The National Weather Service in Dodge City is forecasting pleasant weather, clear skies and warmer temperatures well into next week.

With Saturday's high in the mid- to upper-30s the exception, forecasted highs for the next several days range from the mid-40s to low-50s across northwest Kansas.

No precipitation is forecast at least through mid-week, the NWS reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672949569724.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is forecasting pleasant weather, clear skies and warmer temperatures well into next week.With Saturday's high in the mid- to upper-30s the exception, forecasted highs for the next several days range from the mid-40s to low-50s across northwest Kansas.Overnight lows will be in the low-20s.No precipitation is forecast at least through mid-week, the NWS reported.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Slightly above normal highs for most of the next several days. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/MuZ6PjdK7M">pic.twitter.com/MuZ6PjdK7M</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1611084668715302912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Dry, warmer weather on the way to northwest Kansas

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Commerce (KDC) has announced $50 million will fund a second round of projects under the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant program. BASE 2.0 will continue addressing infrastructure and economic development needs that were delayed or slowed due to COVID-19 in an effort to expand the state’s base of businesses and residents.

The additional funds were designated by the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and approved by the State Finance Council in December.

Previous applicants that were not funded in round one will be considered for BASE 2.0 and do not need to reapply unless they would like to submit a new application. Awardees from the first round are not eligible for a BASE 2.0 award.

The Commerce Department received more than 440 applicants requesting more than $1 billion in identified projects during BASE 1.0 for the available $100 million funding. This new round will follow the same regulations established for the first round, including the requirement that awardees provide a 25% match.

County and local governments, economic development organizations, local chambers of commerce, and other stakeholders are eligible to apply. Awardees will have two years to complete their projects and utilize all awarded and required matching funds. Applications submitted are required to document how the project was delayed or affected negatively due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting downturn in economic conditions.

The deadline for submissions will be 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, January 31.

An informational webinar on BASE 2.0 will be available to the public at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 6. Registration for the webinar and guidelines for the grant application can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNzY1ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rYW5zYXNjb21tZXJjZS5nb3YvYmFzZWdyYW50LyJ9.59IwWO52STY8eNUBca7F_kAqu52akXhv30c_ft1KBBw/s/1303161001/br/151625478781-l" target="_blank">www.kansascommerce.gov/basegrant/</a>.

Applicants can contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:CommerceSPARK@ks.gov" target="_blank">CommerceSPARK@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;for any questions regarding this funding opportunity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789937052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Commerce (KDC) has announced $50 million will fund a second round of projects under the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant program. BASE 2.0 will continue addressing infrastructure and economic development needs that were delayed or slowed due to COVID-19 in an effort to expand the state’s base of businesses and residents.The additional funds were designated by the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and approved by the State Finance Council in December.Previous applicants that were not funded in round one will be considered for BASE 2.0 and do not need to reapply unless they would like to submit a new application. Awardees from the first round are not eligible for a BASE 2.0 award.The Commerce Department received more than 440 applicants requesting more than $1 billion in identified projects during BASE 1.0 for the available $100 million funding. This new round will follow the same regulations established for the first round, including the requirement that awardees provide a 25% match.County and local governments, economic development organizations, local chambers of commerce, and other stakeholders are eligible to apply. Awardees will have two years to complete their projects and utilize all awarded and required matching funds. Applications submitted are required to document how the project was delayed or affected negatively due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting downturn in economic conditions.The deadline for submissions will be 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, January 31.An informational webinar on BASE 2.0 will be available to the public at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 6. Registration for the webinar and guidelines for the grant application can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNzY1ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rYW5zYXNjb21tZXJjZS5nb3YvYmFzZWdyYW50LyJ9.59IwWO52STY8eNUBca7F_kAqu52akXhv30c_ft1KBBw/s/1303161001/br/151625478781-l" target="_blank">www.kansascommerce.gov/basegrant/</a>.Applicants can contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:CommerceSPARK@ks.gov" target="_blank">CommerceSPARK@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;for any questions regarding this funding opportunity.

$50M available for infrastructure/eco devo needs delayed by COVID in Kansas

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

City commissioners will review bids for the 2023 street maintenance project during this afternoon's work session.

The projects bid with this year’s program include seal coat, polypatch, reclamite, major rehab (street, parking lot, and concrete alley), curb and brick repair and sidewalk improvements, along with $40,000 of in-house work and $10,000 for the sidewalk rebate program.

Bids were received from 10 contractors. It's recommended to enter contracts with the low bidders for all projects for a total of $1,494,762.34.&nbsp; 

Projects will be funded out of Special Highway which has 2023 budgeted funds of $1,536,888, and Special Parks which has budgeted funds of $90,000 for reconstruction of the AubelBickle Park parking lot project.&nbsp;

In other business, new commissioner Alaina Cunningham, who was appointed to fill the remaining term of Michael Berges, will be sworn into office.&nbsp;

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620050805360.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostCity commissioners will review bids for the 2023 street maintenance project during this afternoon's work session.The projects bid with this year’s program include seal coat, polypatch, reclamite, major rehab (street, parking lot, and concrete alley), curb and brick repair and sidewalk improvements, along with $40,000 of in-house work and $10,000 for the sidewalk rebate program.Bids were received from 10 contractors. It's recommended to enter contracts with the low bidders for all projects for a total of $1,494,762.34.&nbsp; Projects will be funded out of Special Highway which has 2023 budgeted funds of $1,536,888, and Special Parks which has budgeted funds of $90,000 for reconstruction of the AubelBickle Park parking lot project.&nbsp;In other business, new commissioner Alaina Cunningham, who was appointed to fill the remaining term of Michael Berges, will be sworn into office.&nbsp;The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

City commission to review bids for 2023 street maintenance program

This a reminder that due to baler equipment issues at the recycling facility, until further notice all paper/cardboard recycling goods collected by the refuse collectors along the collection routes may be disposed of at the Ellis County Transfer Station rather than the standard recycling disposal site. &nbsp;

We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and&nbsp;strongly encourage&nbsp;customers to temporarily hold on to paper or cardboard recycling materials if they don’t wish to have it disposed of in this manner. &nbsp;However, all recycling materials put out for disposal will continue to be collected as normal.

&nbsp;Staff hopes to have the equipment up and running very soon, and an updated public service notice will be distributed once normal operations resume.

&nbsp;City of Hays customers who have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672940291060.jpeg" alt="Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThis a reminder that due to baler equipment issues at the recycling facility, until further notice all paper/cardboard recycling goods collected by the refuse collectors along the collection routes may be disposed of at the Ellis County Transfer Station rather than the standard recycling disposal site. &nbsp;We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and&nbsp;strongly encourage&nbsp;customers to temporarily hold on to paper or cardboard recycling materials if they don’t wish to have it disposed of in this manner. &nbsp;However, all recycling materials put out for disposal will continue to be collected as normal.&nbsp;Staff hopes to have the equipment up and running very soon, and an updated public service notice will be distributed once normal operations resume.&nbsp;City of Hays customers who have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

CITY: Hold on to your paper/cardboard recycling, baler still down

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Members of St. Michael's Episcopal Church had a simple idea — they wanted to feed people.

Nothing fancy — just a couple of dozen spaghetti dinners are served from 6:30 to 7 p.m. every Thursday night with no questions asked. 

Individuals or families — up to five people per car — can drive through the church parking lot, 2900 Canal Blvd., for a free meal, which also includes fresh fruit or vegetables, a roll and a cookie.

Any food that is not given out on Thursday nights goes into the fridge and is delivered as a noon meal to First Call for Help, a Hays agency that helps needy individuals and families.

Wyatt Morrell, Feeding Hays volunteer, said often people are waiting in line on Friday for the meals to arrive. She said she suspects transportation is an issue and some can't make it to the church on Thursday nights.

The food for the Thursday night dinners is either donated or paid for by local sponsors. A local family donates the meat from their own animals. The program is run completely by volunteers.

Donations for the meals are not required. The program will accept donations for meals, but all of those funds go to the Hays USD 489 nutrition program to pay for meals for students whose families may need help but may not qualify for free meals.

"I had heard on the radio that parents were going to have to pay for meals again this year, and I thought how awful that must be for two years not to have to come up with meals and then have to again," Morrell said.

"I brought it up to my pastor and said this is what I want to do is feed a free meal every Thursday and ask for donations and those donations go to student lunches."

The program has been up and running since October. The program has donated more than $300 to the USD 489 school lunch program.

"Our goal is that parents shouldn't have to worry too much about money for food for their kids," they said.

Morrell said the program has served all types of people, including elderly individuals who would not otherwise have a hot meal and people who were short on cash at the end of a pay period. 

"The cutest response was from a guy who saw the signs and came in and asked if it was real," Morrell said. "He did a little dance in the parking lot.

"We've had other people who have come and given us their last dollar. If that's the case, we always try to get them to keep that money. They're just so grateful. We've had other people who came and said 'I'm just so glad I don't have to cook tonight.'"

The volunteer crew is small — five to seven people per night — but the meal is so simple it only takes them about an hour and a half to prep and distribute the meals.

Morrell said the biggest challenge has been getting the word out to the community.

Businesses, individuals or organizations that are interested in sponsoring meals or donating food can do so by emailing Morrell at <a href="mailto:whitneymorrell88@gmail.com">whitneymorrell88@gmail.com</a> or contact St. Michael's Episcopal Church at 785-628-8442.

You can also follow the program through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2047485065448690">Facebook</a>. If the weather is inclement, meals will not be served. Check Facebook for updates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672778084341.jpeg" alt="Feeding Hays volunteer Brooke McCormick dishes out spaghetti for free dinners as volunteers Abby Gergick, left, and Wyatt Morrell, look on. Free spaghetti dinners are offered from 6:30 to 7 p.m. every Thursday night at St. Micahel's Episcopal Church in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Feeding Hays volunteer Brooke McCormick dishes out spaghetti for free dinners as volunteers Abby Gergick, left, and Wyatt Morrell, look on. Free spaghetti dinners are offered from 6:30 to 7 p.m. every Thursday night at St. Micahel's Episcopal Church in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMembers of St. Michael's Episcopal Church had a simple idea — they wanted to feed people.Nothing fancy — just a couple of dozen spaghetti dinners are served from 6:30 to 7 p.m. every Thursday night with no questions asked. Individuals or families — up to five people per car — can drive through the church parking lot, 2900 Canal Blvd., for a free meal, which also includes fresh fruit or vegetables, a roll and a cookie. Any food that is not given out on Thursday nights goes into the fridge and is delivered as a noon meal to First Call for Help, a Hays agency that helps needy individuals and families.Wyatt Morrell, Feeding Hays volunteer, said often people are waiting in line on Friday for the meals to arrive. She said she suspects transportation is an issue and some can't make it to the church on Thursday nights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672778325846.jpeg" alt="St. Micahel's Episcopal Church offers free spaghetti dinners every Thursday night at the church. Donations are accepted, but not required. Extra food goes to First Call for Help on Fridays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>St. Micahel's Episcopal Church offers free spaghetti dinners every Thursday night at the church. Donations are accepted, but not required. Extra food goes to First Call for Help on Fridays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The food for the Thursday night dinners is either donated or paid for by local sponsors. A local family donates the meat from their own animals. The program is run completely by volunteers.Donations for the meals are not required. The program will accept donations for meals, but all of those funds go to the Hays USD 489 nutrition program to pay for meals for students whose families may need help but may not qualify for free meals."I had heard on the radio that parents were going to have to pay for meals again this year, and I thought how awful that must be for two years not to have to come up with meals and then have to again," Morrell said. "I brought it up to my pastor and said this is what I want to do is feed a free meal every Thursday and ask for donations and those donations go to student lunches." The program has been up and running since October. The program has donated more than $300 to the USD 489 school lunch program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672778444646.jpeg" alt="Feeding Hays is a mission of St. Micahel's Episcopal Church in Hays. Any donations made for the meals go to the Hays USD 489 school lunch program to help feed children in need. " />
 <figcaption>Feeding Hays is a mission of St. Micahel's Episcopal Church in Hays. Any donations made for the meals go to the Hays USD 489 school lunch program to help feed children in need. </figcaption>
 </figure>"Our goal is that parents shouldn't have to worry too much about money for food for their kids," they said. Morrell said the program has served all types of people, including elderly individuals who would not otherwise have a hot meal and people who were short on cash at the end of a pay period. "The cutest response was from a guy who saw the signs and came in and asked if it was real," Morrell said. "He did a little dance in the parking lot."We've had other people who have come and given us their last dollar. If that's the case, we always try to get them to keep that money. They're just so grateful. We've had other people who came and said 'I'm just so glad I don't have to cook tonight.'" The volunteer crew is small — five to seven people per night — but the meal is so simple it only takes them about an hour and a half to prep and distribute the meals.Morrell said the biggest challenge has been getting the word out to the community.Businesses, individuals or organizations that are interested in sponsoring meals or donating food can do so by emailing Morrell at <a href="mailto:whitneymorrell88@gmail.com">whitneymorrell88@gmail.com</a> or contact St. Michael's Episcopal Church at 785-628-8442.You can also follow the program through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2047485065448690">Facebook</a>. If the weather is inclement, meals will not be served. Check Facebook for updates.

Hays church offers free Thursday night spaghetti dinners

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

Ellis County commissioners Butch Schlyer and Joe Leroux took
part in their final meeting as commissioners Tuesday.

Schlyer chose not to seek re-election after winning the
First District seat in 2018 and Leroux was defeated in the Republican primary for
the Third District seat in August.

Tuesday, Schlyer said that his goal when he was elected was
to restore Ellis County because it was “in bad shape.”

“I didn't realize how bad a shape it was in until administrator
Phil (Smith-Hanes) set me down and showed me the financials, and things were bad,”
Schlyer said.

Schlyer celebrated the turnaround that he has seen in the
county and getting back on track over the last four years. He praised
the previous commissioners for their work.

“I was surrounded with Commissioner Joe (Leroux), Commissioner
Neal (Younger), Commissioner (Dean) Haselhorst (and) Commissioner (Dustin) Roths,”
Schlyer said. “(They) all showed a commitment to Ellis County and support for
the employees of Ellis County. They’re to be thanked.”

During his time as commissioner, Ellis County voters approved
a pair of quarter-cent sales taxes to help fund health services and the
county’s general fund.

Schlyer attributed the passage to the work of County
Administrator Darin Myers, IT Director Mike Leiker and former Emergency Manager
and Public Works Director Bill Ring.

“We were able to get our feet under us a little bit and then
we got Darin (Myers) for an administrator, which was great,” Schlyer said. “We
wouldn't have had that happen had department heads not spoken honestly with me
about our past administrator. And when I heard what was going on, I was going
to see to what we were going to change the error we had made, and we did.”

The commission hired J.D. Cox as county administrator in
June 2020; he stepped down four months later.

Darin Myers was appointed interim county administrator and
then in March 2021 he was appointed to fill the position permanently.

During his four years as county commissioner, Ellis County
has expanded the landfill, merged environmental services with the landfill and
opened new offices at the landfill, created a Human Resources Department,
purchase land for a new public works location and added positions within the
Information technology department and appraisers office.

“Things have really prospered in the last four years, we can
see a lot of improvement,” Schlyer said.

He also noted that the commission voted to increase wages
for county employees next year and included a cost of living increase.

“As I leave Ellis County government, I know I'm leaving it a
whole lot better than it was when I started,” Schlyer said. “That's thanks to
everyone involved, all the department heads, elected officials (and) the
commissioners I worked with.”

Leroux was elected to the commission last January. He was picked
from a large group of Republicans to fill the seat vacated by Dean Haselhorst
after his family moved to Russell County.

He was defeated by Nathan Leiker in the August Republican primary
election.

Leiker and First District commissioner-elect Michael Berges
will be sworn in to their new seats next week prior to the commission meeting.

Leroux said after talking with both Berges and Leiker he
knows they will “do great.”

“I look forward to seeing the things they accomplish with Neal
(Younger) when the next board swears in and just wanted to thank everybody for
letting me serve you for the past year,” Leroux said.” It's been a great
pleasure.”

The commission's only action Tuesday was a vote to send a request to send a proposal to rezone property north of Hays back to the planning commission.

Schlyer wrapped up Tuesday’s meeting: “When the weather is
warm and the wind is not blowing too hard, I'm going to be fishing.”

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostEllis County commissioners Butch Schlyer and Joe Leroux took
part in their final meeting as commissioners Tuesday.Schlyer chose not to seek re-election after winning the
First District seat in 2018 and Leroux was defeated in the Republican primary for
the Third District seat in August.Tuesday, Schlyer said that his goal when he was elected was
to restore Ellis County because it was “in bad shape.”“I didn't realize how bad a shape it was in until administrator
Phil (Smith-Hanes) set me down and showed me the financials, and things were bad,”
Schlyer said.Schlyer celebrated the turnaround that he has seen in the
county and getting back on track over the last four years. He praised
the previous commissioners for their work.“I was surrounded with Commissioner Joe (Leroux), Commissioner
Neal (Younger), Commissioner (Dean) Haselhorst (and) Commissioner (Dustin) Roths,”
Schlyer said. “(They) all showed a commitment to Ellis County and support for
the employees of Ellis County. They’re to be thanked.”During his time as commissioner, Ellis County voters approved
a pair of quarter-cent sales taxes to help fund health services and the
county’s general fund.Schlyer attributed the passage to the work of County
Administrator Darin Myers, IT Director Mike Leiker and former Emergency Manager
and Public Works Director Bill Ring.“We were able to get our feet under us a little bit and then
we got Darin (Myers) for an administrator, which was great,” Schlyer said. “We
wouldn't have had that happen had department heads not spoken honestly with me
about our past administrator. And when I heard what was going on, I was going
to see to what we were going to change the error we had made, and we did.”The commission hired J.D. Cox as county administrator in
June 2020; he stepped down four months later.Darin Myers was appointed interim county administrator and
then in March 2021 he was appointed to fill the position permanently.During his four years as county commissioner, Ellis County
has expanded the landfill, merged environmental services with the landfill and
opened new offices at the landfill, created a Human Resources Department,
purchase land for a new public works location and added positions within the
Information technology department and appraisers office.“Things have really prospered in the last four years, we can
see a lot of improvement,” Schlyer said.He also noted that the commission voted to increase wages
for county employees next year and included a cost of living increase.“As I leave Ellis County government, I know I'm leaving it a
whole lot better than it was when I started,” Schlyer said. “That's thanks to
everyone involved, all the department heads, elected officials (and) the
commissioners I worked with.”Leroux was elected to the commission last January. He was picked
from a large group of Republicans to fill the seat vacated by Dean Haselhorst
after his family moved to Russell County.He was defeated by Nathan Leiker in the August Republican primary
election.Leiker and First District commissioner-elect Michael Berges
will be sworn in to their new seats next week prior to the commission meeting.Leroux said after talking with both Berges and Leiker he
knows they will “do great.”“I look forward to seeing the things they accomplish with Neal
(Younger) when the next board swears in and just wanted to thank everybody for
letting me serve you for the past year,” Leroux said.” It's been a great
pleasure.”The commission's only action Tuesday was a vote to send a request to send a proposal to rezone property north of Hays back to the planning commission.Schlyer wrapped up Tuesday’s meeting: “When the weather is
warm and the wind is not blowing too hard, I'm going to be fishing.”

Schlyer, Leroux take part in final meeting as Ellis Co. commissioners

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District, Hays

K-State Research and Extension will host the&nbsp;20th&nbsp;annual&nbsp;Cover Your Acres Winter Conference&nbsp;in Oberlin for crop producers and consultants on Jan. 17 and 18.&nbsp;

Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.

The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region.&nbsp;

Are you able to help your neighbor? There were numerous suicides in the Kansas ag community in&nbsp;2022. The&nbsp;skills provided in this session will help you notice when someone is struggling and help you help them.

Cover Crops, Grazing, and Soil Health in Western KS: A review of recent research on integrating covers with livestock, the economics, and what changes in soil quality are being observed.

Current Financial Status of NW Kansas Farms: Using data from northwest Kansas farms, we take a look at opportunities for profitability and where&nbsp;producers should be alert for possible concerns.&nbsp;

Dryland and Limited-irrigation&nbsp;Row-Crop Decisions:&nbsp;We’ll take a look at recent research in corn seeding&nbsp;rates, planting dates, long-term dryland rotations, and matching cropping options to water supply.&nbsp;

Grain Market Outlook: A deeper look at local, domestic, and global drivers in 2023&nbsp;

Make Your Plan: Weed Management 2023: The&nbsp;latest in label changes, product updates, trial data, and&nbsp;most importantly, using that to&nbsp;make a plan.

Nutrient Management Strategies: How does fertility&nbsp;management change with today’s fertilizer prices?&nbsp;Where are there dollars on the table from improved&nbsp;fertility management? We’ll take a look&nbsp;at&nbsp;Oils, and Surfactants, and Drift Agents, Oh My!&nbsp;We’ll discuss when to utilize the many products on&nbsp;the market to maximize herbicide efficacy.

Weather Outlook and&nbsp;Mesonet&nbsp;Tools: We’ll take a look at the outlook for the coming year as well as the tools and data available to you from the Kansas&nbsp;Mesonet.

Wheat: The crop with 9 lives: A look at recent research in Kansas on yield components of wheat and what realistic expectations and management opportunities are for the 2023 crop.

When to Hold Them, When to Trade Them? A panel discussion with producers, dealership experts, bankers, and economists on the topic of machinery management

The program is the same each day, you can choose which day you want to attend.&nbsp;To register go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Campbell&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Campbell&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District, HaysK-State Research and Extension will host the&nbsp;20th&nbsp;annual&nbsp;Cover Your Acres Winter Conference&nbsp;in Oberlin for crop producers and consultants on Jan. 17 and 18.&nbsp;Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region.&nbsp;2023 Speaker Topics:&nbsp;Are you able to help your neighbor? There were numerous suicides in the Kansas ag community in&nbsp;2022. The&nbsp;skills provided in this session will help you notice when someone is struggling and help you help them.Cover Crops, Grazing, and Soil Health in Western KS: A review of recent research on integrating covers with livestock, the economics, and what changes in soil quality are being observed. Current Financial Status of NW Kansas Farms: Using data from northwest Kansas farms, we take a look at opportunities for profitability and where&nbsp;producers should be alert for possible concerns.&nbsp;Dryland and Limited-irrigation&nbsp;Row-Crop Decisions:&nbsp;We’ll take a look at recent research in corn seeding&nbsp;rates, planting dates, long-term dryland rotations, and matching cropping options to water supply.&nbsp;Grain Market Outlook: A deeper look at local, domestic, and global drivers in 2023&nbsp;Make Your Plan: Weed Management 2023: The&nbsp;latest in label changes, product updates, trial data, and&nbsp;most importantly, using that to&nbsp;make a plan.Nutrient Management Strategies: How does fertility&nbsp;management change with today’s fertilizer prices?&nbsp;Where are there dollars on the table from improved&nbsp;fertility management? We’ll take a look&nbsp;at&nbsp;Oils, and Surfactants, and Drift Agents, Oh My!&nbsp;We’ll discuss when to utilize the many products on&nbsp;the market to maximize herbicide efficacy. Weather Outlook and&nbsp;Mesonet&nbsp;Tools: We’ll take a look at the outlook for the coming year as well as the tools and data available to you from the Kansas&nbsp;Mesonet. Wheat: The crop with 9 lives: A look at recent research in Kansas on yield components of wheat and what realistic expectations and management opportunities are for the 2023 crop. When to Hold Them, When to Trade Them? A panel discussion with producers, dealership experts, bankers, and economists on the topic of machinery managementThe program is the same each day, you can choose which day you want to attend.&nbsp;To register go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

Cover Your Acres conference scheduled this month in NW Kan.

Once you become a parent, you never really quit being a parent. Any parent of a child with intellectual or developmental disabilities knows that their responsibilities will be extensive long after their son or daughter reaches&nbsp;adulthood.&nbsp;Supporting a&nbsp;child with special needs&nbsp;is&nbsp;often&nbsp;a life-long commitment comprising equal parts unconditional love and unwavering advocacy.&nbsp;

FHSU professor of art and design Amy&nbsp;Schmierbach’s&nbsp;teenage son Lucas has&nbsp;Autism.&nbsp;Amy&nbsp;has spent the better part of the past decade working to make Hays a more inclusive community for children and adults&nbsp;like Lucas.&nbsp;

Amy’s efforts began in 2015&nbsp;as&nbsp;a collaborative art project involving her art students and clients&nbsp;of&nbsp;Disability Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). The artistic medium she chose was weaving. She chose weaving because it didn’t require expensive materials, created little mess, offered great opportunities for dialog and collaboration, and because it involved techniques that didn’t demand a wealth of manual dexterity.&nbsp;

The program grew, even during the pandemic, as Amy moved the sessions online to the Zoom platform. The new format allowed Amy to begin including DSNWK clients&nbsp;from outside the local area. The expanded&nbsp;sessions now also include participants from&nbsp;Victoria, Russell, and as far away as Hoxie.&nbsp;

In 2016, there was a tragic officer-involved shooting death in Hays involving an intellectually disabled young adult. What started as a routine traffic stop quickly escalated into a police pursuit that ended in a physical confrontation. A later investigation confirmed that the officer involved, fearing for his life, acted appropriately in the situation. It was the worst nightmare imaginable for any parent of an intellectually or developmentally disabled child or adult.&nbsp;

Amy believed it was a tragedy that might have been avoided if the police officers involved&nbsp;had&nbsp;understood more about how&nbsp;intellectually and developmentally disabled&nbsp;individuals process and respond to extreme stress. Finding a proactive and purposeful response to address this issue has&nbsp;become&nbsp;a very personal quest.

Fast-forward to 2017, and in a Hays community that was beginning to recover from the tragic events of 2016.&nbsp;Amy&nbsp;thought this might be an appropriate time to share her thoughts on how our community might come together to ensure this kind of tragedy would never happen again. She also knew she would have to be very thoughtful and patient in her approach if her efforts were to yield the positive change she envisioned.

Amy first approached Scott Stults and Sara Biggs, both directors of programs &amp; services at DSNWK, with her idea of expanding her community art project to include first responders. “My goal was to use the collaborative art approach to create friendships, understanding,&nbsp;and empathy among the first responders who, through the nature of their work, are very likely to encounter the disabled at a time of maximum stress,” said Amy.

Scott and Sara suggested Amy take an incremental approach. She began her outreach via a series of emails to local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services leaders. The first to respond within a day was Hays Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. Chief Hagans said the Hays Fire Department was all-in.&nbsp;

Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy responded soon after, expressing great interest as well. Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun and Hays Police Chief Don&nbsp;Shiebler&nbsp;also joined the initiative rounding out the level of participation Amy, Scott, and Sara once thought would be a reach.

In the spring of 2022, Amy&nbsp;and her Community Engaged Art Class (Art 308)&nbsp;hosted the first of what was to become Amy’s First Responder, Art, Collaboration, Training (FACT) events in the Schmidt Foundation for Art and Design building at FHSU. Each session begins with a one-hour workshop for first responders and FHSU students, where both groups learn about some essential characteristics of the DSNWK clients they will soon meet at the weaving loom.

The workshops&nbsp;provide background information on behaviors first responders are likely to encounter in real-world scenarios involving intellectually and developmentally delayed children and adults. The information she shares includes guidance specific to fire and rescue, EMS, and law enforcement professionals.&nbsp;

After the workshop, it’s time to make personal connections and&nbsp;weave. Each local department typically sends two participants to the event, and three to four weaving teams of first responders, FHSU students, and DSNWK clients man each station loom. Often the experienced weavers-the DSNWK clients- serve as instructors for the novice first responders and students.&nbsp;

Students and first responders often move among the looms and quickly learn that while many clients share common characteristics, they are all every bit&nbsp;as&nbsp;unique as every other human.&nbsp;

“The differences in our clients is significant,”&nbsp;Scott&nbsp;said. “FACT events deliver a powerful educational experience that works both ways.”&nbsp;

“Our clients really look forward to these events,” Scott&nbsp;continued.&nbsp;“They love the socialization and doing things outside their normal routine.” &nbsp;

Many of Scott and Sara’s clients may struggle to express themselves verbally, but the first responders and students quickly learn that they hear and understand what is said to them pretty well. This eye-opening realization alone will undoubtedly come in handy for these first responders the next time they encounter an intellectually or developmentally disabled person in a high-stress situation.&nbsp;

This column was designed to focus stories about the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of FHSU who are personally committed to providing an accessible quality education to Kansas, the&nbsp;nation, and the world through an innovative community of teacher-scholars and professionals to develop engaged global citizen-leaders. There is no better example of an FHSU Tiger living a life of purpose in pursuit of our mission than Amy&nbsp;Schmierbach. &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>Once you become a parent, you never really quit being a parent. Any parent of a child with intellectual or developmental disabilities knows that their responsibilities will be extensive long after their son or daughter reaches&nbsp;adulthood.&nbsp;Supporting a&nbsp;child with special needs&nbsp;is&nbsp;often&nbsp;a life-long commitment comprising equal parts unconditional love and unwavering advocacy.&nbsp;FHSU professor of art and design Amy&nbsp;Schmierbach’s&nbsp;teenage son Lucas has&nbsp;Autism.&nbsp;Amy&nbsp;has spent the better part of the past decade working to make Hays a more inclusive community for children and adults&nbsp;like Lucas.&nbsp;Amy’s efforts began in 2015&nbsp;as&nbsp;a collaborative art project involving her art students and clients&nbsp;of&nbsp;Disability Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). The artistic medium she chose was weaving. She chose weaving because it didn’t require expensive materials, created little mess, offered great opportunities for dialog and collaboration, and because it involved techniques that didn’t demand a wealth of manual dexterity.&nbsp;The program grew, even during the pandemic, as Amy moved the sessions online to the Zoom platform. The new format allowed Amy to begin including DSNWK clients&nbsp;from outside the local area. The expanded&nbsp;sessions now also include participants from&nbsp;Victoria, Russell, and as far away as Hoxie.&nbsp;In 2016, there was a tragic officer-involved shooting death in Hays involving an intellectually disabled young adult. What started as a routine traffic stop quickly escalated into a police pursuit that ended in a physical confrontation. A later investigation confirmed that the officer involved, fearing for his life, acted appropriately in the situation. It was the worst nightmare imaginable for any parent of an intellectually or developmentally disabled child or adult.&nbsp;Amy believed it was a tragedy that might have been avoided if the police officers involved&nbsp;had&nbsp;understood more about how&nbsp;intellectually and developmentally disabled&nbsp;individuals process and respond to extreme stress. Finding a proactive and purposeful response to address this issue has&nbsp;become&nbsp;a very personal quest.Fast-forward to 2017, and in a Hays community that was beginning to recover from the tragic events of 2016.&nbsp;Amy&nbsp;thought this might be an appropriate time to share her thoughts on how our community might come together to ensure this kind of tragedy would never happen again. She also knew she would have to be very thoughtful and patient in her approach if her efforts were to yield the positive change she envisioned.Amy first approached Scott Stults and Sara Biggs, both directors of programs &amp; services at DSNWK, with her idea of expanding her community art project to include first responders. “My goal was to use the collaborative art approach to create friendships, understanding,&nbsp;and empathy among the first responders who, through the nature of their work, are very likely to encounter the disabled at a time of maximum stress,” said Amy.Scott and Sara suggested Amy take an incremental approach. She began her outreach via a series of emails to local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services leaders. The first to respond within a day was Hays Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. Chief Hagans said the Hays Fire Department was all-in.&nbsp;Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy responded soon after, expressing great interest as well. Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun and Hays Police Chief Don&nbsp;Shiebler&nbsp;also joined the initiative rounding out the level of participation Amy, Scott, and Sara once thought would be a reach.In the spring of 2022, Amy&nbsp;and her Community Engaged Art Class (Art 308)&nbsp;hosted the first of what was to become Amy’s First Responder, Art, Collaboration, Training (FACT) events in the Schmidt Foundation for Art and Design building at FHSU. Each session begins with a one-hour workshop for first responders and FHSU students, where both groups learn about some essential characteristics of the DSNWK clients they will soon meet at the weaving loom.The workshops&nbsp;provide background information on behaviors first responders are likely to encounter in real-world scenarios involving intellectually and developmentally delayed children and adults. The information she shares includes guidance specific to fire and rescue, EMS, and law enforcement professionals.&nbsp;After the workshop, it’s time to make personal connections and&nbsp;weave. Each local department typically sends two participants to the event, and three to four weaving teams of first responders, FHSU students, and DSNWK clients man each station loom. Often the experienced weavers-the DSNWK clients- serve as instructors for the novice first responders and students.&nbsp;Students and first responders often move among the looms and quickly learn that while many clients share common characteristics, they are all every bit&nbsp;as&nbsp;unique as every other human.&nbsp;“The differences in our clients is significant,”&nbsp;Scott&nbsp;said. “FACT events deliver a powerful educational experience that works both ways.”&nbsp;“Our clients really look forward to these events,” Scott&nbsp;continued.&nbsp;“They love the socialization and doing things outside their normal routine.” &nbsp;Many of Scott and Sara’s clients may struggle to express themselves verbally, but the first responders and students quickly learn that they hear and understand what is said to them pretty well. This eye-opening realization alone will undoubtedly come in handy for these first responders the next time they encounter an intellectually or developmentally disabled person in a high-stress situation.&nbsp;This column was designed to focus stories about the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of FHSU who are personally committed to providing an accessible quality education to Kansas, the&nbsp;nation, and the world through an innovative community of teacher-scholars and professionals to develop engaged global citizen-leaders. There is no better example of an FHSU Tiger living a life of purpose in pursuit of our mission than Amy&nbsp;Schmierbach. &nbsp;

Heart of a Tiger: Amy Schmierbach’s quest

<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/2023/1/1672859607393.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

Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;

Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;

For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671029274787.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell County USD 407 is seeking applicants for treasurer. &nbsp;Must have Associate of Science in accounting or finance; 5 years of financial management, supervises accounting operations, accounts payable and budget. &nbsp;For more information or to apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd407.org/">www.usd407.org</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays' Williams shares updates on 2023 area projects

Western Kansas is expected to remain dry well into the new year, the National Weather Service is Dodge City is forecasting.

No measurable rain or snow is expected at least through Jan. 10, the NWS reported.

Following another breezy and cool day Wednesday, winds are expected to taper Thursday and the mercury will rise.&nbsp;

A high of 45 is predicted Thursday, rising to 47 Friday. After a cooler Saturday topping out in the low-40s, highs around 50 are expected Sunday through Tuesday.

The Hays area ended 2022 nearly 6.5 inches of precipitation below the 153-year average of 22.78 inches, the K-State Ag Research Center reported on Dec. 28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672858972004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Kansas is expected to remain dry well into the new year, the National Weather Service is Dodge City is forecasting.No measurable rain or snow is expected at least through Jan. 10, the NWS reported.Following another breezy and cool day Wednesday, winds are expected to taper Thursday and the mercury will rise.&nbsp;A high of 45 is predicted Thursday, rising to 47 Friday. After a cooler Saturday topping out in the low-40s, highs around 50 are expected Sunday through Tuesday.The Hays area ended 2022 nearly 6.5 inches of precipitation below the 153-year average of 22.78 inches, the K-State Ag Research Center reported on Dec. 28.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Southwest Kansas remains in the highest intensity (D4, exceptional) drought. There will be no drought improvements over the coming week, with no measurable rain or snow expected. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/EnqVKBjGT8">pic.twitter.com/EnqVKBjGT8</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1610710703006158848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Don't expect relief from drought anytime soon

A GoFundMe has been set up for the family of Daniel Howard, the Fort Hays State University student-athlete <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/14812a7f-a482-460a-9901-af9dcf781270">shot and killed in Oklahoma City on Jan. 1.</a>

"We want to give Daniel the memorial he deserves, to honor his memory and say our last goodbyes," wrote organizer Stephanie Howard.

Click <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/daniel-howard-home-going-service?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unknown&amp;utm_campaign=comms_w44r+daniel-howard-home-going-service">HERE</a> to visit the GoFundMe page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672768574845.jpeg" alt="Howard" />
 <figcaption>Howard</figcaption>
 </figure>A GoFundMe has been set up for the family of Daniel Howard, the Fort Hays State University student-athlete <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/14812a7f-a482-460a-9901-af9dcf781270">shot and killed in Oklahoma City on Jan. 1.</a>"We want to give Daniel the memorial he deserves, to honor his memory and say our last goodbyes," wrote organizer Stephanie Howard.Click <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/daniel-howard-home-going-service?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unknown&amp;utm_campaign=comms_w44r+daniel-howard-home-going-service">HERE</a> to visit the GoFundMe page.

GoFundMe organized to help family of slain FHSU student-athlete

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 21 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 24 and 30.

KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Several northwest Kansas counties were removed from the high-incidence category, and Ellis County remains in the substantial category, the KDHE reported. (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 8,311 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672853174046.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 21 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Dec. 24 and 30.KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Several northwest Kansas counties were removed from the high-incidence category, and Ellis County remains in the substantial category, the KDHE reported. (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 8,311 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672853288955.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 21 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. this reporting period

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Information about the 2023 Kansas Legislature is only a phone call or chat away, the State Library of Kansas reminds residents. The toll-free number for the Legislative Hotline is&nbsp;1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference and research librarians at the State Library.

Other questions may concern the legislative process, where to find historic information, and other Kansas government related questions.

The Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, however constituents can leave a brief message for their legislators, or for a librarian’s response. Questions can also be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.

Kansans can also chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask a Librarian service found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.H-dkLa1muV6h0Oqnl2WtlePnyR8hGeb45nD4Ljfj3aY/s/1303161001/br/151607751590-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>. From this page, residents use the web or download the mobile app to connect to the State Library’s reference services through chat, email, or phone. TTY users should call 711.

* Hotline: 1-800-432-3924 *

Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> *&nbsp;

Web:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.fUSObMzInCp7IIDiQSywdw1pCGal3nrsYMROhesk0ZI/s/1303161001/br/151607751590-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672833921942.jpeg" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>State Library of KSTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Information about the 2023 Kansas Legislature is only a phone call or chat away, the State Library of Kansas reminds residents. The toll-free number for the Legislative Hotline is&nbsp;1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference and research librarians at the State Library.Frequently asked questions include:<ul>
 <li>Who are my legislators?</li><li>How can I contact them? and</li><li>What is the status of this bill?</li>
 </ul>Other questions may concern the legislative process, where to find historic information, and other Kansas government related questions.The Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, however constituents can leave a brief message for their legislators, or for a librarian’s response. Questions can also be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.Kansans can also chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask a Librarian service found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.H-dkLa1muV6h0Oqnl2WtlePnyR8hGeb45nD4Ljfj3aY/s/1303161001/br/151607751590-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>. From this page, residents use the web or download the mobile app to connect to the State Library’s reference services through chat, email, or phone. TTY users should call 711.* Hotline: 1-800-432-3924 *

Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> *&nbsp;

Web:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDMuNjkxNTQ2MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8va3NsaWIuaW5mby9hc2sifQ.fUSObMzInCp7IIDiQSywdw1pCGal3nrsYMROhesk0ZI/s/1303161001/br/151607751590-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/ask</a>

Legislative hotline available to Kansans

By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>

While the prospect of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0e3bbf91-0a07-41d3-b605-8dadd50befbc">recession</a> has been an economic bogeyman for months, one Kansas economist says such a slowdown would be the best medicine for long-term economic health in rural Kansas and Nebraska.

Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State University, expects the issue of inflation to continue into 2023 —&nbsp;despite multiple attempts by the Federal Reserve to cool the U.S. economy through interest rate hikes.

Persistent inflation, supply chain issues choking inventory, full employment leading to spiking wages, and eroding consumer confidence —&nbsp;all have been factors on the minds of economists.

"If inflation continues to come down, that would be the softest landing we could get, but I think inflation is going to be stickier," Hill said. "I think the U.S. will go into a small recession in the first part of 2023. Honestly, I think that this would be very helpful. A pause in the economy would allow everyone to correct and build up inventory."

While the Fed's attempt to cool the economy and temper inflation has made some impact, Hill pointed out the driving factor fueling the overheated economy is not on the demand side of the equation —&nbsp;where increased interest rates would make a more direct and immediate impact.

"Around the state, demand is still high ... and there are the supply chain issues," Hill said. "I expect the Federal Reserve still has to fight it. But inflation is not all on the demand side. It's not demand."

Supply of goods and labor is helping spike prices, and businesses face not only a lack of every-more-costly inventory, but also increasing wages driven by an economy at full employment.

National unemployment remains below 4 percent — much lower in rural Kansas and Nebraska — which led to a 5 percent increase in wages in the third quarter of 2022, a key piece of fuel for the inflation fire.

One direct effect the Fed's interest rate hikes will create is a lack of willingness to relocate as mortgage rates and housing costs rise, especially as inflation continues to outpace wage increases.

"In the first half of (2022), we saw some migration to rural areas. The second half of the year, that has slowed down. The cost of mortgages, the willingness to move, has factored into that."

Growing the labor market in rural areas remains about competition, Hill said.

"How competitive is that rural community and that rural lifestyle? Whichever (local economy) is growing is where that labor force is going to go," he said. "How competitive are you for that household?"

And while most economic news as 2022 closed out was dreary, Hill said positives remain — especially in rural areas.

"Wages and opportunity are great," he said. "Overall, I think households are doing better than what consumer confidence is."

But even if the U.S. or global economies should fall into recession, Hill expects rural Kansas and Nebraska to weather the storm better than other areas.

"I'm more optimistic that Kansas and parts of Nebraska have a lot of opportunity, even in a recession," he said. "Ag and oil and gas and manufacturing ... are all going to do better relative to the U.S. ... better than what's going on in the national economy."

Hill's biggest concern entering the new year remains with those pulling the strings of federal policy.

"They have a whole lot of power and control. Policy error is the biggest issue to worry about. And with so much pressure, the potential for error is so high," he said, noting poor management of consumer confidence, misreading employment signals and other factors could lead to poor policy choices.

Events on a national scale, such as the recently sidestepped railroad strike, would lead to even more unpredictable outcomes, Hill said. 

"That kind of event — an unknown — could easily throw us off," he said. 

Since 1948, the U.S. economy has averaged one recession about every six years, ranging between two (2020) and 18 months (the Great Recession of 2008).

And while economists recognize that cyclical nature of the economy, effects of structural changes such as the COVID-19 pandemic are much more difficult to predict.

"On the demand side, it's a completely different environment (post-pandemic). Demand is so much higher," Hill said. "The whole thing is completely different. Labor inputs are a completely different environment, highlighted by the retail and service sectors, but it's all drastically different."

Should the U.S. enter into a recession, Hill said the most important thing to remember is to remain educated about what is going on and not fall prey to doom-and-gloom trope.

"How do you put it into context when some are misaligning where things are going? Different views get overshadowed," he said. "Inflation has been coming down, and it will likely put us in recession —&nbsp;and that's not the end of the world.

"The economy is overheated. A pause was take a lot of pressure off the economy."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672757280937.jpeg" alt="Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research. Hays Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research. Hays Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>While the prospect of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0e3bbf91-0a07-41d3-b605-8dadd50befbc">recession</a> has been an economic bogeyman for months, one Kansas economist says such a slowdown would be the best medicine for long-term economic health in rural Kansas and Nebraska.Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Wichita State University, expects the issue of inflation to continue into 2023 —&nbsp;despite multiple attempts by the Federal Reserve to cool the U.S. economy through interest rate hikes.Persistent inflation, supply chain issues choking inventory, full employment leading to spiking wages, and eroding consumer confidence —&nbsp;all have been factors on the minds of economists."If inflation continues to come down, that would be the softest landing we could get, but I think inflation is going to be stickier," Hill said. "I think the U.S. will go into a small recession in the first part of 2023. Honestly, I think that this would be very helpful. A pause in the economy would allow everyone to correct and build up inventory."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672757461837.png" alt="Hill" />
 <figcaption>Hill</figcaption>
 </figure>While the Fed's attempt to cool the economy and temper inflation has made some impact, Hill pointed out the driving factor fueling the overheated economy is not on the demand side of the equation —&nbsp;where increased interest rates would make a more direct and immediate impact."Around the state, demand is still high ... and there are the supply chain issues," Hill said. "I expect the Federal Reserve still has to fight it. But inflation is not all on the demand side. It's not demand."Supply of goods and labor is helping spike prices, and businesses face not only a lack of every-more-costly inventory, but also increasing wages driven by an economy at full employment.National unemployment remains below 4 percent — much lower in rural Kansas and Nebraska — which led to a 5 percent increase in wages in the third quarter of 2022, a key piece of fuel for the inflation fire.One direct effect the Fed's interest rate hikes will create is a lack of willingness to relocate as mortgage rates and housing costs rise, especially as inflation continues to outpace wage increases."In the first half of (2022), we saw some migration to rural areas. The second half of the year, that has slowed down. The cost of mortgages, the willingness to move, has factored into that."Growing the labor market in rural areas remains about competition, Hill said."How competitive is that rural community and that rural lifestyle? Whichever (local economy) is growing is where that labor force is going to go," he said. "How competitive are you for that household?"And while most economic news as 2022 closed out was dreary, Hill said positives remain — especially in rural areas."Wages and opportunity are great," he said. "Overall, I think households are doing better than what consumer confidence is."But even if the U.S. or global economies should fall into recession, Hill expects rural Kansas and Nebraska to weather the storm better than other areas."I'm more optimistic that Kansas and parts of Nebraska have a lot of opportunity, even in a recession," he said. "Ag and oil and gas and manufacturing ... are all going to do better relative to the U.S. ... better than what's going on in the national economy."Hill's biggest concern entering the new year remains with those pulling the strings of federal policy."They have a whole lot of power and control. Policy error is the biggest issue to worry about. And with so much pressure, the potential for error is so high," he said, noting poor management of consumer confidence, misreading employment signals and other factors could lead to poor policy choices.Events on a national scale, such as the recently sidestepped railroad strike, would lead to even more unpredictable outcomes, Hill said. "That kind of event — an unknown — could easily throw us off," he said. Since 1948, the U.S. economy has averaged one recession about every six years, ranging between two (2020) and 18 months (the Great Recession of 2008).And while economists recognize that cyclical nature of the economy, effects of structural changes such as the COVID-19 pandemic are much more difficult to predict."On the demand side, it's a completely different environment (post-pandemic). Demand is so much higher," Hill said. "The whole thing is completely different. Labor inputs are a completely different environment, highlighted by the retail and service sectors, but it's all drastically different."Should the U.S. enter into a recession, Hill said the most important thing to remember is to remain educated about what is going on and not fall prey to doom-and-gloom trope."How do you put it into context when some are misaligning where things are going? Different views get overshadowed," he said. "Inflation has been coming down, and it will likely put us in recession —&nbsp;and that's not the end of the world."The economy is overheated. A pause was take a lot of pressure off the economy."

Professor: Short-lived recession would help correct heated economy

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Salina Diocese “Register”

Jerome Schmeidler’s favorite holiday growing up was Christmas.

The 36-year-old Hays native is experiencing one of his most bountiful Christmases in his seventh year as a local businessman.

Jerome said he knew from the moment he stepped over the threshold of a building in historic downtown this past spring that he had found the new location for his family business.

As he glanced across the glistening wooden floors sandwiched between limestone-lined walls, his eyes caught the beautiful oak staircase leading up to an overhead loft.

“I knew I was home, that this is where we needed to be,” said Jerome, owner of the Messenger Traditional Catholic Store with his wife, Angela.

Now, that wide open space at 115 W. 10th Street – the former home of Pioneer Photography – offers Catholic and Christian articles and gifts for customers both in the store and online. They have plenty of room to browse the store, something that was difficult at the business’ former location in a small mall on Vine Street.

“We knew we were outgrowing the space in the mall, we didn’t have an outside entrance, and our shelves were stacked to the ceiling,” Jerome said. “So finding a larger space had been in the back of my mind for a couple of years. Then this opportunity came up. It’s just all part of God’s plan.”

The Schmeidlers have been busy since opening in June, especially during the holiday season.

“I think the extra space to carry more items has brought more people in, the downtown atmosphere is just so appealing,” Jerome said, “and our online business has been really busy this Christmas.”

The Messenger is filled with an abundance of merchandise – and occasionally the sweet sound of young voices and laughter when Schmeidler’s five daughters come to visit Dad.

Angela is now able to bring their daughters, ages 2 to 9, to the store to visit Dad. The three older girls greet customers as they enter the store, and they even place inspirational notes around the store for customers to read.

There are books and greeting cards, rosaries, statues, Baptism gifts, and a plethora of other religious articles. There even is a reading area in the loft.

The large open floor space optimizes the displays, as does the loft that features large framed pictures and paintings.

A full basement in the 3,400-square-foot building that is more than three times larger than the Messenger’s former location provides necessary storage space and room to package articles for its online business.

“Online has helped us grow, and if things are slow locally, we are shipping to California, New York, Texas, Australia, Canada,” Jerome said. “It’s exciting and challenging. Now, with online, you’re open 24-7.”

Besides taking advantage of the online store, customers often make long drives to shop in person. The Messenger is the only Catholic store of its kind in the Diocese of Salina, which covers more than a third of Kansas.

Tracy Suelter, who grew up in Victoria, now lives near Salina and frequents the Messenger when she is in the Hays area.

“I was raised around the Capuchin friars and the Sisters of St. Agnes – very traditional,” she said, “and I like that Jerome’s store follows that same concept. If he doesn’t have an item in stock that you’re interested in, he does everything in his power to find it.”

Jerome said the Messenger’s theme is definitely traditional.

“We have a passion for keeping books alive; people still like the feel of holding a physical book,” he said. “And the store has been an awesome point of evangelization. Sometimes people want to come in a just talk.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660754177628.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660123917.jpeg" alt="The Messenger, a Catholic bookstore in Hays, is a family business for the Schmeidlers, from left: Jerome, Antoinette, Magdalene, Celestine, Evangeline, Guinevere, and Angela. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>The Messenger, a Catholic bookstore in Hays, is a family business for the Schmeidlers, from left: Jerome, Antoinette, Magdalene, Celestine, Evangeline, Guinevere, and Angela. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Salina Diocese “Register”Jerome Schmeidler’s favorite holiday growing up was Christmas.The 36-year-old Hays native is experiencing one of his most bountiful Christmases in his seventh year as a local businessman.Jerome said he knew from the moment he stepped over the threshold of a building in historic downtown this past spring that he had found the new location for his family business.As he glanced across the glistening wooden floors sandwiched between limestone-lined walls, his eyes caught the beautiful oak staircase leading up to an overhead loft.“I knew I was home, that this is where we needed to be,” said Jerome, owner of the Messenger Traditional Catholic Store with his wife, Angela.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660160401.jpeg" alt="Jerome Schmeidler explains the special care that workers took to preserve the limestone walls while making shelving for different store articles. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>Jerome Schmeidler explains the special care that workers took to preserve the limestone walls while making shelving for different store articles. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>Now, that wide open space at 115 W. 10th Street – the former home of Pioneer Photography – offers Catholic and Christian articles and gifts for customers both in the store and online. They have plenty of room to browse the store, something that was difficult at the business’ former location in a small mall on Vine Street.“We knew we were outgrowing the space in the mall, we didn’t have an outside entrance, and our shelves were stacked to the ceiling,” Jerome said. “So finding a larger space had been in the back of my mind for a couple of years. Then this opportunity came up. It’s just all part of God’s plan.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660187050.jpeg" alt="The Messenger’s new location is more than three times larger than its previous site. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>The Messenger’s new location is more than three times larger than its previous site. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Schmeidlers have been busy since opening in June, especially during the holiday season.“I think the extra space to carry more items has brought more people in, the downtown atmosphere is just so appealing,” Jerome said, “and our online business has been really busy this Christmas.”The Messenger is filled with an abundance of merchandise – and occasionally the sweet sound of young voices and laughter when Schmeidler’s five daughters come to visit Dad.Angela is now able to bring their daughters, ages 2 to 9, to the store to visit Dad. The three older girls greet customers as they enter the store, and they even place inspirational notes around the store for customers to read.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660213770.jpeg" alt="Customers are greeted by several notes and signs around the store written by the Schmeidlers’ young daughters. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>Customers are greeted by several notes and signs around the store written by the Schmeidlers’ young daughters. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are books and greeting cards, rosaries, statues, Baptism gifts, and a plethora of other religious articles. There even is a reading area in the loft.The large open floor space optimizes the displays, as does the loft that features large framed pictures and paintings.A full basement in the 3,400-square-foot building that is more than three times larger than the Messenger’s former location provides necessary storage space and room to package articles for its online business.“Online has helped us grow, and if things are slow locally, we are shipping to California, New York, Texas, Australia, Canada,” Jerome said. “It’s exciting and challenging. Now, with online, you’re open 24-7.”Besides taking advantage of the online store, customers often make long drives to shop in person. The Messenger is the only Catholic store of its kind in the Diocese of Salina, which covers more than a third of Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660245617.jpeg" alt="The larger space gives the Messenger opportunity to display large framed paintings and photos that are available for purchase. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>The larger space gives the Messenger opportunity to display large framed paintings and photos that are available for purchase. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>Tracy Suelter, who grew up in Victoria, now lives near Salina and frequents the Messenger when she is in the Hays area.“I was raised around the Capuchin friars and the Sisters of St. Agnes – very traditional,” she said, “and I like that Jerome’s store follows that same concept. If he doesn’t have an item in stock that you’re interested in, he does everything in his power to find it.”Jerome said the Messenger’s theme is definitely traditional.“We have a passion for keeping books alive; people still like the feel of holding a physical book,” he said. “And the store has been an awesome point of evangelization. Sometimes people want to come in a just talk.”Jerome said he has adapted well to the move to downtown Hays.“We love the atmosphere here. There’s so much history down here,” he said, mentioning the brick streets and the sound of trains that pass through on the railroad between Ninth and 10th streets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660276134.jpeg" alt="Some of the many Catholic items for sale are a variety of rosaries. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>Some of the many Catholic items for sale are a variety of rosaries. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure>Besides providing an excellent venue for their business, the Schmeidlers feel the location is a blessing for their family in other ways.A large open area allows the young girls plenty of space to play. Angela, who homeschools their daughters, has dibs on another room where she would like to set up a classroom someday.“They love to come visit Dad, and there are opportunities for them to learn so many things here,” Angela said. “We are so grateful on how well this all worked out.”The Messenger is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;Merchandise can be found online at www.traditionalcatholicstore.com.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671660307603.jpeg" alt="Five-year-old Magdelene Schmeidler points out an item to a customer. Photo by Rebekah Reed." />
 <figcaption>Five-year-old Magdelene Schmeidler points out an item to a customer. Photo by Rebekah Reed.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660754177628.jpeg" alt="" />
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