RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office are searching for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse on January 21.

 The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. 

 The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. 

If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.

Leslie Randa, 61, was discovered in his home, located at 205 E 5th St in LaCrosse, Kan. Randa was found by a family member who then contacted 911 at 1:39 p.m. on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643198011225.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office are searching for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse on January 21. The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.Leslie Randa, 61, was discovered in his home, located at 205 E 5th St in LaCrosse, Kan. Randa was found by a family member who then contacted 911 at 1:39 p.m. on Friday.

Search continues for vehicle connected to Rush Co. homicide

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays school board voted Monday to change all of its meetings to 6:30 p.m. Mondays.

The school board had been meeting for work sessions at 11:30 a.m. on the second Mondays of the month at one of the district schools.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said this was meant to give the school board members opportunities to see the schools operating with students in them.

However, board member Curt Vajnar argued residents — and even school board members — struggled to attend the meetings conducted in the middle of the day.

The next school board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m Monday, Feb. 21, at the Rockwell Administration Center. 

The school board usually sets its meeting schedule in July for the year. The board plans to revisit the meeting schedule issue again at that time.

Vajnar further thought the term work session was misleading as the board usually conducts business during the lunch hour work sessions. The district in the future plans to do away with the work session title.

Although the district did not have an audience participation item on its agenda when it was released on Friday, that was added to the agenda Monday.

One person spoke briefly in favor of the bond issue during that participation period.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays school board voted Monday to change all of its meetings to 6:30 p.m. Mondays.The school board had been meeting for work sessions at 11:30 a.m. on the second Mondays of the month at one of the district schools.Superintendent Ron Wilson said this was meant to give the school board members opportunities to see the schools operating with students in them.However, board member Curt Vajnar argued residents — and even school board members — struggled to attend the meetings conducted in the middle of the day.The next school board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m Monday, Feb. 21, at the Rockwell Administration Center. The school board usually sets its meeting schedule in July for the year. The board plans to revisit the meeting schedule issue again at that time. Vajnar further thought the term work session was misleading as the board usually conducts business during the lunch hour work sessions. The district in the future plans to do away with the work session title.Although the district did not have an audience participation item on its agenda when it was released on Friday, that was added to the agenda Monday.One person spoke briefly in favor of the bond issue during that participation period.

USD 489 changes meeting times in hopes of increasing participation

COLBY — Colby Community College has the highest graduation rates among all Kansas community colleges and owns the second-best retention rate, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasregents.org/resources/PDF/Data/2022_State_University_Data_Book/2022_Community_College_Data_Book.pdf">2022 Community College Data Book</a>. The annual report, which evaluates the 19 Kansas community colleges, was released this week by the Kansas Board of Regents.

Data is based on the 2017 cohort of students. Graduation rates are measured by the percentage of first-time, full-time students who begin and complete an associate degree from the same institution within two years (100%) or three years (150%). Colby ranked first in both categories.&nbsp;The college graduated 41.1% in the two-year period and 54.4% over a three-year span.

The college had the second-highest student retention rate among the sector at 65.8%, just half a percentage away from the top spot. Retention is measured by the number of first-time, full-time degree-seeking students attending an institution for the fall semester and returning for the following fall semester.

"CCC's high graduation and retention rates are a testament to the efforts of our students, faculty and staff, Trustees, and the community as a whole," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "The college's student outcomes illustrate a commitment to sustained academic excellence and achievement."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College has the highest graduation rates among all Kansas community colleges and owns the second-best retention rate, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasregents.org/resources/PDF/Data/2022_State_University_Data_Book/2022_Community_College_Data_Book.pdf">2022 Community College Data Book</a>. The annual report, which evaluates the 19 Kansas community colleges, was released this week by the Kansas Board of Regents.Data is based on the 2017 cohort of students. Graduation rates are measured by the percentage of first-time, full-time students who begin and complete an associate degree from the same institution within two years (100%) or three years (150%). Colby ranked first in both categories.&nbsp;The college graduated 41.1% in the two-year period and 54.4% over a three-year span.The college had the second-highest student retention rate among the sector at 65.8%, just half a percentage away from the top spot. Retention is measured by the number of first-time, full-time degree-seeking students attending an institution for the fall semester and returning for the following fall semester."CCC's high graduation and retention rates are a testament to the efforts of our students, faculty and staff, Trustees, and the community as a whole," said President Dr. Seth Carter. "The college's student outcomes illustrate a commitment to sustained academic excellence and achievement."

Colby CC achieves highest graduation rates in Kansas

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

I can’t remember if I was helping check momma cows during calving season or chopping ice during a spell of cold weather when I was inspired to do something I shouldn’t. I do know it was about this time of year when my grandfather’s storytelling found a set of eager ears and launched a journey that would be completed a few weeks later, just about the time spring break rolled around. I was in high school, and I can still envision the scene in my grandfather’s pickup truck as he told me about the time he tried to make wine when he was about my age. From my hazy recollection, the gist of the story was he poured some yeast into a bottle of grape juice and then stuffed a cork in the neck and stowed the brew away inside his closet. Eventually, he forgot about the science experiment fermenting somewhere amongst his blue jeans and boots. The days turned into weeks before there was a sudden reckoning as the cork’s grip on the glass was overcome by a buildup of carbon dioxide and shot out, followed by the rest of the bottle’s contents. “I got in a decent amount of trouble for ruining my clothes,” my grandfather told me. “But my closet sure smelled good for a long time.” Even while I was laughing at the punchline, my mind was forming a plan to conduct my own experiment. I even had the benefit of knowing a cork shouldn’t be used. I also took satisfaction in the apparent loophole my grandfather helped me see. While I was too young to buy alcohol, there was no such prohibition on sourcing all of the necessary ingredients. It didn’t take long to recruit a friend to help complete this small act of rebellion. We soon abandoned our initial plan to create our own vintage with freshly crushed grapes in favor of a couple bottles of juice off a shelf, a sack of sugar and some yeast. These supplies were artfully split between two different shopping carts so as to avoid raising any suspicions of their intended use. We retreated to the cover of my friend’s kitchen to begin mixing the elixir, an act we were old enough to know was wrong, but we were young enough to do it anyway. We spooned in sugar and added bread yeast before stretching balloons over the lips of each bottle. Then we waited. Periodically checking the concoction over the next few weeks provided a great view of chemistry in action. The yeast consumed the sugar producing enough carbon dioxide to fill the balloon, which was evidence our plan was working. When the rubber orbs started to deflate a few weeks later, it was finally time to test our winemaking skills. We were naïve enough to hope we’d brewed something amazing. We would have settled for something that was merely drinkable. Our sights were set way too high. While the liquid gave off an almost pleasant aroma as we strained it through coffee filters, the initial sip was overpowering. So much so that I had a much more intimate understanding of what Roger Miller was singing about in “Chug-a-Lug." We didn’t make it much beyond the initial tasting before abandoning the idea of drinking our wine. I’m sure it could have been repurposed to strip varnish or a ground clearing herbicide, though. The only buzz I received from the wine was the bit of wisdom that my grandfather was lucky to have forgotten that bottle in his closet.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="Greg Doering&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauI can’t remember if I was helping check momma cows during calving season or chopping ice during a spell of cold weather when I was inspired to do something I shouldn’t. I do know it was about this time of year when my grandfather’s storytelling found a set of eager ears and launched a journey that would be completed a few weeks later, just about the time spring break rolled around. I was in high school, and I can still envision the scene in my grandfather’s pickup truck as he told me about the time he tried to make wine when he was about my age. From my hazy recollection, the gist of the story was he poured some yeast into a bottle of grape juice and then stuffed a cork in the neck and stowed the brew away inside his closet. Eventually, he forgot about the science experiment fermenting somewhere amongst his blue jeans and boots. The days turned into weeks before there was a sudden reckoning as the cork’s grip on the glass was overcome by a buildup of carbon dioxide and shot out, followed by the rest of the bottle’s contents. “I got in a decent amount of trouble for ruining my clothes,” my grandfather told me. “But my closet sure smelled good for a long time.” Even while I was laughing at the punchline, my mind was forming a plan to conduct my own experiment. I even had the benefit of knowing a cork shouldn’t be used. I also took satisfaction in the apparent loophole my grandfather helped me see. While I was too young to buy alcohol, there was no such prohibition on sourcing all of the necessary ingredients. It didn’t take long to recruit a friend to help complete this small act of rebellion. We soon abandoned our initial plan to create our own vintage with freshly crushed grapes in favor of a couple bottles of juice off a shelf, a sack of sugar and some yeast. These supplies were artfully split between two different shopping carts so as to avoid raising any suspicions of their intended use. We retreated to the cover of my friend’s kitchen to begin mixing the elixir, an act we were old enough to know was wrong, but we were young enough to do it anyway. We spooned in sugar and added bread yeast before stretching balloons over the lips of each bottle. Then we waited. Periodically checking the concoction over the next few weeks provided a great view of chemistry in action. The yeast consumed the sugar producing enough carbon dioxide to fill the balloon, which was evidence our plan was working. When the rubber orbs started to deflate a few weeks later, it was finally time to test our winemaking skills. We were naïve enough to hope we’d brewed something amazing. We would have settled for something that was merely drinkable. Our sights were set way too high. While the liquid gave off an almost pleasant aroma as we strained it through coffee filters, the initial sip was overpowering. So much so that I had a much more intimate understanding of what Roger Miller was singing about in “Chug-a-Lug." We didn’t make it much beyond the initial tasting before abandoning the idea of drinking our wine. I’m sure it could have been repurposed to strip varnish or a ground clearing herbicide, though. The only buzz I received from the wine was the bit of wisdom that my grandfather was lucky to have forgotten that bottle in his closet. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Wisdom and wine

<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/2022/2/1644343955786.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

First Call for Help is sponsoring its second annual Photo Frenzy fundraiser.

Strike a pose on Saturday, March 5. Select your team of up to four people, hop in the car, and get ready to make memories for a good cause. 

•	Call 785-623-2800 to register your team by March 2. Registration fee is $20 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and younger. This is a family friendly event. 	•	On the morning of March 5, receive your scavenger hunt clues and have a blast setting out to find the locations between 10 a.m. and noon. 	•	Snap photos of your answers and submit them for points. 	•	Team scores will be added together, and prizes will be awarded to the winning team members.

This is a fun, interactive event that brings people together to raise money and awareness for First Call For Help. All registration fees and any additional funds raised go directly to support community members in need of basic essential services, such as rent, utilities and diapers.

Last year was a great success and we hope to make this year even bigger and better, a news release said. To sign up or for more information, call Laura Shoaff at 785-623-2800. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306693231.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Call for Help is sponsoring its second annual Photo Frenzy fundraiser. Strike a pose on Saturday, March 5. Select your team of up to four people, hop in the car, and get ready to make memories for a good cause. Here’s the full picture:	•	Call 785-623-2800 to register your team by March 2. Registration fee is $20 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and younger. This is a family friendly event. 	•	On the morning of March 5, receive your scavenger hunt clues and have a blast setting out to find the locations between 10 a.m. and noon. 	•	Snap photos of your answers and submit them for points. 	•	Team scores will be added together, and prizes will be awarded to the winning team members.This is a fun, interactive event that brings people together to raise money and awareness for First Call For Help. All registration fees and any additional funds raised go directly to support community members in need of basic essential services, such as rent, utilities and diapers. Last year was a great success and we hope to make this year even bigger and better, a news release said. To sign up or for more information, call Laura Shoaff at 785-623-2800.

First Call for Help sets Photo Frenzy fundraiser

Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, was settled and named by the Delaware Indians as a campsite halfway between the Allegheny and Susquehanna Rivers. When German settlers arrived in the 1700s, they brought with them a tradition known as “Candlemas Day,” celebrated in Germany on Feb. 2nd, which happens to be the midpoint between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, (winter and spring.) Tradition held that if Feb. 2nd were sunny, the last half of winter would be nasty and cold, and vice-versa. In Germany, for whatever reason, hedgehogs were observed to see if a shadow was cast. In Pennsylvania, given the absence of hedgehogs, groundhogs were selected to assume that role. An old German saying read: For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day, So far will the snow swirl until May; For as the snow swirls on Candlemas Day, So far will the sun shine until May. So, in layman’s terms, if sunny on Feb. 2nd, 6 more weeks of winter would follow.

Pennsylvania’s first official celebration of Groundhog Day was in 1886, when the legendary groundhog was named Punxsutawney Phil, and the first trip to Phil’s mythical home on Gobbler’s Knob, was made the following year. Today Phil is said to thrive on dog food and ice cream in his climate-controlled home at the Punxsutawney Library. Each Feb. 2nd, he is carried up to Gobbler’s Knob and placed in a heated burrow beneath a simulated tree stump before being pulled out at 7:25 a.m. to make his annual prediction, which, according to someone who obviously has an even more boring life than me, have been 39% correct. Common sense says there have been several Phil’s since 1886, but no one has fessed-up.

And as far as groundhog predictors go, Phil is not the only game in town. There are 6 other groundhogs on the continent that claim to share Phil’s gift. West Virginia has French Creek Freddie, Georgia has General Beauregard Lee, Michigan has Woody the Woodchuck, Ohio has Buckeye Chuck, Staten Island New York has Charles G. Hogg (Staten Island Chuck for short), Ontario, Canada has Wiarton Willie and Nova Scotia has Shubenacadie Sam (seriously, I couldn’t make this stuff up.)&nbsp;

But groundhogs don’t have a corner on this spring prognostication business, as other states around the country claim to have mammals that also share that gift. The same rules apply, the results are just given by different critters.

The Oregon Zoo has Fufu the hedgehog, and just like the German settlers who brought this legend to us, the zoo says these prickly prognosticators are the real deal. Fufu has only been in this role for a few years, but so far, she appears to have been correct about 53% of the time.

For eight years now, Groundhog Day in Brevard, North Carolina has been celebrated as “White Squirrel Day,” in honor of a couple white squirrel prognosticators. The first to hold the position was Pisgah Pete, and with Pete’s recent retirement, the star is now a white squirrel named Penelope Ella Elizabeth, Pisgah Penny for short. Again, it’s not divulged how Penny communicates her predictions, but this year she will also take a stab at picking the winner of the Super Bowl.

Relatively new to the spring-arrival-prediction scene is a chicken from the town of Katonah, New York. Since 2019, Clucksatawney Henrietta the chicken has attempted to predict spring’s arrival not with her shadow, but by when she lays an egg. Yes, you read that right; if Henrietta lays an egg during their annual Groundhog Day ceremony, there will be an early spring; if not, winter is here for 6 more weeks. There are no statistics concerning this style of prognostication, but when you’re tired of snow drifts, I guess you’ll cling to any hope available.

Residents of Eastford, Connecticut believe they have the most accurate weather-predicting groundhog alternative on the planet in the form of Scramble the duck. Scramble uses the shadow method, and Eastford claims that because she is more intelligent than a groundhog, her predictions have been 100% accurate.

Oregon residents pin their hope of an early spring on a beaver at the Oregon Zoo named Stumptown Fil, aka Filbert the beaver. Fil also applies the shadow method, but even the zoo says his predictions are suspect. Fil predicted an early spring in 2020, but a month later the zoo was forced to temporarily close due to ice and snow.

Also among the group of unusual Groundhog Day prognosticators are the burrowing owls of Florida and an armadillo in the town of Bee Cave, Texas, known as Bee Cave Bob. Bob and the owls are revered by residents of their respective states, but their careers have been less illustrious than the group listed above. &nbsp;

While I’m not quite ready to rely on a Texan armadillo, Scramble the duck from Connecticut or a white squirrel named Pisgah Penny to tell me when winter will end, I say let Henrietta lay an egg and let’s have breakfast. The past couple years have been one snow storm after another year-round, and I think we’ve all forgotten how to have fun...Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, was settled and named by the Delaware Indians as a campsite halfway between the Allegheny and Susquehanna Rivers. When German settlers arrived in the 1700s, they brought with them a tradition known as “Candlemas Day,” celebrated in Germany on Feb. 2nd, which happens to be the midpoint between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, (winter and spring.) Tradition held that if Feb. 2nd were sunny, the last half of winter would be nasty and cold, and vice-versa. In Germany, for whatever reason, hedgehogs were observed to see if a shadow was cast. In Pennsylvania, given the absence of hedgehogs, groundhogs were selected to assume that role. An old German saying read: For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day, So far will the snow swirl until May; For as the snow swirls on Candlemas Day, So far will the sun shine until May. So, in layman’s terms, if sunny on Feb. 2nd, 6 more weeks of winter would follow.Pennsylvania’s first official celebration of Groundhog Day was in 1886, when the legendary groundhog was named Punxsutawney Phil, and the first trip to Phil’s mythical home on Gobbler’s Knob, was made the following year. Today Phil is said to thrive on dog food and ice cream in his climate-controlled home at the Punxsutawney Library. Each Feb. 2nd, he is carried up to Gobbler’s Knob and placed in a heated burrow beneath a simulated tree stump before being pulled out at 7:25 a.m. to make his annual prediction, which, according to someone who obviously has an even more boring life than me, have been 39% correct. Common sense says there have been several Phil’s since 1886, but no one has fessed-up.And as far as groundhog predictors go, Phil is not the only game in town. There are 6 other groundhogs on the continent that claim to share Phil’s gift. West Virginia has French Creek Freddie, Georgia has General Beauregard Lee, Michigan has Woody the Woodchuck, Ohio has Buckeye Chuck, Staten Island New York has Charles G. Hogg (Staten Island Chuck for short), Ontario, Canada has Wiarton Willie and Nova Scotia has Shubenacadie Sam (seriously, I couldn’t make this stuff up.)&nbsp;But groundhogs don’t have a corner on this spring prognostication business, as other states around the country claim to have mammals that also share that gift. The same rules apply, the results are just given by different critters.The Oregon Zoo has Fufu the hedgehog, and just like the German settlers who brought this legend to us, the zoo says these prickly prognosticators are the real deal. Fufu has only been in this role for a few years, but so far, she appears to have been correct about 53% of the time.For eight years now, Groundhog Day in Brevard, North Carolina has been celebrated as “White Squirrel Day,” in honor of a couple white squirrel prognosticators. The first to hold the position was Pisgah Pete, and with Pete’s recent retirement, the star is now a white squirrel named Penelope Ella Elizabeth, Pisgah Penny for short. Again, it’s not divulged how Penny communicates her predictions, but this year she will also take a stab at picking the winner of the Super Bowl.Relatively new to the spring-arrival-prediction scene is a chicken from the town of Katonah, New York. Since 2019, Clucksatawney Henrietta the chicken has attempted to predict spring’s arrival not with her shadow, but by when she lays an egg. Yes, you read that right; if Henrietta lays an egg during their annual Groundhog Day ceremony, there will be an early spring; if not, winter is here for 6 more weeks. There are no statistics concerning this style of prognostication, but when you’re tired of snow drifts, I guess you’ll cling to any hope available.Residents of Eastford, Connecticut believe they have the most accurate weather-predicting groundhog alternative on the planet in the form of Scramble the duck. Scramble uses the shadow method, and Eastford claims that because she is more intelligent than a groundhog, her predictions have been 100% accurate.Oregon residents pin their hope of an early spring on a beaver at the Oregon Zoo named Stumptown Fil, aka Filbert the beaver. Fil also applies the shadow method, but even the zoo says his predictions are suspect. Fil predicted an early spring in 2020, but a month later the zoo was forced to temporarily close due to ice and snow.Also among the group of unusual Groundhog Day prognosticators are the burrowing owls of Florida and an armadillo in the town of Bee Cave, Texas, known as Bee Cave Bob. Bob and the owls are revered by residents of their respective states, but their careers have been less illustrious than the group listed above. &nbsp;While I’m not quite ready to rely on a Texan armadillo, Scramble the duck from Connecticut or a white squirrel named Pisgah Penny to tell me when winter will end, I say let Henrietta lay an egg and let’s have breakfast. The past couple years have been one snow storm after another year-round, and I think we’ve all forgotten how to have fun...Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Who needs a weatherman?

The deadline for securing pet licenses is March 1.  A late fee of $10 for each month or part of a month that pets are not licensed will be charged in addition to the registration fee of $5 for a neutered or spayed pet or $25 for a pet that is not neutered or spayed. 

Licenses can be secured at the Office of the City Clerk, 1507 Main.  Office hours are Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe deadline for securing pet licenses is March 1. A late fee of $10 for each month or part of a month that pets are not licensed will be charged in addition to the registration fee of $5 for a neutered or spayed pet or $25 for a pet that is not neutered or spayed. Licenses can be secured at the Office of the City Clerk, 1507 Main. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.&nbsp;

Pet licenses in city of Hays due March 1

The TMP-Marian Monarchs play host to the Russell Broncos in a Mid-Continent League rivalry matchup Tuesday in Hays.

The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/357134">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs play host to the Russell Broncos in a Mid-Continent League rivalry matchup Tuesday in Hays.The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Al Billinger Fieldhouse.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/357134">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/357134?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Russell

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9zvym-119e5dd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

🎤Forward Ever: Ryan Vincent, Kansas Housing Corp.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a4c1626f-4136-4677-b1e0-4cbdb4c935e5">READ MORE:&nbsp;Teacher of the Month inspired by his students to learn more</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644338096248.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644338144373.jpeg" alt="Mark&nbsp; and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Jerry Braun, Hays USD 489 gifted teacher, with the December Teacher of the Month award. " />
 <figcaption>Mark&nbsp; and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction Elite Realty present Jerry Braun, Hays USD 489 gifted teacher, with the December Teacher of the Month award. </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a4c1626f-4136-4677-b1e0-4cbdb4c935e5">READ MORE:&nbsp;Teacher of the Month inspired by his students to learn more</a>

Nations Auction Elite Realty Teacher of the Month: Jerry Braun

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — There was 
still a good turnout of visitors at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
 in 2021 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center overlooks Cheyenne 
Bottoms which is the largest inland marsh in the United States. Curtis 
Wolf, the Center's director, said he is pleased with last year's 
accomplishments.&nbsp;

“There's no doubt we’re still being affected by 
COVID and the numbers reflected that,” Wolf explained. “But I’m still 
very proud of the visitors' numbers that we had, the program numbers. 
We’ve documented over 19,000 total contacts. Our typical year is more 
like 24,000, 25,000 contacts. So we’re definitely down overall still. 
But it’s still great and we’re very proud of the numbers we have 
there.”&nbsp;

The Center was able to conduct many of its annual 
programs throughout the year. In addition to those, a book was written 
by program specialist Mandy Kern entitled "Ava: A Year of Adventure in 
the Life of an American Avocet." The avocet is a shorebird that migrates
 through central Kansas every year and is the Center's logo.&nbsp;

According
 to Wolf, another accomplishment was a project to better provide 
information for Spanish-speaking visitors. The Center got help from the 
Modern Languages Department at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

“They 
have an interpretation class or a translation class, and basically gave 
them the text of all our exhibits, and they went through and did the 
translation for us.”&nbsp;

The Education Center is open Tuesdays 
through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 
p.m. It is closed on Mondays.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644257494572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — There was 
still a good turnout of visitors at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
 in 2021 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center overlooks Cheyenne 
Bottoms which is the largest inland marsh in the United States. Curtis 
Wolf, the Center's director, said he is pleased with last year's 
accomplishments.&nbsp;“There's no doubt we’re still being affected by 
COVID and the numbers reflected that,” Wolf explained. “But I’m still 
very proud of the visitors' numbers that we had, the program numbers. 
We’ve documented over 19,000 total contacts. Our typical year is more 
like 24,000, 25,000 contacts. So we’re definitely down overall still. 
But it’s still great and we’re very proud of the numbers we have 
there.”&nbsp;The Center was able to conduct many of its annual 
programs throughout the year. In addition to those, a book was written 
by program specialist Mandy Kern entitled "Ava: A Year of Adventure in 
the Life of an American Avocet." The avocet is a shorebird that migrates
 through central Kansas every year and is the Center's logo.&nbsp;According
 to Wolf, another accomplishment was a project to better provide 
information for Spanish-speaking visitors. The Center got help from the 
Modern Languages Department at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;“They 
have an interpretation class or a translation class, and basically gave 
them the text of all our exhibits, and they went through and did the 
translation for us.”&nbsp;The Education Center is open Tuesdays 
through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 
p.m. It is closed on Mondays.&nbsp;

Despite COVID, 2021 a good year at Kansas Wetlands Education Center

NORTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a high speed chase and fire.

On Saturday, Norton County Sheriff's deputies assisted the Kansas Highway Patrol with a high speed chase that started in Phillips County, according to a media release from Norton Police.

Officers in Norton were able to successfully deploy stop strips on the east edge of town. The vehicle came to a stop and caught fire in the 300 Block of West Holme Street. Officers made a felony traffic stop and took a suspect into custody.

The Norton Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the vehicle fire. Police reported no injuries. They have not released the suspect's name or possible charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565313643582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a high speed chase and fire.On Saturday, Norton County Sheriff's deputies assisted the Kansas Highway Patrol with a high speed chase that started in Phillips County, according to a media release from Norton Police.Officers in Norton were able to successfully deploy stop strips on the east edge of town. The vehicle came to a stop and caught fire in the 300 Block of West Holme Street. Officers made a felony traffic stop and took a suspect into custody.The Norton Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the vehicle fire. Police reported no injuries. They have not released the suspect's name or possible charges.

Suspect arrested after NW Kan. police chase, vehicle fire

From Feb. 21 through March
4, the Ellis County Sheriff's office will join other law enforcement agencies in Kansas,
Missouri and Oklahoma
with increased enforcement near high schools to raise awareness of roadway safety. 

Motor vehicle crashes
are the leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States — ahead of all other types of injury, disease
or violence.

"Even one teen death is unacceptable," Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said. "Please slow down, put the phone away or turn it off, and always buckle up."

Officers will issue citations
to any individual who refuses
to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for speeding, texting
or failing to buckle up. 

Remind teens that driving
is a privilege and encourage
then to learn about the importance of driving safely.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644078050173.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County SheriffFrom Feb. 21 through March
4, the Ellis County Sheriff's office will join other law enforcement agencies in Kansas,
Missouri and Oklahoma
with increased enforcement near high schools to raise awareness of roadway safety. Motor vehicle crashes
are the leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States — ahead of all other types of injury, disease
or violence."Even one teen death is unacceptable," Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said. "Please slow down, put the phone away or turn it off, and always buckle up."Officers will issue citations
to any individual who refuses
to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for speeding, texting
or failing to buckle up. Remind teens that driving
is a privilege and encourage
then to learn about the importance of driving safely.

Ellis Co. Sheriff's Office to conduct enforcement campaign near high schools

Crude prices continue to spike, rising nearly 20 percent in just the first month of the year. Friday's settlement on the Nymex for the near-month benchmark crude contract was $92.31 per barrel. That's nearly six dollars more than a week earlier, and about $15 more than at the first of the year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson jumped two dollars Friday, and will start the week at $82.50 per barrel, the best price in McPherson since September of 2014. Kansas prices are up four dollars on the week and $17 since the first of the year. U.S. crude-oil production rose in November to more than 352 million barrels, for an average 11.1 million barrels per day. That's up 5.7% from the month before. EIA reports output in Kansas totaled 2.2 million barrels for an average of just over 76,000 barrels per day. The government reported a million-barrel drop in US crude inventories. At 415.1 million barrels, stockpiles are about nine percent below the five-year average for this time of year. The Energy Information Administration reports imports of 7.1 million barrels per day last week, an increase of 800,000 barrels per day over the previous week. The four-week average is nearly 10 percent higher than the same four-week period last year. EIA reported a dip in US crude production. During the week through January 28th, US operators pumped over 11.4 million barrels, down more than 200,000 barrels per day from the week before. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 613 active drilling rigs in the US in the week through February 4th, up two oil rigs and one gas rig from the week before. The count in Texas was up three, North Dakota was up three and Alaska was up two. New Mexico and Oklahoma both showed declines. The Association of American Railroads reports US petroleum shipments by rail last month dropped by more than 20% compared to a year ago. Total rail traffic in January was down 9.5 percent from a year ago. Weekly oil-by-rail tallies were up slightly but still nearly 15% below last years totals. AAR reports 9,625 tanker carloads for the week through January 29th, up 17 tankers from the week before. Canada's oil-by-rail totals are 969 tankers higher than the week before and up one percent over a year ago. The number of active operators in Kansas in January was 38, up 15% over a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 86 wells drilled so far this year, up from 50 at this time last year. The weekly Rig Count in Kansas dropped slightly. There are 18 active rigs in eastern Kansas, up one, but the count west of Wichita was down two at 24 active rigs. Operators were preparing to spud new wells in Barton and Ellis counties. Kansas regulators okayed 43 new drilling locations across the state, 112 so far this year. Out of 13 in Western Kansas, there's one new permit in Ellis County and another in Russell County. There are 30 new permits east of Wichita. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 43 newly-completed wells in Kansas. That's 150 so far this year. Operators in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties completed wells last week, among 22 in Western Kansas. Operators filed 97 intent-to-drill notices across Kansas last month. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports two new intents in Barton County, six in Ellis County, and two in Russell County. A court in Venezuela has upheld long prison sentences for six American oil executives detained on corruption charges for more than four years. Venezuela's supreme court announced the ruling late Friday. The court didn’t provide any information on its decision, and the order itself was not immediately available.&nbsp; The biggest non-national oil company in the world announced significant cost-cutting moves last week. Exxon Mobil is consolidating, and moving its corporate headquarters from suburban Dallas to Houston. The move and reorganization will be complete by the middle of next year. Bloomberg reports the company will reorganize along three main business lines: upstream production, fuel and chemical production, and its low-carbon division. Top executives have worked in Irving, Texas for more than thirty years, but will soon join rank-and-file employees in its Houston-area campus. An earthquake with aftershocks Monday morning (1/31) northwest of Medford, Oklahoma prompted regulators to rein in saltwater disposal in the area. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission ordered disposal wells within six miles of the quake's epicenter to shut-in, and restricted volumes on other disposal wells within ten miles. There were no reports of damage or injury. The initial quake was felt across much of Oklahoma and Kansas.

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices continue to spike, rising nearly 20 percent in just the first month of the year. Friday's settlement on the Nymex for the near-month benchmark crude contract was $92.31 per barrel. That's nearly six dollars more than a week earlier, and about $15 more than at the first of the year. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson jumped two dollars Friday, and will start the week at $82.50 per barrel, the best price in McPherson since September of 2014. Kansas prices are up four dollars on the week and $17 since the first of the year. U.S. crude-oil production rose in November to more than 352 million barrels, for an average 11.1 million barrels per day. That's up 5.7% from the month before. EIA reports output in Kansas totaled 2.2 million barrels for an average of just over 76,000 barrels per day. The government reported a million-barrel drop in US crude inventories. At 415.1 million barrels, stockpiles are about nine percent below the five-year average for this time of year. The Energy Information Administration reports imports of 7.1 million barrels per day last week, an increase of 800,000 barrels per day over the previous week. The four-week average is nearly 10 percent higher than the same four-week period last year. EIA reported a dip in US crude production. During the week through January 28th, US operators pumped over 11.4 million barrels, down more than 200,000 barrels per day from the week before. The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes shows 613 active drilling rigs in the US in the week through February 4th, up two oil rigs and one gas rig from the week before. The count in Texas was up three, North Dakota was up three and Alaska was up two. New Mexico and Oklahoma both showed declines. The Association of American Railroads reports US petroleum shipments by rail last month dropped by more than 20% compared to a year ago. Total rail traffic in January was down 9.5 percent from a year ago. Weekly oil-by-rail tallies were up slightly but still nearly 15% below last years totals. AAR reports 9,625 tanker carloads for the week through January 29th, up 17 tankers from the week before. Canada's oil-by-rail totals are 969 tankers higher than the week before and up one percent over a year ago. The number of active operators in Kansas in January was 38, up 15% over a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 86 wells drilled so far this year, up from 50 at this time last year. The weekly Rig Count in Kansas dropped slightly. There are 18 active rigs in eastern Kansas, up one, but the count west of Wichita was down two at 24 active rigs. Operators were preparing to spud new wells in Barton and Ellis counties. Kansas regulators okayed 43 new drilling locations across the state, 112 so far this year. Out of 13 in Western Kansas, there's one new permit in Ellis County and another in Russell County. There are 30 new permits east of Wichita. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 43 newly-completed wells in Kansas. That's 150 so far this year. Operators in Ellis, Russell and Stafford counties completed wells last week, among 22 in Western Kansas. Operators filed 97 intent-to-drill notices across Kansas last month. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports two new intents in Barton County, six in Ellis County, and two in Russell County. A court in Venezuela has upheld long prison sentences for six American oil executives detained on corruption charges for more than four years. Venezuela's supreme court announced the ruling late Friday. The court didn’t provide any information on its decision, and the order itself was not immediately available.&nbsp; The biggest non-national oil company in the world announced significant cost-cutting moves last week. Exxon Mobil is consolidating, and moving its corporate headquarters from suburban Dallas to Houston. The move and reorganization will be complete by the middle of next year. Bloomberg reports the company will reorganize along three main business lines: upstream production, fuel and chemical production, and its low-carbon division. Top executives have worked in Irving, Texas for more than thirty years, but will soon join rank-and-file employees in its Houston-area campus. An earthquake with aftershocks Monday morning (1/31) northwest of Medford, Oklahoma prompted regulators to rein in saltwater disposal in the area. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission ordered disposal wells within six miles of the quake's epicenter to shut-in, and restricted volumes on other disposal wells within ten miles. There were no reports of damage or injury. The initial quake was felt across much of Oklahoma and Kansas.

New From the Oil Patch: Production rises alongside prices

The curtain opens Valentine’s weekend for Hays Community Theatre’s production of Love Letters, a Pulitzer prize-nominated play written by A.R. Gurney. The production focuses on two characters, Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, and their life-long relationship as told through their written correspondence to one another - for over 50 years. The show has been performed both on and off-Broadway since its debut in 1989. The HCT production is slated for Friday, February 11; Saturday, February 12; and Monday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m. Each night of the three-night run at HCT will feature a different local couple as the actors. Alan and Dawn Gabel (February 11), Andy and Dana Stanton (February 12), and Travis and Pamela Grizzel (February 14) will take the stage on different nights.&nbsp; Along with the love story, audience members are also in for a sweet treat - a Valentine’s Dessert Buffet - filled with a variety of decadent desserts, which is included in the $15 ticket price.&nbsp; Tickets are on sale in advance at <a href="http://hctks.com/">hctks.com</a> and will be available at the door at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. 8th Street, Hays, Kansas. Doors for each performance open at 7 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. show time. Concessions will also be available for purchase at HCT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644247246466.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe curtain opens Valentine’s weekend for Hays Community Theatre’s production of Love Letters, a Pulitzer prize-nominated play written by A.R. Gurney. The production focuses on two characters, Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, and their life-long relationship as told through their written correspondence to one another - for over 50 years. The show has been performed both on and off-Broadway since its debut in 1989. The HCT production is slated for Friday, February 11; Saturday, February 12; and Monday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m. Each night of the three-night run at HCT will feature a different local couple as the actors. Alan and Dawn Gabel (February 11), Andy and Dana Stanton (February 12), and Travis and Pamela Grizzel (February 14) will take the stage on different nights.&nbsp; Along with the love story, audience members are also in for a sweet treat - a Valentine’s Dessert Buffet - filled with a variety of decadent desserts, which is included in the $15 ticket price.&nbsp; Tickets are on sale in advance at <a href="http://hctks.com/">hctks.com</a> and will be available at the door at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. 8th Street, Hays, Kansas. Doors for each performance open at 7 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. show time. Concessions will also be available for purchase at HCT.

Hays Community Theatre  will present ‘Love Letters’

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10 p.m. Monday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by Roger L. Melton, 53, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.

The driver reached for drink and the semi traveled off the road&nbsp; into the ditch and overturned.

EMS transported Melton to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

THOMAS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10 p.m. Monday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by Roger L. Melton, 53, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Brewster exit.The driver reached for drink and the semi traveled off the road&nbsp; into the ditch and overturned.EMS transported Melton to the hospital in Colby. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

KHP: Semi driver reached for a drink and vehicle overturns

This week we do a deep dive into the proposals in crafting the 2023 budget. Over the next few weeks members of the Appropriations Committee will hear from budget committee chairs on what the agencies and other government offices would like for the next budget to include. We are already in the fourth week of this legislative session and there has been so much going on that this is the first column of the year. I continue to serve as Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and am a member of the Appropriations Committee and Higher Education Budget Committee.

Kansas Hero and Statesman Laid to Rest

Last week, a beloved Kansan, former U.S. Senator Robert Dole was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. His burial site is on a hill overlooking the U.S. Capitol. Dole was eligible for an Arlington site because of his World War II service as a member of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division. Kansans had the opportunity to honor and remember Dole on December 11, both in Russell and at the Statehouse. Dole’s political career started in the Kansas House, with his election in 1950. He served a two-year term (1951-52) representing Russell in what was then District 81. At that time in Kansas history, the Legislature met every other year. He was assigned to the Assessment and Taxation, Gas and Oil, Military Affairs, and Soldiers’ Compensation Committees. His seating assignment was seat 124 in that era’s seating arrangement.

Major Economic Development Legislation Considered

Also this past week, the House Committee on Commerce, Labor, and Economic Development heard SB 347, known as the Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion (APEX) Act. APEX would ensure that companies make a minimum investment in Kansas of $1 billion over a five-year-period and in exchange, would grant tax incentives to those companies. The Department of Commerce has announced that Kansas is one of two finalists for a $4 billion, 3 million square foot advanced manufacturing facility that would employ 4,000 people and create 16,000 temporary jobs during construction. SB 347 retools the current Kansas tax incentives in an effort to win this megaproject, as well as attract others in the future.

Republicans are working to incorporate accountability and safeguards into the bill, so that this economic development initiative is not designed solely for one company but is instead designed to drive economic development across the board. The tax giveaways to attract APEX projects should help all Kansas companies – not just one - with a measured corporate tax reduction. Finally, the property tax component of the bill must be addressed to ensure local control so that economic development incentives offered by the state do not place an added tax burden on local residents and local business owners.

Governor Vetoes Fair and Balanced Congressional Map

Last Thursday, Governor Kelly vetoed the Congressional Map, known as Ad Astra 2, that had been passed by an overwhelming majority of the Legislature. Unfortunately, partisan politics tend to emerge when it comes to redistricting. Under federal law, the legislature is tasked with adjusting Congressional district boundary lines every 10 years based on U.S. Census population data. The purpose is to make sure every American has equal representation by having districts with an equal population size.

The Governor has indicated that she does not want Wyandotte and Johnson split into separate Congressional districts. However, population growth in those two counties make it legally impossible for Wyandotte and Johnson to be wholly contained in one Congressional district.

“This isn’t the first time the legislature has had to step up to protect Kansans from Laura Kelly’s partisan agenda,” said House leadership. “It is no coincidence she pulled out the veto pen just hours after the ACLU told her to. It’s clear she is beholden to New York special interests. The legislature is bound to do what is best for Kansans and we won’t back down from that responsibility."

Congressional maps must undergo court review, providing a check and balance for Kansans that the map is drawn fairly and that it does not disenfranchise minority or other voting populations. The Legislature is expected to take up a veto override in order to move the process forward.

House Republicans Propose Plan to Stabilize KPERS

House Republicans have proposed HB 2561 to utilize some of the state’s budget surplus to stabilize the KPERS retirement fund, ensuring it will be there for our teachers, our firefighters, and other public employees when they need it. The plan would appropriate $1 billion to the KPERS Trust Fund, which would:

• Bring KPERS above the 80 percent funded level, a goal in ensuring the stability of retirement systems.

• Lower future costs for taxpayers by reducing the amount needed for the state’s share of employer contributions, saving the taxpayers $82 million in Fiscal Year 2023 and $429 million over the next five years

• Fully fund 2017 and 2019 payments, paying off layering payments, and eliminating the annual $25.8 million payments on delayed employer contributions

HB 2561 will be heard in the House Insurance and Pensions Committee on February 9.

If you would like to contact me: my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296- 7463 and email is: kenn.rahje@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/2020/2/1581437228209.jpeg" alt="Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, 110th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hello from Topeka. This week we do a deep dive into the proposals in crafting the 2023 budget. Over the next few weeks members of the Appropriations Committee will hear from budget committee chairs on what the agencies and other government offices would like for the next budget to include. We are already in the fourth week of this legislative session and there has been so much going on that this is the first column of the year. I continue to serve as Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and am a member of the Appropriations Committee and Higher Education Budget Committee.Kansas Hero and Statesman Laid to RestLast week, a beloved Kansan, former U.S. Senator Robert Dole was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. His burial site is on a hill overlooking the U.S. Capitol. Dole was eligible for an Arlington site because of his World War II service as a member of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division. Kansans had the opportunity to honor and remember Dole on December 11, both in Russell and at the Statehouse. Dole’s political career started in the Kansas House, with his election in 1950. He served a two-year term (1951-52) representing Russell in what was then District 81. At that time in Kansas history, the Legislature met every other year. He was assigned to the Assessment and Taxation, Gas and Oil, Military Affairs, and Soldiers’ Compensation Committees. His seating assignment was seat 124 in that era’s seating arrangement.Major Economic Development Legislation ConsideredAlso this past week, the House Committee on Commerce, Labor, and Economic Development heard SB 347, known as the Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion (APEX) Act. APEX would ensure that companies make a minimum investment in Kansas of $1 billion over a five-year-period and in exchange, would grant tax incentives to those companies. The Department of Commerce has announced that Kansas is one of two finalists for a $4 billion, 3 million square foot advanced manufacturing facility that would employ 4,000 people and create 16,000 temporary jobs during construction. SB 347 retools the current Kansas tax incentives in an effort to win this megaproject, as well as attract others in the future.Republicans are working to incorporate accountability and safeguards into the bill, so that this economic development initiative is not designed solely for one company but is instead designed to drive economic development across the board. The tax giveaways to attract APEX projects should help all Kansas companies – not just one - with a measured corporate tax reduction. Finally, the property tax component of the bill must be addressed to ensure local control so that economic development incentives offered by the state do not place an added tax burden on local residents and local business owners.Governor Vetoes Fair and Balanced Congressional MapLast Thursday, Governor Kelly vetoed the Congressional Map, known as Ad Astra 2, that had been passed by an overwhelming majority of the Legislature. Unfortunately, partisan politics tend to emerge when it comes to redistricting. Under federal law, the legislature is tasked with adjusting Congressional district boundary lines every 10 years based on U.S. Census population data. The purpose is to make sure every American has equal representation by having districts with an equal population size.The Governor has indicated that she does not want Wyandotte and Johnson split into separate Congressional districts. However, population growth in those two counties make it legally impossible for Wyandotte and Johnson to be wholly contained in one Congressional district.“This isn’t the first time the legislature has had to step up to protect Kansans from Laura Kelly’s partisan agenda,” said House leadership. “It is no coincidence she pulled out the veto pen just hours after the ACLU told her to. It’s clear she is beholden to New York special interests. The legislature is bound to do what is best for Kansans and we won’t back down from that responsibility."Congressional maps must undergo court review, providing a check and balance for Kansans that the map is drawn fairly and that it does not disenfranchise minority or other voting populations. The Legislature is expected to take up a veto override in order to move the process forward.House Republicans Propose Plan to Stabilize KPERSHouse Republicans have proposed HB 2561 to utilize some of the state’s budget surplus to stabilize the KPERS retirement fund, ensuring it will be there for our teachers, our firefighters, and other public employees when they need it. The plan would appropriate $1 billion to the KPERS Trust Fund, which would:• Bring KPERS above the 80 percent funded level, a goal in ensuring the stability of retirement systems.• Lower future costs for taxpayers by reducing the amount needed for the state’s share of employer contributions, saving the taxpayers $82 million in Fiscal Year 2023 and $429 million over the next five years• Fully fund 2017 and 2019 payments, paying off layering payments, and eliminating the annual $25.8 million payments on delayed employer contributionsHB 2561 will be heard in the House Insurance and Pensions Committee on February 9.If you would like to contact me: my office is still located in Room: 149-S. My phone number is (785) 296- 7463 and email is: kenn.rahje@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: Feb. 7, 2022

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644255528396.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>

By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension District

The practice of fermenting foods has been around for centuries. The simplicity of this preservation method coupled with its unique flavors and reported health benefits made fermenting food popular worldwide. Today there is a renewed interest in preparing fermented foods at home. You may be asking the question, “Where do I start?”&nbsp;

I would suggest signing up for a hands-on workshop to make sauerkraut. The workshop is set for Tuesday, March 8th, from 6:00 – 9:00 PM at the Ellis County Fairgrounds Schenk Building. A $25 registration fee may be paid at the Ellis County Extension office, 601 Main Street, Hays, to hold your spot. Each workshop participant will receive a wide mouth canning jar, a one-way silicone valve, glass weight, and the ingredients to make a quart of sauerkraut.&nbsp;

Class size is limited so call to register at (785) 628-9430. If you have questions, please call me at the same number or the Great Bend office at (620) 793-1910.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643838424497.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe practice of fermenting foods has been around for centuries. The simplicity of this preservation method coupled with its unique flavors and reported health benefits made fermenting food popular worldwide. Today there is a renewed interest in preparing fermented foods at home. You may be asking the question, “Where do I start?”&nbsp;I would suggest signing up for a hands-on workshop to make sauerkraut. The workshop is set for Tuesday, March 8th, from 6:00 – 9:00 PM at the Ellis County Fairgrounds Schenk Building. A $25 registration fee may be paid at the Ellis County Extension office, 601 Main Street, Hays, to hold your spot. Each workshop participant will receive a wide mouth canning jar, a one-way silicone valve, glass weight, and the ingredients to make a quart of sauerkraut.&nbsp;Class size is limited so call to register at (785) 628-9430. If you have questions, please call me at the same number or the Great Bend office at (620) 793-1910.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Let’s make sauerkraut

	Growers are concerned about the high prices and availability of chemicals for weed management in 2022!&nbsp; To help producers and service providers with this most challenging production situation. K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices in northwest and north central Kansas have scheduled a series of Weed Management Update Meetings on Feb. 15 and 16.&nbsp;

February 15 – Colby, City Limits Convention Center, 2227 S. Range Ave., 9:00 am to noon, CST

Osborne, United Christian Church, 214 North 2nd Street, 3:00 to 6:00 pm.

February 16 – Hill City, Graham County 4-H Building Fairgrounds, 9:00 am to noon

Claflin, Community Center, 409 A Street, 3:00 to 6:00 pm.&nbsp;

Topics for the meeting will include revisiting residual herbicides in corn; non-chemical approaches to deal with herbicide shortages and prices; research update in application technology along with a question and answer session.&nbsp; Presenters for the program will include K-State Research and Extension weed management specialists, along with Randy Lloyd, technology research scientist with the University of Nebraska will share his research from the application technology lab at North Platte. Three Pest Management CCA credits and 3 commercial applicator CEU’s are available. &nbsp;

Registration is requested for the meal count by Friday online at <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/events">www.northwest.ksu.edu/events</a> or call your local Extension Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643832642314.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research &amp; Extension	Growers are concerned about the high prices and availability of chemicals for weed management in 2022!&nbsp; To help producers and service providers with this most challenging production situation. K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices in northwest and north central Kansas have scheduled a series of Weed Management Update Meetings on Feb. 15 and 16.&nbsp;February 15 – Colby, City Limits Convention Center, 2227 S. Range Ave., 9:00 am to noon, CSTOsborne, United Christian Church, 214 North 2nd Street, 3:00 to 6:00 pm.February 16 – Hill City, Graham County 4-H Building Fairgrounds, 9:00 am to noonClaflin, Community Center, 409 A Street, 3:00 to 6:00 pm.&nbsp;	Topics for the meeting will include revisiting residual herbicides in corn; non-chemical approaches to deal with herbicide shortages and prices; research update in application technology along with a question and answer session.&nbsp; Presenters for the program will include K-State Research and Extension weed management specialists, along with Randy Lloyd, technology research scientist with the University of Nebraska will share his research from the application technology lab at North Platte. Three Pest Management CCA credits and 3 commercial applicator CEU’s are available. &nbsp;	Registration is requested for the meal count by Friday online at <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/events">www.northwest.ksu.edu/events</a> or call your local Extension Office.&nbsp;

Weed management schools scheduled in NW Kansas

Last week in the House Appropriations Committee we discussed numerous topics affecting the state of Kansas.

On Tuesday, we heard from the Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, Melissa Rooker, regarding the funding for children’s needs provided by the settlement from the Master Tobacco Settlement. She discussed how those settlement funds are being distributed and provided an update on the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program that we instituted during the 2021 Legislative Session.

We also had a briefing from the Secretary of Transportation, Julie Lorenz, on the status of the transportation department and the IKE transportation plan.

Due to the inclement weather on Wednesday, we did not have a meeting and reconvened on Thursday. We then had a bill hearing on House Bill 2548 which would implement additional reporting requirements for informational technology projects.

Also on Thursday, we started the budgeting process and deliberated on budgets from two budget committees. From the General Government Budget Committee, we discussed the budgets for the Real Estate Appraisal Board, Real Estate Commission, and the Kansas Insurance Department. The Transportation and Public Safety Committee reported the budgets of the Abstractors Board of Examiners, Board of Technical Professionals, and the Emergency Medical Services Board.

There has been much discussion regarding an economic development bill that is focused on offering a business that is considering a move to Kansas and this business would invest $4 billion and is asking for $1 billion in incentives from the state of Kansas. Senate Bill 347 would allow for these incentives and is referred to as the Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion Act, otherwise referred to as “APEX.” This business, which the identity is held confidential as well at the location that they would move into the state, is estimated to create 4,000 jobs in the state of Kansas. Senate Bill 347 passed the Senate, 32-7, and is continually being debated in the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee.

During the fourth week of the Legislative session, there were many more bills discussed in the House Committees. Listed below are the details of those bills:

There was a scheduled review on one of the bills that I introduced in the 2021 session regarding mortgage financing for rural areas of the state of Kansas. House Bill 2268 would allow for the state of Kansas to guarantee home loans up to 125% of the appraised value of the home in a rural area, which is defined as a county with less than 10,000 in population. This would greatly benefit those in rural areas to secure financing for a mortgage on their home that was either new construction or renovated home.

In the House Transportation Committee, there was a hearing on Senate Bill 101. This bill would approve the operation and use of electric-assisted bicycles. There is also Senate Bill 379 that would permit the use of driverless vehicles for business-to-business use. There was only a hearing in the Senate Committee and has not been discussed in the House.

On Thursday, there was a hearing on House Bill 2540 which would allow for the construction of a memorial for Gold Star families on grounds of the Kansas State Capitol.

As I mentioned in a previous newsletter, there was a hearing on Senate Bill 318 which allows for a sales tax exemption for purchases to reconstruct, repair or replace fencing that was damaged or destroyed by wildfires. This bill passed the Senate and there was an amendment added that would make all fencing material purchases sales tax exempt effective on July 1, 2022.

Anytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at www.kslegislature.org.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes:

* Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities:Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens,Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center,Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa,Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center(part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver(part), Cedron, Elkhorn(part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner,Center,Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621346439026.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th District</figcaption>
 </figure>FEBRUARY 7, 2022 TOPEKAHouse Appropriations CommitteeLast week in the House Appropriations Committee we discussed numerous topics affecting the state of Kansas.On Tuesday, we heard from the Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, Melissa Rooker, regarding the funding for children’s needs provided by the settlement from the Master Tobacco Settlement. She discussed how those settlement funds are being distributed and provided an update on the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program that we instituted during the 2021 Legislative Session.We also had a briefing from the Secretary of Transportation, Julie Lorenz, on the status of the transportation department and the IKE transportation plan.Due to the inclement weather on Wednesday, we did not have a meeting and reconvened on Thursday. We then had a bill hearing on House Bill 2548 which would implement additional reporting requirements for informational technology projects.Also on Thursday, we started the budgeting process and deliberated on budgets from two budget committees. From the General Government Budget Committee, we discussed the budgets for the Real Estate Appraisal Board, Real Estate Commission, and the Kansas Insurance Department. The Transportation and Public Safety Committee reported the budgets of the Abstractors Board of Examiners, Board of Technical Professionals, and the Emergency Medical Services Board.Economic Development BillThere has been much discussion regarding an economic development bill that is focused on offering a business that is considering a move to Kansas and this business would invest $4 billion and is asking for $1 billion in incentives from the state of Kansas. Senate Bill 347 would allow for these incentives and is referred to as the Attracting Powerful Economic Expansion Act, otherwise referred to as “APEX.” This business, which the identity is held confidential as well at the location that they would move into the state, is estimated to create 4,000 jobs in the state of Kansas. Senate Bill 347 passed the Senate, 32-7, and is continually being debated in the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee.Bill Activity in the HouseDuring the fourth week of the Legislative session, there were many more bills discussed in the House Committees. Listed below are the details of those bills:There was a scheduled review on one of the bills that I introduced in the 2021 session regarding mortgage financing for rural areas of the state of Kansas. House Bill 2268 would allow for the state of Kansas to guarantee home loans up to 125% of the appraised value of the home in a rural area, which is defined as a county with less than 10,000 in population. This would greatly benefit those in rural areas to secure financing for a mortgage on their home that was either new construction or renovated home.In the House Transportation Committee, there was a hearing on Senate Bill 101. This bill would approve the operation and use of electric-assisted bicycles. There is also Senate Bill 379 that would permit the use of driverless vehicles for business-to-business use. There was only a hearing in the Senate Committee and has not been discussed in the House.On Thursday, there was a hearing on House Bill 2540 which would allow for the construction of a memorial for Gold Star families on grounds of the Kansas State Capitol.As I mentioned in a previous newsletter, there was a hearing on Senate Bill 318 which allows for a sales tax exemption for purchases to reconstruct, repair or replace fencing that was damaged or destroyed by wildfires. This bill passed the Senate and there was an amendment added that would make all fencing material purchases sales tax exempt effective on July 1, 2022.Contact InformationAnytime that one would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, one can tune in by listening to the audio footage at www.kslegislature.org.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me (785) 296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov. Please contact me regarding any issues and legislation that we are discussing during session.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, is the Kansas House&nbsp;Appropriations Chairman and 109th District state representative which includes: * Osborne, Russell, and Smith Counties * Barton County: Cities: Albert, Claflin, Galatia, Odin, Olmitz and Susank; Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Clarence, Cleveland, Fairview, Grant, Independent, Logan, Union, Walnut and Wheatland * Jewell County: Cities:Burr Oak, Esbon and Mankato; Townships: Athens,Browns Creek, Burr Oak, Calvin, Center,Erving, Esbon, Harrison, Highland, Holmwood, Ionia, Limestone, Odessa,Walnut and White Mound * Lincoln County: Cities: Lincoln Center(part) and Sylvan Grove; Townships: Battle Creek, Beaver(part), Cedron, Elkhorn(part), Golden Belt, Grant, Hanover, Highland, Indiana, Marion, Orange, Pleasant, Valley and Vesper * Rush County: Cities: Bison, Otis, Rush Center and Timken; Townships: Banner,Center,Garfield, Illinois, Lone Star, Pioneer and Pleasantdale

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Feb. 7

The Hays USD 489 school board Monday unanimously voted to take a $143.5 million bond issue to the voters on May 10.

The largest feature of the bond would be the construction of a new high school adjacent to the current high school on land already owned by the school district. 

Also included in the proposal is: • The middle school moving into the renovated high school • Hays Middle School being renovated into a new elementary school • O'Loughlin and Roosevelt elementary schools would be renovated • Administrative offices and the Westside program would be moved to Wilson • Rockwell Administration Center and Lincoln Elementary School would be closed

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3b975941-e3da-4d3e-a9f1-3c5345769e8d">See more details on specifics changes planned for each building.</a>

 If the bond is funded only through property tax, it would cost a taxpayer $35.94 per month on a $200,000 home. That would be $431 per year.

However, district officials have suggested using a half cent sales tax to reduce the property tax rate. The use of a sales tax could reduce the property tax to $21.56 per month for a $200,000 home and to $16.17 for the owner of a $150,000 home.

The Hays City Commission also has to approve the sale tax question before it can go to voters. The commission is set to consider that request at its meeting on Thursday. 

The sales tax and bond issue will be separate questions on the ballot, which means the bond issue could pass without the sales tax passing. However, the sales tax would be contingent on the bond issue passing.

"This is about space and the need for space in our district," Superintendent Ron Wilson told the board Monday.

All of the district's schools are operating over capacity with the exception of Lincoln Elementary School. The district has grown by 300 students during the last 15 years, and enrollment is predicted to continue to grow.

The new high school, as well as the renovated spaces for the middle school and elementary schools, would have room for growth.

The new high school would have space for 1,000 to 1,400 students. The middle school would have capacity for 900 students, and the elementary schools would have capacity for from 350 to 500 students, depending on how many sections of each grade were at the schools.

The district is proposing initially having four sections of each grade at the renovated middle school and Roosevelt and three sections at O'Loughlin. That would account for the 11 sections of each grade that are currently in the district.

The new high school would allow for the addition of a culinary kitchen for career education at the high school. 

"We have a great career tech environment, but I think we could make it so much better than we currently have," Wilson said. 

Middle school students are very limited on what electives they&nbsp; can take because the space constraints at the current HMS. Moving HMS into the renovated high school would allow the district to significantly expand the school's ability to offer career and technical classes at the middle school level.

The new high school would include an auditorium.

"Right there, that should be in bold print," Wilson said. "That should be leading this bond issue. This community — our school — needs an auditorium that is comparable to what other districts have and that our students can perform in for lots of different things and be proud of."

The new high school will include some limited improvements to athletic facilities, including a new softball field.

Board President Tammy Wellbrock said space, such as gyms, that are considered by some to be athletic are used throughout the academic day for classes.

Both the middle school and high school have cafeteria's that are undersized.

The elementary schools have one room that serves as cafeteria, gym and auditorium. This significantly limits the schools' scheduling abilities, Wilson said, to the point the schools can't schedule time for extra math and reading tutoring.

"We want to do better, but sometimes our space issues aren't allowing us to do better," Wilson said.

As the district renovates spaces, it also wants to look at the pickup and drop off at O'Loughlin, which regularly snarls traffic on Hall Street.

Included in the work at the renovated schools will be addressing any issues required to keep kids and staff warm, safe and dry. That includes HVAC, electrical and plumbing. 

"That allows us to catch up," Wilson said. "It doesn't necessarily allow us to get ahead, because we have been working behind for a long time. It's going to get us up to where we need to be."

Because maintenance issues are being addressed in the bond, capital funds that had been used to pay for repairs could be used for other things.

"We are touching every building," she said. "I think there has been some confusion in the past that this bond doesn't affect the building that I'm a part of. That's short-sighted in thinking. We want people to understand the bigger scope that all buildings will be touched."

Wilson said the district is spending $1.2 million every year in repairs. The district spends another $800,000 per year on leases, most of those leases are paying for HVAC and other major repair projects.

Board member Allen Park asked how much the district will spend on a special election. The election will cost $20,000 to $30,000, said Stephanie Meyer, community engagement and public finance leader for DLR, the district's architectural firm.

Meyer said 90 days has been a typical lead-in time for bond campaigns. She also said special elections also tend to have better success rates for bond elections.

She said delaying the bond until the August primary could risk interest rates going up. If the interest rate went up as little as a quarter of a percent, it could cost the district as much $1 million, Wilson said.

Park, the former Washington Elementary School principal, also expressed concern about the potential of closing a two-section elementary school and opening a four-section school.

Amber Beverlin of DLR said four-section elementary schools operate most efficiently. She said the district is spending a lot of money to keep Lincoln open for about 200 students.

Board vice-president Craig Pallister said two-section elementary schools have to share PE teachers, art teachers and counselors, which is not good for anyone.

Park also expressed concerns about school choice as the schools are realigned. Wilson said the district would maintain school choice. Closure of Lincoln wouldn't happen for another five to six years if the bond passes.&nbsp; 

"As people see that the bonds passed, they start making decisions three to four years in advance," Wilson said. "In a lot of ways, it takes care of itself. It's not an issue of forcing people where they don't want to go."

Park also asked about the use of local contractors in construction. Ron Ferris of Nabholz Construction, construct manager at-risk, said a sub-contractor summit will allow local contractors to show what work they might be available for and receive information on the bidding process.

"When I came to this district three years ago, I can't tell you how many people told me you will not get a bond passed in Hays. I say we can get it done... But we gotta believe it," Wilson said. ...

"We've worked hard to this point, we'll continue to work hard. If everyone does their part, I see this as a very positive thing for our community and an investment in our community that will carry for 50 to 100 years."

<a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">You can find a link to register to vote on the USD 489 website with a valid driver's license.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644273353355.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board voted Monday to send a bond issue to voters on May 10. " />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board voted Monday to send a bond issue to voters on May 10. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board Monday unanimously voted to take a $143.5 million bond issue to the voters on May 10.The largest feature of the bond would be the construction of a new high school adjacent to the current high school on land already owned by the school district. Also included in the proposal is: • The middle school moving into the renovated high school • Hays Middle School being renovated into a new elementary school • O'Loughlin and Roosevelt elementary schools would be renovated • Administrative offices and the Westside program would be moved to Wilson • Rockwell Administration Center and Lincoln Elementary School would be closed<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3b975941-e3da-4d3e-a9f1-3c5345769e8d">See more details on specifics changes planned for each building.</a><h2>Cost</h2> If the bond is funded only through property tax, it would cost a taxpayer $35.94 per month on a $200,000 home. That would be $431 per year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644269069315.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>However, district officials have suggested using a half cent sales tax to reduce the property tax rate. The use of a sales tax could reduce the property tax to $21.56 per month for a $200,000 home and to $16.17 for the owner of a $150,000 home.The Hays City Commission also has to approve the sale tax question before it can go to voters. The commission is set to consider that request at its meeting on Thursday. The sales tax and bond issue will be separate questions on the ballot, which means the bond issue could pass without the sales tax passing. However, the sales tax would be contingent on the bond issue passing. <h2>Capacity issues </h2>"This is about space and the need for space in our district," Superintendent Ron Wilson told the board Monday. All of the district's schools are operating over capacity with the exception of Lincoln Elementary School. The district has grown by 300 students during the last 15 years, and enrollment is predicted to continue to grow.The new high school, as well as the renovated spaces for the middle school and elementary schools, would have room for growth.The new high school would have space for 1,000 to 1,400 students. The middle school would have capacity for 900 students, and the elementary schools would have capacity for from 350 to 500 students, depending on how many sections of each grade were at the schools.The district is proposing initially having four sections of each grade at the renovated middle school and Roosevelt and three sections at O'Loughlin. That would account for the 11 sections of each grade that are currently in the district.<h2>Enhancing academics with new space</h2>The new high school would allow for the addition of a culinary kitchen for career education at the high school. "We have a great career tech environment, but I think we could make it so much better than we currently have," Wilson said. Middle school students are very limited on what electives they&nbsp; can take because the space constraints at the current HMS. Moving HMS into the renovated high school would allow the district to significantly expand the school's ability to offer career and technical classes at the middle school level.The new high school would include an auditorium."Right there, that should be in bold print," Wilson said. "That should be leading this bond issue. This community — our school — needs an auditorium that is comparable to what other districts have and that our students can perform in for lots of different things and be proud of."The new high school will include some limited improvements to athletic facilities, including a new softball field.Board President Tammy Wellbrock said space, such as gyms, that are considered by some to be athletic are used throughout the academic day for classes. Both the middle school and high school have cafeteria's that are undersized.The elementary schools have one room that serves as cafeteria, gym and auditorium. This significantly limits the schools' scheduling abilities, Wilson said, to the point the schools can't schedule time for extra math and reading tutoring."We want to do better, but sometimes our space issues aren't allowing us to do better," Wilson said.As the district renovates spaces, it also wants to look at the pickup and drop off at O'Loughlin, which regularly snarls traffic on Hall Street.<h2>Addressing maintenance issues</h2>Included in the work at the renovated schools will be addressing any issues required to keep kids and staff warm, safe and dry. That includes HVAC, electrical and plumbing. "That allows us to catch up," Wilson said. "It doesn't necessarily allow us to get ahead, because we have been working behind for a long time. It's going to get us up to where we need to be."Because maintenance issues are being addressed in the bond, capital funds that had been used to pay for repairs could be used for other things."We are touching every building," she said. "I think there has been some confusion in the past that this bond doesn't affect the building that I'm a part of. That's short-sighted in thinking. We want people to understand the bigger scope that all buildings will be touched."Wilson said the district is spending $1.2 million every year in repairs. The district spends another $800,000 per year on leases, most of those leases are paying for HVAC and other major repair projects.<h2>Why a special election?</h2>Board member Allen Park asked how much the district will spend on a special election. The election will cost $20,000 to $30,000, said Stephanie Meyer, community engagement and public finance leader for DLR, the district's architectural firm.Meyer said 90 days has been a typical lead-in time for bond campaigns. She also said special elections also tend to have better success rates for bond elections. She said delaying the bond until the August primary could risk interest rates going up. If the interest rate went up as little as a quarter of a percent, it could cost the district as much $1 million, Wilson said.<h2>Elementary size, school choice</h2>Park, the former Washington Elementary School principal, also expressed concern about the potential of closing a two-section elementary school and opening a four-section school.Amber Beverlin of DLR said four-section elementary schools operate most efficiently. She said the district is spending a lot of money to keep Lincoln open for about 200 students.Board vice-president Craig Pallister said two-section elementary schools have to share PE teachers, art teachers and counselors, which is not good for anyone.Park also expressed concerns about school choice as the schools are realigned. Wilson said the district would maintain school choice. Closure of Lincoln wouldn't happen for another five to six years if the bond passes.&nbsp; "As people see that the bonds passed, they start making decisions three to four years in advance," Wilson said. "In a lot of ways, it takes care of itself. It's not an issue of forcing people where they don't want to go."Park also asked about the use of local contractors in construction. Ron Ferris of Nabholz Construction, construct manager at-risk, said a sub-contractor summit will allow local contractors to show what work they might be available for and receive information on the bidding process.Wilson said he the bond can be passed."When I came to this district three years ago, I can't tell you how many people told me you will not get a bond passed in Hays. I say we can get it done... But we gotta believe it," Wilson said. ... "We've worked hard to this point, we'll continue to work hard. If everyone does their part, I see this as a very positive thing for our community and an investment in our community that will carry for 50 to 100 years."<a href="https://www.usd489.com/page/usd-489-bond">You can find a link to register to vote on the USD 489 website with a valid driver's license.</a>

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