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🎤Post Podcast: New 75 lot housing development in works in Hays

The National Weather Service has issued a weather advisory for the Hays area, as a cold front is expected to bring round of winter weather to the region.

The front is expected to be accompanied by strong winds and a significant chill, with gusts up to 50 mph possible and wind chills expected to drop below zero Friday night. The temperature is expected to drop to single digits overnight.

The NWS is warning of blowing and drifting snow, with total accumulation of 2 inches possible in some areas.

Portions of far northwest Kansas could see more snowfall, with accumulation&nbsp; up to 4 inches possible in a line from Tribune to Norton.

Those traveling east could see more significant weather, as the NWS in Topeka has issued a winter storm warning in Salina and areas east. Ice accumulation of between a tenth of an inch and a quarter of an inch are possible, forecasters warned.

"Plan on slippery road conditions," the NWS said. "The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/cancellations-and-delays">Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on cancellations and severe weather.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578665021558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service has issued a weather advisory for the Hays area, as a cold front is expected to bring round of winter weather to the region.The front is expected to be accompanied by strong winds and a significant chill, with gusts up to 50 mph possible and wind chills expected to drop below zero Friday night. The temperature is expected to drop to single digits overnight.The NWS is warning of blowing and drifting snow, with total accumulation of 2 inches possible in some areas.Portions of far northwest Kansas could see more snowfall, with accumulation&nbsp; up to 4 inches possible in a line from Tribune to Norton.Those traveling east could see more significant weather, as the NWS in Topeka has issued a winter storm warning in Salina and areas east. Ice accumulation of between a tenth of an inch and a quarter of an inch are possible, forecasters warned."Plan on slippery road conditions," the NWS said. "The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute."<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/cancellations-and-delays">Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on cancellations and severe weather.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578665389598.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578665290474.jpeg" alt="" />
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NWS: Front bringing wintry weather, extreme cold and wind

A public hearing date of February 13th&nbsp;has been set for a requested TIF (Tax Increment Financing) district for a proposed travel plaza to be built in northwest Hays at the northwest corner of 230th Avenue and 55th Street.&nbsp;

Hays Finance Director Kim Rupp reviewed details of the economic incentive during Thursday night's&nbsp; city commission meeting.

“Those TIF eligible costs are regulated by state statute," Rupp reminded commissioners, "which includes property acquisition, site prep,&nbsp;utilities, paving, grading, curb, gutter, parking, landscaping and other related expenses to develop and finance the project.”

Through a TIF,&nbsp;future increases in property tax are used to pay back the developer for infrastructure improvements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The managing partners of D&amp;J Land Development, Hays resident Dan Hess of Hess Services and Topeka commercial real estate developer John E. Brown, estimate the TIF will generate&nbsp;nearly $14 million over its pay-as-you-go 20-year term.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city will not be issuing any bonds for the project.&nbsp;

The complete $16.8 million economic development incentive package also includes a community improvement district (CID, assignment of a grant made by the Kansas&nbsp;Department of Transportation to Ellis County, and 4.611-acre tract currently owned by the city.

In Phase I, a full-service travel plaza and truck wash will be built on two of the 11 lots. 

The 10,000 sq. ft. travel plaza and convenience store will include 14 fuel pumps, scales, restaurants inside the travel plaza and personal hygiene amenities.&nbsp;

The truck wash will house two bays for washing semi-trailer trucks in a 6,000 sq. ft. building.

The remaining lots will be sold or leased to other end users for&nbsp;potential development of hotels, restaurants or other commercial uses.

When Phase I is fully completed, the developers estimate it will generate $38.7 million in annual retail sales and $3 million of annual gas/diesel fuel sales, according to information submitted to the city.

A potential Phase II of the project would be located on 15 acres immediately north of Phase I.&nbsp;

Rupp told the commission the developer may approach the city in the future regarding annexation and incentives for Phase II.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578438715834.jpeg" alt="TIF district for proposed Hays travel plaza at the I-70 157 Exit" />
 <figcaption>TIF district for proposed Hays travel plaza at the I-70 157 Exit</figcaption>
 </figure><div>By BECKY KISER Hays Post</div>A public hearing date of February 13th&nbsp;has been set for a requested TIF (Tax Increment Financing) district for a proposed travel plaza to be built in northwest Hays at the northwest corner of 230th Avenue and 55th Street.&nbsp;Hays Finance Director Kim Rupp reviewed details of the economic incentive during Thursday night's&nbsp; city commission meeting.<div><iframe width="871" height="490" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1jK6SIVOvTI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Those TIF eligible costs are regulated by state statute," Rupp reminded commissioners, "which includes property acquisition, site prep,&nbsp;utilities, paving, grading, curb, gutter, parking, landscaping and other related expenses to develop and finance the project.”Through a TIF,&nbsp;future increases in property tax are used to pay back the developer for infrastructure improvements.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578668503340.jpeg" alt="An example of how a TIF works to create more property tax revenue.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>An example of how a TIF works to create more property tax revenue.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The managing partners of D&amp;J Land Development, Hays resident Dan Hess of Hess Services and Topeka commercial real estate developer John E. Brown, estimate the TIF will generate&nbsp;nearly $14 million over its pay-as-you-go 20-year term.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city will not be issuing any bonds for the project.&nbsp;The complete $16.8 million economic development incentive package also includes a community improvement district (CID, assignment of a grant made by the Kansas&nbsp;Department of Transportation to Ellis County, and 4.611-acre tract currently owned by the city.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578666174691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In Phase I, a full-service travel plaza and truck wash will be built on two of the 11 lots. The 10,000 sq. ft. travel plaza and convenience store will include 14 fuel pumps, scales, restaurants inside the travel plaza and personal hygiene amenities.&nbsp;The truck wash will house two bays for washing semi-trailer trucks in a 6,000 sq. ft. building.The remaining lots will be sold or leased to other end users for&nbsp;potential development of hotels, restaurants or other commercial uses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578017451623.png" alt="The travel plaza developers are seeking&nbsp; $16.8 million in economic incentives for the&nbsp; $40.8 million complete Phase I project." />
 <figcaption>The travel plaza developers are seeking&nbsp; $16.8 million in economic incentives for the&nbsp; $40.8 million complete Phase I project.</figcaption>
 </figure>When Phase I is fully completed, the developers estimate it will generate $38.7 million in annual retail sales and $3 million of annual gas/diesel fuel sales, according to information submitted to the city.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578668649484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A potential Phase II of the project would be located on 15 acres immediately north of Phase I.&nbsp;Rupp told the commission the developer may approach the city in the future regarding annexation and incentives for Phase II.

🎥 Travel plaza TIF public hearing set for Feb. 13   

A short Hays city commission meeting Thursday night began with recognition of outgoing commissioners and reorganization of the governing board following the swearing-in of the three newly elected commissioners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eber Phelps and Henry Schwaller, IV, who was unable to attend the meeting, served a combined 29 years as city commissioners noted Shaun Musil, mayor.

"Seven years ago I was in awe watching you guys," Musil said to Phelps. "It was very neat to serve with you guys. I feel like I learned a lot and I just appreciate what you've done for our city."

Schwaller will be invited to an upcoming commission meeting for a short ceremony thanking him for his service.

City Clerk Brenda Kitchen then swore into office Michael Berges, Mason Ruder and incumbent Ron Mellick. The commission was reorganized with Musil chosen as mayor and Sandy Jacobs as vice-mayor.

“I think our community wants new people up here," Musil acknowledged. 

"I think the election showed that and I’m excited to serve with the new people up here. At the same time, the people I’ve served with the last seven years,&nbsp;they’ve got our community in great shape and it’s our job, I think, to do hopefully even better.”

Musil also credited city staff and advised the new commissioners to "lean on them. They make us look good."

Many family members of the commissioners were in the audience to watch the swearing-in ceremony.

Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution setting a February 13 public hearing for the establishment of a TIF (Tax Increment Financing) District requested by D&amp;J Land Development LLC. The group plans to build a travel plaza just north of the Interstate 70 Exit 157 in west Hays.

<div>By BECKY KISER Hays Post</div>A short Hays city commission meeting Thursday night began with recognition of outgoing commissioners and reorganization of the governing board following the swearing-in of the three newly elected commissioners.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578620373201.jpeg" alt="Hays Mayor Shaun Musil thanks outgoing city commissioner Eber Phelps for his service. Phelps and Henry Schwaller IV served a combined 29 years." />
 <figcaption>Hays Mayor Shaun Musil thanks outgoing city commissioner Eber Phelps for his service. Phelps and Henry Schwaller IV served a combined 29 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>Eber Phelps and Henry Schwaller, IV, who was unable to attend the meeting, served a combined 29 years as city commissioners noted Shaun Musil, mayor."Seven years ago I was in awe watching you guys," Musil said to Phelps. "It was very neat to serve with you guys. I feel like I learned a lot and I just appreciate what you've done for our city."Schwaller will be invited to an upcoming commission meeting for a short ceremony thanking him for his service.City Clerk Brenda Kitchen then swore into office Michael Berges, Mason Ruder and incumbent Ron Mellick. The commission was reorganized with Musil chosen as mayor and Sandy Jacobs as vice-mayor.<div><iframe width="871" height="490" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NnKztXtygC8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“I think our community wants new people up here," Musil acknowledged. "I think the election showed that and I’m excited to serve with the new people up here. At the same time, the people I’ve served with the last seven years,&nbsp;they’ve got our community in great shape and it’s our job, I think, to do hopefully even better.”Musil also credited city staff and advised the new commissioners to "lean on them. They make us look good."Many family members of the commissioners were in the audience to watch the swearing-in ceremony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578626805950.jpeg" alt="Family and friends of the city commissioners were on hand for Thursday's swearing-in ceremony." />
 <figcaption>Family and friends of the city commissioners were on hand for Thursday's swearing-in ceremony.</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution setting a February 13 public hearing for the establishment of a TIF (Tax Increment Financing) District requested by D&amp;J Land Development LLC. The group plans to build a travel plaza just north of the Interstate 70 Exit 157 in west Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578438715834.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578625943413.jpeg" alt="Phase I Development Plan" />
 <figcaption>Phase I Development Plan</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 New Hays city commissioners sworn in as family members watch

By DON HINEMAN 118th District State Representative

Two decades ago my wife Betsy experienced a sudden cardiac arrest.&nbsp; Her heart had gone into a dangerous abnormal rhythm and had stopped pumping blood.&nbsp; Fortunately, a team of EMTs arrived quickly to administer CPR and use a defibrillator to shock her heart back into normal rhythm.&nbsp; She was taken to Lane County Hospital to stabilize her condition prior to being airlifted to Wichita for diagnosis and treatment.

Betsy is alive and doing well today because our rural healthcare system was there and functioned effectively in her time of need.&nbsp; I will be forever grateful to all who assisted in her care that day, and to those pioneers who created and sustained the network of healthcare that saved her life.

I shudder to think what could have been had that network not been in place.&nbsp; And that is a very real concern.&nbsp; Eighty-five percent of Kansas hospitals are operating with negative operating margins today, forcing rural counties to subsidize hospital budgets with funds from local property taxes.&nbsp; That creates the very real prospect that some of those hospitals may close their doors at some point, as has already happened in several Kansas communities.

During my work on the House Rural Revitalization Committee this past year, it became apparent how vitally important a local hospital is to its community.&nbsp; That is obviously true to those who, like Betsy, receive care there.&nbsp; But it is also true for the community itself.&nbsp; It really becomes an economic development and sustainability issue.&nbsp; The cornerstones of any community are its school system and its healthcare delivery system.&nbsp; If either is missing or is viewed as inadequate, the community faces real challenges holding on to its existing population and businesses, and the prospect of recruiting new families or businesses becomes impossibly difficult.

One of the most important issues facing the legislature as we convene this week to start the 2020 Kansas legislative session, is a proposal to expand Medicaid to provide coverage to a larger segment of the population.&nbsp; Thirty-seven states have already taken that step, and I believe it is now time for Kansas to follow their lead.&nbsp; I have not come to this conclusion easily, for I understand that once any new governmental program is initiated it is likely to continue forever.&nbsp; But our hospitals are struggling financially with too much uncompensated care on their accounts receivable ledger, and too many indigent uninsured patients accessing expensive ER care for non-ER symptoms because they have nowhere else to turn.

If Kansas expands Medicaid, roughly 150,00 of our fellow Kansans will receive healthcare coverage that is unaffordable to them today.&nbsp; And the federal government will pay 90% of the cost, pumping hundreds of millions of dollars annually into the Kansas healthcare delivery system.&nbsp; The economic activity that creates will essentially cover the 10% of the cost the state must pay, through greater sales, income and property tax revenues created by a more robust and thriving economy.

Who are these 150,000 Kansans who would become eligible for coverage?&nbsp; They are the server at your local restaurant.&nbsp; They are the maid who cleans your room on your next hotel stay.&nbsp; They are the Kansans who are working one or more low-wage jobs to make ends meet and do not receive health insurance through their employer.&nbsp; I acknowledge that it also includes some Kansans who are able-bodied but not working.&nbsp; Are they satisfied with being unproductive members of society… happy to be living on the government dole?&nbsp; While that may be true in some cases, the system envisioned for Kansas would encourage and assist the new Medicaid enrollees in finding work.&nbsp; And states which have already expanded have found that a significant portion of the newly enrolled are exiting the program within a couple of years.&nbsp; Their Medicaid coverage had relieved financial stress, improved their health, and reduced the dysfunction in their lives.&nbsp; As a result, they were able to move up the economic ladder and drop out of Medicaid.&nbsp; They became fully productive members of their state’s economy.&nbsp; Kansas is currently at full employment, and Kansas businesses are constrained by a lack of an adequate workforce.&nbsp; Expanding Medicaid could help provide additional workers for our economy at a time we desperately need them.

I recognize that expanding Medicaid will not solve all the problems of Kansas hospitals.&nbsp; Healthcare is evolving, and the healthcare system of the past is not appropriate for the future.&nbsp; But I have visited with many hospital administrators and am encouraged that they understand this reality and are working to reinvent how they deliver healthcare.&nbsp; Expanding Medicaid can throw them a lifeline, creating an opportunity for them to not only survive but emerge stronger and better equipped to meet the needs of Kansans in the 21st century.

I am honored to represent the residents of the 118th District in Topeka.&nbsp; Please contact me with your concerns as we dive into the work of the 2020 legislative session.

Representative Don Hineman,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:don.hineman@house.ks.gov">don.hineman@house.ks.gov&nbsp;</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578581434585.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DON HINEMAN 118th District State RepresentativeTwo decades ago my wife Betsy experienced a sudden cardiac arrest.&nbsp; Her heart had gone into a dangerous abnormal rhythm and had stopped pumping blood.&nbsp; Fortunately, a team of EMTs arrived quickly to administer CPR and use a defibrillator to shock her heart back into normal rhythm.&nbsp; She was taken to Lane County Hospital to stabilize her condition prior to being airlifted to Wichita for diagnosis and treatment.Betsy is alive and doing well today because our rural healthcare system was there and functioned effectively in her time of need.&nbsp; I will be forever grateful to all who assisted in her care that day, and to those pioneers who created and sustained the network of healthcare that saved her life.I shudder to think what could have been had that network not been in place.&nbsp; And that is a very real concern.&nbsp; Eighty-five percent of Kansas hospitals are operating with negative operating margins today, forcing rural counties to subsidize hospital budgets with funds from local property taxes.&nbsp; That creates the very real prospect that some of those hospitals may close their doors at some point, as has already happened in several Kansas communities.During my work on the House Rural Revitalization Committee this past year, it became apparent how vitally important a local hospital is to its community.&nbsp; That is obviously true to those who, like Betsy, receive care there.&nbsp; But it is also true for the community itself.&nbsp; It really becomes an economic development and sustainability issue.&nbsp; The cornerstones of any community are its school system and its healthcare delivery system.&nbsp; If either is missing or is viewed as inadequate, the community faces real challenges holding on to its existing population and businesses, and the prospect of recruiting new families or businesses becomes impossibly difficult.One of the most important issues facing the legislature as we convene this week to start the 2020 Kansas legislative session, is a proposal to expand Medicaid to provide coverage to a larger segment of the population.&nbsp; Thirty-seven states have already taken that step, and I believe it is now time for Kansas to follow their lead.&nbsp; I have not come to this conclusion easily, for I understand that once any new governmental program is initiated it is likely to continue forever.&nbsp; But our hospitals are struggling financially with too much uncompensated care on their accounts receivable ledger, and too many indigent uninsured patients accessing expensive ER care for non-ER symptoms because they have nowhere else to turn.If Kansas expands Medicaid, roughly 150,00 of our fellow Kansans will receive healthcare coverage that is unaffordable to them today.&nbsp; And the federal government will pay 90% of the cost, pumping hundreds of millions of dollars annually into the Kansas healthcare delivery system.&nbsp; The economic activity that creates will essentially cover the 10% of the cost the state must pay, through greater sales, income and property tax revenues created by a more robust and thriving economy.Who are these 150,000 Kansans who would become eligible for coverage?&nbsp; They are the server at your local restaurant.&nbsp; They are the maid who cleans your room on your next hotel stay.&nbsp; They are the Kansans who are working one or more low-wage jobs to make ends meet and do not receive health insurance through their employer.&nbsp; I acknowledge that it also includes some Kansans who are able-bodied but not working.&nbsp; Are they satisfied with being unproductive members of society… happy to be living on the government dole?&nbsp; While that may be true in some cases, the system envisioned for Kansas would encourage and assist the new Medicaid enrollees in finding work.&nbsp; And states which have already expanded have found that a significant portion of the newly enrolled are exiting the program within a couple of years.&nbsp; Their Medicaid coverage had relieved financial stress, improved their health, and reduced the dysfunction in their lives.&nbsp; As a result, they were able to move up the economic ladder and drop out of Medicaid.&nbsp; They became fully productive members of their state’s economy.&nbsp; Kansas is currently at full employment, and Kansas businesses are constrained by a lack of an adequate workforce.&nbsp; Expanding Medicaid could help provide additional workers for our economy at a time we desperately need them.I recognize that expanding Medicaid will not solve all the problems of Kansas hospitals.&nbsp; Healthcare is evolving, and the healthcare system of the past is not appropriate for the future.&nbsp; But I have visited with many hospital administrators and am encouraged that they understand this reality and are working to reinvent how they deliver healthcare.&nbsp; Expanding Medicaid can throw them a lifeline, creating an opportunity for them to not only survive but emerge stronger and better equipped to meet the needs of Kansans in the 21st century.I am honored to represent the residents of the 118th District in Topeka.&nbsp; Please contact me with your concerns as we dive into the work of the 2020 legislative session.Representative Don Hineman,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:don.hineman@house.ks.gov">don.hineman@house.ks.gov&nbsp;</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

HINEMAN: Breathing life into rural Kan. hospitals is critical

Ellis announces first semester honor roll

Residents are encouraged to bring real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area.

Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site is open through Monday.

Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge.

If there are questions, call the Solid Waste Division at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578333373066.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysResidents are encouraged to bring real Christmas trees to the free disposal site located north of the Public Works building at 1002 Vine. This area is right next to the bathrooms at Speier ball fields. Place the trees inside the orange snow fence area.Signs will be posted to direct citizens. Please remove all plastic, ornaments and lights before leaving the tree. The disposal site is open through Monday.Midwest Energy will provide personnel and a wood chipper to chip the trees to make mulch. The mulch will be placed at the Parks Department on the U.S. 183 Bypass and is available for pickup free of charge.If there are questions, call the Solid Waste Division at (785) 628-7350.

Final weekend to recycle your Christmas tree

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578595215362.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

&nbsp;Every day you can graze corn stalks or winter pasture saves you fifty cents to a dollar compared to feeding hay or silage.&nbsp; Protein supplements are critical to your success, though.

Winter grazing saves lots of money and usually takes less labor than feeding cows all winter.&nbsp; But these advantages become meaningless if cows don’t stay healthy or loose condition due to a lack of protein.

Why is protein so important?&nbsp; In ruminants, like cattle, protein is used twice – first by the microbes in the rumen that are digesting the fiber in the corn stalks and winter grass and secondly by the animal.

For the microbes to digest these low quality forages, the diet must contain at least seven to eight percent protein.&nbsp; Otherwise the microbes become protein deficient and are unable to work effectively.&nbsp; When this happens, the amount of energy the animal receives from the forage is low and the animal becomes energy deficient.&nbsp; So one major reason to supplement protein with winter forages is to make sure the microbes are fed properly so your animal does not become energy deficient.&nbsp; In other words, protein increases energy.

The protein supplement you use is important.&nbsp; Many cheap protein sources contain mostly urea and other forms of non-protein nitrogen.&nbsp; These supplements are less effective at this time of year when cattle are eating mostly winter forages that contain low energy.

Instead, use supplements that contain more all-natural protein.&nbsp; Alfalfa often is the cheapest natural source of protein, but other sources also work well.

Winter grazing can reduce winter feed costs and labor.&nbsp; Feed the right protein with it, and you will be successful.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Every day you can graze corn stalks or winter pasture saves you fifty cents to a dollar compared to feeding hay or silage.&nbsp; Protein supplements are critical to your success, though.Winter grazing saves lots of money and usually takes less labor than feeding cows all winter.&nbsp; But these advantages become meaningless if cows don’t stay healthy or loose condition due to a lack of protein.Why is protein so important?&nbsp; In ruminants, like cattle, protein is used twice – first by the microbes in the rumen that are digesting the fiber in the corn stalks and winter grass and secondly by the animal.For the microbes to digest these low quality forages, the diet must contain at least seven to eight percent protein.&nbsp; Otherwise the microbes become protein deficient and are unable to work effectively.&nbsp; When this happens, the amount of energy the animal receives from the forage is low and the animal becomes energy deficient.&nbsp; So one major reason to supplement protein with winter forages is to make sure the microbes are fed properly so your animal does not become energy deficient.&nbsp; In other words, protein increases energy.The protein supplement you use is important.&nbsp; Many cheap protein sources contain mostly urea and other forms of non-protein nitrogen.&nbsp; These supplements are less effective at this time of year when cattle are eating mostly winter forages that contain low energy.Instead, use supplements that contain more all-natural protein.&nbsp; Alfalfa often is the cheapest natural source of protein, but other sources also work well.Winter grazing can reduce winter feed costs and labor.&nbsp; Feed the right protein with it, and you will be successful.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Supplementing protein when winter grazing

Deans at Fort Hays State University have named 1,596 students to the Deans Honor Roll for the fall 2019 semester.&nbsp;

The Deans Honor Roll includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have completed 12 or more credit hours and earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Virtual College students are eligible.&nbsp;

Students are listed alphabetically by county and city, state and city, or country and city with their classifications and, for those who have declared them, majors. This list does not include students who requested privacy.&nbsp;

Students without classifications are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking degrees.&nbsp;

The following northwest Kansas students, listed by county, earned honors:

St. Francis (67756):&nbsp;Hanna Bracelin is a sophomore majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Jessica Dawn Confer is a freshman majoring in health and human performance (sport and exercise therapy).&nbsp;

Wesley Don Cooper is a senior majoring in health and human performance.&nbsp;

Brady Alan Schoenrogge is a freshman in the Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science.&nbsp;

Madison Ann Tice is a sophomore majoring in communication sciences and disorders.&nbsp;

Oberlin (67749):&nbsp;McKenna Paige O'Hare is a senior majoring in art.&nbsp;

Catharine (67627):&nbsp;Tatum M. Kimzey is majoring in accounting (public).&nbsp;

Ellis (67637):&nbsp;Brittany Bollig is a junior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Allison Buckley is a senior majoring in health and human performance (sport and exercise therapy).&nbsp;

Abby Jo Burton is a sophomore majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Alexcia Deutscher is a senior majoring in health and human performance (sport and exercise therapy).&nbsp;

Joseph Gregory Eck is a sophomore majoring in agriculture (agronomy).&nbsp;

Kaylyn Janae Foster is a sophomore majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Cameryn Jade Kinderknecht is a freshman.&nbsp;

Danielle D. Knoll is a senior majoring in history.&nbsp;

Macy Nicole Nowlin is a freshman majoring in radiologic technology.&nbsp;

Jaylinn Renae Pfeifer is a sophomore majoring in general studies (agricultural).&nbsp;

Brianna Rohr is a senior majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Lexie Taylor Rome is a junior majoring in health and human performance (recreation).&nbsp;

Sierra M. Schmidt is a sophomore majoring in management (human resource).&nbsp;

Ali Janae Weber is a sophomore majoring in radiologic technology.&nbsp;

Sydney Judith Winter is a freshman majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Hays (67601):&nbsp;Katie Ann Abukhodair is a senior majoring in elementary education.&nbsp;

Adyson Nicole Albers is a freshman majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Briana Lynn Aldrich is a senior majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Kodi Lynn Allen is a senior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Shayleigh Brooke Allison is a senior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Rebecca Monique Anderson is a freshman majoring in performing arts – music (musical theatre).&nbsp;

Aubry Allyssa Appelhans is a freshman majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Chelsey R. Augustine is a senior majoring in art (graphic design).&nbsp;

Tigist Patience Bannister is a junior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Brooks David Barber is a senior majoring in marketing.&nbsp;

Madison McKay Barrera is a junior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Myranda Nikole Berner is a freshman majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Isaiah L. Blackmon is a junior majoring in technology studies (construction management).&nbsp;

Morgan Boeger is a senior majoring in biology (health professions).&nbsp;

Kinley R. Boys is a junior majoring in medical diagnostic imaging.&nbsp;

Isabelle Braun is a freshman majoring in information networking and telecommunications (digital media production and journalism).&nbsp;

Bethany Renee Brown is a sophomore majoring in political science.&nbsp;

Braelyn Denise Brown is a sophomore majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Hunter Joseph Brown is a sophomore majoring in health and human performance (K-12 teaching and coaching).&nbsp;

Kylie Shae Brown is a senior majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Katie Anne Brungardt is a junior majoring in elementary education.&nbsp;

Morgan Marie Budig is a sophomore majoring in criminal justice.&nbsp;

Quinn Andrew Buffington is a junior majoring in geosciences (geography).&nbsp;

Kaitlyn Marie Burd is a freshman majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Tanner Cole Callis is a junior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Brendan Kasey Chapman is a sophomore majoring in history (secondary education).&nbsp;

Daheng Chen is a sophomore &nbsp;in the Academy of Mathematics and Science.&nbsp;

Sangam Chhatkuli is a junior majoring in information networking and telecommunications (computer networking).&nbsp;

Morgan Elayne Choitz is a junior majoring in art (graphic design).&nbsp;

Quentin Jamel Coberley is a sophomore majoring in social work.&nbsp;

Grant Edward Coffman is a junior majoring in communication (organizational).&nbsp;

Amanda M. Cranwell is a junior majoring in agricultural business.&nbsp;

Megan Cranwell is a sophomore majoring in agricultural business.&nbsp;

Anna Catherine Criswell is a senior majoring in English (teaching).&nbsp;

Ya Binta Darboe is a sophomore majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Bryce L. Davidson is a junior majoring in physics.&nbsp;

Nicholas Ray Davidson is a sophomore majoring in management (entrepreneurship).&nbsp;

Reaghan A. Davis is majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Alliana Marie Drees is a junior majoring in accounting (public).&nbsp;

Kaylee T. Dreher is a junior majoring in general studies (education).&nbsp;

Sierra Nicole Eichman is a senior majoring in biology (health professions).&nbsp;

Adam Taylor Emerson is a junior majoring in criminal justice.&nbsp;

Elizabeth Mary Emerson is a senior majoring in geosciences.&nbsp;

Meriah Marie Escarcega is a junior majoring in psychology.&nbsp;

Mariela Estrada is a senior majoring in elementary education.&nbsp;

Adam Christopher Flax is a senior majoring in music (education).&nbsp;

Madyson Paige Flax is a freshman majoring in chemistry.&nbsp;

Kimberly Flores is a freshman majoring in social work.&nbsp;

Johnny James Fuller is a freshman majoring in health and human performance (sport and exercise therapy).&nbsp;

Stephen P. Gabel is a freshman majoring in physics.&nbsp;

Wendy E. Garcia-Andrade is a junior majoring in elementary education.&nbsp;

Jacob Joseph Gaughan is a senior majoring in computer science.&nbsp;

Kylie Rose Geist is a senior majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Haley P. George is a senior majoring in elementary education.&nbsp;

Thomas James Giebler is a senior majoring in art (graphic design).&nbsp;

Ana Gligorijevic is a senior majoring in general studies (massage therapy).&nbsp;

Heather N. Gordon is a senior majoring in criminal justice.&nbsp;

Anna Renee Gottschalk is a sophomore majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Heidi Marie Gottschalk is a senior majoring in accounting (public).&nbsp;

Kaily Lynn Griffith is a senior majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Teghan Lee Groff is a senior majoring in political science.&nbsp;

Brett Michael Groth is a junior majoring in health and human performance.&nbsp;

Karen Guzman is a junior majoring in medical diagnostic imaging.&nbsp;

Marla Jaqueline Guzman is a sophomore majoring in radiologic technology.&nbsp;

Peyton Lee Harris is a senior majoring in health and human performance.&nbsp;

Mallory Georganne Harshbarger is majoring in nursing.&nbsp;

Alison Jean Helget is a senior majoring in history.&nbsp;

Olivia Kate Herbel is a senior majoring in organizational leadership.&nbsp;

NW Kan. students named to Deans Honor Roll at FHSU

TOPEKA - All weekend visitation and religious programs will resume at both Central and West units on Saturday, January 11, 2020.

Visitation and programming had previously been cancelled due to flu activity.

Larned Correctional Mental Health facility is a 598-bed multi-custody programming facility, consisting of the Central Unit, which has the capacity to house 310 male maximum/medium-custody offenders, and the West Unit, with a capacity of 288 male minimum custody offenders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575316643636.jpeg" alt="Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility" />
 <figcaption>Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOCTOPEKA - All weekend visitation and religious programs will resume at both Central and West units on Saturday, January 11, 2020.Visitation and programming had previously been cancelled due to flu activity.Larned Correctional Mental Health facility is a 598-bed multi-custody programming facility, consisting of the Central Unit, which has the capacity to house 310 male maximum/medium-custody offenders, and the West Unit, with a capacity of 288 male minimum custody offenders.

Visitation to resume at Larned correctional facility

With Illinois legalizing recreational marijuana, Kansas is increasingly an island of weed Puritanism in the Midwest. As more states create legitimate marijuana economies, what do we know about the black market marijuana economy in Kansas? Could legalization tame it?

The marijuana economy in Kansas includes those who produce, sell, or purchase weed here. Many of us know Kansans who participate in it. Among Kansans I have encountered: A suburban businesswoman who drives marijuana back from Colorado for herself and friends. A veteran who smokes to deal with stress. And yes, some stereotypical “potheads.” Maybe some of you are part of this underground economy.

The financial value of this black market in Kansas is unknown. However,&nbsp;<a href="http://priceofweed.com/">priceofweed.com</a>&nbsp;crowdsources data to estimate the street price of marijuana. Self-reported data like this have obvious flaws, but it beats no data. Based on over 3,000 reported purchases in Kansas, it estimates that an ounce of “high quality” marijuana costs about $340 here versus $283 for “medium quality” marijuana. Medium to high quality joints run $6-$8.

No public survey has asked Kansans about their marijuana use, but Gallup has asked that in national surveys. In the most recent Gallup estimates, 45% of American adults reported trying marijuana at least once. Further, 12% of Americans adults reported that they currently “smoke marijuana,” skewing toward youth of all races, men, and lower income Americans. If that 12% translates to Kansas, that’s about 260,000 adults in our underground pot economy.

Taxing legal weed sales can be a significant source of revenue for states. Many Kansans happily spend their money in Colorado dispensaries, bloating its state and local government coffers. Understandably, marijuana advocates have promoted legalization as a potential solution to the long term financial problems that Sam Brownback created for Kansas.

But, those advocates oversimplify this argument, as If legalization magically eradicates the marijuana black market and creates a problem-free revenue Valhalla. Every state with legal recreational weed—and Canada—still has a vibrant black market that accounts for most marijuana sales, not to mention unlicensed production.&nbsp;

Why do these black markets persist? High state and local taxes on marijuana and hefty dispensary markups balloon consumer costs. Local control laws allow clusters of localities to ban dispensaries, creating “marijuana deserts” in the legal market. And neighbors like Kansas, whose unmet internal demand for weed strains limited legal production, encourage unlicensed growth and illegal export.&nbsp;

Yes, these states still collect substantial revenue from marijuana, though most have seen lower than expected revenue over time given the persistence of the underground market.&nbsp;

Nor does legal weed eliminate policing and prosecution around marijuana. Every state with legal marijuana still polices illegal growth or distribution, and possession beyond legal limits. States regulate their marijuana industries tightly (though see Oregon for a case of under-regulation crashing the weed market).

For now, individuals who feign shock at the suggestion that any “normal” Kansan uses marijuana dominate the Kansas legislature. We lack even medical marijuana. Change will inevitably come, though. FOX News and Kansas Speaks polling shows that most Kansans support legal recreational marijuana. Legalization might even pass were it on the Kansas ballot.

Kansas may eventually change its marijuana laws, but at that future date we should not do so blindly. There will be benefits, yes, but legalization is not the panacea that many imagine.

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>With Illinois legalizing recreational marijuana, Kansas is increasingly an island of weed Puritanism in the Midwest. As more states create legitimate marijuana economies, what do we know about the black market marijuana economy in Kansas? Could legalization tame it?The marijuana economy in Kansas includes those who produce, sell, or purchase weed here. Many of us know Kansans who participate in it. Among Kansans I have encountered: A suburban businesswoman who drives marijuana back from Colorado for herself and friends. A veteran who smokes to deal with stress. And yes, some stereotypical “potheads.” Maybe some of you are part of this underground economy.The financial value of this black market in Kansas is unknown. However,&nbsp;<a href="http://priceofweed.com/">priceofweed.com</a>&nbsp;crowdsources data to estimate the street price of marijuana. Self-reported data like this have obvious flaws, but it beats no data. Based on over 3,000 reported purchases in Kansas, it estimates that an ounce of “high quality” marijuana costs about $340 here versus $283 for “medium quality” marijuana. Medium to high quality joints run $6-$8.No public survey has asked Kansans about their marijuana use, but Gallup has asked that in national surveys. In the most recent Gallup estimates, 45% of American adults reported trying marijuana at least once. Further, 12% of Americans adults reported that they currently “smoke marijuana,” skewing toward youth of all races, men, and lower income Americans. If that 12% translates to Kansas, that’s about 260,000 adults in our underground pot economy.Taxing legal weed sales can be a significant source of revenue for states. Many Kansans happily spend their money in Colorado dispensaries, bloating its state and local government coffers. Understandably, marijuana advocates have promoted legalization as a potential solution to the long term financial problems that Sam Brownback created for Kansas.But, those advocates oversimplify this argument, as If legalization magically eradicates the marijuana black market and creates a problem-free revenue Valhalla. Every state with legal recreational weed—and Canada—still has a vibrant black market that accounts for most marijuana sales, not to mention unlicensed production.&nbsp;Why do these black markets persist? High state and local taxes on marijuana and hefty dispensary markups balloon consumer costs. Local control laws allow clusters of localities to ban dispensaries, creating “marijuana deserts” in the legal market. And neighbors like Kansas, whose unmet internal demand for weed strains limited legal production, encourage unlicensed growth and illegal export.&nbsp;Yes, these states still collect substantial revenue from marijuana, though most have seen lower than expected revenue over time given the persistence of the underground market.&nbsp;Nor does legal weed eliminate policing and prosecution around marijuana. Every state with legal marijuana still polices illegal growth or distribution, and possession beyond legal limits. States regulate their marijuana industries tightly (though see Oregon for a case of under-regulation crashing the weed market).For now, individuals who feign shock at the suggestion that any “normal” Kansan uses marijuana dominate the Kansas legislature. We lack even medical marijuana. Change will inevitably come, though. FOX News and Kansas Speaks polling shows that most Kansans support legal recreational marijuana. Legalization might even pass were it on the Kansas ballot.Kansas may eventually change its marijuana laws, but at that future date we should not do so blindly. There will be benefits, yes, but legalization is not the panacea that many imagine.Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Can legalization tame black market for pot? 

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Last day to vote in Orscheln's Trophy Shot 2019

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Ellis USD 388 earned three Kansans Can Awards for school performance.

It was awarded a gold award for its graduation rate, bronze award for postsecondary effectiveness and copper award for students being academically prepared for postsecondary success.

The district's 2018 graduation rate was 97.4 percent. This was compared to a state graduation rate of 87.5 percent. Reporting of graduation rates at the state level run about a year behind.

The district's five-year graduation rate was 98 percent.

The district's five-year post-secondary effectiveness rate was 59 percent.

This statistic counts students who eared industry recognized certifications while in high school, earned a postsecondary certificate or degree after graduation or who were enrolled in postsecondary education in both their first and second years following high school graduation.

The state uses risk factors such as poverty, student mobility and chronic absenteeism to predict what a district's success rate is likely to be. Ellis scored within the 56.6 percent to 59.6 percent predicted effectiveness rate for its students.&nbsp;

For the academically preparedness award, the state looks at performance on state assessment tests. The award takes into account those students scoring above grade level.

In math 37.19 precent of students scored at levels three or four on state assessments, the upper two tiers on the test. This is compared to 32.64&nbsp;percent for the state average. District students scoring in the top two tiers in math was also up from 35.22 percent in 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578329724047.png" alt="Ellis USD 388 four-year graduation rates." />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388 four-year graduation rates.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostEllis USD 388 earned three Kansans Can Awards for school performance.It was awarded a gold award for its graduation rate, bronze award for postsecondary effectiveness and copper award for students being academically prepared for postsecondary success.The district's 2018 graduation rate was 97.4 percent. This was compared to a state graduation rate of 87.5 percent. Reporting of graduation rates at the state level run about a year behind.The district's five-year graduation rate was 98 percent.The district's five-year post-secondary effectiveness rate was 59 percent.This statistic counts students who eared industry recognized certifications while in high school, earned a postsecondary certificate or degree after graduation or who were enrolled in postsecondary education in both their first and second years following high school graduation.The state uses risk factors such as poverty, student mobility and chronic absenteeism to predict what a district's success rate is likely to be. Ellis scored within the 56.6 percent to 59.6 percent predicted effectiveness rate for its students.&nbsp;For the academically preparedness award, the state looks at performance on state assessment tests. The award takes into account those students scoring above grade level.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578329937055.png" alt="Ellis USD 388 math scores for 2018 and 2019" />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388 math scores for 2018 and 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>In math 37.19 precent of students scored at levels three or four on state assessments, the upper two tiers on the test. This is compared to 32.64&nbsp;percent for the state average. District students scoring in the top two tiers in math was also up from 35.22 percent in 2018.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578329999188.png" alt="Ellis USD 388 English scores for 2018 and 2019" />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388 English scores for 2018 and 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2019, 40.57 percent of district students scored in the top two tiers in English compared to 33.49 percent the year before and 36.58 percent for the state average in 2019.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578330064877.png" alt="Ellis USD 388 science scores for 2018 and 2019" />
 <figcaption>Ellis USD 388 science scores for 2018 and 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2019 and 2018, 51.1 percent of district students scored in the top two tiers in science. The state average in 2019 was 35.56 percent.You can view Ellis' full Kansans Can Report Card by <a href="http://ksreportcard.ksde.org/home.aspx?org_no=D0388&amp;rptType=2">clicking here</a>.