Hello from Topeka. We are on schedule for first adjournment
on April 1st.

Since the beginning of the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic, the legislature has worked quickly to
provide responsive legislation to address&nbsp;concerns in both the healthcare and business industries.
This past week the House passed SB 286, with a&nbsp;vote of 102-17. SB 286 extends the expiration dates from
March 31, 2022 to January 20, 2023 for certain&nbsp;portions of the governmental response to the COVID-19
pandemic. 

• Expansion of telemedicine • Use of hospital beds and non-hospital space • Immunity from civil liability for health care providers
related to the COVID-19 public health • Immunity from civil liability for COVID-19 claims for businesses in substantial compliance with public health directives • Retroactivity provision regarding immunity from civil
liability • Bed usage by critical access hospitals

The House amended the bill to make adjustments to the healthcare
provider civil immunity provisions.&nbsp;The House further amended the bill to add provisions of HB
2620, which provides for protections for&nbsp;healthcare workers. The bill creates the crime of
interference with the conduct of a hospital and amends&nbsp;the crime of battery to include battery against a healthcare
worker. The bill was requested by a&nbsp;bipartisan group of legislators and was passed by the House
Judiciary Committee earlier this session. SB&nbsp;286 goes back to the Senate for consideration of the House
amendments.

Overwhelming support for ensuring long-term stability of
state retirees’ plan

Last week the House Insurance and Pensions Committee
recommended SB 421 favorably and the House&nbsp;endorsed the bill with a vote of 113-5. SB 421 contains the contents of HB 2561, which uses the budget&nbsp;surplus to stabilize the KPERS system, bringing KPERS above the recommended 80 percent funded level,&nbsp;lowering future costs for taxpayers by reducing the state’s share of employer contributions, and saving&nbsp;taxpayers $429 million over the next five years. During debate, Rep. Steven Johnson reminded the body&nbsp;about why it is essential to direct stabilization funding to the KPERS Trust Fund. He provided a historical&nbsp;snapshot of the extreme downturn in the economy just over a decade ago and relayed the importance&nbsp;of keeping the fund secure. Johnson referenced the 2009 KPERS Comprehensive Annual Financial&nbsp;Report. In just one year’s time the funded ratio plummeted from 70.8 percent to 59 percent, while the&nbsp;Unfunded Actuarial Liability ballooned from $5.55 billion to $8.28 billion. KPERS’ investment returns&nbsp;declined by 19.6 percent over the previous year. The Legislature has made strides to ensure that KPERS&nbsp;remains stable and to provide certainty so that it will be there for our teachers, our firefighters, and&nbsp;other public employees when they need it. SB 421 is an extremely important piece of legislation to&nbsp;continue that effort.

Each House session is opened with a prayer and the Pledge of
Allegiance. The House is blessed to be&nbsp;served by Chaplain Eunice Brubaker, who has served as House Chaplain since the 2007 Session. She is a&nbsp;cancer survivor and unfortunately is in the midst of another bout with cancer. In her absence&nbsp; last week,&nbsp;Rep. Steven Johnson delivered the following prayer:

Gracious God, We have so much for which to be thankful. We are thankful to be here. We are thankful for all you have given us. We pray that your providence be with those fighting in Ukraine,&nbsp;that your kingdom may be established and prevail there and throughout the world. May we all continually consider how our actions and words&nbsp;serve your kingdom above our earthly kingdoms. Today, we pray again for our sister Eunice, that your healing hand is upon her. In our journey together to the stars, we can only make it with Your great love and guidance. When hate, envy or deceit wells within or around us, help us to instead reflect Your love,&nbsp;understanding and truth. Amen.

You can follow along on happenings in the legislature online at kslegislature.org and you can watch committee meetings and when the House and Senate are on the floor on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel. If you would like to contact me: my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My statehouse phone number is (785) 296-7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416.

Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. House District 110 includes:&nbsp; Norton and Phillips Counties Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis and Schoenchen;&nbsp;Townships: Big Creek(part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Herzog(part),&nbsp;Lookout(part) and Wheatland(part) Graham County: City: Hill City;&nbsp;Townships: Hill City(part) and Nicodemus(part) Rooks County: Cities: Damar, Palco, Plainville,&nbsp;Stockton, Woodston and Zurich

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644854972078.jpeg" alt="State Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hello from Topeka. We are on schedule for first adjournment
on April 1st. Since the beginning of the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic, the legislature has worked quickly to
provide responsive legislation to address&nbsp;concerns in both the healthcare and business industries.
This past week the House passed SB 286, with a&nbsp;vote of 102-17. SB 286 extends the expiration dates from
March 31, 2022 to January 20, 2023 for certain&nbsp;portions of the governmental response to the COVID-19
pandemic. Those provisions include: • Expansion of telemedicine • Use of hospital beds and non-hospital space • Immunity from civil liability for health care providers
related to the COVID-19 public health • Immunity from civil liability for COVID-19 claims for businesses in substantial compliance with public health directives • Retroactivity provision regarding immunity from civil
liability • Bed usage by critical access hospitalsThe House amended the bill to make adjustments to the healthcare
provider civil immunity provisions.&nbsp;The House further amended the bill to add provisions of HB
2620, which provides for protections for&nbsp;healthcare workers. The bill creates the crime of
interference with the conduct of a hospital and amends&nbsp;the crime of battery to include battery against a healthcare
worker. The bill was requested by a&nbsp;bipartisan group of legislators and was passed by the House
Judiciary Committee earlier this session. SB&nbsp;286 goes back to the Senate for consideration of the House
amendments.Overwhelming support for ensuring long-term stability of
state retirees’ planLast week the House Insurance and Pensions Committee
recommended SB 421 favorably and the House&nbsp;endorsed the bill with a vote of 113-5. SB 421 contains the contents of HB 2561, which uses the budget&nbsp;surplus to stabilize the KPERS system, bringing KPERS above the recommended 80 percent funded level,&nbsp;lowering future costs for taxpayers by reducing the state’s share of employer contributions, and saving&nbsp;taxpayers $429 million over the next five years. During debate, Rep. Steven Johnson reminded the body&nbsp;about why it is essential to direct stabilization funding to the KPERS Trust Fund. He provided a historical&nbsp;snapshot of the extreme downturn in the economy just over a decade ago and relayed the importance&nbsp;of keeping the fund secure. Johnson referenced the 2009 KPERS Comprehensive Annual Financial&nbsp;Report. In just one year’s time the funded ratio plummeted from 70.8 percent to 59 percent, while the&nbsp;Unfunded Actuarial Liability ballooned from $5.55 billion to $8.28 billion. KPERS’ investment returns&nbsp;declined by 19.6 percent over the previous year. The Legislature has made strides to ensure that KPERS&nbsp;remains stable and to provide certainty so that it will be there for our teachers, our firefighters, and&nbsp;other public employees when they need it. SB 421 is an extremely important piece of legislation to&nbsp;continue that effort.Legislative PrayerEach House session is opened with a prayer and the Pledge of
Allegiance. The House is blessed to be&nbsp;served by Chaplain Eunice Brubaker, who has served as House Chaplain since the 2007 Session. She is a&nbsp;cancer survivor and unfortunately is in the midst of another bout with cancer. In her absence&nbsp; last week,&nbsp;Rep. Steven Johnson delivered the following prayer:Gracious God, We have so much for which to be thankful. We are thankful to be here. We are thankful for all you have given us. We pray that your providence be with those fighting in Ukraine,&nbsp;that your kingdom may be established and prevail there and throughout the world. May we all continually consider how our actions and words&nbsp;serve your kingdom above our earthly kingdoms. Today, we pray again for our sister Eunice, that your healing hand is upon her. In our journey together to the stars, we can only make it with Your great love and guidance. When hate, envy or deceit wells within or around us, help us to instead reflect Your love,&nbsp;understanding and truth. Amen.You can follow along on happenings in the legislature online at kslegislature.org and you can watch committee meetings and when the House and Senate are on the floor on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel. If you would like to contact me: my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My statehouse phone number is (785) 296-7463 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov and you can always try my cell number at (785) 302-8416.It is my honor to serve you.Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, is the Kansas state representative of the 110th Dist. House District 110 includes:&nbsp; Norton and Phillips Counties Ellis County: Cities: Catharine, Ellis and Schoenchen;&nbsp;Townships: Big Creek(part), Buckeye, Catherine, Ellis, Herzog(part),&nbsp;Lookout(part) and Wheatland(part) Graham County: City: Hill City;&nbsp;Townships: Hill City(part) and Nicodemus(part) Rooks County: Cities: Damar, Palco, Plainville,&nbsp;Stockton, Woodston and Zurich

RAHJES REPORT: March 14, 2022

On Sunday around 4:44 p.m., Russell County Dispatch
received a phone call from a male subject claiming to be in the bathroom at the
Russell McDonald’s, 1435 S. Fossil, with a bomb and a gun. 

He stated he was going to “blow the place up.”

Russell Police Department officers and Russell County
Sheriff’s deputies responded and a quick visual inspection of the immediate
area around and inside the McDonald’s, while simultaneously evacuating staff
and patrons. 

The immediate area around McDonald’s was cordoned off and
secured. 

Assistance was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol and
Russell County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group. 

Russell County EMS and the City of Russell Fire Department
were also placed on standby. Around 6:24 p.m., a team from the SOG deployed in
the McDonald’s parking lot and began to visually inspect the exterior of the
building. 

The team then deployed a robot inside McDonald’s to clear
the interior of the building, revealing nothing suspicious. 

After the robot was brought back outside, an entry team
deployed into the restaurant for a more thorough search. The search revealed no
persons or suspicious devices. K9 units from the Kansas Highway Patrol did a
final search of the building, revealing nothing suspicious. 

At this time the investigation is continuing, however police believe this may be a “swatting” call. 

A “swatting” call is a prank phone call placed to a dispatch
center to elicit a SWAT team or heavy police response. 

If you have further information regarding this call, contact the Russell Police Department and ask to speak with Officer Scott McAdoo.


We would like to the assisting agencies and public for their
cooperation.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cd0839a8-c511-49f8-a8b1-2d9b96ca6668">Editor's note: This incident is separate from the standoff in Russell reported Monday.</a>

Russell Police DepartmentOn Sunday around 4:44 p.m., Russell County Dispatch
received a phone call from a male subject claiming to be in the bathroom at the
Russell McDonald’s, 1435 S. Fossil, with a bomb and a gun. He stated he was going to “blow the place up.”Russell Police Department officers and Russell County
Sheriff’s deputies responded and a quick visual inspection of the immediate
area around and inside the McDonald’s, while simultaneously evacuating staff
and patrons. The immediate area around McDonald’s was cordoned off and
secured. Assistance was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol and
Russell County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group. Russell County EMS and the City of Russell Fire Department
were also placed on standby. Around 6:24 p.m., a team from the SOG deployed in
the McDonald’s parking lot and began to visually inspect the exterior of the
building. The team then deployed a robot inside McDonald’s to clear
the interior of the building, revealing nothing suspicious. After the robot was brought back outside, an entry team
deployed into the restaurant for a more thorough search. The search revealed no
persons or suspicious devices. K9 units from the Kansas Highway Patrol did a
final search of the building, revealing nothing suspicious. At this time the investigation is continuing, however police believe this may be a “swatting” call. A “swatting” call is a prank phone call placed to a dispatch
center to elicit a SWAT team or heavy police response. If you have further information regarding this call, contact the Russell Police Department and ask to speak with Officer Scott McAdoo.
We would like to the assisting agencies and public for their
cooperation.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cd0839a8-c511-49f8-a8b1-2d9b96ca6668">Editor's note: This incident is separate from the standoff in Russell reported Monday.</a>

Russell police: Sunday bomb threat likely 'swatting' call

On March 14 at 10:12 a.m. two officers with the Russell Police Department responded to an address in the 300 block of W. 16th Street to serve a felony arrest warrant.

  The officers contacted a female resident who advised the wanted subject was inside and was armed. 

The officers quickly recovered a gun and bag of ammo from inside the front door and made announcements for the wanted subject to surrender. 

The subject stated that he was “not going to jail today.” 

The officers and female resident retreated from the residence to a place of safety. 

Additional officers from the police department and Russell County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist. 

Officers continued to make announcements without success.

 Officers also tried calling the wanted subject’s cell phone without success.

 Further information from the female resident revealed that the subject was armed without at least one more gun than the firearm initially recovered. 

Given the subject’s criminal history, felony arrest warrant, and the information gained from the female resident, a request for the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Special Response Team (S.R.T.) was made. They responded and were assisted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s High Risk Warrant Team. 

 After several hours of negotiations, the subject exited the residence and was taken into custody at 6:10 p.m.

This incident remains under investigation.

At 6:16 p.m. the city of Russell reported a suspect was in custody following an hours-long standoff in the city of Russell.

"The area remains as an active investigation, please continue to avoid the area," the announcement said. "Thank you for your patience and understanding why law enforcement worked to safely resolve this incident."

RUSSELL — At around 3 p.m. Monday, Russell police and Kansas Highway Patrol officers remained on scene at a home in Russell, hours after the city alerted residents to avoid an area in the 300 block of West 16th Street.

"The police department and KHP are working an active scene with a potentially armed barricaded suspect," according to an alert issued at 11:13 a.m. "The public is asked to avoid the area between Grant Street and Lincoln and 15th to 17th Street."

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: 7:44 p.m.Russell Police DepartmentOn March 14 at 10:12 a.m. two officers with the Russell Police Department responded to an address in the 300 block of W. 16th Street to serve a felony arrest warrant. The officers contacted a female resident who advised the wanted subject was inside and was armed. The officers quickly recovered a gun and bag of ammo from inside the front door and made announcements for the wanted subject to surrender. The subject stated that he was “not going to jail today.” The officers and female resident retreated from the residence to a place of safety. Additional officers from the police department and Russell County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist. Officers continued to make announcements without success. Officers also tried calling the wanted subject’s cell phone without success. Further information from the female resident revealed that the subject was armed without at least one more gun than the firearm initially recovered. Given the subject’s criminal history, felony arrest warrant, and the information gained from the female resident, a request for the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Special Response Team (S.R.T.) was made. They responded and were assisted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s High Risk Warrant Team. After several hours of negotiations, the subject exited the residence and was taken into custody at 6:10 p.m.This incident remains under investigation.----------------UPDATE: 6:16 p.m., MondayAt 6:16 p.m. the city of Russell reported a suspect was in custody following an hours-long standoff in the city of Russell."The area remains as an active investigation, please continue to avoid the area," the announcement said. "Thank you for your patience and understanding why law enforcement worked to safely resolve this incident."The original story follows.RUSSELL — At around 3 p.m. Monday, Russell police and Kansas Highway Patrol officers remained on scene at a home in Russell, hours after the city alerted residents to avoid an area in the 300 block of West 16th Street."The police department and KHP are working an active scene with a potentially armed barricaded suspect," according to an alert issued at 11:13 a.m. "The public is asked to avoid the area between Grant Street and Lincoln and 15th to 17th Street."This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: Suspect in custody after hours long standoff in Russell

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>

As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported three COVID inpatients, all recovering cases.

Since reporting began, there have been 7,130 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647276897242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>No active inpatient cases at HaysMed</h2>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>As of Monday morning, HaysMed reported three COVID inpatients, all recovering cases.Since reporting began, there have been 7,130 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647276917130.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Just one new COVID case in Ellis Co. since Friday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with coach Rick Keltner.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Coach Rick Keltner" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=q85n3-11cfd91-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with coach Rick Keltner.

🎤Forward Ever: Coach Rick Keltner

The Ellis County Fire Department on Monday announced the
implementation of a temporary burn ban in all unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective
immediately.


This is due to several reasons. First, as we move into springtime, the temperatures will start to climb
and, with little moisture to claim, ground fuels are dried out and easily susceptible to burning. In
addition to the climbing temperatures, there is continuous low humidity levels, and a long spell
without measurable moisture. The recent snowfall was not enough to keep a burn ban at bay.


The burn ban will stay in place for the foreseeable future until there is an adequate amount of
moisture throughout all the areas of Ellis County. As a reminder, the only allowable burning during a
burn ban is household waste in a barrel no larger than 55 gallons with a protective screen over the
top.


In any case in question, call 911 immediately to report a fire.


News releaseThe Ellis County Fire Department on Monday announced the
implementation of a temporary burn ban in all unincorporated areas of Ellis County effective
immediately.
This is due to several reasons. First, as we move into springtime, the temperatures will start to climb
and, with little moisture to claim, ground fuels are dried out and easily susceptible to burning. In
addition to the climbing temperatures, there is continuous low humidity levels, and a long spell
without measurable moisture. The recent snowfall was not enough to keep a burn ban at bay.
The burn ban will stay in place for the foreseeable future until there is an adequate amount of
moisture throughout all the areas of Ellis County. As a reminder, the only allowable burning during a
burn ban is household waste in a barrel no larger than 55 gallons with a protective screen over the
top.
In any case in question, call 911 immediately to report a fire.

Ellis County enacts temporary burn ban

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/index.aspx">FHSU Athletics</a>

No. 4/4 Fort Hays State (30-3, 19-3 MIAA) vs. Missouri Western (23-9, 14-8 MIAA) Monday, March 14&nbsp;• 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum 2022 NCAA DII Women's Basketball Championship Central Region Championship Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM)

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">LISTEN LIVE</a>

Promotion: Wear Black! A trophy will be lifted and the nets will be cut down inside Gross Memorial Coliseum Monday evening by either fourth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball or Missouri Western. The Central Region title game between MIAA rivals will tip at 7 p.m. Fans are encouraged to wear black and purchase their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?sponsorid=15736">tickets online via this link</a>&nbsp;to avoid waiting in line at the door. Tickets ($10 adults, $5 K-12) will be available at the gate for those unable to purchase online. Free live video will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">The MIAA Network</a>, courtesy of Tiger Media Network, while voice of the Tigers, Gerard Wellbrock will have the call on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">KJLS</a>&nbsp;(103.3 FM in the Hays listening area) alongside Dustin Armbruster. The Tigers (30-3) won their 11th-consecutive game on Saturday, a thrilling 59-55 win over St. Cloud State in the regional semifinals. The Griffons (23-9) continued their impressive run in the tournament with a 72-59 win over Nebraska-Kearney to reach the regional final. Fort Hays State beat Missouri Western twice in the regular season,&nbsp;including a 13-point win on the road (74-61, 1/15/22) and a nine-point win in overtime at home (78-69, 2/23/22). The Tigers lead the all-time series 32-23, including wins in four straight. FHSU is 21-5 at home against the Griffons. The Tigers are 16-6 against MWSU under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=1043">Tony Hobson</a>&nbsp;and 10-0 at home. Saturday's win was Fort Hays State's 30th victory of the season, with the Tigers reaching that milestone for the fourth time in program history. It's the third 30-win season for the Tigers over the last eight years. In comparison, the rest of the MIAA has a combined one 30-win season during that timeframe (UCM 2017-18). FHSU's 58 rebounds against Minnesota State are the most in a single game by a team through two rounds of the tournament.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6443">Katie Wagner's</a>&nbsp;16 rebounds against MSU are fourth-most in a game by an individual and her six steals against St. Cloud State are third-most in a game during the tournament. The Tigers rank fourth overall with nine blocks, fourth in total rebounds with 91, fifth in rebounds per game at 45.5, second in total steals at 25, and ninth in field goal percentage defense at 33.9 percent. The Tigers are 7-6 overall, 0-2 in the championship, 6-3 as the No. 1 seed, 0-0 against the No. 7 seed, 6-2 in home games, 6-4 while ranked and 1-3 against MIAA programs in the NCAA DII regional tournament all-time. Six No. 1 seeds remain in the national tournament, with East Region No. 1 Southern New Hampshire falling in the quarterfinals and Midwest top seed Ashland losing in the semifinals. Fort Hays State is now 73-5 (.936) in non-conference home games under Hobson. The Tigers are 189-29 overall at home during the Hobson era, good for a winning percentage of .867. Through two games, Missouri Western ranks first out of 64 teams in the NCAA DII Women's Basketball Championship in assists (44), assists per game (22.0), field goal percentage (56.8), scoring offense (91.5 ppg), 3-pointers made (20) and 3-point field goal percentage (52.6). The Griffons defeated second-seeded Southwestern Oklahoma State 111-77 behind 15 3-pointers in the regional quarterfinal. Connie Clarke (team-high 12.7 points, 8.7 rebounds per game)&nbsp;was a second team All-MIAA selection in addition to earning a spot on the All-Defensive Team. Corbyn Cunningham and Brionna Budgetts also earned honorable mention All-MIAA honors. The victor of Monday's regional championship game will get a week off before opening play in the Elite Eight on Monday, March 21 in Birmingham, Ala. The national semifinals will be played on Wednesday, March 23 before the DII National Championship trophy is handed out on Friday, March 25.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647270807206.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Nicole Heitmann)" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Nicole Heitmann)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/index.aspx">FHSU Athletics</a>No. 4/4 Fort Hays State (30-3, 19-3 MIAA) vs. Missouri Western (23-9, 14-8 MIAA) Monday, March 14&nbsp;• 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum 2022 NCAA DII Women's Basketball Championship Central Region Championship Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM)<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">LISTEN LIVE</a>Promotion: Wear Black! A trophy will be lifted and the nets will be cut down inside Gross Memorial Coliseum Monday evening by either fourth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball or Missouri Western. The Central Region title game between MIAA rivals will tip at 7 p.m. Fans are encouraged to wear black and purchase their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?sponsorid=15736">tickets online via this link</a>&nbsp;to avoid waiting in line at the door. Tickets ($10 adults, $5 K-12) will be available at the gate for those unable to purchase online. Free live video will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">The MIAA Network</a>, courtesy of Tiger Media Network, while voice of the Tigers, Gerard Wellbrock will have the call on&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">KJLS</a>&nbsp;(103.3 FM in the Hays listening area) alongside Dustin Armbruster. The Tigers (30-3) won their 11th-consecutive game on Saturday, a thrilling 59-55 win over St. Cloud State in the regional semifinals. The Griffons (23-9) continued their impressive run in the tournament with a 72-59 win over Nebraska-Kearney to reach the regional final. Fort Hays State beat Missouri Western twice in the regular season,&nbsp;including a 13-point win on the road (74-61, 1/15/22) and a nine-point win in overtime at home (78-69, 2/23/22). The Tigers lead the all-time series 32-23, including wins in four straight. FHSU is 21-5 at home against the Griffons. The Tigers are 16-6 against MWSU under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=1043">Tony Hobson</a>&nbsp;and 10-0 at home. Saturday's win was Fort Hays State's 30th victory of the season, with the Tigers reaching that milestone for the fourth time in program history. It's the third 30-win season for the Tigers over the last eight years. In comparison, the rest of the MIAA has a combined one 30-win season during that timeframe (UCM 2017-18). FHSU's 58 rebounds against Minnesota State are the most in a single game by a team through two rounds of the tournament.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6443">Katie Wagner's</a>&nbsp;16 rebounds against MSU are fourth-most in a game by an individual and her six steals against St. Cloud State are third-most in a game during the tournament. The Tigers rank fourth overall with nine blocks, fourth in total rebounds with 91, fifth in rebounds per game at 45.5, second in total steals at 25, and ninth in field goal percentage defense at 33.9 percent. The Tigers are 7-6 overall, 0-2 in the championship, 6-3 as the No. 1 seed, 0-0 against the No. 7 seed, 6-2 in home games, 6-4 while ranked and 1-3 against MIAA programs in the NCAA DII regional tournament all-time. Six No. 1 seeds remain in the national tournament, with East Region No. 1 Southern New Hampshire falling in the quarterfinals and Midwest top seed Ashland losing in the semifinals. Fort Hays State is now 73-5 (.936) in non-conference home games under Hobson. The Tigers are 189-29 overall at home during the Hobson era, good for a winning percentage of .867. Through two games, Missouri Western ranks first out of 64 teams in the NCAA DII Women's Basketball Championship in assists (44), assists per game (22.0), field goal percentage (56.8), scoring offense (91.5 ppg), 3-pointers made (20) and 3-point field goal percentage (52.6). The Griffons defeated second-seeded Southwestern Oklahoma State 111-77 behind 15 3-pointers in the regional quarterfinal. Connie Clarke (team-high 12.7 points, 8.7 rebounds per game)&nbsp;was a second team All-MIAA selection in addition to earning a spot on the All-Defensive Team. Corbyn Cunningham and Brionna Budgetts also earned honorable mention All-MIAA honors. The victor of Monday's regional championship game will get a week off before opening play in the Elite Eight on Monday, March 21 in Birmingham, Ala. The national semifinals will be played on Wednesday, March 23 before the DII National Championship trophy is handed out on Friday, March 25.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 FHSU women host Griffons with trip to Elite Eight on the line

After being <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4502fd64-a591-4bf8-8ba8-fc326c27f0cb">rebuffed
by the Ellis County Commission in January,</a> the Hays Board of Realtors
continues in its effort to bring a proposal to county voters that would
increase the number of commissioners from three to five.

To bring the measure to voters the board will need signatures
from five percent of Ellis County voters –&nbsp;around 950
signatures.

The effort to collect signatures began after the January meeting,
where County Commission chair Butch Schlyer said he was “100-percent opposed”
to the effort and asked that as they collect signatures, they tell the public, “This
is not in their best interest.”

Past president of the board Robert Readle said he had hoped the commission would be supportive of the measure going into that
meeting but were prepared to begin collecting signatures as well. 

“We looked into this petition effort and were advised by our
counsel, that there were really two avenues to go,” Readle said. 

He said the board was advised to approach the commission
first to see if they would be supportive of the measure.

“However, we were a little disappointed,” Readle said. “Neither
of the commissioners that were there that night&nbsp;– which ironically, one of the
commissioners had resigned at the beginning of that meeting, so, we were
presenting to two commissioners again&nbsp;– but nevertheless, neither one of them were
in support of that.”

And so, by default, they were forced to attempt the second
method, collecting signatures in order to bring the measure to voters.

“This is just placing it on the ballot,” Readle said. “This
isn't changing anything, it's really just putting it out to the public so that the
county can vote on this.”

And while the issue is being talked discussed in the public sphere,
he said some have been supportive of the effort itself, to bring the measure to a vote.

“Several people that actually have agreed to sign the
petition and said, ‘You know, I'm not saying whether I agree or disagree with
your effort, but I do think it should be put to a vote,’” Readle said. “And so,
it's really just to put it on the ballot.”

The first signatures were collected shortly after the
meeting with the commission, with the hopes of bringing the issue to the voters
this year.

After collecting signatures Readle said, “we take it to the
county clerk, they certify the petition. They'll have to make sure that
everybody that signed it is a registered voter in Ellis County. So that can be
a pretty lengthy process. Our goal is to get over 1000 signatures.”

Once certified the measure will be placed on the ballot.

“We’re looking to have this wrapped up by late July,” Readle
said. “That should give them plenty of time to certify the petition and put it
on the ballot for the November election.”

The board believes the commission should be expanded to help
bring more stability to the county government.

“As a board, we've kind of observed a couple of shortcomings
with the current county commission, just the way it's structured, not
necessarily the members or how they've been voting,” Readle said. “We've seen
just a couple of issues arise that we think could be very easily solved by just
expanding the commission from three seats to five.”

He pointed to land development projects that were rejected
by the commission as examples of why five commissioners would better suit Ellis
County, including Blue Sky Acres.

“That was a petitioner coming to the county government to do
a development south of Hays,” Readle said. “There were only three commissioners
at the time, and one of them had to recuse themselves. And so that left the
county commission, with only two voting members deciding on this, and
effectively a single commissioner was against it.”

“And so, they effectively had veto power on anything coming
through the commission when there's only two commissioners,” he continued. “Whether
you agree or disagree with the way she was voting, it's really not the point.
What we're concerned with is that we think with five commissioners, it would
take at least two commissioners to be against if one of them were to recuse.
And we just think two would be better than one. ... Veto
power like that is less than ideal in our eyes.”

While Readle said he was doubtful an expanded commission would
be an answer to every concern, it may help smooth over contentious issues, that
have in the past led to notable incidents during commission meetings.

“I do think that being able to communicate prior to
meetings, being able to go back to petitioners prior to them coming into the
public meeting, may help keep some of those really hot button issues from
boiling over,” Readle said. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7815a4ca-e1f2-45a7-a99d-bc45aa69e178">“I mean, I think one of those commission meetings a
gal got arrested during the meeting.”</a>

“And so, you know, just from our experience with the City
Commission, being able to come to them talk about the issue, they were able to
kind of step back, assess, think through it and come back to us again. I don't
know that the county really is able to work through that process as well. And
it may just help kind of iron out some of those issues prior to the meeting.
And then it isn't such a chaotic scene.”

Readle said while the board believes the expanded commission
would be a good move the Ellis County, he understands that with only three commissioners’
conversations, are more public by default.

“Some people that are against it, view a three-member
commission, as the best way to keep everything aboveboard,” he said. “With only
three commissioners, they cannot visit with each other directly. The Kansas
Open Meetings Act prohibits them from discussing things outside of the county
commission meeting itself.”

But the group’s experience with the five-member Hays City
Commission has demonstrated how well a five-member board can work.

“When there's a five-member commission, they're able to go
back and meet with each other on a one-on-one basis, discuss things, gain
additional insight, understand somebody else's point of view and oftentimes
that leads to more questions,” Readle said. “We were just able to really work
through a lot more of their concerns prior to it going to a public meeting,
which I think is good, it leads to better-informed decisions.”

“With the county, when there's only three, they can't visit
with each other before the meeting. And so sometimes it takes a long time to
work through the different issues. And we just feel like sometimes the
commissioners aren't seeing eye to eye on some issues. It leads to some
pretty wild meetings and on occasion.”

Hays residents interested in signing the petition that would
bring place the measure on the November ballot can visit most Hays realtors.

“If you're interested in finding out more you can go in,
talk to us,” Readle said. “Or if you're just ready to support our petition
again, just to place it on the ballot, stop in and sign up.”

<div><iframe title="Efforts to expand Ellis County Commission continue" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=p5dxi-11cc497-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAfter being <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4502fd64-a591-4bf8-8ba8-fc326c27f0cb">rebuffed
by the Ellis County Commission in January,</a> the Hays Board of Realtors
continues in its effort to bring a proposal to county voters that would
increase the number of commissioners from three to five.To bring the measure to voters the board will need signatures
from five percent of Ellis County voters –&nbsp;around 950
signatures.The effort to collect signatures began after the January meeting,
where County Commission chair Butch Schlyer said he was “100-percent opposed”
to the effort and asked that as they collect signatures, they tell the public, “This
is not in their best interest.”Past president of the board Robert Readle said he had hoped the commission would be supportive of the measure going into that
meeting but were prepared to begin collecting signatures as well. “We looked into this petition effort and were advised by our
counsel, that there were really two avenues to go,” Readle said. He said the board was advised to approach the commission
first to see if they would be supportive of the measure.“However, we were a little disappointed,” Readle said. “Neither
of the commissioners that were there that night&nbsp;– which ironically, one of the
commissioners had resigned at the beginning of that meeting, so, we were
presenting to two commissioners again&nbsp;– but nevertheless, neither one of them were
in support of that.”And so, by default, they were forced to attempt the second
method, collecting signatures in order to bring the measure to voters.“This is just placing it on the ballot,” Readle said. “This
isn't changing anything, it's really just putting it out to the public so that the
county can vote on this.”And while the issue is being talked discussed in the public sphere,
he said some have been supportive of the effort itself, to bring the measure to a vote.“Several people that actually have agreed to sign the
petition and said, ‘You know, I'm not saying whether I agree or disagree with
your effort, but I do think it should be put to a vote,’” Readle said. “And so,
it's really just to put it on the ballot.”The first signatures were collected shortly after the
meeting with the commission, with the hopes of bringing the issue to the voters
this year.After collecting signatures Readle said, “we take it to the
county clerk, they certify the petition. They'll have to make sure that
everybody that signed it is a registered voter in Ellis County. So that can be
a pretty lengthy process. Our goal is to get over 1000 signatures.”Once certified the measure will be placed on the ballot.“We’re looking to have this wrapped up by late July,” Readle
said. “That should give them plenty of time to certify the petition and put it
on the ballot for the November election.”The board believes the commission should be expanded to help
bring more stability to the county government.“As a board, we've kind of observed a couple of shortcomings
with the current county commission, just the way it's structured, not
necessarily the members or how they've been voting,” Readle said. “We've seen
just a couple of issues arise that we think could be very easily solved by just
expanding the commission from three seats to five.”He pointed to land development projects that were rejected
by the commission as examples of why five commissioners would better suit Ellis
County, including Blue Sky Acres.“That was a petitioner coming to the county government to do
a development south of Hays,” Readle said. “There were only three commissioners
at the time, and one of them had to recuse themselves. And so that left the
county commission, with only two voting members deciding on this, and
effectively a single commissioner was against it.”“And so, they effectively had veto power on anything coming
through the commission when there's only two commissioners,” he continued. “Whether
you agree or disagree with the way she was voting, it's really not the point.
What we're concerned with is that we think with five commissioners, it would
take at least two commissioners to be against if one of them were to recuse.
And we just think two would be better than one. ... Veto
power like that is less than ideal in our eyes.”While Readle said he was doubtful an expanded commission would
be an answer to every concern, it may help smooth over contentious issues, that
have in the past led to notable incidents during commission meetings.“I do think that being able to communicate prior to
meetings, being able to go back to petitioners prior to them coming into the
public meeting, may help keep some of those really hot button issues from
boiling over,” Readle said. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7815a4ca-e1f2-45a7-a99d-bc45aa69e178">“I mean, I think one of those commission meetings a
gal got arrested during the meeting.”</a>“And so, you know, just from our experience with the City
Commission, being able to come to them talk about the issue, they were able to
kind of step back, assess, think through it and come back to us again. I don't
know that the county really is able to work through that process as well. And
it may just help kind of iron out some of those issues prior to the meeting.
And then it isn't such a chaotic scene.”Readle said while the board believes the expanded commission
would be a good move the Ellis County, he understands that with only three commissioners’
conversations, are more public by default.“Some people that are against it, view a three-member
commission, as the best way to keep everything aboveboard,” he said. “With only
three commissioners, they cannot visit with each other directly. The Kansas
Open Meetings Act prohibits them from discussing things outside of the county
commission meeting itself.”But the group’s experience with the five-member Hays City
Commission has demonstrated how well a five-member board can work.“When there's a five-member commission, they're able to go
back and meet with each other on a one-on-one basis, discuss things, gain
additional insight, understand somebody else's point of view and oftentimes
that leads to more questions,” Readle said. “We were just able to really work
through a lot more of their concerns prior to it going to a public meeting,
which I think is good, it leads to better-informed decisions.”“With the county, when there's only three, they can't visit
with each other before the meeting. And so sometimes it takes a long time to
work through the different issues. And we just feel like sometimes the
commissioners aren't seeing eye to eye on some issues. It leads to some
pretty wild meetings and on occasion.”Hays residents interested in signing the petition that would
bring place the measure on the November ballot can visit most Hays realtors.“If you're interested in finding out more you can go in,
talk to us,” Readle said. “Or if you're just ready to support our petition
again, just to place it on the ballot, stop in and sign up.”

🎙 Efforts to expand Ellis County Commission continue

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/sites/default/files/ec_summary_report_child_care_survey.pdf">A recent survey conducted in Ellis County on child care</a> found 151 individuals — 97 percent of those individuals seeking child care — would return to the work force if they had affordable child care.

Ninety percent of the respondents to this portion of the survey were women and 45 percent of those respondents had bachelor's degrees.

In a county with a unemployment rate of 1.4 percent as of December, that is significant, said Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber executive director.

"There's lots of mothers who are staying at home and providing child care for their children instead of working," Wasinger said. "We know additionally they would bring in an additional $40,000 to $50,000 in income each year if they would be able to work."

The survey included about 800 respondents who self-selected to take the survey. Wasinger said the survey likely does not reflect all the needs in the community, only the data the survey could capture.

The top three barriers to finding care were listed as cost, dependable care and quality of care, with the later two rankings very close behind cost.

On average in Kansas about 7 percent of a family's income is spent on child care, but Ellis County exceeds that at between 11 and 12 percent, Wasinger said.

Although these three factors were paramount in parents' minds, many parents in Ellis County and across northwest Kansas are caught in the child care gap. 

Ellis County has eight child care centers and 79 family child care homes. Child care has about an $11.4 million impact on the county, according to Child Care Aware of Kansas.

Care for infants and toddlers is especially critical. According to a 2020 child care demand study, Ellis County had one child care opening for every 10 children in need of care younger than 3.

However, Jewell, Decatur and Gove counties had no infant or toddler spots. Thomas County had 31 to 40 children for every opening, and Norton County had 21 to 30 children for every open spot.

Before the pandemic in 2019, the state reported the child care gap to be 35.5 percent with an economic impact of $2.2 to $3.3 billion.

Wasinger, who is a member of the <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">Child Care Task Force of Ellis County</a>, said. The pandemic has worsened the issue, as more home-based care providers have chosen to close.

Members of the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County met Thursday with state representatives of Child Care Aware of Kansas and related child care support agencies. 

The group discussed the importance of child care to maintaining a quality work force, as well as how businesses could support the child care sector.

Sandy Gottschalk, HaysMed Pathways to Excellence coordinator, said child care is a significant issue in staffing. One of the counties largest employers, HaysMed employees 1,500 people.

Brett Schmidt, task force member and owner of Learning Cross Preschool in Hays, said he does not see a desire among businesses to become child care providers. The cost is too high, and they don't want the liability, he said.

However, some businesses in the region have been willing to provide space for outside providers. 

Wasinger said some communities have used a pay-to-play model. A business pays to reserve child care spots whether they have employees using the spots or not.

Schmidt said paying to reserve spots is becoming more common. Some families are waiting to start families until they know they have a spot reserved.

The group discussed ways of providing incentives for new providers to enter the market, as well as existing providers to expand their services.

Schmidt said many barriers exist for providers.

Among the top issues is a stable work force. He said wages tend to be low for child care workers and burn out tends to be high. In addition, child care staff need to have Child Development Accreditation to supervise children in a licensed child care center.&nbsp;

This requires 120 hours of early childhood education, 480 hours for work experience with children, an exam and a verification visit.

Sarah Meitner, task force member and director of the Heartland Community Foundation, suggested local students could be working toward their accreditation while in high school. This would provide extra hands for child care providers and help produce a new crop of professionals entering the workforce upon graduation.

The state provides scholarships for students who are seeking their accreditation. 

The group discussed the use of volunteers, but concerns were raised about training, as well as consistency and safety for the children.

Although funds are needed for start-up costs for centers, funds should also be dedicated for staff recruitment and retention, Schmidt said.

Schmidt suggested providers joining into networks to share employees. He said providers have a great need for substitute staff.

Schmidt also lamented the cost of building or even renting space in Hays can be prohibitive for providers. He said he was lucky his landlord for his second center agreed to keep his rent affordable based on the services he is offering.

The group talked about ways organizations, such as Grow Hays and the Heartland Community Foundation, which have non-profit status, could help providers apply for grants to renovate buildings for new child care facilities.

Meitner also suggested a fund could be created within the foundation that could be used to support child care providers. That fund could be the beneficiary of estate gifts, which could allow a donor to give a donation that could grow over time.

The state representatives also discussed a variety of funding sources and support programs for child care providers.

Christina Ferguson of Child Care Aware Kansas discussed a grant program that is providing a third round of COVID relief funds to child care providers. Applications are open now.

Program that are permanently licensed through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment can apply for up to $1,800 per month for child care homes and up to $18,000 per month for large child care centers.

The group also discussed options that could reduce operating costs or supplement providers' incomes. Representatives from the Department of Children and Families suggested providers encourage eligible low-income families to apply for child care subsidies.

"It helps the families and also helps the provider," said Jennifer Pishny of the Department for Children and Families.

Kelly Horn of Sunshine Connections discussed federally funded food assistance programs available to child care providers. Twenty-five percent of the children in a program have to qualify as low-income. The program supplements the cost of both meals and snacks for children.

"Children are getting the right foods they need to develop and are learning healthy eating habits," she said.

For providers who don't qualify for the federal program, she suggested providers organize purchasing groups so they could take advantage of discounts for buying in bulk.

<a href="https://kccto.org/">Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities</a>, <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>, <a href="https://ksaeyc.net/">Kansas Association for the Education of Young Children</a> and <a href="https://www.ccpcofks.com/">Child Care Providers Coalition of Kansas</a> all provide a long list of services and resources for both perspective and existing providers.

These groups can help with provider start-up, business plans, ideas on creating contracts and policies, training, as well as peer support.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646954244495.jpeg" alt="File photo " />
 <figcaption>File photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<a href="https://hayschamber.com/sites/default/files/ec_summary_report_child_care_survey.pdf">A recent survey conducted in Ellis County on child care</a> found 151 individuals — 97 percent of those individuals seeking child care — would return to the work force if they had affordable child care.Ninety percent of the respondents to this portion of the survey were women and 45 percent of those respondents had bachelor's degrees.In a county with a unemployment rate of 1.4 percent as of December, that is significant, said Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber executive director."There's lots of mothers who are staying at home and providing child care for their children instead of working," Wasinger said. "We know additionally they would bring in an additional $40,000 to $50,000 in income each year if they would be able to work."The survey included about 800 respondents who self-selected to take the survey. Wasinger said the survey likely does not reflect all the needs in the community, only the data the survey could capture.The top three barriers to finding care were listed as cost, dependable care and quality of care, with the later two rankings very close behind cost.On average in Kansas about 7 percent of a family's income is spent on child care, but Ellis County exceeds that at between 11 and 12 percent, Wasinger said.<h2>Child care gap</h2>Although these three factors were paramount in parents' minds, many parents in Ellis County and across northwest Kansas are caught in the child care gap. Ellis County has eight child care centers and 79 family child care homes. Child care has about an $11.4 million impact on the county, according to Child Care Aware of Kansas. Care for infants and toddlers is especially critical. According to a 2020 child care demand study, Ellis County had one child care opening for every 10 children in need of care younger than 3.However, Jewell, Decatur and Gove counties had no infant or toddler spots. Thomas County had 31 to 40 children for every opening, and Norton County had 21 to 30 children for every open spot.Before the pandemic in 2019, the state reported the child care gap to be 35.5 percent with an economic impact of $2.2 to $3.3 billion.Wasinger, who is a member of the <a href="https://hayschamber.com/child-care-task-force-of-ellis-county">Child Care Task Force of Ellis County</a>, said. The pandemic has worsened the issue, as more home-based care providers have chosen to close.<h2>Effects of child care on local business</h2>Members of the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County met Thursday with state representatives of Child Care Aware of Kansas and related child care support agencies. The group discussed the importance of child care to maintaining a quality work force, as well as how businesses could support the child care sector.Sandy Gottschalk, HaysMed Pathways to Excellence coordinator, said child care is a significant issue in staffing. One of the counties largest employers, HaysMed employees 1,500 people. Brett Schmidt, task force member and owner of Learning Cross Preschool in Hays, said he does not see a desire among businesses to become child care providers. The cost is too high, and they don't want the liability, he said. However, some businesses in the region have been willing to provide space for outside providers. Wasinger said some communities have used a pay-to-play model. A business pays to reserve child care spots whether they have employees using the spots or not.Schmidt said paying to reserve spots is becoming more common. Some families are waiting to start families until they know they have a spot reserved.<h2>Child care work force issues</h2>The group discussed ways of providing incentives for new providers to enter the market, as well as existing providers to expand their services.Schmidt said many barriers exist for providers.Among the top issues is a stable work force. He said wages tend to be low for child care workers and burn out tends to be high. In addition, child care staff need to have Child Development Accreditation to supervise children in a licensed child care center.&nbsp;This requires 120 hours of early childhood education, 480 hours for work experience with children, an exam and a verification visit.Sarah Meitner, task force member and director of the Heartland Community Foundation, suggested local students could be working toward their accreditation while in high school. This would provide extra hands for child care providers and help produce a new crop of professionals entering the workforce upon graduation.The state provides scholarships for students who are seeking their accreditation. The group discussed the use of volunteers, but concerns were raised about training, as well as consistency and safety for the children.Although funds are needed for start-up costs for centers, funds should also be dedicated for staff recruitment and retention, Schmidt said. Schmidt suggested providers joining into networks to share employees. He said providers have a great need for substitute staff.Schmidt also lamented the cost of building or even renting space in Hays can be prohibitive for providers. He said he was lucky his landlord for his second center agreed to keep his rent affordable based on the services he is offering.<h2>Supplemental funding for providers</h2>The group talked about ways organizations, such as Grow Hays and the Heartland Community Foundation, which have non-profit status, could help providers apply for grants to renovate buildings for new child care facilities.Meitner also suggested a fund could be created within the foundation that could be used to support child care providers. That fund could be the beneficiary of estate gifts, which could allow a donor to give a donation that could grow over time.The state representatives also discussed a variety of funding sources and support programs for child care providers.Christina Ferguson of Child Care Aware Kansas discussed a grant program that is providing a third round of COVID relief funds to child care providers. Applications are open now. Program that are permanently licensed through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment can apply for up to $1,800 per month for child care homes and up to $18,000 per month for large child care centers.The group also discussed options that could reduce operating costs or supplement providers' incomes. Representatives from the Department of Children and Families suggested providers encourage eligible low-income families to apply for child care subsidies."It helps the families and also helps the provider," said Jennifer Pishny of the Department for Children and Families. Kelly Horn of Sunshine Connections discussed federally funded food assistance programs available to child care providers. Twenty-five percent of the children in a program have to qualify as low-income. The program supplements the cost of both meals and snacks for children."Children are getting the right foods they need to develop and are learning healthy eating habits," she said.For providers who don't qualify for the federal program, she suggested providers organize purchasing groups so they could take advantage of discounts for buying in bulk.<h2>More resources</h2><a href="https://kccto.org/">Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities</a>, <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>, <a href="https://ksaeyc.net/">Kansas Association for the Education of Young Children</a> and <a href="https://www.ccpcofks.com/">Child Care Providers Coalition of Kansas</a> all provide a long list of services and resources for both perspective and existing providers.These groups can help with provider start-up, business plans, ideas on creating contracts and policies, training, as well as peer support.

Moms would re-enter Ellis County workforce if child care available, survey says

Senator Rick Billinger&nbsp;Newsletter March 14, 2022

TOPEKA - Last week we passed the budget out of Ways and Means. On Tuesday debate will be held on the Senate floor to pass said budget. Next week I will let you know the highlights of the budget passed out of the Senate.

The Senate confirmed Janet Stanek as Secretary of Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Angela Coble to the Kansas Court of Appeals.

It is fiscally responsible to use one-time money to pay off debt. Given the influx of federal funds, Republicans are leading the effort to reduce the state’s debt and meet our obligation to retirees. SB523 passed the Senate and will authorize the transfer of $1.0 billion from the State General Fund to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) Trust fund in four scheduled payments. Of that amount, $600 million would be transferred in FY 2022 in two installments - $300.0 million on the effective date of the bill and $300.0 million on June 1, 2022. The remaining $400.0 million would be $200.0 million on October 1, 2022, and $200.0 million on January 1, 2023, with the State Finance Council’s approval after reviewing the State’s financial position.

A tax package was approved by the Senate, which offers a series of tax credits in addition to property tax relief for Kansans. The components include:

*Aviation Tax Credit which will allow employers whose principal business activity involves the aviation sector to receive a nonrefundable income tax credit beginning, tax year 2023, for tuition or certain program specific course-fee reimbursements paid to a full-time “qualified employee,” as defined by the bill, who has graduated from an accredited engineering or technology undergraduate or graduate degree program, an associate of applied science degree program, or career technical program.

*Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit is to facilitate investment in suitable housing that will support the growth of communities lacking housing by attracting new employees, residents and families and will support the development and expansion of businesses that are job and wealth creating enterprises.

*Kansas Affordable Housing Tax Credit Act will create tax credits for individual, person, firm, corporation or other entity owning as interest in a “qualified development” and subject to applicable Kansas taxes. Qualified developments would be low-income housing projects.

*Teacher Classroom Supplies Tax Credits will create an individual income tax credit for public or private school teachers residing in Kansas equal to the taxpayer’s expenditures for school and classroom supplies during the year. The credit would be effective beginning in tax year 2022 and would be limited to $250 per year.

*Homestead Property Tax Refund Claims will provide for refund claims to be paid to claimants who are at least 65 years old or a disabled veteran, reside in a homestead with an appraisal value of $350,000 or less for the entire year, and have a household income of $50,000 or less. The $50,000 amount would be annually adjusted by the cost of living.

*Residential Property Tax Exemption will increase the amount of the residential exemption from the 20 mills uniform statewide school finance property tax levy from $20,000 of valuation to $65,000 of valuation beginning in tax year 2022 and provide for the amount to be increased in future tax years according to the average percentage change in statewide residential real property for the preceding 10 tax years.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns, my office number is 785 296-7399 or my cell is 785 899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th district senator which includes:

Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon(part) and Towanda

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist." />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Senator Rick Billinger&nbsp;Newsletter March 14, 2022 TOPEKA - Last week we passed the budget out of Ways and Means. On Tuesday debate will be held on the Senate floor to pass said budget. Next week I will let you know the highlights of the budget passed out of the Senate.The Senate confirmed Janet Stanek as Secretary of Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Angela Coble to the Kansas Court of Appeals.It is fiscally responsible to use one-time money to pay off debt. Given the influx of federal funds, Republicans are leading the effort to reduce the state’s debt and meet our obligation to retirees. SB523 passed the Senate and will authorize the transfer of $1.0 billion from the State General Fund to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) Trust fund in four scheduled payments. Of that amount, $600 million would be transferred in FY 2022 in two installments - $300.0 million on the effective date of the bill and $300.0 million on June 1, 2022. The remaining $400.0 million would be $200.0 million on October 1, 2022, and $200.0 million on January 1, 2023, with the State Finance Council’s approval after reviewing the State’s financial position.A tax package was approved by the Senate, which offers a series of tax credits in addition to property tax relief for Kansans. The components include:*Aviation Tax Credit which will allow employers whose principal business activity involves the aviation sector to receive a nonrefundable income tax credit beginning, tax year 2023, for tuition or certain program specific course-fee reimbursements paid to a full-time “qualified employee,” as defined by the bill, who has graduated from an accredited engineering or technology undergraduate or graduate degree program, an associate of applied science degree program, or career technical program.*Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit is to facilitate investment in suitable housing that will support the growth of communities lacking housing by attracting new employees, residents and families and will support the development and expansion of businesses that are job and wealth creating enterprises.*Kansas Affordable Housing Tax Credit Act will create tax credits for individual, person, firm, corporation or other entity owning as interest in a “qualified development” and subject to applicable Kansas taxes. Qualified developments would be low-income housing projects.*Teacher Classroom Supplies Tax Credits will create an individual income tax credit for public or private school teachers residing in Kansas equal to the taxpayer’s expenditures for school and classroom supplies during the year. The credit would be effective beginning in tax year 2022 and would be limited to $250 per year.*Homestead Property Tax Refund Claims will provide for refund claims to be paid to claimants who are at least 65 years old or a disabled veteran, reside in a homestead with an appraisal value of $350,000 or less for the entire year, and have a household income of $50,000 or less. The $50,000 amount would be annually adjusted by the cost of living.*Residential Property Tax Exemption will increase the amount of the residential exemption from the 20 mills uniform statewide school finance property tax levy from $20,000 of valuation to $65,000 of valuation beginning in tax year 2022 and provide for the amount to be increased in future tax years according to the average percentage change in statewide residential real property for the preceding 10 tax years.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns, my office number is 785 296-7399 or my cell is 785 899-4700. If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.Rick Billingr, R-Goodland, is the 40th district senator which includes:Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace Counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon(part) and Towanda

BILLINGER: Senate Update, March 14, 2022

Online ranker Best Things in Kansas recently placed two northwest Kansas establishments on its "Best Milkshakes in Kansas" listing.

Vernie's Hamburger House in Hays and Gibson's Health Mart in WaKeeney both were honored.

Click <a href="https://bestthingsks.com/milkshakes/">HERE</a> to read the article.

Online ranker Best Things in Kansas recently placed two northwest Kansas establishments on its "Best Milkshakes in Kansas" listing.Vernie's Hamburger House in Hays and Gibson's Health Mart in WaKeeney both were honored.Click <a href="https://bestthingsks.com/milkshakes/">HERE</a> to read the article.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Two NW Kan. establishments earn spot on 'best milkshake' list

By TROY RUDA Thomas More Prep-Marian

Seniors
 Kassidi Yost and Ella Brummer are hosting a delicious Sunday breakfast 
with all proceeds benefitting the Disaster Relief Fund with the 
Heartland Community Foundation.

Let us do the cooking and you 
enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage links, biscuits and gravy, hashbrowns, 
orange juice, coffee and water.

<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/capstone-breakfast">Click here to purchase your tickets online</a>, or visit the TMP-M front office to purchase in person.

By TROY RUDA Thomas More Prep-MarianSeniors
 Kassidi Yost and Ella Brummer are hosting a delicious Sunday breakfast 
with all proceeds benefitting the Disaster Relief Fund with the 
Heartland Community Foundation.Let us do the cooking and you 
enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage links, biscuits and gravy, hashbrowns, 
orange juice, coffee and water.<ul>
 <li>Sunday, April 24th, 2022</li><li>8:00 am - 12:00 pm</li><li>TMP-Marian Dining Hall</li><li>Adults - $10/$12 at the door</li><li>Students - $7/$9 at the door</li><li>Seniors - $8/$10 at the door</li><li>5 and under - Free</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/capstone-breakfast">Click here to purchase your tickets online</a>, or visit the TMP-M front office to purchase in person.

TMP-M Senior Capstone Breakfast will benefit disaster relief fund

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

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647026392918.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

MIDWEST WIRELINE OF HAYS IS LOOKING FOR CDL DRIVERS TO JOIN THEIR TEAM.&nbsp; THOSE WHO HAVE A CURRENT CDL ARE PREFERRED, BUT MIDWEST WIRELINE IS WILLING TO PROVIDE TRAINING FOR THE RIGHT CANDIDATE.&nbsp; 

MIDWEST WIRELINE OFFERS GREAT PAY, BENEFITS AND QUICK ADVANCEMENT POTENTIAL WITHIN THEIR COMPANY.&nbsp; 

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION, CALL 785-625-3858 OR IN PERSON AT 1846 250TH AVE, BLDG D IN HAYS.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647010791148.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>MIDWEST WIRELINE OF HAYS IS LOOKING FOR CDL DRIVERS TO JOIN THEIR TEAM.&nbsp; THOSE WHO HAVE A CURRENT CDL ARE PREFERRED, BUT MIDWEST WIRELINE IS WILLING TO PROVIDE TRAINING FOR THE RIGHT CANDIDATE.&nbsp; MIDWEST WIRELINE OFFERS GREAT PAY, BENEFITS AND QUICK ADVANCEMENT POTENTIAL WITHIN THEIR COMPANY.&nbsp; FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION, CALL 785-625-3858 OR IN PERSON AT 1846 250TH AVE, BLDG D IN HAYS.

Harvard professor to speak at Fort Hays State

Recently,&nbsp;<a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/">Imagine Ellis County&nbsp;</a>hosted representatives of various organizations from Ellis County&nbsp;as well as a Hays town hall meeting,&nbsp;to identify community needs&nbsp;that needed to be met for long-term growth and success of our&nbsp;county and region.&nbsp;

On March 24, the organization will host a Victoria town hall and facilitate small- and large-group discussions&nbsp;to learn more from community members. It is&nbsp;from&nbsp;5:30 to 8 p.m. at the&nbsp;Victoria VFW.&nbsp;Dinner&nbsp;will be provided by Fork That Bakery&nbsp;for those who attend.

While&nbsp;walk-ins are welcome, RSVPs are requested via the group's Facebook page&nbsp;or use a&nbsp;sign-up&nbsp;form&nbsp;at &nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/QfJgHZak8dFcrXQeA">https://forms.gle/QfJgHZak8dFcrXQeA</a>.&nbsp;See the&nbsp;<a href="https://fb.me/e/4y9Jp7sxP">Facebook&nbsp;event&nbsp;page</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;more information.&nbsp;

Imagine Ellis County is a committee comprised of over 30 community members from Ellis County. The committee exists to serve the long-term interests of Ellis County. We have representatives from Catharine, Ellis, Hays, and Victoria on our committee. Committee members include people who serve as local elected officials, local government employees, employees from various community businesses, and those who are involved with non-profits and charitable organizations.If you would like more information, contact&nbsp;Grow Hays Inc.&nbsp;at 785.628.3102 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:IEC@GrowHays.com">IEC@GrowHays.com</a>. Imagine Ellis County is a&nbsp;collaborative strategic vision for our community and region.

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 </figure>News releaseRecently,&nbsp;<a href="https://imagineelliscounty.org/">Imagine Ellis County&nbsp;</a>hosted representatives of various organizations from Ellis County&nbsp;as well as a Hays town hall meeting,&nbsp;to identify community needs&nbsp;that needed to be met for long-term growth and success of our&nbsp;county and region.&nbsp;On March 24, the organization will host a Victoria town hall and facilitate small- and large-group discussions&nbsp;to learn more from community members. It is&nbsp;from&nbsp;5:30 to 8 p.m. at the&nbsp;Victoria VFW.&nbsp;Dinner&nbsp;will be provided by Fork That Bakery&nbsp;for those who attend.While&nbsp;walk-ins are welcome, RSVPs are requested via the group's Facebook page&nbsp;or use a&nbsp;sign-up&nbsp;form&nbsp;at &nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/QfJgHZak8dFcrXQeA">https://forms.gle/QfJgHZak8dFcrXQeA</a>.&nbsp;See the&nbsp;<a href="https://fb.me/e/4y9Jp7sxP">Facebook&nbsp;event&nbsp;page</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;more information.&nbsp;Imagine Ellis County is a committee comprised of over 30 community members from Ellis County. The committee exists to serve the long-term interests of Ellis County. We have representatives from Catharine, Ellis, Hays, and Victoria on our committee. Committee members include people who serve as local elected officials, local government employees, employees from various community businesses, and those who are involved with non-profits and charitable organizations.If you would like more information, contact&nbsp;Grow Hays Inc.&nbsp;at 785.628.3102 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:IEC@GrowHays.com">IEC@GrowHays.com</a>. Imagine Ellis County is a&nbsp;collaborative strategic vision for our community and region.

Imagine Ellis County town hall scheduled in Victoria

Recently, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University published the results from the 2021 Kansas Speaks survey. For those not familiar with Kansas Speaks, it is an annual public opinion survey that gauges public opinion on various issues of interest to Kansas citizens, including public policy.

According to the survey, nearly 73% of respondents support expanding KanCare — our state’s Medicaid program. This is a considerable increase in support. In 2015, the first year Kansas Speaks measured attitudes about Medicaid expansion, only 62% of respondents supported growing the program.

Considering elected officials genuinely care about issues that are important to their constituents — if only because they need constituent support to win re-election — why hasn’t Medicaid expansion been passed?&nbsp;

Despite high public support, and federal Affordable Care Act funds to cover 90% of the cost of expansion, there is a lack of political will to expand KanCare in the legislature.

There is bipartisan support for expansion, with most Democrats and some Republicans in favor. However, it’s a zero sum game for legislative Republicans.

Currently, Republicans would not politically benefit from expansion. In fact, it could put the GOP at a distinct disadvantage should Medicaid expansion pass in an election year like this one.&nbsp;

In 2018, Governor Kelly ran on a platform that included Medicaid expansion and members of her party have been trying to expand the program ever since. However, Republicans in the legislature, most of whom support expansion, don’t want to expand KanCare under a Democratic governor. Doing so would give Kelly’s administration an extremely popular policy win right before this year’s gubernatorial election.

The GOP also faces very little public backlash for not prioritizing Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Recently, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University published the results from the 2021 Kansas Speaks survey. For those not familiar with Kansas Speaks, it is an annual public opinion survey that gauges public opinion on various issues of interest to Kansas citizens, including public policy.According to the survey, nearly 73% of respondents support expanding KanCare — our state’s Medicaid program. This is a considerable increase in support. In 2015, the first year Kansas Speaks measured attitudes about Medicaid expansion, only 62% of respondents supported growing the program.Considering elected officials genuinely care about issues that are important to their constituents — if only because they need constituent support to win re-election — why hasn’t Medicaid expansion been passed?&nbsp;It should be a slam dunk. Right?Well, not quite.Despite high public support, and federal Affordable Care Act funds to cover 90% of the cost of expansion, there is a lack of political will to expand KanCare in the legislature.There is bipartisan support for expansion, with most Democrats and some Republicans in favor. However, it’s a zero sum game for legislative Republicans.Currently, Republicans would not politically benefit from expansion. In fact, it could put the GOP at a distinct disadvantage should Medicaid expansion pass in an election year like this one.&nbsp;In 2018, Governor Kelly ran on a platform that included Medicaid expansion and members of her party have been trying to expand the program ever since. However, Republicans in the legislature, most of whom support expansion, don’t want to expand KanCare under a Democratic governor. Doing so would give Kelly’s administration an extremely popular policy win right before this year’s gubernatorial election.The GOP also faces very little public backlash for not prioritizing Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;While, 62% of survey respondents indicated that the issue of Medicaid expansion is important in deciding who to vote for come November, in practice it’s not popular enough for any more than a tiny fraction of Republicans voters to vote against their party.It’s another win for partisan politics, but a major loss for Kansans.Not only is KanCare expansion a popular public policy, it would create significant economic job growth. According to a 2021 report by George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, expanding Medicaid would create approximately 23,000 jobs in our state — 11,900 new jobs in healthcare, 2,400 in retail, 1,600 in construction, 700 jobs in finance and insurance, and 6,300 new jobs in other sectors. The report also stated that Kansas’ economic output would rise $17 billion by 2025, and personal income could rise by $6.3 billion due to increased employment.Medicaid expansion is extremely beneficial for Kansans. But it’s unlikely to pass this year. Or any year where the legislature and governor’s mansion are divided by partisanship.Even those legislative Republicans who support expansion will hold KanCare hostage until passage would give them a political advantage, which won’t happen under a Democratic governor. If the roles were reversed, Democrats would likely do the same.A vast majority of citizens decide to run for public office to make their communities better. But once elected, officials have to play the politics game to gain and maintain power, otherwise they would never be able to pass legislation.&nbsp;The result? Extremely popular policies like Medicaid expansion get buried in the name of “playing the game” and Kansans suffer.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

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