Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging

The Kansas Department for Children and Families is accepting applications for the
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.


LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating bills.
Persons with disabilities, older adults and families with children are the primary groups assisted.


Last year, $47 million aided approximately 40,000 households in covering winter heating bills,
averaging $1,180 per home


To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills, payable
either to the landlord or the fuel vendor. The level of benefit varies according to household
income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility
rates.


The combined gross income (before deductiions) of all personans living at the address may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level.


Applicants must demonstrate that they have made payments on their heating bill two out of the
last three months.


Applications will be accepted until March 31.


For individuals needing assistance filling out or submitting an application, call Northwest Kansas
Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-432-7422 or 785-628-8204 to schedule an appointment.


Northwest Kansas Area Agency on AgingThe Kansas Department for Children and Families is accepting applications for the
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.
LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating bills.
Persons with disabilities, older adults and families with children are the primary groups assisted.
Last year, $47 million aided approximately 40,000 households in covering winter heating bills,
averaging $1,180 per home
To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills, payable
either to the landlord or the fuel vendor. The level of benefit varies according to household
income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility
rates.
The combined gross income (before deductiions) of all personans living at the address may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level.
Applicants must demonstrate that they have made payments on their heating bill two out of the
last three months.
Applications will be accepted until March 31.
For individuals needing assistance filling out or submitting an application, call Northwest Kansas
Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-432-7422 or 785-628-8204 to schedule an appointment.
Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Applications open for Low-Income Energy Assistance Program

Next week, the&nbsp;diversity in school&nbsp;debate returns to neighboring state Missouri&nbsp;via House Bill 952, its anti-1619 Project&nbsp;bill, joining&nbsp;the earlier proposed Parent’s Bill of Rights, SB 776. Missouri, a&nbsp;bellwether&nbsp;for&nbsp;policymaking&nbsp;in Kansas, points to the likely resuscitation of&nbsp;this&nbsp;political debate&nbsp;after similar efforts slowed in the Kansas legislature. Coupled with Florida’s recent&nbsp;rejection of AP African American Course in public schools, the two events mark a resurging salvo in a larger argument over school curriculum and diversity.

The&nbsp;Parent’s&nbsp;Bill prohibits school districts&nbsp;from&nbsp;denying&nbsp;parental&nbsp;review&nbsp;ofcurricula&nbsp;and educational materials utilized by the school.&nbsp;Other elements&nbsp;include: notification about safety issues impacting their children, the right to visit their child in school, the right to review&nbsp;their children’s&nbsp;school records, and the right to be heard at school board meetings.&nbsp;Hardly any of these&nbsp;issues&nbsp;are&nbsp;prohibited by school systems.&nbsp;The more dangerous component includes parent rights to review information on teachers, lecturers, and presenters; and the right to object to materials parents find inappropriate.&nbsp;

Additionally,&nbsp;the bill&nbsp;undergirds&nbsp;a larger educational framework&nbsp;by&nbsp;the Missouri&nbsp;General Assembly to ban&nbsp;Critical&nbsp;Race&nbsp;Theory&nbsp;(CRT)&nbsp;and 1619 Project.&nbsp;The combined legislation, which acts to empower parental say over curriculum, is a bit of misnomer given&nbsp;the bill does&nbsp;not extend to calculus, physics, and other areas of study, but is a legislative condemnation of all things “diversity.”

The problem&nbsp;is&nbsp;that Missouri’s bill, similar to the Kansas version, incorrectly conflates CRT theory with any diversity related subject matter, particularly black history.&nbsp;The law is&nbsp;abstractly&nbsp;constructed&nbsp;as&nbsp;a&nbsp;broad framework that allows&nbsp;parents and politicians&nbsp;to excise&nbsp;certain subject matter for political propaganda.

​For example, an educator cannot identify people, entities, or institutions in the United States as “inherently, immutably, or systematically sexist, racist, anti-LGBT, bigoted, biased, privileged, or oppressed.” Is the legislation suggesting that the Ku Klux Klan (an entity) is&nbsp;not&nbsp;inherently racist?&nbsp;Although numerous studies&nbsp;repeatedly&nbsp;confirm that the&nbsp;criminal justice system (an American institution)&nbsp;unequally treats&nbsp;Black Americans, are educators to ignore the incongruities in the system?&nbsp;Other elements&nbsp;of the law&nbsp;are just as confounding.

Logical&nbsp;analysis of&nbsp;the&nbsp;educational curriculum is not what’s at stake here, nor is it the real intent.&nbsp;Political operatives&nbsp;who&nbsp;focused on&nbsp;CRT&nbsp;as a&nbsp;mechanism to denounce “liberal” education, ironically use it to craft&nbsp;their own&nbsp;doctrine of education- an America with no imperfections.&nbsp;Black History&nbsp;and other “diversity” subjects are&nbsp;uncomfortable, because&nbsp;they&nbsp;question&nbsp;the centrality of democracy as a&nbsp;shared&nbsp;American identity. Within Black history is always the question- freedom for who?&nbsp;When? How?

The&nbsp;circumstances of this legislation&nbsp;are also&nbsp;more ominous than political division. The&nbsp;adversarial nature of these politicized claims of “unpatriotic” education&nbsp;has&nbsp;created an&nbsp;upsurge in&nbsp;harassment by opponents to diversity. Teachers, lectures,&nbsp;and&nbsp;writers become the focus of online&nbsp;and physical&nbsp;harassment.&nbsp;

​Parents should think deeply about this legislation&nbsp;when debate returns to Kansas. How are&nbsp;parents&nbsp;truly empowered? What will their children fail to learn about themselves or society? In what ways are teachers and educators endangered by these sentiments? Why would censorship provide the pathway to patriotism?&nbsp;Finally,&nbsp;they should ask themselves if&nbsp;fear of diversity&nbsp;is&nbsp;a good way to prepare children for a future in a multicultural America?

Nishani Frazier is Associate Professor of History and American Studies at the University of Kansas. Prior to Kansas, she held positions as Associate Curator of African American History and Archives at Western Reserve Historical Society, Assistant to the Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Archives at the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and personal assistant for Dr. John Hope Franklin, before and during his tenure as chair of President Bill Clinton's advisory board on "One America."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675191230725.jpeg" alt="Nishani Frazier is Associate Professor of History and American Studies at the University of Kansas. " />
 <figcaption>Nishani Frazier is Associate Professor of History and American Studies at the University of Kansas. </figcaption>
 </figure>Next week, the&nbsp;diversity in school&nbsp;debate returns to neighboring state Missouri&nbsp;via House Bill 952, its anti-1619 Project&nbsp;bill, joining&nbsp;the earlier proposed Parent’s Bill of Rights, SB 776. Missouri, a&nbsp;bellwether&nbsp;for&nbsp;policymaking&nbsp;in Kansas, points to the likely resuscitation of&nbsp;this&nbsp;political debate&nbsp;after similar efforts slowed in the Kansas legislature. Coupled with Florida’s recent&nbsp;rejection of AP African American Course in public schools, the two events mark a resurging salvo in a larger argument over school curriculum and diversity.The&nbsp;Parent’s&nbsp;Bill prohibits school districts&nbsp;from&nbsp;denying&nbsp;parental&nbsp;review&nbsp;ofcurricula&nbsp;and educational materials utilized by the school.&nbsp;Other elements&nbsp;include: notification about safety issues impacting their children, the right to visit their child in school, the right to review&nbsp;their children’s&nbsp;school records, and the right to be heard at school board meetings.&nbsp;Hardly any of these&nbsp;issues&nbsp;are&nbsp;prohibited by school systems.&nbsp;The more dangerous component includes parent rights to review information on teachers, lecturers, and presenters; and the right to object to materials parents find inappropriate.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally,&nbsp;the bill&nbsp;undergirds&nbsp;a larger educational framework&nbsp;by&nbsp;the Missouri&nbsp;General Assembly to ban&nbsp;Critical&nbsp;Race&nbsp;Theory&nbsp;(CRT)&nbsp;and 1619 Project.&nbsp;The combined legislation, which acts to empower parental say over curriculum, is a bit of misnomer given&nbsp;the bill does&nbsp;not extend to calculus, physics, and other areas of study, but is a legislative condemnation of all things “diversity.”The problem&nbsp;is&nbsp;that Missouri’s bill, similar to the Kansas version, incorrectly conflates CRT theory with any diversity related subject matter, particularly black history.&nbsp;The law is&nbsp;abstractly&nbsp;constructed&nbsp;as&nbsp;a&nbsp;broad framework that allows&nbsp;parents and politicians&nbsp;to excise&nbsp;certain subject matter for political propaganda.​For example, an educator cannot identify people, entities, or institutions in the United States as “inherently, immutably, or systematically sexist, racist, anti-LGBT, bigoted, biased, privileged, or oppressed.” Is the legislation suggesting that the Ku Klux Klan (an entity) is&nbsp;not&nbsp;inherently racist?&nbsp;Although numerous studies&nbsp;repeatedly&nbsp;confirm that the&nbsp;criminal justice system (an American institution)&nbsp;unequally treats&nbsp;Black Americans, are educators to ignore the incongruities in the system?&nbsp;Other elements&nbsp;of the law&nbsp;are just as confounding.Logical&nbsp;analysis of&nbsp;the&nbsp;educational curriculum is not what’s at stake here, nor is it the real intent.&nbsp;Political operatives&nbsp;who&nbsp;focused on&nbsp;CRT&nbsp;as a&nbsp;mechanism to denounce “liberal” education, ironically use it to craft&nbsp;their own&nbsp;doctrine of education- an America with no imperfections.&nbsp;Black History&nbsp;and other “diversity” subjects are&nbsp;uncomfortable, because&nbsp;they&nbsp;question&nbsp;the centrality of democracy as a&nbsp;shared&nbsp;American identity. Within Black history is always the question- freedom for who?&nbsp;When? How?The&nbsp;circumstances of this legislation&nbsp;are also&nbsp;more ominous than political division. The&nbsp;adversarial nature of these politicized claims of “unpatriotic” education&nbsp;has&nbsp;created an&nbsp;upsurge in&nbsp;harassment by opponents to diversity. Teachers, lectures,&nbsp;and&nbsp;writers become the focus of online&nbsp;and physical&nbsp;harassment.&nbsp;​Parents should think deeply about this legislation&nbsp;when debate returns to Kansas. How are&nbsp;parents&nbsp;truly empowered? What will their children fail to learn about themselves or society? In what ways are teachers and educators endangered by these sentiments? Why would censorship provide the pathway to patriotism?&nbsp;Finally,&nbsp;they should ask themselves if&nbsp;fear of diversity&nbsp;is&nbsp;a good way to prepare children for a future in a multicultural America?Nishani Frazier is Associate Professor of History and American Studies at the University of Kansas. Prior to Kansas, she held positions as Associate Curator of African American History and Archives at Western Reserve Historical Society, Assistant to the Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Archives at the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and personal assistant for Dr. John Hope Franklin, before and during his tenure as chair of President Bill Clinton's advisory board on "One America."&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Missouri Parents Bill of Rights vs. diversity

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675367564956.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

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about
healthy-and-unhealthy relationships, common warning signs, and prevention efforts. According to data
from the CDC’s 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, about 1 in 12 high school students experienced physical
or sexual dating violence during the 12 months before the survey was administered. These pre-teen and
teen years are the most crucial time for youth to begin learning the skills necessary to create and maintain
healthy relationships (CDC, 2019).


We at Jana’s Campaign believe through primary prevention education programs we can change and
improve attitudes, behaviors, interactions, and social norms for young people. Since 2013, our Violence
Prevention Educators have worked with over 647 middle and high schools impacting almost 86,000 K-12
students in Kansas, Colorado, and Nebraska. We commend these schools for understanding the
importance of talking to their students about healthy-and-unhealthy relationships.


Jana’s Campaign recognizes Teen Dating Violence as a prevalent public health issue affecting
millions of adolescents around the world. This not only affects youth mentally, emotionally, and
physically; but their long-term health can be impacted. TDV creates a significantly increased risk of


Teen Dating Violence can include four main types of unhealthy behavior:


Please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the, sometimes hidden, social disease of
gender and relationship violence. Learn more about TDV, our Awareness Toolkit, and Jana’s Campaign
at www.janascampaign.org or by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested
in inviting Jana’s Campaign expert Prevention Educators to speak at your school or in your community,
please contact us at janascampaign@gmail.com or call us at 785-656-0324.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666723771960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jana's CampaignTeen Dating Violence Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about
healthy-and-unhealthy relationships, common warning signs, and prevention efforts. According to data
from the CDC’s 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, about 1 in 12 high school students experienced physical
or sexual dating violence during the 12 months before the survey was administered. These pre-teen and
teen years are the most crucial time for youth to begin learning the skills necessary to create and maintain
healthy relationships (CDC, 2019).
We at Jana’s Campaign believe through primary prevention education programs we can change and
improve attitudes, behaviors, interactions, and social norms for young people. Since 2013, our Violence
Prevention Educators have worked with over 647 middle and high schools impacting almost 86,000 K-12
students in Kansas, Colorado, and Nebraska. We commend these schools for understanding the
importance of talking to their students about healthy-and-unhealthy relationships.
Jana’s Campaign recognizes Teen Dating Violence as a prevalent public health issue affecting
millions of adolescents around the world. This not only affects youth mentally, emotionally, and
physically; but their long-term health can be impacted. TDV creates a significantly increased risk of
Teen Dating Violence can include four main types of unhealthy behavior:
<ul>
 <li>Physical violence is when a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, shoving,
slapping, spitting, and/or using another type of physical force or threat of force.

						</li><li>Sexual violence is forcing or attempting to force a partner, acquaintance, or stranger to take
part in a sex act, sexual touching, or a non-physical sexual event (e.g., sexting) when the victim
does not or cannot consent.

						</li><li>Psychological aggression is the use of verbal and non-verbal communication with the intent
to harm another person mentally or emotionally and/or to exert control over another person.

						</li><li>Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted attention, and contact by a partner or ex-partner
that causes fear or concern for one’s safety or the safety of someone close to the victim.
To do our part in raising awareness of TDV, Jana’s Campaign has developed a Teen Dating Violence
Awareness Toolkit to help communities better understand, prevent, and respond to instances of TDV. The
toolkit is free and can be found on the Jana’s Campaign website, www.janascampaign.org/awareness-
toolkits.html. Additionally, we will post facts and statistics about TDV on our social media accounts
throughout February.
Although February is dedicated to TDV awareness, this issue does not contain itself to just one month. It
continues to be a pervasive issue experienced by young people in every community. We all must do our
part to educate ourselves and others about the realities of TDV and its widespread impact – not just today,
but every day.</li>
 </ul>Please join us in our efforts to educate and raise awareness about the, sometimes hidden, social disease of
gender and relationship violence. Learn more about TDV, our Awareness Toolkit, and Jana’s Campaign
at www.janascampaign.org or by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you are interested
in inviting Jana’s Campaign expert Prevention Educators to speak at your school or in your community,
please contact us at janascampaign@gmail.com or call us at 785-656-0324.

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Midwest Energy has an opening for System Operator at our Hays Corporate Office.

System Operators monitor the status of the electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems, coordinate switching operations with field personnel. They&nbsp;direct the safe and efficient operation of the electric transmission network under both normal and emergency operations. Work consists of a variety of technical and skilled mathematical responsibilities to ensure the service territory is supplied with the most reliable power source available in the most economical manner possible. This position requires a rotating shift, holiday work and some overtime, as well as ability to work effectively under both normal and stressful emergency situations.&nbsp;

An&nbsp;Associate’s&nbsp;Degree&nbsp;or higher&nbsp;in Electrical Transmission Systems Technology, Business or related field is required,&nbsp;as&nbsp;is experience in&nbsp;using&nbsp;spreadsheet&nbsp;and&nbsp;database applications. Previous work experience at an electric utility company in one of the following areas is preferred: line construction or service, power plant operation, electric utility equipment maintenance, energy accounting or power purchasing, or system operations. An understanding of Energy Management Systems&nbsp;or SCADA systems&nbsp;would be helpful but is not required.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>&nbsp;for more information and to apply.&nbsp;Applications are due by Feb.&nbsp;27, 2023. Midwest Energy is an equal opportunity employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675095814744.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy has an opening for System Operator at our Hays Corporate Office.System Operators monitor the status of the electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems, coordinate switching operations with field personnel. They&nbsp;direct the safe and efficient operation of the electric transmission network under both normal and emergency operations. Work consists of a variety of technical and skilled mathematical responsibilities to ensure the service territory is supplied with the most reliable power source available in the most economical manner possible. This position requires a rotating shift, holiday work and some overtime, as well as ability to work effectively under both normal and stressful emergency situations.&nbsp;An&nbsp;Associate’s&nbsp;Degree&nbsp;or higher&nbsp;in Electrical Transmission Systems Technology, Business or related field is required,&nbsp;as&nbsp;is experience in&nbsp;using&nbsp;spreadsheet&nbsp;and&nbsp;database applications. Previous work experience at an electric utility company in one of the following areas is preferred: line construction or service, power plant operation, electric utility equipment maintenance, energy accounting or power purchasing, or system operations. An understanding of Energy Management Systems&nbsp;or SCADA systems&nbsp;would be helpful but is not required.Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>&nbsp;for more information and to apply.&nbsp;Applications are due by Feb.&nbsp;27, 2023. Midwest Energy is an equal opportunity employer.

🎥 Moran at Hays town hall: 'We can't continue doing what we're doing' 

Hays High head football coach Tony Crough describes senior Bryce Salmans as "one of the five best football players in my five years here." Lofty praise for a program that has turned out numerous players every year that have landed every where from the junior college ranks to Division I. Thursday morning, Salmans signed his National Letter of Intent to stay in Hays and play for the Tigers of Fort Hays State University. Bryce Salmans

Salmans missed his entire freshman sports campaign with a broken leg. He would have been back in time for track season but that was canceled when school was shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. His sophomore season was spent at the varsity level primarily on special teams. Offense was the home for him as a junior and then became a two-way starter his senior year. On defense he became a defensive end, where he is projected to start his collegiate career, and was name the Defensive Player of the Year in the Western Athletic Conference. The 2022 campaign ended with Salmans recording 57 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.

While on offense, Salmans was an H-back and tight end. However, for one playoff game, he was starting running back when Malik Bah was out with injury. He piled up 120 rushing yards on 16 carries and scored two times.

Staying in Hays and playing for the Tigers at Lewis Field Stadium was something that appealed to the senior who has had a lifelong dream of playing college football. Now instead of maroon and gold, he will wear the black and gold of Fort Hays State University.

Hays High head football coach Tony Crough describes senior Bryce Salmans as "one of the five best football players in my five years here." Lofty praise for a program that has turned out numerous players every year that have landed every where from the junior college ranks to Division I. Thursday morning, Salmans signed his National Letter of Intent to stay in Hays and play for the Tigers of Fort Hays State University. Bryce Salmans<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1438582816&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bryce-salmans-signing" title="Bryce Salmans Signing" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bryce Salmans Signing</a></div></div> Salmans missed his entire freshman sports campaign with a broken leg. He would have been back in time for track season but that was canceled when school was shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. His sophomore season was spent at the varsity level primarily on special teams. Offense was the home for him as a junior and then became a two-way starter his senior year. On defense he became a defensive end, where he is projected to start his collegiate career, and was name the Defensive Player of the Year in the Western Athletic Conference. The 2022 campaign ended with Salmans recording 57 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.While on offense, Salmans was an H-back and tight end. However, for one playoff game, he was starting running back when Malik Bah was out with injury. He piled up 120 rushing yards on 16 carries and scored two times.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1438582873&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tony-crough-about-bryce-salmans" title="Tony Crough About Bryce Salmans" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Crough About Bryce Salmans</a></div></div>Staying in Hays and playing for the Tigers at Lewis Field Stadium was something that appealed to the senior who has had a lifelong dream of playing college football. Now instead of maroon and gold, he will wear the black and gold of Fort Hays State University.

🏈 Salmans stays in town; signs with FHSU

Area residents will once again have the opportunity to hear directly
from their local legislators during the Hays Chamber’s 2023 Legislative Coffee
Series.

The first of the three Saturday morning events is scheduled to begin at
8 a.m. Feb. 4 at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.

“This is
one of my favorite events, actually, because it gives us an opportunity just to
interact with our elected officials,” said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah
Wasinger. “There are so many important issues that are being addressed at this
local, state and national level. And really, the reason behind this event is to
give our community members a chance to express their concerns and make sure
that their voices are being heard.”

The
follow-up events are scheduled for March 4 and April 1.

“We
really try to keep it as low-key as possible,” Wasinger said. “They open up
with some opening remarks, a couple of minutes each. And then really we open
that up to the question-and answer-portion after that.”

Questions
for the participating legislators can be submitted in advance.

“We had
probably more questions submitted, actually, at the first legislative coffee
last year than I've at least had since I've been with the chamber,” Wasinger
said. “People are engaged. They're paying attention to what's going on, and you
get to hear a variety of thoughts and perspectives from different individuals
across the community. And then, of course, our elected officials will weigh in
with where their heads and hearts are sitting at the moment. And it's just a
good dialogue.”

The format of the sessions will be
the same as previous years, featuring coffee and scones from Breathe Coffee
House, with the formal program scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m.

“We usually
have about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes, it really just depends on how
many representatives or legislators we have there that day,” Wasinger said. “And
then we finish with some closing remarks.”

The
sessions, she said, can also serve as a way to network with the legislators.

“I think
many people oftentimes are stuck in these situations or problems, and they
don't necessarily know who to reach out to,” Wasinger said. “That's when your
elected officials can really come in and roll up their sleeves and do the work
that they need to do to support you.

“There's
definitely value in building those relationships and attending.”

Topics
covered during the sessions will vary based on what is happening in the
legislature and submitted questions.

“Things
that we may talk about, at least what we talked about last year, was Medicaid
expansion,” Wasinger said. “Obviously, education funding is always a hot topic,
gun legislation, as western Kansas citizens appreciate that topic usually. And
then, of course, water access. We'd be remiss not to talk about economic
development and housing. Of course, childcare and ag industry, those are all
things that tend to be hot topics, regardless of what is going on in the
legislative session.”

So far, she said Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,
Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, plan to attend Saturday’s
kickoff event along with a representative from the office of U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.

“I think
it'll be a great crowd, we always look forward to the answers that they will
share,” Wasinger said. “I think it's interesting that everybody can kind of
just understand that dialogue and conversation is important.”

Midwest
Energy and the Hays Daily News sponsored the legislative coffee series.

Questions
can be sent to <a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646612730538.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Chamber’s Legislative Coffee series returns for 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j3zu7-1378a82-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostArea residents will once again have the opportunity to hear directly
from their local legislators during the Hays Chamber’s 2023 Legislative Coffee
Series.The first of the three Saturday morning events is scheduled to begin at
8 a.m. Feb. 4 at the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main.“This is
one of my favorite events, actually, because it gives us an opportunity just to
interact with our elected officials,” said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah
Wasinger. “There are so many important issues that are being addressed at this
local, state and national level. And really, the reason behind this event is to
give our community members a chance to express their concerns and make sure
that their voices are being heard.”The
follow-up events are scheduled for March 4 and April 1.“We
really try to keep it as low-key as possible,” Wasinger said. “They open up
with some opening remarks, a couple of minutes each. And then really we open
that up to the question-and answer-portion after that.”Questions
for the participating legislators can be submitted in advance.“We had
probably more questions submitted, actually, at the first legislative coffee
last year than I've at least had since I've been with the chamber,” Wasinger
said. “People are engaged. They're paying attention to what's going on, and you
get to hear a variety of thoughts and perspectives from different individuals
across the community. And then, of course, our elected officials will weigh in
with where their heads and hearts are sitting at the moment. And it's just a
good dialogue.”The format of the sessions will be
the same as previous years, featuring coffee and scones from Breathe Coffee
House, with the formal program scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m.“We usually
have about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes, it really just depends on how
many representatives or legislators we have there that day,” Wasinger said. “And
then we finish with some closing remarks.”The
sessions, she said, can also serve as a way to network with the legislators.“I think
many people oftentimes are stuck in these situations or problems, and they
don't necessarily know who to reach out to,” Wasinger said. “That's when your
elected officials can really come in and roll up their sleeves and do the work
that they need to do to support you.“There's
definitely value in building those relationships and attending.”Topics
covered during the sessions will vary based on what is happening in the
legislature and submitted questions.“Things
that we may talk about, at least what we talked about last year, was Medicaid
expansion,” Wasinger said. “Obviously, education funding is always a hot topic,
gun legislation, as western Kansas citizens appreciate that topic usually. And
then, of course, water access. We'd be remiss not to talk about economic
development and housing. Of course, childcare and ag industry, those are all
things that tend to be hot topics, regardless of what is going on in the
legislative session.”So far, she said Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,
Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barbara Wasinger, R-Hays, plan to attend Saturday’s
kickoff event along with a representative from the office of U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.“I think
it'll be a great crowd, we always look forward to the answers that they will
share,” Wasinger said. “I think it's interesting that everybody can kind of
just understand that dialogue and conversation is important.”Midwest
Energy and the Hays Daily News sponsored the legislative coffee series.Questions
can be sent to <a href="mailto:sarah@hayschamber.com">sarah@hayschamber.com</a>

🎙 Hays Chamber’s Legislative Coffee series returns for 2023

After a high in the upper-30s on Thursday, the National Weather Service is predicting a much warmer weekend and start to next week.

Daytime highs in the mid-50s and sunny skies are expected Saturday through Monday.&nbsp;

There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning Tuesday, the only precipitation in the long-term forecast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675361515351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a high in the upper-30s on Thursday, the National Weather Service is predicting a much warmer weekend and start to next week.Daytime highs in the mid-50s and sunny skies are expected Saturday through Monday.&nbsp;There is a very slight chance of rain or snow beginning Tuesday, the only precipitation in the long-term forecast.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A much warmer weekend is on tap for southwest KS, with highs in the mid 50s to low 60s under mostly sunny skies! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yq7DLSdV7g">pic.twitter.com/Yq7DLSdV7g</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1621188312030670848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Much warmer weekend on the way for northwest Kansas

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Now that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.

As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.

And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.

What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.

Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.

The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.

According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaning

· Be under age 17 at the end of the year

· Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (grandchild, niece or nephew)

· Provide no more than half of their own financial support during the year

· Have lived with you for more than half the year

· Be properly claimed as your dependent on your tax return

· Have been a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien

You qualify for the full amount of the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.

Last year households could claim the credit even if they hadn't earned income from a job or didn't owe any income taxes. Instead, only up to $1,500 of the Child Tax Credit is refundable for some lower-income individuals with children. You must have at least $2,500 of earned income to even qualify for this partial refund.

You have to file a tax return to get any of the Child Tax Credit refund. You must file Schedule 8812 to figure the amount of the credit.

Families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Adoption Credit, or Education credits.

The IRS asks that, if possible, people file electronically rather than mailing in paper forms. The library has public computers that anyone can use. Log in using your library card number. If you aren’t a patron of the library, you can use a guest pass if you provide a current photo ID. You can print from the computer for 25¢ a page.

The library will print blank tax forms for patrons at no cost at their request. This does not include the tax instruction booklets, just the blank tax forms.

The IRS is generally promising refunds within 21 days of filing of electronic returns. This would be true for people who file online, make no errors on their return, and request that their refund be directly deposited into their bank account.

If you qualify for tax credits and are getting a refund, file your income taxes soon!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityNow that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaningyour dependent must:· Be under age 17 at the end of the year· Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (grandchild, niece or nephew)· Provide no more than half of their own financial support during the year· Have lived with you for more than half the year· Be properly claimed as your dependent on your tax return· Have been a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien· Have a valid Social Security NumberYou qualify for the full amount of the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.Last year households could claim the credit even if they hadn't earned income from a job or didn't owe any income taxes. Instead, only up to $1,500 of the Child Tax Credit is refundable for some lower-income individuals with children. You must have at least $2,500 of earned income to even qualify for this partial refund.You have to file a tax return to get any of the Child Tax Credit refund. You must file Schedule 8812 to figure the amount of the credit.Families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Adoption Credit, or Education credits.The IRS asks that, if possible, people file electronically rather than mailing in paper forms. The library has public computers that anyone can use. Log in using your library card number. If you aren’t a patron of the library, you can use a guest pass if you provide a current photo ID. You can print from the computer for 25¢ a page.The library will print blank tax forms for patrons at no cost at their request. This does not include the tax instruction booklets, just the blank tax forms.The IRS is generally promising refunds within 21 days of filing of electronic returns. This would be true for people who file online, make no errors on their return, and request that their refund be directly deposited into their bank account.If you qualify for tax credits and are getting a refund, file your income taxes soon!

Getting Ahead: Child tax credit 2022

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington say it was "falsely reported."

According to a statement from Hoisington Police on Friday,&nbsp; "During the course of the investigation it was discovered the information was falsely reported and the case is concluded."

"You have to take these all seriously, and we did," said Chief of Police Kenton Doze. "But we needed to re-interview the victim, and he came in this morning and talked with us."

The police thanked the public for all the tips and information regarding this case.

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington.

Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, a&nbsp;report was made to the Hoisington Police Department in reference to an attempted kidnapping in the 800 Block of W 2nd Street, according to a media release.

 The victim told police as he was walking he was approached by subjects in a white van. The victim reports a man in the van attempted to force him into the vehicle, although the victim was able to free himself and run. 

The vehicle is described as a white full size van with peeling paint, a sliding rear passenger door and occupied by at least two subjects. 

The van reportedly left Hoisington on W 2nd Street after the incident occurred. 

Police asked anyone with video surveillance or cameras in the area of W 2nd Street in Hoisington at or around the time of this incident to also contact the Police Department.

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington say it was "falsely reported."According to a statement from Hoisington Police on Friday,&nbsp; "During the course of the investigation it was discovered the information was falsely reported and the case is concluded.""You have to take these all seriously, and we did," said Chief of Police Kenton Doze. "But we needed to re-interview the victim, and he came in this morning and talked with us."The police thanked the public for all the tips and information regarding this case.------------BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington.Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, a&nbsp;report was made to the Hoisington Police Department in reference to an attempted kidnapping in the 800 Block of W 2nd Street, according to a media release. The victim told police as he was walking he was approached by subjects in a white van. The victim reports a man in the van attempted to force him into the vehicle, although the victim was able to free himself and run. The vehicle is described as a white full size van with peeling paint, a sliding rear passenger door and occupied by at least two subjects. The van reportedly left Hoisington on W 2nd Street after the incident occurred. Police asked anyone with video surveillance or cameras in the area of W 2nd Street in Hoisington at or around the time of this incident to also contact the Police Department.

Police report alleged attempted kidnapping in Hoisington

From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...

If you have ever attended one of Fort Larned’s annual events, you may have been to one of our most popular types of programs — a firing demonstration. Though this is a fun experience for our visitors, it takes trained and skilled presenters in order to do it safely. This is where we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to help us safely present firing demonstrations with both small arms (rifles) and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. 

In order to be part of the Rifle Corps or the Cannon Crew, you must be 18 or older, able to attend the fort’s events, willing to travel, and will be expected to eventually provide their own living history uniform. The Rifle Corps will be trained on how to give presentations on and fire both muzzleloading Springfield Rifles as well as Trapdoor Springfield Rifles. The Cannon Crew on the other hand, will be focused on giving presentations on and firing the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. 

Training for both the Rifle Corps and the Cannon Crew will take place on the same day in April (date has yet to be set), so at the end of that day, you’ll be certified in both small arms and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer to help us give our most popular programs! 

If this is something that interests you, please feel free to message us here on social media, email us at fols_internet@nps.gov, or call us at 620-285-6911. We look forward to hearing from you!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269532908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...If you have ever attended one of Fort Larned’s annual events, you may have been to one of our most popular types of programs — a firing demonstration. Though this is a fun experience for our visitors, it takes trained and skilled presenters in order to do it safely. This is where we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to help us safely present firing demonstrations with both small arms (rifles) and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. In order to be part of the Rifle Corps or the Cannon Crew, you must be 18 or older, able to attend the fort’s events, willing to travel, and will be expected to eventually provide their own living history uniform. The Rifle Corps will be trained on how to give presentations on and fire both muzzleloading Springfield Rifles as well as Trapdoor Springfield Rifles. The Cannon Crew on the other hand, will be focused on giving presentations on and firing the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer. Training for both the Rifle Corps and the Cannon Crew will take place on the same day in April (date has yet to be set), so at the end of that day, you’ll be certified in both small arms and the 12-Pounder Mountain Howitzer to help us give our most popular programs! If this is something that interests you, please feel free to message us here on social media, email us at fols_internet@nps.gov, or call us at 620-285-6911. We look forward to hearing from you!&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269578810.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Volunteers needed for Fort Larned's mountain gun firing demos 

Twice a year, North Central Kansas Technical College awards
 a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 
212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior 
dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is 
the&nbsp;boiling point of water. We’ve all watched it happen as water goes 
from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling 
point is a transformation point. The water is transformed from calm and 
still, to boiling, and things start to happen. Recipients of this award 
will be employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of 
duty.&nbsp;These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to 
their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the 
mission of NCK Tech.

The recipient of 2022 Fall 212° Award is Jessica Garcia, an admissions counselor on the Hays campus.

Another unique aspect of this award is that it is peer-driven.&nbsp; The 
selection process includes being nominated by peers and then a committee
 of previous recipients make the selection. Administration’s only role 
is to present the employee with the award.

“Jessica is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very 
deserving of this recognition,"  said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "She cares tremendously about students and
 is always willing to go the extra mile to help them. I greatly 
appreciate her positive attitude and approach toward her work.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675106259362.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TechTwice a year, North Central Kansas Technical College awards
 a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 
212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior 
dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is 
the&nbsp;boiling point of water. We’ve all watched it happen as water goes 
from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling 
point is a transformation point. The water is transformed from calm and 
still, to boiling, and things start to happen. Recipients of this award 
will be employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of 
duty.&nbsp;These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to 
their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the 
mission of NCK Tech.The recipient of 2022 Fall 212° Award is Jessica Garcia, an admissions counselor on the Hays campus.Another unique aspect of this award is that it is peer-driven.&nbsp; The 
selection process includes being nominated by peers and then a committee
 of previous recipients make the selection. Administration’s only role 
is to present the employee with the award.“Jessica is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very 
deserving of this recognition," said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "She cares tremendously about students and
 is always willing to go the extra mile to help them. I greatly 
appreciate her positive attitude and approach toward her work.”

Hays admissions counselor honored by NCK Tech

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

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

NW Kan. students awarded scholarships at Barton CC

The summer of 1997 was&nbsp;a period&nbsp;marked by great triumph&nbsp;and&nbsp;tragedy. In June, the world was introduced to the world of wizardry with the UK publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. In July, NASA’s Pathfinder rover safely landed on Mars and began sending back data and stunning images from the “Red Planet.”&nbsp;And in August,&nbsp;the world learned of the tragic death of Princess Diana in Paris.&nbsp;<a></a>

The summer of&nbsp;1997&nbsp;was also significant at Fort Hays State University as we took a major strategic step forward into the future of learning.&nbsp;

<a></a>That spring and summer, now a&nbsp;decade&nbsp;into what would become&nbsp;more than&nbsp;27&nbsp;years of service as FHSU president,&nbsp;Dr.&nbsp;Edward Hammond saw an opportunity to deliver on a promise he made when he was first hired. During his interview,&nbsp;President Hammond&nbsp;told the Kansas Board of Regents-led search committee that he would transform FHSU into a “high touch-high tech” institution if given the opportunity.&nbsp;

Once hired, President Hammond immediately went to work building the foundation necessary to realize his goal. By&nbsp;the mid-1990s,&nbsp;he had positioned FHSU well to take advantage of the&nbsp;breakup of the Bell System monopoly in the 1980s&nbsp;that&nbsp;introduced competition and new opportunities to forge traditional (wired) and new (cellular) communications technology partnerships in rural Kansas.&nbsp;

President&nbsp;Hammond&nbsp;established several partnerships that expanded the reach of FHSU distance learning programs via fiber-wire-connected two-way video conferencing to students in Colby, Goodland, Garden City, and Dodge City. Under his leadership, FHSU became the first university in Kansas to deliver academic programs via this medium.

<a></a>Then came the Internet. Created in 1960 as a way for government researchers to share information, the Internet was initially designed for the military and major research institutions to share national security-related information.

Access to the&nbsp;Internet didn’t become available to the&nbsp;rest of the&nbsp;world until 1993. By 1997, there were 70 million users online. Today,&nbsp;that number exceeds 5 billion.&nbsp;

Sensing a fresh opportunity to&nbsp;leverage this emerging technology and&nbsp;expand the FHSU high touch-high tech model, President Hammond and Provost Rodolfo Arevalo charged Dean Tony Fernandez of the College of Health and Life Sciences with establishing a new unit tasked with transitioning FHSU distance education to online delivery.&nbsp;The new unit would be known as the Virtual College.

<a></a>Out of the gate, the fledgling Virtual College faced several challenges. While internet access was expanding, many homes still had no way to connect to the Internet. Those who could access the new technology did not enjoy the connectivity or bandwidth to stream instructional videos.&nbsp;There remained a dependence on CD or DVD production and distribution in Virtual College operations.&nbsp;

New processes for delivering course materials through the mail&nbsp;needed to be developed to address these issues, and the&nbsp;campus bookstore was&nbsp;the answer. The space was&nbsp;renovated to include an area in the&nbsp;bookstore&nbsp;basement where boxes could be filled with books, videotapes, and DVDs&nbsp;for shipment to Virtual College students.&nbsp;

Moving away from live, two-way videoconferencing meant that faculty needed to be licensed and trained in using a learning management system. To assist with the transition, Virtual College staff developed a tool kit called “Web Course in a Box” to help faculty restructure their courses for asynchronous or on-demand delivery.&nbsp;

In the early 2000s, the university licensed the Blackboard learning management system that offers a wealth of virtual course planning and delivery tools. A new organization staffed by instructional technology specialists, the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technologies (CTELT), was created and charged with faculty training and learning technology research.&nbsp;

Now known as Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies&nbsp;(TILT), this group has led the effort on campus to research, test, evaluate, and adopt new technologies.&nbsp;

<a></a>The focus on high touch-high tech learning introduced by President Hammond back in the 1980s remains the principal focus of FHSU Online (formerly the Virtual College).&nbsp;

From an initial enrollment of around 900 students in 1997,&nbsp;annual&nbsp;online enrollment at FHSU now&nbsp;exceeds&nbsp;6,500 students and&nbsp;amounts to nearly 48% of total university enrollment.&nbsp;

<a></a>Unlike many universities, whose transition to online instruction&nbsp;was a direct result of the&nbsp;COVIDpandemic, we&nbsp;were&nbsp;already&nbsp;recruiting technology-savvy faculty and&nbsp;developing best practices in teaching and student support for online learners for nearly 25 years. &nbsp;

We were early adopters of services like online tutoring and professional advisors. Several years ago, we created a Virtual Student Senate to give online students a&nbsp;voice&nbsp;in major decisions that impact online students and the university. We remain&nbsp;one of very few&nbsp;universities to includeonline students in shared governance in this manner. FHSU is also one of six institutions to be awarded the rigorous United States Distance Learning Association quality certification.&nbsp;

It&nbsp;has&nbsp;been said that students learn as much or more in college out of the classroom. Part of our planning for the future will include spending more time and expertise on the development of what we call “ecosystem resources.”&nbsp;Simply put, we&nbsp;are creating&nbsp;expanded and more engaged learning environments that move the learning experience beyond the constraints of time, space, and the boundaries of traditional instruction.

<a></a>So,&nbsp;even as we celebrate an amazing 25 years of online learning, we are already looking ahead to the next 25 years of FHSU Online. We know that digital resources and online learning&nbsp;practices&nbsp;have evolved&nbsp;over the past few years, and we&nbsp;are&nbsp;investing time and talent to ensure we continue to evolve with that change.

Last year, we created a team of campus experts to develop what we are calling a digital master plan for the university. Much like a master plan that guides the building, renovation, and removal of obsolete buildings and structures, our digital master plan will guide our future efforts to remain leaders and innovators in this space.&nbsp;

The remarkable 25-year history of online learning at FHSU is a testament to what an innovative, resilient, and engaged campus community can do when unbounded by real and imagined barriers. The amazing people who built FHSU Online were instrumental in transforming this university into what we call today “the best value in education anywhere.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>The summer of 1997 was&nbsp;a period&nbsp;marked by great triumph&nbsp;and&nbsp;tragedy. In June, the world was introduced to the world of wizardry with the UK publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. In July, NASA’s Pathfinder rover safely landed on Mars and began sending back data and stunning images from the “Red Planet.”&nbsp;And in August,&nbsp;the world learned of the tragic death of Princess Diana in Paris.&nbsp;<a></a>The summer of&nbsp;1997&nbsp;was also significant at Fort Hays State University as we took a major strategic step forward into the future of learning.&nbsp;<a></a>That spring and summer, now a&nbsp;decade&nbsp;into what would become&nbsp;more than&nbsp;27&nbsp;years of service as FHSU president,&nbsp;Dr.&nbsp;Edward Hammond saw an opportunity to deliver on a promise he made when he was first hired. During his interview,&nbsp;President Hammond&nbsp;told the Kansas Board of Regents-led search committee that he would transform FHSU into a “high touch-high tech” institution if given the opportunity.&nbsp;Once hired, President Hammond immediately went to work building the foundation necessary to realize his goal. By&nbsp;the mid-1990s,&nbsp;he had positioned FHSU well to take advantage of the&nbsp;breakup of the Bell System monopoly in the 1980s&nbsp;that&nbsp;introduced competition and new opportunities to forge traditional (wired) and new (cellular) communications technology partnerships in rural Kansas.&nbsp;President&nbsp;Hammond&nbsp;established several partnerships that expanded the reach of FHSU distance learning programs via fiber-wire-connected two-way video conferencing to students in Colby, Goodland, Garden City, and Dodge City. Under his leadership, FHSU became the first university in Kansas to deliver academic programs via this medium.<a></a>Then came the Internet. Created in 1960 as a way for government researchers to share information, the Internet was initially designed for the military and major research institutions to share national security-related information.Access to the&nbsp;Internet didn’t become available to the&nbsp;rest of the&nbsp;world until 1993. By 1997, there were 70 million users online. Today,&nbsp;that number exceeds 5 billion.&nbsp;Sensing a fresh opportunity to&nbsp;leverage this emerging technology and&nbsp;expand the FHSU high touch-high tech model, President Hammond and Provost Rodolfo Arevalo charged Dean Tony Fernandez of the College of Health and Life Sciences with establishing a new unit tasked with transitioning FHSU distance education to online delivery.&nbsp;The new unit would be known as the Virtual College.<a></a>Out of the gate, the fledgling Virtual College faced several challenges. While internet access was expanding, many homes still had no way to connect to the Internet. Those who could access the new technology did not enjoy the connectivity or bandwidth to stream instructional videos.&nbsp;There remained a dependence on CD or DVD production and distribution in Virtual College operations.&nbsp;New processes for delivering course materials through the mail&nbsp;needed to be developed to address these issues, and the&nbsp;campus bookstore was&nbsp;the answer. The space was&nbsp;renovated to include an area in the&nbsp;bookstore&nbsp;basement where boxes could be filled with books, videotapes, and DVDs&nbsp;for shipment to Virtual College students.&nbsp;Moving away from live, two-way videoconferencing meant that faculty needed to be licensed and trained in using a learning management system. To assist with the transition, Virtual College staff developed a tool kit called “Web Course in a Box” to help faculty restructure their courses for asynchronous or on-demand delivery.&nbsp;In the early 2000s, the university licensed the Blackboard learning management system that offers a wealth of virtual course planning and delivery tools. A new organization staffed by instructional technology specialists, the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technologies (CTELT), was created and charged with faculty training and learning technology research.&nbsp;Now known as Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies&nbsp;(TILT), this group has led the effort on campus to research, test, evaluate, and adopt new technologies.&nbsp;<a></a>The focus on high touch-high tech learning introduced by President Hammond back in the 1980s remains the principal focus of FHSU Online (formerly the Virtual College).&nbsp;From an initial enrollment of around 900 students in 1997,&nbsp;annual&nbsp;online enrollment at FHSU now&nbsp;exceeds&nbsp;6,500 students and&nbsp;amounts to nearly 48% of total university enrollment.&nbsp;<a></a>Unlike many universities, whose transition to online instruction&nbsp;was a direct result of the&nbsp;COVIDpandemic, we&nbsp;were&nbsp;already&nbsp;recruiting technology-savvy faculty and&nbsp;developing best practices in teaching and student support for online learners for nearly 25 years. &nbsp;We were early adopters of services like online tutoring and professional advisors. Several years ago, we created a Virtual Student Senate to give online students a&nbsp;voice&nbsp;in major decisions that impact online students and the university. We remain&nbsp;one of very few&nbsp;universities to includeonline students in shared governance in this manner. FHSU is also one of six institutions to be awarded the rigorous United States Distance Learning Association quality certification.&nbsp;It&nbsp;has&nbsp;been said that students learn as much or more in college out of the classroom. Part of our planning for the future will include spending more time and expertise on the development of what we call “ecosystem resources.”&nbsp;Simply put, we&nbsp;are creating&nbsp;expanded and more engaged learning environments that move the learning experience beyond the constraints of time, space, and the boundaries of traditional instruction.<a></a>So,&nbsp;even as we celebrate an amazing 25 years of online learning, we are already looking ahead to the next 25 years of FHSU Online. We know that digital resources and online learning&nbsp;practices&nbsp;have evolved&nbsp;over the past few years, and we&nbsp;are&nbsp;investing time and talent to ensure we continue to evolve with that change.Last year, we created a team of campus experts to develop what we are calling a digital master plan for the university. Much like a master plan that guides the building, renovation, and removal of obsolete buildings and structures, our digital master plan will guide our future efforts to remain leaders and innovators in this space.&nbsp;The remarkable 25-year history of online learning at FHSU is a testament to what an innovative, resilient, and engaged campus community can do when unbounded by real and imagined barriers. The amazing people who built FHSU Online were instrumental in transforming this university into what we call today “the best value in education anywhere.”&nbsp;

Heart of a Tiger: FHSU Online at 25 years

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675278686480.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Wednesday was National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach Chris Brown&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2023 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent throughout the day.

The Tigers announced the signing of 52 players, 39 are high school seniors who join 14 transfers who are already enrolled and currently taking classes and a part of the team.

Breakdown by state: Kansas-21, Florida-12, Texas-7, California-4, Arizona-2, Arkansas-3, California-1, Colorado-1, Oklahoma-1, Utah-1

Breakdown by position: Quarterback-3, Running Back-5, Wide Receiver-9, Tight End-4, Offensive Linemen-8, Defensive Linemen-7, Linebacker-6, Defensive Back-9, Kicker-2

Updated at 6:30 p.m. on 2/1/2023 Nijel Akpom, 6-4, 360, OL, Irving, Texas / MacArthur HS MacArthur HS: Named school's Lineman of the Year twice. Landen Allen, 6-0, 200, LB, Salina, Kan. / Southeast of Saline HS Southeast of Saline HS: KFCA 2A All-State selection in 2022...All-state selection by Wichita Eagle on defense and Sports in Kansas on offense in 2022...All-league selection on defense in 2021 and 2022 and on offense in 2022...Two-time all-state and all-league selection in baseball. Keamonie Archie, 6-3, 180, DB, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Lawson Bailey, 6-0, 190, RB, Scott City, Kan. / Scott Community HS Scott Community HS: All-state honorable mention selection on offense...All-league first team on offense and second team on defense...All-state and all-league selection in baseball...All-league selection in basketball. Tayshaun Balmir, 5-9, 195, RB, Dade City, Fla. / Pasco HS Pasco HS: All-conference first team selection…Conference Offensive Player of the Year…Broke his school's single-season rushing yards record…Had over 1,900 yards with 23 touchdowns. Donovan Beckom, 5-11, 180, DB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Cathedral HS Cathedral HS: All-league first team selection...Named team's MVP on defense...Had seven interceptions. Neville Brown, 6-4, 310, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Evans HS Evans HS: All-Metro Third Team selection...Named to academic honor roll. Avery Coleman, 6-5, 255, OL, Tyler, Texas / Tyler HS Tyler HS: All-district first team selection. Keyshawn Dooley, 5-9, 165, WR, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Vista Ridge HS Vista Ridge HS: All-state second team selection...Had 130 receptions for over 2,000 yards with 25 touchdowns during his prep career...Two-time all-conference selection, including first-team honors as a senior...State qualifier in track and field. Kameron Graham, 6-4, 225, DE, Orlando, Fla. / Boone HS Boone HS: All-conference first team selection during junior and senior years...Recorded 62 tackles, eight sacks, and 22 tackles for loss. Kyreese Groen, 6-1, 160, WR, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Amel Hadzisabic, 5-11, 175, K, Amarillo, Texas / Randall HS Randall HS: First-team all-district kicker…Ranked among the Top 30 kickers nationally by a kicker rating service…Made 90 percent of his field goal attempts…Team defensive MVP in soccer…Second-team all-district defender in soccer. Kade Harris, 5-11, 180, S, Hays, Kan. / TMP-Marian HS TMP-Marian HS: Four-time All-MCL League selection, including four times on defensive, four times as a return specialist, and three times on offense…Sports in Kansas 2A Defensive Player of the Year finalist in both 2020 and 2022 and Offensive Player of the Year finalist in 2021…All-state selection by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Owns career rushing record and scoring record at TMP-Marian…All-state selection in basketball. Mason Hernandez, 5-10, 180, RB, Goodland, Kan. / Goodland HS Goodland HS: All-state honorable mention selection...All-league selection at running back. Chance Kerr, 6-0, 205, LB, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS Dodge City HS: All-conference selection as both a linebacker and running back...Served as team captain...Received KSHSAA Citizenship Award. Kaden Lonard, 6-5, 300, OL, Lawrence, Kan. / Free State HS Free State HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-league selection. Elijah Lynn, 6-6, 240, DT, Phoenix, Ariz. / Moon Valley HS Moon Valley HS: All-region first team selection...Named Lineman of the Year...Sectional champion in wrestling and twice earned Most Outstanding Wrestler honors at tournaments. Braxton McDaniel, 6-4, 310, OL, Silver Lake, Kan. / Silver Lake HS Silver Lake HS: All-county and all-league selection as an offensive lineman...All-league academic selection all four years. Mason McGavran, 6-0, 215, QB/ATH, Olathe, Kan. / Olathe West HS Olathe West HS: All-Sunflower League selection at quarterback...Helped Olathe West to a regional championship in 2022...All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 6A...Sports in Kansas Player of the Year finalist...Threw for over 5,900 yards in his prep career with 72 touchdowns...As a senior threw for over 1,400 yards and rushed for over 1,300 yards. Kreighton Modrow, 5-10, 170, WR, Salina, Kan. / Salina South HS Salina South HS: All-league selection...Served as team captain. Jacob Orozco, 6-3, 215, LB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Salesian HS Taderian Partee, 6-4, 240, DT, Blytheville, Ark. / Gosnell HS TreVian Pierce, 6-0, 155, DB, Parsons, Kan. / Parsons HS Parsons HS: Two-year starter at cornerback...Named team's Most Improved Defensive Player in 2021...Helped lead Parsons to a playoff win in 2021. Jaheim Reed, 6-4, 300, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Olympia HS Olympia HS: Selected to play in the Orlando Cure Classic all-star game...Served as a team captain. Jamai Rutherford, 6-3, 180, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Tampa Catholic HS Tampa Catholic HS: All-district selection...Recorded 22 catches for 380 yards and five touchdowns as a senior. Bryce Salmans, 6-1, 225, DE, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state selection...Three-time all-league selection...2022 WAC Defensive Player of the Year...Selected to compete in the 2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl...State qualifier in track and field for both throwing and running events. Guyteau Salvador, 6-4, 220, DE, Miami, Fla. / Dr. Krop HS Dr. Krop HS: All-Dade County Second Team selection...Selected to Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game...Recorded 15.5 sacks, 30 tackles for loss, and 70 solo tackles. Omar Shah, 5-10, 220, LB, Salt Lake City, Utah / East HS Jakobe Smith, 6-0, 180, DB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-conference selection...Earned the Marion Patriot Award...Recorded over 50 tackles and had four interceptions. Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, 175, QB, Andale, Kan. / Andale HS Andale HS: All-state honorable mention in Kansas Class 3A...Never lost a game in high school with 51 straight wins...Helped Andale to four Class 3A state titles from 2019 to 2022...All-league selection...All-state and all-league selection in basketball and all-league selection in baseball. Gavin Stanford, 6-2, 180, S, Sarasota, Fla. / Booker HS Booker HS: Recorded five interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, along with 13 pass breakups and 35 tackles. Reid Tedford, 6-7, 225, QB, Crawford, Texas / Midway HS Midway HS: As a senior, recorded 1,995 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns...Served as team captain. Lamaj Travis, 6-0, 195, RB, Fresno, Calif. / Clovis East HS Clovis East HS:&nbsp;Rushed for 1,081 yards as a senior with 16 touchdowns. Jackson Turnbull, 6-5, 230, DE, Pittsburg, Kan. / Pittsburg HS Pittsburg HS: All-state honorable mention selection in Kansas Class 5A as a junior and senior...Helped team to a regional championship as a senior...Two-time all-state selection in baseball...All-state honorable mention selection in basketball. Carter Waldo, 6-0, 200, LB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-state selection as a senior...Served as team captain...Recorded 54 tackles during senior year...Member of track and field team that holds the school record in the 4x200 meters. Keron Watson, 6-4, 220, TE, Tucson, Ariz. / Cienega HS Cienega HS: Had 555 receiving yards with eight touchdowns...Recorded 48 tackles on defense. Caleb Wiese, 6-3, 200, DB, Garden City, Kan. / Garden City HS Garden City HS: Five-time all-conference selection between football, basketball, and baseball...All-state selection...Recorded over 200 tackles in his prep career with six interceptions. Joshua Willhite, 6-1, 215, TE, Broken Arrow, Okla. / Broken Arrow HS Broken Arrow HS: Recorded 40 receptions throughout his prep career with six touchdowns. Marquis Williams, 6-1, 160, WR, Wichita, Kan. / Sunrise Christian Academy Sunrise Christian Academy: Two-time all-state selection both on offense and defense. Transfers Carson Arndt, 6-0, 170, K, Wichita, Kan. / Butler (Kan.) CC Blake Batarse, 6-0, 185, WR, Simi Valley, Calif. / Moorpark College Arundel Briggs, 6-2, 310, OL, Waxahachie, Texas / Prairie View A&amp;M Manuel Chavez, 6-1, 230, LB, Leoti, Kan. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Sean Delaughter, 5-9, 160, WR, Miami, Fla. / Upper Iowa University Travis Dixon, 5-10, 220, RB, Hollywood, Fla. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Seth Falley, 6-4, 295, OL, Haysville, Kan. / Middle Tennessee State Sloan Hayden, 6-4, 240, TE, Ulysses, Kan. / Hutchinson (Kan.) CC Jayden Horace, 6-1, 170, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Allen University Donnell Johnson III, 6-2, 310, DL, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. / Florida International University John Thomas Jones, 6-3, 240, TE, Devers, Texas / Butler (Kan.) CC Solomon MacFoy, 5-11, 175, DB, Tyler, Texas / Midwestern State University Hosia Stokes, 5-9, 175, WR, Adelanto, Calif. / Victor Valley College Benyon Williams, 5-9, 175, DB, Tampa, Fla. / North Carolina Wesleyan

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675264722575.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWednesday was National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach Chris Brown&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2023 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent throughout the day.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1437678454&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-signing-day-press-conference" title="Chris Brown Signing Day Press Conference" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Signing Day Press Conference</a></div></div>The Tigers announced the signing of 52 players, 39 are high school seniors who join 14 transfers who are already enrolled and currently taking classes and a part of the team.Breakdown by state: Kansas-21, Florida-12, Texas-7, California-4, Arizona-2, Arkansas-3, California-1, Colorado-1, Oklahoma-1, Utah-1Breakdown by position: Quarterback-3, Running Back-5, Wide Receiver-9, Tight End-4, Offensive Linemen-8, Defensive Linemen-7, Linebacker-6, Defensive Back-9, Kicker-2Updated at 6:30 p.m. on 2/1/2023 Nijel Akpom, 6-4, 360, OL, Irving, Texas / MacArthur HS MacArthur HS: Named school's Lineman of the Year twice. Landen Allen, 6-0, 200, LB, Salina, Kan. / Southeast of Saline HS Southeast of Saline HS: KFCA 2A All-State selection in 2022...All-state selection by Wichita Eagle on defense and Sports in Kansas on offense in 2022...All-league selection on defense in 2021 and 2022 and on offense in 2022...Two-time all-state and all-league selection in baseball. Keamonie Archie, 6-3, 180, DB, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Lawson Bailey, 6-0, 190, RB, Scott City, Kan. / Scott Community HS Scott Community HS: All-state honorable mention selection on offense...All-league first team on offense and second team on defense...All-state and all-league selection in baseball...All-league selection in basketball. Tayshaun Balmir, 5-9, 195, RB, Dade City, Fla. / Pasco HS Pasco HS: All-conference first team selection…Conference Offensive Player of the Year…Broke his school's single-season rushing yards record…Had over 1,900 yards with 23 touchdowns. Donovan Beckom, 5-11, 180, DB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Cathedral HS Cathedral HS: All-league first team selection...Named team's MVP on defense...Had seven interceptions. Neville Brown, 6-4, 310, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Evans HS Evans HS: All-Metro Third Team selection...Named to academic honor roll. Avery Coleman, 6-5, 255, OL, Tyler, Texas / Tyler HS Tyler HS: All-district first team selection. Keyshawn Dooley, 5-9, 165, WR, Colorado Springs, Colo. / Vista Ridge HS Vista Ridge HS: All-state second team selection...Had 130 receptions for over 2,000 yards with 25 touchdowns during his prep career...Two-time all-conference selection, including first-team honors as a senior...State qualifier in track and field. Kameron Graham, 6-4, 225, DE, Orlando, Fla. / Boone HS Boone HS: All-conference first team selection during junior and senior years...Recorded 62 tackles, eight sacks, and 22 tackles for loss. Kyreese Groen, 6-1, 160, WR, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Amel Hadzisabic, 5-11, 175, K, Amarillo, Texas / Randall HS Randall HS: First-team all-district kicker…Ranked among the Top 30 kickers nationally by a kicker rating service…Made 90 percent of his field goal attempts…Team defensive MVP in soccer…Second-team all-district defender in soccer. Kade Harris, 5-11, 180, S, Hays, Kan. / TMP-Marian HS TMP-Marian HS: Four-time All-MCL League selection, including four times on defensive, four times as a return specialist, and three times on offense…Sports in Kansas 2A Defensive Player of the Year finalist in both 2020 and 2022 and Offensive Player of the Year finalist in 2021…All-state selection by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Owns career rushing record and scoring record at TMP-Marian…All-state selection in basketball. Mason Hernandez, 5-10, 180, RB, Goodland, Kan. / Goodland HS Goodland HS: All-state honorable mention selection...All-league selection at running back. Chance Kerr, 6-0, 205, LB, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS Dodge City HS: All-conference selection as both a linebacker and running back...Served as team captain...Received KSHSAA Citizenship Award. Kaden Lonard, 6-5, 300, OL, Lawrence, Kan. / Free State HS Free State HS: Two-time all-state and two-time all-league selection. Elijah Lynn, 6-6, 240, DT, Phoenix, Ariz. / Moon Valley HS Moon Valley HS: All-region first team selection...Named Lineman of the Year...Sectional champion in wrestling and twice earned Most Outstanding Wrestler honors at tournaments. Braxton McDaniel, 6-4, 310, OL, Silver Lake, Kan. / Silver Lake HS Silver Lake HS: All-county and all-league selection as an offensive lineman...All-league academic selection all four years. Mason McGavran, 6-0, 215, QB/ATH, Olathe, Kan. / Olathe West HS Olathe West HS: All-Sunflower League selection at quarterback...Helped Olathe West to a regional championship in 2022...All-state first team selection in Kansas Class 6A...Sports in Kansas Player of the Year finalist...Threw for over 5,900 yards in his prep career with 72 touchdowns...As a senior threw for over 1,400 yards and rushed for over 1,300 yards. Kreighton Modrow, 5-10, 170, WR, Salina, Kan. / Salina South HS Salina South HS: All-league selection...Served as team captain. Jacob Orozco, 6-3, 215, LB, Los Angeles, Calif. / Salesian HS Taderian Partee, 6-4, 240, DT, Blytheville, Ark. / Gosnell HS TreVian Pierce, 6-0, 155, DB, Parsons, Kan. / Parsons HS Parsons HS: Two-year starter at cornerback...Named team's Most Improved Defensive Player in 2021...Helped lead Parsons to a playoff win in 2021. Jaheim Reed, 6-4, 300, OL, Orlando, Fla. / Olympia HS Olympia HS: Selected to play in the Orlando Cure Classic all-star game...Served as a team captain. Jamai Rutherford, 6-3, 180, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Tampa Catholic HS Tampa Catholic HS: All-district selection...Recorded 22 catches for 380 yards and five touchdowns as a senior. Bryce Salmans, 6-1, 225, DE, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS Hays HS: Two-time all-state selection...Three-time all-league selection...2022 WAC Defensive Player of the Year...Selected to compete in the 2023 Kansas Shrine Bowl...State qualifier in track and field for both throwing and running events. Guyteau Salvador, 6-4, 220, DE, Miami, Fla. / Dr. Krop HS Dr. Krop HS: All-Dade County Second Team selection...Selected to Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game...Recorded 15.5 sacks, 30 tackles for loss, and 70 solo tackles. Omar Shah, 5-10, 220, LB, Salt Lake City, Utah / East HS Jakobe Smith, 6-0, 180, DB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-conference selection...Earned the Marion Patriot Award...Recorded over 50 tackles and had four interceptions. Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, 175, QB, Andale, Kan. / Andale HS Andale HS: All-state honorable mention in Kansas Class 3A...Never lost a game in high school with 51 straight wins...Helped Andale to four Class 3A state titles from 2019 to 2022...All-league selection...All-state and all-league selection in basketball and all-league selection in baseball. Gavin Stanford, 6-2, 180, S, Sarasota, Fla. / Booker HS Booker HS: Recorded five interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, along with 13 pass breakups and 35 tackles. Reid Tedford, 6-7, 225, QB, Crawford, Texas / Midway HS Midway HS: As a senior, recorded 1,995 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns...Served as team captain. Lamaj Travis, 6-0, 195, RB, Fresno, Calif. / Clovis East HS Clovis East HS:&nbsp;Rushed for 1,081 yards as a senior with 16 touchdowns. Jackson Turnbull, 6-5, 230, DE, Pittsburg, Kan. / Pittsburg HS Pittsburg HS: All-state honorable mention selection in Kansas Class 5A as a junior and senior...Helped team to a regional championship as a senior...Two-time all-state selection in baseball...All-state honorable mention selection in basketball. Carter Waldo, 6-0, 200, LB, Marion, Ark. / Marion HS Marion HS: All-state selection as a senior...Served as team captain...Recorded 54 tackles during senior year...Member of track and field team that holds the school record in the 4x200 meters. Keron Watson, 6-4, 220, TE, Tucson, Ariz. / Cienega HS Cienega HS: Had 555 receiving yards with eight touchdowns...Recorded 48 tackles on defense. Caleb Wiese, 6-3, 200, DB, Garden City, Kan. / Garden City HS Garden City HS: Five-time all-conference selection between football, basketball, and baseball...All-state selection...Recorded over 200 tackles in his prep career with six interceptions. Joshua Willhite, 6-1, 215, TE, Broken Arrow, Okla. / Broken Arrow HS Broken Arrow HS: Recorded 40 receptions throughout his prep career with six touchdowns. Marquis Williams, 6-1, 160, WR, Wichita, Kan. / Sunrise Christian Academy Sunrise Christian Academy: Two-time all-state selection both on offense and defense. Transfers Carson Arndt, 6-0, 170, K, Wichita, Kan. / Butler (Kan.) CC Blake Batarse, 6-0, 185, WR, Simi Valley, Calif. / Moorpark College Arundel Briggs, 6-2, 310, OL, Waxahachie, Texas / Prairie View A&amp;M Manuel Chavez, 6-1, 230, LB, Leoti, Kan. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Sean Delaughter, 5-9, 160, WR, Miami, Fla. / Upper Iowa University Travis Dixon, 5-10, 220, RB, Hollywood, Fla. / Garden City (Kan.) CC Seth Falley, 6-4, 295, OL, Haysville, Kan. / Middle Tennessee State Sloan Hayden, 6-4, 240, TE, Ulysses, Kan. / Hutchinson (Kan.) CC Jayden Horace, 6-1, 170, WR, Tampa, Fla. / Allen University Donnell Johnson III, 6-2, 310, DL, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. / Florida International University John Thomas Jones, 6-3, 240, TE, Devers, Texas / Butler (Kan.) CC Solomon MacFoy, 5-11, 175, DB, Tyler, Texas / Midwestern State University Hosia Stokes, 5-9, 175, WR, Adelanto, Calif. / Victor Valley College Benyon Williams, 5-9, 175, DB, Tampa, Fla. / North Carolina Wesleyan

🏈 FHSU signs 53 on National Signing Day

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 21 and 27.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County fell to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported. Trego, Gove, Thomas and Rawlins county were listed in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675286240043.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 21 and 27.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County fell to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported. Trego, Gove, Thomas and Rawlins county were listed in the high-incidence category. (See map below).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 8,367 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675286299411.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

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