Speaker-Elect Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, announced that&nbsp;Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays,&nbsp;has been named chair of the newly created&nbsp;Legislative Modernization Committee as well as chair/vice chair of the Joint Administrative Rules and Regulations Committee. &nbsp;

Wasinger is also a member of the Higher Education Budget and Taxation Committees, as well as the Information Technology Joint Committee. &nbsp;

“I told Barb I had big plans for her&nbsp;during her re-election campaign. &nbsp;This is the start,” Hawkins said. &nbsp;

In response, Wasinger said:&nbsp;“I am honored to&nbsp;be given the responsibilities that Speaker-Elect Hawkins has given me.&nbsp;&nbsp;I look forward to the challenges ahead.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664901322728.jpeg" alt="Wasinger" />
 <figcaption>Wasinger</figcaption>
 </figure>Speaker-Elect Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, announced that&nbsp;Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays,&nbsp;has been named chair of the newly created&nbsp;Legislative Modernization Committee as well as chair/vice chair of the Joint Administrative Rules and Regulations Committee. &nbsp;Wasinger is also a member of the Higher Education Budget and Taxation Committees, as well as the Information Technology Joint Committee. &nbsp;“I told Barb I had big plans for her&nbsp;during her re-election campaign. &nbsp;This is the start,” Hawkins said. &nbsp;In response, Wasinger said:&nbsp;“I am honored to&nbsp;be given the responsibilities that Speaker-Elect Hawkins has given me.&nbsp;&nbsp;I look forward to the challenges ahead.”— News release

Wasinger appointed to Kan. House leadership positions

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher We’ve arrived at another intersection of old and new. A time where we say goodbye to one year while also welcoming another. The singing of “Auld Lang Syne” has been sung, well-wishes have been said, and new goals have been declared. This is also a traditional time of reflection. Whether it’s looking back at the best movies watched, the total number of books read, the overall amount of rainfall measured or the number of acres acquired, we all have something to reflect on from the past year.&nbsp; So many of these reflections tend to gravitate toward numbers as the form of official measurement. Understandably, it’s a fairly easy way to look at a specific period of time and determine the wins and losses; the things that worked and the things we learned from during a year. On our farm, we take many numbers and create many charts and graphs to measure a variety of aspects from the year. From fuel prices, household expenditures, rainfall totals, market changes, sales, purchases and so much more. We can and do create visual measurements throughout the year, which allow us to reflect on a variety of areas.&nbsp; To be honest, the visual measurements, while appreciated, sometimes only provide a small glimpse into the overall area being measured and reflected upon. Some of the things we reflect on might highlight one’s strengths or weaknesses or areas for improvement, while other reflections remind us that we have minimal control. If anything, 2022 has reminded me that measurements and assessments don’t always tell a complete story when it comes to reflecting on one’s declared victories or admitted defeats at the end of a year. Numbers might look good and the means of measurement at a given point might suggest an anticipated positive outcome. But if the rain doesn’t fall, or if it falls all at once, or a windstorm blows through, or hail hits, those numbers and outcomes change in an instant. While I generally declare goals at the start of a new year, I have learned over time I won’t have a hard start and stop time with a straight line in between for the sake of measurement. If needed, adjustments will be made along the way based on routine reflections to help me get to where I want to be.&nbsp; And yes, while we have arrived at another intersection of an old year and a new year, we must recognize that there’s traffic coming from multiple directions. In reality, it is how we react and adjust while mindfully reflecting throughout the year which will allow us the opportunity to continue to move forward, getting closer to our ultimate goals.

"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/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher We’ve arrived at another intersection of old and new. A time where we say goodbye to one year while also welcoming another. The singing of “Auld Lang Syne” has been sung, well-wishes have been said, and new goals have been declared. This is also a traditional time of reflection. Whether it’s looking back at the best movies watched, the total number of books read, the overall amount of rainfall measured or the number of acres acquired, we all have something to reflect on from the past year.&nbsp; So many of these reflections tend to gravitate toward numbers as the form of official measurement. Understandably, it’s a fairly easy way to look at a specific period of time and determine the wins and losses; the things that worked and the things we learned from during a year. On our farm, we take many numbers and create many charts and graphs to measure a variety of aspects from the year. From fuel prices, household expenditures, rainfall totals, market changes, sales, purchases and so much more. We can and do create visual measurements throughout the year, which allow us to reflect on a variety of areas.&nbsp; To be honest, the visual measurements, while appreciated, sometimes only provide a small glimpse into the overall area being measured and reflected upon. Some of the things we reflect on might highlight one’s strengths or weaknesses or areas for improvement, while other reflections remind us that we have minimal control. If anything, 2022 has reminded me that measurements and assessments don’t always tell a complete story when it comes to reflecting on one’s declared victories or admitted defeats at the end of a year. Numbers might look good and the means of measurement at a given point might suggest an anticipated positive outcome. But if the rain doesn’t fall, or if it falls all at once, or a windstorm blows through, or hail hits, those numbers and outcomes change in an instant. While I generally declare goals at the start of a new year, I have learned over time I won’t have a hard start and stop time with a straight line in between for the sake of measurement. If needed, adjustments will be made along the way based on routine reflections to help me get to where I want to be.&nbsp; And yes, while we have arrived at another intersection of an old year and a new year, we must recognize that there’s traffic coming from multiple directions. In reality, it is how we react and adjust while mindfully reflecting throughout the year which will allow us the opportunity to continue to move forward, getting closer to our ultimate goals."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: Routine reflections

The Hays Police Department responded to 52 calls from Dec. 18-24, 2022 according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 52 calls from Dec. 18-24, 2022 according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
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Hays PD activity log, Dec. 18 to 24

<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/2023/1/1672781134437.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

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

September 18, 2004.&nbsp;Bret Fitzpatrick was driving to a farm sale when his truck tire blew out on a two-lane bridge. He lost control of his truck, went into the ditch, hit a power pole, rolled three times, and ended up in the water.&nbsp;

When Fitzpatrick came to, he was in the water and could no longer move his legs. That was the beginning of a long, tough journey for this young man who has found ways to adjust to his challenging life in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick grew up near Sterling where his family had a diversified crop and livestock operation. He majored in animal sciences and business at K-State. One summer, he got an internship with a meat processing company in Hutchinson and found he enjoyed meat science and food science work.&nbsp;

After graduation, he was hired as a food scientist in the research and development department. That company is now part of Tyson Foods.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick met and married his wife who is from Buhler. He worked for Tyson and helped his dad on the farm.&nbsp;

Then the accident occurred. The truck cab was crushed directly behind where Fitzpatrick had been sitting and there were power lines down in the ditch. When he regained consciousness, he was outside the truck and spitting out water.&nbsp;

“I could have been crushed, I could have drowned, I could have been electrocuted, but none of that happened,” he said. A transformer had blown so the electric lines were not live.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick was flown to Wichita for surgery followed by extensive rehab in Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is considered a T-11 paraplegic with a pinched spinal cord.&nbsp;

“I’ve tried not to let it limit me more than necessary,” he said. He returned to work and even works on the farm with his wife and daughter.&nbsp;

In 2009, he was transferred to Tyson corporate headquarters in Arkansas. In 2016, he and his family moved back to the family farm in Kansas where his dad lives. Fitzpatrick continues to work remotely for Tyson and takes care of the cattle. The family maintains a Charolais cowherd and sells purebred bulls.&nbsp;

One day Fitzpatrick was reading a farm magazine and he came across an article about the Kansas AgrAbility project at K-State. “Oh man, I need that,” he said. AgrAbility is a program to assist farmers who are injured or disabled but want to continue in production agriculture.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick contacted the AgrAbility specialists. They got him in touch with various resources such as the Kansas vocational rehabilitation program, Farm Rescue, and Rise Again.&nbsp;

AgrAbility’s motto is ‘Cultivating Accessible Agriculture.’&nbsp;&nbsp;AgrAbility does not provide direct financial assistance, but can help people find assistive devices to help with farm work, for example.&nbsp;

“I have an electric four-wheel drive wheelchair and a side-by-side and skid steer that I use a lot,” Fitzpatrick said. He has installed remote controlled gates, seat lifts for his trucks, and other assistive technology.&nbsp;

“It’s a whole world of difference,” he said. Remarkably, he continues to travel, hunt and work cattle. “I can run cattle through the chute by myself,” Fitzpatrick said. He actively hunts turkey, pheasant and deer.&nbsp;

There have been plenty of frustrations. Insurance, for example, would only pay for a manual wheelchair, which is impractical on the farm. Out-of-pocket costs for adaptive devices are very expensive.&nbsp;

“I try to find as many ways as I can to do things independently,” Fitzpatrick said. He’s a remarkable person, living near the rural community of Sterling, population 2,248 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Working with AgrAbility has been a very, very positive thing,” he said.&nbsp;

“Bret is a great example of how a positive attitude and creativity can make a real difference,” said Tawnie Larson, AgrAbility consultant. “The AgrAbility team that assisted Bret worked hard to find him resources and make sure they worked for him. AgrAbility is here to keep people just like Bret working and enjoying their rural lifestyle through production agriculture.”&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agrability.ksu.edu/">www.agrability.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

We commend Bret Fitzpatrick for meeting these challenges and for sharing his inspirational story with others. Maybe this story can help someone else along the way.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671027061951.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;September 18, 2004.&nbsp;Bret Fitzpatrick was driving to a farm sale when his truck tire blew out on a two-lane bridge. He lost control of his truck, went into the ditch, hit a power pole, rolled three times, and ended up in the water.&nbsp;When Fitzpatrick came to, he was in the water and could no longer move his legs. That was the beginning of a long, tough journey for this young man who has found ways to adjust to his challenging life in rural Kansas.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick grew up near Sterling where his family had a diversified crop and livestock operation. He majored in animal sciences and business at K-State. One summer, he got an internship with a meat processing company in Hutchinson and found he enjoyed meat science and food science work.&nbsp;After graduation, he was hired as a food scientist in the research and development department. That company is now part of Tyson Foods.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick met and married his wife who is from Buhler. He worked for Tyson and helped his dad on the farm.&nbsp;Then the accident occurred. The truck cab was crushed directly behind where Fitzpatrick had been sitting and there were power lines down in the ditch. When he regained consciousness, he was outside the truck and spitting out water.&nbsp;“I could have been crushed, I could have drowned, I could have been electrocuted, but none of that happened,” he said. A transformer had blown so the electric lines were not live.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick was flown to Wichita for surgery followed by extensive rehab in Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is considered a T-11 paraplegic with a pinched spinal cord.&nbsp;“I’ve tried not to let it limit me more than necessary,” he said. He returned to work and even works on the farm with his wife and daughter.&nbsp;In 2009, he was transferred to Tyson corporate headquarters in Arkansas. In 2016, he and his family moved back to the family farm in Kansas where his dad lives. Fitzpatrick continues to work remotely for Tyson and takes care of the cattle. The family maintains a Charolais cowherd and sells purebred bulls.&nbsp;One day Fitzpatrick was reading a farm magazine and he came across an article about the Kansas AgrAbility project at K-State. “Oh man, I need that,” he said. AgrAbility is a program to assist farmers who are injured or disabled but want to continue in production agriculture.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick contacted the AgrAbility specialists. They got him in touch with various resources such as the Kansas vocational rehabilitation program, Farm Rescue, and Rise Again.&nbsp;AgrAbility’s motto is ‘Cultivating Accessible Agriculture.’&nbsp;&nbsp;AgrAbility does not provide direct financial assistance, but can help people find assistive devices to help with farm work, for example.&nbsp;“I have an electric four-wheel drive wheelchair and a side-by-side and skid steer that I use a lot,” Fitzpatrick said. He has installed remote controlled gates, seat lifts for his trucks, and other assistive technology.&nbsp;“It’s a whole world of difference,” he said. Remarkably, he continues to travel, hunt and work cattle. “I can run cattle through the chute by myself,” Fitzpatrick said. He actively hunts turkey, pheasant and deer.&nbsp;There have been plenty of frustrations. Insurance, for example, would only pay for a manual wheelchair, which is impractical on the farm. Out-of-pocket costs for adaptive devices are very expensive.&nbsp;“I try to find as many ways as I can to do things independently,” Fitzpatrick said. He’s a remarkable person, living near the rural community of Sterling, population 2,248 people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Working with AgrAbility has been a very, very positive thing,” he said.&nbsp;“Bret is a great example of how a positive attitude and creativity can make a real difference,” said Tawnie Larson, AgrAbility consultant. “The AgrAbility team that assisted Bret worked hard to find him resources and make sure they worked for him. AgrAbility is here to keep people just like Bret working and enjoying their rural lifestyle through production agriculture.”&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agrability.ksu.edu/">www.agrability.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;We commend Bret Fitzpatrick for meeting these challenges and for sharing his inspirational story with others. Maybe this story can help someone else along the way.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Bret Fitzpatrick, AgrAbility 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6f4b3a39-0ade-44e9-a6e1-53fc16430a2d">UPDATE:&nbsp;GoFundMe organized to help family of slain FHSU student-athlete</a>

OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP) — A football player at Fort Hays State University in Kansas was shot and killed outside a bar in Oklahoma City on New Year's Day, police said.

Daniel Howard, 22, died and four other people were injured in the shooting at Sunset Patio Lounge early Sunday, Oklahoma City police said.

Several people were kicked out of the bar after a fight broke out. The shooting occurred when the argument continued in a nearby parking lot, police said.

Some of the injured were bystanders, according to the police news release. Their conditions were not available.

Howard played two years at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in spring of 2022. Howard, a defensive back, played in all 11 games last season, recording 53 tackles.

Officials at Fort Hays and Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M issued statements on social media expressing grief after Howard's death and support for his family and friends.

The investigation into the shooting is continuing, police said in a news release.

The Fort Hays State University football team, athletic department, and campus community are mourning the loss of student-athlete&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard</a>, who died early Sunday morning in his hometown of Oklahoma City. Howard was a sociology major at FHSU and was 22 years old. "On behalf of the entire Fort Hays State University community, I want to express our profound sorrow that&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard's</a>&nbsp;life was tragically cut short," said Fort Hays State University President Dr. Tisa Mason. "Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Daniel's family, teammates, and friends as they grieve this terrible loss." "We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard</a>," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/chris-brown/1118">Chris Brown</a>. "We are so grateful to have been a part of his life and he will be missed greatly and remembered forever. Daniel was a tremendous teammate, a loving, caring, and supportive individual. He had a great personality and infectious smile. Daniel truly loved his Tiger football family. Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time."

Howard came to Fort Hays State in the spring of 2022, a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M College. He made an immediate impact for the Tiger defense during the 2022 season, playing in all 11 games and making nine starts as a defensive back. He recorded 53 tackles, ranking third on the team, and recorded an interception and a pair of pass breakups. Howard attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M for three years and played two seasons, where he was a two-time all-conference performer. No further details are available at this time as an investigation is ongoing. Members of the university community who this tragedy has touched are encouraged to connect with our team of professionals in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/health-and-wellness/counseling/">University Health and Wellness Services</a>. You can also contact the Health and Wellness Services team at 800.273.8255.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672765415356.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6f4b3a39-0ade-44e9-a6e1-53fc16430a2d">UPDATE:&nbsp;GoFundMe organized to help family of slain FHSU student-athlete</a>OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP) — A football player at Fort Hays State University in Kansas was shot and killed outside a bar in Oklahoma City on New Year's Day, police said.Daniel Howard, 22, died and four other people were injured in the shooting at Sunset Patio Lounge early Sunday, Oklahoma City police said.Several people were kicked out of the bar after a fight broke out. The shooting occurred when the argument continued in a nearby parking lot, police said.Some of the injured were bystanders, according to the police news release. Their conditions were not available.Howard played two years at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in spring of 2022. Howard, a defensive back, played in all 11 games last season, recording 53 tackles.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tiger Family, We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family, Daniel Howard. We are so grateful to have been able to be a part of his life and he will be missed greatly. Please keep Daniel&#39;s family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/BqLfWP4NJK">pic.twitter.com/BqLfWP4NJK</a>&mdash; FHSU Football (@FHSUFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FHSUFootball/status/1610006504484048901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Officials at Fort Hays and Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M issued statements on social media expressing grief after Howard's death and support for his family and friends.The investigation into the shooting is continuing, police said in a news release.---------------------FHSU AthleticsThe Fort Hays State University football team, athletic department, and campus community are mourning the loss of student-athlete&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard</a>, who died early Sunday morning in his hometown of Oklahoma City. Howard was a sociology major at FHSU and was 22 years old. "On behalf of the entire Fort Hays State University community, I want to express our profound sorrow that&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard's</a>&nbsp;life was tragically cut short," said Fort Hays State University President Dr. Tisa Mason. "Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Daniel's family, teammates, and friends as they grieve this terrible loss." "We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-howard/6790">Daniel Howard</a>," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/chris-brown/1118">Chris Brown</a>. "We are so grateful to have been a part of his life and he will be missed greatly and remembered forever. Daniel was a tremendous teammate, a loving, caring, and supportive individual. He had a great personality and infectious smile. Daniel truly loved his Tiger football family. Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time." <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tiger Family, We are deeply saddened to say that we have lost a member of our family, Daniel Howard. We are so grateful to have been able to be a part of his life and he will be missed greatly. Please keep Daniel&#39;s family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/BqLfWP4NJK">pic.twitter.com/BqLfWP4NJK</a>&mdash; FHSU Football (@FHSUFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FHSUFootball/status/1610006504484048901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Howard came to Fort Hays State in the spring of 2022, a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M College. He made an immediate impact for the Tiger defense during the 2022 season, playing in all 11 games and making nine starts as a defensive back. He recorded 53 tackles, ranking third on the team, and recorded an interception and a pair of pass breakups. Howard attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M for three years and played two seasons, where he was a two-time all-conference performer. No further details are available at this time as an investigation is ongoing. Members of the university community who this tragedy has touched are encouraged to connect with our team of professionals in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/health-and-wellness/counseling/">University Health and Wellness Services</a>. You can also contact the Health and Wellness Services team at 800.273.8255.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672727380564.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672727413526.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Police: FHSU student-athlete shot and killed in Oklahoma

After a damp start to the new year, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for clear skies at least through the weekend.

The Hays area received about three-tenths of an inch of rain Monday, with a report of 0.39 inches north of Hays. Victoria had reports of about a quarter-inch of rain, while Ellis reports ranged from 0.13 to 0.2 inches.

High temperatures this week will be in the low- to mid-40s, with overnight lows in the upper-teens to low-20s.

After a breezy Tuesday and Wednesday, the winds are expected to die down later in the weeks, with mostly sunny conditions expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672759679276.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a damp start to the new year, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for clear skies at least through the weekend.The Hays area received about three-tenths of an inch of rain Monday, with a report of 0.39 inches north of Hays. Victoria had reports of about a quarter-inch of rain, while Ellis reports ranged from 0.13 to 0.2 inches.High temperatures this week will be in the low- to mid-40s, with overnight lows in the upper-teens to low-20s.After a breezy Tuesday and Wednesday, the winds are expected to die down later in the weeks, with mostly sunny conditions expected.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Temperatures will be seasonal following the latest storm system with highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s today, followed by slightly warmer afternoon temperatures Wednesday afternoon. Breezy northwest winds forecast both days. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kb4JhPbGrj">pic.twitter.com/Kb4JhPbGrj</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1610198833279152129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

2023 opens with moisture; skies will clear this week

The operator of the Keystone Pipeline on Thursday restarted the leg of the system that spilled thousands of barrels of heavy crude in north-central Kansas.

TC Energy announced that after repairs, inspections and testing, and a controlled restart on Thursday, the Keystone system is "...operational to all delivery points." The company said it will operate what it calls the Cushing Extension through Kansas at reduced pressure and with additional risk-mitigation measures under plans approved by the &nbsp;U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). As of Friday morning the company said it had recovered 10,637 barrels of oil, out of an estimated 14,000 barrels spilled from the pipe after the rupture Dec. 8. Water, soil and metallurgical testing continue, but regulators have been slow to release details of the investigation into the Keystone Pipeline spill in Washington County. Despite media reports suggesting contamination downstream of the containment zone, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is holding off on releasing the results of its water testing in the area saying they need more data to establish benchmarks for analysis.

The agency's director of communications and legislative affairs Matt Lara said in an e-mail response his agency has preliminary water data samples but needs more sampling and other information before a promised release to the public. Lara says there have been no reports from farmers in the area of wells showing contamination. Free well testing is available through the pipeline operator. &nbsp; KDHE is not currently testing soil in the area. Lara said the company removed the layer of topsoil that had oil "staining." TC Energy’s environmental consultant will collect soil samples from the spill area to confirm that all contaminated soil has been removed, according to KDHE. The PHMSA continues its probe into the cause of the spill, including metals testing on the section of pipeline that ruptured. TC Energy was operating the Keystone Pipeline at a dramatically increased flow-rate just prior to the rupture and spill in Kansas. The Energy Consultant Wood-Mackenzie confirmed broadcast reports that flows to the Midwest jumped to almost 650,000 barrels per day on the night of the rupture, up from a baseline of 622,000 barrels per day. The company said in October it would raise flows to test the system's operational efficiency.

In an email response to our request for comment, the company replied "At the time of the incident, the pipeline was operating within its design and regulatory approval requirements." Russia banned the sale of its oil and petroleum products to countries that put a cap on the price. The Kremlin is trying to undermine one of many sanctions prompted by the invasion of Ukraine. The G-7 countries want to bar the shipping, financing or insuring of seaborne Russian crude unless it is sold for $60 a barrel or less. Russia is also preparing to cut production early next year, according to its oil minister. Winter weather has dramatically curtailed crude output from the No. 3 producing state in the country. S&amp;P Global reports current production in North Dakota of about 650,000 to 700,000 barrels per day, down from 1.12 million barrels per day in September and October. A blizzard on Dec. 19 shut in more than 400,000 barrels per day of production, and more shut-ins occurred the following week. U.S. crude production drops below 12 million barrels per day for the first time in eight weeks and only the third time since June. The Energy Information Administration reports U.S. output of 11.954 million barrels per day for the week through Dec. 23, down 196,000 barrels per day from the week before. EIA reports crude imports of 6.3 million barrels per day for the week, up 433,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is down 3.8 percent from a year ago. The government said domestic crude-oil inventories increased last week by 700,000 barrels to 419 million barrels as of Dec. 23. Stockpiles are about 6 percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Marathon Oil Corporation completed a big bucks acquisition first announced in November. Ensign Natural Resources will reap a total cash consideration of $3 billion. In return, Marathon takes over assets in the Eagle Ford basin of South Texas which they predict will deliver more than 22,000 barrels of oil per day. Crude prices Friday were up slightly. The benchmark Nymex contract was trading for $78.87 per barrel. London Brent was a few cents over $84. Kansas crude prices dropped 75 cents on Thursday, with Kansas Common crude fetching $68.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's about $3 less than at the start of the month, and about $3 more than at the start of the year. Just as you start driving less, pump prices plummet. According to the latest numbers from the government, gasoline stockpiles dropped by 3.1 million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration says gasoline inventories are about 4 percent below the five-year seasonal average. But, regular gasoline prices continue to drop, down to $3.17 a gallon nationwide (Dec. 30). It's going for $2.79 across Kansas. Going into the holiday weekend we spotted anywhere from $2.79 to $2.89 per gallon locally. Diesel Inventories increased 300,000 barrels last week but remain about 7 percent below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel deliveries are down almost 7 percent from a year ago. U.S. and statewide diesel-fuel prices remain above $4 per gallon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672424966920.jpeg" alt="Excavated and repaired section of the Cushing Extension in Washington County, Kansas. Photo courtesy of TC Energy" />
 <figcaption>Excavated and repaired section of the Cushing Extension in Washington County, Kansas. Photo courtesy of TC Energy</figcaption>
 </figure>By John P. TretbarThe operator of the Keystone Pipeline on Thursday restarted the leg of the system that spilled thousands of barrels of heavy crude in north-central Kansas.TC Energy announced that after repairs, inspections and testing, and a controlled restart on Thursday, the Keystone system is "...operational to all delivery points." The company said it will operate what it calls the Cushing Extension through Kansas at reduced pressure and with additional risk-mitigation measures under plans approved by the &nbsp;U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). As of Friday morning the company said it had recovered 10,637 barrels of oil, out of an estimated 14,000 barrels spilled from the pipe after the rupture Dec. 8. Water, soil and metallurgical testing continue, but regulators have been slow to release details of the investigation into the Keystone Pipeline spill in Washington County. Despite media reports suggesting contamination downstream of the containment zone, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is holding off on releasing the results of its water testing in the area saying they need more data to establish benchmarks for analysis.The agency's director of communications and legislative affairs Matt Lara said in an e-mail response his agency has preliminary water data samples but needs more sampling and other information before a promised release to the public. Lara says there have been no reports from farmers in the area of wells showing contamination. Free well testing is available through the pipeline operator. &nbsp; KDHE is not currently testing soil in the area. Lara said the company removed the layer of topsoil that had oil "staining." TC Energy’s environmental consultant will collect soil samples from the spill area to confirm that all contaminated soil has been removed, according to KDHE. The PHMSA continues its probe into the cause of the spill, including metals testing on the section of pipeline that ruptured. TC Energy was operating the Keystone Pipeline at a dramatically increased flow-rate just prior to the rupture and spill in Kansas. The Energy Consultant Wood-Mackenzie confirmed broadcast reports that flows to the Midwest jumped to almost 650,000 barrels per day on the night of the rupture, up from a baseline of 622,000 barrels per day. The company said in October it would raise flows to test the system's operational efficiency.In an email response to our request for comment, the company replied "At the time of the incident, the pipeline was operating within its design and regulatory approval requirements." Russia banned the sale of its oil and petroleum products to countries that put a cap on the price. The Kremlin is trying to undermine one of many sanctions prompted by the invasion of Ukraine. The G-7 countries want to bar the shipping, financing or insuring of seaborne Russian crude unless it is sold for $60 a barrel or less. Russia is also preparing to cut production early next year, according to its oil minister. Winter weather has dramatically curtailed crude output from the No. 3 producing state in the country. S&amp;P Global reports current production in North Dakota of about 650,000 to 700,000 barrels per day, down from 1.12 million barrels per day in September and October. A blizzard on Dec. 19 shut in more than 400,000 barrels per day of production, and more shut-ins occurred the following week. U.S. crude production drops below 12 million barrels per day for the first time in eight weeks and only the third time since June. The Energy Information Administration reports U.S. output of 11.954 million barrels per day for the week through Dec. 23, down 196,000 barrels per day from the week before. EIA reports crude imports of 6.3 million barrels per day for the week, up 433,000 barrels per day from the week before. The four-week average is down 3.8 percent from a year ago. The government said domestic crude-oil inventories increased last week by 700,000 barrels to 419 million barrels as of Dec. 23. Stockpiles are about 6 percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Marathon Oil Corporation completed a big bucks acquisition first announced in November. Ensign Natural Resources will reap a total cash consideration of $3 billion. In return, Marathon takes over assets in the Eagle Ford basin of South Texas which they predict will deliver more than 22,000 barrels of oil per day. Crude prices Friday were up slightly. The benchmark Nymex contract was trading for $78.87 per barrel. London Brent was a few cents over $84. Kansas crude prices dropped 75 cents on Thursday, with Kansas Common crude fetching $68.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's about $3 less than at the start of the month, and about $3 more than at the start of the year. Just as you start driving less, pump prices plummet. According to the latest numbers from the government, gasoline stockpiles dropped by 3.1 million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration says gasoline inventories are about 4 percent below the five-year seasonal average. But, regular gasoline prices continue to drop, down to $3.17 a gallon nationwide (Dec. 30). It's going for $2.79 across Kansas. Going into the holiday weekend we spotted anywhere from $2.79 to $2.89 per gallon locally. Diesel Inventories increased 300,000 barrels last week but remain about 7 percent below the five-year seasonal average. Diesel deliveries are down almost 7 percent from a year ago. U.S. and statewide diesel-fuel prices remain above $4 per gallon.

News from the Oil Patch: Keystone restarts pipeline

🎙 Preparations underway for Holy Family Elementary Chili Supper, Bazaar

As 2022 wraps up, the Hays-based Heartland Community Foundation would like to take a moment to thank donors and supporters and share our fiscal year 2022 granting highlights and a new 15-year grantmaking total.

The Heartland Community Foundation proudly granted&nbsp;$424,772&nbsp;in fiscal year 2022 to 67 organizations for 129 projects. This total represents the combined granting dollars in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties. 

Since 2007 when the Heartland Community Foundation was founded,&nbsp;$3,205,263&nbsp;has been awarded to community organizations in grant dollars.

This is all made possible because of the foresight of the Heartland Community Foundation founders 15 years ago, the ongoing investment of donors each Match Month and throughout the year, the investment of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, financial market growth, and the nonprofit organizations that continue to look for new ways to serve their communities and apply for grant dollars.

“The impact of a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation truly has the ripple effect of creating lasting change in our communities,” said Sarah Meitner, executive director at the Heartland Community Foundation. “In just 15 years, the community foundation has reinvested $3.2 million back into the region for charitable projects and programs. There is no doubt that you or your loved ones have been positively impacted by an initiative that was funded in some part by the Heartland Community Foundation. What a tremendous legacy to build upon.”

Several categories received the bulk of the fiscal year 2022 grant dollars, including: $112,347 that went to schools or other groups for education programs; $90,200 for health and human services organizations; $78,400 for disaster relief response and public safety; $60,857 for community development initiatives; $36,398 for arts and culture programs; and $32,339 for parks and recreation projects. The remainder went to miscellaneous projects, religious institutions, and other community programs.

Money granted for disaster relief was a new addition in 2022, made possible by the creation of the disaster relief funds that were opened by the Heartland Community Foundation in response to the December 2021 wildfires and windstorm.

The Heartland Community Foundation manages the endowed funds for area nonprofit organizations, donor advised funds that have been earmarked for charitable philanthropy by donors, and the countywide impact funds, called Legacy Funds, that are the chief grantmaking arm. Each February, during the annual Match Month appeal, contributions to the Legacy Funds are matched by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation -- $2 to $1. The more these funds grow, the more that the Heartland Community Foundation can continue to grant.

If you’d like make a difference in your community by supporting a wide breadth of local programs and projects, consider making a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation between Feb. 1-28, 2023. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.

The list of 2022 grantee recipients includes:

Ellis County: Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, Celebration Community Church, City of Hays, City of Hays Parks Department, DSNWK, Ellis County, Ellis County Historical Society, Ellis County High School Alumni Association, Ellis County 4H Shooting Sports, First Call for Help of Ellis County, Grow Hays, Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, Hays Arts Council, Hays High School, Hays Larks, Hays Medical Center, Hays Public Library, Hays Recreation Commission, Herzogest, Holy Family Elementary, Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation (KMOM), Railroad Museum of Ellis, STEM Harvest, TMP-Marian, United Way of Ellis County, Victoria Community Coalition, USD 489, Victoria PTO, Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home &amp; Museum, and Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center

Rooks County: City of Damar, City of Plainville, City of Stockton, Damar Community Foundation, Main Street Christian Church, Plainville Community Foundation, Plainville Fire Department, Plainville Recreation Commission, Plainville Saddle Club, Redbud Village Court, RoCo Arts Council, Rooks County, Rooks County Health Center, Rooks County Healthcare Foundation, Sacred Heart Parish, Stockton Rodders, USD 270, and USD 271

Trego County: City of WaKeeney, Heritage of our Forefathers, St. Michaels, Trego County Enhancement Foundation, Trego County Historical Society, WaKeeney Church of God – The Well, USD 208

For more information about the Heartland Community Foundation or to make a donation to one of the funds managed by the community foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>. Look for the GIVE ONLINE button.

To follow the latest news, view grantee profiles, or see featured funds, follow Heartland on Facebook at @HeartlandCF.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672398768768.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAs 2022 wraps up, the Hays-based Heartland Community Foundation would like to take a moment to thank donors and supporters and share our fiscal year 2022 granting highlights and a new 15-year grantmaking total.The Heartland Community Foundation proudly granted&nbsp;$424,772&nbsp;in fiscal year 2022 to 67 organizations for 129 projects. This total represents the combined granting dollars in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties. Since 2007 when the Heartland Community Foundation was founded,&nbsp;$3,205,263&nbsp;has been awarded to community organizations in grant dollars.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672398927789.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is all made possible because of the foresight of the Heartland Community Foundation founders 15 years ago, the ongoing investment of donors each Match Month and throughout the year, the investment of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, financial market growth, and the nonprofit organizations that continue to look for new ways to serve their communities and apply for grant dollars.“The impact of a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation truly has the ripple effect of creating lasting change in our communities,” said Sarah Meitner, executive director at the Heartland Community Foundation. “In just 15 years, the community foundation has reinvested $3.2 million back into the region for charitable projects and programs. There is no doubt that you or your loved ones have been positively impacted by an initiative that was funded in some part by the Heartland Community Foundation. What a tremendous legacy to build upon.”Several categories received the bulk of the fiscal year 2022 grant dollars, including: $112,347 that went to schools or other groups for education programs; $90,200 for health and human services organizations; $78,400 for disaster relief response and public safety; $60,857 for community development initiatives; $36,398 for arts and culture programs; and $32,339 for parks and recreation projects. The remainder went to miscellaneous projects, religious institutions, and other community programs.Money granted for disaster relief was a new addition in 2022, made possible by the creation of the disaster relief funds that were opened by the Heartland Community Foundation in response to the December 2021 wildfires and windstorm.The Heartland Community Foundation manages the endowed funds for area nonprofit organizations, donor advised funds that have been earmarked for charitable philanthropy by donors, and the countywide impact funds, called Legacy Funds, that are the chief grantmaking arm. Each February, during the annual Match Month appeal, contributions to the Legacy Funds are matched by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation -- $2 to $1. The more these funds grow, the more that the Heartland Community Foundation can continue to grant.If you’d like make a difference in your community by supporting a wide breadth of local programs and projects, consider making a donation to the Heartland Community Foundation between Feb. 1-28, 2023. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.The list of 2022 grantee recipients includes:Ellis County: Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, Celebration Community Church, City of Hays, City of Hays Parks Department, DSNWK, Ellis County, Ellis County Historical Society, Ellis County High School Alumni Association, Ellis County 4H Shooting Sports, First Call for Help of Ellis County, Grow Hays, Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, Hays Arts Council, Hays High School, Hays Larks, Hays Medical Center, Hays Public Library, Hays Recreation Commission, Herzogest, Holy Family Elementary, Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation (KMOM), Railroad Museum of Ellis, STEM Harvest, TMP-Marian, United Way of Ellis County, Victoria Community Coalition, USD 489, Victoria PTO, Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home &amp; Museum, and Western Kansas Child Advocacy CenterRooks County: City of Damar, City of Plainville, City of Stockton, Damar Community Foundation, Main Street Christian Church, Plainville Community Foundation, Plainville Fire Department, Plainville Recreation Commission, Plainville Saddle Club, Redbud Village Court, RoCo Arts Council, Rooks County, Rooks County Health Center, Rooks County Healthcare Foundation, Sacred Heart Parish, Stockton Rodders, USD 270, and USD 271Trego County: City of WaKeeney, Heritage of our Forefathers, St. Michaels, Trego County Enhancement Foundation, Trego County Historical Society, WaKeeney Church of God – The Well, USD 208For more information about the Heartland Community Foundation or to make a donation to one of the funds managed by the community foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>. Look for the GIVE ONLINE button. To follow the latest news, view grantee profiles, or see featured funds, follow Heartland on Facebook at @HeartlandCF.

67 area organizations granted $424K by Heartland Community Foundation in 2022

Submitted We have welcomed a new year. I don’t know about you, but I will not be sad to see 2022 in the rearview mirror. Any way you cut it, last year was tough whether it was the economy or the weather. In many ways, 2023 can only get better. Our sense of optimism is one of the best qualities of agriculture. Each year is a blank slate, a new beginning with endless possibilities. It doesn’t matter how bad the last year might have been, this next one is our year. It is because we are in the business of nurturing new life each year. If we plant crops, we put seeds in the ground with the hope rains will come, the sun will shine and the new growth will break through the soil. We count on two things that we cannot control, rain and sunshine. Yet each year we place a small seed in the soil and hope it will sprout, grow and produce grain. If that does not take faith, hope and optimism, I don’t know what does. If we raise livestock of any species, most of us are responsible for bringing new life into this world. Very little creates more wonder for me than to watch a newborn lamb or calf come into this world. I don’t care how many times I witness the miracle of life; it will never get old. The planning and preparation for that moment was months or even years in the making. All the work, all the waiting is worth it in those first few moments. A sense of optimism and hope abounds with all livestock producers this time of the year. Hope and optimism are inherent to farming and ranching, it is the one thing we all have to have. We approach each year knowing we need to feed a hungry world and to do that we need to have help. There is so much of agriculture that we cannot control, and that makes faith in the future so important. We plan and work hard to do all we can, but in the end, our livelihood comes down to what Mother Nature decides to do. To keep going each year requires a resolve few others understand. That optimism for the future is what keeps each of us going through bad years and disappointments. It is what makes us so special and why we are the backbone of society. No matter the situation, no matter how bad things might get, we move forward with eternal hope and the knowledge things will get better. I hope that this year will send rains at the right time and sunshine when we need it. I hope the crops are bin busters and your livestock are sleek and fat. Most of all I hope this year is a good one. May 2023 bring the best for you with the hope that 2024 is even better.

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher

Submitted We have welcomed a new year. I don’t know about you, but I will not be sad to see 2022 in the rearview mirror. Any way you cut it, last year was tough whether it was the economy or the weather. In many ways, 2023 can only get better. Our sense of optimism is one of the best qualities of agriculture. Each year is a blank slate, a new beginning with endless possibilities. It doesn’t matter how bad the last year might have been, this next one is our year. It is because we are in the business of nurturing new life each year. If we plant crops, we put seeds in the ground with the hope rains will come, the sun will shine and the new growth will break through the soil. We count on two things that we cannot control, rain and sunshine. Yet each year we place a small seed in the soil and hope it will sprout, grow and produce grain. If that does not take faith, hope and optimism, I don’t know what does. If we raise livestock of any species, most of us are responsible for bringing new life into this world. Very little creates more wonder for me than to watch a newborn lamb or calf come into this world. I don’t care how many times I witness the miracle of life; it will never get old. The planning and preparation for that moment was months or even years in the making. All the work, all the waiting is worth it in those first few moments. A sense of optimism and hope abounds with all livestock producers this time of the year. Hope and optimism are inherent to farming and ranching, it is the one thing we all have to have. We approach each year knowing we need to feed a hungry world and to do that we need to have help. There is so much of agriculture that we cannot control, and that makes faith in the future so important. We plan and work hard to do all we can, but in the end, our livelihood comes down to what Mother Nature decides to do. To keep going each year requires a resolve few others understand. That optimism for the future is what keeps each of us going through bad years and disappointments. It is what makes us so special and why we are the backbone of society. No matter the situation, no matter how bad things might get, we move forward with eternal hope and the knowledge things will get better. I hope that this year will send rains at the right time and sunshine when we need it. I hope the crops are bin busters and your livestock are sleek and fat. Most of all I hope this year is a good one. May 2023 bring the best for you with the hope that 2024 is even better.Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher"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: Here's to the New Year

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service this week issued the 2023 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2023, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:&nbsp;

These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles, as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.&nbsp;

The standard mileage rate for business use is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.&nbsp;

It is important to note that under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, taxpayers cannot claim a miscellaneous itemized deduction for unreimbursed employee travel expenses. Taxpayers also cannot claim a deduction for moving expenses, unless they are members of the Armed Forces on active duty moving under orders to a permanent change of station. For more details see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMzAuNjkwMjkxMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheHRvcGljcy90YzQ1NSJ9.ivlbF7a4XiFu78XzSkjeQr3HdNYCrEt3cci9c2Wb4CM/s/1558083055/br/151500197029-l" target="_blank">Moving Expenses for Members of the Armed Forces</a>.&nbsp;

Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates.&nbsp;

Taxpayers can use the standard mileage rate but generally must opt to use it in the first year the car is available for business use. Then, in later years, they can choose either the standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Leased vehicles must use the standard mileage rate method for the entire lease period (including renewals) if the standard mileage rate is chosen.&nbsp;

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMzAuNjkwMjkxMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtZHJvcC9uLTIzLTAzLnBkZiJ9.rAUkUgGZiGMmbJ9DbE_cHTQ9Pcts1RdR0dLqH7UMR0s/s/1558083055/br/151500197029-l" target="_blank">Notice 2023-03</a>&nbsp;contains the optional 2023 standard mileage rates, as well as the maximum automobile cost used to calculate the allowance under a fixed and variable rate (FAVR) plan. In addition, the notice provides the maximum fair market value of employer-provided automobiles first made available to employees for personal use in calendar year 2023 for which employers may use the fleet-average valuation rule in or the vehicle cents-per-mile valuation rule.

IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service this week issued the 2023 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning on Jan. 1, 2023, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>65.5 cents per mile driven for business use, up 3 cents from the midyear increase setting the rate for the second half of 2022.</li><li>22 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, consistent with the increased midyear rate set for the second half of 2022.</li><li>14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations; the rate is set by statute and remains unchanged from 2022.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles, as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.&nbsp;The standard mileage rate for business use is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.&nbsp;It is important to note that under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, taxpayers cannot claim a miscellaneous itemized deduction for unreimbursed employee travel expenses. Taxpayers also cannot claim a deduction for moving expenses, unless they are members of the Armed Forces on active duty moving under orders to a permanent change of station. For more details see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMzAuNjkwMjkxMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheHRvcGljcy90YzQ1NSJ9.ivlbF7a4XiFu78XzSkjeQr3HdNYCrEt3cci9c2Wb4CM/s/1558083055/br/151500197029-l" target="_blank">Moving Expenses for Members of the Armed Forces</a>.&nbsp;Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates.&nbsp;Taxpayers can use the standard mileage rate but generally must opt to use it in the first year the car is available for business use. Then, in later years, they can choose either the standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Leased vehicles must use the standard mileage rate method for the entire lease period (including renewals) if the standard mileage rate is chosen.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMzAuNjkwMjkxMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtZHJvcC9uLTIzLTAzLnBkZiJ9.rAUkUgGZiGMmbJ9DbE_cHTQ9Pcts1RdR0dLqH7UMR0s/s/1558083055/br/151500197029-l" target="_blank">Notice 2023-03</a>&nbsp;contains the optional 2023 standard mileage rates, as well as the maximum automobile cost used to calculate the allowance under a fixed and variable rate (FAVR) plan. In addition, the notice provides the maximum fair market value of employer-provided automobiles first made available to employees for personal use in calendar year 2023 for which employers may use the fleet-average valuation rule in or the vehicle cents-per-mile valuation rule.

IRS issues standard mileage rates for 2023; business rate increases 

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident&nbsp;just before 8p.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner driven by Curtis J. Weatherred, 20, Jamul, California, was westbound on Interstate 70 just south of west Range Avenue.

The driver lost control on the icy roadway. The SUV traveled off of the roadway into the north ditch and rolled one time. EMS transported&nbsp;Weatherred to Citizen's Medical Center.

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident&nbsp;just before 8p.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner driven by Curtis J. Weatherred, 20, Jamul, California, was westbound on Interstate 70 just south of west Range Avenue.The driver lost control on the icy roadway. The SUV traveled off of the roadway into the north ditch and rolled one time. EMS transported&nbsp;Weatherred to Citizen's Medical Center.

Driver hospitalized after rollover crash on icy I-70

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672421621041.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>

Hays High’s Bryce Salmans and TMP’s Kade Harris were named
to the Kansas Shrine Bowl on Sunday.

The two will be joined on the West team by Hays High Head
Coach Tony Crough, who will serve as the head coach of the West.

Smith Center’s Cauy Haresnape was also named to the West
team.

You can find the complete rosters below.

The 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl is set for July 15th at 7 p.m.
at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays.

Hays High’s Bryce Salmans and TMP’s Kade Harris were named
to the Kansas Shrine Bowl on Sunday.The two will be joined on the West team by Hays High Head
Coach Tony Crough, who will serve as the head coach of the West.Smith Center’s Cauy Haresnape was also named to the West
team.You can find the complete rosters below.The 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl is set for July 15th at 7 p.m.
at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672686470944.jpeg" alt="2023 KS Shrine Bowl East team roster" />
 <figcaption>2023 KS Shrine Bowl East team roster</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672686502856.jpeg" alt="2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl West team roster" />
 <figcaption>2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl West team roster</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈HHS’ Salmans and TMP’s Harris named to Shrine Bowl

RUSSELL - The city of Russell will be Closed on Monday. January 2nd, 2023 in observance of New Year's Day. 

This also includes public transportation and sanitation service. 

Sanitation routes usually serviced on Monday will be serviced Tuesday along with the regular scheduled route. Please make sure your polycarts are out by 8 a.m., keeping in mind the sanitation trucks have no set time for pickup throughout the day

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666734625780.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL - The city of Russell will be Closed on Monday. January 2nd, 2023 in observance of New Year's Day. This also includes public transportation and sanitation service. Sanitation routes usually serviced on Monday will be serviced Tuesday along with the regular scheduled route. Please make sure your polycarts are out by 8 a.m., keeping in mind the sanitation trucks have no set time for pickup throughout the day

Russell city office, public transportation close in observance of New Year's Day

A collaborative construction project between the students in the Fort Hays State University applied technology classes and the city of Hays began recently and will resume in the spring.

A <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4873ceef-376c-4ecf-b16e-1c6ba7a78986">permanent outdoor story time space and performance stage</a>&nbsp;for children is being built in Seven Hills Optimist Park, 33rd and Hillcrest.&nbsp;

The project is the brainchild of the Leadership Hays Class of 2021 in collaboration with the Hays Public Library, city of Hays, Hays Chamber and FHSU.&nbsp;

It will be completed during the spring semester, Asstistant City Manager Collin Bielser recently reported to the city commission.&nbsp;

The area is next to the ARC Park, where city parks department employees are installing playground donor recognition plaques.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The parks department has also been busy transplanting more than 100 trees from the city tree nursery to Kiwanis Park, Glassman Park, Speier baseball and softball complexes, the Bickle/Schmidt Sports Complex, and along the new eastside multi-use path.&nbsp;

Bielser also said work continues on the south Vine Street reconstruction between 13th Street and the U.S. Highway 183 bypass/city limits intersection.

"The main lane or driving lane of pavement has all been completed," Bielser said. "However, there is still some intersection work at 12th Street, curb and sidewalk replacement remaining.&nbsp;

Temporary pavement markings will be installed for the winter before warmer weather in the spring will allow permanent markings to be installed.&nbsp;

The contractor for the Kansas Department of Transportation project, Smoky Hill Construction of Salina, missed the substantial completion date in late October because of a manpower shortage.&nbsp;

"They are in liquidated damages, as you know," Bielser reminded commissioners.

 "KDOT is not allowing a winter shutdown on this project."

For more project reports from city departments, click on the video below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672352630255.jpeg" alt="FHSU applied technology students smooth cement in the story time space being built in Seven Hills Park. Students in spring semester classes will finish the project when the weather warms. Photos courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>FHSU applied technology students smooth cement in the story time space being built in Seven Hills Park. Students in spring semester classes will finish the project when the weather warms. Photos courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hay PostA collaborative construction project between the students in the Fort Hays State University applied technology classes and the city of Hays began recently and will resume in the spring.A <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4873ceef-376c-4ecf-b16e-1c6ba7a78986">permanent outdoor story time space and performance stage</a>&nbsp;for children is being built in Seven Hills Optimist Park, 33rd and Hillcrest.&nbsp;The project is the brainchild of the Leadership Hays Class of 2021 in collaboration with the Hays Public Library, city of Hays, Hays Chamber and FHSU.&nbsp;It will be completed during the spring semester, Asstistant City Manager Collin Bielser recently reported to the city commission.&nbsp;The area is next to the ARC Park, where city parks department employees are installing playground donor recognition plaques.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672354675994.jpeg" alt="Hays Parks Department employees have planted more than 100 trees at local parks this fall. Photos courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Hays Parks Department employees have planted more than 100 trees at local parks this fall. Photos courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The parks department has also been busy transplanting more than 100 trees from the city tree nursery to Kiwanis Park, Glassman Park, Speier baseball and softball complexes, the Bickle/Schmidt Sports Complex, and along the new eastside multi-use path.&nbsp;Bielser also said work continues on the south Vine Street reconstruction between 13th Street and the U.S. Highway 183 bypass/city limits intersection.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672357074721.jpeg" alt="South Vine Street is under reconstruction between just south of 13th Street south to the U.S. Highway 183 bypass. Photos courtesy city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>South Vine Street is under reconstruction between just south of 13th Street south to the U.S. Highway 183 bypass. Photos courtesy city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>"The main lane or driving lane of pavement has all been completed," Bielser said. "However, there is still some intersection work at 12th Street, curb and sidewalk replacement remaining.&nbsp;Temporary pavement markings will be installed for the winter before warmer weather in the spring will allow permanent markings to be installed.&nbsp;The contractor for the Kansas Department of Transportation project, Smoky Hill Construction of Salina, missed the substantial completion date in late October because of a manpower shortage.&nbsp;"They are in liquidated damages, as you know," Bielser reminded commissioners. "KDOT is not allowing a winter shutdown on this project."For more project reports from city departments, click on the video below.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/2UyRHZOA-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Dec Progress Report" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>

🎥 Construction starts on story time space/performance stage in 7 Hills Park 

As I prepare to retire on Feb. 3, I thought I would use my column space to share some of my “favorite” days as an Extension agent.

	•	Teaching Stay Strong Stay Healthy to well more than 300 older adults during the past 10 years. Folks aged 60-95 have enriched my life as much as I have theirs!

	•	Sharing my expertise related to fermenting sauerkraut or Kimchi with others in Extension, both in Kansas, Iowa and across the country. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the excitement in the 59 fermentation workshop participants in Barton and Ellis counties.

	•	Helping Medicare-eligible adults review their prescription drug plan during open enrollment for the past nine years. It is always rewarding when we find a plan that will save someone a significant amount of money.

	•	Kids Ag Day, always on Wednesday after Labor Day, is the perfect chance to share with fourth graders from across the county where their food comes from.

	•	Sharing an Organwise presentation “Healthy from the inside out” with pre-schoolers and first graders. Little ones need to be introduced to what is healthy and what is not.

	•	Teaching “High-speed handwashing” to kids of all ages. 

	•	Watching kids grow up in the 4-H Youth Development program. I have been around long enough that I am meeting the next generation!

	•	Teaching bicycle safety rules to school-agers and promoting safe bicycling to the entire community.

	•	Seeing the 10 fact sheets I have written in the past being published and used by Extension colleagues from around the state and shared with FCE members.

	•	Teaching a sewing workshop for 4-H youth–making pillowcases, backpacks, pajama pants or walker bags to learn life skills. 

	•	Collaborating with partners from across our county, through Be Well Barton County or Central Kansas Partnership. “Many hands really do make light work.”

	•	Developing a positive relationship with the executive board, team members, and YOU throughout my 37- year Extension career. 

As you can see it was hard to narrow my favorite days down to a few. It’s been a good run!

Many of you are asking me who the next district director will be when I retire. The Cottonwood Executive Board will be announcing the next district director/community vitality agent soon. I know you will provide them with opportunities to experience “favorite” days too.

Happy New Year from the Cottonwood District team!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.

As I prepare to retire on Feb. 3, I thought I would use my column space to share some of my “favorite” days as an Extension agent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug</figcaption>
 </figure>	•	Teaching Stay Strong Stay Healthy to well more than 300 older adults during the past 10 years. Folks aged 60-95 have enriched my life as much as I have theirs!	•	Sharing my expertise related to fermenting sauerkraut or Kimchi with others in Extension, both in Kansas, Iowa and across the country. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the excitement in the 59 fermentation workshop participants in Barton and Ellis counties.	•	Helping Medicare-eligible adults review their prescription drug plan during open enrollment for the past nine years. It is always rewarding when we find a plan that will save someone a significant amount of money.	•	Kids Ag Day, always on Wednesday after Labor Day, is the perfect chance to share with fourth graders from across the county where their food comes from.	•	Sharing an Organwise presentation “Healthy from the inside out” with pre-schoolers and first graders. Little ones need to be introduced to what is healthy and what is not.	•	Teaching “High-speed handwashing” to kids of all ages. 	•	Watching kids grow up in the 4-H Youth Development program. I have been around long enough that I am meeting the next generation!	•	Teaching bicycle safety rules to school-agers and promoting safe bicycling to the entire community.	•	Seeing the 10 fact sheets I have written in the past being published and used by Extension colleagues from around the state and shared with FCE members.	•	Teaching a sewing workshop for 4-H youth–making pillowcases, backpacks, pajama pants or walker bags to learn life skills. 	•	Collaborating with partners from across our county, through Be Well Barton County or Central Kansas Partnership. “Many hands really do make light work.”	•	Developing a positive relationship with the executive board, team members, and YOU throughout my 37- year Extension career. As you can see it was hard to narrow my favorite days down to a few. It’s been a good run!Many of you are asking me who the next district director will be when I retire. The Cottonwood Executive Board will be announcing the next district director/community vitality agent soon. I know you will provide them with opportunities to experience “favorite” days too.Happy New Year from the Cottonwood District team!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.

KRUG: My favorite days as an Extension agent

Mowery Clinic is pleased to welcome Dr. Benjamin Rahoy, allergy and immunology.

Rahoy sees both pediatric and adult patients at Mowery Clinic, 737 E. Crawford St in Salina.

“When I visited Salina, I was excited by all Salina has to offer. The amenities here are that of a larger city while maintaining a small-town feel. My family and I are excited to explore the trails and green space this spring,” Rahoy said.

Rahoy completed his medical degree at A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Mo. He completed his residency at Creighton University and the University of Nebraska Children’s Hospital joint pediatric residency program. He then completed an allergy and immunology fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan.

Rahoy’s areas of special interest include allergic gastrointestinal disorders, angioedema, anaphylaxis, asthma, seasonal allergies, chronic cough, chronic sinusitis, drug allergy and desensitization, eczema, food allergy, hives, immunodeficiency, insect sting allergy and many other allergic disorders.

“I passionately strive for the highest quality of life for my patients. For me, that starts by actively listening to them; building that trust component with my patients is important,” he said.

Rahoy is accepting new pediatric and adult patients. For more information or to learn more about Rahoy and the Mowery Clinic, call 785-827-7261 or visit <a href="http://MoweryClinic.com">MoweryClinic.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672346623066.jpeg" alt="Benjamin Rahoy " />
 <figcaption>Benjamin Rahoy </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMowery Clinic is pleased to welcome Dr. Benjamin Rahoy, allergy and immunology.Rahoy sees both pediatric and adult patients at Mowery Clinic, 737 E. Crawford St in Salina.“When I visited Salina, I was excited by all Salina has to offer. The amenities here are that of a larger city while maintaining a small-town feel. My family and I are excited to explore the trails and green space this spring,” Rahoy said.Rahoy completed his medical degree at A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Mo. He completed his residency at Creighton University and the University of Nebraska Children’s Hospital joint pediatric residency program. He then completed an allergy and immunology fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan.Rahoy’s areas of special interest include allergic gastrointestinal disorders, angioedema, anaphylaxis, asthma, seasonal allergies, chronic cough, chronic sinusitis, drug allergy and desensitization, eczema, food allergy, hives, immunodeficiency, insect sting allergy and many other allergic disorders.“I passionately strive for the highest quality of life for my patients. For me, that starts by actively listening to them; building that trust component with my patients is important,” he said. Rahoy is accepting new pediatric and adult patients. For more information or to learn more about Rahoy and the Mowery Clinic, call 785-827-7261 or visit <a href="http://MoweryClinic.com">MoweryClinic.com</a>.

Mowery Clinic welcomes allergist

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Back for its 18th&nbsp;Season, Doctors on Call will begin airing on Smoky Hills PBS (SHPBS) on Tuesday, January 10th at 7 p.m.

“We are excited to be back for another season of Doctors on Call,” said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “We have a great lineup this year with many great doctors from central and western Kansas.”

Doctors on Call is a live viewer call-in show hosted by Jenna Miller.&nbsp; It is also produced by Smoky Hills PBS and takes place in Studio A in Bunker Hill, KS.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS brings in medical professionals from throughout the state to provide medical information on their field of expertise.&nbsp; Each week Doctors on Call highlights a new topic with a new doctor.

Viewers also have the opportunity to call in with questions live during the show.&nbsp; The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; 

A schedule of programs and past episodes is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

* January 10 – General Health - Dr. Tyrel Somers - Russell Regional Hospital * January 17 – Pet Health – Dr. Brandon Weidenhaft – Big Creek Vet Service, Hays * January 24 – Chiropractic Care – Dr. Lindsay Gallion, DC, Russell Chiropractic &amp; Sports Therapy * January 31 – Pain Management – Dr. Bell Razafindrabe - Pain, Spine &amp; Rehab, Great Bend

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>.&nbsp;Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call in questions at 1-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647437349209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Back for its 18th&nbsp;Season, Doctors on Call will begin airing on Smoky Hills PBS (SHPBS) on Tuesday, January 10th at 7 p.m.“We are excited to be back for another season of Doctors on Call,” said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director of Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “We have a great lineup this year with many great doctors from central and western Kansas.”Doctors on Call is a live viewer call-in show hosted by Jenna Miller.&nbsp; It is also produced by Smoky Hills PBS and takes place in Studio A in Bunker Hill, KS.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS brings in medical professionals from throughout the state to provide medical information on their field of expertise.&nbsp; Each week Doctors on Call highlights a new topic with a new doctor.Viewers also have the opportunity to call in with questions live during the show.&nbsp; The doctors selected each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; A schedule of programs and past episodes is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;Coming up in January:* January 10 – General Health - Dr. Tyrel Somers - Russell Regional Hospital * January 17 – Pet Health – Dr. Brandon Weidenhaft – Big Creek Vet Service, Hays * January 24 – Chiropractic Care – Dr. Lindsay Gallion, DC, Russell Chiropractic &amp; Sports Therapy * January 31 – Pain Management – Dr. Bell Razafindrabe - Pain, Spine &amp; Rehab, Great Bend To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>.&nbsp;Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show.&nbsp; During the program, viewers can call in questions at 1-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call is made possible in part by these current sponsors:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

Hays veterinarian to be featured on SHPBS' 'Doctors on Call'

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672421504059.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>

On Friday at 4:20 p.m. the Hays Police Department received a call about a man on the grain elevator downtown. 

Officers responded and set up a perimeter blocking off streets close to the grain elevator. 

Attempts to get the man down were made over the police vehicle loudspeaker. 

Fire fighters and emergency medical services were called to the area as well. 

The man was someone who had recently arrived in Hays and already had contact with law enforcement in the few days that he had been in town. &nbsp;

The distraught man was yelling and pacing back and forth on the very top of the tallest grain elevator in downtown Hays. 

The man could be heard yelling but officers were not able to hear him well enough to understand what the man was yelling about. 

He took his jacket off in the cold and was pulling things off the top of the roof. 

He had thrown debris off the roof along with a hammer and at one point he tore off a metal rod and was flinging it around. &nbsp;

Employees from the Midland Marketing grain elevator assisted law enforcement with making entry inside the dusty grain elevator and updated them on the hazards inside.

 The employees provided sealed flashlights to the officers. 

The special flashlights were to help reduce the risk of flash explosion with the grain dust inside the elevator. 

Officers had to ascend the grain elevator inside in a very small one-person elevator and climb some slick ladders inside. 

Once officers were as close as they could safely get, attempts to communicate and negotiate with the man were made. 

The man did come to the edge a couple times and utter some things to the negotiator that were hard to discern and then he left the edge and communication was never re-established with the negotiator.

A drone flown by Rooks County Deputy James Balthazor, who also is an associate professor at Fort Hays State University, helped officers on the ground see what the man was doing. Information was relayed to the Hays Police personnel and one Ellis County Sheriff’s Deputy inside the grain elevator. 

Attempts to communicate via the drone were waved off and then ignored by the man. Officers inside the grain elevator could hear the man banging and digging away at the top of the roof as he ignored the attempts of the negotiator who was trying to regain communication. &nbsp;

Once the man started smoking on top of the grain dust-filled elevator, officers started retreating to exit the potential explosive hazard and regroup. 

As one negotiator started descending inside the one-man elevator, officers had observed the man through a window crawl along the edge. 

Once he was on the south side of the top of the elevator, he slung himself over the edge and dropped himself down about 20 – 25 feet to the next level.

 His actions were also observed on the ground via the drone and binoculars. &nbsp;

The officers inside the grain elevator responded to the man’s location but were unable to get to the outside level to the man without crawling out a window and dropping down or climbing up a ladder from a lower level to get to him. 

The man had sustained serious injuries when he fell to the next level. 

He was on his back and able to communicate to the officers who were talking to him out the window. 

The drone was deployed at the time and responders on the ground at the command post observed his fall and started working up a rescue plan. At this point firefighters and emergency medical technicians entered the grain elevator to start working the rescue.

Over the next several hours, responders worked to secure the man, lift him up through a window into the grain elevator, lower him down to the next floor and carry him to a small three-foot by three-foot elevator shaft where a firefighter was attached to the man, and they were lowered to the bottom of the grain elevator inside together. 

Several emergency responders had to rig up pulleys, ropes, and safety lines to move the man to safety. 

The conditions were dark, slick from dust on the floors, dust in the air, cramped quarters, and they had to watch where they stepped so they didn’t fall through the numerous holes in the floor. Some holes were covered with lids that would not support the responders' body weight and were a hazard that they had to work around. 

The drop if a responder fell through a hole was a long way down. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays firefighters along with firefighters from Goodland set up the rigging and eventually got the man to the ground safely. 

The responders did an amazing job in safely maneuvering through the difficult environment to work together and get everyone out of the building safely. 

The man was eventually taken to the Hays Medical Center for medical treatment. We are not releasing the name of the man.

Thank you to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, the Ellis County Emergency Services personnel (EMTs/paramedics), the Goodland Fire Fighters, Rooks County Deputy James Balthazor for his drone work, the grain elevator employees for their advice and assistance, and to the Hays Fire Department and police personnel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672512978685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police Department&nbsp;On Friday at 4:20 p.m. the Hays Police Department received a call about a man on the grain elevator downtown. Officers responded and set up a perimeter blocking off streets close to the grain elevator. Attempts to get the man down were made over the police vehicle loudspeaker. Fire fighters and emergency medical services were called to the area as well. The man was someone who had recently arrived in Hays and already had contact with law enforcement in the few days that he had been in town. &nbsp;The distraught man was yelling and pacing back and forth on the very top of the tallest grain elevator in downtown Hays. The man could be heard yelling but officers were not able to hear him well enough to understand what the man was yelling about. He took his jacket off in the cold and was pulling things off the top of the roof. He had thrown debris off the roof along with a hammer and at one point he tore off a metal rod and was flinging it around. &nbsp;Employees from the Midland Marketing grain elevator assisted law enforcement with making entry inside the dusty grain elevator and updated them on the hazards inside. The employees provided sealed flashlights to the officers. The special flashlights were to help reduce the risk of flash explosion with the grain dust inside the elevator. Officers had to ascend the grain elevator inside in a very small one-person elevator and climb some slick ladders inside. Once officers were as close as they could safely get, attempts to communicate and negotiate with the man were made. The man did come to the edge a couple times and utter some things to the negotiator that were hard to discern and then he left the edge and communication was never re-established with the negotiator.A drone flown by Rooks County Deputy James Balthazor, who also is an associate professor at Fort Hays State University, helped officers on the ground see what the man was doing. Information was relayed to the Hays Police personnel and one Ellis County Sheriff’s Deputy inside the grain elevator. Attempts to communicate via the drone were waved off and then ignored by the man. Officers inside the grain elevator could hear the man banging and digging away at the top of the roof as he ignored the attempts of the negotiator who was trying to regain communication. &nbsp;Once the man started smoking on top of the grain dust-filled elevator, officers started retreating to exit the potential explosive hazard and regroup. As one negotiator started descending inside the one-man elevator, officers had observed the man through a window crawl along the edge. Once he was on the south side of the top of the elevator, he slung himself over the edge and dropped himself down about 20 – 25 feet to the next level. His actions were also observed on the ground via the drone and binoculars. &nbsp;The officers inside the grain elevator responded to the man’s location but were unable to get to the outside level to the man without crawling out a window and dropping down or climbing up a ladder from a lower level to get to him. The man had sustained serious injuries when he fell to the next level. He was on his back and able to communicate to the officers who were talking to him out the window. The man said he could not move. The drone was deployed at the time and responders on the ground at the command post observed his fall and started working up a rescue plan. At this point firefighters and emergency medical technicians entered the grain elevator to start working the rescue.Over the next several hours, responders worked to secure the man, lift him up through a window into the grain elevator, lower him down to the next floor and carry him to a small three-foot by three-foot elevator shaft where a firefighter was attached to the man, and they were lowered to the bottom of the grain elevator inside together. Several emergency responders had to rig up pulleys, ropes, and safety lines to move the man to safety. The conditions were dark, slick from dust on the floors, dust in the air, cramped quarters, and they had to watch where they stepped so they didn’t fall through the numerous holes in the floor. Some holes were covered with lids that would not support the responders' body weight and were a hazard that they had to work around. The drop if a responder fell through a hole was a long way down. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hays firefighters along with firefighters from Goodland set up the rigging and eventually got the man to the ground safely. The responders did an amazing job in safely maneuvering through the difficult environment to work together and get everyone out of the building safely. The man was eventually taken to the Hays Medical Center for medical treatment. We are not releasing the name of the man.Thank you to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, the Ellis County Emergency Services personnel (EMTs/paramedics), the Goodland Fire Fighters, Rooks County Deputy James Balthazor for his drone work, the grain elevator employees for their advice and assistance, and to the Hays Fire Department and police personnel.

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