," Reel said.

Appointments are filling up quickly, French said, and she's considering adding another appointment day to the week.

Dr. Richard Burkey, the sole podiatrist in Hays for several years, recently retired.&nbsp;

"He reached out to us and began making referrals of his patients," Reel said.

Area residents also have the option to make a podiatry appointment with <a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Breit Advanced Practice Clinic</a> at the Russell Regional Hospital Specialty Clinic.

Babe Breit is an advanced practice registered nurse with national board certification as a family nurse practitioner. She specializes in advanced level foot care ranging from trimming difficult nails to more severe problems as a result of diabetes or other diseases.

Breit is also available to come to your home.

Call or text&nbsp;785-656-6363 to make an appointment with Breit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706817488503.jpeg" alt="Geri French, medical assistant at the Ellis County Health Department, Hays, examines a client's feet as part of the treatment in the department's new foot care clinic. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Geri French, medical assistant at the Ellis County Health Department, Hays, examines a client's feet as part of the treatment in the department's new foot care clinic. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Ellis County Health Department,&nbsp;2507 Canterbury Drive, now offers a foot care clinic for residents.Director Kim Reel noticed an increased number of calls about the availability of foot care when the COVID pandemic was dying down."We're a little bit of a compass at our office. When people call us, they're asking about what kind of health care is available in our community. We started getting a lot of calls about foot care and foot problems," Reel said.&nbsp;The staff talked about the situation and eventually hired Geri French who has 15 years' experience working in podiatry."We'll be doing general foot care," French said.That includes soaking the feet, trimming toenails, thinning thick toenails, and checking for problems such as red spots and deformities to pinpoint any abnormalities before worsening complications.&nbsp;Patients also will get a short foot massage with lotion.Diabetic clients must bring a letter from their doctor stating they are healthy enough to receive foot care.&nbsp;A special podiatry chair is used for appointments and equipment is sanitized after each patient's use. Clients should bring their own towels. The clinic will not supply them.&nbsp;The service costs $25 and is self-pay.&nbsp;"We will not bill insurance," French said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706797862101.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Appointments are scheduled on Wednesdays only. Call 785-628-9440 for more information.&nbsp;The average appointment will take from 45 minutes to an hour.&nbsp;Regular foot care is important to overall general health."You're standing on them all day," Reel said. "The average person takes 10,000 steps a day, and we put force on our feet of two to three times our body weight."Sometimes our feet tend to kind of break down, kind of like tires on a car."Good foot care is even more critical if a person has co-morbidities such as diabetes or heart problems, which can cause poor blood circulation.Feet may not be included in regular annual physicals."A lot of people don't take their socks off, so sometimes it's overlooked," Reel said.Appointments are filling up quickly, French said, and she's considering adding another appointment day to the week.Dr. Richard Burkey, the sole podiatrist in Hays for several years, recently retired.&nbsp;"He reached out to us and began making referrals of his patients," Reel said.Area residents also have the option to make a podiatry appointment with <a href="https://breitclinic.com/">Breit Advanced Practice Clinic</a> at the Russell Regional Hospital Specialty Clinic.Babe Breit is an advanced practice registered nurse with national board certification as a family nurse practitioner. She specializes in advanced level foot care ranging from trimming difficult nails to more severe problems as a result of diabetes or other diseases.Breit is also available to come to your home.Call or text&nbsp;785-656-6363 to make an appointment with Breit.

Foot care now offered at Ellis County Health Department in Hays    

Science Café presents 'Ozempic and Wegovy; How Do the New Diabetes and Weight-loss Drugs Work'

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

For just the third time ever and the first time since 1992,
Kansas residents will get a chance to cast their vote in a presidential primary
election.

Previously Kansans took part in presidential caucuses, but
last year, the Kansas Legislature approved House Bill 2053 implementing a presidential
preference primary, which will be on March 19, 2024.

According to the <a href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/presidential-preference-primary.html">Kansas Secretary of State’s website</a>, a
preference primary is, “an election where the vote totals are given to a
political party to allocate delegates to candidates at the national convention.
This is not a primary where the voters selected the party candidate.”

Kansas previously held presidential preference primary
elections in 1980 and 1992.

The presidential primary season kicked off in Iowa on Jan. 15, followed by New Hampshire on Jan. 23 and South Carolina on Feb. 3.
Super Tuesday is March 5 when more than a dozen states will have primaries, including Texas and California.

Unlike a presidential caucus where the candidate who receives
the greatest number of votes is awarded the delegates, the results of the preferential
primary are given to both political parties, Republican and Democrat, and then
the party will award the delegates as they see fit.

While the primary will be in all 105 Kansas counties
and run by each county election office, Ellis County Election Officer and Clerk
Bobbi Dreiling said there are key differences between normal elections.

The first is the day the election is conducted. Typical elections
are on the first Tuesday of the month, this year’s presidential preference
primary is set for March 19, the third Tuesday in March.

The deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation
is Feb. 20, 30 days before the election instead of the typical 21 days.

To take part in either the Republican or Democratic
presidential primary, voters still have to be registered with that party's affiliation. Voters who are registered as Libertarians or the newly recognized
No Labels Party cannot vote in the primary.

Unaffiliated voters have to declare a party, either Republican
or Democratic, to take part in the primary. They can do so up to and
including on Election Day, according to Dreiling.

Dreiling encouraged residents who have moved or changed
their name since the last time they registered to vote to re-register with the clerk’s
office. 

Voters interested in voting by mail will also see a change.
Dreiling said even though the books close on Feb. 20, her office has to wait
to send out mail-in ballots.

“Feb. 28 will be the first day that advanced
mail ballots get mailed,” Dreiling said. “The last day to ask for an
application is Feb. 20.”

Another big difference between regular elections and the
presidential preference primary is that mail-in ballots have to be returned to
election offices on Election Day to be counted.

“So, make sure you mail your ballots in plenty of time, because
whether they're postmarked on or before the election, if they come in on
Wednesday or later in the week, they will not be counted,” Dreiling said. “All
ballots must be received in my office by seven o'clock Election Day or be
delivered to your polling location.”

Four candidates will appear on the Republican ballot, and four candidates will appear on the Democratic ballot.

Those candidates are: Democrat candidates Dean Phillips Joseph R. Biden Jr. Marianne Williamson Jason Michael Palmer

Republican candidates Donald J. Trump Ryan L. Binkley Nikki R. Haley Ron DeSantis

Voters also have the option to choose "None of the Names Shown."

Ron DeSantis is on the Kansas ballot, but he has withdrawn from the race.

Sample ballots can be found below.

Each candidate paid a filing fee of $10,000 and registered
with the Kansas Secretary of State’s office before Jan. 19 in order to
appear on the ballot in Kansas.

Voters will cast their ballots at the regular polling
location throughout Ellis County with the polls open on Election Day from 7
a.m. to 7 p.m.

According to Dreiling, early voting will start at the county
clerk’s office, 718 Main St. in Hays, on March 4 and run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Early voting will end at noon on March 18.

Also new this year will be the opportunity to cast an
advanced ballot from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16 at 718 Main St. 

Voters can find a sample ballot at <a href="http://myvoteinfo.voteks.org">myvoteinfo.voteks.org</a>, and
people with questions are encouraged to contact your local election office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699282713688.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostFor just the third time ever and the first time since 1992,
Kansas residents will get a chance to cast their vote in a presidential primary
election.Previously Kansans took part in presidential caucuses, but
last year, the Kansas Legislature approved House Bill 2053 implementing a presidential
preference primary, which will be on March 19, 2024.According to the <a href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/presidential-preference-primary.html">Kansas Secretary of State’s website</a>, a
preference primary is, “an election where the vote totals are given to a
political party to allocate delegates to candidates at the national convention.
This is not a primary where the voters selected the party candidate.”Kansas previously held presidential preference primary
elections in 1980 and 1992.The presidential primary season kicked off in Iowa on Jan. 15, followed by New Hampshire on Jan. 23 and South Carolina on Feb. 3.
Super Tuesday is March 5 when more than a dozen states will have primaries, including Texas and California.Unlike a presidential caucus where the candidate who receives
the greatest number of votes is awarded the delegates, the results of the preferential
primary are given to both political parties, Republican and Democrat, and then
the party will award the delegates as they see fit.While the primary will be in all 105 Kansas counties
and run by each county election office, Ellis County Election Officer and Clerk
Bobbi Dreiling said there are key differences between normal elections.The first is the day the election is conducted. Typical elections
are on the first Tuesday of the month, this year’s presidential preference
primary is set for March 19, the third Tuesday in March.The deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation
is Feb. 20, 30 days before the election instead of the typical 21 days.To take part in either the Republican or Democratic
presidential primary, voters still have to be registered with that party's affiliation. Voters who are registered as Libertarians or the newly recognized
No Labels Party cannot vote in the primary.Unaffiliated voters have to declare a party, either Republican
or Democratic, to take part in the primary. They can do so up to and
including on Election Day, according to Dreiling.Dreiling encouraged residents who have moved or changed
their name since the last time they registered to vote to re-register with the clerk’s
office. Voters interested in voting by mail will also see a change.
Dreiling said even though the books close on Feb. 20, her office has to wait
to send out mail-in ballots.“Feb. 28 will be the first day that advanced
mail ballots get mailed,” Dreiling said. “The last day to ask for an
application is Feb. 20.”Another big difference between regular elections and the
presidential preference primary is that mail-in ballots have to be returned to
election offices on Election Day to be counted.“So, make sure you mail your ballots in plenty of time, because
whether they're postmarked on or before the election, if they come in on
Wednesday or later in the week, they will not be counted,” Dreiling said. “All
ballots must be received in my office by seven o'clock Election Day or be
delivered to your polling location.”Four candidates will appear on the Republican ballot, and four candidates will appear on the Democratic ballot.Those candidates are: Democrat candidates Dean Phillips Joseph R. Biden Jr. Marianne Williamson Jason Michael Palmer Republican candidates Donald J. Trump Ryan L. Binkley Nikki R. Haley Ron DeSantisVoters also have the option to choose "None of the Names Shown."Ron DeSantis is on the Kansas ballot, but he has withdrawn from the race.Sample ballots can be found below.Each candidate paid a filing fee of $10,000 and registered
with the Kansas Secretary of State’s office before Jan. 19 in order to
appear on the ballot in Kansas.Voters will cast their ballots at the regular polling
location throughout Ellis County with the polls open on Election Day from 7
a.m. to 7 p.m.According to Dreiling, early voting will start at the county
clerk’s office, 718 Main St. in Hays, on March 4 and run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Early voting will end at noon on March 18.Also new this year will be the opportunity to cast an
advanced ballot from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16 at 718 Main St. Voters can find a sample ballot at <a href="http://myvoteinfo.voteks.org">myvoteinfo.voteks.org</a>, and
people with questions are encouraged to contact your local election office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707431657167.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707431673681.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County gearing up for presidential preference primary

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Debt is money you owe to another person or business. If you use loans, credit cards or behind on bills, that is debt. Debt can be complicated because sometimes you hear the terms good debt vs. bad debt. When those terms are used it is generally described as “good debt” being something that can help you reach your goals or make investments such as borrowing to further education, buy transportation or a home. Some consider other types of loans, credit cards or pawn loans “bad debt”. However, you look at it, debt always carries risk. When you owe money to someone else it also costs you money in the form of interest.

Typically, home loans and student loan debt have a smaller interest rate. However, credit cards, car loans, payday loans or auto title loans usually have much high interest rates that make it difficult to pay off the debt and carry significantly more risk. Avoiding these types of debt will be important. Alternatives to short term loans could be to negotiate for more time to pay, make sure this is a need and not a want, use lower interest rate credit cards or loans from a bank or credit union, use your own emergency fund savings, borrow from a friend or family member.

Determining your debt to income can also help you do a check on the overall health of your finances. To calculate your debt to income ratio, add your total monthly debt payment together then divide by your gross monthly income. Multiply by 100 to calculate your current debt to income ratio. Consider maintaining a debt to income ratio for all debts of 36% or less.

If that percentage is higher than 36% or higher than you would like it to be consider using a debt action plan to reduce your debt. There are a couple of strategies you can use. One method is listing your smallest debt to your largest debt and pay off the smallest ones first. The pro to this is it can be very motivating to see debt quickly disappear. The con to this method is if the large debts have large interest rates then you are paying a lot in interest. The second method is to pay highest interest rate debt first and end with your lowest interest rate. This will save you money but it also might be a long and daunting process. Since finances have a big emotional part to them staying motivated might be the key!

If you are needing help with debt you can contact a credit counselor at consumerfinance.gov

Whatever debt you have consider paying it off and creating an emergency fund so you can be your own bank rather than relying on debt. It might just lower your stress level!

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 MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictDebt is money you owe to another person or business. If you use loans, credit cards or behind on bills, that is debt. Debt can be complicated because sometimes you hear the terms good debt vs. bad debt. When those terms are used it is generally described as “good debt” being something that can help you reach your goals or make investments such as borrowing to further education, buy transportation or a home. Some consider other types of loans, credit cards or pawn loans “bad debt”. However, you look at it, debt always carries risk. When you owe money to someone else it also costs you money in the form of interest.Typically, home loans and student loan debt have a smaller interest rate. However, credit cards, car loans, payday loans or auto title loans usually have much high interest rates that make it difficult to pay off the debt and carry significantly more risk. Avoiding these types of debt will be important. Alternatives to short term loans could be to negotiate for more time to pay, make sure this is a need and not a want, use lower interest rate credit cards or loans from a bank or credit union, use your own emergency fund savings, borrow from a friend or family member.Determining your debt to income can also help you do a check on the overall health of your finances. To calculate your debt to income ratio, add your total monthly debt payment together then divide by your gross monthly income. Multiply by 100 to calculate your current debt to income ratio. Consider maintaining a debt to income ratio for all debts of 36% or less.If that percentage is higher than 36% or higher than you would like it to be consider using a debt action plan to reduce your debt. There are a couple of strategies you can use. One method is listing your smallest debt to your largest debt and pay off the smallest ones first. The pro to this is it can be very motivating to see debt quickly disappear. The con to this method is if the large debts have large interest rates then you are paying a lot in interest. The second method is to pay highest interest rate debt first and end with your lowest interest rate. This will save you money but it also might be a long and daunting process. Since finances have a big emotional part to them staying motivated might be the key!If you are needing help with debt you can contact a credit counselor at consumerfinance.govWhatever debt you have consider paying it off and creating an emergency fund so you can be your own bank rather than relying on debt. It might just lower your stress level!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: Dealing with Debt

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707420317138.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

LANE COUNTY —Two teens were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Lane County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Jeep Patriot driven by Christopher Douglas&nbsp;Roberts, 17, Dighton, was westbound&nbsp;on Kansas 4 at the Kansas 23 Junction.

The driver failed to yield the right of way and collided with the trailer of a southbound 2009 Kenworth semi.

After impact the Jeep spun counter clockwise and came to a stop in the northbound and southbound lanes of Kansas 23.

EMS transported Roberts and a passenger in the Jeep 15-year-old Dakota Lane Roberts of Dighton to the Lane County Hospital. The KHP did not identify the semi driver. The occupants of the Jeep were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY —Two teens were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Lane County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Jeep Patriot driven by Christopher Douglas&nbsp;Roberts, 17, Dighton, was westbound&nbsp;on Kansas 4 at the Kansas 23 Junction.The driver failed to yield the right of way and collided with the trailer of a southbound 2009 Kenworth semi.After impact the Jeep spun counter clockwise and came to a stop in the northbound and southbound lanes of Kansas 23.EMS transported Roberts and a passenger in the Jeep 15-year-old Dakota Lane Roberts of Dighton to the Lane County Hospital. The KHP did not identify the semi driver. The occupants of the Jeep were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Two Kansas teens hospitalized after Jeep, semi crash

The United Way of Ellis County is thrilled to announce an exciting and entertaining fundraising event – "Dueling Pianos – a 70-year anniversary celebration” on Saturday, February 10 at 6 p.m. in the Schenk Building at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. This unique and lively event promises to captivate audiences while raising funds to support our partner agencies.

Tickets for the entertainment-only portion of the evening (beginning at 7:30 p.m.) are still available at the door for $30.&nbsp;

Dueling Pianos is not just a concert; it's an experience! Attendees will be treated to an exhilarating performance by professional dueling pianists who will engage the audience with a mix of music, comedy, and interactive fun.

The event's dynamic atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends, family, or colleagues.&nbsp;

All proceeds from this event will go towards our fundraising campaign that benefits our partner agencies. By attending, you are not only enjoying a fantastic evening but also contributing to a meaningful cause that help those in need in our community.

Dinner tickets for this event are available at <a href="https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/1253?fbclid=IwAR277e5UKaTDIPXgimEHp8V1E6jxEYr5WOAdVQY540tsnCSJpWWunvc90KE">https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/1253</a> or at our United Way office at 1200 Main St., Suite 102, Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707410112974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="United Way of Ellis County to host Dueling Pianos" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=n5njx-1574307-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe>
</div>Submitted&nbsp;The United Way of Ellis County is thrilled to announce an exciting and entertaining fundraising event – "Dueling Pianos – a 70-year anniversary celebration” on Saturday, February 10 at 6 p.m. in the Schenk Building at the Ellis County Fairgrounds. This unique and lively event promises to captivate audiences while raising funds to support our partner agencies.Tickets for the entertainment-only portion of the evening (beginning at 7:30 p.m.) are still available at the door for $30.&nbsp;Dueling Pianos is not just a concert; it's an experience! Attendees will be treated to an exhilarating performance by professional dueling pianists who will engage the audience with a mix of music, comedy, and interactive fun.The event's dynamic atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends, family, or colleagues.&nbsp;All proceeds from this event will go towards our fundraising campaign that benefits our partner agencies. By attending, you are not only enjoying a fantastic evening but also contributing to a meaningful cause that help those in need in our community.Dinner tickets for this event are available at <a href="https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/1253?fbclid=IwAR277e5UKaTDIPXgimEHp8V1E6jxEYr5WOAdVQY540tsnCSJpWWunvc90KE">https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/1253</a> or at our United Way office at 1200 Main St., Suite 102, Hays.

🎙Dueling Pianos fundraiser for Ellis County United Way is Saturday; tickets still available

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

The cities of Hays and Russell have received a favorable ruling on their <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8b4554cd-79b4-4076-8a9c-287892f8e9dd">application to the state for transferring water</a> from their R9 Ranch in Edwards County to Ellis County.

Judge Matthew Spurgin, an administrative law judge from the Kansas Office of Administrative Hearings, issued the initial order Monday.

"Bottom line, we prevailed, and the transfer application is approved for Hays and Russell, furthering the cities' effort to develop a long-term sustainable water source," Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said Wednesday of the 81-page decision. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Spurgin's initial order must now be reviewed by the Water Transfer Hearing panel. 

Panel members are the chief engineers of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Water Resources, the director of the Kansas Water Office, and the director of the Department of Health and Environment, Division of Environment. 

The panel’s final order is expected by May 6.&nbsp;

Dougherty estimates the city of Hays has spent $10 million during the past 10 years in engineers' and attorneys' fees to get to this point, fighting lawsuits and ruling appeals filed by the Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, known as <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ba60233-696b-4260-a8bd-a9a413710f75">WaterPACK</a>.

The entire cost of the project is estimated at $140 million.&nbsp;

Dougherty said, "it is still our intent to deliver this project without raising rates [for Hays water customers.]

"We think we have enough money in the bank, enough money available in federal loan sources, and hopefully, some federal grants we've applied for, that we can bring this project home utilizing the half-cent [water] sales tax proceeds that we already have in place."&nbsp;

“This is a huge win for Hays, Russell, and the region," said Shaun Musil, Hays mayor. "It would not be possible without the buy-in of the community and our commitment to conservation for many years."

The <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/203/Conservation">Hays water conservation programs</a> will continue, Musil said. "We're not going to change a thing we do."

"The key thing to this is we want to be good neighbors to Kinsley. They have kids that go to Fort Hays State University, they shop in our town," he said.&nbsp;

Musil also noted the work done by previous commissioners and city managers in the search for a long-term water supply.

In a news release, Russell Mayor Jim Cross said, “Monday’s ruling is tangible proof of the foresight of both communities to ensure we have a reliable and long-term water supply vital to our economies. The communities of Russell and Hays understand the importance of water conservation, which extends to the R9 as the communities will use less water from the R9 than when it was farmed.”&nbsp;

The Kansas Water Transfer Act, K.S.A. 82a-1501, et seq., requires the panel's approval of projects that propose to transport 2,000 acre-feet of water or more per year for beneficial use more than 35 miles from the source. 

If approved by the panel, Spurgin's order paves the way to transfer up to 6,756.8 acre-feet of water per year from the R9 Ranch to Hays and Russell, a distance of almost 70 miles. &nbsp;

Purchased by the cities in 1995, the R9 Ranch covers about 6,800 acres in Edwards County south of Kinsley and includes almost 8,000 acre-feet of water rights. 

Following investigations of numerous other possible sources, the R9 represents the most economically viable and drought-resistant long-term water supply for Hays and Russell, Dougherty said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Irrigation infrastructure at the R9 was removed and the property has been converted to native grass. Last fall it opened to the public via the Kansas Department of Wildlife &amp; Parks Walk-in Hunting Access program.

Design is underway for the wellfield/pipeline project and is anticipated to conclude in July 2025. The project is expected to take two years to construct. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6300/R9-Transfer-Order">https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6300/R9-Transfer-Order</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707326893376.jpeg" alt="Kansas Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin at the June 20 public comment hearing in Hays. Spurgin also oversaw the water transfer hearing in Wichita July 19-31. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Administrative Law Judge Matthew Spurgin at the June 20 public comment hearing in Hays. Spurgin also oversaw the water transfer hearing in Wichita July 19-31. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe cities of Hays and Russell have received a favorable ruling on their <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8b4554cd-79b4-4076-8a9c-287892f8e9dd">application to the state for transferring water</a> from their R9 Ranch in Edwards County to Ellis County. Judge Matthew Spurgin, an administrative law judge from the Kansas Office of Administrative Hearings, issued the initial order Monday."Bottom line, we prevailed, and the transfer application is approved for Hays and Russell, furthering the cities' effort to develop a long-term sustainable water source," Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager, said Wednesday of the 81-page decision. &nbsp;&nbsp;Spurgin's initial order must now be reviewed by the Water Transfer Hearing panel. Panel members are the chief engineers of the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Water Resources, the director of the Kansas Water Office, and the director of the Department of Health and Environment, Division of Environment. The panel’s final order is expected by May 6.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i6Dt5e8Cgwg" title="Hays/Russell Water Transfer Application approved" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Dougherty estimates the city of Hays has spent $10 million during the past 10 years in engineers' and attorneys' fees to get to this point, fighting lawsuits and ruling appeals filed by the Water Protection Association of Central Kansas, known as <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ba60233-696b-4260-a8bd-a9a413710f75">WaterPACK</a>.The entire cost of the project is estimated at $140 million.&nbsp;Dougherty said, "it is still our intent to deliver this project without raising rates [for Hays water customers.]"We think we have enough money in the bank, enough money available in federal loan sources, and hopefully, some federal grants we've applied for, that we can bring this project home utilizing the half-cent [water] sales tax proceeds that we already have in place."&nbsp;“This is a huge win for Hays, Russell, and the region," said Shaun Musil, Hays mayor. "It would not be possible without the buy-in of the community and our commitment to conservation for many years."The <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/203/Conservation">Hays water conservation programs</a> will continue, Musil said. "We're not going to change a thing we do.""The key thing to this is we want to be good neighbors to Kinsley. They have kids that go to Fort Hays State University, they shop in our town," he said.&nbsp;Musil also noted the work done by previous commissioners and city managers in the search for a long-term water supply.In a news release, Russell Mayor Jim Cross said, “Monday’s ruling is tangible proof of the foresight of both communities to ensure we have a reliable and long-term water supply vital to our economies. The communities of Russell and Hays understand the importance of water conservation, which extends to the R9 as the communities will use less water from the R9 than when it was farmed.”&nbsp;The Kansas Water Transfer Act, K.S.A. 82a-1501, et seq., requires the panel's approval of projects that propose to transport 2,000 acre-feet of water or more per year for beneficial use more than 35 miles from the source. If approved by the panel, Spurgin's order paves the way to transfer up to 6,756.8 acre-feet of water per year from the R9 Ranch to Hays and Russell, a distance of almost 70 miles. &nbsp;Purchased by the cities in 1995, the R9 Ranch covers about 6,800 acres in Edwards County south of Kinsley and includes almost 8,000 acre-feet of water rights. Following investigations of numerous other possible sources, the R9 represents the most economically viable and drought-resistant long-term water supply for Hays and Russell, Dougherty said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Irrigation infrastructure at the R9 was removed and the property has been converted to native grass. Last fall it opened to the public via the Kansas Department of Wildlife &amp; Parks Walk-in Hunting Access program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704231791769.png" alt="R9 Ranch pipeline map. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>R9 Ranch pipeline map. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Design is underway for the wellfield/pipeline project and is anticipated to conclude in July 2025. The project is expected to take two years to construct. &nbsp;&nbsp;The order can be read at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6300/R9-Transfer-Order">https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/6300/R9-Transfer-Order</a>

🎥 Judge rules in favor of Hays', Russell's R9 Ranch water transfer request

Talking to teens about relationship violence can be a touchy subject but is important to help youth develop healthy relationships for later life, said Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and Hecker spoke during a recent Morning Blend interview about how to talk to your teens about the issue.

"It all starts with being open with your kids and creating a safe space to talk about things that are happening," she said.

Hecker, a parent herself, said when a teen comes to you and tells you something dangerous and scary is happening in a relationship, your mama bear or papa bear instinct kicks in.

"That often demonstrates itself as anger or frustration, and then your teen thinks that is directed at them," she said. "That oftentimes leads teens to clam up. ...

"As hard as it is, keep your head, keep your cool and talk gently and quietly with soft eyes and a soft voice with your child about what is happening."

She said parents need to give their children time to reveal things. They might not tell you everything at once, Hecker said, but they will eventually as you create a safe space for them.

This is a time in teens' lives when they are trying to figure out what a healthy relationship is, Hecker said.

"They look to their peers for validation, and they look to the media for validation," she said. ...

"Unfortunately, we live in a society where sexual violence and domestic violence are normalized in videos and movies, and then we couple that with the fact that we don't talk about it. [It's] that old saying that polite families don't talk about those things, but in the best families, we do. That is how we help our children navigate the world."

Hecker said teens need more than their peers and the media to learn about healthy relationships.

"They need other caring adults — family members and parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and trusted adult family friends that they can talk to," she said.

Hecker said what youth learn in their teen years is what they will carry with them through adulthood.

"Children and teens get caught in cycles of abuse and find it very hard for them to get out and break those cycles," she said. "Our brains are wired to repeat patterns even if they are unhealthy.&nbsp;

"Establishing those healthy patterns with our children early helps with that healthy brain development."

Hecker listed some warning signs that might indicate a teen is involved in an unhealthy relationship.

• Teen spends much more time on their phone • Dating partner has a high level of influence over teen, partner is controlling • Teen makes different decisions based on attempts to please partner • Physical signs, such as bruises • Self-harm

"Anyone can experience teen dating violence," Hecker said. "It knows no socio-economic bounds at all, but from experience, I think I can say that teens who are more vulnerable than other teens can be more at risk because the person is exploiting their vulnerability for their own power and control."

All Options efforts are aimed at creating physical and emotional safety in the community for kids, Hecker said.

Events sponsored by Options during the awareness month include

• "Chalk about Love" from 5 to 6 p.m. Feb. 28. at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp; The Options young adult book club will be the same night from 5 to 6 p.m. The book is "Sadie," which is about a girl's experience with dating violence. Copies of the book are available at the library.

• "Chalk about Love" at Hays High School on Feb. 23.

• All month long Hays High students will have a poster event titled "Consent is Sweet."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603907215006.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTalking to teens about relationship violence can be a touchy subject but is important to help youth develop healthy relationships for later life, said Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and Hecker spoke during a recent Morning Blend interview about how to talk to your teens about the issue."It all starts with being open with your kids and creating a safe space to talk about things that are happening," she said.<div><iframe title="Options director: Create safe place for youth to talk about relationships" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hzgd2-15742ca-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Hecker, a parent herself, said when a teen comes to you and tells you something dangerous and scary is happening in a relationship, your mama bear or papa bear instinct kicks in."That often demonstrates itself as anger or frustration, and then your teen thinks that is directed at them," she said. "That oftentimes leads teens to clam up. ..."As hard as it is, keep your head, keep your cool and talk gently and quietly with soft eyes and a soft voice with your child about what is happening."She said parents need to give their children time to reveal things. They might not tell you everything at once, Hecker said, but they will eventually as you create a safe space for them.This is a time in teens' lives when they are trying to figure out what a healthy relationship is, Hecker said."They look to their peers for validation, and they look to the media for validation," she said. ..."Unfortunately, we live in a society where sexual violence and domestic violence are normalized in videos and movies, and then we couple that with the fact that we don't talk about it. [It's] that old saying that polite families don't talk about those things, but in the best families, we do. That is how we help our children navigate the world."Hecker said teens need more than their peers and the media to learn about healthy relationships."They need other caring adults — family members and parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and trusted adult family friends that they can talk to," she said.Hecker said what youth learn in their teen years is what they will carry with them through adulthood."Children and teens get caught in cycles of abuse and find it very hard for them to get out and break those cycles," she said. "Our brains are wired to repeat patterns even if they are unhealthy.&nbsp;"Establishing those healthy patterns with our children early helps with that healthy brain development."Hecker listed some warning signs that might indicate a teen is involved in an unhealthy relationship.• Teen spends much more time on their phone • Dating partner has a high level of influence over teen, partner is controlling • Teen makes different decisions based on attempts to please partner • Physical signs, such as bruises • Self-harm"Anyone can experience teen dating violence," Hecker said. "It knows no socio-economic bounds at all, but from experience, I think I can say that teens who are more vulnerable than other teens can be more at risk because the person is exploiting their vulnerability for their own power and control."All Options efforts are aimed at creating physical and emotional safety in the community for kids, Hecker said.Events sponsored by Options during the awareness month include• "Chalk about Love" from 5 to 6 p.m. Feb. 28. at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp; The Options young adult book club will be the same night from 5 to 6 p.m. The book is "Sadie," which is about a girl's experience with dating violence. Copies of the book are available at the library.• "Chalk about Love" at Hays High School on Feb. 23.• All month long Hays High students will have a poster event titled "Consent is Sweet."

🎙 Options director: Create safe place for youth to talk about relationships

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund today announced the creation of 458 new child care slots with the investment of nearly $28 million in Capital Projects Fund Accelerator (CPF Accelerator) awards to seven Kansas communities. These funds will build or renovate multi-purpose community facilities that&nbsp;create new licensed&nbsp;child care&nbsp;slots; provide access to high-speed internet; and house programs that facilitate work, education, and health care monitoring.

“There’s no question that more Kansas families need access to child care to support their child’s development, enter the workforce, and contribute to our economy,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By creating 458 child care slots and providing access to other essential services, these projects will enable families to put down roots in our communities.”

These grants are made possible using American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding from the U.S.&nbsp;Department of&nbsp;Treasury&nbsp;Capital Projects Fund, which awarded $40 million to Kansas for this program in early September.

The first round of grants provided $10.3 million to three community projects in Lawrence, Hays, and Emporia. Through two rounds of funding, the Capitol Projects Fund Accelerator has provided $38 million to create 771 new child care slots at multi-purpose community facilities. Combined with the Child Care Capacity Accelerator program grants previously announced last year, the Kelly administration has provided $94 million to expand access to child care for working families.&nbsp;These two funding opportunities have funded the creation of nearly 6,400 child care slots.

“Supporting early literacy and healthy development opens doors to success and opportunities for our children and families,”&nbsp;Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau, Kansas Senate District 29, said. “The creation of the Storytime Village Literacy Center will strengthen early childhood development and provide families much-needed access to quality care and resources in my community and across Wichita.”

The Governor’s Budget also includes an additional $30 million to continue grant programs that fund the construction of new child care slots.

"Once again, the Kansas Children’s Cabinet is delighted to provide resources for the construction of community buildings that can serve local needs in a holistic way,”&nbsp;said Melissa Rooker, Executive Director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. “These are exciting projects that will improve quality of life, support job seekers, provide innovative resources for continuing education, and improve health outcomes for families.”

“It is impressive to see communities across Kansas come together to develop such innovative approaches to meeting their child care needs,”&nbsp;said Don Hineman, Chair of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to support these efforts.”

Community innovation hub centered on empowerment with overnight child care, makerspace, and health screenings

Clay County Growth Alliance, Inc., DBA Grow Clay County

Multi-generational center offering both child care and senior services with mental health and training resources on-site.

Multi-purpose incubator space for child care providers and local health, higher ed and technical programs, and job training partners

Multi-purpose facility expanding access to child care, education, entrepreneurship resources, and mental health counseling services.

Former correctional complex site with career closet, care coordination services, and 24-hour child care

Literacy-based community center for all ages focused on removing barriers for families to receive quality care and resources.

Community Care Center, including child care, career counseling, adult learning resources, and a pharmacy.

Kansas was previously awarded $83.5 million from the Capital Projects Fund to build reliable broadband infrastructure and extend high-speed internet to more than 24,500 homes, businesses, schools, health care facilities, and other public institutions in underserved counties across the state. A portion of Kansas’ $40 million award for the CPF Accelerator will be used to assist in administering the program.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYWxsaW5mb3JrYW5zYXNraWRzLm9yZy9jcGYtYWNjZWxlcmF0b3IvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIwNy44OTgyNDY4MSJ9.DtdLgrhR5cg6RIV_2J4GNOTUFucriuQDH1_iav72isw/s/1303179659/br/236684597457-l">here</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the Capital Projects Fund Accelerator.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664397948075.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund today announced the creation of 458 new child care slots with the investment of nearly $28 million in Capital Projects Fund Accelerator (CPF Accelerator) awards to seven Kansas communities. These funds will build or renovate multi-purpose community facilities that&nbsp;create new licensed&nbsp;child care&nbsp;slots; provide access to high-speed internet; and house programs that facilitate work, education, and health care monitoring.“There’s no question that more Kansas families need access to child care to support their child’s development, enter the workforce, and contribute to our economy,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By creating 458 child care slots and providing access to other essential services, these projects will enable families to put down roots in our communities.”These grants are made possible using American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding from the U.S.&nbsp;Department of&nbsp;Treasury&nbsp;Capital Projects Fund, which awarded $40 million to Kansas for this program in early September.The first round of grants provided $10.3 million to three community projects in Lawrence, Hays, and Emporia. Through two rounds of funding, the Capitol Projects Fund Accelerator has provided $38 million to create 771 new child care slots at multi-purpose community facilities. Combined with the Child Care Capacity Accelerator program grants previously announced last year, the Kelly administration has provided $94 million to expand access to child care for working families.&nbsp;These two funding opportunities have funded the creation of nearly 6,400 child care slots.“Supporting early literacy and healthy development opens doors to success and opportunities for our children and families,”&nbsp;Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau, Kansas Senate District 29, said. “The creation of the Storytime Village Literacy Center will strengthen early childhood development and provide families much-needed access to quality care and resources in my community and across Wichita.”The Governor’s Budget also includes an additional $30 million to continue grant programs that fund the construction of new child care slots."Once again, the Kansas Children’s Cabinet is delighted to provide resources for the construction of community buildings that can serve local needs in a holistic way,”&nbsp;said Melissa Rooker, Executive Director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. “These are exciting projects that will improve quality of life, support job seekers, provide innovative resources for continuing education, and improve health outcomes for families.”“It is impressive to see communities across Kansas come together to develop such innovative approaches to meeting their child care needs,”&nbsp;said Don Hineman, Chair of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to support these efforts.”Award grantees include:ABCC/Great Bend Economic DevelopmentGreat Bend$4,382,49328 slots createdCommunity innovation hub centered on empowerment with overnight child care, makerspace, and health screeningsClay County Growth Alliance, Inc., DBA Grow Clay CountyClay Center$3,597,25048 slots created Multi-generational center offering both child care and senior services with mental health and training resources on-site.Greater Manhattan Community FoundationManhattan$3,500,00080 slots created Multi-purpose incubator space for child care providers and local health, higher ed and technical programs, and job training partnersKidZone Learning CenterOverland Park$1,251,10088&nbsp;slots createdMulti-purpose facility expanding access to child care, education, entrepreneurship resources, and mental health counseling services.St. Benedict’s AbbeyAtchison$4,999,999140&nbsp;slots createdFormer correctional complex site with career closet, care coordination services, and 24-hour child careStorytime Village, Inc.Wichita$4,999,99950&nbsp;slots createdLiteracy-based community center for all ages focused on removing barriers for families to receive quality care and resources.USD 258Humboldt$4,970,40024&nbsp;slots createdCommunity Care Center, including child care, career counseling, adult learning resources, and a pharmacy.Total:$27,745,991458&nbsp;slots createdKansas was previously awarded $83.5 million from the Capital Projects Fund to build reliable broadband infrastructure and extend high-speed internet to more than 24,500 homes, businesses, schools, health care facilities, and other public institutions in underserved counties across the state. A portion of Kansas’ $40 million award for the CPF Accelerator will be used to assist in administering the program.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYWxsaW5mb3JrYW5zYXNraWRzLm9yZy9jcGYtYWNjZWxlcmF0b3IvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIwNy44OTgyNDY4MSJ9.DtdLgrhR5cg6RIV_2J4GNOTUFucriuQDH1_iav72isw/s/1303179659/br/236684597457-l">here</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the Capital Projects Fund Accelerator.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor Kelly announces nearly $28 million to create 458 child care slots

In 1927, Calvin Coolidge was U.S. President, Kansan Republican Charles Curtis served as Senate Majority Leader, the first transatlantic telephone call connected New York City and London, and the New York Yankees beat the Pittsburgh Pirates in 4 games in the World Series. In Kansas, the legislature banished the Ku Klux Klan from the state and adopted the official state flag. In Ellis, the school board focused on three main concerns: financial expenditures, teacher proficiency, and hiring competent teachers.

That year, the board passed a $45,000 budget, voting for a 20 mill levy to fund it. They maintained the same budget and levy for the next few years. Interestingly, even though they’d recently moved the grade school into the brick building just north of the now-razed stone school and built a new high school across the creek, by 1928 a major concern was overcrowding. Clearly, parents wanted educated children. A secondary issue involved charging for out-of-district tuition, which according to board minutes led to the board charging 60 cents a day tuition for out of district students. By October of that year, the board hired an additional teacher to share the load of the overcrowded first grade. The following year, this elected group joined the North Central Association, requiring $5 a year dues.

Despite the stock market crash of 1929, Ellis’s economy appeared stable. The board maintained a $41,784.19 budget funded by a 20 mill levy. They also expanded the high school facilities to include a vocational agriculture department, which they built east of the main structure. Supplies were bid in June of 1931, and classes began with the fall term. Twenty-six students enrolled under the instruction of O.E. Campbell.

The early 30s offers an interesting look at the number of students who began high school each year and how many actually graduated. According to the 1931 yearbook, 57 students started as freshmen in 1927. Forty-six students, including 4 new enrollees began the sophomore year in 1928. By their junior year, only 37 students returned, including 2 new students. By their senior year, only 35 students remained enrolled, 2 of which were new enrollees. According to information available, few students relocated. Most quit to work, become housewives, or due to ill health. The actual graduation rate was 61% that year.

The following year repeated a similar pattern. Sixty-three freshmen began in 1928 but only 33 seniors graduated four years later. 1932’s graduation rate was 52%. According to Eileen Langley, this pattern continued throughout the 30s.

By 1932, the effects of The Great Depression affected school board decisions. Reduced tax receipts forced the board to spend part of a March 16 meeting discussing ways to lower expenses. During the April 8 meeting, the group budgeted $35,931 for the next school year. In October they switched the grade school and high school furnaces from oil to gas, expecting to save $300 a year. By late November, the board faced reducing salaries and expenses for the coming school year. This included eliminating one or two staff positons. By the following May, the upcoming budget totaled $26,017.10, considerably less than previous years.

Hard times didn’t go away, causing Ellis taxpayers, school leadership, and students to face hardship. Despite those struggles, the community continued to produce educated citizens.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0de30e1b-bb01-44e2-bbee-2534451ce51d">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 11</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a>

<figure>
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 </figure>By KAREN MADORINIn 1927, Calvin Coolidge was U.S. President, Kansan Republican Charles Curtis served as Senate Majority Leader, the first transatlantic telephone call connected New York City and London, and the New York Yankees beat the Pittsburgh Pirates in 4 games in the World Series. In Kansas, the legislature banished the Ku Klux Klan from the state and adopted the official state flag. In Ellis, the school board focused on three main concerns: financial expenditures, teacher proficiency, and hiring competent teachers.That year, the board passed a $45,000 budget, voting for a 20 mill levy to fund it. They maintained the same budget and levy for the next few years. Interestingly, even though they’d recently moved the grade school into the brick building just north of the now-razed stone school and built a new high school across the creek, by 1928 a major concern was overcrowding. Clearly, parents wanted educated children. A secondary issue involved charging for out-of-district tuition, which according to board minutes led to the board charging 60 cents a day tuition for out of district students. By October of that year, the board hired an additional teacher to share the load of the overcrowded first grade. The following year, this elected group joined the North Central Association, requiring $5 a year dues.Despite the stock market crash of 1929, Ellis’s economy appeared stable. The board maintained a $41,784.19 budget funded by a 20 mill levy. They also expanded the high school facilities to include a vocational agriculture department, which they built east of the main structure. Supplies were bid in June of 1931, and classes began with the fall term. Twenty-six students enrolled under the instruction of O.E. Campbell.The early 30s offers an interesting look at the number of students who began high school each year and how many actually graduated. According to the 1931 yearbook, 57 students started as freshmen in 1927. Forty-six students, including 4 new enrollees began the sophomore year in 1928. By their junior year, only 37 students returned, including 2 new students. By their senior year, only 35 students remained enrolled, 2 of which were new enrollees. According to information available, few students relocated. Most quit to work, become housewives, or due to ill health. The actual graduation rate was 61% that year.The following year repeated a similar pattern. Sixty-three freshmen began in 1928 but only 33 seniors graduated four years later. 1932’s graduation rate was 52%. According to Eileen Langley, this pattern continued throughout the 30s.By 1932, the effects of The Great Depression affected school board decisions. Reduced tax receipts forced the board to spend part of a March 16 meeting discussing ways to lower expenses. During the April 8 meeting, the group budgeted $35,931 for the next school year. In October they switched the grade school and high school furnaces from oil to gas, expecting to save $300 a year. By late November, the board faced reducing salaries and expenses for the coming school year. This included eliminating one or two staff positons. By the following May, the upcoming budget totaled $26,017.10, considerably less than previous years.Hard times didn’t go away, causing Ellis taxpayers, school leadership, and students to face hardship. Despite those struggles, the community continued to produce educated citizens.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0de30e1b-bb01-44e2-bbee-2534451ce51d">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 11</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7dbf4b2f-ff51-490e-96d4-527cf5ce1596">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 10</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5d3b0050-884e-43a6-8da4-9419e81bbf3f">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;9</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6046ee3c-c6c2-4d3a-adf3-98084fcf506b">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 8</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a410c8ea-2038-4aa9-bbac-4ba20e3dce59">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;7</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c4d25696-4e64-4f03-b53f-52322f5800a6">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;6</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d1be1bca-b1ce-4748-b41f-f04fdecdd0c9">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;5</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/31162282-e1ad-4458-94c1-4efa3642155e">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part 3</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4116f584-aca2-45ea-92ea-f4cb948ad1af">Madorin: History of Ellis Schools, part&nbsp;2</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/539bba70-e799-4512-9cf1-809101486476">Madroirn: The beginning of Ellis schools</a>

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