RAWLINS COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Rawlins County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Avalanche driven by Brian L. Rucker, 49, Atwood, was north bound on Kansas 25 four miles south of Atwood. 

The vehicle&nbsp; traveled off of the roadway into the east ditch and rolled down a ravine.&nbsp;

EMS transported Rucker to Rawlins County Health Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RAWLINS COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Rawlins County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Avalanche driven by Brian L. Rucker, 49, Atwood, was north bound on Kansas 25 four miles south of Atwood. The vehicle&nbsp; traveled off of the roadway into the east ditch and rolled down a ravine.&nbsp;EMS transported Rucker to Rawlins County Health Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after vehicle rolls down ravine

Pre-Session Newsletter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; January 1, 2020&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

During the past two years, while the state legislature has been on break from the legislative session, I served as a member of the Transportation Task Force. Our main mission was to create the parameters of a new plan to address the future transportation needs for the state of Kansas. We traveled the state and held meetings in regional sections accross Kansas, listening to citizens on what transportation needs they wished to be addressed in the next transportation plan.

Although the current transportation plan, T-Works, did not complete all of the projects that were promoted in the plan within the last ten years, our first goal from the consultations is to complete the projects that were suspended in T-Works. These projects, nearing 25 in total and a cost of approximately $500 million, will be the first items included in the new transportation plan, called Forward.

The new plan will address all the transportation needs for the state. This program will not only focus on the state highway system, however, will also address the needs for rail, air, biking, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The program will also focus on the Federal Department of Transportation’s directive of where the state of Kansas sees our transportation needs until 2045.

As of right now, the total cost for the next ten year plan is approximately $1.2 billion. This is anticipated to be paid by the state of Kansas not retaining the transfer that should go to the Kansas Department of Transportation of approximately $230 million. I am working with the department to ensure that stable funding is in place for Forward.

During the break following the conclusion of the 2019 Legislative Session in May, the Joint Legislative Budget Committee has met numerous times to address the budgetary needs for the state of Kansas. We have discussed an array of issues ranging from agriculture, transportation, mental health, the board of regents, and many more. During the last meeting that we conducted on December 13, we had a briefing of all the requests from the departments and agencies totaling an amount of $275 million in additional spending for fiscal years 2020 and 2021. 

The Joint Legislative Budget Committee will meet again on January 9, 2020 to generate recommendations to the House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means Committee. Once the 2020 session begins, we will address these requests in the respective budget committees and then those recommendations will be reported to the full Appropriations Committee.

The 2020 Legislative Session will begin on January 13, 2020 and Governor Kelly will give her annual State of the State Address on January 15, 2020. The next morning, the House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means Committee will conduct a joint committee meeting where the Governor’s budget will be formally introduced.

Although this will set the stage for many items we will address during the 2020 Legislative session, there are some other issues that will dominate the session, as well.

· The first item will be that of Medicaid Expansion. Last session, the House passed a version of Medicaid Expansion, although the Senate never addressed it. The Senate has now produced their version. I was asked to serve on the Special Committee for Medicaid Expansion where we met for two days in November discussing the differing details of the House and Senate plans. Both plans come with a large price tag to the state of Kansas, with the low expected annual expense to the state being $40 million.

· As mentioned before, we will also be looking at generating a new 10-year transportation plan.

· Earlier this year, Governor Kelly created a tax commission to analyze the tax structure for the state of Kansas. Some of the discussions focused on the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund and the restoration of the food sales tax refund program. I foresee some of their discussion items to be addressed during the session.

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 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

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. Also, if you happen to visit the statehouse, please let my office know.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to 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.

My family and I wish all of you a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2020!

Troy L. Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill, is the State Representative for the 109th Kansas House District.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577788173848.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill)</figcaption>
 </figure>Pre-Session Newsletter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; January 1, 2020&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;New Transportation PlanDuring the past two years, while the state legislature has been on break from the legislative session, I served as a member of the Transportation Task Force. Our main mission was to create the parameters of a new plan to address the future transportation needs for the state of Kansas. We traveled the state and held meetings in regional sections accross Kansas, listening to citizens on what transportation needs they wished to be addressed in the next transportation plan.Although the current transportation plan, T-Works, did not complete all of the projects that were promoted in the plan within the last ten years, our first goal from the consultations is to complete the projects that were suspended in T-Works. These projects, nearing 25 in total and a cost of approximately $500 million, will be the first items included in the new transportation plan, called Forward.The new plan will address all the transportation needs for the state. This program will not only focus on the state highway system, however, will also address the needs for rail, air, biking, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The program will also focus on the Federal Department of Transportation’s directive of where the state of Kansas sees our transportation needs until 2045.As of right now, the total cost for the next ten year plan is approximately $1.2 billion. This is anticipated to be paid by the state of Kansas not retaining the transfer that should go to the Kansas Department of Transportation of approximately $230 million. I am working with the department to ensure that stable funding is in place for Forward.Legislative Budget CommitteeDuring the break following the conclusion of the 2019 Legislative Session in May, the Joint Legislative Budget Committee has met numerous times to address the budgetary needs for the state of Kansas. We have discussed an array of issues ranging from agriculture, transportation, mental health, the board of regents, and many more. During the last meeting that we conducted on December 13, we had a briefing of all the requests from the departments and agencies totaling an amount of $275 million in additional spending for fiscal years 2020 and 2021. The Joint Legislative Budget Committee will meet again on January 9, 2020 to generate recommendations to the House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means Committee. Once the 2020 session begins, we will address these requests in the respective budget committees and then those recommendations will be reported to the full Appropriations Committee.2020 Legislative SessionThe 2020 Legislative Session will begin on January 13, 2020 and Governor Kelly will give her annual State of the State Address on January 15, 2020. The next morning, the House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means Committee will conduct a joint committee meeting where the Governor’s budget will be formally introduced.Although this will set the stage for many items we will address during the 2020 Legislative session, there are some other issues that will dominate the session, as well.· The first item will be that of Medicaid Expansion. Last session, the House passed a version of Medicaid Expansion, although the Senate never addressed it. The Senate has now produced their version. I was asked to serve on the Special Committee for Medicaid Expansion where we met for two days in November discussing the differing details of the House and Senate plans. Both plans come with a large price tag to the state of Kansas, with the low expected annual expense to the state being $40 million.· As mentioned before, we will also be looking at generating a new 10-year transportation plan.· Earlier this year, Governor Kelly created a tax commission to analyze the tax structure for the state of Kansas. Some of the discussions focused on the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund and the restoration of the food sales tax refund program. I foresee some of their discussion items to be addressed during the session.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 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.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. Also, if you happen to visit the statehouse, please let my office know.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to 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.My family and I wish all of you a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2020!Troy L. Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill, is the State Representative for the 109th Kansas House District.

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Art teacher Teresa Gross only has about an hour a week to touch the lives of her students, but she does her best to give them a place to create and grow.

Gross, Wilson and Lincoln art teacher, has been named the December Hays Post Teacher of the Month.&nbsp;

Wilson Principal Anita Scheve and staff in their nomination noted Gross goes above beyond inside and outside of the classroom to help students.

"For example, we had a parent call who was having trouble getting her son to cross the street on his own, and she couldn’t come with him, as she had other sick kids," Scheve said her nomination. "Mrs. Gross quickly responded and went to walk the student across the street and into the school building, beginning his day on a positive note.

"Another student forgot her flashlight, so Mrs. Gross loaned her a flashlight. When students forget costumes for class presentations, Mrs. Gross quickly acts by putting something together from her class supplies."

Scheve said the 28-year-veteran teacher tends to her students as whole children.

"Mrs. Gross guides all students to learn to love art, by helping them try their best even if they aren’t the next Van Gogh," Scheve said. ... "For example, students make worry dolls in art to help them get through tough times. All students painted kindness rocks as a commitment to be kind always. Mrs. Gross builds relationships with students and genuinely cares about them all."

Gross, a FHSU graduate, has spent all 28 years teaching in the Hays school district.&nbsp;She went to Victoria schools for two years and a Hays school for one year when she was a child before her family moved to Pratt.

Gross said she always knew she wanted to be a teacher.&nbsp;

She took her cues from her father, who was also a teacher. Her dad taught middle school and high school math and science.

"He was just a pathological teacher," Gross said. "No matter where we were, there was an opportunity to teach us something about every kind of thing.&nbsp;

"The teachers I had growing up were always so kind, and I just always loved school—all of the things we could be learning and the projects we were doing and the field trips."

Gross has worked at many schools in the district and at both the high school and elementary school levels. When she had the chance to work full-time with the little kids, she took it.

"They are just so excited and full of energy and ideas and creativity," she said.

Gross said she enjoys seeing the students grow from kindergarten to fifth grade.

"Now I am to the point I have lots of students who are children of students I had before," she said. "They are my second-generation kids, and I get to work with co-workers who were my students. That's really cool."

Gross said sometimes she feels like a little celebrity here in Hays.

"At the swimming pool they know you or in Dillons," she said. "I just love being part of all that community here."

Gross said she enjoys her job so much her work days fly by.

"They're just fearless—little kids are," Gross said. "They'll just try anything. By the time they are in fifth grade they are a little more worried and uptight, but mostly they are game for anything and super forgiving and kind to one another."

She said it really isn’t ever about the art “project.” 

"It’s really about the children.&nbsp; All of the things we do in art are 'special' to my students," she said. "A little bit of their enthusiasm and joy rub off on me each day.&nbsp; It’s one of the best parts of my work."

Teaching art is even more important now than when she started, Gross said.

"Real hands-on actual experiences are lacking in a lot of their experiences," she said. "They are not in the mud and playing with Play-Doh. I have kindergarteners who come that don't have many art skills.

"They're really hands on. There is not one specific answer. They have to really be divergent thinkers and come up with their own ideas and plans. They have lots of failures and successes."

Gross said those problem solving skills and that independent thinking spreads to all of their other curriculum.&nbsp;

Gross plays music in her classroom whenever she can. She said it helps many of her students get into a creative space. Sometimes she plays classical music. Sometimes the music is more upbeat like "Don't Worry, Be Happy" while the students make worry dolls.

"It is one of those universal languages—music and art and dance—those kinds of things that everyone can do and be very successful," she said. "I try to make sure everyone is successful."

Gross said she is more of a teacher than an artist. She used to paint, but with two children of her own that are still in school, she says she doesn't have much time for her own art.

Gross said one her favorite aspects of being a teacher is being a part of the whole school.&nbsp;

"All of us work together toward the education of these kids," she said. "What might not work here, someone else catches it along the way. [I appreciate] just getting to see the kids change and grow.

"Sometimes they get here in the morning, and they're not having the very best day, but they know this is a very safe place and it is very consistent and they know what to expect."

She said the people she works with are amazing. Unlike other professions in which there is a lot of competition, everyone is trying to help everyone else be the best they can at her schools.

She said it has been amazing to see children she had in class go one to be her colleagues.

"I can see little bits of exactly who they were then, especially when they were in third, fourth and fifth grade," she said. "They're still just like that, but better—still just as sassy as they were, curious as they were, funny as they were. It makes me say, 'Yeah, I knew you would be a teacher.'

"I have little kids now that I betcha will be teachers too. I have a handful that I think she's going to be a teacher. That one is going to be a teacher, because they have that same kind of feeling about this place. It's like their other home."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577120560493.jpeg" alt="Teresa Gross, art teacher at Wilson and Lincoln elementary schools, stands in front of student art at Wilson. Gross has been named the December Hays Post Teacher of the Month." />
 <figcaption>Teresa Gross, art teacher at Wilson and Lincoln elementary schools, stands in front of student art at Wilson. Gross has been named the December Hays Post Teacher of the Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostArt teacher Teresa Gross only has about an hour a week to touch the lives of her students, but she does her best to give them a place to create and grow.Gross, Wilson and Lincoln art teacher, has been named the December Hays Post Teacher of the Month.&nbsp;Wilson Principal Anita Scheve and staff in their nomination noted Gross goes above beyond inside and outside of the classroom to help students."For example, we had a parent call who was having trouble getting her son to cross the street on his own, and she couldn’t come with him, as she had other sick kids," Scheve said her nomination. "Mrs. Gross quickly responded and went to walk the student across the street and into the school building, beginning his day on a positive note."Another student forgot her flashlight, so Mrs. Gross loaned her a flashlight. When students forget costumes for class presentations, Mrs. Gross quickly acts by putting something together from her class supplies."Scheve said the 28-year-veteran teacher tends to her students as whole children."Mrs. Gross guides all students to learn to love art, by helping them try their best even if they aren’t the next Van Gogh," Scheve said. ... "For example, students make worry dolls in art to help them get through tough times. All students painted kindness rocks as a commitment to be kind always. Mrs. Gross builds relationships with students and genuinely cares about them all."Gross, a FHSU graduate, has spent all 28 years teaching in the Hays school district.&nbsp;She went to Victoria schools for two years and a Hays school for one year when she was a child before her family moved to Pratt.Gross said she always knew she wanted to be a teacher.&nbsp;She took her cues from her father, who was also a teacher. Her dad taught middle school and high school math and science."He was just a pathological teacher," Gross said. "No matter where we were, there was an opportunity to teach us something about every kind of thing.&nbsp;"The teachers I had growing up were always so kind, and I just always loved school—all of the things we could be learning and the projects we were doing and the field trips."Gross has worked at many schools in the district and at both the high school and elementary school levels. When she had the chance to work full-time with the little kids, she took it."They are just so excited and full of energy and ideas and creativity," she said.Gross said she enjoys seeing the students grow from kindergarten to fifth grade."Now I am to the point I have lots of students who are children of students I had before," she said. "They are my second-generation kids, and I get to work with co-workers who were my students. That's really cool."Gross said sometimes she feels like a little celebrity here in Hays."At the swimming pool they know you or in Dillons," she said. "I just love being part of all that community here."Gross said she enjoys her job so much her work days fly by."They're just fearless—little kids are," Gross said. "They'll just try anything. By the time they are in fifth grade they are a little more worried and uptight, but mostly they are game for anything and super forgiving and kind to one another."She said it really isn’t ever about the art “project.” "It’s really about the children.&nbsp; All of the things we do in art are 'special' to my students," she said. "A little bit of their enthusiasm and joy rub off on me each day.&nbsp; It’s one of the best parts of my work."Teaching art is even more important now than when she started, Gross said."Real hands-on actual experiences are lacking in a lot of their experiences," she said. "They are not in the mud and playing with Play-Doh. I have kindergarteners who come that don't have many art skills."They're really hands on. There is not one specific answer. They have to really be divergent thinkers and come up with their own ideas and plans. They have lots of failures and successes."Gross said those problem solving skills and that independent thinking spreads to all of their other curriculum.&nbsp;Gross plays music in her classroom whenever she can. She said it helps many of her students get into a creative space. Sometimes she plays classical music. Sometimes the music is more upbeat like "Don't Worry, Be Happy" while the students make worry dolls. "It is one of those universal languages—music and art and dance—those kinds of things that everyone can do and be very successful," she said. "I try to make sure everyone is successful."Gross said she is more of a teacher than an artist. She used to paint, but with two children of her own that are still in school, she says she doesn't have much time for her own art.Gross said one her favorite aspects of being a teacher is being a part of the whole school.&nbsp;"All of us work together toward the education of these kids," she said. "What might not work here, someone else catches it along the way. [I appreciate] just getting to see the kids change and grow."Sometimes they get here in the morning, and they're not having the very best day, but they know this is a very safe place and it is very consistent and they know what to expect."She said the people she works with are amazing. Unlike other professions in which there is a lot of competition, everyone is trying to help everyone else be the best they can at her schools.She said it has been amazing to see children she had in class go one to be her colleagues."I can see little bits of exactly who they were then, especially when they were in third, fourth and fifth grade," she said. "They're still just like that, but better—still just as sassy as they were, curious as they were, funny as they were. It makes me say, 'Yeah, I knew you would be a teacher.'"I have little kids now that I betcha will be teachers too. I have a handful that I think she's going to be a teacher. That one is going to be a teacher, because they have that same kind of feeling about this place. It's like their other home."

Teacher of the Month: Gross sparks kids' creativity

The decade-old scrap between the Kansas Legislature and the Judiciary, played out in the hallways and committees and budget bill votes, is now moving to…the Judiciary.

We keep hearing about that “three-legged stool” of tax apportionment. We need enough income, property and sales taxes to support the services that we want from our state government.

Well, there’s another stool out there, a bigger one that doesn’t deal just with taxes but with state government itself.

Here’s the fight. The Legislature’s leg of this stool keeps getting taller and some believe it’s to the point where the stool is so unlevel that you—or all us Kansans—can’t sit on it anymore. Oh, the other two legs? Judicial and Executive (governor).

Several judges and court employees have sued the Legislature for more money to operate the courts. Those Judiciary employees are seeking a budget with enough money to adequately, or at least comparatively with other states, pay its more than 260 judges and 1,600 non-judge employees higher salaries. About 90 percent of the court’s budget which is appropriated by the Legislature is for salaries. Now, the Judiciary budget isn’t all just legislative appropriations, there are some fees and such, but practically, do you want the courts to work on commission? Didn’t think so.

And, who makes that decision on an adequate budget for the Judiciary so that it can carry out its duties? Initially, it’s the Judiciary which figures out a budget and hands it to the governor, who generally—former Gov. Sam Brownback didn’t, Gov. Laura Kelly did—hand it off to the Legislature to pay. Simple. Get the budget, finance it, and lawmakers can turn their attention to fence law, gun bills, or maybe some other issue that they believe will get them re-elected.

But the Legislature the past few years has generally believed that the Judiciary hasn’t been good to the Legislature. Abortion rights, financing of public schools are the keys there, when the conservative-managed Legislature has felt at least ignored, if not actually whipped by the court over abortion rights and financing of public schools.

So…The plaintiffs in the lawsuit have sued an entire branch of government—the Legislature—for not adequately financing the Judiciary that hasn’t done what the Legislature wants.

But…there’s a possible trade here. If the Legislature—well, at least the Senate—got to approve or reject nominees to the Kansas Supreme Court, this fight might end. It’s practically that simple. Let the Republican-dominated Senate confirm or reject justices appointed by the Democrat governor, and chances are good the Judicial budget scrap will go away.

And a lawsuit that offers the Judiciary the right as a co-equal branch of state government to set its own budget and force the Legislature to appropriate the money to pay for it? Works out well for Judicial employees, no reason the Executive Branch should care much, and the Legislature loses its most powerful right…to decide where and how state tax money is spent.

Now, it looks a little, well, uncomfortable that the Judiciary if it decided that the handful of plaintiff employees who have sued the Legislature is right will set its own budget and set its own salaries while the Legislature looks on from the cheap seats (and yes, legislators in Kansas are paid less than in almost every other state within driving distance).

But we’re waiting for this one. Say the Supreme Court rules that its plaintiffs are right, and the Legislature loses. Those courthouse employees won’t have to get a second or third job.

Then does the Senate win? And a constitutional amendment to allow it to confirm justices passes in the building and on next fall’s ballot?

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141234707.png" alt="Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report." />
 <figcaption>Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report.</figcaption>
 </figure>The decade-old scrap between the Kansas Legislature and the Judiciary, played out in the hallways and committees and budget bill votes, is now moving to…the Judiciary.We keep hearing about that “three-legged stool” of tax apportionment. We need enough income, property and sales taxes to support the services that we want from our state government.Well, there’s another stool out there, a bigger one that doesn’t deal just with taxes but with state government itself.Here’s the fight. The Legislature’s leg of this stool keeps getting taller and some believe it’s to the point where the stool is so unlevel that you—or all us Kansans—can’t sit on it anymore. Oh, the other two legs? Judicial and Executive (governor).Several judges and court employees have sued the Legislature for more money to operate the courts. Those Judiciary employees are seeking a budget with enough money to adequately, or at least comparatively with other states, pay its more than 260 judges and 1,600 non-judge employees higher salaries. About 90 percent of the court’s budget which is appropriated by the Legislature is for salaries. Now, the Judiciary budget isn’t all just legislative appropriations, there are some fees and such, but practically, do you want the courts to work on commission? Didn’t think so.And, who makes that decision on an adequate budget for the Judiciary so that it can carry out its duties? Initially, it’s the Judiciary which figures out a budget and hands it to the governor, who generally—former Gov. Sam Brownback didn’t, Gov. Laura Kelly did—hand it off to the Legislature to pay. Simple. Get the budget, finance it, and lawmakers can turn their attention to fence law, gun bills, or maybe some other issue that they believe will get them re-elected.But the Legislature the past few years has generally believed that the Judiciary hasn’t been good to the Legislature. Abortion rights, financing of public schools are the keys there, when the conservative-managed Legislature has felt at least ignored, if not actually whipped by the court over abortion rights and financing of public schools.So…The plaintiffs in the lawsuit have sued an entire branch of government—the Legislature—for not adequately financing the Judiciary that hasn’t done what the Legislature wants.But…there’s a possible trade here. If the Legislature—well, at least the Senate—got to approve or reject nominees to the Kansas Supreme Court, this fight might end. It’s practically that simple. Let the Republican-dominated Senate confirm or reject justices appointed by the Democrat governor, and chances are good the Judicial budget scrap will go away.And a lawsuit that offers the Judiciary the right as a co-equal branch of state government to set its own budget and force the Legislature to appropriate the money to pay for it? Works out well for Judicial employees, no reason the Executive Branch should care much, and the Legislature loses its most powerful right…to decide where and how state tax money is spent.Now, it looks a little, well, uncomfortable that the Judiciary if it decided that the handful of plaintiff employees who have sued the Legislature is right will set its own budget and set its own salaries while the Legislature looks on from the cheap seats (and yes, legislators in Kansas are paid less than in almost every other state within driving distance).But we’re waiting for this one. Say the Supreme Court rules that its plaintiffs are right, and the Legislature loses. Those courthouse employees won’t have to get a second or third job.Then does the Senate win? And a constitutional amendment to allow it to confirm justices passes in the building and on next fall’s ballot?Still sorting out who wins this one…Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hawvernews.com/" target="_blank">www.hawvernews.com</a>.

HAWVER: The other 'three-legged stool' of Kansas government

Come back to Kansas. That phrase might sound like a state tourism advertisement, but it would also describe the journey of college football players who grew up in the Sunflower State, moved away, and found an opportunity to come back home. Today we’ll learn about one such player.

Harry Trotter is one of those in-state talents who went away and took the opportunity to come back. He grew up at Atchison and played high school ball at Maur Hill – Mount Academy. He had an outstanding prep career, rushing for 2,940 yards and 36 touchdowns, plus 87 yards and a touchdown catching the ball. During his senior season in 2015, he ran for 1,657 yards and 19 touchdowns.

Harry Trotter’s performance on the field earned him all-state honors from the Kansas Football Coaches Association, plus all-state honorable mention accolades from the Topeka Capital-Journal and the Wichita Eagle. However, it did not earn him scholarship offers from the major Division I colleges. Instead, he accepted a community college offer in hopes of going to a higher level in another year.

Harry chose to go to Fort Scott Community College. In his first year there, he rushed 146 times for 503 yards and eight touchdowns, while he caught 14 passes for 86 yards. His best rushing game of the year was against Central Methodist when he had 159 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries, a game that featured a season-long run of 52 yards.

After that season, his journey took him to the Division I level and the Atlantic Coast Conference. Harry attended the University of Louisville, where he played in nine games.&nbsp; After that, his journey brought him back home to Kansas. He chose to transfer to Kansas State where he had to sit out one season due to NCAA transfer rules.

By the 2019 season, he was able to get back on the field. He worked his way onto the depth chart as a running back by the time the season began.

On the opening drive of the opening game of the season, it was Harry Trotter who scored the team’s first touchdown on a nine-yard run. He finished with 50 yards on the day.

In the course of the season, Harry Trotter became one of the stable of K-State running backs. As injuries took their toll, he had to step into the spotlight. By the time of the Kansas game in Lawrence, the two backs ahead of Harry on the depth chart were injured or unable to go. As the saying goes, it was “next man up.”

Harry stepped up big time in the Kansas game. He earned his first career start and ran for a career-high 92 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Those rivalry games always seem extra-special to the in-state Kansas kids. In fact, 10 of the K-State starters were Kansas natives.

Among those natives was defensive star Trey Dishon who registered a team-leading two sacks in the game. That matched his previous career high of two sacks in a game which also happened to come against the Jayhawks back in 2016. Trey was also born in Atchison and had an outstanding prep career.

At Horton High School, Trey led his team to a 7 and 2 record and an appearance in the state playoffs. He earned all-state honors in football and basketball. In powerlifting, he won the 2013 Class 3A state championship in his weight class. Trey came to Kansas State where he redshirted and then started every game that followed. By 2017, he was named not only second team All-Big 12 by the coaches, he achieved second team All-Big 12 Academic honors.

That’s quite a record for someone from the rural community of Horton, population 1,696 people. Now, that’s rural.

Now Trey Dishon, Harry Trotter and their teammates are part of a bowl game. For Harry Trotter, it was worth the trip back home.

Come back to Kansas. We salute Harry Trotter and all homegrown athletes in Kansas for making a difference by representing their home-state teams. They help make for a fun homecoming.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141281633.png" alt="Ron Wilson is the director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University." />
 <figcaption>Ron Wilson is the director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Come back to Kansas. That phrase might sound like a state tourism advertisement, but it would also describe the journey of college football players who grew up in the Sunflower State, moved away, and found an opportunity to come back home. Today we’ll learn about one such player.Harry Trotter is one of those in-state talents who went away and took the opportunity to come back. He grew up at Atchison and played high school ball at Maur Hill – Mount Academy. He had an outstanding prep career, rushing for 2,940 yards and 36 touchdowns, plus 87 yards and a touchdown catching the ball. During his senior season in 2015, he ran for 1,657 yards and 19 touchdowns.Harry Trotter’s performance on the field earned him all-state honors from the Kansas Football Coaches Association, plus all-state honorable mention accolades from the Topeka Capital-Journal and the Wichita Eagle. However, it did not earn him scholarship offers from the major Division I colleges. Instead, he accepted a community college offer in hopes of going to a higher level in another year.Harry chose to go to Fort Scott Community College. In his first year there, he rushed 146 times for 503 yards and eight touchdowns, while he caught 14 passes for 86 yards. His best rushing game of the year was against Central Methodist when he had 159 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries, a game that featured a season-long run of 52 yards.After that season, his journey took him to the Division I level and the Atlantic Coast Conference. Harry attended the University of Louisville, where he played in nine games.&nbsp; After that, his journey brought him back home to Kansas. He chose to transfer to Kansas State where he had to sit out one season due to NCAA transfer rules.By the 2019 season, he was able to get back on the field. He worked his way onto the depth chart as a running back by the time the season began.On the opening drive of the opening game of the season, it was Harry Trotter who scored the team’s first touchdown on a nine-yard run. He finished with 50 yards on the day.In the course of the season, Harry Trotter became one of the stable of K-State running backs. As injuries took their toll, he had to step into the spotlight. By the time of the Kansas game in Lawrence, the two backs ahead of Harry on the depth chart were injured or unable to go. As the saying goes, it was “next man up.”Harry stepped up big time in the Kansas game. He earned his first career start and ran for a career-high 92 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Those rivalry games always seem extra-special to the in-state Kansas kids. In fact, 10 of the K-State starters were Kansas natives.Among those natives was defensive star Trey Dishon who registered a team-leading two sacks in the game. That matched his previous career high of two sacks in a game which also happened to come against the Jayhawks back in 2016. Trey was also born in Atchison and had an outstanding prep career.At Horton High School, Trey led his team to a 7 and 2 record and an appearance in the state playoffs. He earned all-state honors in football and basketball. In powerlifting, he won the 2013 Class 3A state championship in his weight class. Trey came to Kansas State where he redshirted and then started every game that followed. By 2017, he was named not only second team All-Big 12 by the coaches, he achieved second team All-Big 12 Academic honors.That’s quite a record for someone from the rural community of Horton, population 1,696 people. Now, that’s rural.Now Trey Dishon, Harry Trotter and their teammates are part of a bowl game. For Harry Trotter, it was worth the trip back home.Come back to Kansas. We salute Harry Trotter and all homegrown athletes in Kansas for making a difference by representing their home-state teams. They help make for a fun homecoming.

Now That’s Rural: Harry Trotter

Hays CVB: January events in Hays

<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="" />
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 </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>
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Three-day weather outlook

TOPEKA — Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner announced a new way Kansans can save for their children’s education. In partnership with global asset manager American Century Investments®, the Kansas State Treasurer’s office offers the ability to have friends and family contribute to their child’s Learning Quest® 529 Education Savings account using&nbsp;Ugift®. A new feature now available on&nbsp;Ugift&nbsp;is a crowdfunding platform that allows account owners to post on social media to ask family and friends for contributions toward their child’s education savings account.

Learning Quest account owners can easily set up a personalized gifting page, set a goal, add a photo and goal information, and then share the link with family and friends through Facebook, Twitter and email. Account owners can customize the post with their child’s picture and message before posting on social media platforms.

“The gift of a child’s future education is a lasting gift. A gifting campaign is a win-win for families building savings for their child and family members and friends looking for a convenient way to contribute,” said LaTurner. “We are thrilled to be offering this new, innovative way for people to come together to help Kansas kids achieve their dreams for the future.”

Funds that are donated through the crowdfunding platform go directly into the child’s Learning Quest account and may have tax advantages for those who donate. To utilize the new crowdfunding capability, users must have a Learning Quest 529 education savings account. For more information, visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.learningquest.com/" target="_blank">www.learningquest.com</a>/gift.

Before investing, carefully consider the plan's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook, available by contacting your financial advisor or American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor, at 1-800-579-2203, and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether the&nbsp;beneficiary's or your home state offers a 529 Plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan.

- OFFICE OF THE TREASURER -

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789665133.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner announced a new way Kansans can save for their children’s education. In partnership with global asset manager American Century Investments®, the Kansas State Treasurer’s office offers the ability to have friends and family contribute to their child’s Learning Quest® 529 Education Savings account using&nbsp;Ugift®. A new feature now available on&nbsp;Ugift&nbsp;is a crowdfunding platform that allows account owners to post on social media to ask family and friends for contributions toward their child’s education savings account.Learning Quest account owners can easily set up a personalized gifting page, set a goal, add a photo and goal information, and then share the link with family and friends through Facebook, Twitter and email. Account owners can customize the post with their child’s picture and message before posting on social media platforms.“The gift of a child’s future education is a lasting gift. A gifting campaign is a win-win for families building savings for their child and family members and friends looking for a convenient way to contribute,” said LaTurner. “We are thrilled to be offering this new, innovative way for people to come together to help Kansas kids achieve their dreams for the future.”Funds that are donated through the crowdfunding platform go directly into the child’s Learning Quest account and may have tax advantages for those who donate. To utilize the new crowdfunding capability, users must have a Learning Quest 529 education savings account. For more information, visit our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.learningquest.com/" target="_blank">www.learningquest.com</a>/gift.Before investing, carefully consider the plan's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook, available by contacting your financial advisor or American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor, at 1-800-579-2203, and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether the&nbsp;beneficiary's or your home state offers a 529 Plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan.- OFFICE OF THE TREASURER -

New crowdfunding platform to save for Kansas children's education

Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!

Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WhDIRNs40_E" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Don't have a fireplace or just don't want to fire it up? Click the video above, enter full-screen mode and enjoy the sights and sounds of your very own holiday fire!Brought to you by Turn-Key Property Solutions<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576701305695.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Warm and cozy with the Hays Post virtual fireplace!

On Tuesday the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, will close at noon for the holiday.&nbsp;

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Thanks to all of our loyal listeners and readers for an amazing 2019! We will see you in 2020!

On Tuesday the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, will close at noon for the holiday.&nbsp;We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.Thanks to all of our loyal listeners and readers for an amazing 2019! We will see you in 2020!

Eagle Media Center to close at noon Tuesday

By JOHN P. TRETBAR&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week and ends the year at $52 per barrel, after gaining 75 cents late last week.

The government reported U.S. crude-oil production reached its second highest weekly total ever. The Energy Information Administration reported domestic output of 12.881 million barrels per day for the week ending December 20. That's just seven thousand barrels per day less than the all time record.

EIA reported a draw down of more that five and a half million barrels in U.S. crude-oil inventories last week to 441.4 million barrels. U.S. stockpiles are about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year.

Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. increased slightly last week. According to the Association of American Railroads, operators moved 14,119 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products during the week that ended December 21. The cumulative total for the year is up 12.5% [["twelve point five percent"]] over the total a year earlier. Oil by rail in Canada was up more than 14 percent for the week and up 16% over the cumulative total at this point last year.

A deadline is coming up soon that has some analysts fearing the worst. New shipping fuel standards kick in starting January first. The International Maritime Organization is poised to ban shipping vessels using fuel with a sulfur content higher than 0.5%. The current standard is 3.5%. Major oil companies and shipowners have spent billions of dollars preparing for the changes, but energy analysts worry that many in the industries still appear to be unprepared. One analyst tells CNBC the change provided the "opportunity of a lifetime" to raise prices, but says shippers are not capitalizing on it. More than 170 countries, including the U.S., have signed on to the fuel change, adopted by the organization in 2016. The U.N. created the IMO to set rules for shipping safety, security and pollution.

Exploration and production company Encana is ending the year with a flurry of drilling permit filings in two shale basins in Texas. According to the Houston Chronicle, Encana has filed for 43 drilling permits over the past month with the state agency that regulates the oil and gas industry. Encana is seeking to drill 32 horizontal wells in the Permian Basin and eight in the Eagle Ford Shale.

A new report from the Federal Reserve Bank in Dallas shows activity in the old and gas industry dipped again during the fourth quarter of 2019. The Fed noted that business activity in exploration and production showed modest growth, but oilfield services dipped significantly. Production activity increased for the 13th consecutive quarter, according to the survey of oil-patch executives. Nearly 60% of those responding said their capital spending would hold steady or increase next year. About half were making spending plans based on a price expectation of from $53 to $56 a barrel for West Texas Intermediate crude.

Banks are tightening requirements on revolving lines of credit, an essential lifeline for smaller shale producers. Semi-annual reviews are prompting some large banks to reduce the size of loans linked to shale reserves. According to The Wall Street Journal, operators are reducing their estimates on the value of their shale reserves. The banks are concerned that if some companies go bankrupt, their assets won’t cover the loans.

Reporting on the Web site "Oil Price dot com" suggests major "write downs" by major oil companies will continue to buffet an industry already battered by low prices. Last week Royal Dutch Shell announced it will write down, or reduce its value by between one-point-seven and two-point-three billion dollars in the fourth quarter. In its announcement Shell blamed a slowdown in the global economy, weak demand growth and relatively low prices for the move. This comes a little over a week after Chevron revealed a much larger reduction of ten-to-eleven billion dollars. Analysts say some companies overpaid for assets years ago, only to watch the market deteriorate. The report suggests the industry as a whole has failed to prove that it can turn a profit from shale drilling. Since October, Repsol, BP, Equinor and Halliburton have written down a combined $20 billion in assets.

Colorado’s falling oil and gas rig count appears to finally be showing up in the employment numbers. The Denver Post reports the Colorado economy shed 300 jobs in that sector between October and November. The total is down 400 jobs year-on-year, snapping a 31-month streak of employment gains.

The latest legislative report card for New Mexico’s oil and gas regulators pointed to a need for more staff and faster approvals for drilling applications as oil and gas continued to boom in the Permian Basin. The Carlsbad Current Argus reports a reduction in inspections last year, which the report blames on the high number of vacancies among compliance officers. Most drilling permits were approved within 10 business days, exceeding state goals, but fewer permits were approved than last year.

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have put more than five years of differences behind them by signing a new deal for an oil-rich area known as the Neutral Zone, to which both have territorial claims. Forbes reports the countries last week signed a new agreement to divide the area between them. Production could resume soon from shared fields in the zone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140802303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week and ends the year at $52 per barrel, after gaining 75 cents late last week.The government reported U.S. crude-oil production reached its second highest weekly total ever. The Energy Information Administration reported domestic output of 12.881 million barrels per day for the week ending December 20. That's just seven thousand barrels per day less than the all time record.EIA reported a draw down of more that five and a half million barrels in U.S. crude-oil inventories last week to 441.4 million barrels. U.S. stockpiles are about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year.Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. increased slightly last week. According to the Association of American Railroads, operators moved 14,119 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products during the week that ended December 21. The cumulative total for the year is up 12.5% [["twelve point five percent"]] over the total a year earlier. Oil by rail in Canada was up more than 14 percent for the week and up 16% over the cumulative total at this point last year.A deadline is coming up soon that has some analysts fearing the worst. New shipping fuel standards kick in starting January first. The International Maritime Organization is poised to ban shipping vessels using fuel with a sulfur content higher than 0.5%. The current standard is 3.5%. Major oil companies and shipowners have spent billions of dollars preparing for the changes, but energy analysts worry that many in the industries still appear to be unprepared. One analyst tells CNBC the change provided the "opportunity of a lifetime" to raise prices, but says shippers are not capitalizing on it. More than 170 countries, including the U.S., have signed on to the fuel change, adopted by the organization in 2016. The U.N. created the IMO to set rules for shipping safety, security and pollution.Exploration and production company Encana is ending the year with a flurry of drilling permit filings in two shale basins in Texas. According to the Houston Chronicle, Encana has filed for 43 drilling permits over the past month with the state agency that regulates the oil and gas industry. Encana is seeking to drill 32 horizontal wells in the Permian Basin and eight in the Eagle Ford Shale.A new report from the Federal Reserve Bank in Dallas shows activity in the old and gas industry dipped again during the fourth quarter of 2019. The Fed noted that business activity in exploration and production showed modest growth, but oilfield services dipped significantly. Production activity increased for the 13th consecutive quarter, according to the survey of oil-patch executives. Nearly 60% of those responding said their capital spending would hold steady or increase next year. About half were making spending plans based on a price expectation of from $53 to $56 a barrel for West Texas Intermediate crude.Banks are tightening requirements on revolving lines of credit, an essential lifeline for smaller shale producers. Semi-annual reviews are prompting some large banks to reduce the size of loans linked to shale reserves. According to The Wall Street Journal, operators are reducing their estimates on the value of their shale reserves. The banks are concerned that if some companies go bankrupt, their assets won’t cover the loans.Reporting on the Web site "Oil Price dot com" suggests major "write downs" by major oil companies will continue to buffet an industry already battered by low prices. Last week Royal Dutch Shell announced it will write down, or reduce its value by between one-point-seven and two-point-three billion dollars in the fourth quarter. In its announcement Shell blamed a slowdown in the global economy, weak demand growth and relatively low prices for the move. This comes a little over a week after Chevron revealed a much larger reduction of ten-to-eleven billion dollars. Analysts say some companies overpaid for assets years ago, only to watch the market deteriorate. The report suggests the industry as a whole has failed to prove that it can turn a profit from shale drilling. Since October, Repsol, BP, Equinor and Halliburton have written down a combined $20 billion in assets.Colorado’s falling oil and gas rig count appears to finally be showing up in the employment numbers. The Denver Post reports the Colorado economy shed 300 jobs in that sector between October and November. The total is down 400 jobs year-on-year, snapping a 31-month streak of employment gains.The latest legislative report card for New Mexico’s oil and gas regulators pointed to a need for more staff and faster approvals for drilling applications as oil and gas continued to boom in the Permian Basin. The Carlsbad Current Argus reports a reduction in inspections last year, which the report blames on the high number of vacancies among compliance officers. Most drilling permits were approved within 10 business days, exceeding state goals, but fewer permits were approved than last year.Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have put more than five years of differences behind them by signing a new deal for an oil-rich area known as the Neutral Zone, to which both have territorial claims. Forbes reports the countries last week signed a new agreement to divide the area between them. Production could resume soon from shared fields in the zone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140802303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

News From the Oil Patch, December 30

Changes in the recycling market are resulting in changes across the state in the way cities see recycling.

The City of Newton recently decided to end mandatory recycling, and the City of El Dorado closed its recycling operation completely, as it was deemed to no longer be economically sustainable.

Marvin Honas, Hays superintendent of solid waste, said at this point, the City of Hays is not considering ending its recycling program.

However, it is watching the recycling industry closely and was waiting for the renegotiation of its contract with Waste Connections for its plastic recyclables. That contract was supposed to be renegotiated in December. Honas said he was anticipating a price increase.

In 2017, China announced an import ban on many grades of recycled materials. The ban was implemented in 2018. India has also threatened to end imports of U.S. plastics.

Since 2009 the amount of plastics that are being recycled domestically has increased compared to the amount of plastic recyclables being exported. Domestic processing made a significant jump after China's announcement in 2017, according to data from news website Recycling Resource.

As recycling operations across the United State implemented single-stream recycling, U.S. recyclables became increasingly "dirty," Honas said. This means items that could not be recycled were making it into the recycling stream and not being sorted out before they were shipped abroad.

Buyers, such as China, which was one of the U.S.'s largest purchasers of recyclables, ended up with unrecyclable waste.

"They were paying for recyclables and having to throw away 35 percent of it in their landfills," Honas said.

Honas called Hays recyclers "super troopers." Hays recyclers have a good record of producing a very clean recycling stream. However, Hays' recyclables go to a facility in Hutchinson for sorting, where they are mixed with other streams that may not be as "clean," he said.

"As far as we are concerned, we don't need changes in their habits in terms of the products we are collecting," Honas said of Hays recyclers.

In addition to residential recyclers, about 70 to 100 Hays businesses voluntarily bring recyclables to the recycling center, paying their own cost to transport the materials.

The City of Hays pays for Waste Connections to sort and sell its c0-mingled materials—plastic, glass, aluminum and tin. Hays debags the material and attempts to take out any unwanted materials. Hays processes about 200 to 300 tons of co-mingled materials per year.

Cardboard and paper products are baled at the recycling center, and the city sells those directly for an average of $22 per ton, Honas said. The city process 900 to 1,000 tons of paper and cardboard per year.

Although prices have also dropped in the paper market during the last several years, Honas said the city still has buyers for the product.

Right now, the revenue from the cardboard and paper offsets the amount the city pays Waste Connections to take its co-mingled materials.

However, the city's recycling operation is not at a break-even point.

"Recycling has always cost money," Honas said. "From day one, even when the markets were good, recycling still costs money."

Recycling is still cheaper than throwing materials away, he said.

Operating recycling programs reduces the amount of materials that make it into landfills. This can reduce the amount municipalities pay in landfill tipping fees.

These fees have steadily increased, with the Ellis County implementing another increase recently. Tipping fees for Hays are $71 per ton and will increase during the next four years to $75 per ton.

As the market for plastics and other recyclables fluctuates and cities are paying more for sorting and disposal, they are seeing their budgets turned on end.

Honas said it is difficult to tell at this point what the future of recycling will be for Hays and the rest of the U.S.

"Those who are making the forecasts about recyclable material, they are fairly optimistic that it is going to be coming back if we can get our situation with China squared away," Honas said. "In the meantime, there are some other countries that are buying recyclable material."

However, those countries are not buying the quantity of recyclables that China was buying.

"As far as Hays, I don't see this impacting our recycling program at the present time until we get some better figures or outlooks into the future," he said. "I think we need to look really strong at it. We look at it every day."

Reductions in the waste stream is the optimum outcome, Honas said. Several cities across the United States have considered banning plastic bags as one step. Hays said he did not think the City of Hays would ban plastic bags, but businesses and consumers could take it upon themselves to stop using plastic bags and other plastic products.

"With the markets down, people are thinking more about how can we make ourselves utilize these products," Honas said.

<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/313/Recycling-Program">Learn about the City of Hays Residential Recycling Program.</a>

<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/376/Recycling-Pamphlet-PDF">City of Hays recycling pamphlet</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577745500824.jpeg" alt="Changes in the international market for recycled plastics has affected U.S. recycling operations, including those here in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Changes in the international market for recycled plastics has affected U.S. recycling operations, including those here in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostChanges in the recycling market are resulting in changes across the state in the way cities see recycling.The City of Newton recently decided to end mandatory recycling, and the City of El Dorado closed its recycling operation completely, as it was deemed to no longer be economically sustainable.Marvin Honas, Hays superintendent of solid waste, said at this point, the City of Hays is not considering ending its recycling program.However, it is watching the recycling industry closely and was waiting for the renegotiation of its contract with Waste Connections for its plastic recyclables. That contract was supposed to be renegotiated in December. Honas said he was anticipating a price increase.In 2017, China announced an import ban on many grades of recycled materials. The ban was implemented in 2018. India has also threatened to end imports of U.S. plastics.Since 2009 the amount of plastics that are being recycled domestically has increased compared to the amount of plastic recyclables being exported. Domestic processing made a significant jump after China's announcement in 2017, according to data from news website Recycling Resource.As recycling operations across the United State implemented single-stream recycling, U.S. recyclables became increasingly "dirty," Honas said. This means items that could not be recycled were making it into the recycling stream and not being sorted out before they were shipped abroad.Buyers, such as China, which was one of the U.S.'s largest purchasers of recyclables, ended up with unrecyclable waste."They were paying for recyclables and having to throw away 35 percent of it in their landfills," Honas said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577745601466.jpeg" alt="Hays processes about 900 to 1,000 tons off paper and cardboard and 200 to 300 tons of co-mingled materials, which includes plastics, at its center each year." />
 <figcaption>Hays processes about 900 to 1,000 tons off paper and cardboard and 200 to 300 tons of co-mingled materials, which includes plastics, at its center each year.</figcaption>
 </figure>Honas called Hays recyclers "super troopers." Hays recyclers have a good record of producing a very clean recycling stream. However, Hays' recyclables go to a facility in Hutchinson for sorting, where they are mixed with other streams that may not be as "clean," he said."As far as we are concerned, we don't need changes in their habits in terms of the products we are collecting," Honas said of Hays recyclers.In addition to residential recyclers, about 70 to 100 Hays businesses voluntarily bring recyclables to the recycling center, paying their own cost to transport the materials.The City of Hays pays for Waste Connections to sort and sell its c0-mingled materials—plastic, glass, aluminum and tin. Hays debags the material and attempts to take out any unwanted materials. Hays processes about 200 to 300 tons of co-mingled materials per year.Cardboard and paper products are baled at the recycling center, and the city sells those directly for an average of $22 per ton, Honas said. The city process 900 to 1,000 tons of paper and cardboard per year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577745685763.jpeg" alt="The City of Hays sells its baled paper and cardboard for an average of $22 per ton. This offsets the cost of paying Waste Connections in Hutchinson to sort and sell its co-mingled recyclables, which includes plastics." />
 <figcaption>The City of Hays sells its baled paper and cardboard for an average of $22 per ton. This offsets the cost of paying Waste Connections in Hutchinson to sort and sell its co-mingled recyclables, which includes plastics.</figcaption>
 </figure>Although prices have also dropped in the paper market during the last several years, Honas said the city still has buyers for the product.Right now, the revenue from the cardboard and paper offsets the amount the city pays Waste Connections to take its co-mingled materials.However, the city's recycling operation is not at a break-even point."Recycling has always cost money," Honas said. "From day one, even when the markets were good, recycling still costs money."Recycling is still cheaper than throwing materials away, he said.Operating recycling programs reduces the amount of materials that make it into landfills. This can reduce the amount municipalities pay in landfill tipping fees.These fees have steadily increased, with the Ellis County implementing another increase recently. Tipping fees for Hays are $71 per ton and will increase during the next four years to $75 per ton.As the market for plastics and other recyclables fluctuates and cities are paying more for sorting and disposal, they are seeing their budgets turned on end.Honas said it is difficult to tell at this point what the future of recycling will be for Hays and the rest of the U.S."Those who are making the forecasts about recyclable material, they are fairly optimistic that it is going to be coming back if we can get our situation with China squared away," Honas said. "In the meantime, there are some other countries that are buying recyclable material."However, those countries are not buying the quantity of recyclables that China was buying."As far as Hays, I don't see this impacting our recycling program at the present time until we get some better figures or outlooks into the future," he said. "I think we need to look really strong at it. We look at it every day."Reductions in the waste stream is the optimum outcome, Honas said. Several cities across the United States have considered banning plastic bags as one step. Hays said he did not think the City of Hays would ban plastic bags, but businesses and consumers could take it upon themselves to stop using plastic bags and other plastic products."With the markets down, people are thinking more about how can we make ourselves utilize these products," Honas said.<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/313/Recycling-Program">Learn about the City of Hays Residential Recycling Program.</a><a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/376/Recycling-Pamphlet-PDF">City of Hays recycling pamphlet</a>

Hays still recycling as other programs close

LAWRENCE — The names of 1,355 candidates for degree from the University of Kansas this fall — representing 58 Kansas counties; 40 other states and Washington, D.C.; and 58 other countries — have been announced by the University Registrar. Degrees are officially conferred in January.

Some candidates participated in recognition ceremonies in mid-December, while others will choose to participate in KU’s annual Commencement ceremony on May 17, 2020. That information is available at <a href="http://commencement.ku.edu/">commencement.ku.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Scott J Ring, Ellis, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tyler R Lacy, Hays, Doctor of Physical Therapy

Jasmine Deshae Lawson, Hays, Bachelor of General Studies in Film and Media Studies

Blake Aaron McClung, Hays, Bachelor of Science in Business in Accounting

Roy William Schmeidler, Hays, Master of Business Administration

Tanya L Smith, Hays, Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

Corey J Dinkel, Victoria, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Kristen Elaine Jones, Plainville, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lexi Winklepleck, Stockton, Bachelor of Science in Business in Finance

LAWRENCE — The names of 1,355 candidates for degree from the University of Kansas this fall — representing 58 Kansas counties; 40 other states and Washington, D.C.; and 58 other countries — have been announced by the University Registrar. Degrees are officially conferred in January.Some candidates participated in recognition ceremonies in mid-December, while others will choose to participate in KU’s annual Commencement ceremony on May 17, 2020. That information is available at <a href="http://commencement.ku.edu/">commencement.ku.edu</a>.&nbsp;Ellis CountyScott J Ring, Ellis, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical EngineeringTyler R Lacy, Hays, Doctor of Physical TherapyJasmine Deshae Lawson, Hays, Bachelor of General Studies in Film and Media StudiesBlake Aaron McClung, Hays, Bachelor of Science in Business in AccountingRoy William Schmeidler, Hays, Master of Business AdministrationTanya L Smith, Hays, Doctor of Philosophy in NursingCorey J Dinkel, Victoria, Bachelor of Science in Civil EngineeringRooksKristen Elaine Jones, Plainville, Bachelor of Science in NursingLexi Winklepleck, Stockton, Bachelor of Science in Business in Finance

University of Kansas announces fall 2019 candidates for degree from NW Kansas

Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners. Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">admin@hayspost.com</a>.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg">

Recent obituaries

UPDATED 12 p.m. Tuesday to include a portion of the letter that was inadvertently omitted. Hays Post apologizes for the error.

This letter is intended to inform you about what has been transpiring with the adoption of the Vine Street/Highway 183 project. No City of Hays officials outside of John Braun, project manager, have contacted us since they first unveiled traffic "improvements" on Vine Street. Not one individual from the media has taken a moment to even hear or even listen to our position regarding what we think about these "improvements." We thought we would at least be given a chance and an opportunity to present our opinions on the proposed plan.

Within the Nov. 24 Hays Daily News article, Braun and the Hays city commissioners stressed that "We are not taking any buildings or businesses." Commissioner Shaun Musil stated, "Just a matter of a couple of hundred square feet in the comer of the lot...and folks have made comments suggesting we are taking large plots of land." The City of Hays is not taking large plots of property; it is just "a couple of hundred square feet of land." When the city modified the frontage road in the 1980s at the intersection of 32nd and Vine, what occurred was a decrease of our already inadequate parking. Taking another "few hundred square feet" will further decrease our parking. Every parking spot generates income for us. A couple of hundred square feet of our already tiny lot will have a huge impact on our business.

The city is "not taking any businesses," this is true. However, during the construction phase, it will hamper our already poorly accessible parking lot. As we are all well aware, construction can easily take much longer than what is predicted. This, of course, means decreased income and increased expenses for any businesses. We are afraid that we might be forced to close our doors because customers will opt to find a more accessible restaurant. This will result in lost revenue, and we will no longer be able to employ these people or serve our fellow citizens of Hays.

Our Pheasant Run Restaurant family has serious reservations about the upcoming city project. We are the smallest business, and the business that stands to lose the most during the proposed construction route. He cannot revise the current plans. We cannot afford the proceeds to even put up a very good fight. Everyone knows "you can’t fight city hall." Be aware, we are doing what we can, with what we have.

Despite the fact that we are being inadequately compensated for the land they are taking, the renumeration is very minimal and what is being taken is income-generating parking and accessibility. When all is said and done, we will lose one to two parking stalls. Although that does not sound like many, with a small business and poor accessibility, the survival of this business is in jeopardy. The City Commissioners are making decisions on the future of Hays, but no one's livelihood is impacted more than ours. The entry to the property will be less than what is currently available, which many customers struggle with now. There are no accommodations for easy parking or exiting to be added. 


This "improvement" will be accomplished by using taxpayer's money. This funding of government assistance will be in the form of our own tax dollars. The configuration seems to have been designed by our City Council and state engineers with no public input. We have attended City Council meetings and any objections or suggestions made were seemingly ignored. 


We can go into all the negative consequences related to roundabouts, but that is not going to change. However, when we look back at some of the City projects implemented by the Hays City Commission over the years, there is a common theme. The narrowing of streets, the implementation of bicycle lanes ( which are part of the traffic already, the beautification of Vine Street, and the renovation of Main Street all had major construction problems, delays, and unforeseen costs. For example, the beautification of Vine Street has left us with dead trees and sickly-looking fauna, rather than a beautiful main thoroughfare. The narrowing of streets has resulted in poor traffic flow, congestion, etc. Inevitably, the roundabouts will suffer the same fate, but in this instance, may result in irreparable damage and ultimately bring the closure of our business, not because of poor business choices, mismanagement, or even the changing trends, but because of the choice of five people — not the choice of a community. 

As one of the oldest family-owned businesses in Hays, we implore that you please reconsider what you are going to be doing to the livelihoods of 14 of your fellow citizens and to a business that has proudly served our community for over 3 5 years. 

—Sue, Scott and Randy Jordan, owners of Pheasant Run Restaurant

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED 12 p.m. Tuesday to include a portion of the letter that was inadvertently omitted. Hays Post apologizes for the error.This letter is intended to inform you about what has been transpiring with the adoption of the Vine Street/Highway 183 project. No City of Hays officials outside of John Braun, project manager, have contacted us since they first unveiled traffic "improvements" on Vine Street. Not one individual from the media has taken a moment to even hear or even listen to our position regarding what we think about these "improvements." We thought we would at least be given a chance and an opportunity to present our opinions on the proposed plan.Within the Nov. 24 Hays Daily News article, Braun and the Hays city commissioners stressed that "We are not taking any buildings or businesses." Commissioner Shaun Musil stated, "Just a matter of a couple of hundred square feet in the comer of the lot...and folks have made comments suggesting we are taking large plots of land." The City of Hays is not taking large plots of property; it is just "a couple of hundred square feet of land." When the city modified the frontage road in the 1980s at the intersection of 32nd and Vine, what occurred was a decrease of our already inadequate parking. Taking another "few hundred square feet" will further decrease our parking. Every parking spot generates income for us. A couple of hundred square feet of our already tiny lot will have a huge impact on our business.The city is "not taking any businesses," this is true. However, during the construction phase, it will hamper our already poorly accessible parking lot. As we are all well aware, construction can easily take much longer than what is predicted. This, of course, means decreased income and increased expenses for any businesses. We are afraid that we might be forced to close our doors because customers will opt to find a more accessible restaurant. This will result in lost revenue, and we will no longer be able to employ these people or serve our fellow citizens of Hays.Our Pheasant Run Restaurant family has serious reservations about the upcoming city project. We are the smallest business, and the business that stands to lose the most during the proposed construction route. He cannot revise the current plans. We cannot afford the proceeds to even put up a very good fight. Everyone knows "you can’t fight city hall." Be aware, we are doing what we can, with what we have.Despite the fact that we are being inadequately compensated for the land they are taking, the renumeration is very minimal and what is being taken is income-generating parking and accessibility. When all is said and done, we will lose one to two parking stalls. Although that does not sound like many, with a small business and poor accessibility, the survival of this business is in jeopardy. The City Commissioners are making decisions on the future of Hays, but no one's livelihood is impacted more than ours. The entry to the property will be less than what is currently available, which many customers struggle with now. There are no accommodations for easy parking or exiting to be added. 
This "improvement" will be accomplished by using taxpayer's money. This funding of government assistance will be in the form of our own tax dollars. The configuration seems to have been designed by our City Council and state engineers with no public input. We have attended City Council meetings and any objections or suggestions made were seemingly ignored. 
We can go into all the negative consequences related to roundabouts, but that is not going to change. However, when we look back at some of the City projects implemented by the Hays City Commission over the years, there is a common theme. The narrowing of streets, the implementation of bicycle lanes ( which are part of the traffic already, the beautification of Vine Street, and the renovation of Main Street all had major construction problems, delays, and unforeseen costs. For example, the beautification of Vine Street has left us with dead trees and sickly-looking fauna, rather than a beautiful main thoroughfare. The narrowing of streets has resulted in poor traffic flow, congestion, etc. Inevitably, the roundabouts will suffer the same fate, but in this instance, may result in irreparable damage and ultimately bring the closure of our business, not because of poor business choices, mismanagement, or even the changing trends, but because of the choice of five people — not the choice of a community. As one of the oldest family-owned businesses in Hays, we implore that you please reconsider what you are going to be doing to the livelihoods of 14 of your fellow citizens and to a business that has proudly served our community for over 3 5 years. —Sue, Scott and Randy Jordan, owners of Pheasant Run Restaurant

LETTER: Pheasant Run asks city to reconsider Vine Street project

Due to the observance of the New Year’s holiday, Wednesday, January 1, 2020, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:

Monday, December 30, 2019 will have no change.

Tuesday, December 31, 2019 &amp; Wednesday, January 1, 2020 will be on Tuesday, December 31, 2019.

There is no anticipated change to Thursday or Friday’s collection schedules.

Although collections many not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

City of HaysDue to the observance of the New Year’s holiday, Wednesday, January 1, 2020, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows:Monday, December 30, 2019 will have no change.Tuesday, December 31, 2019 &amp; Wednesday, January 1, 2020 will be on Tuesday, December 31, 2019.There is no anticipated change to Thursday or Friday’s collection schedules.Although collections many not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

Refuse and recycling routes to change for New Years

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 </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>
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