WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) has announced he will hold a town hall in Ellis County, at 3 p.m. on Friday, January 27.

The meeting will be held at BriefSpace, 219 W. 10th, in the basement meeting room.

Area residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback with Sen. Moran on the critical issues facing Kansas and the nation.&nbsp;

Prior to the town hall meeting, Moran will speak at the ribbon cutting at the new location of Camber Hays children's mental health services.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659492643437.png" alt="U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Sen. Moran WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) has announced he will hold a town hall in Ellis County, at 3 p.m. on Friday, January 27.The meeting will be held at BriefSpace, 219 W. 10th, in the basement meeting room.Area residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback with Sen. Moran on the critical issues facing Kansas and the nation.&nbsp;Prior to the town hall meeting, Moran will speak at the ribbon cutting at the new location of Camber Hays children's mental health services.&nbsp;

Sen. Moran to host town hall meeting in Hays Friday afternoon

The Kansas Academy of Math and Science at Fort Hays State University has announce that Thomas More Prep-Marian sophomore Jonathan (Junghyuk) Lee has been admitted for the 2023-24 school year. 

KAMS students live on campus and take college level courses while earning their high school diploma. Jonathan is the eighth TMP-Marian student in the past eight years to be accepted to the prestigious program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674660226723.png" alt="Lee" />
 <figcaption>Lee</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MThe Kansas Academy of Math and Science at Fort Hays State University has announce that Thomas More Prep-Marian sophomore Jonathan (Junghyuk) Lee has been admitted for the 2023-24 school year. KAMS students live on campus and take college level courses while earning their high school diploma. Jonathan is the eighth TMP-Marian student in the past eight years to be accepted to the prestigious program.

TMP-M sophomore accepted to KAMS for 2023-24 

Effective immediately, the 500 block of West Seventh will be closed to traffic for repairs to a water main break in the area. 

Once the leak is repaired, crews will open the road. Traffic control devices will be in place to direct traffic. 

For more information, call 785-628-7380.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674756034596.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysEffective immediately, the 500 block of West Seventh will be closed to traffic for repairs to a water main break in the area. Once the leak is repaired, crews will open the road. Traffic control devices will be in place to direct traffic. For more information, call 785-628-7380.&nbsp;

Section of Seventh closed for water main break repair

Earlier this week TMP-Marian announced that Grant Stephenson
was named the next high school football coach.

Here’s what Stephenson about taking over the Monarchs
program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674775294376.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Earlier this week TMP-Marian announced that Grant Stephenson
was named the next high school football coach.Here’s what Stephenson about taking over the Monarchs
program.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1433342314&color=%232a4d75&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/grant-stephenson" title="Grant Stephenson" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Grant Stephenson</a></div></div>

🏈Interview with new TMP-Marian football coach Grant Stephenson

Regan Krause, RN, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, was recently recognized as a DAISY Nurse Award winner at HaysMed.&nbsp; The award is presented to a nurse in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. Krause was nominated by a patient’s family member.

Krause was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee. The Practice Committee consists of nursing staff, supervisors, and directors from HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers, and associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient, and clinic settings.

HaysMed is proud to honor its outstanding nurses with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses every quarter. This is an international recognition program that celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide to patients and families every day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It is not always in what we say, it is in what we do that we can make a difference.&nbsp; Regan made a difference in this family’s life,” said Sandy Gottschalk, Director of Professional Development at HaysMed.&nbsp; “Extraordinary nurses have a caring passion that they are proud of, and they continue to strive for excellence in patient care.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674507296172.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedRegan Krause, RN, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, was recently recognized as a DAISY Nurse Award winner at HaysMed.&nbsp; The award is presented to a nurse in deep appreciation of all that they do, who they are, and the incredible meaningful difference that they have made in the lives of so many people. Krause was nominated by a patient’s family member.Krause was selected from a group of blinded nominations voted on by the HaysMed Practice Committee. The Practice Committee consists of nursing staff, supervisors, and directors from HaysMed.&nbsp; Nominations are received from patients and family members, physicians, volunteers, and associates for nurses in inpatient, outpatient, and clinic settings.HaysMed is proud to honor its outstanding nurses with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses every quarter. This is an international recognition program that celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide to patients and families every day.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is not always in what we say, it is in what we do that we can make a difference.&nbsp; Regan made a difference in this family’s life,” said Sandy Gottschalk, Director of Professional Development at HaysMed.&nbsp; “Extraordinary nurses have a caring passion that they are proud of, and they continue to strive for excellence in patient care.”

HaysMed nurse recognized with Daisy Award

Faculty, staff, and students were honored Monday afternoon during the 2023 winter convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2022 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. In addition, the university deans provide $250 in OOE funds to the departments of the award winners.

Dr. Carol Ellis, Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders, received the Outstanding Teaching Award.

Dr. Whitney Whitaker, Chair and Associate Professor of Psychology, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.

The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to Dr. Jerrie Brooks, Assistant Professor of Advanced Education Programs.

The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:

The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff and one from Unclassified Professional Staff. The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.

Mandy Ricke, Administrative Specialist in the Office of the Registrar, was the USS winner.

Jennifer Whitmer, Senior Administrative Assistant for the Department of Social Work, was the UPS winner.

The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.

Becky Kuhn, Custodian at the Gross Memorial/Cunningham Hall Complex, received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff. Griffin Brunson, Graduate Teaching Assistant at Gross Memorial, received the Facility Operations-Student award.&nbsp;

Ashley Anderson of Starbucks was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award. Sam Welsk, Tiger Pizza Supervisor for Chartwells, was the Food Service-Student award winner.

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders received the Closing the Loop Departmental Assessment Award, a $2,000 award given to a department that has implemented degree program improvements.

The Department of Health and Human Performance received the Advancing Assessment Award, a $1,000 award recognizing a department that continues to improve in program assessment activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674577817362.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFaculty, staff, and students were honored Monday afternoon during the 2023 winter convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2022 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. In addition, the university deans provide $250 in OOE funds to the departments of the award winners.Dr. Carol Ellis, Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders, received the Outstanding Teaching Award.Dr. Whitney Whitaker, Chair and Associate Professor of Psychology, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to Dr. Jerrie Brooks, Assistant Professor of Advanced Education Programs.The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:<ul>
 <li>Dr. Donald Dunn, Department of Leadership Studies – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.</li><li>David Gray, Department of Informatics – Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.</li><li>Dr. Terry McEwen, Department of Advanced Education Programs – College of Education.</li><li>Pamela Greenleaf, Health and Behavioral Sciences – College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.</li><li>Kathie Lennetz, Department of Mathematics – Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.</li>
 </ul>The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff and one from Unclassified Professional Staff. The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.Mandy Ricke, Administrative Specialist in the Office of the Registrar, was the USS winner.Jennifer Whitmer, Senior Administrative Assistant for the Department of Social Work, was the UPS winner.The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.Becky Kuhn, Custodian at the Gross Memorial/Cunningham Hall Complex, received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff. Griffin Brunson, Graduate Teaching Assistant at Gross Memorial, received the Facility Operations-Student award.&nbsp;Ashley Anderson of Starbucks was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award. Sam Welsk, Tiger Pizza Supervisor for Chartwells, was the Food Service-Student award winner.Department Assessment Awards included:The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders received the Closing the Loop Departmental Assessment Award, a $2,000 award given to a department that has implemented degree program improvements.The Department of Health and Human Performance received the Advancing Assessment Award, a $1,000 award recognizing a department that continues to improve in program assessment activities.

Award winners recognized at FHSU convocation

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

ELLINWOOD — American 
Legion Post 320 plays a large role in the Ellinwood community. Ken 
Lebbin and others are now working on sprucing up the joint a little bit.
 In the works is a Bell OH-58 Kiowa helicopter from the Vietnam era. 
Lebbin said, once restored, the chopper will be posted as an eye-catcher
 on the American Legion property.

"It will be on an elevated mount
 once it's determined what design that will be, to where people can't be
 getting in it and messing with it," he said. "The windows will be 
blacked out. From the exterior, it's the intent for it to look pretty 
much complete."

The restoration project is expected to cost 
approximately $7,000, and American Legion Post 320 is currently 
accepting donations for the restoration. Lebbin, a Vietnam veteran and 
current Ellinwood city council member, had been looking for a helicopter
 for the project before this one became available.

"I was really 
wanting a Huey, but that'd didn't work," he said. "As fate would have 
it, low and behold, there was this OH-58 Kiowa, which is a scout 
helicopter, was up in Dorrance."

The previous owner intended to 
install the chopper atop his liquor store in Russell, complete with a 
gearbox that allowed the main and rear rotors to move. With his move to 
California instead, Lebbin and company were able to swoop in for the 
purchase. Lebbin and John Roth trucked the chopper, which is currently 
being house in Lebbin's hangar, back to Ellinwood.

"We're just 
waiting for some nice weather," Lebbin said. "We've been gathering some 
major parts, and we're about done with that. As the weather gets better,
 we can do sanding and painting."

The group intends to make the 
Kiowa appear fully restored from the exterior, complete with replacement
 U.S. Army logos and other era-based insignia. 

"It'll make an 
excellent display to tie into the American Legion Post in honor of 
veterans, as well as it'll be right along the highway as an attraction 
for people passing through," Lebbin said. "It'll be an addition for the 
community at large as well."

American Legion Post 320 is a 
501(c)(19) nonprofit Veterans' Organization, so a tax letter will be 
provided for anyone who donates. Make checks to the American Legion 
Helicopter Project. Donations can be mailed to Post 320 Adjutant Dale 
Kraus, 108 W 11th Street, Ellinwood, KS 67526. Donations can also be 
given to Lebbin, Post 320 Commander Lloyd Kurtz, or Frank Koelsch.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674498201951.jpeg" alt="Ken Lebbin " />
 <figcaption>Ken Lebbin </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostELLINWOOD — American 
Legion Post 320 plays a large role in the Ellinwood community. Ken 
Lebbin and others are now working on sprucing up the joint a little bit.
 In the works is a Bell OH-58 Kiowa helicopter from the Vietnam era. 
Lebbin said, once restored, the chopper will be posted as an eye-catcher
 on the American Legion property."It will be on an elevated mount
 once it's determined what design that will be, to where people can't be
 getting in it and messing with it," he said. "The windows will be 
blacked out. From the exterior, it's the intent for it to look pretty 
much complete."The restoration project is expected to cost 
approximately $7,000, and American Legion Post 320 is currently 
accepting donations for the restoration. Lebbin, a Vietnam veteran and 
current Ellinwood city council member, had been looking for a helicopter
 for the project before this one became available."I was really 
wanting a Huey, but that'd didn't work," he said. "As fate would have 
it, low and behold, there was this OH-58 Kiowa, which is a scout 
helicopter, was up in Dorrance."The previous owner intended to 
install the chopper atop his liquor store in Russell, complete with a 
gearbox that allowed the main and rear rotors to move. With his move to 
California instead, Lebbin and company were able to swoop in for the 
purchase. Lebbin and John Roth trucked the chopper, which is currently 
being house in Lebbin's hangar, back to Ellinwood."We're just 
waiting for some nice weather," Lebbin said. "We've been gathering some 
major parts, and we're about done with that. As the weather gets better,
 we can do sanding and painting."The group intends to make the 
Kiowa appear fully restored from the exterior, complete with replacement
 U.S. Army logos and other era-based insignia. "It'll make an 
excellent display to tie into the American Legion Post in honor of 
veterans, as well as it'll be right along the highway as an attraction 
for people passing through," Lebbin said. "It'll be an addition for the 
community at large as well."American Legion Post 320 is a 
501(c)(19) nonprofit Veterans' Organization, so a tax letter will be 
provided for anyone who donates. Make checks to the American Legion 
Helicopter Project. Donations can be mailed to Post 320 Adjutant Dale 
Kraus, 108 W 11th Street, Ellinwood, KS 67526. Donations can also be 
given to Lebbin, Post 320 Commander Lloyd Kurtz, or Frank Koelsch.

Vietnam-era helicopter restoration in the works for Ellinwood Legion

<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/2023/1/1674674532337.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

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://amberwaveusa.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;for more information or to apply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674148030475.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://amberwaveusa.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;for more information or to apply.

🎙 Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program returns to Hays for 2023

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 17 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 14 and 20.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County was moved to the substantial-incidence category, the KDHE reported, and only Trego County in northwest counties was in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Since reporting began, there have been 8,356 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674669993873.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 17 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 14 and 20.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County was moved to the substantial-incidence category, the KDHE reported, and only Trego County in northwest counties was in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,356 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674670102324.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 17 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting dangerously cold wind chills starting Sunday.

After a high in the low-30s Thursday, the mercury will rise to the mid-40s on Friday and mid-30s on Saturday before a cold front arrives.

The temperature is expected to dive Saturday night, with an overnight low of 3 degrees. The highs Sunday through Wednesday are expected to reach the mid-teens. Overnight lows will be in the low single digits.

There is a slight chance of snow in the Hays area Saturday night, the only precipitation in the long-range forecast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674668928612.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting dangerously cold wind chills starting Sunday.After a high in the low-30s Thursday, the mercury will rise to the mid-40s on Friday and mid-30s on Saturday before a cold front arrives.The temperature is expected to dive Saturday night, with an overnight low of 3 degrees. The highs Sunday through Wednesday are expected to reach the mid-teens. Overnight lows will be in the low single digits.Wind chills will be well below zero.There is a slight chance of snow in the Hays area Saturday night, the only precipitation in the long-range forecast.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dangerous wind chills are likely once again by Sunday and Monday morning. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZEJPMicOvW">pic.twitter.com/ZEJPMicOvW</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1618163322603606018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Bundle up: NWS revises forecast for impending cold snap

Students entering the sixth-eighth grades for the 2023-24 year are invited to pre-enroll from 3:30-6 p.m. today at TMP-Marian's school building.

Pre-enrollment takes place in the seconnd floor Learning Commons.

This is not the only chance to enroll, as enrollment is rolling throughout the summer, but it's a chance to reserve your spot and get the first chance at selecting classes.

Families can pay the $35 registration fee at this event.

Students do not need to be Catholic to enroll in Hays Catholic Schools.

Any family with incoming sixth-eighth graders may request an enrollment packet or a curriculum guide at this event as well as meet teachers and administrators.

If the times today do not&nbsp;work for your family, contact the school office at 785-625-6577 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:office@tmpmarian.org" target="_blank">office@tmpmarian.org</a>.

SubmittedStudents entering the sixth-eighth grades for the 2023-24 year are invited to pre-enroll from 3:30-6 p.m. today at TMP-Marian's school building.Pre-enrollment takes place in the seconnd floor Learning Commons.This is not the only chance to enroll, as enrollment is rolling throughout the summer, but it's a chance to reserve your spot and get the first chance at selecting classes.Families can pay the $35 registration fee at this event.Students do not need to be Catholic to enroll in Hays Catholic Schools. Any family with incoming sixth-eighth graders may request an enrollment packet or a curriculum guide at this event as well as meet teachers and administrators. If the times today do not&nbsp;work for your family, contact the school office at 785-625-6577 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:office@tmpmarian.org" target="_blank">office@tmpmarian.org</a>.

TMP-Marian's new 6th-grade pre-enrollment event today

No tax season is ever the same. The filing season opened on Jan. 23 and will run through April 18 this year. The Internal Revenue Service has issued a warning that refunds may not be as large this year. The average refund increased 14 percent from $2,791 in 2021, to $3,176 in 2022. 

All taxpayers may claim the standard deduction. Small adjustments are made to that figure each year, but 2022 saw a larger increase than usual. The standard deduction for married couples filing jointly increased by $1,800 to $27,700, and $900 for single taxpayers or married individuals filing separately.

"Some of those things are tied to inflation, so since inflation is higher, we saw a  bigger increase there, which should help folks," said Barry Bowers, Certified Public Accountant with Spectrum CPA Partners in Great Bend. "The tax brackets are expanded because of that, too, which again should help people. It's not going to be huge differences, but at least it will work in everyone's favor. This might be one thing that's good from all the inflation we've been experiencing."

The child tax credit and child and dependent care tax credit are also reduced for 2022, returning to pre-COVID levels. For 2021, the child tax credit offered $3,600 for children under six years of age, and $3,000 for each child between the ages of 6-17. Those numbers revert back to $2,000. Bowers said that change should not drastically alter refunds from a year ago for those taking payments in advance, then receiving the other half on their tax return.

"The people it will affect the most are the folks that opted out of those advanced payments or didn't get them for some reason, then they got that whole $4,000 on their returns," he said. "They're going to see some differences."

Third-party payments through apps like Venmo or PayPal were expected to be an additional item for 2022. While businesses have had to report transactions for several years, prior to 2022, individual taxpayers only had to report transactions totaling more than $20,000. The IRS reduced that figure to just $600 for 2022. Transactions of more than that may result in a 1099-K form, though Bowers said because of pushback with difficulties reconciling things like simple money transfers, deposits at hotels, and tips at restaurants, many will not receive a 1099-K until next year.

"I think it would be a good idea, if somebody is using those, to look at their setup and see if there a place to mark it personal versus not, so maybe that will help eliminate some issues a year from now if they try to enforce it then," he said.

According to the IRS, the fastest way for taxpayers to collect their refund is to file electronically and choose the direct deposit option for payment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674579570532.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNo tax season is ever the same. The filing season opened on Jan. 23 and will run through April 18 this year. The Internal Revenue Service has issued a warning that refunds may not be as large this year. The average refund increased 14 percent from $2,791 in 2021, to $3,176 in 2022. All taxpayers may claim the standard deduction. Small adjustments are made to that figure each year, but 2022 saw a larger increase than usual. The standard deduction for married couples filing jointly increased by $1,800 to $27,700, and $900 for single taxpayers or married individuals filing separately."Some of those things are tied to inflation, so since inflation is higher, we saw a bigger increase there, which should help folks," said Barry Bowers, Certified Public Accountant with Spectrum CPA Partners in Great Bend. "The tax brackets are expanded because of that, too, which again should help people. It's not going to be huge differences, but at least it will work in everyone's favor. This might be one thing that's good from all the inflation we've been experiencing."The child tax credit and child and dependent care tax credit are also reduced for 2022, returning to pre-COVID levels. For 2021, the child tax credit offered $3,600 for children under six years of age, and $3,000 for each child between the ages of 6-17. Those numbers revert back to $2,000. Bowers said that change should not drastically alter refunds from a year ago for those taking payments in advance, then receiving the other half on their tax return."The people it will affect the most are the folks that opted out of those advanced payments or didn't get them for some reason, then they got that whole $4,000 on their returns," he said. "They're going to see some differences."Third-party payments through apps like Venmo or PayPal were expected to be an additional item for 2022. While businesses have had to report transactions for several years, prior to 2022, individual taxpayers only had to report transactions totaling more than $20,000. The IRS reduced that figure to just $600 for 2022. Transactions of more than that may result in a 1099-K form, though Bowers said because of pushback with difficulties reconciling things like simple money transfers, deposits at hotels, and tips at restaurants, many will not receive a 1099-K until next year."I think it would be a good idea, if somebody is using those, to look at their setup and see if there a place to mark it personal versus not, so maybe that will help eliminate some issues a year from now if they try to enforce it then," he said.According to the IRS, the fastest way for taxpayers to collect their refund is to file electronically and choose the direct deposit option for payment.

Great Bend CPA: Expect changes on 2022 tax returns

A rezoning request and conditional use permit from Keith Werth, KC Trucking, 1725 Feedlot Road, for a warehouse and distribution expansion will be discussed tonight by the Ellis County Joint Planning Commission. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main, Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ELLIS COUNTYA rezoning request and conditional use permit from Keith Werth, KC Trucking, 1725 Feedlot Road, for a warehouse and distribution expansion will be discussed tonight by the Ellis County Joint Planning Commission. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Ellis County Administrative Center, 718 Main, Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674659186722.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674659225752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KC Trucking request for warehouse and distribution to be reviewed by Ellis Co. Planning Commission

A minor earthquake was detected northwest of Hays late Tuesday night.

The 2.2-magnitude quake was recorded at 11:38 p.m. Tuesday in southwest Rooks County, the Kansas Geological Survey reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674655996774.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A minor earthquake was detected northwest of Hays late Tuesday night.The 2.2-magnitude quake was recorded at 11:38 p.m. Tuesday in southwest Rooks County, the Kansas Geological Survey reported.

Quake recorded in Rooks County late Tuesday night

By STACIE MINSON KSU Watershed Specialist&nbsp;

It is time for the annual KSU Watersheds and City of Hays Water Poster Contest. The 2023 theme
is “Use Your Water Smarts." Daycares, Pre-Schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, TMP
Marian and home-school students, Pre-school through 12th, students at Fort Hays State University
and NCK Tech, and adults in the City of Hays are eligible to participate. In addition, this year
we’ve added Intellectual/Development Disabilities (IDD) division (youth through adults).


The “Use your Water Smarts” posters can focus on Water Conservation or Stormwater/Water
Quality messages. Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at
home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E. Coli
bacteria, household chemicals, etc. that are harmful to water sources. Both water conservation
and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.


Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12 x 18-inch white poster paper with “Use your Water
Smarts” included. Posters can be designed with pencil, paints, pens, crayons, or markers. In
addition, the posters can be 3-dimensional, or computer generated. Name, age, and teacher need
to be included on the back of the poster. Poster paper is available for pick-up at the Public Works
Department, 1002 Vine, during regular business hours. Prize money will be awarded to 1st-
3rd place winners in each age division. Winning posters will be displayed at Tri-Central Office
supply during the month of May and at the Ellis County Fair.


Posters are due by Thursday, March 9, at school offices, City Hall, or Public Works
Department. Winners will be announced by March 31 and the Awards Celebration will be
held at Sternberg Museum on April 4 at 6pm. To learn more about water conservation and
stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit www.watersmarthays.com or
www.MyKansasWatershed.com (special events tab). For questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU
Watershed Specialist, 785-769-3297 or Holly Dickman, City of Hays Water Conservation Specialist,
785-628-7350.

By STACIE MINSON KSU Watershed Specialist&nbsp;It is time for the annual KSU Watersheds and City of Hays Water Poster Contest. The 2023 theme
is “Use Your Water Smarts." Daycares, Pre-Schools, USD 489, Holy Family Elementary, TMP
Marian and home-school students, Pre-school through 12th, students at Fort Hays State University
and NCK Tech, and adults in the City of Hays are eligible to participate. In addition, this year
we’ve added Intellectual/Development Disabilities (IDD) division (youth through adults).
The “Use your Water Smarts” posters can focus on Water Conservation or Stormwater/Water
Quality messages. Posters could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at
home and work. Also, posters might share how to reduce sediment, nutrients, and E. Coli
bacteria, household chemicals, etc. that are harmful to water sources. Both water conservation
and stormwater/water quality can be highlighted on the same poster.
Posters must be horizontal, designed on 12 x 18-inch white poster paper with “Use your Water
Smarts” included. Posters can be designed with pencil, paints, pens, crayons, or markers. In
addition, the posters can be 3-dimensional, or computer generated. Name, age, and teacher need
to be included on the back of the poster. Poster paper is available for pick-up at the Public Works
Department, 1002 Vine, during regular business hours. Prize money will be awarded to 1st-
3rd place winners in each age division. Winning posters will be displayed at Tri-Central Office
supply during the month of May and at the Ellis County Fair.
Posters are due by Thursday, March 9, at school offices, City Hall, or Public Works
Department. Winners will be announced by March 31 and the Awards Celebration will be
held at Sternberg Museum on April 4 at 6pm. To learn more about water conservation and
stormwater/water quality for poster ideas, visit www.watersmarthays.com or
www.MyKansasWatershed.com (special events tab). For questions, call Stacie Minson, KSU
Watershed Specialist, 785-769-3297 or Holly Dickman, City of Hays Water Conservation Specialist,
785-628-7350.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674252443089.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674589090378.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cover image courtesy Pixabay

'Use Your Water Smarts' poster contest announced

By LAURA HAFFNER Ellis County farmer Farmers and ranchers are some of the most resilient people I know. They weather incredible odds, pun intended, from droughts, to floods, fire, hail, blizzards and more. This doesn’t even touch the volatile input costs, family dynamics, inflation and increased regulations we are seeing. Despite these adversities, we pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and continue to provide for our families while often being the first to give the shirts off our own backs for a neighbor in need. But what happens when that proverbial bootstrap snaps? Do we fix it right away and make it whole again, or do we slap a little duct tape and bailing wire on it and call it good? While that solution may work for a short time, the tape will eventually lose its sticky and the wire will start poking one in the calf. That’s when a whole new set of challenges surface. In my own life, agriculture has provided me with some of life’s greatest highs, but it has also contributed to some of my darkest lows. It is curious how something we love so much can cause so much stress, and we often ignore or fail to address the signs.&nbsp; Several years ago, I invited a counselor with an agriculture background to my classroom. He walked students through an exercise where they wrote down all the agriculture-related stressors they could think of. Within a few short minutes, one group had listed more than 40. Upon evaluation, class members determined the only thing in all those items we could control was ourselves. That left more than 40 other major items that we had little to no control over. Talk about the perfect storm for some real stress in our industry! Using the results from the exercise, our guest speaker guided us through an eye-opening experience to help us learn how we view and handle our stress. Those in the room realized they weren’t alone, and there are others who have experienced similar stressors. That may have been just as powerful as any coping skill we could have learned — we are not alone in the battles we face in agriculture.&nbsp; Some battles we face are short and quick. They may annoyingly take our time and make us uncomfortable, but we can quickly adjust to take on another day. Some battles rage on for months and even years. Even the toughest, most resilient warriors can get worn down. In some cases, the burden is so great it feels like the battle may never end or we may be left behind on the field. But it doesn’t have to be that way.&nbsp; Our fellow members within the Farm Bureau family are standing up and recognizing that something needs to change. Farmers and ranchers are passionate about this topic because we’ve lived it or have seen our families and friends struggle with it. We are sounding the alarm, rallying the troops and fighting alongside each other to ensure no one is left on the field alone.&nbsp; Maybe you know something needs to change mentally but taking that first step to attack the topic of mental health is scary. Maybe the first step is opening up to a trusted friend, family member, doctor, pastor or exploring some resources to learn more. Perhaps you’re not experiencing any of your own mental health battles at the moment but would like to learn how to be an ally.&nbsp; While these don’t substitute for the opinion of a health care professional, Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) has been building an arsenal of resources that may serve as good place to start. You can find them by searching for Rural Minds Matter at&nbsp;<a href="http://kfb.org/">kfb.org</a>. “Kansas Living,” KFB’s quarterly lifestyle magazine, featured three members who have experienced challenges, and are working to help themselves and others. Read more at<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=8ebc3f402e&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.kansaslivingmagazine.com</a>&nbsp;or visit KFB’s YouTube channel to hear their stories firsthand.&nbsp;KFB’s Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) teamed up with KFB’s Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Committee at the organization’s annual meeting in December for a three-part farm family resilience workshop series. The WLC also plans to host a women’s wellness retreat in November. These are just a few examples of how farmers and ranchers are mobilizing and working together to offer a hand to friends and family when a bootstrap wears thin. It will take all of us doing our part to end the stigma, but together we can help ourselves, friends, families and communities continue to be healthy and resilient.&nbsp; If you or someone you know are experiencing an immediate emergency, call or text the national suicide hotline at 998.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674486447566.jpeg" alt="Laura Haffner" />
 <figcaption>Laura Haffner</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAURA HAFFNER Ellis County farmer Farmers and ranchers are some of the most resilient people I know. They weather incredible odds, pun intended, from droughts, to floods, fire, hail, blizzards and more. This doesn’t even touch the volatile input costs, family dynamics, inflation and increased regulations we are seeing. Despite these adversities, we pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and continue to provide for our families while often being the first to give the shirts off our own backs for a neighbor in need. But what happens when that proverbial bootstrap snaps? Do we fix it right away and make it whole again, or do we slap a little duct tape and bailing wire on it and call it good? While that solution may work for a short time, the tape will eventually lose its sticky and the wire will start poking one in the calf. That’s when a whole new set of challenges surface. In my own life, agriculture has provided me with some of life’s greatest highs, but it has also contributed to some of my darkest lows. It is curious how something we love so much can cause so much stress, and we often ignore or fail to address the signs.&nbsp; Several years ago, I invited a counselor with an agriculture background to my classroom. He walked students through an exercise where they wrote down all the agriculture-related stressors they could think of. Within a few short minutes, one group had listed more than 40. Upon evaluation, class members determined the only thing in all those items we could control was ourselves. That left more than 40 other major items that we had little to no control over. Talk about the perfect storm for some real stress in our industry! Using the results from the exercise, our guest speaker guided us through an eye-opening experience to help us learn how we view and handle our stress. Those in the room realized they weren’t alone, and there are others who have experienced similar stressors. That may have been just as powerful as any coping skill we could have learned — we are not alone in the battles we face in agriculture.&nbsp; Some battles we face are short and quick. They may annoyingly take our time and make us uncomfortable, but we can quickly adjust to take on another day. Some battles rage on for months and even years. Even the toughest, most resilient warriors can get worn down. In some cases, the burden is so great it feels like the battle may never end or we may be left behind on the field. But it doesn’t have to be that way.&nbsp; Our fellow members within the Farm Bureau family are standing up and recognizing that something needs to change. Farmers and ranchers are passionate about this topic because we’ve lived it or have seen our families and friends struggle with it. We are sounding the alarm, rallying the troops and fighting alongside each other to ensure no one is left on the field alone.&nbsp; Maybe you know something needs to change mentally but taking that first step to attack the topic of mental health is scary. Maybe the first step is opening up to a trusted friend, family member, doctor, pastor or exploring some resources to learn more. Perhaps you’re not experiencing any of your own mental health battles at the moment but would like to learn how to be an ally.&nbsp; While these don’t substitute for the opinion of a health care professional, Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) has been building an arsenal of resources that may serve as good place to start. You can find them by searching for Rural Minds Matter at&nbsp;<a href="http://kfb.org/">kfb.org</a>. “Kansas Living,” KFB’s quarterly lifestyle magazine, featured three members who have experienced challenges, and are working to help themselves and others. Read more at<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=8ebc3f402e&amp;e=5bf0f0e5fe">www.kansaslivingmagazine.com</a>&nbsp;or visit KFB’s YouTube channel to hear their stories firsthand.&nbsp;KFB’s Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) teamed up with KFB’s Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Committee at the organization’s annual meeting in December for a three-part farm family resilience workshop series. The WLC also plans to host a women’s wellness retreat in November. These are just a few examples of how farmers and ranchers are mobilizing and working together to offer a hand to friends and family when a bootstrap wears thin. It will take all of us doing our part to end the stigma, but together we can help ourselves, friends, families and communities continue to be healthy and resilient.&nbsp; If you or someone you know are experiencing an immediate emergency, call or text the national suicide hotline at 998."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Rural minds matter

By DOUG WILLIAMS Executive Director, Grow Hays

&nbsp;The
Greek philosopher Aristotle is credited with being the first to coin the
concept that the “whole is greater than
the sum of the parts.” Some call it synergy. In sports, it is referred to
as teamwork, but regardless of how it is described, it is the secret sauce that
can make great things happen.&nbsp;

At Grow Hays, we are blessed to be a
participant in several of these projects.

The Heart of America Development housing
project in the Tallgrass 2nd Addition, located east of the NCK campus on East
22nd street, is a great example. Grow Hays, a local not-for-profit
organization, partnered with Heart of America Development, a not-for-profit developer,
to create a development for workforce housing. Still, it took many others to
make this happen.&nbsp; The property owner,
the Lusk family from Wichita, Kansas, agreed to sell the land below market
value to facilitate a more viable project. Using the State of Kansas Rural
Housing Incentive District (RHID), the City of Hays, Ellis County, and USD 489
agreed to delay their shares of property tax revenues generated from the homes
constructed. Add to this a group of local builders committing to build multiple
homes and maintain a price point for the homes below market value. And all of
this occurred in the middle of the pandemic.&nbsp;

The results have been outstanding. The street
improvements for the 36 lots in Phase 1 were completed in the fall of 2021. In
the 14 months since then, all 36 homes have sold. 19 homes have been completed
and are now occupied, 17 are under construction, with 5 nearing completion, and
the remaining 12 will be finished this summer. The buyers have included
first-time homeowners, people relocating to Hays, and existing homeowners who
have sold their existing homes, thus providing housing inventory to a very
tight market. In addition, due to the use of an RHID, all homeowners will enjoy
their new homes without the burden of special assessments for street and
infrastructure improvements. Street and infrastructure improvements on the 18
lots in Phase 2 are nearing completion, and new home construction will commence
this spring. 

Our entire community has benefited from this
project. It has created over $10,000,000 in direct economic impact. It has
provided desperately needed housing to the local market. It has created jobs
and revenue for general contractors, plumbers, electricians, framers,
drywallers, appliance stores, material providers, flooring providers, lenders,
and many others. 

Another great example is the Grow Hays
MicroFactory project. In March of 2022, Grow Hays was awarded a 2.63 million
dollar BASE Grant from the State of Kansas to construct a 30,000-square-foot
MicroFactory facility. A MicroFactory is a business incubator for manufacturing
startups and small manufacturers looking to grow their businesses. In addition
to the BASE Grant, Grow Hays received a $500,000 grant from the Patterson
Family Foundation, a donation of land valued at $275,000 from the Heart of
America Development Corporation, Industrial Revenue Bonds from the City of
Hays, and a loan with very favorable terms from the Northwest Kansas Economic
Innovation Center. 

In addition to the immediate $4 million dollar
direct economic impact this project will create, it will also generate economic
benefits for our community for decades to come. The tenants in the MicroFactory
will provide employment opportunities for community members, purchase goods and
services locally, and ultimately when they outgrow their space, will relocate
to their own facility freeing up their space for the next tenant. This process
will be repeated again and again.

These two examples are not only impactful
projects occurring in our community, but they do represent what can happen when
a group of organizations who are dedicated to making our community a better
place come together to make “the whole
greater than the sum of the parts”&nbsp;1+1=3.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays exec. director discusses recently released building permit data" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=j59e9-1370ff7-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By DOUG WILLIAMS Executive Director, Grow Hays&nbsp;The
Greek philosopher Aristotle is credited with being the first to coin the
concept that the “whole is greater than
the sum of the parts.” Some call it synergy. In sports, it is referred to
as teamwork, but regardless of how it is described, it is the secret sauce that
can make great things happen.&nbsp; At Grow Hays, we are blessed to be a
participant in several of these projects.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632709486720.jpeg" alt="Doug Williams / Hays Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Doug Williams / Hays Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Heart of America Development housing
project in the Tallgrass 2nd Addition, located east of the NCK campus on East
22nd street, is a great example. Grow Hays, a local not-for-profit
organization, partnered with Heart of America Development, a not-for-profit developer,
to create a development for workforce housing. Still, it took many others to
make this happen.&nbsp; The property owner,
the Lusk family from Wichita, Kansas, agreed to sell the land below market
value to facilitate a more viable project. Using the State of Kansas Rural
Housing Incentive District (RHID), the City of Hays, Ellis County, and USD 489
agreed to delay their shares of property tax revenues generated from the homes
constructed. Add to this a group of local builders committing to build multiple
homes and maintain a price point for the homes below market value. And all of
this occurred in the middle of the pandemic.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574881377018.jpeg" alt="Grow Hays" />
 <figcaption>Grow Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The results have been outstanding. The street
improvements for the 36 lots in Phase 1 were completed in the fall of 2021. In
the 14 months since then, all 36 homes have sold. 19 homes have been completed
and are now occupied, 17 are under construction, with 5 nearing completion, and
the remaining 12 will be finished this summer. The buyers have included
first-time homeowners, people relocating to Hays, and existing homeowners who
have sold their existing homes, thus providing housing inventory to a very
tight market. In addition, due to the use of an RHID, all homeowners will enjoy
their new homes without the burden of special assessments for street and
infrastructure improvements. Street and infrastructure improvements on the 18
lots in Phase 2 are nearing completion, and new home construction will commence
this spring. Our entire community has benefited from this
project. It has created over $10,000,000 in direct economic impact. It has
provided desperately needed housing to the local market. It has created jobs
and revenue for general contractors, plumbers, electricians, framers,
drywallers, appliance stores, material providers, flooring providers, lenders,
and many others. Another great example is the Grow Hays
MicroFactory project. In March of 2022, Grow Hays was awarded a 2.63 million
dollar BASE Grant from the State of Kansas to construct a 30,000-square-foot
MicroFactory facility. A MicroFactory is a business incubator for manufacturing
startups and small manufacturers looking to grow their businesses. In addition
to the BASE Grant, Grow Hays received a $500,000 grant from the Patterson
Family Foundation, a donation of land valued at $275,000 from the Heart of
America Development Corporation, Industrial Revenue Bonds from the City of
Hays, and a loan with very favorable terms from the Northwest Kansas Economic
Innovation Center. In addition to the immediate $4 million dollar
direct economic impact this project will create, it will also generate economic
benefits for our community for decades to come. The tenants in the MicroFactory
will provide employment opportunities for community members, purchase goods and
services locally, and ultimately when they outgrow their space, will relocate
to their own facility freeing up their space for the next tenant. This process
will be repeated again and again.These two examples are not only impactful
projects occurring in our community, but they do represent what can happen when
a group of organizations who are dedicated to making our community a better
place come together to make “the whole
greater than the sum of the parts”&nbsp;1+1=3.

🎙 WILLIAMS: 1 plus 1 equals 3

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674577717508.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>

The 2023 Kansas Legislative Session officially commenced on Monday, January 9, 2023. It truly is an honor to serve the constituents of the 109th Kansas House District and to remain as the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

On Tuesday, January 10, House and Senate Leadership unveiled their plan for the 2023 Legislative Session in regards to an array of areas from taxes to the economy.

The plan calls to pass a balanced budget that eliminates wasteful spending, pay down our debt, and adds more money to the Budget Stabilization Fund, also known as the Rainy-Day Fund.

During the announcement, leadership expressed the desire to make the tax code flatter and simple to assist families and businesses. Reducing the tax burden on retirees and families was also included in the “A Better Way.”

In regards to the economy, the plan prohibits ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing in the state retirement system and post-secondary institutions. It would authorize the Attorney General to investigate companies that conspire to constrain the fossil fuel industry. It would also prohibit state investment in entities owned or operated by hostile foreign governments.

There were also other areas of interest in the “A Better Way” plan that would address education, workforce development, healthcare, law enforcement and the state budget, which I will address in subsequent newsletters.

This announcement of the “A Better Way” was introduced prior to Governor Kelly’s budget on Thursday, January 12.

The first week of the Kansas Legislative Session was a light week for the House Appropriations Committee. On January 12, we held a joint committee meeting with the members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee to have the details of the Governor’s budget publicly released. The Budget Director for the state of Kansas released the details of the budget, which I will discuss in the next section. On January 18, we had an update on the Budget Stabilization Fund, the expenditures from the SPARK (Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas) process, and update on the Docking Building. Thursday, we discussed the report from the Legislative Task Force on Community and Technical Colleges and had a discussion of the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grants for economic development purposes with the institutions of higher education.

As mentioned above, the Governor’s proposed budget was introduced on Thursday, January 12. Here are some of the details of her budget:

· Full elimination of the state level sales tax on food to this year;

· Adding a four day “Back-to-School” sales tax holiday starting September 2023;

· Increasing the exemption on Social Security income tax.

· Deposit $500 million in the Budget Stabilization Fund;

· Add $220 million to the Infrastructure Leveraging

· Fund to unlock streams of Federal dollars that have either matching requirements or competitive grants;

· The retiring of two lake reservoir debts early and paying cash for the state share of the new Veterans Home.

The Governor’s proposed budget estimates that the ending balance in fiscal year 2024 would be $1.984 billion and that would not include the $500 million transferred to the Budget Stabilization, which make the balance of that fund over $1.5 billion.

· The Legislative Research Department is now dissecting the Governor’s budget. We will soon have the budgets reported back to the House Appropriations Committee.

Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by visiting the live footage at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the

Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:

* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities: Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens, Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center, Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa, Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center (part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver (part), Cedron, Elkhorn (part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner, Center, Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Kansas House" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Kansas House</figcaption>
 </figure>January 23, 2023The "A Better Way"The 2023 Kansas Legislative Session officially commenced on Monday, January 9, 2023. It truly is an honor to serve the constituents of the 109th Kansas House District and to remain as the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.On Tuesday, January 10, House and Senate Leadership unveiled their plan for the 2023 Legislative Session in regards to an array of areas from taxes to the economy.The plan calls to pass a balanced budget that eliminates wasteful spending, pay down our debt, and adds more money to the Budget Stabilization Fund, also known as the Rainy-Day Fund.During the announcement, leadership expressed the desire to make the tax code flatter and simple to assist families and businesses. Reducing the tax burden on retirees and families was also included in the “A Better Way.”In regards to the economy, the plan prohibits ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing in the state retirement system and post-secondary institutions. It would authorize the Attorney General to investigate companies that conspire to constrain the fossil fuel industry. It would also prohibit state investment in entities owned or operated by hostile foreign governments.There were also other areas of interest in the “A Better Way” plan that would address education, workforce development, healthcare, law enforcement and the state budget, which I will address in subsequent newsletters.This announcement of the “A Better Way” was introduced prior to Governor Kelly’s budget on Thursday, January 12.Appropriations CommitteeThe first week of the Kansas Legislative Session was a light week for the House Appropriations Committee. On January 12, we held a joint committee meeting with the members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee to have the details of the Governor’s budget publicly released. The Budget Director for the state of Kansas released the details of the budget, which I will discuss in the next section. On January 18, we had an update on the Budget Stabilization Fund, the expenditures from the SPARK (Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas) process, and update on the Docking Building. Thursday, we discussed the report from the Legislative Task Force on Community and Technical Colleges and had a discussion of the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grants for economic development purposes with the institutions of higher education.Governor’s BudgetAs mentioned above, the Governor’s proposed budget was introduced on Thursday, January 12. Here are some of the details of her budget:· Full elimination of the state level sales tax on food to this year;· Adding a four day “Back-to-School” sales tax holiday starting September 2023;· Increasing the exemption on Social Security income tax.She has also proposed the following:· Deposit $500 million in the Budget Stabilization Fund;· Add $220 million to the Infrastructure Leveraging· Fund to unlock streams of Federal dollars that have either matching requirements or competitive grants;· The retiring of two lake reservoir debts early and paying cash for the state share of the new Veterans Home.The Governor’s proposed budget estimates that the ending balance in fiscal year 2024 would be $1.984 billion and that would not include the $500 million transferred to the Budget Stabilization, which make the balance of that fund over $1.5 billion.· The Legislative Research Department is now dissecting the Governor’s budget. We will soon have the budgets reported back to the House Appropriations Committee.Contact InformationAnytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by visiting the live footage at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of theTroy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities: Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens, Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center, Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa, Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center (part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver (part), Cedron, Elkhorn (part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner, Center, Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Jan. 23, 2023

Sen. Rick Billinger Newsletter January 23, 2023

The 2023 legislative session began on Monday, January 9th&nbsp;with the swearing in of Senator Ron Ryckman, Sr., and new Senator Chase Blasi. Ron Ryckman Sr. replaced Senator Bud Estes two years ago and was reelected for two more years. Senator Chase Blasi is familiar with the Senate having served on staff for both President Wagle and currently President Masterson the past few sessions. Senator Blasi was elected to serve the remaining two years of Senator Suellentrop’s term.

Newly elected Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson is taking a hard look at whether ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) policy influences pension fund investment and who manages the investments. Johnson said one of his priorities is making sure that state pension funds are focused on the best return on investment and not ESG principles.

Normally in the first week of session the State of the State is held. Because Governor Kelly tested positive for Covid her address has been postponed until January 24th.

Even though the Governor did not have her State of the State, budget director Adam Proffitt laid out the Governors $24.1 billion budget for fiscal year 2024. Some of the proposals in the budget include accelerating the elimination of the food sales tax, adding $500 million to the rainy day fund, additional money for special education, 5% salary increase for state employees,

Chief Justice Marla Luckert, from northwest Kansas, delivered the state of the Judiciary address in a joint session to the legislature. Ms. Luckert highlighted the specialty courts across the state, the need for attorneys in rural Kansas, and raising judicial pay.

America has always been the land of opportunity, a land where freedom is secure, and our hopes and dreams can be achieved with hard work and perseverance. In the last few years, this optimism has been replaced by a profound pessimism, as employers struggle to find workers, paychecks remain stagnant, and the cost of living is going through the roof. The good news is that we are Kansans, and we value hard work, faith, freedom, and family which will guide us through the current challenges and toward a better future. Republicans from the House and the Senate joined together in a press conference to announce a comprehensive legislature agenda entitled, “A Better Way: Our Commitment to Kansas.”

In the last three elections, the winner of the Kansas Governor’s race failed to crack 50% of the vote. Lawmakers are looking at the trend and wondering whether Kansas might need a runoff election if a candidate for statewide office fails to get a majority of the vote in the general election. A bill was introduced late Tuesday in the House Elections Committee that would establish runoff elections for statewide elected officials: governor, secretary of state, insurance commissioner, treasurer, and attorney general. The proposal would cover general elections and not apply to any other campaigns of the Legislature, state school board or local offices. The runoff would be held on the first Tuesday of December after the final canvass of votes.

My office has several dates available for 6th&nbsp;graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available:

Please contact Donna at 785-296-7399 to reserve a date.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th&nbsp;Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;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 Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th District senator 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. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Sen. Rick Billinger Newsletter January 23, 2023The 2023 legislative session began on Monday, January 9th&nbsp;with the swearing in of Senator Ron Ryckman, Sr., and new Senator Chase Blasi. Ron Ryckman Sr. replaced Senator Bud Estes two years ago and was reelected for two more years. Senator Chase Blasi is familiar with the Senate having served on staff for both President Wagle and currently President Masterson the past few sessions. Senator Blasi was elected to serve the remaining two years of Senator Suellentrop’s term.Newly elected Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson is taking a hard look at whether ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) policy influences pension fund investment and who manages the investments. Johnson said one of his priorities is making sure that state pension funds are focused on the best return on investment and not ESG principles.Normally in the first week of session the State of the State is held. Because Governor Kelly tested positive for Covid her address has been postponed until January 24th.Even though the Governor did not have her State of the State, budget director Adam Proffitt laid out the Governors $24.1 billion budget for fiscal year 2024. Some of the proposals in the budget include accelerating the elimination of the food sales tax, adding $500 million to the rainy day fund, additional money for special education, 5% salary increase for state employees,Chief Justice Marla Luckert, from northwest Kansas, delivered the state of the Judiciary address in a joint session to the legislature. Ms. Luckert highlighted the specialty courts across the state, the need for attorneys in rural Kansas, and raising judicial pay.America has always been the land of opportunity, a land where freedom is secure, and our hopes and dreams can be achieved with hard work and perseverance. In the last few years, this optimism has been replaced by a profound pessimism, as employers struggle to find workers, paychecks remain stagnant, and the cost of living is going through the roof. The good news is that we are Kansans, and we value hard work, faith, freedom, and family which will guide us through the current challenges and toward a better future. Republicans from the House and the Senate joined together in a press conference to announce a comprehensive legislature agenda entitled, “A Better Way: Our Commitment to Kansas.”In the last three elections, the winner of the Kansas Governor’s race failed to crack 50% of the vote. Lawmakers are looking at the trend and wondering whether Kansas might need a runoff election if a candidate for statewide office fails to get a majority of the vote in the general election. A bill was introduced late Tuesday in the House Elections Committee that would establish runoff elections for statewide elected officials: governor, secretary of state, insurance commissioner, treasurer, and attorney general. The proposal would cover general elections and not apply to any other campaigns of the Legislature, state school board or local offices. The runoff would be held on the first Tuesday of December after the final canvass of votes.My office has several dates available for 6th&nbsp;graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available:February 6, 13, 20 or March 6thPlease contact Donna at 785-296-7399 to reserve a date.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th&nbsp;Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;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 Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th District senator which includes:* Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties * Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Jan. 23, 2023

RUSSELL — The Russell USD 407 Board of Education has announced the selection of Jordan Perez as the new superintendent. Perez will take the reins on July 1, 
following Clark Coco, interim superintendent, whose contract ends on
 June 30.

Jordan Perez has broad educational experience, as an administrator, 
teacher, and mentor to educators. Perez was hired by USD 407 in 2019 and
 served two years as principal of Simpson Elementary School before 
transferring to his current position as principal of Ruppenthal Middle 
School. Prior to arriving in Russell, Perez taught fourth and second 
grades at Lee Elementary in USD 383 Manhattan.


Perez earned his bachelor of science in elementary education from 
Kansas State University in 2011, his master of arts in education from 
Ottawa University in 2018, and he will graduate in May 2023 with his education specialist degree from Fort Hays State University.


Board President Kathy Wallert said Perez emerged from a 
very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the school 
District. 

“The Board is certain in our choice of Jordan Perez and 
confident that under his leadership USD 407 will continue to move and 
grow in a positive direction," she said.

Wallert said community input, 
including the involvement of stakeholders, was a key factor in the 
success of the superintendent search process. The committees included 
teachers and administrators, parents, and community members. 

“The input 
from the community as a whole was very helpful to our process," she said.

Perez was chosen from among three finalists.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674586195817.jpeg" alt="Jordan Perez" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Perez</figcaption>
 </figure>Russell USD 407RUSSELL — The Russell USD 407 Board of Education has announced the selection of Jordan Perez as the new superintendent. Perez will take the reins on July 1, 
following Clark Coco, interim superintendent, whose contract ends on
 June 30.Jordan Perez has broad educational experience, as an administrator, 
teacher, and mentor to educators. Perez was hired by USD 407 in 2019 and
 served two years as principal of Simpson Elementary School before 
transferring to his current position as principal of Ruppenthal Middle 
School. Prior to arriving in Russell, Perez taught fourth and second 
grades at Lee Elementary in USD 383 Manhattan.
Perez earned his bachelor of science in elementary education from 
Kansas State University in 2011, his master of arts in education from 
Ottawa University in 2018, and he will graduate in May 2023 with his education specialist degree from Fort Hays State University.
Board President Kathy Wallert said Perez emerged from a 
very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the school 
District. “The Board is certain in our choice of Jordan Perez and 
confident that under his leadership USD 407 will continue to move and 
grow in a positive direction," she said.Wallert said community input, 
including the involvement of stakeholders, was a key factor in the 
success of the superintendent search process. The committees included 
teachers and administrators, parents, and community members. “The input 
from the community as a whole was very helpful to our process," she said.Perez was chosen from among three finalists.&nbsp;

Perez named superintendent of Russell USD 407

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda Meder shares information about their ongoing exhibition and upcoming activities.

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council prepares for spring activities" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=ufih5-1370dde-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda Meder shares information about their ongoing exhibition and upcoming activities.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council prepares for spring activities

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