Senator Rick Billinger&nbsp;Newsletter February 20, 2023

The Ways and Means Committee and sub committees continues to work on the budget. We are working towards a goal to have the budget completed and ready for floor debate in the Senate on March 14, 2023. 

1. Dolly Parton imagination program for preschool children. This program would provide books to underage school children. 

2. The second hearing was held on the KPERS funeral expense benefit payment, which is currently $4,000. With the passing of this legislation KPERS funeral expense benefit would increase to $6,000 per funeral. The funeral expense benefit has not been raised since 1993. 

3. We also had a hearing on setting up a program for the universities deferred maintenance. The bill proposes one-time funding of $350M with a one-to-one match from the universities. Currently the universities have over $1.2 B in deferred maintenance. The current funding the universities receive comes from a portion of the 1 ½ mill from property taxes, which results in the universities receiving approximately $50M per year for deferred maintenance. This program will run for twelve years allowing enough time to complete all the current deferred maintenance. This one-time investment of $350M along with the one-to-one match and the current revenue share from the 1 ½ mill will fully fund the current deferred maintenance. The committee is working to include the community colleges and technical colleges in this deferred maintenance program. The program would provide $100,000 per school over the next ten years.

Some of the bills pasted out of the Senate this week were:

SB 73: Amends elements of the crimes of burglary and aggravated burglary to add domestic battery and violation of a protection order to the list of crimes that a person can have the intent to commit when they enter or remain in a location specified in the law. During the hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, law enforcement testified in favor of the legislation, saying it addresses a gap in the law that makes it difficult to prosecute certain offenders.

SB 106: Protects consumers by prohibiting fake air bags – which the bill defines as knowingly or intentionally manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling, offering for sale, installing, or reinstalling a device intended to replace a supplemental restraint system component in a vehicle if the device is counterfeit, a nonfunctional airbag, or an object not designed in accordance with federal safety regulations for the make, model, and year of the vehicle.

SB 130: Requires certain license plates to have the motor vehicle county of registration identified&nbsp;on the plate.

On Thursday, the Senate passed SB116, a gun safety education bill that drew opposition from most Democrats. The bill would simply allow local school boards to provide firearm safety education programs.

SB 59 would designate the Thursday immediately preceding the third Monday in January of 2023 and in subsequent years as “Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Capitol.”

My office has March 6th available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in coming to the Capitol for a day to page, please contact Donna at 785-296-7399.

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Senator Rick Billinger&nbsp;Newsletter February 20, 2023 The Ways and Means Committee and sub committees continues to work on the budget. We are working towards a goal to have the budget completed and ready for floor debate in the Senate on March 14, 2023. The committee also held three hearings:1. Dolly Parton imagination program for preschool children. This program would provide books to underage school children. 2. The second hearing was held on the KPERS funeral expense benefit payment, which is currently $4,000. With the passing of this legislation KPERS funeral expense benefit would increase to $6,000 per funeral. The funeral expense benefit has not been raised since 1993. 3. We also had a hearing on setting up a program for the universities deferred maintenance. The bill proposes one-time funding of $350M with a one-to-one match from the universities. Currently the universities have over $1.2 B in deferred maintenance. The current funding the universities receive comes from a portion of the 1 ½ mill from property taxes, which results in the universities receiving approximately $50M per year for deferred maintenance. This program will run for twelve years allowing enough time to complete all the current deferred maintenance. This one-time investment of $350M along with the one-to-one match and the current revenue share from the 1 ½ mill will fully fund the current deferred maintenance. The committee is working to include the community colleges and technical colleges in this deferred maintenance program. The program would provide $100,000 per school over the next ten years.Some of the bills pasted out of the Senate this week were:SB 73: Amends elements of the crimes of burglary and aggravated burglary to add domestic battery and violation of a protection order to the list of crimes that a person can have the intent to commit when they enter or remain in a location specified in the law. During the hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, law enforcement testified in favor of the legislation, saying it addresses a gap in the law that makes it difficult to prosecute certain offenders.SB 106: Protects consumers by prohibiting fake air bags – which the bill defines as knowingly or intentionally manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling, offering for sale, installing, or reinstalling a device intended to replace a supplemental restraint system component in a vehicle if the device is counterfeit, a nonfunctional airbag, or an object not designed in accordance with federal safety regulations for the make, model, and year of the vehicle.SB 130: Requires certain license plates to have the motor vehicle county of registration identified&nbsp;on the plate.On Thursday, the Senate passed SB116, a gun safety education bill that drew opposition from most Democrats. The bill would simply allow local school boards to provide firearm safety education programs.SB 59 would designate the Thursday immediately preceding the third Monday in January of 2023 and in subsequent years as “Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Capitol.”My office has March 6th available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in coming to the Capitol for a day to page, please contact Donna at 785-296-7399.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:* Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties * Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Feb. 20

FEBRUARY 20, 2023 Hello from Topeka.

The end of the week is "turnaround," the first major legislative deadline of the session and signifies the movement of bills from their originating chamber to the other side of the rotunda. The House is scheduled for three full days this week, full of debate on the House floor. 

“Turnaround” is the term used in the Kansas legislature to describe when all bills must be out of their house of origin, so all House bills must pass the House and be on their way to the Senate and vice versa in order to be considered during the remainder of the session. 

We will be off for a few days then back at it next Wednesday, usually we would have a series of town hall meetings on these days but are postponing them a few days, so watch this column and other media outlets, as it looks like we will be holding these on an upcoming Saturday in the coming weeks.

Things have been speeding up this past week as we have been working to get bills out of committees. Here are some of the bills that passed on the house floor: 

HB 2021 is a comprehensive fix to issues we have identified since our last overhaul of juvenile justice statutes. This bill expands juvenile justice funds to involve more youth, requires increased communication amongst state agencies, extends case and probation length limits, and creates a structured detention mechanism for violations.

HB 2027 - Creating a procedure to prevent distribution of a decedent's assets to a person charged with the felonious killing of the decedent until criminal proceedings are completed. This bill was championed by District 111 Representative Barb Wasinger. If a person is charged with felony murder, and they are also a beneficiary of the victim's estate, the alleged offender will no longer be able to claim those assets to post bail or defend themselves of the alleged crime.

HB 2060 – Establishing the special education and related services funding task force. This bill establishes the Special Education Funding Taskforce. The taskforce will examine our current special education funding formula and hold hearings to listen to the needs of experts and the public to recommend changes. I am proud to support this as a good step forward that allows us to carefully examine the issue at hand and find solutions that will provide meaningful change.

HB 2125 - Providing for charitable event permits and demonstration permits for body art services, authorizing cease and desist orders against unlicensed providers of body art services and requiring related administrative actions to be in accordance with the Kansas administrative procedure act and reviewable under the Kansas judicial review act. Under this bill, the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology can create, and issue charitable event permits and demonstration permits for "tattooing, cosmetic tattooing, and body piercing." This allows for events to be hosted that can bring in revenue to localities and makes it easier for charitable events to occur. If someone is in violation of regulations, the board can currently only send cease and desist orders to current licensees. This law allows them to send these orders to unlicensed individuals who are in violation as well.

HB 2214&nbsp;- Changing the name of the Larned correctional mental health facility to the Larned state correctional facility and removing references to facilities that no longer exist. HB 2214 changes the name of the Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility to the Larned State Correctional Facility and removes references to Osawatomie Correctional Facility and Toronto Correctional Work Facility since they are closed. The Kansas Department of Corrections believes that this new facility name more accurately represents their mission.

HB 2314&nbsp;- Prohibiting the use of the social media platform TikTok on state-owned devices and on any state network. This legislation puts us in line with a growing&nbsp;number of states across the country and the federal government, which banned TikTok on their devices last year due to security concerns. This bill enacts what was temporarily done by Executive Order when the legislature was out of session. This formalizes a ban on ByteDance and its subsidiaries, including TikTok, from government devices.

HCR 5004 - Urging the U.S. Congress to fully fund the federal government's original funding promise under the individuals with disabilities education act. This resolution sends a message to our congressional delegation, telling them we want the federal government to provide the funds promised for Special Education. In 2022, the federal government failed to provide $3300 million of promised funding.

You can follow along on happenings in the legislature online at <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/">kslegislature.org</a> and when the house and senate are on the floor or in committees you can see all of them on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel. I have moved offices and now located at 186-W, which is the northwest corner of the capital. My assistant again this year is Terry Benitis. If you would like to contact me, Email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov, phone during the session 785-296-7463 or you can always try my cell number at 785-302-8416.

If you have a young person who would like to come and spend the day as a Legislative Page, please let me know as soon as possible and we will work on what is a good day for that to happen.

Thanks for reading. It is my honor to serve you.

Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. which includes:&nbsp;

* Graham, Norton, Phillips and Rooks Counties * Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis, Munjor and Schoenchen Townships: Big Creek (part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Freedom, Herzog (part), Lookout, Victoria (part) and Wheatland

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676473190864.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>FEBRUARY 20, 2023 Hello from Topeka. The end of the week is "turnaround," the first major legislative deadline of the session and signifies the movement of bills from their originating chamber to the other side of the rotunda. The House is scheduled for three full days this week, full of debate on the House floor. “Turnaround” is the term used in the Kansas legislature to describe when all bills must be out of their house of origin, so all House bills must pass the House and be on their way to the Senate and vice versa in order to be considered during the remainder of the session. We will be off for a few days then back at it next Wednesday, usually we would have a series of town hall meetings on these days but are postponing them a few days, so watch this column and other media outlets, as it looks like we will be holding these on an upcoming Saturday in the coming weeks.Things have been speeding up this past week as we have been working to get bills out of committees. Here are some of the bills that passed on the house floor: HB 2021 is a comprehensive fix to issues we have identified since our last overhaul of juvenile justice statutes. This bill expands juvenile justice funds to involve more youth, requires increased communication amongst state agencies, extends case and probation length limits, and creates a structured detention mechanism for violations. HB 2027 - Creating a procedure to prevent distribution of a decedent's assets to a person charged with the felonious killing of the decedent until criminal proceedings are completed. This bill was championed by District 111 Representative Barb Wasinger. If a person is charged with felony murder, and they are also a beneficiary of the victim's estate, the alleged offender will no longer be able to claim those assets to post bail or defend themselves of the alleged crime. HB 2060 – Establishing the special education and related services funding task force. This bill establishes the Special Education Funding Taskforce. The taskforce will examine our current special education funding formula and hold hearings to listen to the needs of experts and the public to recommend changes. I am proud to support this as a good step forward that allows us to carefully examine the issue at hand and find solutions that will provide meaningful change. HB 2125 - Providing for charitable event permits and demonstration permits for body art services, authorizing cease and desist orders against unlicensed providers of body art services and requiring related administrative actions to be in accordance with the Kansas administrative procedure act and reviewable under the Kansas judicial review act. Under this bill, the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology can create, and issue charitable event permits and demonstration permits for "tattooing, cosmetic tattooing, and body piercing." This allows for events to be hosted that can bring in revenue to localities and makes it easier for charitable events to occur. If someone is in violation of regulations, the board can currently only send cease and desist orders to current licensees. This law allows them to send these orders to unlicensed individuals who are in violation as well.HB 2214&nbsp;- Changing the name of the Larned correctional mental health facility to the Larned state correctional facility and removing references to facilities that no longer exist. HB 2214 changes the name of the Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility to the Larned State Correctional Facility and removes references to Osawatomie Correctional Facility and Toronto Correctional Work Facility since they are closed. The Kansas Department of Corrections believes that this new facility name more accurately represents their mission. HB 2314&nbsp;- Prohibiting the use of the social media platform TikTok on state-owned devices and on any state network. This legislation puts us in line with a growing&nbsp;number of states across the country and the federal government, which banned TikTok on their devices last year due to security concerns. This bill enacts what was temporarily done by Executive Order when the legislature was out of session. This formalizes a ban on ByteDance and its subsidiaries, including TikTok, from government devices. HCR 5004 - Urging the U.S. Congress to fully fund the federal government's original funding promise under the individuals with disabilities education act. This resolution sends a message to our congressional delegation, telling them we want the federal government to provide the funds promised for Special Education. In 2022, the federal government failed to provide $3300 million of promised funding.You can follow along on happenings in the legislature online at <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/">kslegislature.org</a> and when the house and senate are on the floor or in committees you can see all of them on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel. I have moved offices and now located at 186-W, which is the northwest corner of the capital. My assistant again this year is Terry Benitis. If you would like to contact me, Email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov, phone during the session 785-296-7463 or you can always try my cell number at 785-302-8416. If you have a young person who would like to come and spend the day as a Legislative Page, please let me know as soon as possible and we will work on what is a good day for that to happen.Thanks for reading. It is my honor to serve you.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. which includes:&nbsp;* Graham, Norton, Phillips and Rooks Counties * Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis, Munjor and Schoenchen Townships: Big Creek (part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Freedom, Herzog (part), Lookout, Victoria (part) and Wheatland

RAHJES REPORT: February 20, 2023

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Home in Hays has had many lives.&nbsp;

It was a furniture store, a bar and, most recently, a Crossfit fitness center. It will reopen this spring as the Home Event Center.

"Everyone out there knows of that building as the Home," said Chace Malone, owner. "Our hope is to bring in more memories with the Home tied to it."

Malone, a Denver developer, was looking for an investment property in Hays, and his real estate agent suggested the Home property, 229 W. 10th.

The building is being renovated and will include a new dance floor and two updated wet bars. The building is about 8,000 square feet. The new dance floor will be about 1,400 square feet.&nbsp;

When the space is set up with tables, it has a capacity for about 250 people. Without tables, it has a capacity for about 500.&nbsp;

The center will have a DJ booth and a state-of-the-art sound system. The facility also will have a projector and TVs that could be used for slide shows or for meetings.

The center is scheduled to open as soon as April and is booking weddings and other events now for the summer.

Renters will be able to bring in their own catering and alcohol for events. The center will not initially have a liquor license, Malone said.

Malone said he is open for events large and small, including dart tournaments, dance recitals, comedy shows and club meetings.

"You name it, we want to be able to be flexible so we can bring in any sort of activities into the facility," he said.

Pricing ranges from $90 per hour for weeknight events to $1,500 for weekend weddings. You can learn more about pricing on the<a href="https://www.thehomeeventcenter.com/"> event center's webpage</a>.

"I think the big thing I want to try to communicate to people is to utilize the space," he said. "If people have any cool, creative ideas they think would be exciting and bring people together, that would be really great."

You can book events through the center's website, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@hayshec.com">info@hayshec.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;785-222-0086. You can also follow the center and its ongoing renovations on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayshec">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676581579448.jpeg" alt="The Home Event Center is receiving a new floor during its remodel. It will have a 1,400-square-foot-dance floor when it is finished. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Home Event Center is receiving a new floor during its remodel. It will have a 1,400-square-foot-dance floor when it is finished. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Home in Hays has had many lives.&nbsp;It was a furniture store, a bar and, most recently, a Crossfit fitness center. It will reopen this spring as the Home Event Center."Everyone out there knows of that building as the Home," said Chace Malone, owner. "Our hope is to bring in more memories with the Home tied to it."Malone, a Denver developer, was looking for an investment property in Hays, and his real estate agent suggested the Home property, 229 W. 10th.The building is being renovated and will include a new dance floor and two updated wet bars. The building is about 8,000 square feet. The new dance floor will be about 1,400 square feet.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676581613749.jpeg" alt="The Home Event Center will have a capacity of 250 with table seating and 500 for standing room and dancing. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Home Event Center will have a capacity of 250 with table seating and 500 for standing room and dancing. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When the space is set up with tables, it has a capacity for about 250 people. Without tables, it has a capacity for about 500.&nbsp;The center will have a DJ booth and a state-of-the-art sound system. The facility also will have a projector and TVs that could be used for slide shows or for meetings.The center is scheduled to open as soon as April and is booking weddings and other events now for the summer.Renters will be able to bring in their own catering and alcohol for events. The center will not initially have a liquor license, Malone said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676581644631.jpeg" alt="The Home Event Center is being remodeled. It will have two updated wet bars when the remodel is complete. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The Home Event Center is being remodeled. It will have two updated wet bars when the remodel is complete. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Malone said he is open for events large and small, including dart tournaments, dance recitals, comedy shows and club meetings."You name it, we want to be able to be flexible so we can bring in any sort of activities into the facility," he said.Pricing ranges from $90 per hour for weeknight events to $1,500 for weekend weddings. You can learn more about pricing on the<a href="https://www.thehomeeventcenter.com/"> event center's webpage</a>."I think the big thing I want to try to communicate to people is to utilize the space," he said. "If people have any cool, creative ideas they think would be exciting and bring people together, that would be really great."You can book events through the center's website, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@hayshec.com">info@hayshec.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;785-222-0086. You can also follow the center and its ongoing renovations on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayshec">Facebook</a>.

Home Event Center to open in spring in Hays

Tower crews will be on site Monday and Tuesday to&nbsp; perform maintenance on KJLS and KKQY. The work also could affect the KFIX signal.

The work is expected to be completed by the end of the day Tuesday.

You can still listen to any of your Eagle Radio of Hays station via the online stream <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3385e3ba-4a05-4f97-be47-3d54dc97ed41">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649700548606.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tower crews will be on site Monday and Tuesday to&nbsp; perform maintenance on KJLS and KKQY. The work also could affect the KFIX signal.The work is expected to be completed by the end of the day Tuesday.We apologize for the inconvenience.You can still listen to any of your Eagle Radio of Hays station via the online stream <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3385e3ba-4a05-4f97-be47-3d54dc97ed41">HERE</a>.

Eagle Radio tower work begins Monday

After 31 years, Genuine Appliance of Hays is under new ownership.

Hays entrepreneur Jacob Proffitt has purchased the business from Mark and Keith Eilts. Proffitt is the owner of the Auman Company, as well as having an interest in several other businesses in Hays.

"We are going to continue to have the same great service that Mark and Keith always had," Colten Gideon, new manager, said.

The store, 1224 E. 27th,&nbsp; is carrying and will service many of the same appliance brands that it did under the former owners. However, the new business hopes to expand the brands it can service.

Gideon said Porffitt wanted to keep a small Hays business alive and retain employees in Hays.

Genuine Appliance carries a variety of large appliances for the home, including refrigerators, deep freezes, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, garbage disposals and hot water heaters.

Some of the brands include Electrolux, Frigidaire and Speed Queen.

The store also plans to bring in a new line, Thor, which is an upscale, full-kitchen line, Gideon said. The Thor appliances will need to be ordered, but the store will keep other appliances in stock, Gideon said.

The store also is carrying filters for reverse osmosis and water softener systems.

The store will deliver, install and service within 60 miles of Hays. Old appliances will be hauled away at no charge, Gideon said. The store will service anything that it sells.

The store is having a reopening event on March 1.

Store hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/genuineappliance">You can follow Genuine Appliance on Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676665136306.jpeg" alt="Hays entrepreneur Jacob Proffitt has purchased Genuine Appliance. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays entrepreneur Jacob Proffitt has purchased Genuine Appliance. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter 31 years, Genuine Appliance of Hays is under new ownership.Hays entrepreneur Jacob Proffitt has purchased the business from Mark and Keith Eilts. Proffitt is the owner of the Auman Company, as well as having an interest in several other businesses in Hays."We are going to continue to have the same great service that Mark and Keith always had," Colten Gideon, new manager, said.The store, 1224 E. 27th,&nbsp; is carrying and will service many of the same appliance brands that it did under the former owners. However, the new business hopes to expand the brands it can service.Gideon said Porffitt wanted to keep a small Hays business alive and retain employees in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676665473050.jpeg" alt="Left to right: Genuine Appliance employees Kyle Ostrom, Dylan Cobb and manager Colten Gideon in the reopened Genuine Appliance in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Left to right: Genuine Appliance employees Kyle Ostrom, Dylan Cobb and manager Colten Gideon in the reopened Genuine Appliance in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Genuine Appliance carries a variety of large appliances for the home, including refrigerators, deep freezes, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, garbage disposals and hot water heaters.Some of the brands include Electrolux, Frigidaire and Speed Queen.The store also plans to bring in a new line, Thor, which is an upscale, full-kitchen line, Gideon said. The Thor appliances will need to be ordered, but the store will keep other appliances in stock, Gideon said.The store also is carrying filters for reverse osmosis and water softener systems.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676665511298.jpeg" alt="Genuine Appliance carries a variety of large appliances for the home, including refrigerators, deep freezes, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, garbage disposals and hot water heaters. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Genuine Appliance carries a variety of large appliances for the home, including refrigerators, deep freezes, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, garbage disposals and hot water heaters. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The store will deliver, install and service within 60 miles of Hays. Old appliances will be hauled away at no charge, Gideon said. The store will service anything that it sells.The store is having a reopening event on March 1.Store hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/genuineappliance">You can follow Genuine Appliance on Facebook</a>.

Genuine Appliance in Hays under new ownership

At 9 a.m. Wednesday in the Sunset Atrium of the Memorial Union, Fort Hays State University will share details of an new program that could bring nearly $5 million in scholarship support to deserving FHSU students. 

Fort Hays State administration, president and CEO of the FHSU Foundation, Jason Williby, and Student Government Association President Ryan Stanley will provide details about how this life-changing scholarship program will impact Fort Hays State students in need. &nbsp;

The public is welcome to attend the news conference. Refreshments will be provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676587960381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU FoundationAt 9 a.m. Wednesday in the Sunset Atrium of the Memorial Union, Fort Hays State University will share details of an new program that could bring nearly $5 million in scholarship support to deserving FHSU students. Fort Hays State administration, president and CEO of the FHSU Foundation, Jason Williby, and Student Government Association President Ryan Stanley will provide details about how this life-changing scholarship program will impact Fort Hays State students in need. &nbsp;The public is welcome to attend the news conference. Refreshments will be provided.

FHSU to announce potential $5M grant match opportunity

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to close a portion of K-383 in Norton County for reconstruction starting on Monday, March 13.

The closure will begin at the east U.S. 36 junction and extend approximately 6 miles northeast to the Prairie Dog Creek bridge near Almena. Traffic should follow the signed detour route on U.S. 36 and U.S. 183.

Project activities will consist of widening the highway on existing alignment into a 24-foot mainline surface with 6-foot paved shoulders. Crews will also decrease side slopes and level hills and valleys, which will help improve visibility and increase passing opportunities. Several drainage structures along the route will be replaced as well.

KDOT expects to reopen the highway by the end of 2023, conditions permitting. Venture Corporation of Great Bend is the primary contractor with total contract cost of approximately $15.3 million.

This project is the second phase of reconstruction on 26 miles of K-383 in Norton and Phillips counties. Phase I consisted of approximately 6 miles from east of Long Island to the U.S. 183 junction. Phase III is the remaining 14 miles from Almena to east of Long Island. KDOT is currently finalizing the design plan for phase III and anticipates letting the project for construction in spring 2025.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to close a portion of K-383 in Norton County for reconstruction starting on Monday, March 13.The closure will begin at the east U.S. 36 junction and extend approximately 6 miles northeast to the Prairie Dog Creek bridge near Almena. Traffic should follow the signed detour route on U.S. 36 and U.S. 183.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643373407439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Project activities will consist of widening the highway on existing alignment into a 24-foot mainline surface with 6-foot paved shoulders. Crews will also decrease side slopes and level hills and valleys, which will help improve visibility and increase passing opportunities. Several drainage structures along the route will be replaced as well.KDOT expects to reopen the highway by the end of 2023, conditions permitting. Venture Corporation of Great Bend is the primary contractor with total contract cost of approximately $15.3 million.This project is the second phase of reconstruction on 26 miles of K-383 in Norton and Phillips counties. Phase I consisted of approximately 6 miles from east of Long Island to the U.S. 183 junction. Phase III is the remaining 14 miles from Almena to east of Long Island. KDOT is currently finalizing the design plan for phase III and anticipates letting the project for construction in spring 2025.

K-383 to close for reconstruction in Norton County

<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/2023/2/1676663218297.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

PRO-AG MARKETING OF KENSINGTON ANNOUNCES CAREER&nbsp;OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE AT C-STORE AND THE RUSTY TRACTOR.&nbsp;

FULL-TIME POSITIONS INCLUDE CONVENIENCE STORE AND RESTAURANT&nbsp;MANAGER.&nbsp; OTHER FULL-TIME POSITIONS INCLUDE COOKS, WAIT STAFF,&nbsp;AND CASHIERS WHO ARE ABLE TO OFFER SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE.&nbsp;

RUSTY TRACTOR IS OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY.&nbsp; C-STORE IS LOOKING FOR MORNING AND EVENING SHIFTS INCLUDING SOME&nbsp;WEEKENDS.&nbsp; FULL TIME BENEFITS INCLUDE PTO, SHORT AND LONG TERM&nbsp;DISABILITY, COOP RETIREMENT, LIFE INSURANCE AND AND HEALTH AND&nbsp;DENTAL INSURANCE, WITH A PORTION PAID BY THE EMPLOYEE.&nbsp; EMPLOYEE&nbsp;

PAID BENEFITS INCLUDE AFLAC AND VISION CARE DIRECT.&nbsp; PART TIME-POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE, TOO.&nbsp; CALL 785-476-2211&nbsp;OR STOP BY THE PRO-AG MARKETING MAIN OFFICE IN KENSINGTON FOR&nbsp;MORE INFORMATION.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676481779095.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRO-AG MARKETING OF KENSINGTON ANNOUNCES CAREER&nbsp;OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE AT C-STORE AND THE RUSTY TRACTOR.&nbsp;FULL-TIME POSITIONS INCLUDE CONVENIENCE STORE AND RESTAURANT&nbsp;MANAGER.&nbsp; OTHER FULL-TIME POSITIONS INCLUDE COOKS, WAIT STAFF,&nbsp;AND CASHIERS WHO ARE ABLE TO OFFER SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE.&nbsp;RUSTY TRACTOR IS OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY.&nbsp; C-STORE IS LOOKING FOR MORNING AND EVENING SHIFTS INCLUDING SOME&nbsp;WEEKENDS.&nbsp; FULL TIME BENEFITS INCLUDE PTO, SHORT AND LONG TERM&nbsp;DISABILITY, COOP RETIREMENT, LIFE INSURANCE AND AND HEALTH AND&nbsp;DENTAL INSURANCE, WITH A PORTION PAID BY THE EMPLOYEE.&nbsp; EMPLOYEE&nbsp;PAID BENEFITS INCLUDE AFLAC AND VISION CARE DIRECT.&nbsp; PART TIME-POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE, TOO.&nbsp; CALL 785-476-2211&nbsp;OR STOP BY THE PRO-AG MARKETING MAIN OFFICE IN KENSINGTON FOR&nbsp;MORE INFORMATION.

🎙 Post Podcast: Schmidt Foundation donates $500,000 to Grow Hays Microfactory

Global demands for food are increasing, but climate change and limited natural resources are leading farmers to seek Climate Smart techniques to increase production while protecting the environment.

Peter Tomlinson, a Kansas State University environmental agronomist, gave a presentation on Climate Smart agriculture Tuesday during a Crop Talk webinar hosted by K-State Research and Extension.

"It goes beyond thinking about cropland," Tomlinson said. "It's about how we integrate approaches across all of our managed landscapes—everything from cropland to our salt and freshwater fisheries, livestock, and forests system.

"Across these systems, how do we address an interwoven challenge of food security needs as well as addressing climate change-driven challenges that face all of these landscapes?"

The three main goals of Climate-Smart agriculture are to increase productivity, increase resiliency and reduce emissions.

The concept covers many practices farmers are already doing, including nutrient management, conservation tillage and the use of cover crops.

Fewer tillage passes decrease emissions, save fuel and decrease soil erosion. By decreasing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer farmers use, they can reduce emissions as well as reap economic savings, Tomlinson said.

The planet is facing a growing population, which has resulted in an increase in the demand for food.

The agriculture industry is struggling to keep up,&nbsp;Tomlinson said. Crop yields are leveling off and farmers are putting more stress on natural resources.

In 2020, 690 million people were considered hungry, according to the World Bank. That is 8.9 percent of the world's population.

While food demand is increasing, so are challenges for food producers.

The U.S. is experiencing higher-than-average daily temperatures and a change in frost-free days. This is changing the growing season and growing zones, Tomlinson said.

Weather variability can result in conditions that are too wet or too dry to plant and then drought can lead to crop loss, he said.

With changes in climate, farmers are feeling greater pressure from disease and insects that they would not normally see in Kansas.

Although Kansas has been in severe drought during the last year, over the last 10 years the state has had above-average precipitation.

Climate change is being driven by both natural causes and human activity. Agriculture generates between 19 and 29 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.

The World Bank estimates about one-third of global food production never makes it to a hungry person. It is lost at the farm, in transport or in other circumstances.

K-State has been involved in promoting many conservation practices, including terraces, reduced or no-till production, residue management and cover crops, Tomlinson said.

Many research and conservation projects are ongoing in Kansas.

These include cover crop studies, Kansas Watershed Field Laboratory,&nbsp; Kansas Corn Growers Association Soil Health Partnership, U. S. Department of Agriculture Sustainable Agriculture System Project and SMARTFARM for Sorghum.

The sorghum project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to research sorghum production for use in ethanol.

The USDA announced in February&nbsp; 2022 it was accepting proposals from producers for Climate Smart Commodity Projects. The projects have a time frame of one to five years. The proposals ranged from $250,000 to $100 million.

The department selected 141 projects (24 of which were in Kansas) with a total investment of more than $3.1 billion.

The aim of the projects is to provide technical and financial assistance on a voluntary basis on working land with the goal of producing verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.

The National Sorghum Producers Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Project also seeks to encourage producers to implement climate-friendly practices with the goals of reducing carbon emissions and developing markets for sorghum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673285183594.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostGlobal demands for food are increasing, but climate change and limited natural resources are leading farmers to seek Climate Smart techniques to increase production while protecting the environment.Peter Tomlinson, a Kansas State University environmental agronomist, gave a presentation on Climate Smart agriculture Tuesday during a Crop Talk webinar hosted by K-State Research and Extension."It goes beyond thinking about cropland," Tomlinson said. "It's about how we integrate approaches across all of our managed landscapes—everything from cropland to our salt and freshwater fisheries, livestock, and forests system."Across these systems, how do we address an interwoven challenge of food security needs as well as addressing climate change-driven challenges that face all of these landscapes?"The three main goals of Climate-Smart agriculture are to increase productivity, increase resiliency and reduce emissions.The concept covers many practices farmers are already doing, including nutrient management, conservation tillage and the use of cover crops.Fewer tillage passes decrease emissions, save fuel and decrease soil erosion. By decreasing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer farmers use, they can reduce emissions as well as reap economic savings, Tomlinson said.The planet is facing a growing population, which has resulted in an increase in the demand for food.The agriculture industry is struggling to keep up,&nbsp;Tomlinson said. Crop yields are leveling off and farmers are putting more stress on natural resources.In 2020, 690 million people were considered hungry, according to the World Bank. That is 8.9 percent of the world's population.While food demand is increasing, so are challenges for food producers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676476663856.png" alt="Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The U.S. is experiencing higher-than-average daily temperatures and a change in frost-free days. This is changing the growing season and growing zones, Tomlinson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676496390316.png" alt="Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Weather variability can result in conditions that are too wet or too dry to plant and then drought can lead to crop loss, he said.With changes in climate, farmers are feeling greater pressure from disease and insects that they would not normally see in Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676478215866.png" alt="Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Although Kansas has been in severe drought during the last year, over the last 10 years the state has had above-average precipitation.Climate change is being driven by both natural causes and human activity. Agriculture generates between 19 and 29 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676479436774.png" alt="The source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, forestry and other land uses are shown in this diagram in the green sections. Image courtesy of K-State Extension" />
 <figcaption>The source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, forestry and other land uses are shown in this diagram in the green sections. Image courtesy of K-State Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The World Bank estimates about one-third of global food production never makes it to a hungry person. It is lost at the farm, in transport or in other circumstances.K-State has been involved in promoting many conservation practices, including terraces, reduced or no-till production, residue management and cover crops, Tomlinson said.Many research and conservation projects are ongoing in Kansas.These include cover crop studies, Kansas Watershed Field Laboratory,&nbsp; Kansas Corn Growers Association Soil Health Partnership, U. S. Department of Agriculture Sustainable Agriculture System Project and SMARTFARM for Sorghum.The sorghum project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to research sorghum production for use in ethanol.The USDA announced in February&nbsp; 2022 it was accepting proposals from producers for Climate Smart Commodity Projects. The projects have a time frame of one to five years. The proposals ranged from $250,000 to $100 million.The department selected 141 projects (24 of which were in Kansas) with a total investment of more than $3.1 billion.The aim of the projects is to provide technical and financial assistance on a voluntary basis on working land with the goal of producing verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.The National Sorghum Producers Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Project also seeks to encourage producers to implement climate-friendly practices with the goals of reducing carbon emissions and developing markets for sorghum.

Conservation practices help farmers increase yields, reduce effects on climate

​Education&nbsp;progressed&nbsp;in Ellis as&nbsp;well as in thriving towns across northwest Kansas. Established and incoming&nbsp;settlers&nbsp;had every reason to be optimistic about their communities.

​In time for the&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;1882 Fall term, builders completed the stone school house on the south hill. CQ Bullock, Mrs. Bullock, and an unnamed teacher taught 167 students. According to the August 12&nbsp;Ellis Weekly Headlight, the male teacher received $80 per month salary while the female instructors received $42.50. Keep in mind teachers saved&nbsp;a portion of&nbsp;their&nbsp;wages to tide them over during the unpaid summer months.&nbsp;

​The&nbsp;September 2&nbsp;Headlight&nbsp;optimistically shared that “Every available house in town is occupied for the coming winter by people from the surrounding country who wish to send their children to school.” By November, more than 200 pupils&nbsp;attended classes. Despite the large enrollment and enthusiasm for the school,&nbsp;the&nbsp;board closed&nbsp;the term early in May due to lack of funds.&nbsp;Based on history, it would be interesting to learn&nbsp;if the&nbsp;nation-wide economic crisis of 1882 -1885 relating to railroad companies impacted this decision.&nbsp;

​Regarding&nbsp;economic matters, the fall term of 1883 began with an increased&nbsp;levy&nbsp;of&nbsp;8 and 3/10th&nbsp;mills to pay the salaries of Mr. Bullock, Mrs. Bullock, Miss Call, and Miss Paul. Lee’s DryGoods and the drugstore sold school supplies to students.&nbsp;

​Research revealed little information regarding how boards hired teachers. However, the newspaper in March advertised&nbsp;that teacher examinations were given at the school house in Hays. It makes&nbsp;one&nbsp;think&nbsp;a&nbsp;certification standard existed.

​1884, the faculty turned over completely when the board hired Professor Hertzel, Miss Sheperd, Miss Mary Winters and Miss Cynthia Winters to teach the 1884-85 term. Townspeople absorbed&nbsp;a&nbsp;16 and ¼ mill&nbsp;levy&nbsp;to support salaries and expenses. Again, it would be interesting to know if national economic issues&nbsp;triggered&nbsp;this mill increase. Apparently, taxpayers could afford it.&nbsp;

​In September of 1885, a local poet shared a poem about&nbsp;fall term&nbsp;happenings in the building on the hill.

Oh! The Ellis schoolhouse Beneath the towering hill, Where scholars from far and near, Come to obtain their skill.

While visiting there the other day, I am happy for to tell— That the pupils called upon, Accomplished their parts well.

With a well-experienced teacher, That strives in every plan, To help them with the lessons, And learn them all he can.

We thank the good professor, For receiving us&nbsp;so kind, And will make another call some day Providing he don’t mind.

By February of 1885, readers of the Headlight learned that the legislature required teachers to pass an exam&nbsp;in physiology, hygiene, and the effects of narcotics on the human system. One assumes&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;teachers&nbsp;passed as L.H. Boyd, County School Superintendent, officially visited and announced he was pleased with the management of the school.&nbsp;

Clearly, the school on the hill in Ellis&nbsp;continued to thrive&nbsp;with community support. It’s daunting to think four instructors&nbsp;taught&nbsp;over 200 students. It’s also&nbsp;interesting&nbsp;to learn that&nbsp;country residents&nbsp;rented houses in town during the school year so their children could&nbsp;obtain&nbsp;an education. &nbsp;This early&nbsp;support of&nbsp;education&nbsp;continues&nbsp;today.

Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676568176963.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN​Education&nbsp;progressed&nbsp;in Ellis as&nbsp;well as in thriving towns across northwest Kansas. Established and incoming&nbsp;settlers&nbsp;had every reason to be optimistic about their communities.​In time for the&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;1882 Fall term, builders completed the stone school house on the south hill. CQ Bullock, Mrs. Bullock, and an unnamed teacher taught 167 students. According to the August 12&nbsp;Ellis Weekly Headlight, the male teacher received $80 per month salary while the female instructors received $42.50. Keep in mind teachers saved&nbsp;a portion of&nbsp;their&nbsp;wages to tide them over during the unpaid summer months.&nbsp;​The&nbsp;September 2&nbsp;Headlight&nbsp;optimistically shared that “Every available house in town is occupied for the coming winter by people from the surrounding country who wish to send their children to school.” By November, more than 200 pupils&nbsp;attended classes. Despite the large enrollment and enthusiasm for the school,&nbsp;the&nbsp;board closed&nbsp;the term early in May due to lack of funds.&nbsp;Based on history, it would be interesting to learn&nbsp;if the&nbsp;nation-wide economic crisis of 1882 -1885 relating to railroad companies impacted this decision.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>​Regarding&nbsp;economic matters, the fall term of 1883 began with an increased&nbsp;levy&nbsp;of&nbsp;8 and 3/10th&nbsp;mills to pay the salaries of Mr. Bullock, Mrs. Bullock, Miss Call, and Miss Paul. Lee’s DryGoods and the drugstore sold school supplies to students.&nbsp;​Research revealed little information regarding how boards hired teachers. However, the newspaper in March advertised&nbsp;that teacher examinations were given at the school house in Hays. It makes&nbsp;one&nbsp;think&nbsp;a&nbsp;certification standard existed.​1884, the faculty turned over completely when the board hired Professor Hertzel, Miss Sheperd, Miss Mary Winters and Miss Cynthia Winters to teach the 1884-85 term. Townspeople absorbed&nbsp;a&nbsp;16 and ¼ mill&nbsp;levy&nbsp;to support salaries and expenses. Again, it would be interesting to know if national economic issues&nbsp;triggered&nbsp;this mill increase. Apparently, taxpayers could afford it.&nbsp;​In September of 1885, a local poet shared a poem about&nbsp;fall term&nbsp;happenings in the building on the hill.<h2>The Ellis Schools</h2>Oh! The Ellis schoolhouse Beneath the towering hill, Where scholars from far and near, Come to obtain their skill. While visiting there the other day, I am happy for to tell— That the pupils called upon, Accomplished their parts well. With a well-experienced teacher, That strives in every plan, To help them with the lessons, And learn them all he can. We thank the good professor, For receiving us&nbsp;so kind, And will make another call some day Providing he don’t mind.— P.J.M.​By February of 1885, readers of the Headlight learned that the legislature required teachers to pass an exam&nbsp;in physiology, hygiene, and the effects of narcotics on the human system. One assumes&nbsp;Ellis&nbsp;teachers&nbsp;passed as L.H. Boyd, County School Superintendent, officially visited and announced he was pleased with the management of the school.&nbsp;Clearly, the school on the hill in Ellis&nbsp;continued to thrive&nbsp;with community support. It’s daunting to think four instructors&nbsp;taught&nbsp;over 200 students. It’s also&nbsp;interesting&nbsp;to learn that&nbsp;country residents&nbsp;rented houses in town during the school year so their children could&nbsp;obtain&nbsp;an education. &nbsp;This early&nbsp;support of&nbsp;education&nbsp;continues&nbsp;today.Karen is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and
 sixth-generation Kansan. After a time away, she’s glad to be home.

MADORIN: History of Ellis schools, Part 3

This week, fourth graders at Holy Family Elementary in Hays will once
again celebrate Shrove Tuesday with their annual pancake races.

“This is
the 34th annual pancake race,” said Holy Family Elementary teacher Maddy
Quimby. “As a former Holy Family student and now teacher, I remember racing
when I was in fourth grade. This is a fun tradition that we do year after
year. The students we all go out on the playground, and Mrs. Teresa Schrant cooks
up pancakes, and they have their frying pans and their aprons and we do a
traditional pancake race.”

Schrant
said while the tradition is has been a favorite activity for the students over
decades, the tradition dates back much further.

“Because
the people of England were not supposed to eat eggs, milk or fats during Lent,
they used them all up ahead of time, so they would make pancakes with it,”
Schrandt said.

According
to the official rules, you have to have your hair tied back, you have to
wear a dress, and you have to wear an apron, she said.

“But we
don't adhere to those rules, because we like the boys to be able to run,”
Schrant said. “So, they just have to have an apron and a frying pan. We have
all kinds of frying pans coming in — we have itty bitty ones, we have big cast
iron ones.”

No
matter the size of the pan, “they have to start with a flip,” Quimby said. “And
then they run a certain distance down and around an obstacle and they come back
and they have to end with a flip and catch it in order for their time to stop.”

After a
few cycles of racing, the winner is determined in a final round.

“The kids
really look forward to it. And the winners get an engraved spatula to show off,”
Schrant said.

“It's
something that the fourth graders look forward to from when they're young,”
Quimby said. “Only the
fourth grade gets to participate. Everybody else gets to watch. And I just
think it's really fun. All of the younger kids, especially if they've had older
siblings, (have) something to look forward to. And then the older kids kind of get to
reminisce about when they were racers.”

That nostalgia
also reflects in many of the parents, she said.

“We have
a lot of parents who raced as students coming back and racing with their
children,” Quimby said. 

"We do
have to tell the parents to not take it so seriously, because we have had scabs
and bruises,” Schrant said.

“And
broken teeth and dental work,” Quimby added. “Sometimes the parents are more competitive than the kid.”

<div><iframe title="Holy Family Elementary set for 34th annual pancake races" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=rrjmc-13934f9-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThis week, fourth graders at Holy Family Elementary in Hays will once
again celebrate Shrove Tuesday with their annual pancake races.“This is
the 34th annual pancake race,” said Holy Family Elementary teacher Maddy
Quimby. “As a former Holy Family student and now teacher, I remember racing
when I was in fourth grade. This is a fun tradition that we do year after
year. The students we all go out on the playground, and Mrs. Teresa Schrant cooks
up pancakes, and they have their frying pans and their aprons and we do a
traditional pancake race.”Schrant
said while the tradition is has been a favorite activity for the students over
decades, the tradition dates back much further.“Because
the people of England were not supposed to eat eggs, milk or fats during Lent,
they used them all up ahead of time, so they would make pancakes with it,”
Schrandt said.According
to the official rules, you have to have your hair tied back, you have to
wear a dress, and you have to wear an apron, she said.“But we
don't adhere to those rules, because we like the boys to be able to run,”
Schrant said. “So, they just have to have an apron and a frying pan. We have
all kinds of frying pans coming in — we have itty bitty ones, we have big cast
iron ones.”No
matter the size of the pan, “they have to start with a flip,” Quimby said. “And
then they run a certain distance down and around an obstacle and they come back
and they have to end with a flip and catch it in order for their time to stop.”After a
few cycles of racing, the winner is determined in a final round.“The kids
really look forward to it. And the winners get an engraved spatula to show off,”
Schrant said.“It's
something that the fourth graders look forward to from when they're young,”
Quimby said. “Only the
fourth grade gets to participate. Everybody else gets to watch. And I just
think it's really fun. All of the younger kids, especially if they've had older
siblings, (have) something to look forward to. And then the older kids kind of get to
reminisce about when they were racers.”That nostalgia
also reflects in many of the parents, she said.“We have
a lot of parents who raced as students coming back and racing with their
children,” Quimby said. "We do
have to tell the parents to not take it so seriously, because we have had scabs
and bruises,” Schrant said.“And
broken teeth and dental work,” Quimby added. “Sometimes the parents are more competitive than the kid.”

🎙 Holy Family to celebrate Shrove Tuesday with annual pancake races

By BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-02-15/one-kansas-county-lets-people-donate-to-after-school-programs-to-reduce-their-criminal-penalties">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA — Diversion agreements keep criminal charges 
off someone’s record and even spare them jail time — assuming they can 
afford the cost of diversion.

A DUI diversion in Thomas County in 
northwest Kansas has a $750 fine and $158 of court costs tacked on, but 
the county adds an additional, mostly unheard of, clause: a donation to 
the Colby Public Schools’ after-school program.

That donation is 
spelled out in black and white in the diversion agreement. The USD 315 
After School Program netted $5,850 from 26 people in 2022. Most people 
were under court orders to pay about $200.

“I just don't think that was how diversion was intended,” said Rep. 
Stephen Owens in December. Owens is the Republican chair of the House 
Corrections and Juvenile Justice committee.

Donation clauses in diversion are technically allowed in state law, but Owens said he is taking a look at the program.

Christopher
 Rohr, the county attorney in Thomas County, sets the rules for his 
diversion program. He said he would review his policy to see if changes 
were needed.

Rohr didn’t respond to questions asking if anyone was ever sent to jail because they couldn’t afford the donation.

Even
 with lawmakers possibly stepping in, the language in Thomas County 
underscores a concern that diversion is too costly and keeps people from
 getting the help they need.

Jessica Glendening, the chief public 
defender in Shawnee County, said the clause in Thomas County is unusual.
 But Glendening has worked in legal defense for decades and said 
diversion regularly comes with clauses that can hurt low-income Kansans.

While
 Thomas County has donations to public school programs, other counties 
created fines specifically to fund violence prevention programs. She’s 
heard some counties require money seized from an arrest be forfeited to 
law enforcement, sometimes costing people thousands of dollars. Other 
times, diversion fees can run up to $10,000.

She wants diversion 
to be run by the courts so the state would have a consistent approach. 
Currently, each county can set the terms of its diversion agreements.

“Diversion
 is supposed to be a shot at redemption and atonement and reducing 
recidivism,” she said, “and the goal should be closely tied to those 
things.”

Diversion keeps criminal charges off someone’s record by 
agreeing to a list of alternative punishments. They can be fines for the
 offense, covering court fees created by the offense or going through 
treatment programs.

For a DUI, that could be teaching someone how 
to manage their alcohol consumption. Diversion could also require an 
apology note to the victim. Whatever the program, Glendening and others 
say it needs to focus less on monetary punishment and more on 
rehabilitation.

“The ability to pay money is not a true form of 
accountability or real ties to behavior shifts or learning 
opportunities,” said Priya Sarathy Jones, deputy executive director of 
the Fines and Fees Justice Center.

Sarathy Jones said fines and 
fees don’t dole out punishment fairly. Wealthier offenders might not 
even notice a fine. To others, it could mean missing meals.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-10-17/court-alternatives-that-spare-a-criminal-record-cost-you-hundreds-and-put-a-price-on-justice" target="_blank">KCUR reported in October</a>
 that diversion can cost individuals hundreds of dollars, but make only a
 minor fraction of a city or county’s budget. That led to concerns that 
it created a two-tiered system of justice — one for people who can 
afford the cost without much pain, and a more onerous one for poor 
people..

Sarathy Jones said that punishing someone monetarily — 
like through a donation — doesn’t make them less likely to re-offend. 
She wants counties and cities to do away with fees because diversion and
 court systems are key functions of the government, and she said they 
should be funded by everyone.

“It is shockingly low what can derail a person’s day-to-day life from a financial standpoint,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676481216669.png" alt="Diversion in Thomas County requires a donation to the after school program. Blaise Mesa / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Diversion in Thomas County requires a donation to the after school program. Blaise Mesa / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-02-15/one-kansas-county-lets-people-donate-to-after-school-programs-to-reduce-their-criminal-penalties">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA — Diversion agreements keep criminal charges 
off someone’s record and even spare them jail time — assuming they can 
afford the cost of diversion.A DUI diversion in Thomas County in 
northwest Kansas has a $750 fine and $158 of court costs tacked on, but 
the county adds an additional, mostly unheard of, clause: a donation to 
the Colby Public Schools’ after-school program.That donation is 
spelled out in black and white in the diversion agreement. The USD 315 
After School Program netted $5,850 from 26 people in 2022. Most people 
were under court orders to pay about $200.“I just don't think that was how diversion was intended,” said Rep. 
Stephen Owens in December. Owens is the Republican chair of the House 
Corrections and Juvenile Justice committee.Donation clauses in diversion are technically allowed in state law, but Owens said he is taking a look at the program.Christopher
 Rohr, the county attorney in Thomas County, sets the rules for his 
diversion program. He said he would review his policy to see if changes 
were needed.Rohr didn’t respond to questions asking if anyone was ever sent to jail because they couldn’t afford the donation.Even
 with lawmakers possibly stepping in, the language in Thomas County 
underscores a concern that diversion is too costly and keeps people from
 getting the help they need.Jessica Glendening, the chief public 
defender in Shawnee County, said the clause in Thomas County is unusual.
 But Glendening has worked in legal defense for decades and said 
diversion regularly comes with clauses that can hurt low-income Kansans.While
 Thomas County has donations to public school programs, other counties 
created fines specifically to fund violence prevention programs. She’s 
heard some counties require money seized from an arrest be forfeited to 
law enforcement, sometimes costing people thousands of dollars. Other 
times, diversion fees can run up to $10,000.She wants diversion 
to be run by the courts so the state would have a consistent approach. 
Currently, each county can set the terms of its diversion agreements.“Diversion
 is supposed to be a shot at redemption and atonement and reducing 
recidivism,” she said, “and the goal should be closely tied to those 
things.”Diversion keeps criminal charges off someone’s record by 
agreeing to a list of alternative punishments. They can be fines for the
 offense, covering court fees created by the offense or going through 
treatment programs.For a DUI, that could be teaching someone how 
to manage their alcohol consumption. Diversion could also require an 
apology note to the victim. Whatever the program, Glendening and others 
say it needs to focus less on monetary punishment and more on 
rehabilitation.“The ability to pay money is not a true form of 
accountability or real ties to behavior shifts or learning 
opportunities,” said Priya Sarathy Jones, deputy executive director of 
the Fines and Fees Justice Center.Sarathy Jones said fines and 
fees don’t dole out punishment fairly. Wealthier offenders might not 
even notice a fine. To others, it could mean missing meals.<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-10-17/court-alternatives-that-spare-a-criminal-record-cost-you-hundreds-and-put-a-price-on-justice" target="_blank">KCUR reported in October</a>
 that diversion can cost individuals hundreds of dollars, but make only a
 minor fraction of a city or county’s budget. That led to concerns that 
it created a two-tiered system of justice — one for people who can 
afford the cost without much pain, and a more onerous one for poor 
people..Sarathy Jones said that punishing someone monetarily — 
like through a donation — doesn’t make them less likely to re-offend. 
She wants counties and cities to do away with fees because diversion and
 court systems are key functions of the government, and she said they 
should be funded by everyone.“It is shockingly low what can derail a person’s day-to-day life from a financial standpoint,” she said.

Thomas Co.: Donate to after-school programs to reduce criminal penalties

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676663190276.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>

K-State horticulture expert gets you ready for planting this year’s crop

K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN –&nbsp;It’s still nearly three months before Kansas gardeners begin to put tomato plants into the ground. Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham says that’s an opportunity for gardeners to set themselves up for a bountiful season.&nbsp;

“Most of the varieties available to home gardeners are either indeterminate or semi-determinate,” Upham said.&nbsp;

Indeterminate plants are traditional tomatoes that never stop growing. They are capable of producing fruit throughout the season unless disease stops production or frost kills the plant.&nbsp;

Semi-determinate plants are more compact, but also are capable of producing fruit throughout the season. Another classification is known as determinate, or those varieties that produce one large crop but then virtually nothing afterwards.&nbsp;

“Gardeners with limited space will likely prefer indeterminate or semi-determinate types to stretch out the harvest season,” Upham said. “If there is space, you may want to grow a combination of all three, with the determinates used to produce a large harvest for canning or tomato juice, and the remainder for fresh eating.”&nbsp;

In Kansas, tomatoes are generally planted in early- to mid-May, or when daytime temperatures are above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the state has passed the frost-free date. In some areas, such as the northwest part of the state, conditions might not be right for planting tomatoes until the middle of May or a bit later, according to Upham.&nbsp;

Even though indeterminate and semi-determinate varieties produce fruit throughout the season, “our hot Kansas summers often cause a dry spell in production in both types,” Upham said.&nbsp;

Tomatoes are less likely to set fruit when night temperatures remain above 75 F and day temperatures are above 95 F. Hot, dry winds make the situation worse, Upham said.&nbsp;

Each year,&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/master-gardeners/" target="_blank">Kansas Master Gardeners</a>&nbsp;plant and rate a number of tomato varieties. Upham noted that a subsequent trial is conducted by a colleague with the University of Missouri extension service.&nbsp;

Results of trials conducted by Kansas’ Master Gardeners vary by county. Interested persons are encouraged to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">contact their local extension office</a>&nbsp;for more information on varieties that perform well in their area.&nbsp;

Upham said the University of Missouri trials also give valuable information on varieties that perform well in this region. The data from Missouri’s extension service showed that the top 10 varieties (based on pounds of fruit harvested per plant) are:&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612708754292.jpeg" alt="It's time to start thinking about tomatoes.&nbsp;Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>It's time to start thinking about tomatoes.&nbsp;Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State horticulture expert gets you ready for planting this year’s crop</h2>K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN –&nbsp;It’s still nearly three months before Kansas gardeners begin to put tomato plants into the ground. Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham says that’s an opportunity for gardeners to set themselves up for a bountiful season.&nbsp;“Most of the varieties available to home gardeners are either indeterminate or semi-determinate,” Upham said.&nbsp;Indeterminate plants are traditional tomatoes that never stop growing. They are capable of producing fruit throughout the season unless disease stops production or frost kills the plant.&nbsp;Semi-determinate plants are more compact, but also are capable of producing fruit throughout the season. Another classification is known as determinate, or those varieties that produce one large crop but then virtually nothing afterwards.&nbsp;“Gardeners with limited space will likely prefer indeterminate or semi-determinate types to stretch out the harvest season,” Upham said. “If there is space, you may want to grow a combination of all three, with the determinates used to produce a large harvest for canning or tomato juice, and the remainder for fresh eating.”&nbsp;In Kansas, tomatoes are generally planted in early- to mid-May, or when daytime temperatures are above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the state has passed the frost-free date. In some areas, such as the northwest part of the state, conditions might not be right for planting tomatoes until the middle of May or a bit later, according to Upham.&nbsp;Even though indeterminate and semi-determinate varieties produce fruit throughout the season, “our hot Kansas summers often cause a dry spell in production in both types,” Upham said.&nbsp;Tomatoes are less likely to set fruit when night temperatures remain above 75 F and day temperatures are above 95 F. Hot, dry winds make the situation worse, Upham said.&nbsp;Tomato trials&nbsp;Each year,&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/master-gardeners/" target="_blank">Kansas Master Gardeners</a>&nbsp;plant and rate a number of tomato varieties. Upham noted that a subsequent trial is conducted by a colleague with the University of Missouri extension service.&nbsp;Results of trials conducted by Kansas’ Master Gardeners vary by county. Interested persons are encouraged to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">contact their local extension office</a>&nbsp;for more information on varieties that perform well in their area.&nbsp;Upham said the University of Missouri trials also give valuable information on varieties that perform well in this region. The data from Missouri’s extension service showed that the top 10 varieties (based on pounds of fruit harvested per plant) are:&nbsp;Anna RussianCherokee PurpleGerman JohnsonBeef MasterEarly GirlBig BoyBrandywine BlackJet StarCelebrityBig BeefUpham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

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