STOCKTON - The TMP Lady Monarchs used a pair of big runs to
build an early lead and then held off a late comeback effort from Norton on their way to a 46-34 victory Thursday in the MCL tournament consolation
semifinals in Stockton.

The Monarchs (5-5, 2-1 MCL) scored the games first seven points and after
Norton answered with a 6-0 run, Julianna Baalman gave the Monarchs a 9-7 lead
at the end of the first quarter. Baalman scored 10 of her game and career-high 13
points in the first half.

The Baalman field goal and a three-point play by Hannah Garcia
helped spark the Monarchs on a 10-2 run to end the first and open the second quarter, putting TMP up
17-8.

Norton (5-6, 3-3 MCL) briefly closed within six at 18-12 but TMP outscored
Norton 11-0 to end the first half for a 29-17 halftime lead.

Norton cut the TMP lead to 10 with seven straight points to
open the second half but back-to-back field goals from sisters Graycn and
Claire Schippers put TMP back up 14 at 33-19. Brooke Koenigsman and Jaci
VonLintel each connected on a three pointer to end the third quarter putting
TMP up 39-26 through three.

Baalman added a three pointer to open the fourth quarter
before Norton was able to close within 10 but a pair of Garcia free throws gave
TMP the 46-34 victory.

Julianna Baalman led all scorers with 13 points and added
six rebounds. Jaci VonLintel added 11 points and six rebounds. 

TMP will face Trego in Saturday’s fifth place game in WaKeeney.
Tipoff is set for 10 a.m.

STOCKTON - The TMP Lady Monarchs used a pair of big runs to
build an early lead and then held off a late comeback effort from Norton on their way to a 46-34 victory Thursday in the MCL tournament consolation
semifinals in Stockton.<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/1428309778&color=%23294b71&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-814667509/01-19-23-tmp-coach-interview" title="01 - 19 - 23 TMP Coach Rose McFarland" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 19 - 23 TMP Coach Rose McFarland</a></div></div>The Monarchs (5-5, 2-1 MCL) scored the games first seven points and after
Norton answered with a 6-0 run, Julianna Baalman gave the Monarchs a 9-7 lead
at the end of the first quarter. Baalman scored 10 of her game and career-high 13
points in the first half.The Baalman field goal and a three-point play by Hannah Garcia
helped spark the Monarchs on a 10-2 run to end the first and open the second quarter, putting TMP up
17-8.Norton (5-6, 3-3 MCL) briefly closed within six at 18-12 but TMP outscored
Norton 11-0 to end the first half for a 29-17 halftime lead.Norton cut the TMP lead to 10 with seven straight points to
open the second half but back-to-back field goals from sisters Graycn and
Claire Schippers put TMP back up 14 at 33-19. Brooke Koenigsman and Jaci
VonLintel each connected on a three pointer to end the third quarter putting
TMP up 39-26 through three.Baalman added a three pointer to open the fourth quarter
before Norton was able to close within 10 but a pair of Garcia free throws gave
TMP the 46-34 victory.<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/1428309850&color=%23294b71&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-814667509/01-19-23-tmp-wbkb-vs-norton-highlights" title="01 - 19 - 23 TMP WBKB Vs Norton Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 19 - 23 TMP WBKB Vs Norton Highlights</a></div></div>Julianna Baalman led all scorers with 13 points and added
six rebounds. Jaci VonLintel added 11 points and six rebounds. TMP will face Trego in Saturday’s fifth place game in WaKeeney.
Tipoff is set for 10 a.m.

🏀 TMP girls beat Norton at MCL tournament

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Dodge Durango driven by Destiny Star Barrett, 43, Goodland, was southbound on Kansas 27 ten miles north of Goodland.

When the driver attempted to make a left turn onto County Road 74, a northbound Freightliner semi driven by Reynaldo&nbsp;Gonzalez, 32, Manassas Park, Virginia,&nbsp; struck the SUV.

EMS transported Barrett to the hospital in Goodland. Gonzalez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Dodge Durango driven by Destiny Star Barrett, 43, Goodland, was southbound on Kansas 27 ten miles north of Goodland.When the driver attempted to make a left turn onto County Road 74, a northbound Freightliner semi driven by Reynaldo&nbsp;Gonzalez, 32, Manassas Park, Virginia,&nbsp; struck the SUV.EMS transported Barrett to the hospital in Goodland. Gonzalez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas woman hospitalized after crash with a semi

Indian Call Spirit Week is Feb. 6-10. The crowning will take place at the halftime of the boys' basketball game on Feb. 10.

The dance will be from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at Hays High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674144103851.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedIndian Call Spirit Week is Feb. 6-10. The crowning will take place at the halftime of the boys' basketball game on Feb. 10.The dance will be from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at Hays High School.

Hays High Indian Call candidates announced

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a> has raised about $330,000 of its $370,000 goal as its campaign nears its close at the end of January.

Erica Berges, United Way director, said she hopes the campaign will raise at least $350,000, which was the amount the agency raised last year. United Way increased its goal by $20,000 this year.

Berges said the agency's Care Council is reviewing applications for 16 programs and will make decisions on funding levels in February.

She said hopes funding will not need to be cut to any agencies as all of the nonprofits United Way funds are reporting increased costs largely due to inflation.

"I know it has been a tough year for everybody with rising costs," Berges said, "but it's affecting the agencies too."

The United Way board is reviewing its reserves to determine if some of those funds should be released this year to help fund agencies, Berges said.

"For the past year we have been looking into our reserves," Berges said. "We feel like we need to spend these down. There's no reason they are hanging out in a bank account when they need to go to agencies."

The United Way and Heartland Community Foundation will have a joint taco fundraiser at Thirsty's.

A free taco/nacho bar will be offered from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13 at the Venue, 2704 Vine, Hays. Freewill donations will be taken. Proceeds will be split between the two nonprofits.

Berges said the United Way board has not decided if the funds raised from this event will go toward the current campaign or the campaign beginning this fall. She said it may depend how close United Way is to its goal at the end of January.

The event also will have a raffle. If you wish to donate an item to that raffle , you can contact the United Way at 785-628-8281.

Donors still have time to send in funds or make pledges to the campaign, Berges said. Donors can give in a variety of ways.

They can go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way website</a>&nbsp;and click on the donate button. One-time donations, monthly donations or purchase round-up options are available.

The round-up option automatically rounds up your purchases to the next dollar and transfers the change to United Way as a donation. Donors can set a maximum amount they wish to donate in this manner.

United Way also accepts donations through Venmo at @United-Way-of-Ellis-County.

You can bring a check in person to the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, Hays. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 367, Hays, KS 67601.

You also can follow United Way on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unitedwayofelliscounty">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583773307948.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a> has raised about $330,000 of its $370,000 goal as its campaign nears its close at the end of January.Erica Berges, United Way director, said she hopes the campaign will raise at least $350,000, which was the amount the agency raised last year. United Way increased its goal by $20,000 this year.Berges said the agency's Care Council is reviewing applications for 16 programs and will make decisions on funding levels in February.She said hopes funding will not need to be cut to any agencies as all of the nonprofits United Way funds are reporting increased costs largely due to inflation."I know it has been a tough year for everybody with rising costs," Berges said, "but it's affecting the agencies too."The United Way board is reviewing its reserves to determine if some of those funds should be released this year to help fund agencies, Berges said."For the past year we have been looking into our reserves," Berges said. "We feel like we need to spend these down. There's no reason they are hanging out in a bank account when they need to go to agencies."<h2>Taco fundraiser</h2>The United Way and Heartland Community Foundation will have a joint taco fundraiser at Thirsty's.A free taco/nacho bar will be offered from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13 at the Venue, 2704 Vine, Hays. Freewill donations will be taken. Proceeds will be split between the two nonprofits.Berges said the United Way board has not decided if the funds raised from this event will go toward the current campaign or the campaign beginning this fall. She said it may depend how close United Way is to its goal at the end of January.The event also will have a raffle. If you wish to donate an item to that raffle , you can contact the United Way at 785-628-8281.<h2>How to donate</h2>Donors still have time to send in funds or make pledges to the campaign, Berges said. Donors can give in a variety of ways.They can go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way website</a>&nbsp;and click on the donate button. One-time donations, monthly donations or purchase round-up options are available.The round-up option automatically rounds up your purchases to the next dollar and transfers the change to United Way as a donation. Donors can set a maximum amount they wish to donate in this manner.United Way also accepts donations through Venmo at @United-Way-of-Ellis-County.You can bring a check in person to the United Way office at 1200 Main, Ste. 102, Hays. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 367, Hays, KS 67601.You also can follow United Way on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unitedwayofelliscounty">Facebook</a>.Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

United Way way short of goal, still time to donate

I like to start my day reading “Light’s Daily Dose.”&nbsp;Author Light Watkins’&nbsp;daily&nbsp;message is short and impactful. The other day, as I was thinking about new year’s resolutions&nbsp;– the hopes&nbsp;and aspirations&nbsp;for each new year.&nbsp;I was&nbsp;inspired&nbsp;by&nbsp;a&nbsp;Light’s&nbsp;Daily Dose&nbsp;email&nbsp;entitled, “Be that person.”

It begins with Light sharing a tweet from an author named Clint Smith. It said, “One of the reasons I’m a writer today is because I had a&nbsp;teacher in&nbsp;third-&nbsp;grade who looked at my poem about clouds&nbsp;and said, “you can be a writer when you grow up.” Powerful words of inspiration and aspiration.

I smiled and thought&nbsp;immediately about the people&nbsp;in my life who encouraged&nbsp;me. And I thoughtabout the truly remarkable ethic of care that guides this university. It is exactly why our strategic plan is named “Unlocking Untapped Potential.”&nbsp;

Take,&nbsp;for example,&nbsp;this letter written to a freshman seminar instructor by Logan – a May 2018 graduate. And I know in my heart the&nbsp;inspiring message that was the&nbsp;essence of this letter could have been written to anyone at Fort Hays State&nbsp;University:

I just wanted to reach out to let you know that I am doing well. My life is busier and fuller than I ever could have imagined. And through it all, I have never forgotten what you did for me. During freshman seminar, we took a self-evaluation quiz. Afterwards, I met with you in your office, where we learned that the evaluation gave me a 25% chance of ever earning a college degree. I was devastated. Until I heard your response: ‘That’s a bunch of BS.’&nbsp;

Those words gave me motivation like you wouldn’t believe. You gave me confidence that I could actually graduate. You even gave me a graduation tassel to keep me focused on that goal.&nbsp;This past May, I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, a minor in Business Administration, and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems.

I never thought I would be half as successful as I have already been, and each time I achieve something new in my career, the first thing I think of is my time at FHSU, sitting in your office, scared that I would never graduate. I think of the motivation and confidence you provided that put me in the position I am in today. That graduation tassel still hangs on my wall as a reminder of all the opportunities I had because you invested in me. &nbsp;

Hearing these testimonies to our university’s&nbsp;ethic of care never gets old. I savor each remarkable&nbsp;story&nbsp;as my heart basks in gratitude for this community&nbsp;and&nbsp;our&nbsp;relentless&nbsp;focus on&nbsp;creating a&nbsp;university&nbsp;with a level of personalized care that connects deeply and sincerely&nbsp;and seeks to lift others&nbsp;up.

As Light wrote, “the world is full of folks discouraging, criticizing, and snuffing out dreams and hopes in the name of being realistic. But it can always use more people who encourage and inspire.”&nbsp;

I cannot think of a better way to lead forward into 2023 than to&nbsp;resolve to&nbsp;be a force for good&nbsp;in the lives of&nbsp;all who cross our paths&nbsp;this year.&nbsp;Won’t you join me to be that person for someone today?

<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>I like to start my day reading “Light’s Daily Dose.”&nbsp;Author Light Watkins’&nbsp;daily&nbsp;message is short and impactful. The other day, as I was thinking about new year’s resolutions&nbsp;– the hopes&nbsp;and aspirations&nbsp;for each new year.&nbsp;I was&nbsp;inspired&nbsp;by&nbsp;a&nbsp;Light’s&nbsp;Daily Dose&nbsp;email&nbsp;entitled, “Be that person.”It begins with Light sharing a tweet from an author named Clint Smith. It said, “One of the reasons I’m a writer today is because I had a&nbsp;teacher in&nbsp;third-&nbsp;grade who looked at my poem about clouds&nbsp;and said, “you can be a writer when you grow up.” Powerful words of inspiration and aspiration.I smiled and thought&nbsp;immediately about the people&nbsp;in my life who encouraged&nbsp;me. And I thoughtabout the truly remarkable ethic of care that guides this university. It is exactly why our strategic plan is named “Unlocking Untapped Potential.”&nbsp;Take,&nbsp;for example,&nbsp;this letter written to a freshman seminar instructor by Logan – a May 2018 graduate. And I know in my heart the&nbsp;inspiring message that was the&nbsp;essence of this letter could have been written to anyone at Fort Hays State&nbsp;University:I just wanted to reach out to let you know that I am doing well. My life is busier and fuller than I ever could have imagined. And through it all, I have never forgotten what you did for me. During freshman seminar, we took a self-evaluation quiz. Afterwards, I met with you in your office, where we learned that the evaluation gave me a 25% chance of ever earning a college degree. I was devastated. Until I heard your response: ‘That’s a bunch of BS.’&nbsp;Those words gave me motivation like you wouldn’t believe. You gave me confidence that I could actually graduate. You even gave me a graduation tassel to keep me focused on that goal.&nbsp;This past May, I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, a minor in Business Administration, and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems.I never thought I would be half as successful as I have already been, and each time I achieve something new in my career, the first thing I think of is my time at FHSU, sitting in your office, scared that I would never graduate. I think of the motivation and confidence you provided that put me in the position I am in today. That graduation tassel still hangs on my wall as a reminder of all the opportunities I had because you invested in me. &nbsp;Hearing these testimonies to our university’s&nbsp;ethic of care never gets old. I savor each remarkable&nbsp;story&nbsp;as my heart basks in gratitude for this community&nbsp;and&nbsp;our&nbsp;relentless&nbsp;focus on&nbsp;creating a&nbsp;university&nbsp;with a level of personalized care that connects deeply and sincerely&nbsp;and seeks to lift others&nbsp;up.As Light wrote, “the world is full of folks discouraging, criticizing, and snuffing out dreams and hopes in the name of being realistic. But it can always use more people who encourage and inspire.”&nbsp;I cannot think of a better way to lead forward into 2023 than to&nbsp;resolve to&nbsp;be a force for good&nbsp;in the lives of&nbsp;all who cross our paths&nbsp;this year.&nbsp;Won’t you join me to be that person for someone today?

Heart of a Tiger: Be that person

A winter storm watch is in effect for much of western Kansas as another round of wintry weather is expected to arrive late Friday.

Ellis County is to the east of the watch area.

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is expecting rain to turn into snow late Friday, with the potential for several inches of snow across western Kansas.

In Hays, there is a 40 percent chance of snow Friday night, increasing to 70 percent Saturday. The chance of snow tapers Saturday night before skies clear Sunday. There is another slight chance of snow Sunday night into Monday.

The K-State Ag Research Center reported 0.06 inches of moisture from rain and snow Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674144403382.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA winter storm watch is in effect for much of western Kansas as another round of wintry weather is expected to arrive late Friday.Ellis County is to the east of the watch area.The National Weather Service in Dodge City is expecting rain to turn into snow late Friday, with the potential for several inches of snow across western Kansas.In Hays, there is a 40 percent chance of snow Friday night, increasing to 70 percent Saturday. The chance of snow tapers Saturday night before skies clear Sunday. There is another slight chance of snow Sunday night into Monday.The K-State Ag Research Center reported 0.06 inches of moisture from rain and snow Wednesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A winter storm watch is in effect for the weekend. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSWX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSWX</a> <a href="https://t.co/bUIYMWEQTI">pic.twitter.com/bUIYMWEQTI</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1616091152020824068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another winter storm is set to impact the area Friday night and Saturday. Highest amounts for this storm are expected along and south of Interstate 70. <a href="https://t.co/ginJ9O2uCS">pic.twitter.com/ginJ9O2uCS</a>&mdash; NWS Goodland (@NWSGoodland) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGoodland/status/1616034827274420226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Another round of snow expected in western Kansas this weekend

A formal affiliation between&nbsp;Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College and Northwest Kansas Technical College was unanimously approved at yesterday’s Kansas Board of Regents meeting.&nbsp;

Rural higher education institutions have long been beacons of opportunity and drivers of economic prosperity in Kansas. However, today and in the coming years, our communities in rural Kansas face significant demographic and economic challenges, including:

• A decline in the number of college-bound students in rural Kansas:&nbsp;According to a 2018 report titledDemographics and the Demand for Higher Education,&nbsp;Kansas will see a 15% drop in college-going students by 2029 and a matching drop in two-year college-bound students.

• A shrinking rural population:&nbsp;Experts from the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State forecast a 33%&nbsp;decline in rural populations in Kansas by 2064.

• An aging workforce:&nbsp;According to statistics from the Administration on Aging,&nbsp;more than one-half-million people in Kansas are over 60. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that nearly 25 percent of the state’s population will be 60 or older by 2030.

The economic impact of these demographic changes is, unfortunately, straightforward: a declining workforce means a declining economy.

On behalf of her two colleagues, Northwest Tech President Ben Schears and NCK Tech President Eric Burks, FHSU President Tisa Mason thanked the Kansas Board of Regents and the governing boards of the two technical colleges, stating:

Since we first began discussing this strategic opportunity, our inspiration has always been our shared commitment to what we refer to as our “true north,” serving the students, communities, and businesses of rural Kansas. Today, as we begin to move through the affiliation process, each of us is very appreciative that our three governing boards have entrusted us with the charge of aligning our efforts to delivering solutions that contribute to economic prosperity in rural western Kansas.

The three institutions have&nbsp;identified several academic and administrative pilots they will use as proof-of-concept platforms to test ideas and identify best practices before moving to full implementation. The first three academic pilots will focus on agriculture, construction, and nursing. The first administrative pilots will focus on admissions, marketing, advising, general education, transfer processes, and inter-institutional registrar functions. Additional administrative pilots will look at procurement and the creation of an information technology study group.&nbsp;

The presidents expect several organizational changes to result from this affiliation. The two technical college presidents will report to the FHSU president under the authority of the Kansas Board of Regents. All other employees will remain with their respective institutions. The two governing bodies of the tech colleges will become primarily advisory. One change will likely include a new naming convention for the two technical colleges. NWKTC is expected to become Fort Hays State University-Northwest Tech, and NCKTC is expected to become Fort Hays State University-NCK Tech.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Several things are not expected to change. All three presidents will continue to lead their institutions.&nbsp;There will be no effort aimed at&nbsp;closing any campus or reducing funding eligibility. They will also not seek to disrupt the core mission of any one institution, and the three presidents have no intention of moving forward in a manner that disadvantages any of the partners. Finally, each institution will retain its respective Department of Education ID and related funding structure, and individual High Learning Commission accreditations will remain in place for each institution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Board of Regents Chair Jon Rolph sees this initiative as a bold step forward, stating:

"The affiliation between Fort Hays State, NCK Tech, and Northwest Tech will benefit Kansas students, small businesses, and communities. The Legislature has been a great partner and helped us implement projects that leverage our system’s potential to build the talent pipeline and grow the economy. The Regents look forward to working with these institutions to advance this affiliation."

Presidents Mason, Schears, and Burks also look forward to the next steps in the process. “Our communities need bold solutions that address the genuine challenges we face today. This affiliation will position us well to deliver for our students and communities,” said Schears.

President Burks shared the group’s commitment to working collaboratively as the initiative begins to take shape, stating, “This initiative will soon be in the hands of the professionals at each of our institutions, those most familiar with our most essential operations who will ultimately drive the development and implementation of our final affiliation plan.”

The next step involves presenting the affiliation plan to the Kansas Legislature within the next several weeks. Once in place,&nbsp;this formal affiliation will allow the parties to move beyond current collaborations and into a true strategic partnership, enabling the institutions to proceed with delivering on the affiliation’s vision and goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674150777174.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsA formal affiliation between&nbsp;Fort Hays State University, North Central Kansas Technical College and Northwest Kansas Technical College was unanimously approved at yesterday’s Kansas Board of Regents meeting.&nbsp;Rural higher education institutions have long been beacons of opportunity and drivers of economic prosperity in Kansas. However, today and in the coming years, our communities in rural Kansas face significant demographic and economic challenges, including:• A decline in the number of college-bound students in rural Kansas:&nbsp;According to a 2018 report titledDemographics and the Demand for Higher Education,&nbsp;Kansas will see a 15% drop in college-going students by 2029 and a matching drop in two-year college-bound students.• A shrinking rural population:&nbsp;Experts from the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State forecast a 33%&nbsp;decline in rural populations in Kansas by 2064.• An aging workforce:&nbsp;According to statistics from the Administration on Aging,&nbsp;more than one-half-million people in Kansas are over 60. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that nearly 25 percent of the state’s population will be 60 or older by 2030.The economic impact of these demographic changes is, unfortunately, straightforward: a declining workforce means a declining economy.On behalf of her two colleagues, Northwest Tech President Ben Schears and NCK Tech President Eric Burks, FHSU President Tisa Mason thanked the Kansas Board of Regents and the governing boards of the two technical colleges, stating:Since we first began discussing this strategic opportunity, our inspiration has always been our shared commitment to what we refer to as our “true north,” serving the students, communities, and businesses of rural Kansas. Today, as we begin to move through the affiliation process, each of us is very appreciative that our three governing boards have entrusted us with the charge of aligning our efforts to delivering solutions that contribute to economic prosperity in rural western Kansas.The three institutions have&nbsp;identified several academic and administrative pilots they will use as proof-of-concept platforms to test ideas and identify best practices before moving to full implementation. The first three academic pilots will focus on agriculture, construction, and nursing. The first administrative pilots will focus on admissions, marketing, advising, general education, transfer processes, and inter-institutional registrar functions. Additional administrative pilots will look at procurement and the creation of an information technology study group.&nbsp;The presidents expect several organizational changes to result from this affiliation. The two technical college presidents will report to the FHSU president under the authority of the Kansas Board of Regents. All other employees will remain with their respective institutions. The two governing bodies of the tech colleges will become primarily advisory. One change will likely include a new naming convention for the two technical colleges. NWKTC is expected to become Fort Hays State University-Northwest Tech, and NCKTC is expected to become Fort Hays State University-NCK Tech.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several things are not expected to change. All three presidents will continue to lead their institutions.&nbsp;There will be no effort aimed at&nbsp;closing any campus or reducing funding eligibility. They will also not seek to disrupt the core mission of any one institution, and the three presidents have no intention of moving forward in a manner that disadvantages any of the partners. Finally, each institution will retain its respective Department of Education ID and related funding structure, and individual High Learning Commission accreditations will remain in place for each institution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Board of Regents Chair Jon Rolph sees this initiative as a bold step forward, stating:"The affiliation between Fort Hays State, NCK Tech, and Northwest Tech will benefit Kansas students, small businesses, and communities. The Legislature has been a great partner and helped us implement projects that leverage our system’s potential to build the talent pipeline and grow the economy. The Regents look forward to working with these institutions to advance this affiliation."Presidents Mason, Schears, and Burks also look forward to the next steps in the process. “Our communities need bold solutions that address the genuine challenges we face today. This affiliation will position us well to deliver for our students and communities,” said Schears.President Burks shared the group’s commitment to working collaboratively as the initiative begins to take shape, stating, “This initiative will soon be in the hands of the professionals at each of our institutions, those most familiar with our most essential operations who will ultimately drive the development and implementation of our final affiliation plan.”The next step involves presenting the affiliation plan to the Kansas Legislature within the next several weeks. Once in place,&nbsp;this formal affiliation will allow the parties to move beyond current collaborations and into a true strategic partnership, enabling the institutions to proceed with delivering on the affiliation’s vision and goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Regents OK FHSU, NCK Tech, Northwest Tech affiliation agreement

Nex-Tech projects will be in Decatur, Saline counties

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly announced Thursday that $44.5 million will be awarded to nine service providers to extend high-speed internet to 18,468 locations in 15 underserved counties across the state. This is the third and final award phase of the Kansas Capital Project Funds Broadband Infrastructure Program.&nbsp;

The CPF program provides funding to make broadband connections in critical areas of the state that lack access to high-speed internet. The $83.5 million total CPF investment, combined with almost $42 million in matching funds, will result in more than 24,500 homes, businesses, schools, health care facilities, and other public institutions being connected to fast, reliable internet for the first time.&nbsp;

“The Capital Projects Fund represents a giant step toward getting every Kansan connected to high-speed internet,” Kelly said. “With this funding, we’re closer than ever to reaching our goal of making Kansas a top 10 state for broadband access by 2030.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The targeted counties have as few as five locations per square mile, which until now has prevented providers from investing the resources needed to deliver a quality broadband option. The CPF Grant Program provides the funding needed to implement high-speed broadband in these areas of the state. &nbsp;

“The CPF program is a historic win for the state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through this grant program, we are supporting Kansans most in need by connecting the unserved, underserved, and those located in counties with high economic risk.”&nbsp;

Demonstrating the need and critical nature of the program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development received 141 applications for projects totaling more than $600 million. A total of 24 projects were funded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We appreciate the support the providers and local governments are committing to ensure that all Kansans have equitable access to affordable high-speed internet,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, Broadband Development Director. “Supporting unserved and underserved communities across the state will continue to bridge the gap and provide a key resource for generations to come.”&nbsp;

The grant program resulted from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s approval of Kansas’ Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund broadband infrastructure plan. The federal CPF program is a $10 billion capital project initiative available to states, territories, and tribal governments under the American Rescue Plan Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grant awardees and communities that will benefit from the third phase of the Kansas CPF Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program include:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664811194934.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Nex-Tech projects will be in Decatur, Saline counties</h2>News releaseTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Gov. Laura Kelly announced Thursday that $44.5 million will be awarded to nine service providers to extend high-speed internet to 18,468 locations in 15 underserved counties across the state. This is the third and final award phase of the Kansas Capital Project Funds Broadband Infrastructure Program.&nbsp;The CPF program provides funding to make broadband connections in critical areas of the state that lack access to high-speed internet. The $83.5 million total CPF investment, combined with almost $42 million in matching funds, will result in more than 24,500 homes, businesses, schools, health care facilities, and other public institutions being connected to fast, reliable internet for the first time.&nbsp;“The Capital Projects Fund represents a giant step toward getting every Kansan connected to high-speed internet,” Kelly said. “With this funding, we’re closer than ever to reaching our goal of making Kansas a top 10 state for broadband access by 2030.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The targeted counties have as few as five locations per square mile, which until now has prevented providers from investing the resources needed to deliver a quality broadband option. The CPF Grant Program provides the funding needed to implement high-speed broadband in these areas of the state. &nbsp;“The CPF program is a historic win for the state,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through this grant program, we are supporting Kansans most in need by connecting the unserved, underserved, and those located in counties with high economic risk.”&nbsp;Demonstrating the need and critical nature of the program, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development received 141 applications for projects totaling more than $600 million. A total of 24 projects were funded.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We appreciate the support the providers and local governments are committing to ensure that all Kansans have equitable access to affordable high-speed internet,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, Broadband Development Director. “Supporting unserved and underserved communities across the state will continue to bridge the gap and provide a key resource for generations to come.”&nbsp;The grant program resulted from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s approval of Kansas’ Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund broadband infrastructure plan. The federal CPF program is a $10 billion capital project initiative available to states, territories, and tribal governments under the American Rescue Plan Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grant awardees and communities that will benefit from the third phase of the Kansas CPF Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program include:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>AT&amp;T (Sedgwick County) – $2,206,491&nbsp;&nbsp;The proposed service area is 99% unserved on the fringes of the Wichita metro area, targeting multi-dwelling unit properties. The project will offer a subsidy to assist with discounted broadband services.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Butler Rural Electric Cooperative Association (Butler, Cowley, Sedgwick, and Sumner counties) – $9,815,894&nbsp;&nbsp;The multi-county region targeted is 83% unserved, and 50% of the area is located in an economically disadvantaged county. This significant investment will bring connectivity to south-central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Cox Communications (Jackson, Shawnee, and Wabaunsee counties) – $6,373,948&nbsp;&nbsp;This multi-county project is 100% unserved. To connect these rural areas northwest of Topeka, Cox will use an affordable, scalable solution already deployed in the KC metro region.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Cunningham Communications (Mitchell County) – $1,192,735&nbsp;&nbsp;Hundreds of residences and businesses in this 98% unserved area will be positively impacted by the Fiber To The Home network that will be provided by Cunningham Communications.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>GBT Rural (Pawnee and Stafford counties) – $6,782,694&nbsp;&nbsp;More than 365 square miles of an economically distressed area with a 92% unserved population will be covered by GBT Rural.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Iowa Tribe (Doniphan County) – $1,424,945&nbsp;&nbsp;This very rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged area in the northeast corner of Kansas is 91% unserved. The project will be based on a partnership between the Iowa Tribe, Doniphan County, Rainbow Telecommunications, and the City of White Cloud.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Mokan Dial (Miami County) – $5,590,145&nbsp;&nbsp;The 65-square-mile project area is 97% unserved. Mokan Dial will ensure symmetrical speeds up to 1G will be available and affordable to everyone in the targeted region.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Nex-Tech (Decatur and Saline counties) – $10,764,700&nbsp;&nbsp;Two separate project areas servicing a 99% unserved area of Saline County and a 93% unserved area of Decatur County. These awards will allow Nex-Tech to build the necessary infrastructure required to reach these rural areas.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>WANRack (Johnson County) – $400,000&nbsp;This award will target a 100% unserved area of Johnson County. WANRack’s project will enable Kansans to participate in telehealth, remote work, educational opportunities, and the digital economy.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Nex-Tech awarded $10.7M in state broadband funding

Cedric Durr took first place in the 14U-15U age division of Keeper Wars U.S. Ink’s City Tour last month in Wichita.

That qualified the Hays goalkeeper for this summer’s U.S. Youth Soccer Keeper Wars National Championships in Orlando, Fla., for a second straight year.

The age-division winners at each City Tour competition automatically qualify for nationals, while the second- and third-place finishers are placed on a waiting list.

Durr had placed third in a City Tour event in Omaha, Neb., in November to make the waiting list. Then, with his first-place finish at the Wichita City Tour, he assured himself of a return trip to nationals.

At last year’s national championships, Durr made it all the way to the final four of the 12U-13U age division.

Knowing he would be moving up to the older age division this year after turning 13 in August, Durr has trained since the 2022 national competition with a larger ball, larger goals and on a larger field to prepare for this year’s competition.

With a trip to nationals secured, Durr — an eighth-grader at Hays Middle School — now can concentrate on preparing for his final soccer season at HMS this spring, which will begin in March.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673993088561.jpeg" alt="Hays goalie Cedric Durr, left, with Keeper Wars Ink CEO and co-founder Casey Clark. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Hays goalie Cedric Durr, left, with Keeper Wars Ink CEO and co-founder Casey Clark. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostCedric Durr took first place in the 14U-15U age division of Keeper Wars U.S. Ink’s City Tour last month in Wichita.That qualified the Hays goalkeeper for this summer’s U.S. Youth Soccer Keeper Wars National Championships in Orlando, Fla., for a second straight year.The age-division winners at each City Tour competition automatically qualify for nationals, while the second- and third-place finishers are placed on a waiting list.Durr had placed third in a City Tour event in Omaha, Neb., in November to make the waiting list. Then, with his first-place finish at the Wichita City Tour, he assured himself of a return trip to nationals.At last year’s national championships, Durr made it all the way to the final four of the 12U-13U age division.Knowing he would be moving up to the older age division this year after turning 13 in August, Durr has trained since the 2022 national competition with a larger ball, larger goals and on a larger field to prepare for this year’s competition.With a trip to nationals secured, Durr — an eighth-grader at Hays Middle School — now can concentrate on preparing for his final soccer season at HMS this spring, which will begin in March.

⚽ Hays goalie qualifies for nationals again

The start of a new year is always a good time to ask the question, “How are we doing?” The "we" here is K-State Research and Extension. Officials with a statewide network that has provided unbiased, research-based information on issues important to Kansans for 108 years are reaching out to learn more about how the organization can best serve residents of the state.

K-State Research and Extension has released a public survey to ask current and prospective users about the information needs. Gregg Hadley, director of extension, said the brief survey will inform the organization’s&nbsp;efforts to provide education and information in every Kansas county.&nbsp;

“The services we provide are designed to improve Kansans’ lives and communities through education and engagement,” Hadley said. The results of this survey will help our dedicated extension specialists, agents and researchers provide information and assistance that best meet the needs of our K-State Research and Extension users.&nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension has offices in every Kansas county, including extension agents and others who provide information and programs specific to local needs.

Any Kansas resident over age 18 is eligible to take the survey in English&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ST2ZLM5">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ST2ZLM5</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;or Spanish &nbsp;<a href="http://www,surveymonkey.com/r/SRH9W59">http://www,surveymonkey.com/r/SRH9W59</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;New Boston Creative Group LLC of Manhattan is conducting the survey.

I hope many of you who are reading this will take a few minutes and go to the survey link and complete it. We want to hear from you!&nbsp;Questions regarding the survey can be directed to Jerry Grasso, director of communications solutions for K-State Research and Extension at 785-532-5806 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jerry.grasso@ksu.edu">jerry.grasso@ksu.edu</a>

Retirement Celebration is set for Kansas Day​

It seems fitting that as my Extension career winds down and I begin the next chapter that we have a celebration on Kansas Day. Plus,&nbsp;it works well for some of my family to join me for the day.&nbsp;I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with so many people within our communities. You have made my Extension career&nbsp;satisfying and full of wonderful memories. The come and go celebration is set for Sunday, the 29th, from 1-3 PM at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th.&nbsp;I’m working on a photo display that&nbsp;dates back to&nbsp;the 90’s. If you come by the Activity Center next Sunday, you may even find a photo of yourself!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach Donna at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The start of a new year is always a good time to ask the question, “How are we doing?” The "we" here is K-State Research and Extension. Officials with a statewide network that has provided unbiased, research-based information on issues important to Kansans for 108 years are reaching out to learn more about how the organization can best serve residents of the state.K-State Research and Extension has released a public survey to ask current and prospective users about the information needs. Gregg Hadley, director of extension, said the brief survey will inform the organization’s&nbsp;efforts to provide education and information in every Kansas county.&nbsp;“The services we provide are designed to improve Kansans’ lives and communities through education and engagement,” Hadley said. The results of this survey will help our dedicated extension specialists, agents and researchers provide information and assistance that best meet the needs of our K-State Research and Extension users.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension has offices in every Kansas county, including extension agents and others who provide information and programs specific to local needs.Any Kansas resident over age 18 is eligible to take the survey in English&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ST2ZLM5">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ST2ZLM5</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;or Spanish &nbsp;<a href="http://www,surveymonkey.com/r/SRH9W59">http://www,surveymonkey.com/r/SRH9W59</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;New Boston Creative Group LLC of Manhattan is conducting the survey.I hope many of you who are reading this will take a few minutes and go to the survey link and complete it. We want to hear from you!&nbsp;Questions regarding the survey can be directed to Jerry Grasso, director of communications solutions for K-State Research and Extension at 785-532-5806 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jerry.grasso@ksu.edu">jerry.grasso@ksu.edu</a>Retirement Celebration is set for Kansas Day​It seems fitting that as my Extension career winds down and I begin the next chapter that we have a celebration on Kansas Day. Plus,&nbsp;it works well for some of my family to join me for the day.&nbsp;I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with so many people within our communities. You have made my Extension career&nbsp;satisfying and full of wonderful memories. The come and go celebration is set for Sunday, the 29th, from 1-3 PM at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th.&nbsp;I’m working on a photo display that&nbsp;dates back to&nbsp;the 90’s. If you come by the Activity Center next Sunday, you may even find a photo of yourself!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach Donna at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674143803305.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KRUG: Extension seeks input from Kansas residents

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Another area of north Hays will be a step closer to potential development with the proposed construction of sanitary sewer and water main improvements along 55th Street east of 230th Avenue, and water improvements at 58th Street and 230th Avenue.

City commissioners will hear more about the project and utilities bid award during their work session Thursday afternoon.

The project is in conjunction with Kenny Doonan, the majority property owner in the area, as per a January 2022 annexation agreement of the Doonan Peterbilt property and other tracts of land at the northeast corner of Interstate 70 Exit 157  .

Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, has details, plus a look at the other <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01192023-1390">agenda items</a> for the January 19 meeting.&nbsp;

The work session begins at 4 p.m. Thursday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAnother area of north Hays will be a step closer to potential development with the proposed construction of sanitary sewer and water main improvements along 55th Street east of 230th Avenue, and water improvements at 58th Street and 230th Avenue.City commissioners will hear more about the project and utilities bid award during their work session Thursday afternoon.The project is in conjunction with Kenny Doonan, the majority property owner in the area, as per a January 2022 annexation agreement of the Doonan Peterbilt property and other tracts of land at the northeast corner of Interstate 70 Exit 157 .Collin Bielser, deputy city manager, has details, plus a look at the other <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01192023-1390">agenda items</a> for the January 19 meeting.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/Ts0iO8TX-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Collin Preview 011923" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The work session begins at 4 p.m. Thursday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

🎥 Hays' utilities extension north of I-70 will ready properties for development

<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/2023/1/1674092556020.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

Grisell Memorial Hospital is now taking applications for RN, LPN and CNA. RNs will need to have ACLS, PALS and TNCC. Classes will be paid if not already certified.

We have day and night shifts available not only on the Acute Care side, but also ISB. We have night shift and weekend differential.

• BCBS Health and Dental • Vision • Pension • Life • And many more.

Apply online at <a href="https://grisellmemorialhospital.org/">grisellmemorialhospital.org</a> or email <a href="mailto:btillitson@grisell.org">btillitson@grisell.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674059180668.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grisell Memorial Hospital is now taking applications for RN, LPN and CNA. RNs will need to have ACLS, PALS and TNCC. Classes will be paid if not already certified.We have day and night shifts available not only on the Acute Care side, but also ISB. We have night shift and weekend differential.We offer wonderful benefits including:• BCBS Health and Dental • Vision • Pension • Life • And many more.Apply online at <a href="https://grisellmemorialhospital.org/">grisellmemorialhospital.org</a> or email <a href="mailto:btillitson@grisell.org">btillitson@grisell.org</a>.

Interstate 70 reopened from Hays to Colorado

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cb714fb2-8cbe-4799-99d2-61588f42570f">UPDATE 8:40 a.m. Thursday: Interstate has been reopened</a>

The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Hays because of winter weather conditions and vehicle crashes in Colorado.

Motorists are reminded to expect an extended closure and postpone westbound travel. Additional closures may be necessary as accommodations and truck parking fill up.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cb714fb2-8cbe-4799-99d2-61588f42570f">UPDATE 8:40 a.m. Thursday: Interstate has been reopened</a>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Hays because of winter weather conditions and vehicle crashes in Colorado.Motorists are reminded to expect an extended closure and postpone westbound travel. Additional closures may be necessary as accommodations and truck parking fill up.For the latest information on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/">www.kandrive.org</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

UPDATE: Interstate 70 closure extends to Hays

THOMAS COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC Sierra driven by Yosvany Jorge&nbsp;Reguera Rodriguez, 40,&nbsp; Hialeah, Florida, was westbound in the right lane on Interstate 70 two miles west of U.S. 83.

A semi passed the pickup. The pickup lost traction, left the roadway to the right and rolled onto its top.

EMS transported a passenger Rafael&nbsp;Gonzalez, 43, Houston, Texas, to the Logan County Hospital.&nbsp;Reguera Rodriguez and a second passenger were not injured. The passengers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674079483738.png" alt="I-70 in Thomas County Wednesday afternoon -image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>I-70 in Thomas County Wednesday afternoon -image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>THOMAS COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC Sierra driven by Yosvany Jorge&nbsp;Reguera Rodriguez, 40,&nbsp; Hialeah, Florida, was westbound in the right lane on Interstate 70 two miles west of U.S. 83.A semi passed the pickup. The pickup lost traction, left the roadway to the right and rolled onto its top.EMS transported a passenger Rafael&nbsp;Gonzalez, 43, Houston, Texas, to the Logan County Hospital.&nbsp;Reguera Rodriguez and a second passenger were not injured. The passengers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

One hospitalized after pickup overturns on I-70 in NW Kansas

The 2022 Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year is staying right here in Hays.

Senior Bryce Salmans announced Wednesday via social media he has committed to Fort Hays State University. In his first season at the position, the defensive standout led the WAC in sacks and tackles for loss last season, while also pulling double-duty at tight end.

“A lot of people simply ran away from his side of the field,” head coach Tony Crough told Hays Post after last season. “I think we found out when we moved him defensive end that he became one of the better ones in the state. He’s really athletic. He’s just one of those kids with some rare skills (he was a member of the track team’s 4×100-meter relay unit).”

Salmans, listed at 6-1, 225 pounds, had 57 tackles in 2022, 27 of those solo.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Committed 🐯 <a href="https://t.co/XJRO9lVvP5">pic.twitter.com/XJRO9lVvP5</a>&mdash; Bryce Salmans (@BryceSalmans) <a href="https://twitter.com/BryceSalmans/status/1615730255645261824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>Hays PostThe 2022 Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year is staying right here in Hays.Senior Bryce Salmans announced Wednesday via social media he has committed to Fort Hays State University. In his first season at the position, the defensive standout led the WAC in sacks and tackles for loss last season, while also pulling double-duty at tight end.“A lot of people simply ran away from his side of the field,” head coach Tony Crough told Hays Post after last season. “I think we found out when we moved him defensive end that he became one of the better ones in the state. He’s really athletic. He’s just one of those kids with some rare skills (he was a member of the track team’s 4×100-meter relay unit).”Salmans, listed at 6-1, 225 pounds, had 57 tackles in 2022, 27 of those solo.

Hays High defensive standout commits to Fort Hays State

Wednesday's winter storm stayed far north and west of the Hays area, bringing some moisture — but not much.

According to initial reports from CoCoRaHS, rainfall reports ranged from about a tenth to a quarter of an inch in Ellis County. The official rainfall report from the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays will be available Thursday.

There is a 60 percent chance of more snow before midnight Wednesday before skies clear Thursday and Friday. Friday night, however, brings a chance for more snowfall, with the National Weather Service in Dodge City reporting a 40 percent chance of snow Friday night and into Saturday.

High temperatures for the remainder of the week will be in the upper-30s to low-40s, with overnight lows in the upper-teens to low-20s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674067373930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wednesday's winter storm stayed far north and west of the Hays area, bringing some moisture — but not much.According to initial reports from CoCoRaHS, rainfall reports ranged from about a tenth to a quarter of an inch in Ellis County. The official rainfall report from the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays will be available Thursday.There is a 60 percent chance of more snow before midnight Wednesday before skies clear Thursday and Friday. Friday night, however, brings a chance for more snowfall, with the National Weather Service in Dodge City reporting a 40 percent chance of snow Friday night and into Saturday.High temperatures for the remainder of the week will be in the upper-30s to low-40s, with overnight lows in the upper-teens to low-20s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The next winter storm is expected to impact our weather Saturday. Computer model tracks with this storm are much further south, which would support widespread accumulating snow Saturday. Stay tuned for updates. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/6kS4LCqP5i">pic.twitter.com/6kS4LCqP5i</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1615620718800293889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Friday brings another chance for snowfall, moisture in Hays area

It's one of the few times the city of Hays has received at least two bids on each of its projects in the annual street maintenance program.

Public Works Director Jesse Rohr is "very pleased" with the bids from 10 contractors for the six project areas in 2023.

City commissioners unanimously approved the recommended low bids during their meeting last week. The total is $1,415,968 which will be funded from the special highway budget.

A seventh project, reconstruction of the Aubel-Bickle Park parking lot, will also be done this year. The cost is $79,795 from the special parks fund.

The selection of work is decided by several factors, Rohr explained to the commission.

"Each year, [public works] staff evaluates the condition of city streets and we develop a maintenance program brought forward to the city commission for your consideration.

"We utilize different tools, such as traffic counts, pavement condition assessments, past maintenance treatments, public input, and our available budget," Rohr said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The primary major rehab project for 2023 is reconstruction of Fort Street from 27th to 29th. Two additional projects are MacArthur from 20th to 22nd and General Hays from Cody to Downing.

Starting about 15 years ago, the city commission decided to dedicate about $1 million a year to street maintenance. Prior to that, less than $200,000 would be spent annually for street improvements, according to Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager.&nbsp;

"That's our job," Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said Friday in an interview on KAYS Radio. "Infrastructure and safety. That's what we're all about.

"You drive in Hays and you just expect the streets to be this way. You get in another community and you wonder, what are they doing with their tax dollars? We have really good streets."

The money Hays uses for street maintenance comes from several sources including gasoline taxes collected and distributed by the state, an allotment from the Kansas Department of Transportation, and cash transferred in from the city general fund.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673372384021.jpeg" alt="Street maintenance projects to be done in Hays during 2023 for a total cost of $1.4 million. (City of Hays document)" />
 <figcaption>Street maintenance projects to be done in Hays during 2023 for a total cost of $1.4 million. (City of Hays document)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's one of the few times the city of Hays has received at least two bids on each of its projects in the annual street maintenance program.Public Works Director Jesse Rohr is "very pleased" with the bids from 10 contractors for the six project areas in 2023.City commissioners unanimously approved the recommended low bids during their meeting last week. The total is $1,415,968 which will be funded from the special highway budget.A seventh project, reconstruction of the Aubel-Bickle Park parking lot, will also be done this year. The cost is $79,795 from the special parks fund.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673893203207.jpeg" alt="Total cost of&nbsp; the this year's street maintenance projects in Hays is $1.4 million to be funded out of the Special Highway budget.&nbsp; Another $79,000 for the Aubel-Bickle Park parking lot will come from the Special Parks fund. (City of Hays document)" />
 <figcaption>Total cost of&nbsp; the this year's street maintenance projects in Hays is $1.4 million to be funded out of the Special Highway budget.&nbsp; Another $79,000 for the Aubel-Bickle Park parking lot will come from the Special Parks fund. (City of Hays document)</figcaption>
 </figure>The selection of work is decided by several factors, Rohr explained to the commission."Each year, [public works] staff evaluates the condition of city streets and we develop a maintenance program brought forward to the city commission for your consideration."We utilize different tools, such as traffic counts, pavement condition assessments, past maintenance treatments, public input, and our available budget," Rohr said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The primary major rehab project for 2023 is reconstruction of Fort Street from 27th to 29th. Two additional projects are MacArthur from 20th to 22nd and General Hays from Cody to Downing.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/EXIWFLhm-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Rohr 23 Street Maintenance" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Starting about 15 years ago, the city commission decided to dedicate about $1 million a year to street maintenance. Prior to that, less than $200,000 would be spent annually for street improvements, according to Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager.&nbsp;"That's our job," Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said Friday in an interview on KAYS Radio. "Infrastructure and safety. That's what we're all about."You drive in Hays and you just expect the streets to be this way. You get in another community and you wonder, what are they doing with their tax dollars? We have really good streets."The money Hays uses for street maintenance comes from several sources including gasoline taxes collected and distributed by the state, an allotment from the Kansas Department of Transportation, and cash transferred in from the city general fund.&nbsp;

🎥 Hays approves $1.4M for 2023 street maintenance program 

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/18/son-sister-of-slain-hays-resident-urge-kansas-house-members-to-amend-estate-law/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Jeremiah Schumacher says
 his father’s abuse of his mother was a staple of the couple’s 40-year 
marriage and only came to a stop when she died at Hays Medical Center 
after sustaining traumatic head injuries.

Karen Schumacher, 60, had obtained from a judge a protection from 
abuse order but her sister Susan Rohr said it was “worthless” in curbing
 violent tendencies of Jay Schumacher, who is awaiting trial on charges 
of first-degree murder, aggravated battery and mistreatment of a 
dependent adult. His actions allegedly led to his wife’s death.

“My dad was never a good man,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “He was 
extremely violent, extremely controlling and very good at hiding what he
 did.”

Jeremiah Schumacher told members of the Kansas House on Tuesday there
 was no doubt in his mind that his father was responsible for his 
mother’s death. He asserted “it was pretty cut and dried, in my 
opinion,” and was clear to others with knowledge of the March 2022 
events leading to her passing.

A judge ordered the couple’s assets divided and a freeze was placed 
on the half that would constitute Karen Schumacher’s estate, but it 
remains possible the accused could end up with that half of property as 
well. His father has continued to spend assets of the estate while 
behind bars of the Ellis County Jail.

“It just doesn’t make any sense. I can’t wrap my head around it,” 
Jeremiah Schumacher told the House Judiciary Committee. “He’s arrested 
for the murder of his spouse. What gives him the right to everything 
free and clear?”

In Kansas, the state’s so-called “slayer” law required a person to be
 convicted of killing an individual or procuring the murder of someone 
before property could be permanently withheld.

He spoke in support of House Bill 2027 introduced by Rep. Barbara 
Wasinger, R-Hays, and Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence. In the interests
 of justice, he said, the state ought to amend statute to prevent 
distribution of a decedent’s assets to a person arrested for or charged 
with felonious killing of the decedent until criminal proceedings were 
completed. Property would be released if charges against the individual 
were dropped or the defendant was acquitted. The current setup leaves a 
gap between the alleged crime and a conviction.

“Even though she was abused for 40 years,” said Rohr, the dead 
mother’s sister. “Terribly abused — verbally, mentally, emotionally — 
and medical neglect … she had a smile on her face.”

She told the House committee a medical examination prior to the death
 revealed her sister had 10 permanent areas of brain damage “equivalent 
to boxers.” She attributed it to consequences of domestic violence.

The bipartisan bill also would specify the district court could 
prohibit the sale, distribution, spending or use of an asset or interest
 by a person who has been arrested for or charged with the felonious 
killing.

James Houston Bale, of the Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense 
Services, said he understood motivation for amending the slayer rule in 
the probate code to allow a court to halt a probate proceeding where an 
heir had been accused of the felonious killing of the decedent. The rule
 serves an important purpose in deterring careless or intentional acts 
leading to the death of a person by which the killer may profit, he 
said.

However, he said the legislative committee of the Board of Indigents’
 Defense Services was concerned about language in the House bill.

“Clarity is important when drafting any statute, but especially 
statutes that interact with criminal proceedings,” Bale said. “Clear 
statutory language insulates the work of the Legislature from future 
questioning by the appellate courts. And for most people in such a 
situation, facing charges before a Kansas court will be one of the most 
serious circumstances they will ever face in their lives. In such a 
critical situation, people value clarity and certainty as to what will 
happen if they choose a course of action, like entering into a plea 
agreement.”

He said the bill was unclear regarding what happened in terms of plea
 agreements because imprecise text could discourage settlement of cases 
because results of such a deal before trial were unclear.

The proposed legislation also could create situations where a person 
who otherwise would have the resources to hire private counsel to 
contest a criminal allegation would need a court-appointed, state-funded
 attorney, Bale said. It was possible someone accused of the death of a 
family member couldn’t rely on an asset they would be set to inherit 
from that estate to fund their defense against the charge, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674060323459.png" alt="Jeremiah Schumacher, son of a Hays woman allegedly murdered by her spouse in 2022, urged Kansas House members to pass a bill preventing the accused of inheriting estate assets of the deceased. Current law forbids a convicted killer of benefitting financially from the estate, but not someone merely charged or arrested for a homicide. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Legislature YouTube channel)" />
 <figcaption>Jeremiah Schumacher, son of a Hays woman allegedly murdered by her spouse in 2022, urged Kansas House members to pass a bill preventing the accused of inheriting estate assets of the deceased. Current law forbids a convicted killer of benefitting financially from the estate, but not someone merely charged or arrested for a homicide. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Legislature YouTube channel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/18/son-sister-of-slain-hays-resident-urge-kansas-house-members-to-amend-estate-law/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Jeremiah Schumacher says
 his father’s abuse of his mother was a staple of the couple’s 40-year 
marriage and only came to a stop when she died at Hays Medical Center 
after sustaining traumatic head injuries.Karen Schumacher, 60, had obtained from a judge a protection from 
abuse order but her sister Susan Rohr said it was “worthless” in curbing
 violent tendencies of Jay Schumacher, who is awaiting trial on charges 
of first-degree murder, aggravated battery and mistreatment of a 
dependent adult. His actions allegedly led to his wife’s death.“My dad was never a good man,” Jeremiah Schumacher said. “He was 
extremely violent, extremely controlling and very good at hiding what he
 did.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674060465360.jpeg" alt="Jay Schumacher / Ellis County photo" />
 <figcaption>Jay Schumacher / Ellis County photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeremiah Schumacher told members of the Kansas House on Tuesday there
 was no doubt in his mind that his father was responsible for his 
mother’s death. He asserted “it was pretty cut and dried, in my 
opinion,” and was clear to others with knowledge of the March 2022 
events leading to her passing.A judge ordered the couple’s assets divided and a freeze was placed 
on the half that would constitute Karen Schumacher’s estate, but it 
remains possible the accused could end up with that half of property as 
well. His father has continued to spend assets of the estate while 
behind bars of the Ellis County Jail.“It just doesn’t make any sense. I can’t wrap my head around it,” 
Jeremiah Schumacher told the House Judiciary Committee. “He’s arrested 
for the murder of his spouse. What gives him the right to everything 
free and clear?”In Kansas, the state’s so-called “slayer” law required a person to be
 convicted of killing an individual or procuring the murder of someone 
before property could be permanently withheld.He spoke in support of House Bill 2027 introduced by Rep. Barbara 
Wasinger, R-Hays, and Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence. In the interests
 of justice, he said, the state ought to amend statute to prevent 
distribution of a decedent’s assets to a person arrested for or charged 
with felonious killing of the decedent until criminal proceedings were 
completed. Property would be released if charges against the individual 
were dropped or the defendant was acquitted. The current setup leaves a 
gap between the alleged crime and a conviction.“Even though she was abused for 40 years,” said Rohr, the dead 
mother’s sister. “Terribly abused — verbally, mentally, emotionally — 
and medical neglect … she had a smile on her face.”She told the House committee a medical examination prior to the death
 revealed her sister had 10 permanent areas of brain damage “equivalent 
to boxers.” She attributed it to consequences of domestic violence.The bipartisan bill also would specify the district court could 
prohibit the sale, distribution, spending or use of an asset or interest
 by a person who has been arrested for or charged with the felonious 
killing.James Houston Bale, of the Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense 
Services, said he understood motivation for amending the slayer rule in 
the probate code to allow a court to halt a probate proceeding where an 
heir had been accused of the felonious killing of the decedent. The rule
 serves an important purpose in deterring careless or intentional acts 
leading to the death of a person by which the killer may profit, he 
said.However, he said the legislative committee of the Board of Indigents’
 Defense Services was concerned about language in the House bill.“Clarity is important when drafting any statute, but especially 
statutes that interact with criminal proceedings,” Bale said. “Clear 
statutory language insulates the work of the Legislature from future 
questioning by the appellate courts. And for most people in such a 
situation, facing charges before a Kansas court will be one of the most 
serious circumstances they will ever face in their lives. In such a 
critical situation, people value clarity and certainty as to what will 
happen if they choose a course of action, like entering into a plea 
agreement.”He said the bill was unclear regarding what happened in terms of plea
 agreements because imprecise text could discourage settlement of cases 
because results of such a deal before trial were unclear.The proposed legislation also could create situations where a person 
who otherwise would have the resources to hire private counsel to 
contest a criminal allegation would need a court-appointed, state-funded
 attorney, Bale said. It was possible someone accused of the death of a 
family member couldn’t rely on an asset they would be set to inherit 
from that estate to fund their defense against the charge, he said.

Son, sister of slain Hays resident urge Kansas House to amend estate law

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 13 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 7 and 13.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County dropped to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported, and no northwest counties were 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 8,339 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674064720614.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 13 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Jan. 7 and 13.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County dropped to the moderate-incidence category, the KDHE reported, and no northwest counties were 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 8,339 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674064827203.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 13 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/17/kansas-legislators-renew-efforts-to-save-ogallala-aquifer/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Saving the Ogallala Aquifer could mean economic trade-offs in the short-term, the chairman of the <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/26/water-debate-will-return-to-kansas-legislature-amid-staggering-drought/">Kansas House Water Committee</a> said Tuesday.

But the state can make progress and still maintain the farming economy of western Kansas, said <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_minnix_jim_1/">Rep. Jim Minnix</a>, R-Scott City.&nbsp;

“If I were a banker … looking at the 
value of agriculture in western Kansas, it makes all kinds of sense to 
me to try to preserve the aquifer to maintain the economy up there for 
as many years as possible,” Minnix said.

Minnix, a farmer and livestock producer, is the newly minted chairman of the House Water Committee, which, last year, <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/01/shooting-themselves-in-the-foot-committee-guts-kansas-bill-to-protect-water/">fell short of passing a sweeping bill overhauling the way Kansas regulates water</a>.

This session, about one-third of the 
committee members are new. And with just more than a month until a major
 legislative deadline, the committee doesn’t have any bills to debate 
yet. Members are still taking in the vast information about the decline 
of the Ogallala Aquifer, sedimentation crisis at the state’s reservoirs,
 and poor water quality in some areas of the state.

When it comes to water issues in 
Kansas, the decades-long decline of the aquifer means legislators have 
to think about long-term solutions, Minnix said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673980777719.png" alt="A center-pivot irrigation system sits idle near Colby in December. Lawmakers are looking for ways to conserve groundwater in parched western Kansas. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>A center-pivot irrigation system sits idle near Colby in December. Lawmakers are looking for ways to conserve groundwater in parched western Kansas. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/17/kansas-legislators-renew-efforts-to-save-ogallala-aquifer/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Saving the Ogallala Aquifer could mean economic trade-offs in the short-term, the chairman of the <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/26/water-debate-will-return-to-kansas-legislature-amid-staggering-drought/">Kansas House Water Committee</a> said Tuesday.But the state can make progress and still maintain the farming economy of western Kansas, said <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_minnix_jim_1/">Rep. Jim Minnix</a>, R-Scott City.&nbsp;“If I were a banker … looking at the 
value of agriculture in western Kansas, it makes all kinds of sense to 
me to try to preserve the aquifer to maintain the economy up there for 
as many years as possible,” Minnix said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673980876806.jpeg" alt="Minnix / Kansas Legislature" />
 <figcaption>Minnix / Kansas Legislature</figcaption>
 </figure>Minnix, a farmer and livestock producer, is the newly minted chairman of the House Water Committee, which, last year, <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/01/shooting-themselves-in-the-foot-committee-guts-kansas-bill-to-protect-water/">fell short of passing a sweeping bill overhauling the way Kansas regulates water</a>.This session, about one-third of the 
committee members are new. And with just more than a month until a major
 legislative deadline, the committee doesn’t have any bills to debate 
yet. Members are still taking in the vast information about the decline 
of the Ogallala Aquifer, sedimentation crisis at the state’s reservoirs,
 and poor water quality in some areas of the state.When it comes to water issues in 
Kansas, the decades-long decline of the aquifer means legislators have 
to think about long-term solutions, Minnix said.“This is not just what we can do in 
the next three, four weeks, although that’s kind of my charge on this 
committee, Minnix said. It’s about how to make Kansas “better off here 
in the next 5, 10, 20, 30 years.”Minnix said he’s not working on any 
legislation of his own but will likely sign onto bills other legislators
 are working on. He expects a dedicated funding source, such as a sales 
tax, to be one option.For now, he said, the committee will have to hurry to get new members up to speed.Members of the House Water Committee 
on Tuesday heard from Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office, 
who highlighted some of the severe water issues facing Kansas.The Ogallala Aquifer, the massive 
underground reservoir that has provided water to western Kansas for 
nearly 100 years, is drying up. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kgs.ku.edu/HighPlains/HPA_Atlas/index.html">Some areas of western Kansas have just 10 or 20 years</a> of water left if nothing changes.But “we can do things differently,” Owen said.One of the state’s largest reservoirs
 is half-full of sediment, spurring a pilot project to try to stir up 
mud and silt and send it downriver.The loss of storage space in the 
reservoir is “alarming,” Owen said, as the water system provides 
drinking water to much of northeastern Kansas. And the storage space is 
important to provide extra water in years of drought —&nbsp;or storage space 
during floods.In the coming months, as committee 
members search for legislative solutions to Kansas’ water crisis, the 
state’s auditors are expected to release a report on how well local 
groundwater managers have conserved water in western Kansas.And following a December vote, the Kansas Water Authority <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/15/its-time-to-deal-with-this-kansas-water-authority-wants-to-save-ogallala-aquifer/#:~:text=Agriculture-,'It's%20time%20to%20deal%20with%20this'%3A%20Kansas%20Water%20Authority,wants%20to%20save%20Ogallala%20Aquifer">recommends state lawmakers scrap Kansas’ defacto policy of draining the aquifer</a>.
 The advisory board also recommended setting up a process to establish 
goals and policies to “halt the decline of the Ogallala Aquifer while 
promoting flexible and innovative management within a timeframe that 
achieves agricultural productivity, thriving economies and vibrant 
communities — now and for future generations of Kansans.”

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