By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

MANHATTAN — Father Gale Hammerschmidt was a junior at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School in his hometown of Hays when the Academy Award-winning movie “Field of Dreams” was released in April of 1989.

Like most folks who have seen Field of Dreams, especially sports fans, Father Gale probably well remembers the movie’s thematic phrase, “If you build it, they will come.”

That reference was to building a baseball diamond in the middle of an Iowa cornfield, which attracted ghosts of baseball legends to emerge from the cornfield to play ball.

Now a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Salina, Father Gale helped build a Catholic church in the middle of the Kansas Flint Hills.

The new, spacious St. Isidore’s church in Manhattan offers much more room for Kansas State University students to worship, making Father Gale’s reward much greater than an Academy Award.

Father Gale, the chaplain at St. Isidore’s chapel on the K-State campus, would be the first to tell you that students were flocking to St. Isidore’s long before he even became a priest.

After graduating from TMP-Marian in 1990, Father Gale attended K-State and frequented St. Isidore’s as a college student. He graduated from KSU in 1995 and taught middle school history at Manhattan Catholic Schools for 10 years before entering the seminary.&nbsp;

Not long after being ordained a priest in 2012, Father Gale founded Prayer and Action, a summer service mission trip for teenagers, who serve local communities around the Salina Diocese. Other dioceses across the state have since adopted that ministry as well.

After serving in several capacities in the diocese for five years, Father Gale was assigned to St. Isidore’s in 2017, and a building committee was formed soon thereafter.

It had been a dream for many years to expand the space or build a new church at St. Isidore’s, which has long has been a beacon to students from near and far, including several from northwest Kansas.

“I chose K-State because of St. Isidore’s,” Jamie Kuhlman from Oakley said of the Catholic campus center where she attends daily Mass and a plethora of other activities.

“Our goal is to get to heaven,” added Kuhlman, co-president of St. Isidore’s student leadership team. “St. Isidore’s has meant so much to me through my college journey. I’m excited to see more students get involved and grow in their faith.”

Following is my story of the dedication of the new St. Isidore’s chapel earlier this year, which first appeared in the February issue of The Register, the newspaper for the Salina Diocese.

• &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp;

The bells in the tower of a beautiful new church in Manhattan, Kansas, began ringing at straight-up noon on a Saturday in late January, signaling the start of a day of grand celebration.

Students, family and friends joined clergy and alumni scurrying around, making their way to the Alumni Center at Kansas State University, awaiting their cue to march across the street for a special, long-awaited ceremony.

Excitement was in the air on the unseasonably warm afternoon as 600-some people anticipated the dedication of the St. Isidore’s Catholic Church.

“Oohs” and “ahs” could be heard as people got closer and closer to the 14,000-square-foot limestone church and student center at the corner of Anderson and Denison Streets.

The crowd gathered on the front brick patio, and Bishop Jerry Vincke smiled as he stood near the front doors.

The bishop accepted the keys to the church from the contractor, knocked on the door and walked inside. And the celebration began.

The dedication ceremony part of the Mass included blessing the church and congregation with Holy Water, anointing the walls and the altar with Chrism oil, placing incense on the altar and lighting candles on the altar and all around the church.

During the sacred anointing of the altar, the bishop poured oil onto the altar, then rubbed the oil into the marble top with his own hands.

Bishop Vincke likened the ceremony to the baptism of a baby.

“(Parents) bring a baby to the waters of baptism and are asked ‘What do you ask of God?’ One could say that we are baptizing the Church today,” he said.

Father Gale Hammerschmidt, pastor at St. Isidore’s, could only shake his head after Mass while thanking everyone. Overcome with emotion, he once paused for several seconds before continuing on.

“I was humbled by the hundreds and hundreds of people who have so appreciated this mission that we have been on,” he said. “I’m so grateful to God that he put the right people in the right place during this journey.”

One of those “right people” was Father Gale himself.

A Kansas State alum, Father Gale knew of the ongoing discussions about a new church. When he was assigned to serve as pastor at St. Isidore’s in 2017, he heard about it immediately. By the next year, he and the board had begun an ardent fundraising campaign that raised $11 million toward the $18 million project.

Less than five years later, the dream became reality.

After a new student center was built, the old church was demolished. During construction of the new chapel, Mass was held at the Alumni Center and/or the student center.&nbsp;

Now, visitors to St. Isidore’s are greeted by a large, ornate baptismal font as they enter the chapel. Eyes are drawn to the wooden vaulted ceiling. A stunning golden mosaic in the front of the marble altar from Italy draws them closer to the front of the church.

Stained glass windows of St. Isidore (the chapel’s namesake) and St. Robert Bellarmine (the student centers namesake) were saved from the old chapel and are in plain view over the choir loft above the back of the chapel. Those windows also can be seen from the outside, standing over the front doors.

“The Catholic Church is the world’s largest proponent of beauty, because one of God’s attributes is beauty,” Father Gale said. “If you design something beautiful, you are indeed honoring God.”

“As much as the building is beautiful, it’s even more beautiful today, because you are in it,” Bishop Vincke said, particularly addressing the students. “That’s why this church exists. You are Christ’s body, the Church. This church is a gift to you.”

Either expanding St. Isidore’s or building a new church had been discussed for many years. More than 1,500 students attend Mass at St. Isidore’s on any given weekend. The old church held about 425 people, with 80 more seats in the library to watch Mass on video.

The new chapel will seat 650, with additional chair seating for overflow.

Stan Weber, who attended K-State in the early 1980s, said he remembers the church being full to capacity 40 years ago.

Weber, who played quarterback for the Wildcat football tram from 1980-84, spent a lot of time at St. Isidore’s. He and his wife are both alumni of K-State, and all four of the couple’s children attended KSU – and St. Isidore’s. Weber, the long-time color analyst for K-State Sports Network, still frequents the church.

“St. Isidore’s has always been a big part of our lives,” he said. “It’s a great place to be for young people making informed choices about their faith.”&nbsp;

Dave Dreiling, one of the lead donors for the project, agreed.

“This project tugs at my heart like nothing else,” Dreiling said. “These 18- to 22-year olds are making the decision on their own faith, not that of their parents. They are getting involved and developing their faith, and lot of them will be active parish members decades from now.”

After much planning and meeting with focus groups that included alumni and students, a Neo-Gothic traditional architecture was chosen for the design. All along the way, the architects took students’ suggestions seriously.

“I’d say 99 percent of the students said they wanted the church to look like a church,” Father Gale said. “We weren’t going to do anything other than traditional.”

Ridge Pinkston, a history major from Kingman, was a member of the building committee. He is particularly interested in architectural history and was instrumental in helping choose the traditional Neo-Gothic architecture theme for the new church.

“It is really rewarding to help in the building of something beautiful like this,” Pinkston said, “something that will honestly change people’s lives.”

“I know the&nbsp;choices I make as a student really center around St. Isidore’s,” said Grace Gorges from Clearwater, another student who served on the building committee. “It has had a big impact on my life and my own personal progression, just my life in general. This gives more students the chance to experience that.”

One stakeholder in the project for many years who wasn’t present, Dr. Jack Peterson, was recognized at the dedication. Peterson was a former K-State professor and chair of the St. Isidore Foundation Board who led the charge for building a new church. He lost his battle with lung cancer last September and didn’t get to see the project to completion.

Nonetheless, Peterson’s legend will no doubt live on for generations to come.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677433586409.png" alt="Street lights illuminate the new St. Isidore's Catholic Church on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan. Photo by Carson Ackerman, a KSU student from Hays." />
 <figcaption>Street lights illuminate the new St. Isidore's Catholic Church on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan. Photo by Carson Ackerman, a KSU student from Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostMANHATTAN — Father Gale Hammerschmidt was a junior at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School in his hometown of Hays when the Academy Award-winning movie “Field of Dreams” was released in April of 1989.Like most folks who have seen Field of Dreams, especially sports fans, Father Gale probably well remembers the movie’s thematic phrase, “If you build it, they will come.”That reference was to building a baseball diamond in the middle of an Iowa cornfield, which attracted ghosts of baseball legends to emerge from the cornfield to play ball.Now a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Salina, Father Gale helped build a Catholic church in the middle of the Kansas Flint Hills.The new, spacious St. Isidore’s church in Manhattan offers much more room for Kansas State University students to worship, making Father Gale’s reward much greater than an Academy Award.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350149148.png" alt="Father Gale was all smiles during the dedication weekend of St. Isidore's. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>Father Gale was all smiles during the dedication weekend of St. Isidore's. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>Father Gale, the chaplain at St. Isidore’s chapel on the K-State campus, would be the first to tell you that students were flocking to St. Isidore’s long before he even became a priest.After graduating from TMP-Marian in 1990, Father Gale attended K-State and frequented St. Isidore’s as a college student. He graduated from KSU in 1995 and taught middle school history at Manhattan Catholic Schools for 10 years before entering the seminary.&nbsp;Not long after being ordained a priest in 2012, Father Gale founded Prayer and Action, a summer service mission trip for teenagers, who serve local communities around the Salina Diocese. Other dioceses across the state have since adopted that ministry as well.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350080193.png" alt="An inside view of the new St. Isidore's Church. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>An inside view of the new St. Isidore's Church. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>After serving in several capacities in the diocese for five years, Father Gale was assigned to St. Isidore’s in 2017, and a building committee was formed soon thereafter.It had been a dream for many years to expand the space or build a new church at St. Isidore’s, which has long has been a beacon to students from near and far, including several from northwest Kansas.“I chose K-State because of St. Isidore’s,” Jamie Kuhlman from Oakley said of the Catholic campus center where she attends daily Mass and a plethora of other activities.“Our goal is to get to heaven,” added Kuhlman, co-president of St. Isidore’s student leadership team. “St. Isidore’s has meant so much to me through my college journey. I’m excited to see more students get involved and grow in their faith.”Following is my story of the dedication of the new St. Isidore’s chapel earlier this year, which first appeared in the February issue of The Register, the newspaper for the Salina Diocese.• &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350224555.png" alt="St. Isidore's Church is a beacon on the KSU campus at the corner of Anderson and Denison Streets in Manhattan. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>St. Isidore's Church is a beacon on the KSU campus at the corner of Anderson and Denison Streets in Manhattan. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>The bells in the tower of a beautiful new church in Manhattan, Kansas, began ringing at straight-up noon on a Saturday in late January, signaling the start of a day of grand celebration.Students, family and friends joined clergy and alumni scurrying around, making their way to the Alumni Center at Kansas State University, awaiting their cue to march across the street for a special, long-awaited ceremony.Excitement was in the air on the unseasonably warm afternoon as 600-some people anticipated the dedication of the St. Isidore’s Catholic Church.“Oohs” and “ahs” could be heard as people got closer and closer to the 14,000-square-foot limestone church and student center at the corner of Anderson and Denison Streets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677353846753.png" alt="Avery Werth, a KSU student from Hays, visits with Bishop Gerald Vincke after the student Mass on dedication weekend for St. Isidore's. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>Avery Werth, a KSU student from Hays, visits with Bishop Gerald Vincke after the student Mass on dedication weekend for St. Isidore's. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>The crowd gathered on the front brick patio, and Bishop Jerry Vincke smiled as he stood near the front doors.The bishop accepted the keys to the church from the contractor, knocked on the door and walked inside. And the celebration began.The dedication ceremony part of the Mass included blessing the church and congregation with Holy Water, anointing the walls and the altar with Chrism oil, placing incense on the altar and lighting candles on the altar and all around the church.During the sacred anointing of the altar, the bishop poured oil onto the altar, then rubbed the oil into the marble top with his own hands.Bishop Vincke likened the ceremony to the baptism of a baby.“(Parents) bring a baby to the waters of baptism and are asked ‘What do you ask of God?’ One could say that we are baptizing the Church today,” he said.Father Gale Hammerschmidt, pastor at St. Isidore’s, could only shake his head after Mass while thanking everyone. Overcome with emotion, he once paused for several seconds before continuing on.“I was humbled by the hundreds and hundreds of people who have so appreciated this mission that we have been on,” he said. “I’m so grateful to God that he put the right people in the right place during this journey.”One of those “right people” was Father Gale himself.A Kansas State alum, Father Gale knew of the ongoing discussions about a new church. When he was assigned to serve as pastor at St. Isidore’s in 2017, he heard about it immediately. By the next year, he and the board had begun an ardent fundraising campaign that raised $11 million toward the $18 million project.Less than five years later, the dream became reality.After a new student center was built, the old church was demolished. During construction of the new chapel, Mass was held at the Alumni Center and/or the student center.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350290188.png" alt="Father Gale Hammerschmidt anoints the walls of the church during the dedication Mass. Photo by Jacob Bentzinger " />
 <figcaption>Father Gale Hammerschmidt anoints the walls of the church during the dedication Mass. Photo by Jacob Bentzinger </figcaption>
 </figure>Now, visitors to St. Isidore’s are greeted by a large, ornate baptismal font as they enter the chapel. Eyes are drawn to the wooden vaulted ceiling. A stunning golden mosaic in the front of the marble altar from Italy draws them closer to the front of the church.Stained glass windows of St. Isidore (the chapel’s namesake) and St. Robert Bellarmine (the student centers namesake) were saved from the old chapel and are in plain view over the choir loft above the back of the chapel. Those windows also can be seen from the outside, standing over the front doors.“The Catholic Church is the world’s largest proponent of beauty, because one of God’s attributes is beauty,” Father Gale said. “If you design something beautiful, you are indeed honoring God.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350349536.png" alt="Bishop Gerald Vincke pours holy chrism oil on the new altar during the dedication Mass of St. Isidore's. Photo by Jacob Bentzinger" />
 <figcaption>Bishop Gerald Vincke pours holy chrism oil on the new altar during the dedication Mass of St. Isidore's. Photo by Jacob Bentzinger</figcaption>
 </figure>“As much as the building is beautiful, it’s even more beautiful today, because you are in it,” Bishop Vincke said, particularly addressing the students. “That’s why this church exists. You are Christ’s body, the Church. This church is a gift to you.”Either expanding St. Isidore’s or building a new church had been discussed for many years. More than 1,500 students attend Mass at St. Isidore’s on any given weekend. The old church held about 425 people, with 80 more seats in the library to watch Mass on video.The new chapel will seat 650, with additional chair seating for overflow.Stan Weber, who attended K-State in the early 1980s, said he remembers the church being full to capacity 40 years ago.Weber, who played quarterback for the Wildcat football tram from 1980-84, spent a lot of time at St. Isidore’s. He and his wife are both alumni of K-State, and all four of the couple’s children attended KSU – and St. Isidore’s. Weber, the long-time color analyst for K-State Sports Network, still frequents the church.“St. Isidore’s has always been a big part of our lives,” he said. “It’s a great place to be for young people making informed choices about their faith.”&nbsp;Dave Dreiling, one of the lead donors for the project, agreed.“This project tugs at my heart like nothing else,” Dreiling said. “These 18- to 22-year olds are making the decision on their own faith, not that of their parents. They are getting involved and developing their faith, and lot of them will be active parish members decades from now.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350400657.png" alt="St. Isidore's was packed for the first student Mass on dedication weekend. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>St. Isidore's was packed for the first student Mass on dedication weekend. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>After much planning and meeting with focus groups that included alumni and students, a Neo-Gothic traditional architecture was chosen for the design. All along the way, the architects took students’ suggestions seriously.“I’d say 99 percent of the students said they wanted the church to look like a church,” Father Gale said. “We weren’t going to do anything other than traditional.”Ridge Pinkston, a history major from Kingman, was a member of the building committee. He is particularly interested in architectural history and was instrumental in helping choose the traditional Neo-Gothic architecture theme for the new church.“It is really rewarding to help in the building of something beautiful like this,” Pinkston said, “something that will honestly change people’s lives.”“I know the&nbsp;choices I make as a student really center around St. Isidore’s,” said Grace Gorges from Clearwater, another student who served on the building committee. “It has had a big impact on my life and my own personal progression, just my life in general. This gives more students the chance to experience that.”One stakeholder in the project for many years who wasn’t present, Dr. Jack Peterson, was recognized at the dedication. Peterson was a former K-State professor and chair of the St. Isidore Foundation Board who led the charge for building a new church. He lost his battle with lung cancer last September and didn’t get to see the project to completion.Nonetheless, Peterson’s legend will no doubt live on for generations to come.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677350549492.png" alt="Stained glass windows of St. Isidore and St. Robert Bellarmine are visible over the beautiful choir loft. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative" />
 <figcaption>Stained glass windows of St. Isidore and St. Robert Bellarmine are visible over the beautiful choir loft. Photo by Clark Architects Collaborative</figcaption>
 </figure>

Western Kan. native key to bringing new chapel to K-State campus

&nbsp;ABILENE- Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad (A&amp;SV) officials have received an unexpected present as the railroad nears its 30th anniversary in June.

After filing the required Federal Railroad Administration papers, it was discovered that the railroad’s iconic 104 year old steam engine, Santa Fe 3415, has one remaining year of operation before it must be taken out of service and undergo its FRA mandated 15 year comprehensive inspection.

This news comes after the railroad had prepared to begin the roughly two-year inspection process this season.

“We’re elated at the news,” said Ross Boelling, president and general manager of Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad. “We are the only operating steam railroad in Kansas and are happy to schedule more trains this coming season with Santa Fe locomotive 3415 providing the power.”

The steam engine rebuild is a process that begins with a thorough inspection of the boiler and making any needed repairs. Other components of running gear and tender are also examined, repaired and or replaced before the engine is allowed to operate again.

The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad will begin its summer operations utilizing its diesel locomotive in May with Santa Fe locomotive 3415 making its first 2023 appearance Memorial Day weekend.

Even though 3415 will see service in 2023, A&amp;SV has not slowed down its fundraising and grant submissions requests for work on the locomotive. A&amp;SV will continue with major fundraising efforts this year before the engine will indeed be taken out of service in mid-October.

“We have established a ‘3415 Fund’ that seeks donations for the rebuild,” said Boelling, who added that donations can be made through the A&amp;SV website or by sending a check to the railroad’s office at 200 SE 5th Street, Abilene, KS 67410.

Boelling added that the engine is scheduled to make 28 runs this coming season before it is retired. He added that the full 2023 schedule will be posted on the Abilene and Smoky Valley website and social media platforms, as well as in area media outlets, shortly.

Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad&nbsp;ABILENE- Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad (A&amp;SV) officials have received an unexpected present as the railroad nears its 30th anniversary in June.After filing the required Federal Railroad Administration papers, it was discovered that the railroad’s iconic 104 year old steam engine, Santa Fe 3415, has one remaining year of operation before it must be taken out of service and undergo its FRA mandated 15 year comprehensive inspection.This news comes after the railroad had prepared to begin the roughly two-year inspection process this season.“We’re elated at the news,” said Ross Boelling, president and general manager of Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad. “We are the only operating steam railroad in Kansas and are happy to schedule more trains this coming season with Santa Fe locomotive 3415 providing the power.”The steam engine rebuild is a process that begins with a thorough inspection of the boiler and making any needed repairs. Other components of running gear and tender are also examined, repaired and or replaced before the engine is allowed to operate again.The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad will begin its summer operations utilizing its diesel locomotive in May with Santa Fe locomotive 3415 making its first 2023 appearance Memorial Day weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677084457169.jpeg" alt="Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad's diesel engine " />
 <figcaption>Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad's diesel engine </figcaption>
 </figure>Even though 3415 will see service in 2023, A&amp;SV has not slowed down its fundraising and grant submissions requests for work on the locomotive. A&amp;SV will continue with major fundraising efforts this year before the engine will indeed be taken out of service in mid-October.“We have established a ‘3415 Fund’ that seeks donations for the rebuild,” said Boelling, who added that donations can be made through the A&amp;SV website or by sending a check to the railroad’s office at 200 SE 5th Street, Abilene, KS 67410.Boelling added that the engine is scheduled to make 28 runs this coming season before it is retired. He added that the full 2023 schedule will be posted on the Abilene and Smoky Valley website and social media platforms, as well as in area media outlets, shortly.

Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad receives unexpected anniversary present

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN —&nbsp; It may not have crossed Emma Littich’s mind when she first enrolled in the<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/">Kansas 4-H program</a>&nbsp;at age 7, but the world was about to open up to her.&nbsp;

More than 10 years later, there she was: Leading Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on a tour of the Kansas State Fair and advocating for the Kansas 4-H program.&nbsp;

And a few months after that, standing before a Kansas House of Representatives committee explaining the virtues of the state’s largest youth organization to the government’s lawmakers.&nbsp;

Kansas 4-H “has taught me things that I wouldn’t have otherwise learned from any other organization,” said Littich, who was recently elected president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/4-h-programs/teen-leadership-opportunities/youth-leadership-council/">Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council</a>.&nbsp;

Beth Hinshaw, a Kansas 4-H youth development specialist, said the council is made up of a group of young leaders who work to “improve their leadership skills and inspire all youth through project work, state events and relationships.”&nbsp;

“They believe in sharing their passion (for 4-H) with other Kansas youth by helping them find their spark and overcoming hard challenges that will enhance their growth and develop life skills,” Hinshaw said.&nbsp;

Littich, from Lindsborg, Kansas, is currently a freshman at Kansas State University majoring in elementary education with a minor in leadership studies.&nbsp;

Now 18 years old, she first enrolled in the Smoky View 4-H Club at age 7, and over the years participated in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/projects">numerous 4-H projects</a>: citizenship, clothing construction and buymanship, foods and nutrition, foods preservation, health and wellness, leadership, performing arts, poultry, visual arts, shooting sports, home environment, and wildlife.&nbsp;

“As a future educator, the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council has provided me with opportunities to work with youth in several different capacities,” Littich said. “Throughout these experiences, I have learned that everyone is different, but together – with all our different strengths – we can achieve anything.”&nbsp;

In addition to Littich, the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council’s newly elected officers include vice president Jaden Huehl of Sylvan Grove; secretary Channing Dillinger of Hugoton, and public relations chair Claire Helsel of Sharon Springs. Each was elected for a one-year term.&nbsp;

In addition, 12 other Kansas youth were selected to serve as members of the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council for 2023. By hometown, they include:&nbsp;

“Our goal is to provide opportunities for the youth of Kansas to grow in their project work and develop and enhance life skills,” Littich said. “Through state events, regional events, social media and many other forms of outreach, we hope to reach as many youth as possible.”&nbsp;

Hinshaw noted that some of the events in which the council will be directly involved include Citizenship in Action (held in mid-February), 48 Hours of 4-H Community Service, the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, and the Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;

More information on the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council and numerous 4-H activities is available online from the Kansas 4-H office. Interested persons can also contact their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

“I have been a 4-Her since I was 7, and I would not be the person I am today without it,” Littich said. “4-H has taught me so many skills and provided me with countless opportunities that I would not have otherwise had. I am forever grateful for every moment I have spent in 4-H.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677249809788.png" alt="The 2023 Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council includes (front row, l to r) Brooke Slipke, Sukesh Kamesh, Carson Fouard, Ian Dunn, Gabe Schenk and president Emma Littich; (back row, l to r) Eve Rider, Kierra Eck, Ellie Seeger, Kaylen Langhofer, vice president Jaden Huehl, secretary Channing Dillinger, public relations chair Claire Helsel, Grace Schmeidler, Emilia Wilkerson and Kylee Barlett." />
 <figcaption>The 2023 Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council includes (front row, l to r) Brooke Slipke, Sukesh Kamesh, Carson Fouard, Ian Dunn, Gabe Schenk and president Emma Littich; (back row, l to r) Eve Rider, Kierra Eck, Ellie Seeger, Kaylen Langhofer, vice president Jaden Huehl, secretary Channing Dillinger, public relations chair Claire Helsel, Grace Schmeidler, Emilia Wilkerson and Kylee Barlett.</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN —&nbsp; It may not have crossed Emma Littich’s mind when she first enrolled in the<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/">Kansas 4-H program</a>&nbsp;at age 7, but the world was about to open up to her.&nbsp;More than 10 years later, there she was: Leading Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on a tour of the Kansas State Fair and advocating for the Kansas 4-H program.&nbsp;And a few months after that, standing before a Kansas House of Representatives committee explaining the virtues of the state’s largest youth organization to the government’s lawmakers.&nbsp;Kansas 4-H “has taught me things that I wouldn’t have otherwise learned from any other organization,” said Littich, who was recently elected president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/4-h-programs/teen-leadership-opportunities/youth-leadership-council/">Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council</a>.&nbsp;Beth Hinshaw, a Kansas 4-H youth development specialist, said the council is made up of a group of young leaders who work to “improve their leadership skills and inspire all youth through project work, state events and relationships.”&nbsp;“They believe in sharing their passion (for 4-H) with other Kansas youth by helping them find their spark and overcoming hard challenges that will enhance their growth and develop life skills,” Hinshaw said.&nbsp;Littich, from Lindsborg, Kansas, is currently a freshman at Kansas State University majoring in elementary education with a minor in leadership studies.&nbsp;Now 18 years old, she first enrolled in the Smoky View 4-H Club at age 7, and over the years participated in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/projects">numerous 4-H projects</a>: citizenship, clothing construction and buymanship, foods and nutrition, foods preservation, health and wellness, leadership, performing arts, poultry, visual arts, shooting sports, home environment, and wildlife.&nbsp;“As a future educator, the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council has provided me with opportunities to work with youth in several different capacities,” Littich said. “Throughout these experiences, I have learned that everyone is different, but together – with all our different strengths – we can achieve anything.”&nbsp;In addition to Littich, the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council’s newly elected officers include vice president Jaden Huehl of Sylvan Grove; secretary Channing Dillinger of Hugoton, and public relations chair Claire Helsel of Sharon Springs. Each was elected for a one-year term.&nbsp;In addition, 12 other Kansas youth were selected to serve as members of the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council for 2023. By hometown, they include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>El Dorado&nbsp;-- Kylee Barlett. &nbsp;</li><li>Hays&nbsp;-- Grace Schmeidler. &nbsp;</li><li>Independence&nbsp;-- Gabe Schenk.&nbsp;</li><li>Kingman&nbsp;-- Sukesh Kamesh. &nbsp;</li><li>Moundridge&nbsp;-- Ellie Seeger. &nbsp;</li><li>Ness City&nbsp;-- Eve Rider.&nbsp;</li><li>Netawaka&nbsp;-- Brooke Slipke.&nbsp;</li><li>Plains&nbsp;-- Kaylen Langhofer.&nbsp;</li><li>Russell -- Kierra Eck. &nbsp;</li><li>Salina&nbsp;-- Carson Fouard.&nbsp;</li><li>St. John&nbsp;-- Ian Dunn.&nbsp;</li><li>Wamego&nbsp;-- Emilia Wilkerson.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“Our goal is to provide opportunities for the youth of Kansas to grow in their project work and develop and enhance life skills,” Littich said. “Through state events, regional events, social media and many other forms of outreach, we hope to reach as many youth as possible.”&nbsp;Hinshaw noted that some of the events in which the council will be directly involved include Citizenship in Action (held in mid-February), 48 Hours of 4-H Community Service, the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, and the Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;More information on the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council and numerous 4-H activities is available online from the Kansas 4-H office. Interested persons can also contact their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;“I have been a 4-Her since I was 7, and I would not be the person I am today without it,” Littich said. “4-H has taught me so many skills and provided me with countless opportunities that I would not have otherwise had. I am forever grateful for every moment I have spent in 4-H.”&nbsp;

Kansas 4-H Youth Council elects leadership team 

Representing 174 years of classroom experience, seven members of the class of 2023 Kansas Master Teachers were announced this week by Emporia State University. 

Among the honorees is Melissa Hall,&nbsp; STEM/technology teacher at Fort Riley Middle School in USD 475.

• Kristen Anderson, USD 345 Seaman • Kirstin Bangerter, USD 443 Dodge City • Jerald Braun, USD 489 Hays • Matt Christensen, USD 229 Blue Valley • Martha MacKay,&nbsp; USD 253 Emporia • Maggie Wolken,&nbsp; USD 413 Chanute

Through the support of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, each Master Teacher will be presented with a check for $1,000.

The recipients were selected by a nine-member committee including representatives from the Kansas Association of Principals, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Parent Teacher Organization, Kansas National Education Association, United School Administrators, ESU’s Kappa Delta Pi student organization and representatives of the 2020 and 2022 Kansas Master Teacher classes.

The 2023 Master Teachers will be honored on Master Teacher Day on April 5 at Emporia State University.&nbsp;

ESU established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954. Information on the 70 years of educators named Kansas Master Teachers is available at www.emporia.edu/masterteacher.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677167131380.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy USD 475" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy USD 475</figcaption>
 </figure>Representing 174 years of classroom experience, seven members of the class of 2023 Kansas Master Teachers were announced this week by Emporia State University. Among the honorees is Melissa Hall,&nbsp; STEM/technology teacher at Fort Riley Middle School in USD 475.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677167346002.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Other winners were:• Kristen Anderson, USD 345 Seaman • Kirstin Bangerter, USD 443 Dodge City • Jerald Braun, USD 489 Hays • Matt Christensen, USD 229 Blue Valley • Martha MacKay,&nbsp; USD 253 Emporia • Maggie Wolken,&nbsp; USD 413 ChanuteThrough the support of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, each Master Teacher will be presented with a check for $1,000.The recipients were selected by a nine-member committee including representatives from the Kansas Association of Principals, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Parent Teacher Organization, Kansas National Education Association, United School Administrators, ESU’s Kappa Delta Pi student organization and representatives of the 2020 and 2022 Kansas Master Teacher classes.The 2023 Master Teachers will be honored on Master Teacher Day on April 5 at Emporia State University.&nbsp;ESU established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1954. Information on the 70 years of educators named Kansas Master Teachers is available at www.emporia.edu/masterteacher.

Master Teacher honors for Fort Riley Middle School educator

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann said that the Biden Administration hasn't released its 2024 budget yet, but his office will be paying attention when it does.

"That's been very frustrating that they've been slow in releasing their budget," Mann said. "It should come out any time now. Once it does, we'll parse through it and see what that looks like. Repeatedly, the last couple of years, the Biden Administration, in their budget, has been trying to do away with the stepped up basis, which would be really bad for agriculture and the ability to pass farmland from one generation to the next. In their budget is not just spending, but it's the revenue side, as well. We'll be going through it, once they release it."

The hope is that with Republicans in control in the House, where budget bills are supposed to start, that they will be able to get back to regular order and actually pass the budget bills one at a time with scrutiny, as it is intended.

"Every department, Department of Agriculture, Homeland Security, Defense, etc., they have to come forward with their budget, it goes to a committee, gets vetted, gets thinned down, should be gone through line by line, passed to the floor of the House and then, eventually passes, and that should happen 12 separate times."

That's not how it has been for the last several years.

"That doesn't happen," Mann said. "Congress doesn't do its job. Instead, all 12 bills get lumped together in this massive package that's called an omnibus, omni meaning many, these many bills get put together and jammed through. It's no way to do business. It's led to more spending than we need. We're returning to regular order, but the first start in that process, to your point, is the administration putting forward their budget for each of these departments and they need to get it to us, so we can get to work on it."

Last year, the information came out on March 28.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann said that the Biden Administration hasn't released its 2024 budget yet, but his office will be paying attention when it does."That's been very frustrating that they've been slow in releasing their budget," Mann said. "It should come out any time now. Once it does, we'll parse through it and see what that looks like. Repeatedly, the last couple of years, the Biden Administration, in their budget, has been trying to do away with the stepped up basis, which would be really bad for agriculture and the ability to pass farmland from one generation to the next. In their budget is not just spending, but it's the revenue side, as well. We'll be going through it, once they release it."The hope is that with Republicans in control in the House, where budget bills are supposed to start, that they will be able to get back to regular order and actually pass the budget bills one at a time with scrutiny, as it is intended."Every department, Department of Agriculture, Homeland Security, Defense, etc., they have to come forward with their budget, it goes to a committee, gets vetted, gets thinned down, should be gone through line by line, passed to the floor of the House and then, eventually passes, and that should happen 12 separate times."That's not how it has been for the last several years."That doesn't happen," Mann said. "Congress doesn't do its job. Instead, all 12 bills get lumped together in this massive package that's called an omnibus, omni meaning many, these many bills get put together and jammed through. It's no way to do business. It's led to more spending than we need. We're returning to regular order, but the first start in that process, to your point, is the administration putting forward their budget for each of these departments and they need to get it to us, so we can get to work on it."Last year, the information came out on March 28.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mann: Don't know budget yet, but need to pay attention

FORT RILEY — The Fort Riley Spouses Club will accept 
Community Assistance Fund grant applications from eligible area nonprofit organizations until 11:59:59 p.m. Feb. 28. Grant recipients will be notified in March and awarded April.

The FRSC Community Assistance Fund s designated to help other nonprofit organizations advance the quality of life for military families and the surrounding Fort Riley community. A minimum of 10% of the CAF is awarded to the Combined Scholarship Fund of Greater Fort Riley each year, supporting scholarships for military spouses and children, with the remainder going to eligible grant applicants. The FRSC holds one fundraiser&nbsp;each year and accepts donations year-round to build the fund, distributing awards each May.

Nonprofits may donate or download grant applications from the FRSC’s <a href="https://fortrileyspousesclub.org/communitygrants">website</a>. Applications must be submitted online no later than 11:59:59 p.m. Feb. 28. Returning applicants in receipt of a 2022 FRSC grant must provide documentation showing the grant was used for its requested purpose. Donations to the FRSC are tax-deductible up to the limits described under 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Fort Riley Spouses Club is a 501(c)3 nonprofit social and charitable organization serving service members and their families in the Fort Riley area. The FRSC raises and distributes money via grants and scholarships while supporting its members with volunteer, fundraising, networking, and professional development opportunities. Its membership is comprised of spouses of all ranks and backgrounds who wish to make a positive impact on their community. In addition to monthly member luncheons and numerous sub-club activities, the FRSC hosts one fundraiser in the Spring each year. Grants and scholarships are distributed each April or May. The FRSC has distributed more than $250,000 in grants and scholarships in the past 8 years and hopes to award $25,000 in 2023.

If you would like to help the Fort Riley Spouses Club reach its fundraising goal, or to join, click <a href="https://www.fortrileyspousesclub.org/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find out how you can help or get involved. The next fundraiser will be “Night at the Saloon” on Feb. 25. Get tickets online or donate <a href="https://www.fortrileyspousesclub.org/fundraising">HERE</a>. .

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677082727245.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseFORT RILEY — The Fort Riley Spouses Club will accept 
Community Assistance Fund grant applications from eligible area nonprofit organizations until 11:59:59 p.m. Feb. 28. Grant recipients will be notified in March and awarded April.The FRSC Community Assistance Fund s designated to help other nonprofit organizations advance the quality of life for military families and the surrounding Fort Riley community. A minimum of 10% of the CAF is awarded to the Combined Scholarship Fund of Greater Fort Riley each year, supporting scholarships for military spouses and children, with the remainder going to eligible grant applicants. The FRSC holds one fundraiser&nbsp;each year and accepts donations year-round to build the fund, distributing awards each May.Nonprofits may donate or download grant applications from the FRSC’s <a href="https://fortrileyspousesclub.org/communitygrants">website</a>. Applications must be submitted online no later than 11:59:59 p.m. Feb. 28. Returning applicants in receipt of a 2022 FRSC grant must provide documentation showing the grant was used for its requested purpose. Donations to the FRSC are tax-deductible up to the limits described under 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.The Fort Riley Spouses Club is a 501(c)3 nonprofit social and charitable organization serving service members and their families in the Fort Riley area. The FRSC raises and distributes money via grants and scholarships while supporting its members with volunteer, fundraising, networking, and professional development opportunities. Its membership is comprised of spouses of all ranks and backgrounds who wish to make a positive impact on their community. In addition to monthly member luncheons and numerous sub-club activities, the FRSC hosts one fundraiser in the Spring each year. Grants and scholarships are distributed each April or May. The FRSC has distributed more than $250,000 in grants and scholarships in the past 8 years and hopes to award $25,000 in 2023.If you would like to help the Fort Riley Spouses Club reach its fundraising goal, or to join, click <a href="https://www.fortrileyspousesclub.org/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find out how you can help or get involved. The next fundraiser will be “Night at the Saloon” on Feb. 25. Get tickets online or donate <a href="https://www.fortrileyspousesclub.org/fundraising">HERE</a>. .

Deadline looms for Fort Riley Spouses Club grant applications

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677431667510.jpeg" alt="Myles Jordan Danielson, DUI-liquor/drugs(1st offense); exceeding posted speed limit; defective tail lamps; arrested 2/26" />
 <figcaption>Myles Jordan Danielson, DUI-liquor/drugs(1st offense); exceeding posted speed limit; defective tail lamps; arrested 2/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677431844258.jpeg" alt="Mary Delores Barrios, probation violation, failure to appear x2; arrested 2/26" />
 <figcaption>Mary Delores Barrios, probation violation, failure to appear x2; arrested 2/26</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677431944578.jpeg" alt="Michael James Adams, Failure to appear, arrested 2/25" />
 <figcaption>Michael James Adams, Failure to appear, arrested 2/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677432053089.jpeg" alt="Justin Christopher Molina, No signal/unsafe turning/stopping; DUI-liquor/drugs (1st offense); arrested 2/26" />
 <figcaption>Justin Christopher Molina, No signal/unsafe turning/stopping; DUI-liquor/drugs (1st offense); arrested 2/26</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos February 26

You know spring is near when it's time to sign up for K-State Research and Extension's popular Walk Kansas program.

"With
 warmer weather right around the corner, I'm looking forward to getting 
back outside and walking. The simple activity of walking has so many 
wonderful health benefits," said Lisa Newman, family and community 
wellness extension agent for the Central Kansas District.

Two-thirds
 of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, 
can be prevented or delayed by lifestyle changes. Such changes include 
regularly going for walks or other exercise. The U.S. Centers for 
Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to 
vigorous physical activity each week or about 30 minutes a day, five 
days a week.

Walk Kansas is a team-based challenge that encourages
 people to walk, jog, run, bike, swim or do whatever they need to do to 
live more healthfully, according to information from K-State Research 
and Extension.

“Walk Kansas was founded on the principle that if 
teams of six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical 
activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk 
across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles,” said Sharolyn Jackson, 
the state leader of the Walk Kansas program.

The 2023 Walk Kansas 
program kicks off on March 26 and will run eight weeks through May 20. 
Registration begins Wednesday. To register online, <a href="https://www.walkkansasonline.org/">click here</a>. The cost per person is $10; t-shirts can be purchased for a separate charge.

Walk
 Kansas also offers a solo challenge for those who don’t have a team or 
just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not 
have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge.

"In
 addition to being active, I love the social capital aspect of Walk 
Kansas," Newman said. "The relationships among those participating are 
so valuable. Whether it's team members walking together or a solo 
participant waving at nearby neighbors they might not otherwise see very
 often, Walk Kansas offers something for everyone."

While 
participants track their minutes of activity, which are converted into 
virtual miles of activity, they also are asked to report the number of 
cups of fruits, vegetables, and water they consume weekly. Additionally,
 participants are encouraged to add some type of strength exercise to 
their routine, KSRE noted.

From April 2 through May 14 – Weeks 2 
through 7 of Walk Kansas – organizers will offer a weekly webinar on 
healthy eating, focusing on the Mediterranean diet, Jackson said. The 
course is called Med Instead of Med to reflect the goal to help 
participants learn ways to potentially replace medications with healthy 
eating.

“Walk Kansas, holistically, really is a chronic disease 
prevention program or a way to delay the onset of chronic disease,” 
Jackson said. “For those already with a chronic disease, they can learn 
ways to manage it better through physical activity and healthy eating. 
We often think about (diseases) that might be genetic, or it’s just your
 family history. But the reality is that two-thirds of chronic diseases 
can be prevented or delayed by these lifestyle changes.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677197462556.jpeg" alt="Registration for Walk Kansas 2023 opens on Wednesday. Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Registration for Walk Kansas 2023 opens on Wednesday. Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostYou know spring is near when it's time to sign up for K-State Research and Extension's popular Walk Kansas program."With
 warmer weather right around the corner, I'm looking forward to getting 
back outside and walking. The simple activity of walking has so many 
wonderful health benefits," said Lisa Newman, family and community 
wellness extension agent for the Central Kansas District.Two-thirds
 of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, 
can be prevented or delayed by lifestyle changes. Such changes include 
regularly going for walks or other exercise. The U.S. Centers for 
Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate to 
vigorous physical activity each week or about 30 minutes a day, five 
days a week.Walk Kansas is a team-based challenge that encourages
 people to walk, jog, run, bike, swim or do whatever they need to do to 
live more healthfully, according to information from K-State Research 
and Extension.“Walk Kansas was founded on the principle that if 
teams of six people would meet the minimum guidelines for physical 
activity over eight weeks, they could collectively and virtually walk 
across the state of Kansas, which is 423 miles,” said Sharolyn Jackson, 
the state leader of the Walk Kansas program.The 2023 Walk Kansas 
program kicks off on March 26 and will run eight weeks through May 20. 
Registration begins Wednesday. To register online, <a href="https://www.walkkansasonline.org/">click here</a>. The cost per person is $10; t-shirts can be purchased for a separate charge.Walk
 Kansas also offers a solo challenge for those who don’t have a team or 
just prefer to take on the challenge themselves. Participants do not 
have to live in Kansas to be on a team or to do the solo challenge."In
 addition to being active, I love the social capital aspect of Walk 
Kansas," Newman said. "The relationships among those participating are 
so valuable. Whether it's team members walking together or a solo 
participant waving at nearby neighbors they might not otherwise see very
 often, Walk Kansas offers something for everyone."While 
participants track their minutes of activity, which are converted into 
virtual miles of activity, they also are asked to report the number of 
cups of fruits, vegetables, and water they consume weekly. Additionally,
 participants are encouraged to add some type of strength exercise to 
their routine, KSRE noted.From April 2 through May 14 – Weeks 2 
through 7 of Walk Kansas – organizers will offer a weekly webinar on 
healthy eating, focusing on the Mediterranean diet, Jackson said. The 
course is called Med Instead of Med to reflect the goal to help 
participants learn ways to potentially replace medications with healthy 
eating.“Walk Kansas, holistically, really is a chronic disease 
prevention program or a way to delay the onset of chronic disease,” 
Jackson said. “For those already with a chronic disease, they can learn 
ways to manage it better through physical activity and healthy eating. 
We often think about (diseases) that might be genetic, or it’s just your
 family history. But the reality is that two-thirds of chronic diseases 
can be prevented or delayed by these lifestyle changes.”

Walk Kansas encourages healthy lifestyles; registration opens Wednesday

SALINA — Calling them "fresh" and "exciting," 
Salina Arts &amp; Humanities today announced the main stage acts for 
this year's Smoky Hill River Festival. 

The 47th annual Smoky Hill River Festival is scheduled for June 8-11 in Salina's Oakdale Park. 

“Entertainment
 will feature an eclectic group of performers this year. Festival goers 
will hear a variety of genres including country, rock, soul, indie, and 
innovative fusion groups,” said festival entertainment coordinator Sarah
 Keck. “We will see the return of some family favorites and experience 
the largest number of new main stage performers to the festival in 
recent years. Attendees will get to enjoy both familiar and new sounds 
across the park.”

Following are the main stage acts as provided by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities.

Paramount – Friday Headliner Traveling with amazing sound and light production, Paramount delivers a live experience of the decade called “The Big 80s!”

Welshly Arms - Saturday Headliner After dropping their 
anthemic single Legendary in 2017, the indie rock world was quickly 
introduced to Welshly Arms’ penchant for unleashing larger-than-life 
alt-rock bangers and spine-tingling live performances.

Howard Mahan &amp; Friends – Sunday Headliner Fresh off the
 release of their second record, Marigold, Howard Mahan &amp; Friends 
blend a variety of styles from roots blues to psychedelic rock.

Barnaby Bright Becky
 and Nathan Bliss make up the critically-acclaimed group Barnaby Bright 
and have accumulated a dedicated following that feeds on their ability 
to spin storytelling into sonic treasures.

Gabe Lee Equal
 parts classic songwriter and modern-day storyteller, Lee has built his 
own bridge between country, folk, and rock over the course of three 
acclaimed albums.

King Margo Two lifelong musicians who 
met in Nashville, Tenn., when they were hired for the same touring band.
 They are known for their blend of high-energy musicianship, thoughtful 
lyrics, and soaring harmonies.

Splatt Kansas City’s 
newest brass innovation. A collaborative pairing of vocalist/trombonists
 Kadesh Flow and Trevor Turla, Splatt blends soul, hip-hop, jazz, and 
funk together to generate a powerful, trombone-fronted musical 
experience.

The Freedom Affair The Freedom Affair is a 
nine-piece soul juggernaut. The band formed in 2017 with a vision to 
write original soul music inspired by the traditions of the genre’s past
 with a universal message looking toward the future.

Caitlin Krisko &amp; The Broadcast Krisko is known for her soaring vocal performances. This group is a powerhouse soul-rock band hailing from Asheville, N.C.

Making Movies A
 band that makes American music with an asterisk: because Making Movies’
 sound encompasses the entirety of the Americas. It’s through this 
broader perspective that Making Movies crunches classic rock into Latin 
American rhythms — African-derived percussion and styles like rumba, 
merengue, mambo, and cumbia — in a way that feels oddly familiar, yet 
delivers the invigorating chills of hearing something singularly 
special.

Candice Hill Band An eclectic group 
highlighting the unique sounds of steelpan (also known as steel drum), 
mixed with guitars, vocals, bass, and percussion. The band entertains 
listeners with styles from calypso music, Latin jazz, soca, pop, reggae,
 and more.

Rudy Love Jr. &amp; The Encore A 
singer/songwriter/keyboardist with deep musical DNA, Rudy Love Jr. has 
developed a distinctive voice, giving his all with every performance. 
Rudy Love Jr. &amp; The Encore provides a seamless blend of R&amp;B, 
soul, funk, pop, and rock to the festival mainstage.

Latin Grammy-winning music duo 
123 Andrés will be featured on the Children's Stage. Their catchy songs 
and lively performances get the whole family dancing, singing, and 
learning! These high-energy, joyful shows celebrate the Latinx 
experience and incorporate Spanish, English, and ASL languages.

Salina Arts &amp; Humanities noted that the entire entertainment roster will be available later this spring.

Salina PostSALINA — Calling them "fresh" and "exciting," 
Salina Arts &amp; Humanities today announced the main stage acts for 
this year's Smoky Hill River Festival. The 47th annual Smoky Hill River Festival is scheduled for June 8-11 in Salina's Oakdale Park. “Entertainment
 will feature an eclectic group of performers this year. Festival goers 
will hear a variety of genres including country, rock, soul, indie, and 
innovative fusion groups,” said festival entertainment coordinator Sarah
 Keck. “We will see the return of some family favorites and experience 
the largest number of new main stage performers to the festival in 
recent years. Attendees will get to enjoy both familiar and new sounds 
across the park.”Following are the main stage acts as provided by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677103171501.jpeg" alt="Paramount. Photos courtesy Salina Arts &amp; Humanities" />
 <figcaption>Paramount. Photos courtesy Salina Arts &amp; Humanities</figcaption>
 </figure>Paramount – Friday Headliner Traveling with amazing sound and light production, Paramount delivers a live experience of the decade called “The Big 80s!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677102714947.jpeg" alt="Welshly Arms" />
 <figcaption>Welshly Arms</figcaption>
 </figure>Welshly Arms - Saturday Headliner After dropping their 
anthemic single Legendary in 2017, the indie rock world was quickly 
introduced to Welshly Arms’ penchant for unleashing larger-than-life 
alt-rock bangers and spine-tingling live performances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677102796722.jpeg" alt="Howard Mahan &amp; Friends&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Howard Mahan &amp; Friends&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Howard Mahan &amp; Friends – Sunday Headliner Fresh off the
 release of their second record, Marigold, Howard Mahan &amp; Friends 
blend a variety of styles from roots blues to psychedelic rock.Barnaby Bright Becky
 and Nathan Bliss make up the critically-acclaimed group Barnaby Bright 
and have accumulated a dedicated following that feeds on their ability 
to spin storytelling into sonic treasures.Gabe Lee Equal
 parts classic songwriter and modern-day storyteller, Lee has built his 
own bridge between country, folk, and rock over the course of three 
acclaimed albums.King Margo Two lifelong musicians who 
met in Nashville, Tenn., when they were hired for the same touring band.
 They are known for their blend of high-energy musicianship, thoughtful 
lyrics, and soaring harmonies.Splatt Kansas City’s 
newest brass innovation. A collaborative pairing of vocalist/trombonists
 Kadesh Flow and Trevor Turla, Splatt blends soul, hip-hop, jazz, and 
funk together to generate a powerful, trombone-fronted musical 
experience.The Freedom Affair The Freedom Affair is a 
nine-piece soul juggernaut. The band formed in 2017 with a vision to 
write original soul music inspired by the traditions of the genre’s past
 with a universal message looking toward the future.Caitlin Krisko &amp; The Broadcast Krisko is known for her soaring vocal performances. This group is a powerhouse soul-rock band hailing from Asheville, N.C.Making Movies A
 band that makes American music with an asterisk: because Making Movies’
 sound encompasses the entirety of the Americas. It’s through this 
broader perspective that Making Movies crunches classic rock into Latin 
American rhythms — African-derived percussion and styles like rumba, 
merengue, mambo, and cumbia — in a way that feels oddly familiar, yet 
delivers the invigorating chills of hearing something singularly 
special.Candice Hill Band An eclectic group 
highlighting the unique sounds of steelpan (also known as steel drum), 
mixed with guitars, vocals, bass, and percussion. The band entertains 
listeners with styles from calypso music, Latin jazz, soca, pop, reggae,
 and more.Rudy Love Jr. &amp; The Encore A 
singer/songwriter/keyboardist with deep musical DNA, Rudy Love Jr. has 
developed a distinctive voice, giving his all with every performance. 
Rudy Love Jr. &amp; The Encore provides a seamless blend of R&amp;B, 
soul, funk, pop, and rock to the festival mainstage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677102943441.jpeg" alt="123 Andres&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>123 Andres&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>On the Children's StageLatin Grammy-winning music duo 
123 Andrés will be featured on the Children's Stage. Their catchy songs 
and lively performances get the whole family dancing, singing, and 
learning! These high-energy, joyful shows celebrate the Latinx 
experience and incorporate Spanish, English, and ASL languages.Salina Arts &amp; Humanities noted that the entire entertainment roster will be available later this spring.

Smoky Hill River Festival main stage performers announced

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Global demands for food are increasing, but climate change and limited natural resources are leading farmers to seek Climate Smart techniques to increase production while protecting the environment.

Peter Tomlinson, a Kansas State University environmental agronomist, gave a presentation on Climate Smart agriculture Tuesday during a Crop Talk webinar hosted by K-State Research and Extension.

"It goes beyond thinking about cropland," Tomlinson said. "It's about how we integrate approaches across all of our managed landscapes—everything from cropland to our salt and freshwater fisheries, livestock, and forests system.

"Across these systems, how do we address an interwoven challenge of food security needs as well as addressing climate change-driven challenges that face all of these landscapes?"

The three main goals of Climate-Smart agriculture are to increase productivity, increase resiliency and reduce emissions.

The concept covers many practices farmers are already doing, including nutrient management, conservation tillage and the use of cover crops.

Fewer tillage passes decrease emissions, save fuel and decrease soil erosion. By decreasing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer farmers use, they can reduce emissions as well as reap economic savings, Tomlinson said.

The planet is facing a growing population, which has resulted in an increase in the demand for food.

The agriculture industry is struggling to keep up,&nbsp;Tomlinson said. Crop yields are leveling off and farmers are putting more stress on natural resources.

In 2020, 690 million people were considered hungry, according to the World Bank. That is 8.9 percent of the world's population.

While food demand is increasing, so are challenges for food producers.

The U.S. is experiencing higher-than-average daily temperatures and a change in frost-free days. This is changing the growing season and growing zones, Tomlinson said.

Weather variability can result in conditions that are too wet or too dry to plant and then drought can lead to crop loss, he said.

With changes in climate, farmers are feeling greater pressure from disease and insects that they would not normally see in Kansas.

Although Kansas has been in severe drought during the last year, over the last 10 years the state has had above-average precipitation.

Climate change is being driven by both natural causes and human activity. Agriculture generates between 19 and 29 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.

The World Bank estimates about one-third of global food production never makes it to a hungry person. It is lost at the farm, in transport or in other circumstances.

K-State has been involved in promoting many conservation practices, including terraces, reduced or no-till production, residue management and cover crops, Tomlinson said.

Many research and conservation projects are ongoing in Kansas.

These include cover crop studies, Kansas Watershed Field Laboratory,&nbsp; Kansas Corn Growers Association Soil Health Partnership, U. S. Department of Agriculture Sustainable Agriculture System Project and SMARTFARM for Sorghum.

The sorghum project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to research sorghum production for use in ethanol.

The USDA announced in February&nbsp; 2022 it was accepting proposals from producers for Climate Smart Commodity Projects. The projects have a time frame of one to five years. The proposals ranged from $250,000 to $100 million.

The department selected 141 projects (24 of which were in Kansas) with a total investment of more than $3.1 billion.

The aim of the projects is to provide technical and financial assistance on a voluntary basis on working land with the goal of producing verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.

The National Sorghum Producers Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Project also seeks to encourage producers to implement climate-friendly practices with the goals of reducing carbon emissions and developing markets for sorghum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677276508122.jpeg" alt="Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostGlobal demands for food are increasing, but climate change and limited natural resources are leading farmers to seek Climate Smart techniques to increase production while protecting the environment.Peter Tomlinson, a Kansas State University environmental agronomist, gave a presentation on Climate Smart agriculture Tuesday during a Crop Talk webinar hosted by K-State Research and Extension."It goes beyond thinking about cropland," Tomlinson said. "It's about how we integrate approaches across all of our managed landscapes—everything from cropland to our salt and freshwater fisheries, livestock, and forests system."Across these systems, how do we address an interwoven challenge of food security needs as well as addressing climate change-driven challenges that face all of these landscapes?"The three main goals of Climate-Smart agriculture are to increase productivity, increase resiliency and reduce emissions.The concept covers many practices farmers are already doing, including nutrient management, conservation tillage and the use of cover crops.Fewer tillage passes decrease emissions, save fuel and decrease soil erosion. By decreasing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer farmers use, they can reduce emissions as well as reap economic savings, Tomlinson said.The planet is facing a growing population, which has resulted in an increase in the demand for food.The agriculture industry is struggling to keep up,&nbsp;Tomlinson said. Crop yields are leveling off and farmers are putting more stress on natural resources.In 2020, 690 million people were considered hungry, according to the World Bank. That is 8.9 percent of the world's population.While food demand is increasing, so are challenges for food producers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677276336155.png" alt="Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The U.S. is experiencing higher-than-average daily temperatures and a change in frost-free days. This is changing the growing season and growing zones, Tomlinson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677276375454.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Weather variability can result in conditions that are too wet or too dry to plant and then drought can lead to crop loss, he said.With changes in climate, farmers are feeling greater pressure from disease and insects that they would not normally see in Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677276431988.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>Although Kansas has been in severe drought during the last year, over the last 10 years the state has had above-average precipitation.Climate change is being driven by both natural causes and human activity. Agriculture generates between 19 and 29 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677276468589.png" alt="The source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, forestry and other land uses are shown in this diagram in the green sections. Image courtesy of K-State Extension" />
 <figcaption>The source of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, forestry and other land uses are shown in this diagram in the green sections. Image courtesy of K-State Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The World Bank estimates about one-third of global food production never makes it to a hungry person. It is lost at the farm, in transport or in other circumstances.K-State has been involved in promoting many conservation practices, including terraces, reduced or no-till production, residue management and cover crops, Tomlinson said.Many research and conservation projects are ongoing in Kansas.These include cover crop studies, Kansas Watershed Field Laboratory,&nbsp; Kansas Corn Growers Association Soil Health Partnership, U. S. Department of Agriculture Sustainable Agriculture System Project and SMARTFARM for Sorghum.The sorghum project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to research sorghum production for use in ethanol.The USDA announced in February&nbsp; 2022 it was accepting proposals from producers for Climate Smart Commodity Projects. The projects have a time frame of one to five years. The proposals ranged from $250,000 to $100 million.The department selected 141 projects (24 of which were in Kansas) with a total investment of more than $3.1 billion.The aim of the projects is to provide technical and financial assistance on a voluntary basis on working land with the goal of producing verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, Tomlinson said.The National Sorghum Producers Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Project also seeks to encourage producers to implement climate-friendly practices with the goals of reducing carbon emissions and developing markets for sorghum.

Conservation practices help farmers increase yields, reduce effects on climate

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677338971342.jpeg" alt="Antonio Mendoza Junior, probation violation; arrested 2/24" />
 <figcaption>Antonio Mendoza Junior, probation violation; arrested 2/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677339043318.jpeg" alt="Ron Jason Shane Duncan, Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv.; arrested 2/24" />
 <figcaption>Ron Jason Shane Duncan, Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv.; arrested 2/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677339141113.jpeg" alt="Kaylee Marie Elmlinger, Domestic battery; unknown circumstance; misdemeanor; arrested 2/24" />
 <figcaption>Kaylee Marie Elmlinger, Domestic battery; unknown circumstance; misdemeanor; arrested 2/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677339197768.jpeg" alt="Scott Edwin Hewitt, Possession of marijuana; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving wrong direction on one-way road; arrested 2/24" />
 <figcaption>Scott Edwin Hewitt, Possession of marijuana; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving wrong direction on one-way road; arrested 2/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677339425050.jpeg" alt="Melvin Lee Kane Junior, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/24" />
 <figcaption>Melvin Lee Kane Junior, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/24</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos February 25

Joseph Hall, who made six appearances on NBC's "America's Got Talent" in 2008, will bring his Elvis Presley tribute to the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City next month.

The performance is scheduled for 7&nbsp; p.m. March 11 at the opera house, 135W. Seventh.

Hall&nbsp; has worked with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Legends in Concert and has officially been recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute artists in the world today. Hall also completed six seasons in Branson, Mo.

For ticket information, click <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1147394">HERE</a>.

— Courtesy C.L. Hoover Opera House

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677089169262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joseph Hall, who made six appearances on NBC's "America's Got Talent" in 2008, will bring his Elvis Presley tribute to the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City next month.The performance is scheduled for 7&nbsp; p.m. March 11 at the opera house, 135W. Seventh.Hall&nbsp; has worked with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Legends in Concert and has officially been recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute artists in the world today. Hall also completed six seasons in Branson, Mo.For ticket information, click <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1147394">HERE</a>.— Courtesy C.L. Hoover Opera House

Acclaimed Elvis tribute artist will perform in Junction City

If two bills moving through the Kansas legislature become law, together they could destabilize public schools, prove disastrous for Kansas students and reduce the state general tax fund.

As currently written, the bills would shift funding to private and home schools plus permit affluent parents to donate enough to an existing scholarship fund to write off the entire cost of private schooling.&nbsp; Yet low income parents with vouchers still could not afford the cost of many private schools.&nbsp;

What is more, there are as many as 60 Kansas counties with no private schools for students to attend.&nbsp;

The bill most publicized and hotly contested is the Kansas Sunflower Education Equity Act HB2218, also called the Education Savings Account voucher bill.&nbsp; It would provide parents the yearly per-pupil state funding amount of nearly $5,000 for their students in grades one to 12&nbsp;and preschoolers with disabilities.

HB2218 vouchers cover a range of expenditures including tuition in accredited and non-accredited private schools and micro-schools where home schoolers form groups to teach their children jointly, often in each other’s homes.

The bill allows for individual home school support and other educational services like online learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Division of Budget estimates that the yearly loss of state aid to school districts would be approximately $152 million.

The state treasurer’s office (not the Kansas State Department of Education) would administer the program, but administrative cost is unknown due to lack of data for preschool and private school students.

School supporters estimate total cost at $270 million.

HB2218 requires only a mandate for full-time instruction in math, science, reading, grammar and social studies.

In an interview on the National Public Radio 1A program Feb. 13, House Education Committee Chair, Republican Kristey Williams was asked by the moderator if white supremist, racist beliefs would be allowed by HB2218.&nbsp; Williams replied such speech was “abhorrent.”&nbsp;

Noting that recently an Ohio network of micro-schools was discovered to be teaching Nazi propaganda and racism, the moderator repeated the question.&nbsp; Williams said she believes in parents and that most, if not all, parents in Kansas would choose to teach their kids in the best possible way.&nbsp; Find the entire interview at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.npr.org%2Fpodcasts%2F510316%2F1a&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnmfrazier%40ku.edu%7Ca545e2e5107348ddcdbd08db15b77b45%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638127650028943240%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=unWPmyjPC%2FzXdCtcbVg3ibt2ieJuJl06H1UbHjdwLGE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510316/1a</a>

Another bill that would weaken public schools is the scholarship tax credit program originally intended to provide private school tuition for students living in poverty.&nbsp; Bill HB2048 would extend funding to a much larger income group with a&nbsp; tax credit of 75 percent for corporation or individual donations.&nbsp; If passed, affluent parents could write off the entire cost of private school.&nbsp; Should this bill become law the Kansas Division of Budget expects it to reduce the state general fund around $10 million in the first year.&nbsp;

Such proposals circulating in the Legislature, leave students without standards for curriculum or protection from indoctrination.&nbsp; Besides striping funds from public school budgets, increased tax credits rob the general fund of resources for other state expenditures.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I too believe in Kansas parents to make right decisions.&nbsp; I believe they’ll tell legislators to trash these bills.

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>If two bills moving through the Kansas legislature become law, together they could destabilize public schools, prove disastrous for Kansas students and reduce the state general tax fund.As currently written, the bills would shift funding to private and home schools plus permit affluent parents to donate enough to an existing scholarship fund to write off the entire cost of private schooling.&nbsp; Yet low income parents with vouchers still could not afford the cost of many private schools.&nbsp;What is more, there are as many as 60 Kansas counties with no private schools for students to attend.&nbsp;The bill most publicized and hotly contested is the Kansas Sunflower Education Equity Act HB2218, also called the Education Savings Account voucher bill.&nbsp; It would provide parents the yearly per-pupil state funding amount of nearly $5,000 for their students in grades one to 12&nbsp;and preschoolers with disabilities.HB2218 vouchers cover a range of expenditures including tuition in accredited and non-accredited private schools and micro-schools where home schoolers form groups to teach their children jointly, often in each other’s homes.The bill allows for individual home school support and other educational services like online learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Division of Budget estimates that the yearly loss of state aid to school districts would be approximately $152 million.The state treasurer’s office (not the Kansas State Department of Education) would administer the program, but administrative cost is unknown due to lack of data for preschool and private school students.School supporters estimate total cost at $270 million.HB2218 requires only a mandate for full-time instruction in math, science, reading, grammar and social studies.In an interview on the National Public Radio 1A program Feb. 13, House Education Committee Chair, Republican Kristey Williams was asked by the moderator if white supremist, racist beliefs would be allowed by HB2218.&nbsp; Williams replied such speech was “abhorrent.”&nbsp;Noting that recently an Ohio network of micro-schools was discovered to be teaching Nazi propaganda and racism, the moderator repeated the question.&nbsp; Williams said she believes in parents and that most, if not all, parents in Kansas would choose to teach their kids in the best possible way.&nbsp; Find the entire interview at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.npr.org%2Fpodcasts%2F510316%2F1a&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnmfrazier%40ku.edu%7Ca545e2e5107348ddcdbd08db15b77b45%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638127650028943240%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=unWPmyjPC%2FzXdCtcbVg3ibt2ieJuJl06H1UbHjdwLGE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510316/1a</a>Another bill that would weaken public schools is the scholarship tax credit program originally intended to provide private school tuition for students living in poverty.&nbsp; Bill HB2048 would extend funding to a much larger income group with a&nbsp; tax credit of 75 percent for corporation or individual donations.&nbsp; If passed, affluent parents could write off the entire cost of private school.&nbsp; Should this bill become law the Kansas Division of Budget expects it to reduce the state general fund around $10 million in the first year.&nbsp;Such proposals circulating in the Legislature, leave students without standards for curriculum or protection from indoctrination.&nbsp; Besides striping funds from public school budgets, increased tax credits rob the general fund of resources for other state expenditures.&nbsp;&nbsp;I too believe in Kansas parents to make right decisions.&nbsp; I believe they’ll tell legislators to trash these bills.Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Two bills that could undermine schools

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Kevin&nbsp;Erazo Zelaya, 24, Kansas City, Missouri, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Snokomo Road. 

The driver lost control due to icy conditions. The pickup traveled sideways, left the roadway to the north, rolled and came to rest against the fence and tree line.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Kevin&nbsp;Erazo Zelaya, 24, Kansas City, Missouri, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Snokomo Road. The driver lost control due to icy conditions. The pickup traveled sideways, left the roadway to the north, rolled and came to rest against the fence and tree line.A passenger in the pickup identified as Myra Hernandez, 30, Kansas City, Missouri, was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. EMS transported Zelaya to Stormont Vail. Hernandez was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

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